TOP TEN REASONS WHY SOME FANS HATE/LOVE LEBRON JAMES

LeBron James is the most popular and polarizing figure in the NBA. I think he is the most talked about athlete in sports since Michael Jordan. When people spoke about MJ, there was a general consensus that he was the greatest of all-time. Not in LeBron James case. Any LeBron James conversation will make a basketball fan to choose a side and a brewing argument will happen. In many barbershops and sports bars, LeBron James will cause interesting and sometimes heated debates about his basketball status in history. I will talk about the five reasons why some fans LOVE LeBron but first, let’s talk about the HATE.

1.THE DECISION

LeBron James became a free agent in 2010 and many NBA fans wondered if he would leave his home state Ohio for another team. Cavs fan were extremely nervous because of the past sports teams lack of success and tribulations such as “The Drive” by John Elway, Browns leaving for Baltimore, Cleveland Indians losing to the Florida Marlins in the 1997 World Series, and other blunders. In 2003, LeBron James became their savior for the city of Cleveland generating media buzz and economy boost that the city never experienced before. LeBron James promised to stay in Cleveland publicly which gave reassurance to fans. However, he never made it official on paper. Instead of signing the free agent papers like most superstars, LeBron James made his free agency into a media circus by televising his next NBA career move. Though the TV money was given to charity, it was a bad look in some fans eyes. Once he said, “I am taking my talents to South Beach”, the hate became R-E-A-L! Fans were devastated and bonfires of his jerseys manifested.

2. LeBron James and the list of FIBS

LeBron James puts himself in awkward positions when he says things and doesn’t follow through. In 2009, LeBron James says, “put my name in the 2010 dunk contest”, It didn’t happen…..

LeBron James claims he doesn’t flop. Well, the video tape don’t lie and if you think he doesn’t click this link.

LeBron promised to stay in Cleveland until he won a ring. That didn’t happen either. Though he came back, he still broke a promise.

3. Comparisons to MJ

There is a huge MJ following that still exist. Many MJ fans don’t like the comparison because there’s an emotional attachment to the GOAT. Michael Jordan won 6 rings and helped globalized the game of basketball. Jordan is an American sports legend and his shoes still dominate the basketball shoe market. There’s still a love affair with Michael Jordan which rubs many people the wrong way when LeBron James is compared to him. Ask Skip Bayless…..

4. LeBron James Quotes

LeBron James have the Midas touch for both good and bad reasons whenever he says something. LeBron will create a firestorm just with a few quotes. Here is an example for the wrong reasons:

“I am the best player in the world” -2015 NBA Finals

“This fall, and this was a very tough decision for me, but this fall I will be taking my talents to South Beach and joining the Miami Heat”

“Not one, not two, not three, not four, not five, not six, not seven”-2010 Miami speaking during a big promotion about how many rings for Miami Heat.

“I’m a winner…I’m a competitor. That’s what I do. It doesn’t make sense for me to go over and shake somebody’s hand,” 2009 Eastern Conference Finals after a loss

5. LeBron James’s Fans

I think this is the number one reason why LeBron James is hated by the masses. It’s not his fault but the over-glorification of one LeBron James can be nauseating sometimes. The blasphemous comments on the social media networks can be overwhelmingly asinine and moronic. “LeBron James is the best player, better than Jordan” or “you’re a hater because you don’t like LeBron James.” I think its very immature to call someone a hater if they don’t like your favorite player. It’s high school 13 Reasons Why level to cyber bully folks because they don’t like your King. Many people think LeBron James fans are annoying and obnoxious and they cling on to LeBron James like a five stage clinger. The constant in-your-face attitude from the fans makes some NBA fans to root against the King of Akron.

I like LeBron James but can we pump the brakes for the title “GOAT”? Do I have to agree with LeBron on everything ? No. Do I have to root for him? No. I watch the game and analyze it but if you ever cross a LeBron zealot fan, prepare for a heated debate. I don’t think LeBron James is better than Jordan because his story isn’t finish yet. Let’s see what he will do in 4-5 years first. That’s all I’m saying.

LOVE

6. Athletic Gifts

LeBron James is probably the most athletically gifted player in NBA history. He is in his early 30’s and dunks like a 21 year old. He keeps himself in top shape and plays 39-42 minutes a night! That’s insane numbers for his age and it might hinder him later on. However, it’s not affecting his game and LeBron James is still a night freight train that can dunk on anyone at any given night.

7. His Charity work

LeBron James possesses a big heart. One thing I can say about LeBron James being better than Michael Jordan is his social awareness and giving back to the community. LeBron James gathered enough money to send kids to college.  He donated 25,000 bikes in Akron to help kids fore educational goals. You have to respect a man that takes his earnings and give back to the people. Check out his website for more info.

http://www.lebronjamesfamilyfoundation.org/

8. Family Man/His story

LeBron James is a married man and loyal to Savannah since high school. He started a family with Savannah with two boys and a daughter. He’s heavily involved in their lives which shows that he is an active father and a good role model for all Americans and the world. It’s always great to see a man that loves his family.

LeBron James grew up without a father and lived in poverty in the small city of Akron. His mother was a teenager when she gave birth to LeBron. Though he was blessed with athletic gifts and talent, it’s amazing that he was able to defeat the oppressions of poverty and became a global icon. Overcoming those adversities gives people in similar circumstances hope. He relates to millions of people which is why he is hailed on and off the court.

9. A Walking Historic Figure

Whether you love or hate LeBron James, this man is a walking legend. He is shattering NBA records and his playing days are still continuing. LeBron James may be the best number one pick of all-time. During the NBA Finals 2016, he scored the most points, assists, rebounds, and blocks for the entire team! Tied for 11th First All-Team this week which is a great accomplishment. here is the list of accomplishments for the King:

• 3× NBA champion: 2012, 2013, 2016
• 3x NBA Finals MVP: 2012, 2013, 2016
• 4x NBA Most Valuable Player: 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013
• NBA Rookie of the Year: 2004
• NBA scoring champion: 2008
• 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP: 2006, 2008
• 13× NBA All-Star: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
• 2x NBA minutes leader : 2005, 2017
• 13× All-NBA:
  • 11x First Team: 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
  • 2x Second Team: 2005, 2007
• 6× NBA All-Defensive:
  • 5x First Team: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
  • Second Team: 2014
• NBA All-Rookie First Team: 2004
• 34× NBA Eastern Conference Player of the Month
• 54× NBA Eastern Conference Player of the Week
• 6× NBA Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month

10. Must See TV

LeBron James is must-see tv. “Will he match Michael Jordan?”, “Will he beat the Warriors with Kevin Durant?”, “Will he be the GOAT?”, “Can he win another MVP?”, “Will he stay in Cleveland for good?”, these are questions that are always asked about LeBron James. He’s the most interesting man in the NBA and perhaps in all sports. He is in the same barometer as Messi, Tom Brady, and Ronaldo because every move and action he makes, it’s hyped up and intriguing. LeBron James is an exciting player and fun to watch. People love him for it and others love to see him fail, however, that love to see him play is there. The world wants to see if LeBron James can live up to his words and everyone who loves basketball appreciate his greatness.

Do I love or hate LeBron James?

I am neutral. I don’t love or hate the LeBron James. I think he will end up a top five player but let’s wait and find out if he can tie MJ. I will watch him play because he’s fun to see on court.

What’s Wrong With Tiger Woods

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Homer Simpson gets in the Baseball Hall of Fame but not Pete Rose?

Baseball Hall of Fame is suppose to be a sacred vicinity that holds the best players to touch bat,  leather glove or baseball. A plethora of baseball fans hail that the Baseball of Hall Fame is the toughest one to enter amongst the other major sports in America simply because the player must have the numbers and integrity to enter. I have a simple question, how did a cartoon character that doesn’t breathe air or pay taxes get inducted into the hall of fame?

According to Jeff Idelson, president of the Baseball Hall of Fame, Homer deserved a spot in the sacred baseball heaven. “In Cooperstown, we salute baseball’s greatest contributors, preserve its vast history and salute the cultural side of the sport,” said Idelson. We are honored to pay tribute to the 25th anniversary of ‘Homer at the Bat’.”

Oh, really? We don’t have Pete Rose in the hall of fame but we allow a drunkard, moronic, and irresponsible father in Cooperstown? Homer Simpson is the same guy who let Mr. Burns get shot by Maggie, his own infant daughter!

All jokes aside, this is kind of pathetic for the Baseball Hall of Fame. I understand that Pete Rose committed the crime of gambling during his managing days which affects the integrity of the game. However, gambling did not give Pete Rose the astronomical numbers that he achieved while as a baseball player. Pete Rose had a lifetime batting average .303 and 4,256 hits which is an MLB record. How long will baseball hold the grudge against Pete Rose? I think it’s time to forgive and move on. If Idelson is willing to preserve history, then preserve Pete Rose into the hall or D’OH!

 

 

Why I Am a Scarlet Knights Fan

I am not your typical Scarlet Knight. My family never enrolled at Rutgers. I didn’t come from wealth or privilege. I do not have a legacy to follow or even had Rutgers on my mind during my high school days. I have two parents from an Air Force background who never graduated from college. I grew up with a single mother who struggled each day to pay the bills. My father was always in the picture but he only knew one way which was the “Air Force way”. My hometown is Pennsauken, New Jersey which is a blue collar town where it is heavily influenced by Philadelphia sports teams and colleges. Growing up, all I heard was “Villanova”, “Temple”, and the infamous “Penn State”. There is a Rutgers-Camden near my hometown, but no one rooted for the Scarlet Raptors.

I was barely getting by in school and just wanted to leave Pennsauken High in 2007. I knew that I was smart enough for college but didn’t have the grades to prove it. My own Chemistry teacher told me that “your grades aren’t good enough, take up a trade instead”. To improve my chances for college, I joined the New Jersey Air National Guard right after high school. I endured a tough and mentally challenging basic training and came back as a man. Since I didn’t have the requirements for a four year college, I enrolled at Burlington County College. The military helped me focused and implemented a hard work ethic in me which I was able to receive the grades and Associate’s Degree necessary for a four year college.

I applied for Rowan University, Stockton College, and Rutgers University. When I received the acceptance letter from Rowan University, I was excited and I thought I made it to the promise land. However, once I received the acceptance letter to all three campuses at Rutgers, I was shocked! It was one of the happiest days of my life because all that hard work paid off.

On September 1^st, 2010, I stepped on College Avenue for the first time. I took a second to breathe and realized I am walking on a top 100 college in America and I am a student. I felt like I made it to the big leagues and felt proud of myself. While walking on campus, I saw “RU-Hungry” that many people raved about. My first sandwich was a “Chicken Fat Cat” and became addicted ever since. A few days later, I received my football tickets and went with my father. Rutgers was playing Norfolk State and they had an awesome band. However, the Scarlet Knights dominated them in the game. In that moment, I felt like I was part of something bigger than myself. I felt like I belong to a new family. I never missed a game since. My best friend Charles went to West Virginia University and Rutgers was facing them in Morgantown, WV. I made the five and half hours drive to see the Scarlet Knights play. Despite their lost, I felt proud being in the cold stands rooting for my school.

In 2012, I received the ultimate validation by earning my Bachelor’s Degree. It was a long journey, but it was one of the proudest moments in my life. I am the only male on both sides of my family to receive a college degree. It was an honor for my family, Air Force, and myself. I am Scarlet Knight for life and no one will ever take that away from me.

When Rutgers joined the B1G Ten, I became excited. Rutgers finally gets the chance to play with the premier and prestigious football teams like Michigan, Nebraska, and Ohio State. I bought tickets for the first time as an alum but I sat in the student section because it’s the best place to be. Rutgers played their hearts out and won the game off a blocked field goal by Turay which the stadium exploded in joy. Students ran onto the field and I ran with them! I felt like an undergrad again and I had  no shame or regrets.

I will always be a Scarlet Knight. Rutgers University accepted me in their family and I will forever feel loyal and grateful. I have the B1G Ten Network and will make a trip when I can to see the Knights play on the banks of the Old Raritan. RU, rah, rah!

 

Is 2017 the Worst NBA Playoffs in history?

YES! End of story. Wake me up when the NBA Finals start!!!!!!!

Top 10 Reasons Why Some NBA Fans Hate/Love Stephen Curry

1.) Shows Off

Steph Curry loves to have fun on the court. He does a lot dances like the “shimmy” or slides on the floor like FC Real Madrid. Some fans hate it because they think it’s unsportsmanlike conduct and irritating. Also, the referees tend to look the other way when he performs his theatrics while some players may not have that privilege.

2.) Comes From Privilege

Unlike some players in the NBA that grew up in dire situations like the inner cities and poverty, Steph Curry grew up in a blessed life. Dell Curry, his father was an NBA star for the Charlotte Hornets (also Utah Jazz, Toronto Raptors, Milwaukee Bucks, and Cleveland Cavs) and played for 15 solid years. With an NBA father, Steph Curry lived a rich, comfortable lifestyle and was able to live a robust and able to experience life in a different way. Steph Curry was able to see his father in uniform and mingle with other NBA stars while others may not get the chance to experience it. This can cause jealousy or some fans will discredit Curry’s talents because of that factor. “The only reason why he’s in the NBA because of his dad” or “his dad helped him get in the league” are what some naysayers would repeat.

3.) First Unanimous MVP

Steph Curry was the first MVP to win as “unanimous” in NBA history. This is an amazing accomplishment considering the legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Shaquille O’Neal, Dr.J, Wilt Chamberlain, or Bill Russell never received this award in that fashion. LeBron James won four MVPs yet never was considered to be unanimous. After Steph Curry won the award, some fans and also NBA players didn’t feel that he deserved that honor.

Golden State Warriors whent 73-9 (NBA RECORD) and made it to the NBA Finals with a 3-1 series lead. However, Cleveland Cavaliers came back and won the series on the Warriors’ home floor which questioned many fans about the MVP Award. Steph Curry had an average performance in the 2016 Finals and a mediocre performance in 2015 when Andre Iguodala won the Finals MVP. Some fans won’t let it go and hold that grudge towards Curry.

4.) Chews His Mouthpiece

This may sound really stupid and juvenile but some fans will find anything to hate on Curry. It’s very insignificant but some fans don’t like Curry’s chewing habits. It’s becoming his signature and NBA2k17 puts in the video game. On the contrast, some fans hate the site of Curry gnawing on a mouthpiece like a beaver. It doesn’t bother me but some fans are bothered by the chomping of the mouth guard.

5) Kevin Durant is his teammate.

Golden State Warriors went 73-9 last year and now with the addition of a former MVP and All-Star Kevin Durant, the Warriors may be the 2017 NBA Champions. Some fans didn’t like that Kevin Durant went to the rivals’ team which hate followed KD and latched unto Steph Curry. With four all-stars on the team, some fans started to use their displacement anger towards the “Baby Assassin”.

LOVE

6.) Uncanny Shooter

10th All-Time for 3PM (1917)

When Steph Curry retires from the league, he may be considered the best shooter ever. His shooting abilities is incredible. Steph Curry owns two records which are most threes in a game (13) and most threes in a season (402). Curry is currently ranked 10th of all-time with 1917 made threes. If Curry averages about 250 per season, he will own the three title in 4-5 years.

7.) Curry is relatable and humble

Curry comes from wealth but he doesn’t act or behave as a spoiled and entitled rich kid. Curry’s persona is mellow and laid back which many fans love about him. Though he’s from privilege, Curry had to earn his D-1 scholarship. Many colleges rejected Steph Curry because of his height and weight. Curry was only 5’11 during his senior year and college scouts didn’t give him a chance. Dell Curry tried to help Steph Curry by asking his alma mater Virginia Tech to give him a look but the coaches told Dell that he can come as a “walk-on”.

Davidson was the only school that gave Stephen Curry a scholarship

Davidson was the only school that gave Steph Curry a scholarship. During his time there, he grew to 6’3 and dominated the 2008 March Madness tournament defeating known Power teams such as Gonzaga, Georgetown, and Wisconsin. Though he had a legendary tournament run, NBA scouts had doubts in his game because of his height and weight. Curry was drafted at number 8 in the 2008 NBA draft to the Golden State Warriors and the rest was history (Minnesota T-Wolves picked Johnny Flynn over Curry at no. 7…).

Curry’s story gives shorter players hope and inspiration. Despite not having the typical NBA body or style, Curry revolutionized the game with his quick release and deadly accuracy. His jersey sales are ranked number one in the NBA and his sneakers sell like hot cakes.

8.) His Christianity Faith

Steph Curry is a known family man and loves to talk about his religion. He’s very spiritual and sometimes tweets Bible verses. Christianity is the largest religion in the world including America. People tend to latch on celebrities that share the same faith like Tim Tebow. Though Curry is 10x better pro compared to Tim Tebow every could be, Curry being outspoken about his faith makes him likeable to those who belive in the religion.

9) The love for his family 

In 2015, Curry brought his adorable daughter Riley to a press conference. Bringing his child to the press conference gave a good impression that Curry is truly a man that loves his family. Through social media, Curry shares his family life quite often with his wife Ayesha and two daughters. Curry sings Disney songs with his family and not shy about it.

10. Curry plays with fire and flare

Steph Curry may not be the biggest or most athletic player on the court but he’s exciting to watch. Curry possesses one of the best handles in the league and commands the ball with full force. He makes teardrop layups seem easy and long range half court shots like it’s routine. Curry is also an underrated passer and sets up his teammates for easy points. Curry may not have LeBron’s body mass or Kevin Durant’s long wingspan but he can destroy many NBA teams at any given night with his god given ability to shoot the basketball. Curry is simply box office and worth the admission.

DO I HATE OR LOVE CURRY?

I love Steph Curry because he revolutionized the game. Today’s NBA, more threes are being attempted than ever before because of Curry’s influence. Though there were teams in the past that ran systems where threes was shot more than twos (Dallas Mavericks w/ Don Nelson and Suns w/ D’Antoni), no one executed the three like Curry.  One day, he will own all the records for threes.Curry will surpass the Reggie Miller and the King, Ray Allen. Curry is fun to watch and want to see if he can be that MVP in the NBA finals.

Top Five RBs for NFL 2017

5. LeSean McCoy

LeSean McCoy is Shady and still can make many NFL defenders miss. In 2016, he accumulated 1,267 yards 12 TDs. He’s still a force on the field but on a lousy Buffalo Bills team which sometimes he gets overlooked. I still think he’s top five running back.

4. DeMarco Murray

DeMarco Murray’s NFL career was in limbo after the 2015 season with the Philadelphia Eagles. He didn’t even accumulate a 1,000 yards and some questioned his heart and work ethic. Boy, were they are wrong! In 2016, Murray reinvented himself by racking 1,278 yards and 9 TDs with his new home with the Titans.

3. David Johnson

Some NFL fans regarded him as the top back in NFL because of his versatility. David Johnson scored the second most running touchdowns with 16 and harnest 1,239 yards. He also caught 36 balls with 4 receiving TDs. His team record was 7-8-1 and was probably the only shining player for his team. As a pure running back, I don’t have him as number one but he’s a top 3 RB/Flex. 

2. Le’Veon Bell

Le’Veon Bell is claim to be the best running back (mostly Steeler fans) in the league. His main problem is the off season issues with failing drug  tests on a consistent basis. In 2016, Bell failed his drug test which gave him a three-game suspension. In 2015, Bell had 2 game suspension with the same issue. Despite his own roadblocks, Bell still was able to accumulate massive yardage with 1,268 and 7 TDs in 13 games which is highly impressive. 

I don’t put him at number one because of his availability for the past two years have been shaky. If he kept his head straight, maybe the Steelers would’ve claim the number one seed last year. Availability is part of being a great back and when you’re not there on the field, you can’t be the best in my eyes. 

1. Ezekiel Elliot 

Let me guess from the hater talk “he had a great offensive line”. Dallas Cowboys had the same exact offensive line and were 4-12 in 2015. Ezekiel Elliott is a special running back. He’s fast, strong, and can block. Only a rookie, Zeke the Freak accumulated 1,631 yards and 15 TDs. He didn’t play in his last two games since the Dallas Cowboys won their division. Who knows if he could have broken NFL legend Eric Dickerson’s rookie record.  This was only his first year for the former Buckeye and he will continue to improve for years to come. We may be seeing a future HOF as we speak and he will be fed more next season than in 2016. 

Honorable Mentions: LaGarrette Blount, Jordan Howard, and Todd Gurley