The Show is Over for the Big Ticket

This year, we have absolutely witnessed the End of an Era. First, Kobe Bryant announces his retirement with a great farewell tour. Next, Tim Duncan announces his Exit from the Game with a retirement that was as quiet as his Career. Now, another star from that I grew up watching has closed the Curtain on his Hall of Fame Career as well. Tim Duncan's other rival and polar opposite in every way, Kevin Garnett. Even though Moses Malone was the first player to jump to the Pros (ABA in 1974) from High School, Kevin Garnett was a Pioneer for the Modern Generation because he opened the door for HS Players to get large contracts. Garnett brought Energy and Intensity to the Game as he was not only the Leader from his Production, but he was also the Emotional Leader to spark his teammates. For the first 12 Seasons of his Career, Kevin Garnett CARRIED the Minnesota Timberwolves as far as he could. Along with the likes of Tim Duncan, Shaq, Kobe, Iverson, and others, KG was one of the Premiere Players of his Generation. He was also one of the Top Three Power Forwards of his Era with Duncan and Dirk Nowitzki. KG and Duncan would become forever linked in NBA History.

The highest level that Minnesota reached in Franchise History was an appearance in the Western Conference Finals vs the Los Angeles Lakers in 2004. Garnett was league MVP. However, the T-Wolves fell to the Lakers. Within the next three years, things would fall apart for Minnesota as Garnett was traded to the Boston Celtics for a greater window of opportunity. In 2007, Kevin Garnett joined forces with Paul Pierce and 3-Point Legend Ray Allen in Boston. Garnett won Defensive Player of the Year in 2008, his first Season with the Celtics. That year, the Celtics defeated the Lakers for their 17th Championship. However, the Celtics reign was cut short in 2009 as Garnett missed the playoffs because of an injury. Boston would return to the Finals in 2010 as they would face Kobe Bryan's Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers would repeat as Champions by defeating the Celtics in Seven Games because of an injury to Kendrick Perkins. Meanwhile, the Celtics would also be known as the rival of LeBron James as they destroyed Cleveland on their way back to the Finals. Miami would eventually overcome the Celtics hurdle on their way to winning back to back NBA Finals.

When his time in Boston had come to an end, KG would make the move to Brooklyn to play for the Nets along with former Celtic Paul Pierce. During his time in Brooklyn, Kevin Garnett joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone as the only three players in NBA History with 25,000 points, 14,000 rebounds and 5,000 assists. The Nets made it to the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals where they were defeated by the Miami Heat 4-1. Midway through the 2014-15 Season, Kevin Garnett agreed to waive his no-trade clause in order to be traded back to Minnesota in exchange for Thaddeus Young. Minnesota's favorite son returned. Garnett was back at the place where it all began, which is another great way to end your career. He was no longer the Kid, but the Senior of the NBA. During his last run in Minnesota, Garnett reached 26,000 Career Points and surpassed Karl Malone on the NBA's All-Time Defensive Rebounds list. Minnesota was the house that KG built.

Kevin Garnett was also a Modern Day Pioneer for the way that Big Men currently play by taking more jump shots and looking for other ways to score. Big Men are taking more of the face up approach than back to the basket. Garnett has also created a new culture of Basketball in Minnesota. KG was named "The Big Ticket" because people would buy a Ticket just to see him play. Garnett was the Box Office Attraction for the Timberwolves. Kevin played with the Passion and Intensity of a Bloodthirsty Timber Wolf. He was a Classic General on and off the Court. There will never be another like Kevin Garnett. The Hall of Fame Class of 2021 just got even Stronger.

Resume:
NBA Championships: 1 (2008)
NBA MVPs: 1 (2004)
Defensive Player of the Year: 1 (2008)
15x NBA All-Star ('97-2011, 2013)
4x All-NBA 1st Team (2000, '03, '04, '08)
3x All-NBA 2nd Team ('01, '02, '05)
2x All-NBA 3rd Team ('99, '07)
9x All-Defensive 1st Team (2000-2005, 2008-2009, 2011)
3x All-Defensive 2nd Team (2006-2007, 2012)
NBA All-Star Game MVP (2003)
NBA All-Rookie Selection 2nd Team (1996)
J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (2006)
Only NBA Player to reach 25,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, 5,000 assists, 1,500 steals and 1,500 blocks

Stats:
Points: 26,701
Rebounds: 14,662
Assists: 5,445
Blocks: 2,037
Steals: 1,859
FG%: 49.7%
3PT%: 27.5%
FT%: 78.9%

Tim Duncan: Silent Legend

The Basketball World was hit with another blow with another legend saying goodbye. San Antonio Spurs Icon Tim Duncan announced his retirement from the NBA with ZERO fanfare, unlike his counterpart and polar opposite Kobe Bean Bryant. Duncan was Drafted 1st Overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 1997 NBA Draft. Ever since his time at Wake Forest, Duncan showed signs of future greatness, which is why San Antonio made the investment. It clearly paid off. At the time, the San Antonio Spurs were in a stage of rebuilding as Franchise Star David Robinson was injured during the season with back problems. With Robinson out, their leading scorer was a past his prime Dominique Wilkins. Nique was no longer the Human Highlight Reel from his glory days. The Spurs went 20-62. As a result, it was only fitting that they draft number 21 as their Centerpiece for the future. With Duncan, The Admiral found greater team success. Together, they formed the Twin Towers. Tim was clearly the Rookie of the Year (21.1 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 2.7 apg, 2.5 bpg, 55% FG). The Spurs went 56-26. Duncan's impact was a resurgence for not only the Spurs, but the city of San Antonio and State of Texas in general. Next to Shaq & Kobe's Lakers, the Spurs were one of the premiere teams going into the new Millennium. His battles with Shaq & Kobe were legendary in every way. That is what made me truly believe that Tim Duncan was Great. Shaq himself realized that when he gave Duncan the nickname "The Big Fundamental" for his Fundamental approach to the game. The 1998-99 Season witnessed a lockout where the Regular Season was truncated to 50 Games. The San Antonio Spurs were the Best Team in the League with a 37-13 record. In the playoffs, San Antonio wiped the floor with their opponents. In the first round, they dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves 3-1. In the Semi-Finals, they SWEPT a Shaq-led Lakers team. In the WCF, San Antonio swept a loaded Blazers team. In the Finals, they annihilated the New York Knicks in 5 Games. Duncan was Finals MVP (27.4/14.0/2.4). TD won back to back MVP Awards in 2002 and 2003. The Spurs defeated the New Jersey Nets in the '03 Finals with Duncan winning his second Finals MVP Award. This was also his last Championship with David Robinson by his side.

With the Admiral's Departure, the Spurs did not miss a beat. They would return to the Finals two years later to defeat the defending Champion Detroit Pistons in 7 Games capturing his third Finals MVP Award. San Antonio would defeat an inexperienced Cleveland Cavaliers team led by a young LeBron James in the 2007 NBA Finals, 4-0. Duncan solidified his place as not only the Greatest Power Forward ever, but the Greatest Player of the 2000's Era of the NBA. As Shaq would face a steady decline and Kobe would go through three tumultuous seasons, Tim Duncan maintained his consistency by keeping his team in contendership every year. The Spurs were always a team to keep your eye on in the Playoffs because of the leadership of Duncan along with the nucleus of Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. The Spurs philosophy of winning was very blue collar and methodical. It was the closest thing that we ever had to watching the Boston Celtics of the late 50's/60's starring Bill Russell & co. Duncan can be described as the Modern equivalent of Bill Russell, but with more Offense. Gregg Popovich has definitely been the Commander of the Team, like Red Auerbach. Parker and Ginobili were Duncan's Cousy and Havlicek. The Spurs ran a pure X's and O's style of Basketball. It felt like watching Basketball 101. The Spurs would return to the Finals to face the Miami Heat with a more mature LeBron James. This time, LeBron also had a stronger team with Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Ray Allen and others. The Spurs came up short to the Heat in 7 Games, the only time San Antonio has ever lost in the Finals. The Spurs would not go down without a fight, as they avenged their loss by dominating Miami in 5 Games. Future Franchise Star Kawhi Leonard won Finals MVP. Tim Duncan was a very selfless legend because of how he was willing to pass the torch to a player like Kawhi.

Tim Duncan used his mind to break down opponents. He knew how to find weaknesses in his matchup and execute. His Bank Shot became one of the Signature Weapons in NBA History. It was simple, but dangerous. Tim's Basketball IQ was at Genius level, like Batman. His awareness of everything around him kept the Spurs machine running like clockwork. Duncan's consistency, discipline and mind for the game is what set him apart from the rest of his contemporaries. He was one of the best combinations of great Low Post Offense and Defense. The fact that he never won Defensive Player of the Year is mind blowing. During the Tim Duncan Administration, the San Antonio Spurs won over 70% of their games. The Spurs were privileged to not have experienced a Season where they did not see the playoffs. That in and of itself is remarkable. Tim Duncan has left an indelible mark on the game of Basketball and a very large shadow in San Antonio. The Class of 2021 with him and Kobe Bryant together will be spectacular.

Thank you Tim Duncan for all that you have done for the Game of Basketball. See you in the Hall of Fame.

Accomplishments:
NBA Rookie of the Year (1997-98)
5x NBA Champion ('99, '03, '05, '07, 2014)
3x NBA Finals MVP ('99, '03, '05)
2x NBA MVP ('02, '03)
15x NBA All-Star ('98-2011, 2013-'15)
10x All-NBA 1st Team (1998-'05, '07, 2013)
3x All-NBA 2nd Team (2006, 2008-'09)
2x All-NBA 3rd Team (2010, 2015)
8x All-Defensive 1st Team ('99-'03, '05, '07-'08)
7x All-Defensive 2nd Team ('98, '04, '06, '09, 2010, 2013, 2015)
Co-All-Star Game MVP (2000 w/Shaquille O'Neal)
Spurs All-Time Leading Scorer (26,496)
USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2003)
Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (2003)

The Legacy of Kobe Bryant

An NBA Legend has announced his retirement. Now, Kobe Bryant is on his farewell tour after 20 storied NBA Seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers. Bryant has been one of the most polarizing and influential stars in NBA History. On one side, you have those who love and adore him for his brilliance on the court along with his many accolades (5 rings, 2 Finals MVP's, etc). On another side, there are those who revile him like a classic wrestling villain such as Ric Flair for a number of reasons. There are fans that don't like his imitations of MJ (another story), his selfishness, his scandal from Colorado and how he was the main reason for Shaquille O'Neal being forced out of LA. Then, you have those in the middle who look for a fine line to draw between his greatness as a player and his frosty attitude.

No matter what, Kobe Bryant was a player made for the spotlight as he has created a fan base that is similar to a cult like following. Although Kobe is heavily criticized for his direct imitation of His Airness, he has also carved his very own unique place among NBA History. From the time that he first became a starter for the Lakers in 1998-99, Kobe has evolved tremendously into a more complete all-around player. As we all know, Shaq was Batman in Hollywood for the Lakers while Kobe was Robin. Eventually, Kobe transformed into Nightwing. Just like Dick Grayson, Kobe turned on the Leader of the Dynamic Duo. As we know, the rest is history. Bryant went through his share of turmoil in those three years without Shaq before the Lakers poached Pau Gasol out of Memphis as Bryant desperately needed a new Big Man to take some of the weight off of him. Bryant would later win two more championships, but this time as the leader of the pack. Even though Shaq was the leading cause of most of Kobe's championships, Bryant has transformed into a true alpha dog star in his own right. Many have argued that Kobe should have more than 1 MVP Award. Even Shaq himself believes that Kobe should have more MVP's along with himself. Instead, Steve Nash has two, but that's none of my business.

Kobe is currently third all-time in Career Total Points, as he is the only player to ever play 20 Seasons for one NBA Franchise. Kareem spent his first 6 Seasons in Milwaukee before playing 14 Seasons in the Lakers Purple and Gold. Bryant holds many team records from points, minutes, games, steals, etc. Bryant's hand prints are all over the teams record books. His longevity is remarkable along with his fearlessness and competitive will to win. His resume, track record and persona have all kept him among the elite for many years. Over the course of his career, Kobe has practically reinvented himself. When you talk about legends that defined their generation and transcend history, Kobe's name is in that discussion. Next to Tim Duncan and Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant is one of the superstar players that shaped the 2000's Decade of NBA Basketball.

When I think of the Legacy of Kobe Bryant, I think of someone who graduated from being the sidekick to a megastar. I think of someone that has added layers to his game and has become a chameleon in the NBA. On the other hand, I also think of someone who has let his ego get the best of him and his team many times, especially near the end. Someone who was too caught up in himself to the point that he ran off another Alpha Dog Player that was the Key to their initial success. Still, I have to respect his commitment to excellence and wanting to be the best competitor that he could be. The Legacy of Kobe Bryant is that of a very Complex Genius. Complex, but still regarded as a Genius nonetheless. Despite his flaws, nobody can take away Kobe's legacy and what he has meant to the Game of Basketball.

What Could have been: Bulls vs Rockets in NBA Finals

There are always events or situations in history where we look back and wonder "What Could have been?". Whether it was a great team that could not win a championship ('90s Orlando Magic), or a great match that never happened (ex: Shawn Michaels vs The Rock). There are also dream matchups that never manifest (Hogan vs Flair at WrestleMania VIII, Austin vs. Hogan at WM X8). In this case, I would like to look at what would have been the ultimate dream series (pun intended) between the two best players of their respective era. In this case, I would like to examine what could have been the premiere Finals series between Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls and Hakeem Olajuwon's Houston Rockets. If only Mike did not put the Basketball down to pickup the Baseball bat. We would have the best Finals series of that decade in my view.

People always like to run with this idea that the Chicago Bulls would have won eight straight championships if Michael never left for baseball. First and foremost, Michael Jordan is the greatest player to ever pick up a basketball. He is to Basketball what Hulk Hogan and Stone Cold Steve Austin are to Wrestling and what Jerry Rice is to Football. I just wanted to clear that point. However, I would like to take a quick flashback to the year 1984. There was a young man from the University of Houston by way of Lagos, Nigeria who was drafted two spots ahead of Michael as the 1st Overall Draft pick. His name was Akeem Olajuwon (later Hakeem). MJ was incredible in North Carolina, but Dream was very close in his own way as he carried the U of H on his back. For the record, I knew nothing about the University of Houston until I found out that Hakeem Olajuwon played there. Plain and simple, this man put that school on the map. Hakeem was not some nameless scrub player. He did not have to carry the regret of being the player that his team passed over Michael Jordan to draft (Sam Bowie). The Dream had a remarkable career in his own right.

In fact, I would like to fast forward to 1986. That season, Jordan was injured for most of that season. As we all know, Michael torched the 1986 Celtics Empire for a Playoff Record 63 points. Unfortunately, the Bulls were swept in that series. Meanwhile, Olajuwon led the Houston Rockets to the NBA Finals against that same Boston Celtics team led by NBA MVP Larry Bird. Boston would capture their 16th Title in that series. Remember, the Dream led his team to the Finals five years before Jordan would conquer Magic Johnson's Lakers for his first championship. What makes this fantasy series even more special is that Olajuwon was THE Dominant Center of his Era/Generation in a time where you had at least four other Hall of Fame (future Hall of Fame) Centers in their prime or entering their prime. You name the player, Hakeem has given him a lesson at some point. Out of that era, he was the most versatile. He had the quickness and handles that wing players envied, along with a presence that traditional pivotmen were not able to match.

Whenever this topic is brought up, everybody wants to put an asterisk next to Houston's two championships as if they meant nothing. At least Hakeem stepped to the plate to become a champion, instead of becoming another ringless statistic like Patrick Ewing, Charles Barkley or Karl Malone. None of them took advantage of that window of opportunity, and their legacies have suffered because of that. It is hard to argue against Michael going undefeated in the Finals (6-for-6). On his path to the Championship, Jordan went through some giants such as the Celtics led by Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish, the Bad Boy Detroit Pistons as well as Magic's Showtime Lakers.

Jordan's first three-peat was his most statistically dominating run as the Bulls defeated the Lakers, Blazers and Suns (his numbers speak for themselves). However, there is one common denominator in each series. None of those teams had a dominant Center like Hakeem Olajuwon in Houston. The Dream would give Chicago matchup nightmares in the Finals. Chicago's defense would be faced with threats that they never had to face in the first or second three-peat. Kareem was retired by the time the Bulls played the Lakers. Hakeem's post moves and footwork would have Bill Cartwright and Horace Grant pretty much dumbfounded. The Sonics and Jazz did not have Centers that created major threats either. Next to Michael Jordan, I would say that Hakeem was the 2nd best player of the 90's. These two titans dominated in what is considered by many to be the "Golden Era" as it was a time where every team across the league seemed to be loaded with Hall of Fame talent.

On one hand, I won't say that the Bulls would have had a run of eight straight championships. The Rockets have proven that they can give Chicago matchup issues in the regular season. On the other hand, I will not say that Houston would have won two straight over Chicago. You could go with either season, and Houston would have walked away with at least one trophy. The Rockets are the one team that has a career winning record against Michael Jordan. From 91-93, Jordan went 1-4 against the Rockets.



Figuring out a defensive scheme against Olajuwon would have been much harder than creating a defensive scheme against Karl Malone or Charles Barkley.

Just like Jordan in 1988, Hakeem won both MVP and DPOY during the 1994 Season. However, Dream won Finals MVP in that same season where he picked up the other two awards. That 1994 team defeated Chicago's rival New York Knicks in seven games during their first championship run. New York was led by Hakeem's rival Patrick Ewing. For the 1995 campaign, Houston managed to win their second title as a 6th seed with under 50 wins (47-35). They were called "Road Warriors" for a reason as they never had home court advantage during their playoff run. Along the way, Houston defeated the No. 3 seed Utah Jazz (60-22), No. 2 seed Phoenix Suns (59-23) and the No. 1 seed San Antonio Spurs (62-20). Those teams featured very decorated players: Karl Malone and John Stockton (both 1st Team All-NBA), Charles Barkley (2nd Team All-NBA) and David Robinson (1st Team All-NBA, MVP). In the finals, they would squash a young Orlando Magic Team (57-25) led by Shaquille O'Neal (2nd Team All-NBA, Scoring Champion) and Penny Hardaway (1st Team All-NBA). Houston conquered the top teams and stars of the league during that two-year window. During the second run, the second biggest factor next to Hakeem was Clyde Drexler.

Clyde was acquired by The Rockets during a trade midway through the 1995 Season as the Blazers traded him in exchange for Otis Thorpe. Despite the rough start, Drexler was able to play a key role in Houston's second title chase. Clyde was looking to redeem his image after Michael Jordan demoralized him in the 1992 NBA Finals. If Houston plays Chicago, Drexler would be looking to seek revenge. Drexler's legacy was revived once he reunited with his former College Teammate Hakeem Olajuwon. Clyde needed Hakeem more than Hakeem needed Clyde. Drexler's window was closing to win a championship as he was in the twilight of his prime.

If I had to lean to any one of those Rockets teams to defeat Chicago, I might lean towards the 1995 Team slightly. Michael Jordan was the main player who demanded double teams, because of the damage that he can do on the offense. Scottie Pippen did a great job in Michael's absence, but he only averaged 16.7 ppg while Jordan was gone. That would not fly when you are trying to establish yourself as a leader away from His Airness. Scottie was not a player who screamed "Double Team". Meanwhile, Olajuwon and Drexler each demanded double teams as they could create problems in their own way.

As for the series outcome, Houston wins in a 7-game series as Olajuwon wins Finals MVP. It would have been great to see this happen. All we can do is fantasize about what could have been.

2014 Year End Awards

Athlete of the Year: Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant had another banner year. This time, he added an MVP Award to his impressive resume. Durant would also win his fourth scoring title as he helped to lead the Thunder to the WCF where OKC would fall short to the San Antonio Spurs. Durant would also be chosen as the player to appear on the cover of NBA 2k15. This has indeed been a special year for Durant.

Team of the Year: San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs added a 5th NBA Championship Trophy to their Trophy Case to their storied history. The Spurs added to their legacy as they dismantled and obliterated the Miami Heat in merely 5 games. This was the ultimate revenge for the Spurs as they were one game away from beating Miami the year before. San Antonio was an all-around machine that ran to perfection. The Spurs finished first in their division. Their playoff run was great, as they defeated the Mavericks (4-3) in the first round, ran through a young Blazers team in the second round (4-1), and theiincce rival OKC (4-2) in the Conference finals before the rematch. San Antonio redeemed themselves in great fashion as they defeated Miami with technique and execution. The Heat were exposed with no help from shady calls by the refs in their favor. The Spurs destroyed the Heat on the boards, as well as on the perimeter. It was a textbook victory that basketball purists could be very proud of. Aside from LeBron's cramps, Kawhi Leonard neutralized him fairly well. Leonard won the Finals MVP. This series reminded me of the first title win over the Knicks in 1999, and the series against LeBron's Cavs in 2007. The Spurs added to their legacy as a Dynasty. The Spurs are currently 4th in most championships in NBA History.

Game of the Year: Super Bowl 48 (Seahawks vs. Broncos)
This was the ultimate surprise of the year. No one expected the Seahawks to not only win, but to murder the Broncos in the process. The Seattle Legion Defense lowered the Boom on MVP Peyton Manning and the Denver Offense by giving him no preparation time at all. The momentum was set from the first safety of the game. The Seahawks continued to bring the pain like Method Man with their swarming blitzes, and how they shut down the receivers. Denver was a heavy favorite. In this game, they were greatly exposed. Peyton Manning's Record-Setting MVP Season went up in flames, as the Seahawks spoiled his comeback story. This game was the closest thing to the 1985 Bears 46-10 wipeout of the Patriots in Super Bowl XX. The Seahawks won their first Super Bowl, as they mutilated Denver, 43-8.

Most Improved Team: Washington Wizards
Recently, the Washington Wizards have been the feel good story of not only the NBA, but Washington, DC overall. As a native Washingtonian, I am impressed and thrilled to see the success of this team. For years, the Wizards have been overlooked and practically irrelevant in the scope of the NBA. However, they have made a quiet rise and progression in the East. John Wall has emerged as an upper echelon Point Guard as he leads the way. The Wizards defeated the Chicago Bulls in convincing fashion in the playoffs before being eliminated by the Pacers. With the addition of Paul Pierce, the Wizards will look forward to building on the previous success.

Surprise Team: Dallas Cowboys
Out of all teams in the world of sports, the Dallas Cowboys have played above their recent mediocre standards. It is ironic that a team as decorated as the Cowboys has now become a surprise. Recently, Dallas has become a laughingstock in the NFL, as they have registered consecutive seasons ending in 8-8 or worse. However, the Cowboys have proven the skeptics wrong as they have gone 12-4 to clinch the NFC East. Along the way, Dallas has knocked the December monkey off of their back by going undefeated for the entire month. Along the way, QB Tony Romo has broken Troy Aikman's record as the Franchise All-Time Leader in Passing Yards. Running Back DeMarco Murray broke Emmitt Smith's Single Season Rushing Record. Pro Bowl Wide Receiver Dez Bryant also broke the Team's Single Season Record for Receiving Touchdowns. All three have made great cases for NFL MVP. Not only that, but four players from the Cowboys have been named to the All-Pro Team. How bout them Cowboys?!

Breakout Athlete: JJ Watt
JJ Watt has been the heartbeat of the Houston Texans since his arrival in 2011. After two straight All-Pro Seasons, Watt continues his run of excellence as he has recorded his second 20 Sack Season in his 4 year NFL Career. Watt also recorded 5 fumbles this season, which led the NFL. JJ has earned unanimous votes in multiple positions for the All-Pro Team. Watt's play has earned him an MVP Nomination.

Headline of the Year: Ray Rice assaults wife in elevator/Donald Sterling
These two stories share the spot for Top Headlines of 2014, because of how detrimental they have been to their respective sports. Ray Rice truly gave a black eye to the NFL with the assault of his fiancé who is now his wife. The video was disturbing to say the least. Rice was not only suspended, but he was even taken out of the Madden 15 Video Game. Donald Sterling proved that the racist 1950's mentality is still alive and well, although it is dying out. Sterling would go on to say that he did not want any black people at his games. New Commissioner Adam Silver would have a massive problem within his first term as Commissioner shortly after David Stern retired. Silver moved quickly as he dropped the hammer like Thor, when he banned Sterling for life from the NBA. Players would orchestrate a protest during the playoff series between the Clippers and Warriors, where they would wear their warmup shirts inside out. Sterling would fire back with a lawsuit. However, the NBA would nail a counter blow as Sterling would have to sell the team for $2 Billion. Steve Ballmer would go on to purchase the franchise.

Inspirational Athlete of the Year: LeBron James
In the wake of the devastating defeat at the hands of the San Antonio Spurs, LeBron James started to reflect on the direction of his career. Following the season, LeBron became an unrestricted free agent. As a result, the LeBron Sweepstakes would begin once again as they did in 2010. Questions swirled all across the media as to where LeBron would end up. Fittingly, one of the candidates was Cleveland. The Cavaliers made a very strong bid to bring back the hometown hero that they villified because of how he made his exit four years earlier. They pulled strings left and right, from signing Kevin Love, to having the number one draft pick (Andrew Wiggins). The stars were lining up in Cleveland. Meanwhile, LeBron scanned the roster of Miami, and realized that the well that he drank from for championship glory had now run dry. The glamour and mystique of Miami faded away. The magic wasn't there for him. The party was officially over in South Beach. Pat Riley even held a Press Conference practically begging LeBron to stay. He even put his rings on the table, challenging LeBron to be loyal. Riles made the wrong move doing that, because he basically called out LeBron for being a quitter. LBJ saw the writing on the wall as he did before in Cleveland, and knew his days with the Heat were numbered. During the Summer of 2014, LeBron made his triumphant return as the proverbial Prodigal Son to his hometown of Cleveland. LeBron made peace with the same owner (Dan Gilbert), who said that the Cavs would win a title before he would ever win one in Miami. Gilbert was the same owner who behaved like a spoiled child when LeBron left for a better opportunity. Now, they have buried the hatchet as they say. The same fans who burned his jersey when he made his "Decision" have now welcomed him back.

Most Improved Athlete: DeMarco Murray
Cowboys Running Back DeMarco Murray has been a quiet success story. In the midst of low to mediocre expectations for Dallas, DeMarco is shining brightly. This season, Murray has made a strong case for the MVP Award, as he has picked up the ball and carried it well in the absence of Adrian Peterson. Murray has had a groundbreaking season, as he has helped to spear head the recent success of the Cowboys. With an impressive offensive line, Murray has been brilliant this year. With consistency and being healthy, only time will tell what else he can do.

Play of the Year: Odell Beckham's catch vs. The Dallas Cowboys
What else can you say? Nothing compares to how spectacular this catch was by Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr., even if it was against my Cowboys.

Documentary of the Year: 1984 NBA Draft
The story about this draft is enough for me to give this the "Documentary of the Year" Award. This has to be arguably the best Documentary that NBA TV has ever done. The 1984 NBA Draft is what is considered to be by many (myself included) as the greatest Draft Class in NBA History. The class included a total of 5 Hall of Famers (3 were selected in the Top 5). This draft is legendary for the quality that it produced. The draft starts out great with Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon as the 1st Overall pick for the Houston Rockets. Olajuwon stayed in the same city where he became a star in College. It also had its classic punchline with Sam Bowie as the 2nd Pick for the Blazers right ahead of Michael Jordan at number 3 for the Chicago Bulls. Jordan's college teammate Sam Perkins was selected 4th to the Dallas Mavericks, as Sir Charles Barkley went 5th for the Philadelphia 76ers. John Stockton was the quiet coming in the draft. Brazilian Legend Oscar Schmidt was drafted, but stayed in Brazil to dominate. This draft also had great role players such as Otis Thorpe, Sam Perkins and Kevin Willis to name a few. Even Coach Rick Carlisle was drafted. What fascinates me the most is how these careers connect with each other. This draft bridged gaps from the Magic-Bird Era to the Era of Duncan, Kobe, etc. This draft has made a major mark, and the story is incredible.

Milestone of the Year: Payton Manning becomes NFL All-Time TD Pass Leader.
Peyton Manning continued to make history as he became NFL Career Leader in Touchdown Passes. The rate that he reached this milestone is even more impressive considering how efficient he has been throughout his career. Manning continues to decorate his career as he nears the end of his journey.

2014: Year In Review

2014 has been very headline worthy, for both good and bad. It has also been filled with plenty of dominating performances, and plenty of surprises. This will be my first official year in review, and what better year to analyze than this year alone? Walk with me through this roller coaster that we know as 2014. This will be a combination of Sports and Entertainment.

January:

• Florida State defeats Auburn in the BCS Championship Game. Jameis Winston is named MVP.
• CM Punk makes headlines all across not only the wrestling world, but the sports entertainment world in general as he abruptly departs from WWE. Punk's departure sent shockwaves across the Internet, with fans, other wrestlers, podcast hosts, etc speculating what led to his exit.
• Dave Batista returns to the WWE to surprisingly win the Royal Rumble, which backfired as the fans were furious about his win. What made this even worse was the fact that Daniel Bryan was not even in the Rumble.

February:

• The Seattle Seahawks demoralize and annihilate the heavily favored Denver Broncos, 43-8 in Super Bowl 48. Seattle's Legion of Boom Defense attacked MVP Peyton Manning from all corners, and shut down his receiving corps. The Broncos Defense was also exposed in this series. The Seahawks put the NFL on notice that night.
• The WWE launches their new Network (repeat it with me: it only costs $9.99). That is right. For $10 a month, you could watch every PPV in WWE History, along with every WCW, and ECW PPV. You could also watch every episode of RAW and Nitro, along with Classic Programs like World Class Championship Wrestling. Instead of the usual $40, $50, or $60, the PPV's come with the packaged deal. At first, they gave you the option of paying $55 up front for the 6-month commitment. Hulk Hogan made his return to promote the Network, along with others such as Stone Cold Steve Austin and John Cena.
• David Stern retires after being Commissioner of the NBA for 30 years, with Adam Silver taking over.

March/April:

• 11-time Champion and Coaching Legend Phil Jackson returns to the NBA to become president of the New York Knicks, the team that he won two rings with as a player (1970, 1973).
• The NCAA Men's Basketball tournament begins with The Florida Gators as No. 1.
• The UConn Men's Basketball team wins the NCAA National Championship, with Shabazz Napier as the Most Outstanding Player.
• Pro Bowl Defensive End DeMarcus Ware signs a 3-year $30 million deal with the Denver Broncos, after being released by the Dallas Cowboys.
• Ravens Running Back Ray Rice is indicted by an Atlantic City Grand Jury on a charge of third-degree aggravated assault.
• WWE celebrates the 30th Anniversary of the Greatest Event in Wrestling History, as they present WrestleMania 30 at the Mercedez-Benz SuperDome (not Silverdome), in New Orleans, Louisiana. That weekend, we saw the return of the Ultimate Warrior and Razor Ramon as they took their rightful place into the WWE Hall of Fame with Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Lita, Paul Bearer, and Carlos Colon. At the start of WM XXX, we witnessed history as Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold, and The Rock all stood together in the same ring. The three biggest box office draws in wrestling history stood together in one ring. What really made it special was the staredown with Austin and Hogan, which was the ultimate fantasy match for years. This was a sign of things to come, as the event was very memorable. The biggest surprise in history came when Brock Lesnar defeated The Undertaker to end The Streak. Heyman and Lesnar were nearly just as surprised as the fans. The image of the fan with the glasses said it all. Daniel Bryan defeated Triple H in the first match of the night, and went on to defeat Randy Orton and Batista to become the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion in a very special moment. This was WWE's way of rewriting what happened with Chris Benoit and Eddie Guerrero.
• The next night, The Ultimate Warrior comes out to Monday Night RAW to address the fans in a heartfelt, and very prophetic speech. This would be Warrior's final appearance, as he suffered a heart attack the next day. He would soon be pronounced dead only at age 54. It felt like a surreal punch in the face. Warrior's heart truly beat its final beat, and what he did in his life makes his legacy live on forever.
• On the bright side, newcomer Paige makes her debut on RAW from NXT as she defeats AJ Lee to win her first WWE Divas Championship.
• Former LA Clippers owner Donald Sterling makes a controversial and racial comment towards his girlfriend, telling her that he did not want blacks coming to the games. This caused a massive outrage, as fans and players voiced their displeasure. NBA Hall of Famer Earvin "Magic" Johnson was heavily involved, as Sterling dropped his name in his disgusting remarks about black players and people. Commissioner Adam Silver would soon ban Sterling for life in the midst of the firestorm.
• Michael Sam becomes the first openly Gay player to be drafted into the NFL.
• Kevin Durant is named NBA Most Valuable Player for the first time.
• Evolution reunites to feud with The Shield. The Shield defeats them at Extreme Rules.

May/June:

• The Shield end their feud with Evolution at Payback. Batista leaves the next night on RAW, which opened the door for The Shield to disband. Seth Rollins takes Batista's place, as he joins The Authority.
• The San Antonio Spurs dominated the Miami Heat (4-1) to capture their fifth NBA Championship (4th all-time). Kawhi Leonard is named NBA Finals MVP. The Spurs wiped the floor with Miami, ending the party in South Beach. LeBron James would soon become a free agent, as he would take his talents back to Cleveland.
• The Los Angeles Kings win the Stanley Cup
• John Cena captures the WWE World Heavyweight Championship for the 15th time in his career. That night, Seth Rollins wins the Money In The Bank Ladder Match.

July:

• Germany destroys Brazil 7-1 in the World Cup Semifinals, to defeat Argentina 1-0 in the final to win the World Cup.
• The NFL announces that they would Ray Rice for the first two games of the season, starting August 30. Rice would also be pulled from the Madden 15 Video Game.
• Paul Pierce signs with the Washington Wizards.

August:

• Comedic Legend/Icon Robin Williams dies at the age of 63 from suicide, as a result of depression.
• LeBron James sheds a very noticeable amount of weight in the off-season from a summer-long carbohydrate cleanse.
• Steve Ballmer, who retired from Microsoft in February, buys the Los Angeles Clippers for $2 billion after former owner Donald Sterling sells the team.
• Michael Strahan and Derrick Brooks are headliners for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
• Brock Lesnar continues his run of surprises and dominance, as he conquers John Cena to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Brock won in extremely convincing fashion, as he nailed Cena with an incredible 16 German Suplexes. Cena looked like a jobber from the 80's, as Lesnar pummeled him form start to finish.

September:

• The NFL punishment of Ray Rice becomes even more severe after a surveillance video is leaked of him dragging his wife into the elevator.
• Minnesota Vikings Pro Bowl Running Back and former MVP Adrian Peterson is indicted on Child Abuse, after photos were released of his son having cuts and bruises on his thighs, hands, back and buttocks. The image of the NFL took a massive blow.
• MLB and New York Yankees legend Derek Jeter retires.
• 2004 NBA Finals MVP Chauncey Billups retires.

October:

• The San Francisco Giants defeat the Kansas City Royals 4-3, to capture their eighth World Series Championship.
• 2K Sports releases WWE 2k15 and NBA 2k15.
• Peyton Manning becomes the NFL's All-Time Leader in Touchdown Passes.

November:

• Sting makes his very long awaited debut in WWE, as he helps Team Cena defeat Team Authority at Survivor Series.
• DC Mayor For Life Marion Barry passes away at age 78.
• Former Pro-Bowl and Future Hall of Fame NFL Cornerback Champ Bailey retires.
• New York Yankees Great Alfonso Soriano retires.
• CM Punk finally breaks his silence, as he appeared as a guest on his friend Colt Cabana's podcast.

December:

• In response to Punk's interview, Vince McMahon appears as a Special Guest on Stone Cold's Podcast. McMahon addresses a number of issues, including Punk, Macho Man, The Network, etc.
• WWE NXT: R-Evolution is highly acclaimed and received great reviews from many fans and analysts in the world of wrestling. This event showed the rise of very familiar faces from the Indy Circuit, such as Sami Zayn (El Generico), Kevin Owens (formerly Steen), Hideo Itami (Kenta), Finn Balor (Prince Devitt), and Adrian Neville (PAC). This is a great sign of things to come, as Triple H made a statement with this event.
• Roman Reigns wins Superstar of the Year at the 2014 Slammy Awards.
• Kobe Bryant passes Michael Jordan for 3rd place on the NBA's All-time Scoring List
• The Movie "The Interview" receives backlash in the midst of the North Korea controversy, and is postponed, only to be later released.
• The Dallas Cowboys clinch the NFC East Division with a 12-4 record.
• DeMarco Murray breaks Emmitt Smith's Single Season Rushing Record.
• San Francisco 49ers fire coach Jim Harbaugh. Harbaugh later becomes Coach of The Michigan Wolverines.
• All-Star Point Guard and NBA Champion Rajon Rondo is traded to the Dallas Mavericks.

Once again, this is my first Year in Review Article. Overall, this has been a very eventful year in different ways. I hope that you enjoy it. Get ready for 2015.

Greatest Players in NBA Finals History

1. Michael Jordan:

PPG: 33.6
RPG: 6.0
APG: 6.0
SPG: 1.8
BPG: 0.7
FG%: 48%
3PT%: 36.8%
FT%: 81%
NBA Finals Appearances: 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998) (Undefeated 6-0)
NBA Championships: 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
Finals MVP Awards: 6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
Greatest Finals Series:
1993 (41.0 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 6.3 apg, 1.7 spg, 0.7 bpg, 51% FG, 40% 3PT, 69.4%)
1991 (31.2 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 11.4 apg, 2.8 spg, 1.4 bpg, 55% FG, 50% 3PT, 85% FT)
1992 (35.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 6.5 apg, 1.7 spg, 0.3 bpg, 52.6% FG, 43% 3PT, 89.1% FT)

Jordan making his statement in 1991:

Jordan in 1992:

Jordan lighting up the Suns in 1993:

2. Shaquille O'Neal:

PPG: 28.8 (33.5 as a Laker)
RPG: 13.1 (14.0 as a Laker)
APG: 3.3 (3.1 as a Laker)
BPG: 2.1 (2.4 as a Laker)
FG%: 60.2% (60.2 as a Laker)
FT%: 52.3%  (51.3 as a Laker)
NBA Finals Appearances: 6 (1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2006)
Championships: 4 (2000-2002, 2006)
Finals MVP Awards: 3 (2000, 2001, 2002)
Greatest Finals Series:
2000 (38.0 ppg, 16.7 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.0 spg, 2.7 bpg, 61.1% FG, 38.7% FT)
2002 (36.3 ppg, 12.3 rpg, 3.8 apg, 0.5 spg, 2.8 bpg, 59.5% FG, 66.2% FT)
2001 (33.0 ppg, 15.8 rpg, 4.8 apg, 0.4 spg, 3.4 bpg, 57.3% FG, 51.3% FT)




                                                      Shaq setting his pace of dominance in 2000:

                                                 Diesel bulldozing the Sixers in 2001:

Shaq buries the Nets in a sweep (2002):

3. Jerry West

PPG: 30.5

RPG: 5.0

APG: 5.6

FG%: 46%

NBA Finals Appearances: 9 (1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1972, 1973)

NBA Championships: 1 (1972)

Finals MVP Awards: 1 (1969)

Greatest Finals Series:

1969 (37.9 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 7.4 apg, 49% FG)

1966 (33.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 5.1 apg, 51.5% FG)

1963 (29.5 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 4.5 apg, 49% FG)
1968 (31.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 5.7 apg, 48.6% FG)

Jerry West displays his drive in the 1969 NBA Finals:

4. Earvin Magic Johnson:

PPG: 19.4
RPG: 7.9
APG: 11.7
SPG: 1.8
BPG: 0.4
FG%: 51.0%
3PT%: 36.4%
FT%: 88.3%
NBA Finals Appearances: 9 (1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1991)
NBA Championships: 5 (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
Finals MVP Awards: 3 (1980, 1982, 1987)
Greatest Finals Series:
1987 (26.2 ppg, 8.0 rpg, 13.0 apg, 2.3 spg, 0.3 bpg, 54.1% FG, 50% 3PT, 96% FT)
1988 (21.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 13.0 apg, 2.0 spg, 0.1 bpg, 55% FG, 33.3% 3PT, 86.6% FT)
1980 (21.5 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 8.7 apg, 2.7 spg, 57.3% FG, 87.5% FT)
1985 (18.3 ppg, 6.8  rpg, 14.0 apg, 2.2 spg, 49.4% FG, 50% 3PT, 87.1% FT)
1982 (16.2 ppg, 10.8 rpg, 8.0 apg, 1.2 spg, 56.9% FG, 84.6% FT)

Magic Johnson saves Lakers as a Rookie (42/15/7):

Magic's Triple Double in Game 6 of 1982 Finals:

Magic shines again in 1987:

Magic's Lakers clinch 5th Title in Game 7 (1988):

5. Hakeem Olajuwon:

PPG: 27.4
RPG: 10.6
APG: 3.4
SPG: 2.0
BPG: 3.2
FG%: 48.7%
3PT%: 100%
FT%: 74%
NBA Finals Appearances: 3 (1986, 1994, 1995)
NBA Championships: 2 (1994, 1995)
NBA Finals MVP Awards: 2 (1994, 1995)
Greatest Finals Series:
1994 (27 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 3.6 apg, 1.6 spg, 3.9 bpg, 50% FG, 100% 3PT, 86% FT)
1995 (32.8 ppg, 11.5 rpg, 5.5 apg, 2.0 spg, 2.0 bpg, 48.3% FG, 100% 3PT, 69.2% FT)

The Dream vs. The Diesel

6. Tim Duncan:

PPG: 21.8
RPG: 13.7
APG: 3.0
SPG: 1.0
BPG: 3.1
FG%: 47.7%
FT%: 72%
NBA Finals Appearances: 5 (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2013)
NBA Championships: 4 (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007)
NBA Finals MVP Awards: 3 (1999, 2003, 2005)
Greatest Finals Series:
2003 (24.2 ppg, 17.0 rpg, 5.3 apg, 1.0 spg, 5.3 bpg, 49.5% FG, 68.5% FT)
1999 (27.4 ppg, 14.0 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.0 spg, 2.2 bpg, 53.7% FG, 79.5% FT)

7. Bill Russell

PPG: 16.5

RPG: 24.6

APG: 4.5

FG%: 44.8%

FT%: 59.3%

NBA Finals Appearances: 12 (1957-66, 1968, 1969)

NBA Championships: 11 (1957, 1959-66, 1968, 1969)

Greatest Finals Series:

1962 (22.9 ppg, 27.0 rpg, 5.7 apg, 54.3% FG, 74.2% FT)

1963 (20.0 ppg, 26.0 rpg, 5.3 apg, 46.7% FG, 69.2% FT)

1960 (16.7 ppg, 24.9 rpg, 3.0 apg, 47.1% FG, 68.5% FT)

1961 (17.6 ppg, 28.8 rpg, 4.4 apg, 42.9% FG, 44.9% FT)

8. Larry Bird

PPG: 23.1

RPG: 11.7

APG: 6.0

SPG: 2.0

BPG: 0.8

FG%: 46.0%

3PT%: 42.0%

FT%: 87.0%

NBA Finals Appearances: 5 (1981, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987)

NBA Champions: 3 (1981, 1984, 1986)

NBA Finals MVP Awards: 2 (1984, 1986)

Greatest Finals Series:

1986 (24.0 ppg, 9.7 rpg, 9.5 apg, 2.7 spg, 0.3 bpg, 48.2% FG, 35% 3PT, 93.9% FT)

1984 (27.4 ppg, 14.0 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.1 spg, 1.1 bpg, 48.4% FG, 66.7% 3PT, 84.2% FT)

1987 (24.2 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 5.5 apg, 1.2 spg, 1.2 bpg, 44.5% FG, 50.0% 3PT, 92.1% FT)

Bird in his Finals Debut in 1981:

Bird's Brilliance in 1984:

Larry Legend's Triple Double in 1986:

9. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar:

PPG: 23.1
RPG: 8.8
APG: 3.2
BPG: 2.0
FG%: 52%
FT%: 72.5%
NBA Finals Appearances: 10 (1971, 1974, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1989)
NBA Championships: 6 (1971, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
NBA Finals MVP Awards: 2 (1971, 1985)
Greatest Finals Series:
1974 (32.6 ppg, 12.1 rpg, 5.4 apg, 1.1 spg, 2.1 bpg, 52.4% FG, 70.8% FT)
1980 (33.4 ppg, 13.6 rpg, 3.2 apg, 0.6 spg, 4.6 bpg, 54.9% FG, 80.8% FT)
1971 (27.0 ppg, 18.5 rpg, 2.8 apg, 60.5% FG, 76.2% FT)

Kareem leading the Bucks to the Finals in 1971:

Kareem leads Bucks to OT win in 1974:

10. Wilt Chamberlain

PPG: 18.8
RPG: 24.5
APG: 3.8
FG%: 55.4%
FT%: 39.1%
NBA Finals Appearances: 6 (1964, 1967, 1969, 1970, 1972, 1973)
NBA Championships: 2 (1967, 1972)
NBA Finals MVP Awards: 1 (1972)
Greatest Finals Series:
1964 (29.2 ppg, 27.6 rpg, 2.4 apg, 51.7 (52%) FG, 41.5% FT)
1972 (19.4 ppg, 23.2 rpg, 2.6 apg, 60% FG, 54% FT)
1967 (17.7 ppg, 28.5 rpg, 6.8 apg, 56% FG, 30.6% FT)
1970 (23.3 ppg, 24.1 rpg, 4.0 apg, 62.5% FG, 34.3% FT)