I_POD **Motivation**

There is no secret that athletes, use music as some form of motivation to succeed in their sport. With the major advancements to MP3 players, athletes are able to run, and lift weights without feeling uncomfortable in anyway. As a tribute to every athlete and MP3 player, every week I will choose a song in which I feel can motivate an athlete to finish that last rep, run that last sprint or simply get into a zone before a game.

This weeks "IPOD Motivation" song of the week is:

Jay-Z--Public Service Announcement (PSA)
Considered one of the best songs off the critically acclaimed "Black Album" released back in 2003. Although the song is just little over 2 minutes in duration, Jay-Z delivers a powerful message in his 2 verses. The great producer Just Blaze, used the sample from Little Boy Blues song "Seed of Love" to provide a rock and roll vibe to the song. This song will leave every one quoting the king of hip hop, "Either Love me or Leave me Alone".

Kenny Got Hops

I Need A Fast Car

Shes not just your typical eye candy. Danica Patrick is an American auto racing driver competing in the Indy Car series. At the young age of 26, her future in auto racing is very bright not to mention she is a female driver in a sport dominated by men. In 2005 she was named Rookie of the year by the Indy Car Series, and in 2006 published her first book, an autobiography "Danica: Crossing The Line". On Sunday April 20th, Danica became the first female driver in the history of the sport to win an Indy Series race. Danica took home the checkered flag after her top contenders were forced to make a pit stop as she strategically finished the final laps. Congratulations to Danica on an impressive win.

May & June- - - Air Jordan Fans Go To Heaven

"I can die happy!!", that infamous phrase maybe screamed out loud by every Air Jordan fan in the months of May and June. The Nike Air Jordan has been the most popular sneaker line since 1985 with its ground breaking release of the Air Jordan 1. The NBA banned the shoe from the courts but Michael still wore them which accompanied a 5,000 dollar fine per game. The controversy led the Air Jordan brand to become a household name. Although the Jordan Brand has dominated the sneaker industry for majority of the 1990's and early 2000's, in recent years the company has been over looked by the more fashionable Nike Air Force One and Nike Air Dunk. 2008 by many experts marks the year of the resurgence of the Nike Air Jordan.
January 19, 2008, Jordan released the first of ten packs which include two different retro Air Jordan's in which the shoes total the number '23'. The first package consisted of the Air Jordan 'X' along with the long awaited return of the Air Jordan '13' original color way. The loyal Jordan fans found no problem paying $310.00 for the package as well as the long line that came along with it. The following package released was the Air Jordan '14' and '9', which also received much praise by the fans in the sneaker community.
With the early success of the packages released, the months of May and June will possibly propel Michael Jordan back to the tip of every sneaker collector and avid fan's tongue. The hype behind these two releases are similar to the retro release of the Air Jordan 'XI' in 2000-2001. On May 24th the fourth pack of the countdown will be released featuring the retro of the Air Jordan 'XVII" and the amazing Air Jordan 'VI'. The Air Jordan 'XVII" will make its first first appearance in the sneaker community since its release in 2002. When the 'XVII" originally released its 200 dollar price tag raised eyebrows of many first time buyers of the MJ experience, but that did not slow down the avid fans that still supported the 6 time NBA champion and his footwear. Along with the sneaker, supporters also received a metal briefcase which concealed the shoe and a CD with unique behind the scenes shots from the production the sneaker.
The hype behind this package obviously comes from the revival of the Air Jordan 'VI'. Entering the 1990-1991 NBA season the greatness of MJ was recognized by many critics, but his critics still had one question, 'Can he lead his team to a championship?'. A championship ring was the only thing missing from his many awards and early records. In 1991 the Bulls finally made the first step towards 1990's dominance with they're win over Western Conference champs Los Angeles Lakers. The championship marked the first of his six titles. Creator of the previous five Jordan releases, Tim Hatfield developed a classic sneaker which Jordan wore during his defining year. The sneaker featured a rubber tongue with two holes for easy slip in and out action along with the numbers '2' and '3' hidden on the shoe. The black and infrared was the first pair released followed by four future color ways. The white, carmine red and black pair received the least support from fans, having the lowest sales of all the color ways. 18 years later Michael and his team of designers have decided to give the 'Carmines' another chance in the sneaker community. In the minds of sneaker collectors the 'carmines' are a prized item which adds more hype to the release of this package.
The following month of June will not provide a decline when it comes to hype and discussions amongst sneaker heads and collectors. The avid fans of the Air Jordan may have to relax on the fast food and usage of the daytime minutes if they plan on owning arguably the most talked about pair of Jordan's. On June 21st the Jordan brand will release two of their best selling sneakers with the Air Jordan 'XVI' and 'VII". Unlike the previous packages released the line for this release is already forming outside of every Niketown and sneaker store with an Urban account.
In February 2001, the Air Jordan 'XVI' was released, the sneaker also marked the first time designer Mike Hatfield was not behind the production of the shoe. Although Hatfield did not have a hand in the design of the shoe the reception from the sneaker community and also the current players in the NBA gave the shoe plenty of praise. The Air Jordan 'XVI' marked the return of the clear rubber soles and the return of the patent leather toe box. Even though MJ did not play a full season in these sneakers, this pair will go down in history as one of the top ten Air Jordan's of all time.
Now for the "Crem De La Crem' also known as the Air Jordan 'VII'. The sneaker originally made its first appearance in late 1991, the buzz behind the shoe was very high due to the championship win for MJ earlier in the year. The pair had many similarities to the the previous release that year with the Air Jordan 'VI'. With its use of the Nike Huarache technology this pair separated its self from any other Air Jordan or basketball shoe period. In 1992 during the Barcelona Olympics, Nike created a special pair of shoes for Michael combining the colors of the USA team and replacing the usual number 23 with the number 9 to match his Dream Team number. The Air Jordan 'VII' has made several appearances since its original debut in 1991. The sneaker was re-released in 2002, 2004, and 2006 but never in the white, red and light gray color way. Sneaker heads can officially make their way up to Heaven without putting up a fight once this pair is in their possession. If the release of this pack does not live up to its hype, it will at least put to rest the argument of the "Bugs Bunny" Jordans.

Air KanYe????

Kanye does it again! his influence on pop culture and the society period is undeniable. Now his influence has reached new heights with his collaboration with Nike. Great minds think alike, Phil Knight and Kanye West has combined they're thoughts to create the 80's, outer space influenced sneaker called the 'Air Yeezy'. April 16th 2008 launched possibly the best tour in recent years with the 'Glow In The Dark' tour. Kanye unveiled his Nike collaboration during his performance which left people in the audience and sneaker heads talking about his shoe game more than his amazing performance. Although no release date has surfaced, the hype behind these shoes will give MJ a run for his money when it comes to the sneaker game.

Cut The Check!!

The deal is done, and the 2008 NFL draft is off to a 30 million dollar guaranteed start. Jake Long, the offensive tackle from the University of Michigan has signed a 5 year 57.5 million dollar deal with an estimated 30 million dollars guaranteed. The contract will make Jake Long the first overall pick in the draft. According to many NFL experts the deal was made prior to this weekends draft to avoid a potential off-season hold out, similar to last year's number one overall pick Jamarcus Russell.
Jake Long was a three year letterman at the University of Michigan earning Big Ten Lineman of the Year in both 2006 and 2007. Although projected as left tackle at the next level, Jake began his career as a right tackle for his first two collegiate years. The 6'7 313 pound lineman was moved to left tackle in 2006 and started his final 26 games, and allowing an outstanding 1 sack to another potential first round pick in Vernon Gholston.
The Miami Dolphins 2007-2008 season was one to forget and never resurface again. After a 1-15 season the outlook for next season can only be an improvement. Jake Long will be the foundation for the rebuilding year in Miami. Along with Vernon Carey and Trey Darilek, the offensive line will provide the protection needed to for John Beck to succeed.

'Maybe' He's The Greatest

1ST Annual CrackWicked NBA Awards

The NBA 2007-2008 season, will possibly make its mark in history as one of the most entertaining and competitive seasons ever. Early signs of this great NBA season came during the off-season with the blockbuster trade between the Celtics and Timberwolves. Kevin Mchale, former Celtic great and current Minnesota General Manager gave back to the city of Boston in a big way. After weeks of speculation the trade which sent Kevin Garnett to the Celtics for Al Jefferson, Gerald Green and many other young Celtic talent was made official on July 29th, 2007. Adding more fuel to the fire was the addition of eight time all-star Ray Allen in a trade that sent him to Boston in return for Wally Szczerbiak, Delonte West and rising star Jeff Green. The combination of Pierce, Allen and Garnett turned the 24-58 Celtics into the powerhouse of the East with an outstanding 66-16 record. The 42 game turn around is an NBA record.

February 20th, 2008, marked one of the most active trade deadlines in recent years. The biggest move was the trade between Phoenix and Miami. The future Hall of Famer and one of the members of the 50 greatest players, Shaquille Oneal joined Steve Nash and the rising Sun in return for wing man Shawn Marion. Other big stars such as Jason Kidd, Pau Gasol, Kurt Thomas and Ben Wallace also landed onto new teams. The numerous acquisitions contributed to arguably the tightest Western Conference race in NBA history. At the end of the regular season only 7 games separated 1st and 8th place in the West.

Now finally time to hand out the Hardware......

Rookie Of The Year: Kevin Durant.
This rising star burst onto the scene and never looked back. The four time rookie of the month, averaged an outstanding 20 points per game, just under 5 rebounds per game to go along with 2.4 assists per game. At the tender age of 19, the Supersonics franchise player will be a force in the league for the next 10 years.

Sixth Man Of the Year: Manu Ginobli.
Manu is not the David Spade, Jon Heder, and Rob Schneider type of bench warmer, but more like the 19.5 points per game and 4.5 assist per game type of bench warmer. Although he plays the minutes equivalent to a starter, accepting the secondary role as a player is the biggest accomplishment on any level. 2008 marked the first all star snub for a "bench warmer

Most Improved Player: Hedo Turkoglu.
The Most improved player is also the most reliable player on his team. For the first time in his 7 year career Hedo played all 82 games. The off season acquisition of Rashard Lewis was suppose to be the secondary option to relieve the kryptonite from 'Superman' Dwight Howard, but Turkoglu quickly stole the spotlight averaging 19.5 points per game along with 5.7 rebounds and 5 ` assist per game.

Defensive Player Of The Year: Kevin Garnett
Although his defensive stats are not Perez Hilton or Best Week Ever worthy, Garnett's impact on the defensive side of the ball for the Celtics is very significant. Along with the blocks, steals and rebounds Garnett provides the vocal leadership needed for the big 3 and the young players to mend to become a legitimate force in the league. The Celtics allowed only 90.1 points per game & 18.0 assists per game. Garnett's ability to be a Coach/Player will propel the Celtics into the Finals. Not to mention he is also a MVP candidate.

Coach Of The Year: Byron Scott.
Probably the easiest selection of all the awards. With 1 potential great player and 11 role players along with limited fan support due to recovering Katrina victims, Scott has guided his team to the top of the Western Conference ranks for majority of the regular season. Hopefully he's not rewarded with a pink slip like his previous job in New Jersey.

Most Valuable Player: Chris Paul.
A young Isiah with the heart of a lion. Chris Paul has become a household name in more than just New Orleans, but every major city in the county. For 37.6 minutes per game, Paul has been only secondary to God with his play making ability and decision making on court. Paul averaged 21.5 points per game along with 11.6 and 2.7 assist and steals respectively. Unaware of his medical talents, Paul brought life back into forgotten forward Tyson Chandler with every alley hoop and behind the back pass thrown his way. The 2007-2008 season also marked the year of his first all star selection and the unveiling of his first signature shoe with the Jordan Brand. Although the competitor in him would rather have a championship ring, an MVP award after just his 3rd season will be enough compensation.

SickNeSS 2008 Playoffs will be GREAT!

Whereever I Go She Goes...

Will This Help His MVP Campaign?

1984, 1996, 2003,...2008??

The NBA draft is not for another 2 months, but its not too early to start the buzz on the possible GREATNESS of this draft class. Greatness?? Rose, Love and Beasley are clearly the 3 kings in this class, but players under the radar such as Lopez, Rush and Augustine can propel the class into comparisons with the amazing 84 and 96 class. Unlike the Hall of Famers in the 1984 class this class is filled with "Diaper Dandies" ready to lead a NBA franchise to new heights.

Derrick Rose the fantastic Point Guard from Memphis is my pick for the 2008-2009 NBA rookie of the year. The 6'3 180 pound freshman did not disappoint Memphis fans this season with his great decision making and creativity with the basketball. Derrick posses the rare combination of size and speed at the PG position. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and for himself brings smiles to every GM's face in the NBA. Although he is compared to the current young points guards in the league such as Paul and Williams, his mental toughness as a defender can only help him to surpass them and become the king of the elite

"L O, L O, L O L O V E..im talking bout LOVE!!" where is Ashley Simpson when you need her? she should come out and perform when Love is Drafted. Kevin Love the lovely freshman center from UCLA who is every coaches dream and worst nightmare. Listed at 6'10 255 pounds, this PF/C has the basketball IQ of a veteran Point Guard and the ability to score from anywhere on the court. In contrast to last years number one overall pick Greg Oden, Love's passing ability and low post skills are NBA ready. One of his strongest attributes is his great outlet passing after grabbing a rebound, although the outlet pass will not be as effect in the NBA, it only displays his understanding of the game. Love has a great personality and feel for the game, his skills will not glue you to the TV screen but will always win you basketball games. Tim Duncan.

Micheal 'Be Easy' Beasley is the all everything freshman from Kansas State who undeniably has the most potential of all the players in this years draft. The 6'10 225 pound forward was dominating and fearless this year in the Big 12 conference this year. 'Be easy' averaged 26.2 points per game and 12.4 per game with very little help from his supporting cast. The left handed stud can play above the rim like a banger but can take you behind the three point line like Dirk Nowitzki. On the defensive side of the ball, his love for the game does not diminish, he displayed great range and tenacity in the low post, averaging just under 2 blocks per game. Many experts compare him to a more athletic Derrick Coleman, but his ability to play defense and block shots tells me he has the ability to have a Rasheed Wallace type of career. Although coming into college many scouts labeled him as a great talent with an attitude problem, many GM's will take a chance on this super talent.

The 1984 NBA Draft will always be legendary but this 2008 class has the potential to be something special, as long as there is no Busts like Olowokandi, and its better than the 2000 draft this draft will be a great one.

Treat My First Like My Last....

Ahh yes, after weeks of contemplating, I've finally decided to create a blog just to share my thoughts with you lovely people. Lets see, my name is Dwayne Antione LaFleur, currently a student at Hofstra University. My major is Biology but my heart and soul is in sports and everything that surrounds it. This blog will be dedicated to sports and everything in between in which i feel is cool enough to receive some attention :) i hope you enjoy!!!!!