Surprising LeBron James Facts

Favorite Book: Shooting Stars

Favorite Movie: More Than a Game

Favorite Record: Music Inspired by More Than a Game

Play Count of "Forever" (according to iTunes since 8-27-09): 846

Basketball Championships Won by The Blowtorch Proprietors While Wearing LeBron James Shoes: 1

Basketball Championships Won by LeBron James While Wearing LeBron James Shoes: 1

Favorite Food: fusili with alfredo sauce

Favorite Gum (packaging): LeBron's Lightning Lemonade

Favorite Gum (taste): Quench Gum - Fruit Punch

Least Favorite Gum (taste): LeBron's Lightning Lemonade

Owns a Ferrari named "LeRrari".

Favorite LeBron from "The LeBrons": Business LeBron

Least Favorite LeBron from "The LeBrons": none

Favorite Harry Potter Book: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Least Favorite Harry Potter Book: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Favorite Comedian: LeBron James on Saturday Night Live

Least Favorite Comedian: LeBron James on the ESPYs

Headband is made of 2300 thread count Egyptian cotton.

Things I Would Say If I Ever Encountered DeShawn Stevenson

Photo via Truth About It

• "Oh, hey. You're DeShawn Stevenson."
• "Wow. There's a tattoo on your throat."
• "I bet that hurt."
• "Is that Abe Lincoln?"
• "Hmmm..."
• "Oh, there's a crack on your forehead."
• "What's that about?"
• "So, you don't crack, but you got a crack tattoo?"
• "I'm kinda confused."
• "You're saying the only way you crack is if you decide to crack yourself with ink?"
• "I guess it kinda makes sense when you put it that way."
• "What about in the winter, when your skin is really dry? I crack like crazy then."
• "Chapstick helps."
• "Not sure I get the 9 on your face."
• "No, that's not right."
• "No matter how far away I am, it's still a 9."
• "Seriously."
• "It's still a 9 from here."
• "I really don't get your tattoos."
• "Anyways, nice to meet you. Good luck with your face and neck tattoos."

Catching Up with Mike Dunleavy, Jr.

I recently had a chance to chat with Mike Dunleavy, Jr. of the Indiana Pacers basketball team. He was very kind to answer a bunch of my questions, and was very earnest in doing so. In an age of irony and sarcasm, Dunleavy's sincerity should be applauded. Here's the highlights.


On how long our interview would be.

"Two minutes. 120 seconds."

On his mental state during his knee injury recovery.

"I've got the right attitude."

On his favorite part of being a basketball player.

"You know, I just like meeting people."

On watching other teams' games.

"I get League Pass, so I can watch all the games at my house. There aren't enough NBA fans left."

On the difference between college basketball and the NBA.

"If you say college basketball is better, you're stupid."

On what he would be doing if he weren't a basketball player.

"Tax accountant."

On being told he resembles a young Liam Neeson.

"Hey, I consider that a HUGE compliment."

A Businessman and a Business, Man

Somewhere in New Jersey or Russia...

Excuse me, sir. Are you Mr. Jay Z?
For shizzle, my nizzle.

Excellent. I am a successful Russian entrepreneur and I have some questions about your basketball squad. Where do you dribble?

Down in V-A.

I was lead to believe that you had ownership of the New Jersey Nets basketball club. As English is not my native language, perhaps I am confused. Is New Jersey part of V-A?

Ha-HA!

I assume that laugh is one of sarcasm, meaning that V-A and New Jersey are separate locales. I am interested in purchasing all or part of your New Jersey Nets basketballing club. I would not like to purchase your dribbling organization in V-A.

We don't believe you, you need more people.

Quite the opposite, Mr. Z. As I mentioned before, I am a successful Russian businessman. I have amassed a small fortune by selling Americans things that they think are extremely Russian. Items such as vodka, communism, eagle head soup, and tickets to ballet shows. This has proved to be very lucrative. So lucrative in fact, that I hope to replicate its success in my homeland. My first order of business is purchasing an American sports team that no one cares about, but that Russians think Americans care about. Hence, I'd like to offer several billion dollars to own these New Jersey Nets basketballers.

(puts on glasses)

Allow me to reintroduce myself. My name is Hov.

Check Out My Band

We're called the Scott Burrell Blues Explosion. Our name used to be Toni! Toni! Toni!, but due to some sort of copyright infringement we had to change our name. So, for now, we're the Scott Burrell Blues Explosion.

As you can probably guess from my shirt, our name, and our fan club (the Rockabullies -- that's one in the red and black tanktop), we're a post-slowdrive, blues infused, meaningfulcore band that is heavily influenced by the 1997-98 Chicago Bulls. In fact, we've all taken pseudonyms when we're performing. Here's the line-up:

• Dickey Pimpkins - lead guitar, backing vocals
• Get Down Randy Brown - bass, backing vocals
• Rusty LaRock - drums
• Harper - harmonica, effects, harmonica effects
• Jumpin' Jud (me) - rhythm guitar, organ, lead vocals

We've played all around the Chicagoland area. Our manager says we'll probably be able to schedule a national tour in the next few months, but word on the street is that we won't be able to perform in Washington, Arizona, Utah, Michigan, Ohio, and parts of New York and California. I guess time hasn't healed those wounds yet.

A long of our songs are written from the perspective of different players, or about the players. Probably our most famous song, so far, is "Taco Joe." It's about Joe Kleine. Here's the chorus:

Hey-ey Joe

Get us a tac-o

Hey-ey Joe

We want that tac-o

I wrote that particular lyric, but Dickey usually writes the songs. He's really good with melody. You can find our demo right here, and it'd be cool if you could hand that off to anyone you might know. Who knows, we could end up in a town near you.

And yes, we do do a cover of "Sirius" by the Alan Parsons Project. It's our first song every night.

The LeBron James Conspiracy

Remember this?
Enhance.Enhance.

Good. Now look at this.

It is blatantly obvious that I have uncovered another great deception in the NBA. There are only three logical explanations for this.

1. LeBron James has a twin brother named LaRon James who does not have perfect vision and is starting to bald. LaRon often stands in for LeBron when he feels the situation is either too dangerous or too inconsequential. We'll call this the Tony Clifton Scenario. This is the most likely.
   
   
2. There is some bro who looks a lot like LeBron James and is trying to capitalize on his fame and money. We'll call this the Frank Abignale Scenario. This is the second most likely, which is why it is listed second.
   
   
3. LeBron James wears glasses. This is not very likely because he is superhuman and therefore has superhuman vision. While it might be a Superman kind of thing, that persona has been co-opted by too many other athletes that a brazen copyright infringement would not go unchecked in NBA back channels. This can be discredited.

Like I said, it's most likely that there is a LeBron James twin that no one knows about. The only differences betwixt the two are the glasses, loss of hair, and complete lack of athletic ability. If you have seen The Prestige, you'll quickly realize that this is something that has been planned since LeBron realized he could become famous. By using a twin he is able to be in two places at once, which is hugely marketable. Plus it will extend LeBron's career because it will save the wear and tear of travelling around the globe.

As the old saying says, you never know when a famous athlete will have a less athletic brother with wacky hair that the Phoenix Suns will want to draft.

The Perfect Prom Dress

Want a prom dress that's going to turn everyone's head when you walk into the room? Want a prom dress that is different from everyone else's prom dress? Well you can have that perfect prom dress.

 What colors are in style for prom dresses? For the prom in 2007 you will see some new colors you have not seen in fashion for a while like navy and burgundy gold, raspberry, purple orange, black and white, and all the fun prom colors like turquoise, lime and fuchsia. Girls always love purple and this year for the prom you will see the best purple gowns. Royal blue is making a comeback big time for 2007--a sure winner. Royal blue is a real hot color this year. Gold and silver will be important and the new metallic lamé fabrics will show you off to the limit.

What kind of style should I focus on if I want to look sexy in my prom dress? Sexy prom dresses for 2007 are everywhere. Want to know what styles are hot? Glad you asked. I'll tell you. Ruffles (the french look), drapes, tiers, high slits, lace; hi-low hemlines and mermaid silhouettes are the sexy favorites for this year. They are making their way back into the heart of many teens for the prom. You'll see lots of sexy ball gowns. Everyone wants to like a princess.

What type of prom dress should I look for if I'm not that tall? Many girls that aren't so tall (like me) are going toward fitted silhouettes and flirty, little short dresses. These prom dresses come in an array of fun colors. Remember, you got to use what you got! Flaunt all your assets!

Helpful tips to finding the perfect prom dress:

Now keep in mind, any dress can look great on the hanger but remember you have to purchase a style and look that goes with your height, body shape, hair and skin coloring. Don't buy into the belief that there are a limited number of colors that work for you; instead, be your own best fashion designer and hold up dresses to your face to see which ones bring out your skin tones, eyes and hair the best.

Warm colors like fire engine red and coral look best on brunettes with darker coloring; cool pastels work for blondes. But there are a myriad of colors -- metallic gold and silver included -- that work for all colorings.

If you're not sure what type of prom dress style to go with for the prom drag a friend to a store and get a second opinion while trying on lots of colors to see which ones compliment your look best.

Learn to embrace your body, too. If you aren't comfortable in curve-hugging dresses because of too much jiggle, then try a body slimmer underneath for more control.

Everyone has at least one great asset, even if it's something as simple as thick hair, white teeth or nice legs.

You don't have to do anything too extravagant to show off your best feature, just make sure that your look shows it off and enhances it. If your best feature is great skin, the last thing you'd want to do is cover up every inch of it with clothing.

Dressing for your best feature is less about dressing for size or age and more about making the best of what you have to work with.

One important thing to remember is when you're looking to buy a prom dress focus on a bling bling dress or bling bling accessories not both. If you have both it would be to overwhelming to the naked eye and one will take away from the other. The idea here is to make either the dress or the accessories the focus, not both.

For example, a bronze strapless gown with no adornment could carry a chunky diamond bracelet and necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings. Solid color dresses and neutrals are a great backdrop for colorful jewels.

On the other hand, the more ruffles, tiers and beading a dress has, the simpler the accessories should be. It doesn't mean you have to go bare but you need to use self-control and choose smaller pieces.

The difficulty to dressing for special occasions such as homecoming or the prom is that young women look wrong if they dress their age: in froufrou dress, young women/girls look ready for prom. Look at magazines web sites and see what's in style. You don't want to go looking like grandma just run over by a reindeer!

Different styles to consider:

Movie Star Style

Want to look like a movie star? Show your sense of style with a designer-inspired gown: many labels create their own jazzed-up versions of celebrity-chic dresses. Dresses by Jovani, Paris, Clarisse, Mori Lee, and Niteline, are famous for producing red-carpet looks at an affordable price. Important red carpet looks this year include one-shoulder Grecian gown and empire waist dresses.

Elegance

If the movie star prom dress isn't for you then tone down the look and choose a cool cocktail dress look. Whether you favor aristocratic circle skirts or sleek, trimmer hems, this dress will come in handy for other occasions

Princess Look

Elegant trains add serious punch. Go for a small drape (called a duster) or full-on train (called chapel) - either way, your exit leaves a definite lasting impression.

Covering Dresses

A movie star favorite, covering dresses are as comfortable as they are stunning. Keep in mind that with a simple dress like this, accessories are a must! From pearls to diamonds to a mix of pendants, anything goes. Bling bling all the way!

The Wow Look

Let the little Marilyn Monroe come out with a mega feminine, hip-hugging gown. Select dresses made with delicate fabrics, like satin or silk, that drapes well and creates curves. To keep with the retro tone, finish with a clutch purse and peep-toe pumps.

Girly Girl Skirts

Stemmed from summer's plain skirt rage, tiered skirts are having a serious comeback. This trend can go two very unique routes: the sophisticated ballroom skirt or the breezy "plain dress".

Black is Back

If you plan on sporting your prom dress again, the little black dress is a classic. Choose a sleek string dress, flirty shift, or take your look from Audrey Hepburn with a chic prom dress.

It's high but Boy Is It Low.

Last year's asymmetrical hem has been replaced by the "high-low" dress. The hem, which is short in the front and longer in the back, is so unique and adorable; you'll have all eyes on you! It's a great alternative because it's short enough to dance in but long enough to look dressy.

Strapless Baby

Strapless prom dresses have become a prom staple for great reason. They are equal parts sassy and classy. They flatter any figure. And they don't require a necklace. Keep your eyes out for dresses with beautiful beading and elegant embroidery around the bust-a big style this year.

Homecoming Queen

The ultimate Cinderella-at-the-ball dress and accessories. A bouffant skirt and otherwise simple top combination is for the homecoming queens at style. These gowns require minimal accessories because they're so show stopping. But make sure you get home before midnight. Yeah right!

The best advice I tell young girls looking for the perfect prom dress is to have fun with fashion. Try something new: venture into a store that you've never shopped in, try on dresses that you always wanted to wear, but was afraid to try on. The idea is to push the limits of your prom wardrobe and experience innovative looks.  Sorin Adrian

A Couple of Basketball Players Talk About Hipster Rap

(phone rings playing Day N' Nite (Crookers Remix))

JaVale McGee: Yo, man.

Michael Beasley: Yo, man. You hear this new CuDi album yet?

JM: Naw, man. I been playing ball too much.

MB: Tyte, bro. I been busy at this place they sent me to. If it sound echo-y, it's cause I gotta call from the bathroom. I ain't supposed to have a phone, so I had to leave my other four at home. One of my guys got me that CuDi record. Dude's on point.

JM: I heard it ain't all that. They saying too much singing when dude can't even sing. And most of the songs are barely songs. I'll probably pass.

MB: You just ain't get it, man. That lonely stoner thing really makes sense to me.

JM: Truth, dog. It would.

MB: For real. Holla at me.
JM: Aight, bro. Peace.

Jon and Brad Talk Tattoos

via

Real Cool, Marcin Gortat

I see you Marcin, playing for Poland in the FIBA tournament. We all see you, but that's the point isn't it? You of the 34 million dollar contract which you apparently used to buy custom red shoes. Subtle.

And that's fine, man. You can spend your money how you want. I assume you already broke ground on your pool that you'll fill with caviar or whatever. Maybe put some gold coins in there too. I don't care. I'm sure you'll buy some cars since you so readily remind everyone that you drive the fastest car in the NBA. You always have had a special knack for ostentatious wealth.

That's all well and good. You're a multi-millionaire, so you should enjoy it. But to rub your NBA status in the face of your competition is pretty wackadoodle, bro. Couldn't you have just worn regular socks like, you know, every other player in the tournament. Basically all of Spain has been in the NBA at some point, and they just wear white socks. You don't see Bostjan Nachbar wearing NBA socks and he won't shut up about that one time he scored 29 points against the Rockets. He calls it "Boki's Revenge," but that's irrelevant right now.

The point is, take off your NBA socks. And the wristband. We get it. You're in the NBA. You don't have to make everyone else self-conscious about the league they're playing in.

And for the record, it's Martin, with a T. Jerk.

Roll Call

Raise your hand if you're the most stereotypically Greek player of the 1990s, but aren't actually Greek.

Scenes from the Hall of Fame Inductions

Friday afternoon...

Announcer: Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. David Robinson.

(crowd applauds)

Oh. My. Gosh. Johnny, is he really wearing jeans right now?

He is definitely wearing jeans. Ugh.

And they are WIDE LEGS. That's so '95.

Well look at his hair. Would it kill him to get some bangs and a sensible side part?

Let's just hope Michael says something to him.

Totes. He will.

Announcer: Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Michael Jordan.

(crowd applauds)

Killer jeans, bro.

I just wanted to thank David Robinson. He knows why. He wore jeans today. Yeah, jeans. Wide leg jeans. That inspired me though. Saturday night, I'm wearing the widest wide leg jeans you can find. Any time I see David Robinson in jeans, I'm going to wear baggier jeans that him. You can count on that.

--------------

Saturday night...

Announcer: Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Michael Jordan.

(crowd applauds)

Oh don’t laugh, don’t laugh. Stylish jeans, like fears, are often just an illusion.

Kanye West Interrupts Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame Speech

You all might not know this, but EA Sports used to put a fake me in its NBA Live games. I played with him once in maybe 1996, and his rating wasn't 99, which kind of upset me. I'm not saying they messed up, but Live 97 had me at a 99.

NAW MAN. WAIT UP YO. THIS AIN'T RIGHT YO. LET'S GET SOMETHING STRAIGHT. I AIN'T SAYING MJ ISN'T GREAT CUZ HE IS, BUT I NEED TO SPEAK ON THIS.

What are you doing? I'm trying to remember every thing anyone ever did to offend me in the slightest, and you're interrupting me.

LOOK MIKE I'M SORRY TO BE TAKING AWAY FROM YOU BECAUSE I THINK YOU'RE GREAT AND I LOVE YOUR GAME. BUT I CAN'T LET PEOPLE SAY YOU THE BEST WHEN ERRYBODY KNOWS HOW GREAT I AM.

This isn't cool, man. You're going to make my list.

WHAT? I PLAYED WITH LEBRON ONCE AND I HAD A TRIPLE DOUBLE. THAT MEANS I AVERAGED A TRIPLE DOUBLE AGAINST THE MVP. YES I DO KEEP TRACK OF MY STATS IN PICKUP GAMES. SO MIKE, YOU'RE GOOD BUT I'M THE BEST. WHY WON'T YOU LET ME BE GREAT? I'M OUT.

I'd like to thank Kanye West for giving me the motivation to release my first rap record. I guarantee that any time I see him near a mic, I'm going at him.