LeBron, Kissing Up Or Genuinely Nice Guy?

"In America, we have laws. Laws against killing, laws against stealing. And it is just accepted that as a member of American society, you will live by these laws. In West Canaan, Texas, there is another society which has it's own laws. Football is a way of life." -Varsity Blues

LeBron James may have a heart after all. Recently, James came out to the public about retiring Michael Jordan's number throughout the entire NBA. Jordan, who was recently inducted into the Hall of Fame, has his number 23 retired in Chicago. During his career with the Bulls, Jordan won 6 NBA titles. He retired in 1993 for a brief stint in order to pursue his other career dream playing professional baseball. Jordan briefly switched to No. 45 when he returned to the Chicago Bulls after retiring the first time before going back to No. 23 (2009).

"I just think what Michael Jordan has done for the game has to be recognized some way soon," said James, who has worn 23 since he was a high school sophomore. "There would be no LeBron James, no Kobe Bryant, no Dwyane Wade if there wasn't Michael Jordan first" (2009).

According to ESPN, There are 13 No. 23s in the NBA. Oklahoma City rookie Byron Mullens, who ended up with the number after finding his preferred No. 32 was retired by the organization for Seattle SuperSonics great Fred Brown, is open to a switch.

"I don't have a problem," Mullens said. "I'm a rookie so I don't have no say-so. It's Jordan, man. His number should be retired from the NBA. If it is, then congratulations and good for him. If it's not, then I guess I'll stick to it. I was kidding around with my teammates, though. I told them, 'Jordan's going to have to pay me out' " (2009).

I think this is a great example of the respect around the league for Michael Jordan. The NHL and MLB have done this across their prospective leagues, why not the NBA do it? We have athletes who perform at the high expectations day-in and day-out, why not respect them? Granite, sometimes these athletes are not the best role models, they perform at great levels in their sports. Truth be told, if I am the NBA, I would mind letting the number 23 be the face of the NBA. I mean look how popular his brand has become.

(2009, November 14). Lebron wants all players to surrender 23. Retrieved from http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4650907

Veteran's Day Tribute

"Just remember, football is 80% mental and 40% physical." - Little Giants

Today, we celebrate Veteran’s Day. This is a day to remember all of our country’s soldiers for all they have done in keeping our freedom alive. Over the past several days I was watching television looking at the commercials or events that will be occurring for Veteran’s Day. On ESPN, certain shows will be shown on military bases throughout the country. ESPN, also, had commercials with star athletes thanking every troop, current or veteran, for helping keep freedom in America. In Chicago, the Blackhawks will be wearing camouflage jerseys in warm ups. Much more will be going on today throughout the sports world to honor our soldiers.

However, the question I have is do people think there is too much public relations going into these Veteran’s Day events? In other words, are these events specially designed for the good image of the organization or do these organizations really appreciate the American soldiers? In ESPN’s case, the commercials have some of America’s top athletes. I wonder how much each athlete was paid for the commercial. Why wouldn’t ESPN make a tribute to all the soldiers with top athletes wishing them thanks for all they do? This network is one of the most popular on television. The tribute is a great public relations move on their part.

In my opinion, what happened to the small, feel good stories the media shared. I feel like those stories represent what Veteran’s Day is about. Pat Tillman remains and always will remain a feel good story about how sometimes there are things more important in the world than sports. Even though Tillman’s death is a very tragic loss, people need to remember him for the good he did for our country. If ESPN wants to thank all of the soldiers, bring out a feel good story that is from the heart. Especially, tell stories of athletes who have had family members in the military. I know my grandpa and uncle, who have given military service, always get a chuckle out of the commercials on Veteran’s Day from athletes. My grandpa wonders how much each athlete gets paid to thank the soldiers.

Now here is my thanks for to all the soldiers…

To all soldiers, current or veteran, thank for all you do to keep our country safe. There is no bigger fan than the American people. You are truly all heroes. Please stay safe and come home soon.