Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Kevin Garnett SNUBBS Ray Allen in 2012-13 NBA Season Debut: Miami Heat vs. Boston Celtics



In a post-game interview, TNT's Craig Sager pointed-out to Ray Allen the "newly-acquired" Miami Heat "sharp-shooter" that he was snubbed by former-Boston Celtic teammate Kevin Garnett when he attempted to shake his hand.

In response, Allen claimed that KG simply didn’t see him because his head was down, "That's just KG...he probably didn't see me coming. Those guys, I love those guys. I can't say enough good things about them. I love New England. It will always be my home and will always be a special place for me and my family."
 
Kevin Garnett shrugged it off to The Boston Globe stating, “You know what, man, I was just trying to stay as neutral as I could but obviously I’m an intense person.” 


Tuesday, October 30, 2012

MAN ON WIRE (2008) -starring- Philippe Petit. Academy Awards® Winner Best Documentary


MAN ON WIRE (2008) -starring- Philippe Petit, Jean François Heckel & Jean-Louis Blondeau. Directed by James Marsh.

SYNOPSIS: On August 7th, 1974, a young Frenchman named Philippe Petit stepped out on a wire illegally rigged between the New York World Trade Center’s twin towers. After dancing for nearly an hour on the wire, he was arrested, taken for psychological evaluation, and brought to jail before he was finally released. This extraordinary documentary incorporates Petit’s personal footage to show how he overcame seemingly insurmountable challenges to achieve the artistic crime of the century.





"RIVETING" – NEW YORK SUN
"INCOMPARABLY MOVING" – PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER
"BRILLIANT" – LOS ANGELES TIMES
"BREATHTAKING" – USA TODAY
"GRADE A" – ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
"WILDLY ENTERTAINING" – VARIETY
"**** BEAUTIFUL ...PERFECTLY POISED BETWEEN ARTISTRY AND AUDACITY." – CHICAGO TRIBUNE
 

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers (2005) Narrated by Jake Gyllenhaal



The Man Who Walked Between the Towers (2005)

Narrated by Jake Gyllenhaal

SYNOPSIS:

Tells the story of Philippe Petit, the wire walker and street performer who walked across the sky, in 1974, on a cable that he and friends strung between the rooftops of the Twin Towers. Told as an animated children's book with an off-screen narrator, the film traces Philippe's passion and imagination, provides details of how he managed to get the wire in place, and completes the story of his subsequent arrest and his fitting punishment. The film celebrates his act as a thing of beauty that is part of our collective memory of the Twin Towers.

theGREATEST DUNK in NBA HISTORY?




On March 12th, 2012 w/ 2:49 remaining in the 3rd quarter of the New Jersey Nets vs. Houston Rocket's game, Nets small forward Gerald Green; on a 2-on-1 fast break — defied the laws of gravity — exploding way above the rim, catching a "death-defying" alley-oop from shooting guard MarShon Brooks — cocking the ball back w/ his head clearly above the rim, throwing down a "mind-blowing" windmill alley-oop slam dunk for the ages!

Gerald Green's Greatest Dunk of All-Time
Dunk of the Century: Gerald Green alley-oop windmill dunk w/ his head above the rim

“I’ve seen a lot of dunks in my career -- and that was special,”  Nets head coach Avery Johnson said.

“That was probably the best dunk I’ve ever seen in my life,” stated shooting guard Anthony Morrow.

“Unbelievable,” injured center Brook Lopez said.





Gerald Green was The Last of the Mohicans; the last high school basketball player to be drafted straight to pro's in the 2005 NBA Draft. Green won the 2005 McDonald's All-American Slam Dunk Contest & the 2007 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, while finishing as the runner-up in the 2008 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. His career has been much aligned since then — embarking on an up & down life of a professional basketball journeyman.

But as fate would have it, he signed a 10-day contract w/ the Nets during 2011-12 and electrified the NBA via the Dunk of the Century — transforming those 10 days into 3-year $10.5 million contract w/ the Indiana Pacers. He is scheduled to start the 2012-13 NBA season at the SF position due to the injury to their star-player Danny Granger...

...to be continued.

theALL-KONG SQUAD :: BBALL JUNKIES 2012 :: Yahoo! Fantasy Basketball

theALL-KONG SQUAD

Jeremy Lin | #7 | PG | Houston Rockets
















PG Kyle Lowry (Tor - PG)
Danilo Gallinari | #8 | SF | Denver Nuggets
SG Kobe Bryant (LAL - SG)
G   Jeremy Lin (Hou - PG)
SF Rudy Gay (Mem - SF,PF)
PF Michael Beasley (Pho - SF,PF)
F    Danilo Gallinari (Den - SF)
C    Dwight Howard (LAL - C)
C Tyson Chandler (NY - C)
Util  DeAndre Jordan(LAC - C)
Util  Steve Novak (NY - SF,PF)
BN Damian Lillard (Por - PG)
BN Bradley Beal (Was - SG)
BN Bismack Biyombo (Cha - PF,C)


Dwight Howard | #12 | C | Los Angeles Lakers




"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the Earth — while the Basketball Gods shall rule the Fantasy Basketball Kingdom!"


"Riders Of The Storm" – The Doors


"Riders Of The Storm" – The Doors

Riders on the storm 
Riders on the storm 
Into this house we're born 
Into this world we're thrown 
Like a dog without a bone 
An actor out alone 
Riders on the storm 

There's a killer on the road 
His brain is squirmin' like a toad 
Take a long holiday 
Let your children play 
If ya give this man a ride 
Sweet family will die 
Killer on the road, yeah 

Girl ya gotta love your man 
Girl ya gotta love your man 
Take him by the hand 
Make him understand 
The world on you depends 
Our life will never end 
Gotta love your man, yeah 

Wow! 

Riders on the storm 
Riders on the storm 
Into this house we're born 
Into this world we're thrown 
Like a dog without a bone 
An actor out alone 
Riders on the storm 

Riders on the storm 
Riders on the storm 
Riders on the storm 
Riders on the storm 
Riders on the storm

Monday, October 29, 2012

CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS — 40

Kurt Thomas | #40 | PF | New York Knicks

CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS — 39

Carmelo Anthony | #7 | F | New York Knicks

CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS — 38

Anthony Mason | PF | #14 | New York Knicks (Retired)

CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS — 37



"Legendary" Hall Of Fame NFL Running Back — Jim Brown @ theKONGLIST® Annual Charity Event


CELEBRITY SIGHTINGS — 36

John Mayer @ FR.OG, NYC

"Hurricane" – 30 Seconds To Mars





"Hurricane" – 30 Seconds To Mars

No matter how many times that you told me you wanted to leave
No matter how many breaths that you took, you still couldn't breathe
No matter how many nights that you lie wide awake to the sound of the poison rain
Where did you go? Where did you go? Where did you go?
As days go by, the night's on fire

Tell me would you kill to save a life?
Tell me would you kill to prove you're right?
Crash, crash, burn, let it all burn
This hurricane's chasing us all underground

No matter how many deaths that I die I will never forget
No matter how many lives that I live I will never regret
There is a fire inside of this heart in a riot about to explode into flames
Where is your god? Where is your god? Where is your god?
Oh oh oh

Oh oh oh

Do you really want?
Do you really want me?
Do you really want me dead?
Or alive to torture for my sins?

Do you really want?
Do you really want me?
Do you really want me dead?
Or alive to live the lie?

Tell me would you kill to save a life?
Tell me would you kill to prove you're right?
Crash, crash, burn, let it all burn
This hurricane's chasing us all underground

The promises we made were not enough
(Never play the game again)
The prayers that we have prayed were like a drug
(Never gonna help me here)
The secrets that we sow we'll never know
(Never sing a song a second time)
The love we had, the love we had
We had to let it go
(Never giving in again, never giving in again)

Tell me would you kill to save a life?
Tell me would you kill to prove you're right?
Crash, crash, burn, let it all burn
This hurricane's chasing us all underground

Oh oh whoa

This hurricane
Oh oh whoa
This hurricane
Oh oh whoa
This hurricane
Oh oh whoa

Do you really want?
Do you really want me?
Do you really want me dead?
Or alive to torture for my sins?

Do you really want?
Do you really want me?
Do you really want me dead?
Or alive to live the lie?

"Rock You Like A Hurricane" – Scorpions




"Rock You Like A Hurricane" – Scorpions

It's early morning
The sun comes out
Last night was shaking
And pretty loud
My cat is purring
And scratches my skin
So what is wrong
With another sin
The bitch is hungry
She needs to tell
So give her inches
And feed her well
More days to come
New places to go
I've got to leave
It's time for a show

Here I am, rock you like a hurricane
Here I am, rock you like a hurricane

My body is burning
It starts to shout
Desire is coming
It breaks out loud
Lust is in cages
Till storm breaks loose
Just have to make it
With someone I choose
The night is calling
I have to go
The wolf is hungry
He runs the show
He's licking his lips
He's ready to win
On the hunt tonight
For love at first sting

Here I am, rock you like a hurricane
Here I am, rock you like a hurricane
Here I am, rock you like a hurricane
Here I am, rock you like a hurricane

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Queen of Halloween: Heidi Klum's Halloween Costumes (2000 - 2012)

And the Queen of Halloween Costumes Award goes to...

...39-yr-old Supermodel: Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2000: S&M Outfit 


Heidi Klum's Halloween 2001: Lady Godiva

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2002: Betty Boop

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2003: Golden Alien

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2004: Red Witch

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2006: Eve's Apple

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2005: Midnight Vampire

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2007: Cat

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2008: Kali the Hindu Goddess of Destruction


Heidi Klum's Halloween 2009: Black Crow


Heidi Klum's Halloween 2010: Alien Superhero Robot

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2011: Ape Woman

Heidi Klum's Halloween 2011: The Visible Woman





Behind-the-Scenes: Heidi Klum's Halloween 2012 Costume Fitting as Cleopatra


Heidi Klum's Halloween 2012: Cleopatra

Friday, October 26, 2012

thePAYPAL ESCORT STORY


Once Upon A Time...
 
...the girl I was dating walked-in on me while I was online making a PayPal payment in the amount of $5,897.69 w/ the attached memo:

 

"Thank you for your services!"

 

 

When she asked, 'What's that for?'

 

I jokingly replied w/ a straight-face, "An escort..."

 

She barged out-of-my-room & slammed-the-door...

 

...for some odd and strange reason, I never ever heard from her again.

 

Perhaps this contributes to the Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus theory?


~ THE END ~ 


theWORLD's GREATEST CON ARTIST: Frank Abagnale from Catch Me If You Can (2002)




Catch Me If You Can (2002) -starring- Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks, Christopher Walken, Martin Sheen, Nathalie Baye, Amy Adams, James Brolin, Brian Howe, Frank John Hughes, Chris Ellis, John Finn, Jennifer Garner, Nancy Lenehan, Ellen Pompeo & Elizabeth Banks. Directed by Steven Speilberg. [Release Date: December 25th, 2002]

Based on a true story, Frank W. Abagnale was employed as a doctor, a lawyer, and as a co-pilot for a major airline company-all before reaching his 21st birthday. A successful con-artist and master of deception, Frank is also a brilliant forger, whose skill at check fraud has netted him millions of dollars in stolen funds--much to the chagrin of the authorities. FBI Agent Carl Hanratty has made it his prime mission to capture him and bring him to justice, however Frank is always one step ahead of Carl, baiting him to continue the chase.




Leonardo DiCaprio portrayed Abagnale in the 2002 Steven Spielberg film Catch Me if You Can which spawned One of Pop Culture's Greatest One Liners, "Do you concur?" meaning, "Do you agree?" [See above scene via MovieClips.com]

Fast forward decades later and see what the "real" Frank William Abagnale, Jr. currently looks like and what he's doing via CNN.com
 
      

FRANK W. ABAGNALE (Ab'-big-nail)

"Frank W. Abagnale is one of the world's most respected authorities on forgery, embezzlement and secure documents. For over 35 years he has worked with, advised and consulted with hundreds of financial institutions, corporations and government agencies around the world. Mr. Abagnale's rare blend of knowledge and expertise began more than 40 years ago when he was known as one of the world's most famous confidence men. This was depicted most graphically in his best-selling book, Catch Me If You Can, a film of which was also made, directed by Steven Spielberg with Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks.
 
One of the World's Greatest Con Men

A Broadway musical of the same title was also created and in April 2011 opened on Broadway. It has since been nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Between the ages of 16 and 21, he successfully posed as an airline pilot, an attorney, a college professor and a pediatrician, in addition to cashing $2.5 million in fraudulent checks in every state and 26 foreign countries. Apprehended by the French police when he was 21 years old, he served time in the French, Swedish and U. S. prison systems. After five years he was released on the condition that he would help the federal government, without remuneration, by teaching and assisting federal law enforcement agencies.
 
Young Frank Abagnale, Jr.

Mr. Abagnale has now been associated with the FBI for over 35 years. More than 14,000 financial institutions, corporations and law enforcement agencies use his fraud prevention programs. In 1998 he was selected as a distinguished member of "Pinnacle 400" by CNN Financial News - a select group of 400 people chosen on the basis of great accomplishment and success in their fields. In 2004 Mr. Abagnale was selected as the spokesperson for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA). He has also written numerous articles and books including The Art of the Steal, The Real U Guide to Identity Theft and Stealing Your Life."

Thursday, October 25, 2012

World's Fastest Animal: Sarah the Cheetah's World Record filmed by National Geographic




Sarah the Cheetah: 100 meters in 6.13 seconds
Usain Bolt: 100 meters in 9.58 seconds

Sarah The Cheetah: The Official Fastest Animal On Land

Sarah, a cheetah from the Cincinnati Zoo has shattered the world record for the 100-meter dash...clocking-in a time of 5.95 seconds...making Olympian Usain Bolt's world record of 9.58 seconds look rather...human-esque. 

The 11-yr-old cheetah was radar-timed at up to 61 miles per hour. Cathryn Hilker –founder of the Cincinnati Zoo's Cat Ambassador Program, who raised Sarah since she was a cub stated, "Nobody can run like Sarah," Hilker said. "She's special. I always knew she could run under six seconds, but to see it happen like this is wonderful."

National Geographic photo editor Kim Hubbard also added, "She looked like a polka-dotted missile...I've never seen anything alive run that fast."



Covering 100 metres in 6.13 seconds, Sarah the cheetah set a new speed record for all land mammals on the 9th September 2008 in Cincinnati, America. Running on a specially designed 100-metre course at Cincinnati Zoo's Regional Cheetah Breeding Facility at Mast Farm, Sarah eclipsed the previous record time of 6.19 seconds. Sarah, who is now officially the world's fastest land animal, was so quick that she actually caught up with the lure that was encouraging her to hit such high speeds.


Cheetahs may be even considerably faster in the wild when faced w/ adverse survival situations such as running from a predator or chasing a prey (meal) for their starving cubs; which may cause it to run considerably faster.


Lamborghini Gallardo Cheetah Matte Edition

With acceleration rivaling a Lamborghini, cheetahs have been known to accelerate from 0-to-60 mph in 3 seconds! Cheetahs are –-by far, the fastest living animal on land — reaching top speeds between 70 and 75 mph.


Cheetah Lambo

Unfortunately, cheetahs are an endangered species w/ an estimated population of only 9,000-to-12,000 remaining worldwide. The documentation of the run was sponsored by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative to preserve big cats in the wild through conservation, economic incentives and spreading public awareness.

CLOUD ATLAS (2012) Trailer -starring- Tom Hanks, Halle Berry & Hugh Grant.



CLOUD ATLAS (2012) -starring- Tom Hanks, Halle Berry & Hugh Grant. Directed By: Lana Wachowski & Tom Tykwer. In Theaters on Friday, October 26th, 2012.

SYNOPSIS
:

"Cloud Atlas explores how the actions and consequences of individual lives impact one another throughout the past, the present and the future. Action, mystery and romance weave dramatically through the story as one soul is shaped from a killer into a hero and a single act of kindness ripples across centuries to inspire a revolution in the distant future. Each member of the ensemble appears in multiple roles as the stories move through time."Warner Bros.


Mic Tyson (2012) – Sean Price. Album Release Date, Videos & Tracklisting

Mic Tyson (2012) – Sean Price [Release Date: October 30th, 2012 on Duck Down Records]

One of My All-Time Favorite Rappers: Sean Price a.k.a. Ruck from Heltah Skeltah (duo from the super-group Boot Camp Clik) is dropping his "highly-anticipated" third-studio album on Tuesday, October 30th, 2012. It will be executive produced by long-time collaborators & companions — Dru-Ha & Buckshot and released via Duck Down Records.

Sean Price needs no introduction to Hip-Hop Heads/Rap Fanatics but to the casual listener, he is one of the few rappers that I have the joy of pressing the rewind button, for he is a lyrical assassin...a beast on the mic –hence the "Mic Tyson" album title...it is only-fitting...fitting for sure.

 


"I See" – Sean Price. Produced by Quelle Chris.

Tracklisting:

 1.   "Genesis of the Omega" – Sean Price. Produced by The Alchemist.
 2.   "Bar-Barian" – Sean Price. Produced byThe Alchemist.
 3.   "Pyrex" – Sean Price. Produced by Amp.
 4.   "Price & Shining Armor" – Sean Price feat. Ruste Juxx. Produced by Wool.
 5.   "Title Track" – Sean Price. Produced by Eric G.
 6.   "Straight Music" – Sean Price. Produced by 9th Wonder.
 7.   "STFU, Pt. 2" – Sean Price. Produced by The Alchemist.
 8.   "Hush" – Sean Price. Produced by Khrysis.
 9.   "Solomon Grundy" – Sean Price feat.Ike Eyes & Ill Bill. Produced by Eric G.
10.  "Frankenberry" – Sean Price feat. Buckshot. Produced by Stu Bangas.
11.  "BBQ Sauce" – Sean Price feat. Pharoahe Monch. Produced by Evidence & DJ Babu.
12.  "Bully Rap" – Sean Price feat. Realm Reality. Produced by The Alchemist.
13. "By the Way" – Sean Price feat. Torae. Produced by Evidence.
14. "Battering Bars" – Sean Price feat. Pumpkinhead. Produced by Beat Butcha.
15. "The Hardest Nigga Out" – Sean Price. Produced by Beat Butcha.

Bonus Tracks:

16. "Haraam" – Sean Price. Produced by Team Demo.
17. "Remember" – Sean Price feat. Freddie Gibbs. Produced by Statik Selektah.
18. "I See" – Sean Price. Produced by Quelle Chris.




"STFU, Pt. 2" – Sean Price. Produced by The Alchemist.
 

theLEGEND of BILLIE JEAN: Covers of Michael Jackson's Masterpiece


On the 1983 TV special 25 Years Of Motown, Michael Jackson debut "The Moonwalk" & his "infamous" white glove on stage — modified golf glove w/ costume jewelry & rhinestones.


"Billie Jean" was a #1 "world-wide" 1983 "smash-hit" R&B/Pop single by the Greatest Recording Artist in the Music Industry — Michael Jackson. It was written & composed by Jackson and co-produced by Quincy Jones for MJ's sixth studio album, Thriller (1983). The music industry considered the single to be One of the Most Revolutionary Songs of All-Times — certified platinum, winning numerous awards including two Grammy Awards & an American Music Award — garnering global success and critical-acclaim. 

As legend has it...Jackson said that Quincy Jones wanted to change the title to "Not My Lover" because he thought it would be confused w/ Billie Jean King, the tennis star. The two music masterminds had a falling-out for several days and the story went a little something like this...

...originally, word had it that Quincy Jones or "Q" (music industry's "world renown" genius/mogul; who has a "mind-boggling" record: 79 Grammy Award nominations w/ 27 Grammy Awards –including a Grammy Legend Award) for some reason, disliked the song — citing the track wasn't good enough to be a part of the album...unimaginably saying that one of thee most recognizable intros ever...the 29-second beginning bass-line was too long and should be cut-short. 


The "epic" collaboration of Michael Jackson & Quincy Jones garnered a total of
8 Grammys for the best-selling album of all-time, Thriller

After resolving their differences, the two legends got back into the studio and Jones had Jackson sing his vocal over-dubs through a six-foot-long cardboard tube. Incredibly, Jackson's entire lead vocals was said to have been performed in one take; which could have been credited from receiving vocal training every morning through-out the production of the song.



Many "world-class" studio-session musicians took part in the historical production — Jones told
Grammy-award winning audio engineer/mixer Bruce Swedian to create a drum sound that no one had ever heard before (thus creating a 'custom-made' fabric-cushion to cover the kick-drum; in order to help isolate the sound of both the bass-drum & mic...protecting it from unwanted noises)  — Louis "Thunder Thumbs" Johnson presented and played his whole arsenal of basses w/ Michael Jackson ultimately going w/ Yamaha bass — Keyboardist Greg Phillinganes stated, "Billie Jean' is hot on every level. It's hot rhythmically. It's hot sonically, because the instrumentation is so minimal, you can really hear everything. It's hot melodically. It's hot lyrically. It's hot vocally. It affects you physically, emotionally, even spiritually."

 
 
 
[Note: "Billie Jean" is well-known for its and Jackson's "signature" vocal hiccups and introduced those unique adlibs along w/ the "out-of-this-world" dance moves & "flashy" fashion-style...Bruce Swedien was known to mix songs in one take but Michael Jackson was such a perfectionist Bruce ended-up mixing the "classic" 91-times by before it was finalized...and after all that was said and done, Quincy & the production team chose Mix #2.]


The REAL Story on "Billie Jean"...by Bruce Swedian (Grammy-award winning audio engineer) 

Thriller was released by Epic Records, on Tuesday, November 30th, 1982. Mix #2 of "Billie Jean" helped change the course of music history influencing future chart-topping artists & revolutionize MTV and music videos. The following is a cover of "Bille Jean" by several multi-platinum selling artists:




"Billie Jean (Cover)" – Chris Cornell (singer from Audioslave & Soundgarden)




"Billie Jean (Cover)" –Coldplay




"Billie Jean (Cover)" –The Civil Wars (Later with Jools Holland)



Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which has defended its best-selling album status in the Guinness Book Of World Records for more than 25 years, gave birth to perhaps the Greatest Song Ever Created. The powerful & soulful  rendition proves without a doubt that Michael Jackson (R.I.P.) and his "classic, epic & timeless" masterpiece will continue to live on through-out music history.


First Interview in 20+ Years: Axl Rose on Jimmy Kimmel Live [Part 1, 2 & 3]




W. Axl Rose –the legendary front man of recently inducted Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame band — Guns N' Roses sat down w/ Jimmy Kimmel for his first "live" television interview in over than 20 years.





Rose agreed to appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to celebrate his band’s upcoming 12-night residency at the Hard Rock in Las Vegas which kicks off on Halloween, Wednesday 31st, 2012.





One of the funniest moments of interview Axl revealed that he had a Halloween tree in his house, which is just like a Christmas tree except for Halloween. “That’s the most evil thing I’ve ever done,” Rose jokingly stated. He would ask most of the trick or treaters, "You mean you don’t have a Halloween tree?"— making them question their parents as to why they don't have a Halloween tree?

After all these years, the world can see that Axl Rose hasn't changed his tune...why he is the Most Beloved and Hated Singer in Rock History!
  

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

WU-TANG PERFORMANCE :: LATE NIGHT WITH JIMMY FALLON SHOW 10/22/12




Wu-Tang Clan: Six Directions Of Boxing (10/22/12)
Musical guest Wu-Tang Clan perform "Six Directions Of Boxing" on Late Night!





Wu-Tang Clan: Protect Ya Neck (10/22/12)
Musical guest Wu-Tang Clan perform "Protect Ya Neck" on Late Night!



GM Survey: NBA's General Managers Predictions for 2012

LeBron James | #6 | F | Miami Heat 

GM Survey: LeBron and Heat the faves, but look out for L.A.

By John Schuhmann, NBA.com
Posted Oct 22, 2012 11:20 AM 


In his ninth season in the NBA, LeBron James got his ring. Now, how many more can he get? At least one, if you ask the league's general managers. Despite major moves made by the Los Angeles Lakers, the Miami Heat are still the prohibitive favorites to win their second straight title, according to NBA.com's 11th annual GM Survey. And James is clearly head and shoulders above every other player in the league.

All 30 GMs responded to 57 different questions about the best teams, players, coaches, fans, and offseason moves. General managers were not permitted to vote for their own team or personnel. Percentages are based on the pool of respondents to each question of the survey, rather than all 30 GMs.

Predictions | Players | Offseason Moves | Rookies & International | Defense | Coaches | Misc.

Carmelo Anthony | #7 | F | New York Knicks

PREDICTIONS


Which team will win the 2013 NBA Finals?

1. Miami -- 70.0%
2. L.A. Lakers -- 23.3%
3. Oklahoma City -- 6.7%

Last year: Miami -- 74.1%


Which team will win the Eastern Conference?

1. Miami -- 96.7%
2. Boston -- 3.3%

Last year: Miami -- 96.3%


Which team will win the Western Conference?

1. L.A. Lakers -- 60.0%
2. Oklahoma City -- 36.7%
3. Denver -- 3.3%

Last year: Oklahoma City -- 67.9%

Which team will win the Atlantic Division?

1. Boston -- 66.7%
2. Brooklyn and New York -- 13.3%
4. Philadelphia -- 6.7%

Last year: Boston -- 64.3%


Which team will win the Central Division?

1. Indiana -- 80%
2. Chicago -- 20%
Last year: Chicago -- 96.4%


Which team will win the Southeast Division?

1. Miami -- 96.7%
2. Atlanta -- 3.3%

Last year: Miami --96.3%


Which team will win the Southwest Division?

1. San Antonio -- 96.7%
2. Memphis -- 3.3%

Last year: San Antonio -- 63.6%


Which team will win the Northwest Division?

1. Oklahoma City -- 86.7%
2. Denver -- 10.0%
3. Minnesota -- 3.3%

Last year: Oklahoma City -- 71.4%


Which team will win the Pacific Division?

1. L.A. Lakers -- 96.7%
2. L.A. Clippers -- 3.3%

Last year: L.A. Lakers -- 77.8%


PLAYERS


Who will win the 2012-13 MVP?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 66.7%
2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 30.0%
3. Carmelo Anthony, New York -- 3.3%

Last year: Kevin Durant -- 66.7%


If you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the NBA, who would it be?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 80.0%
2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 16.7%
3. Dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 3.3%

Last year: Kevin Durant, LeBron James -- 37.0%


Which player forces opposing coaches to make the most adjustments?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 50.0%
2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 20.0%
3. Dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 16.7%
4. Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas; Derrick Rose, Chicago
Last year: Dwight Howard -- 29.6%


Which player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2012-13?

1. Klay Thompson, Golden State -- 13.3%
2. Kyrie Irving, Cleveland, and Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio -- 10.0%
4. Paul George, Indiana, and James Harden, Oklahoma City -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Nicolas Batum, Portland; Alec Burks, Utah; DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento; Stephen Curry, Golden State; Kenneth Faried, Denver; Taj Gibson, Chicago; Eric Gordon, New Orleans; Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers; Gordon Hayward, Utah; Andre Iguodala, Denver; DeAndre Jordan, L.A. Clippers; Ty Lawson, Denver; JaVale McGee, Denver; Josh Selby, Memphis; Evan Turner, Philadelphia; Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City
Last year: James Harden -- 21.4%


Who is the best point guard in the NBA?

1. Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 69.0%
2. Derrick Rose, Chicago -- 20.7%
3. Rajon Rondo, Boston -- 6.9%
4. Tony Parker, San Antonio -- 3.4%

Last year: Derrick Rose -- 59.3%


Who is the best shooting guard in the NBA?


1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers -- 66.7%
2. Dwyane Wade, Miami -- 23.3%

Also receiving votes: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City; Manu Ginobili, San Antonio; James Harden, Oklahoma City
Last year: Kobe Bryant -- 55.6%


Who is the best small forward in the NBA?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 73.3%
2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 26.7%

Last year: LeBron James -- 77.8%


Who is the best power forward in the NBA?

1. Kevin Love, Minnesota -- 30.0%
2. Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas -- 23.3%
3. LeBron James, Miami -- 16.7%
4. LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland -- 10.0%
5. Kevin Garnett, Boston, and Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Tim Duncan, San Antonio; Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers
Last year: Dirk Nowitzki -- 41.4%


Who is the best center in the NBA?

1. Dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 93.3%
2. Andrew Bynum, Philadelphia -- 6.7%

Last year: Dwight Howard -- 96.3


OFFSEASON MOVES


Which team made the best overall moves this offseason?

1. L.A. Lakers -- 86.2%
2. Brooklyn -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Atlanta, Golden State
Last year: L.A. Clippers -- 85.2%


Which one player acquisition will make the biggest impact?

1. Dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 70.0%
2. Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers -- 20.0%

Also receiving votes: Andrew Bynum, Philadelphia; Joe Johnson, Brooklyn; Deron Williams, Brooklyn
Last year: Chris Paul - 100%


What was the most underrated player acquisition?

1. Andre Iguodala, Denver -- 16.7%
2. Jason Terry, Boston -- 13.3%
3. Courtney Lee, Boston -- 10.0%
4. Ryan Anderson, New Orleans, Andrei Kirilenko, Minnesota, Brandon Roy, Minnesota, Lou Williams, Atlanta -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Ray Allen, Miami; Marcus Camby, New York; Gerald Green, Indiana; Grant Hill, L.A. Clippers; Chris Kaman, Dallas; Kyle Lowry, Toronto; O.J. Mayo, Dallas; Darko Milicic, Boston; Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers; Alexey Shved, Minnesota
Last year: Brandon Bass, David West -- 15.4%


Which team will be most improved in 2012-13?

1. Brooklyn -- 62.1%
2. L.A. Lakers, Minnesota -- 10.3%
4. New Orleans -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Denver, Golden State, Milwaukee
Last year: L.A. Clippers -- 66.7%


What was the most surprising move of the offseason?

1. Steve Nash to the Lakers -- 39.3%
2. Bynum/Howard/Iguodala trade -- 17.9%
3. Knicks not matching Jeremy Lin offer -- 14.3%
4. Ray Allen to Miami, Joe Johnson to Brooklyn -- 10.7%

Also receiving votes: Jeff Green's contract, Luis Scola amnestied by Houston
Last year: Chris Paul to the Clippers -- 33.3%


ROOKIES & INTERNATIONAL


Who will win 2012-13 Rookie of the Year?

1. Anthony Davis, New Orleans -- 76.7%
2. Damian Lillard, Portland -- 20.0%
3. Austin Rivers, New Orleans -- 3.3%

Last year: Kyrie Irving -- 63.0%


Which rookie will be the best player in five years?

1. Anthony Davis, New Orleans -- 86.7%
2. Bradley Beal, Washington -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Damian Lillard, Portland; Jonas Valanciunas, Toronto
Last year: Kyrie Irving -- 51.9%


Which rookie is the most athletic?

1. Anthony Davis, New Orleans -- 40.0%
2. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Charlotte -- 16.7%
3. Andre Drummond, Detroit -- 13.3%
4. Terrence Ross, Toronto -- 10.0%
5. Perry Jones, Oklahoma City -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Quincy Acy, Toronto; Terrence Jones, Houston; Thomas Robinson, Sacramento; Dion Waiters, Cleveland
Last year: Derrick Williams -- 32.1%


Which rookie is most likely to be a "sleeper" success?

1. Jared Sullinger, Boston -- 17.2%
2. Maurice Harkless, Orlando, Andrew Nicholson, Orlando -- 13.8%
4. Jae Crowder, Dallas, Damian Lillard, Portland -- 10.3%
6. Terrence Jones, Houston -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Jared Cunningham, Dallas; Andre Drummond, Detroit; Evan Fournier, Denver; John Jenkins, Atlanta; Perry Jones, Oklahoma City; Doron Lamb, Milwaukee; Donatas Motiejunas, Houston; Terrence Ross, Toronto
Last year: Norris Cole -- 44.0%


Who is the best international player in the NBA?

1. Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas -- 72.4%
2. Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers -- 10.3%

Also receiving votes: Manu Ginobili, San Antonio; Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City; Andrei Kirilenko, Minnesota; Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers; Tony Parker, San Antonio
Last year: Dirk Nowitzki -- 96.4%


Which international player is most likely to have a breakout season in 2012-13?

1. Jonas Valanciunas, Toronto -- 17.2%
2. Ricky Rubio, Minnesota -- 13.8%
3. Nikola Pekovic, Minnesota -- 13.8%
4. Goran Dragic, Phoenix, Danilo Gallinari, Denver, Donatas Motiejunas, Houston, Kevin Seraphin, Washington, Alexey Shved, Minnesota, Mirza Teletovic, Brooklyn -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Christian Eyenga, Orlando; Evan Fournier, Denver; Enes Kanter, Utah; Tiago Splitter, San Antonio; Jan Vesely, Washington
Last year: Ricky Rubio -- 37.0%


Who is the best international player NOT in the NBA?

1. Juan Carlos Navarro -- 34.6%
2. Nikola Mirotic -- 11.5%
3. Dimitris Diamantidis, Rudy Fernandez, Bo McCalebb, Dario Saric -- 7.7%

Also receiving votes: Nenad Krstic, Milan Macvan, Vassilis Spanoulis, Milos Teodosic, Ante Tomic, Fran Vazquez
Last year: Jonas Valanciunas -- 36.0%


DEFENSE

Who is the best defensive player in the NBA?

1. Dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 60.0%
2. LeBron James, Miami -- 16.7%
3. Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City -- 13.3%

Also receiving votes: Tyson Chandler, New York; Kevin Garnett, Boston; Thabo Sefolosha, Oklahoma City
Last year: Dwight Howard -- 76.9%


Who is the best perimeter defender in the NBA?

1. Tony Allen, Memphis -- 33.3%
2. LeBron James, Miami -- 26.7%
3. Avery Bradley, Boston, Andre Iguodala, Denver, Rajon Rondo, Boston, Thabo Sefolosha, Oklahoma City -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers; Eric Gordon, New Orleans; Dahntay Jones, Dallas; Metta World Peace, L.A. Lakers
Last year: Tony Allen -- 26.9%


Who is the best interior defender in the NBA?

1. Dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 66.7%
2. Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City -- 16.7%
3. Tyson Chandler, New York -- 10.0%

Also receiving votes: Anthony Davis, New Orleans; Kevin Garnett, Boston
Last year: Dwight Howard -- 88.9%


Which is the best defensive team in the NBA?

1. Chicago -- 40.0%
2. Miami -- 26.7%
3. Boston -- 23.3%
4. L.A. Lakers -- 6.7%
5. San Antonio -- 3.3%

Last year: Chicago -- 66.7%


COACHES


Who is the best head coach in the NBA?

1. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio -- 80.0%
2. Doc Rivers, Boston -- 13.3%

Also receiving votes: Rick Adelman, Minnesota; Erik Spoelstra, Miami
Last year: Gregg Popovich -- 42.3%


Which head coach is the best manager/motivator of people?

1. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio -- 60.0%
2. Doc Rivers, Boston -- 40.0%

Last year: Gregg Popovich -- 42.9%


Which head coach makes the best in-game adjustments?

1. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio -- 40.0%
2. Rick Carlisle, Dallas -- 20.0%
3. Doug Collins, Philadelphia -- 13.3%
4. Rick Adelman, Minnesota -- 6.7%
5. George Karl, Denver -- 6.7%
6. Doc Rivers, Boston -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Mike Brown, L.A. Lakers; Tom Thibodeau, Chicago
Last year: Gregg Popovich -- 35.7%


Which head coach runs the best offense?

1. George Karl, Denver -- 31.0%
2. Rick Adelman, Minnesota, Gregg Popovich, San Antonio -- 27.6%
4. Scott Brooks, Oklahoma City, Alvin Gentry, Phoenix -- 6.9%

Last year: George Karl -- 22.2%


Which head coach has the best defensive schemes?

1. Tom Thibodeau, Chicago -- 70.0%
2. Gregg Popovich, San Antonio -- 10.0%
3. Mike Brown, L.A. Lakers, Rick Carlisle, Dallas -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Doc Rivers, Boston; Erik Spoelstra, Miami
Last year: Tom Thibodeau -- 61.5%


Who is the best assistant coach in the NBA?


1. Brian Shaw, Indiana -- 23.3%
2. Mike Budenholzer, San Antonio -- 20.0%
3. Steve Clifford, L.A. Lakers, Mike Malone, Golden State -- 10.0%
5. Maurice Cheeks, Oklahoma City, Jay Triano, Portland -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Ron Adams, Chicago; Kenny Atkinson, Atlanta; Brett Brown, San Antonio; Michael Curry, Philadelphia; Darren Erman, Golden State; Armond Hill, Boston; Elston Turner, Phoenix
Last year: Mike Malone -- 29.2%


Which active player will make the best head coach someday?

1. Chauncey Billups, L.A. Clippers -- 20.7%
2. Shane Battier, Miami -- 17.2%
3. Derek Fisher -- 13.8%
4. Jason Kidd, New York, Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers -- 10.3%
6. Grant Hill, L.A. Clippers, Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Ray Allen, Miami; Luke Walton, Cleveland; Charles Jenkins, Golden State; Earl Watson, Utah
Last year: Derek Fisher -- 25.9%


MISCELLANEOUS


Which team is the most fun to watch?

1. Oklahoma City -- 30.0%
2. Miami -- 26.7%
3. Denver -- 16.7%
4. Golden State -- 6.7%, L.A. Clippers -- 6.7%, San Antonio -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: L.A. Lakers, New York
Last year: Miami -- 33.3%


Which team has the best home-court advantage?

1. Oklahoma City -- 70.0%
2. Miami -- 10.0%, Utah -- 10.0%

Also receiving votes: Denver, L.A. Lakers, Portland
Last year: Oklahoma City -- 44.4%


Which player is the most athletic?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 62.1%
2. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City -- 20.7%
3. Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers -- 13.8%
4. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 3.4%

Last year: LeBron James -- 46.2%


Which player is the best pure shooter?

1. Ray Allen, Miami -- 56.7%
2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 20.0%
3. Steve Novak, New York -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: James Harden, Oklahoma City; Kyle Korver, Atlanta; Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers; Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas; Klay Thompson, Golden State
Last year: Ray Allen -- 85.7%


Which player is the fastest with the ball?

1. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City -- 36.7%
2. Derrick Rose, Chicago -- 23.3%
3. Rajon Rondo, Boston -- 13.3%
4. Ty Lawson, Denver -- 6.7%, John Wall, Washington -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Aaron Brooks, Sacramento; Darren Collison, Dallas; LeBron James, Miami; Tony Parker, San Antonio
Last year: Derrick Rose -- 57.7%


Which player is best at moving without the ball?

1. Ray Allen, Miami -- 56.7%
2. Richard Hamilton, Chicago -- 10.0%
3. Manu Ginobili, San Antonio -- 6.7%, Kyle Korver, Atlanta -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Luol Deng, Chicago; Marc Gasol, Memphis; James Harden, Oklahoma City; Paul Pierce, Boston; J.J. Redick, Orlando; Klay Thompson, Golden State
Last year: Ray Allen -- 67.9%


Which player is the best at getting his own shot?

1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers -- 40.0%
2. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 30.0%
3. LeBron James, Miami -- 16.7%
4. Carmelo Anthony, New York -- 6.7%, Dwyane Wade, Miami -- 6.7%

Last year: Kobe Bryant -- 35.7%


Which player is the best offensive rebounder?

1. Kevin Love, Minnesota -- 53.3%
2. Kenneth Faried, Denver -- 16.7%
3. DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento -- 6.7%, dwight Howard, L.A. Lakers -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Tyson Chandler, New York; Reggie Evans, Brooklyn; Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers; Kris Humphries, Brooklyn; Zach Randolph, Memphis
Last year: Kevin Love -- 64.3%


Which player is the best passer?

1. Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers -- 58.6%
2. Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 27.6%
3. Rajon Rondo, Boston -- 6.9%, Deron Williams, Brooklyn -- 6.9%

Last year: Chris Paul -- 40.7%


Which player is the most dangerous in the open floor?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 60.0%
2. Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City -- 23.3%
3. Derrick Rose, Chicago -- 10.0%
4. Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 6.7%

Last year: LeBron James -- 53.8%


Which player is the best finisher?

1. LeBron James, Miami -- 66.7%
2. Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers -- 10.0%, Dwyane Wade, Miami -- 10.0%

Also receiving votes: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City; Tyreke Evans, Sacramento; James Harden, Oklahoma City; Josh Smith, Atlanta
Last year: LeBron James -- 42.3%


Which player makes the most of limited natural ability?

1. Kevin Love, Minnesota -- 34.5%
2. Shane Battier, Miami -- 10.3%
3. Marc Gasol, Memphis -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Ryan Anderson, New Orleans; Matt Bonner, San Antonio; Nick Collison, Oklahoma City; Roy Hibbert, Indiana; Jared Dudley, Phoenix; Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City; Danny Green, San Antonio; Chuck Hayes, Sacramento; Kris Humphries, Brooklyn; Paul Millsap, Utah; Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers; Steve Novak, New York; Luis Scola, Phoenix; Anderson Varejao, Cleveland
Last year: Kevin Love -- 26.9%


Who is the toughest player in the NBA?

1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers -- 26.7%
2. Metta World Peace, L.A. Lakers -- 10.0%
3. Reggie Evans, Brooklyn -- 6.7%, Kenneth Faried, Denver -- 6.7%, Kevin Garnett, Boston -- 6.7%, LeBron James, Miami -- 6.7%, Rajon Rondo, Boston -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Eric Bledsoe, L.A. Clippers; Tim Duncan, San Antonio; Manu Ginobili, San Antonio; Marcin Gortat, Phoenix; Zaza Pachulia, Atlanta; Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers; Zach Randolph, Memphis; Anderson Varejao, Cleveland; David West, Indiana
Last year: Kobe Bryant -- 32.1%


Which player is the best leader?

1. Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 27.6%
2. Kevin Garnett, Boston -- 20.7%
3. Chauncey Billups, L.A. Clippers -- 10.3%, Tim Duncan, San Antonio -- 10.3%, LeBron James, Miami -- 10.3%, Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers -- 10.3%

Also receiving votes: Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City; Manu Ginobili, San Antonio; Jason Kidd, New York
Last year: Chris Paul -- 25.0%


Which player has the best basketball IQ?

1. Steve Nash, L.A. Lakers -- 27.6%
2. Tim Duncan, San Antonio -- 13.8%, LeBron James, Miami -- 13.8%, Chris Paul, L.A. Clippers -- 13.8%
5. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers -- 10.3%
6. Manu Ginobili, San Antonio -- 6.9%

Also receiving votes: Chauncey Billups, L.A. Clippers; Pau Gasol, L.A. Lakers; Jason Kidd, New York; Rajon Rondo, Boston
Last year: Steve Nash -- 28.6%


Which player would you want taking a shot with the game on the line?

1. Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City -- 46.7%
2. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers -- 40.0%
3. Carmelo Anthony, New York -- 6.7%

Also receiving votes: Chauncey Billups, L.A. Clippers; LeBron James, Miami
Last year: Kobe Bryant -- 48.1%

Courtesy of John Schuhmann Staff writer for NBA.com.
 
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