Even though it's not NBA ball, it's fun seeing the association's best take the court in all-star summer leagues. (Getty Images)
Despite the NBA owners and player’s union scheduled to meet this week, there is virtually no hope that any progress will be made towards a new CBA. It’s depressing for a hoops junkie like myself, but seeing clips of the Melo League vs the Goodman League is enough of a fix in an otherwise depressing summer in the NBA. The competition is fierce in these games because guys like Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul & LeBron James all want to get the best of each other. That alone, does it for me. I could care less who wins these games, even though you are familiar with my King James hate. If he loses in these games, perfect. You know I’ll always find a way to bust his balls in this space. So yes, expect some LeBron hairline jokes in the near future.
Considering that so many NBA stars workout at Attack Athletics in downtown Chicago, isn’t it about time that we see the game’s best come to the second city and do their thing? I don’t know about you, but I’d find a way to make it to wherever it was being played. First, I’d want to go to see the crowds at these things. It’s hysterically funny, and the overreaction by the masses would definitely be worth the time. I think I’ll bring a towel just to wave around so I fit in.
I’d also want to go to scope Kevin Durant’s insane shooting range and ever developing game. The lockout has allowed Durant to showcase himself to the country by simply being himself. Last summer’s “come woo me” garbage that LeBron paraded the league through showed what he was all about. I’ll give James credit for showing up to this Melo-Goodman game, but last summer was what he is all about. I’m shocked that he didn’t throw his back out from constantly patting himself on the back throughout that process. This summer has been about the simplistic Durant’s love for the game. He has been everywhere, and it’s refreshing to see. My pick for the 2012 NBA MVP (if there’s a season) gets better by the game it seems like, and in the process, is winning the hearts of those who despise everything James stands for. Along with Derrick Rose and Blake Griffin, Durant is the future of the league. Just imagine, the faces of the league caring more about their games than their image. What a concept.
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