Is WWE Leaving Solar?

Last Thursday, many Filipino wrestling fans were expecting a new episode of WWE Raw on Jack TV, a Filipino cable network owned by Solar Entertainment. However, instead of a new episode of Raw, a drama series (which I wasn't able to see) was aired in lieu. Several hours later, Jack TV posted this explanation:

Then earlier today, ABS-CBN, through its UHF channel Studio 23, posted a spoiler video hyping a possible move of all WWE programs (Raw, Smackdown and pay-per-views such as WrestleMania) to their network. You may check the link here on Studio 23's Facebook account. 

The said network has been airing WWE Superstars since 2010, a program Solar wasn't able to pick up, and the possible move of Raw, SmackDown and the pay-per-views to ABS-CBN is a sign that Solar, especially Jack TV, is attempting to replace WWE programming with more reality, drama, suspense and action programs. Also affected will be the supplementary WWE programs aired on Solar Sports, such as Vintage Collection, NXT, AfterBurn, Bottomline, among others. It is unlikely that ABS-CBN will pick up WWE's supplementary programs, due to the full lineup of Studio 23's programs, nor will it be aired on Balls, due to the said network's orientation to the unscripted Ultimate Fighting Championship. 

We'll keep you up to date on the possible move or renewal in the coming weeks.

Metro Files: The Scouts Area, Quezon City

The Scouts Area near Diliman, Quezon City were named after the Philippine delegation of the 11th World Scout Jamboree, who were perished in a plane crash near modern-day Mumbai, India. The area encompasses Barangays South Triangle, Sacred Heart, Laging Handa, Paligsahan and Obrero, and borders Barangay Kamuning and West Kamias in the southeast, Roxas in the southwest, West Triangle in the northwest, Santa Cruz in the west, and Pinyahan in the east.

The most recognizable landmark is the rotonda in the intersection of Timog Avenue and Tomas Morato. It was originally built in memory of the Boy Scouts who perished on the way to Greece in 1963, and was later topped by the statue of former Quezon City mayor Tomas Morato. The stretch of T. Morato from Kamuning to Timog is stacked with restaurants of all classes, whether for economical or formal means. Some restaurants are also located within the residential communities. 

The tip of T. Morato faces the ABS-CBN broadcast center, which surrounds the triangle of Mother Ignacia, Sgt. Esguerra and Eugenio Lopez Streets. The latter street was originally named Scout Albano, but was later renamed after the ABS-CBN founder.

Rival station GMA occupies the intersection of EDSA and Timog Avenue, extending to the  Samar Avenue and GMA Network Drive. The latter street was originally named 11th Jamboree, until recently when the portion of the street from Timog to EDSA was renamed after GMA Network. The recently opened GMA Network Studios was built near the GMA Kamuning MRT station.

Roces Avenue is also a major artery in the Scouts Area, where its most recognizable landmark is the Amoranto Sports Complex. Named after another former Quezon City mayor, the Amoranto hosts sports events, but is best known for the annual staging of the Pulp Summerslam, where Pinoy rock fans convene to witness a concert featuring local and foreign rock acts.

Two hospitals are also located: the Dr. Jesus C. Delgado Memorial Hospital at Kamuning and Roces Extension, and the Capitol Medical Center in Quezon Avenue, Scout Magbanua and Panay Avenues. Three hotels are also located: the Hotel Rembrandt in Tomas Morato, the Century Palace Suites in Timog and Tomas Morato, and the Camelot Hotel in Mother Ignacia, Scout Tuason and Eugenio Lopez streets. 

The Scouts Area is mostly residential, and is occupied by first and middle class residents. The Scout Borromeo stretch from Tomas Morato to Sgt. Esguerra, however, has been occupied by squatters for an eternity.  If only there's a way to demolish the squatters area, then the Scouts Area would've been a healthy residential community to be reckoned with.

Now why don't you check out the Scouts Area in Quezon City and see the meaning of first and second class living all in one room.

NBA Midseason Report (Part 6)

We've reached the All-Star Break aka the midpoint of the NBA season. Some teams have so far exceeded expectations, others didn't. We look at all 30 teams at a glance on how the first half of the season has been. 

Sacramento Kings

The 11-22 record the Kings carry is an indication of the turmoil that continues to ravage Sacramento and its fans. A coaching change, inconsistent play, and lack of faith from the city has been a cause of concern for the Kings. Tyreke Evans and DeMarcus Cousins, better grow up fast.

San Antonio Spurs

Old what? The Spurs showed that they still have enough fuel left, as seen in their Southwest-leading 24-10 record at the midway point. Tony Parker has emerged as the de facto leader with Tim Duncan entering the twilight zone. But Manu Ginobili's health will be a big concern. It remains to be seen whether their aging legs will be up to the task in the playoffs.

Toronto Raptors

Perhaps they need Jose Bautista and Phil Kessel to resurrect the team. The Raptors are stuck at 10-23 and not even their new 3-D court would please their fans. Enough of that. It will be another rebuilding year for Bargnani, DeRozan and company.

Utah Jazz

Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap were underrated stars in a city famous for raising the decibel levels during home games. They may not be in the mold of Karl Malone, but they aren't bad either in holding court inside. The Jazz, with a 15-17 mark, hope to ride the shoulders of their two main cogs if they were to return to the playoffs. 

Washington Wizards

Do we need explanations for their 7-26 record? Whether it was the 0-8 record to begin with, the Flip Saunders dismissal, the Andray Blatche Twitter bash, or the lack of chemistry, the Wizards are so darn bad. Period. Trade Blatche, please?

So there you have it. We've wrapped up the first half. Now we'll see how teams respond, improve, and sustain their level of performance in the second half, in the hopes of a better finish. Good luck.

NBA Midseason Report (Part 5)

We've reached the All-Star Break aka the midpoint of the NBA season. Some teams have so far exceeded expectations, others didn't. We look at all 30 teams at a glance on how the first half of the season has been. 

Oklahoma City Thunder

Only two names to remember: Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. And the Thunder have rumbled with a 27-7 mark in midseason. Add the names Serge Ibaka, James Harden and Kendrick Perkins, and you have an unstoppable juggernaut in OKC eager for a breakout year.

Orlando Magic

While Dwight Howard awaits a verdict on his future, the Magic sat comfortably with a 22-13 mark midway to the season. Howard seems unaffected with the trade rumors, as he continued to lead the league in rebounds with 15 ppg. Ryan Anderson and Glen Davis will fill the void in case Howard leaves during the season, if only he does the unthinkable.

Philadelphia 76ers

Great second year for Doug Collins, as the 76ers sat comfortably at 20-14 at the break. Andre Iguodala emerged as an All-Star, while Lou Williams provides the much-needed points. Elton Brand has turned back the clock, while Spencer Hawes have been impressive. The Sixers are now in a prime position to clinch home-court in at least the first round if their strong play continues.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns are at the crossroads. At 14-20, age has caught up with the uptempo Suns, and even if Steve Nash continues to perform at a high level at 38, the Suns are thinking of finally rebuilding the team for the future. At least with Marcin Gortat's emergence, they now have a cornerstone to build upon.

Portland Trail Blazers

Brandon Roy's sudden retirement didn't affect the Blazers, as LaMarcus Aldridge finally emerged from the shadows to earn his first All-Star call-up. They are at 18-16, still good enough for the eighth playoff seed in the midway point. Plus with Wesley Matthews, Nicolas Batum and Jamal Crawford contributing, the Blazers may be hard to miss in the playoff conversation.

NBA Midseason Report (Part 4)

We've reached the All-Star Break aka the midpoint of the NBA season. Some teams have so far exceeded expectations, others didn't. We look at all 30 teams at a glance on how the first half of the season has been. 


Milwaukee Bucks

A 13-20 mark isn't bad at all for the Bucks, as they sit comfortably within inches of the playoffs. However, they need more from Brandon Jennings, Carlos Delfino and Ersan Ilyasova to tow the Bucks back to the playoffs, especially now that Andrew Bogut's injury problems have returned.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio are the undisputed lead dogs in the Twin Cities. With a 17-17 mark, the Timberwolves have essentially improved from last season's dismal showing. A playoff berth is within sight, and they may only get better from here.

New Jersey Nets

Same ol' problems for the departing New Jersey Nets. Their 10-25 mark is not what Nets fans want to see as they move from Jersey to Brooklyn at season's end. The loss of Brook Lopez was huge for the Nets, and it may have essentially ended their season here. 

New Orleans Hornets

The moment Chris Paul packed his bags from Bayou to Hollywood, Monty Williams knew a tough season would come. And it did. The 8-25 Hornets suffered from empty seats, injuries and a lack of confidence. Winning no longer exists in NOLA, and the Hornets have to rebuild from hereon.

New York Knicks

If not for Jeremy Lin's emergence, the Knicks may have never entered the playoff conversation. A seven-game winning streak have them flirt with a winning record for the first time since early in the season, and a part of it was from a Taiwanese-American benchwarmer turned full-time starter. Linsanity is on a roll, baby.

NBA Midseason Report (Part 3)

We've reached the All-Star Break aka the midpoint of the NBA season. Some teams have so far exceeded expectations, others didn't. We look at all 30 teams at a glance on how the first half of the season has been. 

Indiana Pacers

At 21-12, the Pacers have surprised the league with their strong defense and excellent rebounding. Roy Hibbert has blossomed into an All-Star, while David West has influenced the team's play with his leadership. Provided they keep this play at a high level, they may afford themselves of home court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. 

Los Angeles Clippers

The 20-11 Clippers have so far supplanted the legendary Lakers as the darlings of L.A. Chris Paul and Blake Griffin have forged a successful on-court partnership with Paul's brilliant passing and Griffin's electrifying dunks drawing oohs and ahhs all over America. The Clippers hope to nail their first division title in team history if they continue their strong, magnificent play.

Los Angeles Lakers

They may be at 20-14, but the road hasn't been kind for the Lakers, chalking up a 6-12 mark away. Not even Kobe Bryant's 40-point games will help, and neither will Andrew Bynum's breakout season. It is clear the Lakers were utterly distracted by Pau Gasol trade rumors, and if it continues, it may be the end of the road for the purple and gold.

Memphis Grizzlies

They sit at 19-15 during the break, a similar pace from last season. Again a key injury (Zach Randolph's knee) brought the team together, and they have responded to the challenge. Marc Gasol is having an All-Star year, while Rudy Gay has bounced back well from a shoulder injury. Still, anything can happen, so hope the Grizzlies continue their strong play towards the end of the season.

Miami Heat

The way the trio of LeBron, Wade and Bosh have played seem to infect the entire Heat roster. And it did, resulting in a 27-7 mark at the break. Trust a rookie like Norris Cole, play hard like Udonis Haslem, Joel Anthony and Shane Battier, and find a way to shoot like Mario Chalmers, Mike Miller and James Jones, and you find a Heat team that seems to get even hotter with every game. The second half will be a big test on how far they've come as a team.

NBA Midseason Report (Part 2)

We've reached the All-Star Break aka the midpoint of the NBA season. Some teams have so far exceeded expectations, others didn't. We look at all 30 teams at a glance on how the first half of the season has been. 

Dallas Mavericks

A slow start may have derailed their campaign but the defending champions have found a way to bounce back, ending the season's first half at 21-13. Dirk Nowitzki may be struggling, but don't discount the Mavs yet, as their defense continues to be strong despite the loss of Tyson Chandler. Lamar Odom has finally found the groove, which is good news for Dallas.

Denver Nuggets

After a promising start, the Nuggets went on a tailspin. The loss of Danilo Gallinari for perhaps the season affected the team's play, which led to an 18-17 mark at the break and ninth in the West. However, anything can happen in the rough-and-tumble West, so expect the Nuggets to turn things around.

Detroit Pistons

At 11-24, the Pistons are in a good spot to challenge for at least the eighth playoff spot, but only if luck and better play prevailed. Brandon Knight and Greg Monroe are the team's future, so the Pistons hope the two learn quickly in their new role as franchise leaders. 

Golden State Warriors

If the Golden State Warriors were in the Eastern Conference, they may as well snap a four-year playoff drought. But at 13-17 and with stronger competition out West, the Warriors may have to wait a few more years. Stephen Curry's injury problems have affected the team's chemistry, and despite coach Mark Jackson's promise of improving the defense, the Warriors remain a 'shoot first, defend second' team, a trademark of the 90s teams under Don Nelson.

Houston Rockets

Kevin McHale must have redeemed himself after a pair of unsuccessful coaching tenures in Minnesota. The Rockets are sitting comfortably with a 20-14 mark, and provided they maintain their strong play, they may sneak into the playoffs for the first time since Yao Ming's last healthy season. The 'SML' line (Scola, Martin, Lowry) have performed well for the Rockets, and with Samuel Dalembert playing as if he never left Philly, the Rockets were in a good position to challenge for a playoff berth. 

NBA Midseason Report (Part 1)

We've reached the All-Star Break aka the midpoint of the NBA season. Some teams have so far exceeded expectations, others didn't. We look at all 30 teams at a glance on how the first half of the season has been.

Atlanta Hawks

Al Horford went down with a shoulder injury that ended his season, yet the Hawks have adapted to his absence, with a 20-14 record at the break. Joe Johnson remains an All-Star player, while Josh Smith stepped up his game. Then again, are they ready to take it to the next level?

Boston Celtics

Aging team whose days were numbered. A fragile bench, injuries and creaky legs led to an uninspiring 15-17 record at the break. No longer championship contenders at this point, so expect Danny Ainge to pull the plug at season's end.

Charlotte Bobcats

Sixteen straight losses led to a mediocre 4-28 mark. Nothing to say. Michael Jordan is not a good executive.  The Bobcats are too young and too immature, and no effort has been made to add All-Star talent to keep Bobcats fans happy. 

Chicago Bulls

Not even Derrick Rose's extended absences have prevented the Bulls from surging to a 27-8 mark at the break. Luol Deng finally broke out, while Richard Hamilton fulfilled the Bulls' needs of an shooter. Defense remains a Bulls hallmark of success, and should continue so until the season's end.

Cleveland Cavaliers

After a frustrating rookie debut, Kyrie Irving started to make his mark in Cleveland. The Cavs are 13-18 at the break, on the cusp of the top eight. Irving and Tristan Thompson are the future of the franchise in transition, as they look to move on from LeBron.

Black is Hot and Perfect in Miami

Miami Heat starting five wearing the new
all-black alternate jersey.

The Miami Heat have been a perfect 3-0 in their new all-black jerseys. They defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 98-87 on January 19, the Chicago Bulls 97-93 on January 29, and the Orlando Magic 90-78 on February 19. Three more games in the monochrome black jerseys are still  scheduled for the season: February 23 vs. the New York Knicks, March 29 vs. the Dallas Mavericks, and April 10 vs. the Boston Celtics. So far so good for the all-black Heat.

The Heat do look intimidating in their black jerseys. Their performance perhaps came from a potion that LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and co. have been hiding from all of us. Whatever the reason, the Heat have been winning in these garbs, and playing like giants they're supposed to. 

Now what if they break out this gear as their home playoff uniform? That would be more motivating and intimidating for a championship contender. That is only if commissioner David Stern agrees with the idea. Until then, hope the Heat continue to burn bright in their all-black jerseys.

Name Confusion in the NBA

Isaiah Thomas or Isiah Thomas?

During the Knicks-Kings game at Madison Square Garden on February 15, Sacramento rookie guard Isaiah Thomas was booed by the Knick fans when he entered the game off the bench. Thomas was named after the Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas by his father, then his mother tweaked his given name by adding another A to make it more biblical. The fact that his namesake had an unsuccessful tenure as Knicks GM and coach during the mid-2000s made it easier for the fans to boo the younger Thomas when he entered the Garden court.

We look at other confusing name combinations in the NBA.

Mark Jackson or Marc Jackson?

Both have been involved with the Golden State Warriors in different capacities. The former is currently the team's head coach; the latter played with the team from 2000-02. Mark Jackson played a total of 17 seasons, most notably with the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers, earning Rookie of the Year and All-Rookie Team honors in 1988. He is currently third all-time in assists, trailing Jason Kidd and John Stockton. Marc Jackson played seven NBA seasons, most notably with the Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers, earning All-Rookie First Team honors in 2001.

Jayson Williams or Jason Williams?

Jayson Williams played nine NBA seasons, most notably with the New Jersey Nets, before  a career-threatening leg injury forced him to retire in 1999. Jason Williams, on the other hand, was a rookie for the Sacramento Kings while the former was playing his final game. The latter became a sensation with the Sacramento Kings, famous for no-look passes and crossover dribbles, before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies for Mike Bibby, which ultimately transformed the Kings into contenders. Jason Williams then faded off the spotlight since, but not before winning an NBA title with the Miami Heat in 2006.

Earvin 'Magic' Johnson or Ervin Johnson?

We better know Earvin Johnson as 'Magic', the Hall of Fame guard who won five NBA titles, three MVPs, three Finals MVPs, two All-Star Game MVPs, 12 All-Star appearances among others. Ervin Johnson played 13 NBA seasons, most notably with the Milwaukee Bucks. 

Allan Ray or Ray Allen?

Allan Ray, a Villanova Wildcat, played only a season in the NBA, with the Boston Celtics. Ray Allen then joined the Celtics in the 2007-08 season, after the team waived Ray to make room. While Ray was a mere asterisk in Celtics history, Allen went on to shatter the record for the most three pointers made all-time in the 2010-11 season. Aside from the Celtics, Allen also played for the Bucks and the Seattle SuperSonics. 

For Isaiah Thomas to survive in the NBA, he has to prove he can survive playing in the hostile Madison Square Garden, as well as showing that he can be a good point guard like his Hall of Fame namesake. Kindly check back on Thomas after a few years and then we can talk. 

Two Jordans

Michael Jordan just celebrated his 49th birthday yesterday. Even at this age his look remains recognizably the same, from the shaved head to the trademark 'Gene Simmons' tongue that exudes confidence in every play. But what was different is the success level he had achieved as a basketball player and then as an executive.

Jordan the player has been known for his crowd-pleasing dunks, scoring exploits, clutch moments, defense and all-around leadership. That blend produced five MVP awards, six NBA championships, six Finals MVP awards, a Defensive Player of the Year award, ten scoring titles, 14 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA team berths, nine All-Defensive team berths, a Rookie of the Year award, and three All-Star Game MVP awards. This Jordan introduced the baggies, the shaved head look, and even his sneakers which had become popular and synonymous with him.

Jordan the executive, however, has been more of a failure when it comes to managing the daily operations of a team. As Wizards president, he drafted a bust in Kwame Brown in 2001, and then as the majority owner of the Bobcats, his lack of pursuit towards big-name talent as well as failed attempts at rebuilding has cost the Bobcats games and fans as well. Jordan's post-playing career has been rather decent at best, compared to his success on the hardwood.

Now it seems better that Michael Jordan will be remembered more for his playing exploits than his front-office duties. Well let's hope that His Airness would find a way to improve in his front office job, in order to add to his legend. 

The Not-So Good NBA Slam Dunk Contest

This year's NBA Slam Dunk Contest will be different from previous editions, in which all rounds will be decided by fan voting, with the final round expanded to include Twitter as a way to vote for this year's champion. Unfortunately, the lack of star power may be a key factor on this year's edition being one of the least anticipated dunk contests since the mid-1990s.

The Participants. From left: Paul George, Chase Budinger, Iman Shumpert, Derrick Williams

This year's contest involve four first-time participants: Paul George of the Indiana Pacers, Chase Budinger of the Houston Rockets, Iman Shumpert of the New York Knicks, and Derrick Williams of the Minnesota Timberwolves. Blake Griffin, the defending champion, declined to participate for unknown reasons, nor will runner-up JaVale McGee, which leaves this year's field as being 'boring', 'uninteresting' or 'repetitive', according to many basketball followers.

Now what is your take on this year's NBA Slam Dunk Contest?

Blue Devils in Black

For a majority of their history, Duke University's varsity program has always been known as the Blue Devils. But at one point, Duke has been known to add a third color aside from the traditional blue and white. During the mid-1900s, they added red to the striping patterns on the jersey. And since the turn of the millennium, Duke's varsity team colors have been blue, white and black, perhaps a sign of modernization for the program. 

Shane Battier, now of the Miami Heat,
wearing the early incarnation of
Duke's alternate black jerseys in 2001.

The black alternate jersey made its debut during the 1999-2000 college basketball season, and has remained since, with various alterations. The black accent would later make its way to Duke's other jerseys from various programs. We'll focus more on the jerseys from Duke's men's basketball program, which is among the best in the nation.

JJ Redick, now of the Orlando Magic,
wearing the early incarnation of
Duke's current road jerseys in 2005.

As seen on current Orlando Magic guard and Duke alum JJ Redick, the blue road jerseys added black accents on the lettering, the sleeves and the sides of the jersey and shorts prior to the 2004-05 college basketball season. Redick's shooting prowess helped Duke reach the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament, losing to Michigan State 78-68. 

JJ Redick in the early incarnation of
Duke's current home jerseys in 2005.

For the 2005-06 season black was also incorporated into Duke's home jerseys. Black was used as a trim color on the lettering and the blue side stripes. Like the previous year, that Duke team reached the Sweet 16, only to lose to Glen Davis, Tyrus Thomas and LSU, 62-54.

If you were wondering when did they win the NCAA championship wearing the current incarnations of these duds? We go back to 2010 when they won the title by beating Butler 61-59, the fourth title of coach Mike Krzyewski's coaching career, after winning them in 1991, 1992 and 2001. Not bad of a change, Duke. Anyway, I wonder if Ateneo will add black to their legendary jerseys for a change?

The Snub

Tim Thomas during the NHL All-Star Weekend

The Boston Bruins are currently in a mid-season funk, with a 6-7-1 record in the last 14 games. Perhaps it's the injuries and suspensions (see Nathan Horton's concussion and Andrew Ference/Brad Marchand suspensions) that took its toll, or that the other teams have started to clamp down defensively on the defending champions. But perhaps it was the no-show at the White House by their Vezina-winning goalie that somehow affected their focus.

On January 23, the Bruins visited the White House for a traditional championship salute by none other than the President of the United States. President Barack Obama congratulated, saluted, and then was presented a sweater by the Bruins team that recently won the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals. A majority of players and staff from last year's team were present for the event. However, one notable player was absent.

The Conn Smythe winner Tim Thomas decided to skip the event for 'political reasons'. In a  written statement, Thomas said:

"I believe the Federal government has grown out of control, threatening the Rights, Liberties, and Property of the People. This is being done at the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial level. This is in direct opposition to the Constitution and the Founding Fathers vision for the Federal government. Because I believe this, today I exercised my right as a Free Citizen, and did not visit the White House. This was not about politics or party, as in my opinion both parties are responsible for the situation we are in as a country. This was about a choice I had to make as an INDIVIDUAL. This is the only public statement I will be making on this topic."

The next night, the Bruins were sideswiped by the Washington Capitals 5-3, and were 3-5 since Thomas's no-show. They still lead the Northeast Division by four points, but are now nine behind the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers, who beat them 3-0 on Henrik Lundqvist's shutout. How will this affect the Bruins' season? Time will only tell.

Jeremy Lin: From Underachiever to Hero

Jeremy Lin during the second of  five straight
20-point games vs. the Utah Jazz on February 6, 2012

It was a cold Saturday night at Madison Square Garden, the cross-town rivals New York and New Jersey in action. The focus of attention remains Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire from the Knicks, and Deron Williams from the Nets. However, a player whose 'chinito' looks can't be denied is warming up on that same court. 

He is Jeremy Lin, a Taiwanese-American baller from Harvard who had been buried deep on the Knicks bench for most games, and the only way he can play is when the game was out of reach. But with Iman Shumpert and Toney Douglas struggling, head coach Mike D'Antoni finally decided to break Lin loose, and he broke out in a big way, scoring 25 points while earning five rebounds and seven assists en route to 99-92 Knicks win. 

Two nights later, the Knicks host the Utah Jazz, who were embarking on a week-long road trip. With Stoudemire out for family reasons, D'Antoni decided to give Lin the starting nod, and he did not disappoint. Defying the notion of being a mere 'one-hit wonder', Lin burned the Jazz with 28 points and eight assists in a convincing 99-88 win. 

After a 23-point, 10-assist performance against the lowly Wizards the next night, Lin returned to the Garden to face Kobe Bryant and the powerful Lakers Friday evening. In front of a national television audience, Lin announced his entry to the NBA's elite with a career-defining 38-point performance, outdueling Bryant and the Lakers in a 92-85 Knicks win. His performance was even talked about on social media, with the terms 'Linsanity', 'Jeremy Lin', and 'Linning' the trending topic on Twitter that Friday night. In only one week, Jeremy Lin turned his life around, from an underachiever who couldn't even make the rotation to a hero not only in New York City, but across the world.

Lin, whose parents were Taiwanese immigrants, was an undrafted prospect from Harvard who made the NBA via the Summer League. In his four years at Harvard, he averaged 13 ppg, 4 rpg, and 4 apg while playing an average of 29 minutes and a shooting clip of 48%.  He managed to appear in 115 games, with 87 of them in the starting lineup, enough for topping the all-time Harvard record for games played. He was an All-Ivy League second team selection once (2008) and first team selection twice (2009-10). 

Lin joined the Dallas Mavericks summer league team after graduating in 2010 and made an impression among the scouts from the Golden State Warriors, norming 10 ppg, 3 rpg and 2 apg in 19 mpg for all five games. The Warriors then signed Lin on July 21, 2010.

But Lin failed to make an impression in the Bay Area, due to the fact that players like Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis were playing both guard positions and that Reggie Williams and Acie Law were Keith Smart's more trusted backups. In all, Lin played in only 29 games, mostly in injury or garbage situations and averaged only 3 ppg, 1 rpg and 1 apg in just 10 mpg. Nevertheless, Lin made history as the 42nd NBA player from an Ivy League school, and its first Asian-American player. But Lin wasn't satisfied with being just a mere NBA pioneer.

When the NBA resumed operations following the four-month lockout, the Warriors waived Lin on December 9, 2011, despite earning a fan favorite status in Oakland and even earned the trust of owner Joe Lacob. The Houston Rockets immediately signed Lin to its training camp roster on December 12, but waived him a day before the start of the season. Then on December 27, the Knicks signed Lin after rookie Iman Shumpert fell to an injury. Lin debuted, ironically, against the Warriors on December 28, playing only one minute. After a spate of garbage time performances totaling only nine points in 15 minutes, Lin was assigned to the Knicks' D-League affiliate, the Erie Bayhawks, and on January 20 against the Maine Red Claws, he had a triple-double of 28 points, 11 rebounds and 12 assists, getting a glimpse of what was to become. 

The Knicks recalled Lin after six days in the D-League on January 23, but continued to be used in garbage time situations. Not until Mike D'Antoni gave him significant minutes against the Nets that Saturday night did 'Linsanity' explode, and in a week's time, he became a cultural icon not only in New York City, but also in China and Taiwan, and around the world. The NBA even added Knicks games to the Chinese and Taiwanese media, underscoring Lin's eventual importance to the Chinese-speaking community.

A week after his breakout performance against the Nets, Lin faced another rising star in Spain's Ricky Rubio, when the Knicks visit the Minnesota Timberwolves. With the game down to the wire, Lin stepped up and hit the game-changing free throws late in the game to seal the Knicks' 100-98 win, adding 'clutch performer' to his expanding resume. Within a week, Lin was featured heavily on the Associated Press, Time Magazine, and Bloomberg News, in addition to becoming a trending topic on Twitter.

The rags-to-riches story of Jeremy Lin, if it continues, may just become the 'Story of the Year' in 2012. For this Harvard scholar-turned-big-time baller, it is only the beginning of a story to remember for years to come.

The Rise and Fall of Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston
1963-2012

Saturday afternoon, paramedics and police rushed to the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, where they found American pop singer Whitney Houston dead of unknown causes. At the time Houston was scheduled to attend Clive Davis's pre-Grammy party later that night. Her death left a void in the music industry that may never be replaced; her powerful yet soulful voice provided a soundtrack to classic 80s ballads that provide a more soothing alternative to the catchy dance beats of Madonna and Michael Jackson or the glam metal of Bon Jovi and Aerosmith.

In fact, Houston was a trendsetter herself. Her career was off to a hot start as her 1985 album Whitney Houston and her 1987 album Whitney topped the US Billboard 200 and set chart records as well, the most recognizable being a record seven straight No. 1 hit singles between the two albums. Her streak includes:

Saving All My Love for You - No. 1 on October 26, 1985

How Will I Know - No. 1 from February 15-22, 1986

Greatest Love of All - No. 1 from May 17-31, 1986

I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me) - No. 1 from June 27-July 10, 1987

Didn't We Almost Have It All - No. 1 from September 26-October 3, 1987

So Emotional - No. 1 on January 9, 1988

Where Do Broken Hearts Go - No. 1 from April 23-30, 1988

Another pair of No. 1 singles from 1990's I'm Your Baby Tonight gave her nine overall:

I'm Your Baby Tonight - No. 1 on December 1, 1990

All the Man That I Need - No. 1 from February 23-March 2, 1991

But it was 1992's soundtrack album to the film The Bodyguard that witnessed Houston at her peak. The lead single 'I Will Always Love You', a remake of the Dolly Parton original, became Houston's magnum opus, hitting No. 1 and stayed for 14 weeks from November 28, 1992 to March 5, 1993. Other singles from the album include the Chaka Khan remake 'I'm Every Woman', 'I Have Nothing' and 'Run to You'. Houston made her acting debut in the film, opposite Kevin Costner, and like the soundtrack itself, was a hit in theaters worldwide.

After earning another No. 1 hit single with 'Exhale (Shoop Shoop)' from the film soundtrack Waiting to Exhale on November 25, 1995, Houston's dominance began to decline as younger R&B acts like Boyz II Men and TLC plus her fellow female pop contemporaries such as Celine Dion and Mariah Carey were taking over the pop charts. At the same time, however, rumors of Houston's drug use and her tumultuous relationship with ex-New Edition member and fellow chart-topping R&B legend Bobby Brown started dominating the tabloid news. Her rumored drug use took its toll on her rich, brilliant voice and her thin complexion, and by 2009, fans were starting to tune out of Houston's concerts due to poor reviews and frequent cancellations. Her 15-year marriage to Brown would end in divorce in 2007, while she admitted to taking crack in a 2002 TV interview with Diane Sawyer.

In the end, her death one Saturday afternoon provided a rather shaky conclusion to what was once one of the most gifted singers of all time. But despite the controversial ending to her career, Whitney Houston's legacy was secured. Her voice continues to provide inspiration and influence to other singers, while her hit singles and music videos will be remembered from generation to generation. You'll be missed, Whitney.

NBA All-Star Storylines

The NBA All-Star Game will be in Orlando on February 26. And when the rosters were all completed last Thursday, there were a lot of intriguing combinations and deserving selections. Unfortunately, those who had more deserving stats but were left out had to wait for David Stern's hand to pick, if one of the selected players would fall prey to an injury before the ASG. 

Without further ado, here are the story lines to watch in this year's NBA All-Star Game.

1. The LA 'Clickers'

The Clippers franchise have two All-Star representatives for the first time since 1976, when Bob McAdoo and Randy Smith represented the then-Buffalo Braves. Blake Griffin's popularity has been off the charts so far, and red-clad fans have regularly packed the Staples Center for a glimpse of the 21st-century 'Human Highlight Film'. The addition of Chris Paul made the Clippers relevant again, and the combo has led the team to its best start since the Buffalo days. Their co-tenants in purple may be struggling, but they have shown who's the boss in terms of winning excellence. Kobe Bryant, as always, has been a crowd-drawer time and time again. The center position race in the West proved to be a tough choice after Yao Ming's retirement, where in the end, Andrew Bynum won the fan's hearts deservingly so through his 17 ppg and 12 rpg averages. Bynum has shown potential All-Star talent despite a myriad of injuries that have derailed his blossoming career so far.

2. Class of '03 in One Roof

Imagine the 'Big Four' from the Draft Class of '03 in one roof, and then you have one of the most intriguing combinations in All-Star history. They have played together in the 2004 and 2005 Rookie Challenge, and in the 2008 Beijing Olympics for Team USA, but never in the same team in an NBA All-Star Game. Carmelo Anthony's trade to the New York Knicks last year came after the All-Star Game had ended, but better late than never. When LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and Anthony were on the court at the same time, watch out, because they'll blow the roof wide open.

3. Two Top Teams = Two All-Stars Each

Deservingly so, the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Chicago Bulls were given a pair of All-Stars each, a reward for leading their respective conferences for much of the season. Kevin Durant and Derrick Rose have been selected to three straight All-Star games since 2010, and as they led their respective teams atop the West and East, respectively, a potential 'Bird vs. Magic' or 'Wilt vs. Russell' type of rivalry is brewing. Both teams were young, rising superpowers hungry to take the NBA spotlight away from its more celebrated counterparts. Russell Westbrook deserves a second selection for being Durant's answer to an Elgin Baylor or a James Worthy, while Luol Deng's hard work and perseverance ala Scottie Pippen gave the Bulls its first pair of All-Stars since 1997. 

4. Hot Starts Mean All-Star Berths in Philly, Indy

It took Andre Iguodala eight seasons before finally earning his first All-Star slot, and it's only because the 76ers were off to a strong start. Iggy, whose All-Star like stats were not good enough because he played for bad Sixers teams, finally got a second look by the coaches. Same goes to Roy Hibbert, after the Pacers' own strong start. Hibbert's own career was a work in progress in his first three seasons, as his poor mechanics and skills made him a constant ridicule amongst critics. This season however, his consistency on offense and defense won't be overlooked, as he finally earned All-Star recognition.

5. Enhancing their Legacies

Both Paul Pierce and Dirk Nowitzki were All-Stars who have had growing pains over the years and yet worked hard to earn their cherished goals. Pierce won a championship and Finals MVP in 2008; Nowitzki earned his last year. While Vince Carter has been the most popular guy from the Class of '98, Pierce and Nowitzki's enduring legacies have been sustained through hard work despite their lack of 'rock star' treatment. And while their stats so far haven't been All-Star worthy, Pierce and Nowitzki's march to the NBA record books have been well-documented, as Pierce passed Larry Bird for No. 2 on the Celtics scoring charts (he's also nearing 22,000 career points), while Nowitzki scored his 23,000th career point. 

6. Off the Shadows

Before earning his first All-Star nod, LaMarcus Aldridge played behind the shadows of Portland's superstar Brandon Roy. Despite his All-Star numbers, he continued to be overlooked by the coaches. This year, however, Aldridge flourished as the Blazers' new offensive leader after Roy retired due to bad knees, delivering the goods with 23 ppg and 9 rpg. Marc Gasol was first known as Pau Gasol's baby brother, the footnote of a franchise-changing trade between the Lakers and the Grizzlies in 2008. Pau became an  All-Star for the championship-contending Lakers, while Marc paid his dues for the then-mediocre Grizzlies. This year, Marc has been blossoming for Memphis, averaging 15 ppg, 10 rpg, 3 apg and 2 bpg, and has filled in nicely when Zach Randolph went down with a knee injury. Both Aldridge and Gasol have been splendid for their teams, who are in the thick of things for a playoff berth. 

7. If We Were Teammates...

If the Nets were able to get Dwight Howard, this would've been a dream pairing. However, Howard has been stuck in Orlando, while Deron Williams has been toiling on a weak Nets team. Howard has expressed his desire to team up with Williams in New Jersey, but all the trade negotiations went to waste as the season began, and for now, Howard continues to be the focal point for the Magic offense which has been inconsistent and in need of more balance. Williams, on the other hand, would've been passed over to more deserving candidates, such as Brandon Jennings, due to New Jersey's bad record.

8. One-Man Crews for Good Teams

With Tim Duncan on the decline and Manu Ginobili injured, Gregg Popovich decided to shift the focal point of the Spurs offense to Tony Parker, and so far, the 29-year old Frenchman has not disappointed. Averaging a career-high 19 ppg and 8 apg, Parker has kept the Spurs atop the Southwest Division despite doubts surrounding the age of the team. On the other hand, Joe Johnson has kept the Hawks in contention despite losing center Al Horford for perhaps the season. Johnson's averages of 18 ppg and 38% 3FG shooting continue to show he's the Hawks' most important and consistent leader.

9. The Young and the Ageless

Kevin Love is a young 23-year old specimen who has been sparking the Minnesota Timberwolves' return to prominence. Last year, Love was overlooked by coaches despite his lengthy double-double streak, and only after an injury to Yao Ming did commissioner David Stern gave him a thumb's up. This year, however, Love is selected outright, due to averaging a double-double of 25 ppg and 14 rpg, both of which are in the top five. Steve Nash continues to defy father time at 38, as he once again leads the NBA in assists with 10 apg, despite the Suns' uncharacteristic record so far. If he plays, Nash joins a select company of All-Stars who played in the ASG at age 38 or over, which includes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan and Karl Malone.

10. Who to Coach?

This year's contenders for the Eastern Conference and Western Conference All-Star coaches may come down to the past two NBA Coach of the Year winners. Scott Brooks, the 2010 winner, has been leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the West's best record, due primarily to its offense averaging 101 ppg, while Tom Thibodeau, the 2011 winner, has brought the Bulls to the league's best record, with a pesky defense holding opponents to 87 ppg. Vinny Del Negro and Erik Spoelstra are the closest pursuers to both of them, but as far as records are concerned, it may go down to Brooks and Thibodeau in coaching the All-Star Game.

The last repeat All-Star MVP happened in 1959 when the 1958 winner Bob Pettit shared the award with Elgin Baylor. Could Kobe Bryant surpass Pettit's total of four ASG MVPs, or will the alternating victories between East and West continue at the All-Star Game? Catch the NBA All-Star Game in Orlando on February 26.

MJ, Wilt, Malone and Kareem Next?

First of all, this will be the new domain for PopCornTure. If you want to check out my old posts, go to goddisguisedasralphierce.blogspot.com for all things pop culture and my curious adventures with society.

Congratulations to Kobe Bryant for surpassing Shaquille O'Neal as the fifth all-time leading scorer in NBA history. Now what's next for Kobe? Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, Karl Malone, then Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Hope he plays till he's 40 and his scoring touch remains hot.