“I have thought about it before and a few times in the past I kind of had an ankle injury that kind of kept me out of it and a couple of times I was just like, ‘You know what, I’m going to go in here and rest my legs for this weekend and then get back to the regular season,” James said. “But, I mean, they say a lot of the greats have done it and I’ve watched it over the years.”

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Of the 10 players to be announced as starters this year, eight of them were starters last season. Amar’e Stoudemire started at forward for the East last season but was replaced this year by teammate Carmelo Anthony. Anthony, who started for the West last season, was replaced by first timer Blake Griffin this year. The retirement of Yao Ming also opened a starting spot which was filled by Lakers center Andrew Bynum.

I never read too much into TV," Bosh said.  He also never reads too much into NBA popularity contests.  "I'm not a popular guy, I guess," he said matter-of-factly of the fan vote for All-Star starters. "I don't think I am. I don't appeal to the popular crowd."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Chris Bosh can blame three people for not starting the 2012 All-Star game.

Two of those people would be teammates LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Fans vote-in the starters, and they overlooked Bosh, in part, because of the Miami Heat's dynamic duo.

Bosh is, arguably, the top power forward in the Eastern Conference, and is more deserving of being in the first unit than shot-happy Carmelo Anthony.

Now the left-handeder is okay with James and Wade receiving accolades because they’re teammates and friends. Bosh isn’t okay with Shaquille O’Neal preventing him from being an All-Star starter.

O`Neal, a superstar turned analyst, has continued to insult Bosh from the safety of the TNT broadcast booth, which has surely influenced fan voting.

-Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

"For me, social media and Twitter is all about connecting with your fans," James said. "From day one, that's why I got to Twitter, to connect to my fans."I would never apologize for anything like that when I'm connecting with my fans." James said he certainly never "called out" Perkins."I can see why he may have felt embarrassed," he said. "I don't think I was the only one that reacted to that unbelievable play by Blake, and that's what it was all about, me acknowledging how great of a play it was. If Kendrick Perkins had dunked on somebody else on the other end, I would have done the same thing. "I'm an easy target, let's leave it at that."

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HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Kendrick Perkins and LeBron James have no problem telling us how they feel, especially about each other.

Clearly, Perkins didn't like James teasing him on twitter after he got poster-jobbed by Blake Griffin in a recent game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers.

So Perkins responded. Now it's James' turn. Of course, the back-and-forth between these two isn't surprising.

Perkins and James have history. They two spent years battling each other for Eastern Conference supremacy with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers.

They may have changed teams, but are still rivals. 

James' Heat could meet Perkins' Thunder in the NBA Finals. Both players know this. And both players are attempting to gain an edge during the dog days of the regular season. 

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick: LeBron James and Dwyane Wade are astonishingly good and entertaining in the open court.

If the Heat continue playing strong half-court defence then these two will get fast break opportunities, which means highlights for you and me.

Click the video and watch Wade toss James an epic alley-oop against the lowly Wizards.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Former Deadspin contributor Sarah Kogod overheard what she called a "heated conversation" between LeBron James and a Wizards fan last night. She then spoke to the fan, got his take, and tweeted what he had to say, which included a threat from LeBron:

    …LeBron was waiting alone in the backcourt when fan Bob Moore made a comment to LeBron about Delonte West and LeBron's mom…

    …According to Moore, LeBron said "The only reason you talk shit is because you know I can't come off the court right now and beat your ass"...

    …Also according to Moore, LeBron continued "But if I had a free pass, I'd kick your ass right now."...

    …Moore replied "I'm right here baby. Let's go" before security stepped in.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: LeBron James should stand up for himself when a fan harasses him about Delonte West’s alleged ‘relationship’ with his mother.

James is right: the fan can only say such things because of the barrier, security, and fallout James would face from an altercation.

The fan is in the wrong. So is James, though.

The veteran should've responded by having security remove the fan because threats only bring negative attention. Ideally, Wizard fans and/or security would take the initiative to ‘ask’ the fan to settle down.

James must react rationally, while fans must realize purchasing a ticket doesn’t give you the right to say anything you like.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

‘I think it would be great, it would be fun to play in front of these fans again,’ James said after the Heat’s practice Thursday at Quicken Loans Arena. ‘I had a lot of fun times here. You can’t predict the future. Hopefully you continue to stay healthy. I’m here as a Miami player and I’m happy where I am now but I don’t rule that out in any sense. If I decide to come back, hopefully the fans will accept me.’

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: LeBron James, let it die.

Eighteen months ago, James killed Cleveland and the Cavaliers by leaving as a free agent for the Miami Heat.

Worst of all, he announced his decision on national television, turning the process into a spectacle.

James was criticized all last year for this choice; his reputation has never recovered with fans, media, and even peers.

Sadly, the Cavaliers suffered through a brutal 2011, and had to watch James’ Heat advance to the NBA finals -only to lose to the Dallas Mavericks.

There is hope, though. The Cavaliers drafted star point guard Kyrie Irving first overall and power forward Tristan Thompson fourth overall.

Instead of recognizing his former team has moved on, instead of recognizing how wrong he was, James mentioned returning.

Yeah, sure. One day pigs will fly. One day hell will freeze over. And one day Commissioner Stern will apologize for how the NBA treated Seattle and Vancouver. 

This is about James’ ego. He wants to ride in on his white horse and save Cleveland. Of course, James’ comments are a distraction to the Heat, who are attempting to win a championship.

James should move on. Clearly, Cleveland has.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 

The first thing we all should remember is that LeBron James is a master manipulator. James had to know the questions were coming on Thursday when the Miami Heat were practicing at Quicken Loans Arena. He’s recently hired a new “strategist,” a man who worked on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s gubernatorial campaign, so for all we know, his answers could all have been planned.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s a touch late.

LeBron James has finally hired a public relations firm to represent him, his brand, and help him communicate on his behalf to the world.

Unfortunately, the damage is done. Listening to one of his boys from his AAU team led to The Decision, where James announced he was taking his ‘talents to South Beach’ on live television.

His reputation has never recovered. James finally decided to turn to a professional to take care of his interests.

Perhaps they can start be censoring his recent comments on returning to Cleveland.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Jeremy Lin offered no excuses. He and the Knicks had no answers.Lin's rapid rise from unknown to superstar was slowed big-time Thursday night by the Miami Heat, who overwhelmed the NBA's hottest story with a swarming defense that the Knicks' new starting point guard could not solve. Forcing Lin into easily the worst game of his remarkable run as New York's newest star, Miami topped the Knicks 102-88 - the eighth straight win for the NBA-leading Heat, all by at least 12 points.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It was a rather rude awakening for 'Linsanity'.

Yesterday, the Miami Heat used superstars LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, physical play, and full-court pressure to neutralize sensation Jeremy Lin and defeat the New York Knicks 102-88.

Lin had his worst game as a starter, going 1-for-11 from the floor and turning the ball over eight time.

The key: the Heat rotated defenders on Lin. And  Mario Chalmers did an especially good job picking up Lin full-court and making the second year table-setter work.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Does anybody care that Jeremy Evans and Kevin Love are your 2012 Slam Dunk and Three Point Shootout champions?

Of course, not.

In fact, the highlight of All-Star Saturday was TNT broadcaster Charles Barkley throwing zingers at past and present players.

Barkley's best moment was calling out current superstars for choosing to skip the Slam Dunk Contest, which has long been All-Star Saturday’s showcase event.

After all, Blake Griffin decided not to defend his 2011 Slam Dunk Title. And LeBron James again talked of participating but ultimately spent the night with teammate Dwyane Wade on the sideline.

So watch the videos below and get at HoopsVibe News with thoughts on All-Star Saturday.
 

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

LeBron on final seconds of All-Star game: "(Kobe) was telling me to shoot it. I seen my teammate open for a split second. I seen him open the first time and I didn't release the ball. When I tried to throw it late, that's what usually happens and it results in a turnover. Definitely wish I could have that one back."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: LeBron James should forget his last second turnover in Sunday's All-Star game and focus on one thing: helping his Miami Heat win a championship.

After all, the mid-season classic is meaningless; it’s an event for Commissioner Stern, ESPN/ABC, and the league’s sponsors to sell the NBA.

The Heat don’t move up or down in the standings. And there’s no impact on home court advantage. So, why is James taking the blame? Why is he worrying?

Instead of dwelling on the outcome, the game’s greatest player should be arrogant enough to shrug off the result, remind everyone the All-Star game is for fans, and then drop forty in his next regular season game.

Michael Jordan wouldn’t have thought twice about ‘blowing’ the All-Star game. Neither would Magic Johnson or Larry Bird. Their confidence - what the kid’s call swagger - was too great.

James is talking about the All-Star game to reporters. It’s becoming a ‘thing’. It’s sticking in his mind. Just like his inability to finish down the stretch.

And the whispers will follow him when the game is close and the Heat have the ball late in the fourth quarter.

--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

"I knew he recorded everything we worked on," Olajuwon said. "I know he's practiced it. I can see that. But the comfort level, when you get into the competition, you start playing to your strengths, which is more of (an) outside (game). I see him post up. But I still see a lot of opportunities there. He's not capitalizing as much as he should. He needs more of a refresher course where he can become more comfortable. I see him (improving his post game), but he needs more time."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The best always get better. That's why they are the best.

After all, Michael Jordan developed an amazing post game; Magic Johnson added his ‘baby hook’ and three-point shot; Kobe Bryant has extended his range over the years.

So, there’s no doubt LeBron James, who will surely win his third MVP award this spring, can get better. According to his tutor Olajuwon, it starts in the post, where the 6-8 man-child has only scratched the surface.

James’ can also take his one-on-one defense, outside range, and conditioning to another level. When he does fans will be watching an all-time great.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

There’s a reason the Heat have continued to look to add a veteran big man to their roster. They attempted to sign both Kenyon Martin and Joel Przybilla but weren’t able to do so. A radio station in Miami reported the team worked out Rasheed Wallace last week. According to league executives, the Heat have been calling around to gauge demand for reserve big men as the trade deadline approaches.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Will the rich, the Miami Heat, get richer?

Reports indicate the reigning Eastern Conference champions are on the prowl for a reserve post. Chris Bosh is out the line-up and the Heat lost free agents Kenyon Martin and Joel Przybilla to the Clippers and Blazers.

Another big body would allow Bosh to man the more familiar high-post when he returns, while providing depth for an extended playoff run.

After all, the Heat will face a plethora of bigs come May and June during the NBA’s second-season. The question is who can they get before the quickly approaching trade deadline.  

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Lakers guard Kobe Bryant has always been lauded for his self-motivation and drive to be the best. It's a good thing he has that internal ambition, because according to Bryant, he's gone through his 16-year career without a true rival on the exterior to push him to succeed. "I didn't have one," Bryant said after scoring 38 points in the Lakers' 115-107 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Gee, Kobe Bryant, tell us how you feel?

Bryant has every right to say he measures himself against Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan, and not LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

Bryant, like Jordan and Johnson, won many championships, while James and Wade combined have one championship.

And Bryant played seven seasons in the NBA before James and Wade were drafted as part of the highly touted 2003 class.

This wasn’t about hoisting the Larry O’Brien championship trophy, though. This was about an edge -as Bryant’s Lakers faced James and Wade’s Heat in a much-hyped nationally televised game.

Fans were especially curious to see how Bryant would respond to Wade’s hard foul during the 2012 All-Star game in Orlando.

Bryant, in typical Black Mamba fashion, took no offense to the foul, which broke his nose and gave him a concussion. He simply proved his point by leading the Lakers to a 93-83 win over the Heat.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 

“I think we were just a better team than them,” Stevenson said. “And then obviously LeBron didn’t play like he should have played [in the Finals].” Stevenson had a lot to do with that, playing key defense on James and hitting several key shots of his own to help the Mavericks defeat the Heat in six games. James struggled mightily, extending the narrative that has dogged LeBron his entire career: he’s a great regular season player, but when the games matter most, or when the moment is there to be seized, he’s not the same guy.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: DeShawn Stevenson, we get it. You and your former team, the Dallas Mavericks, beat LeBron James and the Miami Heat in last year’s NBA Finals.

But it’s done. Over. Finished. No more. That was then, this is now.

Instead of reminiscing on the Mavs' 2011 championship, Stevenson needs to focus on helping this current team, the sad-sack New Jersey Nets.

After all, Stevenson’s insult came after the Heat beat his Nets by 30 points. And James had an impressive 21 points, nine rebounds, and six assists in just 30 minutes of work.

So Stevenson should move on because clearly James has.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Fisher is said to be strongly interested in joining the Chicago Bulls or Miami Heat, according to one source close to the situation. The San Antonio Spurs, sources told Stein, have not yet ruled out pursuing Fisher because their planned signing of former Portland Trail Blazers guard Patty Mills has been held up by the fact that Portland has not yet renounced rights to Mills.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Can a 38-year old guard averaging less than six points per game be the difference between winning and losing an NBA championship?

Well, the Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, and Oklahoma City Thunder think so. All are chasing Derek Fisher, an unrestricted free agent after receiving a buy-out courtesy of the Houston Rockets.

Fisher, of course, won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers before getting dealt to Houston at the trade deadline.

Chicago, Miami, and Oklahoma City want Fisher to play limited minutes and serve as a mentor in the locker room.

Miami, perhaps, has a slight edge over Chicago and Oklahoma City. Remember, the Heat nearly signed the veteran two summers ago before he re-upped with the then defending world champion Lakers.

Fisher won’t forget that James, the game’s greatest star, met him at Miami's airport and tried to convince him to migrate east to South Beach.

And perhaps James’ lobbying will pay dividends this time around.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Derek Fisher is in advanced negotiations with the Oklahoma City Thunder to sign with the Western Conference leaders after clearing waivers, according to sources close to the situation. Fisher is scheduled to clear waivers at 6 p.m. ET Wednesday. One source with knowledge of the talks told ESPN.com that Fisher is "very close" to committing to sign with the Thunder once he becomes a free agent.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Can we chalk one up for small markets?

It appears the Oklahoma City Thunder have beat the Miami Heat for Derek Fisher’s services, signing the table-setter for the remainder of the season and playoffs.

Fisher was recently bought-out by the Houston Rockets, who acquired the five-time champion at the trade deadline from the Los Angeles Lakers.

Apparently, the veteran favours the Thunder because it would allow him to stay in the Western Conference, where he has played his entire 16-year career.

This development is surprising. Remember, Fisher forged a relationship with superstar LeBron James and the Heat when he looked at signing with Miami as a free agent in July of 2010.  

Expect Fisher to back-up and play next to All-Star Russell Westbrook. He’s expected to sign with the Thunder Wednesday evening after clearing waivers. 

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“Coaches and players have been doing this for years, you just happened to see this play out in the public,” Smith said. “To the organization’s credit, Stan Van Gundy is still our coach and Dwight Howard is still our player and we’re still trying to win basketball games.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: What else can Otis Smith say?

In order to salvage the Orlando Magic’s season, Smith must downplay the rift between coach Stan Van Gundy and superstar Dwight Howard.

It may be too little, too late.

Clearly, Howard has owner Rich Devos’ ear. And if the club wants to sign Howard to an extension then Smith and Van Gundy may get pink-slipped.

For most, such a dynamic would be difficult, but Van Gundy is used to getting knifed in the back. Remember, Pat Riley crossed him with the Miami Heat, coming out of the executive suite to ‘take over’ for Van Gundy.

So expect the Magic to keep chugging along. But beating LeBron James’ Heat and Derrick Rose’s Bulls will be tough, if not impossible, with such a cloud hanging over the organization.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard told team owner Rich DeVos that he won't play for coach Stan Van Gundy anymore, WKMG in Orlando reported on Thursday. Howard was angered that Van Gundy publicly divulged that the superstar center asked management to have him fired, WKMG said, citing sources.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Dwight Howard is an All-World talent, but the Orlando Magic must wonder if he’s worth the trouble?

Consider Howard's past year: he requested a trade several times; he then told the world he wanted to stay with Orlando; he somewhat reluctantly opted-in for 2013; and has asked ownership several times to fire Coach Stan Van Gundy and/or GM Otis Smith.

Howard is arguably the league’s top defensive player and center; however, his personal situation has hijacked the season. His every move, word, and comment has dominated the news.

It’s created a massive distraction. Think Carmelo Anthony with the Denver Nuggets in 2011 and LeBron James with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2010. Except there’s no end in sight to Howard’s ‘Indecision’ because he opted-in for 2013, which means the saga will continue.

Unless the Magic take action. For instance, the Lakers offered Andrew Bynum for Howard. Smith should see if that deal is still available because Bynum is amost Howard's equal and has room to improve.

Most importantly, such a move would bring closure. The current situation with Howard can’t continue.

--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“I have to be who I am,” James said. “Last year was the biggest teacher. The greatest teacher in life is experience. And I had that last year. I’m back to being the person who can take over games. I have no problem taking over a game now.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The 2011 LeBron James worried what others thought. The 2012 LeBron James only worries about winning, so leading his Miami Heat comes naturally.

James rightfully took a hit following ‘The Decision’ and The Pre-emptive Championship Declaration. The media hounded him, while the public wanted to see him and the Heat fail.

Their every move was captured and critiqued, much of the attention wasn’t positive. So James’ star power and reputation took a hit, resulting in a confrontational press conference following the Heat’s loss to the Mavericks in the NBA Finals.

The process changed James as a different person. A little time away, a little reflection, a nasty lockout, and The King has returned in 2012.

Yes, there are the same questions about James’ supporting cast. And yes, the Heat are again the second seed in the Eastern Conference behind the Chicago Bulls.

There is, however, no doubt the Heat are James’ team. He’s back to leading. He’s back to taking over games. He’s back to being vocal on-court. And this all started when he let go of the past.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 

On the chances of him staying in Phoenix: "Honestly, I have no clue. I couldn’t predict. I don’t know what the future holds at this point. And I’m actually OK with that. I think now’s the time to maybe get some distance from it and try to find a clear perspective on where I am. Until I do that, I couldn’t put a number on it or take a guess on what the chances are on whether I’ll be back or not."

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: This is the end of the line for Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns.

Although fit and productive, Nash is in his late thirties and the window to win a championship is quickly closing. In fact, that window is shut if he re-ups with the Suns -as Robert Sarver’s club is starting to rebuild.

So expect the two-time MVP and first ballot Hall of Fame table-setter to head elsewhere for the Mid Level Exception in July when he hits free agency.

A few possibilities:

• The Miami Heat could use a veteran point guard; however, Nash would, at times, have to play off the ball if he wanted to successfully partner with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.
• Mike D’Antoni, the architect of Seven Seconds or Less, is gone, but the New York Knicks could use help even if Jeremy Lin makes a full recovery and re-signs in 2013.
• The Raptors need some sort of shtick to sell tickets and keep fans interested. Nash, a patriotic Canadian, could be open to heading north of the border despite Toronto being thousands of miles from his home of Victoria, British Columbia.

There’s an argument that Nash will re-sign with the Suns because his three children live with his ex-wife in Phoenix, Arizona. Of course, family matters. But Nash is, and always has been, highly competitive. His drive took him from being an unheralded Canadian prospect to one of the faces of the NBA.

And his drive will force him to leave Phoenix and most likely sign with a competitive squad next season.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

This certainly isn't going to help LeBron's image.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: I know this is just the lighting and nothing pervy, but  I still have no words for how wrong this photo appears.

I am a LeBron James fan and think the media has been unjustly hard on the guy, but photos like this aren't going to help LeBron bring back is nice guy image. I mean could you please keep it under control. Yes, that is a cute mom, but have a little subtlety my man. She's with her baby for Christ's sake. Take it easy. 

Photo Credit: TheDirty.com

LeBron James thanks fans for his 2012 MVP award?

Is this sincere? Is this corny? What do you guysthink about LBJ's video. Seems like they had to do a little editing on it with the fade-in clippings. Does LeBron come across as heartfelt and caring about his fans or just trying to repair his image. And what do we think about his spanish to finish off the video. LeBron James busting out the yo hablo espanol. Classy or Corny?

It started with an opening day thrashing of the defending champion Dallas Mavericks in which LeBron James showcased a completely revamped low post game. And it never really stopped.

LeBron is the leading vote-getter on the NBA All-Defensive team.

HoopsVibe's Very Quikc Call: Not sure he'd be my first pick, but he should definitely be on the squad.

Boston take a 3-2 lead in the series as Miami can't hold on.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Miami looked tight in the loss. Boston most unlikely of Eastern Conference Champs.

Funny Miami Heat musis parody worth checking out.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: That's my grandma's name too. :-)

Something about Dwyane Wade's performance in game one of the 2012 NBA Finals on Tuesday night looked awkward. And some of his postgame comments seemed to confirm what everyone was thinking.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Is it possible that D Wade's best days are behind him?

For the last two days, all we've heard about is how a non-call on a supposed "obvious" foul committed by LeBron James on Kevin Durant cost OKC a chance at tying, and possibly winning, game two of the NBA Finals.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Non-calls go both ways, folks. Quit whining, OKC.

We know the Thunder are supposed to be the "Good Guys" and we know the Heat are the "Bad Guys" and that somehow the non-call at the end of the game makes LeBron even more of a villiain, but let's not let that cloud our sense of logic, people.

If we're going to venture into the always grey area of call vs. non-call, what about the obvious charge on Durant with 3:21 left where a blocking foul was called on Shane Battier in lieu of giving Durant his 6th foul and an early exit? You could FEEL the entire arena come to a standstill because everyone knew what they saw; a CHARGE, by definition. Watch it again here, it is an absolute textbook charge:

You could also feel the collective butthole of the referees pucker up because they HAD to make a call. Imagine if they would've made the correct call; for as hot as Durant was in the 4th there would have been no comeback for the Thunder, the game would've been over.

This is bigger than two missed calls; this all boils down to the prevailing hate for LeBron James. But why? 

I've always fallen on the Kobe side of the "Kobe vs. LeBron who is better" argument, so I am no LBJ fanboy. But watching him absolutely CARRY the Heat this postseason has been amazing to watch. With no consistency from D-Wade, and an injured Chris Bosh, you see in a hurry how thin the Heat are in terms of talent and depth. If you put Nick Collison on the Heat RIGHT NOW, he'd start at power forward and offer more of an inside presence than anyone else. He's expected to score, rebound, bring the ball up the floor and then defend Russell Westbrook, a top five scorer. Durant, Westbrook and Harden have each other; LBJ gets Wade and Bosh on occasion.

Other than "The Decision", what has LeBron really done to make people dislike him? Guaranteeing winning six or seven titles didn't win him a lot of friends outside of Miami, but if you're a Heat fan isn't that EXACTLY what you want to hear? He makes his free throws, he never gets arrested. By and large it is safe to say he's a good dude; not a villain.

Even if the Heat win the series, LeBron will never "win". If we're going to speculate about the "No call" at the end of the game, then let's call it both ways.

For more info and updates follow on twitter @HoopsVibe.com.

Image Credit: AP NEWS

It wasn't pretty, but it's still a win.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Miami has the momentum up 2-1 and homecourt advantage. Maybe the King will finally be crowned.

The Heat started off strong building a 20-26 first quarter lead, but as we all know Oklahoma has a history of starting slow. The Thunder game roaring back winning the 2nd and 3rd quarters to set up the fourth quarter showdown we've all come to expect in these playoffs. 

The Thunder didn't quite look like themselves going into the 4th. James Harden was having a horrible game with just 9 points on 2-10 shooting and Kevin Durant had sad a large portion of the 2nd and 3rd quarters with early foul trouble in the game. 

On the other side of the ball, LeBron was able to get good looks largely inside the paint. When LeBron receives the ball from 17 feet and in, his shooting percentages go way up. In game three LeBron lived in the paint in the first half. This is a recipe for success as it give him more confidence in knocking down the jumper when it presents himself, but prevents his settling for long fade-away shots the Thunder are relieved to see him attempt.

In the 4th it was really anyone's game. The Heat build up a 7 point lead with about 5 minutes left and it looked like Miami would cruise to their second NBA Finals win, but 30 seconds and 2 Wade turnovers later it was a 1 point game. Sefolosha is a defensive machine and has proved capable of picking Wade's pocket multiple times late in games.

In the end Miami won it at the free throw line. It wasn't the most glamorous win in NBA history watching LeBron and Wade knock down free throws, but it was still a win. LeBron ended up with 29 points and 14 rebounds as Wade had 25 points. Durant had 25 points on limited minutes due to foul trouble and Russell Westbrook 19 points. 

Game 4 is in Miami on Tuesday.

For more info, updates, and babble follow on twitter @HoopsVibe.com

Photo Credit: AP NEWS

With LeBron sidelined, Chalmers comes through to dominate the 4th quarter.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Mario will not be denied.

One thing Mario Chalmers has never lacked is confidence. On a team star studded with sure-fire Hall-of-Famers, he still humbly sees himself as a go-to option and in game 4 he showed the world why. 

Game 4 was like a lot of the Thunder vs. Heat series, ugly, grinding, hard-nosed basketball. These are the types of games where it's tough for the refs to not get involved. On every play bodies are going flying. This is a Finals dominated by names like Wade, Durant, James, Westbrook, Bosh, and Harden, but Mario added Chalmers to the mix in a big way Tuesday night.

Chalmers came into a virtually tied game and dominated the 4th quarter wit h 12 points including a clutch layup with under a minute to go to push Miami on to victory. He ended the game with 25 points on 9-15 shooting and 3-9 from downtown. When LeBron went out of the game with cramps, it wasn't Wade, but Chalmers that took over the game. His confidence is perhaps his greatest strength. And although he's the 4th or 5th option on this high-powered offense, he knows how to turn it on when it counts. If Miami goes on to win the NBA Championship this year, let the record show it was Chalmers that brought them game 4.

For more info, updates, and babble follow on twitter @HoopsVibe

Photo Credit: AP NEWS

We all know how important a victory in tonight's game five of the NBA Finals is for LeBron James, but everyone is forgetting how important it is for Juwan Howard.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Don't think for a second that a Heat victory tonight doesn't mean a lot to Jalen Rose, Jimmy King, Ray Jackson and Chris Webber.

Mark Cuban makes Skip Bayless look like a fool.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Skip can dish it out, but can he take it?

LeBron disses his wife.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: If the saying "Happy Wife = Happy  Life" is true, LeBron's got some roses to buy.

Michelle Obama plays dirty politics to make sure the U.S. Olympic team votes Obama

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Can we get in line too? We love hugs.

After the U.S. Basketball team defeated France 98-71, the team lined up for hugs in front of Michelle Obama. We don't know if there are any republicans in the bunch, but this group of ballers looked very excited to get a big old hug from the first lady. If they weren't voting Obama before the hug, they definitely are now.

President and first lady Obama are known to be huge basketball fans, so it came as no surprise that Michelle wanted to catch the U.S. vs. France basketball game. What no one expected was the love she showed after the game. In all honesty, it looked like it all happened innocently enough with LeBron James coming over to Michelle to say thank you for watching the game. Michelle gave him a hug and before you could say "Mitt Romney got no jumper" the entire U.S. team was lined up for their own Michelle Obama hug. 

All the players were 100% composed and respectful of the first lady and some even seemed a bit overwhelmed. After the players got hugs, the coaches knew this was their best shot at a Obama hug too and jumped in line. With all the hugs doled out, the team went in the locker to analyze their destroying of the French team.

Thanks to comments by Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, we've heard a lot of comparisions between the 2012 USA Olympic basketball team and the 1992 "Dream Team" that featured 11 hall of fame players. But how does the 2012 version stack up against versions II and III? 

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: The two following incarnations of the "Dream Team" were also stacked, but everyone seems to forget about them.

Team USA Wins Gold and Kobe Says No More

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Was there really ever any doubt? Hmmm, yeah, there was.

King James makes a special apperance for the Blu-Ray release. .

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: If Jaws did sneak up on LeBron in the water and ingest him, LeBron would doubtlessly be criticised and panned for the way he was eaten and digested. 

Former Pistons "Bad Boy" and sworn Michael Jordan hater John Salley claimed this week Jordan wasn't even one of the top five players he ever played against and that LeBron was better.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: All these recent anti-Jordan comments by NBA personalities really speaks to the phenomenal year of basketball LeBron just completed.

Now that LeBron has actually won an NBA title (combined with his freak athletic ability and loaded Heat squad) will he someday be regarded as the best NBA player EVER?

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: James is closer to MJ's level than the haters want to admit.

Over the first two articles (which you can read here and here) we assembled a list of ten players to decide who is the second best NBA player ever, behind Michael Jordan.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: It’s hard enough to pick one player off this list.

LeBron James got hair plugs this summer.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: If it works for Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, Steve Carelll, Jeremy Piven, and Brendan Fraser why not the King.

Hipster glasses invade the NBA.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: From the dual Hipster capitals of the world Silver Lake, CA & Austin, TX geek chic is in.

Will NBA kill the fun in celebrations and pregame rituals like the NFL?

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: If the NBA could learn anything from the NFL it's to let the players have fun.

By now, any fan or follower of the NBA is familiar with the article, Brian Windhorst, NBA writer for ESPN.com, published on Thursday about the Lakers eyeing Lebron James.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Talk about Lebron doing anything and expect the pot to get stirred.

Three different games mark the beginning of the 2012-13 NBA regular season Tuesday night.
 
Hoopsvibe's quick call:  After an interesting offseason, let the games begin.

Dwyane Wade told USA Today Sports that he is donating his entire game salary from tonight's game against the Knicks to Hurricane Sandy relief.

Hoopsvibe's Quick Call:  Dwyane Wade is the man.

The Lakers are off to a 1-4 start and everyone wants to know why.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: It takes time to gel.

The following is a list of the NBA's top five highest salaried teams.  (And thanks to Hoopsworld.com for providing the data).

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  This list proves that the best team isn't always the one that spends the most money.

1.)  The Los Angeles Lakers - $102,256,438

Point and case.  The Lakers may have the largest payroll in the league but their current record is the worst on this list.  The organization kept busy this offseason and when they acquired both Dwight Howard and Steve Nash, it was looking like the purple and gold were the team to beat.  And indeed, they have been the team to beat.  Yes, it's still early in the season, but having won only three games with their expensive lineup is pretty embarrassing. Let's hope the recent hiring of Mike D'Antoni turns things around.

2.)  The Miami Heat - $87,595,822

It shouldn't come as much of a shock that the Heat are number 2 on this list.  They pretty much cleared out their books a few years ago to make sure there was enough cap space for Lebron James, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade to be on the roster.  And as it turns out, that was a good idea.  Micky Arison, Pat Riley and company made a good decision in doing so seeing that the Heat are the defending NBA Champions and are currently sitting at the top of their division.

3.)  The New York Knicks - $82,010,527

The Knicks could quite possibly be the surprise of the season so far.  J.R. Smith is posting career numbers, averaging 18.2 points per game.  Raymond Felton is averaging 14 points and 6.2 assists while Carmelo Anthony's 26.8 ppg leads the league in scoring.  As a result, they're 5-0; all the while Amare Staudemire has been on the bench with knee injury.  Who knows if they'll keep it up, but it will certainly be interesting to see how they play with Amare back in the lineup.

4.)  The Brookyln Nets - $83,511,726

The NBA's newest team are 4-2 to start the season.  They have a new stadium in the Barclays Center and with Deron Williams, Brooks Lopez, Kris Humphries and Joe Johnson on their payroll, they certainly have a few expenses.  But if they continue to win games, those expenses most likely won't be much of an issue.

5.)  The Memphis Grizzlies - $77,098,154

I was pretty surprised when Memphis came in at #5 on this list.  I would have thought Boston, or San Antonio, or even Oklahoma City would have been ahead of the Grizz.  Then again, they do have Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol on their roster.  Those three guys alone take up about $47 million of the payroll.  And for good reason; they combine for over 51 points per game.

2 Chainz's South Beach Concert Features LeBron James, Lil Wayne, and Busta Rhymes.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: The King and 2Chains have an on-stage blunder. What's wrong in this video?