The Heat have offered contracts to both Joel Przybilla and Kenyon Martin, their agents told ESPN.com. Przybilla is expected to make a choice between the Chicago Bulls and Heat, according to agent Bill Duffy. Martin is interested in several teams, with the Heat in the mix, according to agent Andy Miller.

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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.

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.

‘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.
 

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.

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.
 

A source close to the situation confirmed Rasheed Wallace has worked out with Heat, but source said he hasn’t decided if he’ll play again.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Rasheed Wallace, if serious about coming out of retirement, would help the Miami Heat.

‘Sheed would help Erik Spoelstra’s squad on both ends. The veteran’s length and experience makes him a great individual and team defender, while he can still score in a multitude of ways.

Best of all, Wallace would shift Bosh to his more natural position -the high post. The left-handed-four excels when facing up opponents at the elbow rather than receiving the ball on the block.

Still, everything hinges on Wallace‘s fitness. Remember, he was often ineffective with the Celtics because of poor conditioning.

If motivated and in shape, Wallace can contribute.

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.

Free agent Ronny Turiaf finalized an agreement with the Miami Heat, league sources told Yahoo! Sports on Wednesday.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The rich got richer on Wednesday.

Yesterday, the Miami Heat signed veteran center Ronny Turiaf, who was bought-out by the Denver Nuggets after getting dealt by the Washington Wizards.

Turiaf will provide energy, rebounding, and defense. He'll also allow Chris Bosh to sit on the elbow and face up opponents.

Best of all, his championship experience with the Los Angeles Lakers will help the Heat during the playoffs.

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

With that being said, it’s not totally out of the question that they re-sign Jamison to a cap-friendly contract starting around $5 million. The Cavs would have to be clear with the 6-foot-9, 235-pounder that they are committed to Tristan Thompson as being the starter at power forward next year.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Cleveland Cavaliers want Antawn Jamison -just at the right price.

The veteran forward has done an admirable job mentoring Cleveland’s young stars like Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson, while still producing on-court as a combo forward.

This is no surprise.

Jamison has always been a professional, displaying leadership with some crazy Washington Wizards teams and coming off the bench during his prime for the Dallas Mavericks.

Of course, he can still play. Jamison’s length and ability to score around the hoop means he  has a few productive seasons left.

Sounds good, right? Well, not so fast.

Returning to the Cavaliers would likely mean a $10 million pay cut (Jamison is earning $15 million this year, and he’d probably get the $5 million mid level exception when he hits free agency in July.)

Would Jamison take the mid level exception on an improving team like Cleveland or discount his services even further to join, say Miami or Chicago, for a shot at a championship?

This is the dilemma Jamison will face. And it could see him leave Cleveland no matter how comfortable he is.

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

When asked by Patrick about possibly linking with LeBron, Nash said he’d definitely listen if the Heat came-a-courtin’.Surely he’s aware they’re capsized and luxury-payers for 2012-13.Of course, you’ve got to believe someone who has earned monster money over the course of his career could make do on a mid-exception salary ($5M) for a year or two.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Will Steve Nash become that player?

Will the two-time MVP and future member of the basketball Hall of Fame change his legacy by signing with a loaded contender at a discounted rate this summer?

Will he follow in the footsteps of Gary Payton and Jason Kidd to get his ring as a supporting piece or, in the case of Mitch Richmond, as a bench-warmer?

Well, it’s a possibility according to reports out of New York this week.

It seems the Miami Heat are interested in making Nash their point guard. Here’s the catch: he’ll have to take the Heat’s Mid Level Exception of $5 million, which represents a $6 million pay cut from his current salary of $11 million.

Of course, Nash’s legacy would change if he heads east to South Beach. The lovable, skateboarding, youtube-joking table-setter would be part of the big, bad Heat. He’d be the villain, the enemy.

However, if it’s about winning then this would be best for Nash. After all, he’s 38-years old and can’t keep beating Father Time with his gluten free diet and hippie Canadian ways.

--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.

“I don’t have a scenario in my head where I wouldn’t,” Van Gundy told the Orlando Sentinel after he was asked whether he wants to return. “They’re going to have to make decisions. But I’m a basketball coach and I know this: I don’t want to go anywhere else. I mean, I love Orlando, and this is where I want to be. And I want to coach.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The superstar is in denial mode. The GM is downplaying everything. And the coach just wants to return next season.

Yes, the Orlando Magic are a mess.

Instead of worrying about the upcoming playoffs, Dwight Howard, Otis Smith, and Stan Van Gundy are pre-occupied with what will happen next.

For Howard, that means changing the Magic for the 2012-13 season. For Smith and Van Gundy, that means keeping their jobs and continuing to blame Howard.

So much is unknown in Central Florida. However, two things are crystal clear.

First, the Magic have no chance at beating the Chicago Bulls and/or Miami Heat in a best of seven series with Howard’s situation hanging over them like an ominous rain cloud.

Second, Howard opting-in for 2013 was supposed to bring closure to the Magic. Clearly, it hasn’t. The reports and rumours continue to flood the internet, while anonymous sources continue to speak out.

Perhaps all involved would have been better off if Howard was traded last March at the deadline.

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

Miami sends a message to Chicago with physical play.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Miami getting tough for the playoffs

James Jones gets ejected with a flagrant-2, Dwade gets a flagrant-1, and LeBron James levels John Lucas with a bone crushing pick as Miami lets Chicago know this is a tougher Miami Heat team than last year.

Not much was really on the line in terms of the standings last night as the Heat and Bulls met for their last regular season game, but plenty was on the line as far as builing momentum for the playoffs. Clearly, Miami had an agenda to play more physical and that's exactly what they did. In the process they also dominated the paint, grabbed more boards, and won the game 83-72 as James went off for 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists.

“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.

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.

Here are your position-by-position Finals matchups.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: It all starts with Lebron vs. Durant. The matchup of the year. This is the head-to-head mathup everyone wants to see.

CENTER: Kendrick Perkins vs. Udonis Haslem.

Perkis is tough as nails, but isn't much of an offesnive threat. Haslem's been battling it out with Garnett for 7 games, so it's difficult to see Perkins bing any more intimidating that KG. Plus, Haslem has a mid-range jumper he can knock down. Edge: Heat.

POWER FORWARD: Serge Ibaka vs. Shane Battier or Chris Bosh.

Ibaka has always been regarded as a shot-blocking machine and with his recent addition of consistent mid-range shooter he is a true threat on both ends of the court. The real question is whether he can continue to shoot lights out or if his 11-11 night of shooting was a fluke. Bosh is still getting his legs under him, but dropping 17 points and 3 3-pointers in game seven is only going to help. Edge: even.

SMALL FORWARD: Kevin Durant vs. LeBron James.

Durant shoots the 3-pointer better than Durant, but will he be able to get the looks he needs with LeBron on him. LeBron is unstopable from 17-feet and in, but tends to settle for too many outside jumpers, instead of taking the ball to the rim. The real benefit of Durant is he is better at getting his entire team involved. LeBron's the MVP, but Durant is a better franchise player. Edge: Thunder (barely).

SHOOTING GUARD: Thabo Sefolosha vs. Dwyane Wade.

Dwayne Wade hasn't exactly been himself this playoffs. He's been putting up descent numbers, but never really taking over. Sefolosha will put the defensive clamps down on Wade, but Sefolosha lacks offensive skills Wade bring to the table. Edge: Heat.

POINT GUARD: Russell Westbrook vs. Mario Chalmers.

Chalmers is quick by normal standards and a descent shot, but Westbrook is lightening fast and a better shooter. Chalmers will have his hands full trying to keep Westbrook from penetrating at will. Edge: Thunder (By far). 

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?

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.

LeBron wins first NBA Championship as Miami tops Thunder 106-121.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Miami made us all believers.

Going into the Oklahoma vs. Miami NBA Finals almost no one picked Miami to win. The world was excited about a new young team and it's wasn't the Miami Heat. No, the Heat had quickly become the most hated team in the world over the last 2 season. LeBron was made out to be the devil and everyone seemed to cheer against him.

Last night he was vindicated. LeBron is one of only a handful of NBA players to ever with the regular season MVP, the NBA Championship, and the Finals MVP. He finished game 5 with a triple-double, 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists. Not he ever needed to prove anything, but he did. He play was passionate and inspired. 

The Heat were up by 10 at half-time, but came out in the 3rd quarter on a mission. Miami outscored the Thunder 36-22 in the 3rd to blow the game wide open. Miller was draining 3-pointers like he was 24-years old again, Wade went for 20 points, Bosh 24, and Miller an amazing 23 on 7-8 shooting from downtown. 

The Heat simply overpowered the young and energetic Thunder Team. And as things started to slip away from the Thunder they reverted back to bad habits. Westbrook started jacking up tough shots he probably should have passed to Durant or Harden. Westbrook ended up going 4-20 for the game. Tough to win when your point guard is shooting that poorly. Durant had 32 points, but the team as a whole shot just 41 percent. 

This is a day for Miami and LeBron to feel the weight of the world lifted. They're finally world champions and earned every bit of it.

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

Photo Credit: AP NEWS

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.

Ray Allen betrays the Boston Celtics and signs with the Miami Heat.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: I can't wait for his return to the Boston Garden. That will be louder than LeBron going back to Cleveland.

The Celtics' Paul Pierce admits he is "a little bitter" over Ray Allen going to the Miami Heat.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: I can't wait for the first Celtics vs. Heat game in Boston.

Paul Pierce finally admits he was "a little bitter" over watching Ray Allen, his teammate and founding member of the Celtics' "Big Three," take his talents to South Beach. How could Pierce not be bitter? The Celtics had managed to hold on to Kevin Garnett and actually offered Allen more money than the Heat. 

Pierce softened his words later in the interview by saying he understood Allen had to do what was best for his family. Yet, the two still haven't spoken since Allen announced he was leaving the Celtics for the Heat. Allen also accepted less money to play for the Heat, so how is that best for his family. The bottom line appears to be that Allen simply didn't believe the Celtics could beat the Heat in the Eastern Conference and win another championship. 

Pierce went on to say, "That's what it's all about: You get in these situations, you become a free agent, and you make a decision based on what's best for you and your family. Ray will always be a brother for me. If it wasn't for him, I probably wouldn't be wearing a championship ring. So the things he was able to do for this organization, will never be forgotten."

No phone calls since Allen decided to leave to Miami doesn't sound like brotherly love to me. 

 For more info, updates, and gossip follow @HoopsVibe

and for more trash-talking and scoops follow @MikeBrouillet.

Photo Credit: WENN

Miami shopping for a Big Man

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Whoever they get won't be able to cover Dwight.

Garnett, Rondo, and Allen feud looks explosive.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: I predict a few flying elbows the first time Allen drives the lane in Bean Town.

Garnett struck first saying he no longer has former friend and teammate, Ray Allen's, phone number in his phone. Ouch, that doesn't sound like the type of lifelong friendships everyone in Boston was talking about just a few years ago when the Big Three hung another banner? Rondo followed suit in a similar interview stating he and Allen hadn't always gotten along. Rondo told Yahoo Sports "It's just life. If you look at your job, everyone doesn't always get along with every co-worker they work with. It's just part of life." Rondo also admitted to not having spoken to Allen since his decision to go to Boston's biggest rival in the East, the Miami Heat. 

Allen responded to Garnett's comments saying, "That's a shame ... I'm not really worried about it." Looks like these "friends" are now bitter enemies. Allen crossed a scared line in Garnett and Rondo's minds. It isn't simply that he left the Celtics. It's that he left the Celtics and went to their bitter rival. Boston and Miami met in the Eastern Conference Finals last year and although most people thought Boston was over-matched, it was still a hell of a battle.

This has all the makings of adding series kerosene the this already explosive fire. I predict the Celtics vs. Heat games this year will be especially chippy and look for Garnett, a noted hot-head and capable of a questionable cheap shot from time to time, to dish out at least a couple hard hits when Allen returns to Boston in a Heat uniform.

The only saving grace for Allen is he only drives to the basket these days if on one is on his half of the court. He's much more content to camp out behind the arch and wait for hit opportunity to show what a lifetime 40% 3-point shooter looks like in action.

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.

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.

Ray Allen is finally talking about what went down with him and the Boston Celtics this offseason.

Hoopsvibe's very quick call:  Allen's week is already off to a busy start.

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.

Kevin Garnett had no love for Ray Allen last night in the Miami Heat's 120-107 victory over the Boston Celtics.
 
Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Both Garnett and Allen stayed true to who they are.

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?

Fresh off dropping his new album, Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors, Outkast's Big Boi made an appearance on NBA TV's The Jump to talk shop on two of his (and my) favorite subjects, basketball and music.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Big Boi is an accomplished hip hop artist and a true hoops fan.

Earlier today, Big Boi, who together with Andre 3000 makes up the rap duo, Outkast, stopped by The Jump studios in Atlanta and chatted with Brent Barry, Dennis Scott and company.  The gang asked Big Boi about everything from his hometown Falcons and Hawks, to recording his new album, the situation the Los Angeles Lakers, and just who would be in his personal Big Three.

"So who would be your big three?" Brent Barry asked the rapper.

"First I'd have to grab me Andre 3000 of course," Big Boi said.  "Really that's all I need.  I don't need anybody else.  Me, Dre and the referree that's it."

Big Boi, who spent the first half of his life in Savannah, Georgia before moving to Atlanta, is known for being a huge Atlanta sports fan.  When asked about being a Hawks season ticket holder and going to the games, Big Boi was ever prideful saying, "I support as much as I can.  Home team first.  I mean it's Bird Gang the whole way."

And this year especially, there's plenty of good reason for Big Boi to be proud of Atlanta sports.  At 12-2, the Falcons are currently tied with the Texans with the best record in the NFL and have already clinched their division.  The Hawks, led by Josh Smith, have a 15-7 overall record so far this season and are only one game behind the reigning Champion Miami Heat for first place in the southeast division.

When questioned about what's gotten into Josh Smith lately, Big Boi dropped the following wisdom:

"I guess you know when you get to mature, you come into your own style.  It's the same thing with doing music.  I guess it just takes experience.  To get growth you get real like that.  You just gotta stay on your craft."

I don't think many would argue about whether or not Big Boi knows a thing or two about experience and honing in on one's craft.  Together with Andre 3000, Outkast has gone platinum numerous times and has taken home six Grammy Awards.

One of the best parts of the interview came when Dennis Scott asked Big Boi, "What do you think is going on with the the Lakers, and Kobe and Dwight Howard, what's your take on all that?" to which the famed rapper responded, "I don't know.  Everybody wanna blame the coach.  I don't know man, 'cuz the coach ain't shootin' free throws, you know?"

Got to give it up to Big Boi for always keepin' it real.

Check out more of the rapper's appearance on NBATV.com's The Jump.

The NBA has suspended Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade one game without pay for kicking the Charlotte Bobcats' Ramon Sessions in the groin Thursday night.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  The incident was strange and very uncharacteristic of Wade.

Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki is getting fed up with his team because he's now publicly expressing his discontent with the organization.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Dirk has a point.  The Mavericks' management has failed to make any good moves in the past few years.

Greg Oden is back- again.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Maybe this time it all works out for the former #1 pick.

DWade's mistress tells all and you won't believe some of the things she says go down.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: This story is so crazy it might just be true. Who could make this up?

Kobe frustration is palpable as he speaks out about Miami.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Kobe and the Lakers have a lot more obstacles in the Western Conference before they worry about the Heat.

Magic Johnson just made it clear (on National TV) that if he was Lakers CEO Jim Buss, he would trade Dwight Howard.
 
Hoopsvibe's quick call:  It's very obvious that Magic isn't the biggest fan of this Lakers team.  And rightfully so.

Lil Wayne ejected from the Heat vs. Lakers game. Drama ensues.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Whenever Weezy attends a game you know it's going to have celebs, drama, and security involved.