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Marissa AvilaWritten by: Marissa Avila - More  
 
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That’s a wrap

  By Marissa Avila
02.26.2004 - Updated on 09.10.2004

The year was 1983 and the Forum in Los Angeles, CA was host to the NBA All-Star, only fitting that 2004 the City of Angels, would host the star-studded gala at the Staple Center. Hollywood was game, and the nightlife was sinful. Many would argue that this week long party overshadowed the All-Star events; not being on the list must hurt one’s ego, or maybe carrying records for the DJ is not your outlet either. You couldn’t go anywhere without running into an NBA athlete looking for tickets, or stars looking for a friend who did get an invite to Shaquille O’Neal’s Playboy mansion party. One word comes to mind, grotto. Allen Iverson and Reebok knew how to throw parties. It’s all about credentials my friend, if you really wanted all access. The NBA exploded on to lala land; and everyone wanted a piece of the rumble. NBA presence was confirmed as fashion, entertainment, and music came out to show support to the game they love. And those celebrity ball players, you got to love them for trying. Those O. C. courts don’t play. Everyone held up his or her end of the bargin with stellar performances from Outkast, Usher, and Hilary Duff. It was a world wind of media events. But to some NBA players the red carpet that tilts town threw out, was not easy to walk down; as some actors make it look. I heard some players got whiplash from the paparazzi yelling their names. But for Earvin " Magic" Johnson, he had been immune to the spot light. He was presented with a statue. To remind presence and future players, it’s not always about turning a profit. The court is a playground for all who play with passion to excel within the lines of the game they love. On the flip side, a youthful exuberance was indeed counted for at Read To Achieve. Carmelo Anthony said it best to the kids," I don’t read much, but you should keep your head in those books". Even the Player’s Wife Association gave Janet Jackson an award, which was well, deserved. Considering her ordeal with Super Bowl, and being naked by the end of the song. But events like these have been lined up for about a year now. The opportunity and creativity is respected and never over looked in Los Angeles. Location, location, location and you will have your target audience and be the center of attention. Until the tip off at the "Got Milk" Rookie Challenge freshmen & sophomore game, there was much confusion on this night. Ticket holds got a Slam-Dunk contest between none other then LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Amare’ Stondemire; which to me was the high light of my (crazy hot) weekend. The Skills Challenge was just that a "challenge". But the bright stars of Los Angeles claim that victory. Peja Stojakovic was not so lucky with his three-point attempt. And the Slam-Dunk contest was no 10. There was uproar from the passionate fan base, which couldn’t believe the way this year fan’s voted. There was still a game to be played and Beyonce to perform. Prime time players were in attendance on and off the court. But when push came to shove the West came up victorious and the Mayor Shaquille O’Neal walked away with the MVP (Nice). There is no city like Los Angeles; it was truly a jam session week for all in attendance. Denver is defiantly going to step up its role for next year All Star, and pull tricks as if one was David Blaine. I know what you’re thinking, it’s been a wrap for All-Star, for over a week now, but I’m just getting back into the swing of things. GO Yankees!



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