Please be seated...

By Marissa Avila
06.21.2004 - Updated on 09.10.2004

The 2004 And1 Mix Tape presented by Mountain Dew Code Red came and went through the city of Los Angeles, but the crew of And1 was not ready for the LA team which beat them 99 to 90.

Maybe a night out at night club White Lotus was not the brightest idea, but I’m sure popping bottles was a blast. As I watched preliminary rounds it seemed that the only one who had any skills was player, AO the court side announcer. This tour has been building speed for the last five years. LA’s finest players were vying for a spot, but who would have the power to beat this very versatile team. People were jumping over one another to win a spot on the Forum court but for every player was a missed dunk. Some guys really did think they had it to make it to the next round. I thought they would all be victims on the next And1 DVD. The few that were chosen had the last laugh. For the second time ever And1 lost, but put on a good show.

The Professor had much to say when asked, "What do you tell kids who aspire to be a ball player like yourself?" He stated, "Be yourself work hard and follow your dreams. I did and look where it got me." Hot Sauce added by saying, "Finish school and any chance to play the game do it, if its recreation ball, high school or college.

" As I watched the LA team warm up it seemed they had a little more fire inside of them. For the And1 players street ball is their job but for the opposing team it was about pride that night.
To me it was like watching the (JPEG) Lakers vs. Pistons game 1, there’s nothing like an underdog story. Professor and Hot sauce said their money was on Detroit, but they were fans of the Lakers (will they still be fans with Phil and Shaq out). Professor and Hot Sauce admire Michael Jordan, Isaiah Thomas, Jason Kidd, Allen Iverson and past And1 players. Rafer Alston aka. Skip to my Lou made his way down the 95 south to the Miami Heat and don’t forget fan favorite Jason Williams aka. White Chocolate where the Memphis Grizzles welcomed him with open arms. When I asked Professor, "Do people look at you as a different player now?" He stated, "People have shown a different side to themselves. I had to earn respect, which I did and you can see it every time I hit the court.
" As the main event wrapped up, faces of the And1 crew looked perplex. It was a wakeup call for the rest of the tour. You always have to be one step ahead of your opponent. From what I have heard the And1 crew has stepped up their game. As they should, the editing bay can only do so much boys.