Hey, Hey, Colleen here!

So I will be the first to admit, the LadyBallers were out of comission as we were devestated by the NBA lockout. Yes, it's silly but personally it hit a sensative spot with me and "politics" in the sports world. Yes, I am aware politics will always be a part of sports but it really stinks when it overshadowns all the amazing things about the sportsword; Passion, True Talnet, Fun and Excitement! 

So, like I do with x-boyfriends who don't apologize for being liars, I have to be the bigger person and move forward and just forgive them. So, NBA, I officially forgive you for taking a break... I still love you. And yes, I know this blog and community is more than basketball and the NBA but it did start there. 

The NBA lockout is still going on, WHACK! But basketball will still be going down in Orlando. The UCF Knights kicked off the season on Nov 5th against West VA Tech!

Now, AJ isn't just a UCF basketball player, he is one of the most positive people I have ever encountered! His twitter account is a must follow (@A3Rompza) filled with positive anecdotes, tweets of determination and of course some comical relief but the boys got skills! If you haven't seen this its a must watch! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYjOScGcGps

In a sports world filled with cocky players, players getting arrested or doing anything other then playing the game they love, it was refreshing to come across such a young, vibrant, and talented player with such a positive outlook on life and a true love for the game. He nevers takes a day for granted and reminded me to do the same, AJ thank you for your inspiration! GO KNIGHTS!

I feel Chris Paul is one of the most talented, honorable, humble point guards in the NBA. Fun fact, did you know he was in People's 100 Most Beautiful People list back on 2006 AND GQ's Men of Year in 2008? You wouldn't be able to tell from his humbleness i know. On top of that he spends his time off with his son whom he adores as well as raising money for the community he grew up in.

If you pay any attention to me at all you may know I'm a little overzealous when it comes to Duke and Penn State. That being said, a month or so ago when I heard this rumor that ESPN was going to do a special on Joe Paterno and Mike Krzyzewski I about went through the roof. What a grand idea! Well the time has come for this special to air. This is something that will only happen once in our lifetimes. the two greatest coaches in the history of their respective sports together at once (JoePa is pretty accepted as being the best, Coach K can be argued but in the end I'm sure he'll win).

Do you love playing Basketball? Do you want to donate your skills and time to a great cause? If you answered "yes" to both of these questions, this event is for you!

Hoop for Heroes is a 3 on 3 basketball tournament that will include an incredible Dunk Contest and Three Point shoot out that will take place on the former Orlando Magic Practice court. Games through out the weekend will be on that court as well

Want to know more about the Communications Manager for the Orlando Magic? We thought so. Happy Monday! We have the lovely Melanie Curtsinger featured as our Female Sports Professional today so brighten your day. In addition to her present role, she has been in the sports industry for 12 years ranging from roles with the University of Kentucky and the Philadelphia 76ers! Find out how her planning ahead scored her entrance into her dream job path.

Please give us a little background on how you got to your current role: I am the communications manager for the Orlando Magic, so that means I do everything from setting up media credentials for home games to writing press releases, setting up interviews/appearances for players and coaches, producing the game-day program and even traveling with the team as the PR rep. I completed a year-long internship at the University of Kentucky athletic media relations department after I graduated, did another 13-month internship in my current department with the Magic after that and worked for the Philadelphia 76ers as a public relations coordinator before joining the Magic again full-time in January 2006.

"Cuban is an animal!" - Tim Sanders

As soon as Game 6 of the NBA finals was over and the Mavs were the champs I shot up a quick thank you to the basketball gods for making all things right in the basketball world!

It was my love for fellow LadyBaller, Alexis, and my hate for the Miami Heat that had me cheering and routing for the Mavs during this season. I learned more and more about the Mavs are realized what everyone meant when they said they are a real team.

They have a true veteran lineup with players like 17 year baller Jason Kidd, 10 year veteran JET Terry and 13 year, 10 time NBA Allstar, Dirk Nowitzki.

Did you know that Dirk Nowitzki has a foundation? I thought it was appropriate and just good timing to feature Dirk's foundation today. Founded in Austin, Texas in 2001, it's nothing elaborate or painfully specific as their mission is to provide education, health and well being for children around the world. 

There are various projects they help out and Dirk is very hands on and always taking the time to get out into the community and help where needed. Dirk takes his work seriously on the court, but he is also serious about making a difference off the court. Each year he makes hundreds of appearances and signs thousands of autographs in his desire to help children. In December 2007, the NBA honored him with the NBA Community Assist Award in recognition of his outstanding efforts in the community and for his ongoing philanthropic work. Whether it is meeting children throughout the season for the Make-A-Wish Foundation or purchasing and delivering thousands of dollars worth of Christmas toys for children in a local hospital, Dirk loves to give back to children.

I hate to sit here and tell you I told you so. So I won't do it. On two occasions I feel I have the right too. One being Jim Tressel and two being Dwight Howard. Right now I'll just focus on D12 because I'm sure I can go on and on about Ohio State.