Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
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SALT LAKE CITY — It used to be that flopping was reserved for European soccer players who took the opportunity to get a good call. But times have changed and the NBA has fully embraced the flop — a disgraceful act unfortunately brought into the game.
It is bad enough fans have to debate the questionable calls from refs — isn't it frustrating when a ref on the opposite side of the ball calls the foul? But the matter only gets worse when professional athletes take their talents to Hollywood and put on a show. Unfortunately there are some athletes that use it as an everyday part of their game — Raja Bell, Chris Paul and Manu Ginobili come to mind.
As more athletes embrace the flop — from college ball to the pros — there is a concerted effort to change the trend. Should players be fined for a flop? How do you judge whether a play was a flop? Is there a solution to this trend or is it here to stay. Tell us what you think in the comments section. In the meantime, here's a link of some of the most egregious flops.
Shaq as Magic GM?
TNT analyst Shaquille O'Neal is planning on meeting with the Orlando Magic next week to discuss the team's opening as General Manager, sources with ESPN say. The position became available after GM Otis Smith agreed to leave and Head Coach Stan Van Gundy was fired.
Shaq was drafted by the Magic in 1992, playing four seasons with the team. The opening would seem like a logical place for Shaq to be if the Magic are interested in giving the job to Shaq. Additionally, Shaq could be a good hire for Dwight Howard. Officials with the Magic organization say they are not discussing the issue at this time. Could you imagine if Jerry Sloan was hired as the head coach and Shaq was hired as the GM? That could make for an interesting organization.
Blake Griffin gets NBA Jam treatment
NBA Jam is a game reverenced by many fans of the NBA, who grew up hearing the words, "He's on fire!" It was a simple game, but it captured the hearts of many fans — myself included. In honor of the game and Blake Griffin's explosive dunks, the people behind SB Nation decided to make their own highlight reel of Griffin's dunks in NBA Jam mode. Enjoy the video.
The SwingNook
As an amateur golfer, there really isn't much hope for me to become a pro golfer. However, I'm always looking for tips to improve my lackluster game. I came across this little ad in GolfDigest and was taken aback. I'm sure the "SwingNook" is effective and helps golfers keep their head down while swinging, but it seems really odd. Judge for yourself, but unless you're serious about getting better at golf, I have a hard time imagining a lot of people using this product. Who knows, maybe you'll catch me at the driving range using the SwingNook.
