ANOTHER HOT KAT
We got us another hot-love-spreading kat, this time in the form of a Bobcat. Making the world a better place, Charlotte Bobcat babe Emeka Okafor today, has announced the launch of his new One Million African Lives Initiative (”Million Lives Initiative”) in partnership with the Safe Blood for Africa Foundation (SBFA).

I could blog for days about how sincere, talented, charismatic and good hearted Emeka is, but I’ll let the press release and his statements speak for themselves…The goal of the initiative is to save 1 million lives in sub-Sahara Africa over the next 5 years by reducing the number of HIV-infected blood transfusions given to patients. “Sadly, as pregnant women and children receive the most blood transfusions they are the groups who most often receive the disease this way. Simply testing the blood from one person before it is given to another can help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS and save hundreds and thousands of African lives each year. Today, I ask my colleagues at the NBA, and celebrities and citizens around the globe, to join me in this mission,” Okafor said. “By coming together as people of all colors and nations, we have the ability to save lives by simply making a donation to support this effort. In the United States, it is a crime to knowingly spread HIV/AIDS infection, yet in Africa we are spreading HIV/AIDS to innocent victims through tainted blood transfusions every day. We need to stop this crime against humanity and save these innocent victims from a potential death sentence. Visit our website, and find out how you can be a part of the one the world’s best AIDS prevention initiatives.” Next year, Okafor and other NBA hotties will embark on a “Million Lives Tour” campaign through Nigeria, the Congo, and Angola in an effort to further raise public awareness of the tragic human conditions causing this crisis and the results of this initiative thus far.

LACK OF COVERAGE
So you know how I’m always bitching that we don’t get enough Camilo Villegas coverage, especially those sexy lawn-crawling images we all crave? Well, it looks like Im not the only one. Yesterday, more than 100 members of the media, tournament directors, equipment reps and player agents met with PGA Tour officials to discuss issues such as “media relations and functions, non-traditional media exposure for players, the effect of the Internet, satellite radio, blogs and player accessibility. (Florida Times-Union).

The discussion “began with the results of a survey conducted among members of the media that showed they believe agents have been whittling away at access, especially those representing the top players, and the PGA Tour is doing little to control them.” But, agents feel that the media frustrates our hotties by asking the same questions and writing the same ‘stale’ stories. Same questions? Stale stories? Maybe if some of these agents spent more time researching what it is we’re looking for, we’d get some fresh media blood covering the events. The problem lies in the fact that the PGA is run by men, old-school conservative types who don’t like their players objectified. Some of the finest and most talented men on the greens can sell the PGA in a single photo. Camilo. Adam Scott. Ian Poulter. Jesper. But why haven’t we seen Camilo on Leno? Or Scott on Kimmel? I was once told by an agent that his “player receives enough media attention already,” when in fact that hasn’t been the case. How can any player have enough media coverage? Either way, if you put me in a media room, I’ll never be accused of asking a boring question.

OPEN WIDE

So Michael Strahan opened his big mouth and spoon-fed the media a negative story. After he rightfully “lashed” out at a reporter, Subway has decided to fill his gaping hole with some meat. The NY Giants defensive beast has been added to the growing list of athletes being used by Subway as an endorser. Strahan recently shot a national spot in N.Y. with Subway ex-fatty Jared. The spot pushes Subway’s double meat sandwiches, and while Jared keeps pushing its healthy aspects, Strahan keeps relaying, “and its got double meat.” Look for the spot to break as early as this weekend. Lets just hope that double-meat doesn’t get caught in his gap…

CARL EDWARDS BACK 40
As NASCAR’s media tour through N.Y. continues, NASCAR driver Carl Edwards appeared on CBS’ “Late Late Show” last night, where he revealed that he has started a record label, Back40 Records, in Central Missouri. Edwards: “I spoke at the beginning (of the label’s new record). I did a little intro.” At this point, I would normally interject with a big Mensa reject star, but after checking out his site, I’m okay with it. Back40 was started by Carl and a friend in efforts to showcase artists in Missouri. I hate to admit it, but there are actually some really cool tracks available. Check it out at www.back40records.com.

JIMMIE JOHNSON

Now I will give Mensa reject points to NASCARS Nextel Cup champ Jimmie Johnson. Johnson has signed on with Elizabeth Arden to serve as a national spokesperson for the Daytona 500 Fragrance for Men. Dude will be featured in national ads, promotional packaging, in-store displays, sales promos at various department store counters and other embarrassing PR activities. Making it even worse, the TV campaign will feature both Johnson and his wife, Chandra.

WHY

Note to Mike Miller of the Memphis Grizzlies. That’s not hot.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“They’re using the headband in their marketing all over town, on billboards and everywhere. They’re being hypocrites about this” – Chicago Sun-Times columnist Jay Mariotti, on the Bulls benching C Ben Wallace for wearing a headband.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

MEOW
I hate being so far away from Colombia, or Miami for that matter. Camilo Villegas news spreads through Bogotá and South Beach faster than a brush fire in southern California. The Villegas flames are growing bigger as the Professional Masters Autoniza Glass tourney begins its second match and our kitty has been sending worldwide purrs among those of us with a pulse.

The first official appearance of our kitty was yesterday morning, when he gave a sporn worthy press conference. Villegas, as we know, is well organized in all aspects of his life, especially with his time. Apparently, the beast was on a tight schedule and some reporters weren’t too happy about it. Too bad, so sad. Seeing as this was Camilo’s only contact with mass media for the week, you’d think they’d be better prepared. Of course I understand the need for more Camilo, but we all gotta respect his boundaries, especially on the greens. With the Villegas estrogen brigade growing stronger, it’s important not to hassle the beast while he’s playing. No autographs or photos along the ropes…let our treasure concentrate please. I’ve also been informed that Camilo Villegas is launching his own charity called the Fundacion Escuela Circo Momo, which offers arts and education to the poor. I’ll have more info on the foundation as it breaks.

TIGER TIME

Tiger Woods has been busy promoting the Nike SasQuatch Sumo2 clubs and drivers, and the Buick Enclave. Woods participated in several mouth-watering events. First, he took part in a press conference yesterday as part of the Nike Golf Whistle Stop Tour in Los Angeles. The King O Beasts drove golf balls down the runway at the Century Aviation Airport and then helped introduce the 2008 Buick Enclave at the Los Angeles Auto Show by driving the vehicle through a video wall embossed with the Buick emblem. Woods said that he knew GM was developing a vehicle like the Enclave and “This was part of the reason I wanted to sign on to Buick.”

Our beast also appeared on ESPNews while footage was shown of Woods hitting balls down the tarmac. ESPN’s Josh Elliott asked Woods, “How’d you swing it?” Woods: “I hit it all right. You know, I was able to hit a couple drives close to 500 yards right down the runway. It was kind of cool, actually.” Elliott: “Yeah, all right, that’s not bad. I mean give or take a few hundred yards, I’d say that’s not bad.” Woods’ appearance on CNBC’s the Closing Bell wasn’t too bad either. CNBC’s Dylan Ratigan said to Woods, “Your personality as it’s portrayed on the golf course … is very intense. You’re not known for being overly jovial or smiley on the golf course … (but) in the promotional environment — whatever the commercial is — you are happier, more accessible in that context. How important is that to the definition of the Tiger brand, that lighter side of Tiger if you will?” Woods: “When I’m off the golf course, I don’t take anything seriously. I’m laughing, joking, needling; that’s my personality.” And don’t forget classy.

SHAUN WHITE SUPPORTS RED

YES! The hotties are jumping on board. Motorola has just announced that gold medal winning pro-snowboard phenomenon, Shaun White is the newest ambassador for MOTO RED. In this new role, Shaun will spread the love about Motorola teaming-up with RED and the company’s efforts to help fight AIDS in Africa. “This is an opportunity for our generation to truly make a difference and change the world,” said Shaun White. “If ten red MOTORAZR’s are sold that will pay for one year of ARV medication for one woman or child affected with AIDS. It’s awesome that buying something cool can give back so much to people in need.” Pa-leeze people, support RED. As you know, RED was created by my hero Bono and Bobby Shriver to raise awareness and money for the Global Fund. The red MOTORAZR V3m is the first in a series of Motorola products in the U.S. to raise awareness and support for the Global Fund. For each handset sold, Motorola and the carrier will collectively make a $17 contribution to the Global Fund.

A REAL MADRID HOTTIE SPREADS THE LOVE

Real Madrid soccer captain and UN goodwill ambassador Raul Gonzalez participated in a friendly soccer match with students in Dakar. Dakar is located on the western edge of Africa, and as you know, any support to impoverished children, especially in Africa, deserves our love.

BACK TO SCHOOL

I’d love to sit in on this class. In San Jose California, algebra teacher, John Hagen has finally got it right. Hagen started using the NFL fantasy league at the beginning of the year at Foothills High School to teach fractions and equations in a new way. “You don’t really look at it as math that much because you’re doing sports,” student Jessica Zamora, 17, said. (Give her an A+ please). The curriculum was designed by a former Bay Area math teacher, Dan Flockhart who said “The whole goal is for students to make connections between math at school and math in the real world.” And it’s working. Hagen’s class was filmed in October for a TV segment on fantasy football and math that is scheduled to air on ESPN’s “Outside the Lines”’ this Sunday. Additionally, the idea became Flockhart’s thesis topic at Humboldt State University, and he finished the first draft of the book in 2004. “Fantasy Football and Mathematics”’ was officially released in August 2005, and his first print run sold out in five days. He has since written books on fantasy baseball and fantasy basketball, and his publisher plans to release new editions of eight books, a teacher’s guide and a workbook for fantasy football, baseball, basketball and soccer in the spring. The full story can be read in the Mercury news.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

CAPTAIN FANTASTIC

Our precious Italian, Fabio Cannavaro, captured his Golden Ball Trophy during a live broadcast on French television channel Canal Plus yesterday. Being recognized as Europe’s top player was on-point especially after Cannavaro topped Marco Materazzi during the World Cup. Our sexy beast has also been immortalized by Italian artist Gennaro Di Virgilio, who created the Fabio Cannavaro figurine along Naples’ famous San Gregorio Armeno Street. The idea is nice, but the likeness is not. And why on Earth is he standing in front of a nativity scene?

CHARGING INTO COURT

Seeing as I live in San Diego, Im loving all these Chargers getting arrested. This girl has a ringside seat in the courtrooms, and there’s no better way to get to know your hottie than in court. The sixth Charger to get caught in the system is third-string cornerback Cletis Gordon. The 23 year-old rookie apparently got shit-faced after the Chargers beat the Raiders. (Raiders should have won). The po-po pulled Gordon over just as the bars had closed, and took him into custody for suspicion of drunk driving. Fortunately, he wasn’t shot, just spent the night in the slammer. “I think we need to wait until all the facts are brought out,” classless coach Marty Schottenheimer said. “He was brought in. My understanding is he did the test and it was below the number. I don’t know. We’ll have to wait and see.”

CARMELO ANTHONY’S C1.5 EXTREME

Quenching more than my thirst is news that Nuggets nugget, Carmelt-in-my-Mouth Anthony’s C1.5 Extreme Energy Drink will be released Friday in the Syracuse area, and in the Denver area late next month. The drink was first announced last year, but has yet to hit retail due to distribution problems. I wont bore you with all the investment and Nevada Securities tangles involved, but radio ads that aired this month in Denver seeking investors is a big a no-no in Colorado unless the company is registered to sell securities in the state. Blah, blah, blah…A new version of the spot will debut in a couple of weeks. Carmelt will get 35% of profits, and a portion will go to his charity, the Carmelo Anthony Foundation.

CHELSEA DNA
According to the London Times, our Chelsea babes in blue are aiming high. Chelsea CEO Peter Kenyon indicated that the team “plan[s] to become the world’s biggest club by 2014.” Kenyon compared Chelsea to Man-U: “Chelsea as a football club and a brand is more dynamic, more relevant. They are fundamentally different. Manchester United was built around heritage. Chelsea’s success was sporadic and we did not have the depth of heritage to pull back on. We’re probably expected to do things [a] bit different and that’s part of the DNA of Chelsea. We’re based in one of the top three cities in the world, which is another difference from Manchester.”

Another difference, Chelsea has hotter players. Drogba, Ballack, Terry, Cole, Essien etc…the Times also notes that Chelsea’s revenue has increased from about $175M to almost $290M in the past three years and the “domestic fan-base [has quadrupled] to almost four million.” Kenyon: “By 2014 we want to be internationally recognized as the No 1 club. Our revenue has grown dramatically and is now on a par with United. It’s a very ballsy vision but one that has captured the interest of the owner.” Man-U manager Sir Alex Ferguson: “We are going to quake and tremble about that.” Whatever- at least the Chelsea boys make us quake and tremble.

BEN WALLACE, HIS FRO AND THE HEADBAND

So here’s a great idea, the Chicago Bulls celebrated Ben Wallace Fro Night during their season opening home game with the Sacramento Kings on November 3. Love the Fro’s, complete with Big Bens signature headband attached. But wait, Bulls GM John Paxson benched the big beast during last Saturdays game “for breaking a team-rule by wearing a headband.” What? It’s okay to market Ben, his Fro and headband, but he cant sport one on the court? Gimme a frigging break. Wallace is most likely to be fined for being himself, and the Bulls have certainly lived up to their name on this one.

KEEP MANNY

My friends at KeepManny.com have issued the following plea…check out their website at www.keepmanny.com and sign the petition to keep the ultra-fine beast in Boston. According to the peeps who run the site: “We were told by various news outlets and publications that if we could get this thing going again it would be a major story with the Winter Meetings starting this Monday… Please help us out and show Gerry Callahan and Dan Shaughnasty that RED SOX NATION wants Man-Ram to stay put in beantown.” So do a good thing and help these Manny lovers keep their beast at home.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

CAMILO VILLEGAS & JUAN PABLO MONTOYA
My East Coast Camilo Villegas correspondent has shared some yummy Villegas news coming outta Columbia. Over the weekend, Elena reports that our kitty was at the Club San Andrés alongside sexy driver Juan Pablo Montoya.

The ‘Sonrisas’ Formula, or the Formula Smiles Foundation is what brought these two hotties together for a good cause. Aside from giving us a surge of estrogen, the foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of children in Columbia. When asked what it means for him to return to Columbia to play, Camilo replied: “I am very contented to be in the country. Ever since I became professional I have not had the opportunity to play here. Hopefully that the match comes out well and that people amuse themselves.” Better yet, Camilo was asked about his physical condition: “Yes I have been two weeks without practicing, but I am very active in the gymnasium. The objective is to raise five kilos in this free time to begin to play again.” Meow…my heartbeat just raised about 100 kilos with the thought of Camilo in the ‘gymnasium’…the full article, in Spanish, can be read here.

TOM BRADY ‘LADY’ VIDEO

In my opinion, the best thing to happen to YouTube is BradyFan83. If this fantastic and creative video-making god has slipped by you, I feel the need to make sure you watch his videos and laugh your ass off as hard as I did. The beauty of BradyFan83’s videos are in his lyrics. His tribute to Tom Brady is sung to the tune of Kenny Rogers ‘Lady’ and worthy of an Academy Award. His two other videos are just as apropos. The Emmit Smith: Born to Dance clip is priceless, as his Randy Moss spot sung to the tune of Barry Manilow’s ‘Mandy’. All three of BradyFan83’s videos have been added to the Athlebrities group on YouTube. And due to his flawless and spot-on praise of Tom Brady, BradyFan83 has been declared the winner of the Tom Brady Fathead. Take a cue from this astute and creative mystery beast and pray that he delivers us a Villegas or Nadal clip soon. And hopefully one day, Bradyfan83 will record an album for us…

MICHAEL VICK FLIPS OFF THE WORLD

“That’s not what I’m about. That’s not what the Atlanta Falcons are about. I simply lost my cool in the heat of the moment” – Michael Vick, in a statement issued by the team, after flipping off fans as he was walking off the field yesterday. I don’t think I need to elaborate much more on this incident, except to confirm that Michael Vick has now earned his star on the Mensa reject list.

THE NFL NEEDS TO STOP WINING

I find it really interesting that the NFL has warned Elk Creek Vineyards Owner Curtis Sigretto “to stop marketing” Jungle Juice wine, which has label graphics resembling the stripes on the Bengals helmets. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Sigretto said that he “had shown the concept to team officials” in September, but the NFL “doesn’t want to have anything to do with the marketing of wines and didn’t like the labels.” Sigretto said that the league “is allowing him to sell the remaining product, but the revamped labels won’t have” the stripes. Seems to me that the NFL needs to pull their heads outta the bottles and get their marketing rules straight…how is Jungle Juice not acceptable, but Mike Ditka can sell Da Coach and Ditkas Kick Ass Reds without problems? (see post November 14th).

DON’T DRINK AND SKI

The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association has instituted new policies in which staff and athletes “no longer are allowed to drink alcohol together” and no alcohol consumption will be allowed at team hotels. Hotties will also be required to stay in team hotels during official training camps and competitions. They can use their RVs between competitions, but the athletes will be with the team during competitions, subject to the stricter alcohol guidelines. Could this have been sparked by reject extraordinaire Bode Miller? USSA VP/Marketing Communications Tom Kelly said that it would be “‘naïve to say that it wasn’t’ at least partly a response to what happened” at the Turin Games. Bode’s agent Lowell Taub, said that Bode still “plans to use a trailer motor home.”

BREAKFAST WITH SCOT

Mad props to the non-homophobic endeavors of the NHL and the Maple Leafs. Both have given filmmakers “their blessing to use their logos and uniforms” in the upcoming movie “Breakfast with Scot,” in which actor Tom Cavanaugh will play a gay former Maple Leaf. The club has even agreed to allow “filming with them at the end of a practice next month.” However, the CBC’s Don Cherry said, “I know that [NHL Commissioner] Gary Bettman wanted a kinder and gentler league, but this is too much.” And with that quote, Don Cherry joins the ranks of the upper echelon of Mensa rejects.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

CHELSEA V MAN-U

The much anticipated EPL showdown between Chelsea and Man-U was nothing short of spectacular. Even with 6 months left in the season, the boys played as if it were their last game and delivered a match as beautiful as the players themselves. The 1-1 draw didn’t give either team a psychological advantage, but gave me a little respect for Man-U’s Ronaldo, who lived up to his stellar reputation. But still, no one can top my Drogba or the polished sex appeal of Jose Mourinho.

CAPTAIN FABIO

The 2006 ‘Ballon d’Or’ has ‘unofficially’ been won by Italy’s World Cup-winning captain fabulous Fabio Cannavaro, who spanked Brazilian transvestite Ronaldinho outta contention to become the 51st winner of this prestigious award. The honor is given each year to the hottie considered to have performed the best over the previous year. Cannavaro, who performs flawlessly with those stellar legs and tattoos of his, led my libido right into an overdose of hot Italians during their World Cup Victory. Ronaldinho won the award in 2005, Shevchenko won in 2004, and sexy blond Pavel Nedved was honored in 2003. The only drawback to this Award is that it comes from the French. ‘Ballon d’Or’ is French for Golden Ball and is also known as the European Footballer of the Year Award. I’ll stick to the old school name and call it as it is, a delicious Golden Ball. France Football is due to officially name the award winner on November 27th, and because it’s coming from France, I anticipate things won’t go as smoothly as expected for our little Italian treat.

FATHEADS OR WALLBANGERS?

Both companies are producing the same product. Life sized, wall mountable hotties. While Fathead delivers us all the goods from the NBA, MLB and NFL, Wallbangers has tapped into our European footballers sporno fix with these superb Andriy Shevchenko & John Terry must-haves. Many more hotties available on their website…but unfortunately no mountable Drogba or Mourinho is available…www.wallbangers.co.uk.

BOO

Jeremy Roenicks appearance on Friday night’s episode of Ghost Whisperer wasn’t nearly as scary as I had anticipated. His brief cameo was strongly overshadowed by the ‘extras’ that littered the locker room scene with some delicious eye candy. Admittedly, I watch the show, but was a bit surprised when the ghost was revealed as a juiced- up pitcher experiencing some roid-rage against a former teammate. It was a bit anti-doping preachy, but like I said, it was all about the locker room scene for me.

R-FED GOES BEANIE

The official launch of Roger Federer’s Beanie Baby kicks off tomorrow on the Ty website (www.tytrade.com). The 8-inch bear comes complete with attitude, a teal blue ATP T-shirt, its own racket and a white headband. At least if you buy one, 5 bucks from each sale goes to support the UNICEF-ATP charity.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

TRADING TURKEY FOR TAPAS

Keep them flying indeed! After the devastation blow to my libido in Shanghai, Rafa refueled my hunger in South Korea. The reigning God in the Church of Athlebritology, Rafael Nadal, participated in a teaching session for South Korean fans at the Olympic Gymnasium yesterday before his exhibition game against Him. Our sexy Spaniard was appropriately swamped by fans and adored by children, and caused me to scream Are You Kidding Me when I saw the photos. Forget the turkey this holiday, I’m eating tapas.

PEOPLE MAGAZINES SEXIEST BEASTS ALIVE
Gotta give props to People Magazine, who are usually spot-on when they name the Sexiest Men Alive. Can’t ever ignore Clooney, but dissing Rafael Nadal and Camilo Villegas in this issue is unforgivable. Making the cut this year we got Andy Roddick and his phenomenal belly, James Booty Blake and HIM, yes R-Fed. Can’t agree with Roger Federer being one of the sexiest men alive…sure he’s got game, but come on, just because he’s the best tennis player alive doesn’t make him one of the hottest…. Andre Agassi appears on their radar, as does big daddy Shaq. And making me giddy with delight, People Magazine includes sexy-surf-king Kelly Slater among the hottest. Look for other hotties in the double-de-licious “Twins” section that includes Tiki and Ronde Barber and Bob and Mike Bryan. Finally, love is given to hot ‘new comer’, Ian Poulter look-a-like and Take Home Hottie, Curtis Stone.

JEREMY ROENICK

Hockey hunk Jeremy Roenick will appears in Friday night’s episode of Ghost Whisperer. I thought for sure he would be cast as a scary ghost, but alas, the beast plays an assistant baseball coach.

COURTSIDE GYLLENHAAL

Jake Gyllenhaal and his Live Strong bracelet sat courtside at the Lakers-Clippers game last night and took particular interest in Kobe Bryant….

AL MVP

Looks like Derek Jeter didn’t make the MVP cut this year…Minnesota Twins first baseman Justin Morneau was named the American League Most Valuable Player, but I gotta stick to my estrogen and say Jeter should have won Most Visually Pleasing.

THANKSGIVING HOTTIES

Turkey day is upon us, and what would a holiday be without all the love our boys give back to the communities. Martell Webster of the Portland Trail Blazers made this kids day during the teams 11th annual Blazers Community Builders Harvest Dinner November 21, 2006 at the Rose Garden Arena in Portland, Oregon…Adorable as always, 76er Allen Iverson served food to the underprivileged at the First District Plaza on November 20, 2006 in Philadelphia.

And how cute is Timberwolves Ricky Davis and his kids? Davis donated and distributed Thanksgiving food to families at St. Anne’s Place, a shelter providing emergency services to homeless women and their children in Minneapolis, Minnesota. What a man, what a man…

Elton Brand of the Clippers helped pass out bags of groceries during the Clippers Thanksgiving Teamwork at the Table, which helps distribute food to the homeless at St. Joseph Center in Santa Monica.

Indiana Pacers Darrell Armstrong and Jermaine O’Neal dished out some food during the Pacers’ “Come To Our House” Thanksgiving dinner for Indianapolis area missions at Conseco Fieldhouse.

ESPN ANIMATED SPOTS

This week, ESPN will break four new spots featuring animated versions of Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki and Gilbert Arenas, among others. I prefer my boys in the flesh, but the spots are an interesting carrot to dangle in an effort to promote its NBA coverage. Each spot will show hotties or teams “attempting to surpass something they already have achieved on the court.” Kobe’s spot, “The Feats” shows Kobe at a High Striker, the device found at carnivals that allows participants to test their strength, but instead of a hammer, Bryant “slams a Spalding basketball on the platform to send a projectile up the tower.” The ad references Bryant’s over-hyped 81-point game last season, as the tower is marked 70, 80, 90 and 100. “The Contenders,” focuses on teams in “prime position to vie for the NBA title.” Shaq, Dwyane ‘Lips’ Wade and coach Riley are shown with their championship rings, while Neanderthal Nowitzki and hot Mavericks coach Avery Johnson are “tying a heart together with ropes.” The voiceover, referencing the Mavs’ loss to the Heat in the NBA Finals last season, says, “Will the Mavericks mend a broken heart?” The spots will air in 30- and 15-second versions with the tag “Will you be there when …?” This is the first fully animated TV campaign for the NBA coverage, and like I said, I prefer my hotties in the flesh. What happened to the good old day of our ballers wooing the NBA Trophy?

Have a happy and hottie filled holiday. I’ll be posting periodically throughout the weekend.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

JAMES BLAKE AND YOU-KNOW-WHO

Roger Federer just wont stop. James Blake and his phenomenal booty were no match for Federer who defeated our beast 6-0, 6-3, 6-4 at the Masters Cup in Shanghai. This is R-Feds 3rd straight year with 11 titles (29th consecutive win) and it doesn’t look like he’s gonna stop anytime soon. As expected, R-Fed gave himself the usual pat on the back “To finish it off by winning the Masters Cup, the world championship so to speak, it’s the perfect ending to an incredible season,” Federer said. “There’s not much more I could have done.” Of course there wasn’t Roger. Federer even had the balls to say that his win over Blake “was icing on the cake.” Can’t argue with James Blake icing my vanilla cake, but coming from the mouth of Mr. Arrogance, it sounds a bit condescending. Mad props to Blake for his wicked on-court hustle, and a massive round of applause for making it to the finals. Blake has effectively slammed his way from an 8th place ranking all the way to number 4. The ultra-classy King of Booty’s said: “Although it looked like I got just destroyed out there today, I feel like I’m still one of the best in the world,” he said. “I never would have had the confidence to even think about uttering those words a couple years ago. That’s why I’m not ashamed of anything that happened out there today, because I did my best, and he was just a level above.” Note to Blake: Roger Federer is NOT one level above and never will be. To be one up on anyone, a hottie must have class and be humble, two things R-Fed just doesn’t possess.

MILE HIGH WITH LADAINIAN

Finally, Chargers fans are getting something to sing about. Yesterday, LaDainian Tomlinson was on fire in the mile high city as he scored four times and reached 100 touchdowns faster than any player in NFL history. The Chargers handed the Broncos a 35-27 defeat and the gun-show toting babes with bolts have become the first NFL team to win back-to-back games after trailing by 17 or more points, and the first club to win four straight when allowing at least 24 points in each game. “Resilient bunch of guys,” Tomlinson said. “Our team, we’re never out of it, and I think this is a very special team because no matter what happens, no matter how much we’re down, we’re never out of the football game…I feel like Steve Young in a way when he said, ‘Get the monkey off my back’. This is not the Super Bowl, but it’s a huge burden that has been lifted off me. In five years I hadn’t won in Denver. Hadn’t had much success here, either. It feels good.” Indeed it does. Remaining the classy and humble hottie that he is, Tomlinson brushed off his well-deserved praise. “It’s a phenomenal thing. But I have a lot of guys to thank,” Tomlinson said. “Our offensive line has played great this season. Lorenzo Neal is the best at blocking, so it’s a whole team effort. I can’t take all the credit.” Maybe you cant take it LT, but we’re gonna give it to you anyway…

SHAQ AT OLSEN MIDDLE SCHOOL

This month, big daddy Shaq is doing more than just dunking balls. In his continued efforts to help lucky little raptors, Shaq has been on campus at the Olsen Middle School in Florida. Unconfirmed rumors are that Shaq daddy is filming a pilot for Fit TV and has been on campus encouraging overweight kids to get fit while hoards of cameras follow him around. Needless to say, the kids are getting plenty of physical activity- as they spot the giant beast some break into an excited frenzy that’s sure to burn extra calories. My sources tell me that Shaq has been genuine with his efforts and every bit the big huggable teddy bear he appears to be. And with this admirable endeavor, Shaq earns extra hot points.

THUMB SUCKING PAYS OFF

Francisco Totti and his posse of fine AS Roma studs defeated Catania 7-0 at Rome’s Olympic Stadium on Sunday. Obviously, Totti scored one of the goals and stuck that thumb right where I like it. Apparently I’m not the only one to adore this digit sucker. How appropriate is it that Totti and Paolo Maldini have been chosen as the faces of the new UNICEF-sponsored campaign entitled “United for children. United against AIDS”. Totti and Maldini’s launch of the initiative coincides with the 17th anniversary of the approval of the Convention on children’s rights. The Convention was adopted in 1989 by the UN General Assembly and in Italy November 20, which is now a sort of ‘childhood and adolescence’ holiday there. Could this be why Totti sucks it? To appeal to the children? The beast has been supporting UNICEF for years. In 2004, Totti donated $265,000 to UNICEF to help protect the children caught up in this asinine Iraqi war. And what I wouldn’t give to be caught up in some Totti.

BORAS TEACHES MATSUZAKA

Japanese P Daisuke Matsuzaka, whose MLB negotiating rights were bought by the Red Sox for a whopping $51.1M, sat with agent Scott Boras in the front row for Bulls-Lakers last night. It was Matsuzaka’s last night in L.A. before returning to Japan.

GOAL

No names, no scores, no numbers, no teams. Just a few really good reasons to celebrate the beauty of a goal.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com

HERE WE GO AGAIN

Rafa’s loss to you-know-who caused my heart to break, that is, until it dawned on me that James Blake will face the Great One tomorrow. What a phenomenal upset it would be if James and his booty spanked the arrogance right outta R-Fed and his streak? It’s this anticipation that’s getting me through the day. (Well, that and Ian Poulter)…After Federer ate Rafa for breakfast, he rubbed it in by saying: “It was an excellent match with high quality,” said Federer, “I’m happy I came through because these are the matches I’m waiting for, to beat the best after me. So to beat him in the last one of the season is obviously fantastic for me. I definitely feel like I’ve learned a few things and maybe now it’s a little more up to him to change his game.” How about Federer change his attitude instead, and attempt to be a little bit more like the hottest Spanish import alive. “I’m happy with my game and my tournament,” said our Rafael, “He started unbelievable…(but) I was not so far away from him today.”

IN THE HOLE

Did you know that when you see red, a chemical message is sent to your adrenal medulla and the hormone epinephrine is released? This alters your body chemistry causing you to breathe more rapidly, increases your blood pressure, pulse rate, heartbeat and makes you sweat something fierce. According to research, these reactions are physiological and we have no control over the effects, and as a result, red is indelibly imprinted on the mind to connect with excitement and high energy. Proof positive that red is one of the sexiest colors and stirs up the libido. And that’s why I had a seizure when I saw British flash-kat Ian Poulter chip his way up the leaderboard during the Dunlop Phoenix Tournament in Miyazaki, southern Japan.

BURBERRY BEAST

Purple is a blend of excitement and sensuality and said to be preferred by very creative and eccentric people. And blending sensuality with golf, Adam Scott is bringing sexy back, and then some, during the third day of the Australian Open. Scott, who was odds-on favorite to win the tournament, finished fourth on the leaderboard with 3-under par 213.

GAG ME WITH A TRANNIE

By now, Im sure you all know how I feel about trannie soccer ‘star’ Ronaldinho. Not hot, period. But I gotta give the beast props for the launch of his Nike signature soccer collection, the first for him and the brand. The Ronaldinho signature collection in the U.S. includes a new boot, the Tiempo Ronaldinho, as well as a ball (which he definitely needs to get himself), shin guards and a sports bag. (yawn). The design of the collection reflects his ‘story’…tri-colored stitching represents Ronaldinho’s three major passions in life: Yellow for family, sun, and Brazil; Orange for samba, spice, and food; and Red for the passion and joy he feels for life and soccer. Gold outlines the “10″ and stylized “R” that mimics the start of his own signature. According to Ronaldinho, “Everything I know, everything I have, I owe to my family. I play with music in my head … as long as there is a ball, I am happy.” And with that said, I finally agree with him on something.

I LOVE THE SMELL OF NAPALM IN THE MORNING

Looking for some great holiday gifts? Well then let me suggest a couple…the best gift out there at the moment wont be available until after January 1. It’s the War Bounty surfboard, a replica of the one seen in Apocalypse Now. It was built by the original board’s shaper, and is signed by Robert Duvall and Martin Sheen. The one-of-a-kind board will be auctioned on eBay in January. Check eBay’s homepage after January 1, 2007 and if you outbid me I’m going to come find you so I can stroke this kick-ass board.

THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE

How about a nice little book, The Super Bowl XL Opus? Kraken Sports & Media Limited and the NFL have joined forces to deliver us a 90-plus pound, two square foot, 850-page book that includes the most ‘spectacular’ collection of NFL moments. Unfortunately, these 850 pages of glossy photos don’t contain the moments I would select as spectacular, but regardless, it’s a cool coffee table book. The books binding measures seven inches thick and is implanted with a microchip so you can track it if someone steals it. And why would they do that? Because the Opus, (MVP edition) is limited to 400 copies and is signed by every living Super Bowl MVP. Wouldn’t mind Santa dumping one of these down my chute…it only costs $40,000.00. If ya wanna buy me one, check it out at www.krakenopus.com, or at Saks 5th Avenue.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.com