therealamirrorj

[therealamirrorj]

Dehonta Hayes The Underdog Story

Welcome back What’s the Word family! This week I got to sit down with Dehonta Hayes safety at Eastern Washington University. Hayes’s journey to the NFL draft has been anything but easy but his love for the game and indomitable spirit has gotten him where he is today.

For the Love of the Game

Dehonta Hayes is from Tacoma, Wa and started playing football when he was in the fourth grade. It was by total coincidence “a lady was handing out flyers one day for a football team, I showed it to my grandfather and started playing”. As he continued playing and improving in the game he fell in with football as a whole. Coming out of high school in 2015 Hayes had about 13 scholarship offers for football and decided that Eastern was the school he wanted to call his home. Being at Eastern was filled with adversity for Hayes, he didn't get his first shot on the field until 2018 and while in the offseason of 2019 he was shot in the neck. Hayes didn't allow any of this to stop him. Pushing through the adversity he started his recovery and was back on the field in no time, and was playing better than ever before. All his hard work paid off during the 2019 season when he was listed as a starter at safety on the preseason depth chart. Currently, Hayes is working towards his dream of being in the NFL as he awaits the 2020 draft.

What does being a 2020 NFL draft prospect mean to you?

“I’ve always wanted to go to the NFL. It's been a dream of mine and I've had multiple coaches and retired players tell me I had what it takes. I just didn't believe it until I got to Eastern. When I got here I told myself I'm going to the NFL and I just started going harder and harder making sure nothing got in my way” says Hayes. “It feels like I got a lot of chips on my shoulders that I'm knocking off”.

If you didn’t have football what would your career be?

“I would work as a public speaker or in public relations. I love to talk in front of crowds, I got the opportunity to talk to about 5,000 kids and motivate them to keep pushing to their goals. I’ve also been able to get a lot of public relations experience while here at Eastern it’s something I’m comfortable and used to.” states Hayes.

Player facts

Height: 5’11

Position: safety

Pregame Ritual: “I wouldn’t say I have any pregame rituals I like to get really loose and go out and have fun”.

Pregame song: Meek Mills Dreams and Nightmares

Hobbies: Dehonta is super well rounded he started his tiktok career about a month ago and has taken off. He also is an artist specializing in cartoon art and is a self proclaimed movie buff.

What can we expect to see next from you?

The answer is simple the NFL! Dehonta states “I have all my eggs in one basket. I’m going to keep going until I get that one thing because I’m so determined. I’m working harder than ever and I want it all. Making a roster is what I want to do and what I’m going to do”. So if you want to keep up with Hayes’s journey you can follow him on IG @Iamdhayes_ you can also follow him on TikTok for more light-hearted content @iamdhayes_. As always family make sure you continue to lead with love and check in next week for another What’s the Word.

[therealamirrorj]

Tyrius Walker Living Legacy

Welcome back What’s the Word family! This week I got to sit down with Tyrius Walker former Morehouse College student turned NBA sensation. After talking to Walker and hearing his journey I’ve learned that he has a drive and passion for the game that speaks volumes.

It all started with an orange basketball

Tyrius Walker was born December 28, 1995 in Atlanta, GA. He started as a baseball player and decided to add basketball to his skill set when he was only 7 years old. Walker says his motivation to become a professional basketball player came from “knowing that basketball would help provide a better situation for my family” and he began taking his career seriously in High school. Walker's story is one of patience and persistence seeing as though coming out of Highschool most colleges thought he was too small for their teams. He waited for a college to give him an opportunity and got it when he was accepted to Morehouse College where he became a living legacy and a crucial part of the team’s success. During his time at Morehouse Walker averaged 22.8 per game during the 2017-2018 season, helped lead a 18-0 season his sophomore year, and was named SIAC Freshman of the Year. If it’s a few things Walker had, it was passion for the game with skill to match and this was seen by players and fans alike. The most notable achievement would be Walker's triumph in a game against Benedict College. When Walker put up a career-high of 47 points which got the attention of a Knicks scout at the game. He was then extended an invitation to play in the summer league that has launched his career ever since. Walker is the 2nd player from the Maroon Tigers to play in the NBA in honor of his achievements Morehouse put up a mural to commemorate him.

How do you feel about the mural?

Walker states that this mural is “a blessing, people where I’m from don’t end up getting on a wall unless they die”.

What would you say to current college athletes looking to make it to the NBA?

Walker says the key to making it is to “believe in yourself, in what you know, and in your skills”. He also says “sacrifice” is a key to his personal success. “Sometimes you have to sacrifice what normal college students would do instead of going to a party you should be working in the gym”.

What would your career be if you weren’t playing basketball?

I got to ask Walker one final question that showed me clearly that his love for the game is beyond measurable. “If I wasn’t playing basketball I wanted to work in a career that still was centered around it.” While at Morehouse Walker was a kinesiology major and was going to use his degree to be an athletic trainer for players or training kids.

Player Facts

Height 6’1

Position: Guard

Pregame rituals: “ I like to take 15 mins to myself before games to listen to slow jams” his favorite slow jam artist are “Usher and Pretty Ricky” I know I was shocked too.

Favorite pregame song: Made for It by YFN Lucci

Favorite hobbie: “I like playing cards and dominos with my friends”

What can we expect to see?

Currently due to the Coronavirus we won’t be seeing much game time from Walker. But if you would like to keep up with him follow him on ig @iam_twalk. And as always family lead with love and check in next week for another What’s the Word.

[therealamirrorj]

The Calm Before the Storm

Hey blog family and welcome back to another week of  What’s the Word! This week we are going to switch up the topic and talk about something that is currently impacting us all COVID-19. If you haven’t heard about the COVID-19 virus you obviously live under a rock. Just kidding family but on a serious note, the virus first confirmed case in the US was in January 2020. Before that many were not really taking it seriously, I can even say on my campus things continued to be business as usual up until about March 9,2020 aka Spring Break week. During this time I personally canceled my trip due to the virus but most students still traveled to the spring break mecca aka Miami.

Now during my staycation in Atlanta, I was lucky enough to go to the Hawks v.s Hornets game with my brother. If you were to tell me then that the game I was sitting through would be the last game I would see for weeks I would have laughed in your face. A few days later the news broke wind that the NBA would be suspending the season due to a confirmed corona case to player Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz. I was heartbroken few things in this world can make me cry like a baby and I learned that losing the NBA is on that list.

Soon after the heartbreaking news of the NBA suspension a lot of Colleges & Universities started informing students that we would not be allowed to return to campus after spring break due to the virus. At that moment my heart shattered knowing that I would have nowhere to live I spent everyday emailing and calling administration for resources or another option. For those who don’t know, I am originally from Philadelphia and have no family in ATL and depend on on-campus living to stay in ATL. I did not have resources to leave campus with a weeks notice and felt as though my world was crumbling right in front of me.

With nowhere to go, no help from the university, and no way to get home I prepared myself to sleep in my car or couch hop at a few places until I could work enough to make a few months rent. But there was light at the end of this tunnel a wonderful alumni woman named Rebecca put me in contact with another amazing woman who allowed me to stay with her and her family. I was overfilled with joy I cried for a week straight praying for an answer that would allow me to stay here and work and have a roof over my head and my prayers were answered. 

There are millions of cases just like mine and even worse during this pandemic. This is something like we have never seen before and I urge everyone to not take what is going on lightly. Other then people losing their jobs or their campus living, there a thousands of people losing their lives every day because this virus is not being taken seriously. Seriously, family, I had to learn the hard way my uncle is on the 1% that has died during this time, stay inside and stay safe and continue to practice social distancing so that no more people have to die in vain. We are strong and We will all get through this together. If you or any loved ones are in need of assistance or even just a listening ear feel free to contact me directly. Feel free to share your story with me below and as I always say lead with love, tune in next week for a new What’s the Word.

[therealamirrorj]

Where’s the Beef?

James Harden recent comments about the “Greek Freak” Giannis Antetokounmpo have gone viral and is trending in sports news. For those who haven’t been following the alleged “beef” between these two I’m here to give you the recap.

The Timeline

The Start: The beef rumor began when Giannis was named MVP on June 24, 2019. All anticipated this vote to be close but Antetokounmpo received 78 first-place votes, well ahead of the 23 first-place votes Harden received in the final tally. Which didn’t sit to well with Harden or his fans.

The Cold Shoulder: Harden then takes a very long offseason not participating in any offseason events, and finally speaks out on being snubbed on August 22, 2019. On an interview with 97.9 The Box Harden stated, “I think once the media creates a narrative about somebody from the beginning of the year, I think they just take that narrative and run with it the entire year.” For those who don’t know the media depicts Harden as a player who is cares solely about his scoring and isn’t a well rounded player in other areas.

The Retweet: On Giannis Antetokounmpo stated “Yeah, well, y’know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man.” In response time Harden and people in favor of him being snubbed. He ultimately feels he rightfully deserves the award stating “The trophy is in my house.” Giannis is taking all the smoke behind this MVP award and title (In my city girls voice) and that’s periodt.

Giannis then says a subliminal shot on February 6, 2020 during all star picks. In an interview with Charles Barkley about his decision between Harden, Walker, and Young he doesn’t acknowledge him as an option. He states,

Antetokounmpo: “This is a tough one. I’m between Kemba and Trae Young.”

Charles Barkley: “Wait, you don’t want the dribbler? (laughs)”

Antetokounmpo: “(Laughs) I want somebody who’s gonna pass the ball, that’s who I want — (everyone laughs) — So I’m gonna go with the crossover killer, step-back master, Kemba Walker.”

Lets get physical: During the All Star game on February 16, 2020 Harden starts off the shady behavior by ducking and covering after Giannis throws an airball. Giannis shortly after came close to elbowing Harden during the game, which sparked controversy.

Post game: in an interview post game on February 16, 2020 Giannis states, “Offensively, we went with whoever James Harden was guarding,” said Antetokounmpo after the game. “That’s who we thought we’d have an opportunity to score on.” ( Better luck next year because that method did not result in a win for team Giannis)

Outsider report: on February 23, 2020 Kendrick Perkins states, “These two guys got smoke. Giannis and James Harden,” im a interview with Hoop Streams. Perkins statement was not based in fact but spread through the media like wild fire.

The final shot: On February 28, 2020 Harden express his thoughts on players who make their living dunking and playing the paint. Harden states, When it’s all said and done, they will appreciate it more,”

“But I wish I could just run and be 7 feet and just dunk. Like that takes no skill at all (laughs).

“I had to actually learn how to play basketball and how to have skill, you know? I’ll take that any day.” This was taken as a shot at Giannis the 6-foot-11 Antetokounmpo makes his living in the paint and has yet to develop any skill or consistency with outside shots.

So What’s The Verdict

The verdict is in family and in my unprofessional yet professional opinion there is No Beef.

I know y’all call me crazy but what I see here is a case of competive personalities showing at its full extent. These are two of the leagues best fighting to show they are the best with competition this tuff there is bound to be a few blows or comments here and there but a beef is a step too far. Tell me what you guys think in the comments below and come back next week for your sport content fix.

[therealamirrorj]

It’s so Hard to Say Goodbye

Hey blog family today on What’s the Word we are saying our goodbyes to Dwayne Wades athletic career. On February 22, 2020 NBA legend Dwayne Wade jersey joined the rafters of American Airlines Arena. No one else will be able to wear No. 3 for the Miami Heat again. Wade is the sixth player to join the rafters in Miami Heat history alongside legendary jerseys belonging to: Chris Bosh, Tim Hardaway, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O'Neal, and Alonzo Mourning.

After the Jersey was hung Wade was able to give a speech which included an inspiring quote from Kobe Bryant. Wade shared that "Kobe said the most important thing is to try to inspire others so they can be great in whatever they try to do," Wade said. "I hope I inspired you."

It is clear that Wade wants his legacy to go on and reach out beyond the game of basketball. This jersey retirement is the start of a legacy not just an end of an era to Wade.

Player Facts

Wade played 14 seasons with the Miami Heat.

Won three titles either the heat.

Was apart of a amazing duo with Lebron James from years of 2010-2014

While in this duo they won four NBA finals and two titles.

He was drafted in 2003 and was the fifth overall pick.

He is the teams all time leading in minutes played, steals, and assists.

What’s next for Wade

Wade has so much lined up for him post retirement. This Sunday his new documentary "Life Unexpected" will debut. You can also expect some music on the way from Wade as well. Yes, I said music this baller has turned rapper and will be performing friday with Rick Ross to perform their new song "Season Ticket Holder." This is definitely not the last of Wade we will see much more as he yearns to keep his legacy alive and inspire others. Are you inspired?

[therealamirrorj]

I Can See The Future.

Hey blog family, this week What’s the Word is centered around my favorite time of the year NBA All Star Weekend. In honor of Kobe Bryant a new format for this year's game will be in effect for this year's players. With this new format the first three quarters will last 12 minutes and begin at 0-0 while the fourth will not be timed and have a Final Target Score. This will take the leading team's cumulative score and add 24 points to it in honor of Bryant’s jersey number. The winner will be the first team to reach that point total.

This years team captains consist of team Lebron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and team Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. The question on everyone’s mind is who will win?

Pros Team Lebron

Lebron has two previous NBA All-Star Game victories under his belt, including a 178-164 triumph over Team Giannis last year.

Stacked team roster- Team James has a total of 67 All-Star Game appearances as opposed to 30 for Team Giannis

Team James holds the NBA’s current top two duos (Lebron James with Anthony Davis and James Harden with Russell Westbrook).

Pros Team Giannis

Team Giannis holds the 2nd and 3rd leading scorers in the NBA.

Team captain Giannis Antetokounmpo is the current NBA MVP and was a strong force in previous years all star game scoring a team-high 38 points.

His roster tactic was picking duos who are comfortable with each other and familiar to playing with each other which could work in his advantage.

Prediction:

Based on the pros and cons for both teams I believe without a doubt that Team Lebron will bring home another win for this years 2020 All Star Game.

[therealamirrorj]

Oh My Gayle!!

Hey What’s The Word family, in today’s sports news we have Gayle King. I know what your thinking, “girl what Gayle King does not play a sport”? Your right she does not, but Ms.King has interviewed many sports stars and is trending after one interview in particular.

Now your probably thinking why should we care? Well in a recent interview with WNBA star Lisa Leslie, Gayle King decided to bring up Kobe Bryant’s 2003 sexual assault case during the interview. I believe this needs to be addressed for many reasons the first of which is the controversy on if Gayle King is wrong or just being a journalist. If you ask me I believe in the wake of Kobe Bryant’s untimely death Ms.King is 100% wrong for bring this up in an interview with his long time close friend Lisa Leslie. She bombarded her with the questions of Kobe Bryant’s case that was dismissed and he was not found guilty even after Lisa Leslie said that she does not align those allegations with her friend. Another reason I feel like this was wrong to ask in that particular interview is because you are sitting across from an olympian, gold medalists,and WNBA champion Lisa Leslie and the thing you decided to ask has nothing to do with her accolades. Gayle king received a lot of backlash from the African American community and sports fans as well. The most notable would be the one and only Snoop Dogg. Snoop is known for spotting out and arguing with things he finds unjust especially when it’s with people who are not here to defend themselves. Snoop makes the strong case on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show that there is a trend with Gayle King going after Black men and rape scandals but not the same when it comes to their Caucasian counterparts. He points out how she has not discussed Harvey Weinstein and his case and numerous white offenders that she has been known to befriend or let get a pass. So what do you think is Gayle King cancelled for trying to tarnish the reputation of a lost legend such as Kobe Bryant during Leslies interview. Or do we believe that she is just being a hard and fact checking journalist. Leave your thoughts in the comments below family. Check back next week for the word on the sports streets.

[therealamirrorj]

Meet the Writer! Hi, guys, it’s The Real Amirror J here and have no fear I will be serving you the latest and greatest content with my blog What the Word: Sports Edition. Have any suggestions for my writing? Leave a message or chat with me. Always remember to lead with love ciao for now!

[therealamirrorj]

Welcome to the Blog

Hello everyone, and welcome to What’s the Word: Sports Edition. If you haven’t figured it out by now this blog is dedicated to ALL things sports-related. As a child, I found solace in watching and playing basketball. Back then you couldn’t tell me I wasn’t the female A.I. As I grew older the competition got harder and I started to realize the kid was definitely not league bound. That never killed my passion though. I look at it like this; people say those who can’t do, teach. Well in my case those who can’t do write, advocate, and live vicariously through others. Enough about me, by now you're probably wondering what sets my blog apart from any other sports blog? The answer is simple What’s the Word: Sports Edition is dedicated to analyzing all of the games, newest trends, and nuances of league and college sports. With this blog, I plan on focusing on the most overlooked area of all sports and that is mental health in players. I am a strong advocate for mental health within not only the athletic community but entertainers as a whole because it is with them that is usually overlooked due to their fame and money. So consider this blog an informative safe place where we dive into the amazing ups and downs of the game but also come to talk about the players we love most without judgment. So, guys, I hope your excited about the journey like I am! Don’t forget to check in every week for new updates.