KG: The Big Ticket

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Posted By Riah May 22, 2023

KG: The Big Ticket

Happy Monday!

New Week, New blog!

My dad sent me KG’s documentary Anything is possible, which I have seen a couple of times which gave me the information I needed for today’s post. Anything basketball related I will watch alot.

As I was listening to the documentary, I made the point that Kevin Garnett was Lebron before Lebron. What I mean by that is, he was drafted straight from highschool to the pros after having faith and writing a letter to David Stern. Stern was the commissioner of the league at the time until 2014. Prior to KG being drafted in 1995 from highschool, the last NBA player drafted from the same caliber was in 1975. Crazy how the game has changed. Bron was drafted in 2003.

Kevin grew up in a small town in South Carolina and instantly fell in love with the game of basketball. His mom however didn’t want him playing at all. He had to sneak and play the game he loved so much. Eventually his mom would see him play and be in awe of him, so much so his family moved to chicago where he would become a household name.

KG was tall, long wingspan and could dominate both ends of the floor. Like most household names in sports there came doubters if KG would even do well in the NBA.

In 1995, Kevin would receive his dream opportunity! With the 5th pick The Minnesota Timberwolves select Kevin Garnett! He did it! Now it was time to go to work.

Coming into the Timberwolves organization, Kevin had to work to become a starter. Once a starter he would remain one for his entire 12 years with Minnesota. KG dominance earned him the nickname: The Big Ticket!

Although Minnesota was winning games and making the playoffs, they could never get over the hump for a championship shot.

Kevin had a decision to make. This decision would ultimately lead him to the promise land.

2008

Boston Celtics vs Los Angeles Lakers- what are the odds. A legendary rivalry renewed but this time KG, Allen,& Pierce up against the Black Mamba.

It was a battle with Boston winning in 6 games. Kevin finally achieved the dream. NBA Champion, he captured his win by saying Anything is Possible!!

He is right! Hard work, dedication, blocking out the haters(secret supporters) You will always be destined for great things.

Boston & LA would meet in the Finals again in 2010, Lakers would win in 7 games.

Kevin has since retired from the NBA, had his jersey retired by Boston & is a hall of famer! Same hall of fame class as Kobe.

Now in his post NBA career, Kevin has his own podcast KG Certified. (full episodes on youtube) I thoroughly enjoy his episodes. He is a great storyteller, advice giver, and someone with a good spirit. He also spends his time mentoring young rising players in the league through his various basketball camps.

I hope to meet and chat with him someday!

I appreciate you guys for reading! I will be back friday!

*Pics/Vids courtesy of Google Images*

Football Friday 🏈: NFL Schedule 2023-24 Season

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Posted By Riah May 19, 2023

Football Friday 🏈: NFL Schedule 2023-24 Season

Happy Friday Everyone!

We made it through another week!

This blog won’t be super long so let’s jump right in.

The NFL released it’s football schedule for every team.

As I was just doing a dive on each team’s schedule, I wanted to go over a few of my favorite matchups.

Week 1: 9/7/23

Lions/Chiefs- chiefs winning- Defending Superbowl Champs start their quest for another one! Let’s go Mahomes!

Bills/ Jets- Jets winning (Aaron Rodgers debut) I think he will do well in NY. New Team, Fresh Start. Let’s See!

For my steelers fans:

3 games I’m looking at

09/24- in LasVegas vs the Raiders

10/08- at home against Lamar Jackson (Ravens)- Division matchup. I love those games. They are lowkey to me rivalry games.

11/26- in Cincy vs the Bengals. My family being from ohio they love the bengals!( more than the browns on some days lol).. My late uncle was a die hard steelers fan. I’ve always loved watching both teams play honestly. Coach Tomlin is a good one! & How fitting this game falls on one of my best friends birthdays 🥳! I will definitely be tuned in.

Alright let’s head to the DMV!

Washington Commanders

First let me say Hallelujah!! The team finally is sold!! Took way too long but hey it’s done and now we can focus on rebuilding, and bringing the fun back to this franchise. They were really being held back. I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Week 4: 10-1- Eagles in Philly.. I love watching Jalen Hurts..! so let’s see how this rivalry game goes 🙂

Week 5-10-5- at home against Justin Fields(OSU alumn) I love watching former buckeyes dominate 🙂

My hope for Washington this season is just to win as many games as possible! Outside of hockey & the WNBA; The NBA, Football, & Baseball teams have all been struggling to make the post season. So I’m hoping with the Snyder era ending we can bring playoff sports back to the DC area. We need it!!

Honorable Mention Games:

Week 3: 09/24- Texans at Jaguars- Let’s go CJ Stroud!

I got the opportunity to watch him play for Ohio State in person! He is the real deal! I wish him all the best!

Week 1: 09-10- Raiders at Broncos

Week 9: 11/05- Bills at Bengals- Damar Hamlin! Hopefully he will back on the field this season! Wishing him all the best!

Let me know your thoughts for the season!

Who are your top picks! Drop a comment below or hit me on twitter:@bballmypassion

As always I appreciate my readers!

I have a real special blog coming end of next month :)!

*Pics/ Vids courtesy of Google Images*

Back with another blog next week!! 🙂

Welcome Back BG!!

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Posted By Riah May 15, 2023

Welcome Back BG!!

The WNBA 2023 Season is among us!

Teams are prepping to begin the season this coming week. Crazy how fast time flies, seems like the Las Vegas Aces just won the championship!

They will be defending their title win.

The big news all season will be the return of Brittney Griner. As many of you know she was detained in Russia for months and with the help of President Biden, She is now home, healing and returning to the game. Mistake on her part, I’m just glad she is safe and can be back on US Soil. I wish her the best of luck. The only reason she was playing over seas like most of her WNBA counterparts is due to lack of salary the league offers.

If you were unaware the NBA salaries to WNBA are vastly different by milllions of dollars. The #1 overall draft pick for the WNBA averages a salary of rougly $78,000 a year not including endorsements or now NIL deals. It’s sad that for as long as the WNBA has been established, the money, resources to keep players and their families happy. Playing overseas has most often than not been an option once the regular season ends. After the Griner situation, most WNBA players were reconsidering the thought of traveling to play.

I hope in years to come to the WNBA can be just as lucrative as the NBA. They also need more teams. 12 WNBA teams isn’t going to cut it especially if the players that are drafted don’t actually make the the roster.

This was somewhat news to me, I didn’t realize if you are drafted late you aren’t guaranteed a roster spot even if the team really wants you and markets you.

A direct example of this was shown with the Conneticut Sun. They drafted Alexis Morris from the National Championship LSU Tigers. She was had to basically try out to make the team only for Connecticut to waive her.
You work so hard to make it to your dream job, have them promote you, only to be let go.

I’m sure it is a frustrating process but I know Alexis will get picked up somewhere if not , her next option is overseas.

We will have to wait and see how everything comes together for her. I know it will! Good Luck to you Alexis, BG and all of the WNBA players on the upcoming season.

Never give up and if anything always bet on yourself:)

That will wrap up today’s blog! See you guys for Football Friday!! The new schedule is here! Let’s talk about it!!

Thanks for reading!

*Pics/ Vids courtesy of Google*

Happy Mother’s Day

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Posted By Riah May 12, 2023

Happy Mother’s Day

Mom, the universal word for caregiver, provider, rock, friend. Moms are the needed glue that keep us together. From an athlete perspective, mom is the motivator, the manager at times and just there to pick you up off the ground when needed after a loss or celebrate during a win.

Most of the time, once we make it big, we want to highlight the people that mean most to us and keep us going.

Moms are also the advocates! Fighting for us and standing up for us.

My mom has always been there for me. So many times whether it’s giving advice, stepping in on my behalf, or just giving me a much needed hug. We are now in the process of publishing our first cookbook together. (coming soon).

From an athlete perspective, mom is the biggest supporter, #1 overall fan and usually at every game. Cheering Loudly, Proudly and just supporting her child no matter what sport it is.

As you know most moms if not all wear multiple hats while still working full time jobs. Being a mom is a full time job in itself. I hope any mom reading this knows how appreciated, loved, and needed you are.

We love you dearly!

To all athlete moms, thanks for the late nights, dinners, team lunches, team hugs, posters, and just being our extra motivational coach. 🙂

This blog is super short and sweet 🙂

Happy Mother’s Day- this weekend is yours

SO LIVE IT UP

Thanks for reading!

Announcement: I have a huge blog post coming next month! Can’t wait to share it with you

*Pics/vids courtesy of google images*

Mother’s Day Gifts:

XOBYKAMIAH: https://xobykamiah.com/shop

Kamiah is doing a giveaway use code: MAMA at checkout for 15% off and entry 🙂

SAKSUHN: https://strictly-speaking-6.myshopify.com/collections/all

The comeback series shirts are only available for 1 month.. get yours while supplies last. Shipping usually 24-48 hours after purchase. The rest of the catalog is available indefinitely! 🙂 Happy Shopping!!

Jimmy Butler

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Posted By Riah May 5, 2023

Jimmy Butler
Picture Courtesy of Google Images

Jimmy Butler!! A dynamic scorer, can beat you from anywhere on the floor, and can just take over the game. A fellow Marquette alumn, Jimmy has made his presence known.

Playing for team like the Chicago Bulls, Philadelphia 76ers, and now the Miami Heat. In his first season with the Heat he helped lead them to the NBA finals where they lost to the Lakers. Now the heat are once again in the hunt for another title run facing the Knicks in Round 2. The series is currently tied 1-1.

Jimmy’s journey is unique in his own right he wasn’t heavily recruited and ended up playing at junior college where he was able to shine. Your journey is not going to be like everyone else’s but you can still thrive and prosper with hard work, dedication, & perseverance.

Jimmy is a super humble guy. He is funny! Always himself and makes the game fun again. He is someone I really enjoy watching play.

In his downtime, he started his own coffee business Big Face coffee in 2021, from his love of the beverage. It is an online business that Jimmy thought of not to make money but to continue to build connections.

We relate in that way because when I started my consulting business in 2020, I knew my main focus was to be able to help others grow their businesses or be another resource of support. Money will always come. I always say and agree it’s never about the money for me. I know what it’s like to wonder where the next break is coming from. The joy and satisfaction I get from seeing others succeed is more than money can ever give me.

Picture Courtesy of CNBC
Picture Courtesy of CNBC

I wish Jimmy all the success and luck in the playoffs! The knicks/ heat series feels like it can go 7 games. Jimmy is currently out due to an ankle sprain. He has been rehabbing and resting, so hopefully he will available for game 3 and the rest of the series as it shifts to Miami.

I just wanted to write a quick post 🙂

Be sure to follow Jimmy on IG & Twitter- @jimmybutler to keep up with him 🙂

Any comments/ suggestions or anything you want me to write about leave it below or tweet me @bballmypassion

As always I appreciate my readers!

Be sure to follow my business on IG: @mariahscreativeconsulting

Thanks Again for reading! Until Monday! 😉

*Pics/Videos Courtesy of Google Images, CNBC*

google.com, pub-8869351951298256, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

GSW: A solidified dynasty?

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Posted By Riah May 1, 2023

GSW: A solidified dynasty?

In 2013, the Golden State Warriors lost to Los Angeles Clippers in the playoffs ousting them out of the first round and on a rebuild. Coach Jackson was relieved of his duties and Coach Steve Kerr was introduced. In the last 10 years, the Warriors have appeared in multiple finals, won 4 championships, set numerous records including a 73 win season passing the 72 win chicago bulls. Their leader Stephen Curry with 2 MVP’s and 1 finals MVP (2022 Champions). The argument is always posed is Golden State a solidified dynasty with the likes of the Lakers, Bulls, Celtics. I mean what is left for them to prove honestly. Let’s talk about….

The 2014-2015 NBA season, the warriors finally broke the curse and won their first championship and since than have been a nemesis, underdog, the team no wants to meet in the playoffs or even the regular season. Through injuries, ups and downs, struggles on the road, the warriors proved their name true time and time again. Curry with multiple ankle injuries, Thompson with his achilles/acl injuries etc. They just find a way to win and dominate and prove everyone wrong. I love watching this team and their bond. Steph, Draymond, and Klay are the only three teammates in recent years that have been dedicated to stay together as long as they have. If it’s not broke then it doesn’t need fixing. Even with the addition of KD, their chemistry and bond never wavered. No matter where the warriors are seeded they always find a way to come out on top. 4 championships later, the argument remains, Are the warriors one of the best dynasty’s. My answer yes! At this point there shouldn’t even be a debate but it should be when it’s all said and done and Curry, Green, Thompson are no longer playing where will they rank? I think at least top 5 all time. I mean Stephen Curry lol.. Need I say more!

Stephen Curry, the greatest shooter ever. The way he has taken care of his body over the course of his career and to sustain it is a testament to his dedication to the game. It is so fun to watch him play. I have had the pleasure of watching him in person and it’s worth every penny. He puts on the show and just dominates. From his ball handling skills to just pure shooting ability, he is one of the best of all time and especially in the last 10 years. He has proven time and time again by his game alone that he and his team deserve respect. If you know Steph’s journey then you know it is more than just basketball and who he plays for (represents). His platform is his way of showcasing not only his talent but faith that God can do anything and use anyone for his honor and glory.

Thompson, Looney, Green have all solidified their legacies as well. I mean let’s just look at last season. Warriors started in the Play in and ended up winning the championship despite the odds. Everyone from newcomers Poole, Payton II etc. all showed up big for their team and helped bring the championship back to the Bay.

As the Warriors prepare for another Lebron /Steph matchup this time Bron on the Lakers, the question is posed how will they fair? This lakers team is slightly different from their 2020 Championship roster but I think it will be a good challenge for them. The warriors are the team to beat but honestly once they get going, on a run, and steph takes over they are really hard to beat. Steph now 35 and the Lebron now 38, I’m excited for the matchup ahead. Hopefully the Warriors can cruise past LA in their quest for Championship #5. Let me know your thoughts….

It’s time to put some respect on the Warriors.

Love Them, Envy Them, They are here to stay adding to their already solidified legacy. 🙂

As always thanks for reading!

Leave a comment or tweet me @bballmypassion

*Pics/Vids courtesy of Google Images*

NBA Playoffs: My Recap so far :)

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Posted By Riah April 24, 2023

NBA Playoffs: My Recap So far :)

With the 2023 NBA playoffs currently underway, I wanted to give my recap on all things playoff related.

The NBA Playoffs are a sight to see as we watch great matchups, players rise to the occasion, unfortunate injuries, and of course the media giving us their breakdown of each team.

Let’s start in the East!

The Milwaukee Bucks being the overall #1 seed is the high favorite. Miami winning the 8th seed in the play-in tournament is giving them a run for their money currently up 2-1 with a game 4 happening tonight. Giannis has been out the last two games due to a bruised tail bone. He is set to make his return. Will Miami go up 3-1 and continue their momentum & potential upset? Or will the bucks get back in the series and tie it up. With another crushing injury to role player Vic Oladipo, will his absence affect Miami’s quest to move on to the second round. I think both teams matchup well but if Miami jumps out to a hot start they have a chance to continue to dominate.

Philadelphia took care of Brooklyn in 4 games and they await their opponents for round 2.

How about the New York Knicks?!! They have the right chemistry and pieces I think to go deep in the playoffs. The addition of Jalen Brunson was a good one. I am keeping my eye on them.

Boston is one game away from securing their second round spot after going up 3-1 on the Hawks. Game 5 is a MUST WIN for them. Trae Young can shoot lights out but has been struggling. I hope he can find his mojo and help his team fight back in this series.

On to the western conference…… 🙂 My favorite conference, It’s really anyone’s game.

Denver is the quiet favorite right now. They aren’t being discussed as much as the Lakers, Warriors, Grizzlies, Suns. Minnesota fought back and now have a chance in this series down 2-1 instead of 3-0. ( no team has come back from 3-0). Stats don’t lie lol. The next game will be fun now that the Timberwolves have some life.

The Suns are looking to wrap up their series with the Clippers. With Kawhi and Paul both being out indefinitely due to injuries, it’s looking like KD and Phoenix are ready to move on and prep for round 2 which will be the winner of the Denver/Minnesota series.

Alright, Drama & Entertainment time lol. I think you know where I’m going.

Boy oh Boy- Tell me you watched game 4 for the Lakers/Grizzlies.

I think Dillon ended up with his foot in his mouth. We all know what he said. The lesson here don’t ever poke the bear or be disrespectful to the point an opponent has to shut you up. The lakers did just that scoring 40+ in the first quarter as a team. Lebron finished the game with 25 points. He played the most aggressive last game than ever before. The Grizzlies have been the talk of the league due to their chatty behavior with no deep playoff run to show for it. Will that continue to hurt them? Ja is going to be Ja every game but I will say this his style of play will continue to cause him harm than good injury wise. I never want to see a player get hurt and it’s okay to adjust your game a tad and still keep your essence. Ja is one of my favorite players but I don’t want to see him get seriously hurt trying to make a statement. I honestly think the Lakers are going to win this series with how everything is going as they have a 2-1 series lead.

Lastly, the defending Golden State Warriors, barely won. They were able to tie up their series with the Kings 2-2. A gutted team win that literally could’ve went any other way. Championship teams with experience know how to pull out gritty wins. No team has beaten the Warriors at home since Boston did in the finals last year and they still pulled it out. No one even has the Warriors winning another championship this year. I lowkey love the underdog route, no matter how they are seeded they always find a way to win and just kick the champion mentality in high gear. The suspension of Draymond for Game 3 fueled them, his unselfishness to come off the bench in Game 4 helped keep the momentum. The Kings who haven’t been in the playoffs in 17 years are fighting, dominating and not backing down from the challenge of playing the champs. It’s honestly a really good series. De’Aaron Fox unfortunately has a fractured finger on his shooting hand and as of right now is doubtful for Wednesday’s game. If he is out, we will have to see how the Kings respond but the offense runs through him. He is dominant and just a pure scorer. I like watching him.

The question now is..does this secure the Warriors a second round spot if Fox can’t play. I honestly say stick to the game plan and take it one game at a time especially with how bad the road games have been for the warriors. Let’s not discuss the refs. LOL If you know you know.

I’m excited for the rest of the playoff games. I love watching and engaging. Each game is different.

Let me know who you are rooting for and who you think will win this year’s championship. Drop a comment or tweet me @bballmypassion

As always thanks for reading 🙂

*Picture courtesy of google images*

Saying Goodbye to Serena & Roger

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This summer we said goodbye to two legends in tennis. Although Serena’s evolvement was announced , Roger’s came a few short weeks later and it was super surprising. Rightfully so, both in their 40’s and wanting more time with family etc. I’m sure stepping away from the sport for good playing wise was a super tough decision. I mean stepping away from a game you have played your entire life would be hard for anyone. The impact Serena and Roger have had in the last few decades especially Serena has left the game in pretty good hands. This post isn’t meant to be a sad one but a celebratory one.

I have personally been watching both Roger and Serena my whole life. I pretty much grew up with them so for me I was slightly emotional about because of the excitement and memorization they brought. The way they both played the game with so much drive, grit at times, and competitiveness. I definitely admire them.

My favorite Serena match would have to be any match with her sister Venus. Those were always fun or any match where she had to play from behind. My favorite Roger match would have to be any match against Rafa. I always knew if they were facing each other it will be entertaining but also a long match. lol

Serena changed the women’s game for greatness in the fact that she opened so many doors for women and mainly minority of women who may not have felt like they belong. With the likes of Naomi Osaka, Sloan Stephens, and CoCo Gauff. Tennis is left in great hands. And on the men’s side Frances Tiafoe is one to watch!..

As future events come and go, I’m sure although not playing anymore Serena and Roger will still be apart of the tennis world to some capacity. As we know Serena will be focusing on her family, fashion, and just her next chapter. I wonder what Roger’s next chapter will be outside of spending time with family. Either way it was amazing night in night out watching them give their all and passion to a game that has left us and myself with long lasting memories.

Their legacies cement them as two of the greatest ever. I hope no one breaks Serena’s grandslam record. I know records are meant to be broken and honestly no number of grand slam wins will honestly amount to other countless things she has done to change the game for greatness. Serena is and forever will be the GOAT. Roger as well! It ‘s crazy to fathom what they have done in the last 30 years or so.

I wish Serena and Roger the best! Sad to see them go, but I know the best is yet to come!

Cheers to future

Farewell to Tennis the game

Your legacies live forever 🙂

If you have any favorite Serena or Roger memories feel free to drop a comment or tweet them to me @ bballmypassion.

As always thanks for reading!

*Pics/Vids courtesy of google images*

Busted Brackets…OH MY!

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madness

March Madness!!!

Comes so quick and goes by so fast, I am always reminded how fast the year is going once the tournament arrives.

None the less, this tournament has been a lot of close games and upsets as usual.

I live for the upsets!

To be honest, I didn’t even do a bracket this year or watch all the games but I kept up with how the teams are doing on both the men and women sides.

VA Tech had a heartbreaking loss against Duke, Duke had a heartbreaking loss against Michigan State.

Auburn and UVA surprised everybody! lol I am glad a VA school is still in the tournament representing.

The losses however, are constant reminders that the seniors, players who will leave and enter the draft that these are their final games representing their respective school. The hard work, dedication, sacrifice it takes to play at a high level and not win the ultimate title is somewhat frustrating but also bittersweet. Players give their all on the court and make their families, coaches proud. Use the loss as fuel and motivation because the journey is not over, in some cases it is just the beginning.

Since Duke lost, the big question will be.. Is Zion Williamson staying or leaving for the NBA. I think he should complete his college career, he will have a degree and opportunities to fall back just in case the NBA doesn’t work out for him.. ( I know he will do great in the NBA). No one can take your education or intelligence from you. 🙂

It is amazing to see how many people fill out brackets only to see more than half broken in the first week of play lol. I love that about the tournament because you never know which teams will be super hot and surprise you and which teams will go super cold.

The entire tournament is fun to watch with family, friends, college associates, in some way it brings us altogether. Sports in a way I know for me is a outlet to not think about what is bothering me at the moment, clear my head and just enjoy the game in front of me. Basketball for me has always been that way. (first love).

As the final four approaches which I will watch, this is the time teams bring their ultimate A game. We will crown a new national champion once again.

Let me not forget out the Women!, UCONN is dominating as usual! One of my favorite programs to watch, it doesn’t surprise me at all, they are having a phenomenal year. Go Huskies!! 🙂

who do you have winning the national championship?

Men’s

Auburn

UVA

Texas Tech

Michigan State

Women’s

Oregon

Baylor

Uconn

Notre Dame

Let’s see who comes out on top!! 🙂

As always, I appreciate you guys for reading!

Leave a comment, follow, share !

*Pics/Videos courtesy of google*

Football, Teammates…

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Ever played sports in school? Ever tried out for a team and didn’t make it or was picked last?

If you answered yes ( me included) I have some news for you. No more being picked last lol.. FXA Sports is an adult sports league based out of VA that offers all sports. These sports include: Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer, Bar Sports just to name a few.  They have leagues throughout the entire year. You have casual, competitive, and elite play levels you can choose from, as well as co-ed teams. I love how everyone is involved and no one is left off a team. It is quite cool if you ask me.

These last two years I have had the opportunity to watch two of my friends play and win multiple championships. I think the count is at 8 (don’t quote on me on that) lol. If you are fan of football, then you will definitely love flag football. Men are naturally competitive and hate to lose. You put them on a field with some flags and just watch the magic happen.  The games are about a hour with a small halftime, some of these players are natural athletes, let me tell you. I wish they had replays because some of the plays I have seen have been amazing to where I would like to re-watch to see if I missed anything.

The key to this blog is this: If you love something and are passionate about it go after it and let nothing or no one stop you. Always support your friends even if it’s just for a hour. You never know how much your presence is felt or appreciated. Lastly, enjoy and have fun! At the end of the day it is all about having fun and team work and working toward a goal which in the football world is a championship and bragging rights until the upcoming season!

If you would like to know more about FXA Sports and get involved visit their website here: http://www.fxasports.com

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” Winner’s Circle” 🙂

Thanks so much for reading this week’s blog! Appreciate all my readers!

If you have any ideas or suggestions feel free to leave a comment below! 🙂

*pics courtesy of my camera*

Next Week: March Madness Update…How are those brackets?