Dome Pondering

The New York Knicks are the #2 Seed in the Eastern Conference Playoffs.  Unbelievable.  Oh yeah, they also put together an unbelievable fifty-win season to do so.  I've already expressed some thoughts on this season - from the trade of RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Julius Randle's injury and obvious absence to the brilliance that was Jalen Brunson - there has been so much to take in, and appreciate.  I can't say it enough - I love this team. THIS team.  Just a few other quick thoughts as we reflect on 50 wins and the #2 seed before heading into a tough first-round series with either the Miami Heat or Philadelphia 76ers:  I know Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the hot narrative for MVP and there is a big-time Serbian in Denver who easily makes a claim for the award once again, but damn it, Jalen Brunson deserves recognition and some lower-place votes. That's all I'm asking for... Speaking of giving flowers to Jalen Brunson, it's about time a real basketball dis

3 Up 1. Gun Control? - Wow. We have somewhat new gun legislation - so it is possible?! Of course, I'm being a bit cheeky in regards to the recent new plan to offer background checks for gun purchases, which really is a big part of the gun control debate. No?  2. Solar Eclipse - I didn't get a chance to experience it, but the idea of it is rather cool. Our world - and universe - is a remarkable experience and thought.  3. Women's Basketball Ratings - The boost continues as women's hoops continue its surge in ratings, interest, and overall star power. It will likely continue next week with the WNBA Draft.  3 Down  1. Iran Missiles on Israel - The entire saga in Gaza continues to get more complex. Throwing Iran into the mix, and now the US intercepting drones and missiles, the entire thing is super sad as innocent people continue to be killed.  2. Tennessee Teachers Carry - Well, just when we thought the gun debate was moving toward a reasonable decision, we get the sta

3 Up 1. Wrestlemania 40 - I don't think it's hyperbole, WM40 is likely to be remembered as one of the best Wrestlemanias of all time. A memorable and happy ending likely will encourage that narrative as well.  2. Women's Basketball - A HUGE weekend for women's basketball! First, Iowa and UCONN smash (!!) the ratings record on ESPN (for ANY televised basketball game) then we get a great championship game. The women's game has amazing storylines, superstars, likable individuals, and overall, a better quality of game.  And of course, the WNBA draft is next Monday. Keep it rolling, ladies!  3. Pig Kidney Transplant - I can't (still) can't believe this is real, but the patient who received an A.I. generated pig kidney in a transplant has officially gone home. Still a wild story, and something to keep an eye on.  3 Down 1. Earthquakes - Well, first it was the devastation in Taiwan that injured thousands, killed 25, and left destruction. Then on Friday right here

It's become officially a tradition that NXT Stand and Deliver makes Wrestlemania weekend feel like the ultimate wrestling weekend - as if it isn't already. There is just something about a major show being held midday on a Saturday, among the hype for the already dual night of Wrestlemania - that just emanates and screams - wrestling fans, don't go anywhere all weekend.   Nonetheless, NXT Stand and Deliver 2024 for this super causal NXT viewer was entertaining. I was well aware (and followed) the story of Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes (more on that in a bit) more so than the other happenings, but that didn't matter. The show offered many reasons to check out Shawn Michaels' project on Tuesday nights.  With that said, here are some quick thoughts on NXT Stand and Deliver 2024:  - Baron Corbin is amazing on the NXT brand. For many reasons, he just never clicked for me on the major brands - and that very likely might not even be his fault. I didn't think Axiom an

Stay free. But keep the gate to  your peace, guarded.

3 Up 1. Bridge Workers - In all of the wreckage and tragedy that occurred and has been discussed in regards to the Baltimore Bridge Collapse, there are bridge workers who raced to stop cars from crossing the bridge upon hearing the ship's "Mayday" alerts. Those are some real unsung heroes who likely saved many lives.  2. Social Media Changes in UK - Social media reveals itself more and more as a plague on society. Well, recent sanctions (and changes) by social media companies in the United Kingdom are making social media more responsible for children. I'm curious to see the data of results in human changes following these initiatives.  3. Easter - He. Is. Risen!  3 Down 1. Baltimore Bridge Collapse - Such an awful story. Each day reveals how precious our lives are, and just how random it can be. This recent story carries so much from safety, appreciation of life, and the long lengths many go to in the international trading industry.  2. South African Bus Crash - An a

It was about ten years ago. I got on this site and marveled at the performance of Carmelo Anthony in Madison Square Garden vs. the [then] Charlotte Bobcats. Then Carmelo decided to go bonkers. 62 points! I had that feeling again tonight with Jalen Brunson scoring 61 points in a loss .  It was one point short of the Knicks single-game scoring record, and the third 60-point performance in the history of the franchise. But after tonight's loss to the San Antonio Spurs, in a game that likely will be discussed as the game Victor Wembanyama started to put it together, Jalen Brunson secured 61 points in what may be the best offensive game for a New York Knick that I've witnessed in my lifetime.  Yes, Melo's 62 was remarkable. There was the recent gem by Julius Randle last year against the T-Wolves where I thought he would smash Melo's 62 (and break the record in MSG) before the wheels fell off like this game did.  How can I forget Allan Houston's 53-points against Kobe

Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports After an off-season where the Los Angeles Dodgers spent the equivalent of a nation's GDP to acquire talent - I'm not sure if that's factual, but it felt like it - the 2024 MLB Season is finally here.  Sure, this Yankees fan is not just annoyed with the big spending of the Dodgers, but yeah, secretly envious as well. That used to be us, man!  Regardless, baseball is back on the docket. While my beloved New York Knicks have my attention and all of my heart, including what has been a fun March Madness period for men's and women's basketball, it's soothing to have baseball back. I can't explain what it is, but baseball just does that for me.  Nonetheless, let's do what we do in this post every year. Here are my wacky predictions and wild guesses for the 2024 season.  --- STANDINGS (WINS) AL EAST Orioles - 93 Yankees - 90 Blue Jays - 85 Red Sox - 82 Rays - 80 AL CENTRAL Twins - 88 Tigers - 86 Guardians - 81 Royals - 70 White Sox -

It's been a while since I've done one of these - three years in fact. Yes, three years! Jumping back into the wacky world of these questions, and stimulating some ponders along the way... 181. Would you rather the aliens that make first contact be robotic or organic?  Well, this is a weird one. I'll go organic as it feels there would be more of an opportunity to connect as living beings. Robots just sound evil at the core - showing no compassion or empathy one what would likely be an awkward initial encounter.  182. Would you rather lose the ability to read or lose the ability to speak? Easily lose the ability to speak. I'm not sure I even want to talk to people all that much anymore - I'm kidding, sort of. Losing the ability to read gives up too much of yourself, and the ability to function independently.  183. Would you rather have a golden voice or a silver tongue? Golden voice. Give me the ability to sing, perform, and be a rock star. A silver tongue is nice, an