A standing room only crowd packed into John A. Rhodes Arena, on the campus of The University of Akron, as the Cleveland Cavaliers kicked off their Annual 2009 Wine And Gold Scrimmage. But this year, Cavs fan received a special treat. "The Daddy" "The Diesel," a self proclaimed "Dun Dada," was in the building! And he wore his new number 33 practice Jersey!
Even though the reigning NBA MVP--LeBron James was greeting by a standing ovation, applause, and "MVP" chants, when he came out of the Locker Room, Shaquille O'Neal was clearly the Man of the Hour. As he stepped onto the court, he was greeted by cheers, thunderous applause,camera flashes, and a standing ovation! Not one to disappoint, Shaq went on to lead his Gold Team to a 54-38 victory against LeBron's Wine Team, in the 32 minute Scrimmage. And he lead all scoring, with 12 points--making 6 of 8 shots. LeBron finished with 10 points, making 4 of 12 shots and 2 of 7 free throws.
Other Cavs who played fairly well were: Zydrunas Ilgauskas with 8 rebounds and 6 points, Rookie Danny Green with 10 points, JJ Hickson with 11 points and 5 rebounds, Anthony Parker with 2 steals and 5 assists, and Jamario Moon with 5 rebounds, 3 steals, and 9 points.
Three Cavs did not participate in the Scrimmage. A rehabilitating Leon Powe, dressed in street clothes, sat on the bench, and watched the game. An ailing Mo Williams, also dressed in street clothes (which closely resembled pajamas), didn't play due to a reported groin muscle pull. And a noticeably absent Delonte West, who was reportedly told to "work out," in lieu of participating in the activities.
At the end of the game, Gloria James and LeBron's two sons ran onto the court to give him hugs and kisses. And following in their dad's footsteps, his two boys grabbed basketballs and started shooting baskets.
Before exiting the building, King James, took off his Jersey, and his shoes, and threw a shoe into the crowd of excited fans! Then he asked the Lucky Lady fan who caught it, if she could give him the gel insole back. She was happily escorted onto the court, and got a chance to briefly talk to James. After retrieving his insole, he headed toward the Locker Room, while fans marveled at the "Chosen One" tattoo across his back.
