Playoff Update: Gearing up for Game 5

It's starting to get a little crazy on the courts as we head into Game 5 of the Eastern and Western Conference Playoffs. Lots of exciting action to watch over the next two nights, and really, for those of us east of the Mighty Mississippi, the Western games are more of a 'late night' viewing. I must confess, yours truly must have beauty rest so I often miss the second half to prevent very puffy next day eyes. Fear not, I have already scoured the news and watched the necessary highlights. And, yes, I will sacrifice my appearance during the playoffs and watch each game to the bitter end.

So friends, here's what's happening:

In the East, I had a hunch the Magic could pull off a little magic and prevent the Celtics from getting out their celebratory broom. After a brilliant return of Superman (aka Dwight Howard) and team, the Magic managed to keep the Celtics under control in Game 4 in Boston. I wouldn't call it a dominating win, but they played their hearts out right through overtime. Few teams would have the determination and spirit to put on such a performance while facing possible elimination after receiving such a lashing during the first 3 games (Game 2 wasn't so bad, but did result in a loss). Of course Ray Allen was firing off flawless 3's for Boston all night long, but somehow the Magic contained the crazy skills of Rajon Rondo.* The series heads back south to Orlando tonight...Will the Celtics win and move on to their one zillionth Playoff appearance? Will the Magic be able to take a win at home? Is it possible that they could be the first basketball team to come back from a 3 loss deficit to go to the Finals? We'll see...

*And how quickly the press loses interest--for at least one day, Rondo was not the top story. But I happily report that King James didn't reign over the news. This time it's speculation about Phil Jackson making a return to the Bulls. Whatever.

In the West, Los Suns really heated up the desert last night with another scorching win over the Lakers to tie up that series. Steve Nash and his broken nose, along with a stellar performance from their bench, seemed to shut down the Lakers. Kobe Bryant is not so happy and has concerns about the Lakers defense. He did manage to score 38 points, yet some say he is not the best player in the league. Interesting. The series returns to Los Angeles on Thursday night where all of the beautiful people will be lining up to claim their seats on the floor. Speaking of beauties, I noticed quite a nice looking crowd sitting courtside in Phoenix. In a quick analysis of these seats, I discovered that to earn such primo real estate, it is necessary for ladies to have very thick, long manes. I think perhaps I should grow mine out so that I can move on down to the floor level seats from my present vantage of about 16 rows back. Presently my hair falls just below the shoulders, that is when I am not channelling Holly Golightly (see profile image). Or maybe I should try extensions? More topics to ponder. And what will happen in the West? I'll be watching...

xoxo