Is it just me, or is the NBA becoming a collection of thugs?  I know you should never judge a book by its cover, and I certainly have tried my best to avoid stereotyping people based on their appearance.  Nevertheless, I can’t help but wonder, as I watch an NBA game, what these guys would be doing if they weren’t making millions bouncing a ball around on a wood floor (e.g., imagine Chris “Birdman” Andersen showing up for a job interview).  I am aware of the entire “NBA Cares” campaign, where popular players talk about all the very special projects they do for the community.  This is a good thing that should not be overlooked.  I also think that Metta World Peace (the former LA Lakers player formerly known as Ron Artest) probably has his heart in the right place.  The thing that pushes me out of my comfort zone is the tattoos.  Don’t misunderstand me here.  I have nothing but fond thoughts for the girl who chooses to get a butterfly discreetly inked on her butt.  But as a Denver Nuggets fan (arguably the most tattooed team in the NBA), I can’t help but wonder what message they are sending.

http://www.denverpost.com/nuggets/ci_12399636