A letter to the Fans...

Dear Fans,

Having recently had some time to reflect I wanted drop you all a quick note.

There’s an age old Chinese proverb which says:

“Words are just words and without heart they have no meaning.”

Today, I’d like to use this space to speak to you from my heart.

First off, I want to say how much our entire organization appreciates the way our fans stuck with us through what was a very difficult season. We can spend time referring to all the injuries, but as far as you’re all concerned, there can be no easy excuse for the tough year we had. I want you to know that we truly appreciate all of your support and thank you for hangin with us.

Secondly, I want to make sure you know that EVERYONE at the Clippers is committed to doing whatever is necessary to make sure that you don’t have to deal with another year like the one that just ended. I’m dedicating myself to that goal, and I know my teammates will do the same.

There are probably those who will read this and toss it off as just words, but I can only write these words with hope that the feeling and sentiment is conveyed.

Whether you believe us or not, please know that we’re all going to work hard to improve everyday and be a far better team than we showed this past season.

Stick with us, and trust it’ll be worth it.

Sincerely,

Baron Davis

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Comments (62)

guas555 said April 30, 2009

I've been a Clippers fan as long as you've been a Clipper's player.

And with that said, it sounds like I picked a good time to start.

Go hard in the paint, Boom. See you next season.

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- clovia77 replied May 06, 2009
  
  BD what are you personally prepred to do to make improvements. will you come into cmp overweight again? or will you come in in shape. why did you not mention a single thing you are gonna do to better the team. what will you actually do?
Bayareasptschk said April 30, 2009

Boom Dizzle is a class act. Hang with him Clippers fans. As a Warriors fan there is no doubt in my mind that the Warriors front office are just plain idiotic for not coughing it up to keep Baron as a Warrior. We miss him.
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- GSWarriors replied May 01, 2009
  
  actually we did
  5 years 75 million
  the last 2 years in the deal were only guarenteed if baron stayed healthy enough
shizz08 said April 30, 2009

i've always known you were a stand up guy! and all you did was prove me right, and let me just say any team you play on will always command my attention......see you and the clippers next yr boom dizzle! real talk!
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jabberwock909 said April 30, 2009

Even though I am not a Clippers fan, I am a fan of athletes making it known the difference between amateur/college and professional athletes. The right people know you guys are pressing each other to get a better product on the court. The ESPN cameras don't show the drive to the gym or weightroom when the family calls or when life makes it a tough choice. Bruh, you will turn it around because as long as your organization can at least match what you give, season won't turn out like it did last season.
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xraycat said April 30, 2009

Go Buffalo Braves!
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Bayareasptschk said April 30, 2009

Boom Dizzle is a class act. Hang with him Clippers fans. As a Warriors fan there is no doubt in my mind that the Warriors front office are just plain idiotic for not coughing it up to keep Baron as a Warrior. We miss him.

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cs_raiderfan said April 30, 2009

BD! quite messing around and come back to the Oak! 50 somthin wins, playoffs, beating the Lakers....come back!
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wintermute said April 30, 2009

Come back to the Bay, Baron. We need you...
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MiaRenee said April 30, 2009

Hell yeah, GO CLIPPERS!!!!! The talent is there, but now that the committment is too, ohhh its on!!!! PUT ON FOR YOUR CITY BD!!
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tpc619 said April 30, 2009

B.D please make us proud. Please get KAMAN on the band wagon with you!
GO CLIPPERS!!
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JoeNiner said April 30, 2009

If you show up in shape next Fall, I may start to believe you...
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starox said April 30, 2009

Good luck next year Baron. God knows you are gonna need it =)
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deedubgee said April 30, 2009

BD! or as u like it BoomDizzle!!!! Man I hope u have some influence on the Clippers management. We have so much talent for us to have a bad season like this. We can compete but it seems as if we dont care to win. I was at the last game and I had to partake in the BOOING because its very frustrating when we go out like that with a bad season. I just want to say I appreciate you coming to the Clipper organization and going through our beat downs, this isnt the first and I hope its the last. But I'm glad to hear words of HOPE! Thanks BD and hang in there!
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kb24strike said April 30, 2009

No Doubt you mean what your saying but theres no denying that the team out there can not compete with the style of Dunlevy. You saw it with terry porter in phoenix and theres no doubt that the clippers would thrive with you creating oppotunities in the open floor. Good luck baron
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semx88 said April 30, 2009

Back to Yay! Need ya BD.......works both ways right??? Just get up here already.
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yungbolo said April 30, 2009

Great letter and as a fan of both the Clippers and B.D.I keep faith that next year will be MUCH better =)
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clipperfanatic said April 30, 2009

Been a clippers fan for the past 25 years...hoping to see you all do better next year. Can't wait for next season.
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PharaohMC said April 30, 2009

I am indeed a Clipper Nation representative. There is no need for apology. I know there were alot of questions before the season began, and as the season moved along we acquired new players and dealt with alot of injuries. I am happy that we'll have a really good draft pick on top off a healthy clippers group that has learned ALOT from this past season. I think DJ Dense was the only Clipper who stayed healthy (thank God for DJ Dense)... Clipper Nation is going to explode, watch out folks.
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Conan1234321 said April 30, 2009

I support you all the way, Baron!
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bball_in_bay said April 30, 2009

Wish your were in the Bay BD...we need the leadership, swagger, and the 'We Believe' back. Contrary to popular belief, you'd be welcomed.
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illastrate said April 30, 2009

I really wanna believe in you, Boom. Please restore faith in Clipper Nation. Please prove the naysayers wrong. Please take the torch from Sam Cassell and bring back the swagger the team had 3 seasons ago. Whatever it takes, please do it.
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Number14 said April 30, 2009

Unless he comes back as an MVP next season, nothing will make up for how bad he stank it up last season. He came into training camp out of shape and accepted a Jenny Craig contract that could very well sabotage his career.
He was supposed to be the franchise savior. Instead, he just made Clipper fans endure another year of hell...only with twisted flames.
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smdnow said April 30, 2009

This is a pathetic joke. BD has no heart as he showed all year. So, per his own statements, the whole thing is meaningless.
Baron needs to man up and acknowledge he lead the team into the gutter and was a horrible role model. Clips would be better w/o him
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Louiebutt said April 30, 2009

I belive! Next year is the year that starts a dynasty. The Clippers will no longer be the "whatever" OR "maybe next year team." I believe!
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speedwell said April 30, 2009

Baron, let's do that P90X, I need you to be in shape next season or my fantasy BBall team will be in the crapper.
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909Clipnation said April 30, 2009

Baron you full of beans! Mike Taylor owned you. Who are you kidding, you can careless.
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eduardoela said April 30, 2009

10-Q Baron! I believe in u and the Clippers organization.
UN SHOT-Jimenez
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jayclip said May 01, 2009

Hey Baron

The whole team (coach included) have to come correct next season. The team has a ton of talent, and will be adding more in a couple of months with a high draft pick. Talent only gets you so far though. Last season it got us nowhere. Injuries, chemistry and identity all play a part of it, but other teams can use that same line. We still underachieved no matter what way you look at it. The team needs to commit to playing team ball. Guys need to work on defense. Every player may not be a great individual defender, but team defense works. I hope all of the guys watch Cleveland this season, or tapes of Boston last year. The team also needs to work on passing the ball and knowing their roles. Look to take smarter shots (high percentage shots), attack the basket, move the ball.

The slate is wiped clean, but you guys have to be ready to roll before the season begins. Let the other teams get into shape during training camp. The Clippers need to be in gear when training camp comes around. Everybody needs to be in good condition, healthy, and focused. The west is still going to have a lot of competitive teams, and it's probably going to take 47 wins or so to make the playoffs. The guys need to all come into camp with the mindset that we're playing for the gold, not just improvement over last season. Set your goals high, and don't accept mediocrity.
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Juliansdad said May 01, 2009

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Juliansdad said May 01, 2009

Sounds great Baron, but what are you and your teammates going to do this offseason that you didn't do last summer? In other words, what will happen this summer to make the results different in 2009-20010? I'm sure there's a lot that I don't know about you and Mike Dunleavy working from the same page, but I do believe that if you and your teammates emulate the training intensity of a guy like Kobe Bryant, injuries will drop dramatically and your record will improve dramatically next season. You have extraordinary talent and leadership ability. These two extraordinary traits that you own have meaning only if they're utilized. Best of luck!!!!
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gag111 said May 01, 2009

lakers and clippers babeeeeeeeee
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marco_zanoli said May 01, 2009

Dear Baron, I'm your italian fan, and a Clippers fan first of all. I don't know if you read this post, but I want and I need to believe in you. For me you are an example to follow, exspecially on the court, and I agree with you when you say: "there's no place like home"! You are THE leader of this team, and the team has got some good players, not phenomenons, but good for have a nice season. I'm with you man!! I only hope for the team, that dunlevy will be fired, because I hate he as a coach. But on the court there are the players! Go Baron, an italian fan is with you.
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cueball123 said May 01, 2009

BD.... injuries and whatever else that was going on gave you no excuse to dog it the way you did during stretches of the season. Having been a season ticket holder for 8 years, i've never been as dissapointed in a player as I was with you this past year. After 8 years of watching NBA games in person, i know if a player is just going through the motions of if he's busting his butt... and we both know what you did. As the leader of the team and the new face of the franchise, you let us all down.
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909Clipnation said May 01, 2009

Draft Ricki Rubio please!
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cliptakular said May 01, 2009

I wanna believe you man I really do...
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ingrid said May 01, 2009

Boom,,,I dropped my season tickets last year because of the economy. I was able to retain my seats with a miniplan. I renewed for the 2009-10 season though. I've been going to Clipper games since 1987 and am ready to give this one more try,,,but you guys gotta show me something or its done. I'm not expecting a ring, I am expecting a decent show and some heart, playoffs would be nice. Fool me once, shame on you,,fool me twice, shame on me.
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markcronan said May 01, 2009

The words "I'm sorry" are conspicuously missing from that letter, Baron.
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Bobby2g12 said May 01, 2009

This season was sooo hard to watch, especially with the high expectations. I love Baron's game, but I have to admit that I thought BD took games off, and/or played without a lot of heart. Again, not trying to be a jerk. If BD plays hard, this team should compete...period. But do NOT let Camby off the hook either. I hope with all of my Clipper heart that Davis is the real deal. I am excited for 2009-10 with Gordon and Thorton. If BD and Camby play with heart, the Clippers will be competitive. PLEASE don't give us empty promises BD!!! The Clips have a loyal fanbase and will exalt you if you bring this team a winner! Go Clippers!
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yuliam said May 01, 2009

Baron, the last game almost broke my heart. We were all there for our team, people brought their little kids with signed basketballs, and had their faces painted. The game was a disaster, you know this.
We're still getting our season tickets, but halfheartedly. Please do something. You, Marcus, Al, Eric, Zach, Steve, and everybody else - I admire all of you, you're great men, talented, powerful, handsome, please make us want to come and watch the game! Yulia
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dlo7865 said May 01, 2009

I have been a fan for about ten years now and was extremely close to giving up on the Clips. But Baron thanks to your words I realized that I can stick it out. The players that the clips have are truly amazing ball players and I look forward to continue to root on the red and blue. Today I say I continue to be a member of Clipper Nation.
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clippersin2010 said May 01, 2009

For all you clipper fans remember our opener against the Lakers. Baron promised change. that didnt happen. The clippers have a bunch of high ego players who think about themselves first. It sickened me watching every game and seeing Randolph being isolated every possesion. ugh disgusting season all around. i dont know why i like this team
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TruthIs said April 30, 2009

I believe it when I see it! No matter what happens next year - what YOU put Clipper Nation thru this year is INEXCUSABLE and will NOT be forgotten.
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takaran90 said May 01, 2009

That is what I was talking about Baron. Man I wish i can't meet you in person. Better tear it up next season.
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Idontthinkso said May 02, 2009

"I'm dedicating myself...." Seems to me you say the same thing almost every year, BD. I do not believe.
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OG_Clipfan said May 02, 2009

Unless you find someone who can rebound the ball consistently, expect the same next season -- Clips are soft
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PaulOvert said May 02, 2009

Sounds like FO letter, Baron only put the sign.
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NuckChorris said May 03, 2009

BD's gotta keep his head in every game, and demand the same of his teammates. If I see it in the first quarter of next season then I'll believe him.
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clipers4life said May 04, 2009

ain't no way Bdiddy is going back to the Bay. LA is where he belongs. Baron, I don't know if its the age problem but I have not seen a single dunk from you last season. I miss your electrifying moves to the basket.
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Randy4Clippers said May 04, 2009

BD...I want to believe you, really I do, but the bottom line is that actions speak much louder than words. As others before me have posted, team chemistry is as crucial as talent & effort. That being said, Coach Dunleavy needs to step aside as head coach and stick to the GM's role. What this team needs is a coaching shakedown. How about Avery Johnson as head coach and Sam Cassell as first asst. coach? I've been trumpeting this move since the All-Star break. Thoughts?
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harringbone said May 04, 2009

Baron, I've been a Clippers fan for 18 years. It's been so hard to stick with the team through all the down times (15 of 18 years). Why is it so hard for the team to be competitive? Why are the Clippers paying to have their games aired on 710am? Why are you having problem giving away tickets for free? Why are we considered the worse sports franchise in the history of modern professional sports? Is it really that hard? I watched my baseball team the Angels go from the laughing stock of the league to World Champs. Why can't you guys do that? This season was embarrassing as usual. If you want to keep a fan base, you all better step up your game. By the way, I've made it my life goal to become a billionaire and buy the Clippers. Step 1: change the logo, colors, and uniforms. Step 2: move the team to the Honda Center (rent will be cheap). Step 3: Sign good players and make sure that they stay. Step 4: Make sure that we are no longer a stepping stone for players entering the NBA.
It's all on your shoulders Baron, Dunleavy and Sterling...Make it happen!
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lovesfusion said May 05, 2009

I thought the Warriors had a ruff season! Don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan of yours, but I've got to keep it real. You played terrible this year! All my friends kept saying you have gone Hollywood and are just playing still to collect a check while you do your movies. " He has other priorities" they say. I started to wonder the same thing. You were no where near as explosive as you were when you were in the bay. As a Warrior fan I felt bad for the clippers fans. They were totally looking forward to having you there and expected you to perform at the level you did at golden state, what a let down! Like I mentioned before, I am a huge fan, but even I turned off the tv when some of your games came on. I think you are a great person who does a lot for the community, especially the kids, but there seemed like you had nothing to give when it came to basketball. I really hope you can pull it together, for the sake of the clippers fans who were excited to get you and for the people like myself who follow your career and want only the best for you!

Good luck-
Chelle
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zorflu said May 05, 2009

Looking forward to next year. I upgraded to become a season ticket holder and will always be a loyal Clipper fan.
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SonnySmoothe said May 05, 2009

I have been a Clipper fan since the early 90's. I remember not having enough money as a teenager to go see Michael Jordan at the Forum but I could always watch him live at the Sports Arena. Thru those years, I became a dedicated Clipper fan. However this streak of being a FAN may have ended last year. This is due to Donald Sterling insisting on keeping Dunleavy and seeing the players including this overpaid Baron Davis showing little interest in winning the last couple weeks of the season. That last game against the Thunder was a good indication of what this Clipper team is all about. Until this Clipper organization can prove to me that they actually give two cents about winning again and actually show it on the court, I will keep my Clipper gear and interest in the closet.
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kyoshos15 said May 05, 2009

Sounds somewhat sincere. If it were really true, then there should be a partial refund in order for season ticket holders for last year or a discount as an incentive to renew next season after having to stomach 18 wins.
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lilslick said May 05, 2009

its sounds like a letter from his agent or the clipper organization, yet im still a clipper fan. i wish all of clipper team mates fills the same way as BD..... I HOPE DUMleavy does the right thing and steps down . i feel he would be a better GM than a coach.
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saxmanager said May 05, 2009

If Dunleavy is coaching the team next season, there is no chance for success! He must be relieved of his coaching duties. Maybe it's time to take a chance with someone new, like Sam Cassell!
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TheCzar said May 06, 2009

I feel the biggest problemwit baron is shot selection. Sam cassell had a signature move a signature shot that he relied on n was effective.. Whats barons signature move?!?! he pulls up n jacks up too many wild shots. Now perhaps he hasnt found himself in dunleavy's system, n i shall i give him the beneift of the doubt, but he still needs to craft sum effective one on one move that can potentially get us out of trouble when no one is scoring or when we need a crucial basket. Furthermore, another issue wit the clips in general is defense. WE DONT HAVE GOOD PERIMETER DEFENSE PERIOD. INterior D is ok. BUT the peremeter defense is the first line of defense. WHO IS GONA GUARD THE BEST PLAYER OF THE OTHER TIEAM!?!? Before we had q.ross n he was excellent. TOO MANY GUARDS DRIVE IN N GET LAYUPS. Gordon has solid D but its not enough. REMEBER DEFENSE CREATES OFFENSE n easy points n opportunites for baron n others to run n gun.. I WISH THORNTON CAN TURN INTO A PRINCE KIND OF DEFENDER BUT IDK. FINALLY WHATS THE DIRECTION OF THE CLIPS!? ARE WE gona be a run n gone team ? are we gona be half court team n feed zach n kamen in the post? WE NeED TO FIND AN IDENTY. are WE gonA ReBUILD around gordon n our future 09 pick? OR are we jus adding pieces around the vets? I think the former is the best. REBUILD!! IT MIGHT TAKE TIME BUT WHATS THE HURRY!?! WERE STILL NOT GOOD ENOUGH TO WIN A TITLE not with CAvs n Lakers dominating with this team. REBUILD AROUND GORDON N FUTURE YOUNG GUNS AS WE DID BACK IN THE DAYS wit MILES N Q richardson n Maggette n brand. THATS Y PEOPLE FALL IN LOVE WIT THE clips. THEY WERE YOUNG we watched em develop n thus we felt they were ours, they were authentic clipper players n hence we fall in love wit them, They were not traveling vets like camby n ricky davis n zack n novak n fred jones etc. who have no real attatchment wit the team n its history n thus can quite get that feelin for em like we did for the guys we watched n grow up infront of our eyez. O n can we move kamen PLEASE maybe move thorton too n obviously fire dunleavy n jus let him run the team as GM. Bring in avery johnson or wizards ex coach jordan, sum new voice. OR MAYBE EVEN SAM CASSELL.. Appreciate anyones time who took to read this .. ONE LOVE
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ClippaChick said May 06, 2009

It's time that you say what you mean and mean what you say. Yes we all know the whole betrayal of EB had you trippin in the beginning but you are supposed to be a professional and you were contractually obligated to work hard and earn the outrageous salary you just got. You and the whole organization didn't. Of course the Nation knows it starts at the top but you guys punked out a lot and just gave up on plenty occasions. This is the first season in a long time that I couldn't excuse anything about this team. You were bad and I think you guys liked it. Dunleavy has lost this team and should be replaced. Simple. Sterling needs to actually become involved with the business side and make wise basketball choices like he would a real estate deal or sell the team. Easy. You are all professional athletes. Take some pride in that and realize that you get paid to play a game. Enough said. ClippaChick out!!!
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Fi5VExSTARS said May 17, 2009

look i know l.a.'z ya home n everything n ive been really mad at u since u left but itz all brushed off now but fa realz though we want u back in The Bay man u gotta come back
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gilh03 said May 28, 2009

Boom, One Man fast break, Captain Jack, AR, Goose...Bring the Oracle back to life! Call Nellie and make it happen!!!
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