RBI (232) Dirk Nowitzki...

I've posted about getting future NBA Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki's autograph before, but I recently added another piece to my collection. Dirk is a well known ttm signer, so I took a bit of a gamble and sent in a larger piece. I picked up a jersey online for a good price and dropped it off in the mail.

I've seen Dirk signed jerseys come back and was hopeful that I'd luck out to get a jersey signed with a good marker and signature. It turns out I was glad take the chance because now I have a Dirk Nowitzki autographed jersey that he hit with a very clean signature.

I'm really happy with what came back. I think it's a great that Dirk was willing to sign a jersey, and the jersey's Dirk autographed have all seemed to come back with a nice signature instead of a scribble. It took about a month and a half to come back.

The Dirk Nowitzki ttm address I've used is:

Dirk Nowitzki
American Airlines Center
2500 Victory Avenue
Dallas, TX 75219
USA

RBI (223) Dirk Nowitzki...

I was happily able to add future NBA Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki to my collection. Dirk's a known great TTM signer so getting Nowitzki's autograph in the mail was a no brainer.

Dirk's been named so far to 12-All Star teams, won an NBA championship, was the 2011 NBA Finals MVP and was the 2007 NBA MVP. He's the all-time leading scorer in Dallas Mavericks history and whenever he does decide to finally retire from playing basketball he'll be inducted into the Hall of Fame soon after.

I had Dirk Nowitzki autograph his 1998 Topps Finest rookie card. He got it back to me in only a few weeks and it came out great. I was little worried since it's a chrome that it would bubble but it came out perfectly.

Autograph Recap, 1st Annual Juglife Celebrity Softball Game 8/3/14

I went with my buddy David to Javale Mcgee's 1st Annual Juglife Celebrity Softball game held at UCLA's Easton Softball field. The game was an affordable graph costing only $15 to get inside, and all proceeds were supporting Juglife's bid to fundraise to support their efforts in 2015 to go build wells in Uganda to provide clean water. It's a great cause and McGee's doing good things raising awareness about an issue that may seem basic but is fundamental for life in that part of the world.

Before the game got underway I was able to get NBA center and surprise guest Andre Drummond's autograph on a floorboard piece after he was dropped off at the game. It was nice to get on the board after having struck out with Nick Young declining to sign for me on the way in.

After Drummond arrived I was able to get Denver guard Ty Lawson's autograph when he arrived to support his teammate's cause. Lawson showing up was awesome since he didn't come to play just to hang out and put his support behind Mcgee.

After Lawson showed up I went inside caught the rest of the game to watch the celebrities play ball. It was a blowout game and it even made the wire with Ray J making it on TMZ for blowing over Laura Govan on his way into 3rd base.

When the game wrapped up the Juglife crew set up some tables and the majority of the athletes came over and sat at the tables to sign autographs. John Wall and Nick Young had shown up to the event but they took off quickly without stopping at the tables to sign. Young only signed a few and Wall signed a bit before he came into the event, but I wasn't able to get either of their autographs.

At the tables Andre Drummond started signing but since I already got him and hadn't prepped for him I didn't get another floorboard signed. The next guy was the man himself, Javale McGee autographed two 8x10's for me. The first one was of him participating in the slam dunk contest.

The second 8x10 Mcgee signed was of him with the Wizards winning the tipoff against Yao Ming.

Next to McGee was Terrell Owens who autographed my 8x10 photo of him and Jerry Rice back in San Francisco.

Ty Lawson was signing so even though I got him on my photo I had him autograph a floorboard.

It wasn't a bad haul and there were even more celebrities in attendance than I had prepped for. Ray J autographed my ticket when I was walking out to my car. 

Omarion was in attendance with his wife, Damien Wayans, Laura Govan, and Doug Christie were also there. Those were the main celebrities that I recognized but a few minor celebs from vine, instagram, tv and music were also in the game.

Overall it was a great day getting a few NBA autographs and Terrell Owens who may go in the Hall of Fame in a few years. Javale's crew did a great job putting on one of the best charity events that I've been to in a while. He was really polite and donated a ton of items for the raffles that went on with nice prices throughout the game, and his guests were also great taking the time to sign for fans and come out. It's nice to see someone local bringing their star power to good use but still being accessible to fans. Bobby Wagner take notes, the Javale McGee softball event was how things are supposed to be.

Autograph Recap, Inland Empire Celebrity Bowling 7/14/14

I went to a new charity event, Inland Empire Celebrity Bowling hosted by Denver Broncos safety Omar Bolden and Seattle Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner. To be honest the event wasn't exactly great for myself and fellow graphers.

The primary goal and what really sold us on going was news that Bobby Wagner's teammate Russell Wilson was supposed to be in attendance. The handler at the door was apparently from his passing camp and said he would be coming to the event latter on so we happily made our donation and went inside.

Now here's where things get a little murky. The event was great in that it had all you can eat ribs, chicken and sides and unlimited cocktails with a decent DJ. Everyone seemed to have a good time. In attendance to begin the event with Bolden and Wagner was Broncos safety Duke Ihenacho and Steelers linebacker Chris Carter. Bolden, Duke and Carter were great being really social, very funny and generally everything you would expect from celebrity hosts at a charity event.

I started the day off getting Omar Bolden's autograph on my 8x10 photograph. It was great to meet and talk to him since I'm a big Bronco's fan and he had a great season for us.

After Bolden I got his fellow Broncos' safety Duke Ihenacho's autograph on an 8x10. I'm not really sure why but he signed it "#27" so maybe he's changing his number next season? But it doesn't make much sense since the photo he signed has number 33 on his jersey. It was that kind of day.

After Inhenaco signed not much action happened besides taking photos and goofing off with really awesome guy Chris Carter. He was one of the highlights of the event hanging out with us but we didn't bring anything for him. That was until we got Bobby Wagner's attention. Wagner came over to sign for us and he wasn't happy about it at all. He was short with us, seemed irritated we had different color pens for our different photos and would only sign one item each. I understand we didn't spend thousands to be there like some of the participants, but we made a donation just like every other person who was inside. No one tried dropping more than 2 items on him it just seemed unnecessary for him to come off like a jerk to us and to give us a rough time.

I'm not really sure what's the real difference between us asking him to sign our photos and other attendees asking him to sign their tshirts. We came prepared to meet the host of the event and wanted a nice item from the event. We donated just as much as some of the other guests who were treated much more politely. Maybe Bobby didn't want us at the event and it shows, but you signing two photos and not glaring when I ask for a photo together makes this a better event that draws more graphers. Yeah you'll have to sign more but you'll make more money in donations for the American Heart Association. I thought that was the point.

Matt didn't have anything for Wagner so he helped me out and got my other Bobby Wagner photo autographed. As you can see theres a random mark under the "B" because Wagner marked the photo with the sharpie before signing it. I appreciate the help in getting it done, but come on Bobby. Really? Regardless I'm glad to have both my photos done so I'm finished getting Bobby Wagner's autograph and have a Superbowl Champion's autograph in my collection.

Russell Wilson never ended up showing up. Twitter showed us he went out to dinner somewhere by the beach instead of showing up to his teammates event. A teammate who had just gone and spent time at Wilson's own camp the day before. Nice support right?

Someone who did have a lot of support was Darren Collison. As the event was wrapping up and we were walking out the door I literally shoulder checked Matt to stop walking as Collison walked right through the front door inside past us. He made the drive from LA to Rancho to spend maybe 25 minutes saying hi to the guests still in attendance taking photos and signing for everyone who was left and asked him. We overheard him saying he didn't realize that the event ended so early and he seemed genuinely surprised. But it was great to see him come by and immediately make himself available to fans.

I ended up getting this Darren Collison 8x10 photograph autographed as the best autograph right at the buzzer to make the day worthwhile graphing wise. I'm sure Clippers fans will agree with me saying it'll be rough seeing him in Sacramento playing for the Kings now instead of in Los Angeles.

Now don't get me wrong. I had come to the event from a long weekend at work. I got my moneys worth from the catering and had a good time meeting players on my favorite football team and getting a few autographs. But the attitude Wagner had and the handler telling us Wilson would come only for him to skip out on it was really disappointing. I'm down to support good causes but I'm not sure if I'll be back next year.

Autograph Recap, Reggie Bullock 6/14/14 at Dr. Alex Liu's Practice

As I previously posted Dr. Alex Corbin Liu hosted an appearance by Clippers player Reggie Bullock at his practice in Rowland Heights. It was a good chance to pick up an NBA autograph at an affordable price, and the limited number of appearances made by members of the team this past season made me jump at the chance.

Reggie made a prompt arrival and the signing started on time. The line moved along quickly with Reggie signing and taking photos with fans.

I was able to get this Reggie Bullock 8x10 photograph autographed and inscribed "Rookie Season" by Reggie. It came out great and I'm really glad to have made it out to the signing. The North Carolina product was selected by the Clippers in the 1st round of the 2013 NBA Draft and provided limited minutes off the bench. Hopefully next season he can provide some more firepower off the bench. Regardless it was a great experience at Dr. Liu's event and I look forward to making it out to more in the future. Definitely keep an eye out here for more postings of the events that Dr. Liu will host.

You can follow Reggie Bullock's Twitter @ReggieBullock35

Autograph Opportunity Reggie Bullock June 14, 2014

So here's a great NBA autograph opportunity if you're a fan of the Clippers. 2013 LA Clippers 1st round pick Reggie Bullock will be making his first public appearance at the practice of Dr. Alex Corbin Liu.

Bullock will be at the Rowland Heights practice June 14, 2014 with autographs on any item only $15 and includes inscriptions. Mail order is available for this signing so if you're a Los Angeles Clippers autograph collector from out of state I'd definitely take advantage of this signing.

Autograph Opportunity, Michael Cage April 5, 2014

Well folks it's time to pass along another great autograph opportunity. Dr. Alex Corbin Liu will be hosting an autograph signing for a great cause at his Rowland Heights practice. Former NBA player Michael Cage will be doing a Meet and Greet to support the Michael Cage Foundation for Scholarships & Sports Programs for Underprivileged Kids.

The signing will happen Saturday April 5, 2014 and is another great opportunity to get an NBA autograph in the Los Angeles area. If you have the chance, to check out the signing be sure to go by.

RPS (7) Drew League Playoffs 8/10/13

I finally decided to go into LA to go check out the legendary Drew League. David and Benson have been telling me about how cool its been this year and with the playoffs here I decided to end my summer with some fun getting autographs at the Drew League.

If you plan on going to the Drew League you need to get there early, it gets packed quickly and once they're filled they're filled and you can't get in. I opted around that since this was my finial summer autograph adventure so I decided to donate to the Drew League foundation and secured myself an assigned seat courtside for the day. Beyond graphing I was really looking forward to catching some playoff basketball with top amateurs, European league players and NBA pros. The way I looked at it, when else would I ever be able to sit court side next to some of these players.

The first game I caught had Baron Davis on the court having a good time.

After his game I was able to get this Baron Davis autographed 8x10 photo from his time with the Golden State Warriors.

After he signed Baron was super cool taking photos and saying hi to everyone as he hung out to watch some of the other games. He even took a camera himself to record some of the games and interviewed some of the other NBA players who showed up. Tayshaun Prince showed up to just watch a few games and I got a photo with him, but he didn't seem very happy about it. I didn't have an 8x10 but Brandon Jennings showed up to play and led his team to a win. Then Davis went and interviewed Kenyon Martin who showed up to watch former teammate NickYoung's MHP play.

Young and teammate Gilbert Arenas almost beat LAUNFD but Areanas missed a game tying free throw in the final seconds to give the ball back to LAUNFD for them to score on the final possession. Arenas disappeared after the game but I was able to get Nick Young to autograph this 8x10 photo of him laying down a dunk for the Wizards in front of Ron Artest.

After getting Nick Young's autograph I got a delicious grilled beef hot dog and some Drew Aide on David's recommendation. One word. Delicious. Brandon Jennings even got in line to get the same thing.

There were some good games throughout the day but the main event was the Money Gang's playoff game. The Game shot me down when I tried to get his attention after MHP's game and he was just walking around the gym and talked to actor Omar Miller who showed up to watch. Ron Artest aka Metta World Peace showed up to play for Money Gang but bolted through the gym with security. The top surprise though was James Harden showing up to play.

Harden, Artest and Game tried to get it done but they weren't able to pull off a win despite Harden having a chance at two quarter ending baskets. I was however able to get this James Harden autographed 8x10 photograph from his time with Team USA.

Big thanks to David for the tip that Harden won't sign anything from his time with the Thunder since that's what I probably would have printed. When I asked Harden to sign he looked at me then leaned in to check what photograph I had of him then nodded and reached out to take the photo and sharpie. I'm really happy to put a James Harden autograph in my NBA collection and he's definitely the best player in it by far.

Going to the Drew League playoffs was definitely an awesome way to end my summer and it's something I'm really glad I did. I wasn't able to get everyone but getting Nick Young, Baron Davis and James Harden autographs at the Drew League were worth it besides being able to watch some great basketball.

RBI (123) Lamar Odom. Read.

Lamar Odom signed at a Kia dealership in Glendale. He was drafted by the Clippers. He won 2 NBA championships and a 6 man of the year award.

I went with my family to the signing. He was 45 minutes late and didn't seem to care. He was staring at the clock and barely acknowledging anyone. I went first and brought Lamar some gummy bears and a 8x10 of him on the Lakers. He took the candy mumbled a thanks and threw them over his shoulder to a handler behind him. Took my photo and started complaining about how he doesn't understand why people bring photos from 4-5 years ago.

My mom went next and he gave her this terrible autograph in gold while complaining about how I brought that photo. She was extremely upset that he was complaining about a fan who waited all day for him and then saw that he gave a disgusting autograph to another while he was being rude about someone who liked him.

My dad went next and he got the last photo signed nicely. I guess he was over complaining about someone who wanted to acknowledge the highest point of his career.

I used to like Lamar Odom. Now I can care less of him as a person. Have fun on "Keeping up with the Kardashians" Lamar.

RBI (114) Practice Makes Perfect...

Or at the very least it helps you kick around the NBA for a while. I went to the Clippers vs. Bulls game at Staples Center and was able to purchase Small Forward Matt Barnes' Los Angeles Clippers practice jersey.

Barnes was a 2nd round pick out of UCLA but was repeatedly cut and didn't make his NBA debut until 2004 with the Clippers. A bumpy start to his career finally leveled off and he has been able to find regular playing time since 2006. He has been a strong addition for teams playing at a high level signing with the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Clippers during their time as playoff contenders.

I was happy to pick up the jersey and now need to be on the lookout for a chance to get Barnes to sign it. Since I'm still not the greatest at NBA signings anyone who spots one of Barnes please let me know. On a side note it is kind of funny that I picked up the Barnes jersey since he was the best player available seeing as the past few seasons he's been a Laker who I've actually disliked. All's forgiven as long as he keeps playing tough for the Clippers.

UPDATE: I was able to get the Barnes jersey autographed at an in store appearance.

RBI (104) A Hometown player...

For a while I've been wanting to get into graphing basketball players. David does it, and he does it well with all his photos coming out pretty nicely. Being so close to LA with 2 NBA teams I suppose there's really no excuse for me to not try out a few events this coming season when baseball season lets out. But luckily I didn't have to go to LA for my first attempt at actually going to get a specific player. Minnesota Timberwolves guard Malcolm Lee is from my hometown and I knew he would be at an event so I printed out a few photos to try my hand at the NBA.

Lee was a 2nd round pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, taken 43rd overall by the Chicago Bulls and traded as part of a package for the draft's 23rd overall pick. An injury and the strike shortened season made his debut season limited but he has the chance to be a contributor on a developing Timberwolves team. Lee was drafted out of UCLA where he was on the 2011 Pac-10 All Defensive Team and All Pac-10 First Teamer.

Malcolm Lee autographed these two 8x10's photographs for me. One is from his days as a star UCLA basketball player and the other from his time in the NBA. I'm happy to start my NBA collection with a local guy.

Balk 8 - A pair of off topic autographs

Even though baseball is my big passion and focus for collecting, living in Southern California does have it's occasional perks by being able to run into various sports athletes and celebrities when you're just out and about.

This is post is a dual post since they're kind of related but I did get each signature on separate days. While most of Southern Californians are now flying their "Clipper Nation" flag, I had mine up a bit longer. Last season I went to 70 something baseball games and one of the main reasons I would miss a game was work or to go to a Clipper game.

Last season I was with my family getting a late bite to go and some gas for the trip home after a Clippers-Suns game when my dad looked out the window at a really nice car pulling up to get gas. When the door opened he immediately said, "Hey, that's Brian Cook."

We waited a minute for him to get situated and then asked Brian if he could sign my ticket stub and told him how happy we were that he was back in LA after a few seasons away. Though I'm a Clipper fan, Laker games were always predominantly what made it onto TV and Cook was a 1st round selection by them in the 2003 Draft. There are few things as exciting as a momentum changing 3-pointer and through his Laker years he was a talented 3-point specialist. Brian Cook autographed my ticket and we said thank you before walking back to fill up his tank and head home.

This season Brian started with the Clippers, but as many of you are aware the fortunes of the team has drastically changed with the addition of Chris Paul and his role was reduced until he was finally traded. One benefit of the changing fortunes of the Clips, is the addition of more high profile fans. On my way into a game against the San Antonio Spurs, I spotted Rainn Wilson, better known as Dwight Schrute, on the way into Staples Center. I was able to get a Rainn Wilson autograph on one of my cards.

Like I said, living here has some perks. Not a bad pair of random autographs to add to the collection.