Knicks 102, Kings 97

OK, so I've tried about 12 different opening sentences, and I'm just gonna be straightforward and say that the Knicks played the Kings today, and it's also Martin Luther King Day, and there's a joke somewhere in there. If you find it, let me know. Either way, the Knicks outlasted the Kings in a very exciting battle, that featured 29 lead changes and 20+ point outbursts from Marbury, Curry, Kevin Martin, and Shareef.

The closing minute was particularly exciting. Crawford and Lee put the Knicks up by one with a haphazard runner and a pair of free throws, respectively (I probably didn't need to say respectively. You coulda guessed which was which). Shareef neé Shareef countered with a slick hook shot. Crawford came the other way and hit ANOTHER stupid runner. Then, Corliss Williamson pretty much iced it by setting an illegal screen out of bounds, allowing NY to regain possession and finish it with free throws.

Very exciting. The Traveling Pants (get it? Knickerbockers?) head to Washington on Wednesday to take on Gilbert Arenas and the streaky Wizards. Should be a good one.

Anyway, as I mentioned earlier, it is Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. Dr. King would be turning 77 today. I urge everyone who hasn't already to take a little time to read something about him or by him. King's autobiographical account of his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, Stride Toward Freedom, is what I believe to be one of the most interesting and inspiring works I've ever encountered. I'll leave you today with a little passage:

" Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals. Without persistent effort, time itself becomes an ally of the insurgent and primitive forces of irrational emotionalism and social destruction. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action"

Backatcha tomorrow, kids. Peace.

EDIT: Gilbert Arenas dropped 51 today. I love this guy.