LA was the place to be this week with the Espy awards taking place at the Nokia Theatre on Wednesday night. Earlier in the week, I had the opportunity to attend a pre-ESPY bash at the famed Playboy Mansion. The Fifth Bridge Celebrity Kickoff Party presented by XYQ Technology and sponsored by New Era Cap Company, was the perfect way to get things going.
Of course some of your favorite jocks were in attendance and I had the opportunity to speak with a few on the red carpet. Check out what NBA Ballers JaVale McGee and Gary Forbes had to say about their off season activities and goals for next season, along with Jets CB Antonio Cromartie on playing with Tim Tebow and Dallas star Josh Henderson on his favorite teams.
JaVale wouldn’t let the cat out of the bag about what team he was leaning towards signing with but he did tell me he’s enjoyed playing in Denver. I asked will we see the return of Pierre – McGee’s alter ego who he creatively used in various videos throughout the year – and he said once he’s signed we’ll see more of Pierre.
I asked Antonio Cromartie how he felt about Tim Tebow joining the Jets.
“initially I wasn’t sure about the move but after spending time with him and being around him in the locker room it’s exciting.”
Cro was also joined on the red carpet by his wife Terricka. I asked them how they manage to stay so active on social media sites and not let it interfere with their relationship. Cro said “by deleting his Twitter” and Terricka said she doesn’t focus on the negativity.
Newly traded Gary Forbes is now with the Houston Rockets. Gary plans to spend the off season getting better. He’s planning to have a breakout season for 2012-2013 season.
We also talked a little fashion. If you notice the logo on his shirt, it is the silhouette of a female with her undergarments around her ankles – absolutely appropriate for the Playboy Mansion, no? The shirt is by Plain Jane. His favorite designer is GStar.
Ladies, Gary’s smile is incredible. There are whispers that he’s dating a “Basketball Wife” (LA cast) I’ll be sure to keep you up to date on that one.
Josh Henderson plays John Ross jr. on TNT’s revial of the hit 80’s nighttime drama, Dallas. Josh revealed to me that growing up, he had plans to become a professional baseball player. His favorite teams are the Cowboys, the Texas Rangers, Mavs and Thunder… you can tell where his roots are, yes? He’s from Dallas.
He’s still upset about the finals. Again, I’d just like to point out how incredibly attractive he is! Those EYES!! Dallas has been picked up for a second season. Love it!
Also on hand to celebrate, Knicks star JR Smith, Wizards Trevor Ariza, Past and present NFL Players included Vince Young, Ray Edwards- he said you’ll have more calendars and a clothing line, True ink, to look forward to- Dashon Goldson, Dhani Jones, Warren Moon and Desean Jackson.
The event was a great mix of jocks and entertainers including Oscar winning actor Jamie Fox, Joe Torry (Comedian), Korn, and Josh Henderson (TNT’s Dallas) – pause for one second, Josh is DEFINITELY my new boo in my head! He’s also a former baseball player that has love for the OKC Thunder… We’re like a match made in heaven ::giggles::
There were also a few “throwbacks” on the scene like Scarface’s Steven Bauer, Corey Feldman and Ron Jeremey. To quote my friends over at ManKindUnplugged, “what would a visit to the Playboy Mansion be without seeing an ex-child star and an old porn star.” You can check out more photos from the night over there.
