Meek Moments

2011-05-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

WE'VE MOVED!

Check out my new and improved blog:

http://2meekmoments.blogspot.com/

Bermuda I'm Here!

2011-05-06T04:49:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I'mmmmmmmmm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack (sorry, I couldn't resist)!

It's been a long time, but through my next few blogs, you'll understand why I've been away for so long. I'll try my best to not let it happen again (I said "try" - lol). Anyway, I'm here in the beautiful country of Bermuda. Y'all when I say beautiful, I mean BEAUTIFUL! The water, the weather, the people - everything. In just 1 1/2 days, I've been blessed with the team that I'm with.

Starting with David Bascome, who is looked at as the Michael Jordan of Bermuda. He's a former soccer player, and the Commissioner of the Island Soccer League. Some of you in the US might know him as one of the coaches for the Baltimore Blast team. He's a soccer legend, but more than that, he's a COMMUNITY legend. He founded Hope4Life (eerie, right?), which helps keep the youth engaged and off of drugs and violence. Great guy, and I'll be sharing more information later.

Quency (my manager) has been doing a lot of work here, and he's told me so much about Bermuda. They even had me featured on the front page of the daily newspaper here a couple weeks ago. I'm heading to some schools this morning to speak to the youth - as was announced here. I'm excited to see some of the young women here play tonight, and I look forward to hosting them when they come to Phoenix later this month during training camp. I'll be doing even more, but I'll save that for later.

I've had some small tours, and was blessed to have dinner with the former Minister of National Security, Colonel David Burch. I've seen one of the best beaches in the world - Horseshoe Bay Beach - and learned a lot about the culture and the various foods. One thing I want to say is that the Bermuda Triangle is nothing to be afraid of. Don't let that story scare you away from coming here. I look forward to seeing more, but I have to run to go speak at Cedar Bridge Academy and Berkley Institute! I'll blog more later!

Until next time...

Meek

From Russia - With Love

2011-04-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

I know that it has been some time since I last spoke to you all. But I have to tell you that I have been taking that time to get a closer relationship with God as well as set some quiet time aside to be able to hear Him, without having any distractions. I hope you all forgive me for trying to gain that closer relationship with my Lord and Savior.

I will tell you - when I first got to Kursk Russia, I struggled big time and said (as well as still say) that this is by far one of the toughest places that I have played in. I asked God for about a month of me struggling to be here, why did He have to take me so far away to be miserable? He let me know that He needed my FULL attention and believe me He definitely got it. LOL.
There is not very much at all to do here in this city. There is a small bowling alley, a theater that is Russian (no subtitles either), and a small grocery store/mall. To top it all off, I came here to a team that had just lost out of Euro-Cup so there were only 5 games to be played within 89 days! That's right 89 days! Five games in 3 months! Now if you don't see that as time to spend with God, then I dont know what else I could do!

Now with all this negativity that I have started this blog out with, i now have to share with you the positiveness in it all.

I have learned a lot since being here. I have learned about myself, about others, and a little about this culture. I was told by one of my coach's husbands that as a young child, Russians were taught that they only have one enemy and that is Americans! I say this to say that through the game of basketball, this sport that I am blessed to play, I am not able to see that with all the laughter and fun that we have with one another. There is definitely a language barrier, but we are somehow able to understand and respect one another greatly. My American teammate Michelle Snow (San Antonio Stars) has helped me out tremendously and I am thankful that the Lord allowed our paths to cross like this. I have been able to grow and be helped in growing and vice versa, and it has been great. Michelle definitely has a great heart and loves helping others. The genuineness (say that 5 times fast!) in her is something that is rare. You don't find that too often, so I am truly happy that I got the chance to be her teammate.

This has been a growing experience for me and I have thoroughly enjoyed every last minute of it.

My mother and one of my friends was able to come over and visit. I am happy that i could help them with that experience. Neither one had ever been out of the country, and I can tell you they were only here for a week, but they will have a year's worth of stories to tell. My mom was supposed to stay with me the entire month, but she said she couldn't take it - LOL - so i think that her visit will go down as the shortest visit ever! She was ready to go after 2 days, but she stretched it out to 6, and to America she went back. I didn't argue with her though, nor did I make her feel bad about it, I knew it was difficult and it was her first experience so I understood. The good thing about all of that was that she got the chance to see what I have to go through as a professional and she promised never to question me whenever I say I am tired again LOL and i will definitely hold her to that!

Well everyone I am writing to you right now as we partake in a 16 hour train ride and it 3:45AM here so I guess I will get me some rest. I apologize again for the long wait but please know that during that time I did think about you all, and I grew into a better person.

I know that the difficulties with my website kept you out of the loop with things also, but i am working to get that back up really soon. I appreciate all of your patience and more than anything your support.

We have just competed the first round of the playoffs and it was definitely a total team effort. I am so proud of my teammates and how big they stepped up. To come back and beat a team two games in the row to advance speak volumes for us. Loree Moore and Jessica Davenport led their team well.

Well now its time to prepare for the next round. So until next time...... I hope everyone is doing well.

Meek

Updates Coming

2011-03-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

It's been a minute, but I'm going to be updating you all soon. My site is going to be back up VERY soon. We're going to make things better than ever! Please keep following me on twitter!! @Quickdeuce

See you all soon!

Meek

More Meek Moments!!

2011-01-21T06:31:00.000-08:00

What's up everybody!

I am so excited to share with you all that has been going on. I have been resting my body, but working out and staying in shape as well. I have been spending time with my loved ones and great friends.

But I have some big news! You ready? You sure?

I was blessed with a horse for Christmas! Yup, that's right, a horse! It's a black and white Quarter Horse and I need some help naming him! It's been about a month, and I haven't come up with anything yet! Can you all help? The name that I choose will be highlighted in a future issue of my HOPE Inquirer Newsletter.

I also have a dog, a Bichon named Max that has been putting me through the ringer, but he is really growing on me. I guess I can somewhat understand what all my dog loving teammates be going through now. I'm sure I'm surprising all of you, but I'm not the Dog Whisperer or Horse Whisperer or anything like that. I'm just enjoying life. Other than that, I will say that life has been good.

I want to share with you all what has been happening with Meek Moments: Decisions Decisons Decisions. It has really been going well I am truly blessed. I want to give a special shoutout to My Tiger Family right now. Trev Faulk, who is like my brother, supports me on a daily basis. He was an outstanding football player at LSU and played a few years in the NFL. Kevin Faulk, who plays for the New England Patriots, purchased 200 copies of my Meek Moments books and donated them to Cohn Elementary. This all happened on Wednesday of this week, as I presented the books to the 3rd and 4th graders and had a blast. I also, visited St. John Elementary and Iberville Elementary where the kids were adorable and appreciative of me being there. Dr. Fitch, a local pedatritician in the plaquemine area, purchased 300 hundred books and divided them up throughout both of these schools. Talk about a great donation and great support!!!

I had a wonderful time yall and cannot express enough about the gratitude that those kids showcased. I had my Mom and my Trainer alongside me today and it was an awesome time giving back to the community and enjoying great company as well. After finishing up with the schools, Coach Williams (my trainer) received a call from Randall Gay (another LSU guy that also plays for the New Orleans Saints now) to tell him that he wanted to purchase 200 books also! What a great thing! He shared with me that his son really loved the book and he brought it to his school and showed it to his teacher and they also loved the book! So now they are reading it to the class and giving them homework on the book as a part of their reading homework! Can you believe that!!! I am so blessed and thankful for this and all the help that I have received in funding this scholarship; as well as helping brighten up so many kids days and lives. I know that things are moving in the right direction and that all is going to turn out greatly.

I could not have asked for better timing with all that is happening and how it is happening. I just want to continue to get out in the community as well as share my book with as many that are willing to read it and hope it has an impact on them. I would like for those of you that are helping to continue to help and also get others on board. Together I know we all can help make a difference. Thank you all for taking the time for listening. I will be back blogging on the regular.

Until then.....

Meek

Happy Martin Luther King Jr Day!

2011-01-17T10:56:00.000-08:00

On behalf of The HOPE Foundation, I want to say a special thanks as we celebrate the great Martin Luther King, Jr. on this day. Enjoy a reminder to the great speaker, motivator, and inspiration to the WORLD!

I HAVE A DREAM

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.
Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.
But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languishing in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. So we have come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.
In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.
It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.
But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.
We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone.
As we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied, as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating "For Whites Only". We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.
I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive.
Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed. Let us not wallow in the valley of despair.
I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.
I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."
I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.
I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.
I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.
I have a dream today.
I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.
I have a dream today.
I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.
This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.
This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."
And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!
Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!
Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California!
But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!
Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!
Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.
And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Meek's HOPE Update

2010-12-16T06:16:00.000-08:00

If you've been away for a minute, we wanted to update you on Temeka Johnson's recent travels and experiences.. After a busy Thanksgiving time, where she spent helping serve those in need, and provide hope for those needing that extra push, she's now working hard before the Christmas holidays..

Currently out in Arizona, Meek has been lending a hand in the community.. While the off-season is dull for some, it's never dull for Meek.. Thus far she's been featured helping to build houses w/ Habitat for Humanity and the Phoenix Mercury team (and it's supporters).. You can read/view the Fox News report here:

Phoenix Mercury Players Donate Time Building a Home

Even bigger, though, she's keeping the Phoenix Mercury and WNBA name alive while giving the fans something to be excited about leading up to the season.. Just her face in the community, provides an extra boost to get fans through the long season of withdrawal from WNBA games.. She's meeting w/ coaches, fans, season ticket holders and more, during her week in the Phoenix area.. She's not stopping, either, with readings for the youth scheduled and other surprises!

Be on the lookout for more, and we'll be sure to post pictures very soon!

Way to go Meek!

By: Fuzion Athlete Management

WAFB Features Temeka and her book, "Decisions, Decisions, Decisions"

2010-11-18T06:46:00.000-08:00

WAFB Channel 9 was kind enough to interview me about my latest project. Check out this feature on the news about me and my book "Decisions, Decisions, Decisions."

Magnolia Woods Elementary School Pizza Party!

2010-11-08T13:32:00.000-08:00

WNBA’s Temeka Johnson & HOPE Foundation Will Host Magnolia Woods Elementary Pizza Party

WHO: WNBA Phoenix Mercury / Former LSU Star PG Temeka Johnson, HOPE Foundation

WHAT: Temeka Johnson and the HOPE Foundation will honor students that performed well on the LEAP Test with a surprise pizza party!

WHEN: Wednesday, November 10, 2010

WHERE: Magnolia Woods Elementary School, 760 Maxine Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70808

TIME: 11:30AM – 12:30PM CST

MORE: In honor of the students that exceeded LEAP Test score expectations, Temeka Johnson and the HOPE Foundation will show their support for the students by awarding the students with a surprise pizza party.

ABOUT: Heaven Opens People’s Eyes (H.O.P.E.) was launched during the summer of 2008. The foundation was established by WNBA player, Temeka Johnson, to provide H.O.P.E. to people across the world. HOPE’s goal is to inspire youth, families and communities to reach their own goals and objectives and lead a more emotionally healthy lifestyle. www.MeeksHOPE.org for more information!

CONTACT: Fuzion Athlete Management
773-359-3417 (office)
Quency@FuzionAM.com

On-Site Contact:

Ebonie Mathews

Ebonie@FuzionAM.com

# # #

Times-Picayune: Oct 28th, 2010

2010-10-29T05:42:00.000-07:00

Check out the new article on my visit Washington Montessori in Kenner, La.! I had a blast. Read the article HERE.

Training Camp - On My Own

2010-10-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

Marvin Harvey - One of the BEST in the game!

Hey there I know the past few blogs have been about me getting out into the community, but this one is about me taking some time to better myself. I have been away training with my new shooting coach that I have partnered up with to help me as well as many others bring their game to another level. His name is Marvin Harvey, he runs a ready, rhythm, release program (ALL PRO MASTER YOUR SHOT). It is something really special, its not just about your game, its not about basketball, shooting, its about so much more. When I am around him I am like a sponge, trying to soak up everything that he's sharing. We both have a passion for sharing and giving, teaching, and expanding. I am so happy that i met him and that I have the opportunity to spend some time. Knowledge is Power and I'm constantly learning. Hopefully Ill be able to pass it on to the many that come behind!

Check out the things I've been learning:

Shooting - technique and reviewing things that were taught before but needed some polishing up. Analysis on everything that I do, and being able to see what it is that you need to correct and get better at is such a good thing.
Ball Handling - control with the touch, as well as many different drills to implement what I am working on and what I need to work on.

All I can say is that I really love it! So, I won't keep you all, just know that I working just as hard both on and off the court!

Until next time...

Meek

Making Moments!!

2010-10-19T15:06:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Today was another great day for me. I was blessed to be here another day, I am healthy and able to do things for myself, but of all, I was able to bless some kids today just by speaking with them.

Today I went to speak with the kids at MAS East School. It is a small school in size, but the love and care that is expressed there supersedes that tremendously. This is Breast Cancer Week and they are putting on a big event to bring awareness to their students about the importance of knowing about it. I think this is great. There will be a parade, balloons, everyone will have on their pink to support it, and I know that it will be great. I am so happy that I am being used to help touch so many people. It is truly an honor of mine and I am so humbled by it all. It is so amazing how what some people may think is small, is really really BIG to someone else. I am learning everyday, and every moment that I get to spend with people that it is so not about me, but how and what I can do to help others. And I love it.....

Until next time....

Meek

TALKING ABOUT GOAL SETTING

2010-10-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

Check out this video from EmpowHER of me talking about the importance of goals: http://bit.ly/arh4Bp

I am currently writing a book on motivation and success titled "Meek's Little Book of HOPE" and one of the chapters is dedicated to goal setting. Goals are like preparation. Goals are things that we all set in life to purposely put together a game plan for ourselves. I like to think of my goals as “stepping stones” or “footprints”.

As a leader, I know that the goals I set, others may follow, so it’s about setting the right goals. Goals that take effort to achieve. Not something as simple as waking up and going to work, but goals that have more long-term meaning and get us to that next step in life. What goals can you set to get to the next level?

The key to my goal-setting formula is a simple little phase that Coach Gunter taught me -- "Dream big...work hard!"

Family Literacy Night & Book Fair

2010-10-01T06:08:00.000-07:00

Reading Meek Moments to the 2nd grade!

WOOOOOOOOOOOOW is how I will start this one off.

If you are following me on Twitter @quickdeuce or on facebook Temeka Johnson you know that i went to Magnolia Woods Elementary last night! Magnolia is the first elementary school that I adopted and it was such a joy to go back to visit. I was a guest tonight to the Literacy Book Fair. I had the opportunity to meet some new parents, as well as see the kids again. I was so happy and excited to see the turnout of parents that came out to support the book fair and encourage their kids to read more and more books. All the smiles and hugs that I got from the kids was such a joy to my heart. I had a blast today! I also got a chance to share my book - Meek Moments Decisions Decisions Decisions! Everyone loved it. I read to the 2nd and 5th grade kids, parents, and teachers. They loved it.
As the evening began to wind down, the raffle that was being drawn throughout the night was approaching. There were some young adults there that are a part of this organization called City Year (there motto is Give a year "CHANGE THE WORLD" ) that was there to help with the auction prizes. These are some special young adults (they are called Corp Members) that serve full-time for 10 months, while providing more than 1700 hours of service.
They serve in schools full time as tutors, mentors, role models, and leaders of after school programs. These young Individuals help students stay on track, or get back on track to graduate by improving their course performance, attendance, and behavior. I am so happy that they are apart of the same school that I am. For more information on this organization visit www.cityyear.org. Overall I had a great time at the school and I pray that I can get back and do some things with the kids before I have to leave out.

Oh yeah I did forget to mention that the students and the teachers were dressed up in their favorite characters. I saw the goldie locks and the 3 bears, superman, batman, witch, etc. It was great to see them all together and supportive, plus it was great fun!

Until next time...

Meek

Old Friends and New Relationships

2010-09-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

Zachery HS Basketball Team

Good morning everyone!

Yesterday I went to visit Zachery High School. Their Girls basketball team is being coached by one of our own, April Brown. April played for Coach Gunter at LSU a year before I got there and I must tell you that she was definitely a joy to watch. And definitely a shooter! Last week she had asked me to come by and speak to her kids, and of course you all know i was going to say yes. I have to tell you upon arrival I was really impressed with this high school. There is so much being put into this school to help better the kids education, as well as their physical education. Their football stadium was nonetheless impressive, but then I get to the gymnasium and the new floor that was being built with the pullout goal and the court actually being ninety four feet was super impressive. There is also a theater room being put in that the ladies will have for themselves and not share with the guys. I dont know about you all but to me that is a very big thing. I was so pleased to see a school care so much about their girls program as they do their boys. After being shown around, I headed to the meeting room to address Coach Brown's Team. These young ladies were fun, well mannered, enjoyable, and pleasant if I may say so.

As I began to speak, I spoke with them about teamwork. The importance of knowing that everyone that is a part of the team, whether they score 30 points or 1 point it is just as important. That they are sisters that are fighting a battle together and they never need to lose sight of that.

I touched on hard work- going hard everyday, not just when people are watching you; all the time. That practices are hard and they are suppose to be hard, but the games are fun thats when you can showcase all that hard work that you have been putting in.

I touched on leadership- being that one that is going to stand up and stand out and not just sit back and allow your teammates to slack and not work hard. Knowing each other and their personality and know how to talk to each other at all times even in the heated moments.

There was so much that I got to say to them but the thing that I liked the most was that they asked questions. It started off with questions about my shoes LOL, Typical athletes, some would say! But if you know me you know that I do have a lot of them so that was an easy one. Then the questions went into conditioning, training, extra work, etc things that Coach Brown had already spoke with them about as well as put them through most of the things that we do, or did while at LSU so that went well.

They also asked the difference between the WNBA and College. And i told them that the game in the WNBA is a little more faster, physical, and a lot of travel. That is your job now, there is no one there telling you what to do and staying on you to do your job. That its not as family oreinted as the college level, but it is still family. In college you have to do almost everything together, dress the same, etc. In the W its ok if you dont go to certain things so to say, but the sisterhood and the bond is still there.

Overall the visit went well. I cant wait to see them actually play. They all seemed like some fighters and I believe Coach Brown when she expressed to me how hard they work.

Until next time...

Meek

End of the Week

2010-09-27T06:13:00.000-07:00

As you all know I have been a little busy last week, and I have filled you in on most of it. But I want to share the rest. On Thursday I went to the Grand Opening of the New LSU facility for both Men and Women's Basketball. I want to let you know that the place is unbelievable. Both teams now have their own practice facility which allows them to practice at the times that they feel is best. There is no sharing with other indoor sports and there is no need for trying to figure out what times works best for which sport - it is something really special! There are so many people that shed their sweat, blood and tears in the PMAC as well as in the Lady Tiger uniform and I am so happy that the women are starting to gain respect. It was a real honor to be there for such a great event. I know the current Lady Tigers will utilize that facility to the best of their ability!

On Friday, I attended Washington Montessori School again lol, but this time it was to read Meek Moments: Decisions Decisions Decisions to the entire school. The students were so respectable, and they were very tuned in. After reading to them I asked them some questions about the book, my grandmother, and of course LSU and I gave away some HOPE wrist band and 2 of my LSU bobble head dolls to the kids that got the answers correct. It was a very pleasant moment for me. I really enjoyed the kids and I cannot wait to get back for my next event. I think the new principal there Mrs. Soniat, Secretary Mrs. Leslie, and all the teachers and staff at that school really care about those student and I am super happy to be able to bring some happiness and a little excitement to those kids. This week will be another full week for me and like I mentioned before I promise to keep you all updated.

Until then........

Meek

Busy Days

2010-09-23T03:51:00.000-07:00

Great Baton Rouge Support Team!

Hey there!

I told you all that I was going to start blogging more often. Here is what occurred yesterday..

My uncle came over to my house this morning to fix a couple of things for me. He did a little painting, and hung up some pictures and things which is something that I needed done for awhile LOL. It's so good to be home to get that accomplished! From there I went to have lunch with Stan Douglas and his daughter, as well as with Coach Starkey. I appreciate both of these men, for I know that they are in my corner 100%. We had a great meal at Cope Lands Restaurant and some great conversations.

I always enjoy spending time with the people that I dont always get to spend time with, but know that they are always there for me. This was a great day, and I topped it off with a workout session, even though I am struggling with a little cold, but hey I have to get it in. This is what happens when you are around 1st graders all the time LOL I love it!

Until next time,

Meek

A Busy Off-Season

2010-09-22T04:42:00.000-07:00

My Mother Giving Away My Shoes To Students That Need Them

Hello everyone, I know I know I know it has been a while since I have updated you so let me start off by saying I truly apologize for that. But, get comfortable in your seats or wherever you are reading this because I have a lot to catch you all up on!

I know you all know that our season didn't end the way that we would have hoped, but believe me we did learn a lot about ourselves and we all will be working extra hard to come back and bounce back! Trust me on that one!

The day after we lost was my birthday and even though I was still upset, I was fortunate enough to share that day with some special ladies (Phoenix Mercury). I know that we were all feeling a certain way about the game but we still managed to come together and have a little fun. I love them ladies! And appreciate each and every one of them more than I can truly express.

After that I made my way back home, and it was such a bitter sweet time when I first got there but hey that's life. My mentor's (father figure/training coach), wife had passed away and I attended the funeral. I was sad while there but I was also happy, because I know Mrs. Williams is no longer suffering and that she is now resting in a peaceful place. Coach Williams is a strong man, and has been there for his two kids like none other. I'm so happy that we are in each others life. I learn so much from him, even when he is not trying to teach me. Love ya Coach.

Next on my plate was going back to the 1st grade. My little niece was not doing everything that she needed to be doing in school, and she was starting to somehow think that she can disturb the class and not listen to her teacher. So I went to her school and sat with her in her classroom. I refuse to allow her to settle for less and I want her to know that she can do better and be better! Sometimes kids just want to know that someone cares, and I'm here to let her know as well as show her that I do! I am proud to say that she is doing much better but is still a work in progress. But now her teacher sends good notes home for her instead of bad ones and my little niece is starting to have all of the confidence that she needs to continue to do well in school. I want to tell all the parents that are truly dedicated to their kids and their school work. I really tip my hat off to you because it is a lot of hard work. I can also tell you that my respect level for teachers have gone up even more, as well. I have watched firsthand teachers taking out the time with some kids that just don't seem to get it, or not getting much help from home, etc. But these teachers really want to try and help these kids. That in itself is extremely difficult because of the number of students in each class, plus it is difficult to stop and help 11 or 12 students when the others are getting it and catching on to the material. If there is no assistant to assist, then the larger the class, the more the students fall back. It's sad but very understandable. (Parents, teachers are doing so much to help out our children, why don't we show the same concern?) I am a firm believer that it takes a village to raise a child and even though we have gotten away from that motto, the teachers are still holding up their end of it. And as a product of that myself I truly am thankful to those teachers that are still doing that. Ok I may have gotten off the subject a little, but I needed to share that with you all. THE KIDS OF TODAY ARE THE KIDS OF TOMORROW! They are our future! Let's do better by them as a whole everyone!

Ok ok ok I'm off of that, I will tell you about my birthday gathering that I had this past weekend. Yes it is a little late but I had asked that it get pushed back and so glad that I did. My Grandmother's only living Sister was there and I was so happy to see her. I got to see a lot of my family that I hadn't seen in years, as well as some that I had not even met yet. It was such a beautiful day. Everyone enjoyed themselves and had a great time. I spent most of the day catching up with everyone, and of course playing with all the kids. I played football, jumped in the space walk, played basketball, and did a little racing. Yes, all of that, and best believe I was extremely tired when I got home! LOL. But the kids were super excited so you all know that made me happy.

From there I went on to do some cleaning and my mom came to my house with me. I went through so much stuff that was just sitting in my closet that I had never even worn. The tags and everything were still on them. As my mom stood there shaking her head at me I just kept handing her the things that I didn't want. After I went through all the clothes, I then went through my shoes. I was able to give her at least 35 pairs of shoes that I had sitting in my closet that I was not going to wear. I was so happy to have her and my sisters there because I would have panicked without their help. I'm not sure if many of you know, but my mom drives the school bus (yes its a family thing we all have a passion for kids) and she was happy to be able to bring some of the kids that she knew needed things, some things that they can really use. So that made me very happy knowing that it will help someone out that definitely needs it.

Don't worry I'm coming to an end. I want to finish up by letting you know that I will be doing some readings of my book Decisions Decisions Decisions (Meek Moments) to Washington Elementary (my Grandmother's school), and Magnolia Woods Elementary - my adopted elementary school. I am looking forward to this event! I will also be meeting with some other people about my book, as well as trying to promote it some more. I am going to try to hit up every book store that I come across and see if they are willing to carry it in stores. Right now you can order it off of BarnesandNoble.com, Borders.com, and Amazon.com, which is a great accomplishment in itself. You can also get it off of Meekshope.org - my website. I am working hard everyone, and I know with you all's help I can really do well with this book.

I want to thank Coach Starkey who has been in my corner since day one. He always manages to come through for me with whatever it is that I need him to. I have some things in the works while I am at home. I will fill you all in as it comes together.

Ok I'm done for now, I appreciate you taking the time to read this lengthy blog, but I felt like you all deserved to know. Also I will do a better job of keeping you all updated. I will try to blog at least once a week, or as soon as I do something. You all help me be who I am and I truly appreciate you.

Until next time,

Meek

Meek Talks Playoffs!

2010-08-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

Check out the video here!

ESPN.com Feature on Meek Moments

2010-08-24T05:18:00.001-07:00

Here's another one, everyone! Kelley Carter of ESPN.com interviewed me about the book, and it came out great! Check for it here!

Meek

WNBA.com Front Page Feature

2010-08-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

Check me out on the front page of WNBA.com! I was interviewed for my Meek Moments children's book!

WNBA Feature

White House Visit Blog in France

2010-07-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to Marion Darnet and Romain Chaib for showing me love in France for my White House Visit!

Lady Hoop Article

First Lady's "Let's Move" Blog!

2010-07-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

Also, our First Lady - Michelle Obama - also highlighted my blog on her Let's Move website!!! This is amazing! I am blessed!!!

Let's Move Blog

White House Blog!!!

2010-07-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

Check it out everyone!!! The White House asked me to blog about my experience, and here it is!!!

White House Blog

SB Nation - Seth Pollack Article

2010-07-20T05:05:00.000-07:00

Check out what Seth Pollack had to say about Temeka visiting President Obama and the White House!

Meek Moments Children's Book - Coming Soon!

2010-07-14T04:08:00.000-07:00

I know that you all have been waiting, but the time is near!

I am so proud to announce that my Meek Moments: Decisions, Decisions, Decisions book will soon be available to all of you! Today we now have a special pre-order link for the launch on August 1st! You can click here to order the special Meek Moments Book Launch Deal that includes a signed book and bookmark for $25! The book will be available online through MeeksHOPE.org, AuthorHouse, Barnes & Noble.com, Borders.com and more.

I am so proud to have a book that kids will enjoy, and I'm also proud that the proceeds will go directly to the Jewel Johnson Scholarship Fund! If you're in Phoenix, we will have a special launch party and dedication at my game against the Chicago Sky, and a special post-game book launch and reception at Majerle's on August 1st! More details to come!

Today is a big day for me and the HOPE Foundation, and I hope you are excited as we are!

Meek

All-Star Voting Campaign - Triple A Club - Already An All-Star

2010-05-30T04:15:00.000-07:00

Straight to the Point Gala - Update

2010-05-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

What's going on?????

Just wanted to remind everyone about my Straight to the Point Charity Gala THIS THURSDAY in Phoenix!!! You don't want to miss it! Listen to my teammate, Ketia Swanier, and her foundation - Ketia4Kidz.org - and myself with my HOPE Foundation, discuss our upcoming events and programs that we are bringing to the Phoenix community. We'll have special invited guests, give-aways, a Championship auction w/ signed memorabilia, foundation dedications, live entertainment, food, drinks and more.

Join us - you won't regret it! For tickets:

Fuzion Cares

See you all on Thursday!!!

Meek

Straight to the Point Gala

2010-05-06T06:43:00.001-07:00

WNBA World Champions Temeka Johnson & Ketia Swanier Join Forces for their 1st Annual Straight to the Point Gala for Charity

WHO:

WNBA World Champion Phoenix Mercury PGs Temeka Johnson & Ketia Swanier, HOPE Foundation, Ketia4Kidz Foundation & Fuzion Cares

WHAT:

1st annual Straight to the Point Gala to benefit the HOPE Foundation (Temeka Johnson) and Ketia4Kidz Foundation (Ketia Swanier)

WHEN:

Thursday, May 13th

WHERE:

The Clarendon Hotel – Rooftop – Phoenix, AZ

TIME:

6:30PM – 10PM

MORE:

Join the Champions as they spend a night celebrating their foundation successes, highlighting key programs and events for the Arizona community, and raising funds for ongoing community opportunities. The night will be filled with surprise guests (members of the Arizona Cardinals, Mercury teammates and more), music, food, drinks, give-aways, dedications and a special silent auction of signed memorabilia. This unique affair is highlighted by attendees wearing elegant attire accompanied by their favorite pair of sneakers! All proceeds from the event (tickets and auction) will be split evenly between both foundations. Tickets are available for $100 (tax-deductible) at www.FuzionCares.org. Media passes are available – contact Fuzion Athlete Management.

ABOUT:

Heaven Opens People’s Eyes (H.O.P.E.) –Temeka Johnson’s Foundation
www.MeeksHOPE.org

Ketia4Kidz Foundation – Ketia Swanier’s Foundation
www.Ketia4Kidz.org

CONTACT:

Fuzion Athlete Management
773-359-3417 (office)
Quency@FuzionAM.com

# # #

NEWS ALERT - HOPE Foundation WNBA Season Calendar

2010-04-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

News Alert * News Alert * News Alert

WNBA World Champion Temeka Johnson & HOPE Foundation Will Unveil New Commemorative WNBA Calendar for Charity

WHO: WNBA World Champion Phoenix Mercury PG Temeka Johnson, HOPE Foundation

WHAT: 1st annual Temeka Johnson Weekend to focus on giving back, education, and community involvement throughout the New Orleans and Baton Rouge area; Will also include WNBA championship festivities!

WHEN: Saturday, May 15th – Available Online on April 30th!!!

WHERE: Global

TIME: N/A

MORE: To highlight a concentrated effort on bringing fans closer to the WNBA Champion, the WNBA and the endeavors of the foundation, H.O.P.E. created a commemorative calendar specifically for the WNBA season. After winning the championship and establishing her off-the-court brand, Ms. Johnson continues to find ways to interact with the communities across the world. The calendar will help fundraising efforts for the foundation, as all proceeds benefit the foundation. With the goal of raising $25,000 by December 2010 for the Jewel Johnson Scholarship Fund, the Mercurial Champion is starting the season off with her “Face of HOPE” calendar. The calendar is a mixture of on the court (WNBA and overseas) and off the court imagery related to Temeka. The 11x17 full color calendars are available for $20, and the first 50 will be autographed by Ms. Johnson.

ABOUT: Heaven Opens People’s Eyes (H.O.P.E.) was launched during the summer of 2008. The foundation was established by WNBA player, Temeka Johnson, to provide H.O.P.E. to people across the world. HOPE’s goal is to inspire youth, families and communities to reach their own goals and objectives and lead a more emotionally healthy lifestyle. www.MeeksHOPE.org for more information!

CONTACT:
Fuzion Athlete Management
773-359-3417 (office)
Quency@FuzionAM.com
# # #

Discovering Temeka Johnson - New Article

2010-04-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

Check out this new interview on yours truly!!

Visitors from Home!!!

2010-04-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!! There has been so much stuff going on, I am not even sure where to begin!!! I will start with whats been going on over here.

About to a week and a half ago I had my Marketing/Business Manager (Quency and FAM) over here with me, and it was awesome to see them. We had a ton of fun, Quency fried some chicken and stuff for us (which, by the way everyone, was really good), we played cards, and also Taboo. Quency and I even got in the gym and had a shootout. It was good to see him on the court. Naw, he can play yall. I know he will give me a little heat about this but its all fun. I did beat him pretty bad, though. I know he will want his revenge, so we will be playing again probably during training camp. I think he knows that he'll have to bring his A game!! From there we went on to Paris and enjoyed that scenery. The FAM enjoyed themselves so all in all I was happy.

After saying good bye to them it was time to channel my attention on finishing the regular season. We were facing the number one team in France, and it has been a long time since our club has beaten them. So on the road we go; 8 hours away. Although it was a long ride, it didnt matter because we knew we needed to win this game in order to obtain 4th place. So there was some extra motivation, so to say. We accomplished our goal and won the game, not only did we win the game but we won by 17 on the opposing team's floor. It was a total team effort. Lenae Williams, my teammate here and possibly in Phoenix, dropped 30 pts, and I followed her with 17. The coach and everyone in the club was super happy.

Now there are a couple of days before we played again, but this time we are playing the French Cup game, and yes we have to play Tarbes again, that same number one team, but this time at a neutral site. During these couple of days we were lodging at what we the players have just summed it up as STRAIGHT SUMMER CAMP. The set up was really nice they had a gymnasium, weight room, training place for rowing, pool etc., but there was nothing in the town, and there was not 1 store close to where we were. Now the exciting stuff starts to happen.

It close to dinner and we are all getting ready. Everyone was speaking of how hungry they were and everything. We sit down and we start off with a salad, then for the entree the lady brings out a couple of bowls of mashed potatoes with fish smashed into it. ( HUH ) We were like "what is this?". Then we asked where was the meat and she brought out 6 piece of cold cut ham and it was like 11 of us. For dessert there was yogurt.

I didnt think that anything else could have surprised me that day. As soon as we got up to go back to our rooms, they were like you have to clean off the table and bring the dishes to the back! We were like "what kind of hotel is this?". LOL from that point on we knew we were in summer camp. All the meals were prepared already and there was no changing them. The next day, I wont bore you too much with all the details, just know that we were fed fish pies (I think it is supposed to be similar to pot pies) and they had cheese in it. I think I literally lost 5 pounds in those 2 1/2 days.

Now on to the french cup. This is the Semi Finals and the winner advances to the championship game that is played in Paris in front of 15000 fans. It is a huge event and all of us were excited about it, but the french players were beyond excited and that is to be expected. We started the game out really well, and by half time we were only down by 5. This is the same Tarbes team that we had just beaten, but they were just as hungry to get to Paris as our team and it showed. They played more physical and more together than before and they were not backing down. They came out throwing punches and instead of throwing them back we surrendered and ended up losing. Not just losing by 5 or 6 pts but by 20. I have to admit they played well and they do have a pretty good team.

Now for the start of the playoffs, oh i didnt tell you all, we play Tarbes again. The first place team has to play the 4th place team. Can you say that we know each other very well? I think I can but you know for me its exciting I love a challenge and this team definitely brings that.

So, I know everyone is paying attention to the volcanic ash story. Well, all of us WNBA players are DEFINITELY paying CLOSE attention! We want to get home! We want to be home!!! But I'm seeing that Air France is leading the way, and has started to fly people out. I'm hoping that there will be no problems when I leave at the end of the month. I can't wait to get back to Baton Rouge and New Orleans to do some HOPE Foundation stuff (I have a Teacher Appreciation lunch on May 4th) and then back to Phoenix to defend the championship! More on that later!!!

OK everyone thank you for taking the read this lengthy blog, I will keep you posted on what happens throughout this upcoming series.

Meek

Reaching Back..

2010-03-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!!

I just wanted to share with you what a great time I had with the younger French team. They invited myself as well as the other American (Lenae Williams) over for dinner, and i have to tell you they can truly cook!!!

They prepared chicken, fish, rice, red sauce, sweet potatoes, and fried bananas. Then they gave us a delicious fruit bowl and then served chocolate cake. It sounds like a lot huh? That's because it was. I was so full. After eating the dancing began (and i can tell you that i did learn a thing or two from them about how to move), but i can tell you that i would not be able to do that for sure. It was fun while it lasted though!!!

They were so happy and excited that we actually took time to visit with them, but I honestly think that it is something that we should always do. I think that we are true role models to ALL young women, not just the ones in our country, so I was ecstatic to be there. I was a fun time and a good bonding time. Thanks ladies hope we get to do it again soon sometime!

Meek

HOPE in France!!

2010-03-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hey there everyone,

I know that I haven't spoken with you all in a while, but I am sure you can pretty much guess what I have been doing! Well I hope your answer was me working on my game, because that's what I have been doing for the most part. Being that we are down to playing one game a week, it has been a little boring so I took it upon myself to purchase another Nintendo Wii and I have to tell you that I am no joke on that Super Mario Bros! It has taken up the time that I have to just chill, and I have found it to be very fun, not too much relaxing though at times lol.

Some other things that I have been doing I think you all will truly appreciate it, and that is spreading H.O.P.E.! I went to visit a children's hospital and sat with some sick kids. It was something like a make a wish program and I had a blast. I have said this before and I will say it again. It doesn't matter what race, what sex, what country, time (one hour or 30 minutes), etc, you can always give someone HOPE. Now although I didn't say much of anything to these kids, as you can see, we still had a blast. I didn't understand them, and they didn't understand me, but the smiles shows something totally different and that's what it is truly about.

I can tell you that I really like it here and that I am glad that I had the opportunity to play here; it has really been fun. And since I am on the subject about playing I guess I should be telling you all about how we are doing here huh? Well to be honest we are doing really well, we are still winning and just yesterday we beat Nante to advance in the French Cup, which I think is a good thing for our squad. We have like 5 more games before playoffs start and we are surely looking to continue to play the way that we have been and finishing up regular season strong. I am going to continue to get better as well. For myself and of course for you guys. I know that you are just as excited about the W as I am. I will be returning for the first time officially as a champion (bc I am already a champion no matter what) and it feels great. And i will be looking to defend that title. So I will be talking to you all soon.

Meek

Tough Losses..

2010-03-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

I know that it has been a little while since I have last wrote to you, but I was still celebrating that Who Dat moment as well as trying to keep our team on a winning streak. I have come to a few bumps in the road with spraining my ankle in one of our euro-cup games about 2 weeks ago, and was forced to miss the French League game that we really needed to win. I was upset about the loss, but I did get to see my former college teammate/roommate (Hanna Biernacka Bouldin) which made the trip even more worthwhile. We ended up losing that game, but my teammates fought really hard and it was a close battle. We played without our other American, Lenae Williams, that is on our team. They call us the American Duo.

I guess you can say that somehow we have managed to play well together, despite ever knowing one another. After that we faced the team from Germany that we were playing in the Euro-cup and they were fortunate enough to beat us and advance to the Final Four. I was fairly upset, but knew that under different circumstances the game may have had a different outcome. I will say that I wasn't 100%, but I will not let that be an excuse! I'll just give the German team their credit and move on.

I had gotten used to winning here because that's what we have been doing since I got here, but this was a wake up call for us. We cannot and will not get comfortable. So this past weekend we had a big game against Nante, a team here in France that was currently holding our place in the top four and we needed to beat them. And guess what y'all WE DID!

The club was very happy and well pleased, and so were we. We don't have another game unti Saturday, so this will allow a lot of us time to rest. Trust me when I say that it is all needed. Don't like the fact that we are now down to playing one game a week, but to be honest it actually helps my body with providing it with some form of rest. It will also give me more time to go visit more things here. I am anxious to get to the American Cemetery, The Mount Michelle (I think that is right) and a few other places. I know that i will be able to get to those two for sure - anything else would be great.

I hope you all are doing well and that you are just as excited about the upcoming WNBA season as I am. I know that many of you are anxiously waiting for all the Free Agent stuff to be over, so am I. I am sure it will all be over soon. Let me know your thoughts I will be looking for your responses.

Until next time....

Meek

Guess Who's Back??

2010-02-08T03:58:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone - I know that it has been a while, but there has been a lot going on. I know you all are like "yeah yeah yeah what else is new!", but I think I like to wait for a lot of things to build up so that I can share it with you all at once! LOL! OK, so come along for the ride.

After arriving in Mondeville, France, things started out very smoothly. We were on a winning streak, and everyone was happy. Then all of a sudden my French license was suspended due to me not getting my physicals completed in the applicable amount of time. Now i know all of you are like "why not?", but it was just something that occurred and with us traveling and playing and the Doctor not showing up for one of the appointments, time just slipped away before we knew it. I have to make sure that I tell you that it had nothing to do with the Club. This is not a mistake on their part at all. I really like this club and they are very professional - this just happened to be a mistake made by all of us. The USO Mondeville Club have been on top of everything since day one, but there is nothing that they can do if the Federation steps in.

So with that going on the team had to leave and head out to Turkey where they faced Americans, Courtney Paris and Sharnee Zoll, in Euro-Cup. While there, the team put up a great fight but came up a little short. They lost them by 9 points. I was extremely happy and proud of them, as they had gotten down by 33 at one point and to bring it to 9 gave us hope to beat them the following week. (some don't really understand Euro-Cup rules so its like this: you play a team twice and to win you have to just flat out beat them of course, or if you split the games you have to beat them by more than what they beat you by and vice versa)

So with that being said, we played Courtney's team again this past Thursday, and I had just got my license back to play. Needless to say I had a lot of energy built up for not being able to play with the team for two games (the other was a French league game) so I was really ready for this game. We jumped out on the team (Botas) really fast and we didn't look back. We got it up to a 21 point lead, and they fought like any competitor would do and brought it to within 8, and then we ended it with a 16 point victory. I finished the game with 22pts, 5asts, 6rebs, 4stls, and 1 to. I must say that's not a bad stat line - LOL, but what was most important was that we won and advanced which is something that the club hasn't been able to do in the past. So we are now in the Final Eight of 64 I believe. So that's one part of it now on to the next.

After our game and all the excitement from the fans and the players; Coach gave us two days off. I am telling you, this is very RARE LOL. But a couple of us jumped in the car and came on down to Paris, which is 2 hours away. Now I have to start out by saying that Paris is definitely a city of Love! I was kind of "hating" on the people that were there with their significant others but I got over it soon. I will have that same thing SOME DAY SOON. LOL!! Anyways after getting to Paris at about 1 am after our game, my teammates and I checked into our hotel which was the Hotel Eiffel Rive Gauche and went off to sleep. The next morning we got up and headed out on the town.

Our first stop was the Eiffel Tower. We got there pretty early so the line was not that long. I actually got to go to the top so that worked out perfect. It was so beautiful being able to look out over Paris from there. It was such an awesome site. From there went to Notre Dame the Church, and it was also another beautiful site which has so much history in it. The actual building that it is in, is amazing. Like more than half the building in Paris, the details of the architecture is awesome. I love the buildings! They are so in-depth with different designs and things. Next up was the Louvre.

Now I have to tell you this is the biggest museum that I have ever come across and I was not able to see the entire thing. You would probably need at least 6-7 hours plus to finish the entire thing. But I did get to see the Mona Lisa!!! How can you come all the way to Paris, go to the Louvre and not see the Mona Lisa? We were so exhausted after seeing all that, we took the boat back to the hotel to rest up a little bit. After a little nap, we went on to Hard Rock Cafe. I know you all are like "why would you go to Paris and go to Hard Rock?" But I was craving some American food, and man was it good!!! We then walked the strip of Champs-Elysee - it's the strip with all the stores and everything. Then we called it a night!

The next morning we went to go and shop. Due to the rain we started out at Galleria Lafayette. This place has everything - any designer that you are looking for, you can find in there, it was pretty neat. Then we went back on the strip and hit up Niketown, (how could you not?) and then grabbed a bite to eat. We also went to the Arc de Triomphe. After climbing 248 stairs it was worth it to see Paris at night time on top of the Arc, where you can see 9 different streets and and everything going on at the same time. It was actually pretty nice! I can tell you that there wasn't enough time for me to see everything so I will have to make another trip there. We only had two days off and then we had to get back that Sunday for practice but over all it was a great experience and I really enjoyed it!!!!!!

YAYYYYYYYYYY TO PARIS

Now on to those NEW ORLEANS SAINTS!!!

Man man man I am so happy for them and the city. I wish I was home right now to celebrate with everyone but since I can't, don't worry I will celebrate and chant WHO DAT all the way from France! I stayed up the entire time here in France to witness that HISTORY, and it couldn't have been any better. Although the Saints got off to a slow start, they kept their poise and kept on fighting. Drew Brees really led his team, but I think I was more impressed with his character and his faith. To hear him speak after the game was remarkable and I am now and forever a Drew Brees fan. Not that I wasn't before but man!!!!! He really showed great class. All I can think about when the clock was running down was how it felt for me when I was waiting for them zero's to hit the clock. To win my first championship this season, and to witness the Saints win their first championship ever was amazing for me and the city. I am so happy and proud of my city.

My family was screaming and yelling and dancing and having fun. They also said that the city was at peace - no fighting, no arguing or anything, just everyone joining together to have a great time. That's what it's all about, and to be a part of something such as sports and to be able to do what the Saints did. Bring an entire state, not just the city, but the state together is a great feeling. I know that the WHO DAT NATION will be rocking for a long time now. I have already put in my request to receive my WHO DAT shirt so that I can wear it out here in France. Everyone here will be wearing I Love Paris or France shirts and I will be wearing that black and gold Who Dat!!!!!!!

I do want to say that LSU was represented well last night. Congratulations to Joseph Addai and the Colts for making it back, but also to Randle Gay for getting another ring, Devry Henderson and Marlon Favorite for getting their first one. I am proud to be a Tiger and most of all I am proud to be from the City of New Orleans and the state of Louisiana.

WHOOOOOOOO DATTTTTTT BABBBBBYYYYYY

HOPE Inquirer - 2009 Wrap-Up!!

2010-01-20T04:45:00.001-08:00

So Thankful!! Happy MLK Jr., Day!!

2010-01-18T08:40:00.000-08:00

Today is a day of thanks! There are so many things that I am thankful for that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has provided for me and so many others. I'm over in France with great teammates and learning different languages and cultures. I know that this would not have been possible if it wasn't for Dr. King. I'm traveling the world, I'm a WNBA Champion, I have my HOPE Foundation! I am truly blessed, y'all!!

Today is about service, and coming together, and today I'll be with my teammates to bond. I'm hoping that all of you will be with family, friends, and loved ones on this day as well, working to make this world a better place for everyone.

My thoughts and prayers are with those in Haiti and affected by the earthquake in Haiti, as well as with everyone out there spending this day providing service to those in need. Go out and BE/MAKE a difference!!

Take care everyone!

Meek

HOPE Matters - Haiti Donation

2010-01-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone!!!

I wanted to let you all know that my foundation (HOPE Foundation) is going to be supporting those in need in Haiti. We are going to join w/ UNICEF to send goods over to Haiti, but I want to take it a step further and send some HOPE tshirts over the the children at St. Damien Children's Hospital in Haiti.

If you want to join us in support, you can purchase a shirt for $15 and it will be sent in our care package on January 25th! Please use the link below to purchase a shirt, and your name will be included in the HOPE Inquirer care package that will be sent to St. Damien. I hope to visit Haiti if I have time to do a bit more, but while I'm in France, I wanted to make sure that we did something on behalf of HOPE.

Thanks for listening everyone!!

Meek

News From France!!

2010-01-08T13:59:00.001-08:00

Temeka Johnson is the official replacement for Caroline Aubert at USO Mondeville.

She is a member of the 2009 WNBA champion, Phoenix Mercury, and has played in the WNBA since 2005.

She played for Maccabi Ashdod in Israel this season and averaged per game 13 points and 5.6 assists in 30 minutes.

Johnson has already made her début in a friendly match against Roche Vendée (82-48).

Her arrival ended Belgium international Marjorie Carpreaux' short stay at the club.

#28 LSU Tigers Players of the Decade

2010-01-07T13:47:00.000-08:00

Check out the article below!!

30 Greatest Tigers of the Decade: #28 Temeka Johnson

by Poseur on Jan 3, 2010 12:00 PM CST

#28 Temeka Johnson

Temeka Johnson is the greatest point guard in LSU's history. She won the Lieberman Award her senior year, 2005, awarded to the nation's top point guard. She guided LSU to the Final Four every year she was a starter, and graduated with just about every record for assists one can imagine. She went on to the WNBA success and won a national title with the Mercury.

But, really, we can't not talk about The Turnover. It's a shame that someone as accomplished as Jonhson will always be remembered first not for all of the great plays she made, but for one mistake. In the semifinals against Tennessee in 2004, LSU slowly lost its lead and found itself tied at 50 with 6 seconds to play. Johnson, playing through an injury, made a bad pass in the backcourt, turning the ball over. The Lady Vols put in an uncontested layup off the giveaway and won 52-50. It is easily the most painful loss in LSU women's basketball history.

So let's look at the great things Temeka did for the program. First and foremost among them, she arrived as a partial qualifier in 2000 and was therefore required to sit out the 2000-2001 season. Instead of compalining, Temeka worked hard in the classroom and graduated in August of 2004, earning an extra year of eligibility.

And what an extra year. Johnson did everything she could to avenge that loss in 2004, and earned the aforementioned Liberman Award and All-American honors en route to setting the SEC record for career assists. Beware arbitrary end points, but LSU's media guide notes she is the only player in LSU history with 1000 points, 500 assists, and 50 rebounds. Which is even more absurd when you think that she was a small 5'3".

On a team dominated by the frontcourt stars, Johnson's guiding hand kept the team on track. She was overshadowed by Augustus and Fowles, but she was every bit as important of a cog in those great teams. No, they never won the national title, but consistent greatness is never truly appreciated. Four straight Final Fours is a tremendous accomplishment, one that was made possible by the greatest point guard we ever had the good fortune to have.

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-01T12:57:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know that it has been some time since I have posted a blog, but as you all know I have been a little busy. But mostly trying to spend as much time with my family as possible. The Christmas holiday was great. I got to spend the day with my family and enjoy the day. I had them all over my house before we went to go and see Alvin and the Chipmunks at the movies. THE KIDS LOVED IT (and so did I shhhhhhhhhhh).

Anyways, from there I had to hop on a plane and head over to France - where I am now. It is fairly cold, but it is rather nice. My teammates have been real cool so far and the coach seems to know what it is that he is talking about, so I am interested in seeing how this will work out. I think it can be the beginning of a beautiful relationship. We shall see!!!!!!!!!.

Anyway let me talk to you about what goes on here in France for the new year. On New Year's Eve everyone has a party and each person has to wear a costume. Now, when they fist told me this, I was like NO WAY - I am not participating in this! This is not what I signed up for LOL. But I didn't want to start out being a Party Pooper, so I went and rented a costume.

I was (are u all ready for this??) a French Maid! lol

My teammates didn't know what I was going to be, except for one, so I told them that I was coming as a basketball player. With that said, they were all thinking that I wasn't going to participate. But when I walked in they were all surprised and very happy. We had a blast!

I will keep you all posted on things here. Until then, have a safe and blessed day today and be thankful for being blessed with another year!!!!!

PS: Thank you all for following me and supporting me throughout 2009 I only hope for the same and more for 2010 I cannot do it without you. Thanks again!

Sue Gunter Classic

2009-12-15T09:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays everyone!!

I'm home for the holidays, but I wanted to drop a quick note to let you all know how excited and proud I am to be able to see the inaugural Sue Gunter Classic at LSU! You all know what Coach Gunter meant to me, and it's good to be back home and seeing this all come to life! I am so proud to be a part of her legacy, as she is a big part of mine!

Check out some of the articles below!

Daily Reveille Article

LSU Sports

The Advocate

Meek's Holiday HOPE!!

2009-12-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

Slam Magazine: Dedicated to Their Profession

2009-12-03T16:19:00.000-08:00

Dedicated to Their Profession
Even the champs have little time to enjoy their success.

by Ben York

The 2009 WNBA year was irrefutably one of the greatest seasons in the WNBA’s short history. With the amount of talent, athleticism, and supreme competition that was featured on a daily basis the league gained a form of admiration and reverence that was long overdue. But perhaps more importantly, it led to an increase in overall awareness regarding the extraordinary lives these athletes lead and a perfect example of what true hard work and devotion is; something these remarkable ladies don’t get an adequate amount of praise for.

The year was capped off with what is being called the best WNBA Finals series ever between the Phoenix Mercury and Indiana Fever. Storming out of the gates with one of the finest individual games you’ll ever see, Game 1 of the Finals created a buzz and excitement about women’s basketball that was unprecedented. Fortunately, this continued throughout the rest of the series with the Phoenix Mercury coming out on top in Game 5. With record-setting TV ratings and in-game attendance, the 2009 WNBA Finals provided a platform to showcase an amazing product that is still not being fully appreciated.

“This season was so amazing that I couldn’t even began to put it in words because I’m afraid I would leave out an important part,” Mercury center Tangela Smith said. “Every time I think back to that last second with the buzzer going off, all the confetti, and the song ‘We Are the Champions’ blasting in U.S. Airways Center it bring chills down my spine.” It truly was a magical scene; the players finally feeling fulfilled after a long, arduous season, the release of emotions, and the realization of attaining the pinnacle of sports achievements.

“This year my theme has been ‘expect the unexpected’ and so far it has been that,” Mercury guard Temeka Johnson said. “I couldn’t have painted this picture any better, and to win it all with the group of women I was among topped everything. This championship season was something very special.”

The emotions that Tangela and Temeka speak of are very real, and very humbling. It truly does become difficult to articulate that euphoric moment. For a brief second in time, the Mercury could celebrate and bask in the glory of coming out on top of what has been called the greatest WNBA Finals series of all-time.

Unfortunately, the window of time to reflect and enjoy that success for the Phoenix Mercury was far too small.

For players in the WNBA, the salaries they receive during the season aren’t quite enough to sustain themselves and their families throughout the year. Surprised? Some players make less than an elementary school teacher. With a collective salary cap hovering around $800,000 total per team, the 11 women are forced to look for financial opportunities elsewhere. During the past few decades, the most popular alternative has been heading overseas to play professionally during the WNBA off-season. And while this has been a blessing for these ladies and provided a viable means of supplementing their income in order to adequately provide for their families, there is an enormous toll it takes on the body both physically and mentally.

“I really don’t think many people understand what these ladies go through,” said Mercury head coach Corey Gaines. “They play all year long. In Europe, they practice twice a day all year. They’ll wake up and head to their first practice in the morning, do some sprints and conditioning, then head home for a short break, and come back for a full practice in the afternoon. This is all year long! A lot of them head overseas just hours or a couple days after the WNBA season ends. I remember my first year coaching the Mercury in 2007 we got Diana [Taurasi] and Cappie [Pondexter] back the day before our first game – and it’s not like they are just coming back from New York or something, they’re coming all the way from Russia. On top of that, we played our first game on national television and it was the debut of Candace Parker. But you know what? To Cappie and Diana’s credit they came out and played their butts off, they came out balling. Plus, Diana was sick and not feeling well. Truthfully, I don’t know many men that could handle it.”

Gaines has been around all facets of the game since high school. He played at UCLA and Loyola Marymount in college, had a stint in the NBA for several years, and played professionally in Europe for a long while. Gaines says the amount of time that these women put in is unbelievable, and makes for a challenge in terms of coaching. “It’s a fine line,” Gaines said when asked how much basketball is too much. “If you add the European season onto the WNBA season it’s an incredible amount of basketball. Sometimes the Olympics or World Championships are even in there. It’s tough. You want your players to play during the off-season but you also want them to have a break. It might not necessarily be a break from basketball all together but you want some of their stresses to subside after a long season, whether it’s in the WNBA or in Europe. But at the same time I understand the financial part of it and the financial need. Plus, most of our [Mercury] players are playing in the Championships overseas so it adds that much more basketball. Like I said, it’s a fine line and the amazing part to me is that they do this for years at a time. I really don’t know a lot of men that would be able to handle it.”

Even more remarkable, is that their courageous sacrifices aren’t being talked about. WNBA players simply accept this as part of their lives and don’t make a big deal out of it. The vast majority of players have a humbleness inside them and feel extremely fortunate even to have the opportunity to play overseas. Not only does it speak to the incomparable work ethic of these ladies, but also to their immense love of the sport.

“To be honest, when you still have that burning desire for the game and the love for it is still strong in you, there is no such thing as too much basketball,” Temeka Johnson said. “You are thrilled to be able to what you love to do, continue to entertain those that love to watch you play, and the passion and desire of getting better drives you even more.”

For some players, the amount of basketball played year round is not even something they think about. It’s almost second nature. Their love trumps any and all of the negatives that playing so much can have on your mind and body. “For me, I’m in love with basketball,” Mercury All-Star Cappie Pondexter said. “It can never be too much for me. This is a sport I was born to do and so I cherish every moment I have with it.”

There is a true sense of appreciation and thankfulness that these women have received from playing basketball. “If you really love something I think there is never too much of it,” Mercury guard Ketia Swanier said. “So, until basketball breaks my heart, there is never too much of it.”

At the same time, balancing their love of basketball with their personal lives and families who are hundreds of miles away for half the year can become increasingly difficult, especially for veterans. Tangela Smith has played in the WNBA for 12 years and understands the impact it can have on one’s life more than most.

“This year I was able to take a one and a half month break, but most of my other teammates were not as fortunate,” Tangela said. “They had to go overseas right after we won the championship and that’s what I have done for 11 years out of my 12-year career. It’s very hard and it really takes a toll on your body but I love the game so much that it’s all very much worth it to me. You have to really take care of your body and stay as healthy as you can because that will definitely keep you in the league for a very long time. The traveling is difficult as well because not only are you traveling within the country you are playing but if your on a team that plays in some kind of Euro-league or Cup you would have to travel to other countries as well. Sometimes you are all alone and you are playing with a team full of women who don’t speak English and sometimes even the coach doesn’t. Nowadays it’s better because you can have more than one or two Americans on the same team and more English is spoken. But, like I said before it’s so worth it if you are very passionate about playing and the good definitely outweighs the bad.”

Being gone for several months makes the time you do have with family that much more meaningful. “It’s hard to head overseas when you only have ten days to divide over what loved ones you will visit and getting everything prepared to leave America,” Ketia Swanier said. “I always feel like there is never enough time to spend with my family but basketball is what I’m committed to do and love doing it.” It’s certainly not surprising that staying in touch with friends and family is next to impossible when spending multiple months of every year in a foreign country. Relationships can quickly fade and if there is a family emergency, a car ride or flight isn’t a viable option for the majority of the time. On the other hand, WNBA players and their families have accepted that it comes with the territory. “The hardest part about leaving is the amount of down time you have and you don’t get to enjoy family, friends, and being at home,” Cappie Pondexter said. “It’s the hardest thing to do but at the same time we have to because it’s our livelihood.”

From a coaching perspective, it also becomes tricky to maintain cohesion with your team while they are overseas. Unlike in the NBA where contact can come easily with a quick flight or phone call, many of a coach’s players are hundreds of miles away in various foreign countries. “I stay busy, that’s for sure,” Corey Gaines said. “It’s another fine line. The players need their privacy but at the same time you can’t go months without talking to your team or knowing what’s going on. That’s one of the reasons I make sure I visit as many players as I can when they are overseas. We stay in touch with texting and phones but seeing them face to face is better than a phone call. It also provides an opportunity to see other players up close in practices and games where you wouldn’t get that chance otherwise. So although it’s challenging it helps with the relationship when we can connect overseas as well.”

When the players do return to American to play in the WNBA season, a lot of people aren’t aware that they just finished a grueling European season maybe just a few hours before. They come back to America and are expected to head into another training camp and be mentally prepared for the increasingly competitive WNBA schedule. For WNBA coaches, the key philosophy is balance. “Doug Collins said that the game is now 80 percent percent managing and 20 percent Xs and Os and I believe that,” Gaines said. “Look at the greatest coaches in the game – Phil, Popovich – they manage their team the best. They know their players the best. With the way we (Mercury) play it’s tough because we want the team to be in running shape but you also realize you don’t want to burn them out. Paul Westhead and I never believed in running as a punishment so we like to get the players in shape while playing and going hard. Again, it’s a fine line.”

While the trials and tribulations that WNBA face can be exceedingly difficult, many are pointing to 2009 as a turning point for the league. The appreciation of what the players do all year and the sacrifices they make are beginning to be known. Is the WNBA finally hitting the mainstream? “I hope so,” Corey Gaines said. “It looks that way if you go by the numbers. More people watched on TV and more attended the games; it was sold out in the Finals. When we won in Detroit in 2007 that game actually wasn’t sold out. Hopefully the attention will carry over next year. I’m hoping it does.”

Regardless if it carries over or not, it’s about time these ladies get the recognition they deserve for the sacrifices they make and for their dedication to basketball. Quite simply, it’s unprecedented in professional sports – and should be honored.

Times-Picayune Thanksgiving Article on Me & HOPE Foundation!

2009-11-26T06:58:00.000-08:00

Check the article below by Ryan Chatelain & the Times-Picayune

YOUTHFUL EXUBERANCE WITH A PURPOSE

WNBA star offers HOPE to underprivileged youth in New Orleans and Kenner through her non-profit foundation

Thursday, November 26, 2009
By Ryan Chatelain
Contributing writer

Bob Starkey points out that there are many similarities between the Temeka Johnson who guided the Phoenix Mercury to a WNBA title last month and the Temeka Johnson who helps children and schools through her foundation.

"When you watch Temeka play, her entire game is about setting people up," said Starkey, associate coach for the LSU women's basketball team. "The records she owns around here, most are about assists. And now in her personal life, she's doing the same thing. She's passing out assists through her foundation. I think she's somebody who enjoys helping people do what they need to do."

Johnson, a 5-foot-3 point guard who played at Bonnabel High School and LSU, finished fourth in the WNBA in assists last season. As a member of the Washington Mystics in 2005, she was chosen the Rookie of the Year. She also led the Lady Tigers to two Final Four appearances.

But Johnson takes pride in her work off the court, too. Her youth-focused HOPE Foundation awards college scholarships and rewards hard-working, underprivileged students with free haircuts, shoes or Christmas shopping sprees. She often visits schools to talk to students about education and self-esteem.

"I think it's important for the kids to know that being a star athlete is not all about the glamour," said Johnson, who won an award from the WNBA in June for her community work and currently is playing in Israel. "I want to be visible enough for them to see that you still have to be a human. You still have to have great character. You still have to be a role model. It's not about the nice cars and the nice rims and all that kind of stuff.

"Plus, I'm from the exact same environment they're from, and I want them to see that you can make it."

Each year, the foundation "adopts" a school. Johnson meets with educators to learn about the school's needs, then raises money to address those shortcomings. Last month, the foundation adopted Washington Montessori School in Kenner.

Johnson's grandmother, Jewel Johnson, who died of cancer in 2008, inspired Temeka Johnson's work with schools. Jewel Johnson was a longtime teacher at Washington, and HOPE named its four scholarships in her honor.

"Education is important, and the kids of today are really our future," Johnson said. "It seems like the education system is falling and dropping lower and lower each year, and kids are not caring about education as much. So I just want to do anything that I can to express the importance of education."

Johnson set her sights on starting a foundation as early as her junior year at LSU. One evening, she walked into Starkey's office and told him about her plan to help people. The two met every few months afterward to discuss the possibility as Johnson researched other charitable groups and crafted her vision for her own foundation. She planned to carry on with the plan whether she played professional ball or not, said Starkey, who serves on HOPE's board and contributes financially.

The name HOPE stands for "heaven opens people's eyes" and is more than a clever acronym, Johnson said.

"Ever since I've been playing this game, everyone has always come at me -- young people, old people, small, tall, short, it didn't matter -- everybody's always told me that I've given them hope," Johnson said. "And when I look at it, it doesn't take anything to give anybody hope. Some kinds words can give them hope, a hug, a pat on the back, just a congratulations."

Johnson has a classic underdog story. The diminutive guard was often told she was too short to play college and professional basketball. LSU fan Tracy Ford was inspired by Johnson's play and has closely followed Johnson's career and donates a monthly check to the foundation.

"I just love the way that she's handled herself," said Ford, 48. "She's a wonderful person. She's got a good heart. Kids her age these days, some of them don't care too much. They don't give back. It's great to see that she's giving something back."

Because WNBA salaries pale in comparison to the pay of major-league men's sports, Johnson's foundation relies more heavily on grassroots fundraising. That suits Johnson just fine.

"It's a lot more fundraising, but you know what though, it's a lot more fun, too," Johnson said. "Because it keeps me involved. I don't just want my name to be used for something. I want to be involved in everything."

Starkey said it's tough to say no to Johnson.

"Temeka's passion gets you excited," he said. "Temeka hasn't come in touch with anybody and talked about her foundation where they haven't come on board in some form or fashion. It just seeps through her pores how much this means to her."

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2009-11-25T11:10:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to stop in to say I hope all of you are having a great Thanksgiving!

I hope that you are feeling the same way as I do right now. Knowing that we have so much to be thankful for! I have gone through a lot over the past year and a half, and through it all, the Good Lord has held me in His arms, guided me, protected me, helped me, and ordered my steps through the entire thing. I am SOOOOOOO thankful.

If I look back on 2008, I know for a fact that God was with me in 2009. I went from not playing, to losing my best friend in my Grandmother Jewel Johnson, to playing this year and winning the WNBA Championship! Yes God is good. But I must tell you that through all of that - the hurt, the pain, the emotional roller coaster, the happiness, the joy, etc. - I used the strength that he gave me to get through it all and that makes me smile the most.

The effect that all of that had on so many that was and is a part of my life, was difficult. Seeing my family happy and make it through another year without my grandmother, seeing how happy they are and were to share in my success, seeing how many lives I am able to touch through what I am doing, seeing the smiles that are being placed on everyone's face through THE H.O.P.E. FOUNDATION, knowing that there are many that will be able to go to college through the Jewel Johnson Scholarship. Knowing that my grandmother and Coach Gunter's Legacy will continue to go on through me and all the lives that they have touched. I am telling you all right now that I know for a fact that I have so much to be thankful for.

I could go on and on but I will cut it short. I would like for you all to be able to get to your turkey before it gets too cold, from reading all this! LOL! Take a moment to express your thanks. I know that there is something that you are thankful for, even if its just being blessed to see another day. Thanksgiving is a special day, enjoy it and your family and friends. I know that we give thanks on this day, but I hope that we give thanks everyday, because we all know that tomorrow is not always promised.

Happy Turkey Day everyone! I hope you all eat enough of that good food for me. I will be playing a game and indulging in a turkey sandwich with no mayo, because it is kosher over here (I may not even have any cheese either). LOL it's OK, though, because all in all I am still thankful and truly blessed!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!

Meek

Red Sea Visit!!

2009-11-23T05:57:00.000-08:00

OK everyone, I know that I haven't been blogging as much lately, but I figured you all didn't want to hear anything else about me being in Israel. Well sorry if that is true because this past weekend I had a blast in Eilat!

I went to visit the Red Sea. You all know the Sea that Jesus parted for Moses to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. It was so nice yall. The water was beautiful, the scenery was amazing, but most of all just being able to be on the historical grounds was good enough for me.

I don't know if yall know this but I didn't. Surrounding the Red Sea there are four countries. Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, and Israel; and you are traveling by boat in the sea, so you can see the different flags posted to represent each country. I thought that was really cool. While there, we went to visit the underwater observatory marine park where you can witness the feeding of the fish and sharks by a scuba diver. They feed the big gigantic turtles and the stingrays, too. You get a beautiful view of the ocean on a glass boat that allows you to see the ocean clearly through the bottom off the boat. You could swim with the dolphins, etc., if you'd like. I passed on that!

There were a lot of things to do, I am not saying that I did all of them, but I did get in most of them. LOL. Also while there my teammate Natasha Lacy experienced her first camel ride, as many of you already know I did that last year, so I didn't need to do it again. But Tasha had a blast. Courtney Paris wasn't having it - LOL - I will try and get her on it before I leave from here. That is a goal of mine.

From there we went on a boat ride and here is where Ashley Walker and Tasha went Parasailing, now that was something that I was not doing! Neither was Courtney, LOL, so we went along for the ride and just chilled on the inside of the boat. Ash and Tasha had a blast and I enjoyed laughing at them. We didn't have a lot of time to do everything that we wanted to do, but we did manage to get most of the stuff in.

The hotel was nice and the food was good. The shopping was on point as well. The one thing that was a surprise to me, and I promise I will stop saying that I will NEVER do things, because there is a 1st for everything. Because the roads were closed due to a bike race there was no ride to the airport, so we had to walk to the airport with our luggage in hand. LOL yea this is true we were all shocked, hot and a lil' mad but it was not much we could have done. I must say that we were not the only ones that had to do this and the others were just as upset as we were. There was no warning or anything but it was what it was. Overall the trip went well. I wont even touch on the security problems that we faced. That will entail me writing a book; it was so much, but we made it there and back safely so I am OK.

OK, so now about basketball. We have won every game that I have played in while here. We have a nice one coming up today and another on Thursday which will be a Cup game. They are both very important games so I will keep you posted on how it goes. Or you can check out www.safsal.co.il for daily updates.

Ok yall until next time,

Meek

Overseas Article..

2009-11-18T13:21:00.000-08:00

Basketball /Ashdod upends Ramat Hen too easily

By Tomer Ratman

In the game of the week of the women's Premier League, Maccabi Ashdod ran all over host Ramat Hen yesterday en route to an 89-56 thrashing. Ashdod's foreign players had huge games compared to their Ramat Hen counterparts. Tiffany Jackson was neutralized by Ashley Walker, who held her to six points, while Duke graduate Carrem Gay scored 14 points against Courtney Paris but had a dismal shooting percentage.

In the third head-to-head matchup, Ashdod's Temeka Johnson showed Shannon Bobbit the difference between being the starting point guard for WNBA champs Phoenix Mercury and a reserve for the Los Angeles Sparks. Paris led Ashdod with 20 points, and Walker added 17 points.

"It's an embarrassing loss," said Ramat Hen coach Edney Dagan. "This team has a tough mental problem, but I'm not panicking and we won't make any changes."

Elsewhere, Elitzur Netanya rallied at home from a 52-40 halftime deficit to edge ASA Jerusalem 80-77, and moved into second place.

On the men's side, Gilboa/Galil defeated Maccabi Rishon Letzion 76-64 to rejoin Maccabi at the top of the standings, as the only two unbeaten teams left in the Premier League. Jeremy Fargo led Galil with a double-double - 19 points and 10 rebounds, to go with four assists.

Slam Magazine: Commemorating Altruism

2009-11-01T16:17:00.000-08:00

Commemorating Altruism
For the WNBA, community is key.

by Ben York

Unarguably, the WNBA and its players set the quintessential standard in terms of professional athletes genuinely having a noble penchant to improve the lives of the less fortunate.

It’s not even debatable.

Now, before I get hate mail from devout fans of other professional leagues, let me state that I respect and admire those athletes who do make a profound effort and emphasis on giving back. But if we’re honest with ourselves, collectively it’s certainly not close to what could be done with the amount of money that floats around the “big 4” – NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL.

That’s why the WNBA gets the crown; they do more with less.

It’s no secret that WNBA players’ salaries are considerably less than other professional athletes; much less. The salary cap for WNBA teams in 2009 was $803,000. For comparisons sake, Kevin Garnett made about $300,000 a game for the Celtics in ’08-09 (about $25 million for the entire year). Thus, Garnett made more money in three games than the combined salaries of any WNBA team (11 players) for the entire 2009 season. This isn’t a knock on Garnett, not by any means (he does a lot in the community with his Foundation); it’s merely an illustration of the disparity in pay between the WNBA and NBA.

In spite of this, the vast majority of WNBA players continually make an unwavering priority to give back to the community; not because their absurd salaries forced them to or for tax benefits, but because they each have an indelible zeal for improving the world around them and because it’s the right thing to do.

If you’re thinking that I’m questioning the authenticity of some professional athletes in terms of their Foundations and personal focus on improving the community, well, you’d be correct. In fact, I very much question the genuineness of many athletes when they make an appearance at a Boys & Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters ,etc. and this comes from a first-hand perspective. I’ve worked for many years in both the non-profit world and the sports world and have been around a multitude of professional athletes and celebrities who unquestionably were forced to make an appearance somewhere or write a check with the sole purpose of enhancing their public image. And while, ultimately, the organizations still get funding and exposure, there simply is a different feeling and impact that is created when it comes from a sincere place. The fact remains, however, that we undoubtedly hear more about those events than any of the countless accomplishments in the community by WNBA athletes.

I, for one, think it’s about time we recognize, acknowledge, and honor what is being done in the community by WNBA players and the WNBA Cares program. WNBA Cares focuses on programs that improve the quality of life for all people, with a special emphasis on promoting a healthy lifestyle and positive body image, breast health awareness, youth and family development, and education as well as team-sponsored community events. There are a countless number of players and team representatives that have volunteered their time and money for these special community events.

However, here are descriptions of several of the more notable non-profit organizations that have been developed by individual WNBA players. I encourage you to browse their Foundation’s website and get involved!

Kudos to the tireless efforts of these women.

Temeka Johnson, H.O.P.E. (Heaven Opens People’s Eyes)

Meek’s HOPE is active in the community in a number of ways and has made a key decision to help underprivileged children find hope and better their lives. She offers the Jewel Johnson Teacher Scholarship, in honor of her grandmother, to deserving students from Louisiana or attending Louisiana institutions. In addition, Meek’s HOPE has adopted schools to help with projects, mentoring, and fundraising. HOPE also sponsors area youth to receive personal hygiene makeovers for girls and boys, works with local schools and agencies to identify organizational needs, and hosts “A Very Meek Christmas” for local youth where HOPE and Temeka take them on a Christmas shopping spree.

Ketia Swanier – Ketia4Kidz

Ketia4Kidz provides support to the children of deployed and severely injured active duty military service members of Operation Iraqi Freedom. It also provides enrichment activities and tutoring to children while their parent(s) are away in service.

Tamika Catchings – Catch the Stars

Tamika’s mission is to motivate at-risk youth in the Indianapolis area to achieve their dreams and goals by providing positive academic and sports related programs. Largely centered on academics, the foundation also focuses on sportsmanship, healthier lifestyles, mentoring, and basketball/fitness clinics.

Swin Cash – Cash for Kids

Swin developed the Cash for Kids program to assist youth agencies and schools both inside and outside of the classroom in the areas of Arts & Culture, Youth Development, and Athletics.

Candice Wiggins – The Candice Wiggins Foundation Fund

The Candice Wiggins Foundation Fund honors the legacy of Alan Wiggins in its dedication to growing awareness, dialogue and funds to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Ruth Riley – NothingButNets

Ruth is a major player in this movement. Nothing But Nets is a grassroots campaign to save lives by preventing malaria, a leading killer of children in Africa. Ruth has also been awarded the WNBA Community Assist Award for her dedication to community outreach initiatives related to youth health and wellness - particularly in her work for Nothing But Nets.

Betty Lennox – The Lennox Foundation 22

Betty Lennox’s Foundation centers around supporting kids in all communities that battle with the horrors of neglect and abuse. The money raised by The Lennox Foundation 22 will assist different shelters and homes to enrich their programs and educational needs for their communities.

Tamika Raymond – Thames River Family Programs, NothingButNets

Tamika worked with the Thames River Family Programs (TRFP), a transitional home for women and their children. In addition to her work with TRFP, Tamika was a regular participant and avid supporter of WNBA Cares events and causes, including Nothing But Nets and several visits to local schools, youth organizations, and fan events during the year.

Dawn Staley – Dawn Staley Foundation

The foundation’s mission is to create a future of hope for at-risk youth by providing opportunities that help them realize their dreams and become productive and responsible citizens. The creation and support of educational and sports programs which challenge minds, build character, and help youth to develop to their fullest potential academically, socially and physically are the essence of the foundation.

John Hawie & Lady Tiger Basketball

2009-10-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

Check HERE for a link to the Lady Tigers Blog entry I put up today! Was great presenting John Hawie (HOPE Foundation & Lady Tigers supporter) w/ a signed WNBA Championship ball from the entire Phoenix Mercury team!!

Magnolia Woods Students

2009-10-22T16:01:00.000-07:00

Here is video from 2nd Annual Temeka Johnson Day, where the students said "how you doin'?!" like show host, Wendy Williams..

Day 2 of Temeka Johnson Weekend

2009-10-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Now here we are again, Day 2 of the Temeka Johnson Weekend.

This day started with the school that I adopted last year: Magnolia Woods Elementary. We called this day the 2nd Annual Meek Day. As I arrived at the school I'm thinking to myself, after such a bad turnout with the other school, I was like "I know Magnolia is going to come through strong"... and guess what? Strong is not even the correct word. My visit there was so amazing, I didn't know what to say. The teachers were awesome, the kids that were there before as well as the new kids that were attending were great also.

My marketing team was surprised and excited about the school, as they should have been. It was their first time to the school, and they were very happy that I was involved with a school of such high class. They truly care about their students, their education and also their future. It was so awesome for me to be reminded, but for my team to see it for themselves firsthand. While there I got to read to the kindergartners. I read the book "The Little Red Hen Makes Pizza". It was so fun as the kids interacted and participated with me in reading the book. After reading to them, they sang me a song that they will be performing this upcoming Friday. I am not sure of the title, but I know the chorus is "I maybe small, but I ACT tall" LOL it was so fitting and so cute. I laughed really hard, but they performed it really well. I am trying to get a copy of that CD and maybe their performance to share with all of you. I promise that you will appreciate it just as much as I did. We also got a chance to show my Marketing team the projectory boards/smart boards that are being placed in classrooms. They were able to see what they actually do and how they work. The kids love them and the teacher enjoy teaching with them. They keep the students attention, they allow them to feel like learning is fun and I know I would have enjoyed it if it was there when I was in elementary school. It was such a great visit and I am looking forward to doing more stuff with them this year. In my opinion, there are many schools that can go to Magnolia Woods and learn how a school environment should be.

After leaving the school, I had a little down time so we went and ate at Waffle House, it was so good to see Mrs. Barbara who has been there a long time. She has always taken care of us and she hasn't forgotten us either. As she was taking our order everyone was thinking about what they may have wanted, she proceeds to tell me don't you worry I already know what you want. I smiled and said yes ma'am and she said the usual right I said you got it. My usual is a waffle with hash browns smothered, and some bacon with an orange juice. I haven't been back there in a long time, but that didn't matter, Mrs. Barbara still remembered.

That's the love you get in Tiger Town. From there I went over to an autograph signing at one of the best stores in Baton Rouge. The Lady Tiger Depot sells majority women's gear, but all of LSU stuff. The turnout wasn't what I thought it would be, but I was happy to get to see the people that did show and some were my middle school teachers. I wasn't complaining top bad, though.

From there I made my way to the celebration party that was put together for me at my Alma Mater. So many came out to support me and we all had a blast. Coach Starkey and the LSU staff and managers did a wonderful job. Everyone ate, mingled, talked, congratulated, reminisced, shared moments, and had fun. The food was great, the cake was amazing, the WNBA logo with the championship trophy on it was priceless. I was truly happy.

Coach Chancellor and Allison Hightower's tribute was so heartfelt and I truly appreciated it. I kept telling myself that I wasn't going to cry, but with something as special as that, I could not help but to cry. Then the video that was put together by Coach Starkey was so awesome, that I had no choice but to cry. To have this great feeling of being a champion and to be able to share it with all of my loved ones who have always been there for me..... ALL I CAN SAY IS WOW. The auction for the foundation went well, and everyone supported it. We raised close to $3,000 over the weekend, but most of all we had a blast....

I am working on getting that video so that I can share it with all of you as well. This has been a great weekend and tonight will be even better. I will celebrate with just friends and family tonight, but not before I go and watch my lady tigers practice.

Ok everyone that's all I have for you right now, but as soon as something else comes up you will be informed. (SMILES) talk to you soon

Meek

Long Time Coming..

2009-10-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

I have to start out by saying how blessed I am.

I have been on a natural high ever since we won the championship last Friday. WORLD CHAMPS - man it feels so great. Many of you already know that it was more about the things that occurred before me even getting to Phoenix.

It started in high school, getting close to the championship trophy, then the 2 Final Fours in college. Then, losing my college coach, the late great Sue Gunter, losing my grandmother,Jewel Johnson, etc. All off the bumps that I faced in the road was all worth it. The excitement has continued after leaving Phoenix with all of the celebrations, I came home to Kenner and Baton Rouge to celebrate as well. I'll start with Thursday.

This was the day of adopting my Grandmother's elementary school, an assembly at my high school, and a visit to Chateau Living Center. The start of it was really rocky and a little disappointing so I won't speak too much on that, I'll just say that I thought the elementary school would have been better prepared and would have done a much better job handling things, but I was wrong. So after being fairly disappointed we moved on over to my high school; now that was awesome.

They really showed me a lot of love back a Bonnabel High. The assembly was really nice - the students had some awesome questions, but most of all, the teachers that taught me were full of joy. I hugged, laughed, joked, talked, reminisced and everything while there. It was great. I also spoke with the new principal Mr. John Kulakowski who is trying his best to do some amazing things with the school. He is trying to get Bonnabel back to the way it was, back to a place an educational environment should be, and I really like the energy and enthusiasm that he is showcasing.

From there we went on over to the Chateau Living Center. The people there were adorable. They were having their live entertainment amongst themselves when we arrived. As I am walking through the door, a lady comes in behind us in her wheelchair. As I proceed to move to the side (out of her way), she says with a big smile on her face and a little raspy voice, "I just love you", as she reaches her hands out to me. "I have followed you your entire career at LSU and congratulations on winning the championship." I just smiled as I was completely stunned and caught off-guard, and I gave her a hug and said thank you. Ms. Estelle was definitely a fan not only of me, but for the Lady Tigers.

As we proceed to get further in, the entertainment is rocking. It was so good to see them with so much energy and so much enthusiasm, as they sang for their peers. It was so cute. As I mingled through the crowd, I was talked into dancing. LOL, yes dancing. So I stopped by a lady and asked if she wanted to dance, and she smiled big and said yes. My heart was just filled right then. As we danced on the floor, she begins to tell me that her parents as well as her brother were all dancers so it was something that she loved to do. She said she had been wanted to get up and dance, but she didn't want to look crazy dancing alone.

I was so happy that I choose to dance with her, and she was just as happy. I know they enjoyed my visit, but they don't realize how much fun I had and how much joy that brought to me in just the little time I was there. It was truly something special. Oh yeah, one other thing. I ran into Mrs. Benson, (her husband, Tom Benson, is the owner of the New Orleans Saints) as she was coming in to visit her mother that was inside. I had taken a picture with her earlier. I don't know them personally but I would like to thank them for keeping the Saints in New Orleans, it has brought so much joy back to a much needed city of New Orleans, and all of the people have embraced them.

That has capped the first day, and it was one that I will truly remember. I will fill you in about Friday, which was another beautiful day.

Champion!!

2009-10-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW

Thats all I can say right now. I promise you it feels so surreal. I am beyond happy right now. I am not sure if there is enough words to describe how I am feeling. I have to first Thank the Good Lord up above for removing from what was a bad situation to a great one. I have had a huge turn around from last year. It was the hardest time of my life both on and off the court. I didn't know while going through it He was preparing me for something Great. He was molding me to become a Champion. I couldn't have asked for a better organization, and group of women to accomplish this with.

Jay Parry, Annie Meyers, Corey Gaines, and the coaching staff, and my teammates welcomed me with open arms when I first stepped foot in the locker room and it was smooth sailing from there. I love every last one of my teammates and it has surely been a blast. I want to thank everyone for all your support for me and my teammates throughout this entire season. Stay tuned for some more great things that I have ahead - you will love it. Thanks again.

Meek

New WNBA Blog!!

2009-10-01T10:26:00.001-07:00

check for it here!!

WNBA Finals - Game 1 Victory!

2009-09-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

check the video highlights here!! let's go Mercury!!

Greatness & More!!

2009-09-28T14:36:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!!

I wanted to drop in and say a few words to you. I know that my last couple of blogs have been a little short and brief, but that is only because we have been extremely busy trying to become The Western Conference Champions! I want to share with you what has been going on during that time. I am going to talk to you about GREATNESS and the people that I will mention definitely defines it.

First off is Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

Man, what an amazing runner. I can remember watching her as child; she had me believing that I could beat everyone in the neighborhood in running. After watching her races I would go outside and just run - believing that I would be just as fast as her if I just ran all day. It didn't work - lol - but that's the impact that she had on people. Not long ago she was at the US Airways Center being honored. That's what I love about the WNBA - it is about recognizing great athletes, as well as people.

After our game, Mrs. Joyner-Kersee came into the locker room and spoke with us. She was so down to earth and actually a fan of what we do. It's so amazing to come in contact with people that you watched growing up be just as much of a fan of what you do as you were at what they did/done/or still doing. She has done so many things for women in general - her hard work, dedication, love for her sport, and many other things that helped break barriers for young girls coming up behind her. I can't say enough to express my gratitude. That was a really great night.

The next Great Person that I was blessed to meet was Muhammad Ali.

"Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee" is what I remember (as well as "I'm Pretty"). "I'm Pretty" is another one of his sayings as he danced around the ring. He was addressing the media, and as he stood in front of our locker room a few nights ago, not as mobile as he once was, he was still PRETTY, PRETTY!! I know that he can still float like that butterfly and sting like that bee! He is still the great Muhammad Ali. He has done some great things for woman as well. He broke some barriers for African Americans, and he opened the eyes to people of all races, nationalities, and religions. I cant say enough about how great of a feeling it was to see him in person and to see the look on mine as well as my teammates faces when he graced us with his presence. It is a priceless moment, one that i will never forget.

There was something else that was going on with all this also. OH YEAH besides us clinching first place overall during regular season, we also became the 2009 WESTERN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONS!!

This is another GREAT moment. I am still trying my best to put into words how excited I am about it and it still hasn't hit me yet. It is almost surreal but I can tell you that I love this feeling! I couldn't have asked to be with a better group of women. Hard working, fun, dedicated, etc, it's a joy. I am not taking anything away from my other teammates whom we were facing, because I truly love them and I am happy that I was able to play with them and get to know them. Winning the Western Conference has gotten me over that hump of just getting to that series. I love that.

I have to say that winning against LA did not have any extra motivation for me. Yes it is true, I was just in that uniform last year but the uniform that I am in now has given me a new opportunity, a fresh start, and a better chance. Rest assured that I couldn't have asked for a better group. The game a few days ago was Lisa Leslie-Lockwood's last WNBA game. She has retired; hung up her basketball shoes. She is arguably the best Center in the world and, believe me, those will be some pretty big shoes to fill. Lisa has done some great things in the game of basketball. She has Championships, Gold Medals, MVPs, All-Stars, Defensive Player of the Year awards to show for it. That speaks to her hard work, her dedication, and her determination to get better every year. She expanded her game every year and proved that she was a well rounded player. But I have to tell you that none of that tells you how great of a person she is. I had the honor of being her teammate for 3 years and I can tell you she showcased some phenomenal things. She showed that God was first in her life, she showed how caring, helpful, loving and supporting that she can be and was. Day in and day out she was there for you and her door was always open to you. She not only helped you on the court but she was also willing to help you in life. The WNBA is losing a great athlete, but the world outside of sports is gaining a wonderful person. I will miss Lisa very much and I will always love her for who she is and what she has done for me, my teammates and so many more to come.

OK I think that is enough for now! I will be back in touch with you all, and please know that we are not satisfied at all!! There is still more work to be done. Thank you for all of your love and support, as it would be impossible without you! You are truly our Sixth Man (congrats again to my girl, D.Bonner for winning that award this year!) and you are the BEST there is.

Until Next Time...

Meek

New Playoff Article on Meek!

2009-09-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

Check it out here!! Thanks to the Arizona Republic!!

Timeout w/ Meek!

2009-09-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

Check out this video!!

Meek Geek Shirts!

2009-09-09T08:19:00.001-07:00

hey everybody!! i wanted to show you 2 new shirts for the playoffs!! i have a fan club called "Meek Geeks", and we made 2 shirts for them so that we can raise money for the HOPE Foundation.. the shirts are $25 (shipping included), and if you'd like one, just email HOPE@FuzionAM.com. The other shirt is available at www.MeeksHOPE.org as well as posters!!

Version 1

Version 2

thanks for your support!!

Big Day Recap!

2009-09-08T08:15:00.001-07:00

hey everybody!! it's been awhile since i talked to all of you, but i've kinda been busy.. something called the WNBA :) --

anyway, we secured the best record in the Western Conference!! we are Western Conference regular season champs!! it feels good.. my first year w/ the Phoenix Mercury and we have the best record! on top of that, after the game i celebrated my birthday w/ the team and the Mercury fans! it was a blast..

some people are saying that i had my best game, but i know i can play even better.. but that was a big victory against a great team.. the Mercury fans are the best!

please keep following me on Twitter (@Quickdeuce) and let others know too!

thanks everyone!!

Meek

Night of HOPE!!

2009-08-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

hey everyone!! i wanted to let you know that this is going to be a big week for me and the HOPE Foundation!! on Saturday, August 29th, we're going to host the 1st Annual Night of HOPE during my game against the Connecticut Sun! I'm really excited about this, as I'll be able to introduce the foundation to the Phoenix community..

we're going to have media, students and community leaders at the event.. they'll get to meet me and watch the shoot-around, as well as enjoy the game in a Meek Mercury Suite!! i think they'll have hotdogs and soda (nothing too fancy)..

starting today, we are releasing a new foundation tshirt where all of the proceeds go to Night of HOPE and the foundation.. the 1st 100 tshirts bought will have it autographed.. the shirts are only $25, but the cause is great..

thank you all for the support and check out MeeksHOPE.org and Meek2.com for more details!!

Autograph Signing Pictures

2009-08-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

hey everyone, check out my pictures from the signing!! click on my facebook link on the side!! let me know what you all think!!

thanks!!

Poster Available on MeeksHOPE.org!

2009-08-19T14:02:00.000-07:00

hey everyone!! the Special Forces poster is now available at my Meek's HOPE site! check it out.. there are only 10 signed posters left! thanks to everyone that has supported HOPE!

the posters are $20 for the unsigned 11x17 poster and $40 for the signed 11x17 poster!!

check them out here!

New Limited Edition Charity Poster

2009-08-17T13:17:00.001-07:00

Let me know what you guys think!!

Nice Article About the WNBA..

2009-08-17T12:28:00.001-07:00

check the article here.. not sure where they found that photo!! :)

Autograph Signing - TOMORROW!!

2009-08-17T09:42:00.000-07:00

what's up everyone!! wanted to let those of you in Chicago know that tomorrow i'll be joining my best friend (and WNBA All-Star) after the game for a special autograph signing.. we're going to have the proceeds go to our charity of choice.. proceeds for me will go to HOPE..

a special poster will be available for a $10 donation.. for those that would like to buy one for charity, please email HOPE@FuzionAM.com for more details.. We are going to have them for $15 (to cover shipping) available to everyone that cannot make it to the game..

we will also be having tshirts and rubber wristbands available (proceeds to HOPE) very soon.. be on the lookout!!

Audio from Interview..

2009-08-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Check it out HERE!

New Article - Brighter Side of the Sun

2009-08-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

Check out the new article from Bright Side of the Sun.. Thanks to PhoenixStan (@phoenixstan on twitter) for this piece!

Another Game, Another Victory..

2009-08-05T05:36:00.000-07:00

What's up y'all.. We finished our long road trip with another victory.. 5 games? 4 victories? I can't be too mad at that.. Check the highlights here! Time to keep it going at home!!

Here's another article about us!! I know we can keep this going.. Keep cheering for us!!

Another Road Win..

2009-07-29T06:51:00.001-07:00

Check out the highlights!!

Top Play of the Week!

2009-07-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

I made the #1 position in the WNBA's Top Ten Plays of the Week! Check it here!

Victory & Presentation

2009-07-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

It was great to get another victory, especially after being awarded with the WNBA's Community Assist Award! I'll post some pictures soon!! On the run!!

Thanks for the support!!

Meek

WNBA Community Assist Award!!

2009-07-17T11:57:00.000-07:00

Check out the great news everyone!! Many thanks to the WNBA for acknowledging what HOPE is doing for the community! I'm just happy to see it all coming together!

HOPE Inquirer..

2009-07-13T15:58:00.000-07:00

LSU Feature

2009-07-13T08:47:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to LSU and Coach Starkey (www.twitter.com/LSUCoachStarkey) for this!!

Enjoy!!

Video From the Buzzer Beater!!

2009-07-12T08:59:00.001-07:00

ENJOY!

Meek Hits Buzzer Beater!!

2009-07-12T04:09:00.001-07:00

Meek was at it again!! In her most memorable game as a Mercury, Meek hit the buzzer beater for the 107-105 victory over the Monarchs! Check out the recap here!

Successful Return to LA

2009-07-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

it was good going back to LA and seeing friends and former teammates.. Best of all, it was nice to get the victory.. a good game, where we turned it on in the 2nd half.. check out the recap here..

talk to you soon!

Meek

Vote for me!!

2009-07-02T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

I would love to make the All-Star game this year, and I need your votes and support.. I'm currently in 4th, but only a few hundred votes away.. This would be great for me..
Go here for more information!

To vote, go here! You can vote daily!!

Thanks!!

Meek

HOPE Inquirer..

2009-06-29T14:43:00.000-07:00

Video From Our Win Against the Mystic..

2009-06-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

Click here.. Enjoy!!

HOPE Inquirer..

2009-06-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

All,

I'm sorry for the delay, but we have a special issue coming on Monday for The HOPE Inquirer.. Check for it!!

Meek

Oldie, but Goodie Article..

2009-06-23T12:25:00.001-07:00

Check this one out, where Diana Taurasi talks about having a point guard like Meek!!

Catching Up..

2009-06-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I know I haven't really been doing a lot of talking lately, but I have great reason for that. Things have been moving fairly quickly around here. We have been playing and practicing and practicing and playing, you all know how it goes. All in all it has been great so far. I am loving being apart of the Phoenix Mercury. So far we are 5-1 but most of all we are undefeated on our home floor. We do have to play Seattle before we head out on the road but I am looking forward to it being 6-0 at the house.

We have had some tough challenges that have come to the US AirWays Center. San Antonio, New York, Sacramento, Minnesota, and Los Angeles. They have all been great tests for us, but so far we have passed every last one of them. I have to say that the Minni game was fun, but I hated to see my former teammate get hurt. Seimone had been playing so well, as you all know she was being the Great Seimone Augustus and then some. To see her in pain was not good thing for me. We have accomplished a lot of good things together, and I am praying for a successful procedure and recovery for her.

Now on to the LA game - it was really a great win for us. Many believe that I was trying to play well due to the fact that LA was my team last year, but I honestly just wanted to win. I have said this before - once my time in LA was up, MY TIME WAS UP. It is about me and my new team the Phoenix Mercury. I was happy that I played well though, but not because it was LA, but because I have been working hard and I am glad that it is finally paying off. I know that I am where I am suppose to be and where the Lord wants me to be. My teammates have been great, the coaching staff is awesome, and the organization is very supportive and behind each player 100%.
I must say that I am in a great place mentally and physically. I have gotten my confidence back, I am in a comfortable situation, and I am so much more happier.

As you all know last year around this time I was in a very dark and unhappy place both on and off the court, but thank God - He has brought me out of that and I am now able to love what I do as well as be happy while doing it. I think this is and will be a special season for us so please continue to follow and support us; and know that I thank all of you that support me and was still supporting me through all of my struggling times. This is a great season and be prepared for more great things to come!!

Thanks

Meek

Johnson Making Instant Impact - NEW Article!

2009-06-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

Check out the this GREAT article about me!! Thanks Arizona Republic.. Special thanks to Cheryl Evans (Arizona Republic) for the photo..

The Hope Inquirer

2009-06-15T08:08:00.000-07:00

Ben York Does It Again!!

2009-06-11T17:35:00.001-07:00

Ben is a pretty good guy.. i thought this was a nice article that i wanted to share w/ all of you.. Thanks for the support, Ben!

Meek

Another Victory!

2009-06-11T08:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, y'all, we won again! It wasn't the best game, but we had the best result - a VICTORY! We're 2-0 and we know we have a long way to go. I have to keep working hard, but playing with great teammates makes it easier!

Take care!

Meek

Meek Sings w/ the Mercury

2009-06-08T15:44:00.000-07:00

Classic!!

The Hope Inquirer

2009-06-08T06:11:00.001-07:00

Season Opener Victory!!

2009-06-07T04:47:00.001-07:00

We WON! It feels good.. Let's keep it going! No better way to start the season!

Meek

Phoenix Mercury.com Article

2009-06-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hey, I had another good interview! This time it was with the Phoenix Mercury.com's writer. Enjoy!

Season Opener & More!

2009-06-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Lets talk more about the time that I have been having here in Phx.

I have talked about my teammates and how great they have been and it seems to get better everyday. Gotta love that. I am learning the system a lot faster than I thought, but trust me there is more for me to learn, but I am happy with the progress so far; and the coaches have been great. I am learning so much from the staff here, and Bridget Pettis is definitely one of the most helpful energetic people that I have met thus far. She keeps us laughing at all times. It doesnt matter the time of the day she will have that same energy and you will be laughing. She can also be serious and get her point across, though. Then its right back to putting a smile on your face.

We have finished up training camp and had some really good practice games against some of the other teams in the league that we were fortunate enough to win. We all learned more and more about each other and that is just going to continue to grow.

Now on to whats about to come up for us. NONE OTHER THAN THE FIRST HOME GAME. It is this saturday on the 6th of June against the San Antonio Silver Stars. I am so excited. Can you believe it, the season is here. It seems like just the other day we all were overseas. This will be an exciting season everyone, not for just one particular team ( although you know that I am all for the Mercury. LOL), but I mean across the entire league. I am sure that you all will not want to miss this season and what is about to happen. I know I cant wait and I cant even see it the way that you all get to see it. I love what I do and I am so happy that I am still blessed enough to compete like we do. I love the excitement that we bring to others, but most of all the Hope that we bring to sooooooooo many young women and some young men as well. I am getting chills just thinking about it.

Ok I am off now, I have to save some of this exciting energy for our Home opener again it will be on the this Saturday June the 6th come out and cheer us on. We would love to have you.

Meek

Phoenix Mercury Article

2009-05-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Check out the new article!!

Training Camp Breakdown..

2009-05-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

We are finally finishing up training camp and I must tell you that it has been a joy. I know that you all must think that I am insane right now, LOL. But I am telling the truth. The hard work, the competition, the togetherness, the bonding etc. Couldn't ask for anything better.

Diana and Cappie are working extremely hard as usual, Tangela is doing her thing as well as showing DeWanner the ropes, Le'Coe is underestimated at times, especially in her running ability, Laurie just doesn't miss at all, LOL, Kelly M is working hard as well and knocking down shots, Nicole O, is making great strides, Shay Brooks is taking in all that she can everyday, Yuko, our Japanese pg, is running things as usual and having fun with all if us. Alley Q is a silent assassin that many sometimes sleep on but she is really playing well. Brooke Smith brings it every day.

I am adjusting and picking up things very fast. I am really liking the direction that things are going right now and I really think that this will be a very special year here in Phx. I am looking forward to it all. The coaching staff has been great, and the trainer Tamara Poole is awesome. She is really dedicated to her players and knows how important our bodies and health are.

Anyway like I mentioned before we are finishing up training camp and are now getting ready to head to Sacramento for a preseason game and then to Las Vegas and back here to play against Seattle. I cant wait. Each day and game allows us the opportunity to get even better connected with one another on the floor. I am smiling so big right now. Let's Go Merc. YAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.

Talk to you all soon. Come on out and check us out this summer, you can start on June 6 for our home opener at 7 o'clock hope to see you all there.

Meek

In Phoenix!

2009-05-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, especially the Mercury Fans!

I just want to let you know that my first week here has been awesome and we are just getting started. The people here were so welcoming, from the front office, to the coaching staff, my teammates, etc. I am honored to be here and looking forward to great things here with the Phoenix Mercury. I have been participating in some workout with some of the players, and just soaking up all that is thrown at me. The system seems like a perfect fit for me and I couldn't have asked for two better wing players in Diana and Cappi.

That is a point guard's dream to have someone to throw the ball to and you know that they are going to do something productive with it. And Tangela Smith puts the icing on the cake with what she brings. I could go on and on about the players but I think I will wait and save some of that for later. This is going to be an exciting year, I suggest those that are not already on board - jump on NOW. What are you waiting for? This is the Year for great things. See you all really soon.

Meek

Off To Phoenix

2009-05-12T11:27:00.000-07:00

On Monday I went to Magnolia Woods again to address the students and the teachers. I just wanted to thank them for helping me help them. They couldn't have been any better. I have enjoyed every minute of it and I am looking forward to the Adopt-A-School Program to grow.

I thanked the teachers for all of their hard work that they put forth on a daily basis. With the lesson plans they prepare, with their patience with the students, with the teaching of the students with life lessons. It sometimes goes unnoticed and unappreciated. I tip my hat off to them for everything that they put forth. I encouraged the students to be the best that they can be and to work as hard as they can in the class rooms. I asked the honor roll students to continue on that road, and for the others that were not on the honor roll to strive to become an honor roll student or the best student that they can be.

I loved this adoption and I am looking forward to the future. I want to congratulate Mrs. Blakes the P.E. teacher for achieving the teacher of the year award. We (the H.O.P.E foundation) surprised her with a gift certificate to outback steak house for two, and a gift card for the movies for two. We all hope that she enjoy her time out she earned -- and believe me yall she deserves it!

I want to send out my deepest sympathy to the Principal of the school Principal Wallette (shown in picture w/ me) who lost her mother this past weekend unexpectedly. I know that it was and is a very difficult time to her so lets all keep her and her family in our prayers.

Thanks everyone that is all for now I am headed to Phoenix and I cant wait. Will be talking to you all soon.

Until next time...

Meek

2009-05-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

On Thursday i went back to magnolia woods, and it was a bitter sweet day for me. As you all know Nike and I donated some shoes to the Honor Roll students at Magnolia Woods Elementary. This is the elementary school that I adopted through my foundation, MeeksHOPE.org.

Well I thought it would be good to have a follow up by having a meet and greet with the parents of the students that received the shoes. It didn't really turn out the way that I had hoped, but the few that were there were very happy and sincerely grateful. I had one lady who was there for her granddaughter whom she is raising (and you all know I am a product of being raised by my grandmother as well) so she and i connected from the start. She became very emotional and overwhelmed with tears of joy. This made my heart just smile. She went on to thank me again and from there we embraced one another. This is what it is all about taking time out of your schedule to put a smile on someone's face, giving so many hope. I love it. As people continued to walk around and the kids were making thank you cards, they were enjoying some delicious donuts from Mikey's Donut who donated 10 dozen. Thanks Mikey's.

Soon after i, began to speak to the parents. I just thanked them for coming and for caring for their kids future. I stressed the importance of the support starting at home and how the kids are our future. I told them that I just wanted them to know that there a lot of people that cared about their kids' education and future -- and I was one of them. I encouraged them to stay involved and continue to support and encourage their kids to be the best that they can be. It was an awesome feeling -- the response I got from the parents that were there and for the ones that weren't there i sent home some thank you cards. The principal and the teachers were ecstatic and so were the kids. I received a lot of nice cards. Everybody, this is what it is really all about.

Can't wait until the next event tomorrow!! I will keep you posted on that.

Until next time...

Meek