Carmelo Anthony Jersey
New York Knicks

Last month, ’Melo made the move from Denver to the Big Apple in a blockbuster trade that will have implications in the NBA for years to come. His addition to the Knicks’ roster had an immediate impact. Anthony is often the leading scorer in games and makes several show-stopping, game-changing plays for New York, even though the Knicks’ win percentage hasn’t necessarily improved. (The Knicks are less than .500 since Anthony joined.) “Sports pundits are trying to make a quick judgment on the trade,” Will Bailey, FCLC ’12, said. “It’s going to take some time to get the chemistry right, but they’ll be winning games for years with him.” If he’s right, faithful Knicks fans will be rewarded for their early investment in his gear.

Michael Vick Jersey
Philadelphia Eagles

When he was convicted and sentenced to almost two years in federal prison, Vick’s career seemed like it was over. In 2009, the Eagles took a chance on the former Pro Bowler, making him their third-string quarterback. He saw limited action that year, with play-callers often using him as a “wildcard” option. But Vick wouldn’t be denied, and the following year, he would make an unprecedented comeback that became the highlight of the year. Because of the double threat he poses as both a runner and passer, Vick was voted to the Pro Bowl again and was named the starter of the NFC squad. Don’t be surprised if the 2010 Comeback Player of the Year makes a serious run for 2011 MVP.

Derrick Rose Jersey
Chicago Bulls

Rose is making all sorts of history. He is a bright spot for a team that has been looking for an identity since His Airness retired, and under the tutelage of first year coach Tom Thibadeau, Rose is primed to become the league’s youngest MVP ever. His undeniable skill and his remarkable humility (he’s one of the league’s best players at only 22) make him attractive to basketball lovers regardless of affiliation. As Michael Jordan himself declared, with him on the roster, the Bulls are on the path for several championships.

Cliff Lee Jersey
Philadelphia Phillies

After the 2010 season, several teams sought the dominant Rangers pitcher. The Phillies won the horse race, signing Lee to a five-year, $120 million contract. In the process, Lee turned down a seven-year, $148 million contract with the New York Yankees. “We were anxiously waiting for his decision,” Alex Profaci, FCLC ’13 and a die-hard Yankees fan, said. “It would have been nice to have him, because he beat us in every playoff game in the last two years. He’s a great player.” Looks like it’s a good time to be a Phillies fan again.

Cheese Head
Green Bay Packers

The Packers are the reigning Super Bowl champions, which means it’s a good time to be a Packers fan. With a team as packed (pun intended) with stars as the Packers (Aaron Rodgers, Charles Woodson, Clay Matthews, etc.), it’s better to not pick a favorite and instead root for the whole team.