Call me crazy, but I truly believe the NBA lock out was the best thing that could have happened for men all around the US. There are two types of guys in this world: the ones we want to go on dates with that never ask, and the ones who constantly ask and we always say no. As much as I detest users and preach independence, it’s just crazy to say no when someone invites you to a Magic game.

I now introduce you to the beautiful concept of “freelationships”. A freelationship is a relationship in which one side gives way more than the other side, usually in monetary form, and doesn’t stop even when you are clearly not interested in anything but getting free stuff from them because they’re so blinded by your awesomeness. One form of a freelationship is the dude who always has that “extra ticket” for a ball game. Currently, it’s basketball. Due to the fact the lockout lasted so long, games are coming twice, sometimes three times a week now. This is the perfect opportunity for those sad guys to stock up on tickets and wishful thinking. This is also your chance as an experienced or inexperienced user to rate the guys level of devotion for you. Lets say he just picks you up for the game, you spend 4 hours together, and he takes you home. You can probably let this one go. However, if you’re invited to a pre-game, dinner, game, drinks during the game, post-game, and lunch the next day, I’d suggest continuing to play as hard to get as possible while keeping the poor guy on your hook. It also doesn’t hurt when your freelationship is with someone who can fix smart phones for the rare occasion that you drop your iPhone down the bleachers at the Amway Center and the screen cracks into a million pieces.

Men: the more luxurious your apartment, the more girls who will be nice to you to come tan by your pool, take pictures on your balcony, and drink your liquor cabinet.

Women: picking guys up to run their errands, doing their homework or job at the workplace, and being overly generous in the bedroom, will attract users.

This sad relationship works both ways. Girls, you are all victim of being the giver in a freelationship. Whether it’ with a friend who “always forgets their wallet”, or with a guy who you never see before midnight, we’ve all been privy to being too nice to those who don’t deserve it. Maybe I’m just speaking for myself, but I’ve witnessed girls paying for guys at restaurants, bars, and theme parks, everywhere. Once in awhile is okay, but I am truly old fashioned when I say that the man should always pay, or at least offer.

After saying no to countless dates with the same guy, it was hard to say no to attending a Magic game. It’s always a gamble when agreeing to any date on whether you will be wasting your time, or getting to know someone who could truly add happiness and fun to your life. It turned out, he was actually a fun, cool, and nice person…and I’m not only saying this because he fixed my iPhone when I dropped it down the bleachers at the Amway Center while on a date with a different ticket-holder.

The point is there will always be someone with the upper hand in a relationship. It’s our job to be respectful and honest with those who show interest in us. Don’t lead someone on just because they drive their BMW convertible to the beach every Sunday, or because they always need a dinner date for Seasons 52. And DEFINITELY do NOT hang out with someone simply because they know the owner of a club or bar downtown; the owner is probably never there. You hang out with them when they know the bartenders.

Tags: orlando girl's guide, nba, orlando magic, freelationships