Slam Dunk

Comics are officially bringing nations together. To celebrate 400 years of diplomacy between Japan and Spain, 46-year-old Takehiko Inoue -- the creator of of Slam Dunk, Vagabond, Real and other celebrated manga -- has been appointed as one of three goodwill ambassadors to Spain by the Japanese Foreign Ministry, to serve from now until July 31 of 2014.

The latest subject of CNN's "Human to Hero" series -- which profiles "the best in the fields of architecture, dance, fashion, music and sport" to explore "the discipline, dedication and determination involved, as well as the sources of inspiration" for the best -- is a welcome surprise: Slam Dunk creator Takehiko Inoue...

I grew up watching the Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Falcons, and Ohio State Buckeyes (football, of course). Sports are something I'm really into, though not to the point that I'll paint my face and show up shirtless to your tail gate party. But, y'know, on gameday, I'll wear a Hawks wristband or shirt to show my support...