A $99 ball, with a cause behind it

A special-edition Spaulding NBA basketball decorated up to commemorate the Lakers' 2009 NBA title is being offered to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Nikco Sports (linked here) is producing the ball -- limited to 2,009 -- for $99. You can also call 800-345-2868.

During the past several years, Nikco Sports has raised more than $1.7 million for children's charities throughout the country, some involving the USC football program, the Anaheim Ducks and the Lakers (think teams that have won titles).