Every summer, the NBA gathers its rookies together for a publicity photo shoot, and every summer, I become more and more convinced the photographers try to make the pictures fun creating awkward poses. This year, the rookies -- especially Joe Alexander -- are hilarious as ever.

(Note: If you want the large versions, click on the pictures.)

For fifteen cents a day, you can save an impoverished child like Anthony Randolph.

JaVale McGee, equipped with a headband and laser eyes, will destroy you.

What is he grabbing? OMGZ!

"All I wanted was a big boy chair."

Mario had to stand on the stool, and he didn't even get a number?!!?!

While tiptoeing, Mario changed his tune; the stool wasn't so bad after all.

Roy Hibbert is one seductive seven-foot-three-er. Ladies...

Has any 6-10 power forward been transformed into a nonathletic point guard through the magic of film?

Middle school volleyball players don't even dare to try this pose.

Joe "I'm Just Programmed to Stiffen Up in Front of Cameras, OK!" Alexander. (Editor's Note: Despite his up-and-coming porn 'stache, we did not intend for the double meaning in Joe's nickname. The Undrafted Free Agent regrets the error.)

Little known fact: Joe Alexander was a top-ranked Chinese star-throwing ninja before returning to the United States. Hence this picture.

Joe being Joe With Hand.

It may just be me, but there seems to be a bit of The Price is Right in this pose.

Joe has loads of charisma.

Finally, Joe isn't the focal point of awkward in a picture (though he is still giving the photographers a run for their money)!