Another devastating injury
I was completing Monday’s Words eye view when the news broke. It was announced Thunder guard Russell Westbrook sustain a torn meniscus in his right knee. This injury will require surgery thus he’s out indefinitely. This is the year the Thunder was to compete for a championship; this injury is devastating to that desire.
Its over
I held a belief the Lakers could defeat the Spurs, that was my view prior to Kobe’s injury. I didn’t wish to write on the series for one reason alone, it might appear I’m making excuses. The statement is simple, I don’t remember the Lakers (or any other NBA team) suffering the number of injuries of this team. Sorry Magic Johnson you are wrong once again----it’s not an age issue with the team the Knicks are an older team. They haven’t suffered near the number of injuries. One more point and you can move on to the next story. I’m not going to provide you the name; I’m just going to say the headline leaped off the page. “Lakers are best team in the modern NBA? Not so Fast” I read the story by this national writer, he concluded if the Spurs win the NBA Championship this year Tim Duncan will have his fifth ring which will tie him with Kobe Bryant. He further stated; “the Spurs won their championships without all the L.A. drama.” I read the article he wrote and laughed out loud at several of his conclusions. I thought okay we get it---you are a Laker hater, could have fooled me!
They don’t believe
Last Wednesday I wrote of 14 year old Seventh Woods, I invited you to check out his YouTube tape. The youngster looks pretty amazing on tape but maybe too amazing for many. Some of the email respondents said; “he can’t be 14 years old” another stated “it’s common for parents to hold their child back a grade to allow them to dominate the competition.” Basketball fans I cannot respond to that question and several others. I don’t doubt the validity of the questions however for now there is no method to decide the truth. For the disbelievers I have a suggestion, set up an alert on your computer eventually if there are any improprieties regarding Woods they will certainly come to the surface.
Rookie of the Year
One of the NBA websites is campaigning for the Hornets (Pelicans) Anthony Davis to be named 2013 Rookie of the Year. I didn’t subscribe to NBA League Pass this past season; I had limited opportunities to see either Davis or the Blazers Damian Lillard play. In addition I didn’t check the previous year’s won-loss record for either team. I’m unable to conclude if Davis or Lillard improved their teams’ standings in any manner. It‘s not a knock on them more the fact their teams were really bad. It would be extremely difficult to compare a point guard to a power forward due to the positions each plays. With accurate measurement I am going to go with my unbiased opinion. I am going to declare the Blazers Damian Lillard 2013 NBA Rookie of the Year with Davis a close second.
Bits n Pieces
Coach Magic Johnson, owner Michael Jordan---understand the direction of this story. Word comes Charles Barkley wants to become an NBA general manager; he wants to become GM of the Suns.
Two collegiate programs I will be monitoring in the fall, Southern Methodist University and University of Mo-Kansas City. SMU finished 15-17 in the first season under veteran Coach Larry Brown. UMKC will compete in the Western Athletic Conference under newly hired coach Kareem Richardson former Rick Pitino assistant.
The April 25th mock by draftexpress.com says the Blazers will chose three point guards. The 9th choice in the second round Nate Wolthers South Dakota State followed by Myck Kabongo of Texas at 10. The Blazers then make the 15th pick by selecting Mizzou’s Phil Pressey. These choices are taking into account with 2012-13 Rookie of the Year Damian Lillard on the roster.
Cavs owner Dan Gilbert has some advice for Pistons owner Tom Gores. Talking to a group of business men at a breakfast meeting at the Detroit Athletic Club Gilbert suggested the Pistons should play in a downtown arena. *“It’s an experience said Gilbert. Let’s face it, (arenas) don’t belong in a farm field in the suburbs.” *Mike Wilkinson, Detroit News
Friday, April 26, 2013
31 NBA teams????
I don’t like to do rumors but its possible this one might have legs. The Kings will continue to identify Sacramento as home. Seattle will be granted an expansion franchise which will begin play in 2014-15. There are numerous questions to detail if this rumor should come to fruition. The decision is to be made on Monday by the NBA Board of Governors.
The routine becomes the norm
The NBA history has witnessed a number of point guards who make the game appear so simple at times. They make a move or pass the game and it causes you to ponder, “how did they do that, was it instinct or planned ahead in their mind?” Probably the first magician with a basketball was Celtic point guard Bob Cousy, Magic Johnson came along and raised the bar higher. Jazz point guard John Stockton certainly was an excellent point guard in fact he holds the career assist record. The only difference Stockton was not as spectacular with his passing skills as Johnson and others.
Steve Nash could also be included in the group of outstanding point guards and has demonstrated his skill at passing and moves over the course of a brilliant career. It’s my belief over the course of an injury free career folks will be discussing Ricky Rubio in the same conversation as many of the NBA greats. Rubio went behind his back with the dribble twice on one drive to the hoop? He performs this magic in a game against the Spurs; you can locate the video on NBA.com or YouTube. 21 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists for the 6-4 point guard as he led the Wolves to a 107-83 victory.
Remember when
Jahlil Okafor is a cousin of Emeka Okafor center/power forward of the Wizards. Rivals list Jahlil the number one prospect in the Class of 2014. This high school junior has a great number of schools on his destination list. I was pleased Mizzou extended an offer to this 6-11 280 pound talent. YouTube video on him is available if you care to check him out; he moves up and down the court good for an athlete his size. My only compliant mostly what I was able to witness was him dunking the basketball, video detailing post moves was scare. In an interview when asked who he models his game after he said; “Hakeem Olajuwon and Shaquille O’ Neal.” This 17-year old elaborated; “I like Olajuwon because of his footwork.
After hearing Okafor’s statement it brought forth the lack of true centers in the basketball of today. That was a topic of discussion on NBA TV recently. Former player turned broadcaster Brent Barry made an interesting statement on NBA TV. Host Vince Cenilli questioned Barry, “the game (NBA) has changed will there be another back to the basket center? Without naming any present day athlete or one in the future Barry said yes. I’m not sure if I agree with Barry for one reason alone, who is available to teach big men back to the basket moves? In addition youngsters’ even 7-footers want to shot jump shots from the perimeter. This is not intended as a criticism of Robin Lopez or Dirk Nowitzki if they arrived in the NBA 20 years ago where would they play----you got it down low on the post. No perimeter or three-point shots allowed for centers/power forwards.
"The truth is stranger than fiction"
Many of you have heard the old adage, not sure where it originated but this next story certainly fits.
Before I begin this is not a hate Mike Brown feature. It is a “if the report is true I don’t understand story.” After three seasons the Cavs terminated head coach Byron Scott. Word immediately began circulating the team was looking at hiring Mike Brown again. The report on Brown, “when he was fired he left on good terms.” Clue me in please; he left the Lakers on those same good terms. More recently Phil Jackson returned to the Lakers as head coach but that was slightly different situation. Whether he was forced out is really unknown but it was announced Jackson had resigned. Being fired (Brown) is a whole different matter. I admit I didn’t follow Brown’s career closely in Cleveland but I did with the Lakers. Team dynamics certainly are going to be different for each team but this is my chief concern. This is not all Mike Brown, the NBA is a player’s league a team must believe in its coach and maybe the Lakers didn’t. During Brown’s tenure Laker scoring went down and under the defensive minded coach Brown did not improve significantly. Dan Gilbert wanted to hire Brown again it’s really his business but I think the best role for Brown might be an assistant coach position.
I don’t like to do rumors but its possible this one might have legs. The Kings will continue to identify Sacramento as home. Seattle will be granted an expansion franchise which will begin play in 2014-15. There are numerous questions to detail if this rumor should come to fruition. The decision is to be made on Monday by the NBA Board of Governors.
The routine becomes the norm
The NBA history has witnessed a number of point guards who make the game appear so simple at times. They make a move or pass the game and it causes you to ponder, “how did they do that, was it instinct or planned ahead in their mind?” Probably the first magician with a basketball was Celtic point guard Bob Cousy, Magic Johnson came along and raised the bar higher. Jazz point guard John Stockton certainly was an excellent point guard in fact he holds the career assist record. The only difference Stockton was not as spectacular with his passing skills as Johnson and others.
Steve Nash could also be included in the group of outstanding point guards and has demonstrated his skill at passing and moves over the course of a brilliant career. It’s my belief over the course of an injury free career folks will be discussing Ricky Rubio in the same conversation as many of the NBA greats. Rubio went behind his back with the dribble twice on one drive to the hoop? He performs this magic in a game against the Spurs; you can locate the video on NBA.com or YouTube. 21 points, 13 rebounds and 12 assists for the 6-4 point guard as he led the Wolves to a 107-83 victory.
Remember when
Jahlil Okafor is a cousin of Emeka Okafor center/power forward of the Wizards. Rivals list Jahlil the number one prospect in the Class of 2014. This high school junior has a great number of schools on his destination list. I was pleased Mizzou extended an offer to this 6-11 280 pound talent. YouTube video on him is available if you care to check him out; he moves up and down the court good for an athlete his size. My only compliant mostly what I was able to witness was him dunking the basketball, video detailing post moves was scare. In an interview when asked who he models his game after he said; “Hakeem Olajuwon and Shaquille O’ Neal.” This 17-year old elaborated; “I like Olajuwon because of his footwork.
After hearing Okafor’s statement it brought forth the lack of true centers in the basketball of today. That was a topic of discussion on NBA TV recently. Former player turned broadcaster Brent Barry made an interesting statement on NBA TV. Host Vince Cenilli questioned Barry, “the game (NBA) has changed will there be another back to the basket center? Without naming any present day athlete or one in the future Barry said yes. I’m not sure if I agree with Barry for one reason alone, who is available to teach big men back to the basket moves? In addition youngsters’ even 7-footers want to shot jump shots from the perimeter. This is not intended as a criticism of Robin Lopez or Dirk Nowitzki if they arrived in the NBA 20 years ago where would they play----you got it down low on the post. No perimeter or three-point shots allowed for centers/power forwards.
"The truth is stranger than fiction"
Many of you have heard the old adage, not sure where it originated but this next story certainly fits.
Before I begin this is not a hate Mike Brown feature. It is a “if the report is true I don’t understand story.” After three seasons the Cavs terminated head coach Byron Scott. Word immediately began circulating the team was looking at hiring Mike Brown again. The report on Brown, “when he was fired he left on good terms.” Clue me in please; he left the Lakers on those same good terms. More recently Phil Jackson returned to the Lakers as head coach but that was slightly different situation. Whether he was forced out is really unknown but it was announced Jackson had resigned. Being fired (Brown) is a whole different matter. I admit I didn’t follow Brown’s career closely in Cleveland but I did with the Lakers. Team dynamics certainly are going to be different for each team but this is my chief concern. This is not all Mike Brown, the NBA is a player’s league a team must believe in its coach and maybe the Lakers didn’t. During Brown’s tenure Laker scoring went down and under the defensive minded coach Brown did not improve significantly. Dan Gilbert wanted to hire Brown again it’s really his business but I think the best role for Brown might be an assistant coach position.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
One more and counting
The Bobcats fired Mike Dunlap after but one season in Charlotte. In fairness to Dunlap I’m really unsure what he could have done in only one season, this team is on life-support. Despite ownership change (Bob Johnson to Michael Jordan) the Bobcats have continued to flounder. In spite of changing coaches we can expect two continuum's annually, the cost of living will rise and a Bobcats representative will be seated at the NBA draft lottery.
“Once is not enough”
The above headline was the title of a 1973 novel written by Jacqueline Susan, it was later turned into a movie in 1975. I never read the book nor saw the movie but “Once is not enough” came to mind when I read the ESPN headline. Mike Brown was returning to Cleveland and to coach the Cavs. You might ask; “isn’t he the same guy owner Dan Gilbert fired?” My response would be in the affirmative, after being dumped by the Cavs Brown shows up in Los Angeles and coaches the Lakers almost two years. Of course we know what happened with the Lakers he was fired there as well. Why would Brown want to return to the grind of the NBA? He could have set back on his rear and collected a fat paycheck (Lakers) but for reasons only he knows he returns to the NBA.
You make the call on this one
He’s 14-years old and has a profile on NBADraft.net. His name, Seventh (his actual name) Woods and he hails from Columbia South Carolina. He’s a 6-1 170 pound point guard about to complete his freshman year of high school. Check him in action on YouTube and draw your own conclusions.
We can only speculate for now
Andrew Wiggins the number one prospect in the Class of 2013 has cancelled visits. Wiggins has four schools remaining on his list Florida State, Kansas, North Carolina and Kentucky. He’s cancelled visits at his parents school Florida State; he also cancelled visits to Kansas and North Carolina. The only school left on his list is Kentucky, without researching I‘ve lost track of the number of Class of 2013 prospects headed to Lexington. Surely Wiggins can’t be headed to headed to Kentucky can he?
You don’t suppose
At some point the NCAA will resolve the Miami investigation. I’m tired of writing about this story and you are tired of reading me moan about it. Naturally as a Mizzou fan I‘m concerned about Coach Frank Haith’s name continuing to be mentioned in connection with the problems of Miami University. Allow me to clear this up first; I didn’t fall off the turnip truck yesterday. Its possible maybe likely Haith could have been aware of the impropriety. I claim no legal expertise; there is a statue of limitations on most crimes with the exception of murder. How is the NCAA allowed (even with its mistakes) to continue a case for this never ending length of time? This story first broke in August of 2011 and we are but four months short of two years. Haith has completed his second year as head coach and is headed into year three yet the cloud of suspension continues to hang over him. If there is evidence beyond the word of convicted felon Nevin Shapiro I would hope the NCAA would provide it.
Other than accusations against Haith (provided by Shapiro) the only proof offered so far are two photos, one taken at a dinner outing and the other in a bowling alley. The bowling alley photo Haith and other Miami staffers were in attendance to receive a check from Shapiro who at the time was a Miami booster. Anyone else caught in a questionable photo? How about former President Jimmy Carter’s wife Rosalyn, she was photographed with Peoples Temple leader Jim Jones. The photo was taken years prior to Jones criminal action. Is it safe to assume Ms Carter might have been embarrassed after the photos were circulated? Being photograph with someone should not be a basis for concluding all parties are guilty. Just yesterday I was photographed at a table with strangers at a fund raiser, what if later its reveled one of the persons at the table is wanted for murder or bank robbery? I’m don’t doubt Haith knew Shapiro but the question is did he know of Shapiro’s actions?
The Bobcats fired Mike Dunlap after but one season in Charlotte. In fairness to Dunlap I’m really unsure what he could have done in only one season, this team is on life-support. Despite ownership change (Bob Johnson to Michael Jordan) the Bobcats have continued to flounder. In spite of changing coaches we can expect two continuum's annually, the cost of living will rise and a Bobcats representative will be seated at the NBA draft lottery.
“Once is not enough”
The above headline was the title of a 1973 novel written by Jacqueline Susan, it was later turned into a movie in 1975. I never read the book nor saw the movie but “Once is not enough” came to mind when I read the ESPN headline. Mike Brown was returning to Cleveland and to coach the Cavs. You might ask; “isn’t he the same guy owner Dan Gilbert fired?” My response would be in the affirmative, after being dumped by the Cavs Brown shows up in Los Angeles and coaches the Lakers almost two years. Of course we know what happened with the Lakers he was fired there as well. Why would Brown want to return to the grind of the NBA? He could have set back on his rear and collected a fat paycheck (Lakers) but for reasons only he knows he returns to the NBA.
You make the call on this one
He’s 14-years old and has a profile on NBADraft.net. His name, Seventh (his actual name) Woods and he hails from Columbia South Carolina. He’s a 6-1 170 pound point guard about to complete his freshman year of high school. Check him in action on YouTube and draw your own conclusions.
We can only speculate for now
Andrew Wiggins the number one prospect in the Class of 2013 has cancelled visits. Wiggins has four schools remaining on his list Florida State, Kansas, North Carolina and Kentucky. He’s cancelled visits at his parents school Florida State; he also cancelled visits to Kansas and North Carolina. The only school left on his list is Kentucky, without researching I‘ve lost track of the number of Class of 2013 prospects headed to Lexington. Surely Wiggins can’t be headed to headed to Kentucky can he?
You don’t suppose
At some point the NCAA will resolve the Miami investigation. I’m tired of writing about this story and you are tired of reading me moan about it. Naturally as a Mizzou fan I‘m concerned about Coach Frank Haith’s name continuing to be mentioned in connection with the problems of Miami University. Allow me to clear this up first; I didn’t fall off the turnip truck yesterday. Its possible maybe likely Haith could have been aware of the impropriety. I claim no legal expertise; there is a statue of limitations on most crimes with the exception of murder. How is the NCAA allowed (even with its mistakes) to continue a case for this never ending length of time? This story first broke in August of 2011 and we are but four months short of two years. Haith has completed his second year as head coach and is headed into year three yet the cloud of suspension continues to hang over him. If there is evidence beyond the word of convicted felon Nevin Shapiro I would hope the NCAA would provide it.
Other than accusations against Haith (provided by Shapiro) the only proof offered so far are two photos, one taken at a dinner outing and the other in a bowling alley. The bowling alley photo Haith and other Miami staffers were in attendance to receive a check from Shapiro who at the time was a Miami booster. Anyone else caught in a questionable photo? How about former President Jimmy Carter’s wife Rosalyn, she was photographed with Peoples Temple leader Jim Jones. The photo was taken years prior to Jones criminal action. Is it safe to assume Ms Carter might have been embarrassed after the photos were circulated? Being photograph with someone should not be a basis for concluding all parties are guilty. Just yesterday I was photographed at a table with strangers at a fund raiser, what if later its reveled one of the persons at the table is wanted for murder or bank robbery? I’m don’t doubt Haith knew Shapiro but the question is did he know of Shapiro’s actions?
Monday, April 22, 2013
Bits n Pieces
Rivals 3-star prospect and point guard Shane Rector provided Mizzou a verbal commitment on April 20. This is a thumbs up moment for Haith and staff, additional help at the point guard. Haith could choose among three players for the position, 6-4 Tulsa transfer Jordan Clark, freshman Rivals 4-star prospect Wesley Clark or Rector.
The end of the NBA season brought about a name change. Earlier in the year it was announced the New Orleans Hornets would be renamed the Pelicans next season. New in addition to the name change a new color scheme. Sadly taps has played for Hugo the Hornet the teams’ mascot. I’m okay with the name change but I cannot imagine someone in a pelican suit.
The NBA announced the anti-flopping rules for the playoffs, the serious side player fines are in place. The funny side, a number of NBA players could have been nominated for an Academy Award or Emmy this past season. No new categories are required just utilize those already in use----Best Actor or maybe Visual Effects.
Skip Bayless called out Jemele Hill on ESPN‘s First Take last Friday. Hill had stated “the Spurs would beat the Lakers in their series.” Not surprising, Bayless reminded her (and viewers) she had stated over and over during the season the “Lakers wouldn’t make the playoffs.” We get it Jemele you don’t like the Lakers, that’s okay.
As this is written the Seattle-Sacramento issue remains in limbo. There will be a new arena in either city depending on the decision of NBA Board of Governors, both have plans in place. On the clock is San Francisco and Milwaukee, both will open new buildings in 2017.
“They are hired to be fired”
I cannot remember when I first heard the term above applied to a coach in any sport. It’s simple, you don’t win or your team under achieves a coach is often shown the door. It’s April 18, there may be additional coaches fired but here is the list to date. The Cavs fired Byron Scott, the 76ers Doug Collins resigned (before he was fired). The Pistons relieved Lawrence Frank of his duties. The Temptations once recorded a hit tune titles “Standing on Shaky Ground.” Shaky ground term could apply to the earth beneath the feet of Keith Smart Kings, Lindsey Hunter of the Suns and Dwane Casey of the Raptors.
He decided to go big-time
Unlike his fellow coaches Shaka Smart of VCU and Brad Stevens at Butler Andy Enfield leaped at the opportunity. Smart and Stevens burst on the national scene during the NCAA tourney after being relatively unknown coaches. After their teams had successful runs their names were dropped every time a head coaching position opened. For personal reasons both chose to remain at VCU and Butler respectively. Enfield was an unknown as well until his until his Florida Gulf Coast made its run in the NCAA. Unlike Smart and Stevens at the time Southern Cal came calling he leaped at the opportunity. Andy Enfield will be prowling the sidelines at Southern Cal in the fall.
I’m not a hater
There was no attempt on my part to be a hater---my point was meant to be humorous. You must be a long-time Mizzou fan to recognize the name Monte Hardge. Hardge played for two years at Mizzou 1997-1999, this mountain of a man stood 6-11 and weighed in at 335 pounds. I‘m sure Hardge was a nice enough guy just not a very good collegiate player. A former Mizzou player posted his photo on a social network and said; “the closet Mizzou had to Shaq.” With a 7.1 point per game average and 5.8 rebounds I said “it was his size must have been the basis for the comparison. “ I’m guessing a teammate or high school buddy claimed “I was hatin’ on Hardge. Another detailed the Hardge impact in high school and on the the playground. In this Facebook/Twitter/Linkeden/web world you certainly must be careful how you comment on anything.
Rivals 3-star prospect and point guard Shane Rector provided Mizzou a verbal commitment on April 20. This is a thumbs up moment for Haith and staff, additional help at the point guard. Haith could choose among three players for the position, 6-4 Tulsa transfer Jordan Clark, freshman Rivals 4-star prospect Wesley Clark or Rector.
The end of the NBA season brought about a name change. Earlier in the year it was announced the New Orleans Hornets would be renamed the Pelicans next season. New in addition to the name change a new color scheme. Sadly taps has played for Hugo the Hornet the teams’ mascot. I’m okay with the name change but I cannot imagine someone in a pelican suit.
The NBA announced the anti-flopping rules for the playoffs, the serious side player fines are in place. The funny side, a number of NBA players could have been nominated for an Academy Award or Emmy this past season. No new categories are required just utilize those already in use----Best Actor or maybe Visual Effects.
Skip Bayless called out Jemele Hill on ESPN‘s First Take last Friday. Hill had stated “the Spurs would beat the Lakers in their series.” Not surprising, Bayless reminded her (and viewers) she had stated over and over during the season the “Lakers wouldn’t make the playoffs.” We get it Jemele you don’t like the Lakers, that’s okay.
As this is written the Seattle-Sacramento issue remains in limbo. There will be a new arena in either city depending on the decision of NBA Board of Governors, both have plans in place. On the clock is San Francisco and Milwaukee, both will open new buildings in 2017.
“They are hired to be fired”
I cannot remember when I first heard the term above applied to a coach in any sport. It’s simple, you don’t win or your team under achieves a coach is often shown the door. It’s April 18, there may be additional coaches fired but here is the list to date. The Cavs fired Byron Scott, the 76ers Doug Collins resigned (before he was fired). The Pistons relieved Lawrence Frank of his duties. The Temptations once recorded a hit tune titles “Standing on Shaky Ground.” Shaky ground term could apply to the earth beneath the feet of Keith Smart Kings, Lindsey Hunter of the Suns and Dwane Casey of the Raptors.
He decided to go big-time
Unlike his fellow coaches Shaka Smart of VCU and Brad Stevens at Butler Andy Enfield leaped at the opportunity. Smart and Stevens burst on the national scene during the NCAA tourney after being relatively unknown coaches. After their teams had successful runs their names were dropped every time a head coaching position opened. For personal reasons both chose to remain at VCU and Butler respectively. Enfield was an unknown as well until his until his Florida Gulf Coast made its run in the NCAA. Unlike Smart and Stevens at the time Southern Cal came calling he leaped at the opportunity. Andy Enfield will be prowling the sidelines at Southern Cal in the fall.
I’m not a hater
There was no attempt on my part to be a hater---my point was meant to be humorous. You must be a long-time Mizzou fan to recognize the name Monte Hardge. Hardge played for two years at Mizzou 1997-1999, this mountain of a man stood 6-11 and weighed in at 335 pounds. I‘m sure Hardge was a nice enough guy just not a very good collegiate player. A former Mizzou player posted his photo on a social network and said; “the closet Mizzou had to Shaq.” With a 7.1 point per game average and 5.8 rebounds I said “it was his size must have been the basis for the comparison. “ I’m guessing a teammate or high school buddy claimed “I was hatin’ on Hardge. Another detailed the Hardge impact in high school and on the the playground. In this Facebook/Twitter/Linkeden/web world you certainly must be careful how you comment on anything.
Friday, April 19, 2013
Why did I waste my time reading dribble?
PLEASE NOTE:
This was written prior to Kobe Bryant’s injury, in addition it doesn’t reflect the season end results. I decided to publish it anyway because it’s my belief this writer was searching for a topic to invoke controversy.
The name is Scoop Jackson; Jackson is a sports writer who works for ESPN the Magazine. I’d lost track of him in recent years, while surfing the net I came across an article he wrote for another publication “The Shadow League.” His article was titled; “The Lakers Don’t Deserve To Make The Playoffs-Take your emotions out and really think about it.” It appears Mr. Jackson took exception to the Kobe statement guaranteeing a playoff appearance. As this is written it remains unclear if the Lakers and Kobe will succeed. I’m going to take my emotions out of the discussion and “really think about it.” The Lakers this season have played similar to an un-tuned automobile. They have sputtered, stopped altogether. At times it appeared the “engine” might not start again period. After the All-Star break the team began to play better but it would be quite difficult digging themselves out of the hole they created. Prior to the All-Star break the Lakers were 25-29, they have played much better the second half of the season.
A few of my barber shop friends made the statement; “it would do them (the Lakers) no good to make the playoffs, they would just lose in the first round.” I responded in this manner, “I would much rather them make the playoffs and lose in the first round than not make an effort.” I would have great difficulty rooting for a team that appeared to not care.” Jackson wrote this team thinks they are supposed to be in the playoffs because they are the Lakers. That is pure Jackson conjecture and there is no process he can provide us to validate this statement. This is an excerpt Jackson wrote; “To me, those teams (above the Lakers in the standings) deserve it. Those teams have played all season long as if making the playoffs meant something to them. The Lakers? They’ve, too often, played with a certain faux hierarchy, as if making the playoffs was an inherited privilege that would automatically be bestowed on them because they are NBA royalty.” Jackson’s article is wasted dribble, even worst I’m the dummy for reading it!
A surprise to many
Marcus Smart of Oklahoma State is one of the highly touted freshmen who emerged this past season. This talented freshman aided his team to a 24-9 record and a NCAA berth. He’s a 6-4 225 pound “linebacker type” guard scored at a 15.4 point per game clip. Smart pulled down nearly 6 rebounds a game while dishing out 4.2 assists. Several mock draft sites listed Smart anywhere from a 2 through 5 pick in the 2013 draft. Most (including this writer) guessed he was headed to the NBA, not so. He announced on Tuesday he’s returning to OSU for his sophomore year. Not only is Smart returning his teammates Markel Brown and Le’Bryan Nash also announced they were returning to OSU. All three are considered NBA prospects so fans are probably dancing in the streets of Stillwater Oklahoma. The highlight of the OSU season might have been upsetting Kansas in Lawrence on February 2. The 33-game winning streak at Allen Fieldhouse was snapped by OSU. With their top three scorers returning they might be the team to disrupt the Big XII Conference Championship streak of Kansas. They broke the 33-game home court winning streak of Kansas, how about the 9-year conference championship winning streak?
Big XII is not that great
This is prompted by a conversation I held recently with a buddy, it just so happens this friend is a Kansas fan. This was his view, after pondering his statement this is what I produced. Previously I’d written Kansas Coach Bill Self should be congratulated. His Kansas team has won the Big XII Championship for 9 consecutive years. That’s the upside of the story; the downside is Big XII basketball. As much as locals would have you believe the conference is good that’s not the true picture. My statement includes the Mizzou teams over the time frame. The Big XII has been dominated by Kansas with Texas, Baylor and Kansas State providing an occasional threat to the Jayhawks. Think I’m building up Kansas and tearing down the Big XII Conference? I’ve concluded it’s the conference that is the problem not Kansas. I haven’t researched this next statement, do the research if you think I’m wrong. I’d be willing to bet money there isn’t a team in the nation that’s dominated its conference in this manner during the same timeframe. I don’t believe Kentucky, North Carolina, Duke are any other successful program. I’m not knocking Kansas far from it; I am aiming this criticism directly at the Big XII opponents of the Kansas Jayhawks you know who you are.
Bits n Pieces
Does Stephen Curry ever miss a shot? I admit I haven’t seen him play enough to answer my own question. This youngster has one of the quickest releases I’ve seen in awhile. By the way I think he’s a better shooter than dad Dell.
I believed (in error) the Mizzou-Kansas rivalry would evaporate with the schools in different conferences. Not so based on the emails to the Kansas City Star I read. The schools no longer clash in football or basketball, they battle each other in the in the newspaper.
Allow me to go on record again; the Lakers regular season certainly could have been better. If I consider the coaching change, the rash of injuries and the death of Dr. Buss its amazing the ship remained upright. At the All-Star break the team was treading water at 25-29. They finished 45-37 winning 20 of their last 28 games.
April 17 Mizzou signed junior college big man Keanau Post. *“The 6-foot-11 (260 pound) Post averaged 12.3 points and 8.3 rebounds this season and was named a second-team NJCAA all-American. He is the No. 3 junior college prospect in the class according to JucoJunction and Rivals.com. "Great kid and he gives us another big body on our front line. With what we have coming back...I think we've got a lot of options," Mizzou head coach Frank Haith said. "(SW Illinois) presses and he plays the point of the press. The guys in the juco element, that's why he was second team all-American. They know the value of this kid.
*Rivals.com
Eddie Jordan left the Lakers bench and returns to Rutgers as head coach his alma mater. It’s probably a good move for him; former Coach Mike Brown hired Jordan to implement the Princeton Offense. After Brown was fired Jordan’s duties were probably limited under Mike D’Antoni.
PLEASE NOTE:
This was written prior to Kobe Bryant’s injury, in addition it doesn’t reflect the season end results. I decided to publish it anyway because it’s my belief this writer was searching for a topic to invoke controversy.
The name is Scoop Jackson; Jackson is a sports writer who works for ESPN the Magazine. I’d lost track of him in recent years, while surfing the net I came across an article he wrote for another publication “The Shadow League.” His article was titled; “The Lakers Don’t Deserve To Make The Playoffs-Take your emotions out and really think about it.” It appears Mr. Jackson took exception to the Kobe statement guaranteeing a playoff appearance. As this is written it remains unclear if the Lakers and Kobe will succeed. I’m going to take my emotions out of the discussion and “really think about it.” The Lakers this season have played similar to an un-tuned automobile. They have sputtered, stopped altogether. At times it appeared the “engine” might not start again period. After the All-Star break the team began to play better but it would be quite difficult digging themselves out of the hole they created. Prior to the All-Star break the Lakers were 25-29, they have played much better the second half of the season.
A few of my barber shop friends made the statement; “it would do them (the Lakers) no good to make the playoffs, they would just lose in the first round.” I responded in this manner, “I would much rather them make the playoffs and lose in the first round than not make an effort.” I would have great difficulty rooting for a team that appeared to not care.” Jackson wrote this team thinks they are supposed to be in the playoffs because they are the Lakers. That is pure Jackson conjecture and there is no process he can provide us to validate this statement. This is an excerpt Jackson wrote; “To me, those teams (above the Lakers in the standings) deserve it. Those teams have played all season long as if making the playoffs meant something to them. The Lakers? They’ve, too often, played with a certain faux hierarchy, as if making the playoffs was an inherited privilege that would automatically be bestowed on them because they are NBA royalty.” Jackson’s article is wasted dribble, even worst I’m the dummy for reading it!
A surprise to many
Marcus Smart of Oklahoma State is one of the highly touted freshmen who emerged this past season. This talented freshman aided his team to a 24-9 record and a NCAA berth. He’s a 6-4 225 pound “linebacker type” guard scored at a 15.4 point per game clip. Smart pulled down nearly 6 rebounds a game while dishing out 4.2 assists. Several mock draft sites listed Smart anywhere from a 2 through 5 pick in the 2013 draft. Most (including this writer) guessed he was headed to the NBA, not so. He announced on Tuesday he’s returning to OSU for his sophomore year. Not only is Smart returning his teammates Markel Brown and Le’Bryan Nash also announced they were returning to OSU. All three are considered NBA prospects so fans are probably dancing in the streets of Stillwater Oklahoma. The highlight of the OSU season might have been upsetting Kansas in Lawrence on February 2. The 33-game winning streak at Allen Fieldhouse was snapped by OSU. With their top three scorers returning they might be the team to disrupt the Big XII Conference Championship streak of Kansas. They broke the 33-game home court winning streak of Kansas, how about the 9-year conference championship winning streak?
Big XII is not that great
This is prompted by a conversation I held recently with a buddy, it just so happens this friend is a Kansas fan. This was his view, after pondering his statement this is what I produced. Previously I’d written Kansas Coach Bill Self should be congratulated. His Kansas team has won the Big XII Championship for 9 consecutive years. That’s the upside of the story; the downside is Big XII basketball. As much as locals would have you believe the conference is good that’s not the true picture. My statement includes the Mizzou teams over the time frame. The Big XII has been dominated by Kansas with Texas, Baylor and Kansas State providing an occasional threat to the Jayhawks. Think I’m building up Kansas and tearing down the Big XII Conference? I’ve concluded it’s the conference that is the problem not Kansas. I haven’t researched this next statement, do the research if you think I’m wrong. I’d be willing to bet money there isn’t a team in the nation that’s dominated its conference in this manner during the same timeframe. I don’t believe Kentucky, North Carolina, Duke are any other successful program. I’m not knocking Kansas far from it; I am aiming this criticism directly at the Big XII opponents of the Kansas Jayhawks you know who you are.
Bits n Pieces
Does Stephen Curry ever miss a shot? I admit I haven’t seen him play enough to answer my own question. This youngster has one of the quickest releases I’ve seen in awhile. By the way I think he’s a better shooter than dad Dell.
I believed (in error) the Mizzou-Kansas rivalry would evaporate with the schools in different conferences. Not so based on the emails to the Kansas City Star I read. The schools no longer clash in football or basketball, they battle each other in the in the newspaper.
Allow me to go on record again; the Lakers regular season certainly could have been better. If I consider the coaching change, the rash of injuries and the death of Dr. Buss its amazing the ship remained upright. At the All-Star break the team was treading water at 25-29. They finished 45-37 winning 20 of their last 28 games.
April 17 Mizzou signed junior college big man Keanau Post. *“The 6-foot-11 (260 pound) Post averaged 12.3 points and 8.3 rebounds this season and was named a second-team NJCAA all-American. He is the No. 3 junior college prospect in the class according to JucoJunction and Rivals.com. "Great kid and he gives us another big body on our front line. With what we have coming back...I think we've got a lot of options," Mizzou head coach Frank Haith said. "(SW Illinois) presses and he plays the point of the press. The guys in the juco element, that's why he was second team all-American. They know the value of this kid.
*Rivals.com
Eddie Jordan left the Lakers bench and returns to Rutgers as head coach his alma mater. It’s probably a good move for him; former Coach Mike Brown hired Jordan to implement the Princeton Offense. After Brown was fired Jordan’s duties were probably limited under Mike D’Antoni.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
He’s headed to the NBA
I’ve written previously my belief in two NBA mock draft sites, NBADraft.net is one of the sites. After Kentucky’s 6-11 Nerlens Noel went down with an injury NBADraft.net and other sites began switching the order. The April 10 edition listed Ben McLemore of Kansas as the number one 2013 pick. Monday Noel announced he will forgo his sophomore year at Kentucky and will enter the NBA draft. Noel faces a 6-8 month rehab period which will impact training camp and the exhibition season. Best case scenario Noel could be available for the beginning of the NBA season. Noel will present an interesting and unique draft scenario, will a team be willing to draft “damaged good” knowing rehab is in the picture. Will a potential Greg Oden condition impact that team’s decision?
Bits n pieces
Twice a year high school athletes are allowed to sign letters of commitment. The spring period is April 17 and runs through May 15. A small number of prospects in the Class of 2013 remain uncommitted. One of the unsigned is Shane Rector a Rivals.com 3-star prospect. He’s a 6 foot 170 pound point guard who hails from South Kent Connecticut. Rector will be in Columbia on Friday to tour the campus and talk with Frank Haith and staff.
Any idea the status of fired Rutgers Coach Mike Rice: You might remember he did the following during times at his practice sessions:
*Threw basketballs at his players
*Kicked at and grabbed players by their jerseys
*Sometimes yelled homophobic slurs at the team.
He’s resurfaced and is coaching his 12-year old daughters AAU team.
I question sometimes if Spurs Coach Greg Popovich enjoys his job. Maybe he was upset with his teams play Sunday night against the Lakers. Don’t know what the true issue was but every time the television camera focused on him a pained expression was quite evident.
You want a good laugh? SI.Com ran a story titled; “The Floppies: Ranking the 10 most ridiculous dives of the season. “ Chris Paul was the winner with his flop on DeMarcus Cousins, check out the videos.
The chorus is singing, it’s time for Mark Emmert to step down as NCAA President. Does anybody believe anything he says these days? In addition the NCAA should be dissolved and some other organization replaces it. As Forrest Gump might state: “That's all I have to say, about that.”
This is a story I found unbelievable. According to the NY Times Madison Square Garden had a 50-year lease to operate at the present location, the lease expired last year. Since that time MSG has been operating on a 1-year agreement. Read the details in the April 9th edition of the New York Times.
I still haven’t adjusted to the “high school” uniforms of the Thunder. I’m watching them on the TNT telecast; they have on their alternate Navy Blue jerseys. The alternates are much better from my viewpoint; they remind me of the old Cincinnati Royals jerseys.
The battle is over?
The regular season Battle of New York City is nearly over, it appears I can declare a winner. Remember back to the beginning of the season all the bravado exhibited by the Nets? The brand new Barlcays Center, the brand new Nets uniforms and new teammates. The Knicks had celebrity fans but the Nets had a celebrity owner (soon to be a former owner) in Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. Jay-Z was so highly visible this first season one might conclude (in error) he was the majority owner rather than Mikhail Prokhorov. *”The Nets unveiled an 80-by-60 foot billboard featuring (Deron) Williams and the slogan "Bound For Brooklyn" in Times Square prior to their arrival. It would be difficult for Knicks fans to avoid seeing the billboard smack dab in the middle of Manhattan. Thus it began in earnest, the battle for basketball supremacy in New York. The Knicks who traced their NBA history to 1946 versus the wandering Nets who called several New Jersey stops home had settled in Brooklyn.
A number of residents in the borough still long for the baseball Dodgers who left Brooklyn in 1957 for sunny California. With one game remaining the Knicks stand 53-28 the Nets 48-33, I declare the Knicks winner of the Borough Battle. After being fired by the Hawks and hired as an assistant coach Mike Woodson has demonstrated his leadership. He's convinced Carmelo Anthony there is a defensive part of the game, even J.R. Smith has discovered there is a defensive side too. I would expect Nets fans to object to my conclusion but that's okay. Looking back on the season they both sustained “speed bumps” but regained their bearing. The teams dealt with major injuries during the season in fact the Nets were force into changing head coaches. The playoffs still loom, should I wait to declare a winner in the initial Battle of New York City? *ESPN.com
I’ve written previously my belief in two NBA mock draft sites, NBADraft.net is one of the sites. After Kentucky’s 6-11 Nerlens Noel went down with an injury NBADraft.net and other sites began switching the order. The April 10 edition listed Ben McLemore of Kansas as the number one 2013 pick. Monday Noel announced he will forgo his sophomore year at Kentucky and will enter the NBA draft. Noel faces a 6-8 month rehab period which will impact training camp and the exhibition season. Best case scenario Noel could be available for the beginning of the NBA season. Noel will present an interesting and unique draft scenario, will a team be willing to draft “damaged good” knowing rehab is in the picture. Will a potential Greg Oden condition impact that team’s decision?
Bits n pieces
Twice a year high school athletes are allowed to sign letters of commitment. The spring period is April 17 and runs through May 15. A small number of prospects in the Class of 2013 remain uncommitted. One of the unsigned is Shane Rector a Rivals.com 3-star prospect. He’s a 6 foot 170 pound point guard who hails from South Kent Connecticut. Rector will be in Columbia on Friday to tour the campus and talk with Frank Haith and staff.
Any idea the status of fired Rutgers Coach Mike Rice: You might remember he did the following during times at his practice sessions:
*Threw basketballs at his players
*Kicked at and grabbed players by their jerseys
*Sometimes yelled homophobic slurs at the team.
He’s resurfaced and is coaching his 12-year old daughters AAU team.
I question sometimes if Spurs Coach Greg Popovich enjoys his job. Maybe he was upset with his teams play Sunday night against the Lakers. Don’t know what the true issue was but every time the television camera focused on him a pained expression was quite evident.
You want a good laugh? SI.Com ran a story titled; “The Floppies: Ranking the 10 most ridiculous dives of the season. “ Chris Paul was the winner with his flop on DeMarcus Cousins, check out the videos.
The chorus is singing, it’s time for Mark Emmert to step down as NCAA President. Does anybody believe anything he says these days? In addition the NCAA should be dissolved and some other organization replaces it. As Forrest Gump might state: “That's all I have to say, about that.”
This is a story I found unbelievable. According to the NY Times Madison Square Garden had a 50-year lease to operate at the present location, the lease expired last year. Since that time MSG has been operating on a 1-year agreement. Read the details in the April 9th edition of the New York Times.
I still haven’t adjusted to the “high school” uniforms of the Thunder. I’m watching them on the TNT telecast; they have on their alternate Navy Blue jerseys. The alternates are much better from my viewpoint; they remind me of the old Cincinnati Royals jerseys.
The battle is over?
The regular season Battle of New York City is nearly over, it appears I can declare a winner. Remember back to the beginning of the season all the bravado exhibited by the Nets? The brand new Barlcays Center, the brand new Nets uniforms and new teammates. The Knicks had celebrity fans but the Nets had a celebrity owner (soon to be a former owner) in Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. Jay-Z was so highly visible this first season one might conclude (in error) he was the majority owner rather than Mikhail Prokhorov. *”The Nets unveiled an 80-by-60 foot billboard featuring (Deron) Williams and the slogan "Bound For Brooklyn" in Times Square prior to their arrival. It would be difficult for Knicks fans to avoid seeing the billboard smack dab in the middle of Manhattan. Thus it began in earnest, the battle for basketball supremacy in New York. The Knicks who traced their NBA history to 1946 versus the wandering Nets who called several New Jersey stops home had settled in Brooklyn.
A number of residents in the borough still long for the baseball Dodgers who left Brooklyn in 1957 for sunny California. With one game remaining the Knicks stand 53-28 the Nets 48-33, I declare the Knicks winner of the Borough Battle. After being fired by the Hawks and hired as an assistant coach Mike Woodson has demonstrated his leadership. He's convinced Carmelo Anthony there is a defensive part of the game, even J.R. Smith has discovered there is a defensive side too. I would expect Nets fans to object to my conclusion but that's okay. Looking back on the season they both sustained “speed bumps” but regained their bearing. The teams dealt with major injuries during the season in fact the Nets were force into changing head coaches. The playoffs still loom, should I wait to declare a winner in the initial Battle of New York City? *ESPN.com
Monday, April 15, 2013
It continues
The “it” was the injury to Kobe Bryant in Friday nights win against the Warriors. The injuries---the injuries! I’ve said I wasn’t going to use it as an excuse and I’m not. I pointed out in all my years as a Laker fan I’ve never seen the team this devastated by a continuous pattern of injuries. Every starter has missed games; Gasol and Nash have missed an even greater number. In addition key reserves Blake and Hill have suffered injuries as well, Hill is out for the season. Antwan Jamison is playing with a damaged wrist and Metta World Peace returned to the lineup last week. We now come to Kobe; reports indicate he suffered a torn Achilles tendon which was confirmed. Surgery was completed on Saturday and through trainer Gary Vitti. The “timetable for healing is 6-9 months” and Kobe indicates “he hopes to be ready for training camp.” I would never say never to the warrior mentality of Kobe Bean Bryant. I often stated there is no medical training in my past history but I would venture a view. I anticipate his return closer to the 9 month timeline. Early January would be more feasible for the healing process of such a difficult type of injury. We shall see what the future holds for Kobe when it arrives. I cannot imagine KB ending his career with an injury he will return.
I cannot document this
I’ve heard a number of folks in St. Louis debated who was the better player Bradley Beal or Ben McLemore? Beal arrived at Florida last season had and outstanding freshman year and was off to the NBA. McLemore enrolled at Kansas but was ineligible to play as a freshman; McLemore is in his sophomore year but a red-shirt freshman. These two were teammates on the St. Louis Eagles AAU team. They say Beal overshadowed McLemore on the Eagles roster. He decided to not return for his sophomore year and Beal was chosen the third pick by the Wizards in the June draft. The 6-3 Beal had a steady rookie year in the NBA, nearly 14 points and 4 rebounds a game. His NBA rookie year was cut short by a leg injury however all indications point to his return next season on time. As for his AAU teammate the 6-5 McLemore led Kansas basketball in scoring. McLemore will be a lottery pick in the June draft, he could be picked anywhere from two through five. I wonder if folks are still questioning if its Beal or McLemore, they could just state both are talented athletes.
He feels slighted
The name Spencer Haywood might be unknown to the majority of readers. I briefly glanced at the headline recently that read; “Spencer Haywood elected to the Hall of Fame.” It turns out the story was incorrect, Haywood claims he’d received a call indicating he’d been elected. After failing to secure enough votes he claims there is a conspiracy against him being elected, I say baloney. Early in his ABA-NBA career Haywood might have made a claim as one of the best ever, he stood 6-8 and was 225 pounds of chiseled muscle. In college ask him to score the ball he did that to the tune of 32.1 points per game during the 1968-69 season. How about grabbing a rebound, he did that as well at a 21.5 per game clip that same season. With numbers like that you can understand why he left the University of Detroit after his sophomore year. Haywood played in the ABA one year but wanted to play in the NBA. At that time an athlete could not play in the NBA until his collegiate class had graduated.
Haywood would sue the NBA and his case would eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court. The court ruled in his favor and he signed with the Seattle Sonics. Haywood had excellent years in the NBA however drugs and personal issues would impact the latter stage of his career. His ABA-NBA numbers were 20.3 points per game and 10.3 rebounds. The skeletons in Haywood’s closet have delayed HOF entry for this 63-year old former athlete. The Supreme Court decision changed the landscape of professional basketball. Does Haywood belong in the Hall of Fame? His numbers are as good as many of the HOF members so I think he belongs. A key would be to quit blaming everyone around for his exclusion from the HOF. Over the years Spencer Haywood has often been Spencer Haywood’s worst enemy.
I’m taking sides
My reporting of the events have been one-sided, I’ve been in favor of the Kings move to Seattle. This is not an “I hate Sacramento view” it appears the prospective owners group in Seattle are more financially solvent than Sacramento. I’ve read several negative comments regarding Seattle’s Key Arena and lack of sell-out games. Key Arena will be replaced by a new arena, the Seattle project is much further along than the Sacramento proposal. The lack of sell-out games in Sacramento versus Seattle is really a smoke screen. The Sacramento version of the Kings were quite successful on the court, winning teams produce sell-out games. Seattle is a much larger market; and don’t draw any unfounded conclusions on the Sonics attendance. Sacramento fans extol their attendance during the glory years but downplay that of the Sonics. For years while the team was a winner Sonic fans came out in droves to attend games. There are a number of loyal faithful Kings fans who will not appreciate this story, the prospect of losing their team is a catastrophe to them. It’s unfortunate, much as we are often guilty we must realize “it’s a sport but it’s also really about business.” I read in the Sacramento Bee a reporter’s proposal to “fix” this matter. She proposes the NBA offer Seattle an expansion franchise; in this manner the plight of both cities would be resolved. Seattle would receive an NBA franchise and the Kings would remain in Sacramento. On the surface this sounds feasible except David Stern has said on more than one occasion---the NBA is not expanding. In 5 or 6 years the discussion of expansion might be a totally different matter; the NBA would expand adding teams in Sacramento and Kansas City.
The “it” was the injury to Kobe Bryant in Friday nights win against the Warriors. The injuries---the injuries! I’ve said I wasn’t going to use it as an excuse and I’m not. I pointed out in all my years as a Laker fan I’ve never seen the team this devastated by a continuous pattern of injuries. Every starter has missed games; Gasol and Nash have missed an even greater number. In addition key reserves Blake and Hill have suffered injuries as well, Hill is out for the season. Antwan Jamison is playing with a damaged wrist and Metta World Peace returned to the lineup last week. We now come to Kobe; reports indicate he suffered a torn Achilles tendon which was confirmed. Surgery was completed on Saturday and through trainer Gary Vitti. The “timetable for healing is 6-9 months” and Kobe indicates “he hopes to be ready for training camp.” I would never say never to the warrior mentality of Kobe Bean Bryant. I often stated there is no medical training in my past history but I would venture a view. I anticipate his return closer to the 9 month timeline. Early January would be more feasible for the healing process of such a difficult type of injury. We shall see what the future holds for Kobe when it arrives. I cannot imagine KB ending his career with an injury he will return.
I cannot document this
I’ve heard a number of folks in St. Louis debated who was the better player Bradley Beal or Ben McLemore? Beal arrived at Florida last season had and outstanding freshman year and was off to the NBA. McLemore enrolled at Kansas but was ineligible to play as a freshman; McLemore is in his sophomore year but a red-shirt freshman. These two were teammates on the St. Louis Eagles AAU team. They say Beal overshadowed McLemore on the Eagles roster. He decided to not return for his sophomore year and Beal was chosen the third pick by the Wizards in the June draft. The 6-3 Beal had a steady rookie year in the NBA, nearly 14 points and 4 rebounds a game. His NBA rookie year was cut short by a leg injury however all indications point to his return next season on time. As for his AAU teammate the 6-5 McLemore led Kansas basketball in scoring. McLemore will be a lottery pick in the June draft, he could be picked anywhere from two through five. I wonder if folks are still questioning if its Beal or McLemore, they could just state both are talented athletes.
He feels slighted
The name Spencer Haywood might be unknown to the majority of readers. I briefly glanced at the headline recently that read; “Spencer Haywood elected to the Hall of Fame.” It turns out the story was incorrect, Haywood claims he’d received a call indicating he’d been elected. After failing to secure enough votes he claims there is a conspiracy against him being elected, I say baloney. Early in his ABA-NBA career Haywood might have made a claim as one of the best ever, he stood 6-8 and was 225 pounds of chiseled muscle. In college ask him to score the ball he did that to the tune of 32.1 points per game during the 1968-69 season. How about grabbing a rebound, he did that as well at a 21.5 per game clip that same season. With numbers like that you can understand why he left the University of Detroit after his sophomore year. Haywood played in the ABA one year but wanted to play in the NBA. At that time an athlete could not play in the NBA until his collegiate class had graduated.
Haywood would sue the NBA and his case would eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court. The court ruled in his favor and he signed with the Seattle Sonics. Haywood had excellent years in the NBA however drugs and personal issues would impact the latter stage of his career. His ABA-NBA numbers were 20.3 points per game and 10.3 rebounds. The skeletons in Haywood’s closet have delayed HOF entry for this 63-year old former athlete. The Supreme Court decision changed the landscape of professional basketball. Does Haywood belong in the Hall of Fame? His numbers are as good as many of the HOF members so I think he belongs. A key would be to quit blaming everyone around for his exclusion from the HOF. Over the years Spencer Haywood has often been Spencer Haywood’s worst enemy.
I’m taking sides
My reporting of the events have been one-sided, I’ve been in favor of the Kings move to Seattle. This is not an “I hate Sacramento view” it appears the prospective owners group in Seattle are more financially solvent than Sacramento. I’ve read several negative comments regarding Seattle’s Key Arena and lack of sell-out games. Key Arena will be replaced by a new arena, the Seattle project is much further along than the Sacramento proposal. The lack of sell-out games in Sacramento versus Seattle is really a smoke screen. The Sacramento version of the Kings were quite successful on the court, winning teams produce sell-out games. Seattle is a much larger market; and don’t draw any unfounded conclusions on the Sonics attendance. Sacramento fans extol their attendance during the glory years but downplay that of the Sonics. For years while the team was a winner Sonic fans came out in droves to attend games. There are a number of loyal faithful Kings fans who will not appreciate this story, the prospect of losing their team is a catastrophe to them. It’s unfortunate, much as we are often guilty we must realize “it’s a sport but it’s also really about business.” I read in the Sacramento Bee a reporter’s proposal to “fix” this matter. She proposes the NBA offer Seattle an expansion franchise; in this manner the plight of both cities would be resolved. Seattle would receive an NBA franchise and the Kings would remain in Sacramento. On the surface this sounds feasible except David Stern has said on more than one occasion---the NBA is not expanding. In 5 or 6 years the discussion of expansion might be a totally different matter; the NBA would expand adding teams in Sacramento and Kansas City.
Friday, April 12, 2013
I’ve mentioned this before
This is a condensed paraphrased discussion by Kevin Harlin and Chris Webber during a recent TNT NBA telecast. Harlin said; “after broadcasting college (NCAA tourney) games the speed of the NBA was quite a difference.” Color analyst Chris Webber added; “on a college team you might have one or two outstanding players, in the NBA everyone’s a threat.” If you love the college game that is okay, this is not my intent to trash the game, I love it too. Whether you agree or not the NBA is certainly a step above any team on the collegiate level. Could Louisville or Michigan compete against a Suns or Bobcat team? I believe the two worst (record-wise) NBA teams would beat Louisville or Michigan at least 3 out of 5 times.
The timing is interesting
Did you happen to see the Jeremy Lin interview on 60 Minutes Sunday? I found this to be interesting the timing of the telecast; Lin at the beginning of the week and “42” will open in theaters at the end of the week. 42 is the story of Jackie Robinson’s first year playing baseball for the Dodgers. I thought Lin and Robinson are linked by the struggle both endured to prove race is not a factor in ability. The Robinson story occurred in 1947, for Asian-American Lin it was 2006 and later 2010. Robinson faced a number of major hurdles in an attempt to become the first African-America to play major league baseball. Certainly we’ve made strides in our racial attitudes, but in some manner subtle attitudes still prevail. The subtle attitudes I speak of, (1.) “He was named first-team All-State and Northern California Division II Player of the Year, ending his senior year averaging 15.1 points, 7.1 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 5.0 steals.”
Despite his outstanding high school record not one Division I school offered him a basketball scholarship Harvard awarded him an academic scholarship so he headed east to college. In spite of leading his Harvard team in just about every offensive category he was overlooked once again, this time by the NBA. Allow me to fast forward to 2011; Lin was now on the roster of Knicks but not playing. Coach Mike D’Antoni was forced to play Lin, injuries had decimated his team. Playing the point guard Lin displayed his skills while leading the Knicks to a resurgence. The term “Lin-sanity” was invented by the media to describe his impact on the Knicks and the NBA. Signing a free agent contract Lin now toils for the Rockets and Lin has become a steady contributor to the Rockets success. Will Lin ever become a superstar; no matter he’s proven to many he is a fighter. He’s succeeded because he refused to allow perceived stereotypes to defeat him. (1.) Wikipedia
More upside
A day apart and roughly 170 road miles separate these two. Kansas freshman Ben McLemore and Mizzou junior Phil Pressey indicated they were leaving school headed for the NBA. After seeing both play (Pressey more than McLemore) it’s my view the 6-5 McLemore has more upside to his game then 5-11 Pressey. The upside in McLemore’s game has nothing to do with the height difference between the two. Both athletes have weaknesses in their skill set my assertion McLemore’s is less pronounced. ESPN.com said this about Pressey; “coming off a productive but erratic junior season.”
Paul Pressey father of Phil spent a number of years as a player in the NBA. He claims his son is better suited for the NBA “since it is a more wide-open game than the collegiate game.”
*McLemore-lack of aggressiveness differed often to upperclassman. At times drifted and was not part of the offense. He didn’t demand the ball although clearly he was the best shooter on the team. Ball handling, passing and defense average.
*Pressey-skilled assist man who sometimes negated the skill by too much penetration of the lane. Poor decision making regarding his shot selection at times, average to below average shooter. Defense above average, tied Mizzou’s all-time steal record.
Does Minnesota have the 411 on Tubby?
I found a recent ESPN.com poll interesting, the question, was it fair or unfair that Minnesota fired Tubby Smith. The world and the U.S. apparently thought Smith received a raw deal. The only exception was the State of Minnesota; the vote was a thumbs up in favor of the Smith firing. I guess all is well, before I could even print this Smith was announced as the new head coach at Texas Tech. Smith’s replacement at Minnesota, Rick Pitino’s son Richard. Assistant coaches should have the opportunity to become head coaches however this move I question. First the younger Pitino has but one year under his belt as a head coach (Florida International). Second an NCAA Championship coach is replaced by a 30-year old with limited experience.
This is a condensed paraphrased discussion by Kevin Harlin and Chris Webber during a recent TNT NBA telecast. Harlin said; “after broadcasting college (NCAA tourney) games the speed of the NBA was quite a difference.” Color analyst Chris Webber added; “on a college team you might have one or two outstanding players, in the NBA everyone’s a threat.” If you love the college game that is okay, this is not my intent to trash the game, I love it too. Whether you agree or not the NBA is certainly a step above any team on the collegiate level. Could Louisville or Michigan compete against a Suns or Bobcat team? I believe the two worst (record-wise) NBA teams would beat Louisville or Michigan at least 3 out of 5 times.
The timing is interesting
Did you happen to see the Jeremy Lin interview on 60 Minutes Sunday? I found this to be interesting the timing of the telecast; Lin at the beginning of the week and “42” will open in theaters at the end of the week. 42 is the story of Jackie Robinson’s first year playing baseball for the Dodgers. I thought Lin and Robinson are linked by the struggle both endured to prove race is not a factor in ability. The Robinson story occurred in 1947, for Asian-American Lin it was 2006 and later 2010. Robinson faced a number of major hurdles in an attempt to become the first African-America to play major league baseball. Certainly we’ve made strides in our racial attitudes, but in some manner subtle attitudes still prevail. The subtle attitudes I speak of, (1.) “He was named first-team All-State and Northern California Division II Player of the Year, ending his senior year averaging 15.1 points, 7.1 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 5.0 steals.”
Despite his outstanding high school record not one Division I school offered him a basketball scholarship Harvard awarded him an academic scholarship so he headed east to college. In spite of leading his Harvard team in just about every offensive category he was overlooked once again, this time by the NBA. Allow me to fast forward to 2011; Lin was now on the roster of Knicks but not playing. Coach Mike D’Antoni was forced to play Lin, injuries had decimated his team. Playing the point guard Lin displayed his skills while leading the Knicks to a resurgence. The term “Lin-sanity” was invented by the media to describe his impact on the Knicks and the NBA. Signing a free agent contract Lin now toils for the Rockets and Lin has become a steady contributor to the Rockets success. Will Lin ever become a superstar; no matter he’s proven to many he is a fighter. He’s succeeded because he refused to allow perceived stereotypes to defeat him. (1.) Wikipedia
More upside
A day apart and roughly 170 road miles separate these two. Kansas freshman Ben McLemore and Mizzou junior Phil Pressey indicated they were leaving school headed for the NBA. After seeing both play (Pressey more than McLemore) it’s my view the 6-5 McLemore has more upside to his game then 5-11 Pressey. The upside in McLemore’s game has nothing to do with the height difference between the two. Both athletes have weaknesses in their skill set my assertion McLemore’s is less pronounced. ESPN.com said this about Pressey; “coming off a productive but erratic junior season.”
Paul Pressey father of Phil spent a number of years as a player in the NBA. He claims his son is better suited for the NBA “since it is a more wide-open game than the collegiate game.”
*McLemore-lack of aggressiveness differed often to upperclassman. At times drifted and was not part of the offense. He didn’t demand the ball although clearly he was the best shooter on the team. Ball handling, passing and defense average.
*Pressey-skilled assist man who sometimes negated the skill by too much penetration of the lane. Poor decision making regarding his shot selection at times, average to below average shooter. Defense above average, tied Mizzou’s all-time steal record.
Does Minnesota have the 411 on Tubby?
I found a recent ESPN.com poll interesting, the question, was it fair or unfair that Minnesota fired Tubby Smith. The world and the U.S. apparently thought Smith received a raw deal. The only exception was the State of Minnesota; the vote was a thumbs up in favor of the Smith firing. I guess all is well, before I could even print this Smith was announced as the new head coach at Texas Tech. Smith’s replacement at Minnesota, Rick Pitino’s son Richard. Assistant coaches should have the opportunity to become head coaches however this move I question. First the younger Pitino has but one year under his belt as a head coach (Florida International). Second an NCAA Championship coach is replaced by a 30-year old with limited experience.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Somebody needs to fix it
On his morning radio show Dan Patrick was lamenting the fact Michigan’s Trey Burke is history. Patrick is hinting sophomore Burke is headed for the NBA. College basketball is not broken however it needs repair. We know several of the other names who will possibly leave early, Ben McLemore, Marcus Smart and perhaps Nerlens Noel. Those are just a few of the names that could leave. Okay for the fix:
1. Fix the one n done rule; the NBA should model itself after baseball to rectify the issue. High school players become eligible for the draft once again. If an athlete decides to attend college they must remain a minimum of 3 years.
2. Fix the referees; officiating has been questionable for a number of years. I heard commentary that the collegiate game needs to be officiated similar to the NBA Don’t think that’s necessary, consistency is more important to me.
3. Fix the confusion, this might be easier said than done. Over the last two seasons collegiate basketball has been in constant movement. Old teams in new leagues, new leagues. Stability appears to only be a word.
4. Fix the NCAA and President Mark Emmert; if the NCAA is to remain the collegiate governing body limits should be placed on its policing authority. In a perfect world a replacement body comes into existence to replace the NCAA.
You might be unfamiliar with the name
Viewing the NBA game on Sunday it was announced Marty Blake had died. Blake was 86 years old and is considered the godfather of the NBA. He became General Manager of the St. Louis Hawks at the youthful age of 27; Blake also implemented the first NBA pre-pre-draft camp. Blake spent more than 50 of his 86 years working in various capacities in the Association.
You think so?
Nick says Kentucky is not a good fit for his brother; Nick is the older brother of Class of 2013 number one prospect Andrew Wiggins. Older brother Nick is a reserve guard playing for Wichita State. Big brother’s assessment certainly isn’t exactly breaking news for a variety of reasons. First of all Rivals and ESPNU both state Kentucky has the number one recruiting Class of 2013. In addition to a bunch of McDonald All-Americans we have the remaining players. As this is written Kentucky loses two seniors plus freshman guard Archie Goodwin is entering the draft. The status of Nerlens Noel is not yet resolved.
The Wally Pipp story repeats itself
Those familiar with baseball history know the Wally Pipp story. In June 1925 Wally Pipp asked to be removed from the Yankee lineup at first base due to a headache. The manager informed him Lou Gehrig can sub for you, Pipp never got back in the lineup. Hall of Fame Yankee Gehrig held the consecutive game record 2,130 until the Orioles Brooks Robinson broke it. Where am I going with this story you might ask? Kris Humphries the starter at power forward for the Nets suffered an injury, in stepped “journey man” Reggie Evans. Humphries returned several weeks back but cannot regain his starter position. Humphries is a poor free-throw shooter and only average from the field however he excels at rebounding and defense. In a recent game against the Blazers Evans had a career-high 26 rebounds and matched his career point total with 22. He was 4 for 9 from the free-throw line which is a reflection of his .522 career free throw shooting.
On his morning radio show Dan Patrick was lamenting the fact Michigan’s Trey Burke is history. Patrick is hinting sophomore Burke is headed for the NBA. College basketball is not broken however it needs repair. We know several of the other names who will possibly leave early, Ben McLemore, Marcus Smart and perhaps Nerlens Noel. Those are just a few of the names that could leave. Okay for the fix:
1. Fix the one n done rule; the NBA should model itself after baseball to rectify the issue. High school players become eligible for the draft once again. If an athlete decides to attend college they must remain a minimum of 3 years.
2. Fix the referees; officiating has been questionable for a number of years. I heard commentary that the collegiate game needs to be officiated similar to the NBA Don’t think that’s necessary, consistency is more important to me.
3. Fix the confusion, this might be easier said than done. Over the last two seasons collegiate basketball has been in constant movement. Old teams in new leagues, new leagues. Stability appears to only be a word.
4. Fix the NCAA and President Mark Emmert; if the NCAA is to remain the collegiate governing body limits should be placed on its policing authority. In a perfect world a replacement body comes into existence to replace the NCAA.
You might be unfamiliar with the name
Viewing the NBA game on Sunday it was announced Marty Blake had died. Blake was 86 years old and is considered the godfather of the NBA. He became General Manager of the St. Louis Hawks at the youthful age of 27; Blake also implemented the first NBA pre-pre-draft camp. Blake spent more than 50 of his 86 years working in various capacities in the Association.
You think so?
Nick says Kentucky is not a good fit for his brother; Nick is the older brother of Class of 2013 number one prospect Andrew Wiggins. Older brother Nick is a reserve guard playing for Wichita State. Big brother’s assessment certainly isn’t exactly breaking news for a variety of reasons. First of all Rivals and ESPNU both state Kentucky has the number one recruiting Class of 2013. In addition to a bunch of McDonald All-Americans we have the remaining players. As this is written Kentucky loses two seniors plus freshman guard Archie Goodwin is entering the draft. The status of Nerlens Noel is not yet resolved.
The Wally Pipp story repeats itself
Those familiar with baseball history know the Wally Pipp story. In June 1925 Wally Pipp asked to be removed from the Yankee lineup at first base due to a headache. The manager informed him Lou Gehrig can sub for you, Pipp never got back in the lineup. Hall of Fame Yankee Gehrig held the consecutive game record 2,130 until the Orioles Brooks Robinson broke it. Where am I going with this story you might ask? Kris Humphries the starter at power forward for the Nets suffered an injury, in stepped “journey man” Reggie Evans. Humphries returned several weeks back but cannot regain his starter position. Humphries is a poor free-throw shooter and only average from the field however he excels at rebounding and defense. In a recent game against the Blazers Evans had a career-high 26 rebounds and matched his career point total with 22. He was 4 for 9 from the free-throw line which is a reflection of his .522 career free throw shooting.
Monday, April 8, 2013
Once more
I admit it; I fell into the Brittney Griner trap. I was caught up in the male versus female athlete debate which is really unnecessary. Baylor University had a very capable athlete in Griner, why must her game be validated by competition against men? Griner most likely will become a star once she begins play in the WNBA----not the NBA Mr. Cuban.
“It was UCLA”
That was the brief response Steve Alford made to Dan Patrick on Patrick's morning radio program. Alford University of New Mexico coach had successful stops at a number of schools before his arrival in Albuquerque. His six years at New Mexico have been just as successful, so successful he was able to sign a 10-year extension. Within days of signing the contract the Alford family is packing for their journey to Los Angeles. I think Alford should be careful what he asks for, the game is the same however the surroundings are quite different. Los Angeles is not Albuquerque and Pauley Pavilion is not the Pit Arena, the specter of John Wooden looms above Pauley. I hope this doesn’t sound as if it’s an indictment of Alford on a personal note I like him. The question that might loom for UCLA what if Tom Crean were to leave Indiana? Would the desire to return “home” and to his alma mater overwhelm him? I don’t have an answer; I only pose potential “landmines. “
I could be wrong but I don’t think so
Former coach and NBA TV analyst Sam Mitchell made a valid point, one I hadn’t considered. He, Vince Cellini and Isiah Thomas were discussing the bid of the Sacramento group to retain the team in the city. Mitchell said; “Oakland is an hour and half drive time from Sacramento.” We must take into consideration drive time might be more or less depending on where an individual might live. The point Mitchell was attempting to point out NBA basketball would still be available to many in the Sacramento area. I’m not sure if anyone might desire to make that drive two or three times during the week but weekend attendance might be considered. This is a sharp contrast to Kansas City in 1985 when the Kings left for Sacramento. Drive time from Kansas City to Dallas or Chicago is an 8 hour road trip. The drive was reduced once the Sonic franchise located to Oklahoma City, it’s about 5 hours from here. Flight times are much quicker; Dallas or Chicago from Kansas City is about an hour, Oklahoma City less than that. Sacramento fans might not have a team but will still have access to NBA basketball if they desire.
He’s too tall
Retired Knicks center Patrick Ewing has served as an assistant coach for a number of teams, interesting fact none of those teams have been the New York Knicks. Every time the Knicks changed coaches the 7-foot Ewing’s name was never mentioned. In addition to his former team he’s failed to be hired anywhere although he’s had a number of interviews. 7-2 Kareem Abdul Jabbar has served as a “big man’s coach” at two NBA stops including the Lakers. To prove his desire for a coaching position Abdul Jabbar severed as an unpaid coach for a Native American High School team. He continues to campaign for a head coaching job and announced he wanted to interview for the head coaching position of the Bucks. Both men have a predicament, outstanding careers as players but too tall to serve as a head coach. Think I’m joking about the height issue; name a coach taller than 6-10 Kevin McHale of the Rockets? Certainly Phil Jackson at 6-8 was one of the most successful. The majority of head coaches are guards, few forwards or centers need apply. Personally I’d like to see both Hall of Fame centers be given the opportunity to coach.
Sorry about that
The Lakers retired Shaquille O’ Neal’s jersey number 34. At the time it was unveiled I thought something was wrong, the television camera didn’t hold the shot very long. In addition my only focus was on the jersey number. A day later the Lakers admitted they made an error, O’Neal’s number was correct but that wasn’t the problem. O’Neal’s name had been placed on the front of the jersey rather than the back. The Lakers acknowledged the error and issued a statement indicating it would be corrected by the next Laker game. An email to one of the Laker fan websites stated; “I would have never retired Shaq’s number.” I’m glad in some instances decisions don’t lie with fans. We should inform him it wasn’t his decision, Dr. Buss approved the retirement of Shaq’s jersey last year prior to his death. Incidentally that same websites is debating which Kobe number to retire 8 or 24. Honestly I don’t think it’s that important, if I were to venture a guess I would imagine Kobe will chose 24. Note: As I was completing this story I received an email from a Laker memorabilia website, it was advertising a Shaquille O’ Neal jersey. I clicked on the link to discover they wanted $259.00 for it. Thanks but no thanks; I’ll just hang on to my 12-year old number 34 jersey.
Speaking of Shaq
Don’t remember which studio crew so I don‘t know who to credit. I don‘t think it was TNT or ESPN/ABC. NBA TV has a revolving team of analysts as well, who do I credit? Someone on the panel mentioned the Shaq Buick LaCroose commercial. One said; “how did they fit him in the automobile? “ Another chimed in; “they built the car around him.” Very funny at least I thought, my wife didn’t have the same view however.
Friday, April 5, 2013
“I want to believe”
The title above was the repeated theme of the ’90’s sci-fi television series The X-Files. (1.) “This television series follows the adventures and lives of FBI agents investigating those cases that involve the paranormal or previously unsolved (especially by conventional means).” In this instance I want to believe Chris Hansen when he announces they have received an astronomical 44,000 season tickets applications for Sonics basketball next season. Reading the number of emails sent to ESPN.com in response to the story a significant number of you don’t believe the Hansen statement. I admit I know very little about Chris Hansen however is there a basis for disbelief in his credibility? Better yet what would be the purpose for misleading Seattle fans and the sports world? We do know he has deep pockets (money) and his partner in the venture (Microsoft) has deep pockets. (1.) (www.imdb.com)
Retro active
Last week LeBron James complained about the hard foul the Bulls Taj Gibson laid on him, this week the NBA issues a flagrant foul on Gibson. This is either the third or fourth time I’ve written of my disdain for “after the fact” penalties. We acknowledge the speed and athletic ability of athletes often causes officials to “miss” calls. That’s been the history of basketball that probably dates back to the Naismith days. Officials are awarded grades during the course of the season those receiving too many D or F grades are not asked to return.
Bits n Pieces
Metta World Peace suffered a torn lateral meniscus, until the injury he’d been the only starter in the lineup for every game. I don’t remember a Laker team suffering as many injuries to key players as the 2012-13 team. This is not an age issue just a series of events that defy explanation.
We are in agreement me and Andy Katz ESPN reporter, he complained about basketball played in dome stadiums. I understand the reasoning, a greater amount of butts in the seats translate to a greater amount of revenue. That’s the only basis for playing basketball in Cowboys Stadium.
The agreement to build an arena in Sacramento isn’t worth the paper it’s written on! That might sound like a strong statement however there is an explanation. According to the Sacramento Bee newspaper the Maloof family must accept the bid from Sacramento, interesting isn‘t it?
The celebrities on the court rather than in the stands, this one caught my eye so I decided to bring it to your attention. This is an old story now; I came across a photo of actor Richard Gere and his son at the Nets-Knicks game November 26 at the Barclays Center. Gere has a Nets cap on however his 13-year old son has a Knicks cap adorning his head.
It’s not my desire to catch errors (I’m sure I’ve made several as well). J.A. Adande ESPN in a discussion on retired jerseys said; “the Lakers wait until a player is in the Hall of Fame before they retire his number that’s why it took Jamaal Wilkes so long.” Adande made his statement the day Shaquille O’ Neal’s Laker jersey was retired. Adande was not totally correct; Wilkes is in the Hall of Fame. The recently retired Shaq is not eligible for election until 2017.
Was he smiling when he said it?
I’m referring to Mavs owner Mark Cuban and his recent statement. He said “his team might draft Baylor’s Brittney Griner in the second round.” At 6-8 Griner has dominated the women’s collegiate game, according to Wikipedia Griner weighs in at a slim 207 pounds, contrast that to 6-8 265 pound LeBron James. I checked several NBA rosters and Griner will be a loser in the weight department to any NBA male small forward. How do you argue against the silliness of this issue without sounding chauvinistic? This is no knock at her ability; she is talented certainly above average for the women’s game. It’s my belief women cannot compete with men where strength and speed are necessary. Sports that don’t require S&S women can and should be able to contend. It‘s not just me, legendary UConn Coach Geno Auriemma stated as much. As many women’s teams as he’s coached I think I’d take stock in his view. Competing against men night after night is a totally different matter; then again this whole matter might be an attention grabbing Mark Cuban.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
He did what????
Jay-Z is giving up ownership in the Nets (whatever the percentage) to become a sports agent. This is not---repeat this is not a late April Fools joke Shawn (Jay-Z) Carter has decided to become a sports agent, of course this announcement would end his relationship with the Nets. Jay-Z might have been more visible at times than majority owner Mikhail Prokhorov. Of course we must take into consideration Prokhorov spends the majority of his life in Moscow.
Does he remember what he writes?
This is a prime example of my beef with Jason Whitlock Fox Sports.com; he flip-flops so often on stories and sometimes it’s within a matter of days. I underlined and placed in bold type those words I thought were key, this from his March 25th column. “Just because the tournament and college basketball can be improved doesn’t mean they’re broken. I love the tournament. And, in all candor, I love this year’s tournament the most. I took bracketeering to its highest level this season." A few days later April 2nd to be specific a porion of that column follows. “Had (Kevin) Ware not broken his leg, much of the discussion this week would likely focus on how boring and noncompetitive this tournament has been, particularly this past weekend.” Jason what is your view of the tourney at 2:11 p.m Central Standard Time April 2nd 2013?
No more characters
Basketball as with other sports had a number of characters in the past. Unfortunately those persons no longer exist in basketball or any other sports. The serious tenor of the game no longer allows for Billy Tubbs, Frank Layden or Abe Lemons to coach anymore. I attempted to provide you glimpses into the men I thought might entertain you, in addition writing about a funny thing sometimes fails to connect with the reader. The late Abe Lemons coached a number of teams over his 34 year coaching career. Always ready to provide the media a sample of his wit; “I don’t have any trick plays, “I’d rather have tricky players” or how about this one; “there are really only two plays; Romeo and Juliet, and put the ball in the darn basket.” These represent just a few of the Lemons funny quotes, there are more search them.
Frank Layden served as coach of the Utah Jazz during the ‘80’s; he is now in the front office of the team. Several of his gems; “I told him, 'Son, what is it with you. Is it ignorance or apathy?' He said, 'Coach, I don't know and I don't care.” Referring to his high school team in New York Layden said. "We had a lot of nicknames--Scarface, Blackie, Toothless. And those were just the cheerleaders.” Finally we focus on Billy Tubbs who coached the University of Oklahoma for a number of years. If you closed your eyes and listened to him you’d think Jack Nicholson was talking rather than Tubbs. His view of an opposing player; “I'll tell you this. He'd sure look good in an Oklahoma uniform. Right now.” How about this one, “First off, we have to make the tournament (the top eight finishers qualify), but I do feel that we will get in. We still have a shot at a home seed, but actually I'm not sure that that would be good. We may want to open with a road game.” (think exist.com and wikipedia)
Is this a “Smart” move?
Not a word from the coach himself or at least what I’ve heard. Shaka Smart VCU’s coach turned down UCLA and Minnesota to remain at Virginia Commonwealth. After his team burst into the national spotlight a few years ago we all knew his name. I wasn’t real surprised when he pledged his loyalty to VCU they had allowed him the opportunity to coach at the Division I level. The same story applies to Brad Stevens at Butler University. Steven’s too burst on the national scene in similar manner to Smart. This guy lives basketball, last year his wife told the story their first date Stevens took her to a high school basketball game. Interesting comment by Seth Davis of CBS Sports, he says; “when a coaching position opens the first call is to Smart and Steven’s, nobody else.”
Monday, April 1, 2013
It works both ways
Bill Simmons lists a number of professional teams he hates. Leading off his hate list is the Los Angeles Lakers. I shouldn’t be shocked or surprised; you admitted awhile back you were a Clippers season ticket holder. Congratulations Mr. Simmons, you have now replaced Jason Whitlock at the top of my nausea list. Thus you are assured of me no longer considering anything written or stated by you as relevant. I never thought anyone could supersede Whitlock but you managed to do just that, thank you and I’m quite sure Whitlock thanks you too.
The streak ends
Congratulations to the Miami Heat for establishing the second longest winning streak in NBA history. After Jerry West and others indicated the all-time win record was in danger of being eclipsed I took note of the comments. The South Beach crew won 27 games in a row before losing to the Bulls 101-97, the 33 game win streak set by the 1971-72 Lakers remains intact. The Heat lost February 1st against the Pacers and would not lose again until March 27. The only downside for the Heat other than losing was LeBron. I’m borrowing this from another, “every time he allows me to begin to like him he ruins it!” His belly aching about fouls after the game was ludicrous, how many times have we seen Bron drive the lane and run over an opposing player. Bron you need to put on your big boy pants you’re 6 foot 8 and 265 pounds with a chiseled body.
The best team in the State of Kansas
I mentioned my admiration for the outstanding record of Coach Bill Self at Kansas; I’ve tossed a few roses in his direction. Now to toss a few rocks, I understand (don’t agree) why he refuses to schedule Mizzou. As for the State of Kansas that is a far different story. Self’s team and Wichita State are both in the field of 16 and he was questioned about the Shockers. (1.) “I’m happy for the Shockers. I’m excited for them,” Self said, smiling. “But that doesn't mean we're going to play them. “That was a joke. Because I knew that would be the next question.”
He might have intended it as a joke but based on past history they will not be scheduling Wichita State. Government shouldn’t be forced to involve itself in trivial matters as scheduling but it might be compulsory. It would be a different story if this were a Division II or NAIA rival, Wichita State is a Division I school and a good one. It might be time for the Kansas Legislature to pull a “Kentucky, “i.e.” past legislation forcing the teams to play. Based on the weekend results Wichita State has advanced one game further than Kansas, regardless of the Final Four results we know the best team in the State isn’t in Lawrence Kansas, the best team is in Wichita. (1.) Kansas City Star
Quit drinking the Kool-Aid
Myron Medcalf of ESPN.com was berated by a local radio talk show host. This moderator was offended by a Medcalf column on the NCAA tourney. Medcalf had re-seeded the tourney; although I didn’t read his column he picked Michigan over Kansas. The radio guy went on a tangent pointing out the superiority of Kansas over Michigan position by position. The only area he pointed out as an advantage for Michigan was the guard position. I am anxious with anticipation to hear him offer an explanation why Kansas lost. The vast majority of the local media should quit drinking the Kansas
Kool-Aid. The team from Lawrence is very good team however they are not invincible.
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