No Kobe, no matter
Most Laker fans were curious how the initial Lakers-Rockets game would turn out. A number of fans might have the dates circled on their calendars when the teams would meet. Thursday November 7th would be first date with the Rockets hosting the Lakers. The Lakers shot lights-out in the first half of the game rushing out to a 19 point lead at a point. Of course the Rockets would make adjustments and would mount a comeback; the game wasn’t decided until the final few seconds. After receiving the ball on an out of bounds play guard Steve Blake tossed in a 3-pointer with 1.3 seconds left in the game, final score Lakers 99 Rockets 98.
Thoughts on the game---the Lakers snatched down 47 rebounds to the Rockets 44, in addition they handed out 26 assists to the Rockets 17. At the end the Lakers didn’t shot particularly well however the Lakers defense managed to hold the Rockets to an even lower percentage. During one point in the game Howard attempting to grab a rebound accidentally tipped it in the Lakers basket. I agree with Dan Patrick most of the time but I think he missed the point this morning. In announcing the score of the game on his radio show he said; “Howard’s gone, Laker fans might not like the fact he left (L.A.) but they need to get over it.” I could respond for Laker fans, we got over Shaq leaving we will get over Howard but not this quick and after but one game.
His career may be over
You remember Royce White don’t you? He was the talented forward the Rockets drafted last season from Iowa State. White had anxiety issues, could not travel by air and other mental health issues. The short version of the story he was traded to the 76ers over the summer. White was one of the final cuts as the team trimmed its roster for the start of the season. I claim no expertise in the field but do believe many who suffered and received help have been able to improve their well-being. I’m unsure if his story was media driven the indication last season White appeared to take the position his issue rested solely with the Rockets only. Until he is able to look into the mirror it serves no purpose to point fingers at others, Royce get help to deal with your mental health issues whether you want an NBA career or not.
Bits n Pieces
MSG Chairman James Dolan says; “the Knicks have enough talent to win a championship this year.” The Knicks have not begun the season as expected so how does Dolan respond? He decides to place the dance team on waivers; they are not allowed to perform during lulls in the game or at half-time. That’s his fix for the Knicks rebounding and defensive problems.
Over the years I’ve tossed a number of rocks (perhaps boulders depending on your perspective) in the direction of ESPN. In this case I am applauding the network for a portion of its programming. For those who might not be familiar they feature a documentary program 30 for 30 which always features an interesting and insightful story. Recently the program Jason Hehir directed Bernie and Ernie. The short feature told the story of Bernard King and Ernie Grunfeld two New York City youngsters who journeyed to the University of Tennessee to play collegiate basketball.
The media has reminded us time and time again the Lakers are an old team. Have they bothered to look at the Spurs roster? Of course they have youth on their roster but notice the age of their key offensive (and defensive) players.
Timmy Duncan 37
Manu Ginobili 36
Tony Parker 31
Matt Bonner 33
Boris Diaw 31
Celebrity owners
Former Laker and entrepreneur Magic Johnson is now a Dodger owner, entertainer Gloria Esteban and her husband Emilio own a piece of the NFL Dolphins. Musician Jon Bon Jovi once owned the Philadelphia Soul Arena football team. There are other celebrity sports owners but the intent here to detail celebrity NBA owners. It’s my belief the NBA has more celebrity owners than any other major sport. Jay-Z sold his piece of ownership in the Nets to coach Jason Kidd however other celebrity owners remain. The rapper Nelly purchased a share of the Bobcats at the time Bob Johnson owned the team.
The latest information located indicates Nelly has continued ownership under Michael Jordan. Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith are also reported to own interest in the 76ers franchise. Smith of course is originally from Philadelphia but headed west to Hollywood just like his Fresh Prince television character. Entertainer Usher lives in Atlanta although connected to the Cavs as a minority owner; he purchased his share in 2005. Justin Timberlake and actress wife Jessica Biel own a minority share in the Grizzlies franchise. Of course we now have the large than life Shaquille O’Neal an owner with the Kings franchise. At the purchase announcement he referred to his new purchase as the Shaq-amento Kings.
