Basketball from a fans perspective
Rivalry Part II
Yesterday I omitted Iowa State in my assessment of Big 12 basketball, it was not intentional just an oversight. Under Fred Hoiberg the school had several glory moments against Kansas; I can even remember winning the post-season tourney. As for the regular season that was a far different story as they experienced far more success in Ames than Lawrence.
We all have opinions even David Thorpe
Thorpe is the Executive Director of Pro Training in Clearwater Florida. He served as a high school assistant coach before going into personal training as a profession. Thorpe was upset with comments attributed to legendary Oscar Robertson regarding Steph Curry. Rather than delve into a “he said he said” commentary allow me a few sentences. Robertson certainly is not correct in every statement he’s made about basketball and the NBA.
In addition to disagreeing with Robertson he made age a part of his disagreement, I wonder if Robertson was attempting to paint an untrue portrait of the man. I will take more stock in the Robertson commentary than a guy who never played the game at the high level of an Oscar Robertson. We seem to constantly have this argument about 21st Century players versus those of the ’50’s and ’60’s.
The further we travel into the century the more a number of us attempt to discount attributes and commentary of the past. By the way I caught the Laker game against the Grizzlies, Kareem was asked about the Robertson comment. Without going into detail he agreed with the view his former teammate held.
There is no doubt athletes of today are faster, better conditioned and in some instances have improved training regiments. There is no reason to discount the comments of Robertson and others because you were too young to have witnessed their play. As for Curry I’ve never witnessed a shot similar to the one he made that beat the Thunder. A 38+ foot 3 pointer with the clock running down and it was all net as they say.
The forgotten man
The names are well-know West, Chamberlain, Magic, Shaq and Kobe. A name lost in all the past Laker glory is Elgin Baylor. He connects the City of Minneapolis with Los Angeles having played his 1958 rookie season in the Twin Cities where he won Rookie of the Year honors. In 1959 Baylor would be the first legitimate star for the Lakers as Jerry West would not arrive until 1960. Blessed with natural leaping ability the 6-5 Baylor played small forward for his 13-year NBA career, number 22’s career numbers 27.4 ppg, 13.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists.
Baylor is double-honoree having been elected to the Naismith Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame. There is no statue of Baylor in any location around Staples Center in addition there are no plans for this honor. I question if there is an issue between Baylor and the Lakers, he was hired in 1986 by the Clippers and served in the role of vice-president for 22 years. Connect the dots, Minneapolis and Los Angeles Lakers he played in both cities and as indicated the first legitimate Laker star in Los Angeles.
Vienna
The capital of Austria has been the birthplace of many famous world renowned citizens over the centuries. A small number of the famous include Sigmund Freud considered the father of psychology, Marie Antoinette who would become Queen of France and Johann Strauss the popular composer famous for his waltzes. We cannot place Jakob Poelti’s name in that company he’s only a basketball player who shares the city of Vienna as his birthplace too.
Poelti is in the middle of his sophomore year at the University of Utah and is scoring at a 17.8 ppg average along with nine rebounds a game. The 7-1 Poelti is a 240 pound center who might be converted to power forward in the NBA. The native of Austria is listed as a lottery pick on several mock draft sites. On NBADraft.net he’s listed number nine and DraftExpress.com has him at seven. Word is he’s made no decision as yet for the NBA however this is one of the names you should stow away in your memory bank for future reference.
Sunday, February 28, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He’s going to be a Zip
Among the athletes headed to the University of Akron this fall is 6-9 278 pound Michael Hughes II. Hughes is a local kid playing his high school ball at Liberty North High School. His school is located in Liberty (MO) a suburban city north of downtown Kansas City. His Liberty North team is one of the best in the area represented by a 21-3 record as this is written. He’s averaging 17 points 14.3 rebounds along with nearly 5 blocked shots a game. As for the headline the nickname of Akron’s teams is Zip, *“Originally short for Zippers overshoes that were popular in the 1930s and 1930s.”
*Wikipedia
Why I am not surprised?
He’s proposing the NBA implement a challenge system similar to that in place by the NFL. I didn’t read the article in its entirety but that’s the view of this coach. The coach of course is Doc Rivers who is always crying or complaining about the manner officials call the game. I get it I’m sure the NBA is embarrassed the number of times the NBA office admitted officials missed a call or made an incorrect one.
Doc the game has slowed enough as it is and you wanna slow it down even more? They say if you don’t have a fix you don’t have the right to complain. Well here’s the answer a more stringent referee training program. Don’t want to publicly embarrass an official but too many errors he or she is suspended game(s) with no pay. An evaluation at the end of the season finding too many errors well it’s bye-bye. There’s your fix Doc Rivers and stop belly aching.
Rivalry
Dictionary.com defines rivalry as; “the action, position, or relation of a rival or rivals; completion.” Can we state with conviction Kansas has a true rival in the Big 12? If you win a conference for 12 consecutive years (which they have accomplished) how can we state they have a rival? For this purpose Nebraska, Texas A&M, Colorado and Mizzou will be excluded because they are no longer conference members. Kansas State under Bob Huggins and Frank Martin had a slight run at a rivalry but it dissolve when Martin left for South Carolina.
Rick Barnes when at Texas always had talent but his teams seem to be unable to sustain any type of rivalry against Kansas. Scott Drew has benefit of Texas talent and his coaching ability but his Baylor Bears have been unable to compete against Kansas over successive seasons. Oklahoma and Oklahoma State have beaten Kansas over the years but they too lack consistency. I’m excluding West Virginia too due to its limited time in the Big 12.
He’s 18 and 20
DraftExpress.com has Denzel Valentine at 18, NBADraft.net list him as pick number 20 in their mock draft site. In addition to a low draft position the 6-6 220 pound Michigan State guard has at least one additional quality. The guy is a senior, in this day and age dominated by underclassman he’s an anomaly. This fact alone should have NBA scouts salivating a draftee who might be ready to play immediately.
Is Valentine a shooting guard or a point, his numbers are close to that of Ben Simmons another combo player. 19.7 ppg along with nearly 8 rebounds along with 7.3 assists Valentine might lead us to believe he is the Michigan State offense. I’ve never read this anywhere however I believe his mom must be a fan, she loves her son but she might also love actor Denzel Washington. I don’t know too many Denzel’s besides these two what about you?
He’s going to be a Zip
Among the athletes headed to the University of Akron this fall is 6-9 278 pound Michael Hughes II. Hughes is a local kid playing his high school ball at Liberty North High School. His school is located in Liberty (MO) a suburban city north of downtown Kansas City. His Liberty North team is one of the best in the area represented by a 21-3 record as this is written. He’s averaging 17 points 14.3 rebounds along with nearly 5 blocked shots a game. As for the headline the nickname of Akron’s teams is Zip, *“Originally short for Zippers overshoes that were popular in the 1930s and 1930s.”
*Wikipedia
Why I am not surprised?
He’s proposing the NBA implement a challenge system similar to that in place by the NFL. I didn’t read the article in its entirety but that’s the view of this coach. The coach of course is Doc Rivers who is always crying or complaining about the manner officials call the game. I get it I’m sure the NBA is embarrassed the number of times the NBA office admitted officials missed a call or made an incorrect one.
Doc the game has slowed enough as it is and you wanna slow it down even more? They say if you don’t have a fix you don’t have the right to complain. Well here’s the answer a more stringent referee training program. Don’t want to publicly embarrass an official but too many errors he or she is suspended game(s) with no pay. An evaluation at the end of the season finding too many errors well it’s bye-bye. There’s your fix Doc Rivers and stop belly aching.
Rivalry
Dictionary.com defines rivalry as; “the action, position, or relation of a rival or rivals; completion.” Can we state with conviction Kansas has a true rival in the Big 12? If you win a conference for 12 consecutive years (which they have accomplished) how can we state they have a rival? For this purpose Nebraska, Texas A&M, Colorado and Mizzou will be excluded because they are no longer conference members. Kansas State under Bob Huggins and Frank Martin had a slight run at a rivalry but it dissolve when Martin left for South Carolina.
Rick Barnes when at Texas always had talent but his teams seem to be unable to sustain any type of rivalry against Kansas. Scott Drew has benefit of Texas talent and his coaching ability but his Baylor Bears have been unable to compete against Kansas over successive seasons. Oklahoma and Oklahoma State have beaten Kansas over the years but they too lack consistency. I’m excluding West Virginia too due to its limited time in the Big 12.
He’s 18 and 20
DraftExpress.com has Denzel Valentine at 18, NBADraft.net list him as pick number 20 in their mock draft site. In addition to a low draft position the 6-6 220 pound Michigan State guard has at least one additional quality. The guy is a senior, in this day and age dominated by underclassman he’s an anomaly. This fact alone should have NBA scouts salivating a draftee who might be ready to play immediately.
Is Valentine a shooting guard or a point, his numbers are close to that of Ben Simmons another combo player. 19.7 ppg along with nearly 8 rebounds along with 7.3 assists Valentine might lead us to believe he is the Michigan State offense. I’ve never read this anywhere however I believe his mom must be a fan, she loves her son but she might also love actor Denzel Washington. I don’t know too many Denzel’s besides these two what about you?
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
A pioneer
Often when you accomplish a task first you are sometimes a memory. That’s the case for sports broadcast pioneer Eddie Einhorn. The 80-year old Einhorn died on Wednesday complications of a stroke. He was a minority owner of the baseball White Sox but basketball was the sport that brought him to national prominence. Einhorn was the founder of TVS a network dedicated to telecasting regional college basketball games. Keep in mind in the ‘60’s there was no ESPN or Fox Sports in those days the TVS games were sold to broadcast and independent stations across the nation. In 1968 the Houston Cougars with star Elvin Hayes would serve as host to Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar) and his UCLA Bruins.
The game was played in the Houston Astrodome and set an attendance record which has since been broken. Einhorn secured the broadcast rights for this January 1968 game and would market the game to a national television audience. At this time only NCAA post-season games were nationally broadcast so this game was a first, a national telecast of a college basketball game in season a first. In addition “The Game of the Century” proved to be a financial success for college basketball and Einhorn. Einhorn would later have the network telecast other sports and eventually he would sale TVS. Eddie Einhorn was inducted in the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011 as a contributor.
Are they a winner?
I’m listening to the 25,000 discussion (argument) between Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith on ESPN‘s First Take. Number 24,999 was about the Dallas Cowboys and so is this one. The last time Cowboys won a Super Bowl was 1996 20 years ago. Before I go any further allow me to clarify a point. There is no disagreement from me the NFL (and maybe the Cowboys) are more popular than any NBA team.
Every time I hear a complaint about the lousy Lakers I remind the critic of the history of championships. The response; “I don’t want to hear that when is the last time they won it all.” To jog their memory I remind them it was 2010 the last time the Lakers were NBA Champions. That was six years ago certainly lesser time than 1995. I hope you understand the intent of this rant. The Cowboys receive a pass while the Lakers get an F from haters.
Bit n Pieces
This is written prior to the NBA trade deadline. Plenty of big names have been floated about including the Clippers Blake Griffin. It’s likely he’s not been traded by the time this is published but it probably will occur this summer. No doubt on his talent but the larger question might be his value to the team. Did you realize the Clippers won-loss record has been better with Griffin on the sidelines?
I just heard a portion of this discussion and wanted to add my two cents worth. The debate centered on the problems of Dwight Howard and James Harden as teammates. We know the issues with Harden but what about Howard? Both agreed injuries have impacted his numbers in the nearly three years in Houston. I don’t doubt the injury issue but I question “the head” stuff. Why did Howard not enhance his game with the opportunity of being tutored by Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Hakeem Olajuwon? Can you imagine Dwight with a sky-hook or the dream-shake two classics.
As for the other New York team they need a coach and better players. Phil Jackson is extremely loyal to his former players and coaches so we should expect a triangle offense devotee. Once Phil fired Derek Fisher he was replaced by interim Kurt Rambis who is a disciple of the triangle. Luke Walton currently serves as an assistant for the Warriors but would be free after the season. Brian Shaw is available and he also knows the triangle, then former coaches Jim Clemons and Bill Cartwright might also be considered. One of the other PJ disciples is Steve Kerr however there are serious doubts he leaves the Warriors.
Like father like son---maybe
As Steph Curry continues to shoot lights out the thought crossed my mind. Who’s a better NBA player Steph or dad Dell? Dad was a lights out shooter too however I believe he would admit his son is better. Dad scored over 12,000 points so Dell certainly was no slouch. How about the Bryant’s Kobe and Joe “Jelly Bean” Bryant? Joe was a 6-9 guard who could handle the basketball but wasn’t close to Kobe as a scorer. Kobe is the NBA’s third leading scorer with almost 33,000 points. There might be others but the aforementioned certainly exceeded dad. As for others they didn’t reach the level of their father. Bill Walton’s career was cut short by injury but it’s easy to state dad was a better NBA player than Luke.
Klay Thompson is not as tall as Mychal however given years he might exceed his dad. As for others they haven’t played long enough to be considered. The Bucks Jabari Parker is too early in his career to make a comparison to dad Sonny who had a six year NBA career. The same could be said for the Lakers Larry Nance Jr. in his rookie year. Dad Larry Sr. was an outstanding NBA player. One other player to mention is LSU’s Ben Simmons, he’s not in the NBA yet but there is a story. His dad located to Australia to play professional basketball. In a television interview he was asked about matching up against his son. He said; “I couldn’t beat him once he was a sophomore in high school.”
A pioneer
Often when you accomplish a task first you are sometimes a memory. That’s the case for sports broadcast pioneer Eddie Einhorn. The 80-year old Einhorn died on Wednesday complications of a stroke. He was a minority owner of the baseball White Sox but basketball was the sport that brought him to national prominence. Einhorn was the founder of TVS a network dedicated to telecasting regional college basketball games. Keep in mind in the ‘60’s there was no ESPN or Fox Sports in those days the TVS games were sold to broadcast and independent stations across the nation. In 1968 the Houston Cougars with star Elvin Hayes would serve as host to Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar) and his UCLA Bruins.
The game was played in the Houston Astrodome and set an attendance record which has since been broken. Einhorn secured the broadcast rights for this January 1968 game and would market the game to a national television audience. At this time only NCAA post-season games were nationally broadcast so this game was a first, a national telecast of a college basketball game in season a first. In addition “The Game of the Century” proved to be a financial success for college basketball and Einhorn. Einhorn would later have the network telecast other sports and eventually he would sale TVS. Eddie Einhorn was inducted in the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011 as a contributor.
Are they a winner?
I’m listening to the 25,000 discussion (argument) between Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith on ESPN‘s First Take. Number 24,999 was about the Dallas Cowboys and so is this one. The last time Cowboys won a Super Bowl was 1996 20 years ago. Before I go any further allow me to clarify a point. There is no disagreement from me the NFL (and maybe the Cowboys) are more popular than any NBA team.
Every time I hear a complaint about the lousy Lakers I remind the critic of the history of championships. The response; “I don’t want to hear that when is the last time they won it all.” To jog their memory I remind them it was 2010 the last time the Lakers were NBA Champions. That was six years ago certainly lesser time than 1995. I hope you understand the intent of this rant. The Cowboys receive a pass while the Lakers get an F from haters.
Bit n Pieces
This is written prior to the NBA trade deadline. Plenty of big names have been floated about including the Clippers Blake Griffin. It’s likely he’s not been traded by the time this is published but it probably will occur this summer. No doubt on his talent but the larger question might be his value to the team. Did you realize the Clippers won-loss record has been better with Griffin on the sidelines?
I just heard a portion of this discussion and wanted to add my two cents worth. The debate centered on the problems of Dwight Howard and James Harden as teammates. We know the issues with Harden but what about Howard? Both agreed injuries have impacted his numbers in the nearly three years in Houston. I don’t doubt the injury issue but I question “the head” stuff. Why did Howard not enhance his game with the opportunity of being tutored by Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Hakeem Olajuwon? Can you imagine Dwight with a sky-hook or the dream-shake two classics.
As for the other New York team they need a coach and better players. Phil Jackson is extremely loyal to his former players and coaches so we should expect a triangle offense devotee. Once Phil fired Derek Fisher he was replaced by interim Kurt Rambis who is a disciple of the triangle. Luke Walton currently serves as an assistant for the Warriors but would be free after the season. Brian Shaw is available and he also knows the triangle, then former coaches Jim Clemons and Bill Cartwright might also be considered. One of the other PJ disciples is Steve Kerr however there are serious doubts he leaves the Warriors.
Like father like son---maybe
As Steph Curry continues to shoot lights out the thought crossed my mind. Who’s a better NBA player Steph or dad Dell? Dad was a lights out shooter too however I believe he would admit his son is better. Dad scored over 12,000 points so Dell certainly was no slouch. How about the Bryant’s Kobe and Joe “Jelly Bean” Bryant? Joe was a 6-9 guard who could handle the basketball but wasn’t close to Kobe as a scorer. Kobe is the NBA’s third leading scorer with almost 33,000 points. There might be others but the aforementioned certainly exceeded dad. As for others they didn’t reach the level of their father. Bill Walton’s career was cut short by injury but it’s easy to state dad was a better NBA player than Luke.
Klay Thompson is not as tall as Mychal however given years he might exceed his dad. As for others they haven’t played long enough to be considered. The Bucks Jabari Parker is too early in his career to make a comparison to dad Sonny who had a six year NBA career. The same could be said for the Lakers Larry Nance Jr. in his rookie year. Dad Larry Sr. was an outstanding NBA player. One other player to mention is LSU’s Ben Simmons, he’s not in the NBA yet but there is a story. His dad located to Australia to play professional basketball. In a television interview he was asked about matching up against his son. He said; “I couldn’t beat him once he was a sophomore in high school.”
Friday, February 26, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He was released
34-year old Joe Johnson was waived on Thursday by the Nets which came as a surprise to many. A new general manager in place now it appears the team might be in a full scale re-build mode. The 6-7 guard has been a skilled shooter through his 14-year NBA career with the exception of this year. Johnson has scored nearly 19,000 points and has a life time 17.0 ppg scoring average; he should be able to help a playoff team in a reserve role.
Were number one! Were number one!
There is no team in the nation that could yell the famous chant; “Were number one” for a sustained period of time it might only be valid until the next game. I realize Top 25 polls are no indication of a team’s strength but we marvel over them anyway. On Wednesday for the umpteenth time number one fell again, this time it was number five Xavier beating number one Villanova 90-83. Below is the list of teams that have been at the top of the polls at various times since the beginning of the season:
Michigan State
Kentucky
Kansas
Virginia
Oklahoma
North Carolina
Villanova
If you followed the polls for any length of time there’s never been this much movement at the top over the course of a single season. On Monday Kansas will ascend to the top when the AP and USA Today Coaches polls are announced again.
Blue Springs duo
This suburban Kansas City (MO) School had two future NBA players as teammates. This occurrence was not that unusual for Blue Springs High much earlier Gus Johnson Bullets forward and Nate Thurmond Warriors center played at Akron Central (OH). More recently Warriors forward Harrison Barnes and Doug “Buckets” McDermott of the Bulls would arrive in the association. They had played as teammates at Ames High School in Ames (IA). Jon Sunvold was a 6-2 sharpshooter who scored over 2,100 points and was twice selected All-State while in high school. After a successful stint at Mizzou Sunvold would be drafted by the Sonics in 1983 the 16th pick in the first round.
He became a valuable reserve for three franchises during his 9-year NBA career. Sunvold would go into business in addition to providing color commentary for college basketball. His teammate Steve Harris would win the DiRenna award as the outstanding Kansas City Metro player, he would go on to star at Tulsa University. In 1985 the Rockets made Harris the number 19 pick in the first round of the NBA draft. Harris would have a six year NBA career playing for four teams. On Monday came word that Steve “Silk” Harris died of colon cancer, he was only 52 years old, R.I.P. Steve.
This is the last
I’ve heard it from all sides, in November a sports website contained a story on “mistake” draft picks and Russell’s name was one of those considered an error. I also mentioned one of the barbers told me; “They should have drafted (Jahlil) Okafor. Finally former ESPN guy Bill Simmons chimes in with his opinion. As for Simmons he proposes a Jabari Parker for Russell trade to fix the problem. How can I trust or believe anything a Clipper season ticket holder states? The 6-5 point guard has played limited minutes however he’s scoring at 12.2 points per game clip along with 3.4 assists and 3.5 rebounds a game.
For a 20 year old who should be in the middle of his sophomore year the numbers are pretty good, his field goal percentage could be raised. I try and not second guess coaches but I’m not sure Byron Scott has been the best coach for this youngster, the other issue he only played one-year of college ball. He cannot be expected to play at the level of a more experienced player. This is the last story I will write defending the Laker youngster. As this was being completed Russell was inserted into the starting lineup and would remain for the last 30+ games.
He was released
34-year old Joe Johnson was waived on Thursday by the Nets which came as a surprise to many. A new general manager in place now it appears the team might be in a full scale re-build mode. The 6-7 guard has been a skilled shooter through his 14-year NBA career with the exception of this year. Johnson has scored nearly 19,000 points and has a life time 17.0 ppg scoring average; he should be able to help a playoff team in a reserve role.
Were number one! Were number one!
There is no team in the nation that could yell the famous chant; “Were number one” for a sustained period of time it might only be valid until the next game. I realize Top 25 polls are no indication of a team’s strength but we marvel over them anyway. On Wednesday for the umpteenth time number one fell again, this time it was number five Xavier beating number one Villanova 90-83. Below is the list of teams that have been at the top of the polls at various times since the beginning of the season:
Michigan State
Kentucky
Kansas
Virginia
Oklahoma
North Carolina
Villanova
If you followed the polls for any length of time there’s never been this much movement at the top over the course of a single season. On Monday Kansas will ascend to the top when the AP and USA Today Coaches polls are announced again.
Blue Springs duo
This suburban Kansas City (MO) School had two future NBA players as teammates. This occurrence was not that unusual for Blue Springs High much earlier Gus Johnson Bullets forward and Nate Thurmond Warriors center played at Akron Central (OH). More recently Warriors forward Harrison Barnes and Doug “Buckets” McDermott of the Bulls would arrive in the association. They had played as teammates at Ames High School in Ames (IA). Jon Sunvold was a 6-2 sharpshooter who scored over 2,100 points and was twice selected All-State while in high school. After a successful stint at Mizzou Sunvold would be drafted by the Sonics in 1983 the 16th pick in the first round.
He became a valuable reserve for three franchises during his 9-year NBA career. Sunvold would go into business in addition to providing color commentary for college basketball. His teammate Steve Harris would win the DiRenna award as the outstanding Kansas City Metro player, he would go on to star at Tulsa University. In 1985 the Rockets made Harris the number 19 pick in the first round of the NBA draft. Harris would have a six year NBA career playing for four teams. On Monday came word that Steve “Silk” Harris died of colon cancer, he was only 52 years old, R.I.P. Steve.
This is the last
I’ve heard it from all sides, in November a sports website contained a story on “mistake” draft picks and Russell’s name was one of those considered an error. I also mentioned one of the barbers told me; “They should have drafted (Jahlil) Okafor. Finally former ESPN guy Bill Simmons chimes in with his opinion. As for Simmons he proposes a Jabari Parker for Russell trade to fix the problem. How can I trust or believe anything a Clipper season ticket holder states? The 6-5 point guard has played limited minutes however he’s scoring at 12.2 points per game clip along with 3.4 assists and 3.5 rebounds a game.
For a 20 year old who should be in the middle of his sophomore year the numbers are pretty good, his field goal percentage could be raised. I try and not second guess coaches but I’m not sure Byron Scott has been the best coach for this youngster, the other issue he only played one-year of college ball. He cannot be expected to play at the level of a more experienced player. This is the last story I will write defending the Laker youngster. As this was being completed Russell was inserted into the starting lineup and would remain for the last 30+ games.
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Bueller?...Bueller?.…Bueller?”
The headline is from the 1986 movie classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off." If you haven’t seen the movie or don’t remember the scene allow a brief explanation. The economics teacher was calling the class roll; Ferris was absent that day having skipped school. “Baylor?....West Virginia?....Oklahoma?" These Big 12 schools along with Texas allowed Kansas to escape once again. In a manner similar to Bueller they are absent too they skipped competing in the Big 12.
Am I being too tough on the conference I don’t think so. The Jayhawks will win or share their 12 straight Big 12 title. Back in the day UCLA dominated the Pac 8 conference but that was a different era. In more recent times Duke and North Carolina have been very successful however neither has dominated the ACC in a manner similar to Kansas. Am I critical of Kansas basketball success that is not the case? My derogatory remarks are aimed at the other conference schools that every year “talk the talk but fail to walk the walk.”
Bits n Pieces
I’m Ol Skool regarding a number of issues, although I often don’t like change I’m okay with ads on jerseys. The NBA is considering placement of ads on team jerseys. For years Nike, Adidas and others have placed their logos on basketball tops. If you witnessed the All-Star Game recently you should have noticed players had Kia logos on the top right side of their jerseys.
We are no longer surprised the up and down seasons of the Top 25 college teams. Steve Lappas former coach addresses this issue in an interview. He says; “The freshman class this year has not been that outstanding in addition the upper classman are not really good. If they were that good they would have been in the NBA by now.” Is Lappas correct in his assessment?
The Laker page contained a photo of Pau Gasol guarding Kobe Bryant in the All-Star Game. I cannot and will not speak for Kobe’s relationship with all teammates over his career. What I do know unlike Dwight Howard the relationship between Big Man Gasol and Kobe resulted in three straight trips to the NBA Championships and two consecutive championships. Hear that Dwight?
It’s not me all the time---sometimes it’s them
I am critical of myself for being too opinionated at times. I am not going to swallow the caw-caw I hear or read as accurate and the truth. These guys are not always wrong however on radio or television they give you the impression “I’m correct because I have inside information.” A great deal of time the latter sentence is basically untrue. Often the “inside” information is not first hand. An example might be the media member talks to “the maintenance person who overheard the trainer discussing the issue(s) with one of the coaches or front office person.” I hope you understand the direction of this description.
“Bueller?...Bueller?.…Bueller?”
The headline is from the 1986 movie classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off." If you haven’t seen the movie or don’t remember the scene allow a brief explanation. The economics teacher was calling the class roll; Ferris was absent that day having skipped school. “Baylor?....West Virginia?....Oklahoma?" These Big 12 schools along with Texas allowed Kansas to escape once again. In a manner similar to Bueller they are absent too they skipped competing in the Big 12.
Am I being too tough on the conference I don’t think so. The Jayhawks will win or share their 12 straight Big 12 title. Back in the day UCLA dominated the Pac 8 conference but that was a different era. In more recent times Duke and North Carolina have been very successful however neither has dominated the ACC in a manner similar to Kansas. Am I critical of Kansas basketball success that is not the case? My derogatory remarks are aimed at the other conference schools that every year “talk the talk but fail to walk the walk.”
Bits n Pieces
I’m Ol Skool regarding a number of issues, although I often don’t like change I’m okay with ads on jerseys. The NBA is considering placement of ads on team jerseys. For years Nike, Adidas and others have placed their logos on basketball tops. If you witnessed the All-Star Game recently you should have noticed players had Kia logos on the top right side of their jerseys.
We are no longer surprised the up and down seasons of the Top 25 college teams. Steve Lappas former coach addresses this issue in an interview. He says; “The freshman class this year has not been that outstanding in addition the upper classman are not really good. If they were that good they would have been in the NBA by now.” Is Lappas correct in his assessment?
The Laker page contained a photo of Pau Gasol guarding Kobe Bryant in the All-Star Game. I cannot and will not speak for Kobe’s relationship with all teammates over his career. What I do know unlike Dwight Howard the relationship between Big Man Gasol and Kobe resulted in three straight trips to the NBA Championships and two consecutive championships. Hear that Dwight?
It’s not me all the time---sometimes it’s them
I am critical of myself for being too opinionated at times. I am not going to swallow the caw-caw I hear or read as accurate and the truth. These guys are not always wrong however on radio or television they give you the impression “I’m correct because I have inside information.” A great deal of time the latter sentence is basically untrue. Often the “inside” information is not first hand. An example might be the media member talks to “the maintenance person who overheard the trainer discussing the issue(s) with one of the coaches or front office person.” I hope you understand the direction of this description.
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The Philadelphia Experiment
In 1984 Hollywood released a movie titled “The Philadelphia Experiment.” The science-fiction motion picture told the story of a 1943 experiment. In 2016 the real Philadelphia Experiment continues to play however it’s not at the local movie multiplex. It’s being played in the Worlds Fargo Center and 29 other arenas throughout the NBA, it’s no sci-fi narrative however it might be just as scary as the motion picture. This experiment involves the 76ers becoming a competitive team again, they continue to stockpile draft picks with no improvement in sight.
This June the 76ers have two picks in the first round and two in the second round of the draft. How did we arrive here, lets journey briefly into the past, in 2014 they drafted five players and last season it was three. The 76ers could trade one or two of its upcoming picks but suppose they decide to maintain their picks. They will have added 12 draft picks to their roster since 2014 none arriving via a trade. I could be mistaken but it appears the 76ers front office is as disorganized as that of the Lakers.
Are they serious?
This is no joke I hope, it’s reported the Clippers are holding a contest the top prize being a Lexus automobile. The vehicle is equipped with a Doc Rivers voice generated GPS. There are so many directions to go with this story just allow your imagination to roam freely.
He did it again
Although healthy the Heat’s Hassan Whiteside remains glued to the bench. He emerged from the bench once again to aid in a win this time it was the Pacers. Whiteside scored 19 points grabbed 18 rebounds along with 6 block shots in 41 minutes of an overtime 101-93 victory. Do we dare say Whiteside gets the message about his maturity issues?
Kansas basketball
My system crashed and I’m unsure if I ever printed this, if you’ve read it sorry. Kansas basketball is held in high esteem across the country and internationally. Did you realize few if any players arrive at Lawrence from Kansas high schools? If you check the present roster only four athletes hail from the state. Of the four only senior Perry Ellis receives time on the court, the others are reserves. There is a reason there is so little recruiting within the State of Kansas it‘s population. Colorado on the western side of the state has a 2014 population of 5 million folks; Missouri on the eastern border has 6 million.
Despite the large urban areas of Wyandotte & Johnson Counties and Wichita the state’s population is only million people. Looking outward (recruiting) instead of inward may cause the Kansas program to overlook a Buddy Hield at Oklahoma or casually recruit Semi Ojeleye Duke/SMU or Willie-Cauley Stein Kentucky and the NBA Kings. Don’t get upset with me Kansas fans I’m not critical just pointing out facts. As successful as this program has been over the years you should be proud. Bill Self and his assistants have done a pretty good job of attracting recruits to the Lawrence Kansas campus.
The Philadelphia Experiment
In 1984 Hollywood released a movie titled “The Philadelphia Experiment.” The science-fiction motion picture told the story of a 1943 experiment. In 2016 the real Philadelphia Experiment continues to play however it’s not at the local movie multiplex. It’s being played in the Worlds Fargo Center and 29 other arenas throughout the NBA, it’s no sci-fi narrative however it might be just as scary as the motion picture. This experiment involves the 76ers becoming a competitive team again, they continue to stockpile draft picks with no improvement in sight.
This June the 76ers have two picks in the first round and two in the second round of the draft. How did we arrive here, lets journey briefly into the past, in 2014 they drafted five players and last season it was three. The 76ers could trade one or two of its upcoming picks but suppose they decide to maintain their picks. They will have added 12 draft picks to their roster since 2014 none arriving via a trade. I could be mistaken but it appears the 76ers front office is as disorganized as that of the Lakers.
Are they serious?
This is no joke I hope, it’s reported the Clippers are holding a contest the top prize being a Lexus automobile. The vehicle is equipped with a Doc Rivers voice generated GPS. There are so many directions to go with this story just allow your imagination to roam freely.
He did it again
Although healthy the Heat’s Hassan Whiteside remains glued to the bench. He emerged from the bench once again to aid in a win this time it was the Pacers. Whiteside scored 19 points grabbed 18 rebounds along with 6 block shots in 41 minutes of an overtime 101-93 victory. Do we dare say Whiteside gets the message about his maturity issues?
Kansas basketball
My system crashed and I’m unsure if I ever printed this, if you’ve read it sorry. Kansas basketball is held in high esteem across the country and internationally. Did you realize few if any players arrive at Lawrence from Kansas high schools? If you check the present roster only four athletes hail from the state. Of the four only senior Perry Ellis receives time on the court, the others are reserves. There is a reason there is so little recruiting within the State of Kansas it‘s population. Colorado on the western side of the state has a 2014 population of 5 million folks; Missouri on the eastern border has 6 million.
Despite the large urban areas of Wyandotte & Johnson Counties and Wichita the state’s population is only million people. Looking outward (recruiting) instead of inward may cause the Kansas program to overlook a Buddy Hield at Oklahoma or casually recruit Semi Ojeleye Duke/SMU or Willie-Cauley Stein Kentucky and the NBA Kings. Don’t get upset with me Kansas fans I’m not critical just pointing out facts. As successful as this program has been over the years you should be proud. Bill Self and his assistants have done a pretty good job of attracting recruits to the Lawrence Kansas campus.
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I didn’t forget
Don’t ignore Damian Lillard; he arrived from Weber State with an attitude. One that shouted; “Don’t ignore me just because I played at a small school.” Lillard would go on to become NBA Rookie of the Year in 2013. Fast forward to this season and Lillard was overlooked once again this time for the All-Star game. Friday evening against the NBA Champion Warriors the point guard torched Steph Curry and the Warriors. Lillard scored 51 points had 7 assists and 6 steals in leading his Blazer team to a 137-105 win.
Remember when
Do you remember three years ago a time we believed Anthony Davis “couldn’t” shoot? In truth he could always shoot at Kentucky there wasn’t a requirement for him to score the school had plenty of scorers. It seems every year he adds to his shooting inventory even adding a three point shot. On Sunday the 6-10 Davis had a career game against the Pistons, 59 points and 20 rebounds as he shot 71% from the floor.
The Pelicans expected to compete have not had as good as season as expected. A report indicated the Pelicans were looking at a Davis trade to the Celtics. Coach Alvin Gentry said no way are trading Davis, “We wouldn’t trade him for Tom Brady.” Few have accomplished a 50 point 20 rebound game in NBA history. Chris Webber and Shaquille O’Neal accomplished the feat and Wilt Chamberlain averaged 50 points and 20 rebounds for the 1961-62 season.
A second chance
Over the years we’ve heard reports of coaches in all sports being fired for a variety of reasons. There are probably few occasions why a coach might not be offered a second chance. As you are aware the Knicks are operating with an interim coach Kurt Rambis in place while conducting a search for a replacement. One of the names mentioned in connection with the job is Scott Brooks; he served as head coach of the Thunder from November of 2008 through April 2015. Brooks was fired when the team missed the playoffs for the first time in six years.
This is not Scott Brooks rather Kevin Durant, several media reports have hinted “Hiring Durant’s former coach might be a lure for the free-agent to head to Gotham.” I remember back in the day players wanting to sign with the Bulls and Lakers because of the opportunity to play for Phil Jackson. After P.J. Carlesimo was fired in time Brooks managed to turn the fortunate’s of the Thunder around and they became competitive. If Brooks is hired strictly for his ability to coach fine, it it’s with the intent to lure Durant well that’s a different matter in my mind.
“The light at the end of the Tunnel”
My loyalty to a sports program sometimes causes me a problem. I’ve made statements which on second thought say look at this again. That’s the case with Mizzou basketball and Coach Kim Anderson. The team contained only one senior two junior college transfers and the balance comprised of underclassmen. I believe my expectations may have been set too high. This mixture of new, holdovers and transfers would take time to mold into a team.
The 2016-17 will be Anderson’s third and the team will contain only two Haith recruits. In addition the freshman will become sophomores and the second year players will enter their junior year and finally there will be three seniors. “The light at the end of the Tunnel” is not another vehicle headed toward Mizzou its the program emerging from the darkness.of losing seasons.
I didn’t forget
Don’t ignore Damian Lillard; he arrived from Weber State with an attitude. One that shouted; “Don’t ignore me just because I played at a small school.” Lillard would go on to become NBA Rookie of the Year in 2013. Fast forward to this season and Lillard was overlooked once again this time for the All-Star game. Friday evening against the NBA Champion Warriors the point guard torched Steph Curry and the Warriors. Lillard scored 51 points had 7 assists and 6 steals in leading his Blazer team to a 137-105 win.
Remember when
Do you remember three years ago a time we believed Anthony Davis “couldn’t” shoot? In truth he could always shoot at Kentucky there wasn’t a requirement for him to score the school had plenty of scorers. It seems every year he adds to his shooting inventory even adding a three point shot. On Sunday the 6-10 Davis had a career game against the Pistons, 59 points and 20 rebounds as he shot 71% from the floor.
The Pelicans expected to compete have not had as good as season as expected. A report indicated the Pelicans were looking at a Davis trade to the Celtics. Coach Alvin Gentry said no way are trading Davis, “We wouldn’t trade him for Tom Brady.” Few have accomplished a 50 point 20 rebound game in NBA history. Chris Webber and Shaquille O’Neal accomplished the feat and Wilt Chamberlain averaged 50 points and 20 rebounds for the 1961-62 season.
A second chance
Over the years we’ve heard reports of coaches in all sports being fired for a variety of reasons. There are probably few occasions why a coach might not be offered a second chance. As you are aware the Knicks are operating with an interim coach Kurt Rambis in place while conducting a search for a replacement. One of the names mentioned in connection with the job is Scott Brooks; he served as head coach of the Thunder from November of 2008 through April 2015. Brooks was fired when the team missed the playoffs for the first time in six years.
This is not Scott Brooks rather Kevin Durant, several media reports have hinted “Hiring Durant’s former coach might be a lure for the free-agent to head to Gotham.” I remember back in the day players wanting to sign with the Bulls and Lakers because of the opportunity to play for Phil Jackson. After P.J. Carlesimo was fired in time Brooks managed to turn the fortunate’s of the Thunder around and they became competitive. If Brooks is hired strictly for his ability to coach fine, it it’s with the intent to lure Durant well that’s a different matter in my mind.
“The light at the end of the Tunnel”
My loyalty to a sports program sometimes causes me a problem. I’ve made statements which on second thought say look at this again. That’s the case with Mizzou basketball and Coach Kim Anderson. The team contained only one senior two junior college transfers and the balance comprised of underclassmen. I believe my expectations may have been set too high. This mixture of new, holdovers and transfers would take time to mold into a team.
The 2016-17 will be Anderson’s third and the team will contain only two Haith recruits. In addition the freshman will become sophomores and the second year players will enter their junior year and finally there will be three seniors. “The light at the end of the Tunnel” is not another vehicle headed toward Mizzou its the program emerging from the darkness.of losing seasons.
Monday, February 22, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Coaching
I’m unsure but I would guess the most challenging portion of coaching is relating to a player. As an example how does 54-year old Laker Coach Byron Scott relate to 19-year old D’Angelo Russell? There is 67-year old Gregg Popovich Spurs coach and 22-year old Kyle Anderson better yet how about 24-year old Nic Moore and 75-year old Larry Brown coach at SMU. At the NBA level it’s a players league however the athlete must adhere to his coach otherwise you have chaos. For a further review of this issue see George Karl and Boogie Cousins with the Kings.
Despite some of the strange rituals he conducted Phil Jackson always seemed to obtain the maximum effort of his players. Despite the quirky rituals he mandated his players undergo I’ve never read or heard one negative complaint regarding Phil Jackson’s coaching. Reports were circulating 65-year old Roy Williams was considering retirement which he quickly squashed. Roy can effectively communicate with the 18-year olds too. Bottom line to coach successfully its more than X’s and O’s, its communicate, communicate and communicate.
What do I do?
One of the broadcast networks places artificial events in front of the everyday public. The idea is to discover how they react to a critical issue and tap it for our viewing. With that scenario in mind we are Sam Henke general manager of the 76ers. Our medical team has informed us center Joel Embiid will be healthy and ready to play next season, in addition we have Nerlens Noel on our roster. Technically Noel is a power forward however he played the center position at times due to the absence of Embiid. Noel’s numbers this season (11.0 and 8.2) provide proof he can play at this level.
We drafted Jahlil Okafor last June and he’s presently installed at the center position for Coach Brett Brown. Scoring at a 17.1 ppg clip and pulling down 7 rebounds the former Duke standout has proven he too can play at a high skill level in the NBA. Next season we‘ll have three centers what do I do (in Henke’s voice) to resolve the issue? I believe Embiid has ability Noel and Okafor have already demonstrated they can play at the NBA level. I should trade one of them however I‘m unsure who to trade. Embiid based on a promise or Okafor whose demonstrated potential.
Message received--they hope
Hassan Whiteside has proven he’s talented the problem has been his maturity. He’s a valuable commodity for the Heat and they need him in the lineup all the time less injuries. Missing in action because of good judgment is a different matter. Whiteside returned Saturday evening from an NBA mandated 1-game suspension for throwing an elbow. To reinforce the maturity issue the Heat didn’t start him against the Wizards despite no Dwayne Wade. No matter there was no Wade as Whiteside came off the bench to score 25 points and snatched 23 rebounds in 29 minutes. The bad despite a league leading 3.89 blocked shots he only managed two against the Wizards.
Kentucky Pros
Much has been made about John Calipari and his pipeline to the NBA. That statement is partially true there are 21 Kentucky Wildcats at present. I didn’t check but it’s likely all did not play for Calipari. Going back to the days of Adolph Rupp (1930-1972) and those who followed him the school has sent a number of players into the NBA/ABA. Joe B. Hall, Eddie Sutton, Rick Pitino and Tubby Smith all contributed to the number, Billy Gillespie in his brief tenure (2007-2009) had success on the court but not with the administration. There are 80 former Wildcats who played/or playing in the NBA/ABA. How about some of the other basketball powers:
UCLA - 88
North Carolina - 83
Kansas - 67
Duke - 66
Basketball reference. COM
Coaching
I’m unsure but I would guess the most challenging portion of coaching is relating to a player. As an example how does 54-year old Laker Coach Byron Scott relate to 19-year old D’Angelo Russell? There is 67-year old Gregg Popovich Spurs coach and 22-year old Kyle Anderson better yet how about 24-year old Nic Moore and 75-year old Larry Brown coach at SMU. At the NBA level it’s a players league however the athlete must adhere to his coach otherwise you have chaos. For a further review of this issue see George Karl and Boogie Cousins with the Kings.
Despite some of the strange rituals he conducted Phil Jackson always seemed to obtain the maximum effort of his players. Despite the quirky rituals he mandated his players undergo I’ve never read or heard one negative complaint regarding Phil Jackson’s coaching. Reports were circulating 65-year old Roy Williams was considering retirement which he quickly squashed. Roy can effectively communicate with the 18-year olds too. Bottom line to coach successfully its more than X’s and O’s, its communicate, communicate and communicate.
What do I do?
One of the broadcast networks places artificial events in front of the everyday public. The idea is to discover how they react to a critical issue and tap it for our viewing. With that scenario in mind we are Sam Henke general manager of the 76ers. Our medical team has informed us center Joel Embiid will be healthy and ready to play next season, in addition we have Nerlens Noel on our roster. Technically Noel is a power forward however he played the center position at times due to the absence of Embiid. Noel’s numbers this season (11.0 and 8.2) provide proof he can play at this level.
We drafted Jahlil Okafor last June and he’s presently installed at the center position for Coach Brett Brown. Scoring at a 17.1 ppg clip and pulling down 7 rebounds the former Duke standout has proven he too can play at a high skill level in the NBA. Next season we‘ll have three centers what do I do (in Henke’s voice) to resolve the issue? I believe Embiid has ability Noel and Okafor have already demonstrated they can play at the NBA level. I should trade one of them however I‘m unsure who to trade. Embiid based on a promise or Okafor whose demonstrated potential.
Message received--they hope
Hassan Whiteside has proven he’s talented the problem has been his maturity. He’s a valuable commodity for the Heat and they need him in the lineup all the time less injuries. Missing in action because of good judgment is a different matter. Whiteside returned Saturday evening from an NBA mandated 1-game suspension for throwing an elbow. To reinforce the maturity issue the Heat didn’t start him against the Wizards despite no Dwayne Wade. No matter there was no Wade as Whiteside came off the bench to score 25 points and snatched 23 rebounds in 29 minutes. The bad despite a league leading 3.89 blocked shots he only managed two against the Wizards.
Kentucky Pros
Much has been made about John Calipari and his pipeline to the NBA. That statement is partially true there are 21 Kentucky Wildcats at present. I didn’t check but it’s likely all did not play for Calipari. Going back to the days of Adolph Rupp (1930-1972) and those who followed him the school has sent a number of players into the NBA/ABA. Joe B. Hall, Eddie Sutton, Rick Pitino and Tubby Smith all contributed to the number, Billy Gillespie in his brief tenure (2007-2009) had success on the court but not with the administration. There are 80 former Wildcats who played/or playing in the NBA/ABA. How about some of the other basketball powers:
UCLA - 88
North Carolina - 83
Kansas - 67
Duke - 66
Basketball reference. COM
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Maybe??
I ain’t hatin’ but it appears, I should have placed appears in parenthesis. The Warriors are going to finish the season with an excellent won-loss record. They will not set a new NBA won-loss standard. See me on April 13, 2016 to either laugh at my prediction or declare where you heard it first.
The Big 12
You can be good without being great, that’s the case for the Big 12 Conference members. I forget the number either 11 or 12 straight conference crowns for Kansas; I said early on somebody needs to step up to prove this is not a one-conference league. Well several teams did until somewhere around middle to late January, at that point there was a log jam at the top. Three teams were tied for first and another two within striking distance in second place. Then the usual occurred, conference members begin to beat up one another all while Kansas was flexing its muscles.
Kansas won a crucial road game at Oklahoma after barely beating the Sooners earlier at home in triple overtime. This is written prior to the afternoon Kansas State-Kansas game, the Jayhawks sit atop the conference and it’s highly unlikely they will lose this game. Barring a total collapse or key injury it looks as though Kansas will win the conference once again for the 200th time in a row. Okay I exaggerate they haven’t won it that many times but I hope you get my point.
Dr. Dunkenstein
The CBS Sports Network ran a commercial and they mentioned all the Doctors. One of the names mentioned was Dr. Dunkenstein, depending on your age the name might be unknown to many of you. Darrell Griffith aka Dr. Dunkenstein was a 6-4 shooting guard, he acquired the nickname while playing at Louisville. Griffith would become the 2nd pick in the first round of the 1980 draft by the Utah Jazz; he was NBA Rookie of the year in 1981.
Griffith is one of those rare players who managed to play his entire 11 year career in one place as a member of the Jazz. He arrived in the NBA with furious dunking ability but he became quite adept at shooting from the 3-point line. In 2014 Griffith was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in Kansas City, currently he serves as an assistant to the President of the University of Louisville.
It begins now
The new era has begun with the hiring of Sean Marks as general manager. The Nets have certainly gone backwards in recent years and it’s hoped the former GM of the Spurs right the sinking ship. Which team is the King of New York is not really a question. The Knicks and Nets are both below .500 and the Nets are on life-support. Billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov may have believed “If I toss money at the objective we win.” I exaggerate a bit more factors contributed to the poor play. At the top may have been acquiring Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Jason Terry and matching them with Deron Williams which just didn’t work. How do we fix the problem we fire the coach, 2010 was only 5 ½ years ago. Count them Avery Johnson, P.J. Carlesimo, Jason Kidd, Lionel Hollins and now Tony Brown.
Bits n Pieces
“Don’t be surprised when you’re surprised”. That was the headline for an SI discussion of this year’s college basketball season. I didn’t read the story just the headline and thought that’s certainly holds true for the 2015-16 college basketball season.
I believe I now understand the 2016 draft as it relates to the Lakers. They must finish in the top three of the lottery. If they finish fourth or higher the pick belongs to the 76ers from a prior trade. With this explanation and a top three finish who do the Lakers chose? This is easy, if they are able to gain the number one pick its Ben Simmons from LSU. If the Lakers have the second pick I’m conflicted between Duke small forward Brandon Ingram or 7 foot Dragan Bender of Macabbi Tel Aviv.
Don’t tell me players can’t change portions of their game. The legendary Wilt Chamberlain was a scoring machine in the early days of his NBA career, can you imagine averaging 50.4 points in ‘61-‘62 and 44.8 points per game in ‘62-‘63? His scoring dipped the last two seasons in Philadelphia but his assist totals skyrocketed. He averaged 7.8 assists per game in the ‘66-‘67 season and 8.6 the following season which led the NBA.
I read Kareem Canty is leaving the Auburn basketball team. He says it’s done for personal reasons and he will submit his name for the 2016 NBA Draft. Canty leaves Auburn with a 18.3 ppg and 5.3 assists sufficient numbers for a 6-1 point guard. Hoping to make it in the NBA he better be prepared to work. My chief concern I don’t see his name listed on a single mock draft site. In addition his move came as the result of Coach Pearl suspending him.
Maybe??
I ain’t hatin’ but it appears, I should have placed appears in parenthesis. The Warriors are going to finish the season with an excellent won-loss record. They will not set a new NBA won-loss standard. See me on April 13, 2016 to either laugh at my prediction or declare where you heard it first.
The Big 12
You can be good without being great, that’s the case for the Big 12 Conference members. I forget the number either 11 or 12 straight conference crowns for Kansas; I said early on somebody needs to step up to prove this is not a one-conference league. Well several teams did until somewhere around middle to late January, at that point there was a log jam at the top. Three teams were tied for first and another two within striking distance in second place. Then the usual occurred, conference members begin to beat up one another all while Kansas was flexing its muscles.
Kansas won a crucial road game at Oklahoma after barely beating the Sooners earlier at home in triple overtime. This is written prior to the afternoon Kansas State-Kansas game, the Jayhawks sit atop the conference and it’s highly unlikely they will lose this game. Barring a total collapse or key injury it looks as though Kansas will win the conference once again for the 200th time in a row. Okay I exaggerate they haven’t won it that many times but I hope you get my point.
Dr. Dunkenstein
The CBS Sports Network ran a commercial and they mentioned all the Doctors. One of the names mentioned was Dr. Dunkenstein, depending on your age the name might be unknown to many of you. Darrell Griffith aka Dr. Dunkenstein was a 6-4 shooting guard, he acquired the nickname while playing at Louisville. Griffith would become the 2nd pick in the first round of the 1980 draft by the Utah Jazz; he was NBA Rookie of the year in 1981.
Griffith is one of those rare players who managed to play his entire 11 year career in one place as a member of the Jazz. He arrived in the NBA with furious dunking ability but he became quite adept at shooting from the 3-point line. In 2014 Griffith was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in Kansas City, currently he serves as an assistant to the President of the University of Louisville.
It begins now
The new era has begun with the hiring of Sean Marks as general manager. The Nets have certainly gone backwards in recent years and it’s hoped the former GM of the Spurs right the sinking ship. Which team is the King of New York is not really a question. The Knicks and Nets are both below .500 and the Nets are on life-support. Billionaire Mikhail Prokhorov may have believed “If I toss money at the objective we win.” I exaggerate a bit more factors contributed to the poor play. At the top may have been acquiring Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Jason Terry and matching them with Deron Williams which just didn’t work. How do we fix the problem we fire the coach, 2010 was only 5 ½ years ago. Count them Avery Johnson, P.J. Carlesimo, Jason Kidd, Lionel Hollins and now Tony Brown.
Bits n Pieces
“Don’t be surprised when you’re surprised”. That was the headline for an SI discussion of this year’s college basketball season. I didn’t read the story just the headline and thought that’s certainly holds true for the 2015-16 college basketball season.
I believe I now understand the 2016 draft as it relates to the Lakers. They must finish in the top three of the lottery. If they finish fourth or higher the pick belongs to the 76ers from a prior trade. With this explanation and a top three finish who do the Lakers chose? This is easy, if they are able to gain the number one pick its Ben Simmons from LSU. If the Lakers have the second pick I’m conflicted between Duke small forward Brandon Ingram or 7 foot Dragan Bender of Macabbi Tel Aviv.
Don’t tell me players can’t change portions of their game. The legendary Wilt Chamberlain was a scoring machine in the early days of his NBA career, can you imagine averaging 50.4 points in ‘61-‘62 and 44.8 points per game in ‘62-‘63? His scoring dipped the last two seasons in Philadelphia but his assist totals skyrocketed. He averaged 7.8 assists per game in the ‘66-‘67 season and 8.6 the following season which led the NBA.
I read Kareem Canty is leaving the Auburn basketball team. He says it’s done for personal reasons and he will submit his name for the 2016 NBA Draft. Canty leaves Auburn with a 18.3 ppg and 5.3 assists sufficient numbers for a 6-1 point guard. Hoping to make it in the NBA he better be prepared to work. My chief concern I don’t see his name listed on a single mock draft site. In addition his move came as the result of Coach Pearl suspending him.
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I missed this one
At some point this season I indicated Jimmer Fredette’s NBA career was likely over. He was headed to the Winchester (NY) Knicks of the D-League; this was after trials with the Kings, Bulls and Pelicans. Guess what unlike Jason Whitlock, Stephen A. Smith and others I will admit when I’m wrong. The Knicks (the team that plays in Madison Square Garden) announced they will sign him to a 10-day contract. Point of clarification I never believed he couldn’t play I was unsure at the NBA level. Secondly a 6’2” shooting guard in college converting to the point in the NBA is extremely difficult.
Ivy League basketball
As this is written Harvard is not experiencing a good season. Despite their current record the Crimson might be responsible for the increased competition and popularity of Ivy League basketball. Coach Tommy Amaker’s crew has won 20+ games for each of the last three seasons in addition they made the NCAA Tourney in each of those years. This year Yale is leading the conference and without a post-season tournament it’s likely the Bulldogs will be the conference representative in the NCAA tournament. If Yale continues to win it will be their first NCAA appearance since 1962, a 54 year drought.
Besides college basketball how else did we entertain ourselves in 1962? We watched the number one television program that year The Beverly Hillbillies; we drove to the movie theater to see Peter O’Toole in the top movie that year Lawrence of Arabia. This next bit of entertainment information will cause you to scratch your head and say; who’s that? The top selling recording that year was titled “Stranger on the Shore” by Mr. Acker Bilk. As for Yale hopefully this is the beginning of a trend and the school will return to another stellar season next season and not endure another 54 year wait.
Are you sure you want this job?
Since November 2015 four NBA coaches have been fired, its likely George Karl will become number five at some point. There may be more firings although I’m certainly not advocating termination of anyone. On the surface it would appear there is far less security as an NBA coach than any other professional sports. Last month ESPN reported; “Since Gregg Popovich was hired in ‘96-‘97 there have been 221 coaching changes in the NBA.”
A significant number of former coaches are probably in the category of Derek Fisher and Tom Thibodeau; they receive a salary while sitting on the sidelines. Depends on the contract but it’s likely the Bulls and ESPN are paying Thibodeau. Consider this additional bit of information it’s reported Fisher signed a 5-year contract and is in the second year. He’s got three more years at $25 million a year, that’s nice if your job pays that type of salary.
Is he a man of his word?
Laker part-owner Jim Buss said; “If I cannot turn this team around in two years I will relinquish my position as owner.” So said Buss in a similar worded sentence, the Lakers are not going to make the playoffs so their season ends in April. The win totals over the last several years have certainly not been reflective of past Laker basketball. The win total has slipped continuously the last three years, 27-55, 21-61 and it’s likely the win total might not approach last year.
This is an indictment of Jim Buss and his effort to re-build the Lakers team into a winner. All the blame for poor play cannot be placed at the feet of Jim Buss there is plenty to go around. I’m giving general manager Mitch Kupchak a pass for now, I believe (I could be wrong) he does not have a free-hand regarding free agency and the draft. I believed the Byron Scott hire was good at the time now I’m not so sure. Scott’s coaching might work best with a veteran team; he might not be the teacher/coach these young Lakers require.
I missed this one
At some point this season I indicated Jimmer Fredette’s NBA career was likely over. He was headed to the Winchester (NY) Knicks of the D-League; this was after trials with the Kings, Bulls and Pelicans. Guess what unlike Jason Whitlock, Stephen A. Smith and others I will admit when I’m wrong. The Knicks (the team that plays in Madison Square Garden) announced they will sign him to a 10-day contract. Point of clarification I never believed he couldn’t play I was unsure at the NBA level. Secondly a 6’2” shooting guard in college converting to the point in the NBA is extremely difficult.
Ivy League basketball
As this is written Harvard is not experiencing a good season. Despite their current record the Crimson might be responsible for the increased competition and popularity of Ivy League basketball. Coach Tommy Amaker’s crew has won 20+ games for each of the last three seasons in addition they made the NCAA Tourney in each of those years. This year Yale is leading the conference and without a post-season tournament it’s likely the Bulldogs will be the conference representative in the NCAA tournament. If Yale continues to win it will be their first NCAA appearance since 1962, a 54 year drought.
Besides college basketball how else did we entertain ourselves in 1962? We watched the number one television program that year The Beverly Hillbillies; we drove to the movie theater to see Peter O’Toole in the top movie that year Lawrence of Arabia. This next bit of entertainment information will cause you to scratch your head and say; who’s that? The top selling recording that year was titled “Stranger on the Shore” by Mr. Acker Bilk. As for Yale hopefully this is the beginning of a trend and the school will return to another stellar season next season and not endure another 54 year wait.
Are you sure you want this job?
Since November 2015 four NBA coaches have been fired, its likely George Karl will become number five at some point. There may be more firings although I’m certainly not advocating termination of anyone. On the surface it would appear there is far less security as an NBA coach than any other professional sports. Last month ESPN reported; “Since Gregg Popovich was hired in ‘96-‘97 there have been 221 coaching changes in the NBA.”
A significant number of former coaches are probably in the category of Derek Fisher and Tom Thibodeau; they receive a salary while sitting on the sidelines. Depends on the contract but it’s likely the Bulls and ESPN are paying Thibodeau. Consider this additional bit of information it’s reported Fisher signed a 5-year contract and is in the second year. He’s got three more years at $25 million a year, that’s nice if your job pays that type of salary.
Is he a man of his word?
Laker part-owner Jim Buss said; “If I cannot turn this team around in two years I will relinquish my position as owner.” So said Buss in a similar worded sentence, the Lakers are not going to make the playoffs so their season ends in April. The win totals over the last several years have certainly not been reflective of past Laker basketball. The win total has slipped continuously the last three years, 27-55, 21-61 and it’s likely the win total might not approach last year.
This is an indictment of Jim Buss and his effort to re-build the Lakers team into a winner. All the blame for poor play cannot be placed at the feet of Jim Buss there is plenty to go around. I’m giving general manager Mitch Kupchak a pass for now, I believe (I could be wrong) he does not have a free-hand regarding free agency and the draft. I believed the Byron Scott hire was good at the time now I’m not so sure. Scott’s coaching might work best with a veteran team; he might not be the teacher/coach these young Lakers require.
Friday, February 19, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Handwriting is on the wall
A week or so ago I wrote George Karl was “A dead man walking” at Sacramento, rumors circulated for days Karl was soon to be fired. A strange development occurred later when it was announced the coach would remain in place. This week a Kings assistant coach was fired the move occurring without Karl’s knowledge. He would question the move through the media, NBA fans what does that tell us? I don't believe it is too difficult to figure out the next move by Kings management.
I heard it with my own ears
Sports talk radio and television has been extensive with reports of a Dwight Howard trade. It is likely he’s not traded before the Thursday deadline however he’s probably history anyway. He will be a play option free agent this summer and will leave the Rockets. Howard cannot seem to find the right fit no matter where he lands. It’s funny I have a friend who lives in Houston and we exchanged emails a few weeks back. After I made critical remarks about Howard he claimed; “He was damaged goods when he arrived from the Lakers.”
I stated clearly “His statement was untrue and besides the fact he’s (Howard) had 3 ½ years as a Rocket.” Jeff Van Gundy former coach and color commentator took it one-step further. Interviewed on a radio program about Howard I almost fell out of my chair with his declaration; “Howard would be in the Hall of Fame when his career is over.” Now keep in mind I am the person who said Dennis Rodman would never be elected to the HOF. I’m making the same statement about Howard however you know in advance my track record on this sorta stuff.
The cold weather
How does a kid from the Bahamas wind up at Oklahoma considering its winter weather? I’ve read winter in the Bahamas might reach a low of 70 degrees. Oklahoma is certainly not artic cold but the temperature can drop to the upper 20’s. I remembered Klay Thompson’s dad was also from the Bahamas, Nassau to be exact. Mychal Thompson migrated to Miami and from there to cold, cold Minnesota winters at the University of Minnesota. This narrative isn’t about the Thompson’s rather it’s about Buddy Hield Oklahoma sharpshooter. Hield is from Freeport in the Bahamas but found his way to the plains of Kansas attending Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita.
Wichita State recruited Hield so did Colorado, it’s interesting in the heart of the state Kansas didn’t make much of an effort to recruit him. Although there were a number of other schools on his radar Hield decided to head south in favor of Oklahoma about a three hour drive. The rest of Hield’s story is documented as his game improved each year at Oklahoma. His scoring improved from 7.8 ppg his freshman year to the present 25.6 (.510 field) as a senior. Last season he was Big 12 player of the year and has a good chance to repeat this award in 2016.
Social media
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest this story is no more than a 4 in fact it might even be a 3. Mizzou announced reserve guard Wes Clark had been dismissed from the team for academic reasons. Clark has taken to social media to contradict the earlier report, he states; “I quit the team.” Clark was recruited by Frank Haith so it’s possible there may have been issues with Kim Anderson. On the other hand what purpose does it serve for the school to announce “academic reasons” were the basis for Clark leaving? The point once again social media impacted an account.
Handwriting is on the wall
A week or so ago I wrote George Karl was “A dead man walking” at Sacramento, rumors circulated for days Karl was soon to be fired. A strange development occurred later when it was announced the coach would remain in place. This week a Kings assistant coach was fired the move occurring without Karl’s knowledge. He would question the move through the media, NBA fans what does that tell us? I don't believe it is too difficult to figure out the next move by Kings management.
I heard it with my own ears
Sports talk radio and television has been extensive with reports of a Dwight Howard trade. It is likely he’s not traded before the Thursday deadline however he’s probably history anyway. He will be a play option free agent this summer and will leave the Rockets. Howard cannot seem to find the right fit no matter where he lands. It’s funny I have a friend who lives in Houston and we exchanged emails a few weeks back. After I made critical remarks about Howard he claimed; “He was damaged goods when he arrived from the Lakers.”
I stated clearly “His statement was untrue and besides the fact he’s (Howard) had 3 ½ years as a Rocket.” Jeff Van Gundy former coach and color commentator took it one-step further. Interviewed on a radio program about Howard I almost fell out of my chair with his declaration; “Howard would be in the Hall of Fame when his career is over.” Now keep in mind I am the person who said Dennis Rodman would never be elected to the HOF. I’m making the same statement about Howard however you know in advance my track record on this sorta stuff.
The cold weather
How does a kid from the Bahamas wind up at Oklahoma considering its winter weather? I’ve read winter in the Bahamas might reach a low of 70 degrees. Oklahoma is certainly not artic cold but the temperature can drop to the upper 20’s. I remembered Klay Thompson’s dad was also from the Bahamas, Nassau to be exact. Mychal Thompson migrated to Miami and from there to cold, cold Minnesota winters at the University of Minnesota. This narrative isn’t about the Thompson’s rather it’s about Buddy Hield Oklahoma sharpshooter. Hield is from Freeport in the Bahamas but found his way to the plains of Kansas attending Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita.
Wichita State recruited Hield so did Colorado, it’s interesting in the heart of the state Kansas didn’t make much of an effort to recruit him. Although there were a number of other schools on his radar Hield decided to head south in favor of Oklahoma about a three hour drive. The rest of Hield’s story is documented as his game improved each year at Oklahoma. His scoring improved from 7.8 ppg his freshman year to the present 25.6 (.510 field) as a senior. Last season he was Big 12 player of the year and has a good chance to repeat this award in 2016.
Social media
On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest this story is no more than a 4 in fact it might even be a 3. Mizzou announced reserve guard Wes Clark had been dismissed from the team for academic reasons. Clark has taken to social media to contradict the earlier report, he states; “I quit the team.” Clark was recruited by Frank Haith so it’s possible there may have been issues with Kim Anderson. On the other hand what purpose does it serve for the school to announce “academic reasons” were the basis for Clark leaving? The point once again social media impacted an account.
Thursday, February 18, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The 2016 NCAA Champion is _________.
Notice the name of the winning team is blank and there is a clear reason. At no time in recent memory has the field been so wide open. The K’s could win; Kentucky and Kansas. At the same time it could be the M’s (Michigan, Michigan State or Maryland), North Carolina, Duke or the Oregon Ducks could be in consideration. How about some long shots; Dayton and Hawaii along with Cal-Irvine is also leaders in the won-loss field. UAB and Valparaiso have already won 20 games this year and this is written in early February. I’m sure no one expected North Carolina State would beat Houston in the 1983 championship game. Near the end of the game an air ball landed in the hands of a NC State player who laid the ball in the basket as the buzzer sounded.
Its likely two years later Las Vegas probably had all the money bet all the outcome of the game, Villanova would face mighty Georgetown. Keep in mind this was prior to the days of early entry Georgetown returned most of its 1984 championship team. In a tough well fought game Villanova won the game. In 1988 Kansas finished 9-5 in the conference and 27-11 overall one of the worst finishes in the schools recent history. The team would be nicknamed Danny and the Miracles as Danny Manning would lead them to the NCAA Championship. Can we consider Wisconsin’s victory over Kentucky last season an upset because they were not the eventual champions? We’ve had upsets in the past with very strong teams; this year the field is wide open.
Is the NBA in Canada’s future?
Canadian basketball has never shone brighter perhaps than over the last few years. The Raptors play on the court and at the box office has been outstanding. In addition we can look at the continuing influx of talent produced especially around the Toronto metro area. Andrew Wiggins last season Rookie of the Year plays for the Wolves however he’s from Toronto. There are other talented players who made the journey across the border to play for American colleges. If and when expansion occurs will the NBA look northward once again?
Vancouver British Columbia was home to the expansion Grizzlies prior to their move to Memphis. A number of factors contributed to the city losing its NBA team. The 2015 metro population of Vancouver is over 2 million souls and it’s likely an NBA team would not impact the NHL Canucks. We could include Montreal in the discussion with its even larger population. The city has football and NHL hockey too but it’s likely an NBA team would be able to draw fans. I have no proof of my statement but have always believed football fans are not hockey or basketball fans. The same for the other sports that’s why I believe pro sports don’t impact attendance for each other; the impact is whether a team is a winner.
The future of Basketball
The game we love might undergo a number of changes by 2046; just think about changes that have occurred since 1985. Let’s peer into the future to see if we can determine the look of basketball in 30 years time. The athletes’ health will be improved primarily due to legal supplements; they will return to action sooner from injury. Injuries once considered season ending no longer exist advances in surgery will allow the player to return to action in weeks not months. New sources developed for shoe wear allow players to become greater leapers at the same time provide greater support for the knees and ankles. The court itself might change drastically no longer composed of wood alone it would be constructed with composite materials with more “give” for the knees and ankles of players.
How about the equipment, anyone remember the basketball the NBA experimented with a few years ago? Instead of leather it was a micro fiber composite designed to absorb moisture better. There were problems and it was withdrawn but will return with the problem issues addressed. Talk has existed for years about raising the basket; the talk becomes reality as the greater leaping ability brings about a 12 foot basket. The arenas will change too, no longer are there “bad-seats” in an NBA arena, fans in the upper levels will have a better view than fans seated at court side. They will pay a few dollars more for a video screen attachment and will receive the local or network televised feed seated high in the arena. These are but a few of the changes we might see in 30 years time compare this with your list.
The 2016 NCAA Champion is _________.
Notice the name of the winning team is blank and there is a clear reason. At no time in recent memory has the field been so wide open. The K’s could win; Kentucky and Kansas. At the same time it could be the M’s (Michigan, Michigan State or Maryland), North Carolina, Duke or the Oregon Ducks could be in consideration. How about some long shots; Dayton and Hawaii along with Cal-Irvine is also leaders in the won-loss field. UAB and Valparaiso have already won 20 games this year and this is written in early February. I’m sure no one expected North Carolina State would beat Houston in the 1983 championship game. Near the end of the game an air ball landed in the hands of a NC State player who laid the ball in the basket as the buzzer sounded.
Its likely two years later Las Vegas probably had all the money bet all the outcome of the game, Villanova would face mighty Georgetown. Keep in mind this was prior to the days of early entry Georgetown returned most of its 1984 championship team. In a tough well fought game Villanova won the game. In 1988 Kansas finished 9-5 in the conference and 27-11 overall one of the worst finishes in the schools recent history. The team would be nicknamed Danny and the Miracles as Danny Manning would lead them to the NCAA Championship. Can we consider Wisconsin’s victory over Kentucky last season an upset because they were not the eventual champions? We’ve had upsets in the past with very strong teams; this year the field is wide open.
Is the NBA in Canada’s future?
Canadian basketball has never shone brighter perhaps than over the last few years. The Raptors play on the court and at the box office has been outstanding. In addition we can look at the continuing influx of talent produced especially around the Toronto metro area. Andrew Wiggins last season Rookie of the Year plays for the Wolves however he’s from Toronto. There are other talented players who made the journey across the border to play for American colleges. If and when expansion occurs will the NBA look northward once again?
Vancouver British Columbia was home to the expansion Grizzlies prior to their move to Memphis. A number of factors contributed to the city losing its NBA team. The 2015 metro population of Vancouver is over 2 million souls and it’s likely an NBA team would not impact the NHL Canucks. We could include Montreal in the discussion with its even larger population. The city has football and NHL hockey too but it’s likely an NBA team would be able to draw fans. I have no proof of my statement but have always believed football fans are not hockey or basketball fans. The same for the other sports that’s why I believe pro sports don’t impact attendance for each other; the impact is whether a team is a winner.
The future of Basketball
The game we love might undergo a number of changes by 2046; just think about changes that have occurred since 1985. Let’s peer into the future to see if we can determine the look of basketball in 30 years time. The athletes’ health will be improved primarily due to legal supplements; they will return to action sooner from injury. Injuries once considered season ending no longer exist advances in surgery will allow the player to return to action in weeks not months. New sources developed for shoe wear allow players to become greater leapers at the same time provide greater support for the knees and ankles. The court itself might change drastically no longer composed of wood alone it would be constructed with composite materials with more “give” for the knees and ankles of players.
How about the equipment, anyone remember the basketball the NBA experimented with a few years ago? Instead of leather it was a micro fiber composite designed to absorb moisture better. There were problems and it was withdrawn but will return with the problem issues addressed. Talk has existed for years about raising the basket; the talk becomes reality as the greater leaping ability brings about a 12 foot basket. The arenas will change too, no longer are there “bad-seats” in an NBA arena, fans in the upper levels will have a better view than fans seated at court side. They will pay a few dollars more for a video screen attachment and will receive the local or network televised feed seated high in the arena. These are but a few of the changes we might see in 30 years time compare this with your list.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Nobody is watching
I continue to be amused by the occasional letter stating; “Nobody is watching the NBA.” Usually I read these types of responses after a predicament has occurred and is widely discussed. This is news although I doubt we’ll be reading any negative letters. The 2016 NBA All-Star Game drew 7.6 million viewers up 6% over last season. Wait somebody is just itching to write nobody is watching NBA basketball. It should be of note usually the "Nobody is watching" guys locate the NBA page on a sports website, why go to all that difficulty?
What does it take?
No scouting job is easy; I cannot speak to hockey or soccer (football). I believe I can address baseball, football and basketball. Of those sports a quality football player might be easier to discover than a baseball or basketball player. How does a scout access the baseball talent of an 18-year old? Does his fastball project at the major league level? I’m going to give Stephen A. Smith a pass here, accessing Euro players might be the most difficult job of all. Euro basketball is light years improved over 10 or 15 years ago but questions remain. Smith’s critical remarks about Kristap Porzingis might be understandable because little was known about him.
My criticism of Smith had to do with his over the top assessment, he should have allowed the guy to demonstrate his skill or lack there of in NBA Summer League play. I just finished reading a scouting report on Dragan Bender from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Physically Bender resembles Porzingis 7-1 and 216 pounds but there is no intent on my part to say the two are the same player. Bender is listed as the number three pick in the DraftExpress mock draft, NBADraft.net also has him as number three. All I can say is I’m glad I’m not being paid by anybody to scout prospects.
Giant killer
The 16-11 record (as this is written) of Northern Iowa is not particularly outstanding. Unless UNI has a stellar post-season it’s likely they will miss an NCAA invitation. Despite their won-loss record they have proven they can beat many of the elite teams. In November they beat North Carolina at the time ranked number one in the nation.
The following month they upset their state rivals the Iowa State Cyclones, Iowa State was ranked number five in the nation. They didn’t exhibit any love for Wichita State the day before Valentine’s Day they upset number 25 Wichita State at Wichita State‘s house. This is certainly proof the term “mid-major” is irrelevant as North Carolina, Iowa State and now Wichita State has surrendered to UNI.
Carolina Blue
Shea Rush is headed to North Carolina to play for Roy Williams in the fall. Shea is a 6-6 wing player at The Barstow School a preparatory school located in south Kansas City. He’s the son of former standout Jaron Rush who played at Pembroke Hill in the late '90's. People who witnessed Jaron play still argue whether he was the best high school player the metro area produced. Although Shea is not has highly touted as his dad he is talented, it’s likely this is only news locally you will not see his name on Rivals or any other list of 2016 prospects. Shea’s been offered a “spot as a preferred walk-on” according to the Kansas City Star.
Nobody is watching
I continue to be amused by the occasional letter stating; “Nobody is watching the NBA.” Usually I read these types of responses after a predicament has occurred and is widely discussed. This is news although I doubt we’ll be reading any negative letters. The 2016 NBA All-Star Game drew 7.6 million viewers up 6% over last season. Wait somebody is just itching to write nobody is watching NBA basketball. It should be of note usually the "Nobody is watching" guys locate the NBA page on a sports website, why go to all that difficulty?
What does it take?
No scouting job is easy; I cannot speak to hockey or soccer (football). I believe I can address baseball, football and basketball. Of those sports a quality football player might be easier to discover than a baseball or basketball player. How does a scout access the baseball talent of an 18-year old? Does his fastball project at the major league level? I’m going to give Stephen A. Smith a pass here, accessing Euro players might be the most difficult job of all. Euro basketball is light years improved over 10 or 15 years ago but questions remain. Smith’s critical remarks about Kristap Porzingis might be understandable because little was known about him.
My criticism of Smith had to do with his over the top assessment, he should have allowed the guy to demonstrate his skill or lack there of in NBA Summer League play. I just finished reading a scouting report on Dragan Bender from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Physically Bender resembles Porzingis 7-1 and 216 pounds but there is no intent on my part to say the two are the same player. Bender is listed as the number three pick in the DraftExpress mock draft, NBADraft.net also has him as number three. All I can say is I’m glad I’m not being paid by anybody to scout prospects.
Giant killer
The 16-11 record (as this is written) of Northern Iowa is not particularly outstanding. Unless UNI has a stellar post-season it’s likely they will miss an NCAA invitation. Despite their won-loss record they have proven they can beat many of the elite teams. In November they beat North Carolina at the time ranked number one in the nation.
The following month they upset their state rivals the Iowa State Cyclones, Iowa State was ranked number five in the nation. They didn’t exhibit any love for Wichita State the day before Valentine’s Day they upset number 25 Wichita State at Wichita State‘s house. This is certainly proof the term “mid-major” is irrelevant as North Carolina, Iowa State and now Wichita State has surrendered to UNI.
Carolina Blue
Shea Rush is headed to North Carolina to play for Roy Williams in the fall. Shea is a 6-6 wing player at The Barstow School a preparatory school located in south Kansas City. He’s the son of former standout Jaron Rush who played at Pembroke Hill in the late '90's. People who witnessed Jaron play still argue whether he was the best high school player the metro area produced. Although Shea is not has highly touted as his dad he is talented, it’s likely this is only news locally you will not see his name on Rivals or any other list of 2016 prospects. Shea’s been offered a “spot as a preferred walk-on” according to the Kansas City Star.
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The grudge match
Kansas faces Oklahoma this time in Norman Oklahoma, you remember last month it was triple-overtime win (109-106) for Kansas. The Kansas defense “held” Oklahoma’s Buddy Hield to 46 points on 13-23 shooting. I’m sure in their heart of hearts Oklahoma believes they allowed the game to slip away. Oklahoma had a 106-105 lead until Frank Mason made two crucial steals. The first with 21 seconds remaining which resulted in Kansas shooting free throws, the second with 12 seconds remaining.
The Jayhawks accomplished the requirement winning a tough match on their home floor. Will home court make a difference in round two, I have no idea this is written Saturday morning prior to the afternoon re-match. NOTE: Led by Devonte Graham’s 27 points Kansas won 76-72. The log jam at the top of the conference has been reduced. Kansas and West Virginia now stand alone at the top of the Big 12 at least for now.
Do we really care?
The all-time best slam dunk contest went to _________. I blanked the name out because I believe it was a tie between Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine. You might not agree with my assessment but that’s okay just the way I see it. Klay Thompson beat out his teammate Steph Curry in the three-point contest sinking most of his baskets made in his final couple of racks. By the way do we really care what Chris Broussard and Stephen A. Smith have to say about the All-Star game? Broussard comment Monday morning; “Worst All-Star game ever.” Same for Smith who also provided us interpretation of the game but we have a view too. Does it really matter what either thinks about the outcome? As for the game itself I lied, I watched every single minute as the West squad scored 196 points to the East All Stars who could "only" score 173 points.
Trading him---I don’t know
We continue to hear reports the Wolves are trying to trade Ricky Rubio. The guy is a legitimate NBA point guard but a below average shooter. Shooter more athletic Zach LaVine is waiting in the wings but he’s got one problem. LaVine is trying to learn to play the point, would the Wolves make the trade in hopes that LaVine can eventually be a point?
Real Creepy
American commercials might not be available to a world-wide audience a number of you may not have the opportunity to view the State Farm Insurance ads. They feature a family referred to as the Hoopers. Chris Paul is dad, DeAndre Jordan is “mom”, Kevin Garnett is grandpa, Kevin Love is the teen age son and Damian Lillard is the infant.
Love’s head is photo-shopped onto a pre-teens skinny body, as for Lillard his head on on that of a baby; in addition mom has a full dark beard and a blond wig. It’s clear the company must like the ads because they have added several to the annals. As for me I think they are kinda creepy but that’s just me, I guess the commercials have served a purpose I’m discussing them with you.
The grudge match
Kansas faces Oklahoma this time in Norman Oklahoma, you remember last month it was triple-overtime win (109-106) for Kansas. The Kansas defense “held” Oklahoma’s Buddy Hield to 46 points on 13-23 shooting. I’m sure in their heart of hearts Oklahoma believes they allowed the game to slip away. Oklahoma had a 106-105 lead until Frank Mason made two crucial steals. The first with 21 seconds remaining which resulted in Kansas shooting free throws, the second with 12 seconds remaining.
The Jayhawks accomplished the requirement winning a tough match on their home floor. Will home court make a difference in round two, I have no idea this is written Saturday morning prior to the afternoon re-match. NOTE: Led by Devonte Graham’s 27 points Kansas won 76-72. The log jam at the top of the conference has been reduced. Kansas and West Virginia now stand alone at the top of the Big 12 at least for now.
Do we really care?
The all-time best slam dunk contest went to _________. I blanked the name out because I believe it was a tie between Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine. You might not agree with my assessment but that’s okay just the way I see it. Klay Thompson beat out his teammate Steph Curry in the three-point contest sinking most of his baskets made in his final couple of racks. By the way do we really care what Chris Broussard and Stephen A. Smith have to say about the All-Star game? Broussard comment Monday morning; “Worst All-Star game ever.” Same for Smith who also provided us interpretation of the game but we have a view too. Does it really matter what either thinks about the outcome? As for the game itself I lied, I watched every single minute as the West squad scored 196 points to the East All Stars who could "only" score 173 points.
Trading him---I don’t know
We continue to hear reports the Wolves are trying to trade Ricky Rubio. The guy is a legitimate NBA point guard but a below average shooter. Shooter more athletic Zach LaVine is waiting in the wings but he’s got one problem. LaVine is trying to learn to play the point, would the Wolves make the trade in hopes that LaVine can eventually be a point?
Real Creepy
American commercials might not be available to a world-wide audience a number of you may not have the opportunity to view the State Farm Insurance ads. They feature a family referred to as the Hoopers. Chris Paul is dad, DeAndre Jordan is “mom”, Kevin Garnett is grandpa, Kevin Love is the teen age son and Damian Lillard is the infant.
Love’s head is photo-shopped onto a pre-teens skinny body, as for Lillard his head on on that of a baby; in addition mom has a full dark beard and a blond wig. It’s clear the company must like the ads because they have added several to the annals. As for me I think they are kinda creepy but that’s just me, I guess the commercials have served a purpose I’m discussing them with you.
Monday, February 15, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I will refrain
LSU is making a stretch run to qualify for the NCAA Tournament; they played number 15 Texas A&M on Saturday winning 76-71. Craig Victor and Ben Simmons led the way for LSU both scoring 16 points. LSU remains tied at the top of SEC with Kentucky. I will refrain from mentioning the balance of the season “Simmons is not aggressive enough” or “Simmons has no range on his shot.”
Don’t tell me
John Calipari received two technicals in 146 seconds of their game against South Carolina. What could the officials have done in such a short space of time to run the coach to the locker room? Absolutely nothing, I didn’t see the game only highlights. Don’t tell me coaches don’t purposely force officials to whistle them for technicals at times. In any event it worked as Kentucky beat South Carolina 89-62.
Is the concept dated?
My NFL friends tell me how boring they think the Pro Bowl has become in recent years. I like NBA basketball I’m just not sure how much I like All-Star basketball. Don’t get me wrong I like the weekend events the All-Star Celebrity Game, Skill Challenge, Three-Point and Slam Dunk contests. By Sunday evening I’m ready to get back to “real” basketball, the East versus West match has become an exhibition game for me.
Last year I watched the All-Star Game through the middle of the third quarter it’s likely I’ll do the same this year. The Slam Dunk Contest was the best I’ve witnessed in several years, I think if nothing else there should have been a tie. I was shocked when teammate Klay Thompson outshoot Steph Curry in the Three-Point Contest.
King of Negativity
I’m conflicted at times; I believe I’m guilty of being too negative and too judgmental. On other occasions I see positives where others perceive negatives. Example; Mizzou’s Kevin Puryear played his high school ball in the metro at a Blue Springs (MO) high school. An acquaintance informed me while Puryear was in high school; “I’m not impressed with his game.” I was aware of Puryear because he was a local kid but had never witnessed him play. Recruited by Mizzou and several other D-I schools led me to believe he must have some skills.
Puryear is mid-way through his freshman year and he’s certainly no threat to Ben Simmons status as the nation’s top newcomer. The 6-7 215 pound forward is scoring 11.3 and grabbing 4.5 rebounds a game. I would venture to say if Mizzou was a better team this season (1-10 conference 8-16 overall) Puryear’s numbers might be slightly better. As for my friend I saw him last week and he repeated the same comment to me about Puryear. Puryear was able to score 17 points as he help the the Tigers prevail over Tennessee 75-64.
I will refrain
LSU is making a stretch run to qualify for the NCAA Tournament; they played number 15 Texas A&M on Saturday winning 76-71. Craig Victor and Ben Simmons led the way for LSU both scoring 16 points. LSU remains tied at the top of SEC with Kentucky. I will refrain from mentioning the balance of the season “Simmons is not aggressive enough” or “Simmons has no range on his shot.”
Don’t tell me
John Calipari received two technicals in 146 seconds of their game against South Carolina. What could the officials have done in such a short space of time to run the coach to the locker room? Absolutely nothing, I didn’t see the game only highlights. Don’t tell me coaches don’t purposely force officials to whistle them for technicals at times. In any event it worked as Kentucky beat South Carolina 89-62.
Is the concept dated?
My NFL friends tell me how boring they think the Pro Bowl has become in recent years. I like NBA basketball I’m just not sure how much I like All-Star basketball. Don’t get me wrong I like the weekend events the All-Star Celebrity Game, Skill Challenge, Three-Point and Slam Dunk contests. By Sunday evening I’m ready to get back to “real” basketball, the East versus West match has become an exhibition game for me.
Last year I watched the All-Star Game through the middle of the third quarter it’s likely I’ll do the same this year. The Slam Dunk Contest was the best I’ve witnessed in several years, I think if nothing else there should have been a tie. I was shocked when teammate Klay Thompson outshoot Steph Curry in the Three-Point Contest.
King of Negativity
I’m conflicted at times; I believe I’m guilty of being too negative and too judgmental. On other occasions I see positives where others perceive negatives. Example; Mizzou’s Kevin Puryear played his high school ball in the metro at a Blue Springs (MO) high school. An acquaintance informed me while Puryear was in high school; “I’m not impressed with his game.” I was aware of Puryear because he was a local kid but had never witnessed him play. Recruited by Mizzou and several other D-I schools led me to believe he must have some skills.
Puryear is mid-way through his freshman year and he’s certainly no threat to Ben Simmons status as the nation’s top newcomer. The 6-7 215 pound forward is scoring 11.3 and grabbing 4.5 rebounds a game. I would venture to say if Mizzou was a better team this season (1-10 conference 8-16 overall) Puryear’s numbers might be slightly better. As for my friend I saw him last week and he repeated the same comment to me about Puryear. Puryear was able to score 17 points as he help the the Tigers prevail over Tennessee 75-64.
Sunday, February 14, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Prepare yourself
I have no broadcast experience, I believe as host of a program you must be prepared to defend the position you take as effectively as possible. In this instance it was clear to me ESPN’s Mike Greenberg was not prepared for this interview and discussion. In a conversation with former Spurs center David Robinson on his program Greenberg said; “There are no more back to the basket centers in the NBA” which is not totally true. We can state a smaller number of Big Men play in today’s game but they haven’t disappeared all together. Example the Spurs Tim Duncan will go down in history as the all-time best power forwards however he’s really a center.
There are others we could include in this discussion the Kings Boogie Cousins, Andre Drummond of the Pistons and Hassan Whiteside of the Heat. If the center position is no longer required why was Karl-Anthony Towns chosen number one and Jahlil Okafor number three in the 2015 draft? The Clippers DeAndre Jordan can’t shoot free-throws nor can he shoot further than 10 feet from the basket. Despite his limits he’s got to be counted in our collection of centers strictly because he‘s a rim protector. Those mentioned are just a few of the centers who play an important role on their respective teams. Mr. Greenberg everybody in the NBA is not playing “small-ball” as you might perceive. Next time you get into a discussion with David Robinson please arrive better prepared.
Recruiting
The 21st century according to the Gregorian calender began January 1, 2001. We moved into another century which brought about change. New inventions of the 21st Century also led to changes in basketball recruiting. The days of a head coach or assistants sitting in the family room have become outdated. Unless we‘ve been the parent of a student-prospect its likely we haven’t realized the change. Don’t misunderstand personal contact remains the most effective method to recruit however social media is used. Snapchat, twitter, tumbler and instagram are just a few of the tools used to recruit talent today. As younger coaches begin replacing those in their 60’s and 70’s we’ll see even more use of social media as other modes come into use. A number of coaches might have first witnessed a prospect on YouTube rather than in person.
Bits n Pieces
I’ve stated on more than one occasion I believed Steph Curry has become the face of the NBA. I further said “He’s replaced LeBron James as the face of the NBA.” Now I’m not so sure, if your name (Steph) is mentioned every 20 minutes on ESPN it’s easy to see how we might come to this conclusion despite the fact it might not be true.
I thought it worth mentioning Brad Stevens again. The guy has broken the pattern; remember the observation “The NBA is not for college coaches they cannot coach at this level.” The former Butler coach has re-invigorated the Celtics; they won 40 games last season and have won 32 at the All-Star break. They will eclipse last seasons win total and are a playoff caliber team again.
Thanks but no thanks, that’s my response to ESPN’s Kevin Pelton. He writes “would Lakers or Celtics consider trading for James Harden.” Harden is a “black-hole” the ball disappears once it’s passed to him and its dribble for 15 to 18 seconds of the clock before Harden shots or passes the ball to a teammate.
Prepare yourself
I have no broadcast experience, I believe as host of a program you must be prepared to defend the position you take as effectively as possible. In this instance it was clear to me ESPN’s Mike Greenberg was not prepared for this interview and discussion. In a conversation with former Spurs center David Robinson on his program Greenberg said; “There are no more back to the basket centers in the NBA” which is not totally true. We can state a smaller number of Big Men play in today’s game but they haven’t disappeared all together. Example the Spurs Tim Duncan will go down in history as the all-time best power forwards however he’s really a center.
There are others we could include in this discussion the Kings Boogie Cousins, Andre Drummond of the Pistons and Hassan Whiteside of the Heat. If the center position is no longer required why was Karl-Anthony Towns chosen number one and Jahlil Okafor number three in the 2015 draft? The Clippers DeAndre Jordan can’t shoot free-throws nor can he shoot further than 10 feet from the basket. Despite his limits he’s got to be counted in our collection of centers strictly because he‘s a rim protector. Those mentioned are just a few of the centers who play an important role on their respective teams. Mr. Greenberg everybody in the NBA is not playing “small-ball” as you might perceive. Next time you get into a discussion with David Robinson please arrive better prepared.
Recruiting
The 21st century according to the Gregorian calender began January 1, 2001. We moved into another century which brought about change. New inventions of the 21st Century also led to changes in basketball recruiting. The days of a head coach or assistants sitting in the family room have become outdated. Unless we‘ve been the parent of a student-prospect its likely we haven’t realized the change. Don’t misunderstand personal contact remains the most effective method to recruit however social media is used. Snapchat, twitter, tumbler and instagram are just a few of the tools used to recruit talent today. As younger coaches begin replacing those in their 60’s and 70’s we’ll see even more use of social media as other modes come into use. A number of coaches might have first witnessed a prospect on YouTube rather than in person.
Bits n Pieces
I’ve stated on more than one occasion I believed Steph Curry has become the face of the NBA. I further said “He’s replaced LeBron James as the face of the NBA.” Now I’m not so sure, if your name (Steph) is mentioned every 20 minutes on ESPN it’s easy to see how we might come to this conclusion despite the fact it might not be true.
I thought it worth mentioning Brad Stevens again. The guy has broken the pattern; remember the observation “The NBA is not for college coaches they cannot coach at this level.” The former Butler coach has re-invigorated the Celtics; they won 40 games last season and have won 32 at the All-Star break. They will eclipse last seasons win total and are a playoff caliber team again.
Thanks but no thanks, that’s my response to ESPN’s Kevin Pelton. He writes “would Lakers or Celtics consider trading for James Harden.” Harden is a “black-hole” the ball disappears once it’s passed to him and its dribble for 15 to 18 seconds of the clock before Harden shots or passes the ball to a teammate.
Saturday, February 13, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Can they do it?
On February 11th 2016 the Warriors stand 48-4 with 52 games remaining on the schedule. The Warriors must win 25 of the next 30 games to set a new NBA standard. Is it possible they can only lose 5 games between now and the middle of April? Two weeks left in February five weeks in March and they close the regular season on April 13th.
News and Notes
We are always looking for bigger and better; often stadiums and arenas don’t meet the expectations of fans or maybe the architect. Sportsbreak.com compiled its list of the “Top 10 Worst Stadiums built.” The majority of them were built for football and baseball although several are multi-use arenas. Leading off the list is Sleep Train Arena present home of the Kings made the list; it was the only NBA arena to make the list. As for the others the NBA once utilized the stadiums/arenas but not recently.
The Metrodome in Minneapolis made the list also, the Wolves played in this football/baseball stadium 1989-1990. Nassau Veterans Coliseum also made the cut, Dr. J. played in the building as a member of the New York Nets. The Nets were tenants of the building from 1972 through 1977. We conclude with the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, it served as home for the Pistons for one season 1984-1985. The NBA plays in fairly new arenas the exception being Madison Square Garden which has been renovated on several occasions.
Bits n Pieces
In the report of minority ownership a portion of history was omitted. In 1989 attorney and businessman Peter Bynoe along with businessman Bertram Lee were hailed as the first black owners of a major league franchise when it was announced they purchased the Denver Nuggets. That was not actually the case; they were able to purchase a 37.5% share in the Nuggets which technically designated them as managing partners. In 1992 Bynoe sold his share of the team to COMSAT.
I’ve written previously on Dick Vitale and this is no update. It’s just me admitting I have a man-crush on the former coach and ESPN analyst. I believe college basketball will lose a dynamic proponent of the game. Vitale will turn 77 in June but has lost no zest for the college basketball. He’s got his critics; a number of folk’s state he fails to address issues facing the game in the 21st Century. He’s an analyst not a moralist, its likely he believes its up to others to address those issued. In any event I still love his enthusiasm for the game.
A number of you probably believe I hate Stephen A. Smith and that is far from the case. I cannot distinguish the times he’s “acting” or is serious with his commentary. Example, Smith went ballistic last June on Phil Jackson and the manner he was running (or ruining) the Knicks. Six months later after PJ fires Derek Fisher he says; “He believes Derek Fishers firing is a sign Phil Jackson is committed to winning.” That’s not the tone Smith used just a short six months ago.
Yahoo Sports is reporting the Rockets are shopping Dwight Howard. If they don’t trade him its likely he’s gone this summer. He becomes a free-agent and the experiment teaming him with James Harden has not worked. Is it all Howard’s fault this didn’t work? Of course not but the question again how serious is Howard about winning.
Can they do it?
On February 11th 2016 the Warriors stand 48-4 with 52 games remaining on the schedule. The Warriors must win 25 of the next 30 games to set a new NBA standard. Is it possible they can only lose 5 games between now and the middle of April? Two weeks left in February five weeks in March and they close the regular season on April 13th.
News and Notes
We are always looking for bigger and better; often stadiums and arenas don’t meet the expectations of fans or maybe the architect. Sportsbreak.com compiled its list of the “Top 10 Worst Stadiums built.” The majority of them were built for football and baseball although several are multi-use arenas. Leading off the list is Sleep Train Arena present home of the Kings made the list; it was the only NBA arena to make the list. As for the others the NBA once utilized the stadiums/arenas but not recently.
The Metrodome in Minneapolis made the list also, the Wolves played in this football/baseball stadium 1989-1990. Nassau Veterans Coliseum also made the cut, Dr. J. played in the building as a member of the New York Nets. The Nets were tenants of the building from 1972 through 1977. We conclude with the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, it served as home for the Pistons for one season 1984-1985. The NBA plays in fairly new arenas the exception being Madison Square Garden which has been renovated on several occasions.
Bits n Pieces
In the report of minority ownership a portion of history was omitted. In 1989 attorney and businessman Peter Bynoe along with businessman Bertram Lee were hailed as the first black owners of a major league franchise when it was announced they purchased the Denver Nuggets. That was not actually the case; they were able to purchase a 37.5% share in the Nuggets which technically designated them as managing partners. In 1992 Bynoe sold his share of the team to COMSAT.
I’ve written previously on Dick Vitale and this is no update. It’s just me admitting I have a man-crush on the former coach and ESPN analyst. I believe college basketball will lose a dynamic proponent of the game. Vitale will turn 77 in June but has lost no zest for the college basketball. He’s got his critics; a number of folk’s state he fails to address issues facing the game in the 21st Century. He’s an analyst not a moralist, its likely he believes its up to others to address those issued. In any event I still love his enthusiasm for the game.
A number of you probably believe I hate Stephen A. Smith and that is far from the case. I cannot distinguish the times he’s “acting” or is serious with his commentary. Example, Smith went ballistic last June on Phil Jackson and the manner he was running (or ruining) the Knicks. Six months later after PJ fires Derek Fisher he says; “He believes Derek Fishers firing is a sign Phil Jackson is committed to winning.” That’s not the tone Smith used just a short six months ago.
Yahoo Sports is reporting the Rockets are shopping Dwight Howard. If they don’t trade him its likely he’s gone this summer. He becomes a free-agent and the experiment teaming him with James Harden has not worked. Is it all Howard’s fault this didn’t work? Of course not but the question again how serious is Howard about winning.
Friday, February 12, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Just heard this
Would you believe Tyronn Lue Cavs coach and Jason Sudeikis former SNL cast member actor and comedian have a connection. He was discussing the upcoming NBA All-Star Celebrity game. Sudeikis then stated; “I faced off against Tyronn Lue in summer basketball.” As I’d mentioned previously Lue played high school ball at Raytown a Kansas City suburb. Sudeikis grew up in Overland Park a suburban city on the Kansas side. It’s certainly possible they could have played one another in AAU basketball although Sudeikis wasn’t specific.
What’s wrong with Wichita State?
Absolutely nothing however you might not have believed that statement at the close of December. December was an extremely tough portion of the season for Wichita State. Injuries impacted their schedule significantly, at the end of December they stood 7-5 and fell out of the Top 25 for the first time in several years. A number of Gregg Marshall’s troops healed and returned to action thus aiding the effort toward another winning Shocker season. As this is written Wichita State is 12-1 in the Missouri Valley and 18-6 overall. Perennial NCAA tourney Louisville is out and that leaves room for Wichita State maybe.
He said it!
Thon Maker the 7-1 phenom from South Sudan by way of Australia the U.S. and Canada has a blog. He called me out on this subject but I’m not alone several others are on the limb next to me. Maker said this regarding Ben Simmons; “(Simmons is) during really well at LSU. There are a lot of people knocking him because of the hype the media has created, by calling him the next LeBron. He is not the next LeBron and I am not the next Kevin Durant. My guardian, Coach Smith always says to be the ‘first you‘; not the next someone.” Maker is likely the last big name prospect left to make a commitment.
It’s just an opinion
At times I provide you my view of an issue where I’m unable to offer proof, it‘s just my opinion whether you agree or not. That’s the case this morning; Mike Greenberg ESPN is discussing the center position with David Robinson. You remember him Naval Academy graduate, long-time Spurs center and Hall of Fame honoree. Greenberg leads the discussion stating “You (Robinson) may have been one of the last back to the basket centers.” The response from the former center; “Everything goes in cycles back to the basket center play will return some day.” Greenberg then drives his car off the road; “My son (age unknown) is playing AAU basketball and all the tall kids are shooting the 3-point shot.”
Point one, I agree with Robinson there are no Chamberlain’s, Russell’s or Shaq’s currently playing in the NBA, that doesn’t point out center play is going away permanently. 7-foot Dirk Nowitzki and others shoot 3-pointers rather than play in the post. Have you ever heard “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” the definition from the free dictionary says; “copying someone is flattering because it shows you want to be like that person (or thing)." Steph Curry and crew have made “small-ball” look good and the Warriors are winning. Point two; I hope daddy Greenberg is not using AAU basketball as an indication the future of basketball, there is no comparison to high school, college or the NBA.
Just heard this
Would you believe Tyronn Lue Cavs coach and Jason Sudeikis former SNL cast member actor and comedian have a connection. He was discussing the upcoming NBA All-Star Celebrity game. Sudeikis then stated; “I faced off against Tyronn Lue in summer basketball.” As I’d mentioned previously Lue played high school ball at Raytown a Kansas City suburb. Sudeikis grew up in Overland Park a suburban city on the Kansas side. It’s certainly possible they could have played one another in AAU basketball although Sudeikis wasn’t specific.
What’s wrong with Wichita State?
Absolutely nothing however you might not have believed that statement at the close of December. December was an extremely tough portion of the season for Wichita State. Injuries impacted their schedule significantly, at the end of December they stood 7-5 and fell out of the Top 25 for the first time in several years. A number of Gregg Marshall’s troops healed and returned to action thus aiding the effort toward another winning Shocker season. As this is written Wichita State is 12-1 in the Missouri Valley and 18-6 overall. Perennial NCAA tourney Louisville is out and that leaves room for Wichita State maybe.
He said it!
Thon Maker the 7-1 phenom from South Sudan by way of Australia the U.S. and Canada has a blog. He called me out on this subject but I’m not alone several others are on the limb next to me. Maker said this regarding Ben Simmons; “(Simmons is) during really well at LSU. There are a lot of people knocking him because of the hype the media has created, by calling him the next LeBron. He is not the next LeBron and I am not the next Kevin Durant. My guardian, Coach Smith always says to be the ‘first you‘; not the next someone.” Maker is likely the last big name prospect left to make a commitment.
It’s just an opinion
At times I provide you my view of an issue where I’m unable to offer proof, it‘s just my opinion whether you agree or not. That’s the case this morning; Mike Greenberg ESPN is discussing the center position with David Robinson. You remember him Naval Academy graduate, long-time Spurs center and Hall of Fame honoree. Greenberg leads the discussion stating “You (Robinson) may have been one of the last back to the basket centers.” The response from the former center; “Everything goes in cycles back to the basket center play will return some day.” Greenberg then drives his car off the road; “My son (age unknown) is playing AAU basketball and all the tall kids are shooting the 3-point shot.”
Point one, I agree with Robinson there are no Chamberlain’s, Russell’s or Shaq’s currently playing in the NBA, that doesn’t point out center play is going away permanently. 7-foot Dirk Nowitzki and others shoot 3-pointers rather than play in the post. Have you ever heard “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” the definition from the free dictionary says; “copying someone is flattering because it shows you want to be like that person (or thing)." Steph Curry and crew have made “small-ball” look good and the Warriors are winning. Point two; I hope daddy Greenberg is not using AAU basketball as an indication the future of basketball, there is no comparison to high school, college or the NBA.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He’s confused
The Clippers announced Blake Griffin will be suspended four games w/o pay for his fight with the team equipment manager. You might remember the two men got into an argument while at a restaurant and Griffin became agitated to the point of throwing at least two punches. As for the suspension will go into effect once Griffin returns from the injury list.
This issue must have confused Marcellus Wiley of ESPN based on his response. When questioned on Sportsnation Wiley said “Griffin should complete his suspension while recovering from injury” or words to that effect. It’s clear he did not read the memo issued by the Clippers it read; “The suspension will begin once Griffin is healthy. “ In other words Mr. Wiley Griffin cannot serve his suspension while on the injured list.
Fab Two
The headline is not a mistake; you might be thinking “Fab Five”. In 1991 the University of Michigan placed five freshmen on the floor at the same time. The five almost won an NCAA Championship a feat never accomplished by such a young starting five. Two of the five were Jalen Rose and Chris Webber and both moved into the television broadcast field after their NBA careers were completed. Rose went to work as a basketball analyst for ABC/ESPN. Webber is serving in the same capacity and can been seen on TNT and NBA TV.
The Triangle offense
Is Phil Jackson out of step with today’s NBA? That is the question posed by many in the media as the Knicks begin their search for a new head coach. PJ believes the triangle offense can still work in the NBA of today the only problem there is no definitive proof. The triangle was effective with the Bulls who had Jordan/Pippen/Grant/Rodman and others. It was successful with the Lakers with Kobe/Shaq/Gasol/Ariza. It didn’t work for Brian Shaw with the Nuggets; it didn’t work for Kurt Rambis while he was head coach of the Wolves. The triangle appears to be ineffective with the Knicks although this was only year two running it.
There might be other instances the triangle was utilized Denver and Minnesota are the locattions first come to mind. By the way those instances of successful triangle teams also had Phil Jackson as coach. I can offer no proof however it appears a team needs quality players at most positions on the floor in order to attain success. I believe in Phil Jackson so I believe the triangle can still work provided you have the personal to run it efficiently. Derek Fisher was running the triangle; can Phil Jackson locate the coach he wants in order to run the offense is the question?
NBA Draft 101
We are a ways off from June but when your team is the Lakers you must look toward the NBA Draft. I pointed out the owner of the NFL Cowboys prior to Jerry Jones approached the NFL draft differently from other teams. As an example they would draft a linebacker although they might have a surplus at that position. They believed they could trade this players draft rights for a player in a position they needed a starter or depth. As this is being composed we are still unsure what the 76ers are trying to accomplish in their draft history.
Should the Lakers consider the “Cowboy method” to rebuild the team? I posed the question because of NBA Draft.net’s mock draft. Although he might be slight of weight the site has them choosing James Webb from Gonzaga in the second round. The pressing need (in my view) for the Lakers is small forward not a power forward; do they draft Webb for trade bait? As for others how about the Celtics, they appear to be stockpiling draft choices with eight picks in round one and two. As for the 76ers they have “only” four selections in both rounds.
He’s confused
The Clippers announced Blake Griffin will be suspended four games w/o pay for his fight with the team equipment manager. You might remember the two men got into an argument while at a restaurant and Griffin became agitated to the point of throwing at least two punches. As for the suspension will go into effect once Griffin returns from the injury list.
This issue must have confused Marcellus Wiley of ESPN based on his response. When questioned on Sportsnation Wiley said “Griffin should complete his suspension while recovering from injury” or words to that effect. It’s clear he did not read the memo issued by the Clippers it read; “The suspension will begin once Griffin is healthy. “ In other words Mr. Wiley Griffin cannot serve his suspension while on the injured list.
Fab Two
The headline is not a mistake; you might be thinking “Fab Five”. In 1991 the University of Michigan placed five freshmen on the floor at the same time. The five almost won an NCAA Championship a feat never accomplished by such a young starting five. Two of the five were Jalen Rose and Chris Webber and both moved into the television broadcast field after their NBA careers were completed. Rose went to work as a basketball analyst for ABC/ESPN. Webber is serving in the same capacity and can been seen on TNT and NBA TV.
The Triangle offense
Is Phil Jackson out of step with today’s NBA? That is the question posed by many in the media as the Knicks begin their search for a new head coach. PJ believes the triangle offense can still work in the NBA of today the only problem there is no definitive proof. The triangle was effective with the Bulls who had Jordan/Pippen/Grant/Rodman and others. It was successful with the Lakers with Kobe/Shaq/Gasol/Ariza. It didn’t work for Brian Shaw with the Nuggets; it didn’t work for Kurt Rambis while he was head coach of the Wolves. The triangle appears to be ineffective with the Knicks although this was only year two running it.
There might be other instances the triangle was utilized Denver and Minnesota are the locattions first come to mind. By the way those instances of successful triangle teams also had Phil Jackson as coach. I can offer no proof however it appears a team needs quality players at most positions on the floor in order to attain success. I believe in Phil Jackson so I believe the triangle can still work provided you have the personal to run it efficiently. Derek Fisher was running the triangle; can Phil Jackson locate the coach he wants in order to run the offense is the question?
NBA Draft 101
We are a ways off from June but when your team is the Lakers you must look toward the NBA Draft. I pointed out the owner of the NFL Cowboys prior to Jerry Jones approached the NFL draft differently from other teams. As an example they would draft a linebacker although they might have a surplus at that position. They believed they could trade this players draft rights for a player in a position they needed a starter or depth. As this is being composed we are still unsure what the 76ers are trying to accomplish in their draft history.
Should the Lakers consider the “Cowboy method” to rebuild the team? I posed the question because of NBA Draft.net’s mock draft. Although he might be slight of weight the site has them choosing James Webb from Gonzaga in the second round. The pressing need (in my view) for the Lakers is small forward not a power forward; do they draft Webb for trade bait? As for others how about the Celtics, they appear to be stockpiling draft choices with eight picks in round one and two. As for the 76ers they have “only” four selections in both rounds.
Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
This is a joke---right?
A number of names have been mentioned to replace Derek Fisher as coach of the Knicks. Former Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and current Warriors assistant Luke Walton were among the names mentioned. Interim coach Kurt Rambis might toss his hat into the ring as well. Both Walton and Rambis have served as assistants to Phil Jackson. There are others I may have omitted but all those mentioned have coaching experience the one I didn‘t name. This person is a former NBA Champion with the Bulls (playing for Phil Jackson). For his 6-7 size he may have been the best ever at rebounding the basketball. He led the NBA in rebounds several times during the course of his career,
After retirement he was elected into the Naismith Hall of Fame at Springfield (MA). Those are his positives; I’m not going to detail the negatives. I’m simply asking the question is there any reason to hire an inexperienced Dennis Rodman? Phil Jackson just fired a coach he hired without any NBA experience, why would he repeat his previous mistake? Rodman believes his years of play in the NBA and his post-basketball career deserve consideration. He sent a tweet to Phil Jackson informing his desire. I informed my wife (who doesn’t follow the NBA) that Rodman wanted to coach the Knicks; her response to me was an emphatic no!
“Dead Man Walking”
In this instance we refer to George Karl who as this is written has a job. He’s head coach of the Sacramento Kings but not for long. I’ve lost count the number of sites that have written; “Karl will be fired in days.” Everybody (or most folks) desire to be employed and that is the case with Karl but a strange thing occurs with him. Although he’s won a ton of regular season games he tends to wear out his welcome.
The Kings are his sixth head coaching job as NBA teams continue to hire him and later fire him. In 30 years of coaching his 1996 Sonics team was the only one to come nearest to winning an NBA Championship. Karl’s teams almost always made the playoffs but they were never able to advance. Was it the team or the coach you be the judge. If you think it’s me being super critical of Karl check his resume. The guy can coach but as I stated earlier his teams and front office tire of him after awhile. NOTE: Before I could publish the Kings announced Karl would remain coach. Go figure this one out if you car
I messed up big time
I failed to count Kevin McHale in the list of fired NBA coaches in an earlier account. The former Celtic served as head coach of the Rockets from 2011 through November 2015. The count of terminated coaches so far this season should read McHale, David Blatt, Jeff Hornacek and Derek Fisher.
Bits n Pieces
I didn’t see the game but the box score said it all. Steph Curry scored 51 points (25 in the first quarter) against the Wizards. Curry was 19 for 28 from the floor 11-16 from the 3-point line. I made this statement late last year and I continue to believe Curry has surpassed LeBron James in the eyes of many as the most popular player in the NBA.
“Dressed up but no place to go” could be the mantra of the Southern Methodist Mustangs. They are in first place in the American Conference with a 9-2 conference record (20-2 overall), they are number 16 in AP Top 25. You remember the story; they are on NCAA probation Coach Brown suspended for several games. The coach has returned and SMU continues to win despite the penalty.
An oversight on my part I overlooked Kahlil Felder in a recent study of little “Big Men“. Felder is a junior at Oakland University in Michigan not California. The school is a member of the Horizon League and it’s quite likely the league and the school haven’t shown up on ESPN, Fox Sports or CBSSports. The exception might be the NCAA Tournament. In any event the 5-9 Detroit native is scoring at a 25.6 point per game clip; he’s not just a scoring machine. The guy is not one-dimensional his assist total reads nearly 9 a game (8.8)
Did you realize the Spurs have a 26-year old rookie on their roster? Jonathan Simmons is a 6-6 shooting guard who played his college ball at Houston. The journey of Simmons is interesting and provides proof of never giving up if you have a dream. He left Houston early for the NBA Draft then wasn’t drafted. Read his story it’s quite compelling.
This is a joke---right?
A number of names have been mentioned to replace Derek Fisher as coach of the Knicks. Former Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and current Warriors assistant Luke Walton were among the names mentioned. Interim coach Kurt Rambis might toss his hat into the ring as well. Both Walton and Rambis have served as assistants to Phil Jackson. There are others I may have omitted but all those mentioned have coaching experience the one I didn‘t name. This person is a former NBA Champion with the Bulls (playing for Phil Jackson). For his 6-7 size he may have been the best ever at rebounding the basketball. He led the NBA in rebounds several times during the course of his career,
After retirement he was elected into the Naismith Hall of Fame at Springfield (MA). Those are his positives; I’m not going to detail the negatives. I’m simply asking the question is there any reason to hire an inexperienced Dennis Rodman? Phil Jackson just fired a coach he hired without any NBA experience, why would he repeat his previous mistake? Rodman believes his years of play in the NBA and his post-basketball career deserve consideration. He sent a tweet to Phil Jackson informing his desire. I informed my wife (who doesn’t follow the NBA) that Rodman wanted to coach the Knicks; her response to me was an emphatic no!
“Dead Man Walking”
In this instance we refer to George Karl who as this is written has a job. He’s head coach of the Sacramento Kings but not for long. I’ve lost count the number of sites that have written; “Karl will be fired in days.” Everybody (or most folks) desire to be employed and that is the case with Karl but a strange thing occurs with him. Although he’s won a ton of regular season games he tends to wear out his welcome.
The Kings are his sixth head coaching job as NBA teams continue to hire him and later fire him. In 30 years of coaching his 1996 Sonics team was the only one to come nearest to winning an NBA Championship. Karl’s teams almost always made the playoffs but they were never able to advance. Was it the team or the coach you be the judge. If you think it’s me being super critical of Karl check his resume. The guy can coach but as I stated earlier his teams and front office tire of him after awhile. NOTE: Before I could publish the Kings announced Karl would remain coach. Go figure this one out if you car
I messed up big time
I failed to count Kevin McHale in the list of fired NBA coaches in an earlier account. The former Celtic served as head coach of the Rockets from 2011 through November 2015. The count of terminated coaches so far this season should read McHale, David Blatt, Jeff Hornacek and Derek Fisher.
I didn’t see the game but the box score said it all. Steph Curry scored 51 points (25 in the first quarter) against the Wizards. Curry was 19 for 28 from the floor 11-16 from the 3-point line. I made this statement late last year and I continue to believe Curry has surpassed LeBron James in the eyes of many as the most popular player in the NBA.
“Dressed up but no place to go” could be the mantra of the Southern Methodist Mustangs. They are in first place in the American Conference with a 9-2 conference record (20-2 overall), they are number 16 in AP Top 25. You remember the story; they are on NCAA probation Coach Brown suspended for several games. The coach has returned and SMU continues to win despite the penalty.
An oversight on my part I overlooked Kahlil Felder in a recent study of little “Big Men“. Felder is a junior at Oakland University in Michigan not California. The school is a member of the Horizon League and it’s quite likely the league and the school haven’t shown up on ESPN, Fox Sports or CBSSports. The exception might be the NCAA Tournament. In any event the 5-9 Detroit native is scoring at a 25.6 point per game clip; he’s not just a scoring machine. The guy is not one-dimensional his assist total reads nearly 9 a game (8.8)
Did you realize the Spurs have a 26-year old rookie on their roster? Jonathan Simmons is a 6-6 shooting guard who played his college ball at Houston. The journey of Simmons is interesting and provides proof of never giving up if you have a dream. He left Houston early for the NBA Draft then wasn’t drafted. Read his story it’s quite compelling.
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Another one bit’s the dust”
The classic Queen Song comes to mind as another coach is fired; this time it was Derek Fisher of the Knicks. We are near the middle of February and Fisher becomes the third coach fired this season thus far, is there no job security in the NBA? The Cavs fired David Blatt then Jeff Hornacek of the Suns was let go and now Fisher. George Karl could be next in line. I haven’t read or heard any commentary on the termination of Fisher this is coming to you directly from Larry Laker. I hoped to not be influenced by anything I read or heard, as this is written the Knicks stand 23-31.
The Knicks had begun the season on a high note playing much better than many predicted. Rookie Kristaps Porzingis proved to be a surprise with his adjustment so quickly to the NBA game. Other newcomers aided in the cause of improved early season play. Then the bump in the road, the Knicks were losers of five games in a row; in addition the Matt Barnes fiasco may have played in role in Phil Jackson’s decision as well. In any event hopefully Fisher will find employment inside (coaching) or outside (television).
The Wildcats
Villanova has a rich and winning reputation in basketball, they were NCAA Champions in 1985. In a succession of coaches in 96 years the school has won 1670 games while losing 915. Under Coach Jay Wright the Wildcats have won 339 games and are 20-3 as this is written. Despite the success on the court the school has never been ranked number one even in 1985. The have now, the latest AP and USA Coaches poll finds the Wildcats number one on both polls. Are they a threat to win the NCAA Championship this year? We shall wait and see on that question.
Sorry no applause yet
The ESPN story said; “The Clippers are thriving in choppy waters. Doc Rivers and the Clippers have righted their ship by winning 18 out of their past 22 games.” Let’s check the schedule and make your own judgment, I‘ve made mine up. 10 of the Clipper wins occurred against teams with .500 or below records. Of the four losses two came against power teams Toronto and Cleveland.
Not a Thunder, Spurs or Warriors game in the picture during this portion of the season. I know what you are probably thinking; “That’s what the Clippers are supposed to do beat teams below them in the standings.” Certainly a true statement however I prefer to wait until the playoffs to determine the status of this team. I decline to offer a team in fourth place a pat on the back. They are beating teams below them in the standings, that‘s the business they should be conducting. NOTE: Number 11 win last night was an OT win against the 76ers.
“The Game”
The 1966 NCAA Championship changed the game and the nation. A number of the former players for Texas Western (now UTEP) came together for the 50th Anniversary of the game. They even received a telephone call from President Obama acknowledging the game. Most of the larger colleges and universities in the southeast and southwest had no black players. They had none because segregation of the races was prevalent in the country.
As for the championship game all-white Kentucky faced Texas Western. Texas Western roster contained white players however Coach Don Haskins started five black players in the champion game. Texas Western beat Kentucky 72-65 and the nation and the world changed forever. There was no great rush to recruit black athletes however southern schools begin to change their recruiting course to recruit black athletes in all sports including basketball.
“Another one bit’s the dust”
The classic Queen Song comes to mind as another coach is fired; this time it was Derek Fisher of the Knicks. We are near the middle of February and Fisher becomes the third coach fired this season thus far, is there no job security in the NBA? The Cavs fired David Blatt then Jeff Hornacek of the Suns was let go and now Fisher. George Karl could be next in line. I haven’t read or heard any commentary on the termination of Fisher this is coming to you directly from Larry Laker. I hoped to not be influenced by anything I read or heard, as this is written the Knicks stand 23-31.
The Knicks had begun the season on a high note playing much better than many predicted. Rookie Kristaps Porzingis proved to be a surprise with his adjustment so quickly to the NBA game. Other newcomers aided in the cause of improved early season play. Then the bump in the road, the Knicks were losers of five games in a row; in addition the Matt Barnes fiasco may have played in role in Phil Jackson’s decision as well. In any event hopefully Fisher will find employment inside (coaching) or outside (television).
The Wildcats
Villanova has a rich and winning reputation in basketball, they were NCAA Champions in 1985. In a succession of coaches in 96 years the school has won 1670 games while losing 915. Under Coach Jay Wright the Wildcats have won 339 games and are 20-3 as this is written. Despite the success on the court the school has never been ranked number one even in 1985. The have now, the latest AP and USA Coaches poll finds the Wildcats number one on both polls. Are they a threat to win the NCAA Championship this year? We shall wait and see on that question.
Sorry no applause yet
The ESPN story said; “The Clippers are thriving in choppy waters. Doc Rivers and the Clippers have righted their ship by winning 18 out of their past 22 games.” Let’s check the schedule and make your own judgment, I‘ve made mine up. 10 of the Clipper wins occurred against teams with .500 or below records. Of the four losses two came against power teams Toronto and Cleveland.
Not a Thunder, Spurs or Warriors game in the picture during this portion of the season. I know what you are probably thinking; “That’s what the Clippers are supposed to do beat teams below them in the standings.” Certainly a true statement however I prefer to wait until the playoffs to determine the status of this team. I decline to offer a team in fourth place a pat on the back. They are beating teams below them in the standings, that‘s the business they should be conducting. NOTE: Number 11 win last night was an OT win against the 76ers.
“The Game”
The 1966 NCAA Championship changed the game and the nation. A number of the former players for Texas Western (now UTEP) came together for the 50th Anniversary of the game. They even received a telephone call from President Obama acknowledging the game. Most of the larger colleges and universities in the southeast and southwest had no black players. They had none because segregation of the races was prevalent in the country.
As for the championship game all-white Kentucky faced Texas Western. Texas Western roster contained white players however Coach Don Haskins started five black players in the champion game. Texas Western beat Kentucky 72-65 and the nation and the world changed forever. There was no great rush to recruit black athletes however southern schools begin to change their recruiting course to recruit black athletes in all sports including basketball.
Monday, February 8, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Were number one!”
Which college will begin the famous; “Were number one” chant? The strange, wild and bizarre world of college basketball 2015-16 version continues. On Saturday number one Oklahoma in the AP Top 25 was bested by Kansas State. North Carolina number one in the USA Today Coaches Poll lost to the Notre Dame Irish. This is written prior to the latest poll however it’s probable Villanova or Maryland move into the top spot.
“Where there’s smoke”
Are you familiar with the old adage where there’s smoke there’s fire. 1. “If it looks like something is wrong, something probably is wrong. “ The reported improprieties with Louisville basketball cost a former assistant coach his job with the University of Missouri-Kansas City. You might remember the story escorts were supposed to have been supplied to players and recruits to provide sexual favors. Coach Rick Pitino claimed he was unaware of the alleged allegations and coverage of the story ceased. Last week Louisville announced no post-season basketball for them, what do we read into the statement?
1. Idioms; the free dictionary. COM
Compared to whom?
You might remember a few weeks ago I mentioned Stephen A. Smith said he believed Ben Simmons game was nearest that of former St. John’s forward Walter Berry. Not only did I challenge Smith’s statement but so did Seth Greenberg suggesting Smith was off base. How do other ESPN media members view Simmons game you ask? On a recent NBA Countdown program the following are the views of the analyst on who they think he compares.
The upfront disclaimer said he’s not going to be but we believe he might be closet to. Jay Williams says; “Magic Johnson.” Doris Burke chimed in with this response; “Although he’s bigger he compares to Draymon Green.” Jalen Rose said he believes he’s a combination of two players; “Lamar Odom and Grant Hill.” Fran Fraschila may have stated it best; the one criticism of Simmons game has been his lack of aggressiveness and shooting at times. Fraschila said; “If he doesn’t shot you have a 6-10 Rajon Rondo.”
A trio+one
The Rush brothers might be the best set of brothers to ever step onto a basketball court in Kansas City. JaRon the eldest brother he may have been the best high school basketball player Kansas City ever produced. While he and brother Kareem were enrolled at Pembroke High School they were a dynamic duo. JaRon was destined for Kansas but changed his mind and enrolled at UCLA. He left after his freshman year expecting to be drafted into the NBA. The call from the NBA never came; later JaRon was derailed by personal demons that caused the high ceiling to remain unfulfilled. His teammate and younger brother Kareem played at Mizzou and had a 12 year NBA and Euro career. The youngest brother Brandon was a high school standout at Kansas City’s Westport High School and Mount Zion Academy in North Carolina.
Enrolled at Kansas he left after his junior year for the NBA and with the Warriors is on his fourth NBA team. Shea doesn’t have the credentials of his dad JaRon or uncles Kareem and Brandon but can play. Shea is a 6-6 185 pound small forward attending Barstow High School in Kansas City. Shea’s in his senior year, although he’s made no commitment yet he’ll play for a college somewhere next fall. If Shea doesn’t earn a spot on a teams pro roster don’t be surprised to see him in a boardroom, he‘s a student first and athlete second. I titled this report “A trio+one,” I’m unsure if any of the uncles have off-spring playing basketball.
Naming rights
I believe we can relate to the financial reward attaching a company name to the front of a stadium or arena. Sometimes it’s just not a good fit in my opinion and I will provide examples. In 2014 The Pit home to the University of New Mexico Lobos announced a name change. The famous arena would become the WisePies Arena (AKA the Pit). WisePies Arena & Salad is a local Albuquerque restaurant. 1999 through 2014 the home of the Hornets (Pelicans) was known as New Orleans Arena. It was re-named the Smoothie King Center after Smoothie King a food retailer that caters fruit blended fruit-based drinks purchased naming rights.
The KFC Yum Center a 22,000 seat arena was opened with that name, the arena is home to Louisville basketball. KFC, Kentucky Fried Chicken need I go any further? The Sacramento Kings play in the Sleep Train Arena which will soon be replaced by the new Golden 1 Center. I hope Native Americans are not offended, there is nothing wrong with the name I believe it sounds strange on the front of an arena. The Phoenix Suns home was America West Arena until last season when it was re-named Talking Stick Resort Arena. There are stadiums and arenas omitted in this report but you get the idea I hope.
“Were number one!”
Which college will begin the famous; “Were number one” chant? The strange, wild and bizarre world of college basketball 2015-16 version continues. On Saturday number one Oklahoma in the AP Top 25 was bested by Kansas State. North Carolina number one in the USA Today Coaches Poll lost to the Notre Dame Irish. This is written prior to the latest poll however it’s probable Villanova or Maryland move into the top spot.
“Where there’s smoke”
Are you familiar with the old adage where there’s smoke there’s fire. 1. “If it looks like something is wrong, something probably is wrong. “ The reported improprieties with Louisville basketball cost a former assistant coach his job with the University of Missouri-Kansas City. You might remember the story escorts were supposed to have been supplied to players and recruits to provide sexual favors. Coach Rick Pitino claimed he was unaware of the alleged allegations and coverage of the story ceased. Last week Louisville announced no post-season basketball for them, what do we read into the statement?
1. Idioms; the free dictionary. COM
Compared to whom?
You might remember a few weeks ago I mentioned Stephen A. Smith said he believed Ben Simmons game was nearest that of former St. John’s forward Walter Berry. Not only did I challenge Smith’s statement but so did Seth Greenberg suggesting Smith was off base. How do other ESPN media members view Simmons game you ask? On a recent NBA Countdown program the following are the views of the analyst on who they think he compares.
The upfront disclaimer said he’s not going to be but we believe he might be closet to. Jay Williams says; “Magic Johnson.” Doris Burke chimed in with this response; “Although he’s bigger he compares to Draymon Green.” Jalen Rose said he believes he’s a combination of two players; “Lamar Odom and Grant Hill.” Fran Fraschila may have stated it best; the one criticism of Simmons game has been his lack of aggressiveness and shooting at times. Fraschila said; “If he doesn’t shot you have a 6-10 Rajon Rondo.”
A trio+one
The Rush brothers might be the best set of brothers to ever step onto a basketball court in Kansas City. JaRon the eldest brother he may have been the best high school basketball player Kansas City ever produced. While he and brother Kareem were enrolled at Pembroke High School they were a dynamic duo. JaRon was destined for Kansas but changed his mind and enrolled at UCLA. He left after his freshman year expecting to be drafted into the NBA. The call from the NBA never came; later JaRon was derailed by personal demons that caused the high ceiling to remain unfulfilled. His teammate and younger brother Kareem played at Mizzou and had a 12 year NBA and Euro career. The youngest brother Brandon was a high school standout at Kansas City’s Westport High School and Mount Zion Academy in North Carolina.
Enrolled at Kansas he left after his junior year for the NBA and with the Warriors is on his fourth NBA team. Shea doesn’t have the credentials of his dad JaRon or uncles Kareem and Brandon but can play. Shea is a 6-6 185 pound small forward attending Barstow High School in Kansas City. Shea’s in his senior year, although he’s made no commitment yet he’ll play for a college somewhere next fall. If Shea doesn’t earn a spot on a teams pro roster don’t be surprised to see him in a boardroom, he‘s a student first and athlete second. I titled this report “A trio+one,” I’m unsure if any of the uncles have off-spring playing basketball.
Naming rights
I believe we can relate to the financial reward attaching a company name to the front of a stadium or arena. Sometimes it’s just not a good fit in my opinion and I will provide examples. In 2014 The Pit home to the University of New Mexico Lobos announced a name change. The famous arena would become the WisePies Arena (AKA the Pit). WisePies Arena & Salad is a local Albuquerque restaurant. 1999 through 2014 the home of the Hornets (Pelicans) was known as New Orleans Arena. It was re-named the Smoothie King Center after Smoothie King a food retailer that caters fruit blended fruit-based drinks purchased naming rights.
The KFC Yum Center a 22,000 seat arena was opened with that name, the arena is home to Louisville basketball. KFC, Kentucky Fried Chicken need I go any further? The Sacramento Kings play in the Sleep Train Arena which will soon be replaced by the new Golden 1 Center. I hope Native Americans are not offended, there is nothing wrong with the name I believe it sounds strange on the front of an arena. The Phoenix Suns home was America West Arena until last season when it was re-named Talking Stick Resort Arena. There are stadiums and arenas omitted in this report but you get the idea I hope.
Sunday, February 7, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Junior college basketball
I believe this statement to be accurate; junior college basketball in the State of Kansas is among the best in the nation. California or maybe Texas might produce more junior college talent but that’s probably it. All schools in the state are members of the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference. It consists of 24 junior colleges spread throughout the state and divided into three conferences. Kansas City Kansas and Johnson County are likely the only urban conference members; the other schools are located in rural and small towns.
A long list of NBA talent embarked on their basketball careers at the junior college level. Why are they forced to attend junior colleges you ask? A number must build up their G.P.A. in order to qualify for 4-year schools while others may not have been recruited. As for others they must raise their level of play in order to compete at a Division I school. Although they didn’t play at Kansas Junior Colleges Hall of Fame players, Nate “Tiny” Archibald, Artis Gilmore, Mitch Richmond and Spencer Haywood are just a few who began NBA careers at a junior college.
She’s hired to officiate
Laura Holtkamp was hired as an NBA referee in 2014-15. Holtkamp had officiated in the
D-League the two previous years. Prior to her D-League experience she was a WNBA official for four seasons. Six years of officiating prior to her NBA hire the point Holtkamp has plenty of mileage as a basketball official. Officials are evaluated at the end of the season by the league if they don’t make the grade they are not invited back. This is written in response to a number of emails I read regarding Holtkamp and Chris Paul. I’m not intending to debate whether the call was valid or not however I intend to defend Holtkamp. A number of the complaints regarding Holtkamp were sexist in nature.
One writer even suggested “She go back to officiating in the WNBA.” How about the men, remember former referee Steve Javie once gave Rasheed Wallace a technical for “looking at him.” Back in the day Ron Garretson didn’t take any backtalk from players. Joey Crawford once ejected Tim Duncan for laughing while Duncan was seated on the bench. Are these valid examples of officials abusing their power who truly knows---what I do know they are all male officials? I’m sure there were no references to their gender when complaining about their officiating.
They call him coach
NBA basketball stood at attention when they heard the news. The Celtics hired college Coach Brad Stevens to replace the departed Doc Rivers. They said; “College coaches don’t have much success in the NBA.” We could state with conviction Larry Brown might be the only exception to that statement.” We are three years down the road and let’s check the record. The 2013-14 team finished 25-57, last season the Celtics were two games below .500 40-42. As this is written the Celtics stand 28-22 and have returned to competitive basketball once again.
By the way that college guy Stevens is still on the job and there have been no complaints as he’s established his NBA credentials. His wife told a funny story about her husband on 60 Minutes. Tracy Stevens claims; “On our third date he drove an hour and half to attend a high school basketball game.” Tracy Stevens claims she became fully aware of her future husbands love for basketball, at that time he was serving as a Butler assistant. He would become head coach at Butler in 2007 and would remain until July of 2013 when he was hired by the Celtics. Last years team reached the playoffs but was eliminated in the first round, it’s likely this is not the last time the Celtics make the playoffs with Stevens at the helm.
Have they bottomed out?
Awhile back I wrote Mizzou fans are always fearful, something dreadful is going to occur to the basketball program. Just wait and see they might say and sure enough the dreadful occurs. The Tigers are in last place in the SEC and show little signs of improvement. The dreadful, two players were arrested by the Columbia (MO) police charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. Both have been suspended and I will shocked if they remain on the team.
I believe the team has now hit rock bottom students and fans are staying away from the games in droves. In the last game you could “toss a rock at an angle and miss hitting anyone.” I believe Kim Anderson is a good guy but he might be overmatched getting the Mizzou program back on its feet. “Hindsight is always better than foresight,” Anderson should have been hired 15 years ago when he first interviewed for the head coaching position. There are plenty of coaching candidates available but who might want the Mizzou job at this point in time?
Junior college basketball
I believe this statement to be accurate; junior college basketball in the State of Kansas is among the best in the nation. California or maybe Texas might produce more junior college talent but that’s probably it. All schools in the state are members of the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference. It consists of 24 junior colleges spread throughout the state and divided into three conferences. Kansas City Kansas and Johnson County are likely the only urban conference members; the other schools are located in rural and small towns.
A long list of NBA talent embarked on their basketball careers at the junior college level. Why are they forced to attend junior colleges you ask? A number must build up their G.P.A. in order to qualify for 4-year schools while others may not have been recruited. As for others they must raise their level of play in order to compete at a Division I school. Although they didn’t play at Kansas Junior Colleges Hall of Fame players, Nate “Tiny” Archibald, Artis Gilmore, Mitch Richmond and Spencer Haywood are just a few who began NBA careers at a junior college.
She’s hired to officiate
Laura Holtkamp was hired as an NBA referee in 2014-15. Holtkamp had officiated in the
D-League the two previous years. Prior to her D-League experience she was a WNBA official for four seasons. Six years of officiating prior to her NBA hire the point Holtkamp has plenty of mileage as a basketball official. Officials are evaluated at the end of the season by the league if they don’t make the grade they are not invited back. This is written in response to a number of emails I read regarding Holtkamp and Chris Paul. I’m not intending to debate whether the call was valid or not however I intend to defend Holtkamp. A number of the complaints regarding Holtkamp were sexist in nature.
One writer even suggested “She go back to officiating in the WNBA.” How about the men, remember former referee Steve Javie once gave Rasheed Wallace a technical for “looking at him.” Back in the day Ron Garretson didn’t take any backtalk from players. Joey Crawford once ejected Tim Duncan for laughing while Duncan was seated on the bench. Are these valid examples of officials abusing their power who truly knows---what I do know they are all male officials? I’m sure there were no references to their gender when complaining about their officiating.
They call him coach
NBA basketball stood at attention when they heard the news. The Celtics hired college Coach Brad Stevens to replace the departed Doc Rivers. They said; “College coaches don’t have much success in the NBA.” We could state with conviction Larry Brown might be the only exception to that statement.” We are three years down the road and let’s check the record. The 2013-14 team finished 25-57, last season the Celtics were two games below .500 40-42. As this is written the Celtics stand 28-22 and have returned to competitive basketball once again.
By the way that college guy Stevens is still on the job and there have been no complaints as he’s established his NBA credentials. His wife told a funny story about her husband on 60 Minutes. Tracy Stevens claims; “On our third date he drove an hour and half to attend a high school basketball game.” Tracy Stevens claims she became fully aware of her future husbands love for basketball, at that time he was serving as a Butler assistant. He would become head coach at Butler in 2007 and would remain until July of 2013 when he was hired by the Celtics. Last years team reached the playoffs but was eliminated in the first round, it’s likely this is not the last time the Celtics make the playoffs with Stevens at the helm.
Have they bottomed out?
Awhile back I wrote Mizzou fans are always fearful, something dreadful is going to occur to the basketball program. Just wait and see they might say and sure enough the dreadful occurs. The Tigers are in last place in the SEC and show little signs of improvement. The dreadful, two players were arrested by the Columbia (MO) police charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. Both have been suspended and I will shocked if they remain on the team.
I believe the team has now hit rock bottom students and fans are staying away from the games in droves. In the last game you could “toss a rock at an angle and miss hitting anyone.” I believe Kim Anderson is a good guy but he might be overmatched getting the Mizzou program back on its feet. “Hindsight is always better than foresight,” Anderson should have been hired 15 years ago when he first interviewed for the head coaching position. There are plenty of coaching candidates available but who might want the Mizzou job at this point in time?
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