Basketball from a fans perspective
The Flood
We all believed Ben Simmons was one n done at LSU; there were others on the periphery such as Kris Dunn of Providence and Cheick Diallo at Kansas. These two declared they were leaving for the NBA as for the others the trickle has become a flood as an increasing number of players announce their intentions.
I’m making no attempt to provide a complete list for fear of over looking a prospect. It appears the majority have not hired an agent, hiring an agent the player is saying good-by to college. Its likely most desire an assessment, by working out for an NBA team they are able to determine their draft status. As for the numbers Coach Cal indicates his entire Kentucky roster is headed for NBA tryouts.
This is different
Sophomore Tyler Ulis was selected to the Associated Press All-American First Team. In this day of one n done athletes the Kentucky point guard was the only underclassmen on the first team, the other honorees are seniors. Is this proof of a down year in college basketball or did most of the talent lie with a senior class? You can draw your own conclusions as for the others they are; Denzel Valentine-Michigan State, Buddy Hield-Oklahoma, Brice Johnson-North Carolina and Malcolm Brogdon-Virginia.
What’s in a name
I know it’s just me but I’ve always expected a team mascot to be a scary something. It would be a beast so terrifying the opposing team is in fear and is defeated mentally prior to walking onto the court. Okay that’s an exaggeration but I hope you get the point. The Jackrabbits of South Dakota State don’t sound very intimidating, how about the University of Missouri Kansas City Kangaroos. Okay we’ve read stories of boxing kangaroos so I’ll leave that one alone. The dictionary definition states a terrapin is “a freshwater turtle especially one of the smaller kinds of the old world.”
In other words we should have no fear of the Maryland Terrapins because they are little animals. Anteaters not intimidating for you notify the UC-Irvine Anteaters. The Delaware Blue Hens I guess chickens could be a threat unless they are at KFC or Popeye’s. Creighton’s had a number of successful teams despite being the Bluejays, an eagle or hawk scary a blue jay? We could make the same statement regarding Oregon Ducks. Those are just a few that stand out perhaps you can add others. Of course there are plenty of scary bears, lions, cougars, wolves and the like.
Is location that important
ESPN’s Mike Wilbon was discussing NBA free agency recently. He stated; “Cleveland is not going to be a destination for free-agents they will go where the climate is mild.” His list contained the Lakers, Clippers, Heat, Suns and Warriors as possible destinations for free-agents. I wonder if Wilbon’s view is correct for a number of reasons.
Greg Monroe left the Pistons for the Bucks despite the Lakers had bid for his services. That tosses Wilbon’s observation completely out of the window, he exchanged the cold winters of Detroit for the cold winters of Wisconsin when he could have had Southern California. At the same time the Knicks have not attracted any quality free agents either so the cold winters of New York might be a key reason. Then again it could be neither the Knicks or Lakers are very good right now one warm weather and one cold weather team.
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Stop me if you heard this one?
It seems Dwight Howard is linked to every team in the NBA, according to Bleacher Report this time it’s the Orlando Magic. Wait a minute isn’t that where he began his NBA career? Didn’t he toss the Magic coach under the bus and then demand a trade? He got a trade to the Lakers but he disliked Kobe, the Lakers and Southern California (okay I made up the last one). Free agent time Howard decided the Rockets were a better fit so he left the Lakers.
Three years later he wants out of Houston, something about a problem with a guy named James Harden. At some point I’m not exactly sure rumors began circulating Howard planned a move. The Magic are just a long line of teams he’s interested in playing for. Dwight Howard can play, Howard has game. Is he the type of player to lead your team to an NBA Championship, I can say emphatically no. Dwight Howard is an enigma a talented player who never seemed to have found a place in the NBA he could feel comfortable.
I’m unsure now
The second dreadful season at Mizzou was drawing to a close. The school announced a self-imposed sanction due to past indiscretions with the program. Then rumors began circulating Coach Kim Anderson may or may not return; finally the AD announced the coach would return for the 2016-17 season. Then another bombshell as two key guards Namon Wright and Tramaine Isabell decided to transfer. The pair becomes the fourth and fifth player to leave since last fall certainly not good for any program.
Mizzou has three incoming freshman so the transfers may create two scholarships opportunities not there previously. The larger issue Mizzou is not Kentucky; Coach Anderson is not Coach Cal. There is a key reason Ryan Roseburg was the only senior over the last few years Mizzou is losing players to transfer rather than graduation or eligibility expiration. Don’t intend to be a doom and gloom guy but Mizzou’s basketball program is close to the edge of the cliff about to tumble over the edge.
Bits n Pieces
Baylor power forward Rico Gathers indicates he is seeking an NFL career over the NBA. The guy certainly has the size at 6-8 275 pounds although he‘s not played football since age 14. He wouldn’t be the first in the NFL to have played basketball. I remember first seeing former NFL tight end Tony Gonzales in a California basketball jersey. Charger tight end Antonio Gates never played football in college he was a basketball player at Kent State. A number of former and present day NFL stars exhibited talent on the basketball court before going on to a football career.
We’ve mentioned on more than one occasion the amount of talent that’s arrived and continues to come from nations on the African continent. I was surprised; one nation has sent more players to the NBA than the others. Up to and including the current season 14 players from the nation of Nigeria have played in the NBA. Second behind Nigeria is Senegal with 9 and The Democratic Republic of the Congo with 4.
Louisville is not participating in any tournament this year but they have a rich history in that area. The Cardinals won the 1948 NAIA tourney, the 1956 NIT tourney and the NCAA Division I in 1980, 1986 and 2013. Louisville is the only school to win NAIA and NCAA Championships.
Roy Hibbert has got to be the biggest disappointment for the Lakers this season. It appeared he no longer figured in Pacer plans for the future so that’s why they found it easy to trade him. As I stated last summer I didn’t expect the second coming of any former Laker Big Men but I expected better. After two successive sub-par Pacer seasons he’s at an all-time low with the Lakers. 6.3 ppg and 5 rebounds for a 7-2 270 pound center, I cannot disguise my frustration in the play of Hibbert.
Buddy Hield’s NCAA run has caused his draft stock to rise significantly, will he pass Ben Simmons is the question posed by ESPN.com. NBADraft.net moved Hield up to number three currently behind number two Simmons. Hield has demonstrated Steph Curry shooting all season and into the tourney but I doubt he passes Simmons for one reason, he is 6 feet 4 inches while Simmons stands 6 feet 10 inches.
Stop me if you heard this one?
It seems Dwight Howard is linked to every team in the NBA, according to Bleacher Report this time it’s the Orlando Magic. Wait a minute isn’t that where he began his NBA career? Didn’t he toss the Magic coach under the bus and then demand a trade? He got a trade to the Lakers but he disliked Kobe, the Lakers and Southern California (okay I made up the last one). Free agent time Howard decided the Rockets were a better fit so he left the Lakers.
Three years later he wants out of Houston, something about a problem with a guy named James Harden. At some point I’m not exactly sure rumors began circulating Howard planned a move. The Magic are just a long line of teams he’s interested in playing for. Dwight Howard can play, Howard has game. Is he the type of player to lead your team to an NBA Championship, I can say emphatically no. Dwight Howard is an enigma a talented player who never seemed to have found a place in the NBA he could feel comfortable.
I’m unsure now
The second dreadful season at Mizzou was drawing to a close. The school announced a self-imposed sanction due to past indiscretions with the program. Then rumors began circulating Coach Kim Anderson may or may not return; finally the AD announced the coach would return for the 2016-17 season. Then another bombshell as two key guards Namon Wright and Tramaine Isabell decided to transfer. The pair becomes the fourth and fifth player to leave since last fall certainly not good for any program.
Mizzou has three incoming freshman so the transfers may create two scholarships opportunities not there previously. The larger issue Mizzou is not Kentucky; Coach Anderson is not Coach Cal. There is a key reason Ryan Roseburg was the only senior over the last few years Mizzou is losing players to transfer rather than graduation or eligibility expiration. Don’t intend to be a doom and gloom guy but Mizzou’s basketball program is close to the edge of the cliff about to tumble over the edge.
Bits n Pieces
Baylor power forward Rico Gathers indicates he is seeking an NFL career over the NBA. The guy certainly has the size at 6-8 275 pounds although he‘s not played football since age 14. He wouldn’t be the first in the NFL to have played basketball. I remember first seeing former NFL tight end Tony Gonzales in a California basketball jersey. Charger tight end Antonio Gates never played football in college he was a basketball player at Kent State. A number of former and present day NFL stars exhibited talent on the basketball court before going on to a football career.
We’ve mentioned on more than one occasion the amount of talent that’s arrived and continues to come from nations on the African continent. I was surprised; one nation has sent more players to the NBA than the others. Up to and including the current season 14 players from the nation of Nigeria have played in the NBA. Second behind Nigeria is Senegal with 9 and The Democratic Republic of the Congo with 4.
Louisville is not participating in any tournament this year but they have a rich history in that area. The Cardinals won the 1948 NAIA tourney, the 1956 NIT tourney and the NCAA Division I in 1980, 1986 and 2013. Louisville is the only school to win NAIA and NCAA Championships.
Roy Hibbert has got to be the biggest disappointment for the Lakers this season. It appeared he no longer figured in Pacer plans for the future so that’s why they found it easy to trade him. As I stated last summer I didn’t expect the second coming of any former Laker Big Men but I expected better. After two successive sub-par Pacer seasons he’s at an all-time low with the Lakers. 6.3 ppg and 5 rebounds for a 7-2 270 pound center, I cannot disguise my frustration in the play of Hibbert.
Buddy Hield’s NCAA run has caused his draft stock to rise significantly, will he pass Ben Simmons is the question posed by ESPN.com. NBADraft.net moved Hield up to number three currently behind number two Simmons. Hield has demonstrated Steph Curry shooting all season and into the tourney but I doubt he passes Simmons for one reason, he is 6 feet 4 inches while Simmons stands 6 feet 10 inches.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I hate that guy!
IF Roy Williams Carolina team wins the whole thing next Monday the criticism will rain down like hailstones. Celebrations will occur from coast to coast except in the 34th state admitted to the union. Okay I got carried away there will be celebrating in North Carolina however the balance of the nation might simply say; “Okay.” The only doom and gloom in the country will be several folks in the 34th state of the union. For those who might be American History challenged I will save you from researching the question the 34th state admitted to the union would be Kansas.
I’m unsure which is the most hated in the Sunflower State Mizzou basketball or Roy Williams. As for the coach Kansas fans still detest him for leaving their storied basketball program for Carolina. To top it all despite turning out numerous successful teams at Kansas Williams was never able to “reach the peak of the mountain.” Once he returned to his alma mater his Carolina team was crowned NCAA Champions in his second year (2005); in 2009 his Carolina team was able to win a second championship. This is written a week in advance Carolina might not win---on the other hand?
The headline
The website Lakers Nation ran a headline from Hall of Fame Laker Jamal Wilkes; “Kobe Bryant’s Farewell Tour Has Been A Distraction For Lakers.” I remember back to his retirement announcement I shared with you I was concerned despite his best effort the former Kobe was no more. It pained me to watch him take shot after shot and miss, I said “He should retire at the All Star” break which didn’t occur. Bottom line the former Kobe has shown up for time to time but has mostly been M.I.A. I didn’t read the Wilkes article just the headline so I have no idea of his thoughts however it appears they are are likely similar to mine. No more evidence is required than the score of the game last night. The Lakers lost by 48 points (123-75) to tie the worst in Laker history, Kobe was 1-11 from the floor with 5 points.
Promise unfulfilled
I just now realized this bit of information; Kwame Brown, Eddy Curry and Tyson Chandler all arrived in the NBA from high school the same year. All arrived with high expectations of their potential, Big Young Men who displayed vast potential at the high school level. Of the trio we can state with conviction Chandler is the only one that managed a respectable NBA career. Chandler has played for a number of teams and currently is with the Suns; in addition he’s an NBA Champion. As for the other two their NBA experience was less than impressive to say the least. Brown would become the first choice in the 2001 NBA Draft by the Wizards he would play for seven NBA teams leaving the NBA in 2013.
Brown at 6-11 and 290 pounds would compile a 6.6 per game scoring average and 5.5 rebounds during his NBA career. Eddy Curry all 7-feet 290 pounds was expected to dominate, he was the fourth pick in the 2001 draft. After being chosen by the Bulls he managed to play for three other NBA teams before concluding his career in 2013 while playing in China. Curry left the NBA with a 12.9 point and 5.2 rebounds a game average. Chandler would become the second pick in the first round of the 2001 draft. Although he too played for a number of teams he became a defensive specialist with a limited offensive game. Defensive Player of the Year (2012), All Defensive First Team (2013), All Defensive Second Team (2011, 2012). Naturally there is no one reason for the checkered careers of Brown and Curry.
I don’t buy it
A former coach whom I respect made a comment regarding this year’s crop of seniors. He said; “If they were any good they would have left after their freshman year.” That’s bothersome on several levels, are we encouraging the number of one and done players? The additional story is maturity in years and basketball skill. I will provide you proof; Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram are both considered the top two players in the 2016 draft. Right behind them might be Buddy Hield, Denzel Valentine or Kris Dunn check out their frosh numbers.
Hield scored at 7.8 points per game clip as for Valentine his scoring was even lower 5.0 points and 4.1 rebounds. As for Dunn coming off a June surgery he didn’t play until late December however in 25 games his numbers were 5.7 points ppg. I have no way to determine the thought process of each teams coaching staff, perhaps the players themselves may have had doubts of their ability. We sometimes fail to realize the leap from big time high school basketball to Division I basketball is about 25,000 miles per hour.
I hate that guy!
IF Roy Williams Carolina team wins the whole thing next Monday the criticism will rain down like hailstones. Celebrations will occur from coast to coast except in the 34th state admitted to the union. Okay I got carried away there will be celebrating in North Carolina however the balance of the nation might simply say; “Okay.” The only doom and gloom in the country will be several folks in the 34th state of the union. For those who might be American History challenged I will save you from researching the question the 34th state admitted to the union would be Kansas.
I’m unsure which is the most hated in the Sunflower State Mizzou basketball or Roy Williams. As for the coach Kansas fans still detest him for leaving their storied basketball program for Carolina. To top it all despite turning out numerous successful teams at Kansas Williams was never able to “reach the peak of the mountain.” Once he returned to his alma mater his Carolina team was crowned NCAA Champions in his second year (2005); in 2009 his Carolina team was able to win a second championship. This is written a week in advance Carolina might not win---on the other hand?
The headline
The website Lakers Nation ran a headline from Hall of Fame Laker Jamal Wilkes; “Kobe Bryant’s Farewell Tour Has Been A Distraction For Lakers.” I remember back to his retirement announcement I shared with you I was concerned despite his best effort the former Kobe was no more. It pained me to watch him take shot after shot and miss, I said “He should retire at the All Star” break which didn’t occur. Bottom line the former Kobe has shown up for time to time but has mostly been M.I.A. I didn’t read the Wilkes article just the headline so I have no idea of his thoughts however it appears they are are likely similar to mine. No more evidence is required than the score of the game last night. The Lakers lost by 48 points (123-75) to tie the worst in Laker history, Kobe was 1-11 from the floor with 5 points.
Promise unfulfilled
I just now realized this bit of information; Kwame Brown, Eddy Curry and Tyson Chandler all arrived in the NBA from high school the same year. All arrived with high expectations of their potential, Big Young Men who displayed vast potential at the high school level. Of the trio we can state with conviction Chandler is the only one that managed a respectable NBA career. Chandler has played for a number of teams and currently is with the Suns; in addition he’s an NBA Champion. As for the other two their NBA experience was less than impressive to say the least. Brown would become the first choice in the 2001 NBA Draft by the Wizards he would play for seven NBA teams leaving the NBA in 2013.
Brown at 6-11 and 290 pounds would compile a 6.6 per game scoring average and 5.5 rebounds during his NBA career. Eddy Curry all 7-feet 290 pounds was expected to dominate, he was the fourth pick in the 2001 draft. After being chosen by the Bulls he managed to play for three other NBA teams before concluding his career in 2013 while playing in China. Curry left the NBA with a 12.9 point and 5.2 rebounds a game average. Chandler would become the second pick in the first round of the 2001 draft. Although he too played for a number of teams he became a defensive specialist with a limited offensive game. Defensive Player of the Year (2012), All Defensive First Team (2013), All Defensive Second Team (2011, 2012). Naturally there is no one reason for the checkered careers of Brown and Curry.
I don’t buy it
A former coach whom I respect made a comment regarding this year’s crop of seniors. He said; “If they were any good they would have left after their freshman year.” That’s bothersome on several levels, are we encouraging the number of one and done players? The additional story is maturity in years and basketball skill. I will provide you proof; Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram are both considered the top two players in the 2016 draft. Right behind them might be Buddy Hield, Denzel Valentine or Kris Dunn check out their frosh numbers.
Hield scored at 7.8 points per game clip as for Valentine his scoring was even lower 5.0 points and 4.1 rebounds. As for Dunn coming off a June surgery he didn’t play until late December however in 25 games his numbers were 5.7 points ppg. I have no way to determine the thought process of each teams coaching staff, perhaps the players themselves may have had doubts of their ability. We sometimes fail to realize the leap from big time high school basketball to Division I basketball is about 25,000 miles per hour.
Monday, March 28, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The barber shop
A visit to the barber shop during basketball season always promotes a candid “State of the Basketball Universe Discussion.” An example might be this past Saturday morning. Naturally the NCAA tourney was a prime topic, I’m not sure what occurred before I arrived however I mentioned to my barber Buddy Hield played his high school ball in Wichita. I went on to say Bill Self allowed him to “escape” to Oklahoma. The response from my barber; “Hield is not the kind of player Self recruits" he didn’t elaborate any further. Barber #2 chimed in with his view of LSU’s Ben Simmons; “He’s playing exactly like (Andrew) Wiggins did when he was at Kansas.”
Barber #2 again; “LeBron James is in the middle of the season and he’s talking about playing with somebody else other than his present teammates.” Then talk focused on the recent Baylor-Harvard match. This is me; “Scott Drew certainly can recruit I’m not sure how good an X and O guy he is.” Patron #1; “Yes his teams always come up a little short.” It’s not just basketball and sports we discussed the recent Kansas City Star contest on the best chicken restaurants in the metro. That’s just a brief synopsis of the many barber shop conversations held today. We didn’t solve any issues but the talk was certainly interesting.
Quit beggin’
The outcome of the Kansas-Villanova game was different than most expected. The Wildcats managed to slip past the Jayhawks 64-59. I didn’t witness the game so it’s probably unfair of me to just look at the numbers. After reading numerous letters of complaint about the officiating especially a foul on Devonte Graham of Kansas I decided to conduct a little research. I was unable to locate video of the “questionable foul” however I will continue to search. As for the numbers they are; Field goal shooting Kansas 46% Villanova 40%. The 3-point shooting Kansas 27.3% Villanova 22.2 rebounds Kansas 32 Villanova 28. The rubber hit’s the road here; Turnovers Kansas 16 Villanova 9, free-throw percentage Kansas 63.6% Villanova 94.7% and finally steals Kansas 5 Villanova 11.
I will conclude with the crucial turnover Frank Mason contributed at a point Kansas was down one point with seconds remaining in the game. Did I mention not one Kansas player emerging from the bench scored, 0 points from the Kansas bench. I’m reminded years ago when I was in a bowling league I missed a strike I should have made, after the wiggling pin refused to fall I tried body English leaning to one side in order to get the pin to fall. A guy on the competing team told me; “Quit beggin.” Kansas fans quit beggin’ your team lost the game because they failed at several points to put the Wildcats away. I refuse to believe one foul call legitimate or not is going to change the outcome of a 40 minute basketball game.
Mid-major
The term mid-major came into usage in 1977 it was coined by the then head basketball coach of Catholic University. The Big 10, Big 12, PAC-12, ACC and SEC he used the term the “Power Five” conferences the balance of schools he considered “mid-major“. Many of us believed the term was based on student enrollment. It had nothing to do with student enrollment in fact a number of the Power Five conferences (Notre Dame & Northwestern) have student enrollment below that of mid-majors New Mexico State or Missouri State. I’m reminded of the movie Hoosiers, the scene where the Hickory team first walked into Butler Field house.
The Hickory team appeared amazed at the size of the building having played in small high school gyms. Coach Dale (Gene Hackman) had Buddy measure the height of the basket from the floor? They discovered the basket was the same height in their tiny Hickory gym as it was in massive Butlerfield house. A number of players who made there way to the NBA could have played at any Power Five school. Ask Blazer Damian Lillard (Weber State) or the Spurs Kahwi Leonard (San Diego State) the question. We could include the Nuggets Kenneth Faried; “The Manimal” honed his basketball skills at Morehead State or the Bulls Jimmy Butler (Marquette).
The barber shop
A visit to the barber shop during basketball season always promotes a candid “State of the Basketball Universe Discussion.” An example might be this past Saturday morning. Naturally the NCAA tourney was a prime topic, I’m not sure what occurred before I arrived however I mentioned to my barber Buddy Hield played his high school ball in Wichita. I went on to say Bill Self allowed him to “escape” to Oklahoma. The response from my barber; “Hield is not the kind of player Self recruits" he didn’t elaborate any further. Barber #2 chimed in with his view of LSU’s Ben Simmons; “He’s playing exactly like (Andrew) Wiggins did when he was at Kansas.”
Barber #2 again; “LeBron James is in the middle of the season and he’s talking about playing with somebody else other than his present teammates.” Then talk focused on the recent Baylor-Harvard match. This is me; “Scott Drew certainly can recruit I’m not sure how good an X and O guy he is.” Patron #1; “Yes his teams always come up a little short.” It’s not just basketball and sports we discussed the recent Kansas City Star contest on the best chicken restaurants in the metro. That’s just a brief synopsis of the many barber shop conversations held today. We didn’t solve any issues but the talk was certainly interesting.
Quit beggin’
The outcome of the Kansas-Villanova game was different than most expected. The Wildcats managed to slip past the Jayhawks 64-59. I didn’t witness the game so it’s probably unfair of me to just look at the numbers. After reading numerous letters of complaint about the officiating especially a foul on Devonte Graham of Kansas I decided to conduct a little research. I was unable to locate video of the “questionable foul” however I will continue to search. As for the numbers they are; Field goal shooting Kansas 46% Villanova 40%. The 3-point shooting Kansas 27.3% Villanova 22.2 rebounds Kansas 32 Villanova 28. The rubber hit’s the road here; Turnovers Kansas 16 Villanova 9, free-throw percentage Kansas 63.6% Villanova 94.7% and finally steals Kansas 5 Villanova 11.
I will conclude with the crucial turnover Frank Mason contributed at a point Kansas was down one point with seconds remaining in the game. Did I mention not one Kansas player emerging from the bench scored, 0 points from the Kansas bench. I’m reminded years ago when I was in a bowling league I missed a strike I should have made, after the wiggling pin refused to fall I tried body English leaning to one side in order to get the pin to fall. A guy on the competing team told me; “Quit beggin.” Kansas fans quit beggin’ your team lost the game because they failed at several points to put the Wildcats away. I refuse to believe one foul call legitimate or not is going to change the outcome of a 40 minute basketball game.
Mid-major
The term mid-major came into usage in 1977 it was coined by the then head basketball coach of Catholic University. The Big 10, Big 12, PAC-12, ACC and SEC he used the term the “Power Five” conferences the balance of schools he considered “mid-major“. Many of us believed the term was based on student enrollment. It had nothing to do with student enrollment in fact a number of the Power Five conferences (Notre Dame & Northwestern) have student enrollment below that of mid-majors New Mexico State or Missouri State. I’m reminded of the movie Hoosiers, the scene where the Hickory team first walked into Butler Field house.
The Hickory team appeared amazed at the size of the building having played in small high school gyms. Coach Dale (Gene Hackman) had Buddy measure the height of the basket from the floor? They discovered the basket was the same height in their tiny Hickory gym as it was in massive Butlerfield house. A number of players who made there way to the NBA could have played at any Power Five school. Ask Blazer Damian Lillard (Weber State) or the Spurs Kahwi Leonard (San Diego State) the question. We could include the Nuggets Kenneth Faried; “The Manimal” honed his basketball skills at Morehead State or the Bulls Jimmy Butler (Marquette).
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Should I be nervous?
Remember the date Larry Laker predicted the Warriors would not break the all-time won loss record established by the Jordan Bulls? Saturday morning as this is written the Warriors stand 65 up and 7 down a total of 72 games. They have 10 games remaining in the regular season, three road games @ Utah, Memphis and San Antonio in that order. The remaining home games are: Philly, Washington, Boston, Portland, San Antonio and Memphis. Is my prediction still safe or should I be nervous?
“Super Friends”
LeBron James is bothering me on a number of levels. I’d reach a point of forgiveness, he returned to Cleveland and all was well in the land. We are into his second year “home” the Cavs have the best record in the East Conference and it’s possible they could play for a championship. All is not right with LeBron, as we begin the countdown to the end of the season he announces “I want to play with my friends.”
The difficulty his “Super Friends” play for the Heat, Knicks, and Clippers and LeBron remains a Cavalier at least for now. This might be the latest indication of his dissatisfaction with the Cavs. He appears unhappy despite moves made by management to placate him. Example the Cavs traded for the player he wanted (Love), got the coach he wanted (Lue) and made a trade in February Channing Frye and LeBron still appears dejected.
One of the Super Friends Carmelo Anthony made his intentions known. He indicated he wanted a warm weather climate. Carmelo has dealt with the cold, cold New York winters of New York for several years now. It appears he doesn’t want to endure Cleveland‘s cold, cold winters. Could there be a return to South Beach for LeBron and the Super Friends? For clarity purposes I must inform you this view expressed by LeBron was February Bleacher Report released in the middle of March.
Is he a point?
We can’t figure out Michigan State’s Denzel Valentine not his game the position he plays. The 6-6 220 pound athlete appears skilled at more than one position on the court. Is he a shooting guard (19.0 ppg) a point (7 assists a game) or a point-forward (7 rebounds a game)? I remember last season scouts questioned whether D’Angelo Russell at 190 pounds might be to slight for NBA play.
We don’t believe that will be an issue for Valentine packing a solid 220 pounds on his frame. As usual it’s never easy to project him or anyone else at the next level; Valentine is listed number 16 on one team’s mock draft and 19 on another. This we can state with certainly he will be drafted how he manages to adjust to NBA play is strictly ability, opportunity and continued growth of his game.
Bits n Pieces
One grew up in Melbourne Australia the other in Louisville Kentucky probably 10,000 plus air miles apart. Despite the mileage difference they share a common bond. LSU’s Ben Simmons and Laker point guard D’Angelo Russell were teammates at Montverde Academy. This private college preparatory school is located in the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro. I ain’t sayn’ nothing just providing information.
This is a partial apology on my part; I’ve made several not nice comments about the Clippers. After viewing them implode once again I realize M.I.A. Blake Griffin is important to the well-being of this team. In a manner of speaking this is his fault he could have returned by now if not for the off court fight. You remember he is still facing a four game suspension once he returns to action.
I don’t know what to read in this move by Laker GM Mitch Kupchak. He flew to Israel recently on a scouting mission. The purpose of his journey to the Middle East was to check out 7-1 forward Dragan Bender. Bender from Croatia plays for Macabbi Tel Aviv and is a Top 10 draft prospect for 2016. He’s a skinny 216 pounds and certainly must gain weight to play in the NBA. Is it necessary for Bender to pack on another 40 pounds probably not, muscle is more important than weight. Whether he plays power forward or center he must avoid being pushed around.
Should I be nervous?
Remember the date Larry Laker predicted the Warriors would not break the all-time won loss record established by the Jordan Bulls? Saturday morning as this is written the Warriors stand 65 up and 7 down a total of 72 games. They have 10 games remaining in the regular season, three road games @ Utah, Memphis and San Antonio in that order. The remaining home games are: Philly, Washington, Boston, Portland, San Antonio and Memphis. Is my prediction still safe or should I be nervous?
“Super Friends”
LeBron James is bothering me on a number of levels. I’d reach a point of forgiveness, he returned to Cleveland and all was well in the land. We are into his second year “home” the Cavs have the best record in the East Conference and it’s possible they could play for a championship. All is not right with LeBron, as we begin the countdown to the end of the season he announces “I want to play with my friends.”
The difficulty his “Super Friends” play for the Heat, Knicks, and Clippers and LeBron remains a Cavalier at least for now. This might be the latest indication of his dissatisfaction with the Cavs. He appears unhappy despite moves made by management to placate him. Example the Cavs traded for the player he wanted (Love), got the coach he wanted (Lue) and made a trade in February Channing Frye and LeBron still appears dejected.
One of the Super Friends Carmelo Anthony made his intentions known. He indicated he wanted a warm weather climate. Carmelo has dealt with the cold, cold New York winters of New York for several years now. It appears he doesn’t want to endure Cleveland‘s cold, cold winters. Could there be a return to South Beach for LeBron and the Super Friends? For clarity purposes I must inform you this view expressed by LeBron was February Bleacher Report released in the middle of March.
Is he a point?
We can’t figure out Michigan State’s Denzel Valentine not his game the position he plays. The 6-6 220 pound athlete appears skilled at more than one position on the court. Is he a shooting guard (19.0 ppg) a point (7 assists a game) or a point-forward (7 rebounds a game)? I remember last season scouts questioned whether D’Angelo Russell at 190 pounds might be to slight for NBA play.
We don’t believe that will be an issue for Valentine packing a solid 220 pounds on his frame. As usual it’s never easy to project him or anyone else at the next level; Valentine is listed number 16 on one team’s mock draft and 19 on another. This we can state with certainly he will be drafted how he manages to adjust to NBA play is strictly ability, opportunity and continued growth of his game.
Bits n Pieces
One grew up in Melbourne Australia the other in Louisville Kentucky probably 10,000 plus air miles apart. Despite the mileage difference they share a common bond. LSU’s Ben Simmons and Laker point guard D’Angelo Russell were teammates at Montverde Academy. This private college preparatory school is located in the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro. I ain’t sayn’ nothing just providing information.
This is a partial apology on my part; I’ve made several not nice comments about the Clippers. After viewing them implode once again I realize M.I.A. Blake Griffin is important to the well-being of this team. In a manner of speaking this is his fault he could have returned by now if not for the off court fight. You remember he is still facing a four game suspension once he returns to action.
I don’t know what to read in this move by Laker GM Mitch Kupchak. He flew to Israel recently on a scouting mission. The purpose of his journey to the Middle East was to check out 7-1 forward Dragan Bender. Bender from Croatia plays for Macabbi Tel Aviv and is a Top 10 draft prospect for 2016. He’s a skinny 216 pounds and certainly must gain weight to play in the NBA. Is it necessary for Bender to pack on another 40 pounds probably not, muscle is more important than weight. Whether he plays power forward or center he must avoid being pushed around.
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
McDonald‘s All-Star Game
One of the first and probably most prestigious All-Star games occurs next week. The McDonald’s All-Star Game will be held in the United Center Chicago on March 30. If you follow the high school game some of the featured names next week; Udoka Azuibuike the 6-11 270 pound center headed to Kansas will play for the East Squad. Teammates Jason Tatum 6-9 small forward from St. Louis will be joined by Kobi Simmons 6-6 point guard from Alpharetta Georgia.
Among the talent on the West Squad will be 6-5 point guard Lonzo Ball Chino Hills (CA) along with
7-0 center Zach Collins from Las Vegas and Frank Jackson 6-4 point guard Highland (UT). Those are but a few of the players who will be featured in the game. The majority of All-Americans have already made their minds up on their college of choice. If you live in the Chicago metro or in the area for vacation or business see the game in person as for the rest of us it will be available on ESPN check your time zone.
“He’s too old----really?”
This is written Thursday morning prior to the evening games and the “old” guys are still at it. They are coaching winning basketball despite the age difference between coach and their young teams. The junior of the coaching fraternity might be Roy Williams coaching North Carolina he’s 65 years old; Jim Larranaga Miami’s coach is age 66. Duke’s Coach K. is 69 and the “old” man is 71 year old Jim Boeheim with Syracuse.
The very oldest guy is not in the NCAA Tournament his team is on probation. 75 year old Larry Brown currently coaches the SMU Mustangs. This past season his Mustangs were 13-5 in the American Athletic Conference and 25-5 overall. On the other hand young assistants deserve an opportunity to become head coaches and should have that possibility. At the same time there is no requirement to kick an older coach out the door; there is something to be said for these old heads. NOTE: Duke and Miami were eliminated on Thursday.
I thought we’d heard the last of him
Everyone believed former Clippers owner Donald Sterling was in the rear-view mirror. Turns out that was/is not the case he’s still on the scene. His attorneys filed an anti trust lawsuit against the NBA over the sale of the Clippers. A Federal judge dismissed the case stating; “court is skeptical Sterling suffered any injury at all; let alone an anti trust injury.” Hey fans didn’t Steve Ballmer purchase the team for $2 billion dollars?
Didn’t Donald receive a portion of the dollars despite his on again off again marriage, currently the marriage is on Donald should be sharing? Truth is this is not a financial story this is likely an attempt by Sterling to continue his attempt to embarrass the NBA. Despite this latest setback his attorneys announced they are considering continuing the suit. Stay tuned for the next installment because it’s coming.
What if he refused
This what if could occur although it’s highly unlikely. Russillo & Kanell posed the question on their ESPN program “Suppose the 76ers receive the number one pick and Ben Simmons says I’m not going there.” The pair then held a discussion on the implied “tanking’ by the 76ers which has not proven beneficial. Strange as it might seem similar stories have played out in sports in the past so it wouldn’t be that unusual. NFL quarterback John Elway spent his entire career with the Broncos but he announced before the draft he would not play for the Colts who held the top pick.
Elway did have an out he was a baseball player and threatened to play for the Yankees if the Colts drafted him. The fearless Colts went ahead and drafted Elway yet they later traded him to the Broncos and the rest in history. Steve Francis was made the 2nd pick in the first round of the 1999 draft by the Vancouver Grizzlies. Complaints about distance from home, money exchange and host of other issues the Grizzlies traded him to the Rockets. The only time Francis set foot in Canada there after was as a member of an opposing team. This scenario may have played out in other instances however these two instances come to mind easily for me.
McDonald‘s All-Star Game
One of the first and probably most prestigious All-Star games occurs next week. The McDonald’s All-Star Game will be held in the United Center Chicago on March 30. If you follow the high school game some of the featured names next week; Udoka Azuibuike the 6-11 270 pound center headed to Kansas will play for the East Squad. Teammates Jason Tatum 6-9 small forward from St. Louis will be joined by Kobi Simmons 6-6 point guard from Alpharetta Georgia.
Among the talent on the West Squad will be 6-5 point guard Lonzo Ball Chino Hills (CA) along with
7-0 center Zach Collins from Las Vegas and Frank Jackson 6-4 point guard Highland (UT). Those are but a few of the players who will be featured in the game. The majority of All-Americans have already made their minds up on their college of choice. If you live in the Chicago metro or in the area for vacation or business see the game in person as for the rest of us it will be available on ESPN check your time zone.
“He’s too old----really?”
This is written Thursday morning prior to the evening games and the “old” guys are still at it. They are coaching winning basketball despite the age difference between coach and their young teams. The junior of the coaching fraternity might be Roy Williams coaching North Carolina he’s 65 years old; Jim Larranaga Miami’s coach is age 66. Duke’s Coach K. is 69 and the “old” man is 71 year old Jim Boeheim with Syracuse.
The very oldest guy is not in the NCAA Tournament his team is on probation. 75 year old Larry Brown currently coaches the SMU Mustangs. This past season his Mustangs were 13-5 in the American Athletic Conference and 25-5 overall. On the other hand young assistants deserve an opportunity to become head coaches and should have that possibility. At the same time there is no requirement to kick an older coach out the door; there is something to be said for these old heads. NOTE: Duke and Miami were eliminated on Thursday.
I thought we’d heard the last of him
Everyone believed former Clippers owner Donald Sterling was in the rear-view mirror. Turns out that was/is not the case he’s still on the scene. His attorneys filed an anti trust lawsuit against the NBA over the sale of the Clippers. A Federal judge dismissed the case stating; “court is skeptical Sterling suffered any injury at all; let alone an anti trust injury.” Hey fans didn’t Steve Ballmer purchase the team for $2 billion dollars?
Didn’t Donald receive a portion of the dollars despite his on again off again marriage, currently the marriage is on Donald should be sharing? Truth is this is not a financial story this is likely an attempt by Sterling to continue his attempt to embarrass the NBA. Despite this latest setback his attorneys announced they are considering continuing the suit. Stay tuned for the next installment because it’s coming.
What if he refused
This what if could occur although it’s highly unlikely. Russillo & Kanell posed the question on their ESPN program “Suppose the 76ers receive the number one pick and Ben Simmons says I’m not going there.” The pair then held a discussion on the implied “tanking’ by the 76ers which has not proven beneficial. Strange as it might seem similar stories have played out in sports in the past so it wouldn’t be that unusual. NFL quarterback John Elway spent his entire career with the Broncos but he announced before the draft he would not play for the Colts who held the top pick.
Elway did have an out he was a baseball player and threatened to play for the Yankees if the Colts drafted him. The fearless Colts went ahead and drafted Elway yet they later traded him to the Broncos and the rest in history. Steve Francis was made the 2nd pick in the first round of the 1999 draft by the Vancouver Grizzlies. Complaints about distance from home, money exchange and host of other issues the Grizzlies traded him to the Rockets. The only time Francis set foot in Canada there after was as a member of an opposing team. This scenario may have played out in other instances however these two instances come to mind easily for me.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Can you imagine?
Jerry West saying; “I want to play with Bill Russell I‘ll have a better chance of winning an NBA Championship.” or “Dr. J. stating I’d love to play a year with Kareem Abdul Jabbar.“ These two scenarios never played out because whatever type of off-court relationship they competed against one another they never expressed a desire to be teammates. Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell would often dine together and then battle each other on the basketball court. The two Big Men did this while claiming a friendship with one another.
Why is it necessary to play as a team just because we are friends? According to Bleacher Report this is an account by LeBron James; “At least one, maybe two---seasons me Melo, D-Wade, CP--we can get a year in. I would take a pay cut to do that.” My question for LeBron or anyone else why is this teaming together necessary? I understand friendship but is this really necessary? Sorry LeBron I’m an ol skool guy, if free agency or trades allow this scenario to play out I’m gonna find another sport.
Did you know this?
A son sometimes is influenced by his father and will follow in dads footsteps. Luke Murray Xavier assistant journeyed another direction from that of his dad Bill. Golden Globe and Emmy winning actor and comedian Bill Murray is Luke’s father. This is Luke’s first season at Xavier after serving in the same role at a number of other schools. The elder Murray has a basketball connection he co-starred in the 1996 movie Space Jam.
Skywalker
That was his nickname because he set the standard for others to follow. His name is David Thompson, he stood 6 feet 4 inches tall but could he leap. With his great leaping ability Thompson and point guard Monte Towe were the first to utilize the alley-oop pass to score. This method of scoring was implemented while the two played at North Carolina State in the mid ‘70’s. In 1975 he would become the number one draft choice by the NBA Atlanta Hawks and the ABA Denver Nuggets.
He would choose the ABA Nuggets who would later be included in the NBA-ABA merger. Thompson played small forward at a time many who played the position stood 6-6 and taller. He would later play for the Sonics injuries and substance abuse would curtail his career and he would leave the NBA in 1984. Thompson is one of a selected few to be enshrined in both the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
He did it first
Unless you are a student of the game the name Bevo Francis is unknown. Francis was a scoring phenom in college basketball of the ‘50’s. Francis played at Rio (Ri-O) Grand College (University of Rio Grand) from 1952-1954. Almost everyone recognizes Wilt Chamberlain for his 100 point game however his game occurred in 1962. Francis would accomplish the feat twice years ahead of Chamberlain. He scored 116 points against Ashland Junior College of Kentucky during the 1952-53 season and 113 Hillsdale Junior College in 1953-54.
1953 saw Francis average 48.3 ppg and 1954 it was 48.0, despite his scoring prowess his name is lost in basketball annals. The NCAA fails to recognize the scoring records because Rio Grand’s competition was junior college competition. In 1956 Francis was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors but never played in the NBA. He would barnstorm with a team that competed against the Harlem Globetrotters, last June he died at the age of 82. Bevo Francis a name few basketball fans are aware.
Can you imagine?
Jerry West saying; “I want to play with Bill Russell I‘ll have a better chance of winning an NBA Championship.” or “Dr. J. stating I’d love to play a year with Kareem Abdul Jabbar.“ These two scenarios never played out because whatever type of off-court relationship they competed against one another they never expressed a desire to be teammates. Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell would often dine together and then battle each other on the basketball court. The two Big Men did this while claiming a friendship with one another.
Why is it necessary to play as a team just because we are friends? According to Bleacher Report this is an account by LeBron James; “At least one, maybe two---seasons me Melo, D-Wade, CP--we can get a year in. I would take a pay cut to do that.” My question for LeBron or anyone else why is this teaming together necessary? I understand friendship but is this really necessary? Sorry LeBron I’m an ol skool guy, if free agency or trades allow this scenario to play out I’m gonna find another sport.
Did you know this?
A son sometimes is influenced by his father and will follow in dads footsteps. Luke Murray Xavier assistant journeyed another direction from that of his dad Bill. Golden Globe and Emmy winning actor and comedian Bill Murray is Luke’s father. This is Luke’s first season at Xavier after serving in the same role at a number of other schools. The elder Murray has a basketball connection he co-starred in the 1996 movie Space Jam.
Skywalker
That was his nickname because he set the standard for others to follow. His name is David Thompson, he stood 6 feet 4 inches tall but could he leap. With his great leaping ability Thompson and point guard Monte Towe were the first to utilize the alley-oop pass to score. This method of scoring was implemented while the two played at North Carolina State in the mid ‘70’s. In 1975 he would become the number one draft choice by the NBA Atlanta Hawks and the ABA Denver Nuggets.
He would choose the ABA Nuggets who would later be included in the NBA-ABA merger. Thompson played small forward at a time many who played the position stood 6-6 and taller. He would later play for the Sonics injuries and substance abuse would curtail his career and he would leave the NBA in 1984. Thompson is one of a selected few to be enshrined in both the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
He did it first
Unless you are a student of the game the name Bevo Francis is unknown. Francis was a scoring phenom in college basketball of the ‘50’s. Francis played at Rio (Ri-O) Grand College (University of Rio Grand) from 1952-1954. Almost everyone recognizes Wilt Chamberlain for his 100 point game however his game occurred in 1962. Francis would accomplish the feat twice years ahead of Chamberlain. He scored 116 points against Ashland Junior College of Kentucky during the 1952-53 season and 113 Hillsdale Junior College in 1953-54.
1953 saw Francis average 48.3 ppg and 1954 it was 48.0, despite his scoring prowess his name is lost in basketball annals. The NCAA fails to recognize the scoring records because Rio Grand’s competition was junior college competition. In 1956 Francis was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors but never played in the NBA. He would barnstorm with a team that competed against the Harlem Globetrotters, last June he died at the age of 82. Bevo Francis a name few basketball fans are aware.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The
The Grizzles Mike Conley attended THE Ohio State University so did the Lakers D’Angelo Russell. I wondered at what point THE was added as a portion of the schools name so I decided to conduct research. It turns out officials wanted to ensure there was no confusing the initials with other schools. There is OSU (Oregon State University) and then another OSU (Oklahoma State University). Ohio State is also OSU without THE upfront, there is a story here I’m just not sure.
A much earlier basketball war
Anytime we hold discussions regarding basketball wars we automatically think of the NBA-ABA. An all out effort to sign players occurred between the new ABA and older established NBA in the 1970’s. The “war” was over talent and it often landed with the team with the deepest pockets. The NBA was established in 1949 however that was actually a merger between two competing leagues.
The Basketball Association of American had begun play in 1946 as example this league contained the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks. The National Basketball League was founded in 1937 and began play in the 1937-38 season. The Minneapolis Lakers and the Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons (Detroit) were NBL teams.
The BAA operated in larger cities while NBL teams were often located in smaller towns and cities across the nation. Basketball in the ‘40’s didn’t have the impact of today’s society because a ground breaking event hardly created a ripple at the time. Due to a shortage of players during World War II the Toledo (OH) Jim White Chevrolets and Chicago Studebakers of the NBL filled their rosters with black players.
Baseball the more popular sport was to see Jackie Robinson integrate major league baseball in 1947. His entrance into baseball created more news headlines than the earlier arrival of blacks into professional basketball. As for the war on August 3rd 1949 after a three-year battle for players the two leagues merged to become the National Basketball Association.
New guy
Brad Underwood is a name unknown to most of us; he’s been named head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Underwood replaces Travis Ford ask to leave after nine years on the job. We have no idea of Underwood’s recruiting ability however we know he can coach winning basketball. Prior to the start of the NCAA Tournament I checked the field of teams and noticed Stephen F. Austin made the cut once again. I checked Underwood’s bio and discovered several noteworthy pieces of information.
He played his college ball at Kansas State, Underwood served as a head coach at two community colleges prior to beginning service as an assistant at three D-1 schools. He was hired at Stephen F. Austin in 2013 replacing the long-time coach who left for another coaching position. Underwood’s overall record at SFA was 89-14 and his teams only lost one conference game in that time. His conference record 18-0, 17-1 and 18-0 in his three years at the helm. We must wait and see but this would appear a good hire for Oklahoma State.
Other coaching news
It’s now been confirmed long-time Pitt coach Jamie Dixon is headed to Texas Christian University. Dixon is replacing Trent Johnson who was fired. Dixon played his college ball at TCU. As for his coaching record at Pitt his team’s qualified for the NCAA Tournament 11 out of the 13 years he was head man. Pitt was his first head coaching job however he leaves with a 328-123 record (.727) and 148-81 (.638) in the conference. We might not see immediate results but it appears the Big 12 is raising the bar in the coaching hires of Underwood and Dixon.
The
The Grizzles Mike Conley attended THE Ohio State University so did the Lakers D’Angelo Russell. I wondered at what point THE was added as a portion of the schools name so I decided to conduct research. It turns out officials wanted to ensure there was no confusing the initials with other schools. There is OSU (Oregon State University) and then another OSU (Oklahoma State University). Ohio State is also OSU without THE upfront, there is a story here I’m just not sure.
A much earlier basketball war
Anytime we hold discussions regarding basketball wars we automatically think of the NBA-ABA. An all out effort to sign players occurred between the new ABA and older established NBA in the 1970’s. The “war” was over talent and it often landed with the team with the deepest pockets. The NBA was established in 1949 however that was actually a merger between two competing leagues.
The Basketball Association of American had begun play in 1946 as example this league contained the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks. The National Basketball League was founded in 1937 and began play in the 1937-38 season. The Minneapolis Lakers and the Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons (Detroit) were NBL teams.
The BAA operated in larger cities while NBL teams were often located in smaller towns and cities across the nation. Basketball in the ‘40’s didn’t have the impact of today’s society because a ground breaking event hardly created a ripple at the time. Due to a shortage of players during World War II the Toledo (OH) Jim White Chevrolets and Chicago Studebakers of the NBL filled their rosters with black players.
Baseball the more popular sport was to see Jackie Robinson integrate major league baseball in 1947. His entrance into baseball created more news headlines than the earlier arrival of blacks into professional basketball. As for the war on August 3rd 1949 after a three-year battle for players the two leagues merged to become the National Basketball Association.
New guy
Brad Underwood is a name unknown to most of us; he’s been named head coach of the Oklahoma State Cowboys. Underwood replaces Travis Ford ask to leave after nine years on the job. We have no idea of Underwood’s recruiting ability however we know he can coach winning basketball. Prior to the start of the NCAA Tournament I checked the field of teams and noticed Stephen F. Austin made the cut once again. I checked Underwood’s bio and discovered several noteworthy pieces of information.
He played his college ball at Kansas State, Underwood served as a head coach at two community colleges prior to beginning service as an assistant at three D-1 schools. He was hired at Stephen F. Austin in 2013 replacing the long-time coach who left for another coaching position. Underwood’s overall record at SFA was 89-14 and his teams only lost one conference game in that time. His conference record 18-0, 17-1 and 18-0 in his three years at the helm. We must wait and see but this would appear a good hire for Oklahoma State.
Other coaching news
It’s now been confirmed long-time Pitt coach Jamie Dixon is headed to Texas Christian University. Dixon is replacing Trent Johnson who was fired. Dixon played his college ball at TCU. As for his coaching record at Pitt his team’s qualified for the NCAA Tournament 11 out of the 13 years he was head man. Pitt was his first head coaching job however he leaves with a 328-123 record (.727) and 148-81 (.638) in the conference. We might not see immediate results but it appears the Big 12 is raising the bar in the coaching hires of Underwood and Dixon.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The last angry man
I feel like the last angry man in America regarding sports media at times. As much as you and I depend on the media they often believe their own hype. I heard a statement the other day from ESPN’s Skip Bayless the same one made months earlier by a local sports talk radio guy. To paraphrase both they said; “We are professionals we are paid to know the game etc. etc. etc.” I say baloney to that statement; those who play the sport or coach it have far more insight into the intricacies of the game than the media. The media is similar to you and I except they have greater access to athletes. This allows them to conduct interviews however are the questions always insightful?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6A2ZgKV6n0
Success
It’s my belief sometimes we measure success unfairly. We believe a coach is unsuccessful unless he wins an NBA or NCAA Championship. I ceased writing about coaching changes in the collegiate ranks, once the regular season was over a trickle of coaches being fired became a tidal wave. A number had short tenure while others such as Travis Ford at Oklahoma State had been on the job for nearly 9 years. Alumnus, athletic department head, students and fans want a winning program and guess what---they are not very patient. Coach K. is one of the barometers we look to as an example of coaching success however there is more to the story.
I’d written this fact previously beginning his fourth year at the helm Duke was below .500 under its coach. Coach K’s teams won 38 games while losing 47, 1983-84 was much different than the pressure coaches face now. North Carolina’s teams were 8-9, 15-6 and 12-12 in Coach Dean Smith’s first three years at Chapel Hill. I have mentioned on more than one occasion my suffering with Mizzou’s program so I get it. An NBA coaching success story is that of Gregg Popovich, he’s won a number NBA Championships and his Spurs are always in the playoffs. He wasn’t a winner coaching in college in eight years his Pomona-Pitzer Division NCAA Division II team was 76-129. We all want winning programs but time is often required for that process to occur.
I try
It’s difficult for me at times; I try to not get too excited about a future NBA prospect. I’m not going to call out any particular player, over the years the list has been extensive. The do “everything” rookie cannot extricate himself from the bench because of his defense or offense shortcomings. We must exclude injuries which often curtailed a promising career Greg Oden and Andrew Bynum come to mind. Check out the 2006 NBA draft, the Blazers struck gold picking LaMarcus Aldridge with the second pick as for others.
The Raptors chose Andrea Bargnani with the number one pick while the Bobcats (Hornets) chose Adam Morrison with the third pick. Bargnani has been serviceable but certainly not the career expected of a number one pick. As for Morrison he’s bounced around the league and has been out the NBA since 2010, he last played with a Turkish team in 2012. How about the 2013 NBA draft, we find Anthony Bennett the top choice that year and are now playing in the D-League. We discussed the difficulty adjusting to play in the NBA; a number of players had significant college and Euro careers but just couldn’t adjust to NBA play.
The coach
This time I’m not referring to the 76ers or the Lakers it’s the Kings. The Knicks firing Derek Fisher caught many of us off-guard, when the Kings fire George Karl practically nobody should be surprised. I’m not sure of the problem(s) but the coach manages to either get himself fired or has walked away from every NBA head coaching job he’s held. He and Boogie Cousins have been butting heads almost continuously since Karl was hired.
An NBA team with a talented yet moody player. In addition we have a coach who is losing guess which one is leaving? I applauded the Kings hiring Nancy Lieberman as an assistant coach last July word is she too is in Karl’s dog house. The Golden 1 Center has a planned fall opening just in time for the 2016-17 NBA season. Moving into a new building says the Kings might want to head in a different direction, just saying’!
The last angry man
I feel like the last angry man in America regarding sports media at times. As much as you and I depend on the media they often believe their own hype. I heard a statement the other day from ESPN’s Skip Bayless the same one made months earlier by a local sports talk radio guy. To paraphrase both they said; “We are professionals we are paid to know the game etc. etc. etc.” I say baloney to that statement; those who play the sport or coach it have far more insight into the intricacies of the game than the media. The media is similar to you and I except they have greater access to athletes. This allows them to conduct interviews however are the questions always insightful?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P6A2ZgKV6n0
Success
It’s my belief sometimes we measure success unfairly. We believe a coach is unsuccessful unless he wins an NBA or NCAA Championship. I ceased writing about coaching changes in the collegiate ranks, once the regular season was over a trickle of coaches being fired became a tidal wave. A number had short tenure while others such as Travis Ford at Oklahoma State had been on the job for nearly 9 years. Alumnus, athletic department head, students and fans want a winning program and guess what---they are not very patient. Coach K. is one of the barometers we look to as an example of coaching success however there is more to the story.
I’d written this fact previously beginning his fourth year at the helm Duke was below .500 under its coach. Coach K’s teams won 38 games while losing 47, 1983-84 was much different than the pressure coaches face now. North Carolina’s teams were 8-9, 15-6 and 12-12 in Coach Dean Smith’s first three years at Chapel Hill. I have mentioned on more than one occasion my suffering with Mizzou’s program so I get it. An NBA coaching success story is that of Gregg Popovich, he’s won a number NBA Championships and his Spurs are always in the playoffs. He wasn’t a winner coaching in college in eight years his Pomona-Pitzer Division NCAA Division II team was 76-129. We all want winning programs but time is often required for that process to occur.
I try
It’s difficult for me at times; I try to not get too excited about a future NBA prospect. I’m not going to call out any particular player, over the years the list has been extensive. The do “everything” rookie cannot extricate himself from the bench because of his defense or offense shortcomings. We must exclude injuries which often curtailed a promising career Greg Oden and Andrew Bynum come to mind. Check out the 2006 NBA draft, the Blazers struck gold picking LaMarcus Aldridge with the second pick as for others.
The Raptors chose Andrea Bargnani with the number one pick while the Bobcats (Hornets) chose Adam Morrison with the third pick. Bargnani has been serviceable but certainly not the career expected of a number one pick. As for Morrison he’s bounced around the league and has been out the NBA since 2010, he last played with a Turkish team in 2012. How about the 2013 NBA draft, we find Anthony Bennett the top choice that year and are now playing in the D-League. We discussed the difficulty adjusting to play in the NBA; a number of players had significant college and Euro careers but just couldn’t adjust to NBA play.
The coach
This time I’m not referring to the 76ers or the Lakers it’s the Kings. The Knicks firing Derek Fisher caught many of us off-guard, when the Kings fire George Karl practically nobody should be surprised. I’m not sure of the problem(s) but the coach manages to either get himself fired or has walked away from every NBA head coaching job he’s held. He and Boogie Cousins have been butting heads almost continuously since Karl was hired.
An NBA team with a talented yet moody player. In addition we have a coach who is losing guess which one is leaving? I applauded the Kings hiring Nancy Lieberman as an assistant coach last July word is she too is in Karl’s dog house. The Golden 1 Center has a planned fall opening just in time for the 2016-17 NBA season. Moving into a new building says the Kings might want to head in a different direction, just saying’!
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Bulletin….Bulletin….Bulletin
We interrupt your regular read of Words eye view to report this breaking news. In a shocking and surprising move late Sunday evening Ben Simmons announced he was leaving LSU and declaring for the NBA Draft. Excuse me for poking fun at this issue and Simmons. I seriously doubt there were many folks who believed this youngster would return to LSU for his sophomore year.
Is he going or staying?
Carmelo Anthony wanted NYC, NYC wanted Carmelo. After five years is the honeymoon over between him and the Knicks? Until recently the Knicks were playing better basketball however they are light years from an NBA Championship. Melo signed a 5-year contract in 2014 he’s not close to being a free-agent on the other hand the Knicks could choose to trade him. In fairness to Melo the struggles of the Knicks are not all his fault it seems the team has reversed direction since his arrival.
Winning 36 games his first year they improved to a 54-28 season the following year followed by 37-45 and last years 17-65. There have been coaching changes, replacement general managers and roster changes in Carmelo’s five years. There have been accusations Melo is a selfish player but that fails to provide the big picture. He wants to win a championship at age 31 time is running out for his quest. Melo’s must come to a decision soon which is more important remaining in NYC or asking for a trade to a contender.
Decisions, decisions
Do you remember the account Emmanuel Mudiay was signed, seal and delivered to the SMU Mustangs. He was to tutor under Coach Larry Brown and learn the ins and outs of playing the point. Mudiay at 6-5 and 200 pounds certainly had the size but there were questions. Somewhere on the way to SMU Mudiay changed his mind and decided instead to play for a pro team in China. He returned to the U.S. in early spring 2015 and began training and preparation for the draft.
Mudiay made his rounds working out for a number of teams my Lakers being one of them. Draft night the Nuggets made Mudiay the number seven pick in the first round. The Nuggets are still in the rebuilding mode however Mudiay certainly is considered a “building block” of the program. His numbers 12.1 points 5.8 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game. There are only two areas which must be improved in order to raise his game to a premier level. His field goal and free-throw shooting could stand improvement which we can believe will be improved next season.
Bits n Pieces
The late Red Auerbach former coach and general manager was Celtic green. Well not quite, did you realize he was associated with two other teams before his long association with the Celtics? Auerbach coached the Washington Capitols not to be confused with today’s NHL team. The Caps operated from 1946-1951 and then went out of business, Auerbach coached the team from its beginning through 1949. Auerbach next coached the Tri-City Blackhawks (fore runner of today’s Atlanta Hawks) the 1949-50 season. He would move to the Celtics for the 1950-51 season beginning the long association with the Green.
I just read the headline so I can offer you no basis for the forecast. Charles Barkley, “The mouth that roared” has done it again. Barkley has ventured onto that narrow shaky tree branch, he’s gone on record. “The Warriors will not win the 2016 NBA Championship.”
Mizzou had a terrible record last year; this year was a duplicate of the previous one. There was at least one bright spot forward Kevin Puryear. The 6-7 236 pound forward was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team. Be careful who you listen to, I informed you earlier about the Puryear story I’d heard. Puryear is from Blue Springs a Kansas City suburb; an acquaintance told me “I’m not too impressed with his game.” Two issues, how many times did he see the youngster play? Second the guy is a Kansas fan should I take his word on the potential talent of a player?
Bulletin….Bulletin….Bulletin
We interrupt your regular read of Words eye view to report this breaking news. In a shocking and surprising move late Sunday evening Ben Simmons announced he was leaving LSU and declaring for the NBA Draft. Excuse me for poking fun at this issue and Simmons. I seriously doubt there were many folks who believed this youngster would return to LSU for his sophomore year.
Is he going or staying?
Carmelo Anthony wanted NYC, NYC wanted Carmelo. After five years is the honeymoon over between him and the Knicks? Until recently the Knicks were playing better basketball however they are light years from an NBA Championship. Melo signed a 5-year contract in 2014 he’s not close to being a free-agent on the other hand the Knicks could choose to trade him. In fairness to Melo the struggles of the Knicks are not all his fault it seems the team has reversed direction since his arrival.
Winning 36 games his first year they improved to a 54-28 season the following year followed by 37-45 and last years 17-65. There have been coaching changes, replacement general managers and roster changes in Carmelo’s five years. There have been accusations Melo is a selfish player but that fails to provide the big picture. He wants to win a championship at age 31 time is running out for his quest. Melo’s must come to a decision soon which is more important remaining in NYC or asking for a trade to a contender.
Decisions, decisions
Do you remember the account Emmanuel Mudiay was signed, seal and delivered to the SMU Mustangs. He was to tutor under Coach Larry Brown and learn the ins and outs of playing the point. Mudiay at 6-5 and 200 pounds certainly had the size but there were questions. Somewhere on the way to SMU Mudiay changed his mind and decided instead to play for a pro team in China. He returned to the U.S. in early spring 2015 and began training and preparation for the draft.
Mudiay made his rounds working out for a number of teams my Lakers being one of them. Draft night the Nuggets made Mudiay the number seven pick in the first round. The Nuggets are still in the rebuilding mode however Mudiay certainly is considered a “building block” of the program. His numbers 12.1 points 5.8 assists and 3.4 rebounds per game. There are only two areas which must be improved in order to raise his game to a premier level. His field goal and free-throw shooting could stand improvement which we can believe will be improved next season.
Bits n Pieces
The late Red Auerbach former coach and general manager was Celtic green. Well not quite, did you realize he was associated with two other teams before his long association with the Celtics? Auerbach coached the Washington Capitols not to be confused with today’s NHL team. The Caps operated from 1946-1951 and then went out of business, Auerbach coached the team from its beginning through 1949. Auerbach next coached the Tri-City Blackhawks (fore runner of today’s Atlanta Hawks) the 1949-50 season. He would move to the Celtics for the 1950-51 season beginning the long association with the Green.
I just read the headline so I can offer you no basis for the forecast. Charles Barkley, “The mouth that roared” has done it again. Barkley has ventured onto that narrow shaky tree branch, he’s gone on record. “The Warriors will not win the 2016 NBA Championship.”
Mizzou had a terrible record last year; this year was a duplicate of the previous one. There was at least one bright spot forward Kevin Puryear. The 6-7 236 pound forward was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team. Be careful who you listen to, I informed you earlier about the Puryear story I’d heard. Puryear is from Blue Springs a Kansas City suburb; an acquaintance told me “I’m not too impressed with his game.” Two issues, how many times did he see the youngster play? Second the guy is a Kansas fan should I take his word on the potential talent of a player?
Monday, March 21, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
1997
Just read this, the last time the Warriors won a game in San Antonio Steph Curry was 8-years old. I figured to research some other stuff of note. Bill Clinton was President of the United States, best movie that year was Titanic with Leonardo DeCaprio and Kate Winslet. Friends was the top choice of television viewers in 1997.
Elton John’s Candle in the Wind spent the most period number one that year. The Green Bay Packers won the Super Bowl and the Florida Marlins were World Series winners that year. Michael Jordan would lead the Bulls to the NBA Championship 4 games to 2 over the Utah Jazz. Earlier Arizona defeated Kentucky in OT to win the NCAA Championship. Even more ironic the Spurs chose Tim Duncan with the number one pick in the NBA Draft of 1997.
Hall of Fame bound
There are magic numbers in sports, most consecutive major league games played or most career home runs. In the NFL it could be the most touchdown passes thrown by a quarterback or passes caught by a wide receiver. In the NBA points scored is often a barometer used in denoting the success of a player. Last Saturday Dwayne Wade of the Heat reached a milestone few have accomplished, he scored his 20,000th point.
In all Wade becomes the 41st player in the history of the NFL to accomplish the feat. There is no guarantee he will win another NBA Championship however there is a guarantee. He is guaranteed to be enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame and the Collegiate Hall of Fame as soon as he is eligible, congratulations Dwayne Tyrone Wade.
Free agency
Who comes and who goes is the question regarding free-agency. If I projected the Lakers and other teams next season I might be able to dial in whom they might draft. We are less likely to determine rookie free-agent signings and impossible to determine veteran free-agency. The landscape has changed tremendously as an example we don’t know if it was Kobe or something else. It’s no loss at this point however Dwight Howard could have re-signed with the Lakers for more money than the Rockets.
The advantage no state income tax in Texas, California might have one of the highest in the nation. Financially Howard may have benefited more heading to Texas. This factor alone makes free agency difficult to determine. The Lakers have even more money than last year to sign free agents, last season a number of free-agents passed on signing with them. We have the strange and unusual case of DeAndre Jordan, he announced he was headed to Texas and changed his mind re-signing with the Clippers.
Isn’t that Special?
I offer my apologies to Dana Carvey, Carvey a former member of the Saturday Night Live crew often portrayed a character referred to as the “church lady.” No matter the topic at some point Carvey would look directly into the television camera and state; “Isn’t that special.” Much has been written regarding Kobe Bryant and its likely Kobe should have retired two or three years ago. Injuries and time have caught up with Kobe and he’s retiring at the conclusion of the 2016 season.
Kobe turned 37 last August, robbed of his athleticism plus age being a factor he's gone. Point guard Baron Davis last played in the NBA in 2012 with the Knicks, injuries forced him to the sidelines. Davis will turn 37 years old in April however he intends on playing. Davis signed a contract with the Delaware 87ers of the NBA Developmental League and he‘s begun play with his new team. At the age of 36 Davis has decided he wants to play professional basketball again and provides us no indication if he intends to play in the NBA once again. All I can say about his effort; “Isn’t that special.”
1997
Just read this, the last time the Warriors won a game in San Antonio Steph Curry was 8-years old. I figured to research some other stuff of note. Bill Clinton was President of the United States, best movie that year was Titanic with Leonardo DeCaprio and Kate Winslet. Friends was the top choice of television viewers in 1997.
Elton John’s Candle in the Wind spent the most period number one that year. The Green Bay Packers won the Super Bowl and the Florida Marlins were World Series winners that year. Michael Jordan would lead the Bulls to the NBA Championship 4 games to 2 over the Utah Jazz. Earlier Arizona defeated Kentucky in OT to win the NCAA Championship. Even more ironic the Spurs chose Tim Duncan with the number one pick in the NBA Draft of 1997.
Hall of Fame bound
There are magic numbers in sports, most consecutive major league games played or most career home runs. In the NFL it could be the most touchdown passes thrown by a quarterback or passes caught by a wide receiver. In the NBA points scored is often a barometer used in denoting the success of a player. Last Saturday Dwayne Wade of the Heat reached a milestone few have accomplished, he scored his 20,000th point.
In all Wade becomes the 41st player in the history of the NFL to accomplish the feat. There is no guarantee he will win another NBA Championship however there is a guarantee. He is guaranteed to be enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame and the Collegiate Hall of Fame as soon as he is eligible, congratulations Dwayne Tyrone Wade.
Free agency
Who comes and who goes is the question regarding free-agency. If I projected the Lakers and other teams next season I might be able to dial in whom they might draft. We are less likely to determine rookie free-agent signings and impossible to determine veteran free-agency. The landscape has changed tremendously as an example we don’t know if it was Kobe or something else. It’s no loss at this point however Dwight Howard could have re-signed with the Lakers for more money than the Rockets.
The advantage no state income tax in Texas, California might have one of the highest in the nation. Financially Howard may have benefited more heading to Texas. This factor alone makes free agency difficult to determine. The Lakers have even more money than last year to sign free agents, last season a number of free-agents passed on signing with them. We have the strange and unusual case of DeAndre Jordan, he announced he was headed to Texas and changed his mind re-signing with the Clippers.
Isn’t that Special?
I offer my apologies to Dana Carvey, Carvey a former member of the Saturday Night Live crew often portrayed a character referred to as the “church lady.” No matter the topic at some point Carvey would look directly into the television camera and state; “Isn’t that special.” Much has been written regarding Kobe Bryant and its likely Kobe should have retired two or three years ago. Injuries and time have caught up with Kobe and he’s retiring at the conclusion of the 2016 season.
Kobe turned 37 last August, robbed of his athleticism plus age being a factor he's gone. Point guard Baron Davis last played in the NBA in 2012 with the Knicks, injuries forced him to the sidelines. Davis will turn 37 years old in April however he intends on playing. Davis signed a contract with the Delaware 87ers of the NBA Developmental League and he‘s begun play with his new team. At the age of 36 Davis has decided he wants to play professional basketball again and provides us no indication if he intends to play in the NBA once again. All I can say about his effort; “Isn’t that special.”
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Will anybody be a winner?
Is your bracket busted? I’m sure with the amount of upsets Thursday and Friday is anybody gonna win is the question? Don’t you find it interesting the so-called little schools have done a beat down on the Goliath’s of college basketball. I realize number one’s are still alive however the number of upsets in Thursday and Fridays game surely wrecked most everyone’s bracket.
Only in basketball
Calvin Hill played football at Yale and for a number of years with the NFL Cowboys. Calvin and Janet would marry and have son whom they named Grant. The youngster would depart from his dad by choosing basketball rather than the football. Grant at Duke and later in the NBA would distinguish himself on the court in a manner his dad had playing in the NFL.
Yesterday afternoon Duke and Yale faced off against one another in the NCAA Basketball tournament. This match up would never occur in football Yale in the Ivy League is FCS Division I-AA while Duke in the ACC is FBS Division I-A. Football is unlike basketball in this manner both schools are Division I. Duke was able to defeat Yale 71-64.
Who plays center?
I just read a story on Joel Embiid, you remember him don’t you? Embiid 7 foot and 250 pounds arrived in the NBA with all the potential in the world. He was a virtual unknown and played his way into the starting lineup while at Kansas. Embiid would leave after his freshman year for the NBA and became the third pick in the 2014 NBA draft and then disaster struck. An injury had sidelined near the end of the season at Kansas but that was just the beginning. Continued rehab then surgery another rehab and there are questions if he will ever play at the level once envisioned. Embiid is thought to be ready for action next season but questions remain if that is actually the case.
In between time the 76ers have continued to stockpile players. They drafted 6-11 Nerlens Noel a center in college who was moved to the power forward position. Last season the Lakers passed on Jahlil Okafor and the 76ers would chose him, although there have been “bumps in the road” the former Dukee has adapted to the NBA. The 6-11 275 pound Okafor has scored at 17.5 points per game along with 7 rebounds, a clear demonstration of his future talent. I don’t believe any move will be immediate however the 76ers must come to a decision. If Embiid is healthy and ready to play who stays, who goes? They have the known (Okafor ) versus the unknown (Embiid) who remains a question mark if healthy.
Rivalries
Kentucky and Indiana played one another in the NCAA Tournament. Once upon a time this was an annual basketball event for this SEC and Big 10 rivals. The two schools are located less than 200 miles apart, this rivalry begin in 1924 the first time they played. The last time they played was 2012 after then the series was not renewed. Kentucky leads all-time with 32 wins versus the 24 of Indiana.
I heard a local sports radio guy get this wrong, he claimed Rick Pitino was responsible for the series end when he coached Kentucky. The present coach John Calipari is the guilty party. We can address complaints to the present coach who believed a four game series was too difficult to accomplish in this day and age. The Indiana proposal was two games to be played at Lucas Oil Stadium one at Indiana’s Assembly Hall and one at Rupp Arena, Calipari rejected this.
Will anybody be a winner?
Is your bracket busted? I’m sure with the amount of upsets Thursday and Friday is anybody gonna win is the question? Don’t you find it interesting the so-called little schools have done a beat down on the Goliath’s of college basketball. I realize number one’s are still alive however the number of upsets in Thursday and Fridays game surely wrecked most everyone’s bracket.
Only in basketball
Calvin Hill played football at Yale and for a number of years with the NFL Cowboys. Calvin and Janet would marry and have son whom they named Grant. The youngster would depart from his dad by choosing basketball rather than the football. Grant at Duke and later in the NBA would distinguish himself on the court in a manner his dad had playing in the NFL.
Yesterday afternoon Duke and Yale faced off against one another in the NCAA Basketball tournament. This match up would never occur in football Yale in the Ivy League is FCS Division I-AA while Duke in the ACC is FBS Division I-A. Football is unlike basketball in this manner both schools are Division I. Duke was able to defeat Yale 71-64.
Who plays center?
I just read a story on Joel Embiid, you remember him don’t you? Embiid 7 foot and 250 pounds arrived in the NBA with all the potential in the world. He was a virtual unknown and played his way into the starting lineup while at Kansas. Embiid would leave after his freshman year for the NBA and became the third pick in the 2014 NBA draft and then disaster struck. An injury had sidelined near the end of the season at Kansas but that was just the beginning. Continued rehab then surgery another rehab and there are questions if he will ever play at the level once envisioned. Embiid is thought to be ready for action next season but questions remain if that is actually the case.
In between time the 76ers have continued to stockpile players. They drafted 6-11 Nerlens Noel a center in college who was moved to the power forward position. Last season the Lakers passed on Jahlil Okafor and the 76ers would chose him, although there have been “bumps in the road” the former Dukee has adapted to the NBA. The 6-11 275 pound Okafor has scored at 17.5 points per game along with 7 rebounds, a clear demonstration of his future talent. I don’t believe any move will be immediate however the 76ers must come to a decision. If Embiid is healthy and ready to play who stays, who goes? They have the known (Okafor ) versus the unknown (Embiid) who remains a question mark if healthy.
Rivalries
Kentucky and Indiana played one another in the NCAA Tournament. Once upon a time this was an annual basketball event for this SEC and Big 10 rivals. The two schools are located less than 200 miles apart, this rivalry begin in 1924 the first time they played. The last time they played was 2012 after then the series was not renewed. Kentucky leads all-time with 32 wins versus the 24 of Indiana.
I heard a local sports radio guy get this wrong, he claimed Rick Pitino was responsible for the series end when he coached Kentucky. The present coach John Calipari is the guilty party. We can address complaints to the present coach who believed a four game series was too difficult to accomplish in this day and age. The Indiana proposal was two games to be played at Lucas Oil Stadium one at Indiana’s Assembly Hall and one at Rupp Arena, Calipari rejected this.
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The (true) first day
I know the play in games actually start the tournament however Thursday is actually the first game day. Arkansas-Little Rock beating Purdue and Yale over Baylor certainly upsets. I’m unsure if a Wichita State (11) and Gonzaga (11) beating Arizona (6) and Seton Hall (6) respectively is a true upset. There were three 9’s beating 8’s which I don’t really believe is an upset. The NCAA Tournament is a seeding process and not a guarantee but the results can prove interesting. Lets see what occurs on Friday however the up and down 2015-16 college basketball season continues. It should be of note did you see the Baylor post-game press conference and hear Baylor’s Tauren Prince response to a question.
Reporter: “How does Yale out rebound Baylor?”
Prince: “You go up and grab the ball off the rim when it comes off. And then you grab it with two hands and then you come down with it and that‘s considered a rebound. So they got more of those than we did.”
“The beat goes on”
The above title was a song by the duo Sonny and Cher, released in 1967. How about 2016 and the NCAA Tournament. Day two continued with stunning upsets, Middle Tennessee (15) upset highly favored Michigan State (2). Hawaii (13) pointed the direction of the door to California (4). Oregon State (7) lost to VCU (10) Stephen F. Austin (14) performed a beat down West Virginia (3) while Syracuse (10) was able to overcome Dayton (7). Texas (6) was unable to overcome Northern Iowa (11) and Notre Dame (6) slipped past Michigan (11). .
We have been captivated
We have fallen for “the banana in the tail pipe,” just a reference to the Eddie Murphy line from “Beverly Hills Cop.” We have been so busy gazing on the amazing shooting of Steph Curry and the rest of the Warriors we have “overlooked” the Spurs. The last time the teams met the Warriors blew the Spurs out of the building but it wasn’t at home. As this is written the Spurs are 34-0 at home 58-10 overall. What happens tonight night when the two met again, this time it’s in San Antonio?
The game has changed
I head a columnist discuss an issue which rings true for me. The issue is rivalry whether its teams or players. The statement was made; “Fans of today identify with the player rather than the team. They are willing to follow the player from team to team.” As strange as that sounds I believe with a number of fans this rings true. I have two friends who claimed the Heat as “their” team. Once LeBron left Miami for Cleveland they changed their tune and became Cavs fans. How about teams can you think of any rivals? At one time there was a Celtic-Laker and Bulls-Knicks rivalry but they no longer exist.
It would seem in Texas a natural rivalry would have developed between the Spurs, Mavs and Rockets, I’m unsure if there is one. After years of play particularly in New Jersey the Nets moving into Brooklyn should have created more of a rivalry with the Knicks, has it occurred I don’t know? The Clippers have dominated the Lakers on the court in recent years however they still trail in the all-time won loss record, Lakers 98 Clippers 42. The two teams even share Staples Center but not the same fan base. It’s not just teams it’s the players too, we haven’t any Bird-Jordan or Bird-Magic rivalries anymore?
The (true) first day
I know the play in games actually start the tournament however Thursday is actually the first game day. Arkansas-Little Rock beating Purdue and Yale over Baylor certainly upsets. I’m unsure if a Wichita State (11) and Gonzaga (11) beating Arizona (6) and Seton Hall (6) respectively is a true upset. There were three 9’s beating 8’s which I don’t really believe is an upset. The NCAA Tournament is a seeding process and not a guarantee but the results can prove interesting. Lets see what occurs on Friday however the up and down 2015-16 college basketball season continues. It should be of note did you see the Baylor post-game press conference and hear Baylor’s Tauren Prince response to a question.
Reporter: “How does Yale out rebound Baylor?”
Prince: “You go up and grab the ball off the rim when it comes off. And then you grab it with two hands and then you come down with it and that‘s considered a rebound. So they got more of those than we did.”
“The beat goes on”
The above title was a song by the duo Sonny and Cher, released in 1967. How about 2016 and the NCAA Tournament. Day two continued with stunning upsets, Middle Tennessee (15) upset highly favored Michigan State (2). Hawaii (13) pointed the direction of the door to California (4). Oregon State (7) lost to VCU (10) Stephen F. Austin (14) performed a beat down West Virginia (3) while Syracuse (10) was able to overcome Dayton (7). Texas (6) was unable to overcome Northern Iowa (11) and Notre Dame (6) slipped past Michigan (11). .
We have been captivated
We have fallen for “the banana in the tail pipe,” just a reference to the Eddie Murphy line from “Beverly Hills Cop.” We have been so busy gazing on the amazing shooting of Steph Curry and the rest of the Warriors we have “overlooked” the Spurs. The last time the teams met the Warriors blew the Spurs out of the building but it wasn’t at home. As this is written the Spurs are 34-0 at home 58-10 overall. What happens tonight night when the two met again, this time it’s in San Antonio?
The game has changed
I head a columnist discuss an issue which rings true for me. The issue is rivalry whether its teams or players. The statement was made; “Fans of today identify with the player rather than the team. They are willing to follow the player from team to team.” As strange as that sounds I believe with a number of fans this rings true. I have two friends who claimed the Heat as “their” team. Once LeBron left Miami for Cleveland they changed their tune and became Cavs fans. How about teams can you think of any rivals? At one time there was a Celtic-Laker and Bulls-Knicks rivalry but they no longer exist.
It would seem in Texas a natural rivalry would have developed between the Spurs, Mavs and Rockets, I’m unsure if there is one. After years of play particularly in New Jersey the Nets moving into Brooklyn should have created more of a rivalry with the Knicks, has it occurred I don’t know? The Clippers have dominated the Lakers on the court in recent years however they still trail in the all-time won loss record, Lakers 98 Clippers 42. The two teams even share Staples Center but not the same fan base. It’s not just teams it’s the players too, we haven’t any Bird-Jordan or Bird-Magic rivalries anymore?
Friday, March 18, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Further
I wanted to clarify the comment by ESPN’s Jay Bilas I mentioned in yesterdays Words eye view. Bilas said; “Simmons would have been better off at Kentucky rather than LSU.” I attempted to look between the lines on the Bilas comment. At the beginning of the college season Skal Labissiere was talked about in the conversation with Ben Simmons. The Kentucky youngster had an up and down freshmen season but nobody is yelling about him underachieving. Second point Kentucky reigns supreme in basketball at LSU its football. Do to a personal relationship Simmons choice was a “football” school. Just my thoughts they might not be correct.
And your point is?
I watch an abundance of ESPN and CBSSports Network; I cannot speak to Fox Sports. I don’t check enough of the Fox Sports Network enough to make a comparison with the other two. When not telecasting sports talk programs dominate the airwaves I’ve noticed a trend I’d like to call to your attention. Both networks do a great job contacting the “basketball experts” whether it’s in studio a telephone or a satellite interview. After questioning these experts and closing out the discussion the hosts take up the issue once again.
This is the key for me it often appears the hosts haven’t changed their position one bit. I formulate my own opinions but I solicit advance hoping someone sees the issue differently than me. In addition these experts are often former coaches or basketball players; they know the sport at a different level than fans or journalist. The ridiculousness reaches its zenith when you devote 20 minutes or so to a 16 seed beating a 1 seed. We could care less what analytics say, the upset could occur however it hasn’t to date. Why is necessary to continue another 20-30 minute discussion on the subject again?
Few accomplish the feat
Kobe Bryant will soon retire and will accomplish something few have done. I’m not talking MVP’s, NBA Championships or scoring titles. Those issues and others fall short of his 20 years with one team the Lakers. In this day of free agency and trades few players manage to play for one team their entire career. If the Spurs Tim Duncan ever retires he will also hold the same distinction as his former teammate David Robinson. Larry Bird retired wearing only the green of the Celtics, as for today’s players it’s likely Dirk Nowitzki will retire a Maverick the same for Dwayne Wade with the Heat.
There are others I’ve omitted this is strictly from memory. In this age it’s just rare for a player to play his entire career with one team. Some of the giants of the game played for more than one team, Wilt, Dr. J., Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name just a few. I hear and read stories stating teams don’t have any loyalty anymore however we could make the same statement regarding the players. There are a number of present day players who are too young to consider for this story.
Dome’s forever into the future
I read so much basketball related stuff I often don’t remember my source. I guess I’m making this up, I read the “NCAA was moving out of domes”. The location of the 2016 NCAA Championship escaped me so I decided to look it up. NRG Stadium where the NFL Houston Texans call home, How about 2017? I discovered it would be held in the University of Phoenix Stadium home of the NFL Arizona Cardinals. Do you understand the direction we are headed? I ceased my search with the 2018 game; it’s to be held in San Antonio, the Alamodome is being refurbished for the event.
The Alamodome served as home for the NBA Spurs until 2002 when they moved into the AT&T Center. Oh yes I forgot no NFL team plays in the Alamodome however the University of Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners play in the building. Did I mention the Roadrunners are a football team? Oh well I guess I have the best seat in the house in front of my television set. Feet elevated, no waiting in line for the restroom. An unlimited amount of snacks I’m not forced to pay astronomical prices, life is good after all.
Further
I wanted to clarify the comment by ESPN’s Jay Bilas I mentioned in yesterdays Words eye view. Bilas said; “Simmons would have been better off at Kentucky rather than LSU.” I attempted to look between the lines on the Bilas comment. At the beginning of the college season Skal Labissiere was talked about in the conversation with Ben Simmons. The Kentucky youngster had an up and down freshmen season but nobody is yelling about him underachieving. Second point Kentucky reigns supreme in basketball at LSU its football. Do to a personal relationship Simmons choice was a “football” school. Just my thoughts they might not be correct.
And your point is?
I watch an abundance of ESPN and CBSSports Network; I cannot speak to Fox Sports. I don’t check enough of the Fox Sports Network enough to make a comparison with the other two. When not telecasting sports talk programs dominate the airwaves I’ve noticed a trend I’d like to call to your attention. Both networks do a great job contacting the “basketball experts” whether it’s in studio a telephone or a satellite interview. After questioning these experts and closing out the discussion the hosts take up the issue once again.
This is the key for me it often appears the hosts haven’t changed their position one bit. I formulate my own opinions but I solicit advance hoping someone sees the issue differently than me. In addition these experts are often former coaches or basketball players; they know the sport at a different level than fans or journalist. The ridiculousness reaches its zenith when you devote 20 minutes or so to a 16 seed beating a 1 seed. We could care less what analytics say, the upset could occur however it hasn’t to date. Why is necessary to continue another 20-30 minute discussion on the subject again?
Few accomplish the feat
Kobe Bryant will soon retire and will accomplish something few have done. I’m not talking MVP’s, NBA Championships or scoring titles. Those issues and others fall short of his 20 years with one team the Lakers. In this day of free agency and trades few players manage to play for one team their entire career. If the Spurs Tim Duncan ever retires he will also hold the same distinction as his former teammate David Robinson. Larry Bird retired wearing only the green of the Celtics, as for today’s players it’s likely Dirk Nowitzki will retire a Maverick the same for Dwayne Wade with the Heat.
There are others I’ve omitted this is strictly from memory. In this age it’s just rare for a player to play his entire career with one team. Some of the giants of the game played for more than one team, Wilt, Dr. J., Hakeem Olajuwon and Dominique Wilkins to name just a few. I hear and read stories stating teams don’t have any loyalty anymore however we could make the same statement regarding the players. There are a number of present day players who are too young to consider for this story.
Dome’s forever into the future
I read so much basketball related stuff I often don’t remember my source. I guess I’m making this up, I read the “NCAA was moving out of domes”. The location of the 2016 NCAA Championship escaped me so I decided to look it up. NRG Stadium where the NFL Houston Texans call home, How about 2017? I discovered it would be held in the University of Phoenix Stadium home of the NFL Arizona Cardinals. Do you understand the direction we are headed? I ceased my search with the 2018 game; it’s to be held in San Antonio, the Alamodome is being refurbished for the event.
The Alamodome served as home for the NBA Spurs until 2002 when they moved into the AT&T Center. Oh yes I forgot no NFL team plays in the Alamodome however the University of Texas-San Antonio Roadrunners play in the building. Did I mention the Roadrunners are a football team? Oh well I guess I have the best seat in the house in front of my television set. Feet elevated, no waiting in line for the restroom. An unlimited amount of snacks I’m not forced to pay astronomical prices, life is good after all.
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Welcome aboard
The welcome is for all the folks second guessing LSU’s decision to cease play. Coach Johnny Jones consulted with his coaching staff and came to the conclusion the season was over. LSU was beaten soundly in its last game and finished the season 19-14 okay but certainly not outstanding. The prevailing thought LSU should be in the NIT; in addition Ben Simmons is gone. It’s not official but why would Simmons return with all the potential NBA money on the table. As for him I said I wasn’t going to write on this again and I going back on my word.
The last time I checked basketball was still a team game, although I was sitting in front of my television in Kansas City I witnessed a number of LSU games. The win against Kentucky was probably the high point of the season, at the same time I saw plenty of “dog” games. I would include the tourney game a 71-38 beat down by Texas A&M. Fans and alum of LSU are disappointed in the season finale nothing can make up for that. Part of the issue was the LSU team minus Simmon and the other portion rest on the shoulders of Johnny Jones. Jay Bilas says; "He (Simmons) would have been better off at Kentucky."
I’m more concerned about……..
The other thing, the Lakers losing their first round pick due to an earlier trade. As a reminder the Lakers won-loss record affects whether they maintain it or lose it to the 76ers. My expectation either Simmons or Duke’s Brandon Ingram could help them. Don’t misunderstand I am not stating playoffs I’m saying continued “building blocks” on the road to re-building or re-branding this Kobe-less team.
There’s been a change in a number of mock draft sites and it’s my fault, just when I wrote there was little if any movement in the 2016 NBA mock I was proven wrong. DraftExpress.com was the first one I noticed that made a change. They now have Duke Freshman Brandon Ingram rated number one in their mock 2016 NBA draft Simmons is now number two. You can read www.draftexpress.com for an explanation why the two changed draft positions.
On the subject
As for the top free-agent Kevin Durant there are plenty of questions. Will Durant re-sign with the Thunder or somebody else? Among the teams mentioned the Warriors, Wizards or Lakers. Those are just the names that have been discussed or published, what do I think? I really have no idea however of Durant’s ultimate destination. Although I hesitate on that portion I believe he’s on his way out of Oklahoma. No problem with the city or state I continue to look in the direction of Russell Westbrook.
For Westbrook fans I’m not trying to denigrate your man but there is clearly a problem. Publicly both Durant and Westbrook state there is no problem between the two but is that really the truth? I skipped school the day the teacher taught us “mind-reading” so I’m certainly not going to begin now. The duo is “water and oil” no matter what’s said by coaches, teammates and analyst there is a problem. A problem that will remain unsolved until one is no longer in the picture at this point that would appear to be Durant.
Trio of 7-footers
Most teams are fortunate to have one 7 foot player on their roster the Le Mans Sarthe Basket roster contains three. Technically that’s not correct, one of the trio is 6-11 however his two teammates stand 7-3 and 7-2 in their stocking feet. According to DraftExpress it’s likely Petr Cornelie and Youssoufa Fall will submit their names for the 2016 NBA Draft.
Fall is the tallest and is the heaviest at 7-3 and 271 pounds. He‘s 20 years old and hails from Senegal in West Africa. Cornelie packs 220 pounds on his 6-11 frame and he’s from Calais France. Jonathan Jeanne stands 7-2 however a slender 195 pounds; Jeanne is from the island of Guadeloupe in the southern Caribbean Sea.
Welcome aboard
The welcome is for all the folks second guessing LSU’s decision to cease play. Coach Johnny Jones consulted with his coaching staff and came to the conclusion the season was over. LSU was beaten soundly in its last game and finished the season 19-14 okay but certainly not outstanding. The prevailing thought LSU should be in the NIT; in addition Ben Simmons is gone. It’s not official but why would Simmons return with all the potential NBA money on the table. As for him I said I wasn’t going to write on this again and I going back on my word.
The last time I checked basketball was still a team game, although I was sitting in front of my television in Kansas City I witnessed a number of LSU games. The win against Kentucky was probably the high point of the season, at the same time I saw plenty of “dog” games. I would include the tourney game a 71-38 beat down by Texas A&M. Fans and alum of LSU are disappointed in the season finale nothing can make up for that. Part of the issue was the LSU team minus Simmon and the other portion rest on the shoulders of Johnny Jones. Jay Bilas says; "He (Simmons) would have been better off at Kentucky."
I’m more concerned about……..
The other thing, the Lakers losing their first round pick due to an earlier trade. As a reminder the Lakers won-loss record affects whether they maintain it or lose it to the 76ers. My expectation either Simmons or Duke’s Brandon Ingram could help them. Don’t misunderstand I am not stating playoffs I’m saying continued “building blocks” on the road to re-building or re-branding this Kobe-less team.
There’s been a change in a number of mock draft sites and it’s my fault, just when I wrote there was little if any movement in the 2016 NBA mock I was proven wrong. DraftExpress.com was the first one I noticed that made a change. They now have Duke Freshman Brandon Ingram rated number one in their mock 2016 NBA draft Simmons is now number two. You can read www.draftexpress.com for an explanation why the two changed draft positions.
On the subject
As for the top free-agent Kevin Durant there are plenty of questions. Will Durant re-sign with the Thunder or somebody else? Among the teams mentioned the Warriors, Wizards or Lakers. Those are just the names that have been discussed or published, what do I think? I really have no idea however of Durant’s ultimate destination. Although I hesitate on that portion I believe he’s on his way out of Oklahoma. No problem with the city or state I continue to look in the direction of Russell Westbrook.
For Westbrook fans I’m not trying to denigrate your man but there is clearly a problem. Publicly both Durant and Westbrook state there is no problem between the two but is that really the truth? I skipped school the day the teacher taught us “mind-reading” so I’m certainly not going to begin now. The duo is “water and oil” no matter what’s said by coaches, teammates and analyst there is a problem. A problem that will remain unsolved until one is no longer in the picture at this point that would appear to be Durant.
Trio of 7-footers
Most teams are fortunate to have one 7 foot player on their roster the Le Mans Sarthe Basket roster contains three. Technically that’s not correct, one of the trio is 6-11 however his two teammates stand 7-3 and 7-2 in their stocking feet. According to DraftExpress it’s likely Petr Cornelie and Youssoufa Fall will submit their names for the 2016 NBA Draft.
Fall is the tallest and is the heaviest at 7-3 and 271 pounds. He‘s 20 years old and hails from Senegal in West Africa. Cornelie packs 220 pounds on his 6-11 frame and he’s from Calais France. Jonathan Jeanne stands 7-2 however a slender 195 pounds; Jeanne is from the island of Guadeloupe in the southern Caribbean Sea.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He’s honest
This time of the year everybody and their brother is filling out a bracket sheet. We peruse all the information we can gather to make our “accurate” picks. On Monday I listened to a local sports talk radio guy who I believe was being very honest. He said; “Most of those in the media pretend to know all there is to know about college basketball.
I spend most of my evenings here on the night shift on the weekends I’m watching football. Many in the sports media provide us tidbits of information regarding each team giving us the indication they know college basketball.” The bottom line from my perspective these guys are hired to entertain so be it. Take the information provided with skepticism it’s not always “something regarded as true and implicitly believed. “
I don‘t know about you
It was no surprise to me Kobe Bryant defended Phil Jackson to the NYC media. That’s not always been the case with Kobe the coaching change from Del Harris caused problems for Kobe the first time around. Most of it I believe was based on Kobe being stubborn (triangle offense) and his youth. Phil’s second tour with the Lakers I don’t remember any issues, there may have been don’t remember them.
Remember when
Just winning 20 games was almost always a guarantee a team would receive an NCAA invitation, that’s not the case anymore. We could ask the question of Monmouth (27-7), Saint Mary’s 27-5, San Diego State 25-9 and Valparaiso (26-6). All these teams have received an NIT invitation, in my view for for the first time in quite a number of years the field will have several top-notch teams. As the NCAA Tournament has expanded a teams won-loss record is scrutinized more thoroughly than in past years.
“I Love L.A.” (maybe)
Songwriter Randy Newman wrote “I Love L.A.” and released the song in 1983. The tune extolled the advantages of living in Los Angeles over other portions of the nation. A significant number of players will become free agents this summer; one of the more intriguing players possibly searching for a new home is center Hassan Whiteside. Its possible Hassan Whiteside could be singing that tune later this year. According to Hoopshype Dwayne Wade must take a significant pay cut in order for the team to sign both players. The possible downside to this story might be Whiteside himself.
The 7-foot Whiteside has added a stellar year to his breakout of last season and he’s routinely been a double-double man. Despite leading the lead in block shots and near the top in rebounds maturity issues still exist. After he returned from an NBA mandated suspension he’s been coming off the bench. He was suspended for throwing an elbow at an opposing player; despite not starting his numbers have not dipped at all. Do NBA teams (including the Heat) pay Whiteside on his potential believing he’s not reached his ceiling and he‘s matured?
He’s honest
This time of the year everybody and their brother is filling out a bracket sheet. We peruse all the information we can gather to make our “accurate” picks. On Monday I listened to a local sports talk radio guy who I believe was being very honest. He said; “Most of those in the media pretend to know all there is to know about college basketball.
I spend most of my evenings here on the night shift on the weekends I’m watching football. Many in the sports media provide us tidbits of information regarding each team giving us the indication they know college basketball.” The bottom line from my perspective these guys are hired to entertain so be it. Take the information provided with skepticism it’s not always “something regarded as true and implicitly believed. “
I don‘t know about you
It was no surprise to me Kobe Bryant defended Phil Jackson to the NYC media. That’s not always been the case with Kobe the coaching change from Del Harris caused problems for Kobe the first time around. Most of it I believe was based on Kobe being stubborn (triangle offense) and his youth. Phil’s second tour with the Lakers I don’t remember any issues, there may have been don’t remember them.
Remember when
Just winning 20 games was almost always a guarantee a team would receive an NCAA invitation, that’s not the case anymore. We could ask the question of Monmouth (27-7), Saint Mary’s 27-5, San Diego State 25-9 and Valparaiso (26-6). All these teams have received an NIT invitation, in my view for for the first time in quite a number of years the field will have several top-notch teams. As the NCAA Tournament has expanded a teams won-loss record is scrutinized more thoroughly than in past years.
“I Love L.A.” (maybe)
Songwriter Randy Newman wrote “I Love L.A.” and released the song in 1983. The tune extolled the advantages of living in Los Angeles over other portions of the nation. A significant number of players will become free agents this summer; one of the more intriguing players possibly searching for a new home is center Hassan Whiteside. Its possible Hassan Whiteside could be singing that tune later this year. According to Hoopshype Dwayne Wade must take a significant pay cut in order for the team to sign both players. The possible downside to this story might be Whiteside himself.
The 7-foot Whiteside has added a stellar year to his breakout of last season and he’s routinely been a double-double man. Despite leading the lead in block shots and near the top in rebounds maturity issues still exist. After he returned from an NBA mandated suspension he’s been coming off the bench. He was suspended for throwing an elbow at an opposing player; despite not starting his numbers have not dipped at all. Do NBA teams (including the Heat) pay Whiteside on his potential believing he’s not reached his ceiling and he‘s matured?
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“One thing I could do…was finger roll”
George “Iceman” Gervin could do more than finger roll but the line became standard for him. He attended Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti but left school early, at the time the NBA was not drafting underclassmen. Off to the Virginia Squires of the ABA where he first gained a national reputation in 1972.
The ABA team strapped for cash sold Gervin’s contract to the Spurs. The Iceman would have his most productive years with the Spurs as they would be one of the few ABA teams absorbed into the NBA. 26,000 points, 5,000 rebounds and 2,700 assists for the 6-7 185 pound shooting guard. Gervin would be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame and the College Hall of Fame.
Bits n Pieces
Tubby Smith has been coaching big time basketball since 1991, in this period he’s served as head coach for a number of schools. Texas Tech team made the 2016 NCAA Tourney and becomes the 5th team he‘s taken to the “Big Dance.” Let’s count the schools; the first was Tulsa, then Georgia followed by Kentucky. He led Minnesota into the tourney and now Texas Tech.
Kanye West and his tweets have become outrageous lately. Normally I would refrain from writing anything connecting with West but I couldn’t pass this one up. You might be aware a few weeks back the Clippers mascot Chuck the Condor was introduced to a Staples crowd. As for West he sent this tweet out; “Steve Ballmer (Clippers owner) can I redesign the Clippers mascot” Interesting in that the return tweet was under the name Chuck the Condor. It read; “I miss the old Kanye”; I cannot or should not add anything to this story.
Doc Rivers proved to be Doc Rivers once again. In their game against the Clippers the play is right in front of the coach; Chris Paul is dribbling the ball he appears to step on LeBron James foot and slips to the floor. He tosses the ball toward the back court and is intercepted fast break Cavs score. Rivers began yelling at the official and received a technical foul. The Clippers are not league leaders in technicals the Rockets have 65 to date. As for Rivers team they are in second place with 64, coach has 5.
Jordan Clarkson has provided a nickname for the back court of Clarkson and D’Angelo Russell; he wants the combo to be known as The Swag Brothers. A writer questions if anyone has bothered to mention this to Swaggy P.? I don’t believe that should be a huge concern I have serious doubts Nick Young will be a Laker next season. If I’m wrong I’ll return and admit my mistake.
Outside the Lines
ESPN ran a story on the Louisville basketball scandal last Sunday on Outside the Lines. Louisville may have earned a trip to the post-season tourney this year but is on a self-imposed ban. After early discussion of the story I’ve decided to sit back and wait for all the smoke to clear. Coach Pitino is yet to be interviewed by the NCAA which will occur in April. Andre McGee has not talked to the NCAA and its unclear if that will ever occur. An attorney interviewed says “He’s (McGee) not in coaching and the NCAA has no authority over him.” Along with others I must wait for a final judgment.
“One thing I could do…was finger roll”
George “Iceman” Gervin could do more than finger roll but the line became standard for him. He attended Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti but left school early, at the time the NBA was not drafting underclassmen. Off to the Virginia Squires of the ABA where he first gained a national reputation in 1972.
The ABA team strapped for cash sold Gervin’s contract to the Spurs. The Iceman would have his most productive years with the Spurs as they would be one of the few ABA teams absorbed into the NBA. 26,000 points, 5,000 rebounds and 2,700 assists for the 6-7 185 pound shooting guard. Gervin would be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame and the College Hall of Fame.
Bits n Pieces
Tubby Smith has been coaching big time basketball since 1991, in this period he’s served as head coach for a number of schools. Texas Tech team made the 2016 NCAA Tourney and becomes the 5th team he‘s taken to the “Big Dance.” Let’s count the schools; the first was Tulsa, then Georgia followed by Kentucky. He led Minnesota into the tourney and now Texas Tech.
Kanye West and his tweets have become outrageous lately. Normally I would refrain from writing anything connecting with West but I couldn’t pass this one up. You might be aware a few weeks back the Clippers mascot Chuck the Condor was introduced to a Staples crowd. As for West he sent this tweet out; “Steve Ballmer (Clippers owner) can I redesign the Clippers mascot” Interesting in that the return tweet was under the name Chuck the Condor. It read; “I miss the old Kanye”; I cannot or should not add anything to this story.
Doc Rivers proved to be Doc Rivers once again. In their game against the Clippers the play is right in front of the coach; Chris Paul is dribbling the ball he appears to step on LeBron James foot and slips to the floor. He tosses the ball toward the back court and is intercepted fast break Cavs score. Rivers began yelling at the official and received a technical foul. The Clippers are not league leaders in technicals the Rockets have 65 to date. As for Rivers team they are in second place with 64, coach has 5.
Jordan Clarkson has provided a nickname for the back court of Clarkson and D’Angelo Russell; he wants the combo to be known as The Swag Brothers. A writer questions if anyone has bothered to mention this to Swaggy P.? I don’t believe that should be a huge concern I have serious doubts Nick Young will be a Laker next season. If I’m wrong I’ll return and admit my mistake.
Outside the Lines
ESPN ran a story on the Louisville basketball scandal last Sunday on Outside the Lines. Louisville may have earned a trip to the post-season tourney this year but is on a self-imposed ban. After early discussion of the story I’ve decided to sit back and wait for all the smoke to clear. Coach Pitino is yet to be interviewed by the NCAA which will occur in April. Andre McGee has not talked to the NCAA and its unclear if that will ever occur. An attorney interviewed says “He’s (McGee) not in coaching and the NCAA has no authority over him.” Along with others I must wait for a final judgment.
Monday, March 14, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Double winner
6-5 point guard Lonzo Ball of Chino Hills (CA) is headed to UCLA in August. The 5-star athlete was recently named the Morgan Wooten Player of the Year and Naismith High School Player of the Year. The Naismith name requires no explanation James A. Naismith invented the game of basketball but many might be unfamiliar with the Wooten name. Morgan Wooten was the coach for DeMatha Catholic in Hyattsville (MD); he was at the helm of the high school from 1956 through 2002. Wooten’s team was 5X National High School Champions and he‘s been enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Those are but a few of the successes he and his teams have earned in the past. Back to the discussion of Ball again this is no barometer of future success but consider the number of youngsters playing basketball across the nation. We couldn’t begin to compile the numbers but it certainly is noteworthy and places Ball in the company of several NBA players. The Naismith award is fairly new having been first awarded in 1987. Past winners of the Naismith award include Jason Kidd, Chris Webber, Kevin Love, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
Little movement
There has been little movement in the two primary mock draft sites I regularly check. DraftExpress.com and NBADraft.net reflect one another almost line for line in the first five picks, check it out below.
DraftExpress.com NBADraft.net
1. Ben Simmons 1. Ben Simmons
2. Brandon Ingram 2. Brandon Ingram
3. Jaylen Brown 3. Dragen Bender
4. Dragen Bender 4. Jaylen Brown
5. Kris Dunn 5. Kris Dunn
Us versus them
I’m going to refrain from getting into those us versus them debates. You know the ones where a former player from the ‘50’s, ‘60’s or ‘70’s comments on today’s players. This is the problem as I see it the vast majority of writers and television hosts are products of now. They were likely born in the ‘70’s and ‘80’s which impacts their argument. First it was Oscar Robertson commenting on Steph Curry then Kareem Abdul Jabbar weighed in agreeing with his former one-time teammate. Both were attacked by just by expressing their views, a week or so later the mouth that roared Charles Barkley tossed his hat into the middle of this skirmish.
“The NBA is full of very awful basketball this year” stated Sir Charles. I don’t subscribe to the Barkley view all though I can agree there are several bad teams including my Lakers. Back to the Robertson hornets nest there were fewer teams in the NBA when Robertson first arrived, there were only 18 teams when he retired. This is a double-edged sword, if we just look at expansion its likely there are guys in the NBA now that may have been cut from the 1960 Cincinnati Royals. They may have been cut because they were not good enough to earn a spot on an 8-team NBA. In any event I hope this is the last time you catch me writing this type of article.
Blocked shots
NBA players have been blocking shots since the beginning of time; we can credit one player for it to become noteworthy and that is Celtic legend Bill Russell. Russell arrived in the NBA in 1956-57 however for unknown reasons the NBA didn’t track blocked shots as they did points, rebounds and assists. We have no clear idea of the number of shots Russell or Wilt Chamberlain blocked. In the 1973-74 season the NBA begin first tracking blocked shots. Russell retired at the end of the 1969 season while Chamberlain retired the year prior to adoption of the blocked shot.
The shot-block leaders this season to date are Hassan Whiteside with 3.92, DeAndre Jordan at 2.26 and Anthony Davis 2.19. The NBA’s top three all-time block shot leaders in order are Hakeem Olajuwon, Dikembe Mutombo and Kareem Abdul Jabbar. Consider this bit of information Abdul Jabbar is listed in third place however he began his NBA career four years before the league began tracking blocked shots. Just like Russell and Wilt who entered the NBA earlier we have no idea how many blocked shots Abdul Jabbar registered.
Double winner
6-5 point guard Lonzo Ball of Chino Hills (CA) is headed to UCLA in August. The 5-star athlete was recently named the Morgan Wooten Player of the Year and Naismith High School Player of the Year. The Naismith name requires no explanation James A. Naismith invented the game of basketball but many might be unfamiliar with the Wooten name. Morgan Wooten was the coach for DeMatha Catholic in Hyattsville (MD); he was at the helm of the high school from 1956 through 2002. Wooten’s team was 5X National High School Champions and he‘s been enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Those are but a few of the successes he and his teams have earned in the past. Back to the discussion of Ball again this is no barometer of future success but consider the number of youngsters playing basketball across the nation. We couldn’t begin to compile the numbers but it certainly is noteworthy and places Ball in the company of several NBA players. The Naismith award is fairly new having been first awarded in 1987. Past winners of the Naismith award include Jason Kidd, Chris Webber, Kevin Love, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
Little movement
There has been little movement in the two primary mock draft sites I regularly check. DraftExpress.com and NBADraft.net reflect one another almost line for line in the first five picks, check it out below.
DraftExpress.com NBADraft.net
1. Ben Simmons 1. Ben Simmons
2. Brandon Ingram 2. Brandon Ingram
3. Jaylen Brown 3. Dragen Bender
4. Dragen Bender 4. Jaylen Brown
5. Kris Dunn 5. Kris Dunn
Us versus them
I’m going to refrain from getting into those us versus them debates. You know the ones where a former player from the ‘50’s, ‘60’s or ‘70’s comments on today’s players. This is the problem as I see it the vast majority of writers and television hosts are products of now. They were likely born in the ‘70’s and ‘80’s which impacts their argument. First it was Oscar Robertson commenting on Steph Curry then Kareem Abdul Jabbar weighed in agreeing with his former one-time teammate. Both were attacked by just by expressing their views, a week or so later the mouth that roared Charles Barkley tossed his hat into the middle of this skirmish.
“The NBA is full of very awful basketball this year” stated Sir Charles. I don’t subscribe to the Barkley view all though I can agree there are several bad teams including my Lakers. Back to the Robertson hornets nest there were fewer teams in the NBA when Robertson first arrived, there were only 18 teams when he retired. This is a double-edged sword, if we just look at expansion its likely there are guys in the NBA now that may have been cut from the 1960 Cincinnati Royals. They may have been cut because they were not good enough to earn a spot on an 8-team NBA. In any event I hope this is the last time you catch me writing this type of article.
Blocked shots
NBA players have been blocking shots since the beginning of time; we can credit one player for it to become noteworthy and that is Celtic legend Bill Russell. Russell arrived in the NBA in 1956-57 however for unknown reasons the NBA didn’t track blocked shots as they did points, rebounds and assists. We have no clear idea of the number of shots Russell or Wilt Chamberlain blocked. In the 1973-74 season the NBA begin first tracking blocked shots. Russell retired at the end of the 1969 season while Chamberlain retired the year prior to adoption of the blocked shot.
The shot-block leaders this season to date are Hassan Whiteside with 3.92, DeAndre Jordan at 2.26 and Anthony Davis 2.19. The NBA’s top three all-time block shot leaders in order are Hakeem Olajuwon, Dikembe Mutombo and Kareem Abdul Jabbar. Consider this bit of information Abdul Jabbar is listed in third place however he began his NBA career four years before the league began tracking blocked shots. Just like Russell and Wilt who entered the NBA earlier we have no idea how many blocked shots Abdul Jabbar registered.
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He said it
Phil Jackson is fully prepared for the voices of criticism that will follow. He provided the media a “State of the Knicks” address the other day. This is a snap shot of his comments and not intended to be a word for word statement. “The Knicks don’t need a point guard; the triangle offense doesn’t require one. We were successful in Chicago and Los Angeles without a true point guard. Kurt Rambis is capable of coaching the Knicks on a permanent basis; Finally I intend to fulfill my contract with the Knicks I am not headed to Los Angeles.” I’m sure not one portion of Phil Jackson’s statement is satisfactory to Knick fans or folks in general. Is this Phil being Phil who revels in teasing the media, all I can say is I’m glad I’m not Phil Jackson.
The NFL?
Nate Robinson all 5-9 185 pounds of him wants to play in the NFL despite no previous experience. This veteran NBA guard last played in 2015 and had a 10-year career with several teams. As for the football question he played defensive back one year at the University of Washington; think he’s too short to play DB? Robinson was twice NBA Slam Dunk Champ so he certainly has leaping ability to go up against wide receivers. The only question at age 31 does he have any gas left in the tank.
A second chance
We guess Derek Fisher is financially secure for the time being. We might assume at some point the former Knicks coach will interview for a coaching job. After a less than impressive year and a half at the helm of the Knicks will any NBA team be willing to offer him a job? He wanted to clear the air regarding his altercation with Matt Barnes earlier this year so he responded to questions about the incident.
Fisher claims the altercation had nothing to do with him being fired and I’m willing to accept his statement. Fisher will not be working for me so I can accept his explanation it might be more difficult for a potential employer to accept. I believe everyone deserves a second chance or maybe a third so here’s hoping Fisher is hired somewhere in the future.
Little change
Rutgers decided to fire alum Eddie Jordan after three years. He leaves after a 22-67 record which includes a 7-24 (1-17 conference) in 2015-16. You remember the story why Jordan was hired don’t you? He replaced the fired Mike Rice; Rice had been accused of abusing several members of the Rutgers basketball team. Video surfaced detailed the former coach firing a basketball at one of his players, it wasn‘t just the one issue there were other reports of abuse. As for Jordan his team win total decreased each of his three years at the helm.
Okay
I don’t remember which Rams player made the statement recently. It’s likely you are aware the NFL Rams are moving from St. Louis to Los Angeles for the upcoming football season. “I haven’t decided if I’m going to be a Clippers fan or Laker fan” was the players’ remark. That’s interesting however my difficulty is there really a decision required? The Clippers are winning right now so the inclination would be to join their fan base. The Lakers are losers but have NBA Championships and tradition in their history, which is more important?
He said it
Phil Jackson is fully prepared for the voices of criticism that will follow. He provided the media a “State of the Knicks” address the other day. This is a snap shot of his comments and not intended to be a word for word statement. “The Knicks don’t need a point guard; the triangle offense doesn’t require one. We were successful in Chicago and Los Angeles without a true point guard. Kurt Rambis is capable of coaching the Knicks on a permanent basis; Finally I intend to fulfill my contract with the Knicks I am not headed to Los Angeles.” I’m sure not one portion of Phil Jackson’s statement is satisfactory to Knick fans or folks in general. Is this Phil being Phil who revels in teasing the media, all I can say is I’m glad I’m not Phil Jackson.
The NFL?
Nate Robinson all 5-9 185 pounds of him wants to play in the NFL despite no previous experience. This veteran NBA guard last played in 2015 and had a 10-year career with several teams. As for the football question he played defensive back one year at the University of Washington; think he’s too short to play DB? Robinson was twice NBA Slam Dunk Champ so he certainly has leaping ability to go up against wide receivers. The only question at age 31 does he have any gas left in the tank.
A second chance
We guess Derek Fisher is financially secure for the time being. We might assume at some point the former Knicks coach will interview for a coaching job. After a less than impressive year and a half at the helm of the Knicks will any NBA team be willing to offer him a job? He wanted to clear the air regarding his altercation with Matt Barnes earlier this year so he responded to questions about the incident.
Fisher claims the altercation had nothing to do with him being fired and I’m willing to accept his statement. Fisher will not be working for me so I can accept his explanation it might be more difficult for a potential employer to accept. I believe everyone deserves a second chance or maybe a third so here’s hoping Fisher is hired somewhere in the future.
Little change
Rutgers decided to fire alum Eddie Jordan after three years. He leaves after a 22-67 record which includes a 7-24 (1-17 conference) in 2015-16. You remember the story why Jordan was hired don’t you? He replaced the fired Mike Rice; Rice had been accused of abusing several members of the Rutgers basketball team. Video surfaced detailed the former coach firing a basketball at one of his players, it wasn‘t just the one issue there were other reports of abuse. As for Jordan his team win total decreased each of his three years at the helm.
Okay
I don’t remember which Rams player made the statement recently. It’s likely you are aware the NFL Rams are moving from St. Louis to Los Angeles for the upcoming football season. “I haven’t decided if I’m going to be a Clippers fan or Laker fan” was the players’ remark. That’s interesting however my difficulty is there really a decision required? The Clippers are winning right now so the inclination would be to join their fan base. The Lakers are losers but have NBA Championships and tradition in their history, which is more important?
Saturday, March 12, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Trading Places
Eddie Murphy made a movie released in 1983 titled “Trading Places”, two wealthy brothers made a bet with one another they could take a man off the street and turn him into a sophisticated gentleman. That was fiction this is real life, NBA teams trading players hope this will prove beneficial for them. The downside of a trade sometimes one team gains an advantage. There are circumstances, often a veteran player forces a trade in the instance of Kareem Abdul Jabbar to the Lakers. Sometimes a trade is simply swapping the draft rights (Scottie Pippen) for another teams draft rights.
In other instances a team is owed a draft pick from a prior trade which occurred with the Lakers. With the Cavs pick acquired in a trade they drafted James Worthy. In fairness a number of the players exchanged went on to successful careers Vlade Divac as an example however we must state Kobe Bryant had the more successful career. It should be noted the Hawks traded Bill Russell to the Celtics and he led the Celtics to multiple NBA Championships. Russell would be elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as were Cliff Hagen and Ed Macauley who came in the trade. The players in bold are in the Hall of Fame except Kobe and Dirk, they will be enshrined at a future date.
Vlade Divac for Kobe Bryant
Olden Polynice for *Scottie Pippen
Don Ford traded for James Worthy
Robert “Tractor” for *Dirk Nowitzki
Jack Marin for Elvin Hayes
Charlie Paulk & Flynn Robinson for Oscar Robertson
Connie Dierking, Paul Neumann & Lee Shaffer plus cash for Wilt Chamberlain
*draft rights traded
Bits n Pieces
Po-ten-tial, that’s the word for Robert Upshaw Los Angeles D-Fenders center. The 7 footer had issues at Fresno State and the University of Washington. He left Washington expecting to be drafted in 2015 which didn’t occur. The Lakers signed him to their Summer League team and later to the D-Fenders. Upshaw’s game is raw after playing a limited number of at two different colleges. Upshaw may turn into another Hassan Whiteside just sayin’ don’t mean it’s gonna happen. He says; “I Want To Prove I Should’ve Been Drafted.”
The Bulls Derrick Rose is mere shadow of himself; the Rose we witnessed in 2010-11 is long gone. Injuries have robbed the point guard of much of his explosiveness. Please don’t construe this as an obituary Rose is only 27 years old and likely has another five or six years remaining in the NBA. The guy wearing Bulls jersey number one is a silhouette of his former self.
The feud continues to rage once again, Superman versus Superman. Shaquille O’Neal long considered one of his alter egos Superman, along comes this kid out of high school and he said “I’m Superman.” My reference is Dwight Howard back in the Orlando days. I’ve got to believe this is Shaq more than Howard when he tweeted; “There can be only 1 Superman !!! #ME”
Interesting Kansas has signed a home and home series with former Big 12 rival Kansas. Kansas has already played former Colorado which also left the Big 12 several years ago. Kansas will have played or scheduled two former conference members, left to play are Texas A&M and Mizzou. The date for Kansas to play A&M is yet to be scheduled however Kansas will face Mizzou when Hell freezes over!
East coast bias in the Midwest kinda
Allow me to clear up the confusing headline. In this portion of the nation there are a number of complaints about teams in this area overlooked. The baseball Royals win the World Series and the Mets are more discussed in the off season. In fact the Cubs who didn’t make it to the series have been more discussed than the Royals. How about the NFL, after losing their first few games of the season the Chiefs proceeded to win something like 11 games in a row.
Only fans in the Kansas City area were excited, the Cowboys going nowhere were a prime topic on the talk shows. Now that I’ve got that out of the way the Midwest bias talk of the Big 12 being the best basketball conference in the nation. Sorry fans not so, the conference is very good but we can debate its strength. Other than Kansas when is the last time a team advanced to the Sweet 16? The local sports media has blinders on whenever Big 12 basketball is discussed.
Practically nobody saw the game
Speaking of Big Men we held a discussion the other day on Wilt Chamberlain scoring. I said; “Did you know there is no video or tape of Wilt’s 100 point game?” The three guys with me could not believe the words that came out of my mouth. March 2, 1962 Warriors 169 Knicks 147 the game was played in Hershey (PA) before a massive crowd of 4,124 hearty souls. This was the “dark-ages” for the NBA years prior to the advent of cable/satellite coverage. Even broadcast television was limited in 1962; there is a radio broadcast of the game that remains. I would guess tape of the game must be included in the Naismith Hall of Fame in addition there is a photo of Wilt holding up a piece of player with 100 on it.
Trading Places
Eddie Murphy made a movie released in 1983 titled “Trading Places”, two wealthy brothers made a bet with one another they could take a man off the street and turn him into a sophisticated gentleman. That was fiction this is real life, NBA teams trading players hope this will prove beneficial for them. The downside of a trade sometimes one team gains an advantage. There are circumstances, often a veteran player forces a trade in the instance of Kareem Abdul Jabbar to the Lakers. Sometimes a trade is simply swapping the draft rights (Scottie Pippen) for another teams draft rights.
In other instances a team is owed a draft pick from a prior trade which occurred with the Lakers. With the Cavs pick acquired in a trade they drafted James Worthy. In fairness a number of the players exchanged went on to successful careers Vlade Divac as an example however we must state Kobe Bryant had the more successful career. It should be noted the Hawks traded Bill Russell to the Celtics and he led the Celtics to multiple NBA Championships. Russell would be elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as were Cliff Hagen and Ed Macauley who came in the trade. The players in bold are in the Hall of Fame except Kobe and Dirk, they will be enshrined at a future date.
Vlade Divac for Kobe Bryant
Olden Polynice for *Scottie Pippen
Don Ford traded for James Worthy
Robert “Tractor” for *Dirk Nowitzki
Jack Marin for Elvin Hayes
Charlie Paulk & Flynn Robinson for Oscar Robertson
Connie Dierking, Paul Neumann & Lee Shaffer plus cash for Wilt Chamberlain
*draft rights traded
Bits n Pieces
Po-ten-tial, that’s the word for Robert Upshaw Los Angeles D-Fenders center. The 7 footer had issues at Fresno State and the University of Washington. He left Washington expecting to be drafted in 2015 which didn’t occur. The Lakers signed him to their Summer League team and later to the D-Fenders. Upshaw’s game is raw after playing a limited number of at two different colleges. Upshaw may turn into another Hassan Whiteside just sayin’ don’t mean it’s gonna happen. He says; “I Want To Prove I Should’ve Been Drafted.”
The Bulls Derrick Rose is mere shadow of himself; the Rose we witnessed in 2010-11 is long gone. Injuries have robbed the point guard of much of his explosiveness. Please don’t construe this as an obituary Rose is only 27 years old and likely has another five or six years remaining in the NBA. The guy wearing Bulls jersey number one is a silhouette of his former self.
The feud continues to rage once again, Superman versus Superman. Shaquille O’Neal long considered one of his alter egos Superman, along comes this kid out of high school and he said “I’m Superman.” My reference is Dwight Howard back in the Orlando days. I’ve got to believe this is Shaq more than Howard when he tweeted; “There can be only 1 Superman !!! #ME”
Interesting Kansas has signed a home and home series with former Big 12 rival Kansas. Kansas has already played former Colorado which also left the Big 12 several years ago. Kansas will have played or scheduled two former conference members, left to play are Texas A&M and Mizzou. The date for Kansas to play A&M is yet to be scheduled however Kansas will face Mizzou when Hell freezes over!
East coast bias in the Midwest kinda
Allow me to clear up the confusing headline. In this portion of the nation there are a number of complaints about teams in this area overlooked. The baseball Royals win the World Series and the Mets are more discussed in the off season. In fact the Cubs who didn’t make it to the series have been more discussed than the Royals. How about the NFL, after losing their first few games of the season the Chiefs proceeded to win something like 11 games in a row.
Only fans in the Kansas City area were excited, the Cowboys going nowhere were a prime topic on the talk shows. Now that I’ve got that out of the way the Midwest bias talk of the Big 12 being the best basketball conference in the nation. Sorry fans not so, the conference is very good but we can debate its strength. Other than Kansas when is the last time a team advanced to the Sweet 16? The local sports media has blinders on whenever Big 12 basketball is discussed.
Practically nobody saw the game
Speaking of Big Men we held a discussion the other day on Wilt Chamberlain scoring. I said; “Did you know there is no video or tape of Wilt’s 100 point game?” The three guys with me could not believe the words that came out of my mouth. March 2, 1962 Warriors 169 Knicks 147 the game was played in Hershey (PA) before a massive crowd of 4,124 hearty souls. This was the “dark-ages” for the NBA years prior to the advent of cable/satellite coverage. Even broadcast television was limited in 1962; there is a radio broadcast of the game that remains. I would guess tape of the game must be included in the Naismith Hall of Fame in addition there is a photo of Wilt holding up a piece of player with 100 on it.
Friday, March 11, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Is he a dirty player?
Does Chris Paul become frustrated at times during games? You better bet the same as any other player in the NBA. Does he attempt to gain an advantage by questionable tactics? Wednesday night against the Thunder he hit Durant in the zone referred to as the groin, if you’ve ever been hit there you know. Paul had the same issue with Marc Gasol in a playoff game issuing a blow a little higher to the Grizzlie center. Last year against the Blazers Chris Kaman he hit the center in the same region which prompted both benches to empty. There was an earlier incident at Wake Forest which caused him to be suspended for one game. NBA players are always complaining to officials about being fouled so it was no surprise Durant complained. Is Paul a dirty player cannot be answered by me only the NBA? Let’s wait and see if he suffers any repercussions from the NBA office.
You must face the consequences of your actions
Remember the story I told about the Lakers-Warriors game on Sunday? A friend indicated he was going home to watch it and I said why? “The final score Warriors 130 Lakers 90 maybe 100.” As you are aware the final score and the winning team was opposite of my prediction. I saw George on Wednesday and informed him I’d taken a nap and hadn’t bothered with watching the game. I told him I‘d said to myself on Sunday night; “I sure hope he doesn’t call me tonight.”
How much time to allow?
King Rice serves as head basketball coach at Monmouth University (NJ); the Hawks lead the MAAC standings and will likely represent in the NCAA base of the conference post season tournament. Rice is in his fourth year at the helm and Monmouth is experiencing its first winning season under his watch. Rice is under consideration in some circles for Coach of the Year. Circumstances all are not the same with every program; the question is how much time should a college coach be allowed to turn a program around? I pose this question because there is grumbling around Tigerville regarding Mizzou’s Kim Anderson. Anderson is in the process of completing his second year at the helm. A number of the reports indicate Anderson should be terminated. Before this was completed Mizzou’s AD announced the coach would return for this third year.
The University of San Francisco decided eight years was enough as they chose to fire Rex Walters, his record at USF 126-125 (.502). In this microwave/internet/instagram/twitter world we live in we expect instant results. Hit click and send, toss your food in the microwave and its ready in 5 minutes. Duke basketball is one of the most successful programs in the nation but that’s not always been the case. At the time Coach K. took over the program his first three years his teams were 38-47 wonder if alum and fans were happy. Billy Donovan was hired at “football” Florida but changed the culture there, his first two years the Gators were 27-32. Frank Martin’s team has a winning record this year; the first three South Carolina was 45-54. My point is a coach inheriting a program must be given adequate time to implement his program and recruit his players. NOTE: As this was being completed St. Louis University fired Jim Crews after four years on the job.
An enigma
Russell Westbrook had a game for the ages against the Clippers, 25 points 20 assists and 11 rebounds. One of the most talented players in the NBA provided us proof once again. That’s the problem, for me there is something with Westbrook that says “he still doesn’t get it.” Remember the Clint Eastwood movie classic “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”? That’s Westbrook for me, Wednesday’s game was outstanding then we’ve witnessed those poor shooting games and then the self destruct games we’ve also witnessed. Those critical turnovers or the game where he takes shot after shot and misses while overlooking teammates for a pass.
Is he a dirty player?
Does Chris Paul become frustrated at times during games? You better bet the same as any other player in the NBA. Does he attempt to gain an advantage by questionable tactics? Wednesday night against the Thunder he hit Durant in the zone referred to as the groin, if you’ve ever been hit there you know. Paul had the same issue with Marc Gasol in a playoff game issuing a blow a little higher to the Grizzlie center. Last year against the Blazers Chris Kaman he hit the center in the same region which prompted both benches to empty. There was an earlier incident at Wake Forest which caused him to be suspended for one game. NBA players are always complaining to officials about being fouled so it was no surprise Durant complained. Is Paul a dirty player cannot be answered by me only the NBA? Let’s wait and see if he suffers any repercussions from the NBA office.
You must face the consequences of your actions
Remember the story I told about the Lakers-Warriors game on Sunday? A friend indicated he was going home to watch it and I said why? “The final score Warriors 130 Lakers 90 maybe 100.” As you are aware the final score and the winning team was opposite of my prediction. I saw George on Wednesday and informed him I’d taken a nap and hadn’t bothered with watching the game. I told him I‘d said to myself on Sunday night; “I sure hope he doesn’t call me tonight.”
How much time to allow?
King Rice serves as head basketball coach at Monmouth University (NJ); the Hawks lead the MAAC standings and will likely represent in the NCAA base of the conference post season tournament. Rice is in his fourth year at the helm and Monmouth is experiencing its first winning season under his watch. Rice is under consideration in some circles for Coach of the Year. Circumstances all are not the same with every program; the question is how much time should a college coach be allowed to turn a program around? I pose this question because there is grumbling around Tigerville regarding Mizzou’s Kim Anderson. Anderson is in the process of completing his second year at the helm. A number of the reports indicate Anderson should be terminated. Before this was completed Mizzou’s AD announced the coach would return for this third year.
The University of San Francisco decided eight years was enough as they chose to fire Rex Walters, his record at USF 126-125 (.502). In this microwave/internet/instagram/twitter world we live in we expect instant results. Hit click and send, toss your food in the microwave and its ready in 5 minutes. Duke basketball is one of the most successful programs in the nation but that’s not always been the case. At the time Coach K. took over the program his first three years his teams were 38-47 wonder if alum and fans were happy. Billy Donovan was hired at “football” Florida but changed the culture there, his first two years the Gators were 27-32. Frank Martin’s team has a winning record this year; the first three South Carolina was 45-54. My point is a coach inheriting a program must be given adequate time to implement his program and recruit his players. NOTE: As this was being completed St. Louis University fired Jim Crews after four years on the job.
An enigma
Russell Westbrook had a game for the ages against the Clippers, 25 points 20 assists and 11 rebounds. One of the most talented players in the NBA provided us proof once again. That’s the problem, for me there is something with Westbrook that says “he still doesn’t get it.” Remember the Clint Eastwood movie classic “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”? That’s Westbrook for me, Wednesday’s game was outstanding then we’ve witnessed those poor shooting games and then the self destruct games we’ve also witnessed. Those critical turnovers or the game where he takes shot after shot and misses while overlooking teammates for a pass.
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