BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
The “other” Kansas school
Wichita State is like a “step-child” with the media in Kansas and other parts of the country. I remember a few years ago some idiot reporter proving scores said; “Wichita State I didn’t know Wichita had a state.” The main reason I didn’t think his attempt at humor wasn’t funny a number of schools have “state” as part of their name (Ball State, Alcorn State, Colorado State just to name a few). Last season was an off-year however Wichita State still managed to win 26 games. The school has a rich basketball history however the program was headed downhill until the arrival of Coach Gregg Marshall. Naturally it took time to implement his program and recruit the type of athlete he wanted at Wichita State.
In his first two years the record was 11-20 the .500 17-17. Since those two losing records the fewest games Wichita State has won is 25 occurring in Marshall’s third year. I’ve mentioned this previously but in a manner of speaking the school is in exclusive company. There are two schools Bill Self refuses to play and both are but a short drive from Lawrence (KS). Columbia (MO) home of Mizzou is 164 miles away and Wichita State is located 162 miles. As for the reasoning Bill Self has made it clear why he want schedule Mizzou as for Wichita State that’s a different story. There is no clear cut explanation why Self refuses to schedule this in-state school.
Bits n Pieces
This is tough to write because I like Chris Bosh. Bosh won’t play again for the Heat or maybe anybody else he failed his latest physical. I want the guy to play again if he’s healthy, if he’s not able to pass successfully I don’t want to see another Reggie Lewis or Hank Gaithers collapse on the basketball court.
I believe in the ‘50’s and ‘50’s this statement was quite popular; “There are two seasons in Texas football and spring football.” That certainly doesn’t apply anymore; the state is on the same level as California, Florida and other parts of the nation in producing high school talent. A number of programs across the nation might have one to three players from Texas on their roster.
I stated previously me and Jeff Van Gundy are in agreement the Knicks should be improved over last season. In this instance there are two elephants in the room and earlier I only covered one. A healthy Derrick Rose would be a vast improvement over point guards employed in the past. That’s the first elephant; the second is a pending civil trial. Although this is civil rather than criminal it echoes the 2003 Kobe Bryant ordeal Rose and two of his friends have been accused of rape. An investigation brought no criminal charge however he’s now facing a civil lawsuit filed by the woman. Phil Jackson has gone on record indicating he hope this is not a distraction to the performance by Rose on the court.
As the sayin’ goes “This is all water under the bridge” however I thought it was worth a few paragraphs. Former Laker Coach Mike D’Antoni claims “He could never get the Lakers to buy into his system.” Although I have my view of the situation rather than making a comment I will leave the decision making to you.
The other Los Angeles team
I’m not referring to the Lakers the focus is on the Clippers. I read Blake Griffin apologized for his actions last year i.e. the fight with the team trainer. I happen to believe Clipper problems are more than just Griffin. If you win 53 games and make the playoffs there’s not much to criticize right? That’s totally wrong; the Clippers are a walking contradiction. They have one of the top five point guards (Chris Paul) in the NBA. Ancient but effect Jamal Crawford providing offense off the bench. There is center DeAndre Jordan, he can’t shoot free-throws but certainly rebounds and blocks shots. Then we have Austin Rivers listed as a point guard but takes more shots than passes the ball. Finally we arrive at the door of Doc Rivers coach of this band of mysterians.
Before I go any further allow me to admit up front I have issues with the coach. For unknown reasons Rivers remains director of player personal or something similar. In other words he’s responsible for acquisition of talent. The Clippers might be the only NBA team with a head coach wearing both hats. I would like to be proven wrong however I can project the 2016-17 season for the Clippers. The Clippers win between 50-55 games, they will make the playoffs again. They will lose in the semi or conference finals once again. Despite losing Kevin Durant I maintain the Thunder remains a superior team to the Clippers. Also standing in the way of the Clippers are the revamped Warriors. I’m unsure of the Spurs with no Duncan however the Blazers could be a factor.
Thursday, September 29, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Tough how tough?
How important is a teams schedule in relation to the NCAA Tournament? It’s doggone important we are led to believe; I’m reading Matt Norlander CBS Sports.com writer’s story. He writes of several schools returning starters and with competitive records last season expected to compete this season. One of those mentioned was the University of Houston, the Cougars finished last season with a 22-10 (12-6) won-loss record.
Certainly the record would provide evidence they had a good year however the Cougars failed to receive an invitation to The Big Dance. Why did the Cougars fail to secure a berth in the NCAA Tournament you ask? Norlander indicates the Cougars had the 350th toughest non-conference record in the nation. This is certainly no intent to knock the players or the school but it proves a point. Mizzou finished last season with a 10-21 (3-15) record but I’d be willing to bet they played a tougher non-conference schedule than Houston.
NBA Training Camp Notes
A few notes from the opening of training camp:
No need of holding off on the announcement, Steph Curry indicates he’s
re-signing with the Warriors next year. Bam just like that its done and I believe him no need of beating around the bush.
Cavs rookie Kay Felder has an NBA connection; Felder is cousins with former NBA player and current TNT analyst Steve Smith. Felder attended Oakland University in Rochester Michigan.
Laker rookie Brandon Ingram will begin the season on the bench. As a Laker fan hopefully the learning curve is short. Its likely Luol Deng will be the starting small forward.
The Spurs indicate Tim Duncan will join their front office. No position indicated as this is written.
Stephen Jackson former player has gone on record indicating second year man D’Angelo Russell is “brown-nosing” Luke Walton. All I can say is that’s funny considering Jackson has no connection to the Lakers so it’s unclear how he came up with this scenario.
I saw an interview on NBA TV with Dwayne Wade. Decked out in a Bulls jersey certainly looked strange to me after all the years in a Heat jersey.
What age who’s age?
As recently as two years the Lakers might have been the oldest are nearly the oldest average team in the NBA no more. According to RealGM.com the honor (or difficulty) now belongs to the NBA champion Cavs whose average age is 29.7. Next up is the Clippers at 29.6 while the Warriors are 27.5. Where do the Lakers land now? I’m glad you ask the question, average age going into the season is 26.3.
Confused, I certainly am
The 10 team Big 12 Conference will remain just that---10 teams. The conference indicated they were handicap with only 10 teams. Several schools rumored to be seeking inclusion in the Big 12 were UConn, Cincinnati, SMU, and Brigham Young. Now comes word on Tuesday it appears expansion is off the table for discussion currently. As indicated in previous accounts this is a football move however the basketball profile would be improved adding a Cincinnati or UConn as part of the Big 12. There are rumors Oklahoma and Texas might pick up their football and go else where. Should that scenario come about the conference will fall apart.
Tough how tough?
How important is a teams schedule in relation to the NCAA Tournament? It’s doggone important we are led to believe; I’m reading Matt Norlander CBS Sports.com writer’s story. He writes of several schools returning starters and with competitive records last season expected to compete this season. One of those mentioned was the University of Houston, the Cougars finished last season with a 22-10 (12-6) won-loss record.
Certainly the record would provide evidence they had a good year however the Cougars failed to receive an invitation to The Big Dance. Why did the Cougars fail to secure a berth in the NCAA Tournament you ask? Norlander indicates the Cougars had the 350th toughest non-conference record in the nation. This is certainly no intent to knock the players or the school but it proves a point. Mizzou finished last season with a 10-21 (3-15) record but I’d be willing to bet they played a tougher non-conference schedule than Houston.
NBA Training Camp Notes
A few notes from the opening of training camp:
No need of holding off on the announcement, Steph Curry indicates he’s
re-signing with the Warriors next year. Bam just like that its done and I believe him no need of beating around the bush.
Cavs rookie Kay Felder has an NBA connection; Felder is cousins with former NBA player and current TNT analyst Steve Smith. Felder attended Oakland University in Rochester Michigan.
Laker rookie Brandon Ingram will begin the season on the bench. As a Laker fan hopefully the learning curve is short. Its likely Luol Deng will be the starting small forward.
The Spurs indicate Tim Duncan will join their front office. No position indicated as this is written.
Stephen Jackson former player has gone on record indicating second year man D’Angelo Russell is “brown-nosing” Luke Walton. All I can say is that’s funny considering Jackson has no connection to the Lakers so it’s unclear how he came up with this scenario.
I saw an interview on NBA TV with Dwayne Wade. Decked out in a Bulls jersey certainly looked strange to me after all the years in a Heat jersey.
What age who’s age?
As recently as two years the Lakers might have been the oldest are nearly the oldest average team in the NBA no more. According to RealGM.com the honor (or difficulty) now belongs to the NBA champion Cavs whose average age is 29.7. Next up is the Clippers at 29.6 while the Warriors are 27.5. Where do the Lakers land now? I’m glad you ask the question, average age going into the season is 26.3.
Confused, I certainly am
The 10 team Big 12 Conference will remain just that---10 teams. The conference indicated they were handicap with only 10 teams. Several schools rumored to be seeking inclusion in the Big 12 were UConn, Cincinnati, SMU, and Brigham Young. Now comes word on Tuesday it appears expansion is off the table for discussion currently. As indicated in previous accounts this is a football move however the basketball profile would be improved adding a Cincinnati or UConn as part of the Big 12. There are rumors Oklahoma and Texas might pick up their football and go else where. Should that scenario come about the conference will fall apart.
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Growing young men
Anthony Davis was a center at Kentucky; he arrived in the NBA as a 6-10 power forward. The Hornets/Pelicans believed power forward might be the best position for him. At the dawn of training camp and entering his 4th year we discover he’s still growing. He says the team measured him recently and he’s up to 6-11, last season he was 243 pounds and has now packed on an additional seven pounds.
About 2 hours and 34 minutes flight time from New Orleans in Philadelphia a similar story is playing out. Rookie Ben Simmons hasn’t grown in height however he’s gained weight. Simmons indicates he’s up to 250 pounds now, last season at LSU he checked in at 217 pounds. Will the weight gain help or hinder Simmons movement on court. One thing for sure the 76ers could send out a very tall lineup with Simmons at the point on occasion.
Bits n Pieces
Recently I attended the tip-off dinner for the University of Missouri Kansas City. Coach Kareem Richardson, the school’s athletic director and the keynote speaker all had words. A silent auction was held prior to the dinner, an acquaintance indicated he’d bid on an item. A high bid and he’s the owner of a John Havlicek autographed basketball. Before the auction began he said to me; “Probably most in this room have no idea who Havlicek was.” I nodded my head in agreement and then tossed in a word for my blog. “That’s why in addition to the basketball news of today I like to reach back. I want to provide those under a certain age as much history as possible of the game and it‘s players.
These two are not the first they are just the latest. It was reported last December Russell Westbrook gave the UCLA athletic department a significant amount of money. His former UCLA teammate Kevin Love did the same thing recently. In both instances the amount given remains private, the significance of this story we read and hear numerous stories about self-centered athletes. A number are just that so it’s always noteworthy to read this type of story.
Looks as though Metta World Peace aka Ron Artest is not quite history. “The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated” so said author Mark Twain once, this is not quite as serious as death. After many (including me) predicted the Lakers with a deep front court believed we’d seen the last of Metta. The Lakers signed him to a 1-year contract so it appears he will be a Laker through the 2016-17 season.
Missouri State in Springfield MO has an interesting basketball history. In a manner similar to Louisville the school competed in three levels of basketball. Before the name chase as Southeast Missouri State they played NAIA, then Division II and currently Division I basketball. The school has been Division I since the 1982-83 season. They were Division II from 1953 to the 1982 season, prior to that time they were an NAIA program.
The Big O
Oscar Robertson will turn 78 in November, the former All-Everything guard has gotten him in trouble. The Big O had made critical remarks about some aspects of today’s NBA and its players. That’s another story which is not crucial to the story I’m attempting to impart. Robertson might have been among the first of the “Big” NBA guards, he stood 6-5 and checked in at 220 pounds. That doesn’t sound imposing now but consider this was the NBA of 1960. Try as might he could not raise the level of play of his Cincinnati Royals. The Big O almost averaged a triple-double in his rookie year, 30.5 ppg 10.1 rebounds and 9.7 assists (which led the NBA).
Later Robertson would accomplish the feat average a triple-double for an entire season. The Royals would trade the Big O to the Bucks and he would go on to win his only NBA Championship. He and Lew Alcindor was nearly an unstoppable combo, Robertson would retire from the NBA in 1974. Honors far too numerous to name all of them so I’ll list just a few. He’s in three halls of fame, Naismith Hall, FIBA Hall and College Basketball. Robertson was selected a member of the NBA 35th Anniversary and 50th Anniversary all time team. This falls far short of the honors awarded Oscar “Big O” Robertson.
Growing young men
Anthony Davis was a center at Kentucky; he arrived in the NBA as a 6-10 power forward. The Hornets/Pelicans believed power forward might be the best position for him. At the dawn of training camp and entering his 4th year we discover he’s still growing. He says the team measured him recently and he’s up to 6-11, last season he was 243 pounds and has now packed on an additional seven pounds.
About 2 hours and 34 minutes flight time from New Orleans in Philadelphia a similar story is playing out. Rookie Ben Simmons hasn’t grown in height however he’s gained weight. Simmons indicates he’s up to 250 pounds now, last season at LSU he checked in at 217 pounds. Will the weight gain help or hinder Simmons movement on court. One thing for sure the 76ers could send out a very tall lineup with Simmons at the point on occasion.
Bits n Pieces
Recently I attended the tip-off dinner for the University of Missouri Kansas City. Coach Kareem Richardson, the school’s athletic director and the keynote speaker all had words. A silent auction was held prior to the dinner, an acquaintance indicated he’d bid on an item. A high bid and he’s the owner of a John Havlicek autographed basketball. Before the auction began he said to me; “Probably most in this room have no idea who Havlicek was.” I nodded my head in agreement and then tossed in a word for my blog. “That’s why in addition to the basketball news of today I like to reach back. I want to provide those under a certain age as much history as possible of the game and it‘s players.
These two are not the first they are just the latest. It was reported last December Russell Westbrook gave the UCLA athletic department a significant amount of money. His former UCLA teammate Kevin Love did the same thing recently. In both instances the amount given remains private, the significance of this story we read and hear numerous stories about self-centered athletes. A number are just that so it’s always noteworthy to read this type of story.
Looks as though Metta World Peace aka Ron Artest is not quite history. “The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated” so said author Mark Twain once, this is not quite as serious as death. After many (including me) predicted the Lakers with a deep front court believed we’d seen the last of Metta. The Lakers signed him to a 1-year contract so it appears he will be a Laker through the 2016-17 season.
Missouri State in Springfield MO has an interesting basketball history. In a manner similar to Louisville the school competed in three levels of basketball. Before the name chase as Southeast Missouri State they played NAIA, then Division II and currently Division I basketball. The school has been Division I since the 1982-83 season. They were Division II from 1953 to the 1982 season, prior to that time they were an NAIA program.
The Big O
Oscar Robertson will turn 78 in November, the former All-Everything guard has gotten him in trouble. The Big O had made critical remarks about some aspects of today’s NBA and its players. That’s another story which is not crucial to the story I’m attempting to impart. Robertson might have been among the first of the “Big” NBA guards, he stood 6-5 and checked in at 220 pounds. That doesn’t sound imposing now but consider this was the NBA of 1960. Try as might he could not raise the level of play of his Cincinnati Royals. The Big O almost averaged a triple-double in his rookie year, 30.5 ppg 10.1 rebounds and 9.7 assists (which led the NBA).
Later Robertson would accomplish the feat average a triple-double for an entire season. The Royals would trade the Big O to the Bucks and he would go on to win his only NBA Championship. He and Lew Alcindor was nearly an unstoppable combo, Robertson would retire from the NBA in 1974. Honors far too numerous to name all of them so I’ll list just a few. He’s in three halls of fame, Naismith Hall, FIBA Hall and College Basketball. Robertson was selected a member of the NBA 35th Anniversary and 50th Anniversary all time team. This falls far short of the honors awarded Oscar “Big O” Robertson.
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
“Whistling past the graveyard”
The headline is an old saying you don’t hear much anymore, I’m going to provide you the text book definition. “To attempt to stay cheerful in a dire situation, ignoring an upcoming hazard, hoping for a good outcome.” This from my favorite Coach Doc Rivers; “I think we can play with anybody, and we don’t feel like there’s a gap.” His comment was made regarding the Warriors with Kevin Durant added to the lineup. The Clippers are not in a dire situation however I like the last definition based on Rivers; "hoping for a good outcome." Don’t misunderstand me the Clippers are a good team, the question are they as Rivers indicates ready to challenge the Warriors?
The silence is deafening
Kobe Bryant is a polarizing figure in some minds, I’ve heard Kobe haters for the last three years yell and scream; “He needs to retire.” How about Paul Pierce his numbers have been inching downward for at least the last two seasons. There is no doubt he is headed to the Naismith Hall of Fame as soon as he‘s eligible what about the present? Pierce announced he’s going to play for a 19th season and then retire. My question why are there not large numbers of calls for him to retire ala Kobe Bryant? At age 38 Pierce will be reminded once again; “Father Time remains undefeated.”
The history, the history
I’m sure a first time or new reader to Words eye view might wonder. “Why does this guy spend so much time writing about the history of the game and its players? Depending on your age historical names and events of the game might be foreign to many readers. In addition basketball didn’t begin yesterday it’s got a rich history in urban cities, small towns and rural portions of the nation. In addition the history of the international game has grown as well. Proof is the number of international player’s coaches and contributors enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Bad blood
For the most part I believe the NBA today is superior to that of 1950 through 1980. We could say in a serious tone team A. wants to beat team B. but nothing like the old days there are rivals in name only. Once upon a time the Lakers hated the Celtics and vise-versa. We could make that same statement regarding the 76ers and Celtics, the Pistons and Celtics. The Knicks-Celtics, Bulls-Knicks and Bulls-Pistons are just a few of the teams that literally hated one another.
Celtic Kevin McHale close lining Laker Kurt Rambis on an attempted dunk. Isiah Thomas leading the Pistons off the floor in the ‘91 playoffs against the Bulls before the conclusion of the game. The time Larry Bird and Dr. J. had to be separated after blows were exchanged during a Celtic-76er game. There are other examples those mentioned are but a few. Today’s NBA players exchange pleasantries at the conclusion of games, they often appear to be BFF’s with one another. It’s my belief that might be a reason free agents might not have a great deal of adjustment to a new team. They are already buddies with members of the team they join.
NBA Team Salaries
I discovered some interesting information according to Hoopshype. Surprise, surprise the Blazers have the highest team payroll in the NBA. The champion Cavs are in second place. Where are the Warriors your ask, they are situated in the 8th position which is little surprising considering that figure now includes Kevin Durant. The Thunder are fairly well off, they are a consistent playoff team in 19th place followed by my Lakers at 20. In last place at number 30 is the team with the number one pick in the 2016 draft the 76ers. We cannot claim these figures are 100% accurate however the belief is they are likely close to fact.
“Whistling past the graveyard”
The headline is an old saying you don’t hear much anymore, I’m going to provide you the text book definition. “To attempt to stay cheerful in a dire situation, ignoring an upcoming hazard, hoping for a good outcome.” This from my favorite Coach Doc Rivers; “I think we can play with anybody, and we don’t feel like there’s a gap.” His comment was made regarding the Warriors with Kevin Durant added to the lineup. The Clippers are not in a dire situation however I like the last definition based on Rivers; "hoping for a good outcome." Don’t misunderstand me the Clippers are a good team, the question are they as Rivers indicates ready to challenge the Warriors?
The silence is deafening
Kobe Bryant is a polarizing figure in some minds, I’ve heard Kobe haters for the last three years yell and scream; “He needs to retire.” How about Paul Pierce his numbers have been inching downward for at least the last two seasons. There is no doubt he is headed to the Naismith Hall of Fame as soon as he‘s eligible what about the present? Pierce announced he’s going to play for a 19th season and then retire. My question why are there not large numbers of calls for him to retire ala Kobe Bryant? At age 38 Pierce will be reminded once again; “Father Time remains undefeated.”
The history, the history
I’m sure a first time or new reader to Words eye view might wonder. “Why does this guy spend so much time writing about the history of the game and its players? Depending on your age historical names and events of the game might be foreign to many readers. In addition basketball didn’t begin yesterday it’s got a rich history in urban cities, small towns and rural portions of the nation. In addition the history of the international game has grown as well. Proof is the number of international player’s coaches and contributors enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Bad blood
For the most part I believe the NBA today is superior to that of 1950 through 1980. We could say in a serious tone team A. wants to beat team B. but nothing like the old days there are rivals in name only. Once upon a time the Lakers hated the Celtics and vise-versa. We could make that same statement regarding the 76ers and Celtics, the Pistons and Celtics. The Knicks-Celtics, Bulls-Knicks and Bulls-Pistons are just a few of the teams that literally hated one another.
Celtic Kevin McHale close lining Laker Kurt Rambis on an attempted dunk. Isiah Thomas leading the Pistons off the floor in the ‘91 playoffs against the Bulls before the conclusion of the game. The time Larry Bird and Dr. J. had to be separated after blows were exchanged during a Celtic-76er game. There are other examples those mentioned are but a few. Today’s NBA players exchange pleasantries at the conclusion of games, they often appear to be BFF’s with one another. It’s my belief that might be a reason free agents might not have a great deal of adjustment to a new team. They are already buddies with members of the team they join.
NBA Team Salaries
I discovered some interesting information according to Hoopshype. Surprise, surprise the Blazers have the highest team payroll in the NBA. The champion Cavs are in second place. Where are the Warriors your ask, they are situated in the 8th position which is little surprising considering that figure now includes Kevin Durant. The Thunder are fairly well off, they are a consistent playoff team in 19th place followed by my Lakers at 20. In last place at number 30 is the team with the number one pick in the 2016 draft the 76ers. We cannot claim these figures are 100% accurate however the belief is they are likely close to fact.
Monday, September 26, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Broadcast institutions
Can your name be associated with the game you broadcast? I believe the answer in some instances might be yes. Those who broadcast the game we all love can become institutions. That might be the case for Marv Albert If you check his bio you will discover he’s broadcast a variety sports over the course of his career however he‘s forever identified with NBA basketball. He served for years as the Knick broadcaster but currently works for TNT. He’s got 49 years of broadcast behind him beginning as the voice of the Knicks on radio and television in 1967.
He’s 75 years old now there might be a question of how much longer. Broadcaster requires home work however it’s not heavy lifting, after all Chick Hearn continued to broadcast Laker games until his death at 85 in 2002. The late Dr. Jack aka Jack Ramsay former coach became a television analyst for the 76ers and Heat. Later he would go to work for ESPN on its NBA telecast he would leave broadcasting at the tender age of 87.
Bret Musberger at age 77 continues to broadcast college basketball and college football too. Musberger is further identified from the time period the NBA at the time the CBS Network held the broadcast rights. Bob Costas might be identified with baseball however his start was basketball. At the tender age of 22 Costas was the broadcast voice for the ABA Spirits of St. Louis and later it was Mizzou basketball. In 1990 when NBC acquired the NBA rights Costas was the lead broadcaster which he held until the expiration of the contract.
They missed him
Pacer Paul George might have more notoriety for a broken leg than basketball. He suffered the injury while competing for Team USA tryouts in 2014. The injury was so devastating it caused him to miss most of the 2014-15 season. How would he return in 2016 I’m glad you ask the question? He made the NBA All Star team and the All-NBA team for the third time. George was All NBA Defensive Second team for the second time.
All his playing career beginning in high school he’s flown beneath the radar. George wasn’t highly touted at Knight High School in Palmdale (CA), Rivals a talent source I use awarded him three stars. Five stars is the highest rating the site offers a prospect. The 6-9 forward left Fresno State after two years for the NBA, the Pacers made him the 10th pick in the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft. I continue to maintain doesn’t matter where you play if you have potential talent a scout somewhere will locate you.
He was the first
Thon Maker will make his NBA debut in a couple of weeks; Brandon Jennings was drafted in 2009 by the Bucks both circumvented the age 19 or one year college rule. If you believed they might have been the first to go this route I’ve got news for you they were the first. We must travel back to 1961 Detroit. In 1961 the late Reggie Harding graduated from a Detroit high school but failed to enroll in college. He would be selected by the Pistons in the 4th round of the 1962 NBA Draft and the following year by them in the 6th round.
NOTE: Prior to 1989 the NBA Draft consisted of seven rounds. The draft became two rounds only. As for Harding he didn’t play for the Pistons until the 1963-64 season, the 7-foot Harding had a brief pro career. Personal demons managed to end his short career. Those who played with and against him claimed he could have developed into a solid player. The lure of the streets were more a draw for him than staying on the straight and narrow. In 1972 at the age of 30 he was murdered.
The NBA’s future
Can you name five potential NBA superstars? I can name maybe 10, despite the naysayer’s the NBA is in good shape and the future continues to shine brightly. The league will never surpass the NFL in popularity and that’s okay. Every sport goes through cycles, in the ‘50’s its likely you survey most folks of their favorite sport this is likely the order. Baseball, college football, the NFL college basketball and the NBA. Nowadays this is probably closer to the order the NFL, baseball, college football, the NBA and college basketball. The naysayer’s claimed; “No Michael Jordan the league will suffer.” Along came Kobe followed by LeBron and others to blow that observation away. A number of sub-par teams are at play but have players on their roster with plenty of potential. The future is bright despite what some might say.
Broadcast institutions
Can your name be associated with the game you broadcast? I believe the answer in some instances might be yes. Those who broadcast the game we all love can become institutions. That might be the case for Marv Albert If you check his bio you will discover he’s broadcast a variety sports over the course of his career however he‘s forever identified with NBA basketball. He served for years as the Knick broadcaster but currently works for TNT. He’s got 49 years of broadcast behind him beginning as the voice of the Knicks on radio and television in 1967.
He’s 75 years old now there might be a question of how much longer. Broadcaster requires home work however it’s not heavy lifting, after all Chick Hearn continued to broadcast Laker games until his death at 85 in 2002. The late Dr. Jack aka Jack Ramsay former coach became a television analyst for the 76ers and Heat. Later he would go to work for ESPN on its NBA telecast he would leave broadcasting at the tender age of 87.
Bret Musberger at age 77 continues to broadcast college basketball and college football too. Musberger is further identified from the time period the NBA at the time the CBS Network held the broadcast rights. Bob Costas might be identified with baseball however his start was basketball. At the tender age of 22 Costas was the broadcast voice for the ABA Spirits of St. Louis and later it was Mizzou basketball. In 1990 when NBC acquired the NBA rights Costas was the lead broadcaster which he held until the expiration of the contract.
They missed him
Pacer Paul George might have more notoriety for a broken leg than basketball. He suffered the injury while competing for Team USA tryouts in 2014. The injury was so devastating it caused him to miss most of the 2014-15 season. How would he return in 2016 I’m glad you ask the question? He made the NBA All Star team and the All-NBA team for the third time. George was All NBA Defensive Second team for the second time.
All his playing career beginning in high school he’s flown beneath the radar. George wasn’t highly touted at Knight High School in Palmdale (CA), Rivals a talent source I use awarded him three stars. Five stars is the highest rating the site offers a prospect. The 6-9 forward left Fresno State after two years for the NBA, the Pacers made him the 10th pick in the first round of the 2010 NBA Draft. I continue to maintain doesn’t matter where you play if you have potential talent a scout somewhere will locate you.
He was the first
Thon Maker will make his NBA debut in a couple of weeks; Brandon Jennings was drafted in 2009 by the Bucks both circumvented the age 19 or one year college rule. If you believed they might have been the first to go this route I’ve got news for you they were the first. We must travel back to 1961 Detroit. In 1961 the late Reggie Harding graduated from a Detroit high school but failed to enroll in college. He would be selected by the Pistons in the 4th round of the 1962 NBA Draft and the following year by them in the 6th round.
NOTE: Prior to 1989 the NBA Draft consisted of seven rounds. The draft became two rounds only. As for Harding he didn’t play for the Pistons until the 1963-64 season, the 7-foot Harding had a brief pro career. Personal demons managed to end his short career. Those who played with and against him claimed he could have developed into a solid player. The lure of the streets were more a draw for him than staying on the straight and narrow. In 1972 at the age of 30 he was murdered.
The NBA’s future
Can you name five potential NBA superstars? I can name maybe 10, despite the naysayer’s the NBA is in good shape and the future continues to shine brightly. The league will never surpass the NFL in popularity and that’s okay. Every sport goes through cycles, in the ‘50’s its likely you survey most folks of their favorite sport this is likely the order. Baseball, college football, the NFL college basketball and the NBA. Nowadays this is probably closer to the order the NFL, baseball, college football, the NBA and college basketball. The naysayer’s claimed; “No Michael Jordan the league will suffer.” Along came Kobe followed by LeBron and others to blow that observation away. A number of sub-par teams are at play but have players on their roster with plenty of potential. The future is bright despite what some might say.
Sunday, September 25, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
“The Big Ticket”
Kevin Garnett finally punched his last “ticket” the one stamped retirement, the 6-11 Garnett agreed to a buy-out with the Wolves. Garnett arrived in the NBA directly from high school in the 1995 draft and chosen by the Wolves. For a number of years Garnett was the Minnesota Timberwolves. Later he would be traded to the Celtics where he Paul Pierce and Ray Allen won an NBA Championship.
Garnett would later have a brief stop in Brooklyn playing for the Nets, he would return to the Wolves in 2015. What will Garnett do retired, eventually it might be as an NBA owner, and he’s spoke of that desire sometime ago. Did you realize Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett all will have retired in the same year? I claim no psychic ability but this I know all three will enter the Naismith Hall of Fame. Even more interesting since they all retired in the same year each will gain hall eligibility at the same time.
Unfulfilled promise
Khris Middleton Bucks reserve suffered a torn hamstring and will be out six months. The injury is devastating but this account is not about Middleton it about the guy who attempts to replace him. Almost immediately the Bucks made a trade for Michael Beasley, is this the same Beasley once projected to be an NBA All Star? It seems such a short time ago he was the 2nd pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NBA Draft. The 6-10 Beasley is 27 now certainly not old but he’s running out of opportunities. Since 2008 it’s been one team after another in what has become a journeyman career. The Bucks become Beasley’s 5th NBA team however his count is actually 4 if we consider he’s played twice with the Heat.
As recently as 2011 Beasley scored nearly 20 points per game for the Wolves. The guy could always score the ball but that not his problem it’s been other areas. I remember Kansas State managed a victory over arch rival Kansas as Beasley led the way in the victory. I don’t think K-State has topped the Jayhawks since then. In any event after one season Beasley would declare for the NBA Draft. All the accolades were there; All American First Team, Basketball Writers Freshman of the Year and Big 12 Player of the Year. Those are just a few of the honors Beasley would receive.
Syracuse
We’ve discussed NBA team movement in the past I don’t believe Syracuse New York has been a topic. I remember specially writing about the Warriors moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco but who replaced them? It was the 76ers but how did they come into existence? The Syracuse Nationals or Nats were one of the original National Basketball League teams having been founded in 1946 they along with NBL teams would later merge with Basketball Association of America teams to form the NBA we know today. The NBA in the late ’50’s and early ’60’s was re-branding its image.
The league was attempting to move away from smaller markets into more urban areas. At the time the Lakers moved to Los Angeles in 1960 the Nats became the last NBL team located where they first began play. In 1963 as indicated above owners of the Warriors moved the franchise to San Francisco leaving Philadelphia a city of over 2 million at the time with no pro basketball team. The Warriors move provided owner Danny Biasone the opportunity to locate his franchise to a much larger market. The 1963 NBA was the first year of operation in the City of Brotherly Love for the team re-born as the 76ers.
Kansas basketball
We know the rich history of Kansas basketball Wilt Chamberlain, Paul Pierce, Coach Larry Brown the line keeps moving. In recent years Gregg Marshall’s Wichita State Shockers have made noise nationally. In fact debate raged as to which was the best Division I program in the state Kansas or Kansas State. As for Kansas State basketball has been down a bit but also has history. Players Bob Boozer, Mitch Richmond and Coach Jack Hartman led K-State to several successful seasons. Did you know the state has some of the best junior college basketball in the nation?
The Kansas Jayhawk Community College is comprised of 25 junior colleges spread throughout the State of Kansas. No argument there are likely a number of states with a larger number of junior colleges but I doubt they can match the success of the junior college conference. Understand this other than Johnson County and Kansas City Kansas most of the schools are located in rural and small towns throughout the state. Athletes from all over the nation have arrive on various colleges across the state. The question might be "It's just junior college basketball." Mitch Richmond first began play at a junior college and he's in the hall of fame.
“The Big Ticket”
Kevin Garnett finally punched his last “ticket” the one stamped retirement, the 6-11 Garnett agreed to a buy-out with the Wolves. Garnett arrived in the NBA directly from high school in the 1995 draft and chosen by the Wolves. For a number of years Garnett was the Minnesota Timberwolves. Later he would be traded to the Celtics where he Paul Pierce and Ray Allen won an NBA Championship.
Garnett would later have a brief stop in Brooklyn playing for the Nets, he would return to the Wolves in 2015. What will Garnett do retired, eventually it might be as an NBA owner, and he’s spoke of that desire sometime ago. Did you realize Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett all will have retired in the same year? I claim no psychic ability but this I know all three will enter the Naismith Hall of Fame. Even more interesting since they all retired in the same year each will gain hall eligibility at the same time.
Unfulfilled promise
Khris Middleton Bucks reserve suffered a torn hamstring and will be out six months. The injury is devastating but this account is not about Middleton it about the guy who attempts to replace him. Almost immediately the Bucks made a trade for Michael Beasley, is this the same Beasley once projected to be an NBA All Star? It seems such a short time ago he was the 2nd pick in the 1st round of the 2008 NBA Draft. The 6-10 Beasley is 27 now certainly not old but he’s running out of opportunities. Since 2008 it’s been one team after another in what has become a journeyman career. The Bucks become Beasley’s 5th NBA team however his count is actually 4 if we consider he’s played twice with the Heat.
As recently as 2011 Beasley scored nearly 20 points per game for the Wolves. The guy could always score the ball but that not his problem it’s been other areas. I remember Kansas State managed a victory over arch rival Kansas as Beasley led the way in the victory. I don’t think K-State has topped the Jayhawks since then. In any event after one season Beasley would declare for the NBA Draft. All the accolades were there; All American First Team, Basketball Writers Freshman of the Year and Big 12 Player of the Year. Those are just a few of the honors Beasley would receive.
Syracuse
We’ve discussed NBA team movement in the past I don’t believe Syracuse New York has been a topic. I remember specially writing about the Warriors moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco but who replaced them? It was the 76ers but how did they come into existence? The Syracuse Nationals or Nats were one of the original National Basketball League teams having been founded in 1946 they along with NBL teams would later merge with Basketball Association of America teams to form the NBA we know today. The NBA in the late ’50’s and early ’60’s was re-branding its image.
The league was attempting to move away from smaller markets into more urban areas. At the time the Lakers moved to Los Angeles in 1960 the Nats became the last NBL team located where they first began play. In 1963 as indicated above owners of the Warriors moved the franchise to San Francisco leaving Philadelphia a city of over 2 million at the time with no pro basketball team. The Warriors move provided owner Danny Biasone the opportunity to locate his franchise to a much larger market. The 1963 NBA was the first year of operation in the City of Brotherly Love for the team re-born as the 76ers.
Kansas basketball
We know the rich history of Kansas basketball Wilt Chamberlain, Paul Pierce, Coach Larry Brown the line keeps moving. In recent years Gregg Marshall’s Wichita State Shockers have made noise nationally. In fact debate raged as to which was the best Division I program in the state Kansas or Kansas State. As for Kansas State basketball has been down a bit but also has history. Players Bob Boozer, Mitch Richmond and Coach Jack Hartman led K-State to several successful seasons. Did you know the state has some of the best junior college basketball in the nation?
The Kansas Jayhawk Community College is comprised of 25 junior colleges spread throughout the State of Kansas. No argument there are likely a number of states with a larger number of junior colleges but I doubt they can match the success of the junior college conference. Understand this other than Johnson County and Kansas City Kansas most of the schools are located in rural and small towns throughout the state. Athletes from all over the nation have arrive on various colleges across the state. The question might be "It's just junior college basketball." Mitch Richmond first began play at a junior college and he's in the hall of fame.
Saturday, September 24, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Training camp
Can you believe it’s here already, what happened to summer? Tomorrow (September 23) camp opens for NBA teams participating in pre-season NBA Global Games. On Tuesday September 27 camp opens for the remainder of teams for the 2016-17 NBA season. The pre-season schedule kicks off officially Saturday October 1 and Tuesday October 25th the NBA will begin its 70th season of operation.
Bits n Pieces
There are several coaches I’d love to sit down and discuss aspects of basketball. I would guess by now you know my admiration for SMU’s former Coach Larry Brown. I know he’s 76-years old but the guy still retains plenty of basketball knowledge and wisdom. I know he can be cantankerous at times as well. When you reach 76 its likely difficult for him to hold back at times.
The Missouri Valley Conference established in 1907 is steeped in basketball tradition. I found this interesting that several Big 12, SEC and American Athletic Conference schools had Valley Conference roots? As an example the Cincinnati Bearcats were members from 1957-1969. Kansas, Kansas State, Mizzou and Oklahoma were in the conference until 1928. Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State) left in 1956 for the Big 8 (later Big 12 conference). Those are just a few of the former Valley members.
It’s likely the Mavs Dirk Nowitzki will be one of the guys who finish his career with one team. In the day of trades and especially free-agency Dirk will join a select few who managed to play for just one team, he will join Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan. Dirk says he wants to play two more years which means he retires at age 40. The next stop after retirement will occur a few years later when he’s enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
A change in The Big Apple regarding the visibility of the Nets. In 2002 a Kansas City reporter was dispatched to cover the NBA Championship series between the Nets and the Lakers. The Nets at the time had “New Jersey” plastered across the front of their jerseys. This reporter claimed in 2002 he walked into several sports stores in NYC and claimed he couldn’t find any Nets gear. Moving into Brooklyn has changed the profile of the Nets in the city. ESPN financial guy Darren Rovell says Warriors caps are in third place behind Knicks and Nets.
The “other” Hall
Most are familiar with the Naismith Hall of Fame; it was established in 1959 and is located in Springfield (MA). Fewer are aware there is a hall dedicated to college basketball only. The National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame opened in 2006 in Kansas City (MO) is newer than the more well-known Naismith Hall. The college hall is located next door to the Sprint Center in the Power and Light District downtown Kansas City. Similar to Naismith the college version honors a group to be enshrined every year.
The difference between the Halls of Fame Naismith contains a mix of college, NBA and international players, coaches and contributors to the game. As for the college version it’s strictly college players, coaches and contributors to the game. Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Kevin Garnett will never be enshrined unless they graduate college. This is no slap at the players mentioned all have been great players however none attended college. If you plan on traveling to Kansas City the College Basketball Experience is certainly worth a visit. I receive no financial compensation for writing this I just happen to live in Kansas City.
Training camp
Can you believe it’s here already, what happened to summer? Tomorrow (September 23) camp opens for NBA teams participating in pre-season NBA Global Games. On Tuesday September 27 camp opens for the remainder of teams for the 2016-17 NBA season. The pre-season schedule kicks off officially Saturday October 1 and Tuesday October 25th the NBA will begin its 70th season of operation.
Bits n Pieces
There are several coaches I’d love to sit down and discuss aspects of basketball. I would guess by now you know my admiration for SMU’s former Coach Larry Brown. I know he’s 76-years old but the guy still retains plenty of basketball knowledge and wisdom. I know he can be cantankerous at times as well. When you reach 76 its likely difficult for him to hold back at times.
The Missouri Valley Conference established in 1907 is steeped in basketball tradition. I found this interesting that several Big 12, SEC and American Athletic Conference schools had Valley Conference roots? As an example the Cincinnati Bearcats were members from 1957-1969. Kansas, Kansas State, Mizzou and Oklahoma were in the conference until 1928. Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State) left in 1956 for the Big 8 (later Big 12 conference). Those are just a few of the former Valley members.
It’s likely the Mavs Dirk Nowitzki will be one of the guys who finish his career with one team. In the day of trades and especially free-agency Dirk will join a select few who managed to play for just one team, he will join Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan. Dirk says he wants to play two more years which means he retires at age 40. The next stop after retirement will occur a few years later when he’s enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
A change in The Big Apple regarding the visibility of the Nets. In 2002 a Kansas City reporter was dispatched to cover the NBA Championship series between the Nets and the Lakers. The Nets at the time had “New Jersey” plastered across the front of their jerseys. This reporter claimed in 2002 he walked into several sports stores in NYC and claimed he couldn’t find any Nets gear. Moving into Brooklyn has changed the profile of the Nets in the city. ESPN financial guy Darren Rovell says Warriors caps are in third place behind Knicks and Nets.
The “other” Hall
Most are familiar with the Naismith Hall of Fame; it was established in 1959 and is located in Springfield (MA). Fewer are aware there is a hall dedicated to college basketball only. The National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame opened in 2006 in Kansas City (MO) is newer than the more well-known Naismith Hall. The college hall is located next door to the Sprint Center in the Power and Light District downtown Kansas City. Similar to Naismith the college version honors a group to be enshrined every year.
The difference between the Halls of Fame Naismith contains a mix of college, NBA and international players, coaches and contributors to the game. As for the college version it’s strictly college players, coaches and contributors to the game. Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Kevin Garnett will never be enshrined unless they graduate college. This is no slap at the players mentioned all have been great players however none attended college. If you plan on traveling to Kansas City the College Basketball Experience is certainly worth a visit. I receive no financial compensation for writing this I just happen to live in Kansas City.
Friday, September 23, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Listen to the man
It probably wouldn’t do any good; I’m referring to Stephen A. Smith listening to someone other than himself. During a podcast former Knick coach and current ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy issued a noteworthy declaration. “The Knicks have the talent to win 50 games this season but notes several factors have to fall into place.” Anybody (besides Smith) who pays attention to the NBA realizes its no slam dunk for the Knicks. There is no guarantee the Knicks win 50 games but I agree with Van Gundy we could witness an improved 2016-17 Knicks team.
The high school game
Since its inception basketball at the high school level has been played throughout the nation. There were several areas the high school game was more popular than others, New York City, the States of Kentucky and Indiana. This focus is on Indiana unlike other areas of the Hoosier State had but one boy’s high school tournament. The 1986 movie Hoosiers starring Gene Hackman was a fictional story however based on a historical event.
Milan High School defeated played Muncie Central 32-30; Milan at the time had a population of less than 1,500 souls. Muncie Indiana’s population was over 51,000 people at the time this game was played. For the 1997-98 season the Indiana State High School Association divided schools into four division. According to basketball-reference.com over the years the State of Indiana has produced 162 NBA and ABA players, just a few of the current active NBA players from Indiana:
Mike Conley
Eric Gordon
George Hill
R.J. Hunter
Courtney Lee
Trey Lyles
Zach Randolph
Jeff Teague
Cody Zeller
Tyler Zeller
Former NBA players:
Shawn Kemp
Glenn Robinson
Oscar Robertson
Scott Skiles
George McGinnis
The newest NBA “castle”
Golden1 Center opens in Sacramento on October 10; the new home of the Kings will seat 17,500 for basketball. Naturally the arena will be utilized for more than just basketball concerts and the rodeo are just a few of the events scheduled. David Stern saved the franchise for the city of Sacramento. The team was likely headed to Seattle if not for Commissioner David Stern. For his help in securing the team for the City of Sacramento the street leading up to the arena is now 500 David Stern Walk.
Thanks but no thanks
Rumor every year has John Calipari or Bill Self leaving for the NBA, on occasion its both of them. My response why is this even a question for these two. An NBA team would have to pay both large sums of money to leave Lexington Kentucky or Lawrence Kansas. The information I uncovered indicates Calipari earns $8 million dollars a year less bonuses. Self could stand a raise however he makes $3 million a year according to KMBC TV9 Kansas City there is a loophole which shields some of his salary from Kansas tax.
I’m not close to being a financial guy so I’m not going to attempt an explanation. In addition to the tax situation Self has only two years remaining under his present contract. We can rest assured he will command a significant raise. The other factor both have personalities (players) to handle as head coaches, the parallel to coaching an NBA team full of different players is quite different from college age youth. I could be wrong about both however I seriously doubt it. I could foresee an up and coming college coach (Brad Stevens type) headed to the NBA over these two.
Listen to the man
It probably wouldn’t do any good; I’m referring to Stephen A. Smith listening to someone other than himself. During a podcast former Knick coach and current ESPN analyst Jeff Van Gundy issued a noteworthy declaration. “The Knicks have the talent to win 50 games this season but notes several factors have to fall into place.” Anybody (besides Smith) who pays attention to the NBA realizes its no slam dunk for the Knicks. There is no guarantee the Knicks win 50 games but I agree with Van Gundy we could witness an improved 2016-17 Knicks team.
The high school game
Since its inception basketball at the high school level has been played throughout the nation. There were several areas the high school game was more popular than others, New York City, the States of Kentucky and Indiana. This focus is on Indiana unlike other areas of the Hoosier State had but one boy’s high school tournament. The 1986 movie Hoosiers starring Gene Hackman was a fictional story however based on a historical event.
Milan High School defeated played Muncie Central 32-30; Milan at the time had a population of less than 1,500 souls. Muncie Indiana’s population was over 51,000 people at the time this game was played. For the 1997-98 season the Indiana State High School Association divided schools into four division. According to basketball-reference.com over the years the State of Indiana has produced 162 NBA and ABA players, just a few of the current active NBA players from Indiana:
Mike Conley
Eric Gordon
George Hill
R.J. Hunter
Courtney Lee
Trey Lyles
Zach Randolph
Jeff Teague
Cody Zeller
Tyler Zeller
Former NBA players:
Shawn Kemp
Glenn Robinson
Oscar Robertson
Scott Skiles
George McGinnis
The newest NBA “castle”
Golden1 Center opens in Sacramento on October 10; the new home of the Kings will seat 17,500 for basketball. Naturally the arena will be utilized for more than just basketball concerts and the rodeo are just a few of the events scheduled. David Stern saved the franchise for the city of Sacramento. The team was likely headed to Seattle if not for Commissioner David Stern. For his help in securing the team for the City of Sacramento the street leading up to the arena is now 500 David Stern Walk.
Thanks but no thanks
Rumor every year has John Calipari or Bill Self leaving for the NBA, on occasion its both of them. My response why is this even a question for these two. An NBA team would have to pay both large sums of money to leave Lexington Kentucky or Lawrence Kansas. The information I uncovered indicates Calipari earns $8 million dollars a year less bonuses. Self could stand a raise however he makes $3 million a year according to KMBC TV9 Kansas City there is a loophole which shields some of his salary from Kansas tax.
I’m not close to being a financial guy so I’m not going to attempt an explanation. In addition to the tax situation Self has only two years remaining under his present contract. We can rest assured he will command a significant raise. The other factor both have personalities (players) to handle as head coaches, the parallel to coaching an NBA team full of different players is quite different from college age youth. I could be wrong about both however I seriously doubt it. I could foresee an up and coming college coach (Brad Stevens type) headed to the NBA over these two.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
“A rose by any other name”
To my dismay owners of the franchise chose Pelicans over something else. At the time the “Hornets” name returned to Charlotte the thought might have been the New Orleans franchise needs a name. The Jazz franchise was an expansion team in the city but later moved to Salt Lake City. I’ve always believed the name was more useful for The Crescent City than Utah. Are there are any jazz clubs in the city we might ask? I’ve never visited New Orleans either however its one of the spots American Jazz originated. When questioned about a name change owners of the Jazz believe the name belongs to them and have no desire to change it.
The Roos
Kangaroos are not an animal that‘s likely to strike fear in most hearts, unlike an eagle, bear, wolf or lion. No matter that’s what we got in Kansas City, the University of Missouri Kangaroos. The Roos finished 12-19 (4-10 conference) in the Western Athletic Conference last season. Coach Kareem Richardson believes with six players who played major minutes expectations for improvement are expected. UMKC a Division I program for years continues to remain in the shadow of Kansas, Kansas State and even Mizzou basketball in the KC Metro. At the time UMKC became a Division I program I hoped the school might be able to emulate the success of Louisville, St. John’s or DePaul.
Louisville might be the only successful program at present although St. John’s and DePaul have certainly turned out formidable teams in the past. Louisville, New York City and Chicago each located in a highly populated city. I have long believed the Mo Valley would be a better fit for UMKC. The WAC is a step up conference wise but even it’s got a downside in my view. Seattle University and New Mexico State as rivals for UMKC, one school located in the Pacific Time Zone and the other Rocky Mountain. Consider Wichita, Omaha, Springfield (MO) and Cedar Falls (IA) are all 5 hours drive time from Kansas City and all Central Time Zone. The hook each of the cities mentioned has a school in the Mo Valley.
Well now
C.J. Roberts is headed to Mizzou next season at least he’s made a verbal commitment. Home for the 6 foot point guard is Richland Hills a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. Roberts becomes significant for a number of reasons. The 4-star Rivals prospect becomes Mizzou’s first 2017 commitment. Roberts unlikely to turn Mizzou’s program around but it provides proof to the Mizzou faithful the coaching staff is out recruiting. The school has placed issues of the past several years behind them the fact Roberts chose Mizzou might be a turning point. The programs past inequities might finally be buried (hopefully).
Did you realize?
The Naismith Hall of Fame contains several players who began their basketball careers in the ABA? Dr. J. began his career as a member of the ABA Nets. The most productive years for Roger Brown were spent as a member of the ABA Pacers. We include Connie Hawkins, Artis Gilmore, Dan Issel, David Thompson and Mel Daniels in the count. Brown and Daniels spent their basketball careers in the ABA while the others finished in a merged NBA.
It’s likely over
At the dawn of the 2016-17 season it appears one more perennial All-Star is headed to retirement. Kevin Garnett returned to the Wolves last year the team that drafted him in 1995. As the saying goes; “Father Time remains undefeated ” and the 40-year old Garnett has likely at the end of the line. The Wolves are supposed to be negotiating a buy-out of Garnett’s contract. This story is likely to still be rumor while you are reading it. Don’t be surprised if this week or next week it’s confirmed. Next stop for Mr. Garnett the Naismith Hall of Fame.
“A rose by any other name”
To my dismay owners of the franchise chose Pelicans over something else. At the time the “Hornets” name returned to Charlotte the thought might have been the New Orleans franchise needs a name. The Jazz franchise was an expansion team in the city but later moved to Salt Lake City. I’ve always believed the name was more useful for The Crescent City than Utah. Are there are any jazz clubs in the city we might ask? I’ve never visited New Orleans either however its one of the spots American Jazz originated. When questioned about a name change owners of the Jazz believe the name belongs to them and have no desire to change it.
The Roos
Kangaroos are not an animal that‘s likely to strike fear in most hearts, unlike an eagle, bear, wolf or lion. No matter that’s what we got in Kansas City, the University of Missouri Kangaroos. The Roos finished 12-19 (4-10 conference) in the Western Athletic Conference last season. Coach Kareem Richardson believes with six players who played major minutes expectations for improvement are expected. UMKC a Division I program for years continues to remain in the shadow of Kansas, Kansas State and even Mizzou basketball in the KC Metro. At the time UMKC became a Division I program I hoped the school might be able to emulate the success of Louisville, St. John’s or DePaul.
Louisville might be the only successful program at present although St. John’s and DePaul have certainly turned out formidable teams in the past. Louisville, New York City and Chicago each located in a highly populated city. I have long believed the Mo Valley would be a better fit for UMKC. The WAC is a step up conference wise but even it’s got a downside in my view. Seattle University and New Mexico State as rivals for UMKC, one school located in the Pacific Time Zone and the other Rocky Mountain. Consider Wichita, Omaha, Springfield (MO) and Cedar Falls (IA) are all 5 hours drive time from Kansas City and all Central Time Zone. The hook each of the cities mentioned has a school in the Mo Valley.
Well now
C.J. Roberts is headed to Mizzou next season at least he’s made a verbal commitment. Home for the 6 foot point guard is Richland Hills a city in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. Roberts becomes significant for a number of reasons. The 4-star Rivals prospect becomes Mizzou’s first 2017 commitment. Roberts unlikely to turn Mizzou’s program around but it provides proof to the Mizzou faithful the coaching staff is out recruiting. The school has placed issues of the past several years behind them the fact Roberts chose Mizzou might be a turning point. The programs past inequities might finally be buried (hopefully).
Did you realize?
The Naismith Hall of Fame contains several players who began their basketball careers in the ABA? Dr. J. began his career as a member of the ABA Nets. The most productive years for Roger Brown were spent as a member of the ABA Pacers. We include Connie Hawkins, Artis Gilmore, Dan Issel, David Thompson and Mel Daniels in the count. Brown and Daniels spent their basketball careers in the ABA while the others finished in a merged NBA.
It’s likely over
At the dawn of the 2016-17 season it appears one more perennial All-Star is headed to retirement. Kevin Garnett returned to the Wolves last year the team that drafted him in 1995. As the saying goes; “Father Time remains undefeated ” and the 40-year old Garnett has likely at the end of the line. The Wolves are supposed to be negotiating a buy-out of Garnett’s contract. This story is likely to still be rumor while you are reading it. Don’t be surprised if this week or next week it’s confirmed. Next stop for Mr. Garnett the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Coaching high school?
There was a Country & Western hit tune “I’ve been everywhere” made popular by the late Johnny Cash. One of the lyrics says; “I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man crossed the deserts bare, man I’ve breathed the mountain air, man travel I’ve had my share man, I’ve been everywhere.” That could just as easily be the theme song adopted by Larry Brown over the course of his coaching career. 14 coaching stops count them, he’s coached 2 ABA teams, 8 NBA teams and 4 college teams (North Carolina assistant, UCLA, Kansas, SMU) and next up high school.
The high school position is yet to be confirmed by the school or Brown however check this out. When we last checked in with Brown he’d stepped down as head coach at SMU in July. Brown informed the Kansas City Star newspaper there is a high school in East Hampton (NY) needing a head coach. East Hampton is about 120 miles from Brooklyn the borough where Brown was born and first came to basketball prominence. Teacher that he is never mind Brown just turned 76 he wants to continue to coach (and teach) the game he’s loved all these years.
What now?
76er center Jahlil Okafor had a first-rate rookie year, nearly 18 points and 7 rebounds a game. For the 6-11 youngster with but one year of college basketball under his belt proves he can play. The downside is a tinge of immaturity on Okafor’s part. Injury forced him to the sidelines but he should recover in time for the 2016-17 season the question in whose jersey? All summer long rumors have run rampant with stories of the 76ers attempting to trade him.
The most likely destination mentioned in most of the rumors is the Celtics. Part of the problem facing the 76ers is Joel Embiid you remember him don’t you? The 7 foot Embiid came to the forefront quickly playing at Kansas despite a limited basketball background. An injury had curtailed his freshman year and then another and another. The 3rd pick in the first round of the 2014 NBA Draft has never set foot competitively on an NBA court. The 76ers are reporting Embiid is ready for action. You don’t pay a back-up center the type of money Okafor and Embiid are being paid.
Bits n Pieces
The Lakers hired Coby Karl as head coach for their D-League team the Defenders. Karl played for a number of teams including the Lakers as a reserve. My chief concern he doesn’t try to replicate dad’s coaching manner I must admit I‘m not a fan of George Karl.
He’s got the same name of another athlete, the difference between the two one played baseball this Reggie Jackson plays for the Pistons. This Jackson had outstanding numbers last season, his team was only slightly above .500 so that might be the reason few know this Jackson‘s name. This season might be different now that the 26-year old will be starting his second year as the main man at the point.
Lighting rod is the term I would apply to Fox Sports 1. Other than the games (football and basketball) I cannot stomach Clay Travis, Colin Cowherd and Jason Whitlock along with Skip Bayless. I must be paid large sums of money to sit in front of my television to view any programming consisting of the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.” I guess Fox Sports management believes “the more controversial we are the more viewers we‘ll be able to attract“. That might work for some folks not for me.
“Karl-Anthony Towns is the new future of the NBA” is what the headline for Slam Magazine read. It could be correct for starters we had no idea how the former Kentucky center would adapt to the NBA. Calipari’s platoon system indicated he might be able to play but 10.3 ppg and 6.7 rebounds are not earth shattering numbers. Playing full-time in the NBA his scoring increased to 18.3 ppg and 10.5 rebounds. He was named Rookie of the Year; the Wolves center just might be the new future of the NBA.
Coaching high school?
There was a Country & Western hit tune “I’ve been everywhere” made popular by the late Johnny Cash. One of the lyrics says; “I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man crossed the deserts bare, man I’ve breathed the mountain air, man travel I’ve had my share man, I’ve been everywhere.” That could just as easily be the theme song adopted by Larry Brown over the course of his coaching career. 14 coaching stops count them, he’s coached 2 ABA teams, 8 NBA teams and 4 college teams (North Carolina assistant, UCLA, Kansas, SMU) and next up high school.
The high school position is yet to be confirmed by the school or Brown however check this out. When we last checked in with Brown he’d stepped down as head coach at SMU in July. Brown informed the Kansas City Star newspaper there is a high school in East Hampton (NY) needing a head coach. East Hampton is about 120 miles from Brooklyn the borough where Brown was born and first came to basketball prominence. Teacher that he is never mind Brown just turned 76 he wants to continue to coach (and teach) the game he’s loved all these years.
What now?
76er center Jahlil Okafor had a first-rate rookie year, nearly 18 points and 7 rebounds a game. For the 6-11 youngster with but one year of college basketball under his belt proves he can play. The downside is a tinge of immaturity on Okafor’s part. Injury forced him to the sidelines but he should recover in time for the 2016-17 season the question in whose jersey? All summer long rumors have run rampant with stories of the 76ers attempting to trade him.
The most likely destination mentioned in most of the rumors is the Celtics. Part of the problem facing the 76ers is Joel Embiid you remember him don’t you? The 7 foot Embiid came to the forefront quickly playing at Kansas despite a limited basketball background. An injury had curtailed his freshman year and then another and another. The 3rd pick in the first round of the 2014 NBA Draft has never set foot competitively on an NBA court. The 76ers are reporting Embiid is ready for action. You don’t pay a back-up center the type of money Okafor and Embiid are being paid.
Bits n Pieces
The Lakers hired Coby Karl as head coach for their D-League team the Defenders. Karl played for a number of teams including the Lakers as a reserve. My chief concern he doesn’t try to replicate dad’s coaching manner I must admit I‘m not a fan of George Karl.
He’s got the same name of another athlete, the difference between the two one played baseball this Reggie Jackson plays for the Pistons. This Jackson had outstanding numbers last season, his team was only slightly above .500 so that might be the reason few know this Jackson‘s name. This season might be different now that the 26-year old will be starting his second year as the main man at the point.
Lighting rod is the term I would apply to Fox Sports 1. Other than the games (football and basketball) I cannot stomach Clay Travis, Colin Cowherd and Jason Whitlock along with Skip Bayless. I must be paid large sums of money to sit in front of my television to view any programming consisting of the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.” I guess Fox Sports management believes “the more controversial we are the more viewers we‘ll be able to attract“. That might work for some folks not for me.
“Karl-Anthony Towns is the new future of the NBA” is what the headline for Slam Magazine read. It could be correct for starters we had no idea how the former Kentucky center would adapt to the NBA. Calipari’s platoon system indicated he might be able to play but 10.3 ppg and 6.7 rebounds are not earth shattering numbers. Playing full-time in the NBA his scoring increased to 18.3 ppg and 10.5 rebounds. He was named Rookie of the Year; the Wolves center just might be the new future of the NBA.
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
What’s wrong with this picture?
LeBron James plays for the Cavs but you have no problem with him in a Yankee baseball cap. He wears it despite the fact he's never been seen (to my knowledge) with a cap of of his hometown Indians. On the other hand you have issues with John Wall in a Cowboys jersey at the recent Washington-Cowboys match? That’s good ol Stephen A. Smith the walking contradiction. Wall plays for the Wizards in Washington D.C. is there some requirement he root for the cities NFL or MLB team? Sorry Smith and NFL fans does he have no freedom of choice?
Impossible these days
You ask what’s impossible, the ability to produce multiple college basketball championships, it existed in the ’50’s, ’60’s and ’70’s. Once we move into the 1990’s till the present only two teams have been able to accomplish the feat. The chief reason once there were no early entry players they remained in school for four years. That’s how Tennessee A&I (Tennessee State), Kentucky State were able to accomplish it at the NAIA level.
As for Division I it was San Francisco (‘55-‘56), Cincinnati ‘62-’62, UCLA (’64-’65 and ‘67-’73). Later Duke (’91-’92) and Florida (‘06-‘07) would become repeat NCAA Champions. It’s my belief we are producing more basketball talent than ever for the most part one year is about all we can hope for with any program. Even academic Duke and Vanderbilt have been impacted by NBA early entry. Yes I do lament for the old days a time when dynasty teams could be built. Today John Calipari’s Kentucky Wildcats might come closet to a dynasty but even they have been unable to win back to back championships
You thought it was LeBron
Those under the age of say 45 or so probably believe LeBron James is the most famous basketball player from Akron (OH). They believe he is personally responsible for placing the City of Akron on the basketball map. Paux faux it didn’t occur in the manner you might believe. Two legendary players were from Akron and they preceded LeBron by at least three or four generations. Get this they were teammates for a short period at Akron’s Central High School. How great were they you ask, both are enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Older of the two is the late Gus Johnson a 6-6 230 pound forward. The term “power” forward might have been added due to his physical play. Johnson was more than physical he could also shoot and rebound the basketball. He was the 10th pick in the 1963 NBA Draft by the Baltimore Bullets (Washington Wizards). His ten year career would see him selected an NBA All-Star 5X and 2X All NBA Defensive First Team and 4X All NBA Defensive Second Team. His battles with Knicks forward Dave DeBussechure were stuff of legend.
Johnson’s Gus’s numbers over the course of his career were 16.2 ppg and 12.1 rebounds. He died of brain cancer in 1987; in 2010 he was enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. Johnson’s teammate was the late Nate Thurmond a 6-11 235 pound center/power forward. Thurmond was the third pick in the first round of the 1963 draft. He was chosen by the San Francisco Warriors although Wilt Chamberlain occupied the center position. The first year he played back-up to Wilt along with playing the power forward position.
In his second year Wilt was traded to the 76ers which allowed Thurmond to move to the center position. Thurmond could score but he was more known for rebounding and defense. Kareem Abdul Jabbar says of all the centers he faced during his NBA career Thurmond played him toughest. He spent most of his years with the Warriors although he was a member of the Bulls and Cavs. While a member of the Bulls in an OT game against the Hawks Thurmond scored a quadruple-double. He registered 22 points 14 rebounds 13 assists and 12 blocked shots.
His career numbers are equal 15 points and 15 rebounds for his 14 years. 7X NBA All Star, 2X All Defensive First Team, 3X All Defensive Second Team. Thurmond was selected the NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team. In 1985 he would be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. Leukemia took Thurmond’s life in 2016. There you have it two of Akron’s basketball greats not named LeBron. Want more information on Johnson and Thurmond be sure to check them out.
Where did they play?
I’ve mentioned on more than one occasion NBA talent is located all over the basketball map. Talent will be located no matter the size of the school its location or the conference. Several had successful careers that led them to be added to the hall of greats the Naismith Hall of Fame a few years after retirement. This list is certainly not intended to be complete just a number from memory. Rebounding machine and defensive specialist Dennis Rodman played his college ball at Southeastern Oklahoma State. Elgin Baylor a 6-5 forward could often out leap taller opponents he attended Seattle University.
North Carolina Central sent Celtic great Sam Jones into the hall. The Syracuse Nats would draft rookie Chet Walker from Bradley University, he would become a star for the 76ers after the team move to Philadelphia. Pepperdine University’s campus is known for its beauty but the school also sent Dennis Johnson into the NBA to the Sonics and later the Celtics. All have been enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame which proves no matter where you play you college ball your talent can take you the hall of champions the Naismith.
What’s wrong with this picture?
LeBron James plays for the Cavs but you have no problem with him in a Yankee baseball cap. He wears it despite the fact he's never been seen (to my knowledge) with a cap of of his hometown Indians. On the other hand you have issues with John Wall in a Cowboys jersey at the recent Washington-Cowboys match? That’s good ol Stephen A. Smith the walking contradiction. Wall plays for the Wizards in Washington D.C. is there some requirement he root for the cities NFL or MLB team? Sorry Smith and NFL fans does he have no freedom of choice?
Impossible these days
You ask what’s impossible, the ability to produce multiple college basketball championships, it existed in the ’50’s, ’60’s and ’70’s. Once we move into the 1990’s till the present only two teams have been able to accomplish the feat. The chief reason once there were no early entry players they remained in school for four years. That’s how Tennessee A&I (Tennessee State), Kentucky State were able to accomplish it at the NAIA level.
As for Division I it was San Francisco (‘55-‘56), Cincinnati ‘62-’62, UCLA (’64-’65 and ‘67-’73). Later Duke (’91-’92) and Florida (‘06-‘07) would become repeat NCAA Champions. It’s my belief we are producing more basketball talent than ever for the most part one year is about all we can hope for with any program. Even academic Duke and Vanderbilt have been impacted by NBA early entry. Yes I do lament for the old days a time when dynasty teams could be built. Today John Calipari’s Kentucky Wildcats might come closet to a dynasty but even they have been unable to win back to back championships
You thought it was LeBron
Those under the age of say 45 or so probably believe LeBron James is the most famous basketball player from Akron (OH). They believe he is personally responsible for placing the City of Akron on the basketball map. Paux faux it didn’t occur in the manner you might believe. Two legendary players were from Akron and they preceded LeBron by at least three or four generations. Get this they were teammates for a short period at Akron’s Central High School. How great were they you ask, both are enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Older of the two is the late Gus Johnson a 6-6 230 pound forward. The term “power” forward might have been added due to his physical play. Johnson was more than physical he could also shoot and rebound the basketball. He was the 10th pick in the 1963 NBA Draft by the Baltimore Bullets (Washington Wizards). His ten year career would see him selected an NBA All-Star 5X and 2X All NBA Defensive First Team and 4X All NBA Defensive Second Team. His battles with Knicks forward Dave DeBussechure were stuff of legend.
Johnson’s Gus’s numbers over the course of his career were 16.2 ppg and 12.1 rebounds. He died of brain cancer in 1987; in 2010 he was enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. Johnson’s teammate was the late Nate Thurmond a 6-11 235 pound center/power forward. Thurmond was the third pick in the first round of the 1963 draft. He was chosen by the San Francisco Warriors although Wilt Chamberlain occupied the center position. The first year he played back-up to Wilt along with playing the power forward position.
In his second year Wilt was traded to the 76ers which allowed Thurmond to move to the center position. Thurmond could score but he was more known for rebounding and defense. Kareem Abdul Jabbar says of all the centers he faced during his NBA career Thurmond played him toughest. He spent most of his years with the Warriors although he was a member of the Bulls and Cavs. While a member of the Bulls in an OT game against the Hawks Thurmond scored a quadruple-double. He registered 22 points 14 rebounds 13 assists and 12 blocked shots.
His career numbers are equal 15 points and 15 rebounds for his 14 years. 7X NBA All Star, 2X All Defensive First Team, 3X All Defensive Second Team. Thurmond was selected the NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team. In 1985 he would be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. Leukemia took Thurmond’s life in 2016. There you have it two of Akron’s basketball greats not named LeBron. Want more information on Johnson and Thurmond be sure to check them out.
Where did they play?
I’ve mentioned on more than one occasion NBA talent is located all over the basketball map. Talent will be located no matter the size of the school its location or the conference. Several had successful careers that led them to be added to the hall of greats the Naismith Hall of Fame a few years after retirement. This list is certainly not intended to be complete just a number from memory. Rebounding machine and defensive specialist Dennis Rodman played his college ball at Southeastern Oklahoma State. Elgin Baylor a 6-5 forward could often out leap taller opponents he attended Seattle University.
North Carolina Central sent Celtic great Sam Jones into the hall. The Syracuse Nats would draft rookie Chet Walker from Bradley University, he would become a star for the 76ers after the team move to Philadelphia. Pepperdine University’s campus is known for its beauty but the school also sent Dennis Johnson into the NBA to the Sonics and later the Celtics. All have been enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame which proves no matter where you play you college ball your talent can take you the hall of champions the Naismith.
Monday, September 19, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Another one
I don’t know anything about George Washington basketball; secondly I don’t know Coach Mike Longeran. This I do know Longeran no longer has a job at GW, the school decided to replace him. Reports circulated he was abusive to several of his players. He becomes another in the line of coaches terminated based on treatment of players by a coach. Mike Rice Jr. served as Rutgers coach from 2010 to 2013; he was fired for abusing his players.
In 2014 College of Charleston fired Doug Wojcik for the very same reason. The coaches mentioned were not the first terminated for abusing players nor will they be the last they are just among the most recent. By the time Bobby Knight arrived at Texas Tech in 2001 we are not sure if it was age or something else he certainly coached differently. Knight was an institution at Indiana; he might still be coaching if not for “the incident. “
One of his players claimed abuse which Knight denied later video surfaced appearing to confirm Knight had his hands around the player’s neck. The university adopted a zero tolerance policy the next incident he was out the door. Walking on campus it was reported a student said “Hey Knight” which caused the coach to grab the student by his arm. Knight was asked to resign when he refused the school fired him. Bottom line there must be a cut-off point that allows a coach to teach and preach but not abuse. I have no idea of the parameters involved in coaching but they must exist.
He was impressed
Jaren Jackson is a 5-star recruit from Indianapolis (IN), the 6-10 Jackson is one of the highly sought after prospects (Rivals 15) in the Class of 2017. The young man had several schools recruiting him including Tom Izzo’s Michigan State Wolverines. Jackson made his choice know recently picking Michigan State. He said; “The coach was being inducted in the Naismith Hall of Fame on Friday and Sunday he was visiting me.” I guess effort like that can impress a young man.
A name you should know
Jerry Lucas is a name from the past you should know. At 6-8 230 pounds Lucas with the Knicks faced 7-1 290 pound Wilt Chamberlain of the Lakers in the 1973 NBA Championship. Luke didn’t battle down low giving away too much height and weight to Chamberlain. He would shoot from the outside attempting to draw Chamberlain away from the basket; the Knicks win the 1973 championship four games to one. Working backwards Luke came from Middletown (OH) to the Ohio State where he was an All-American. At the time Luke graduated college the Cincinnati Royals (Kings) made him a territorial pick but there was competition.
The American Basketball League a short lived competing league, Luke would sign with the Cleveland Pipers however lawsuits between the Royals and Pipers resulted in him missing a year. The ABL would later fold and Luke would become a member of the Royals. Luke had double-double numbers for his NBA career 17.0 ppg and 15.6 rebounds. This is but brief glimpse at portions of Luke‘s history, there are numerous accolades not mentioned. He’s also been afforded a double-double in the College Hall of Fame and Naismith Hall of Fame. Jerry Lucas a name from the past you should know.
Tell me what you really think?
The NBA page on ESPN.com featured a story on China’s Yi Jianlian. I certainly don’t intend to detail the story rather the after affects. There were six emails responding to the piece and five of them were negative. At times in the past I’ve written jaded stories but I hope with purpose. Several of the letters used the term “scrub” and other terms. They pointed out Yi’s past failure with several teams in the NBA. The Lakers will be NBA team number five however he’s now 28-years old, although he’s been playing in China the NBA will not be new.
We still don’t know how Luke Walton plans on playing him. As for the Lakers we know rookie Brandon Ingram will be coming off the bench initially. Walton has confirmed this story as for Yi and the balance of this story we must wait and see. These letter writers forgot one key fact Yi is only operating under a 1-year contract if he fails he’s history. As for me I’d like to see what a 7 foot 250 pound forward/center can accomplish.
Another one
I don’t know anything about George Washington basketball; secondly I don’t know Coach Mike Longeran. This I do know Longeran no longer has a job at GW, the school decided to replace him. Reports circulated he was abusive to several of his players. He becomes another in the line of coaches terminated based on treatment of players by a coach. Mike Rice Jr. served as Rutgers coach from 2010 to 2013; he was fired for abusing his players.
In 2014 College of Charleston fired Doug Wojcik for the very same reason. The coaches mentioned were not the first terminated for abusing players nor will they be the last they are just among the most recent. By the time Bobby Knight arrived at Texas Tech in 2001 we are not sure if it was age or something else he certainly coached differently. Knight was an institution at Indiana; he might still be coaching if not for “the incident. “
One of his players claimed abuse which Knight denied later video surfaced appearing to confirm Knight had his hands around the player’s neck. The university adopted a zero tolerance policy the next incident he was out the door. Walking on campus it was reported a student said “Hey Knight” which caused the coach to grab the student by his arm. Knight was asked to resign when he refused the school fired him. Bottom line there must be a cut-off point that allows a coach to teach and preach but not abuse. I have no idea of the parameters involved in coaching but they must exist.
He was impressed
Jaren Jackson is a 5-star recruit from Indianapolis (IN), the 6-10 Jackson is one of the highly sought after prospects (Rivals 15) in the Class of 2017. The young man had several schools recruiting him including Tom Izzo’s Michigan State Wolverines. Jackson made his choice know recently picking Michigan State. He said; “The coach was being inducted in the Naismith Hall of Fame on Friday and Sunday he was visiting me.” I guess effort like that can impress a young man.
A name you should know
Jerry Lucas is a name from the past you should know. At 6-8 230 pounds Lucas with the Knicks faced 7-1 290 pound Wilt Chamberlain of the Lakers in the 1973 NBA Championship. Luke didn’t battle down low giving away too much height and weight to Chamberlain. He would shoot from the outside attempting to draw Chamberlain away from the basket; the Knicks win the 1973 championship four games to one. Working backwards Luke came from Middletown (OH) to the Ohio State where he was an All-American. At the time Luke graduated college the Cincinnati Royals (Kings) made him a territorial pick but there was competition.
The American Basketball League a short lived competing league, Luke would sign with the Cleveland Pipers however lawsuits between the Royals and Pipers resulted in him missing a year. The ABL would later fold and Luke would become a member of the Royals. Luke had double-double numbers for his NBA career 17.0 ppg and 15.6 rebounds. This is but brief glimpse at portions of Luke‘s history, there are numerous accolades not mentioned. He’s also been afforded a double-double in the College Hall of Fame and Naismith Hall of Fame. Jerry Lucas a name from the past you should know.
Tell me what you really think?
The NBA page on ESPN.com featured a story on China’s Yi Jianlian. I certainly don’t intend to detail the story rather the after affects. There were six emails responding to the piece and five of them were negative. At times in the past I’ve written jaded stories but I hope with purpose. Several of the letters used the term “scrub” and other terms. They pointed out Yi’s past failure with several teams in the NBA. The Lakers will be NBA team number five however he’s now 28-years old, although he’s been playing in China the NBA will not be new.
We still don’t know how Luke Walton plans on playing him. As for the Lakers we know rookie Brandon Ingram will be coming off the bench initially. Walton has confirmed this story as for Yi and the balance of this story we must wait and see. These letter writers forgot one key fact Yi is only operating under a 1-year contract if he fails he’s history. As for me I’d like to see what a 7 foot 250 pound forward/center can accomplish.
Sunday, September 18, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
That’s good
The Spurs announced several hires recently however one stands out for me. Monty Williams is the new vice-president of basketball operations. He would serve in a reserve role with five teams in a 9 year playing career. 2005 Williams moved into the coaching ranks first as a Blazer assistant and 2010 was hired as head coach of the Pelicans. For the last two years William’s been serving in the role of assistant head coach of the Thunder. Congratulations Mr. Vice-president.
Basketball, basketball, basketball
I just read the Wyoming Cowboys will have 13 games on television. The bulk of games will be telecast by the CBS Sports Network the remainder on Fox Sports 1 and ROOT Sports. This isn’t just about Wyoming basketball it’s about telecasting college basketball, beginning in November college ball rules the airwaves. I might not be correct however I believe with exception of Friday night there are multiple college basketball telecast(s) every evening.
Saturday beginning about 11:00 a.m. Central Time up to a 10:00 p.m. start time you can locate a college game somewhere on cable or satellite. It’s not always been this way up through the late ‘70’s you had to conduct a search for college games. The CBS broadcast network had a single game of the week on Saturday which in this area often competed with a Big 8 game. Even the NCAA Tournament coverage was limited with very little coverage of the early rounds of the contest. Naturally as teams were eliminated more games became available.
Who was he?
I wrote of his passing over the winter in case you missed it this is a recap of an earlier account. The story above reminded me of Eddie Einhorn who died last February at the age of 80. At the time of his death he was a minority owner of the White Sox however it was college basketball where he rose to prominence. Einhorn produced the radio broadcast of the NCAA in 1958. In 1960 he would become the creator of the TVS Television Network; the network would telecast college basketball games to regional markets throughout the nation.
Keep in mind this was years prior to ESPN and all the other networks that have since come into prominence. A TVS game could be telecast over a CBS, NBC or independent station anywhere the network could gain viewers. Einhorn must be given credit (or blame) for the growth of college basketball on television with one game. In 1968 the UCLA Bruins led by Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar) would face off against Elvin Hayes and the Houston Cougars.
The game was to be played in the Astrodome the first dome stadium in the nation; the football/baseball dome was retro-fitted for basketball. Over 52,000 fans were in attendance plus a national television audience for the first telecast of a regular season game. Alcindor had sustained a scratched cornea and there was a question if would even attempt to play. The Houston Cougars behind Hayes 39 points beat UCLA 71-69. Movement didn’t occur overnight however thanks to Einhorn’s vision the college basketball landscape would be changed forever. Einhorn later sold his interest in the network and went to work for CBS Sports.
Not so strange as it might seem
Kevin Durant all 6-9 of him threw out the ceremonial first pitch prior at a Giants game. The announcer said; “He wanted to play baseball so it shouldn’t be so strange.” You think he’s too tall, the Royals have a pitcher (Chris Young) who played basketball in college who stands 6-10. The Yankees have three pitchers on their current roster who stand 6-6 and taller Dellin Betances is the tallest at 6-8.
Batters might be a whole different story, there are few everyday players 6-6 or taller. In the late ‘50’s the Dodgers had outfielder Frank Howard 6-7 235 pounds. They signed Howard after he first came to prominence on the basketball court at Ohio State. Much earlier there was pitcher Gene Conley all 6-8 225 pounds pitched for the Boston Red Sox and played forward for the Boston Celtics. Conley spent four seasons with the Celtics and two with the Knicks. Who knows Durant might have been a major league prospect if he’d continued playing baseball.
That’s good
The Spurs announced several hires recently however one stands out for me. Monty Williams is the new vice-president of basketball operations. He would serve in a reserve role with five teams in a 9 year playing career. 2005 Williams moved into the coaching ranks first as a Blazer assistant and 2010 was hired as head coach of the Pelicans. For the last two years William’s been serving in the role of assistant head coach of the Thunder. Congratulations Mr. Vice-president.
Basketball, basketball, basketball
I just read the Wyoming Cowboys will have 13 games on television. The bulk of games will be telecast by the CBS Sports Network the remainder on Fox Sports 1 and ROOT Sports. This isn’t just about Wyoming basketball it’s about telecasting college basketball, beginning in November college ball rules the airwaves. I might not be correct however I believe with exception of Friday night there are multiple college basketball telecast(s) every evening.
Saturday beginning about 11:00 a.m. Central Time up to a 10:00 p.m. start time you can locate a college game somewhere on cable or satellite. It’s not always been this way up through the late ‘70’s you had to conduct a search for college games. The CBS broadcast network had a single game of the week on Saturday which in this area often competed with a Big 8 game. Even the NCAA Tournament coverage was limited with very little coverage of the early rounds of the contest. Naturally as teams were eliminated more games became available.
Who was he?
I wrote of his passing over the winter in case you missed it this is a recap of an earlier account. The story above reminded me of Eddie Einhorn who died last February at the age of 80. At the time of his death he was a minority owner of the White Sox however it was college basketball where he rose to prominence. Einhorn produced the radio broadcast of the NCAA in 1958. In 1960 he would become the creator of the TVS Television Network; the network would telecast college basketball games to regional markets throughout the nation.
Keep in mind this was years prior to ESPN and all the other networks that have since come into prominence. A TVS game could be telecast over a CBS, NBC or independent station anywhere the network could gain viewers. Einhorn must be given credit (or blame) for the growth of college basketball on television with one game. In 1968 the UCLA Bruins led by Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar) would face off against Elvin Hayes and the Houston Cougars.
The game was to be played in the Astrodome the first dome stadium in the nation; the football/baseball dome was retro-fitted for basketball. Over 52,000 fans were in attendance plus a national television audience for the first telecast of a regular season game. Alcindor had sustained a scratched cornea and there was a question if would even attempt to play. The Houston Cougars behind Hayes 39 points beat UCLA 71-69. Movement didn’t occur overnight however thanks to Einhorn’s vision the college basketball landscape would be changed forever. Einhorn later sold his interest in the network and went to work for CBS Sports.
Not so strange as it might seem
Kevin Durant all 6-9 of him threw out the ceremonial first pitch prior at a Giants game. The announcer said; “He wanted to play baseball so it shouldn’t be so strange.” You think he’s too tall, the Royals have a pitcher (Chris Young) who played basketball in college who stands 6-10. The Yankees have three pitchers on their current roster who stand 6-6 and taller Dellin Betances is the tallest at 6-8.
Batters might be a whole different story, there are few everyday players 6-6 or taller. In the late ‘50’s the Dodgers had outfielder Frank Howard 6-7 235 pounds. They signed Howard after he first came to prominence on the basketball court at Ohio State. Much earlier there was pitcher Gene Conley all 6-8 225 pounds pitched for the Boston Red Sox and played forward for the Boston Celtics. Conley spent four seasons with the Celtics and two with the Knicks. Who knows Durant might have been a major league prospect if he’d continued playing baseball.
Saturday, September 17, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
I can hope can’t I?
There was a teaser on this morning’s news. The news reader said; “A major announcement of a new sports team will be made this morning. “ Needless to say with my ear close to the ground I heard no rumors of an NBA team moving here. Could we be getting an NBA D-League team, I’ve thought for a number of years Sprint Center would be an ideal site.
In any event I wasn’t going to hold my breath waiting for the announcement. The noon news indicated “Kansas City would soon have a franchise in an indoor football league.” We’ve had indoor league football in the past and I believe the league feel apart. There is another factor here indoor football is a bastardized version of “real” football. I place it in the same category of soccer (football) the game is an outdoor one not inside.
Basketball in a football stadium
I believed previously the 1988 NCAA Championship might have been the last played in an arena. Seating in Kemper Arena (Kansas City) was not increased until years later so there could have been no more than 17,500 spectators in attendance. Later In 1990, 1994 and 1996 the championship game was held in basketball arenas the other years it was held in football stadiums which became the future of the NCAA Basketball Championship.
The NCAA moved its championships games to football stadiums placing a basketball court in the middle of the field. Last years championship game between North Carolina and Villanova was held at the NRG Stadium in Houston which also serves as home to the NFL Texans. There is one reason alone for moving to football stadiums---revenue. Are you curious regarding the largest attended game in the nation? That would be 108,713 souls who attended the 2010 NBA All Star game in Dallas. The game was played in Cowboy Stadium home of the NFL Cowboys.
From 1993-2002 the Spurs played in the Alamodome which can hold up to 40,000 for basketball. Similar to other domes this one is a combo football/baseball/concert venue for the city of San Antonio. The Astrodome was home to the NBA Rockets (1971-1975) the Houston Cougars (1965-1997) and the NFL Oilers from 1968-1996.
How to measure success
You didn’t really believe I had the answer did you? Be patient a moment while I attempt to lay out this account. For years at least under Coach K. Duke basketball has been among the best in the nation. We can agree on the statement but what about success at the next level? I’ve read several accounts indicating Duke players have accomplished very little at the NBA level. Let’s take a quick glance, we must exclude Kyrie Irving he’s only beginning his 6th year in the NBA all indications point to a very successful career.
Also excluded are Jabari Parker and Jahlil Okafor they have even lesser time in the NBA. As for the others Elton Brand is entering year 17, Luol Deng in his 12th year, Mike Dunleavy Jr. in his 14th year. We can debate the degree of success however we cannot argue regarding longevity. There are others omitted however the list of Duke players in the NBA totals 64 considerably more than a number of programs across the country. Early entry affects Duke basketball as it does other programs. Who knows Austin Rivers and others might have turned out to be a better player if he’d remained at Duke for at least another year.
The plan (right now) is to remain at home???
At the time the NBA pre-season schedule was announced I said; “I’m there.” The closer we get to October 8 the less likely I am going to attend. I’d love to see Karl-Anthony Towns, Ricky Rubio plus the “new” Miami Heat in person. Allow me a brief explanation. If you’ve been reading Words any length of time you know I love basketball especially the NBA variety. The Lakers are not one of the teams coming to Sprint Center that‘s strike one.
Strike two is the argument with myself paying for an expensive ticket to a
pre-season game. Rather than drive about 14 miles and 30 minutes to Sprint Center I think I’m going to drive 350 miles and about five hours to Oklahoma City. If I’m going to pay for an expensive seat it might as well be for a regular season game. Notice I’m leaving myself some wiggle room I might change my mind who knows.
I can hope can’t I?
There was a teaser on this morning’s news. The news reader said; “A major announcement of a new sports team will be made this morning. “ Needless to say with my ear close to the ground I heard no rumors of an NBA team moving here. Could we be getting an NBA D-League team, I’ve thought for a number of years Sprint Center would be an ideal site.
In any event I wasn’t going to hold my breath waiting for the announcement. The noon news indicated “Kansas City would soon have a franchise in an indoor football league.” We’ve had indoor league football in the past and I believe the league feel apart. There is another factor here indoor football is a bastardized version of “real” football. I place it in the same category of soccer (football) the game is an outdoor one not inside.
Basketball in a football stadium
I believed previously the 1988 NCAA Championship might have been the last played in an arena. Seating in Kemper Arena (Kansas City) was not increased until years later so there could have been no more than 17,500 spectators in attendance. Later In 1990, 1994 and 1996 the championship game was held in basketball arenas the other years it was held in football stadiums which became the future of the NCAA Basketball Championship.
The NCAA moved its championships games to football stadiums placing a basketball court in the middle of the field. Last years championship game between North Carolina and Villanova was held at the NRG Stadium in Houston which also serves as home to the NFL Texans. There is one reason alone for moving to football stadiums---revenue. Are you curious regarding the largest attended game in the nation? That would be 108,713 souls who attended the 2010 NBA All Star game in Dallas. The game was played in Cowboy Stadium home of the NFL Cowboys.
From 1993-2002 the Spurs played in the Alamodome which can hold up to 40,000 for basketball. Similar to other domes this one is a combo football/baseball/concert venue for the city of San Antonio. The Astrodome was home to the NBA Rockets (1971-1975) the Houston Cougars (1965-1997) and the NFL Oilers from 1968-1996.
How to measure success
You didn’t really believe I had the answer did you? Be patient a moment while I attempt to lay out this account. For years at least under Coach K. Duke basketball has been among the best in the nation. We can agree on the statement but what about success at the next level? I’ve read several accounts indicating Duke players have accomplished very little at the NBA level. Let’s take a quick glance, we must exclude Kyrie Irving he’s only beginning his 6th year in the NBA all indications point to a very successful career.
Also excluded are Jabari Parker and Jahlil Okafor they have even lesser time in the NBA. As for the others Elton Brand is entering year 17, Luol Deng in his 12th year, Mike Dunleavy Jr. in his 14th year. We can debate the degree of success however we cannot argue regarding longevity. There are others omitted however the list of Duke players in the NBA totals 64 considerably more than a number of programs across the country. Early entry affects Duke basketball as it does other programs. Who knows Austin Rivers and others might have turned out to be a better player if he’d remained at Duke for at least another year.
The plan (right now) is to remain at home???
At the time the NBA pre-season schedule was announced I said; “I’m there.” The closer we get to October 8 the less likely I am going to attend. I’d love to see Karl-Anthony Towns, Ricky Rubio plus the “new” Miami Heat in person. Allow me a brief explanation. If you’ve been reading Words any length of time you know I love basketball especially the NBA variety. The Lakers are not one of the teams coming to Sprint Center that‘s strike one.
Strike two is the argument with myself paying for an expensive ticket to a
pre-season game. Rather than drive about 14 miles and 30 minutes to Sprint Center I think I’m going to drive 350 miles and about five hours to Oklahoma City. If I’m going to pay for an expensive seat it might as well be for a regular season game. Notice I’m leaving myself some wiggle room I might change my mind who knows.
Friday, September 16, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Did you see it?
Anybody besides me see the 2001 NBA Championship game between the Lakers and 76ers? Without looking it up I don’t remember which game the incident occurred. Laker reserve Tyronn Lue had come into the game to guard the speedy Allen Iverson. With several moves Lue slipped to the floor attempting to guard Iverson.
With Lue’s butt planted firmly on the floor Iverson took the shot made it and gently stepped over Lue looking down at him. We couldn’t read Iverson’s mind but the look on his face said; “You can’t guard me.” Their paths crossed on the court and this time it might cross off the court. It’s been reported Lue has offered Iverson a coaching job if he’s willing to accept the job.
He’s ready
It appears Joel Embiid is ready to play, you remember him don’t you? He’s the 7 foot big man who became the third pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. The 76ers held high expectations for Embiid, he will now step onto a basketball court competitively for the first time since 2014. ESPN.com claims he’s likely to be brought along slowly and will play limited minutes. They indicate he will probably not appear in the second game of a back to back.
They will locate you
From time to time we’ve discussed NBA players from smaller schools. If you have talent NBA scouts will beat a path to your door. Below are just a few examples of players from smaller schools having NBA careers:
Norris Cole - Cleveland State
Robert Covington - Tennessee State
C.J. McCollum - Lehigh
Matthew Dellavedova - St. Mary’s
Tony Snell - New Mexico
Patty Mills - St. Mary’s
Jeremy Lin - Harvard
Kelly Olynyk - Gonzaga
Rodney Stuckey - Eastern Washington
George Hill - IUPUI
Hassan Whiteside - Marshall
Courtney Lee - Western Kentucky
Kenneth Faried - Morehead State
Kevin Martin - Western Carolina
Paul Millsap - Louisiana Tech
This list is not complete these are but a few of a large number. When I use the term “smaller school” this is no reference to the size of the student body. This is a reflection of the teams competing in smaller conferences across the
nation.
Who???
Shaquille O’Neal thanked a number of teammates in his Hall of Fame acceptance speech. One of the names Shaq mentioned was Stanley Roberts which might have caused a number of people to say WHO? Roberts arrived on the LSU campus a year ahead of Shaq; many believed the 7 foot 285 pound center might be the better athlete. Roberts would average nearly 15 points and almost 10 rebounds a game in the only year playing along side Shaq.
Roberts left LSU early for the NBA and would become the 23rd pick in the first round of the 1991 draft. Injuries and weight played a key role in curtailing what appeared to be a promising NBA career. Roberts would play for several NBA teams some in Europe and one ABA team. He would retire in 2004 after playing for a team in Puerto Rico. We know the balance of the story Shaquille O’ Neal Hall of Fame career Stanley Roberts what might have been.
Did you see it?
Anybody besides me see the 2001 NBA Championship game between the Lakers and 76ers? Without looking it up I don’t remember which game the incident occurred. Laker reserve Tyronn Lue had come into the game to guard the speedy Allen Iverson. With several moves Lue slipped to the floor attempting to guard Iverson.
With Lue’s butt planted firmly on the floor Iverson took the shot made it and gently stepped over Lue looking down at him. We couldn’t read Iverson’s mind but the look on his face said; “You can’t guard me.” Their paths crossed on the court and this time it might cross off the court. It’s been reported Lue has offered Iverson a coaching job if he’s willing to accept the job.
He’s ready
It appears Joel Embiid is ready to play, you remember him don’t you? He’s the 7 foot big man who became the third pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. The 76ers held high expectations for Embiid, he will now step onto a basketball court competitively for the first time since 2014. ESPN.com claims he’s likely to be brought along slowly and will play limited minutes. They indicate he will probably not appear in the second game of a back to back.
They will locate you
From time to time we’ve discussed NBA players from smaller schools. If you have talent NBA scouts will beat a path to your door. Below are just a few examples of players from smaller schools having NBA careers:
Norris Cole - Cleveland State
Robert Covington - Tennessee State
C.J. McCollum - Lehigh
Matthew Dellavedova - St. Mary’s
Tony Snell - New Mexico
Patty Mills - St. Mary’s
Jeremy Lin - Harvard
Kelly Olynyk - Gonzaga
Rodney Stuckey - Eastern Washington
George Hill - IUPUI
Hassan Whiteside - Marshall
Courtney Lee - Western Kentucky
Kenneth Faried - Morehead State
Kevin Martin - Western Carolina
Paul Millsap - Louisiana Tech
This list is not complete these are but a few of a large number. When I use the term “smaller school” this is no reference to the size of the student body. This is a reflection of the teams competing in smaller conferences across the
nation.
Who???
Shaquille O’Neal thanked a number of teammates in his Hall of Fame acceptance speech. One of the names Shaq mentioned was Stanley Roberts which might have caused a number of people to say WHO? Roberts arrived on the LSU campus a year ahead of Shaq; many believed the 7 foot 285 pound center might be the better athlete. Roberts would average nearly 15 points and almost 10 rebounds a game in the only year playing along side Shaq.
Roberts left LSU early for the NBA and would become the 23rd pick in the first round of the 1991 draft. Injuries and weight played a key role in curtailing what appeared to be a promising NBA career. Roberts would play for several NBA teams some in Europe and one ABA team. He would retire in 2004 after playing for a team in Puerto Rico. We know the balance of the story Shaquille O’ Neal Hall of Fame career Stanley Roberts what might have been.
Thursday, September 15, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
Boo-hoo
“Sorry if I don’t shed crocodile tears for you” is my response to the KC Star article, by the time you read this it will be old news. The first few lines in the story read “Kansas missed out on a third No. 1-rated basketball recruit in the last five years Tuesday as DeAndre Ayton picked Arizona over KU and Kentucky.” What’s wrong with this picture you might ask? Is this true Kansas basketball losing out on players what happens next?
“Human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together, mass hysteria” sorry Bill Murray. I hope you understand my intent so Kansas didn’t get Ayton to commit is the program going to fall apart? I seriously doubt the last statement because even Bill Self’s replacement (if he ever leaves) has a built in recruiting tool---Kansas basketball. Please no more doom and gloom headlines unless it’s a serious matter.
The schedule
Mizzou is on probation however I’m checking out the non-conference schedule. Just cause there is no post-season fails to take into account Mizzou or any team must continue to play at a productive level. November 17 Xavier and the next day either Clemson or Davidson. Then it’s Western Kentucky, Miami (OH), Arizona and finally the Braggin Rights game versus Illinois.
Those appear to be the toughest of the tough, as for the balance of the pre-season Mizzou could just as easily be winners as losers depending on how quickly the team gels. Can you say improvement is expected by me---I deem this a pivotal year for Coach Kim Anderson and the Tiger program? I’ll repeat an earlier thought he was dealt a “bad hand” when replacing Frank Haith. The instability in the Athletic Department hasn’t helped either.
Bits n Pieces
South Beach is probably a desired vacation destination. You are the Miami Heat located there already, where do you travel for training camp? You head to the Bahamas more specifically the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in Nassau. It seems this is not the first time the team has held training camp there. According to Slam.com the Heat first traveled to the Bahamas prior to the 2013-14 season.
Isiah Thomas and Isaiah Thomas two NBA players with differently spelled first names. The 5-9 Isaiah arrived in the NBA in 2011, Isiah last played in the NBA in 1994. I wondered if Isaiah was named after Isiah and I discovered that is the case. Dad was a fan; mom had no issue except she wanted her son’s name as it is in the Bible.
Tom Izzo “never left the State of Michigan in a sense.” He was born in Iron Mountain (MI). Played his high school basketball in the state served as an assistant at Northern Michigan then Michigan State first as an assistant and later head coach. He’s been head coach at Michigan State since 1995; in 2000 his team won the NCAA Tournament. September 9, 2016 “Izzo left the State of Michigan” to be enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Wonder why?
Six years ago LeBron James left the Cavs for the Heat. I complained loudly at the time but came to the conclusion it was LeBron’s decision whether I liked it or not. At the same time my wife’s cousin had no problem he was okay with LeBron making the move, he offered me his reasons for view. Then a funny thing occurred two years this same cousin became a Cavs fan again after LeBron returned to Northern Ohio. Fast forward to July 4th 2016 this same cousin was complaining to me about Kevin Durant leaving the Thunder for the Warriors. I was tempted to ask the question why one move is okay and the other not?
Boo-hoo
“Sorry if I don’t shed crocodile tears for you” is my response to the KC Star article, by the time you read this it will be old news. The first few lines in the story read “Kansas missed out on a third No. 1-rated basketball recruit in the last five years Tuesday as DeAndre Ayton picked Arizona over KU and Kentucky.” What’s wrong with this picture you might ask? Is this true Kansas basketball losing out on players what happens next?
“Human sacrifice, dogs and cats living together, mass hysteria” sorry Bill Murray. I hope you understand my intent so Kansas didn’t get Ayton to commit is the program going to fall apart? I seriously doubt the last statement because even Bill Self’s replacement (if he ever leaves) has a built in recruiting tool---Kansas basketball. Please no more doom and gloom headlines unless it’s a serious matter.
The schedule
Mizzou is on probation however I’m checking out the non-conference schedule. Just cause there is no post-season fails to take into account Mizzou or any team must continue to play at a productive level. November 17 Xavier and the next day either Clemson or Davidson. Then it’s Western Kentucky, Miami (OH), Arizona and finally the Braggin Rights game versus Illinois.
Those appear to be the toughest of the tough, as for the balance of the pre-season Mizzou could just as easily be winners as losers depending on how quickly the team gels. Can you say improvement is expected by me---I deem this a pivotal year for Coach Kim Anderson and the Tiger program? I’ll repeat an earlier thought he was dealt a “bad hand” when replacing Frank Haith. The instability in the Athletic Department hasn’t helped either.
Bits n Pieces
South Beach is probably a desired vacation destination. You are the Miami Heat located there already, where do you travel for training camp? You head to the Bahamas more specifically the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in Nassau. It seems this is not the first time the team has held training camp there. According to Slam.com the Heat first traveled to the Bahamas prior to the 2013-14 season.
Isiah Thomas and Isaiah Thomas two NBA players with differently spelled first names. The 5-9 Isaiah arrived in the NBA in 2011, Isiah last played in the NBA in 1994. I wondered if Isaiah was named after Isiah and I discovered that is the case. Dad was a fan; mom had no issue except she wanted her son’s name as it is in the Bible.
Tom Izzo “never left the State of Michigan in a sense.” He was born in Iron Mountain (MI). Played his high school basketball in the state served as an assistant at Northern Michigan then Michigan State first as an assistant and later head coach. He’s been head coach at Michigan State since 1995; in 2000 his team won the NCAA Tournament. September 9, 2016 “Izzo left the State of Michigan” to be enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
Wonder why?
Six years ago LeBron James left the Cavs for the Heat. I complained loudly at the time but came to the conclusion it was LeBron’s decision whether I liked it or not. At the same time my wife’s cousin had no problem he was okay with LeBron making the move, he offered me his reasons for view. Then a funny thing occurred two years this same cousin became a Cavs fan again after LeBron returned to Northern Ohio. Fast forward to July 4th 2016 this same cousin was complaining to me about Kevin Durant leaving the Thunder for the Warriors. I was tempted to ask the question why one move is okay and the other not?
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE
“I don’t miss free-throws”
Rick Barry has disappeared from view by much of the public. Who was Barry you ask, he was the second pick in the first round of the 1965 NBA Draft. The 6-7 Barry would become Rookie of the Year for the San Francisco Warriors in 1966. He provided gaudy numbers of 25.7 ppg and 10.6 rebounds. Barry was the first high profile NBA player to leave for an ABA team. Barry had a salary dispute believing he was not being adequately compensated.
The Warriors sued to prevent him from playing and Barry was forced to sit out that first year with the ABA Oakland Oaks. Barry remained in the ABA until 1972 playing for the Oaks, Washington Caps and Virginia Squires. He would return to the NBA with the Warriors under their new name Golden State.
In 1975 he would aid the team in winning the Bay Areas first NBA Championship, Barry was named series MVP. With salary becoming an issue once again his free-agent status would see him leave the Warriors and play out the remainder of his NBA career as a member of the Rockets. As for free throw shooting Barry shot his underhand (or granny style) he rarely missed from the line.
The last six years of his NBA career the lowest percentage he shot was .916, in the 1978-79 season Barry’s percentage was an astounding .947. Barry was an advocate of Chamberlain and several other poor shooters adopting his underhand method. Barry is enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
“The Doctor makes house calls”
Few could “fly” with the ability of Dr. J.; I wanted to check this because I was unsure. The Minutemen of UMass are members of the Atlanta 10 Conference and have been for years. At the time Dr. J. played at UMass the school was in the defunct Yankee Conference. Conference members were Boston University, Villanova and UConn to name a few. I once read Dr. J. had “Chamberlain” type rebounding numbers the two years he was at UMass. I checked Sportsreference.com and sure enough it confirmed what I’d heard. His sophomore year Dr. J., averaged 25.7 ppg while pulling down 20.9 rebounds, in his junior year his scoring went up to 26.9 however he slipped to 19.5 rebounds a game.
Dr. J. was a double-double machine his sophomore and junior year at UMass with a combined total of 26.3 ppg and 20.2 rebounds. Just in case you were questioning why no freshman numbers, at that time-period freshman were ineligible to play varsity football and basketball. The following year after Dr. J. left UMass the NCAA changed amended their rules and begin allowing freshmen to play. It made economic sense schools had freshman teams and varsity teams comprised of sophomores, juniors and seniors.
Best Big Man
A few weeks ago former NBA player and current NBA TV analyst provided us his list of the top five Big Men. Just in case you didn’t read it or forgot this is Scott’s list.
1. Kareem Abdul Jabbar
2. Bill Russell
3. Shaquille O’Neal
4. Wilt Chamberlain
5. Hakeem Olajuwon
I gave you an opportunity to compile your list, after consideration my list is below. Unlike Scott I took mine one step further by providing you the “why” of my list.
1. Kareem Abdul Jabbar - All time leading NBA scorer
2. Bill Russell - The key to multiple NBA Championships
3. Wilt Chamberlain - So dominate the lane had to be widen
4. Shaquille O’Neal - Can you say POWER game
5. Hakeem Olajuwon - Dream Shake, soccer moves on the court
After I completed my list I checked the internet, those below missed the cut in addition they are not placed in any order.
1. Moses Malone
2. David Robinson
3. Patrick Ewing
4. George Mikan
5. Bill Walton
6. Nate Thurmond
7. Artis Gilmore
8. Bob Lanier
9. Walt Bellamy
10. Dave Cowens
“I don’t miss free-throws”
Rick Barry has disappeared from view by much of the public. Who was Barry you ask, he was the second pick in the first round of the 1965 NBA Draft. The 6-7 Barry would become Rookie of the Year for the San Francisco Warriors in 1966. He provided gaudy numbers of 25.7 ppg and 10.6 rebounds. Barry was the first high profile NBA player to leave for an ABA team. Barry had a salary dispute believing he was not being adequately compensated.
The Warriors sued to prevent him from playing and Barry was forced to sit out that first year with the ABA Oakland Oaks. Barry remained in the ABA until 1972 playing for the Oaks, Washington Caps and Virginia Squires. He would return to the NBA with the Warriors under their new name Golden State.
In 1975 he would aid the team in winning the Bay Areas first NBA Championship, Barry was named series MVP. With salary becoming an issue once again his free-agent status would see him leave the Warriors and play out the remainder of his NBA career as a member of the Rockets. As for free throw shooting Barry shot his underhand (or granny style) he rarely missed from the line.
The last six years of his NBA career the lowest percentage he shot was .916, in the 1978-79 season Barry’s percentage was an astounding .947. Barry was an advocate of Chamberlain and several other poor shooters adopting his underhand method. Barry is enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
“The Doctor makes house calls”
Few could “fly” with the ability of Dr. J.; I wanted to check this because I was unsure. The Minutemen of UMass are members of the Atlanta 10 Conference and have been for years. At the time Dr. J. played at UMass the school was in the defunct Yankee Conference. Conference members were Boston University, Villanova and UConn to name a few. I once read Dr. J. had “Chamberlain” type rebounding numbers the two years he was at UMass. I checked Sportsreference.com and sure enough it confirmed what I’d heard. His sophomore year Dr. J., averaged 25.7 ppg while pulling down 20.9 rebounds, in his junior year his scoring went up to 26.9 however he slipped to 19.5 rebounds a game.
Dr. J. was a double-double machine his sophomore and junior year at UMass with a combined total of 26.3 ppg and 20.2 rebounds. Just in case you were questioning why no freshman numbers, at that time-period freshman were ineligible to play varsity football and basketball. The following year after Dr. J. left UMass the NCAA changed amended their rules and begin allowing freshmen to play. It made economic sense schools had freshman teams and varsity teams comprised of sophomores, juniors and seniors.
Best Big Man
A few weeks ago former NBA player and current NBA TV analyst provided us his list of the top five Big Men. Just in case you didn’t read it or forgot this is Scott’s list.
1. Kareem Abdul Jabbar
2. Bill Russell
3. Shaquille O’Neal
4. Wilt Chamberlain
5. Hakeem Olajuwon
I gave you an opportunity to compile your list, after consideration my list is below. Unlike Scott I took mine one step further by providing you the “why” of my list.
1. Kareem Abdul Jabbar - All time leading NBA scorer
2. Bill Russell - The key to multiple NBA Championships
3. Wilt Chamberlain - So dominate the lane had to be widen
4. Shaquille O’Neal - Can you say POWER game
5. Hakeem Olajuwon - Dream Shake, soccer moves on the court
After I completed my list I checked the internet, those below missed the cut in addition they are not placed in any order.
1. Moses Malone
2. David Robinson
3. Patrick Ewing
4. George Mikan
5. Bill Walton
6. Nate Thurmond
7. Artis Gilmore
8. Bob Lanier
9. Walt Bellamy
10. Dave Cowens
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