Basketball from a fans perspective
I missed him
In an earlier discussion of the 2017 Rookie of the Year I tossed out several names for consideration. I’ve mentioned number one draft pick Ben Simmons is sidelined at least till January is out of consideration. In addition number two pick Brandon Ingram of the Lakers is coming off the bench and playing reserve minutes. There is no argument thus far Sixer Joel Embiid has got to be in the lead for Rookie of the Year.
Who did I miss you ask a guy with good basketball jeans or is it genes? I missed Domantas Sabonis whose dad Arvydas played for the Blazers from 1995-2001 and later in the 2003-03 season. Domantas is not displaying spectacular numbers but is in the starting lineup for playoff contender Thunder. After two years at Gonzaga the younger Sabonis declared for the NBA draft and was chosen in the first round by the Thunder with the 11th pick.
The NFL
Curiosity more than fact, since the beginning of the NFL season we’ve heard and read stories about viewership. Fans continue to walk through the turnstiles for games tuning in on television is a different matter. NFL television numbers have been down since the beginning of the season. One of the explanations we heard early was; “Everyone is distracted by the presidential election.” That might have been true however we are two almost three weeks beyond the election and the numbers continue to slide. The other response I heard has a basketball connection sort of.
“They have Sunday night, Monday night and Thursday night plus Sunday afternoon maybe there is too much football on television?” After hearing the statement by a media type I thought “During the basketball season there are college and NBA games on every evening. In addition there is Saturday afternoon evening and Sunday evening games.” I’m not hearing any “NFL” type stories from the NCAA or NBA wonder why? I’m not confused, the number of fans sitting in front of their televisions viewing the NFL exceed college and the NBA. I just found it interesting television which allowed the NFL to succeed baseball with most Americans is not complaining.
Is he?
It was his junior year is high school I first came across the name Devin Booker. You know what it’s like you hear the last name and wonder; “Is he related to ____.” I do this all the time with basketball players because there are so many father-sons who play the game. That is the case here Devin is the son of Melvin Booker point guard for the Mizzou Tigers back in the day. As the recruiting battle ensued for his services I noticed Rivals had Mizzou as one of the schools this outstanding high school player was exploring.
Naturally I was disappointed when he chose Kentucky but who could blame him. He arrived on campus with a number of former McDonalds All Americans and then the platoon set in. Coach Cal and his system we thought the 6-6 guard could shoot however limited minutes left questions in our mind. The questions continued after Devin decided to leave Kentucky after but one season. He left early with many convinced was he ready for the NBA. Location, location, location has often been said in basketball and other pursuits.
The Suns made Devin the 13th pick in the first round of the 2015 draft. Although not initially a starter he ended the season there, it’s likely the only reason he wasn’t NBA Rookie of the Year was due to his former Kentucky teammate Karl-Anthony Towns. Devin ended the season with 13.8 points per game average. So far this season he’s nearly 20 points a game for a poor Suns team. Dad Melvin was forced to play 98% of his basketball career in Europe, he believes he didn’t get a fair shot. He’s not upset and now says he’s living the NBA through son Devin.
Tuesday, November 29, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Triple-double
Two factors to consider, 1. Triple-doubles are more difficult to accomplish at the collegiate level and very rarely occur. 2. Can you believe the number of players at the Kentucky and only two have accomplished triple-doubles in the school‘s history. The first occurrence was 1988 and the Kentucky player was Chris Mills, you say Chris who? Mills played at Kentucky during the 1988-89 season and had a six year NBA career. De Aaron Fox registered a triple-double on Monday November 28th. The 6-4 point guard recorded 14 points 11 rebounds and 10 assists.
Fans are fans
Even as a small boy I felt uncomfortable booing an opposing team or player. This has continued into adulthood although I certainly have been tempted at times. I’ve never uttered a profanity at any player at any time. Fans pay good money for sports events however that fail to give them the right to say or do anything you wish. The 2004 “Malice in the Palace” between the Pistons and Pacers was exacerbated by a number of Pistons fans coming out of the stands and contributing to the fighting getting out of hand
On Sunday night the Lakers faced the Hawks and Dwight Howard. Doesn’t matter the Hawks are his second team since he left the Lakers fans continue to boo him, they booed every time he touched the ball. One Laker fan believed he could say anything he wanted to Howard after the game. Reports indicate the incident caused Howard to challenge the fan. Laker fan or not if he called Howard the name that’s reported he needed to be knocked upside his head. Freedom of speech does not give you the right to say whatever you want without consequences.
“Throw it down Big Man”
The phrase above was coined by former NBA player and current ESPN analyst Bill Walton. Serving as analyst he would often make the statement once or twice during a college game. He meant to imply there was no requirement for Big Men to lay the ball up gently on the backboard he wanted an emphatic slam dunk, by now you know I have an affinity for the Big Man’s game.
There are several Big Men I follow, surprise surprise there is not a Laker among the bunch at least for now. Please note they are not placed in any order of rank just as I thought of them. Note the ages, the “old-man” of the bunch is Whiteside who turned 27 years old last June. This collection of talent speaks volumes for the continued growth of the NBA game we love. We certainly cannot predict injuries which might curtail a career.
Hassan Whiteside-Heat
Boogie Cousins-Kings
Joel Embiid-Sixers
Anthony Davis-Pelicans
Karl-Anthony Towns-Wolves
In case you wanted to know
It’s amazing what a year can do in the life of an NBA team. The Laker victory Sunday evening raised them to .500 with their 9th win of the season. Last season they won game number 9 on January 12th. All I can say is I’m pleased I expected no playoff but hoped for improved play. So far that’s exactly what I’ve received to date, one other note if you remember I had no problem with firing Byron Scott.
I was concerned whether Luke Walton would be able to infuse a winning attitude to this core of youngsters. So far the move to hire Walton has paid huge dividends. It was pointed out on NBA TV the Laker bench has scored 60 points four times this season. Winning by committee is how it’s done with Kobe Bryant now retired. Laker reserves are scoring at a 51.2 ppg clip best in the NBA.
Triple-double
Two factors to consider, 1. Triple-doubles are more difficult to accomplish at the collegiate level and very rarely occur. 2. Can you believe the number of players at the Kentucky and only two have accomplished triple-doubles in the school‘s history. The first occurrence was 1988 and the Kentucky player was Chris Mills, you say Chris who? Mills played at Kentucky during the 1988-89 season and had a six year NBA career. De Aaron Fox registered a triple-double on Monday November 28th. The 6-4 point guard recorded 14 points 11 rebounds and 10 assists.
Fans are fans
Even as a small boy I felt uncomfortable booing an opposing team or player. This has continued into adulthood although I certainly have been tempted at times. I’ve never uttered a profanity at any player at any time. Fans pay good money for sports events however that fail to give them the right to say or do anything you wish. The 2004 “Malice in the Palace” between the Pistons and Pacers was exacerbated by a number of Pistons fans coming out of the stands and contributing to the fighting getting out of hand
On Sunday night the Lakers faced the Hawks and Dwight Howard. Doesn’t matter the Hawks are his second team since he left the Lakers fans continue to boo him, they booed every time he touched the ball. One Laker fan believed he could say anything he wanted to Howard after the game. Reports indicate the incident caused Howard to challenge the fan. Laker fan or not if he called Howard the name that’s reported he needed to be knocked upside his head. Freedom of speech does not give you the right to say whatever you want without consequences.
“Throw it down Big Man”
The phrase above was coined by former NBA player and current ESPN analyst Bill Walton. Serving as analyst he would often make the statement once or twice during a college game. He meant to imply there was no requirement for Big Men to lay the ball up gently on the backboard he wanted an emphatic slam dunk, by now you know I have an affinity for the Big Man’s game.
There are several Big Men I follow, surprise surprise there is not a Laker among the bunch at least for now. Please note they are not placed in any order of rank just as I thought of them. Note the ages, the “old-man” of the bunch is Whiteside who turned 27 years old last June. This collection of talent speaks volumes for the continued growth of the NBA game we love. We certainly cannot predict injuries which might curtail a career.
Hassan Whiteside-Heat
Boogie Cousins-Kings
Joel Embiid-Sixers
Anthony Davis-Pelicans
Karl-Anthony Towns-Wolves
In case you wanted to know
It’s amazing what a year can do in the life of an NBA team. The Laker victory Sunday evening raised them to .500 with their 9th win of the season. Last season they won game number 9 on January 12th. All I can say is I’m pleased I expected no playoff but hoped for improved play. So far that’s exactly what I’ve received to date, one other note if you remember I had no problem with firing Byron Scott.
I was concerned whether Luke Walton would be able to infuse a winning attitude to this core of youngsters. So far the move to hire Walton has paid huge dividends. It was pointed out on NBA TV the Laker bench has scored 60 points four times this season. Winning by committee is how it’s done with Kobe Bryant now retired. Laker reserves are scoring at a 51.2 ppg clip best in the NBA.
Monday, November 28, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“I ain’t scurred!“
Kyrie Irving didn’t actually phrase his statement in the above manner; he did indicate he was unafraid of facing the Sixers Joel Embiid. In his short limited minutes NBA career Embiid’s reputation for blocking shots has preceded him. Irving’s 39 points allowed the Cavs to slip past the Sixers 112 to 108. As for that guy that blocks shots he only had 3 however the balance of his numbers were 4 assists along with 9 rebounds and 22 points. This accomplished in his limit of 25 minutes court-time.
Pre-occupation with numbers
I’m sometimes unsure why ESPN.com NBA is so pre-occupied with records. “Russell Westbrook is now tied with LeBron James in career triple-doubles” reads the sentence. That’s not exactly correct; Westbrook accomplished the feat in a lesser number of games than LeBron. Don’t confuse us ESPN that’s not exactly correct.
A gradual increase
I’m not sure who to attribute the statement however I certainly agree. It was during the recent Laker-Warriors game and the announcer said “Laker Brandon Ingram was a fan of Kevin Durant.” He stated how thin Durant was on his arrival in the NBA; Durant packed about 210 pounds on his 6-9 frame.
Ingram checks in a 190 pounds on at 6-9 and the announcer said “Durant couldn’t bench press 185 pounds at the time he first came into the NBA.” Durant now weighs about 240 pounds adding weight and muscle over his career. “Ingram should gain weight in the same manner” which makes sense. If Ingram were to put on 20 pounds immediately he’d probably be sluggish and much slower, a gradual weight increase is the best method to pack on weight.
Plenty of bragging
North Carolina, Kansas, Duke, Kentucky and UCLA fans like to argue their basketball program is better than yours. I am steering this ship in neutral waters because I have no favoritism toward any of the programs profiled. Year after year witness these schools are usually at the top of the college basketball world. On occasion with the exception of UCLA one or more are competing for the NCAA Championship. These schools are among the best due to good coaching and the fact they are able to attract top-notch talent to their respective campus. What about the NBA might be your question. The NBA certainly is should not be considered a barometer of skill. I believe there are a number of good to great college players at each of these schools. Sometimes they are unable to transfer the success of college into the NBA. With the disclaimer out of the way let’s check the numbers each of theses schools have provided NBA teams.
Kentucky-168
UCLA-91
North Carolina-81
Kansas-68
Duke-66
I bet you were surprised to see UCLA in the mix? Under a succession of coaches John Wooden, Larry Brown, Ben Howland and Steve Alford to name just a few.
Stats Courtesy Real GM
“I ain’t scurred!“
Kyrie Irving didn’t actually phrase his statement in the above manner; he did indicate he was unafraid of facing the Sixers Joel Embiid. In his short limited minutes NBA career Embiid’s reputation for blocking shots has preceded him. Irving’s 39 points allowed the Cavs to slip past the Sixers 112 to 108. As for that guy that blocks shots he only had 3 however the balance of his numbers were 4 assists along with 9 rebounds and 22 points. This accomplished in his limit of 25 minutes court-time.
Pre-occupation with numbers
I’m sometimes unsure why ESPN.com NBA is so pre-occupied with records. “Russell Westbrook is now tied with LeBron James in career triple-doubles” reads the sentence. That’s not exactly correct; Westbrook accomplished the feat in a lesser number of games than LeBron. Don’t confuse us ESPN that’s not exactly correct.
A gradual increase
I’m not sure who to attribute the statement however I certainly agree. It was during the recent Laker-Warriors game and the announcer said “Laker Brandon Ingram was a fan of Kevin Durant.” He stated how thin Durant was on his arrival in the NBA; Durant packed about 210 pounds on his 6-9 frame.
Ingram checks in a 190 pounds on at 6-9 and the announcer said “Durant couldn’t bench press 185 pounds at the time he first came into the NBA.” Durant now weighs about 240 pounds adding weight and muscle over his career. “Ingram should gain weight in the same manner” which makes sense. If Ingram were to put on 20 pounds immediately he’d probably be sluggish and much slower, a gradual weight increase is the best method to pack on weight.
Plenty of bragging
North Carolina, Kansas, Duke, Kentucky and UCLA fans like to argue their basketball program is better than yours. I am steering this ship in neutral waters because I have no favoritism toward any of the programs profiled. Year after year witness these schools are usually at the top of the college basketball world. On occasion with the exception of UCLA one or more are competing for the NCAA Championship. These schools are among the best due to good coaching and the fact they are able to attract top-notch talent to their respective campus. What about the NBA might be your question. The NBA certainly is should not be considered a barometer of skill. I believe there are a number of good to great college players at each of these schools. Sometimes they are unable to transfer the success of college into the NBA. With the disclaimer out of the way let’s check the numbers each of theses schools have provided NBA teams.
Kentucky-168
UCLA-91
North Carolina-81
Kansas-68
Duke-66
I bet you were surprised to see UCLA in the mix? Under a succession of coaches John Wooden, Larry Brown, Ben Howland and Steve Alford to name just a few.
Stats Courtesy Real GM
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Time and placement
You witness Gordon Hayward at Butler and say; “He’s a good college player.” As a fan we often cannot see the talent that might be hidden, in addition we might be guilty of stereotyping his ability “he’s slow a foot” or worst yet we “White boy good shooter in college as for the NBA that’s a different story” they whomever they are have been proven wrong on all accounts. Hayward now in season six with the Jazz and it’s his best to date; he’s scoring career numbers for his team. The 6-8 forward averaged a modest 14.4 points per game at Butler, isn’t that the school Rick Stevens once coached? That’s an affirmative Hayward played for Stevens now the Celtics coach.
He was made the 9th pick in the first round of the 2010 draft by the Jazz. As for the time and placement headline, it’s my belief the time was ripe for him to make an impact and placement was good with the Jazz. If he’d been drafted by any other team he might not have been given the opportunity to grow his game. As for the third component we had no idea of his talent level, it could be the system or he’s just this good. Hayward is scoring at a 24 point per game in leading the Jazz this year. His scoring totals have risen each year in the NBA so we have no idea at this point of his limit, this we do know he can play.
Bits n Pieces
A win is a win is a win, does it really matter if it occurred against a Division II school? Only in the instance of qualification for the NCAA Tournament might it come into play besides the fact other Division I programs schedule Division II foes. UMKC beat Arkansas Monticello 97-82 on Friday; it should be noted 5-8 150 pound Xavier Bishop came off the UMKC bench scoring 17 points. LaVell Boyd led the way scoring a team-high 21 points, Martez Harrison team leader in scoring was held to 13 points.
He was number six and no doubt the best ever. Kevin Martin retired the other day; no worries if the name fails to register with you few NBA fans know his name. Martin drafted from Western Carolina after a 12 year career spent 6 years of it with the Kings who drafted him. Don’t expect the Naismith or College Hall of Fame to come a calling they want. Martin was a steady 17 ppg scorer over the course of his career a 6-7 shooting guard we never heard a word of controversy surround him. I wasn’t sure if Western Carolina had ever sent a player into the NBA they have, there have been five before Martin but there is no argument he is the finest.
During a time-out in the Bucks-Raptors game Thon Maker was spotted in the huddle. I’d mentioned the other day the former high school phenom is receiving 0 playing time. I’m gonna play coach at this point; realizing the jump from high school to the NBA he’s not ready yet. Why don’t the Bucks send him to their D-League affiliate to allow him playing time? Maker is certainly not going to learn how to play in the NBA sitting on his butt.
After facing the Thunder and then the Warriors twice in 72 hours home and away the NBA schedule hasn’t been kind to my Lakers. The next four games don’t prove any easier, Atlanta, New Orleans, Chicago and Toronto are formidable advisories. It’s better to face these teams than the Sixers, Mavs or Nets all non-playoff teams.
WGN-TV
Every year I fail to mention Chicago’s WGN-TV telecasts Bulls Basketball and has done so for a number of years. For the 2016-17 season the network will have 29 games available for viewers, most cable and satellite systems carry WGN-TV so there you go. ESPN/ABC TV, Turner Sports, Fox Sports and WGN have the NBA covered from start to finish.
Time and placement
You witness Gordon Hayward at Butler and say; “He’s a good college player.” As a fan we often cannot see the talent that might be hidden, in addition we might be guilty of stereotyping his ability “he’s slow a foot” or worst yet we “White boy good shooter in college as for the NBA that’s a different story” they whomever they are have been proven wrong on all accounts. Hayward now in season six with the Jazz and it’s his best to date; he’s scoring career numbers for his team. The 6-8 forward averaged a modest 14.4 points per game at Butler, isn’t that the school Rick Stevens once coached? That’s an affirmative Hayward played for Stevens now the Celtics coach.
He was made the 9th pick in the first round of the 2010 draft by the Jazz. As for the time and placement headline, it’s my belief the time was ripe for him to make an impact and placement was good with the Jazz. If he’d been drafted by any other team he might not have been given the opportunity to grow his game. As for the third component we had no idea of his talent level, it could be the system or he’s just this good. Hayward is scoring at a 24 point per game in leading the Jazz this year. His scoring totals have risen each year in the NBA so we have no idea at this point of his limit, this we do know he can play.
Bits n Pieces
A win is a win is a win, does it really matter if it occurred against a Division II school? Only in the instance of qualification for the NCAA Tournament might it come into play besides the fact other Division I programs schedule Division II foes. UMKC beat Arkansas Monticello 97-82 on Friday; it should be noted 5-8 150 pound Xavier Bishop came off the UMKC bench scoring 17 points. LaVell Boyd led the way scoring a team-high 21 points, Martez Harrison team leader in scoring was held to 13 points.
He was number six and no doubt the best ever. Kevin Martin retired the other day; no worries if the name fails to register with you few NBA fans know his name. Martin drafted from Western Carolina after a 12 year career spent 6 years of it with the Kings who drafted him. Don’t expect the Naismith or College Hall of Fame to come a calling they want. Martin was a steady 17 ppg scorer over the course of his career a 6-7 shooting guard we never heard a word of controversy surround him. I wasn’t sure if Western Carolina had ever sent a player into the NBA they have, there have been five before Martin but there is no argument he is the finest.
During a time-out in the Bucks-Raptors game Thon Maker was spotted in the huddle. I’d mentioned the other day the former high school phenom is receiving 0 playing time. I’m gonna play coach at this point; realizing the jump from high school to the NBA he’s not ready yet. Why don’t the Bucks send him to their D-League affiliate to allow him playing time? Maker is certainly not going to learn how to play in the NBA sitting on his butt.
After facing the Thunder and then the Warriors twice in 72 hours home and away the NBA schedule hasn’t been kind to my Lakers. The next four games don’t prove any easier, Atlanta, New Orleans, Chicago and Toronto are formidable advisories. It’s better to face these teams than the Sixers, Mavs or Nets all non-playoff teams.
WGN-TV
Every year I fail to mention Chicago’s WGN-TV telecasts Bulls Basketball and has done so for a number of years. For the 2016-17 season the network will have 29 games available for viewers, most cable and satellite systems carry WGN-TV so there you go. ESPN/ABC TV, Turner Sports, Fox Sports and WGN have the NBA covered from start to finish.
Saturday, November 26, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
B.O.L.O.
I’m unsure if the term is valid, they seem to use it on the television crime programs. At some point in the program a criminalist will state; “I’ll place a B.O.L.O. on ______.” B.O.L.O., translated simply states “be on the lookout” for the culprit. We might use this term in regard to Rivals 5-star prospect Bol although he’s certainly not a criminal. Bol late of Bishop Miege High School in suburban Kansas City, the term “late” is used because his coach indicates the school has received a request for his high school transcript.
The ultimate destination of Bol’s transcript is unknown as this is written. The Miege coach admitted to reporters this move caught him off guard and has no idea where Bol might be headed. Bol is the son of former NBA player Manute Bol, the son stands 7-feet tall and although thin is actually gaining weight he’s up to 213 pounds. It’s likely Bol is still growing after all his father stood 7-7 and was one of the tallest players in NBA history. Wherever Bol turns up this high school junior is likely required to sit out this year but will gain an extra year of eligibility.
This is me
Is the Big 12 Conference on life-support currently? Please allow me a further explanation of my statement. All conference moves are dictated by football and Words eye view is a basketball blog so why write about this? I have no inside information just an observation. The conference was about to fall apart, Colorado and Nebraska left in 2011 for the Pac-12 and Big 10 in 2012 Mizzou and Texas A&M would depart for the SEC. TCU and West Virginia were added later in 2012 to replace the departed schools.
As for the issues the balance of power (football) now lies in Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, TCU, Baylor and Texas Tech. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Iowa State are the only former Big 8 schools remaining besides Kansas and Kansas State, I’d bet money (based on geography) Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are likely to side with the Texas schools on any future plans. What happens should Texas and the others decide they want to travel a different path?
As great as Kansas basketball is football sucks big time and down the road that trend is likely to continue. I offer no proof of the following but believe it to be fact; the Bill Self problem with Mizzou is football and not basketball related. Adding Mizzou to the SEC was more advantageous than adding football poor Kansas. I believe the conference is on life-support, the slow steady drip will eventually become a flood if and when the Texas schools along with Oklahoma and Oklahoma State decide to make a move.
Restrictive minutes
Joel Embiid was highly agitated about being restricted to the bench he was limited to 27 minutes against the Grizzlies in a 104-99 double OT loss. He was seen kicking a chair on the bench not allowed to return to the game. Shooting percentage wasn’t good however he scored 12 points and 11 rebounds along with 3 blocked shots. As this is written there is no time-frame for the Sixer medical staff to increase Embiid’s minutes.
Machine Gun
They gave him that nickname; Travis Grant was such a prolific scorer he would be dubbed Machine Gun for his rapid fire shooting from the floor. Although many of you know the name Pistol Pete Maravich few have any idea who Travis Grant is. Most believe the All-Time college scoring record is held by Maravich, wrong. Grant with 4,045 points is the leader Maravich is in second place. In 2009 Grant was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in Kansas City. He played at Kentucky State located in Frankfort (KY) an NAIA institution
Times were changing in the southern portion of the nation and the smooth shooting 6-7 forward could have chosen another school. Grant decided in favor or the historically black college over several offers. Grant along with 7 foot Elmore Smith would aid Kentucky State in winning three consecutive NAIA Championships. Although Grant would later be drafted by the Lakers a pro career did not turn out as anticipated. The educational field has been Grant’s pursuit after his playing days concluded. He’s served as assistant principal and athletic director at Stephenson High School near Atlanta.
B.O.L.O.
I’m unsure if the term is valid, they seem to use it on the television crime programs. At some point in the program a criminalist will state; “I’ll place a B.O.L.O. on ______.” B.O.L.O., translated simply states “be on the lookout” for the culprit. We might use this term in regard to Rivals 5-star prospect Bol although he’s certainly not a criminal. Bol late of Bishop Miege High School in suburban Kansas City, the term “late” is used because his coach indicates the school has received a request for his high school transcript.
The ultimate destination of Bol’s transcript is unknown as this is written. The Miege coach admitted to reporters this move caught him off guard and has no idea where Bol might be headed. Bol is the son of former NBA player Manute Bol, the son stands 7-feet tall and although thin is actually gaining weight he’s up to 213 pounds. It’s likely Bol is still growing after all his father stood 7-7 and was one of the tallest players in NBA history. Wherever Bol turns up this high school junior is likely required to sit out this year but will gain an extra year of eligibility.
This is me
Is the Big 12 Conference on life-support currently? Please allow me a further explanation of my statement. All conference moves are dictated by football and Words eye view is a basketball blog so why write about this? I have no inside information just an observation. The conference was about to fall apart, Colorado and Nebraska left in 2011 for the Pac-12 and Big 10 in 2012 Mizzou and Texas A&M would depart for the SEC. TCU and West Virginia were added later in 2012 to replace the departed schools.
As for the issues the balance of power (football) now lies in Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, TCU, Baylor and Texas Tech. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Iowa State are the only former Big 8 schools remaining besides Kansas and Kansas State, I’d bet money (based on geography) Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are likely to side with the Texas schools on any future plans. What happens should Texas and the others decide they want to travel a different path?
As great as Kansas basketball is football sucks big time and down the road that trend is likely to continue. I offer no proof of the following but believe it to be fact; the Bill Self problem with Mizzou is football and not basketball related. Adding Mizzou to the SEC was more advantageous than adding football poor Kansas. I believe the conference is on life-support, the slow steady drip will eventually become a flood if and when the Texas schools along with Oklahoma and Oklahoma State decide to make a move.
Restrictive minutes
Joel Embiid was highly agitated about being restricted to the bench he was limited to 27 minutes against the Grizzlies in a 104-99 double OT loss. He was seen kicking a chair on the bench not allowed to return to the game. Shooting percentage wasn’t good however he scored 12 points and 11 rebounds along with 3 blocked shots. As this is written there is no time-frame for the Sixer medical staff to increase Embiid’s minutes.
Machine Gun
They gave him that nickname; Travis Grant was such a prolific scorer he would be dubbed Machine Gun for his rapid fire shooting from the floor. Although many of you know the name Pistol Pete Maravich few have any idea who Travis Grant is. Most believe the All-Time college scoring record is held by Maravich, wrong. Grant with 4,045 points is the leader Maravich is in second place. In 2009 Grant was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in Kansas City. He played at Kentucky State located in Frankfort (KY) an NAIA institution
Times were changing in the southern portion of the nation and the smooth shooting 6-7 forward could have chosen another school. Grant decided in favor or the historically black college over several offers. Grant along with 7 foot Elmore Smith would aid Kentucky State in winning three consecutive NAIA Championships. Although Grant would later be drafted by the Lakers a pro career did not turn out as anticipated. The educational field has been Grant’s pursuit after his playing days concluded. He’s served as assistant principal and athletic director at Stephenson High School near Atlanta.
Friday, November 25, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“The thrill of victory…and the agony of defeat”
In 1961 the ABC Network premiered a sports program titled the Wide World of Sports. Jim McKay had an opening line that’s become historical. “Spanning the globe to bring you the constant variety of sports…the thrill of victory…and the agony of defeat…the human drama of athletic competition…This is ABC’s Wide World of Sports.”
The “thrill of victory”… a basket by Swaggy P. with 5 seconds on the clock winning their game against the Thunder. “The agony of defeat”…the next night being run over by the Warriors “truck” 149-106. The Warriors with 47 assists on 53 baskets says it all, not much to add. As for the Lakers Swaggy P. he went from “hero to zero” scoring a mere 8 points in the loss.
Hold on a moment
I made a mistake of epic proportions the other day when discussing Russell Westbrook’s assault on a record. The report was the NBA’s triple-double record, I’m sure you caught my error didn’t you? LeBron James is the current ACTIVE leader in triple-doubles not the ALL-TIME leader. The current all-time leader is Oscar Robertson, the Big O is in first place with 181 triple-doubles.
In second place is Magic Johnson with 138 and Jason Kidd with 107. Wilt Chamberlain is fourth with 78 followed by Larry Bird at 59. One other point LeBron will celebrate his 32nd birthday at the end of December and will continue to pile up triple-doubles total for the remainder of his career. Although Westbrook might appear to be closing in on LeBron that might not necessarily be the case at least until LeBron decides to retire.
www.basketball-reference.com
Bits n Pieces
I say upfront this is unfair on my part, we almost always state Player A reminds
us of Player B. Sometimes it their shot often it’s just their own court demeanor. Okay now that I’ve made my excuse for Laker fans remember Nick Van Exel? Maybe it’s because both are left-handed, maybe it’s their fearless manner on the basketball court. Maybe it’s because the Lakers had been down for a few years and Nick “at Night” changed the fortune and direction of the team. Finally it’s probably might hope lighting will strike again, Russell will lead the Lakers back to the Promised Land.
What about Nerlens Noel you ask, trade rumors continue to circulate regarding the Sixers power forward-center. One of the reasons is the emergence of rookie Joel Embiid who’s been sidelined two seasons. The negatives have been a list of injuries and a limited offensive game. As for the injuries Noel played in 75 of the 82 games in 2014-15, last season saw he play in only 67 games. A surgical procedure has curtailed him thus far this season but is expected to return shortly. We might question what the Sixers expected when they drafted Noel, his offensive game was limited at Kentucky.
I was shocked at the time I first heard the nickname of Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, he was dubbed the “The Greek Freak.” Freak has several definitions according to Dictionary.com in fact there are six definitions for the word. This is the definition that best speaks to Antetokounmpo; “Any abnormal phenomenon or product or unusual object; anomaly; aberration.”
This 6-11 222 big man is as smooth with the basketball as any 6-foot point guard check out these numbers. 22.8 points, 6.7 assists and 8.7 rebounds which are point guard numbers not that of a small forward.
This is one of those records that are difficult to comprehend, thanks Fran Fraschilla for pointing it out. Up to November 19 Bill Self teams have sustained 9 losses in 14 years at Allen Fieldhouse, that figures to about one home loss every two years. Talk about home court advantage that might exceed Calipari, Coach K. and Jim Boeheim or several others. Without research I would believe the late John Wooden at UCLA would be the only coach who might have exceeded or equaled the record over the same time frame.
“The thrill of victory…and the agony of defeat”
In 1961 the ABC Network premiered a sports program titled the Wide World of Sports. Jim McKay had an opening line that’s become historical. “Spanning the globe to bring you the constant variety of sports…the thrill of victory…and the agony of defeat…the human drama of athletic competition…This is ABC’s Wide World of Sports.”
The “thrill of victory”… a basket by Swaggy P. with 5 seconds on the clock winning their game against the Thunder. “The agony of defeat”…the next night being run over by the Warriors “truck” 149-106. The Warriors with 47 assists on 53 baskets says it all, not much to add. As for the Lakers Swaggy P. he went from “hero to zero” scoring a mere 8 points in the loss.
Hold on a moment
I made a mistake of epic proportions the other day when discussing Russell Westbrook’s assault on a record. The report was the NBA’s triple-double record, I’m sure you caught my error didn’t you? LeBron James is the current ACTIVE leader in triple-doubles not the ALL-TIME leader. The current all-time leader is Oscar Robertson, the Big O is in first place with 181 triple-doubles.
In second place is Magic Johnson with 138 and Jason Kidd with 107. Wilt Chamberlain is fourth with 78 followed by Larry Bird at 59. One other point LeBron will celebrate his 32nd birthday at the end of December and will continue to pile up triple-doubles total for the remainder of his career. Although Westbrook might appear to be closing in on LeBron that might not necessarily be the case at least until LeBron decides to retire.
www.basketball-reference.com
Bits n Pieces
I say upfront this is unfair on my part, we almost always state Player A reminds
us of Player B. Sometimes it their shot often it’s just their own court demeanor. Okay now that I’ve made my excuse for Laker fans remember Nick Van Exel? Maybe it’s because both are left-handed, maybe it’s their fearless manner on the basketball court. Maybe it’s because the Lakers had been down for a few years and Nick “at Night” changed the fortune and direction of the team. Finally it’s probably might hope lighting will strike again, Russell will lead the Lakers back to the Promised Land.
What about Nerlens Noel you ask, trade rumors continue to circulate regarding the Sixers power forward-center. One of the reasons is the emergence of rookie Joel Embiid who’s been sidelined two seasons. The negatives have been a list of injuries and a limited offensive game. As for the injuries Noel played in 75 of the 82 games in 2014-15, last season saw he play in only 67 games. A surgical procedure has curtailed him thus far this season but is expected to return shortly. We might question what the Sixers expected when they drafted Noel, his offensive game was limited at Kentucky.
I was shocked at the time I first heard the nickname of Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, he was dubbed the “The Greek Freak.” Freak has several definitions according to Dictionary.com in fact there are six definitions for the word. This is the definition that best speaks to Antetokounmpo; “Any abnormal phenomenon or product or unusual object; anomaly; aberration.”
This 6-11 222 big man is as smooth with the basketball as any 6-foot point guard check out these numbers. 22.8 points, 6.7 assists and 8.7 rebounds which are point guard numbers not that of a small forward.
This is one of those records that are difficult to comprehend, thanks Fran Fraschilla for pointing it out. Up to November 19 Bill Self teams have sustained 9 losses in 14 years at Allen Fieldhouse, that figures to about one home loss every two years. Talk about home court advantage that might exceed Calipari, Coach K. and Jim Boeheim or several others. Without research I would believe the late John Wooden at UCLA would be the only coach who might have exceeded or equaled the record over the same time frame.
Thursday, November 24, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Me, Myself and I
Was the title of a 1999 movie comedy starring Rachel Griffiths, my version is me, Larry Laker and I. As I’ve often stated my staff is limited I cannot publish at the level of ESPN, Fox Sports or CBS Sports Network. My blog is always a day after events which is a concern that cannot be helped. Despite this I hope you will continue to read Words eye view, thank you.
Can you say even?
Who would have thunk it, the Lakers have the same won-loss record of the Thunder. The Lakers beat the Thunder at home 111-109 and both teams now stand 8-7. I’m going to refer to him by his former name, with seconds remaining on the clock Swaggy P. “intercepted” a pass intended for teammate Lou Williams. The Lakers were down 109-108 he took the shoot and sunk a 3-point basket with 5 seconds remaining in the game. The Thunder took a time-out however everyone in Staples plus the television audience were aware who would take the shot.
Ball is in bounded and Westbrook took a desperation 3-point shot which missed. The Lakers beat the Thunder for the first time in like forever. Even more amazing just for yours truly, I believed and wrote at some point in August or September Nick Young was gone. I thought the coaching change plus his desire to play little defense we were counting down, I missed this one badly. Even funnier on one of the Laker fan sites they are arguing back and forth if Young traveled while gathering himself for the winning shot, officials didn’t call it why argue about it?
Dinosaurs you say
Where are they, you know those folks who claim the game has changed? It certainly has changed however I’m referring to those who claim the traditional Big Man’s game is extinct as dinosaurs. The retirement of Tim Duncan plus the eroding game of Dwight Howard have also been factors in believing there is no requirement for an effective offensive center----wrong! Last Thursday it was 7 foot Karl-Anthony Towns matched against 7-2 Joel Embiid.
On Monday it was Joel Embiid versus 7 foot Hassan Whiteside of the Heat. Whiteside might have won the battle scoring 32 points 13 rebounds and 2 blocked shots but Embiid won the war scoring 22 points 5 rebounds and 1 steal as his Sixer team won 101-94. A number of NBA teams the center is not an integral part of the offense, the Clippers call on DeAndre Jordan to score however his forte is defense, rebounding and clogging the lane.
The same statement could be made for the Warriors Zaza Pachulia who is even a lesser part of the Warriors offense. We are not going to return to the days of Chamberlain, Russell or Shaq with a team’s offense running through the center. The stretch fours are still going to take a back seat for this dinosaur, I prefer genuine center play. We will continue to see talent develop in the key for now and into the future.
It’s finally over
Fans of the Bulls are well acquainted with the annual “The Circus Trip. “ Every season the Bulls must vacate the United Center while Ringling Brothers Circus occupies the building, NBA teams are on the road all the time but two weeks is nowhere near the norm. My read indicates the circus has pre-existing contracts which were left-over from the Chicago Stadium days.
The Bulls (and Blackhawks) have been tenants of the UC since it opened 22 years ago. As for the change maybe its society changing views circuses don’t draw the crowds they did once upon a time, they will be moving to a smaller capacity building than the 22,000 seat UC. The 2016-17 is the last circus trip and one more note this annual trip has never been favorable even when the Bulls had super teams.
Me, Myself and I
Was the title of a 1999 movie comedy starring Rachel Griffiths, my version is me, Larry Laker and I. As I’ve often stated my staff is limited I cannot publish at the level of ESPN, Fox Sports or CBS Sports Network. My blog is always a day after events which is a concern that cannot be helped. Despite this I hope you will continue to read Words eye view, thank you.
Can you say even?
Who would have thunk it, the Lakers have the same won-loss record of the Thunder. The Lakers beat the Thunder at home 111-109 and both teams now stand 8-7. I’m going to refer to him by his former name, with seconds remaining on the clock Swaggy P. “intercepted” a pass intended for teammate Lou Williams. The Lakers were down 109-108 he took the shoot and sunk a 3-point basket with 5 seconds remaining in the game. The Thunder took a time-out however everyone in Staples plus the television audience were aware who would take the shot.
Ball is in bounded and Westbrook took a desperation 3-point shot which missed. The Lakers beat the Thunder for the first time in like forever. Even more amazing just for yours truly, I believed and wrote at some point in August or September Nick Young was gone. I thought the coaching change plus his desire to play little defense we were counting down, I missed this one badly. Even funnier on one of the Laker fan sites they are arguing back and forth if Young traveled while gathering himself for the winning shot, officials didn’t call it why argue about it?
Dinosaurs you say
Where are they, you know those folks who claim the game has changed? It certainly has changed however I’m referring to those who claim the traditional Big Man’s game is extinct as dinosaurs. The retirement of Tim Duncan plus the eroding game of Dwight Howard have also been factors in believing there is no requirement for an effective offensive center----wrong! Last Thursday it was 7 foot Karl-Anthony Towns matched against 7-2 Joel Embiid.
On Monday it was Joel Embiid versus 7 foot Hassan Whiteside of the Heat. Whiteside might have won the battle scoring 32 points 13 rebounds and 2 blocked shots but Embiid won the war scoring 22 points 5 rebounds and 1 steal as his Sixer team won 101-94. A number of NBA teams the center is not an integral part of the offense, the Clippers call on DeAndre Jordan to score however his forte is defense, rebounding and clogging the lane.
The same statement could be made for the Warriors Zaza Pachulia who is even a lesser part of the Warriors offense. We are not going to return to the days of Chamberlain, Russell or Shaq with a team’s offense running through the center. The stretch fours are still going to take a back seat for this dinosaur, I prefer genuine center play. We will continue to see talent develop in the key for now and into the future.
It’s finally over
Fans of the Bulls are well acquainted with the annual “The Circus Trip. “ Every season the Bulls must vacate the United Center while Ringling Brothers Circus occupies the building, NBA teams are on the road all the time but two weeks is nowhere near the norm. My read indicates the circus has pre-existing contracts which were left-over from the Chicago Stadium days.
The Bulls (and Blackhawks) have been tenants of the UC since it opened 22 years ago. As for the change maybe its society changing views circuses don’t draw the crowds they did once upon a time, they will be moving to a smaller capacity building than the 22,000 seat UC. The 2016-17 is the last circus trip and one more note this annual trip has never been favorable even when the Bulls had super teams.
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The road woes are over
I didn’t realize until I read the Monday edition of the Kansas City Star, Mizzou slipped passed Tulane on Sunday 67-62. The Tigers broke a 32-game road losing streak on Sunday. The game was not available on television so I can only check the box score. Mizzou managed to out rebound an opponent significantly for the first time this season. Guards K.J. Walton with his 20 points and Frankie Hughes with 14 aided in the victory, forward Kevin Puryear chipped in with 11 points. Mizzou is now 2-2 facing Northwestern State on Saturday.
Kansas basketball in the NBA
It’s not fair to use NBA basketball as a barometer of basketball success. A number of very talented college players for a variety of reasons had less and sometimes no success at the next level. Many of my friends love to point out the accomplishments of Kansas basketball which is certainly evident and I’ve acknowledge that fact. The conversation degrades to an argument when we begin discussing prosperity in the NBA. Players receiving an NBA pay check are accomplished based on a minimum contract, in this instance I’m referring to All-Pro/All-Star level of play.
Clyde Lovellette 6-9 forward/center
Kansas 1949-52
1952 NCAA Champion
1952-1964 NBA
1954, 1963 & 1964 NBA Champion
Naismith Hall of Fame
Wilt Chamberlain 7-1 center
Kansas 1956-58
1959-1973 NBA
1967 & 1972 NBA Champion
Naismith & Collegiate Hall of Fame
Jo Jo White 6-3 point guard
Kansas 1965-69
1969-1981 NBA
1974 & 1976 NBA Champion
Naismith Hall of Fame
Paul Pierce 6-7 small forward
Kansas 1995-98
1998-???
2008 NBA Champion
Hall of Fame-date to be determined
On the bubble baring injury small forward Andrew Wiggins of the Wolves and Sixer center Joel Embiid appear headed for stellar NBA careers. Besides these two NBA rosters contain a number of former Kansas Jayhawks. At least two Danny Manning and Bill Bridges could have been included but were omitted. After he sustained an injury Manning continued to play. His NBA game never returned to the prior level, as for Bridges he was steady and had a long career his numbers were average at best. Research and prove me wrong, have I missed a Kansas player worthy of being included in this list?
Check up time
Thon Maker the wunderkind has fallen off the edge of the earth, just kidding folks. The youngster remains on the Bucks roster although he’s not seeing any playing time. His effort to acquire an NBA presence might be more difficult than the typical rookie, the majority has four years of college ball behind them, and others have at least one year playing at the collegiate level. Maker is attempting to make that leap from high school to an NBA team he’s having a tough time gaining playing time. Time to give up on him, off course not the ceiling is still unlimited for the 7-1 223 pound Maker.
Downtown
In 1965 pop singer Petula Clark had a hit tune titled “Downtown”. The second stanza reads;
Just listen to the music of the traffic in the city
Linger on the sidewalks were the neon signs are pretty
How can you lose?
The lights are much brighter there
You can forget all your troubles, forget all your cares
So go downtown
I have no idea if the traffic is musical or the neon signs pretty in Detroit however the Pistons are headed downtown. In an afternoon press conference the story was confirmed the Pistons will move into the 20,000 seat Little Caesars Arena next season. As mentioned earlier the new arena belongs to the NHL Red Wings so the Pistons will be co-tenants. The first game in the 2017-18 season will be the first Piston game inside the city limits of Detroit since 1978. The arena was designed by HOK Sports Architecture of Kansas City (MO).
The road woes are over
I didn’t realize until I read the Monday edition of the Kansas City Star, Mizzou slipped passed Tulane on Sunday 67-62. The Tigers broke a 32-game road losing streak on Sunday. The game was not available on television so I can only check the box score. Mizzou managed to out rebound an opponent significantly for the first time this season. Guards K.J. Walton with his 20 points and Frankie Hughes with 14 aided in the victory, forward Kevin Puryear chipped in with 11 points. Mizzou is now 2-2 facing Northwestern State on Saturday.
Kansas basketball in the NBA
It’s not fair to use NBA basketball as a barometer of basketball success. A number of very talented college players for a variety of reasons had less and sometimes no success at the next level. Many of my friends love to point out the accomplishments of Kansas basketball which is certainly evident and I’ve acknowledge that fact. The conversation degrades to an argument when we begin discussing prosperity in the NBA. Players receiving an NBA pay check are accomplished based on a minimum contract, in this instance I’m referring to All-Pro/All-Star level of play.
Clyde Lovellette 6-9 forward/center
Kansas 1949-52
1952 NCAA Champion
1952-1964 NBA
1954, 1963 & 1964 NBA Champion
Naismith Hall of Fame
Wilt Chamberlain 7-1 center
Kansas 1956-58
1959-1973 NBA
1967 & 1972 NBA Champion
Naismith & Collegiate Hall of Fame
Jo Jo White 6-3 point guard
Kansas 1965-69
1969-1981 NBA
1974 & 1976 NBA Champion
Naismith Hall of Fame
Paul Pierce 6-7 small forward
Kansas 1995-98
1998-???
2008 NBA Champion
Hall of Fame-date to be determined
On the bubble baring injury small forward Andrew Wiggins of the Wolves and Sixer center Joel Embiid appear headed for stellar NBA careers. Besides these two NBA rosters contain a number of former Kansas Jayhawks. At least two Danny Manning and Bill Bridges could have been included but were omitted. After he sustained an injury Manning continued to play. His NBA game never returned to the prior level, as for Bridges he was steady and had a long career his numbers were average at best. Research and prove me wrong, have I missed a Kansas player worthy of being included in this list?
Check up time
Thon Maker the wunderkind has fallen off the edge of the earth, just kidding folks. The youngster remains on the Bucks roster although he’s not seeing any playing time. His effort to acquire an NBA presence might be more difficult than the typical rookie, the majority has four years of college ball behind them, and others have at least one year playing at the collegiate level. Maker is attempting to make that leap from high school to an NBA team he’s having a tough time gaining playing time. Time to give up on him, off course not the ceiling is still unlimited for the 7-1 223 pound Maker.
Downtown
In 1965 pop singer Petula Clark had a hit tune titled “Downtown”. The second stanza reads;
Just listen to the music of the traffic in the city
Linger on the sidewalks were the neon signs are pretty
How can you lose?
The lights are much brighter there
You can forget all your troubles, forget all your cares
So go downtown
I have no idea if the traffic is musical or the neon signs pretty in Detroit however the Pistons are headed downtown. In an afternoon press conference the story was confirmed the Pistons will move into the 20,000 seat Little Caesars Arena next season. As mentioned earlier the new arena belongs to the NHL Red Wings so the Pistons will be co-tenants. The first game in the 2017-18 season will be the first Piston game inside the city limits of Detroit since 1978. The arena was designed by HOK Sports Architecture of Kansas City (MO).
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Another one bites the dust”(soon)
The music group Queen’s got nothing on Russell Westbrook, their hit song “Another one bit’s the dust” will soon apply as he breaks the triple-double record. Mr. Triple-Double registered his 42nd triple-double on Sunday, the triple-double for Westbrook will tie him with LeBron James and at his current pace will likely surpass him before the end of November.
The all-time record for triple-doubles is 59 held by for Celtic great Larry Bird. Point guard Westbrook stands 6 foot 3 inches tall and the two players in front of him have a height advantage. LeBron stands 6-8 while the Celtic legend Larry Bird is 6-9. The most astounding portion of this story consider the amount of talent that’s arrived in the NBA since 1992 the last year Bird played in the association.
The Stilt
The late Wilt Chamberlain had several nicknames, Wilt the Stilt, the Big Dipper and Goliath. There might have been a number of profanity nicknames that were likely not shared with the big man. He was not the first 7-foot center to play in the NBA however he changed the game with his arrival in the 1959-60 season. Any time you cause rules committee to change aspects of the game that details for all concerned of your impact on the game. The lane on the court was 12 feet wide when Chamberlain arrived he would set up in the low post he would lean in and finger-roll the ball into the basket. After watching him destroy teams in 1964 the lane was widen four feet to 16 feet where it remains to this day.
With the widen lane Chamberlain was forced to change his game and he continued to excel. Rookie of the Year and MVP only one other player (Wes Unseld later) would accomplish the feat. Chamberlain would leave the NBA as its All-Time scoring leader when he retired after the 1973 season. He would remain number one until several players would later pass him. Chamberlain is now in 5th place behind Jordan, Kobe, Malone and the leader Kareem Abdul Jabbar. On March 2nd 1962 Chamberlain set a record that will never be broken. Playing for the Warriors his team scored 69 points and Chamberlain scored the other 100 for a 169-147 victory over the Knicks.
That season the Dipper would average an amazing 50.4 points per game. The NBA didn’t begin counting blocked shots until the 1973-74 season. February 2nd 1968 Chamberlain scored 22 points had 25 rebounds 21 assists and 12 blocked shots. That was also the year Chamberlain led the NBA is assists the only center to accomplish this. The battles in the paint between Chamberlain and Russell are the stuff of legend. As for the belief Bill Russell stopped Chamberlain totally untrue, the 6-9 Russell forced Chamberlain to play at his best but couldn’t stop him. Nobody could stop Chamberlain at 7-1 and 290 pounds, slow him yes---stop him impossible.
Three games in three games
UMKC fell to the Green Bay Phoenix 95-77; the Phoenix had five players in double figures while the Roos only had guard LeVell Boyd. Boyd wasn’t on the court by himself however he might have been as he led the way with 23 points. Nobody on the Roos roster was even close, Broderick Newbill managed 12 points however that was it the balance of the team was in single digits. Martez Harrison the Roos leading scorer at nearly 20 points a game totaled but 8. The Roos shot fairly well and were only out rebounded by 6; the third game in three days must have been a contributing factor. UMKC now stands 3-2 as they await their next opponent Arkansas-Monticello on November 25th at home.
Could he, well maybe
In ‘72-‘73 Nate “Tiny” Archibald led the NBA in scoring and assists while a member of the Kansas City Kings. Fact is Archibald might have been the first combo guard because the Kings had little offense behind him. Archibald led the way that year with 34 ppg and 11.4 assists. This difficult feat has never been repeated since then; with the move of Rockets guard to the point James Harden could duplicate the effort of Archibald?
We love speculating in the sports world so why not this accomplishment. As this is written Harden is 4th in scoring with a 30.6 per game average he‘s only 3.5 points behind league leader DeMare DeRozen. Harden is the leader in assists with 13 a game. Harden refers to himself as the “best player in the NBA” can we legitimately argue against his statement at this point?
“Another one bites the dust”(soon)
The music group Queen’s got nothing on Russell Westbrook, their hit song “Another one bit’s the dust” will soon apply as he breaks the triple-double record. Mr. Triple-Double registered his 42nd triple-double on Sunday, the triple-double for Westbrook will tie him with LeBron James and at his current pace will likely surpass him before the end of November.
The all-time record for triple-doubles is 59 held by for Celtic great Larry Bird. Point guard Westbrook stands 6 foot 3 inches tall and the two players in front of him have a height advantage. LeBron stands 6-8 while the Celtic legend Larry Bird is 6-9. The most astounding portion of this story consider the amount of talent that’s arrived in the NBA since 1992 the last year Bird played in the association.
The Stilt
The late Wilt Chamberlain had several nicknames, Wilt the Stilt, the Big Dipper and Goliath. There might have been a number of profanity nicknames that were likely not shared with the big man. He was not the first 7-foot center to play in the NBA however he changed the game with his arrival in the 1959-60 season. Any time you cause rules committee to change aspects of the game that details for all concerned of your impact on the game. The lane on the court was 12 feet wide when Chamberlain arrived he would set up in the low post he would lean in and finger-roll the ball into the basket. After watching him destroy teams in 1964 the lane was widen four feet to 16 feet where it remains to this day.
With the widen lane Chamberlain was forced to change his game and he continued to excel. Rookie of the Year and MVP only one other player (Wes Unseld later) would accomplish the feat. Chamberlain would leave the NBA as its All-Time scoring leader when he retired after the 1973 season. He would remain number one until several players would later pass him. Chamberlain is now in 5th place behind Jordan, Kobe, Malone and the leader Kareem Abdul Jabbar. On March 2nd 1962 Chamberlain set a record that will never be broken. Playing for the Warriors his team scored 69 points and Chamberlain scored the other 100 for a 169-147 victory over the Knicks.
That season the Dipper would average an amazing 50.4 points per game. The NBA didn’t begin counting blocked shots until the 1973-74 season. February 2nd 1968 Chamberlain scored 22 points had 25 rebounds 21 assists and 12 blocked shots. That was also the year Chamberlain led the NBA is assists the only center to accomplish this. The battles in the paint between Chamberlain and Russell are the stuff of legend. As for the belief Bill Russell stopped Chamberlain totally untrue, the 6-9 Russell forced Chamberlain to play at his best but couldn’t stop him. Nobody could stop Chamberlain at 7-1 and 290 pounds, slow him yes---stop him impossible.
Three games in three games
UMKC fell to the Green Bay Phoenix 95-77; the Phoenix had five players in double figures while the Roos only had guard LeVell Boyd. Boyd wasn’t on the court by himself however he might have been as he led the way with 23 points. Nobody on the Roos roster was even close, Broderick Newbill managed 12 points however that was it the balance of the team was in single digits. Martez Harrison the Roos leading scorer at nearly 20 points a game totaled but 8. The Roos shot fairly well and were only out rebounded by 6; the third game in three days must have been a contributing factor. UMKC now stands 3-2 as they await their next opponent Arkansas-Monticello on November 25th at home.
Could he, well maybe
In ‘72-‘73 Nate “Tiny” Archibald led the NBA in scoring and assists while a member of the Kansas City Kings. Fact is Archibald might have been the first combo guard because the Kings had little offense behind him. Archibald led the way that year with 34 ppg and 11.4 assists. This difficult feat has never been repeated since then; with the move of Rockets guard to the point James Harden could duplicate the effort of Archibald?
We love speculating in the sports world so why not this accomplishment. As this is written Harden is 4th in scoring with a 30.6 per game average he‘s only 3.5 points behind league leader DeMare DeRozen. Harden is the leader in assists with 13 a game. Harden refers to himself as the “best player in the NBA” can we legitimately argue against his statement at this point?
Monday, November 21, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
It’s possible but…..
ESPN.com Insider speculates on the possibility of LeBron James breaking the all-time NBA scoring record. As I’ve mentioned in the past I’m no ESPN Insider so this account is strictly my thoughts. LeBron has one clear advantage he came into the NBA at 19 years of age directly from high school. Everyone on the list with the exception of Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowtizki had either 3 or 4 years of college basketball behind them when they when they arrived in the NBA.
LeBron was a starter day one with the Cavs while Kobe cracked the Laker starting lineup in his third year. Dirk played a number of years in Germany before arriving in the NBA as a 20-year old. Kareem Abdul Jabbar is the league leader with 38,387 points after passing the retired Wilt Chamberlain. LeBron is now 31 years old however based on his conditioning he could play until his early 40’s.
Several issues to consider LeBron’s point totals have decreased since his return to Cleveland although he continues to play at a high level. It’s possible this is an effort to include his teammates in the offense. Another issue is fewer minutes; Coach Lue has already gone on record desiring to reduce the amount of time LeBron is on the court. LeBron’s lowest point total has been his rookie year when he scored 1,654 points.
If LeBron averages close to that number for the next 10 years he would become the NBA all-time leading scorer, the only remaining question is Father Time. Playing limited minutes it possibly might be easier to maintain a high shooting percentage. Kobe Bryant playing full time at age 38 was not as efficient from the field as he’d been earlier and even mid-way through his career, injuries aside age definitely became a factor.
UMKC
The public says UCLA and fails to consider it’s the University of California at Los Angeles. Hopefully there will be no further requirement to say the University of Missouri at Kansas City, we can just say UMKC. WAC Conference UMKC squeaked past Mid-America Conference Bowling Green 71-69. Guard Martez Harrison led the way scoring 23 points along with 4 assists, Harrison was ably assisted by guard LaVell Boyd with 19 points. Next up for the Roos will be the Murray State Racers on Sunday followed by the Green Bay Phoenix on Monday. The game Monday is the last of the Bill Frack Tournament that will see UMKC playing three games in three days.
As for the Bowling Green game UMKC stands 2-1 while Bowling Green drops to 0-3. In day two action the Roos managed to win a second road game in a row as the beat the Murray State Roadrunners 85-74. LaVell Boyd led the way for the Roos scoring 21 points along with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The usual scoring leader Martez Harrison had 16 points 4 rebounds and 4 assists along with 3 steals. In fact certainly two keys for me the Roos snatched down 39 rebounds to the Racers 37, in addition the team registered 10 steals. Finally homebound the 3-1 Roos face the Green Bay Phoenix.
“They become sophomores”
I don’t remember who made the statement but a coach was once asked; “What’s the best thing about freshmen?” The response; “They become sophomores.” After a thrilling OT loss to number 11 Xavier on Thursday the Mizzou Tigers struggled on Friday due in part to those freshmen. They were matched against Davidson who also played on Thursday; Mizzou allowed 3-point basket after 3-point basket in the first half of the consolation game of the Tire Pros Invitational.
After allowing Davidson a huge lead Mizzou came back but could never dig themselves out of the 17-point hole they allowed early. Poor shot selection, turnovers and defense plagued Mizzou throughout the game. Afterwards ESPN analyst and former Coach Dino Gaudio said he believed Mizzou might not have been mentally prepared to play after the tough loss against Xavier. I understand a tough loss I’m just not sure I agree completely with the coach on this one. Final score Davidson 70 Mizzou 55.
It’s possible but…..
ESPN.com Insider speculates on the possibility of LeBron James breaking the all-time NBA scoring record. As I’ve mentioned in the past I’m no ESPN Insider so this account is strictly my thoughts. LeBron has one clear advantage he came into the NBA at 19 years of age directly from high school. Everyone on the list with the exception of Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowtizki had either 3 or 4 years of college basketball behind them when they when they arrived in the NBA.
LeBron was a starter day one with the Cavs while Kobe cracked the Laker starting lineup in his third year. Dirk played a number of years in Germany before arriving in the NBA as a 20-year old. Kareem Abdul Jabbar is the league leader with 38,387 points after passing the retired Wilt Chamberlain. LeBron is now 31 years old however based on his conditioning he could play until his early 40’s.
Several issues to consider LeBron’s point totals have decreased since his return to Cleveland although he continues to play at a high level. It’s possible this is an effort to include his teammates in the offense. Another issue is fewer minutes; Coach Lue has already gone on record desiring to reduce the amount of time LeBron is on the court. LeBron’s lowest point total has been his rookie year when he scored 1,654 points.
If LeBron averages close to that number for the next 10 years he would become the NBA all-time leading scorer, the only remaining question is Father Time. Playing limited minutes it possibly might be easier to maintain a high shooting percentage. Kobe Bryant playing full time at age 38 was not as efficient from the field as he’d been earlier and even mid-way through his career, injuries aside age definitely became a factor.
UMKC
The public says UCLA and fails to consider it’s the University of California at Los Angeles. Hopefully there will be no further requirement to say the University of Missouri at Kansas City, we can just say UMKC. WAC Conference UMKC squeaked past Mid-America Conference Bowling Green 71-69. Guard Martez Harrison led the way scoring 23 points along with 4 assists, Harrison was ably assisted by guard LaVell Boyd with 19 points. Next up for the Roos will be the Murray State Racers on Sunday followed by the Green Bay Phoenix on Monday. The game Monday is the last of the Bill Frack Tournament that will see UMKC playing three games in three days.
As for the Bowling Green game UMKC stands 2-1 while Bowling Green drops to 0-3. In day two action the Roos managed to win a second road game in a row as the beat the Murray State Roadrunners 85-74. LaVell Boyd led the way for the Roos scoring 21 points along with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. The usual scoring leader Martez Harrison had 16 points 4 rebounds and 4 assists along with 3 steals. In fact certainly two keys for me the Roos snatched down 39 rebounds to the Racers 37, in addition the team registered 10 steals. Finally homebound the 3-1 Roos face the Green Bay Phoenix.
“They become sophomores”
I don’t remember who made the statement but a coach was once asked; “What’s the best thing about freshmen?” The response; “They become sophomores.” After a thrilling OT loss to number 11 Xavier on Thursday the Mizzou Tigers struggled on Friday due in part to those freshmen. They were matched against Davidson who also played on Thursday; Mizzou allowed 3-point basket after 3-point basket in the first half of the consolation game of the Tire Pros Invitational.
After allowing Davidson a huge lead Mizzou came back but could never dig themselves out of the 17-point hole they allowed early. Poor shot selection, turnovers and defense plagued Mizzou throughout the game. Afterwards ESPN analyst and former Coach Dino Gaudio said he believed Mizzou might not have been mentally prepared to play after the tough loss against Xavier. I understand a tough loss I’m just not sure I agree completely with the coach on this one. Final score Davidson 70 Mizzou 55.
Sunday, November 20, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
Every September induction for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is held in Springfield (MA). In November the college game takes the spotlight as it inducts its latest class of former players, coaches and contributors for the game. November 18 enshrinement was held in Kansas City (MO) for the Class of 2017, although the players listed had NBA careers only the college is denoted.
Dominque Wilkins-Georgia
Hugh Durham-former coach, Georgia, Florida State, Jacksonville
Mark Aguirre-DePaul
Lionel Simmons-LaSalle
Jamaal Wilkes-UCLA
Doug Collins-Illinois State
Bob Boozer-Kansas State (died in 2012)
Mike Montgomery-former coach Stanford, Cal and Montana
Are you a troll?
On Friday an ESPN headline read; “NBA, ex-Clippers owner Sterling settle dispute.” The emails followed swiftly from fans, I make that statement for a reason. A number defended Sterling and decried the NBA for its actions against the former owner. I didn’t agree with a single take however that was not the issue. The NBA took a stand on Donald Sterling for a host of past transgressions which the defenders failed to mention.
I read emails regarding Hillary Clinton, President Barack Obama and a host of other issues which had zero to do with the story content. I often read emails on a story in attempt to determine the thoughts of others but I don’t understand the trolls. You know who they are; they read a story and respond by writing stuff which has no relationship to what you just read. If you are a troll please stop nobody wants your account which has nothing to do with the article.
My team
You are given the responsibility of building a basketball team, you have the choice of any 10 current players who would you choose? That’s a difficult question to answer, expansion teams of the past have been built to win right away while others have been built for the future. Larry Laker general manager would prefer to construct for the future even though it might entail losing for awhile. This team would be a present day and future winner provided no major injuries would occur.
Center Karl-Anthony Towns
Power forward-Julius Randle
Small forward-Andrew Wiggins
Shooting guard-James Harden
Point guard-Damian Lillard
Center-Hassan Whiteside
Power forward-Kristaps Prozingis
Small forward-Kawhi Leonard
Shooting Guard-DeMar DeRozan
Point Guard-Steph Curry
I’m building for the future so Steph Curry is the oldest player on my team at 28 years of age. The other “old timers” on my team are James Harden and Hassan Whiteside 27 years old. I’m not going to defend my picks except to say their mine, how about yours?
National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame
Every September induction for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is held in Springfield (MA). In November the college game takes the spotlight as it inducts its latest class of former players, coaches and contributors for the game. November 18 enshrinement was held in Kansas City (MO) for the Class of 2017, although the players listed had NBA careers only the college is denoted.
Dominque Wilkins-Georgia
Hugh Durham-former coach, Georgia, Florida State, Jacksonville
Mark Aguirre-DePaul
Lionel Simmons-LaSalle
Jamaal Wilkes-UCLA
Doug Collins-Illinois State
Bob Boozer-Kansas State (died in 2012)
Mike Montgomery-former coach Stanford, Cal and Montana
Are you a troll?
On Friday an ESPN headline read; “NBA, ex-Clippers owner Sterling settle dispute.” The emails followed swiftly from fans, I make that statement for a reason. A number defended Sterling and decried the NBA for its actions against the former owner. I didn’t agree with a single take however that was not the issue. The NBA took a stand on Donald Sterling for a host of past transgressions which the defenders failed to mention.
I read emails regarding Hillary Clinton, President Barack Obama and a host of other issues which had zero to do with the story content. I often read emails on a story in attempt to determine the thoughts of others but I don’t understand the trolls. You know who they are; they read a story and respond by writing stuff which has no relationship to what you just read. If you are a troll please stop nobody wants your account which has nothing to do with the article.
My team
You are given the responsibility of building a basketball team, you have the choice of any 10 current players who would you choose? That’s a difficult question to answer, expansion teams of the past have been built to win right away while others have been built for the future. Larry Laker general manager would prefer to construct for the future even though it might entail losing for awhile. This team would be a present day and future winner provided no major injuries would occur.
Center Karl-Anthony Towns
Power forward-Julius Randle
Small forward-Andrew Wiggins
Shooting guard-James Harden
Point guard-Damian Lillard
Center-Hassan Whiteside
Power forward-Kristaps Prozingis
Small forward-Kawhi Leonard
Shooting Guard-DeMar DeRozan
Point Guard-Steph Curry
I’m building for the future so Steph Curry is the oldest player on my team at 28 years of age. The other “old timers” on my team are James Harden and Hassan Whiteside 27 years old. I’m not going to defend my picks except to say their mine, how about yours?
Saturday, November 19, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
We are witness to the future
Wolves center Karl-Anthony Towns at the center jump matched against Sixer center Joel Embiid. Can we say the BIG MAN has returned to the NBA, we have seen the future and it looks bright provided both are able to avoid major injuries? The only issue unlike the old days neither player was matched against one another except on switches. Because neither Towns nor Embiid really face one another we can only look at the outcome, the Wolves won 110-86. Towns had 25 points 10 rebounds and 2 blocked shots while Embiid was 10, 10 and 1. It should be noted Embiid’s minutes are still limited and he doesn’t play back to back games for now.
I’ll take the blame
Duck fans you can blame for the loss on Tuesday evening. On November 8th I wrote on Coach Dana Altman and the great job he’d done since his arrival at Oregon. On last evening Big 12 Baylor did a beat-down on the Ducks winning the game 66-49. It wasn’t on television so I had no opportunity to access it but with a 17 point victory it appears Oregon must not have been prepared to play. Baylor is now 2-0 while Oregon falls to 1-1 sorry Duck fans.
Worried already---not as much
The first opportunity to see Mizzou without traveling to Columbia was via the SEC/ESPN Network. I’m worried about the upcoming season already; Mizzou is performing a beat-down on Alabama A&M but the rebounding, the rebounding. They have only 1 senior, the balance of the team is freshmen, sophomores, and junior college transfers. Where is the beef is my question, Mizzou has a number of 6-7, 6-8 guys however all are relatively thin. The only hope is 6-10 250 pound freshmen Reed Nikko develops quickly, outside of his bulk that’s about it. I guess I could console myself in the fact former Coach Mike Anderson’s teams were never particularly tall.
Mizzou compensated for their lack of height and rebounding by a pressing defense scoring off of steals and breaks. Game two proved quite different than I expected. Matched against Number 11 Xavier in the Puerto Rico Classic I thought-oh well! Mizzou played defense against a taller Xavier team. Guards Frankie Hughes and Terrance Phillips along with power forward Kevin Puryear combined for 67 of the 81 points Mizzou would score. The final score read Xavier 83 Mizzou 82 in an OT victory for Xavier. For me there are no moral victories you either win or lose in this case Mizzou lost.
Thanks Kevin Pelton
ESPN Insider Pelton brought it to our attention the Lakers winning their 7th game on November 16 have now won more than last year (6) through December 31st. Am I excited not yet there is much to prove by this young team however I do feel better regarding their future prospects. This young Lakers team needs a nickname, so far the media has failed to provide one for us. I’ve got my thinking cap on maybe I can come up with one.
A different age
High school prospects have changed the manner they announce their choice of destination. This change has been noted in the past but it’s worth a re-visit. Today’s high school prospects have made their attentions known differently from those of the past. What once was the routine has become old-school allow me to remind you.
The prospect is sitting in his high school gym in front of family coaches and fellow students. He’s got 4 or 5 baseball caps in front of him with the school logo on them. The prospect announces “I’m going to (often fakes picking up one cap over another) XYZ university.” Others choose twitter, Facebook or some other social outlet to announce the school of their choice. The change in the announcement is interesting isn’t it?
We are witness to the future
Wolves center Karl-Anthony Towns at the center jump matched against Sixer center Joel Embiid. Can we say the BIG MAN has returned to the NBA, we have seen the future and it looks bright provided both are able to avoid major injuries? The only issue unlike the old days neither player was matched against one another except on switches. Because neither Towns nor Embiid really face one another we can only look at the outcome, the Wolves won 110-86. Towns had 25 points 10 rebounds and 2 blocked shots while Embiid was 10, 10 and 1. It should be noted Embiid’s minutes are still limited and he doesn’t play back to back games for now.
I’ll take the blame
Duck fans you can blame for the loss on Tuesday evening. On November 8th I wrote on Coach Dana Altman and the great job he’d done since his arrival at Oregon. On last evening Big 12 Baylor did a beat-down on the Ducks winning the game 66-49. It wasn’t on television so I had no opportunity to access it but with a 17 point victory it appears Oregon must not have been prepared to play. Baylor is now 2-0 while Oregon falls to 1-1 sorry Duck fans.
Worried already---not as much
The first opportunity to see Mizzou without traveling to Columbia was via the SEC/ESPN Network. I’m worried about the upcoming season already; Mizzou is performing a beat-down on Alabama A&M but the rebounding, the rebounding. They have only 1 senior, the balance of the team is freshmen, sophomores, and junior college transfers. Where is the beef is my question, Mizzou has a number of 6-7, 6-8 guys however all are relatively thin. The only hope is 6-10 250 pound freshmen Reed Nikko develops quickly, outside of his bulk that’s about it. I guess I could console myself in the fact former Coach Mike Anderson’s teams were never particularly tall.
Mizzou compensated for their lack of height and rebounding by a pressing defense scoring off of steals and breaks. Game two proved quite different than I expected. Matched against Number 11 Xavier in the Puerto Rico Classic I thought-oh well! Mizzou played defense against a taller Xavier team. Guards Frankie Hughes and Terrance Phillips along with power forward Kevin Puryear combined for 67 of the 81 points Mizzou would score. The final score read Xavier 83 Mizzou 82 in an OT victory for Xavier. For me there are no moral victories you either win or lose in this case Mizzou lost.
Thanks Kevin Pelton
ESPN Insider Pelton brought it to our attention the Lakers winning their 7th game on November 16 have now won more than last year (6) through December 31st. Am I excited not yet there is much to prove by this young team however I do feel better regarding their future prospects. This young Lakers team needs a nickname, so far the media has failed to provide one for us. I’ve got my thinking cap on maybe I can come up with one.
A different age
High school prospects have changed the manner they announce their choice of destination. This change has been noted in the past but it’s worth a re-visit. Today’s high school prospects have made their attentions known differently from those of the past. What once was the routine has become old-school allow me to remind you.
The prospect is sitting in his high school gym in front of family coaches and fellow students. He’s got 4 or 5 baseball caps in front of him with the school logo on them. The prospect announces “I’m going to (often fakes picking up one cap over another) XYZ university.” Others choose twitter, Facebook or some other social outlet to announce the school of their choice. The change in the announcement is interesting isn’t it?
Friday, November 18, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
To set the record straight
The recent Phil Jackson-LeBron James tiff is the basis for this last story. I have been critical of LeBron in the past however unlike Phil my complaint was based on his decision to leave the Cavs for the Heat. Since his return to Cleveland my complaint has been more about the media falling all over him than LeBron.
Example the story a week are so ago about LeBron possibly breaking Kareem’s scoring record, he didn’t originate the story ESPN did. I don’t believe I ever made any reference to his business investments other than praise. In fact I believe he might be one of the last of the good guys. To date we’ve not heard or read of any off-court issues. No speeding tickets, no physical attacks on his wife or anyone else. No stories of LeBron being caught with a handgun.
Presidential Medal of Freedom
“The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award, recognizes exceptional meritorious service.” The announcement came on Thursday the Presidential Medal of Freedom will be presented to former Dodger announcer Vince Scully, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Michael Jordan. Scully retired at the end of the season after serving as the Dodgers broadcaster for 67 years. Kareem the all-time leading scorer in the NBA has written or co-written three novels in addition he is social activist. Michael Jordan is the majority owner of the Hornets and the only majority African-American owner in any major league sport.
www.infoplease.com
5-4-3-2-1
The countdown to the Spurs retiring Tim Duncan’s jersey number 21. The honor will occur December 18th after that the next stop will be either/or the Naismith or College Basketball Hall of Fame. The jersey retirement certainly is warranted after 19 years with the Spurs.
The offspring
Mitchell Wiggins had a 20 year pro career, by my count only 7 years were spent as a member of an NBA team. He played in Europe, the D-League and other minor leagues in the U.S. The Wiggins family is likely the same as the Bryant family i.e. son turns out to be a better athlete than dad. That was the case with Joe and Kobe Bryant and will be the same for Mitchell and Andrew Wiggins. The 2015 NBA Rookie of the Year continues to demonstrate he is the real deal. Andrew has upped his scoring from 16.9 points per game to 26.6 as this is written.
The NBA in Canada
The NBA might return to Canada one day but it might not be where you might believe. This time it will be Montreal rather than Vancouver which had the expansion Grizzlies at one point. Montreal and Toronto are rivals in the NHL and CFL what not the NBA? Montreal has the second largest metro population in Canada only ranking behind Toronto.
There is basketball history in Montreal the city had a National Basketball League expansion team as recently as 2013. The team didn’t draw many fans and failed to secure a permanent location to play basketball and eventually folded unable to secure new ownership. Sounds as if this might be a recipe for disaster however don’t believe it. Montreal with an NBA franchise and the prospect of facing Toronto we might have a ready-made rivalry between these two Canadian cities.
To set the record straight
The recent Phil Jackson-LeBron James tiff is the basis for this last story. I have been critical of LeBron in the past however unlike Phil my complaint was based on his decision to leave the Cavs for the Heat. Since his return to Cleveland my complaint has been more about the media falling all over him than LeBron.
Example the story a week are so ago about LeBron possibly breaking Kareem’s scoring record, he didn’t originate the story ESPN did. I don’t believe I ever made any reference to his business investments other than praise. In fact I believe he might be one of the last of the good guys. To date we’ve not heard or read of any off-court issues. No speeding tickets, no physical attacks on his wife or anyone else. No stories of LeBron being caught with a handgun.
Presidential Medal of Freedom
“The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award, recognizes exceptional meritorious service.” The announcement came on Thursday the Presidential Medal of Freedom will be presented to former Dodger announcer Vince Scully, Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Michael Jordan. Scully retired at the end of the season after serving as the Dodgers broadcaster for 67 years. Kareem the all-time leading scorer in the NBA has written or co-written three novels in addition he is social activist. Michael Jordan is the majority owner of the Hornets and the only majority African-American owner in any major league sport.
www.infoplease.com
5-4-3-2-1
The countdown to the Spurs retiring Tim Duncan’s jersey number 21. The honor will occur December 18th after that the next stop will be either/or the Naismith or College Basketball Hall of Fame. The jersey retirement certainly is warranted after 19 years with the Spurs.
The offspring
Mitchell Wiggins had a 20 year pro career, by my count only 7 years were spent as a member of an NBA team. He played in Europe, the D-League and other minor leagues in the U.S. The Wiggins family is likely the same as the Bryant family i.e. son turns out to be a better athlete than dad. That was the case with Joe and Kobe Bryant and will be the same for Mitchell and Andrew Wiggins. The 2015 NBA Rookie of the Year continues to demonstrate he is the real deal. Andrew has upped his scoring from 16.9 points per game to 26.6 as this is written.
The NBA in Canada
The NBA might return to Canada one day but it might not be where you might believe. This time it will be Montreal rather than Vancouver which had the expansion Grizzlies at one point. Montreal and Toronto are rivals in the NHL and CFL what not the NBA? Montreal has the second largest metro population in Canada only ranking behind Toronto.
There is basketball history in Montreal the city had a National Basketball League expansion team as recently as 2013. The team didn’t draw many fans and failed to secure a permanent location to play basketball and eventually folded unable to secure new ownership. Sounds as if this might be a recipe for disaster however don’t believe it. Montreal with an NBA franchise and the prospect of facing Toronto we might have a ready-made rivalry between these two Canadian cities.
Thursday, November 17, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Two days in a row
This is almost unbelievable two days in a row and I writing about Phil Jackson. He won’t apologize for referring to LeBron James and his business partners as a “posse.” He should but won’t, I’m not as close to the issue as some are however everything I’ve read indicates Maverick Carter and Rich Paul are far from that. The term posse is associated with someone who just hangs around a celebrity with no real purpose. That is far from the case with either Carter or Paul.
Word is they grew up with LeBron in Akron and are long-time friends. There is a vast difference in the friendship; LeBron didn’t immediately hand over his financial portfolio to Carter and Paul. He made sure they went to school to learn all there was to know about finance, investments and marketing. No Phil they are not a posse but we realize how you sometimes operate, you are known to use the media to deliver your view of the world even if it’s not correct. No worry I’m sure LeBron expects no apology from Phil.
Roos win
The UMKC Kangaroos beat the Mo Valley Drake Bulldogs 68-62, senior guard Martez Harrison lead the way scoring 22 points. LaVell Boyd also a senior guard followed up with 18 points, 6-7 senior forward Kyle Steward chipped in with 13 points. UMKC 1-1 next faces Bowling Green State University on November 19 at Bowling Green (OH).
“It was a good day”
“Get me on the court and I’m trouble last night messed around and got a triple double” I won't use the language of the Ice Cube rap but you get the idea. Laker Julius Randle might have use some portion of the lyrics "It was a good day." Blooming superstar (yes I said it) Julius Randle did just that, he wasn’t the high point scorer that honor belonged to D’Angelo Russell with 32 points. Timofey Mosgov chipped in with 20 points but it was Randle, his box score total read 17 points 14 rebounds and 10 assists. The Lakers beat the Nets 125-118 and are now 4-1 at home, too bad they can’t play all their games at Staples Center.
Mid-Major
The college basketball season is on us and once again you will hear the term mid-major utilized by various members of the media. It’s a term that’s always bothered me because it fails to reflect the reality of college basketball. “It was first used by Jack Kvancz in 1977 then head coach of a Catholic University basketball team. He considered the Pac 12, Big 12, ACC, Big 10 and SEC Power Five Conferences.” Kvancz considered all other Division I programs mid-major which is offensive in a manner of speaking. If we used his definition mid-major schools are not able to compete with Power Five Conference schools right?
Someone forget to inform Mo Valley Wichita State, they defeated Big 12 Kansas in the 2015 NCAA Championship or Sun Belt Conference Georgia State did the same a victory over Big 12 Baylor. WAC member UMKC shocked Big 12 Mizzou in 2014 beating them 69-61. How about production of NBA talent, surely Power Five schools have it over the "smaller" conferences right? Wrong once again someone forgot to inform the Bulls Dwyane Wade and Jimmy Butler who both played at Marquette. Evidently Hassan Whiteside (Marshall University), Damian Lillard (Weber State) and Derrick Rose (Memphis) didn’t get the memo either.
Wikipedia
Two days in a row
This is almost unbelievable two days in a row and I writing about Phil Jackson. He won’t apologize for referring to LeBron James and his business partners as a “posse.” He should but won’t, I’m not as close to the issue as some are however everything I’ve read indicates Maverick Carter and Rich Paul are far from that. The term posse is associated with someone who just hangs around a celebrity with no real purpose. That is far from the case with either Carter or Paul.
Word is they grew up with LeBron in Akron and are long-time friends. There is a vast difference in the friendship; LeBron didn’t immediately hand over his financial portfolio to Carter and Paul. He made sure they went to school to learn all there was to know about finance, investments and marketing. No Phil they are not a posse but we realize how you sometimes operate, you are known to use the media to deliver your view of the world even if it’s not correct. No worry I’m sure LeBron expects no apology from Phil.
Roos win
The UMKC Kangaroos beat the Mo Valley Drake Bulldogs 68-62, senior guard Martez Harrison lead the way scoring 22 points. LaVell Boyd also a senior guard followed up with 18 points, 6-7 senior forward Kyle Steward chipped in with 13 points. UMKC 1-1 next faces Bowling Green State University on November 19 at Bowling Green (OH).
“It was a good day”
“Get me on the court and I’m trouble last night messed around and got a triple double” I won't use the language of the Ice Cube rap but you get the idea. Laker Julius Randle might have use some portion of the lyrics "It was a good day." Blooming superstar (yes I said it) Julius Randle did just that, he wasn’t the high point scorer that honor belonged to D’Angelo Russell with 32 points. Timofey Mosgov chipped in with 20 points but it was Randle, his box score total read 17 points 14 rebounds and 10 assists. The Lakers beat the Nets 125-118 and are now 4-1 at home, too bad they can’t play all their games at Staples Center.
Mid-Major
The college basketball season is on us and once again you will hear the term mid-major utilized by various members of the media. It’s a term that’s always bothered me because it fails to reflect the reality of college basketball. “It was first used by Jack Kvancz in 1977 then head coach of a Catholic University basketball team. He considered the Pac 12, Big 12, ACC, Big 10 and SEC Power Five Conferences.” Kvancz considered all other Division I programs mid-major which is offensive in a manner of speaking. If we used his definition mid-major schools are not able to compete with Power Five Conference schools right?
Someone forget to inform Mo Valley Wichita State, they defeated Big 12 Kansas in the 2015 NCAA Championship or Sun Belt Conference Georgia State did the same a victory over Big 12 Baylor. WAC member UMKC shocked Big 12 Mizzou in 2014 beating them 69-61. How about production of NBA talent, surely Power Five schools have it over the "smaller" conferences right? Wrong once again someone forgot to inform the Bulls Dwyane Wade and Jimmy Butler who both played at Marquette. Evidently Hassan Whiteside (Marshall University), Damian Lillard (Weber State) and Derrick Rose (Memphis) didn’t get the memo either.
Wikipedia
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I think I’ve made it known
Despite what many might perceive Phil Jackson is among the best in the NBA. I’m not referring to front office management I’m referring to coaching teams. You know the record 11 NBA Championships while coaching the Bulls and Lakers. As for Phil Jackson President of the Knicks word came the other day “The Knicks were not running the triangle.” Jackson’s long been associated with the triangle offense however I’m borrowing this from a commentary. “If he (Jackson) is so worried about the Knicks running the triangle why doesn’t he come down and coach them.” Strong statement and one I can agree with.
Confusing
Before you go crazy allow me to clarify before you read this. I’m not claiming anything illegal has occurred in the past or up to including the present time. You might have read the NCAA had ruled 7-foot Omer Yurtseven will miss 9 North Carolina State games. The ruling was based on monetary compensation he received playing for a Turkish team. Remember Enes Kanter now with the Thunder, the same issue was raised with him.
In Kanter’s case he never was declared eligible to play at Kentucky and later declared for the NBA draft. I researched the monetary figure Yurtseven was supposed to have received $1,000 while Kanter was paid $33,000. If you’ve read Words eye view any length of time you realize I’ve long believed the NCAA sends out mixed messages. Does the NCAA maintain a maximum or mininum financial compensation a student-athlete can receive? How about receiving clothing or shoes are they considered part of a financial incentive, I’m confused are you?
“I’m with him”
He didn’t exactly make the above statement but he did join the group. Chris Hansen hedge fund manager has been quite vocal in his attempts to return the NBA to Seattle. It was mentioned recently he had a deal in place to purchase the Kings and move them to Seattle. Kings fans need to bow down to David Stern everyday, if not for the commissioners’ last minute intervention we’d be discussing Chris Hansen and his role as owner of the “new” Sonics.
In any event Seahawks Russell Wilson announced he would become part of Hansen’s group which plans on building an NBA/NHL arena in the city. Hansen also counts two of the Nordstrom brothers’ as partners. The brothers are associated with the department store chain. Whether the NBA is expanding or not there will be a new “NBA” ready arena in Seattle in a few years. Even more interesting this arena will be built with private funds.
We just don’t know sometimes
The NBA season is not a month old however I believe the Lakers made a good off-season move. No I’m not referring to drafting Brandon Ingram although that’s a good thing. I not am talking about Jordan Clarkson or D’Angelo Russell either. I’m referring to the signing of 7 foot 275 pound Timofey Mozgov late of the Cavs. I admit up front I hadn’t seen Mozgov play much after all the Cavs had assigned him a permanent seat next to the coach. During the Cavs championship run he was nowhere to be seen having been replaced by the smaller more agile Tristan Thompson. At the time the Lakers signed Mozgov to a 4-year contract for $64 million dollars loud expressions echoed throughout the NBA.
I didn‘t say much but was also confused by the signing “What in the expletive are the Lakers doing” was proclaimed by many in NBA circles. This guy couldn’t play for a contending team what could he provide for one re-building I thought? Much later you might remember I wrote; “He (Mozgov) will not allow Laker fans to forget Wilt, Kareem or Shaq but he will be serviceable. So far his offensive game is limited however he makes up for it by being a presence clogging the lane blocking shots and rebounding. He’s 30 years old so we shouldn’t expect him to be the long-term solution at center. The hope is 7-1 Ivica Zubac will begin playing more and more minutes and adjust to NBA play at the center position. In the NBA Summer League rookie Zubac appeared to have a more diverse offensive arsenal than Mozgov however he’s still raw.
I think I’ve made it known
Despite what many might perceive Phil Jackson is among the best in the NBA. I’m not referring to front office management I’m referring to coaching teams. You know the record 11 NBA Championships while coaching the Bulls and Lakers. As for Phil Jackson President of the Knicks word came the other day “The Knicks were not running the triangle.” Jackson’s long been associated with the triangle offense however I’m borrowing this from a commentary. “If he (Jackson) is so worried about the Knicks running the triangle why doesn’t he come down and coach them.” Strong statement and one I can agree with.
Confusing
Before you go crazy allow me to clarify before you read this. I’m not claiming anything illegal has occurred in the past or up to including the present time. You might have read the NCAA had ruled 7-foot Omer Yurtseven will miss 9 North Carolina State games. The ruling was based on monetary compensation he received playing for a Turkish team. Remember Enes Kanter now with the Thunder, the same issue was raised with him.
In Kanter’s case he never was declared eligible to play at Kentucky and later declared for the NBA draft. I researched the monetary figure Yurtseven was supposed to have received $1,000 while Kanter was paid $33,000. If you’ve read Words eye view any length of time you realize I’ve long believed the NCAA sends out mixed messages. Does the NCAA maintain a maximum or mininum financial compensation a student-athlete can receive? How about receiving clothing or shoes are they considered part of a financial incentive, I’m confused are you?
“I’m with him”
He didn’t exactly make the above statement but he did join the group. Chris Hansen hedge fund manager has been quite vocal in his attempts to return the NBA to Seattle. It was mentioned recently he had a deal in place to purchase the Kings and move them to Seattle. Kings fans need to bow down to David Stern everyday, if not for the commissioners’ last minute intervention we’d be discussing Chris Hansen and his role as owner of the “new” Sonics.
In any event Seahawks Russell Wilson announced he would become part of Hansen’s group which plans on building an NBA/NHL arena in the city. Hansen also counts two of the Nordstrom brothers’ as partners. The brothers are associated with the department store chain. Whether the NBA is expanding or not there will be a new “NBA” ready arena in Seattle in a few years. Even more interesting this arena will be built with private funds.
We just don’t know sometimes
The NBA season is not a month old however I believe the Lakers made a good off-season move. No I’m not referring to drafting Brandon Ingram although that’s a good thing. I not am talking about Jordan Clarkson or D’Angelo Russell either. I’m referring to the signing of 7 foot 275 pound Timofey Mozgov late of the Cavs. I admit up front I hadn’t seen Mozgov play much after all the Cavs had assigned him a permanent seat next to the coach. During the Cavs championship run he was nowhere to be seen having been replaced by the smaller more agile Tristan Thompson. At the time the Lakers signed Mozgov to a 4-year contract for $64 million dollars loud expressions echoed throughout the NBA.
I didn‘t say much but was also confused by the signing “What in the expletive are the Lakers doing” was proclaimed by many in NBA circles. This guy couldn’t play for a contending team what could he provide for one re-building I thought? Much later you might remember I wrote; “He (Mozgov) will not allow Laker fans to forget Wilt, Kareem or Shaq but he will be serviceable. So far his offensive game is limited however he makes up for it by being a presence clogging the lane blocking shots and rebounding. He’s 30 years old so we shouldn’t expect him to be the long-term solution at center. The hope is 7-1 Ivica Zubac will begin playing more and more minutes and adjust to NBA play at the center position. In the NBA Summer League rookie Zubac appeared to have a more diverse offensive arsenal than Mozgov however he’s still raw.
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Who was watching him?
Andrew Wiggins scored 47 points against the Lakers Sunday; he led the way in the Wolves 125-99 win over my Lakers. The headline reads “who was watching him” because nobody was guarding him or more likely playing matador defense. This 2015 Rookie of the Year continues to raise his game and it brings to mind a past comment.
At the barber shop one of the barbers a big-time Kansas fan made the statement. “Wiggins is playing to not get hurt” indicating Wiggins was preparing to leave school all along. Drafted by the Cavs we figured he would earn his NBA stripes playing along side LeBron James. Fate was to intervene in Wiggins future, a trade was orchestrated with the Wolves who exchanged Kevin Love for the youngster.
A new player
We hear the University of Alabama football almost always come to mind but that might be changing, the school now intends to become a basketball school too. Alabama always played the sport however in football crazy State of Alabama round ball has played second fiddle to that oblong ball. This began to change with the hiring of the “Little General” Avery Johnson. Johnson was hired in 2015 as head coach many wondered including yours truly. The new hire had plenty of coaching experience but all of it was at the NBA level. Would he be able to recruit, could he relate to 18, 19 and 20-year olds? Those were just two of the questions we had regarding Johnson.
I’m unsure the number of players Johnson inherited however he was able to guide the team to an 18-15 record (8-10 conference). Alabama finished the post-season playing in the NIT Tournament. How about 2017 you ask, we don’t know yet however in the recruiting department Alabama is competing with the Big Boys. The school has landed high in the 2017 Recruiting Class in fact ESPN Recruiting Nation rates Alabama with the number three best class in the nation. If this were football you might be pleasantly surprised, since this is basketball it’s almost shocking news.
Below the radar
To basketball crazy Carolina fans he was hardly noticeable; inserted in the game at the end of a blowout. North Carolina freshman Shea Rush saw exactly one minute of action against Chattanooga and scored 2 points. Folks from the Kansas City Metro are familiar with the Rush name, he’s the son of Jaron Rush. There is plenty of argument raging here but in some circles Jaron is considered the best high school player who ever played in the KC Metro.
Jaron was an All-State high school player at Pembroke High in Kansas City (MO). After graduation he headed west for UCLA, his play was outstanding at times during his freshmen year however change was in the air. Jaron made the decision to leave UCLA and head for the NBA or at least that’s what he believed. The telephone call Jaron expected never came from the NBA and he became another soul mislead by some surrounding him and his own personal demons. As for son Shea he’s got game although he’s not quite as flashy or has the glamour of his father.
When I heard the 6-6 200 pound Rush was headed to North Carolina as a walk-on candidate I was mystified. I believed he exhibited enough talent to be a starter somewhere he certainly wouldn’t receive playing time at loaded Carolina. Then I remembered his dad was supposed to be “signed, sealed and delivered” to Kansas until he changed his mind. The connection Roy Williams was the coach recruiting Jaron while at Kansas so it appears he secured a Rush years later now at Carolina.
Who was watching him?
Andrew Wiggins scored 47 points against the Lakers Sunday; he led the way in the Wolves 125-99 win over my Lakers. The headline reads “who was watching him” because nobody was guarding him or more likely playing matador defense. This 2015 Rookie of the Year continues to raise his game and it brings to mind a past comment.
At the barber shop one of the barbers a big-time Kansas fan made the statement. “Wiggins is playing to not get hurt” indicating Wiggins was preparing to leave school all along. Drafted by the Cavs we figured he would earn his NBA stripes playing along side LeBron James. Fate was to intervene in Wiggins future, a trade was orchestrated with the Wolves who exchanged Kevin Love for the youngster.
A new player
We hear the University of Alabama football almost always come to mind but that might be changing, the school now intends to become a basketball school too. Alabama always played the sport however in football crazy State of Alabama round ball has played second fiddle to that oblong ball. This began to change with the hiring of the “Little General” Avery Johnson. Johnson was hired in 2015 as head coach many wondered including yours truly. The new hire had plenty of coaching experience but all of it was at the NBA level. Would he be able to recruit, could he relate to 18, 19 and 20-year olds? Those were just two of the questions we had regarding Johnson.
I’m unsure the number of players Johnson inherited however he was able to guide the team to an 18-15 record (8-10 conference). Alabama finished the post-season playing in the NIT Tournament. How about 2017 you ask, we don’t know yet however in the recruiting department Alabama is competing with the Big Boys. The school has landed high in the 2017 Recruiting Class in fact ESPN Recruiting Nation rates Alabama with the number three best class in the nation. If this were football you might be pleasantly surprised, since this is basketball it’s almost shocking news.
Below the radar
To basketball crazy Carolina fans he was hardly noticeable; inserted in the game at the end of a blowout. North Carolina freshman Shea Rush saw exactly one minute of action against Chattanooga and scored 2 points. Folks from the Kansas City Metro are familiar with the Rush name, he’s the son of Jaron Rush. There is plenty of argument raging here but in some circles Jaron is considered the best high school player who ever played in the KC Metro.
Jaron was an All-State high school player at Pembroke High in Kansas City (MO). After graduation he headed west for UCLA, his play was outstanding at times during his freshmen year however change was in the air. Jaron made the decision to leave UCLA and head for the NBA or at least that’s what he believed. The telephone call Jaron expected never came from the NBA and he became another soul mislead by some surrounding him and his own personal demons. As for son Shea he’s got game although he’s not quite as flashy or has the glamour of his father.
When I heard the 6-6 200 pound Rush was headed to North Carolina as a walk-on candidate I was mystified. I believed he exhibited enough talent to be a starter somewhere he certainly wouldn’t receive playing time at loaded Carolina. Then I remembered his dad was supposed to be “signed, sealed and delivered” to Kansas until he changed his mind. The connection Roy Williams was the coach recruiting Jaron while at Kansas so it appears he secured a Rush years later now at Carolina.
Monday, November 14, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I purposely didn’t write
Words eye view began publishing in 2011, since that time I’ve attempted to avoid discussions surrounding political issues. It was clear to me the sport we love should be the focus and that’s the tone I’ve attempted over the years. President Obama has been mentioned but only on those occasions an NBA Championship team might visit the White House.
The 2016 presidential election has changed my view; it’s changed because basketball coaches in the NBA and college have voiced concerns about the election of Donald Trump as president of the nation. The first (to my knowledge) to speak out was Stan Van Gundy Detroit Pistons coach, next up the Spurs Gregg Popovich followed by Steve Kerr of the Warriors.
This afternoon (Saturday) I’m reading Coaches Rick Pitino at Louisville and Shaka Smart of Texas added their voices to the growing list. This might eventually become a title wave because we are yet to hear from any NFL or MLB players or coaches. Trump’s rhetoric, his disparaging remarks about women and minorities has upset a number of people in America.
Are words going to change Donald Trump I seriously doubt it however those around him might influence him to change some of his language. I hope you will continue reading Words eye view despite this changing direction of the publication. I believe it is important this one time to take a stand against bigotry even though it might emanate from the White House no less.
You wonder why
I refuse to place Russell Westbrook in this group you’re probably asking what group I am referring to. That small number of players you want to take the shot when the game is on the line. Michael Jordan had a commercial at one time, he described “how many times he took the shot and missed.” There is a difference in taking “the shot” versus a bad shot. Russell Westbrook once again provided us of a bad shot. Friday’s game the Clippers held a 110-108 lead with seconds left in the game. Westbrook ball in his hands and with the clock ticking down took a difficult 3-point shot when a 2-point basket might have tied the game.
As speedy and elusive as Westbrook is I believe he could have driven around the defender and at least had a lay-up which would have tied the game. Instead Westbrook takes a leaning 3-point shot which missed its mark. A commentator said; “He (Westbrook) might have thought he needed a three-point basket and was trying to get fouled.” That calls for a great deal of speculation on the part of the viewer. I really don’t believe it’s an ego issue with Westbrook he is one of those players who never “saw a shot he didn’t like.” No longer competing for shots with Durant I thought we might witness a different Westbrook. Unfortunately it appears the mercurial point guard is incapable of making changes to his game.
1946
The game was actually played November 1, 1946; 70 years ago to be exact the Basketball Association of America would play its first game. In the game the Toronto Huskies would face the New York Knicks in Toronto’s Maple Leaf Garden. The Knicks would be winners in that first game 68-66 as for the Huskies they would only play the 1946-47 season disbanding in the summer.
In honor of that inaugural game the NBA decided to turn back the clock on Saturday night November 12th. The Raptors were decked out in Huskies jerseys and the Knicks in replica 1946 Knicks jerseys. This time the outcome was different as the Huskies (Raptors) beat the Knicks 118-107 in the Air Canada Centre.
I voted for the first time
Shaquille O’Neal’s feature Shaqtin’ A Fool has been around for a few years as part of the TNT telecast of the NBA. If you are not familiar with the feature each week bloopers of five NBA players are viewed. You can cast your vote by logging on to NBA TV Shaqtin’ A Fool. For the first time ever I voted but just like the presidential election my vote remains secret. Check out the videos and make your choice known.
I purposely didn’t write
Words eye view began publishing in 2011, since that time I’ve attempted to avoid discussions surrounding political issues. It was clear to me the sport we love should be the focus and that’s the tone I’ve attempted over the years. President Obama has been mentioned but only on those occasions an NBA Championship team might visit the White House.
The 2016 presidential election has changed my view; it’s changed because basketball coaches in the NBA and college have voiced concerns about the election of Donald Trump as president of the nation. The first (to my knowledge) to speak out was Stan Van Gundy Detroit Pistons coach, next up the Spurs Gregg Popovich followed by Steve Kerr of the Warriors.
This afternoon (Saturday) I’m reading Coaches Rick Pitino at Louisville and Shaka Smart of Texas added their voices to the growing list. This might eventually become a title wave because we are yet to hear from any NFL or MLB players or coaches. Trump’s rhetoric, his disparaging remarks about women and minorities has upset a number of people in America.
Are words going to change Donald Trump I seriously doubt it however those around him might influence him to change some of his language. I hope you will continue reading Words eye view despite this changing direction of the publication. I believe it is important this one time to take a stand against bigotry even though it might emanate from the White House no less.
You wonder why
I refuse to place Russell Westbrook in this group you’re probably asking what group I am referring to. That small number of players you want to take the shot when the game is on the line. Michael Jordan had a commercial at one time, he described “how many times he took the shot and missed.” There is a difference in taking “the shot” versus a bad shot. Russell Westbrook once again provided us of a bad shot. Friday’s game the Clippers held a 110-108 lead with seconds left in the game. Westbrook ball in his hands and with the clock ticking down took a difficult 3-point shot when a 2-point basket might have tied the game.
As speedy and elusive as Westbrook is I believe he could have driven around the defender and at least had a lay-up which would have tied the game. Instead Westbrook takes a leaning 3-point shot which missed its mark. A commentator said; “He (Westbrook) might have thought he needed a three-point basket and was trying to get fouled.” That calls for a great deal of speculation on the part of the viewer. I really don’t believe it’s an ego issue with Westbrook he is one of those players who never “saw a shot he didn’t like.” No longer competing for shots with Durant I thought we might witness a different Westbrook. Unfortunately it appears the mercurial point guard is incapable of making changes to his game.
1946
The game was actually played November 1, 1946; 70 years ago to be exact the Basketball Association of America would play its first game. In the game the Toronto Huskies would face the New York Knicks in Toronto’s Maple Leaf Garden. The Knicks would be winners in that first game 68-66 as for the Huskies they would only play the 1946-47 season disbanding in the summer.
In honor of that inaugural game the NBA decided to turn back the clock on Saturday night November 12th. The Raptors were decked out in Huskies jerseys and the Knicks in replica 1946 Knicks jerseys. This time the outcome was different as the Huskies (Raptors) beat the Knicks 118-107 in the Air Canada Centre.
I voted for the first time
Shaquille O’Neal’s feature Shaqtin’ A Fool has been around for a few years as part of the TNT telecast of the NBA. If you are not familiar with the feature each week bloopers of five NBA players are viewed. You can cast your vote by logging on to NBA TV Shaqtin’ A Fool. For the first time ever I voted but just like the presidential election my vote remains secret. Check out the videos and make your choice known.
Sunday, November 13, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
This sounds strange
Congratulations to LeBron James, on Friday evening he scored his 27,000th point in the NBA becoming the youngest in the NBA to accumulate that figure. That’s the good news of this account now for the not so good portion. It should hardly be surprising of this accomplishment LeBron came into the NBA directly from high school.
LeBron’s been a starter from day one and the unquestioned leader at two stops Cleveland and Miami. He’s not a selfish star either far from it, he is just as likely to distribute the ball as score a basket. Why not just congratulate him on the accomplishment and omit the other---just sayin’! Is it really that important for us to know he’s the youngest ever?
This is interesting
I checked the list of NBA Career Block Shots leaders; I found it interesting neither Celtic legend Bill Russell or Wilt Chamberlain are on the list but there is a valid explanation. Russell drafted by the St. Louis Hawks and traded to the Celtics played from 1956 through 1969; Chamberlain arrived in the association two years later and played until 1973. The explanation why neither shot blocker is on the all-time list is simple the NBA didn’t track blocked shots until after they retired.
In the 1973-74 season the NBA decided to add another category block shots to the list of statistics it gathers. Prior to the arrival of Russell and Chamberlain in the middle ‘50’s there may not have been a great number of blocked shots registered. Walter Dukes, Clyde Lovellette and George Mikan and others were giants of the game but evidently lack the tools to be effective shot blockers. I once heard Russell state the threat of blocking a shot was just as detrimental as the actual block. Russell claimed many players would hurry their shot often affecting their accuracy.
I knew this would happen
This is my “SportsCenter” report; I believe that to be the case Friday evening I resorted to a series of highlights from my Man Cave. I witnessed not a single game to completion but saw bits and pieces of the following; Arizona-Michigan State, Kansas-Indiana, Clippers-Thunder, Kentucky-Stephen F. Austin and Knicks-Celtics. That fails to take into consideration I also saw highlights of games I didn’t see while actually watching ESPN’s SportsCenter and CBS Inside College Basketball. How did I see so many parts of games on Friday, I will soon need replacement batteries for the amount of time I channel surfed all early evening into late night. The plans for Saturday are to see at least one game from start to finish---I hope.
Good
The Kansas City Star is reporting Mizzou and Big 12 Iowa State will begin a home and home series starting in 2017. This is good on several levels a Big 12 school scheduling Mizzou. For reasons only Bill Self of Kansas can explain he’s made it know he’s got no interest in ever playing Mizzou. Could it be due to Mizzou leaving for the SEC---maybe however. Kansas has played Colorado (Pac 12) and Nebraska (Big 10) which left the conference prior to Mizzou. Tad Boyle head coach at Colorado played at Kansas however I cannot figure out the Nebraska connection.
He’s in Chicago for a reason
Dwayne Wade is playing for Bulls because of Hassan Whiteside. Well not directly but kinda see they couldn’t pay Wade the money he actually deserved and pay soon to be free-agent Whiteside. Do you keep the soon to be 35-year old Wade or allow the 27-year old Whiteside to walk? We know the end result however was it the right choice? Whiteside despite his apparent talent at times fails to measure up to an elite center. At the same time he is a rebounding-blocked shot monster with an improving offensive game.
Whiteside was a late bloomer not ready to play in the NBA after but one season at Marshall but he left school anyway. The Bulls won the first meeting with the Heat however Whiteside registered a double-double with 20 points and 20 rebounds along with 3 blocked shots. The 7 foot 265 pound center is proof positive it often takes a big man a longer time to acclimate themselves to the NBA. Last year was a test year could he duplicate or exceed those numbers, so far he’s on track.
This sounds strange
Congratulations to LeBron James, on Friday evening he scored his 27,000th point in the NBA becoming the youngest in the NBA to accumulate that figure. That’s the good news of this account now for the not so good portion. It should hardly be surprising of this accomplishment LeBron came into the NBA directly from high school.
LeBron’s been a starter from day one and the unquestioned leader at two stops Cleveland and Miami. He’s not a selfish star either far from it, he is just as likely to distribute the ball as score a basket. Why not just congratulate him on the accomplishment and omit the other---just sayin’! Is it really that important for us to know he’s the youngest ever?
This is interesting
I checked the list of NBA Career Block Shots leaders; I found it interesting neither Celtic legend Bill Russell or Wilt Chamberlain are on the list but there is a valid explanation. Russell drafted by the St. Louis Hawks and traded to the Celtics played from 1956 through 1969; Chamberlain arrived in the association two years later and played until 1973. The explanation why neither shot blocker is on the all-time list is simple the NBA didn’t track blocked shots until after they retired.
In the 1973-74 season the NBA decided to add another category block shots to the list of statistics it gathers. Prior to the arrival of Russell and Chamberlain in the middle ‘50’s there may not have been a great number of blocked shots registered. Walter Dukes, Clyde Lovellette and George Mikan and others were giants of the game but evidently lack the tools to be effective shot blockers. I once heard Russell state the threat of blocking a shot was just as detrimental as the actual block. Russell claimed many players would hurry their shot often affecting their accuracy.
I knew this would happen
This is my “SportsCenter” report; I believe that to be the case Friday evening I resorted to a series of highlights from my Man Cave. I witnessed not a single game to completion but saw bits and pieces of the following; Arizona-Michigan State, Kansas-Indiana, Clippers-Thunder, Kentucky-Stephen F. Austin and Knicks-Celtics. That fails to take into consideration I also saw highlights of games I didn’t see while actually watching ESPN’s SportsCenter and CBS Inside College Basketball. How did I see so many parts of games on Friday, I will soon need replacement batteries for the amount of time I channel surfed all early evening into late night. The plans for Saturday are to see at least one game from start to finish---I hope.
Good
The Kansas City Star is reporting Mizzou and Big 12 Iowa State will begin a home and home series starting in 2017. This is good on several levels a Big 12 school scheduling Mizzou. For reasons only Bill Self of Kansas can explain he’s made it know he’s got no interest in ever playing Mizzou. Could it be due to Mizzou leaving for the SEC---maybe however. Kansas has played Colorado (Pac 12) and Nebraska (Big 10) which left the conference prior to Mizzou. Tad Boyle head coach at Colorado played at Kansas however I cannot figure out the Nebraska connection.
He’s in Chicago for a reason
Dwayne Wade is playing for Bulls because of Hassan Whiteside. Well not directly but kinda see they couldn’t pay Wade the money he actually deserved and pay soon to be free-agent Whiteside. Do you keep the soon to be 35-year old Wade or allow the 27-year old Whiteside to walk? We know the end result however was it the right choice? Whiteside despite his apparent talent at times fails to measure up to an elite center. At the same time he is a rebounding-blocked shot monster with an improving offensive game.
Whiteside was a late bloomer not ready to play in the NBA after but one season at Marshall but he left school anyway. The Bulls won the first meeting with the Heat however Whiteside registered a double-double with 20 points and 20 rebounds along with 3 blocked shots. The 7 foot 265 pound center is proof positive it often takes a big man a longer time to acclimate themselves to the NBA. Last year was a test year could he duplicate or exceed those numbers, so far he’s on track.
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