Basketball from a fans perspective
Bits n Pieces
I am old and getting older by the minute and second, on Friday LeBron James had his 32nd birthday. Wasn’t LeBron just in high school two years or so ago?
Reports are circulating Bulls Coach Fred Hoiberg is on the hot seat. We can understand why the performance of the Bulls even with Dwayne Wade has been less than spectacular so far. The same might be said for Billy Donovan coach of the Thunder, we have an addition (Wade) and subtraction (Durant) with both teams and neither is playing close to their 2015-16 pace.
I received a response to my question but not the one I expected. I asked a friend if I was being too hard on Russell Westbrook and this pursuit of a triple-double season. I informed him Oscar Robertson had accomplished this four times. My friend’s response; "Wow I didn’t know that I thought Robertson only did it one time."
I can be baited
Sometimes a person makes a snide remark about the NBA to me and I’ll just say okay. There are other instances I can be baited into a discussion, depends on the person and location. I’ve mentioned I follow the Chiefs and the Royals because both teams are local. I don’t believe I can carry on an in depth discussion about any other professional football or baseball team. The reason is clear I don’t follow those sports in the same manner I do basketball and the NBA.
In the past these are just a few of the statements my ears have picked up over the years. ‘They don’t call traveling in the NBA‘ or ‘I only watch the last quarter of an NBA game.’ An even stranger statement is this one; ‘I followed the NBA when Michael Jordan played but I don’t anymore.’ I’m sure if I followed the NFL or MLB with the fervor I do the NBA I’m sure I could discover aspects worthy of criticism but why? I just wish these folks would make their statements to someone other than yours truly.
Dumpster fire
There is no doubt in my mind George Karl has no desire to coach again in the NBA. We should have figured with his book titled; ‘Furious George: My Forty Years Surviving NBA Divas, Clueless GMS, and Poor Shot Selection.’ Maybe it was expected Karl would have an opinion on players he coached as for the others well that‘s a different story. He took shots at the Blazers Damian Lillard a player he’s never coached. Karl believes the Blazers have not played at the level expected and it’s all the fault of the point guard. Karl indicates he thinks Lillard is too distracted by outside pursuits. The Lillard response; ‘I’m confused at how that even came up I’ve never met him or spoken to him.’ I admit we make judgment calls on celebrities and politicians all the time people we’ve never met either.
There is a difference we are not attempting to sell books. We have no idea what’s inside the head of Lillard the same for Karl. Blazer Coach Terry Stotts who served under Karl as an assistant came to his players’ defense. I don’t agree but I understand Karl’s attack on his former players this one I fail to understand. If someone gave me the book as a gift I would accept it and read it, for $18.00 I’ll never purchase it. As I stated awhile back there are several veteran coaches who are great in the minds of some NBA fans Karl is one of them. As for me I have a totally different view of the man.
New York City hype
He’s 41 years old now, out of the NBA since 2002. He once appeared to have all the tools for an outstanding shooting guard (6-5), LeBron James was on the cover of Sports Illustrated while in high school however Felipe Lopez accomplished the feat much earlier. Born in the Dominican Republic his parents emigrated to the U.S. when Lopez was 14-years old. He became a New York City sensation while playing at Rice High School in Harlem New York. McDonald’s All American and a number of other accolades came his way. Despite the fact he could have attended a number of schools across the nation he decided to remain at home and play for St. John’s University.
Lopez choice of St. John’s proved beneficial and he was fairly productive during his four years at the school. He was the number 24 pick in the first round of the 1998 NBA Draft by the Vancouver Grizzlies. The NBA proved quite a different story for Lopez as he was never able to gain a foothold. He would last but four years with two other NBA teams. The question did New York hype build him up to be greater than his talent level-----perhaps? We could pose the question to Stephon Marbury, Pearl Washington or Lenny Cooke. Lopez and the others mentioned certainly had talent however perhaps they were victims of New York City hype.
Friday, December 30, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Don't rush me
It would be great if kids remained in school, I repeat the statement it would be great. In the case of Lonzo Ball (and several others) it ain’t gonna happen. We are just now beginning conference play and I’ve got the UCLA point guard headed to the NBA draft. Part of my proof Ball has recorded double-digit assist totals in 5 of his first 14 games so much for the adjustment from high school to college basketball. In addition to his ability to dish the rock he’s also able to score although that’s not necessarily his strong suit.
Don’t confuse my statement he’s no Ricky Rubio he can shoot he’s just not a great shooter. I believe NBA scouts are willing to over look that aspect of his game. NBADraft.net’s scouting report a scale of 12 attributes of each draft prospect and 100 is the highest score a prospect can obtain. The mock site awards Ball a 99. Ball currently sits in second place in assists with 8.1 per game. At the present pace Ball could accomplish a feat unseen since 2001. In 2001 T.J. Ford then at Texas led NCAA Division I teams in assists a feat Ball could accomplish.
‘Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you’
Leroy Robert ‘Satchel” Paige was a legendary pitcher in the Negro baseball leagues. The times forced him to wait until Jackie Robinson integrated the majors in 1947 before he was able to pitch in the major leagues. Satchel was quoted many times during the course of his career; the headline above might reference the Kansas Jayhawks. Right behind Kansas is Baylor and undefeated no less, is this the year Baylor makes it mark and surpasses Kansas in the Big 12? This regular season is just about on us and excitement likely reigns in Waco Texas.
Can you imagine?
Finishing the regular season 24-2 and registering a 12-2 record in your conference, despite the sterling record recorded you sit at home no post-season play. You miss an invite to the NCAA or NIT that same year, that couldn’t occur today. In the 1970-71 season the Southern Cal Trojans lost two games that season both to Pac 8 rival UCLA, what did UCLA do that year you ask? UCLA lost one game that year at Notre Dame and finished the season 29-1 winning the NCAA Tournament over Villanova 68-62. Of course that was prior to the NCAA field expanding, there is no way a team with but two losses would remain at home in this day.
He was one of the best
If you held a discussion of All-Time great centers its likely no one mentions Artis Gilmore’s name. The usual suspects are always Wilt, Kareem, Russell and maybe Bob Lanier and Shaq. There are other centers the late Nate Thurmond and David Robinson come to mind. Sorry Tim Duncan fans great as he was the bulk of his play was spent as a power forward. As for Gilmore during his combined ABA/NBA career he scored over 24,000 points and had nearly 12,000 rebounds. Despite beginning his career in the ABA he actually spent more time with the Bulls and Spurs than he did with the Kentucky Colonels.
Why is Gilmore so ‘invisible‘ you ask it’s likely his demeanor? Shaq and Wilt’s personality drew the media to them; Russell did as well although not in the same manner. Gilmore nicknamed The A-Train “quietly” scored, rebounded the basketball and blocked shots for three franchises. He was born 67 years ago in Chipley Florida and arrived in the ABA from Jacksonville University. In 2011 a long over-due honor came his way as he was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. Reports indicate he’s been active in the Jacksonville community since his playing days ended.
Don't rush me
It would be great if kids remained in school, I repeat the statement it would be great. In the case of Lonzo Ball (and several others) it ain’t gonna happen. We are just now beginning conference play and I’ve got the UCLA point guard headed to the NBA draft. Part of my proof Ball has recorded double-digit assist totals in 5 of his first 14 games so much for the adjustment from high school to college basketball. In addition to his ability to dish the rock he’s also able to score although that’s not necessarily his strong suit.
Don’t confuse my statement he’s no Ricky Rubio he can shoot he’s just not a great shooter. I believe NBA scouts are willing to over look that aspect of his game. NBADraft.net’s scouting report a scale of 12 attributes of each draft prospect and 100 is the highest score a prospect can obtain. The mock site awards Ball a 99. Ball currently sits in second place in assists with 8.1 per game. At the present pace Ball could accomplish a feat unseen since 2001. In 2001 T.J. Ford then at Texas led NCAA Division I teams in assists a feat Ball could accomplish.
‘Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you’
Leroy Robert ‘Satchel” Paige was a legendary pitcher in the Negro baseball leagues. The times forced him to wait until Jackie Robinson integrated the majors in 1947 before he was able to pitch in the major leagues. Satchel was quoted many times during the course of his career; the headline above might reference the Kansas Jayhawks. Right behind Kansas is Baylor and undefeated no less, is this the year Baylor makes it mark and surpasses Kansas in the Big 12? This regular season is just about on us and excitement likely reigns in Waco Texas.
Can you imagine?
Finishing the regular season 24-2 and registering a 12-2 record in your conference, despite the sterling record recorded you sit at home no post-season play. You miss an invite to the NCAA or NIT that same year, that couldn’t occur today. In the 1970-71 season the Southern Cal Trojans lost two games that season both to Pac 8 rival UCLA, what did UCLA do that year you ask? UCLA lost one game that year at Notre Dame and finished the season 29-1 winning the NCAA Tournament over Villanova 68-62. Of course that was prior to the NCAA field expanding, there is no way a team with but two losses would remain at home in this day.
He was one of the best
If you held a discussion of All-Time great centers its likely no one mentions Artis Gilmore’s name. The usual suspects are always Wilt, Kareem, Russell and maybe Bob Lanier and Shaq. There are other centers the late Nate Thurmond and David Robinson come to mind. Sorry Tim Duncan fans great as he was the bulk of his play was spent as a power forward. As for Gilmore during his combined ABA/NBA career he scored over 24,000 points and had nearly 12,000 rebounds. Despite beginning his career in the ABA he actually spent more time with the Bulls and Spurs than he did with the Kentucky Colonels.
Why is Gilmore so ‘invisible‘ you ask it’s likely his demeanor? Shaq and Wilt’s personality drew the media to them; Russell did as well although not in the same manner. Gilmore nicknamed The A-Train “quietly” scored, rebounded the basketball and blocked shots for three franchises. He was born 67 years ago in Chipley Florida and arrived in the ABA from Jacksonville University. In 2011 a long over-due honor came his way as he was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. Reports indicate he’s been active in the Jacksonville community since his playing days ended.
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective Bits n Pieces
Udoka Azubuike the 7-foot 280 pound center from Nigeria by way of Jacksonville (FL) is sidelined for the season. The Kansas freshman recently tore ligaments in his left wrist during practice. Since I’m a ’glass half full guy rather than half empty’ allow me to place a positive spin on what might appear to be a negative outcome. Azibuike had moved into the starting lineup and it’s likely he would have remained there. At the conclusion of the season he might attempt to head for the NBA however I doubt it after this setback. Azubuike needs at least one year of competitive basketball before declaring he’s NBA ready.
I missed Mike Dunleavy Sr. while conducting our head count earlier. We covered NBA coaches who returned to the college level to coach. Avery Johnson coaching at Alabama immediately comes to mind. Lon Kruger at Oklahoma has also coached in the NBA. Until he resigned before the start of the season we could have included Larry Brown who left the SMU job. Dunleavy Sr. had been out of the NBA coaching ranks since 2010. In 2016 he took over the Tulane Green Wave.
I’ve been guilty of offering platitudes of praise on high school prospects but this time its criticism and it’s warranted. In a recent game the youngest of the three Ball brothers LiAngelo sank a half court shot. Chino Hills (CA) was not in danger of losing nor was it taken at the end of a close game. This shot was taken at the beginning of the 4th quarter of Chino Hills’ game and the coach did NOTHING! I have no desire to seriously injure the young man however if he drove the lane after that hot dog move I would instruct my team to make sure he is fouled HARD!
Two might be better
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer dropped a tidbit in the fall about Staples Center. He indicated his displeasure with available play dates for his Clippers. Ballmer said his team was last on the list, it is believed to be Lakers, NHL Kings, others and Clippers in that order. Ballmer also said he’d explore building his own arena. Well the guy has certainly got the money to do just that and it makes sense. Two New City teams playing in two arenas, the Knicks at MSG and the Nets at Barclays Center. Once upon a time the teams played in different arenas too. Prior to Staples the Lakers played in the Great Western Forum from 1967-1999 and the Clippers called the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena home starting in 1984-1999.
The Honda Center in Anaheim was used by the Clippers for selected games between 1994-1999. I might be incorrect however I believe the Clippers were the last tenant to sign a Staples Center lease. The Honda Center is ready made and only a few years older (1993) than Staples but there is a problem with the Clippers moving there. The NHL Ducks play in the arena and the Clippers would place themselves in second place for dates if they were attempting to secure more lucrative dates. Three solutions for Mr. Ballmer, 1. Build your own arena. 2. Less expensive is to move the team to the Honda Center. 3. Re-locate the Clippers to Seattle Ballmer’s home town. There might be other options but those listed appear most viable, what do you think?
Oh my
Another coach I’ve been highly critical of is worthy of praise to this point of the season. I didn’t expect much at the time the Rockets announced they were hiring Mike D’Antoni as head coach. It’s been a few years since he quit the Lakers over a contract extension so I don’t remember much. What I do remember especially from his days with the Suns was a high powered offense run by Steve Nash. The Suns excelled during the regular season but never advance once the playoffs began. In any event one of his first pronouncements caused me to laugh out loud.
‘Say what, you moving James Harden to the point?’ The same Harden who never saw a shot he didn’t like I thought. This was prior to the start of the season so I checked Harden’s assist numbers from last season and surprise, surprise they were much higher than I anticipated. As this is written Harden is leading the NBA in assists at 11.9 but also a volume scorer (27.4). The Rockets as this is written stand 22 up and 9 down. The more surprising fact in third place in the Western Conference they are ahead of the Clippers, Grizzlies and Thunder.
Udoka Azubuike the 7-foot 280 pound center from Nigeria by way of Jacksonville (FL) is sidelined for the season. The Kansas freshman recently tore ligaments in his left wrist during practice. Since I’m a ’glass half full guy rather than half empty’ allow me to place a positive spin on what might appear to be a negative outcome. Azibuike had moved into the starting lineup and it’s likely he would have remained there. At the conclusion of the season he might attempt to head for the NBA however I doubt it after this setback. Azubuike needs at least one year of competitive basketball before declaring he’s NBA ready.
I missed Mike Dunleavy Sr. while conducting our head count earlier. We covered NBA coaches who returned to the college level to coach. Avery Johnson coaching at Alabama immediately comes to mind. Lon Kruger at Oklahoma has also coached in the NBA. Until he resigned before the start of the season we could have included Larry Brown who left the SMU job. Dunleavy Sr. had been out of the NBA coaching ranks since 2010. In 2016 he took over the Tulane Green Wave.
I’ve been guilty of offering platitudes of praise on high school prospects but this time its criticism and it’s warranted. In a recent game the youngest of the three Ball brothers LiAngelo sank a half court shot. Chino Hills (CA) was not in danger of losing nor was it taken at the end of a close game. This shot was taken at the beginning of the 4th quarter of Chino Hills’ game and the coach did NOTHING! I have no desire to seriously injure the young man however if he drove the lane after that hot dog move I would instruct my team to make sure he is fouled HARD!
Two might be better
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer dropped a tidbit in the fall about Staples Center. He indicated his displeasure with available play dates for his Clippers. Ballmer said his team was last on the list, it is believed to be Lakers, NHL Kings, others and Clippers in that order. Ballmer also said he’d explore building his own arena. Well the guy has certainly got the money to do just that and it makes sense. Two New City teams playing in two arenas, the Knicks at MSG and the Nets at Barclays Center. Once upon a time the teams played in different arenas too. Prior to Staples the Lakers played in the Great Western Forum from 1967-1999 and the Clippers called the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena home starting in 1984-1999.
The Honda Center in Anaheim was used by the Clippers for selected games between 1994-1999. I might be incorrect however I believe the Clippers were the last tenant to sign a Staples Center lease. The Honda Center is ready made and only a few years older (1993) than Staples but there is a problem with the Clippers moving there. The NHL Ducks play in the arena and the Clippers would place themselves in second place for dates if they were attempting to secure more lucrative dates. Three solutions for Mr. Ballmer, 1. Build your own arena. 2. Less expensive is to move the team to the Honda Center. 3. Re-locate the Clippers to Seattle Ballmer’s home town. There might be other options but those listed appear most viable, what do you think?
Oh my
Another coach I’ve been highly critical of is worthy of praise to this point of the season. I didn’t expect much at the time the Rockets announced they were hiring Mike D’Antoni as head coach. It’s been a few years since he quit the Lakers over a contract extension so I don’t remember much. What I do remember especially from his days with the Suns was a high powered offense run by Steve Nash. The Suns excelled during the regular season but never advance once the playoffs began. In any event one of his first pronouncements caused me to laugh out loud.
‘Say what, you moving James Harden to the point?’ The same Harden who never saw a shot he didn’t like I thought. This was prior to the start of the season so I checked Harden’s assist numbers from last season and surprise, surprise they were much higher than I anticipated. As this is written Harden is leading the NBA in assists at 11.9 but also a volume scorer (27.4). The Rockets as this is written stand 22 up and 9 down. The more surprising fact in third place in the Western Conference they are ahead of the Clippers, Grizzlies and Thunder.
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I’ve got a secret
This has nothing to do with the television quiz show of the 1950’s. On second thought maybe it’s not much of a secret for many around the Philadelphia metro just the balance of us. Coaching aside notice I didn’t restrict myself by separating Jay Wright from NBA coaches I said the best dressed---period. I’m trying to imagine who might come nearest to Wright and I’m drawing a complete blank.
Now we know what a number of folks know in Philadelphia, no off the rack suits for Wright his suits are custom tailored. Wright’s suits range in price from $300 to $500 which is economical for a custom-made suit. This cannot be confirmed but it’s reported the coach has two closets in his bedroom one for his suits and one for shoes, slacks and shirts. I’ve already noted it but perhaps you should pay as much attention to the sartorial style of Wright as his X’s and O’ philosophy.
Battle of the Big Men
It wasn’t Chamberlain-Russell, Abdul Jabbar-Chamberlain or Olajuwon-Shaq. It didn’t remind us of Shaq-Robinson or any of the Big man battles of the past those which became NBA legends. Those Big Men games of the past often had playoff implications Monday nights game was a regular season game. The Kings Boogie Cousins and the Sixers Joel Embiid faced off against one another. The Kings would be winners 102-100 thanks to the 30 points Cousins scored,
Cousins also forced Embiid to miss a 3-point basket at the end of the game which if successful would have won the game. Nevertheless Embiid had a strong game scoring 25 points in 29 minutes. After the game Cousins commended Embiid’s game saying; ‘I don’t give a lotta people props that kids got a great change to be the best Big Man in the game AFTER I retire.’ Sorry small-ball fans I’m old-fashion and prefer a Big Man game like this
Come back and see me…..
If Russell Westbrook is able to average a triple-double for the season it will be the first registered in the NBA since the days of the Big O. Here’s an interesting fact I checked basketball-reference.com and it indicates Oscar Robertson averaged a triple double not one time, not two times but a grand total of six times during his brilliant NBA career. No wonder the Big O might say ‘Come back and see me when you get close to my record.’ I’m placing words in Robertson’s mouth he never said such a thing I’m simply pointing out the difficulty of accomplishing this feat and the fact we appear to be so enamoured with just accomplishing it one time.
The new home
I was checking construction photos of Little Caesars Arena in Detroit and with most new arenas it looks impressive. As was noted earlier the arena is owned by the NHL Red Wings however Tom Gore Pistons owner announced his team will share the multi-use arena in downtown Detroit. The seating for basketball at Little Caesars will be slightly less then the Palace at Auburn Hills but will hold 21,000 fans. The ‘palaces‘ continue to be built across the NBA landscape, Sacramento opened the Golden 1 arena this season Milwaukee will open an arena for the Bucks in time for the 2018-19 season.
Construction might be moved up but it appears the Warriors will move into the Chase Center for the 2019-20 season. The Target Center in Minneapolis opened in 1990; it’s undergoing renovation in three phases. The last phase will be completed by the summer of 2017. In the same vein of the movie Field of Dreams a group of Seattle investors are saying ‘Build it and they will come‘. An NBA ready arena is planned although nothing official has been accomplished yet. Instead of building an arena in Los Angeles it might be more conducive for Steve Ballmer to move the Clippers to his home town.
I’ve got a secret
This has nothing to do with the television quiz show of the 1950’s. On second thought maybe it’s not much of a secret for many around the Philadelphia metro just the balance of us. Coaching aside notice I didn’t restrict myself by separating Jay Wright from NBA coaches I said the best dressed---period. I’m trying to imagine who might come nearest to Wright and I’m drawing a complete blank.
Now we know what a number of folks know in Philadelphia, no off the rack suits for Wright his suits are custom tailored. Wright’s suits range in price from $300 to $500 which is economical for a custom-made suit. This cannot be confirmed but it’s reported the coach has two closets in his bedroom one for his suits and one for shoes, slacks and shirts. I’ve already noted it but perhaps you should pay as much attention to the sartorial style of Wright as his X’s and O’ philosophy.
Battle of the Big Men
It wasn’t Chamberlain-Russell, Abdul Jabbar-Chamberlain or Olajuwon-Shaq. It didn’t remind us of Shaq-Robinson or any of the Big man battles of the past those which became NBA legends. Those Big Men games of the past often had playoff implications Monday nights game was a regular season game. The Kings Boogie Cousins and the Sixers Joel Embiid faced off against one another. The Kings would be winners 102-100 thanks to the 30 points Cousins scored,
Cousins also forced Embiid to miss a 3-point basket at the end of the game which if successful would have won the game. Nevertheless Embiid had a strong game scoring 25 points in 29 minutes. After the game Cousins commended Embiid’s game saying; ‘I don’t give a lotta people props that kids got a great change to be the best Big Man in the game AFTER I retire.’ Sorry small-ball fans I’m old-fashion and prefer a Big Man game like this
Come back and see me…..
If Russell Westbrook is able to average a triple-double for the season it will be the first registered in the NBA since the days of the Big O. Here’s an interesting fact I checked basketball-reference.com and it indicates Oscar Robertson averaged a triple double not one time, not two times but a grand total of six times during his brilliant NBA career. No wonder the Big O might say ‘Come back and see me when you get close to my record.’ I’m placing words in Robertson’s mouth he never said such a thing I’m simply pointing out the difficulty of accomplishing this feat and the fact we appear to be so enamoured with just accomplishing it one time.
The new home
I was checking construction photos of Little Caesars Arena in Detroit and with most new arenas it looks impressive. As was noted earlier the arena is owned by the NHL Red Wings however Tom Gore Pistons owner announced his team will share the multi-use arena in downtown Detroit. The seating for basketball at Little Caesars will be slightly less then the Palace at Auburn Hills but will hold 21,000 fans. The ‘palaces‘ continue to be built across the NBA landscape, Sacramento opened the Golden 1 arena this season Milwaukee will open an arena for the Bucks in time for the 2018-19 season.
Construction might be moved up but it appears the Warriors will move into the Chase Center for the 2019-20 season. The Target Center in Minneapolis opened in 1990; it’s undergoing renovation in three phases. The last phase will be completed by the summer of 2017. In the same vein of the movie Field of Dreams a group of Seattle investors are saying ‘Build it and they will come‘. An NBA ready arena is planned although nothing official has been accomplished yet. Instead of building an arena in Los Angeles it might be more conducive for Steve Ballmer to move the Clippers to his home town.
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
It was okay until…..
Unlike the NBA the NFL has no Christmas Day tradition just Thanksgiving. The NFL schedule falling on Sunday had the Kansas City Chiefs playing a 7:30 p.m. game against the arch rival Denver Broncos. I avoided the Bulls-Spurs game because it would conflict with the Chiefs I did switch channels occasionally to check the score. So it went until 9:30 p.m. Central Time, Clippers-Lakers what do I do? Picture in picture fails to do it for me; I was constantly switching between NBC and ESPN attempting to follow the action on both games.
Around the 10:40 or so timeframe the Chiefs game ended, final score Chiefs 33 Broncos 10 now I could concentrate on my Lakers. I’m unsure what Luke Walton said to his team at the half, after stumbling through most of the first and second quarter they came roaring back and took a double-digit lead at points. The Clippers were not going down without a fight despite missing Blake Griffin, Chris Paul and later J.J. Redick. They rallied and even tied the score however Clipper turnovers and missed shots betrayed them. The final score read Lakers 111 Clippers 102 the first time since 2013 the Lakers had beaten the Clippers.
Check for yourself
Until Kenyon Martin sent out the tweet I didn’t realize George Karl‘s coaching resume. ‘No wonder he’s been fired every place he’s coached‘ the Martin tweet read. Karl’s first head coaching job with the Cavs resulted in him being fired, next up with the Warriors he resigned. The next hires with the Sonics, Bucks, Nuggets and Kings all resulted in Karl being fired.
Technically Martin is incorrect Karl’s served as head coach of 6 NBA teams and only 5 have fired him. Sometimes circumstances cause a person to be fired once or maybe twice is understandable but 5 times! It appears Karl might have some personality issues too relating to his childhood. Check the history for yourself I don’t make this stuff up.
Oh really
You might remember a story I once told of a former co-worker, Terry asked me one day if I believed Dennis Rodman would ever be elected to the Hall of Fame. My response was swift; ‘He was a specialist, no way would the Hall elect him.’ Of course I was proven wrong as Rodman was enshrined in 2011. Among the names for 2017 are two very good players but HOF I question the nomination. Keep in mind the two have been placed in nomination and are yet to be confirmed. They are Muggsy Bogues who became the smallest player ever at 5-3 when he was drafted in 1987.
Bogues would go on to have a 14-year NBA career. The other nominee is Tracy McGrady who starting in 1997 was a 16 year NBA veteran. In the case of Rodman his scoring numbers were never much but he made up for it by being a furious rebound artist over the course of his career. As for Bogues all we can say he was the shortest player ever in the NBA. As for McGrady He was an All-Star and scoring champion but seven NBA teams in his 16 years. If you are too young to remember their play look up their numbers to gain insight.
‘A rose by any other name’
The above is a line from the Shakespeare love story of Romeo and Juliet. The question might be if the Knicks and (Derrick) Rose have a 21st Century love story? We don’t know which Rose the Knicks expected the 2011 MVP or the Rose who’s missed major portions of the last four seasons. It would be unrealistic to expect the MVP Rose after the injuries plus fact is he’s got a great deal of mileage on his 28-year old body.
There are flashes of the ‘old‘ Rose his field goal percentage is certainly good. His assist average is slightly below his MVP year while he’s scoring nearly 17 points a game. Carmelo Anthony and the emerging Kristaps Porzingis there is no requirement for Rose to carry as much of the offensive load as he once did. I believe it might be too much to expect the “old” Derrick Rose we’ll just get use to the ‘new‘ Derrick Rose.
It was okay until…..
Unlike the NBA the NFL has no Christmas Day tradition just Thanksgiving. The NFL schedule falling on Sunday had the Kansas City Chiefs playing a 7:30 p.m. game against the arch rival Denver Broncos. I avoided the Bulls-Spurs game because it would conflict with the Chiefs I did switch channels occasionally to check the score. So it went until 9:30 p.m. Central Time, Clippers-Lakers what do I do? Picture in picture fails to do it for me; I was constantly switching between NBC and ESPN attempting to follow the action on both games.
Around the 10:40 or so timeframe the Chiefs game ended, final score Chiefs 33 Broncos 10 now I could concentrate on my Lakers. I’m unsure what Luke Walton said to his team at the half, after stumbling through most of the first and second quarter they came roaring back and took a double-digit lead at points. The Clippers were not going down without a fight despite missing Blake Griffin, Chris Paul and later J.J. Redick. They rallied and even tied the score however Clipper turnovers and missed shots betrayed them. The final score read Lakers 111 Clippers 102 the first time since 2013 the Lakers had beaten the Clippers.
Check for yourself
Until Kenyon Martin sent out the tweet I didn’t realize George Karl‘s coaching resume. ‘No wonder he’s been fired every place he’s coached‘ the Martin tweet read. Karl’s first head coaching job with the Cavs resulted in him being fired, next up with the Warriors he resigned. The next hires with the Sonics, Bucks, Nuggets and Kings all resulted in Karl being fired.
Technically Martin is incorrect Karl’s served as head coach of 6 NBA teams and only 5 have fired him. Sometimes circumstances cause a person to be fired once or maybe twice is understandable but 5 times! It appears Karl might have some personality issues too relating to his childhood. Check the history for yourself I don’t make this stuff up.
Oh really
You might remember a story I once told of a former co-worker, Terry asked me one day if I believed Dennis Rodman would ever be elected to the Hall of Fame. My response was swift; ‘He was a specialist, no way would the Hall elect him.’ Of course I was proven wrong as Rodman was enshrined in 2011. Among the names for 2017 are two very good players but HOF I question the nomination. Keep in mind the two have been placed in nomination and are yet to be confirmed. They are Muggsy Bogues who became the smallest player ever at 5-3 when he was drafted in 1987.
Bogues would go on to have a 14-year NBA career. The other nominee is Tracy McGrady who starting in 1997 was a 16 year NBA veteran. In the case of Rodman his scoring numbers were never much but he made up for it by being a furious rebound artist over the course of his career. As for Bogues all we can say he was the shortest player ever in the NBA. As for McGrady He was an All-Star and scoring champion but seven NBA teams in his 16 years. If you are too young to remember their play look up their numbers to gain insight.
‘A rose by any other name’
The above is a line from the Shakespeare love story of Romeo and Juliet. The question might be if the Knicks and (Derrick) Rose have a 21st Century love story? We don’t know which Rose the Knicks expected the 2011 MVP or the Rose who’s missed major portions of the last four seasons. It would be unrealistic to expect the MVP Rose after the injuries plus fact is he’s got a great deal of mileage on his 28-year old body.
There are flashes of the ‘old‘ Rose his field goal percentage is certainly good. His assist average is slightly below his MVP year while he’s scoring nearly 17 points a game. Carmelo Anthony and the emerging Kristaps Porzingis there is no requirement for Rose to carry as much of the offensive load as he once did. I believe it might be too much to expect the “old” Derrick Rose we’ll just get use to the ‘new‘ Derrick Rose.
Monday, December 26, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Hate him if you wish
If you are one who dislikes Kentucky basketball and especially Coach Cal you can stop reading. For the rest of you the Christmas package was under the tree and it was opened early on Friday to be exact. On Friday Jarred Vanderbilt a 6-8 forward from Houston (TX) made a verbal commitment to attend Kentucky. Vanderbilt is a Rivals 21 prospect in the Class of 2017 and 5 stars while ESPN 100 list him as number 22 on their site and awards him 5 stars too.
George Karl Part Deux
Delete, omit or something along those lines indicating a change. According to ESPN.com NBA page George Karl’s book ‘Furious George: My Forty Years Surviving NBA Divas, Clueless GM’s, and Poor Shot Selection’ has been revised. The portion covering his tenure with the Kings has been removed from the book.
Why this portion was deleted is your best guess, surprising as it might seem I can state Karl might be correct to a point. The players mentioned may indeed have been knuckleheads and a thorn in the side of Karl. He stepped out of bounds indicating their behavior was influenced by having no father in the home. He had nothing to back up his statement excepting his opinion.
He gets a statue
The Lakers will honor former center Shaquille O’Neal with a statue outside Staples Center. O’Neal will join a number of other Staple Centers honorees including Magic, Kareem and others. The unveiling of the Shaquille O’Neal statue will take place prior to the Laker game on March 24, 2017. Some might ask why honor a player who only spent a portion of his career with the Lakers.
Try this on for size; the Lakers won three consecutive NBA championships while Shaq patrolled the paint. He was the most dominant center in the NBA during that time period. Shaq won three consecutive finals MVP honors; he was a seven time All-NBA and the 2000 league MVP. Shaq’s number 34 jersey hangs in my Man-Cave proudly.
His family loves him
I’ve wondered for awhile about Scott Brooks, questioned how good a coach is this guy. Brooks after a moderate NBA career began his coaching career, he served first as an assistant coach on P.J. Carlesimo staff’s. In 2009 Carlesimo was fired and was replaced by Brooks. With Sonics holdover Kevin Durant being joined by Russell Westbrook in Oklahoma City the Thunder began to roll. Under Brooks the Thunder winning record began to ascend even winning 60 games in 2012-13 season. After the outstanding season the Thunder began began a downward trend although maintaining a +.500 record.
At the end of the 2015 season the Thunder fired Brooks and was replaced by Billy Donovan. In between time the Wizards made a decision and decided in favor of another coach, Randy Wittman was fired and replaced by Scott Brooks. Under Wittman the Wizards finished 41-41 so far with the new coach in place their won-loss record is less than sterling. Am I allowing enough time for Brooks to implement his program? Teams with losing records (Sixers, Lakers) our desire is for them to play better basketball. A team with a .500 record from the prior year should be playing better than they have to date. Oh well what I know I’m only a fan. Besides the fact Brooks is probably a good guy I’m sure his family loves him.
Hate him if you wish
If you are one who dislikes Kentucky basketball and especially Coach Cal you can stop reading. For the rest of you the Christmas package was under the tree and it was opened early on Friday to be exact. On Friday Jarred Vanderbilt a 6-8 forward from Houston (TX) made a verbal commitment to attend Kentucky. Vanderbilt is a Rivals 21 prospect in the Class of 2017 and 5 stars while ESPN 100 list him as number 22 on their site and awards him 5 stars too.
George Karl Part Deux
Delete, omit or something along those lines indicating a change. According to ESPN.com NBA page George Karl’s book ‘Furious George: My Forty Years Surviving NBA Divas, Clueless GM’s, and Poor Shot Selection’ has been revised. The portion covering his tenure with the Kings has been removed from the book.
Why this portion was deleted is your best guess, surprising as it might seem I can state Karl might be correct to a point. The players mentioned may indeed have been knuckleheads and a thorn in the side of Karl. He stepped out of bounds indicating their behavior was influenced by having no father in the home. He had nothing to back up his statement excepting his opinion.
He gets a statue
The Lakers will honor former center Shaquille O’Neal with a statue outside Staples Center. O’Neal will join a number of other Staple Centers honorees including Magic, Kareem and others. The unveiling of the Shaquille O’Neal statue will take place prior to the Laker game on March 24, 2017. Some might ask why honor a player who only spent a portion of his career with the Lakers.
Try this on for size; the Lakers won three consecutive NBA championships while Shaq patrolled the paint. He was the most dominant center in the NBA during that time period. Shaq won three consecutive finals MVP honors; he was a seven time All-NBA and the 2000 league MVP. Shaq’s number 34 jersey hangs in my Man-Cave proudly.
His family loves him
I’ve wondered for awhile about Scott Brooks, questioned how good a coach is this guy. Brooks after a moderate NBA career began his coaching career, he served first as an assistant coach on P.J. Carlesimo staff’s. In 2009 Carlesimo was fired and was replaced by Brooks. With Sonics holdover Kevin Durant being joined by Russell Westbrook in Oklahoma City the Thunder began to roll. Under Brooks the Thunder winning record began to ascend even winning 60 games in 2012-13 season. After the outstanding season the Thunder began began a downward trend although maintaining a +.500 record.
At the end of the 2015 season the Thunder fired Brooks and was replaced by Billy Donovan. In between time the Wizards made a decision and decided in favor of another coach, Randy Wittman was fired and replaced by Scott Brooks. Under Wittman the Wizards finished 41-41 so far with the new coach in place their won-loss record is less than sterling. Am I allowing enough time for Brooks to implement his program? Teams with losing records (Sixers, Lakers) our desire is for them to play better basketball. A team with a .500 record from the prior year should be playing better than they have to date. Oh well what I know I’m only a fan. Besides the fact Brooks is probably a good guy I’m sure his family loves him.
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Christmas Day in the Association
The tradition of the NBA playing games on Christmas Day is traditional. National broadcast and cable being added to mix is more recent. Consider this little known tidbit the NBA on Christmas Day is older than most of you reading this realize. It actually began in 1947 the Knicks played the Providence Steamrollers at Madison Square Garden. FYI the Steamrollers a Basketball Association of America franchise disbanded in 1949.
The first nationally televised game was broadcast by ABC in 1967 with the Lakers facing the San Diego Rockets from San Diego. in 1983 cable entered the picture when ESPN began broadcasting Christmas Day games. In the 1990’s NBC began broadcasting a double-header which has continued. In 2008 Turner Sports (TNT) was added to the partnership although no games are planned today on TNT.
Celtics at Knicks 11:00 a.m. Central ESPN
Warriors at Cavs 1:30 p.m. Central ABC
Bulls at Spurs 4:00 p.m. Central ABC
Wolves at Thunder 7:00 p.m. Central ESPN
Clippers at Lakers 9:30 p.m. Central ESPN
Just the facts Jack!
It certainly would be nice if our local people checked the numbers. They go on and on about the power of the Big 12 conference in basketball. They never bother as I just did to check the numbers. I just looked at the RPI or Rating Percentage Index, the SEC has 12 schools in the first 200 schools the Big 12 has 10. That‘s not an overwhelming advantage for the SEC but it proves at least in 2016-17 its on par with the Big 12. It also says the conference might not be as dominant as those media members inside the Kansas City Metro might believe.
The NBA in Africa
The timing of this announcement was quite interesting; the NBA is set to open another basketball academy this time in Senegal. The academy will be located in Thies the third largest city in the West African nation and will open next year. Just as interesting a native son of Senegal has NBA scouts taking note. On December 18th we discussed Tacko Fall 7-6 300 pound University of Central Florida sophomore. Fall has only been playing basketball since 2012, according to a former coach he ‘loves’ the game not because he’s tall he really loves basketball.
As was pointed out previously he is being coached on further developing his skill level. With his height he could simply dunk every shot however his coaches are working on a shot repertoire with him. He suffers the curse of most Big Men Fall is a notoriously poor free-throw shooter. Once he arrives in the NBA at some future point he will become the NBA’s tallest player since the days of Yao Ming. Maybe the NBA team that drafts Fall will have a Taco Tuesday in conjunction with an area restaurant say Taco Bell. They would give vouchers for free tacos based on some exploit Fall might accomplish in the game.
The eye of a scout
Sometimes you see something is a player and think ‘He’s got it.’ You got to trust me on this one but that’s what I saw in Joel Embiid while at Kansas. Embiid had emerged from the bench and displaced Tarik Black (now with the Lakers) who was the starting center. An injury sent him to the sidelines for the remainder of the season and then the decision. He decided in favor of the NBA over remaining in Kansas for his sophomore year I thought big mistake.
The 2014 NBA draft and Embiid was made the third pick in the first round well maybe the scouts saw some of the same potential I did. Then disaster struck the first injury forced him to the sidelines for the 2014-15 season, I don’t remember now if it was the lingering injury from his days at Kansas. I thought oh well next season except Embiid would miss 2015-16 too and I thought ‘This guy will never play in the NBA and entertained thoughts of Sam Bowie.
Bowie was a talent who could never maintain health long enough to come close to the level many expected. As for Embiid I would read reports he’d been given the okay for the 2016-17 season and I said ‘okay‘ with a degree of skepticism. Although playing limited minutes Embiid is clearly 2017 NBA Rookie of the Year I don’t believe there is any serious competitor this year. His 33 point 10 rebound 3 block shot game against the Nets proves he’s arrived
Christmas Day in the Association
The tradition of the NBA playing games on Christmas Day is traditional. National broadcast and cable being added to mix is more recent. Consider this little known tidbit the NBA on Christmas Day is older than most of you reading this realize. It actually began in 1947 the Knicks played the Providence Steamrollers at Madison Square Garden. FYI the Steamrollers a Basketball Association of America franchise disbanded in 1949.
The first nationally televised game was broadcast by ABC in 1967 with the Lakers facing the San Diego Rockets from San Diego. in 1983 cable entered the picture when ESPN began broadcasting Christmas Day games. In the 1990’s NBC began broadcasting a double-header which has continued. In 2008 Turner Sports (TNT) was added to the partnership although no games are planned today on TNT.
Celtics at Knicks 11:00 a.m. Central ESPN
Warriors at Cavs 1:30 p.m. Central ABC
Bulls at Spurs 4:00 p.m. Central ABC
Wolves at Thunder 7:00 p.m. Central ESPN
Clippers at Lakers 9:30 p.m. Central ESPN
Just the facts Jack!
It certainly would be nice if our local people checked the numbers. They go on and on about the power of the Big 12 conference in basketball. They never bother as I just did to check the numbers. I just looked at the RPI or Rating Percentage Index, the SEC has 12 schools in the first 200 schools the Big 12 has 10. That‘s not an overwhelming advantage for the SEC but it proves at least in 2016-17 its on par with the Big 12. It also says the conference might not be as dominant as those media members inside the Kansas City Metro might believe.
The NBA in Africa
The timing of this announcement was quite interesting; the NBA is set to open another basketball academy this time in Senegal. The academy will be located in Thies the third largest city in the West African nation and will open next year. Just as interesting a native son of Senegal has NBA scouts taking note. On December 18th we discussed Tacko Fall 7-6 300 pound University of Central Florida sophomore. Fall has only been playing basketball since 2012, according to a former coach he ‘loves’ the game not because he’s tall he really loves basketball.
As was pointed out previously he is being coached on further developing his skill level. With his height he could simply dunk every shot however his coaches are working on a shot repertoire with him. He suffers the curse of most Big Men Fall is a notoriously poor free-throw shooter. Once he arrives in the NBA at some future point he will become the NBA’s tallest player since the days of Yao Ming. Maybe the NBA team that drafts Fall will have a Taco Tuesday in conjunction with an area restaurant say Taco Bell. They would give vouchers for free tacos based on some exploit Fall might accomplish in the game.
The eye of a scout
Sometimes you see something is a player and think ‘He’s got it.’ You got to trust me on this one but that’s what I saw in Joel Embiid while at Kansas. Embiid had emerged from the bench and displaced Tarik Black (now with the Lakers) who was the starting center. An injury sent him to the sidelines for the remainder of the season and then the decision. He decided in favor of the NBA over remaining in Kansas for his sophomore year I thought big mistake.
The 2014 NBA draft and Embiid was made the third pick in the first round well maybe the scouts saw some of the same potential I did. Then disaster struck the first injury forced him to the sidelines for the 2014-15 season, I don’t remember now if it was the lingering injury from his days at Kansas. I thought oh well next season except Embiid would miss 2015-16 too and I thought ‘This guy will never play in the NBA and entertained thoughts of Sam Bowie.
Bowie was a talent who could never maintain health long enough to come close to the level many expected. As for Embiid I would read reports he’d been given the okay for the 2016-17 season and I said ‘okay‘ with a degree of skepticism. Although playing limited minutes Embiid is clearly 2017 NBA Rookie of the Year I don’t believe there is any serious competitor this year. His 33 point 10 rebound 3 block shot game against the Nets proves he’s arrived
Saturday, December 24, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Once more
I’ll try and make this short and brief, if you read yesterdays lead story you realize former NBA Coach George Karl struck a nerve with me. I admitted early on I’ve never been a fan of the former coach believing he was over-rated. That said to the nuts and bolts of this bone I have to pick with Karl. He said he believed Kenyon Martin and Carmelo Anthony having no father in the home deprived them a masculine point of view causing them to lack maturity. I’m paraphrasing the Karl quote read in detail if you wish but you get the general idea.
This is the second time in a little over two years someone growing up with two parents has made a similar statement. The first time I heard it voiced was by former ESPN and current Fox Sports person Colin Cowherd and I believe Alan Iverson was player. I don’t have any idea how a two parent family operates see I grew up in a single parent family. My home operated with love from that parent and plenty of adult involvement from family members, clergy and mentors. In a perfect world every family has two parents however sometimes divorce enters the picture George. Lack of maturity of a male child can occur in two parent households as well.
La Familia
Charles O’Bannon Jr. a Rivals 4-star Class of 2017 prospect made his intentions known this week, the 6-6 200 pound guard from Las Vegas verbally committed to play at USC> His last name might sound familiar if you‘ve followed basketball any length of time. His dad is Charles O’Bannon Sr. and Ed O’Bannon is his both O’Bannon’s played their college ball at UCLA. The father and uncle were drafted and briefly played in the NBA however the bulk of their basketball careers were spent in Europe and Asia. Its clear Jr. did not follow in the footsteps of his father and uncle in choosing cross-town rival USC over UCLA.
The agreement
As this is written the agreement between the players and owners has been approved. There will be no lock-out this summer and the agreement will be in place for the next 7 years.
College or the NBA?
I believe I’ve made it clear I casually pay attention to the NFL specifically the Chiefs. The same for baseball, I could name the Royals starting lineup but have no idea of the starting lineup of any other team. As for basketball are you a college or NBA fan? At one point in time I could state with conviction the winner would be the NBA, I can no longer make that statement. If I assigned a percentage I’d say the NBA is currently at 51%.
There are evenings I must chose between a college and pro game. Don’t misunderstand I must have some vested interest in the NBA game I’m not going to just sit in front of the television like a robot. Last night I switched from the NBA game to watch Kentucky-Arizona State. I won’t stop and watch any college without having interest in that particular team. There you go, what’s your view?
It’s been awhile
The Kings left Kansas City 31 years ago; they have been history so long a number of NBA fans don’t remember Kansas City ever being an NBA city. The Royals moved from Cincinnati in 1972 changed the name to the Kansas City-Omaha Kings sharing dates with its Nebraska neighbor some 200 miles northwest of Kansas City. The Kings in Kansas City played their home games in Municipal Auditorium (still in use today). The Muni as its nicknamed had a capacity of 10,500. Over the years fewer and fewer games were played in Omaha until it was dropped all together. In the meantime the team moved into the newly constructed Kemper Arena a 17,500 seat arena. The Kings were sold to outside interests and moved to Sacramento in 1985.
Television analyst Jerry Reynolds is the only remaining Kansas City holdover having been hired a year before the team departed for California. In 13 years the team only registered four winning seasons, in that time a few outstanding players came through Kansas City. Nate ‘Tiny‘ Archibald has been mentioned in the past. The center position was occupied by the late Sam Lacey a 6-10 talent who would give Kareem fits. Scott Wedman was a smooth shooting 6-7 forward; Wedman would leave in free-agency for Cleveland prior to the teams California departure. The Cavs would trade him to the Celtics and he won two NBA Championships with the Celtics. Under coached and under managed much of the time Kansas City was home.
Once more
I’ll try and make this short and brief, if you read yesterdays lead story you realize former NBA Coach George Karl struck a nerve with me. I admitted early on I’ve never been a fan of the former coach believing he was over-rated. That said to the nuts and bolts of this bone I have to pick with Karl. He said he believed Kenyon Martin and Carmelo Anthony having no father in the home deprived them a masculine point of view causing them to lack maturity. I’m paraphrasing the Karl quote read in detail if you wish but you get the general idea.
This is the second time in a little over two years someone growing up with two parents has made a similar statement. The first time I heard it voiced was by former ESPN and current Fox Sports person Colin Cowherd and I believe Alan Iverson was player. I don’t have any idea how a two parent family operates see I grew up in a single parent family. My home operated with love from that parent and plenty of adult involvement from family members, clergy and mentors. In a perfect world every family has two parents however sometimes divorce enters the picture George. Lack of maturity of a male child can occur in two parent households as well.
La Familia
Charles O’Bannon Jr. a Rivals 4-star Class of 2017 prospect made his intentions known this week, the 6-6 200 pound guard from Las Vegas verbally committed to play at USC> His last name might sound familiar if you‘ve followed basketball any length of time. His dad is Charles O’Bannon Sr. and Ed O’Bannon is his both O’Bannon’s played their college ball at UCLA. The father and uncle were drafted and briefly played in the NBA however the bulk of their basketball careers were spent in Europe and Asia. Its clear Jr. did not follow in the footsteps of his father and uncle in choosing cross-town rival USC over UCLA.
The agreement
As this is written the agreement between the players and owners has been approved. There will be no lock-out this summer and the agreement will be in place for the next 7 years.
College or the NBA?
I believe I’ve made it clear I casually pay attention to the NFL specifically the Chiefs. The same for baseball, I could name the Royals starting lineup but have no idea of the starting lineup of any other team. As for basketball are you a college or NBA fan? At one point in time I could state with conviction the winner would be the NBA, I can no longer make that statement. If I assigned a percentage I’d say the NBA is currently at 51%.
There are evenings I must chose between a college and pro game. Don’t misunderstand I must have some vested interest in the NBA game I’m not going to just sit in front of the television like a robot. Last night I switched from the NBA game to watch Kentucky-Arizona State. I won’t stop and watch any college without having interest in that particular team. There you go, what’s your view?
It’s been awhile
The Kings left Kansas City 31 years ago; they have been history so long a number of NBA fans don’t remember Kansas City ever being an NBA city. The Royals moved from Cincinnati in 1972 changed the name to the Kansas City-Omaha Kings sharing dates with its Nebraska neighbor some 200 miles northwest of Kansas City. The Kings in Kansas City played their home games in Municipal Auditorium (still in use today). The Muni as its nicknamed had a capacity of 10,500. Over the years fewer and fewer games were played in Omaha until it was dropped all together. In the meantime the team moved into the newly constructed Kemper Arena a 17,500 seat arena. The Kings were sold to outside interests and moved to Sacramento in 1985.
Television analyst Jerry Reynolds is the only remaining Kansas City holdover having been hired a year before the team departed for California. In 13 years the team only registered four winning seasons, in that time a few outstanding players came through Kansas City. Nate ‘Tiny‘ Archibald has been mentioned in the past. The center position was occupied by the late Sam Lacey a 6-10 talent who would give Kareem fits. Scott Wedman was a smooth shooting 6-7 forward; Wedman would leave in free-agency for Cleveland prior to the teams California departure. The Cavs would trade him to the Celtics and he won two NBA Championships with the Celtics. Under coached and under managed much of the time Kansas City was home.
Friday, December 23, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Narnia Karl
It’s clear by the headline of this story I have an issue with former coach George Karl. From his years as a player and later coach Karl has more knowledge of the game than 99% of NBA fans me included. It’s just his ‘other’ issues I have problems and he provides us proof. He’s written a book titled ‘Furious George’ and he called out several former players from his days coaching the Nuggets.
Negative comments regarding Carmelo Anthony, J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin were cited in Karl’s book. Without going into specifics I have no reason to doubt his words however consider the fact its George Karl writing the book. Someone pointed out the Nuggets made the playoffs every year with Melo in the lineup.
Karl pointed to Anthony and Martin without a father figure in the home, Martin took exception to the comments and so do I. Karl said both; ’were insecure, immature inpart because they had no father growing up.’ I cannot speak to that comment except to say as an adult who grew up in a single parent family I believe I’m secure and mature.
A two-parent household is always ideal however a child from a single parent household can be raised just as secure and mature as one raised with both parents. Karl is way-off base with this comment and my belief he might have coached his last NBA team. This book and his age (65) provide serious impediments being hired again however I could be incorrect.
He’s got problems
Nobody doubts the talent of Duke’s Grayson Allen; the 6-5 junior averaged 21 points a game as a sophomore. This year the numbers are down slightly but he’s still one of the best at Duke except in one area---his emotions. Allen has anger issues, he was accessed a technical for tripping an Elon player. This is Allen’s second incident in a month’s time and there was a similar incident last season he was involved in.
I changed the balance of this account due to Coach K. finally deciding to sit Allen down. Breaking news from Durham indicates Allen is suspended indefinitely, how soon he returns to the lineup is a Coach K. decision. All of us are guilty of losing our cool at a point in time however the majority of us have better control over our emotions than Allen. It might be a good idea for him to attend anger management class.
‘How Ya Like Me Now’
In the middle ‘80’s a hip-hop new jack swing artist came to the forefront named Kool Moe Dee. One of his hits in 1987 was titled; ‘How Ya Like Me Now’. I could see it now just like the MTV video, Coach Steve Alford in the sunglasses Moe Dee always wore. Lonzo Ball, Bryce Alford and TJ Leaf are there providing the background for the coach. This epic is aimed at current CBS broadcaster and ‘former’ UCLA hater Doug Gottlieb.
UCLA remains undefeated as this is written and the number two team in the nation on both major polls. Gottlieb is now dialing back claiming; ‘He was never a UCLA hater’ although we who read his words and listened to his dialog might have difficulty believing that statement. This imaginary feud of Gottllieb began in his youth, Gottlieb was a talented basketball player who wanted to attend UCLA but the school decided in favor of Baron Davis.
Difficult to believe
Although math of any type was not my strong suit I love anything connected with sports numbers, this is a case. Who’s got the highest 3-point field goal percentage, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, LeBron James or Joel Embiid? Shocking as it might seem Embiid is the leader at 41.8%. Durant is 40.6%, Steph Curry 40.4% and LeBron James at 38.0%. Can you imagine this scenario, the Sixers are two points behind with seconds remaining who takes the shot Nick Staukas, Dario Saric or Embiid?
It’s clear by the headline of this story I have an issue with former coach George Karl. From his years as a player and later coach Karl has more knowledge of the game than 99% of NBA fans me included. It’s just his ‘other’ issues I have problems and he provides us proof. He’s written a book titled ‘Furious George’ and he called out several former players from his days coaching the Nuggets.
Negative comments regarding Carmelo Anthony, J.R. Smith and Kenyon Martin were cited in Karl’s book. Without going into specifics I have no reason to doubt his words however consider the fact its George Karl writing the book. Someone pointed out the Nuggets made the playoffs every year with Melo in the lineup.
Karl pointed to Anthony and Martin without a father figure in the home, Martin took exception to the comments and so do I. Karl said both; ’were insecure, immature inpart because they had no father growing up.’ I cannot speak to that comment except to say as an adult who grew up in a single parent family I believe I’m secure and mature.
A two-parent household is always ideal however a child from a single parent household can be raised just as secure and mature as one raised with both parents. Karl is way-off base with this comment and my belief he might have coached his last NBA team. This book and his age (65) provide serious impediments being hired again however I could be incorrect.
He’s got problems
Nobody doubts the talent of Duke’s Grayson Allen; the 6-5 junior averaged 21 points a game as a sophomore. This year the numbers are down slightly but he’s still one of the best at Duke except in one area---his emotions. Allen has anger issues, he was accessed a technical for tripping an Elon player. This is Allen’s second incident in a month’s time and there was a similar incident last season he was involved in.
I changed the balance of this account due to Coach K. finally deciding to sit Allen down. Breaking news from Durham indicates Allen is suspended indefinitely, how soon he returns to the lineup is a Coach K. decision. All of us are guilty of losing our cool at a point in time however the majority of us have better control over our emotions than Allen. It might be a good idea for him to attend anger management class.
‘How Ya Like Me Now’
In the middle ‘80’s a hip-hop new jack swing artist came to the forefront named Kool Moe Dee. One of his hits in 1987 was titled; ‘How Ya Like Me Now’. I could see it now just like the MTV video, Coach Steve Alford in the sunglasses Moe Dee always wore. Lonzo Ball, Bryce Alford and TJ Leaf are there providing the background for the coach. This epic is aimed at current CBS broadcaster and ‘former’ UCLA hater Doug Gottlieb.
UCLA remains undefeated as this is written and the number two team in the nation on both major polls. Gottlieb is now dialing back claiming; ‘He was never a UCLA hater’ although we who read his words and listened to his dialog might have difficulty believing that statement. This imaginary feud of Gottllieb began in his youth, Gottlieb was a talented basketball player who wanted to attend UCLA but the school decided in favor of Baron Davis.
Difficult to believe
Although math of any type was not my strong suit I love anything connected with sports numbers, this is a case. Who’s got the highest 3-point field goal percentage, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, LeBron James or Joel Embiid? Shocking as it might seem Embiid is the leader at 41.8%. Durant is 40.6%, Steph Curry 40.4% and LeBron James at 38.0%. Can you imagine this scenario, the Sixers are two points behind with seconds remaining who takes the shot Nick Staukas, Dario Saric or Embiid?
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I’m not a hater
LeBron James is a great talent, he’s got two advantages the first he’s extremely talented. The second he arrived in the NBA directly from high school, the former players he surpassing had 3 or 4 years of college at the time they came into the NBA. They were 22, 23 or maybe 24 years of age before they scored their first basket or dished out their first assist in the NBA. LeBron was 18 or 19 when he accomplished the same task. Don’t just take my word check out the All-Time NBA leaders in points, assists, rebounds etc. You’ll discover the information I’m proving is correct, I’m not a hater I just want to set the record straight.
He’s not getting traded
DeMarcus ‘Boogie’ Cousins is a talented player, he’s also a troubled one. He appears to sometimes suffer anger issues. His run in with a reporter caused him to be fined a substation amount of money. Despite the anger issues despite all the negatives the Kings will not trade him. An example was his game against the Blazers, he scored 55 points had 13 rebounds. In addition in the same game the 6-11 Cousins was 5-8 from the 3-point line. Never say never, two possibilities both involving trades. The Kings decide they could receive a wealth of talent in a trade or pending free-agency and him walking they decide on a trade.
Time for a change
I speak as no voice of authority however it is my belief it is time for a change, Mizzou has yet to begin conference play but I see danger signs little if any improved play. I hoped for a win against Arizona I didn’t expect a loss against Eastern Illinois and at home no less. I’m borrowing the term Mizzou basketball is in a free fall, I’ve stated in the past and will repeat an earlier statement. I don’t believe Kim Anderson is a bad coach however he took on an impossible coaching job at least for now.
Why has coaching this program turned into such an impossible task? There are probably 100 reasons and I can only provide one----Mike Alden. There is no method of correcting the problem now but it lies directly at the feet of former AD Alden. The last four coaches including Kim Anderson have all been hired by the departed Alden. Snyder left about to be fired, Anderson took the Arkansas job one he’d coveted for a number of years.
Haith would leave under a cloud of suspension related to his days at Miami. Anderson former Mizzou player and assistant coach arrived with a sparkling record at NCAA Div II University of Central Missouri. In truth Anderson should have been hired at the time long time Coach Norm Stewart was forced to retire. I refuse to root for failure I wouldn’t do that lets just say I’m extremely disappointed. Mizzou with or without Anderson will never attract McDonald’s All-Americans, they should be able to recruit enough second tier talent for the program to be successful.
There are just too many schools that continue to be competitive without McDonald’s All Americans on the roster. It was good for Mizzou to show loyalty to Kim Anderson but I believe it’s time for him to be replaced. Mizzou needs a coach who can do two things recruit and coach, the school must bit the bullet pay the money and hire a name coach.
Draft by talent or position?
We’ve got months to go before the 2017 NBA Draft but I’m speculating already; the basis for this account is DraftExpress.com’s mock draft. Consider bottom teams must participate in the lottery so this order is unlikely to occur however let’s suppose it does. Three of the first four prospects on the list are point guards and all are freshman. There is no guarantee they are headed for the NBA in the June draft but it is interesting.
Markelle Fultz-Washington
Dennis Smith-North Carolina State
Lonzo Ball-UCLA
As this is written I’ve only seen two of the three play Ball and Smith, both appeared highly skilled. I began this story by asking ‘do you draft by talent or position‘. Do the Sixers draft one of the prospects with the anticipation of Ben Simmons passing skill? The Celtics have the talented IsaiahThomas and the Heat with the 30-year on Goran Dragic at the point. Then we have the Wolves with Rubio currently the starter being pushed by Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn.
I’m not a hater
LeBron James is a great talent, he’s got two advantages the first he’s extremely talented. The second he arrived in the NBA directly from high school, the former players he surpassing had 3 or 4 years of college at the time they came into the NBA. They were 22, 23 or maybe 24 years of age before they scored their first basket or dished out their first assist in the NBA. LeBron was 18 or 19 when he accomplished the same task. Don’t just take my word check out the All-Time NBA leaders in points, assists, rebounds etc. You’ll discover the information I’m proving is correct, I’m not a hater I just want to set the record straight.
He’s not getting traded
DeMarcus ‘Boogie’ Cousins is a talented player, he’s also a troubled one. He appears to sometimes suffer anger issues. His run in with a reporter caused him to be fined a substation amount of money. Despite the anger issues despite all the negatives the Kings will not trade him. An example was his game against the Blazers, he scored 55 points had 13 rebounds. In addition in the same game the 6-11 Cousins was 5-8 from the 3-point line. Never say never, two possibilities both involving trades. The Kings decide they could receive a wealth of talent in a trade or pending free-agency and him walking they decide on a trade.
Time for a change
I speak as no voice of authority however it is my belief it is time for a change, Mizzou has yet to begin conference play but I see danger signs little if any improved play. I hoped for a win against Arizona I didn’t expect a loss against Eastern Illinois and at home no less. I’m borrowing the term Mizzou basketball is in a free fall, I’ve stated in the past and will repeat an earlier statement. I don’t believe Kim Anderson is a bad coach however he took on an impossible coaching job at least for now.
Why has coaching this program turned into such an impossible task? There are probably 100 reasons and I can only provide one----Mike Alden. There is no method of correcting the problem now but it lies directly at the feet of former AD Alden. The last four coaches including Kim Anderson have all been hired by the departed Alden. Snyder left about to be fired, Anderson took the Arkansas job one he’d coveted for a number of years.
Haith would leave under a cloud of suspension related to his days at Miami. Anderson former Mizzou player and assistant coach arrived with a sparkling record at NCAA Div II University of Central Missouri. In truth Anderson should have been hired at the time long time Coach Norm Stewart was forced to retire. I refuse to root for failure I wouldn’t do that lets just say I’m extremely disappointed. Mizzou with or without Anderson will never attract McDonald’s All-Americans, they should be able to recruit enough second tier talent for the program to be successful.
There are just too many schools that continue to be competitive without McDonald’s All Americans on the roster. It was good for Mizzou to show loyalty to Kim Anderson but I believe it’s time for him to be replaced. Mizzou needs a coach who can do two things recruit and coach, the school must bit the bullet pay the money and hire a name coach.
Draft by talent or position?
We’ve got months to go before the 2017 NBA Draft but I’m speculating already; the basis for this account is DraftExpress.com’s mock draft. Consider bottom teams must participate in the lottery so this order is unlikely to occur however let’s suppose it does. Three of the first four prospects on the list are point guards and all are freshman. There is no guarantee they are headed for the NBA in the June draft but it is interesting.
Markelle Fultz-Washington
Dennis Smith-North Carolina State
Lonzo Ball-UCLA
As this is written I’ve only seen two of the three play Ball and Smith, both appeared highly skilled. I began this story by asking ‘do you draft by talent or position‘. Do the Sixers draft one of the prospects with the anticipation of Ben Simmons passing skill? The Celtics have the talented IsaiahThomas and the Heat with the 30-year on Goran Dragic at the point. Then we have the Wolves with Rubio currently the starter being pushed by Zach LaVine and Kris Dunn.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Outstanding (individual) season
In the 1961-62 season the Cincinnati Royals (today’s Kings) finished 6 games over .500 at 43-37. They had the incomparable Oscar Robertson the Big O playing for them. That 61-62 season would witness the Big O with triple-double games for the season the first time it was ever accomplished. Despite the talent he demonstrated on court he was unable to raise his team much above .500. The 2016-17 season would witness another triple-double player Thunder guard Russell Westbrook. Westbrook is the offense for the Thunder similar to what might have occurred in the Big O's day. As this is written on December 20th the won-loss record for the Thunder parallels that of the Royals (16-12).
Far from losers
If we talked to a basketball fan in 1970 about the American Basketball Association their response would have changed by 1976. In 1976 the NBA and four ABA teams became one league with a merger. The ABA players with the folded teams were placed in a pool and a draft was held where NBA teams chose them. The finances of the upstart ABA would never be comparable to the better established NBA; there was no national television contract. In 1967 the first year of the American Basketball Association the league was little more than minor league basketball. The league would remain minor for several more years.
The NBA remained the destination of choice however a number of very talented players would chose the ABA over the NBA, for many under the age of 35 the ABA represents an after thought. In addition to the infusion of talent the league brought a fast-pace style of basketball and the 3-point basket to the NBA. Some of the names have been mentioned in the past but are worth repeating. Dr. J., George Gervin, Roger Brown, Mel Daniels and Artis Gilmore are just a few of the names. Three of the names mentioned had lengthy careers for us to witness their play in the NBA. Because all the ABA teams were not added at the time of the merger the league might appear as losers. Far from it the NBA would not be what it is today without the American Basketball Association.
Bits n Pieces
Don’t make me laugh, did you read J.R. Smith wanted to know if he and LeBron James had any eligibility left to play football. LeBron I could see he played football in high school and might take his talent to the football field. The stats indicate Smith is 6-6 and checks in at 225 pounds certainly he’s got the size---trust me he doesn’t want to play college football.
I wrote there were few characters left in sports anymore I forgot J.R. Smith who is hold over from an earlier period of time. Recently he conducted an interview in the Cavs locker room with a hoodie on and a ski mask, guess it must have been too cold for him. In a game against the Bucks he walked off the floor to hug Jason Terry, in the mean time the opponent he was supposed to be guarding scored a basket on an uncontested lay-up.
I hate movie sequels even television spin-offs of movies. After seeing the theatre version of Lethal Weapon or Stargate as an example a television series in my opinion just doesn’t do justice to the original. We continue to read and hear Hollywood is talking about filming Space Jam 2. The original released in 1996 starred Michael Jordan, Bill Murray, Charles Barkley and a host of then active NBA players. Space Jam 2 is reported to star LeBron James, yuck the original Space Jam broke new ground the sequel would be just a copy.
Somewhere in Philadelphia the name Sam Hinkie will cause many profanities to be uttered. Hinkie was the general manager of the Sixers for several years; he was accused by many in the media of stockpiling draft choices rather than placing a competitive team on the floor. It was said he had no idea of improving the fortunate’s of the Sixers. If we really think about it does that observation really make good sense? Nobody and I state nobody wants to be viewed as a failure in performance of the task in front of them Hinkie included.
Outstanding (individual) season
In the 1961-62 season the Cincinnati Royals (today’s Kings) finished 6 games over .500 at 43-37. They had the incomparable Oscar Robertson the Big O playing for them. That 61-62 season would witness the Big O with triple-double games for the season the first time it was ever accomplished. Despite the talent he demonstrated on court he was unable to raise his team much above .500. The 2016-17 season would witness another triple-double player Thunder guard Russell Westbrook. Westbrook is the offense for the Thunder similar to what might have occurred in the Big O's day. As this is written on December 20th the won-loss record for the Thunder parallels that of the Royals (16-12).
Far from losers
If we talked to a basketball fan in 1970 about the American Basketball Association their response would have changed by 1976. In 1976 the NBA and four ABA teams became one league with a merger. The ABA players with the folded teams were placed in a pool and a draft was held where NBA teams chose them. The finances of the upstart ABA would never be comparable to the better established NBA; there was no national television contract. In 1967 the first year of the American Basketball Association the league was little more than minor league basketball. The league would remain minor for several more years.
The NBA remained the destination of choice however a number of very talented players would chose the ABA over the NBA, for many under the age of 35 the ABA represents an after thought. In addition to the infusion of talent the league brought a fast-pace style of basketball and the 3-point basket to the NBA. Some of the names have been mentioned in the past but are worth repeating. Dr. J., George Gervin, Roger Brown, Mel Daniels and Artis Gilmore are just a few of the names. Three of the names mentioned had lengthy careers for us to witness their play in the NBA. Because all the ABA teams were not added at the time of the merger the league might appear as losers. Far from it the NBA would not be what it is today without the American Basketball Association.
Bits n Pieces
Don’t make me laugh, did you read J.R. Smith wanted to know if he and LeBron James had any eligibility left to play football. LeBron I could see he played football in high school and might take his talent to the football field. The stats indicate Smith is 6-6 and checks in at 225 pounds certainly he’s got the size---trust me he doesn’t want to play college football.
I wrote there were few characters left in sports anymore I forgot J.R. Smith who is hold over from an earlier period of time. Recently he conducted an interview in the Cavs locker room with a hoodie on and a ski mask, guess it must have been too cold for him. In a game against the Bucks he walked off the floor to hug Jason Terry, in the mean time the opponent he was supposed to be guarding scored a basket on an uncontested lay-up.
I hate movie sequels even television spin-offs of movies. After seeing the theatre version of Lethal Weapon or Stargate as an example a television series in my opinion just doesn’t do justice to the original. We continue to read and hear Hollywood is talking about filming Space Jam 2. The original released in 1996 starred Michael Jordan, Bill Murray, Charles Barkley and a host of then active NBA players. Space Jam 2 is reported to star LeBron James, yuck the original Space Jam broke new ground the sequel would be just a copy.
Somewhere in Philadelphia the name Sam Hinkie will cause many profanities to be uttered. Hinkie was the general manager of the Sixers for several years; he was accused by many in the media of stockpiling draft choices rather than placing a competitive team on the floor. It was said he had no idea of improving the fortunate’s of the Sixers. If we really think about it does that observation really make good sense? Nobody and I state nobody wants to be viewed as a failure in performance of the task in front of them Hinkie included.
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
I’m bothered
As this is written the Clippers stand 20-8 and 4th place in the Western Conference, a good record which places them near the top of NBA winning teams. If the season ended they would face the Jazz a team they are certainly capable of beating----maybe. I’ve had several opportunities to view the Clippers since the start of the season and I honestly don’t know what to think. Parts of the team look improved (bench) while others (small forward) look average. There is no requirement for an NBA All Pro at every position however inquiring minds have questions.
One of my continuing areas of concern is technical fouls. The Clippers are near the top of the NBA in technical fouls a fact I believe is a reflection of the head coach. Keep this in mind annually they lead or near the top in receiving technical fouls, listening to Rivers there is always a reason why and usually it’s nothing he or his team has done incorrectly it‘s always the other guy. I’m going to make this the last account where I attempt to get inside the head of Doc Rivers and company. NOTE: Just as I finished this account came word Blake Griffin was to undergo minor knee surgery; he’ll be out of the lineup 3-6 weeks.
Geography
The Midwest portion of the nation depends on who is doing the talking. As an example a publication I read has basketball programs divided by regions. They list (The) Ohio State and Indiana in their Midwest section. Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska are listed as ‘Plains‘ States as in prairie not plain as in ordinary. The basis for this account is Fox Sports Midwest footprint in Kansas City. There is no local Fox Sports everything is run out of St. Louis which is no issue except its sometimes confusing.
There are evenings we can tune in to a St. Louis University game but no University of Mo-Kansas City games are telecast on Fox. We witness the Missouri State High School basketball championships on the network as well as Indiana. We sometimes have available Thunder games from Oklahoma City but no Pacer games from Indianapolis. See my broadcast confusion; we never know in Kansas City without consulting the guide whether it’s Oklahoma, Indiana or Missouri. I’m sure contracts especially those affecting colleges determine telecasts.
Headed to UCLA as well
On December 13 I wrote of the California Trifecta the profile of the Ball brothers of Chino Hills. The oldest of the three brothers Lonzo is having an outstanding freshman season at UCLA. I didn’t realize until now the other two brothers are headed to Westwood as well. LiAngelo will arrive next season at UCLA likely replacing his older brother who is headed to the NBA.
Little brother (as in age) will have another two years remaining at Chino Hills and then it’s UCLA for him too. We’ve been able to witness the talent of Lonzo first hand, there is certainly no guarantee the other two are as talented so that’s the disclaimer. UCLA should be set for the next few years with the continuous influx of talent.
‘He’s what’
After all these years we finally discover the truth about Kevin Durant. For years first with the Thunder and now with the Warriors he’s been listed as 6-9. Durant claims; ‘In bare feet I’m 6-10 ½ and shoes 7 feet tall.’ Durant’s story plays out far differently than most players especially those in the NBA. Players are ‘taller’ than listed and former Knick great Willis Reed might be a prime example of this.
Reed’s entire NBA career he was listed at 6-10 when he was actually 6-9. The story cannot be documented however the claim is Reed’s coach at Grambling College (University) asked him about his height, Reed informed the coach ‘I’m 6-9’, the coach was reported to have informed Reed, ‘You are 6-10, they pay 6-10 guys more money in the NBA than one who is 6-9’.
I’m bothered
As this is written the Clippers stand 20-8 and 4th place in the Western Conference, a good record which places them near the top of NBA winning teams. If the season ended they would face the Jazz a team they are certainly capable of beating----maybe. I’ve had several opportunities to view the Clippers since the start of the season and I honestly don’t know what to think. Parts of the team look improved (bench) while others (small forward) look average. There is no requirement for an NBA All Pro at every position however inquiring minds have questions.
One of my continuing areas of concern is technical fouls. The Clippers are near the top of the NBA in technical fouls a fact I believe is a reflection of the head coach. Keep this in mind annually they lead or near the top in receiving technical fouls, listening to Rivers there is always a reason why and usually it’s nothing he or his team has done incorrectly it‘s always the other guy. I’m going to make this the last account where I attempt to get inside the head of Doc Rivers and company. NOTE: Just as I finished this account came word Blake Griffin was to undergo minor knee surgery; he’ll be out of the lineup 3-6 weeks.
Geography
The Midwest portion of the nation depends on who is doing the talking. As an example a publication I read has basketball programs divided by regions. They list (The) Ohio State and Indiana in their Midwest section. Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska are listed as ‘Plains‘ States as in prairie not plain as in ordinary. The basis for this account is Fox Sports Midwest footprint in Kansas City. There is no local Fox Sports everything is run out of St. Louis which is no issue except its sometimes confusing.
There are evenings we can tune in to a St. Louis University game but no University of Mo-Kansas City games are telecast on Fox. We witness the Missouri State High School basketball championships on the network as well as Indiana. We sometimes have available Thunder games from Oklahoma City but no Pacer games from Indianapolis. See my broadcast confusion; we never know in Kansas City without consulting the guide whether it’s Oklahoma, Indiana or Missouri. I’m sure contracts especially those affecting colleges determine telecasts.
Headed to UCLA as well
On December 13 I wrote of the California Trifecta the profile of the Ball brothers of Chino Hills. The oldest of the three brothers Lonzo is having an outstanding freshman season at UCLA. I didn’t realize until now the other two brothers are headed to Westwood as well. LiAngelo will arrive next season at UCLA likely replacing his older brother who is headed to the NBA.
Little brother (as in age) will have another two years remaining at Chino Hills and then it’s UCLA for him too. We’ve been able to witness the talent of Lonzo first hand, there is certainly no guarantee the other two are as talented so that’s the disclaimer. UCLA should be set for the next few years with the continuous influx of talent.
‘He’s what’
After all these years we finally discover the truth about Kevin Durant. For years first with the Thunder and now with the Warriors he’s been listed as 6-9. Durant claims; ‘In bare feet I’m 6-10 ½ and shoes 7 feet tall.’ Durant’s story plays out far differently than most players especially those in the NBA. Players are ‘taller’ than listed and former Knick great Willis Reed might be a prime example of this.
Reed’s entire NBA career he was listed at 6-10 when he was actually 6-9. The story cannot be documented however the claim is Reed’s coach at Grambling College (University) asked him about his height, Reed informed the coach ‘I’m 6-9’, the coach was reported to have informed Reed, ‘You are 6-10, they pay 6-10 guys more money in the NBA than one who is 6-9’.
Monday, December 19, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Ice water in his veins”
Michael Jordan had it, so did Kobe Bryant and they are not the only ones. “Ice water in the veins” simply refers to players unafraid to take the shot that can win or lose the game. Nike once ran a commercial where MJ mentioned how many times he took a shot and missed. Kobe shot four airballs in the 1997 playoff game against the Jazz.
As for 2016 this is no prediction of future basketball stardom for Kentucky’s Malik Monk however he fit’s the role. Unafraid to take the shot in Saturday’s North Carolina-Kentucky game. A teammate actually hit the last Kentucky baskets on free-throws however it was the two consecutive 3-point baskets that made me go WOW. Monk scored 47 points in the game but he wasn’t just chucking up shots, he was .643 from the floor.
For you man
My buddy Eric asked me; “What do you think about two Jayhawks on the Laker roster I guess Jordan Clarkson (Mizzou) balances things.” Those were not his exact words but somewhat similar. Eric was referring to reserves Tarik Black and Thomas Robinson both former Kansas players. I think Eric believes as a number of the Kansas faithful I detest anything connected to the basketball team. I have stated on a number of occasions I believe Bill Self is one of the best, he’s probably been better for Kansas than Roy Williams.
The Jayhawks annually play one of the toughest non-conference schedules in the nation but that fact fails to aid them once conference play begins. Much as the Big 12 desires to perceive itself as a strong basketball conference the truth hurts. The conference is actually GIGANTIC Kansas along with many pretenders to the throne. As this is written I have no idea who wants to take the crown from Kansas. Every year the belief is Baylor will climb the summit but falls short. Oklahoma State has been in the mix so has Oklahoma even Texas and Iowa State.
Big Man Battles
We’ll never return to the days of Wilt Chamberlain-Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul Jabbar-Chamberlain and Shaq versus David Robinson or Shaq-Hakeem Olajuwon. The 1950’s saw the NBA dominated by Big Men. Every team did not have a quality center however a number were spread throughout the league. Disciples of center play such as Pete Newell spread the gospel of pivot play. Was it really new this emphasis on fast-break small ball really new? Maybe parts of it the impact of the stretch four power forwards shooting from the 3-point line.
The advent of the stretch four and shoot first point guards meant an end to center play. A team’s offense would no longer flow through the pivot or at least that‘s what we were led to believe. A talented group of 7 foot centers and power forwards continue being added to the game whether from the college ranks or Europe. They are not stiffs most are talented at varied aspects of the game. You know many of them no need of naming names just check out the game any evening or afternoon.
I could see this
We’ve speculated since training camp somebody was going to be odd man out. The Sixers with centers Joel Embiid, Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel somebody was leaving The City of Brotherly Love. Noel complained to the media about his limited minutes after the Sixers-Lakers game. A day later a rumor began circulating Noel was on the trading block headed to the Blazers.
This is no done deal however with the emergence of Embiid we believed that would leave Okafor outside looking in. Embiid at center and Noel at the power forward, the Sixers couldn’t utilize two seven foot centers would they? Well it appears they might be the case as Embiid and Okafor have been in the lineup at the same time. Who is left out of that picture that would be 6-11 power forward Nerlens Noel.
“Ice water in his veins”
Michael Jordan had it, so did Kobe Bryant and they are not the only ones. “Ice water in the veins” simply refers to players unafraid to take the shot that can win or lose the game. Nike once ran a commercial where MJ mentioned how many times he took a shot and missed. Kobe shot four airballs in the 1997 playoff game against the Jazz.
As for 2016 this is no prediction of future basketball stardom for Kentucky’s Malik Monk however he fit’s the role. Unafraid to take the shot in Saturday’s North Carolina-Kentucky game. A teammate actually hit the last Kentucky baskets on free-throws however it was the two consecutive 3-point baskets that made me go WOW. Monk scored 47 points in the game but he wasn’t just chucking up shots, he was .643 from the floor.
For you man
My buddy Eric asked me; “What do you think about two Jayhawks on the Laker roster I guess Jordan Clarkson (Mizzou) balances things.” Those were not his exact words but somewhat similar. Eric was referring to reserves Tarik Black and Thomas Robinson both former Kansas players. I think Eric believes as a number of the Kansas faithful I detest anything connected to the basketball team. I have stated on a number of occasions I believe Bill Self is one of the best, he’s probably been better for Kansas than Roy Williams.
The Jayhawks annually play one of the toughest non-conference schedules in the nation but that fact fails to aid them once conference play begins. Much as the Big 12 desires to perceive itself as a strong basketball conference the truth hurts. The conference is actually GIGANTIC Kansas along with many pretenders to the throne. As this is written I have no idea who wants to take the crown from Kansas. Every year the belief is Baylor will climb the summit but falls short. Oklahoma State has been in the mix so has Oklahoma even Texas and Iowa State.
Big Man Battles
We’ll never return to the days of Wilt Chamberlain-Bill Russell, Kareem Abdul Jabbar-Chamberlain and Shaq versus David Robinson or Shaq-Hakeem Olajuwon. The 1950’s saw the NBA dominated by Big Men. Every team did not have a quality center however a number were spread throughout the league. Disciples of center play such as Pete Newell spread the gospel of pivot play. Was it really new this emphasis on fast-break small ball really new? Maybe parts of it the impact of the stretch four power forwards shooting from the 3-point line.
The advent of the stretch four and shoot first point guards meant an end to center play. A team’s offense would no longer flow through the pivot or at least that‘s what we were led to believe. A talented group of 7 foot centers and power forwards continue being added to the game whether from the college ranks or Europe. They are not stiffs most are talented at varied aspects of the game. You know many of them no need of naming names just check out the game any evening or afternoon.
I could see this
We’ve speculated since training camp somebody was going to be odd man out. The Sixers with centers Joel Embiid, Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel somebody was leaving The City of Brotherly Love. Noel complained to the media about his limited minutes after the Sixers-Lakers game. A day later a rumor began circulating Noel was on the trading block headed to the Blazers.
This is no done deal however with the emergence of Embiid we believed that would leave Okafor outside looking in. Embiid at center and Noel at the power forward, the Sixers couldn’t utilize two seven foot centers would they? Well it appears they might be the case as Embiid and Okafor have been in the lineup at the same time. Who is left out of that picture that would be 6-11 power forward Nerlens Noel.
Sunday, December 18, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He voiced his belief
Allen Iverson left no doubt his thoughts on players sitting out games. During the Sixers-Lakers game Iverson was questioned about today’s players taking games off. I cannot quote him exactly however he did not agree with players sitting down. Chauncey Billups in the ESPN studios agreed with him and said; “We (Iverson) are from the same generation.”
I believe we realize the NBA season is long running from October to June for playoff teams. We discuss players of this generation being superior athletes and they might well be. NBA players of the previous generation wouldn’t dare consider taking games off. Players of that era were out of the lineup for injuries and illness that was it.
Don’t allow me to fool you
There are far too many college teams in far too many portions of the country to be able to cover all. I hope I haven’t given anyone the impression I see ALL the games. My viewing is somewhat selective; I watch Mizzou and UMKC because one is in-state and the other local. I follow Kansas because it’s next door about 40 miles away in Lawrence. As for the others I don’t watch games just to watch them. Not in any order I attempt to see Kentucky, Louisville, Georgetown, North Carolina and UCLA.
On the periphery Wichita State, New Mexico, Missouri State, Gonzaga, Arizona and Indiana. I try and catch some of the better West Coast teams but 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. start time for me in the Central Time Zone creates a problem. That’s it, now don’t become confused come NCAA Tournament time my viewing goes out the window I sometimes have been known to view obscure teams. Then again another issue Saturday mornings and afternoons I’m forced to make a choice. A game I’m watching often overlaps with another--can you say channel surfing?
Taking a second look
In the past we’ve discussed the opportunity to make it at the NBA level. Sometimes its talent sometimes it’s just being in the right place at the right time. It’s hoped on my part friends and relatives of Russ Smith believe this is meant to demean Smith’s talent or ability. I have no idea what occurred that hampered his NBA development I do know what happened with Jordan Clarkson.
Writer Kevin Deng claims in the 2014 draft the Lakers actually debated between Louisville’s Russ Smith and Jordan Clarkson of Mizzou. Laker scouts championed the idea of drafting Clarkson over Smith. With the 46th pick in the second round the Wizards made the pick based on the scout’s belief. Smith would become the next pick by the Pelicans, later he would play for the Grizzlies and the D-League Smith is now playing in Turkey. We know what occurred with Clarkson he would become a starter last season for the Lakers and with the change in coaching the 6th man off the Laker bench.
He returned to school
Some one whispers in a prospects ear and off to the NBA he heads. I thought that might have been the case for Elhadi Tacko Sereigne Diop Fall or Tacko Fall for short. After a pedestrian freshmen year Fall decided to return to the University of Central Florida for his second year. The NBA still covets Big Men and Fall at 7 foot 6 inches and nearly 300 pounds fit’s the bill that‘s why I believed he was headed to the NBA. Returning for his sophomore year has proven beneficial so far as his game has shown signs of improvement. Fall has raised his scoring average from 7.4 ppg to 13.4 and rebounds from 5.9 to 12.6.
Those numbers might not be earth shattering but certainly shows improvement over his freshmen year. Fall has managed to raise the level of his game however he needs improvement and suffers the Big Men’s dilemma--poor free-throw shooting. The youngster from Senegal in West Africa may not be headed to the NBA in 2017 but could come graduation might become the world’s largest engineer should he go to work for Siemens or Microsoft. The engineer part will only occur if the NBA fails to call I have doubts he wants a D-League or Euro career.
He voiced his belief
Allen Iverson left no doubt his thoughts on players sitting out games. During the Sixers-Lakers game Iverson was questioned about today’s players taking games off. I cannot quote him exactly however he did not agree with players sitting down. Chauncey Billups in the ESPN studios agreed with him and said; “We (Iverson) are from the same generation.”
I believe we realize the NBA season is long running from October to June for playoff teams. We discuss players of this generation being superior athletes and they might well be. NBA players of the previous generation wouldn’t dare consider taking games off. Players of that era were out of the lineup for injuries and illness that was it.
Don’t allow me to fool you
There are far too many college teams in far too many portions of the country to be able to cover all. I hope I haven’t given anyone the impression I see ALL the games. My viewing is somewhat selective; I watch Mizzou and UMKC because one is in-state and the other local. I follow Kansas because it’s next door about 40 miles away in Lawrence. As for the others I don’t watch games just to watch them. Not in any order I attempt to see Kentucky, Louisville, Georgetown, North Carolina and UCLA.
On the periphery Wichita State, New Mexico, Missouri State, Gonzaga, Arizona and Indiana. I try and catch some of the better West Coast teams but 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. start time for me in the Central Time Zone creates a problem. That’s it, now don’t become confused come NCAA Tournament time my viewing goes out the window I sometimes have been known to view obscure teams. Then again another issue Saturday mornings and afternoons I’m forced to make a choice. A game I’m watching often overlaps with another--can you say channel surfing?
Taking a second look
In the past we’ve discussed the opportunity to make it at the NBA level. Sometimes its talent sometimes it’s just being in the right place at the right time. It’s hoped on my part friends and relatives of Russ Smith believe this is meant to demean Smith’s talent or ability. I have no idea what occurred that hampered his NBA development I do know what happened with Jordan Clarkson.
Writer Kevin Deng claims in the 2014 draft the Lakers actually debated between Louisville’s Russ Smith and Jordan Clarkson of Mizzou. Laker scouts championed the idea of drafting Clarkson over Smith. With the 46th pick in the second round the Wizards made the pick based on the scout’s belief. Smith would become the next pick by the Pelicans, later he would play for the Grizzlies and the D-League Smith is now playing in Turkey. We know what occurred with Clarkson he would become a starter last season for the Lakers and with the change in coaching the 6th man off the Laker bench.
He returned to school
Some one whispers in a prospects ear and off to the NBA he heads. I thought that might have been the case for Elhadi Tacko Sereigne Diop Fall or Tacko Fall for short. After a pedestrian freshmen year Fall decided to return to the University of Central Florida for his second year. The NBA still covets Big Men and Fall at 7 foot 6 inches and nearly 300 pounds fit’s the bill that‘s why I believed he was headed to the NBA. Returning for his sophomore year has proven beneficial so far as his game has shown signs of improvement. Fall has raised his scoring average from 7.4 ppg to 13.4 and rebounds from 5.9 to 12.6.
Those numbers might not be earth shattering but certainly shows improvement over his freshmen year. Fall has managed to raise the level of his game however he needs improvement and suffers the Big Men’s dilemma--poor free-throw shooting. The youngster from Senegal in West Africa may not be headed to the NBA in 2017 but could come graduation might become the world’s largest engineer should he go to work for Siemens or Microsoft. The engineer part will only occur if the NBA fails to call I have doubts he wants a D-League or Euro career.
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Craig Sager
The man with the colorful blazers has died, veteran Turner reporter Craig Sager died on Thursday at age 65. He’d been battling cancer over the years but refused to succumb to the dreaded disease which eventually took his life. Know for his flamboyant outfits on the sidelines Sager was the definition of professional at the time he interviewed players and coaches. His half-time interviews with Coach Pop have become legendary.
Although Sager was more closely identified with the NBA he covered a number of other sports over his 40-year broadcast career. Sager as a 22-year old was on the field after Hank Aaron hit his 715 home run breaking Babe Ruth’s record. Prior to going to work for Turner Sports Sager spent time in Kansas City working for the local ABC affiliate. The NBA family has been unanimous in its sorrow at the passing of a friend and one who’s left us far too soon.
He might be correct
This is written ahead of the Heat-Clipper game so I don’t know who won. I doubt if Hassan Whiteside and DeAndre Jordan will be exchanging Christmas cards or any pleasantries in the future. His game was compared to Jordan which we assume displeased him; “I do a lot all he does (Jordan) is catch lobs.”
It seems Whiteside might have a point clearly he’s displayed a more rounded offensive game, if Jordan has any advantage he might be a better defender but that might even be called into question. Check the stats for rebounds and blocked shots; they indicate Whiteside’s numbers are a cut above those of Jordan. Its evident Whiteside and Jordan might appear similar but closer inspection reveals a difference in their game.
Pronounce his name
Thanks to Basketball-Reference.com we learn the correct pronunciation of his name, I‘m referring to the all everything Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks. I state all everything because I’m not sure if he’s a small forward, power forward or point guard. It’s rare to make that statement about an athlete who stands nearly 7-feet tall.
We’ve witnessed his scoring average rise annually now in his fourth year he’s at 22.3 ppg nearly 8 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Basketball remains a team game adding Jabari Parker, Andre Drummond and Michael Brogdon plus Thon Maker this young team is on the way up. They have a new arena in the works so can we say everything is looking up in Milwaukee. As for young Mr. Antetokounmpo I’m going to spell it phonetically it is “\YAHN-is ah-deh-toh-KOON-boh\”. I dare you to try and pronounce it.
Confused, no more
I don’t know about you sometimes the time of honors and historical events confuse me. That’s what occurred with the late John McClendon’s second induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Among his list of accomplishments was being the first black coach hired at a predominately white school when Cleveland State hired him in 1967. Later I would read the late Will Robinson was the first black coach at a white school?
Closer examination uncovered these facts; Cleveland State did not move to Division I until 1972 after McClendon left the school. In 1970 Illinois State hired Robinson the school had previously been a Division I program. After coaching Doug Collins among others Robinson retired in 1975 and would become a scout for the Pistons. It’s reported he was responsible for the Pistons drafting Joe Dumars and Dennis Rodman. There you are basketball history (and maybe a trivia question) for today.
Craig Sager
The man with the colorful blazers has died, veteran Turner reporter Craig Sager died on Thursday at age 65. He’d been battling cancer over the years but refused to succumb to the dreaded disease which eventually took his life. Know for his flamboyant outfits on the sidelines Sager was the definition of professional at the time he interviewed players and coaches. His half-time interviews with Coach Pop have become legendary.
Although Sager was more closely identified with the NBA he covered a number of other sports over his 40-year broadcast career. Sager as a 22-year old was on the field after Hank Aaron hit his 715 home run breaking Babe Ruth’s record. Prior to going to work for Turner Sports Sager spent time in Kansas City working for the local ABC affiliate. The NBA family has been unanimous in its sorrow at the passing of a friend and one who’s left us far too soon.
He might be correct
This is written ahead of the Heat-Clipper game so I don’t know who won. I doubt if Hassan Whiteside and DeAndre Jordan will be exchanging Christmas cards or any pleasantries in the future. His game was compared to Jordan which we assume displeased him; “I do a lot all he does (Jordan) is catch lobs.”
It seems Whiteside might have a point clearly he’s displayed a more rounded offensive game, if Jordan has any advantage he might be a better defender but that might even be called into question. Check the stats for rebounds and blocked shots; they indicate Whiteside’s numbers are a cut above those of Jordan. Its evident Whiteside and Jordan might appear similar but closer inspection reveals a difference in their game.
Pronounce his name
Thanks to Basketball-Reference.com we learn the correct pronunciation of his name, I‘m referring to the all everything Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks. I state all everything because I’m not sure if he’s a small forward, power forward or point guard. It’s rare to make that statement about an athlete who stands nearly 7-feet tall.
We’ve witnessed his scoring average rise annually now in his fourth year he’s at 22.3 ppg nearly 8 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Basketball remains a team game adding Jabari Parker, Andre Drummond and Michael Brogdon plus Thon Maker this young team is on the way up. They have a new arena in the works so can we say everything is looking up in Milwaukee. As for young Mr. Antetokounmpo I’m going to spell it phonetically it is “\YAHN-is ah-deh-toh-KOON-boh\”. I dare you to try and pronounce it.
Confused, no more
I don’t know about you sometimes the time of honors and historical events confuse me. That’s what occurred with the late John McClendon’s second induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Among his list of accomplishments was being the first black coach hired at a predominately white school when Cleveland State hired him in 1967. Later I would read the late Will Robinson was the first black coach at a white school?
Closer examination uncovered these facts; Cleveland State did not move to Division I until 1972 after McClendon left the school. In 1970 Illinois State hired Robinson the school had previously been a Division I program. After coaching Doug Collins among others Robinson retired in 1975 and would become a scout for the Pistons. It’s reported he was responsible for the Pistons drafting Joe Dumars and Dennis Rodman. There you are basketball history (and maybe a trivia question) for today.
Friday, December 16, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Dunk of epic proportions
First the Lakers lost the game---bad (if you are a Laker fan). GREAT if you are a fan of high flyer Larry Nance Jr. of the Lakers. I’m unsure where to place the Nance Jr. in the lexicon of dunks I can state with conviction they are equal to many we remember from his dad Larry Nance Sr. As for the 6-9 Nance Jr. posterizing 7-foot Brook Lopez was nothing short of spectacular, video of dunks of the past come rushing to my mind.
It might not have been as spectacular but dunk contest winner Spud Webb at 5-7 winning the slam dunk has got to rank somewhere. How about those of Vince Carter, Kobe Bryant and an earlier time Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins and someone I'm sure I overlooked. How about an even earlier time-period the high flying dunks of Connie Hawkins, Julius Erving and others. See the Nance Jr. dunk for yourself and draw your own conclusions, it was outstanding but measured against a number of the aforementioned players where does it rank?
“Want get fooled again”
This has nothing to do with the 1971 hit by the rock group The Who. Rather than music basketball is the topic of discussion. All eyes are on the Kansas Jayhawks however in non conference have you noticed who is in first place? It’s the Baylor Bears with an 9-0 record. Scott Drew took over a Baylor program in 2003 riddled with scandal. The school was placed on limited scholarship and was not allowed post-season play for a time. Since 2007-08 Baylor has played post-season every year except one.
Every year I believe they will eclipse Kansas in the Big 12 race something strange occurs. I don’t remember the year but I’m sure it’s been within the last five they beat Kansas in the Big 12 post-season tournament, hat’s the only time they were able to get past Kansas. The non-con schedule is usually teams that are sometimes easy marks. Come January the big boys began play, I wouldn’t expect a victory in Lawrence Kansas but how about Waco Texas. I’m prepared this time “Want get fooled again.”
Football to basketball and back again
He was a consensus All American quarterback and the 1993 Heisman Trophy winner. How did he wind up in the NBA you might ask, after an outstanding college career as Florida State’s quarterback the 6-2 Charlie Ward did not rate highly with scouts. With no guarantee he would be drafted in the first round Ward decided in favor of the NBA. Ward was the 26th pick in the first round of the 1994 NBA Draft. Ward spent 10 years with the Knicks most of it as a back-up point guard; he would play for the Spurs and Rockets before retiring. Life has come full circle for Ward in a sense. In retirement he’s served as head football coach for a number of high schools. Ward is repeating the early years of his life coaching his son as his father had done for him. Ward remains the only Heisman winner with an NBA resume.
The return
The “point guard” was on the Sixer practice floor, according to reports he wore no walking boot on his broken right foot. I’m referring to rookie Ben Simmons, the 6-10 Simmons wash shooting free-throws and that’s enough for now. If you remember early reports it was hoped Simmons would play in the 2016-17 season. January was the timetable for his return however it was not intended to be a final date it was a “hope” date. As for the team I’m sure no logical Sixer fan is expecting instant improvement if Simmons arrives as late as February. The truth is its likely it will be next season before we see any improved play.
Save him
I’ve heard a number of commentators state; “I hope Davis can escape from New Orleans.” They are referring to Pelican Big Man Anthony Davis who is still growing, his numbers weight and height too. In 2012 when drafted he stood 6-10 and was a slender 222 pounds, Davis is now 6-11 and weighs a hefty 253 pounds. Remember the talk regarding the skinny Brandon Ingram immediately after the 2016 draft? As for the numbers he’s at an all time high in his brief NBA career, nearly 30 ppg and 10.7 rebounds along with nearly 3 blocked shots.
Despite the stellar numbers the Pelicans haven’t exactly gotten off to a healthy start this season. Part of this was due to point guard Jrue Holiday being out of action early on, that plus injuries to a number of teammates. The Pelicans have only finished above .500 once since the 2012-13 season. Many believe its talent wasted on a poor team and believe its best if Davis is traded or in free-agency might choose another team. I say baloney; Davis should be the key block to a number of blocks that aid in building a better team.
Dunk of epic proportions
First the Lakers lost the game---bad (if you are a Laker fan). GREAT if you are a fan of high flyer Larry Nance Jr. of the Lakers. I’m unsure where to place the Nance Jr. in the lexicon of dunks I can state with conviction they are equal to many we remember from his dad Larry Nance Sr. As for the 6-9 Nance Jr. posterizing 7-foot Brook Lopez was nothing short of spectacular, video of dunks of the past come rushing to my mind.
It might not have been as spectacular but dunk contest winner Spud Webb at 5-7 winning the slam dunk has got to rank somewhere. How about those of Vince Carter, Kobe Bryant and an earlier time Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins and someone I'm sure I overlooked. How about an even earlier time-period the high flying dunks of Connie Hawkins, Julius Erving and others. See the Nance Jr. dunk for yourself and draw your own conclusions, it was outstanding but measured against a number of the aforementioned players where does it rank?
“Want get fooled again”
This has nothing to do with the 1971 hit by the rock group The Who. Rather than music basketball is the topic of discussion. All eyes are on the Kansas Jayhawks however in non conference have you noticed who is in first place? It’s the Baylor Bears with an 9-0 record. Scott Drew took over a Baylor program in 2003 riddled with scandal. The school was placed on limited scholarship and was not allowed post-season play for a time. Since 2007-08 Baylor has played post-season every year except one.
Every year I believe they will eclipse Kansas in the Big 12 race something strange occurs. I don’t remember the year but I’m sure it’s been within the last five they beat Kansas in the Big 12 post-season tournament, hat’s the only time they were able to get past Kansas. The non-con schedule is usually teams that are sometimes easy marks. Come January the big boys began play, I wouldn’t expect a victory in Lawrence Kansas but how about Waco Texas. I’m prepared this time “Want get fooled again.”
Football to basketball and back again
He was a consensus All American quarterback and the 1993 Heisman Trophy winner. How did he wind up in the NBA you might ask, after an outstanding college career as Florida State’s quarterback the 6-2 Charlie Ward did not rate highly with scouts. With no guarantee he would be drafted in the first round Ward decided in favor of the NBA. Ward was the 26th pick in the first round of the 1994 NBA Draft. Ward spent 10 years with the Knicks most of it as a back-up point guard; he would play for the Spurs and Rockets before retiring. Life has come full circle for Ward in a sense. In retirement he’s served as head football coach for a number of high schools. Ward is repeating the early years of his life coaching his son as his father had done for him. Ward remains the only Heisman winner with an NBA resume.
The return
The “point guard” was on the Sixer practice floor, according to reports he wore no walking boot on his broken right foot. I’m referring to rookie Ben Simmons, the 6-10 Simmons wash shooting free-throws and that’s enough for now. If you remember early reports it was hoped Simmons would play in the 2016-17 season. January was the timetable for his return however it was not intended to be a final date it was a “hope” date. As for the team I’m sure no logical Sixer fan is expecting instant improvement if Simmons arrives as late as February. The truth is its likely it will be next season before we see any improved play.
Save him
I’ve heard a number of commentators state; “I hope Davis can escape from New Orleans.” They are referring to Pelican Big Man Anthony Davis who is still growing, his numbers weight and height too. In 2012 when drafted he stood 6-10 and was a slender 222 pounds, Davis is now 6-11 and weighs a hefty 253 pounds. Remember the talk regarding the skinny Brandon Ingram immediately after the 2016 draft? As for the numbers he’s at an all time high in his brief NBA career, nearly 30 ppg and 10.7 rebounds along with nearly 3 blocked shots.
Despite the stellar numbers the Pelicans haven’t exactly gotten off to a healthy start this season. Part of this was due to point guard Jrue Holiday being out of action early on, that plus injuries to a number of teammates. The Pelicans have only finished above .500 once since the 2012-13 season. Many believe its talent wasted on a poor team and believe its best if Davis is traded or in free-agency might choose another team. I say baloney; Davis should be the key block to a number of blocks that aid in building a better team.
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Who?
The NCAA Division I scoring leader in 1996-97 was Charles Jones who played at Long Island University. That was the last time we witnessed a 30 ppg scoring leader until this season. Don’t worry if you don’t remember Jones I didn’t either. He played at Long Island University and was in the NBA for a short time but spent the bulk of his career overseas; he retired from play in 2010. As for this year we have another unknown unless you follow Central Michigan basketball.
5 foot 9 inch Marcus Keene from Central Michigan is the nation’s scoring leader. Despite his diminutive stature he’s averaging nearly 31 points a game. Keene is no one dimensional player despite his stature he’s pulling down nearly 5 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists per game. I’ve not witnessed his play but it would appear he’s got an all-around game. Store the name in your memory after all last season 5-9 Kay Felder from Oakland University (MI) managed to secure a spot on this years Cavs roster.
Never say never
As they often say “Records are made to be broken,” I could add not always. The Bulls single-season won-loss record would never be eclipsed or so I believed. There have been others but most recently we discussed Russell Westbrook and his assault on the triple-double record. Many looked at the Oscar Robertson story and said; “Can Westbrook equal or break the record of a triple-double in every game.” Although I don’t believe I stated it could never be accomplished I questioned if it was possible in this age. I don’t want to take anything away from Robertson but it was a different NBA when he sat the record.
As an example if we just checked travel back then a west coast trip in Oscar’s time meant two California stops to play the Lakers and the Warriors that was it. There was no Dallas, San Antonio or Houston stops in addition Phoenix and Denver were fly-over’s too. Other than the two California cities there was no play west of the Mississippi river, it was the St. Louis Hawks and the two west coast teams. For the second game in a row Westbrook failed to register a triple-double, Robertson’s record remains safe for now. What do you think will Westbrook break the record next year or the year after?
Is he the best?
The ESPN NBA page headline read; "Is Chris Paul the NBA's best PG again?" We had to be reminded where Paul had been. There is no doubt Paul is a talented point guard however I have questions. When I think of effective point guards I think of Isiah Thomas, Magic Johnson, John Stockton and Dennis Johnson. Paul receives a pass for the years he was in New Orleans the teams were not very good by comparison to the Clippers.
Basketball was/is and remains a team game and the contributions of an effective point guard are key to a team's success. This is year six for Paul and the Clippers, the team he's never lead past the Western Conference Finals. I realize this appears critical of Paul and I am to a degree. Is this the year, the year the Clippers play for an NBA Championship? Do it Chris and make guys like me shut our faces up.
Haters
Kobe haters still exist its likely they will continue for the next several years until his memory fades. I even have a Kobe hater in the family, one of my wife’s cousins believes LeBron James can do no wrong. At the same time he finds fault in the manner Kobe tends to cross his T’s (exaggeration folks).
Over this past weekend I held a conversation with an acquaintance, him knowing my Laker roots said; “I’m surprised Kobe has been so quiet.” My response; “Why is it so difficult to believe, I believed all along he wouldn’t do television or anything in the public eye.” There we have it those who believe (in error) Kobe seeks the spotlight, that’s not even close with the Lakers why should it be in retirement?
Who?
The NCAA Division I scoring leader in 1996-97 was Charles Jones who played at Long Island University. That was the last time we witnessed a 30 ppg scoring leader until this season. Don’t worry if you don’t remember Jones I didn’t either. He played at Long Island University and was in the NBA for a short time but spent the bulk of his career overseas; he retired from play in 2010. As for this year we have another unknown unless you follow Central Michigan basketball.
5 foot 9 inch Marcus Keene from Central Michigan is the nation’s scoring leader. Despite his diminutive stature he’s averaging nearly 31 points a game. Keene is no one dimensional player despite his stature he’s pulling down nearly 5 rebounds and dishing out 5 assists per game. I’ve not witnessed his play but it would appear he’s got an all-around game. Store the name in your memory after all last season 5-9 Kay Felder from Oakland University (MI) managed to secure a spot on this years Cavs roster.
Never say never
As they often say “Records are made to be broken,” I could add not always. The Bulls single-season won-loss record would never be eclipsed or so I believed. There have been others but most recently we discussed Russell Westbrook and his assault on the triple-double record. Many looked at the Oscar Robertson story and said; “Can Westbrook equal or break the record of a triple-double in every game.” Although I don’t believe I stated it could never be accomplished I questioned if it was possible in this age. I don’t want to take anything away from Robertson but it was a different NBA when he sat the record.
As an example if we just checked travel back then a west coast trip in Oscar’s time meant two California stops to play the Lakers and the Warriors that was it. There was no Dallas, San Antonio or Houston stops in addition Phoenix and Denver were fly-over’s too. Other than the two California cities there was no play west of the Mississippi river, it was the St. Louis Hawks and the two west coast teams. For the second game in a row Westbrook failed to register a triple-double, Robertson’s record remains safe for now. What do you think will Westbrook break the record next year or the year after?
Is he the best?
The ESPN NBA page headline read; "Is Chris Paul the NBA's best PG again?" We had to be reminded where Paul had been. There is no doubt Paul is a talented point guard however I have questions. When I think of effective point guards I think of Isiah Thomas, Magic Johnson, John Stockton and Dennis Johnson. Paul receives a pass for the years he was in New Orleans the teams were not very good by comparison to the Clippers.
Basketball was/is and remains a team game and the contributions of an effective point guard are key to a team's success. This is year six for Paul and the Clippers, the team he's never lead past the Western Conference Finals. I realize this appears critical of Paul and I am to a degree. Is this the year, the year the Clippers play for an NBA Championship? Do it Chris and make guys like me shut our faces up.
Haters
Kobe haters still exist its likely they will continue for the next several years until his memory fades. I even have a Kobe hater in the family, one of my wife’s cousins believes LeBron James can do no wrong. At the same time he finds fault in the manner Kobe tends to cross his T’s (exaggeration folks).
Over this past weekend I held a conversation with an acquaintance, him knowing my Laker roots said; “I’m surprised Kobe has been so quiet.” My response; “Why is it so difficult to believe, I believed all along he wouldn’t do television or anything in the public eye.” There we have it those who believe (in error) Kobe seeks the spotlight, that’s not even close with the Lakers why should it be in retirement?
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