Basketball from a fans perspective
Surprise, surprise
Gonzaga is the number one team in the nation, the AP poll is not surprising considering Marquette beat number one Villanova. The shock for me is the USA Today Coaches poll taking into consideration the weekend events. Number one Kansas managed to slip past Kentucky at Rupp Arena. Gonzaga sitting in third place leap-frogged over Kansas into the top spot. So there you have it Gonzaga becomes number one for the second time in history. Polls don't mean a thing just something folks like me get caught up in.
Remain more than 15 minutes
Attention relatives and friends of Cheick Diallo this is not an indictment of his skill. The 6-9 Diallo arrived at Kansas a McDonald’s All American and highly touted. After but one season he decided he was ready for the NBA, draft night the Clippers chose him traded him to the Pelicans. Since the draft it’s been trips back and forth between the NBA to D-League. Was he ready to play in the NBA might be the question?
Diallo started exactly one (1) game at Kansas and scored exactly 3.0 ppg. For a number of prospects college has become a way-station on the road to the NBA. The problem there have been a number of “Diallo’s” entered the NBA who have no clue the difficulty of not only playing but at a high skill level. The latest news has the Pelicans assigning Diallo to the Greensboro Swarm. I hope Diallo makes it back to the NBA and is successful in the future but this is the downside to leaving early.
More fall out
Two American basketball players are stranded in Dubai unable to return to Iran. They play for an Iranian team and after the Trump administration ban on Iran and 6 other nations decided to retaliate. Iran has banned the two Americans from entering the country; the players can return to the U.S. however their property remains in Iran.
This is interesting
Our eyes have been focused on Russell Westbrook’s assault on duplicating Oscar Robertson’s’ triple-double season. The break-out year of the Sixer rookie Joel Embiid sidelined for the past two years and buzzer beating shots all over. Pop and his Spurs kept rolling on despite no Timmy. The George Karl scathing biography and Kings center Boogie Cousins occasional explosions. Should the Cavs trade Kevin Love for somebody?
Is Carmelo Anthony staying or is he going the daily drama for the Knicks. We discussed Warrior Kevin Durant but not a great deal of reflection on the Warriors. Last year they had the world holding its breath as they broke the NBA’s all-time won-loss record. I just checked this time last season they stood 43-4; in 2016-17 they stand 41-7. They probably won’t duplicate last season but note how close they are.
Bits n Pieces
If I make a statement I believe of note few outside of Words eye view are aware. We love to compare players of different eras; I’ve stated on several occasions I believe it’s unfair but understandable. How about the assessment when it’s the player himself making the observation. Hakeem Olajuwon made a comparison between himself and Joel Embiid. Is it the footwork both played soccer as youngsters, Olajuwon in Nigeria and Embiid in Cameroon.
I’m late to the party because I never noticed this previously. The Northeast Conference has two St. Francis schools, St. Francis College located in Brooklyn (NY) and St. Francis University in Loretto Pennsylvania. Loretto is located about 100 miles east of Pittsburg. Both schools became conference members in 1981. The late Maurice Stokes who played for the Cincinnati Royals graduated from St. Francis University. Kevin Porter from St. Francis College had an 11 year NBA career from 1972 to 1983.
Has George Karl mistakenly taken himself out of the running for the Hall of Fame? ‘After the vote of the screening committees, the finalists will first be reviewed by the BHOF Board of Trustees. At this time, should it be determined by the Board of Trustees that a Finalist has damaged the integrity of the game of basketball, he/she will be deemed not worthy of Enshrinement and removed from consideration.’ Its possible six years from now this could be forgotten.
I didn’t see the game so I have no idea of the events however the Kansas Jayhawks slipped past the Kentucky Wildcats 79-73 on Saturday. Most noteworthy in the victory Kentucky rarely ever loses games at home so it’s quite a feat. Next up they play Baylor at Allen Field house on Wednesday where they rarely lose. Could the Jayhawks complete the balance of the conference season undefeated it’s possible.
Monday, January 30, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
You be the judge
The Kansas City Star reminded me the Big 12 had won the challenge in prior years by a significant margin against the SEC.
2013-14 7-3
2014-15 6-4
2015-16 7-3
2016-17 5-5
We’ve read and heard all season long about the strength of Big-12 Conference basketball, does this years challenge provide validation?
An error of epic proportions
Okay it wasn’t that bad I just wanted to capture your attention. On Sunday I wrote of the Bulls and despite their poor play they could still make the playoffs. I finished by stating they played in the “weak’ Eastern Conference. Larry Laker failed to check the Western Conference before writing the story; the Nuggets could gain a playoff berth too. As this is written the Nuggets stand 21-25 whose weak you say?
Politics of change
This is difficult to discuss on several levels because the news just occurred today. As this is written the Trump administration has placed a ban on the citizens of 7 nations which is to be in effect for the next 90 days. A federal judge has voided the actions of the president for now but confusion still reigns. This blog is about basketball however sometimes basketball collides with the real world and that‘s the case here. A number of players from the ban nations list have played or currently play in the NBA, how is their status affected? Sudan is one of the nations however civil war split the country into two separate nations; a small number of players are from South Sudan.
The NBA is concerned enough they have contacted the administration to determine the status of two players in particular Thon Maker and Luol Deng. Maker has dual citizenship from Sudan and Australia although he was born in Sudan as was Deng before the nation was divided. Although he’s no longer in the NBA an Iranian player could possibly return one day. Somalis have played in the NBA and Bismack Byombo is from The Democratic Republic of the Congo but arrived in the NBA after playing in Yemen a nation on the watch list. My check covered the NBA only there might be others in college or the NBA D-League.
He got his triple double
Fans of Russell Westbrook are not going to be happy, your man got his triple double versus the Cavs. 20 points 12 rebounds and 10 assists while shooting 27% FROM THE FLOOR! Yes I said Westbrook shot 27% as he sank 7 field goals out of 27 shots he took. I’m sorry fans I’m not impressed with this triple double effort its as if this has become “all about me.” The Thunder lost the game 107-91, Sam Presti get the man some help please. It appears Westbrook is playing an all-around game due to his double digit assist totals. I say not true, an average shooter would likely shoot 42% of the 15 or 16 of the shoots Westbrook took his teammates didn't get. .
You be the judge
The Kansas City Star reminded me the Big 12 had won the challenge in prior years by a significant margin against the SEC.
2013-14 7-3
2014-15 6-4
2015-16 7-3
2016-17 5-5
We’ve read and heard all season long about the strength of Big-12 Conference basketball, does this years challenge provide validation?
An error of epic proportions
Okay it wasn’t that bad I just wanted to capture your attention. On Sunday I wrote of the Bulls and despite their poor play they could still make the playoffs. I finished by stating they played in the “weak’ Eastern Conference. Larry Laker failed to check the Western Conference before writing the story; the Nuggets could gain a playoff berth too. As this is written the Nuggets stand 21-25 whose weak you say?
Politics of change
This is difficult to discuss on several levels because the news just occurred today. As this is written the Trump administration has placed a ban on the citizens of 7 nations which is to be in effect for the next 90 days. A federal judge has voided the actions of the president for now but confusion still reigns. This blog is about basketball however sometimes basketball collides with the real world and that‘s the case here. A number of players from the ban nations list have played or currently play in the NBA, how is their status affected? Sudan is one of the nations however civil war split the country into two separate nations; a small number of players are from South Sudan.
The NBA is concerned enough they have contacted the administration to determine the status of two players in particular Thon Maker and Luol Deng. Maker has dual citizenship from Sudan and Australia although he was born in Sudan as was Deng before the nation was divided. Although he’s no longer in the NBA an Iranian player could possibly return one day. Somalis have played in the NBA and Bismack Byombo is from The Democratic Republic of the Congo but arrived in the NBA after playing in Yemen a nation on the watch list. My check covered the NBA only there might be others in college or the NBA D-League.
He got his triple double
Fans of Russell Westbrook are not going to be happy, your man got his triple double versus the Cavs. 20 points 12 rebounds and 10 assists while shooting 27% FROM THE FLOOR! Yes I said Westbrook shot 27% as he sank 7 field goals out of 27 shots he took. I’m sorry fans I’m not impressed with this triple double effort its as if this has become “all about me.” The Thunder lost the game 107-91, Sam Presti get the man some help please. It appears Westbrook is playing an all-around game due to his double digit assist totals. I say not true, an average shooter would likely shoot 42% of the 15 or 16 of the shoots Westbrook took his teammates didn't get. .
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Two minute report
I dread the two-minute report the NBA is now using. Coaches, fans and the media have been complaining about fouls and the like since 1947. All the NBA is doing is providing evidence of errors. Games are officiated by human beings and not robots mistakes are going to be made. Athletes don’t make errors on purpose and neither do officials. Why reinforce the belief errors occur with the conspiracy theorists.
NCAA Championships
The game today between Kentucky and Kansas is not to decide the NCAA Championship however it did cause me to wonder. Which team has the most Division I championships?
UCLA-11
Kentucky-8
Indiana, North Carolina, Duke-5
Kansas, UConn-4
Louisville-3
Oklahoma A&M (now State)-2
San Francisco-2
Cincinnati-2
North Carolina State-2
Florida-2
Villanova-2
Of all the champions City College of New York City has the most unique, they managed to win the NCAA and NIT Championship in the same year. In 1950 City College won the NIT and was later invited to play in the NCAA Tournament which they won over Bradley 71--68. Of course this would be impossible today far too many teams are now invited to the NCAA Tournament. A side note that CCNY team was involved in a point-shaving scandal however the double win remains recognized by the NCAA and NIT.
Can you say implosion?
I’m sure most expected the Bulls to be a playoff contender in 2016-17. The Bulls added talented but mercurial guard Rajon Rondo and Dwayne Wade arrived from the Heat. Robin Lopez came in the Derrick Rose trade replacing Pau Gasol. Fans were energized they would witness an improved team over the one that finished two games above .500 (42.40). As this is the written the Bulls might find it difficult to duplicate last season, as this is written at the end of January the team stands 23-25.
The upside to this negative picture they could still reach the playoffs in the “weak” Eastern Conference. The circumstances are not necessarily in order but the individuals named are contributors to the discourse. Rondo returned to his ME attitude and was demoted to the bench. The “Benchitis” infection spread throughout the team as All-Stars Jimmy Butler and Dwayne Wade saw the game from the bench as well. There are too many issues and too little space to detail all the issues. Has Fred Hoiberg lost this team, that’s likely the question being asked by fans and management too?
“Get him the ball”
I’ve written previously 7-6 300 pound Tacko Fall is extremely raw, despite this issue he‘s managed to average 13.1 ppg and 10.6 rebounds so far this season. His weakness is lack of strength, which might sound strange for someone weighing 300 pounds. In Tacko’s case its true, its upper body strength which causes him to “lose” rebounds to smaller players. Most bothersome to me is on the offensive end of the court for UCF.
I’ve witnessed two consecutive games Tacko registered a gigantic “goose egg." In those games the opposition played a zone defense denying UCF guards the opportunity to pass the ball to Tacko. It seems a basketball novice could see Central Florida needs a zone buster. A player able to force the opposition into man to man coverage. The remaining games on UCF schedules will be available on ESPN or CBS Sports Network; I’m going to see if Coach Dawkins fixes the problem this fan sees.
Two minute report
I dread the two-minute report the NBA is now using. Coaches, fans and the media have been complaining about fouls and the like since 1947. All the NBA is doing is providing evidence of errors. Games are officiated by human beings and not robots mistakes are going to be made. Athletes don’t make errors on purpose and neither do officials. Why reinforce the belief errors occur with the conspiracy theorists.
NCAA Championships
The game today between Kentucky and Kansas is not to decide the NCAA Championship however it did cause me to wonder. Which team has the most Division I championships?
UCLA-11
Kentucky-8
Indiana, North Carolina, Duke-5
Kansas, UConn-4
Louisville-3
Oklahoma A&M (now State)-2
San Francisco-2
Cincinnati-2
North Carolina State-2
Florida-2
Villanova-2
Of all the champions City College of New York City has the most unique, they managed to win the NCAA and NIT Championship in the same year. In 1950 City College won the NIT and was later invited to play in the NCAA Tournament which they won over Bradley 71--68. Of course this would be impossible today far too many teams are now invited to the NCAA Tournament. A side note that CCNY team was involved in a point-shaving scandal however the double win remains recognized by the NCAA and NIT.
Can you say implosion?
I’m sure most expected the Bulls to be a playoff contender in 2016-17. The Bulls added talented but mercurial guard Rajon Rondo and Dwayne Wade arrived from the Heat. Robin Lopez came in the Derrick Rose trade replacing Pau Gasol. Fans were energized they would witness an improved team over the one that finished two games above .500 (42.40). As this is the written the Bulls might find it difficult to duplicate last season, as this is written at the end of January the team stands 23-25.
The upside to this negative picture they could still reach the playoffs in the “weak” Eastern Conference. The circumstances are not necessarily in order but the individuals named are contributors to the discourse. Rondo returned to his ME attitude and was demoted to the bench. The “Benchitis” infection spread throughout the team as All-Stars Jimmy Butler and Dwayne Wade saw the game from the bench as well. There are too many issues and too little space to detail all the issues. Has Fred Hoiberg lost this team, that’s likely the question being asked by fans and management too?
“Get him the ball”
I’ve written previously 7-6 300 pound Tacko Fall is extremely raw, despite this issue he‘s managed to average 13.1 ppg and 10.6 rebounds so far this season. His weakness is lack of strength, which might sound strange for someone weighing 300 pounds. In Tacko’s case its true, its upper body strength which causes him to “lose” rebounds to smaller players. Most bothersome to me is on the offensive end of the court for UCF.
I’ve witnessed two consecutive games Tacko registered a gigantic “goose egg." In those games the opposition played a zone defense denying UCF guards the opportunity to pass the ball to Tacko. It seems a basketball novice could see Central Florida needs a zone buster. A player able to force the opposition into man to man coverage. The remaining games on UCF schedules will be available on ESPN or CBS Sports Network; I’m going to see if Coach Dawkins fixes the problem this fan sees.
Saturday, January 28, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Trust the Process”
The Sixers are not very good thus few games have been nationally telecast. We have only witnessed a glimpse of “The Process” on ESPN’s SportsCenter and NBA TV’s GameTime. Of course I’m referring to Joel Embiid of the Sixers who put on a quite a shooting exhibition against the Rockets. Embiid had a season high 32 points along with 7 rebounds and 4 assists. James Harden sealed the deal with a triple-double, 51 points 13 rebounds and 13 assists leading the Rockets to a 123-118 win.
Remember the name
Another South Sudan talent has emerged on the basketball scene, his name Chol Marial. Marial stands 7-3 and weighs 210 pounds, he’s in the middle of his sophomore year at Cheshire Academy. Cheshire is a prep school located in Chesire (CT) about 30 miles south-southwest of Hartford. The youngster is already on the radar of ESPNU, Rivals, DraftExpress.com and NBADraft.net just to name a few sites. Marial has offers currently from Florida State, Georgetown, St. John’s, Iowa and West Virginia. He’s certainly a potential talent to follow the next two years.
West (World)
Russell Westbrook will be a 2017 NBA All-Star; he was added to the roster as a reserve after losing the overall vote. We don‘t have the answer but we can speculate, why was Westbrook voted an All-Star by the media and the players but not the fans? I cannot speak for you but after checking with a couple of NBA fans I’ve come to a conclusion. “He plays out of the control at times” was the response from one friend. The other said; “I guess Westbrook must play with his angry game face on continuously. That grimace on his face makes him appear angry all the time.”
There is no doubt Westbrook is the O in the offense for the Thunder but is that good thing? Check these numbers out in the win Thursday night, the Thunder took 94 shots and Westbrook had 37 of them. There appears to be no effort to develop any sort of offensive game for the balance of the team. Westbrook shot .556 for the game however check these numbers out. He shot .411 for the previous 10 games and .401 for January. These numbers are below his career number of .434. Just in case you were curious there was no 3-point line in Oscar Robertson’s’ day but he shot .478 from the floor in his triple-double season of 1961-62.
Smush
If you were a Laker fan in 2005 you likely remember William Henry “Smush” Parker. This former 6-4 guard burst on the scene and became a surprise starter. Smush could score but he fell into disfavor with much of the coaching staff and eventually Kobe Bryant. After leaving the Lakers in 2007 he played for two additional NBA teams before heading overseas. He’s still playing at age 35 but this is not the news. This is the news after clashing with Kobe Bryant he now indicates he’d like to team up with Kobe and Lamar Odom in Ice Cube’s Big3 league. I hope Smush is not expecting a text/email or telephone call from Kobe.
“Trust the Process”
The Sixers are not very good thus few games have been nationally telecast. We have only witnessed a glimpse of “The Process” on ESPN’s SportsCenter and NBA TV’s GameTime. Of course I’m referring to Joel Embiid of the Sixers who put on a quite a shooting exhibition against the Rockets. Embiid had a season high 32 points along with 7 rebounds and 4 assists. James Harden sealed the deal with a triple-double, 51 points 13 rebounds and 13 assists leading the Rockets to a 123-118 win.
Remember the name
Another South Sudan talent has emerged on the basketball scene, his name Chol Marial. Marial stands 7-3 and weighs 210 pounds, he’s in the middle of his sophomore year at Cheshire Academy. Cheshire is a prep school located in Chesire (CT) about 30 miles south-southwest of Hartford. The youngster is already on the radar of ESPNU, Rivals, DraftExpress.com and NBADraft.net just to name a few sites. Marial has offers currently from Florida State, Georgetown, St. John’s, Iowa and West Virginia. He’s certainly a potential talent to follow the next two years.
West (World)
Russell Westbrook will be a 2017 NBA All-Star; he was added to the roster as a reserve after losing the overall vote. We don‘t have the answer but we can speculate, why was Westbrook voted an All-Star by the media and the players but not the fans? I cannot speak for you but after checking with a couple of NBA fans I’ve come to a conclusion. “He plays out of the control at times” was the response from one friend. The other said; “I guess Westbrook must play with his angry game face on continuously. That grimace on his face makes him appear angry all the time.”
There is no doubt Westbrook is the O in the offense for the Thunder but is that good thing? Check these numbers out in the win Thursday night, the Thunder took 94 shots and Westbrook had 37 of them. There appears to be no effort to develop any sort of offensive game for the balance of the team. Westbrook shot .556 for the game however check these numbers out. He shot .411 for the previous 10 games and .401 for January. These numbers are below his career number of .434. Just in case you were curious there was no 3-point line in Oscar Robertson’s’ day but he shot .478 from the floor in his triple-double season of 1961-62.
Smush
If you were a Laker fan in 2005 you likely remember William Henry “Smush” Parker. This former 6-4 guard burst on the scene and became a surprise starter. Smush could score but he fell into disfavor with much of the coaching staff and eventually Kobe Bryant. After leaving the Lakers in 2007 he played for two additional NBA teams before heading overseas. He’s still playing at age 35 but this is not the news. This is the news after clashing with Kobe Bryant he now indicates he’d like to team up with Kobe and Lamar Odom in Ice Cube’s Big3 league. I hope Smush is not expecting a text/email or telephone call from Kobe.
Friday, January 27, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Bits n Pieces
Chris Paul was out of the lineup that was a negative but Blake Griffin was in so that’s a positive. Joel Embiid was sidelined with a knee contusion and yet the Sixers won the game. The Clippers had the Sixers down by 19 points yet lost the game 121-110, the win was the Sixers first against the Clippers in like forever.
The Big 12-SEC challenge will prove interesting this year. The game most interesting is #2 Kansas versus #4 Kentucky late Saturday afternoon. That game is the single one matching two Top 25 teams. The others #25 Florida is at Oklahoma and #5 Baylor plays Ole Miss.
Hopefully the information I uncovered is correct. My confusion over the Lakers first round draft choice is clear now; I’ve checked two other draft sites. If the Lakers finish 1, 2 or 3 they maintain their pick, they lose the pick if they finish 4th or higher in the lottery. Since the draft is weighted the Nets have a 25% chance of being awarded the first pick the Lakers 19.9%.
Purdue has a 17-4 record as this is written aiding greatly to the cause has been Caleb Swanigan. The 6-9 250 pound forward has been a double-double man in his sophomore year at Purdue. Only 3 games he’s failed to reach double figures so far this season. Considering he was once an overweight teen at 6-2 and nearly 400 pounds he’s come a long, long way.
Do you trade for a veteran?
Southern California has a number of positives. The area has warm weather, Hollywood, television and commercial opportunities. It’s also home to the Lakers who must come to a conclusion, they require a veteran presence in the lineup. This is not just any veteran but one good enough to provide effective leadership. Despite the advantages of Los Angeles the present day Lakers are not going to attract any high profile athletes. A trade becomes a quick fix and addresses a number of the problems we’ve witnessed thus far this season.
The question becomes do the Lakers make a trade exchanging youth for a veteran or continue to draft and develop talent? The upside a proven veteran can help lead the Lakers into the playoffs, the downside is clear. The skilled veteran fails to provide the leadership anticipated and the youthful player(s) traded excels in his new home. Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith of TNT made a statement which brings this discussion into perspective. Smith said; ‘Unless you are making a trade for a veteran who demands a double-team a trade is of no use. The deadline is February 23 so there remains time for a decision.
International game
A number of college teams across the nation could make a similar claim however the spotlight is on New Mexico State. The university in Las Cruces has 16 players on its roster 7 of them international players. France, Ivory Coast and Canada are all represented on NMSU’s roster. Should I refer to Canadians as international players? Our northern neighbors are really not international; they speak the same language as us, drive many of the same vehicles and purchase similar products.
Bits n Pieces
Chris Paul was out of the lineup that was a negative but Blake Griffin was in so that’s a positive. Joel Embiid was sidelined with a knee contusion and yet the Sixers won the game. The Clippers had the Sixers down by 19 points yet lost the game 121-110, the win was the Sixers first against the Clippers in like forever.
The Big 12-SEC challenge will prove interesting this year. The game most interesting is #2 Kansas versus #4 Kentucky late Saturday afternoon. That game is the single one matching two Top 25 teams. The others #25 Florida is at Oklahoma and #5 Baylor plays Ole Miss.
Hopefully the information I uncovered is correct. My confusion over the Lakers first round draft choice is clear now; I’ve checked two other draft sites. If the Lakers finish 1, 2 or 3 they maintain their pick, they lose the pick if they finish 4th or higher in the lottery. Since the draft is weighted the Nets have a 25% chance of being awarded the first pick the Lakers 19.9%.
Purdue has a 17-4 record as this is written aiding greatly to the cause has been Caleb Swanigan. The 6-9 250 pound forward has been a double-double man in his sophomore year at Purdue. Only 3 games he’s failed to reach double figures so far this season. Considering he was once an overweight teen at 6-2 and nearly 400 pounds he’s come a long, long way.
Do you trade for a veteran?
Southern California has a number of positives. The area has warm weather, Hollywood, television and commercial opportunities. It’s also home to the Lakers who must come to a conclusion, they require a veteran presence in the lineup. This is not just any veteran but one good enough to provide effective leadership. Despite the advantages of Los Angeles the present day Lakers are not going to attract any high profile athletes. A trade becomes a quick fix and addresses a number of the problems we’ve witnessed thus far this season.
The question becomes do the Lakers make a trade exchanging youth for a veteran or continue to draft and develop talent? The upside a proven veteran can help lead the Lakers into the playoffs, the downside is clear. The skilled veteran fails to provide the leadership anticipated and the youthful player(s) traded excels in his new home. Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith of TNT made a statement which brings this discussion into perspective. Smith said; ‘Unless you are making a trade for a veteran who demands a double-team a trade is of no use. The deadline is February 23 so there remains time for a decision.
International game
A number of college teams across the nation could make a similar claim however the spotlight is on New Mexico State. The university in Las Cruces has 16 players on its roster 7 of them international players. France, Ivory Coast and Canada are all represented on NMSU’s roster. Should I refer to Canadians as international players? Our northern neighbors are really not international; they speak the same language as us, drive many of the same vehicles and purchase similar products.
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Seriously!
The NBA season is long, running from October training camp and play to June when the champ is crowned. Over that period even good teams (including NBA Champions) have down periods. I’m attempting to determine the issue with LeBron James. The Cavs have lost 5 out off their last 6 games but the roof hasn’t collapsed. He believes they lack depth at several positions and management has made no attempt to address the issue.
“I’m 33 years old” was uttered by LeBron indicating his window might be closing. The Cavs sit in first place comfortably and the bigger question is this can any of the pretenders beat them? If you are Celtic, Hawks or Raptor fan I’m not trying to put down your team. I believe those teams and others don’t have enough in their arsenal to beat the Cavs in a playoff series. Perhaps LeBron is looking ahead to facing the Warriors, Spurs or Rockets.
Winning
So many basketball teams and I must admit my focus has been placed on NCAA Division I schools. That’s certainly not to say that is the only level winning basketball is being played outstanding basketball is being played right here in the State of Missouri. Northwest Missouri State is an NAIA Division II program; the Bearcats are 18-0 as of January 25.
The school is located in Maryville about 100 miles north of Kansas City. Not only basketball but football too, the school finished the 2016 season with a perfect 15-0 record winning the Division II Championship for the second consecutive year. The basketball season is not complete however it’s likely few NCAA Division I or II programs have ever had success on the field and court in the same year as Northwest Missouri State.
I’m confused
The mock draft sites are not checked daily by yours truly. Early on most indicated the Lakers had no 2017 first round pick. I just checked this morning and they now indicate the Lakers have a first round pick, I’m confused but I’ll go with it. Based on the Lakers record they should draft somewhere between one and five---who do they choose?
I stated last Monday I’m unsure of D’Angelo Russell at the point. Should any of these players leave early would the Lakers consider Markelle Fultz of Washington, Lonzo Ball of UCLA or some other point guard? How about shooting guard Josh Jackson of Kansas or Kentucky’s Malik Monk? At this point in time I cannot see the Lakers drafting a small or power forward, if the Lakers believe Ivica Zubac is the future they will not draft a center either.
Who’s number one?
Maybe the better question who wants to be number one? Number one Villanova and number two Kansas both lost on the same night. Baring a loss does undefeated and number three Gonzaga move into the top spot? Number four Kentucky also was a loser against Tennessee. Looking at Kansas 18-2, Baylor 18-1 and West Virginia 15-4 perhaps the Big 12 might be the strongest most competitive conference in the nation. I’ll wait for the balance of the season to determine which is strongest.
NOTE: Kansas fans please quit belly aching, listen to yourself considering the teams excellent record. I read a letter of complaint from Lawrence (KS) after the game and the writer asked the question; “How come Kansas had more fouls than WVU a pressing team?” I checked the box score the difference was four, 22 fouls called on Kansas 18 on WVU. Perhaps that’s karma for the quite evident walking violation at Allen Fieldhouse allowing Kansas to win the game against Kansas State.
Seriously!
The NBA season is long, running from October training camp and play to June when the champ is crowned. Over that period even good teams (including NBA Champions) have down periods. I’m attempting to determine the issue with LeBron James. The Cavs have lost 5 out off their last 6 games but the roof hasn’t collapsed. He believes they lack depth at several positions and management has made no attempt to address the issue.
“I’m 33 years old” was uttered by LeBron indicating his window might be closing. The Cavs sit in first place comfortably and the bigger question is this can any of the pretenders beat them? If you are Celtic, Hawks or Raptor fan I’m not trying to put down your team. I believe those teams and others don’t have enough in their arsenal to beat the Cavs in a playoff series. Perhaps LeBron is looking ahead to facing the Warriors, Spurs or Rockets.
Winning
So many basketball teams and I must admit my focus has been placed on NCAA Division I schools. That’s certainly not to say that is the only level winning basketball is being played outstanding basketball is being played right here in the State of Missouri. Northwest Missouri State is an NAIA Division II program; the Bearcats are 18-0 as of January 25.
The school is located in Maryville about 100 miles north of Kansas City. Not only basketball but football too, the school finished the 2016 season with a perfect 15-0 record winning the Division II Championship for the second consecutive year. The basketball season is not complete however it’s likely few NCAA Division I or II programs have ever had success on the field and court in the same year as Northwest Missouri State.
I’m confused
The mock draft sites are not checked daily by yours truly. Early on most indicated the Lakers had no 2017 first round pick. I just checked this morning and they now indicate the Lakers have a first round pick, I’m confused but I’ll go with it. Based on the Lakers record they should draft somewhere between one and five---who do they choose?
I stated last Monday I’m unsure of D’Angelo Russell at the point. Should any of these players leave early would the Lakers consider Markelle Fultz of Washington, Lonzo Ball of UCLA or some other point guard? How about shooting guard Josh Jackson of Kansas or Kentucky’s Malik Monk? At this point in time I cannot see the Lakers drafting a small or power forward, if the Lakers believe Ivica Zubac is the future they will not draft a center either.
Who’s number one?
Maybe the better question who wants to be number one? Number one Villanova and number two Kansas both lost on the same night. Baring a loss does undefeated and number three Gonzaga move into the top spot? Number four Kentucky also was a loser against Tennessee. Looking at Kansas 18-2, Baylor 18-1 and West Virginia 15-4 perhaps the Big 12 might be the strongest most competitive conference in the nation. I’ll wait for the balance of the season to determine which is strongest.
NOTE: Kansas fans please quit belly aching, listen to yourself considering the teams excellent record. I read a letter of complaint from Lawrence (KS) after the game and the writer asked the question; “How come Kansas had more fouls than WVU a pressing team?” I checked the box score the difference was four, 22 fouls called on Kansas 18 on WVU. Perhaps that’s karma for the quite evident walking violation at Allen Fieldhouse allowing Kansas to win the game against Kansas State.
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Monster game
The Cavs lost the game 124-122 to the Pelicans but through no fault of Kyrie Irving. The Cavs point guard scored 49 points on 15-28 (.536) and 8-14 from the free-throw line (.536). By the way Irving hit all his free-throws 11-11 (.1000), 2 rebounds and 4 assists.
Kansas-West Virginia
The Mountaineers have the Jayhawks number at least in Morgantown. They beat them once again last night 85-69. The final score might be a little misleading because Kansas was in the game until just about the middle of the second half. West Virginia’s defense certainly was much better than Kansas. We can stamp Josh Jackson’s gone after this season NBA bound. The 6-8 guard led the way for the Jayhawks with 22 points, Devonte Graham (17 points) and Frank Mason III contributed 15.
Bits n Pieces
Basketball cliches you know them you hear them often enough during radio and television broadcasts, a number apply to basketball only while others cover any sport. This is just a small sample of often over used cliches by those who broadcast the games we watch and listen.
“A lot of open looks at the basket”
“It doesn’t get any better than this”
“Charity stripe”
“It’s gut check time”
“Offense Wins games, Defense Wins Championships”
“Alligator arms” or “he short-armed it”
“They’ve been on fire”
“He’s a pure shooter”
“They play an up tempo game”
“He provides them instant offense”
I’m unsure D’Angelo Russell is the answer for the Lakers at point guard. That’s not to say he can play. Shooting guard might be a better position for this combo guard; I have difficulty seeing him at the point in the future. As for Jordan Clarkson he’s steady but he too is more a combo guard, the Lakers need a pure point guard but here’s the dilemma. They have no first round choice in 2017 unless they make a trade.
Zion Williamson is a 6-6 230 pound small forward and might be the next LeBron. Okay I‘m making an unfair comparison however his size and the fact he plays small forward leads me to this conclusion. Williamson is rated the number 2 prospect in the Class of 2018 and the number of schools with offers is quite extensive, far too extensive to list here. Williamson attends Spartanburg Day School in Spartanburg (SC).
Ahead of his time
While researching another story I came across a photo of the late Pete Maravich a player who was ahead of his time. Not the scoring part the wide-open game he played plus his snappy passing skills. Maravich died far too you at age 40 from a heart attack after a pickup game. If we play ‘what-if’ it’s possible today’s medicine versus 1988 might have detected his heart problem. Keep in mind Maravich played at LSU at a time freshman were ineligible to play varsity sports. His scoring average represents sophomore through his senior year. At that Maravich managed to score 3,667 points and average 44.2 points per game in three years.
Consider these two facts this was before the 3-point line was added to the college game as well as the shot clock. The advent of the shot clock speeded up team offense no more 4 corner offense or holding the ball. It’s no telling how much Maravich might have scored if the 3-point line and clock had been in place. The passing skills are the portion of ‘Pistol Pete’s game often overlooked. His career was cut short by injury only managing to play 10 years. Maravich is one of those honored by being enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
Monster game
The Cavs lost the game 124-122 to the Pelicans but through no fault of Kyrie Irving. The Cavs point guard scored 49 points on 15-28 (.536) and 8-14 from the free-throw line (.536). By the way Irving hit all his free-throws 11-11 (.1000), 2 rebounds and 4 assists.
Kansas-West Virginia
The Mountaineers have the Jayhawks number at least in Morgantown. They beat them once again last night 85-69. The final score might be a little misleading because Kansas was in the game until just about the middle of the second half. West Virginia’s defense certainly was much better than Kansas. We can stamp Josh Jackson’s gone after this season NBA bound. The 6-8 guard led the way for the Jayhawks with 22 points, Devonte Graham (17 points) and Frank Mason III contributed 15.
Bits n Pieces
Basketball cliches you know them you hear them often enough during radio and television broadcasts, a number apply to basketball only while others cover any sport. This is just a small sample of often over used cliches by those who broadcast the games we watch and listen.
“A lot of open looks at the basket”
“It doesn’t get any better than this”
“Charity stripe”
“It’s gut check time”
“Offense Wins games, Defense Wins Championships”
“Alligator arms” or “he short-armed it”
“They’ve been on fire”
“He’s a pure shooter”
“They play an up tempo game”
“He provides them instant offense”
I’m unsure D’Angelo Russell is the answer for the Lakers at point guard. That’s not to say he can play. Shooting guard might be a better position for this combo guard; I have difficulty seeing him at the point in the future. As for Jordan Clarkson he’s steady but he too is more a combo guard, the Lakers need a pure point guard but here’s the dilemma. They have no first round choice in 2017 unless they make a trade.
Zion Williamson is a 6-6 230 pound small forward and might be the next LeBron. Okay I‘m making an unfair comparison however his size and the fact he plays small forward leads me to this conclusion. Williamson is rated the number 2 prospect in the Class of 2018 and the number of schools with offers is quite extensive, far too extensive to list here. Williamson attends Spartanburg Day School in Spartanburg (SC).
Ahead of his time
While researching another story I came across a photo of the late Pete Maravich a player who was ahead of his time. Not the scoring part the wide-open game he played plus his snappy passing skills. Maravich died far too you at age 40 from a heart attack after a pickup game. If we play ‘what-if’ it’s possible today’s medicine versus 1988 might have detected his heart problem. Keep in mind Maravich played at LSU at a time freshman were ineligible to play varsity sports. His scoring average represents sophomore through his senior year. At that Maravich managed to score 3,667 points and average 44.2 points per game in three years.
Consider these two facts this was before the 3-point line was added to the college game as well as the shot clock. The advent of the shot clock speeded up team offense no more 4 corner offense or holding the ball. It’s no telling how much Maravich might have scored if the 3-point line and clock had been in place. The passing skills are the portion of ‘Pistol Pete’s game often overlooked. His career was cut short by injury only managing to play 10 years. Maravich is one of those honored by being enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.
Tuesday, January 24, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
The name
On January 21st I wrote of Steve Kerr’s desire for the Warriors to remain Golden State when the team moves to San Francisco into the Chase Center. I cited a number of NBA and NFL franchises that have the state rather than metro has part of their franchise name. I asked what you thought about Kerr’s statement, did you think it was valid? Well here I go with my take; the Warriors should have San Francisco in front of their name and I offer you the reason I believe this should be so.
Every team I mentioned had a state name attached; Minnesota Wolves, Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings, Carolina Panthers, Texas Rangers. None of the teams named contains any sort of nickname. Golden State is a nickname for California however it’s not a real name Minnesota, Texas and Carolina are real places. I suppose Florida could consider itself the Golden State if it wanted to since golden refers to the sun. The franchises I listed or validated based on an attachment to the state. I don’t live in Northern California so my view doesn’t amount to diddly it’s just an opinion folks.
Improved--maybe
Despite the Sunday Massacre by the Mavs the Lakers are by my measurement at least 3 inches better than last season. The Lakers similar to most teams generally have no problem scoring it’s the other things. Those other things are defensive lapses exhibited all traits of a young and inexperienced team. On the other hand there are young teams I believed would play better this season and so far that have not been the case. Other than the Lakers there are two teams in my view under performing the Eastern Conference Bucks and the Western Conference Wolves. The Bucks are 20-23 as this is written; they are on the path but also experience those defensive lapses too.
We can add the Wolves to the list too, last year at this time of the season they stood 14-31 versus 16-28. I believed hiring Tom Thibodeau was a good thing. He’s a defensive minded coach; so far it’s not worked in the Wolves favor. There are other NBA teams experiencing poor seasons and maybe some I overlooked. I decline to place the Sixers in this report I believe (thanks largely to Embiid) they have exceeded most expectations. I focused on the Lakers, Bucks and Wolves because these teams have rosters of young players. The Suns have underperformed too however they are a slightly older as are the Blazers.
50 points?
There are no big-time scorers in college anymore, we might have believed that to be the case but it’s untrue. I submit again for your observation the name Marcus Keene Central Michigan, his line read 50 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Keene indicated he believed he was “in a zone.” I can agree with the statement anytime a guy shoots 65% from the floor. An old adage might apply to Keene who stands a towering 5 foot 9 inches tall, “Dynamite comes in small packages.” Keene is a junior so in all likelihood he returns to Central Michigan in the fall. As for the 2018 draft we shall see if he makes the cut.
NBA talent from the African continent
It was reported the NBA would be opening a basketball academy in Senegal. The hope is talent from the continent will journey to Senegal to learn the skill required to play basketball at a high skill level. Luol Deng from South Sudan (Lakers), Serge Ibaka Republic of the Congo (Magic), Bismack Biyombo Democratic Republic of the Congo (Magic) and Fetus Ezeli Nigeria (Blazers) are just a few talents from the continent.
Paving the way for them were Hakeem Olajuwon (Nigeria), Dikembe Mutombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and the late Manute Bol (South Sudan). The aforementioned players and a number of others were trailblazers in the NBA. Joel Embiid (Cameroon) Emanuel Mudiay (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Chiek Diallo (Mali) and others are part of the continuing pipeline from Africa. The future might see Tacko Fall (Senegal) added to the NBA mix should he continue to develop at Central Florida.
McDonald’s All American
The 2017 McDonald’s All American team has been announced. This is year 40 for the signature high school All-Star game. There are other All-Star high school games but this one likely receives the most notoriety. Being selected is no guarantee of future success however some of the names read like a who’s who. Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson are just a few of the names who made their mark as a McDonald’s All American. DeAndre Ayton Hillcrest Academy Phoenix (AZ), Michael Porter Jr. Nathan Hale HS Seattle (WA) and Wendall Carter Pace Academy Atlanta (GA) are a few of the 2017 honorees.
The name
On January 21st I wrote of Steve Kerr’s desire for the Warriors to remain Golden State when the team moves to San Francisco into the Chase Center. I cited a number of NBA and NFL franchises that have the state rather than metro has part of their franchise name. I asked what you thought about Kerr’s statement, did you think it was valid? Well here I go with my take; the Warriors should have San Francisco in front of their name and I offer you the reason I believe this should be so.
Every team I mentioned had a state name attached; Minnesota Wolves, Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings, Carolina Panthers, Texas Rangers. None of the teams named contains any sort of nickname. Golden State is a nickname for California however it’s not a real name Minnesota, Texas and Carolina are real places. I suppose Florida could consider itself the Golden State if it wanted to since golden refers to the sun. The franchises I listed or validated based on an attachment to the state. I don’t live in Northern California so my view doesn’t amount to diddly it’s just an opinion folks.
Improved--maybe
Despite the Sunday Massacre by the Mavs the Lakers are by my measurement at least 3 inches better than last season. The Lakers similar to most teams generally have no problem scoring it’s the other things. Those other things are defensive lapses exhibited all traits of a young and inexperienced team. On the other hand there are young teams I believed would play better this season and so far that have not been the case. Other than the Lakers there are two teams in my view under performing the Eastern Conference Bucks and the Western Conference Wolves. The Bucks are 20-23 as this is written; they are on the path but also experience those defensive lapses too.
We can add the Wolves to the list too, last year at this time of the season they stood 14-31 versus 16-28. I believed hiring Tom Thibodeau was a good thing. He’s a defensive minded coach; so far it’s not worked in the Wolves favor. There are other NBA teams experiencing poor seasons and maybe some I overlooked. I decline to place the Sixers in this report I believe (thanks largely to Embiid) they have exceeded most expectations. I focused on the Lakers, Bucks and Wolves because these teams have rosters of young players. The Suns have underperformed too however they are a slightly older as are the Blazers.
50 points?
There are no big-time scorers in college anymore, we might have believed that to be the case but it’s untrue. I submit again for your observation the name Marcus Keene Central Michigan, his line read 50 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals. Keene indicated he believed he was “in a zone.” I can agree with the statement anytime a guy shoots 65% from the floor. An old adage might apply to Keene who stands a towering 5 foot 9 inches tall, “Dynamite comes in small packages.” Keene is a junior so in all likelihood he returns to Central Michigan in the fall. As for the 2018 draft we shall see if he makes the cut.
NBA talent from the African continent
It was reported the NBA would be opening a basketball academy in Senegal. The hope is talent from the continent will journey to Senegal to learn the skill required to play basketball at a high skill level. Luol Deng from South Sudan (Lakers), Serge Ibaka Republic of the Congo (Magic), Bismack Biyombo Democratic Republic of the Congo (Magic) and Fetus Ezeli Nigeria (Blazers) are just a few talents from the continent.
Paving the way for them were Hakeem Olajuwon (Nigeria), Dikembe Mutombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and the late Manute Bol (South Sudan). The aforementioned players and a number of others were trailblazers in the NBA. Joel Embiid (Cameroon) Emanuel Mudiay (Democratic Republic of the Congo), Chiek Diallo (Mali) and others are part of the continuing pipeline from Africa. The future might see Tacko Fall (Senegal) added to the NBA mix should he continue to develop at Central Florida.
McDonald’s All American
The 2017 McDonald’s All American team has been announced. This is year 40 for the signature high school All-Star game. There are other All-Star high school games but this one likely receives the most notoriety. Being selected is no guarantee of future success however some of the names read like a who’s who. Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson are just a few of the names who made their mark as a McDonald’s All American. DeAndre Ayton Hillcrest Academy Phoenix (AZ), Michael Porter Jr. Nathan Hale HS Seattle (WA) and Wendall Carter Pace Academy Atlanta (GA) are a few of the 2017 honorees.
Monday, January 23, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
There are signs
The Lakers Brandon Ingram started slowly this season, his shooting was off and he appeared lost on defense and offense at times. I’ve always believed in a baptism of fire, you cannot learn how to play in the NBA sitting on the bench. Luol Deng being in and out of the lineup has aided Ingram on the other hand maybe he’s just maturing. Over the last 10 games Ingram’s scoring average has raised to 12 points a game not earth-shattering but above his 8.4 average.
During this span Ingram has seen his field goal average rise to .476 above his .375 season average. Noteworthy has been his increased defense presence. I’m not sure of the future however I believe the Lakers have two building blocks in Julius Randle and Brandon Ingram in a return to playoff basketball. Notice I didn’t include D’Angelo Russell in the “building block’ category, I see glimpses but I’m reserving judgment at this point.
I’m tired
Can Mizzou beat anybody, well it certainly wasn’t Ole Miss they lost once again 75-71. The Tigers now stand 5-13 and 0-6 in the SEC, Mizzou fans are counting the number of remaining games till March 4th the last game of the season. It won’t come immediately but there will be a coaching change within weeks. I’m tired of losing, I’m tired of reporting on losing I’m just plain tired. I promise you unless there is something eventful (a win) this will be the last report prior to the coaching change.
Hope he’s okay
Joel Embiid suffered a left knee contusion in the Sixers game Friday evening. Despite that fact the Sixers managed to squeeze by the Blazers 93-90. Embiid’s line read 18 points, 10 rebounds along with 5 assists and 4 blocked shots. This total was accomplished in 22 minutes on the court. 19.9 ppg, 7.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocked shots for his season average. Embiid wouldn’t play Saturday evening anyway since he doesn’t play back to back games.
NBA players and me
In my lifetime I’ve had an opportunity to meet a number of former NBA players; all were retired but live in in the KC Metro. Clay Johnson was a 6-4 shooting guard who attended high school here and later played at Mizzou. From 1982 through 1984 he played one season for the Lakers and one for the Sonics. He returned to Kansas City and went into business. 6-7 Scott Wedman was a small forward; drafted by the Kings in 1974 he later played for the Cavs and Celtics. Wedman would become an NBA Champion playing for the Celtics. After a 12-year career he moved back to Kansas City where he operates a real estate business. The late Sam Lacey might have been one of the most underrated centers of the period.
It’s easy to understand; Lacey arrived in the NBA of the ‘70’s and ‘80’s. Nightly he dueled with Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Nate Thurmond, Moses Malone, Darryl Dawkins and Bob Lanier among others and most times performed admirably. After leaving the Kings he played until 1983 when he retired. Lacey returned to Kansas City and became involved in a number of community activities. His death at 65 was a shock to NBA fans especially those in Kansas City. Once while returning home from Dallas I met and held a conversation with Danny Manning in the DFW Airport. At the time he was a member of Bill Self’s coaching staff. We held a brief conversation and I asked for and received an autograph from the former NBA veteran.
There are signs
The Lakers Brandon Ingram started slowly this season, his shooting was off and he appeared lost on defense and offense at times. I’ve always believed in a baptism of fire, you cannot learn how to play in the NBA sitting on the bench. Luol Deng being in and out of the lineup has aided Ingram on the other hand maybe he’s just maturing. Over the last 10 games Ingram’s scoring average has raised to 12 points a game not earth-shattering but above his 8.4 average.
During this span Ingram has seen his field goal average rise to .476 above his .375 season average. Noteworthy has been his increased defense presence. I’m not sure of the future however I believe the Lakers have two building blocks in Julius Randle and Brandon Ingram in a return to playoff basketball. Notice I didn’t include D’Angelo Russell in the “building block’ category, I see glimpses but I’m reserving judgment at this point.
I’m tired
Can Mizzou beat anybody, well it certainly wasn’t Ole Miss they lost once again 75-71. The Tigers now stand 5-13 and 0-6 in the SEC, Mizzou fans are counting the number of remaining games till March 4th the last game of the season. It won’t come immediately but there will be a coaching change within weeks. I’m tired of losing, I’m tired of reporting on losing I’m just plain tired. I promise you unless there is something eventful (a win) this will be the last report prior to the coaching change.
Hope he’s okay
Joel Embiid suffered a left knee contusion in the Sixers game Friday evening. Despite that fact the Sixers managed to squeeze by the Blazers 93-90. Embiid’s line read 18 points, 10 rebounds along with 5 assists and 4 blocked shots. This total was accomplished in 22 minutes on the court. 19.9 ppg, 7.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocked shots for his season average. Embiid wouldn’t play Saturday evening anyway since he doesn’t play back to back games.
NBA players and me
In my lifetime I’ve had an opportunity to meet a number of former NBA players; all were retired but live in in the KC Metro. Clay Johnson was a 6-4 shooting guard who attended high school here and later played at Mizzou. From 1982 through 1984 he played one season for the Lakers and one for the Sonics. He returned to Kansas City and went into business. 6-7 Scott Wedman was a small forward; drafted by the Kings in 1974 he later played for the Cavs and Celtics. Wedman would become an NBA Champion playing for the Celtics. After a 12-year career he moved back to Kansas City where he operates a real estate business. The late Sam Lacey might have been one of the most underrated centers of the period.
It’s easy to understand; Lacey arrived in the NBA of the ‘70’s and ‘80’s. Nightly he dueled with Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Nate Thurmond, Moses Malone, Darryl Dawkins and Bob Lanier among others and most times performed admirably. After leaving the Kings he played until 1983 when he retired. Lacey returned to Kansas City and became involved in a number of community activities. His death at 65 was a shock to NBA fans especially those in Kansas City. Once while returning home from Dallas I met and held a conversation with Danny Manning in the DFW Airport. At the time he was a member of Bill Self’s coaching staff. We held a brief conversation and I asked for and received an autograph from the former NBA veteran.
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Part Deux
I have the numbers now and can make a more accurate assessment of All-Star voting. In the Western Conference back-court Steph Curry and James Harden were selected as starters. As for the raw count NBA fans are the culprit, to refresh your memory fans had 50% stake, players 25% and media 25%. Consider this little tidbit of information media members and fellow NBA players placed Westbrook at the top of their list. NBA fans voted Curry 1,848,121, Haden 1, 771,375 and Russell 1,575,865.
All-Star connection
Frank read my comment regarding Russell Westbrook and asked me the question. “Has an MVP had ever been a non-starter for the All-Star game?” The process for selecting All-Stars’ has changed over the years however it’s occurred eight times in history. I located this information on quora.com a question-and-answer site. In addition I spot checked several portions on NBA.com.
1956 - Bob Pettit [1956 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] The eventual started on the bench. He did go on to play the most minutes of any player in the game.
1961 - Bill Russell [1961 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] In Bill Russell's second MVP season he started on the bench behind some guy named Wilt Chamberlain.
1962 - Bill Russell [1962 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] Apparently being an MVP incumbent did nothing for Russell's credibility. He played behind Wilt again!
1969 - Wes Unseld [1969 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] In a fun turn of events, it was now Bill Russell starting in front of a future MVPer.
From 1975 on, we have voting records, huzzah!
1977 - Kareem Abdul Jabbar [1977 NBA All-Star Game Voting] Kareem started behind a more popular Dan Issel. By voting strength he was the 6th most popular player out west though.
1982 - Moses Malone [1982 NBA All-Star Game Voting] Like Russell before him, Kareen went from being snubee to snubber. Of course, Malone was still only the 8th most popular westerner.
1995 - David Robinson [1995 NBA All-Star Game Voting] - Robinson earned the second most votes out west, but sat behind the reigning MVP -- Hakeem Olajuwon. Of course, even after winning his MVP, Robinson would lose in the playoffs to the Dream, who went on to earn his second title. And to add insult to injury, the Admiral lost his starting spot to Hakeem in the 1996 All-Star game as well, by a larger margin!
2005 - Steve Nash [2005 NBA All-Star Game Voting] - Nash was the 6th most popular player out west. He was far behind in voting for the guard position compared to Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady. The next season he'd go on to start in the All-Star game, it helped that McGrady, who was still more popular, was moved to the forward position.”
www.quora.com
How the mighty have fallen
Bleacher Report contains a section rating NBA centers at the half-way point of the season. I believe until recently Anthony Davis was at the power forward, they have him listed as a center and number one in the NBA. I’ve got no argument with his production but question is he really a center? They have a true center (Cousins) listed in second place.
As for the headline Dwight Howard of the Hawks was rated number 12. The 12th best center in the NBA, at one time Howard was rated the number two or number three center at points in his career. It’s clear the Superman image Howard once claimed is long gone; Howard’s numbers are certainly above average but nowhere near the dominance once exhibited. How far the fall is is for Howard, Sixer center Joel Embiid yet to complete his first season in the NBA is rated ahead of Howard.
Do what you do best
Jamie Foxx is a good actor, how good you ask? He was able to give an Academy Award performance for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the movie Ray. Foxx is also free to voice his opinion; I am also free to offer a rebuttal to his opinion. Appearing on ESPN a discussion centered on the best six players all-time in the NBA. Foxx said; “Kobe Bryant’s name should be left off the list because he wasn’t a team player.”
I realize we travel in different social and business circles, perhaps Foxx has first hand information regarding Kobe I’m not privy too I’ll give him that. How about this for a rebuttal, other than the movie Ray I don’t believe Foxx has distinguished himself in any other movie or television role I‘ve seen. There I’m making a judgment too without any background same as you Jamie. Although I don’t believe you are a particularly great actor I believe you should do what you know acting. Your celebrity status allows you to offer your view of Kobe Bryant which is okay, a smaller number of folks will read this but there I said it.
Shooting it good
I’m always complaining about poor free-throw shooting, how about the good ones‘? The NCAA Division I leader is Matt Harris UMass-Lowell River; he’s shooting 94.8% from the line. Unfamiliar with Harris I wanted to ensure he was on the line an adequate number of times, as this is written he’s 55-58 from the line. In the NBA the leader is the Pacers Paul George at 92.8%. I just witnessed a college game that could have been closed out if the player had only sunk his free-throw. He hit the first one and bricked the second; the game is now in OT.
Part Deux
I have the numbers now and can make a more accurate assessment of All-Star voting. In the Western Conference back-court Steph Curry and James Harden were selected as starters. As for the raw count NBA fans are the culprit, to refresh your memory fans had 50% stake, players 25% and media 25%. Consider this little tidbit of information media members and fellow NBA players placed Westbrook at the top of their list. NBA fans voted Curry 1,848,121, Haden 1, 771,375 and Russell 1,575,865.
All-Star connection
Frank read my comment regarding Russell Westbrook and asked me the question. “Has an MVP had ever been a non-starter for the All-Star game?” The process for selecting All-Stars’ has changed over the years however it’s occurred eight times in history. I located this information on quora.com a question-and-answer site. In addition I spot checked several portions on NBA.com.
1956 - Bob Pettit [1956 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] The eventual started on the bench. He did go on to play the most minutes of any player in the game.
1961 - Bill Russell [1961 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] In Bill Russell's second MVP season he started on the bench behind some guy named Wilt Chamberlain.
1962 - Bill Russell [1962 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] Apparently being an MVP incumbent did nothing for Russell's credibility. He played behind Wilt again!
1969 - Wes Unseld [1969 NBA All-Star Game Box Score] In a fun turn of events, it was now Bill Russell starting in front of a future MVPer.
From 1975 on, we have voting records, huzzah!
1977 - Kareem Abdul Jabbar [1977 NBA All-Star Game Voting] Kareem started behind a more popular Dan Issel. By voting strength he was the 6th most popular player out west though.
1982 - Moses Malone [1982 NBA All-Star Game Voting] Like Russell before him, Kareen went from being snubee to snubber. Of course, Malone was still only the 8th most popular westerner.
1995 - David Robinson [1995 NBA All-Star Game Voting] - Robinson earned the second most votes out west, but sat behind the reigning MVP -- Hakeem Olajuwon. Of course, even after winning his MVP, Robinson would lose in the playoffs to the Dream, who went on to earn his second title. And to add insult to injury, the Admiral lost his starting spot to Hakeem in the 1996 All-Star game as well, by a larger margin!
2005 - Steve Nash [2005 NBA All-Star Game Voting] - Nash was the 6th most popular player out west. He was far behind in voting for the guard position compared to Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady. The next season he'd go on to start in the All-Star game, it helped that McGrady, who was still more popular, was moved to the forward position.”
www.quora.com
How the mighty have fallen
Bleacher Report contains a section rating NBA centers at the half-way point of the season. I believe until recently Anthony Davis was at the power forward, they have him listed as a center and number one in the NBA. I’ve got no argument with his production but question is he really a center? They have a true center (Cousins) listed in second place.
As for the headline Dwight Howard of the Hawks was rated number 12. The 12th best center in the NBA, at one time Howard was rated the number two or number three center at points in his career. It’s clear the Superman image Howard once claimed is long gone; Howard’s numbers are certainly above average but nowhere near the dominance once exhibited. How far the fall is is for Howard, Sixer center Joel Embiid yet to complete his first season in the NBA is rated ahead of Howard.
Do what you do best
Jamie Foxx is a good actor, how good you ask? He was able to give an Academy Award performance for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the movie Ray. Foxx is also free to voice his opinion; I am also free to offer a rebuttal to his opinion. Appearing on ESPN a discussion centered on the best six players all-time in the NBA. Foxx said; “Kobe Bryant’s name should be left off the list because he wasn’t a team player.”
I realize we travel in different social and business circles, perhaps Foxx has first hand information regarding Kobe I’m not privy too I’ll give him that. How about this for a rebuttal, other than the movie Ray I don’t believe Foxx has distinguished himself in any other movie or television role I‘ve seen. There I’m making a judgment too without any background same as you Jamie. Although I don’t believe you are a particularly great actor I believe you should do what you know acting. Your celebrity status allows you to offer your view of Kobe Bryant which is okay, a smaller number of folks will read this but there I said it.
Shooting it good
I’m always complaining about poor free-throw shooting, how about the good ones‘? The NCAA Division I leader is Matt Harris UMass-Lowell River; he’s shooting 94.8% from the line. Unfamiliar with Harris I wanted to ensure he was on the line an adequate number of times, as this is written he’s 55-58 from the line. In the NBA the leader is the Pacers Paul George at 92.8%. I just witnessed a college game that could have been closed out if the player had only sunk his free-throw. He hit the first one and bricked the second; the game is now in OT.
Saturday, January 21, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
This is why
Let’s just say I’m surprised but certainly not shocked. Russell Westbrook is not a starter for the All-Star team there is a reason why. I offer you no proof just an assumption on my part, despite the exploits of Westbrook on the court this season he’s not a likable guy. Why do I make that statement you ask? NBA fans represent 50% of the vote total, media members 25% and players 25%.
You telling me the guy who is attempting to tie Oscar Robertson’s triple-double record is relegated to a reserve role. As I’m writing this I have no idea of the vote total but I would believe the votes didn’t come from the fans and fellow NBA players. Westbrook beats Steph Curry in points and assists per game, he also exceeds Steph in rebounds As I stated at the beginning I offer no proof. What do you think, am I off base or is there some truth to my view?
A “good loss”
Perhaps you’ve heard this statement in the past. I once heard a media member refer to a teams’ loss as a “good loss.” His point was the team had been undefeated and they eased the pressure on themselves by losing a game. I’ve said at the time and since then “that’s one of the most stupid statements I’ve every heard.” Who benefits by a loss except the team that wins the game. Somewhere in America a reporter is likely repeating those same words especially after Thursday night.
Gonzaga registered consecutive win number 18 topping Santa Clara 88-57. Game wasn’t available in my area so I can offer no insight except Gonzaga remains undefeated. In 2015 I’m sure plenty of hate-Calipari hate-Kentucky crowd were pleased when Wisconsin upset Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament. Others wanted to see that team finish the season unblemished, in all 38-1 remains is an outstanding accomplishment.
The silver lining
Are there really positives that emerge from a loss? In the case of the Lakers I believe the 127-120 loss to the Nuggets provided at least one encouraging note. Luke Walton removed Timofey Mozgov and replaced him at center with 19-year old Ivica Zubac. The youngster from Croatia has spent most of this season on the bench or playing for the D-Fenders the Laker D-League team.
You get the picture up to this game against the Nuggets the 7-1 Zubac has played very little. I wouldn’t refer to it as a break-out game lets just say it was good. Zubac scored 11 points grabbed 13 rebounds and blocked 3 shots in the space of 26 minutes. It was said last June after the draft the Lakers felt good able to acquire Zubac in the second round. There was word in some circles calling the pick a draft “steal.” There are two reasons why Zubac is not a regular starter, 1. He’s 19-years old. 2. He’s 19-years old.
“What’s in a name?”
The title is a line uttered by Juliet in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, this account is also a name issue although certainly different in scope. At the groundbreaking ceremony for the Chase Center Warriors Coach Steve Kerr said; “I hope they keep the name Golden State.” The new arena with a planned opening of 2019 is located in San Francisco, as most of are aware the present home of the Warriors Oracle Arena is located in Oakland. Are you in agreement with maintaining “Golden State” once the team moves across the bay in 2019? We have the NFL Minnesota Vikings, the baseball Texas Rangers and Minnesota Twins.
At one time the baseball Angels had California in front of their team name. In the NHL we have the Florida Panthers and New Jersey Devils. These pro teams name reflects the entire state rather than a city alone. For those who might be too young to remember at the time the Philadelphia Warriors moved west in 1962 the name of the team was changed to San Francisco. Over the years the SF Warriors never had a permanent home in the city. They played in the Cow Palace, Civic Auditorium and records indicate they played in San Jose and Oakland. In 1972 the Oakland Arena (Oracle) became the Warriors permanent home.
This is why
Let’s just say I’m surprised but certainly not shocked. Russell Westbrook is not a starter for the All-Star team there is a reason why. I offer you no proof just an assumption on my part, despite the exploits of Westbrook on the court this season he’s not a likable guy. Why do I make that statement you ask? NBA fans represent 50% of the vote total, media members 25% and players 25%.
You telling me the guy who is attempting to tie Oscar Robertson’s triple-double record is relegated to a reserve role. As I’m writing this I have no idea of the vote total but I would believe the votes didn’t come from the fans and fellow NBA players. Westbrook beats Steph Curry in points and assists per game, he also exceeds Steph in rebounds As I stated at the beginning I offer no proof. What do you think, am I off base or is there some truth to my view?
A “good loss”
Perhaps you’ve heard this statement in the past. I once heard a media member refer to a teams’ loss as a “good loss.” His point was the team had been undefeated and they eased the pressure on themselves by losing a game. I’ve said at the time and since then “that’s one of the most stupid statements I’ve every heard.” Who benefits by a loss except the team that wins the game. Somewhere in America a reporter is likely repeating those same words especially after Thursday night.
Gonzaga registered consecutive win number 18 topping Santa Clara 88-57. Game wasn’t available in my area so I can offer no insight except Gonzaga remains undefeated. In 2015 I’m sure plenty of hate-Calipari hate-Kentucky crowd were pleased when Wisconsin upset Kentucky in the NCAA Tournament. Others wanted to see that team finish the season unblemished, in all 38-1 remains is an outstanding accomplishment.
The silver lining
Are there really positives that emerge from a loss? In the case of the Lakers I believe the 127-120 loss to the Nuggets provided at least one encouraging note. Luke Walton removed Timofey Mozgov and replaced him at center with 19-year old Ivica Zubac. The youngster from Croatia has spent most of this season on the bench or playing for the D-Fenders the Laker D-League team.
You get the picture up to this game against the Nuggets the 7-1 Zubac has played very little. I wouldn’t refer to it as a break-out game lets just say it was good. Zubac scored 11 points grabbed 13 rebounds and blocked 3 shots in the space of 26 minutes. It was said last June after the draft the Lakers felt good able to acquire Zubac in the second round. There was word in some circles calling the pick a draft “steal.” There are two reasons why Zubac is not a regular starter, 1. He’s 19-years old. 2. He’s 19-years old.
“What’s in a name?”
The title is a line uttered by Juliet in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, this account is also a name issue although certainly different in scope. At the groundbreaking ceremony for the Chase Center Warriors Coach Steve Kerr said; “I hope they keep the name Golden State.” The new arena with a planned opening of 2019 is located in San Francisco, as most of are aware the present home of the Warriors Oracle Arena is located in Oakland. Are you in agreement with maintaining “Golden State” once the team moves across the bay in 2019? We have the NFL Minnesota Vikings, the baseball Texas Rangers and Minnesota Twins.
At one time the baseball Angels had California in front of their team name. In the NHL we have the Florida Panthers and New Jersey Devils. These pro teams name reflects the entire state rather than a city alone. For those who might be too young to remember at the time the Philadelphia Warriors moved west in 1962 the name of the team was changed to San Francisco. Over the years the SF Warriors never had a permanent home in the city. They played in the Cow Palace, Civic Auditorium and records indicate they played in San Jose and Oakland. In 1972 the Oakland Arena (Oracle) became the Warriors permanent home.
Friday, January 20, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Finally
Markelle Fultz was worth the wait, I’ve mentioned previously it’s difficult for us in the central and east coast time zones to view weeknight west coast games. The game between Washington and Colorado didn’t start until 10:00 p.m. central time and guess what it went into overtime, I didn’t look at the clock but figured it concluded somewhere around 12:15 a.m. Washington has not played very good this season despite the talent of Fultz; they are now 9-9 and 2-4 in the Pac 12. As for Fultz his game total looked like this 37 points 5 rebounds and 8 assists leading the way in an 85-83 OT victory over Colorado.
Unbelievable
I must be tuned into the Sixers telepathically somehow. Tuesday night for Wednesdays edition of Words eye view I wrote; “Ben Simmons should shut it down and wait till next season.” I gave my reason go back and read it if you care doesn’t really matter. Late Wednesday afternoon comes word from ESPN.com that “Simmons might be on the court after the All-Star break.” What do I know I’m just a guy sitting in his Man-Cave publishing a basketball blog?
Is it real?
We could be fooled after all it occurred once before, the late Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell had classic battles on the basketball court. Off the court they were friendly towards one another I read they often had dinner together the night before facing one another on the court. The relationship between Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook is different they were teammates. Any friendship appears to have evaporated between the two.
It was reported Westbrook claimed Durant never contacted him about his move to the Warriors. We are in the middle of January and neither has spoken to one another. I’ve always questioned if there was really a friendship in the first place. Consider this in my work place I encountered a number of co-workers I could say in truth they were fellow employees. At the same time I have an equal number who I consider friends. Durant and Westbrook may have never been friends’ just fellow employees.
Troubled athlete
From time to time a basketball talent appears on the scene that’s headed down the wrong path. That’s become the picture for 7-1 260 pound Zach Brown a 19-year old Miami prospect. I first became aware of Brown two years ago when I read a story on life story, he and his brother had grown up in poverty in the Liberty City section of Miami. Adopted as a teen by a wealthy family he changed schools and appeared headed upward bound. He attended a prep institution intending to enroll at UConn and then the troubles began. He was dismissed from the prep school and returned home to Miami. UConn no longer interested severed ties with him, the short version Brown signs a letter of intent to St. John’s while finishing at a Miami prep school.
January 9th Brown was charged with first degree theft misdemeanor, driving with a suspended license and an expired tag on his vehicle. This was not the first incident In May 2016 Brown was charged with credit card fraud and robbery. He is a talent on the basketball court but cannot stay out of trouble off the court. The January incident forced St. John’s to withdraw its offering to him. His future other than the judicial system is in limbo at this stage. He needs to decide if he wants to play basketball or pursue a life of crime. For now it appears Juco is his only basketball option I doubt any Division I program will be offering
Finally
Markelle Fultz was worth the wait, I’ve mentioned previously it’s difficult for us in the central and east coast time zones to view weeknight west coast games. The game between Washington and Colorado didn’t start until 10:00 p.m. central time and guess what it went into overtime, I didn’t look at the clock but figured it concluded somewhere around 12:15 a.m. Washington has not played very good this season despite the talent of Fultz; they are now 9-9 and 2-4 in the Pac 12. As for Fultz his game total looked like this 37 points 5 rebounds and 8 assists leading the way in an 85-83 OT victory over Colorado.
Unbelievable
I must be tuned into the Sixers telepathically somehow. Tuesday night for Wednesdays edition of Words eye view I wrote; “Ben Simmons should shut it down and wait till next season.” I gave my reason go back and read it if you care doesn’t really matter. Late Wednesday afternoon comes word from ESPN.com that “Simmons might be on the court after the All-Star break.” What do I know I’m just a guy sitting in his Man-Cave publishing a basketball blog?
Is it real?
We could be fooled after all it occurred once before, the late Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell had classic battles on the basketball court. Off the court they were friendly towards one another I read they often had dinner together the night before facing one another on the court. The relationship between Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook is different they were teammates. Any friendship appears to have evaporated between the two.
It was reported Westbrook claimed Durant never contacted him about his move to the Warriors. We are in the middle of January and neither has spoken to one another. I’ve always questioned if there was really a friendship in the first place. Consider this in my work place I encountered a number of co-workers I could say in truth they were fellow employees. At the same time I have an equal number who I consider friends. Durant and Westbrook may have never been friends’ just fellow employees.
Troubled athlete
From time to time a basketball talent appears on the scene that’s headed down the wrong path. That’s become the picture for 7-1 260 pound Zach Brown a 19-year old Miami prospect. I first became aware of Brown two years ago when I read a story on life story, he and his brother had grown up in poverty in the Liberty City section of Miami. Adopted as a teen by a wealthy family he changed schools and appeared headed upward bound. He attended a prep institution intending to enroll at UConn and then the troubles began. He was dismissed from the prep school and returned home to Miami. UConn no longer interested severed ties with him, the short version Brown signs a letter of intent to St. John’s while finishing at a Miami prep school.
January 9th Brown was charged with first degree theft misdemeanor, driving with a suspended license and an expired tag on his vehicle. This was not the first incident In May 2016 Brown was charged with credit card fraud and robbery. He is a talent on the basketball court but cannot stay out of trouble off the court. The January incident forced St. John’s to withdraw its offering to him. His future other than the judicial system is in limbo at this stage. He needs to decide if he wants to play basketball or pursue a life of crime. For now it appears Juco is his only basketball option I doubt any Division I program will be offering
Thursday, January 19, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Post Jimmy Buss????
It’s been reported Laker co-owner Jeannie Buss held a dinner meeting with Magic Johnson and his business partner Lon Rosen along with Linda Rambis Lakers executive on Tuesday. Allow my imagination to run wild a minute, at the close of the 2016-17 NBA season time is up for the promise of co-owner Jim Buss. As a reminder Jim Buss stated and I paraphrase; “If I can’t turn this team around in 4 years I’ll resign.” Hint; hint this is the end of the fourth year just in case you missed that.
Truth is the Lakers have improved but only slightly, they are not playoff bound this year or next. The demise of the Lakers cannot all be placed on the shoulders of Jim Buss however he’s played a significant role because “he’s driving the bus.” At the same time I could pose the question to Laker fans could a Magic Johnson aid in returning the Lakers to the glory days of Showtime? Nobody really knows however I certainly would be far more comfortable with Jeannie Buss running the team and Magic in an advisory capacity over the present arrangement.
The best of the best
We tend to see what’s in front of our nose and that might be the case regarding outstanding athletes. If we held a discussion on exceptional Kansas players through the years whose name is mentioned is it Clyde Lovellette, Jo Jo White or someone else? Danny Manning would certainly be mentioned; he led “The Miracles” to the 1988 NCAA Championship. The name Paul Pierce is also mentioned, in recent years the focus might be on Andrew Wiggins and now the potential of Joel Embiid. In recent years the task of assessment has become more difficult with many talented athletes only remaining in place for one year.
Most of the Kansas faithful forget “The Dipper” because he played before many were born or they may have been too young to know his name. The late Wilton Norman Chamberlain became a mythic basketball figure. We are more aware of his NBA exploits than his days at Kansas. At the time Chamberlain arrived at Kansas in 1955 freshman were ineligible to play varsity sports. Wilt’s freshmen Jayhawks team was matched against the varsity Jayhawks in his first game. Wilt scored 42 points snatched 29 rebounds and had 4 block shots against a varsity team that was expected to win the conference.
That was only the tip of the iceberg for the 7-1 giant from Philadelphia; in his first varsity game against Northwestern Wilt scored 52 points and had 31 rebounds. There was no shot-clock in those days teams began stalling tactics against Kansas rather than deal with the scoring, rebounding and shot blocking of Wilt. He would leave Kansas after his junior year tired of the stall tactics and triple-teams he dealt with. Wilt played a year for the Globetrotters before beginning his legendary NBA career. Wilt “The Stilt”, “The Dipper” or whatever nickname was the BEST to ever play at Kansas.
Change
The news was not released by the NBA however the announcement affects its teams across the nation. The Bulls have endured the annual ‘circus trip’ every NBA season at the time Ringling Brothers occupies the United Center floor. Over the weekend came word the circus would be closing its doors in May after 100+ years of operation. I’m unsure why the focus has always been on Chicago perhaps they have the longest period away from home. I checked the schedule for the balance of the season and the circus visits several other NBA cities besides Chicago.
Undefeated
If you were asked to name the best coaches in college basketball you are likely to hear Roy Williams, Rick Pitino, Jim Boeheim or Bill Self mentioned. I seriously doubt Gonzaga’s Mark Few might even be part of the discussion. As this is written the Spokane (WA) school is 17-0 and the only undefeated team in the country. Why is Mark Few excluded in the discussion of great coaches?
His Gonzaga teams have played in the NCAA Tournament every year since the 1999-00 season. His teams have twice won 30 games and his lowest win total was the 23-11 record registered in the 2006-07 season. There are probably two reasons Few’s coached in obscurity. 1. Playing in the Pacific Time Zone most of us in the Midwest and east coast are in bed when Gonzaga is playing. 2.Two years ago Gonzaga advanced to the Elite Eight which is their highest position ever.
Post Jimmy Buss????
It’s been reported Laker co-owner Jeannie Buss held a dinner meeting with Magic Johnson and his business partner Lon Rosen along with Linda Rambis Lakers executive on Tuesday. Allow my imagination to run wild a minute, at the close of the 2016-17 NBA season time is up for the promise of co-owner Jim Buss. As a reminder Jim Buss stated and I paraphrase; “If I can’t turn this team around in 4 years I’ll resign.” Hint; hint this is the end of the fourth year just in case you missed that.
Truth is the Lakers have improved but only slightly, they are not playoff bound this year or next. The demise of the Lakers cannot all be placed on the shoulders of Jim Buss however he’s played a significant role because “he’s driving the bus.” At the same time I could pose the question to Laker fans could a Magic Johnson aid in returning the Lakers to the glory days of Showtime? Nobody really knows however I certainly would be far more comfortable with Jeannie Buss running the team and Magic in an advisory capacity over the present arrangement.
The best of the best
We tend to see what’s in front of our nose and that might be the case regarding outstanding athletes. If we held a discussion on exceptional Kansas players through the years whose name is mentioned is it Clyde Lovellette, Jo Jo White or someone else? Danny Manning would certainly be mentioned; he led “The Miracles” to the 1988 NCAA Championship. The name Paul Pierce is also mentioned, in recent years the focus might be on Andrew Wiggins and now the potential of Joel Embiid. In recent years the task of assessment has become more difficult with many talented athletes only remaining in place for one year.
Most of the Kansas faithful forget “The Dipper” because he played before many were born or they may have been too young to know his name. The late Wilton Norman Chamberlain became a mythic basketball figure. We are more aware of his NBA exploits than his days at Kansas. At the time Chamberlain arrived at Kansas in 1955 freshman were ineligible to play varsity sports. Wilt’s freshmen Jayhawks team was matched against the varsity Jayhawks in his first game. Wilt scored 42 points snatched 29 rebounds and had 4 block shots against a varsity team that was expected to win the conference.
That was only the tip of the iceberg for the 7-1 giant from Philadelphia; in his first varsity game against Northwestern Wilt scored 52 points and had 31 rebounds. There was no shot-clock in those days teams began stalling tactics against Kansas rather than deal with the scoring, rebounding and shot blocking of Wilt. He would leave Kansas after his junior year tired of the stall tactics and triple-teams he dealt with. Wilt played a year for the Globetrotters before beginning his legendary NBA career. Wilt “The Stilt”, “The Dipper” or whatever nickname was the BEST to ever play at Kansas.
Change
The news was not released by the NBA however the announcement affects its teams across the nation. The Bulls have endured the annual ‘circus trip’ every NBA season at the time Ringling Brothers occupies the United Center floor. Over the weekend came word the circus would be closing its doors in May after 100+ years of operation. I’m unsure why the focus has always been on Chicago perhaps they have the longest period away from home. I checked the schedule for the balance of the season and the circus visits several other NBA cities besides Chicago.
Undefeated
If you were asked to name the best coaches in college basketball you are likely to hear Roy Williams, Rick Pitino, Jim Boeheim or Bill Self mentioned. I seriously doubt Gonzaga’s Mark Few might even be part of the discussion. As this is written the Spokane (WA) school is 17-0 and the only undefeated team in the country. Why is Mark Few excluded in the discussion of great coaches?
His Gonzaga teams have played in the NCAA Tournament every year since the 1999-00 season. His teams have twice won 30 games and his lowest win total was the 23-11 record registered in the 2006-07 season. There are probably two reasons Few’s coached in obscurity. 1. Playing in the Pacific Time Zone most of us in the Midwest and east coast are in bed when Gonzaga is playing. 2.Two years ago Gonzaga advanced to the Elite Eight which is their highest position ever.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Thumb surgery
Clippers basketball might not move ahead this season because the team is “snake bit.” First it was the Blake Griffin injury now it’s Chris Paul. The Clipper point guard will undergo surgery for a torn ligament in his hand, he’s out of action six to eight weeks. The regular season will not be over in eight weeks however the Clippers could be impacted substantially based on Griffin’s return.
The beginning
I wanted to check on the latest news regarding Chase Center and WOW!! I was able to tune in to the groundbreaking ceremony for the arena on Tuesday. This state of the art arena is now cleared of all the legal entanglements, construction will soon began that will allow a 2019-20 opening for the Warriors. The team will move across the bay to San Francisco the city they first called home in 1962. The $1 billion dollar arena will be privately financed which is certainly rare for a professional sports team.
Stuff happens
The unfolding story of 6-11 Bol Bol and Bishop Miege High School requires further clarification on my part. There have been occurrences similar to Bol’s in years past so I don’t want to appear shocked. If it turns out Bol is declared academically ineligible he wouldn’t be the first nor the last. His transfer and the resulting story is almost a made for television script.
At the college level we have sometimes read stories “Player A has been declared ineligible” however we’ve never received a running total how many F’s or D’s they received. These stories make the news in college but rarely see the light of day at the high school level. Do I believe they occur at all levels of course they do however they rarely reached this level. Shame on Bol’s Bishop Miege coach for making a statement and then trying to take it back.
It’s official---it’s panic time
As a Mizzou fan I’ve been concerned for the last several weeks regarding this basketball team. We’ve entered the conference season and I’m in full-scale panic mood. Mizzou sits in last place looking up at every SEC team; there is not a single team I believe Mizzou can beat. Auburn, Ole Miss, LSU and Texas A&M are 1-4 in the conference, Mizzou 0-4. No team collegiate or NBA losses on purpose, talent impacts winning however other factors enter into the hypothesis. Besides talent the unknowns are not the same for each school.
Through television I’ve had an opportunity to see Mizzou extensively this awful season. I see talent in spots but inconsistent play, the coach has changed the lineup--changed the offense and nothing appears to work. The only remaining change is the head coach. I held a discussion with several other Mizzou fans and they provided me a coaching name I failed to mention. That coach is Lorenzo Romar currently at Washington. Would Romar leave Washington for a Mizzou program needing to be rebuilt?
“Wait till next year”
The above statement was often echoed by fans of the Brooklyn Dodgers every season. Despite outstanding teams they would lose the World Series to the Yankees every year until 1955. I’ve read nothing these are my thoughts alone, Ben Simmons should wait. The Sixers are not close to gaining a playoff spot; if they were the situation would be quite different. I’d say “come on back we need you to make this final push.” Simmons should be fully healed by training camp in the fall. The other issue is the Okafor-Noel tandem; both remain members of the team and might likely remain the balance of the season. I’ve mentioned Joel Embiid is not playing on the second night of a back to back that leaves Okafor as the starter and his numbers have been fairly good.
Thumb surgery
Clippers basketball might not move ahead this season because the team is “snake bit.” First it was the Blake Griffin injury now it’s Chris Paul. The Clipper point guard will undergo surgery for a torn ligament in his hand, he’s out of action six to eight weeks. The regular season will not be over in eight weeks however the Clippers could be impacted substantially based on Griffin’s return.
The beginning
I wanted to check on the latest news regarding Chase Center and WOW!! I was able to tune in to the groundbreaking ceremony for the arena on Tuesday. This state of the art arena is now cleared of all the legal entanglements, construction will soon began that will allow a 2019-20 opening for the Warriors. The team will move across the bay to San Francisco the city they first called home in 1962. The $1 billion dollar arena will be privately financed which is certainly rare for a professional sports team.
Stuff happens
The unfolding story of 6-11 Bol Bol and Bishop Miege High School requires further clarification on my part. There have been occurrences similar to Bol’s in years past so I don’t want to appear shocked. If it turns out Bol is declared academically ineligible he wouldn’t be the first nor the last. His transfer and the resulting story is almost a made for television script.
At the college level we have sometimes read stories “Player A has been declared ineligible” however we’ve never received a running total how many F’s or D’s they received. These stories make the news in college but rarely see the light of day at the high school level. Do I believe they occur at all levels of course they do however they rarely reached this level. Shame on Bol’s Bishop Miege coach for making a statement and then trying to take it back.
It’s official---it’s panic time
As a Mizzou fan I’ve been concerned for the last several weeks regarding this basketball team. We’ve entered the conference season and I’m in full-scale panic mood. Mizzou sits in last place looking up at every SEC team; there is not a single team I believe Mizzou can beat. Auburn, Ole Miss, LSU and Texas A&M are 1-4 in the conference, Mizzou 0-4. No team collegiate or NBA losses on purpose, talent impacts winning however other factors enter into the hypothesis. Besides talent the unknowns are not the same for each school.
Through television I’ve had an opportunity to see Mizzou extensively this awful season. I see talent in spots but inconsistent play, the coach has changed the lineup--changed the offense and nothing appears to work. The only remaining change is the head coach. I held a discussion with several other Mizzou fans and they provided me a coaching name I failed to mention. That coach is Lorenzo Romar currently at Washington. Would Romar leave Washington for a Mizzou program needing to be rebuilt?
“Wait till next year”
The above statement was often echoed by fans of the Brooklyn Dodgers every season. Despite outstanding teams they would lose the World Series to the Yankees every year until 1955. I’ve read nothing these are my thoughts alone, Ben Simmons should wait. The Sixers are not close to gaining a playoff spot; if they were the situation would be quite different. I’d say “come on back we need you to make this final push.” Simmons should be fully healed by training camp in the fall. The other issue is the Okafor-Noel tandem; both remain members of the team and might likely remain the balance of the season. I’ve mentioned Joel Embiid is not playing on the second night of a back to back that leaves Okafor as the starter and his numbers have been fairly good.
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Good for him
LaMelo Ball of Chino Hills verbally committed to UCLA when he was in the 8th grade. His older brother Lonzo is playing outstanding ball as a freshman at UCLA. Next season another brother LiAngelo is headed to UCLA, LeMelo the youngest is a high school sophomore. Whether all three brothers play for UCLA at the same time is questionable. I‘d mentioned this earlier LaMelo took a half court shot in an earlier game when it was not required. The game wasn‘t in doubt, it was no desperation shot to tie or win the game.
LeMelo just took it and sank it because he wanted to. Evidently the competition must read scouting reports or just saw video from the earlier game. Point guard LeMelo dribbling the ball up court decided to jack up another 3-point shot at the half-court line. The Etiwanda player guarding LeMelo went up just as he took the shot and BLOCKED it. Chino Hills won the game anyway but hopefully the “Hotdog” will stop shooting unnecessary half court shots. I doubt it though; it appears his high school coach has little control over his players.
Limited time
Do you realize the Sixers Joel Emibiid remains on a 30 minute restriction? The Sixer rookies’ length of time on the basketball court is limited to that figure; in addition he doesn’t play back to backs. Despite the mandated time limit on the court Embiid is still averaging nearly 20 points 8 rebounds and 2.3 block shots a game. Monday he led the Sixers to victory scoring 22 points along with 12 rebounds and 5 blocked shots in a 112-104 win over the Bucks. He did all this in 28 minutes of action, I continue to marvel at his stellar play and hope we see even more.
Confusing
The transfer of Bol Bol from Bishop Miege is certainly strange, these events took several weeks and months but I’m condensing them for purposes of this account. Bol a local talent with a national presence decided to leave Bishop Miege in suburban Kansas City, this occurred in early November not at the semester. His high school coach contacted by local media first indicated he had no idea Bol had transferred. Later the former coach would confirm the son of former NBA player Manute had indeed left school. We later discovered Bol enrolled at Mater Dei in Santa Ana (CA).
News report confirmed Bol’s presence but that’s when things got even stranger. His former coach claimed Bol left Miege “with all F’s.” In earlier January the coach made this statement; “I hereby retract my statement communicated to you by email on are about January 4, 2017 that Bol left Bishop Miege with all F’s.” At this point that’s all the news I can report. I don’t wish to read a great deal into this with the following exception. I believe the information regarding grades is not intended for the public domain. This coach could be sued for his actions.
Surprise
The AP placed Villanova at the top spot which was surprising I figured Kansas would move into the number one position. As for the USA Coaches poll they moved Kansas into the top spot. In any event both polls reflect the same conferences with one exception. There are 3 Big 12 schools, 2 ACC, and 1 each for the Mo Valley, SEC, Pac 12, Big East and West Coast Conference.
I didn’t look at placement except at the top and to locate teams omitted or added to each poll. The USA Today Coaches poll includes Oregon but leaves out Florida State. However the question remains am I mistaken, do the polls reflect the Big 12 is a stronger basketball conference than I’ve voiced in the past, after all they placed three teams in both polls?
Good for him
LaMelo Ball of Chino Hills verbally committed to UCLA when he was in the 8th grade. His older brother Lonzo is playing outstanding ball as a freshman at UCLA. Next season another brother LiAngelo is headed to UCLA, LeMelo the youngest is a high school sophomore. Whether all three brothers play for UCLA at the same time is questionable. I‘d mentioned this earlier LaMelo took a half court shot in an earlier game when it was not required. The game wasn‘t in doubt, it was no desperation shot to tie or win the game.
LeMelo just took it and sank it because he wanted to. Evidently the competition must read scouting reports or just saw video from the earlier game. Point guard LeMelo dribbling the ball up court decided to jack up another 3-point shot at the half-court line. The Etiwanda player guarding LeMelo went up just as he took the shot and BLOCKED it. Chino Hills won the game anyway but hopefully the “Hotdog” will stop shooting unnecessary half court shots. I doubt it though; it appears his high school coach has little control over his players.
Limited time
Do you realize the Sixers Joel Emibiid remains on a 30 minute restriction? The Sixer rookies’ length of time on the basketball court is limited to that figure; in addition he doesn’t play back to backs. Despite the mandated time limit on the court Embiid is still averaging nearly 20 points 8 rebounds and 2.3 block shots a game. Monday he led the Sixers to victory scoring 22 points along with 12 rebounds and 5 blocked shots in a 112-104 win over the Bucks. He did all this in 28 minutes of action, I continue to marvel at his stellar play and hope we see even more.
Confusing
The transfer of Bol Bol from Bishop Miege is certainly strange, these events took several weeks and months but I’m condensing them for purposes of this account. Bol a local talent with a national presence decided to leave Bishop Miege in suburban Kansas City, this occurred in early November not at the semester. His high school coach contacted by local media first indicated he had no idea Bol had transferred. Later the former coach would confirm the son of former NBA player Manute had indeed left school. We later discovered Bol enrolled at Mater Dei in Santa Ana (CA).
News report confirmed Bol’s presence but that’s when things got even stranger. His former coach claimed Bol left Miege “with all F’s.” In earlier January the coach made this statement; “I hereby retract my statement communicated to you by email on are about January 4, 2017 that Bol left Bishop Miege with all F’s.” At this point that’s all the news I can report. I don’t wish to read a great deal into this with the following exception. I believe the information regarding grades is not intended for the public domain. This coach could be sued for his actions.
Surprise
The AP placed Villanova at the top spot which was surprising I figured Kansas would move into the number one position. As for the USA Coaches poll they moved Kansas into the top spot. In any event both polls reflect the same conferences with one exception. There are 3 Big 12 schools, 2 ACC, and 1 each for the Mo Valley, SEC, Pac 12, Big East and West Coast Conference.
I didn’t look at placement except at the top and to locate teams omitted or added to each poll. The USA Today Coaches poll includes Oregon but leaves out Florida State. However the question remains am I mistaken, do the polls reflect the Big 12 is a stronger basketball conference than I’ve voiced in the past, after all they placed three teams in both polls?
Monday, January 16, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
‘Were number one, were number one’
College fans football and basketball have been yelling “Were number one’ for eons, as for this weeks Top 25 consider these tidbits of information. Kansas is 15-1 with an RPI of 4 and strength of schedule 21. Gonzaga at 16-0 has a 13 RPI and 77 strength of schedule. Number one Baylor was a loser at West Virginia (16-1) but has a RPI of one (1), who becomes the top team?
It’s not confusing
Despite what many of us believe the affiliation difference between colleges most often has nothing to do with student enrollment. The athletic department with administration approval determines the level of play. The University of Missouri Kansas City once it decided to revive its basketball program the school competed at the NAIA level and then moved up to Division I.
Kentucky State once an NAIA school now competes as a Division II program. As an example Notre Dame University has always been a Division I program, undergraduate enrollment is 8,462. Its cross town neighbor Indiana University at South Bend is an NAIA school but has almost the same number of students (8,073) as Notre Dame. The University of Central Missouri competes at the Division II level and has a student enrollment of 14,000. These are just a few examples to point out student enrollment rarely has anything to do with the competition level of a school.
Is he NBA ready?
One of the starting guards for George Washington University is from Kagawa Japan located about 700 miles south-southwest of Tokyo. Yuta Watanabe is a junior year at GWU and is the teams’ second leading scorer at 12.4 ppg. Standing 6-9 and a slim 196 pounds he is taller than the average shooting guard.
Watanabe’s demonstrated athletic skill on the court, whether this earns a spot in the NBA is yet to be determined. Keep an eye out for him in the 2018 NBA Draft. It should be of note if he makes an NBA roster he won’t be the first Japanese player he would actually be number three. The first Wataru Misaka who broke into the NBA way back in 1947 and many years later Yuta Tabuse played for the Suns during the 2004-05 season.
Bits n Pieces
You might remember awhile back I listed several movies with basketball as the theme. I don’t believe I listed the 1977 film ‘One on One’ which starred Robby Benson and Annette O‘Toole. It’s not been on cable for quite awhile now, just in case you decide to purchase it I won’t give the storyline away. It was a low-budget film but the basketball scenes were good and the acting as well. I also failed to mention the 2005 movie ‘Coach Carter’ which had Samuel L. Jackson as Carter. Even better this was a true story based on a series of events in 1999 at Richmond High School (CA). Basketball action was good however the story it told is even better.
A number of folks complain about the college game. They moan about the one and done athlete and no more super teams. The world has turned over several times since 1960 as example. We can face-time on our cell phones once the realm of science fiction. Speaking of our phones it’s been stated we have more computer power in our hands than was available to the Apollo astronauts of the 1960‘s. There will be no more 30-0 college teams or any undefeated teams’ period. Fundamentally today’s college players are more talented than their grandfathers
Tacko Fall of UCF finished the game against Houston scoring a mere 11 points. In 29 minutes of action Fall only touched the ball four times leading to the point total he registered. I’d mentioned this previously the 7-6 290 pound Fall’s skill is limited but if he fails to handle the basketball how can his game be expected to improve? I’ll repeat my earlier assessment Coach Dawkins must figure out a method to get the ball to Fall otherwise the growth of his game will be severely impacted.
‘Were number one, were number one’
College fans football and basketball have been yelling “Were number one’ for eons, as for this weeks Top 25 consider these tidbits of information. Kansas is 15-1 with an RPI of 4 and strength of schedule 21. Gonzaga at 16-0 has a 13 RPI and 77 strength of schedule. Number one Baylor was a loser at West Virginia (16-1) but has a RPI of one (1), who becomes the top team?
It’s not confusing
Despite what many of us believe the affiliation difference between colleges most often has nothing to do with student enrollment. The athletic department with administration approval determines the level of play. The University of Missouri Kansas City once it decided to revive its basketball program the school competed at the NAIA level and then moved up to Division I.
Kentucky State once an NAIA school now competes as a Division II program. As an example Notre Dame University has always been a Division I program, undergraduate enrollment is 8,462. Its cross town neighbor Indiana University at South Bend is an NAIA school but has almost the same number of students (8,073) as Notre Dame. The University of Central Missouri competes at the Division II level and has a student enrollment of 14,000. These are just a few examples to point out student enrollment rarely has anything to do with the competition level of a school.
Is he NBA ready?
One of the starting guards for George Washington University is from Kagawa Japan located about 700 miles south-southwest of Tokyo. Yuta Watanabe is a junior year at GWU and is the teams’ second leading scorer at 12.4 ppg. Standing 6-9 and a slim 196 pounds he is taller than the average shooting guard.
Watanabe’s demonstrated athletic skill on the court, whether this earns a spot in the NBA is yet to be determined. Keep an eye out for him in the 2018 NBA Draft. It should be of note if he makes an NBA roster he won’t be the first Japanese player he would actually be number three. The first Wataru Misaka who broke into the NBA way back in 1947 and many years later Yuta Tabuse played for the Suns during the 2004-05 season.
Bits n Pieces
You might remember awhile back I listed several movies with basketball as the theme. I don’t believe I listed the 1977 film ‘One on One’ which starred Robby Benson and Annette O‘Toole. It’s not been on cable for quite awhile now, just in case you decide to purchase it I won’t give the storyline away. It was a low-budget film but the basketball scenes were good and the acting as well. I also failed to mention the 2005 movie ‘Coach Carter’ which had Samuel L. Jackson as Carter. Even better this was a true story based on a series of events in 1999 at Richmond High School (CA). Basketball action was good however the story it told is even better.
A number of folks complain about the college game. They moan about the one and done athlete and no more super teams. The world has turned over several times since 1960 as example. We can face-time on our cell phones once the realm of science fiction. Speaking of our phones it’s been stated we have more computer power in our hands than was available to the Apollo astronauts of the 1960‘s. There will be no more 30-0 college teams or any undefeated teams’ period. Fundamentally today’s college players are more talented than their grandfathers
Tacko Fall of UCF finished the game against Houston scoring a mere 11 points. In 29 minutes of action Fall only touched the ball four times leading to the point total he registered. I’d mentioned this previously the 7-6 290 pound Fall’s skill is limited but if he fails to handle the basketball how can his game be expected to improve? I’ll repeat my earlier assessment Coach Dawkins must figure out a method to get the ball to Fall otherwise the growth of his game will be severely impacted.
Sunday, January 15, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Big Man’s Kryptonite
Fans of Superman Man of Steel are already aware; kryptonite was the only method to defeat him. The free-throw line is not made of the fictional radioactive material but it might as well be. A significant number of NBA Big Men have exhibited poor accuracy from the line dating back to the days of Wilt Chamberlain. ‘Free throws I make ‘em when we need ‘em’ was the word from Shaquille O’Neal. That’s not exactly the way I remember history in fact ’Hack-a-Shaq’ came into use during this time. How enduring was it for Shaq, the term endures to this day long after he's retired.
We hear it all the time when a team has a poor free-throw shooter on the court. Clipper center DeAndre Jordan is a terror on the basketball court except the free-throw line. Jordan certainly has company the Pistons Andre Drummond. The Piston Big Man is shooting nearly 45% this season which is an all-time high; his career number from the line is 39%. Joel Embiid says; “Thanks but no thanks; I don’t want any part of this team.” The Sixer rookie is shooting nearly 80% from the line which might be the highest number for any current NBA Big Man.
Face the facts
Mizzou fans lets face facts it is slim pickings for college coaches for the most part. I realize without naming names there are likely more than a dozen assistants desiring to become head coach somewhere. The problem for them Mizzou is in no position to take a flyer on an unproven assistant no matter how badly he might want the job. It’s time to hire an unemployed coach such as Seth Greenberg, Steve Lavin or Larry Brown. The coach Mizzou requires is not going to leave an established program and head to Columbia (MO) unless he’s paid $$$$. Let’s go back to Greenberg a moment; he was fired at Virginia Tech after a 16-17 record. His teams made the NCAA or NIT six of the eight years he coached at the school. Steve Lavin ex-UCLA, ex-St. John’s can coach, his overall winning percentage is .633. One losing season at UCLA and the school decides to terminate him.
Check Lavin’s ability to recruit good players based on his winning teams and the number he’s sent into the NBA. Larry Brown is available and we know his track record, the only coach to win an NCAA and NBA Championship. Okay I realize he’s 76-years old but who could be a better teacher of the game than Brown? Brown would be required to bring in an assistant who would take over for him once the Mizzou program is back on the tracks. Brown’s talking about wanting a job as a high school coach I’m sure he’d leap at the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level. Brown took over a team that finished 13-19 and they finished 15-17 in his first year and then it was 27, 27 and 25 wins. This years SMU team is 14-4 (as this is written) with athletes Brown and staff recruited. A number of unemployed coaches remain however I believe these are the best of the best.
Global Games
Devin Booker led the way as the Suns beat the Spurs 108-105 in Mexico City on Saturday evening; the game was played with 20,532 in attendance. The Suns managed to avenge their Thursday loss to the Mavs, that game saw 19,874 streamed into Mexico City Arena. The total of 40,406 attending the two games is certainly noteworthy.
Celebrity fans and owners
For the most part celebrity fans of NBA teams are located in New York or Los Angeles. In New York specifically the Nets former minority owner Jay-Z and his wife Beyonce are often seated court side. Also former president Bill Clinton, Rihanna and David Beckham have been in attendance. Across town the Knicks have Spike Lee, Katie Holmes, Woody Allen and Chris Rock to name just a few. In Los Angeles often spotted at Laker games is Jack, Denzel Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio and Salma Hayek and others.
The Clippers have Billy Crystal, Penny Marshall and Floyd Mayweather Jr. several celebrities have allegiance due to ties to the area. Jimmy Buffett with the Heat, President Obama for the Bulls, Donnie Wahlberg with the Celtics and Tiger Woods living near Orlando (Magic). Drake has adopted his home town Toronto Raptors and has become an official ambassador. A smaller number of celebrities are part-owners of NBA teams. Will and Jada Pinkett Smith are minority owners of the Sixers Will’s childhood home. Usher became a partial owner about the time Dan Gilbert purchased the Cavs; in Memphis Justin Timberlake is a Grizzlies part owner.
Question, is the school or the player?
NBA fans the majority of talent in the NBA comes from just a few schools. Don’t misunderstand my statement a Damien Lillard (Weber State) or Gordon Hayward (Butler) can become stars too. It just seems the majority of NBA talent arrives in the league from Kentucky, Kansas, North Carolina, Duke and UCLA. Have those schools and a few omitted cornered the market on basketball talent?
I believe there are two keys to those aforementioned schools attracting talent. A number of youngsters believe heading for one of those schools says it’s an NBA pipeline. Others have been winners throughout their middle and high school years, they love winning. They chose a school not only with a winning record but a history of winning. I don’t have a conclusion just a bunch of random thoughts, what do you think?
Big Man’s Kryptonite
Fans of Superman Man of Steel are already aware; kryptonite was the only method to defeat him. The free-throw line is not made of the fictional radioactive material but it might as well be. A significant number of NBA Big Men have exhibited poor accuracy from the line dating back to the days of Wilt Chamberlain. ‘Free throws I make ‘em when we need ‘em’ was the word from Shaquille O’Neal. That’s not exactly the way I remember history in fact ’Hack-a-Shaq’ came into use during this time. How enduring was it for Shaq, the term endures to this day long after he's retired.
We hear it all the time when a team has a poor free-throw shooter on the court. Clipper center DeAndre Jordan is a terror on the basketball court except the free-throw line. Jordan certainly has company the Pistons Andre Drummond. The Piston Big Man is shooting nearly 45% this season which is an all-time high; his career number from the line is 39%. Joel Embiid says; “Thanks but no thanks; I don’t want any part of this team.” The Sixer rookie is shooting nearly 80% from the line which might be the highest number for any current NBA Big Man.
Face the facts
Mizzou fans lets face facts it is slim pickings for college coaches for the most part. I realize without naming names there are likely more than a dozen assistants desiring to become head coach somewhere. The problem for them Mizzou is in no position to take a flyer on an unproven assistant no matter how badly he might want the job. It’s time to hire an unemployed coach such as Seth Greenberg, Steve Lavin or Larry Brown. The coach Mizzou requires is not going to leave an established program and head to Columbia (MO) unless he’s paid $$$$. Let’s go back to Greenberg a moment; he was fired at Virginia Tech after a 16-17 record. His teams made the NCAA or NIT six of the eight years he coached at the school. Steve Lavin ex-UCLA, ex-St. John’s can coach, his overall winning percentage is .633. One losing season at UCLA and the school decides to terminate him.
Check Lavin’s ability to recruit good players based on his winning teams and the number he’s sent into the NBA. Larry Brown is available and we know his track record, the only coach to win an NCAA and NBA Championship. Okay I realize he’s 76-years old but who could be a better teacher of the game than Brown? Brown would be required to bring in an assistant who would take over for him once the Mizzou program is back on the tracks. Brown’s talking about wanting a job as a high school coach I’m sure he’d leap at the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level. Brown took over a team that finished 13-19 and they finished 15-17 in his first year and then it was 27, 27 and 25 wins. This years SMU team is 14-4 (as this is written) with athletes Brown and staff recruited. A number of unemployed coaches remain however I believe these are the best of the best.
Global Games
Devin Booker led the way as the Suns beat the Spurs 108-105 in Mexico City on Saturday evening; the game was played with 20,532 in attendance. The Suns managed to avenge their Thursday loss to the Mavs, that game saw 19,874 streamed into Mexico City Arena. The total of 40,406 attending the two games is certainly noteworthy.
Celebrity fans and owners
For the most part celebrity fans of NBA teams are located in New York or Los Angeles. In New York specifically the Nets former minority owner Jay-Z and his wife Beyonce are often seated court side. Also former president Bill Clinton, Rihanna and David Beckham have been in attendance. Across town the Knicks have Spike Lee, Katie Holmes, Woody Allen and Chris Rock to name just a few. In Los Angeles often spotted at Laker games is Jack, Denzel Washington, Leonardo DiCaprio and Salma Hayek and others.
The Clippers have Billy Crystal, Penny Marshall and Floyd Mayweather Jr. several celebrities have allegiance due to ties to the area. Jimmy Buffett with the Heat, President Obama for the Bulls, Donnie Wahlberg with the Celtics and Tiger Woods living near Orlando (Magic). Drake has adopted his home town Toronto Raptors and has become an official ambassador. A smaller number of celebrities are part-owners of NBA teams. Will and Jada Pinkett Smith are minority owners of the Sixers Will’s childhood home. Usher became a partial owner about the time Dan Gilbert purchased the Cavs; in Memphis Justin Timberlake is a Grizzlies part owner.
Question, is the school or the player?
NBA fans the majority of talent in the NBA comes from just a few schools. Don’t misunderstand my statement a Damien Lillard (Weber State) or Gordon Hayward (Butler) can become stars too. It just seems the majority of NBA talent arrives in the league from Kentucky, Kansas, North Carolina, Duke and UCLA. Have those schools and a few omitted cornered the market on basketball talent?
I believe there are two keys to those aforementioned schools attracting talent. A number of youngsters believe heading for one of those schools says it’s an NBA pipeline. Others have been winners throughout their middle and high school years, they love winning. They chose a school not only with a winning record but a history of winning. I don’t have a conclusion just a bunch of random thoughts, what do you think?
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