Basketball from a fans perspective

This is certainly different

The Top 25 polls change throughout the season but not in this radical a manner.  Arizona dropped from the number two team in the nation right into the basement.  Three losses in a row will do that for the now unranked Wildcats.  The season is still young, and the Wildcats certainly have time to turn their season around however this is an unusual development.  A team many expected to be a contender for an NCAA Championship has stumbled out of the starting blocks. 

Did you feel it?

That was the earth moving, Stephen A. Smith and I are in accord on an issue.  For reasons totally, unknown Smith was asked this question by Sage Steele on SportsCenter this past Monday.  “Will Ben Simmons eclipse LeBron James in championship titles?”  The words you are reading are mine although Smith’s response was somewhat similar. 

Simmons has played less than a half a season in the NBA, I don’t believe anyone would dispute the potential of Simmons, however he needs to lead his Sixer team into the playoffs before we can begin this discussion.  The prospect of a championship or multiple ones is real however I believe it might be advisable to wait just a little while longer. I hope this was not a “trap” question set up for Smith, if it was the writer or writers are incredibly stupid.     

He’s gone

I don’t know much about David Fizdale’s coaching ability except he’s got no job.  The Grizzlies started the season 7-12 and management figured it was time to make a move.  Fizdale was fired on Monday and J.B. Bickerstaff has been named interim coach.  Yahoo.NBA indicates Fitzdale’s coached the Grizzlies for a grand total of 101 games, that’s one full season plus 19 games.  Sure, doesn’t appear to be enough time to place your stamp on a team.  It’s likely Fitzdale had only ONE training camp to implement his system. 

He started the season on fire

On many occasions, we discuss those players who are ready.  They arrive in college or the NBA ready to play at a high skill level.  In this instance the discussion centers on Duke’s Marvin Bagley III.  He’s played five games as this is written and he’s been double-double in all except one.  Bagley’s had a high game total of 34 points registered in one game in addition he’s snatched down 15 rebounds in three of the games.  It will be interesting to see how the balance of his freshman season progresses. 

Moral victory

Mizzou lost a tough game 84-79 in the AdvoCare Invitational facing a tough veteran West Virginia.  After Mizzou secured a lead the pressing defense of West Virginia forced Mizzou into several critical turnovers eventually leading to their victory.  Mizzou won a moral victory with their youthful team with no senior playing major minutes.  

All I can say is @#4%!!*, how do you win by losing has been my question for years. I don’t know about you, but I’d heard the term “moral victory” since I was in my teens.  You either win the game or lose it you cannot in good conscience state something like that exists.  Are there teaching moments for a coach and his team during games…..of course there are.  Simply stated again once again you never win by losing.  

Basketball from a fans perspective

He needs my eyeglasses

It’s clear to all concerned Austin Rivers can do no wrong at least in the eyes of his father.  Blake Griffin suffered a left leg injury in the Clippers win over the Lakers on Monday night.  Underneath the basket in a scramble for the ball were Griffin, Lonzo Ball and Austin Rivers, Rivers fell on Griffin’s leg.  That’s what the video details but never mind what your eyes witnessed these are words of Clipper Coach Doc Rivers. 

1.  "You could see right when it happened," Doc Rivers said. "Lonzo was just trying to make a play, but he went in. Usually when you go in like that, that hard ... they call it.”  What the heck was Doc talking about?  His son clearly was the culprit in this injury.  I’m going to FedEx a pair of my eyeglasses to Doc, so he can review the play and determine his son is the guilty party and not Lonzo Ball.  As this story was being completed it was determined Griffin will miss a minimum of two months’ with a strained MCL in his left knee.

ESPN.NBA.com

I'm guilty.....

But so are you, we are all guilty of sitting the bar too high for basketball players and college athletes in general.  We expect them in crunch time to know exactly the decision to they need to make.  We expect them to take the crucial shot with less than 3 seconds remaining on the clock.  We expect them to hit the free-throw needed to win the game or lead to OT with no hesitation what so ever on their part.   

I hope you understand I wish to provide why at the same time I don't want to confuse the issue we are discussing.  Sexual assault, driving while intoxicated or stealing a pair of sun glasses is a whole different matter.  Next time your favorite college team loses a tough game take into consideration they are young men some not yet 20 years old.  Large body does not equal an adult decision, we have examples of 50-year old adults making juvenile decisions.  Just cool it, relax and believe there is a life lesson for them. 

Better than we might expect 
Once Mizzou moved into the SEC this is the conversation we heard in some circles around Kansas City.  "The conference is a football conference only, other than Kentucky its not very strong."  This from folks accustom to witnessing Kansas dominate the Big 12 year after year yet no conference team appeared capable of a deep run in the NCAA with the exception of Kansas. 

This season might be different, I speak of the SEC not the Big 12.  Kentucky play is not as good as we usually witness although its early.  Stepping into the void are several candidates for the top spot.  We could begin with Texas A&M, Alabama and Florida to name the leading contenders.  We cannot leave Kentucky out of this discussion.  This is not the SEC you are use to seeing prepare yourself. 

Bits n Pieces
55 rebounds in a single game, no that was not a team effort it was one man.  Wilt Chamberlain set the all-time NBA record on November 24 1960.  The Blazers as a team had 45 rebounds in beating the Nets on this same date in 2017.  We are witness to seeing records broken or tied in the NBA but two will forever remain intact.  Chamberlain averaging 50.4 points a game for a season and the single game rebound mark. 

We've discussed the growth of basketball in Texas however it's more than having three NBA teams in the state.  The NBA is a contributing factor however it begins with the kids.  I just returned from a middle school scrimmage consisting of two grades.  All I can say is I witnessed a number of "NBA" moves by these young men.  They are not likely headed for the NBA but they are on the road to a high school career and perhaps college.  It might not be a Division I program however there are numerous other levels of play. 

The leave by Derrick Rose involves $$$$ as much as the prospect of injury.  Rose is only operating on a 1-year contract with the Cavs as for Adidas it's a different story.  He's got seven years remaining on his contract with the company and Adidas has an out.  According to ESPN.com, it's a "pay for play" option.

Tell me something I don't know
A well known news person uses the term; "Tell me something I don't know."  He uses it to place on the table for discussion something his audience (and maybe him) don't know.  That's the manner I look at information provided me through the various media forms.  I know Words eye view is often an opinion piece and so are the various folks in media.  The huge difference is I don't take myself too serious.  The views expressed are mine however that certainly doesn't denote my view is the only one acceptable.  I can be persuaded to a different point of view provided your argument is strong enough.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

What you say
Okay Mizzou lost a tough game against West Virginia (more later) in a related story how about this little tidbit of information Michael Porter Jr. passed to us.  His back surgery was successful and he sent out an instagram post.  Most of the Mizzou faithful believed MPJr. would undergo surgery recoup and prepare for the NBA draft.  That still might occur however he indicated in the post "He might return" this season.  

According to initial medical reports it is certainly possible for him to return before the season ends.  There are two problems with this post if true.  1.  Late early March (my estimate) team chemistry will be established adding an extra player might mess with the rotation no matter the talent.  2.  Is MPJr. going to take a chance and risk injury permanently curtailing a possible NBA career?  I'm sure there might be other questions however those two jump off the page for this Mizzou fan.  

You just don't know

Athletes arrive in the NBA in all stages of development, some (Magic Johnson & Larry Bird) play at a high skill level day one.  Others (Michael Jordan) develop over a shorter span gaining additional talented teammates.  As for the vast majority it requires time, practice and practice to raise their level of play.  Who plays versus who sits is always a question.  I mention this previously Steph Curry was a 3-star prospect in high school this is no slam at Davidson but the school is not a noted producer of NBA talent. On the other hand there are athletes who leave college too soon (in my opinion) unprepared for the rigors of NBA play.  

They see the game they have played since elementary school and believe in their mind they can play with the big boys.  Hassan Whiteside and others had to experience D-League and Euro play while continuing to raise their basketball skill level.  Finally there might be "right place, right time."  Those athletes arriving on an NBA roster able to fill a vital need.  They are the specialists, shooter Kyle Korver and athletes specializing in tough hard-nose defense.  Talent comes in a variety of positions and heights but on arrival we just don't know the eventual skill level of many. 

Are you serious  
We mention Vanderbilt University and athletics are usually not the initial thought.   Sure the Nashville school competes in football, basketball and other sport activities.  Bryce Drew was hired in 2016 and he's attempting to change the culture at Vanderbilt regarding it's basketball team.  They have two 5-star and one 4-star headed to the school next fall.  Darrius Garland a 6-1 point guard from the Nashville area, 6-9 power forward Simisola Shittu and Aaron Nesmith a 6-5 small forward are the gems of the Class of 2018 prospects.  

Everbody hates Chris, no Grayson 
Comedian Chris Rock's childhood unfolded before us in the television series "Everybody hates Chris".  Grayson Allen of Duke is certainly older than the age of the pre-teen Chris Rock in the former television series but the hate theme applies for college basketball.  Opposing players and coaches hate him because he's perceived as a dirty player.  Is that a true statement for the 6-5 guard?  The guy can play we know that, is he talented enough to play in the NBA?  Probably but even more interesting what is it about Duke and the hate aimed at some of their players.  Remember Christian Laettner, every hated him possibly with as much hatred as Allen faces today.

It's difficult to believe
If you are a certain age you probably find this bit of information difficult to believe in 2017.  Back in the dark ages (prior to cable/satellite) basketball coverage was quite limited on television.  In Kansas City there was a single regional Saturday afternoon college game and the next day Sunday an afternoon network NBA game. 

Later the Saturday coverage expanded to include a network game, today it has become what day of the week and often what team do you want to see.  The network options have expanded tremendously.  The ESPN family of channels, Turner Network, CBS Sports Channel, CBS and ABC Broadcast Networks, Fox Sports 1 along with NBA TV.  There are other networks available such as YES and the Fox Sports regional channels.  This list is likely not complete but gives you an idea how far we've travelled. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Steve "Snapper" Jones
Died on Sunday age 75 after a reported lengthy illness.  I never read or heard where the nickname Snapper originated, you might but I don't.  Jones was one of the pioneers in making the transition from the basketball court to the microphone.  He played for a number of ABA teams before eventually landing with the Blazers

Once Jones retired as an active player he moved into broadcasting in 1975 working commentary for the Blazers.  Over the course of his extensive broadcast career Jones worked for almost every network broadcasting NBA basketball.  NBC, TNT, TBS, USA Network and NBA TV represented the body of his work providing color commentary and analysis on the athletes and the NBA.  R.I.P. Steve "Snapper" Jones.

They will be okay

We know De'Aaron Fox had an outstanding game against Lonzo Ball but this supposed rivalry between the too proved interesting Wednesday evening.  If you remember during the NCAA Tournament Fox lit up Ball at the time UCLA faced Kentucky.  In any event ESPN expanded on this as the two teams faced each other Thanksgiving eve. 

I guess we could say Fox won since his Kings team beat the Lakers.  Fox scored 13 points to 11 for Ball, he shot .455 along with 4 rebounds 3 assists and 1 steal.  As for Ball in addition to his 11 points he registered 7 rebounds 11 assists and 1 steal.  The Kings won the game no doubt as for the individual match up I believe it might have been a draw....what do you think?

He got paid

What are the odds of a player coming from a small school un-drafted and receiving a big payday?  Why don't we ask Sixer forward Robert Covington.  According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski Covington has a 4-year $62 million dollar extension in his back pocket.  For a guy who arrived in the NBA un-drafted the agreement is proof hidden talent is out there if you are willing to search for it. 

Covington arrived in the NBA from Tennessee State University.  This Nashville school was once a hotbed for producing NBA talent but in recent years fewer and fewer players have been sent to the pro ranks.  We must travel back to the 1980's to uncover the names of Carlos Rogers and Anthony Mason the last athletes from Tennessee State to secure NBA jobs. 

The history
I didn't cover this portion of history until now.  Did you realize the Pistons franchise has played in three different leagues, likely the only NBA this applies.  The team was founded in 1941 as the Fort Wayne (Indiana) Pistons, they were members of the National Basketball League until 1948.  In the 1948-49 season they were in the Basketball Association of American and in 1949-50 moved into the National Basketball Association but remained in Fort Wayne until 1957.  The NBA in the 1950's begin moving from smaller to larger metropolitan cities and the Pistons followed moving to Detroit in 1957-58 season where they have remained.  See you thought Pistons and Detroit and automatically figured the team always called the Motor City home.

Well you ask where did the team nickname originate?  The first owner Fred Zollner owned a foundry which produced......pistons for the auto industry.  The Pistons have played in several arenas over the years, Olympic Stadium was home which they shared with the NHL Red Wings.  From 1961 through 1978 Cobo Hall would be home, in 1978 they moved to Pontiac (MI) and began play in the Silverdome home also to the NFL Lions.  The Silverdome remained home until 1988 when the Pistons moved to the Palace of Auburn Hills some 30 miles from downtown Detroit.  Auburn Hills was home until 2017 when the Pistons moved again in a return to downtown Detroit.  Little Caesars Arena is now the new home they share once again with the NHL Red Wings.  There you have it a brief history of Detroit's NBA history. 

Will he become a star
Clint Capela was drafted by the Rockets in 2014 as the 25th pick in the first round.  His NBA career has been unspectacular thus far but is there potential and possible stardom in his future?  After serving as back-up to Dwight Howard he moved into the starting lineup last season.  His numbers to date provided us proof he's upward bound.  Born in Geneva Switzerland he becomes only the second player from Switzerland to earn an NBA position. 

Listen to the man 
Kyrie Irving played a grand total of 11 games at Duke before an injury sidelined him for the balance of his freshman season.  I remember it like it was yesterday, it was 2011 when he announced he was declaring for the draft.  My first thought; "He's not ready."  I was wrong so I plan on listening this time around.  Irving hearing of Michael Porter Jr. being sidelined by injury spoke.  He said in a few words MPJr. would be okay.  Now we realize Irving has no medical training but he spoke from the position of one who also had an NBA future looming.  I going to trust the guy that has dealt with an injury issue, sure its not the same type of injury however he's (Irving) has been there. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Bits n Pieces

Can we say upset city in a chorus?  Several usually high profile basketball programs have suffered defeats in tournament games.  There are too many to list and besides the fact I didn't have an opportunity to see all of them due to the Thanksgiving holiday.  Certainly most noteworthy is number 2 Arizona losing two games in a row......besides that fact is there something else going on we don't know?  We'll monitor the present and future tournaments and see if the trend continues.

LaVar Ball please shut-up, we know who you are.  Have you considered the fact how much pressure you've created for your son by constantly running off at the mouth.  You have no difficulty calling out a female media member by telling her to "Stay in her lane."  How about this LaVar, allow Luke Walton to coach the Lakers.  Despite what you might believe you are not qualified to lead an NBA team. 

He opened the"door"

Generally speaking Hakeem Olajuwon is key to the number of talent arriving on shore to play and U.S. colleges and the NBA.  Olajuwon arrived from Nigeria in 1980, we had no idea the continent of Africa would become a hotbed of basketball talent.  Hakeem is in the Naismith Hall of Fame but is not likely to be the last one from the continent of Africa to make a major splash in the NBA.  We could speculate currently, at the top of top of our list should he remain healthy is Joel Embiid.  Embiid from Cameroon, Kansas University and the Sixers.  After but one season in college he decided in favor of the NBA in 2014 however injuries kept him sidelined until late last season.

If and that's a large if Embiid remains playing at the level we've witnessed thus far he's headed to Springfield and the hall as well.  Another player who appears to be a rising star is also a center Clint Capela who plays for the Rockets.  Capela was born in Switzerland however his parents are from Angola and The Congo.  Included in the list is Luol Deng playing for the Lakers, Deng is from South Sudan and played his college ball at Duke.  The man we all have difficulty pronouncing Giannis Antetkounmpo was actually born in Greece, his parents emigrated from The Congo.  A number of names are on the horizon, not stars but names they include Thon Maker from South Sudan, Australia and the U.S. with the Bucks.

Another project is Semi Ojeleye of the Celtics born in Kansas from parents who emigrated from Nigeria.  We could add the name of Knicks point guard Frank Ntilikina for the future, born in Belgium however his parents are from Rwanda.  On the periphery is Bol Bol son of former NBA player Manute, the son was born in this country although dad was from South Sudan.  Big Man Udoka Azubuike from Nigeria was injured and missed his first year at Kansas, he's returned and is the second leading scorer for the Jayhawks 16.8 points and 7 rebounds a game.  This account is certainly not intended to complete its simply intended to point out the number of talented players from the African continent past, present and future. 

The tallest point guard in the world
My statement might not be correct there might be a point guard taller than Ben Simmons.  To date I haven't seen him play and I seriously doubt if anyone else has either.  Magic Johnson arrived in the NBA at 6-8, later stats indicated he was 6-9 whatever the case Simmons is a legitimate 6-10 and in a manner similar to Magic the Sixer rookie is quite adept at passing the basketball.  The knock on him early was "He couldn't led his LSU team to the NCAA". 

Team turmoil not all his fault was partially responsible for the lack of success.  Then the curse, drafted in 2016 an injury would sideline him for the season.  Once the 2017 season began he "hit the floor" moving.  Oh, one other knock on Simmons I've heard; "He's got no jumper."  Funny thing we heard the same story about Magic Johnson and he turned out okay.  Rookie of the Year trophy is a lock for Ben Simmons no rookie is close by comparison. 

Held hostage
Why in the world are the Sixers continuing to hold on to Jahlil Okafor?  Even Joel Embiid thinks its terrible how management is treating Okafor.  Recently Brett Brown would not replace Okafor in the lineup in a blow-out game.  This was likely a management decision and not that of the coach.  The Sixers wish to trade Okafor but so far have not received the value they believe in return.  For now and into the immediate future Okafor will remain on the bench awaiting a trade that may never come. 
 

Basketball from a fans perspective

This is bizarre
How about this for a story, the guy who got fired comes to the aid of the guy who replaced him.  Sounds like a story straight out of the Twilight Zone or Bizzaro World but that's the unusual development.  This story occurred in Lakerland and involved LaVar Ball and his latest rant. 

You remember he said loudly; "Luke Walton doesn't know how to coach my son" was the latest statement made by LaVar Ball.  Across the board Ball was roundly criticized but the area most surprising was from former coach Byron Scott.  Scott fired by the Lakers was replaced by one Luke Walton however I believe he thought Ball was way out of his lane.  Mr. Controversy just needs to shut his pie hole, media people stop interviewing Ball so I can stop writing accounts of the after affect.

Mizz-zzzou
I don't know what to make of this version of the Mizzou Tigers, the only term I can think of is grit, true grit.  They beat an undefeated St. Johns team 90-82 and now will play for the championship of the AdvoCare Invitational Tournament on Sunday.  They might lose to West Virginia however this ain't your daddy's Mizzou basketball team.  

The "committee" was led by Jordan Barnett with 19 points along with Kassius Robertson's 17 and Kevin Puryear with 15.  Despite the depression that might have loomed over this program it appears the coach has not allowed it to fester they appear to have recovered.  Even more interesting these guys actually like one another.  In a manner of speaking the type of team work displayed is superior to the dependence on one preeminent talent.  Can you say blessing in disguise. 

Happy birthday
We have no access to the accounting processes of the Nike Corporation.  I make this statement regarding the PK80 Tournament.  This tournament was to celebrate the 80th birthday of Nike co-founder Phil Knight.  One might wonder why basketball is celebrating Mr. Knight's birthday ahead of several others.  We believe it might be the fact producing shoes has been the principle task of the Nike Corporation. 

The founders begin this venture by first offering running shoes since Knight was a runner.  Over the years Nike has branched out producing product in football, baseball, soccer and other sports.  This in addition to running shoes the foundation of the product mix.  Basketball and basketball apparel have likely generated far more revenue than the other sports combined. The Nike brand shoes along with Air Jordan dominate the shoe market, happy birthday to the man who started it all Phil Knight.   

Is it over
Derrick Rose has taken a leave of absence again this time as a member of the Cavs.  If you remember he did the same thing last season while a member of the Knicks.  The reported story Rose he's attempting to evaluate if he should continue to play while facing a serious of injuries. 

We are a long way from his 2011 MVP year and it appears he's unable to remain on the court for any extended period of time. It's been one injury after another since his MVP year as he's battled injuries.  In 2011 as a 22-year old he would become the youngest MVP in NBA history, he's now a shadow of the player we once witnessed on the court.  We have only seen flashes of the athlete we once saw streaking up and down the court.

Basketball from a fans perspective

They chose the ABA
Several stories have been written about ABA players who left the new league for the more established NBA.  Julius "Dr. J." Erving, Spencer Haywood and George McGinnis are just a few of the number.  Rarely discussed are the players who left the NBA for the ABA.  The first and probably the biggest name at the time might be that of Rick Barry.  After winning NBA Rookie of the Year honors in 1966 as a member of the San Francisco Warriors he left them for the Oakland Oaks but didn't begin play until 1968.  The Warriors went to gone and received an injunction preventing him from playing.  Barry distinguished himself in the ABA prior to his return to the Golden State Warriors in 1972.  Barry is now in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Another who moved to the ABA was the late Zelmo Beaty.  Drafted by the St. Louis Hawks in 1962 he would remain a Hawk until 1969 when he left for the ABA Utah Stars he did return to the NBA and the Lakers in 1975.  Beaty is also enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.  The last player we discuss is Billy Cunningham, the 6-7 forward was drafted in 1965 by the Sixers and played for theme until 1972.  He left that year for the Carolina Cougars, Cunningham would eventually return to the Sixers prior to his retirement and eventually would serve as head coach of the team that drafted him.  Similar to the others profiled Cunningham is also enshrined in both halls of fame.

I hope you saw the report
The news/variety program Inside Edition rarely covers anything related to basketball to my knowledge prior to November 16.  On that particular evening a report dealt with arenas and stadiums and the steepness of upper deck seats.  Barclays Center in Brooklyn and Golden 1 in Sacramento were two of the arenas profiled in the report.  There have been a number of injuries sustained by patrons attending events in these buildings. 

The upper deck seats at Barclays is the steepest in the nation at a 37 degree angle while Golden 1 was 35.  I was mistaken in my belief, I thought it was a design effort to squeeze as many spectators in a building as possible.  Not so an arena architect indicated these and other arenas are designed to allow unobstructed view of the court/rink/stage.  Those upper deck seats might be less expensive they could also prove to be somewhat dangerous. 

He could have played basketball too
Drew lock is one of those guys, a talented athlete who plays football but might have been just as competent on the basketball court.  Lock was a 6-4 shooting guard at Lees Summit High School in suburban Kansas City.  Rivals rated Lock a 4-star prospect and the likes of Kentucky, Louisville, Notre Dame and Michigan State were recruiting him for basketball. 

Lock chose Mizzou for football but indicated he hoped to play basketball as well.  Once enrolled Lock decided in favor of football and in his junior year his record is outstanding.  Lock's tossed 36 touchdown passes as this is written, he's close to the all-time SEC record of 40.  The belief Lock could have been just as outstanding on the basketball court if he'd chosen basketball. 

Bits n Pieces
The Clippers had good news and bad!  The good they finally won a basketball game after suffering a nine game losing streak.  The bad news point guard made a quick return and exit, he's now loss for the season.  Doc your son ain't gonna cut it as Beverly's replacement.  

Was it just losing or revenge for Thunder guard Russell Westbrook?  It's likely adjustment issues for George, Anthony and Westbrook to merge their talents.  After playing  an inspired game he got in Kevin Durant's face and were exchanging words.  Durant smiled and walked away, we shall see if this feud continues into the future.      

I can't really refer to the game as an upset, number 13 Notre Dame came back from a large deficit to defeat number 6 Wichita State 67-66.  My view I think Mike Bray out coached Gregg Marshall down the stretch of the Maui Classic "classic"  Wichita State had a 19-point lead at a point in the game. 

Long Beach State has a veteran coach in Dan Monson.  I admit up front I have no idea about LBS, did they return a number of players from last season?  Are they projected to be a power in the Big West Conference.  Mizzou raced out to a double-digit lead as Jontay Porter led the way.  Will he make up for the loss of his big brother?  Only time will answer that question, Porter, Jeremiah Tilmon,  Kevin Puryear and Jordan Geist led the way to a 95-58 victory.  Porter had 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 blocked shots while Geist had 15 points.  

Basketball from a fans perspective

Bits n Pieces

For years it seems every time Kobe Bryant took a jump shot the haters would come from far and near.  "He shoots too much" or "He's too selfish".  Maybe the worst one "Nobody wants him as a teammate."  I found myself regularly defending number 24 (or number 8 if you prefer).  Despite their objectives Kobe is headed for the Naismith Hall of Fame.  Contrast that mindset with the legion of LeBron fans, every time LeBron does or says something controversial this is the occurrence.  I question the actions and all I hear are crickets. 

Check back next April at the time the nets are cut down.  Scott Gleeson USA Today Sports made his choice known for NCAA Basketball Champion.  It's the Wichita State Shockers, if this should occur I'm sure the entire state would be jumping up and down with joy with a number around Lawrence with a slight smile on their faces.  I speak of those Kansas fans living in a 100-radius of Kansas University. 

There is no requirement for the Sixers Markelle Fultz to rush back.  Drafted as a small forward Ben Simmons passing skill has been totally off the chain  On the other hand, maybe, Fultz might begin to worry a bit not about his injury but when healthy will he be able to get on the floor.  For you sports trivia fans look up the name Wally Pipp.

Celtics Coach Brad Stevens remains one of the NBA's young coaches at 41, do you realize he's been at the helm since he was 37.  The guy lives and breaths basketball and proved to all a small number can emerge from the college ranks and taste success a the NBA level.  The living basketball part of the story, Stevens on his first date with his future wife took her to a high school basketball game.  

People say the strangest things
I was talking to my son and I informed him I'd written a column detailing the strange statements I've heard echoed over the years about basketball. 

"I quit watching the NBA when Michael Jordan retired"-despite his Airness greatness he didn't invite basketball.

"They don't play any defense in the NBA"-proof the person rarely watches any basketball.

"I only need to see the 4th quarter" or "The 4th quarter is the best portion of the game"-How bout this I only watch the 9th inning of a baseball game or the 4th quarter of an NFL game.

Those are but a few of the strange and unusual statements made in truth by folks around me.  

The future
What does the future hold for Michael Porter Jr.?  The medical professionals indicate the type of back surgery is not career ending.  I've discussed with several associates as much as I'd like to see MPJr. return it is highly unlikely.  What about his NBA future, well he's dropped from first but the indication is he will remain a lottery pick.  As I pointed out earlier it is impossible to not decide in favor of an NBA career.  The prospect of riches beyond measure will be the overwhelming factor.  Would I like to see MPJr. return, of course but the back is the decider in this matter. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Pass or shoot?
We have arrived in the time of the combo guard.  Point guards who shoot as much and sometimes more than forwards and centers on their teams.  Nothing wrong just a question is it more important to pass first and shoot second or vice-versa.  I'm not sure about Jason Kidd but I know Ricky Rubio.  In the 1994-1995 season when Kidd broke in with the Mavs he shot an astounding .385 from the floor in his first year in the NBA.  As this is written Lonzo Ball is shooting an anemic .303 from the floor yet leads the Lakers in assists at nearly 7 a game along with 6 rebounds.  If you believe I'm comparing Ball to proven NBA talent such as Kidd and Rubio far from it.

My rant is based on the negative comments I'm reading or hearing about Ball's shooting.  Some cynics have declared Ball a bust after but a month of play at the NBA level which is short-sighted in my opinion.  I've mentioned it previously here's my concern which I heard expressed by a creditable analyst.  Ball is stationed at the perimeter taking medium range shots or stepping out behind the 3-point line.  He's had little success in either area, he needs to go to the foul line, drive the lane to make a shorter shot or free-throw in the event he is fouled.  Much has been made about Ball sitting in the 4th quarter of games but I understand.  He's not making shots why have him on the court in games the Lakers have a chance on winning?

Who stays and who goes
Jordan Clarkson and Jabari Brown shared back court duties for Mizzou, I had ample opportunity to see both numerous times over the course of time in school.  I had ample opportunity to see both numerous times over the course of time in school.  At the time they announced their intention to leave early for the NBA I believed (in error) Brown to be slightly ahead of Clarkson in skill.  Clarkson, I envisioned as a combo guard while Brown was strictly a shooter.  A series of unusual events would occur on the road to an NBA future, Clarkson would become the 46th pick in the second round. 

Clarkson selected by the Wizards his rights were traded to the Lakers, second round picks don't last very long in the NBA especially those drafted toward the bottom.  As for Brown he would never heard his name called draft night.  Both former Mizzou players would be re-united with the Lakers for a brief period and since 2015 Brown's played in China and for three D-League teams.  After playing starter minutes Clarkson has become Mr. Instant Offense as a combo guard.  Magic Johnson informed Clarkson to strive to be named Sixth Man of the Year, as for Brown he's with the G-League Santa Cruz Warriors. 

Sometimes you can.......
See a talent mature right in front of you, as I've mentioned previously the Kansas City Metro (even on the Missouri side) is less than 50 miles from Lawrence.  With this nearby proximity plenty of Kansas basketball is available.  In the 2013-14 season 6-9 Tarik Black was installed at the center position playing behind him in the rotation was 6-11 230 pound Joel Embiid.  I don't remember the circumstances if Black was injured or exactly what occurred.  Black was permanently placed in the starting lineup and Black would become the backup.  I began to witness Embiids' shooting plus his swiftness up and down the court as well as rebounding the basketball and passing skills were quite evident.  I thought "Boy Kansas has a diamond in the rough with this guy."

In March 2014 disaster struck as Embiid suffered a stress fracture to his neck.  All though he was ruled out for the remainder of the season in those 20 games he proved to me (and others) he could play at a high skill level.  We expected improvement in his sophomore year until he declared for the draft.  I said; "He needs one more year to solidify his on the court."  After being drafted number three by the Sixers in the first round in 2014 he was on his way......until the injury bug struck once again.  Fast forward ahead, a series of injuries would keep Embiid sidelined until last spring.  He managed to play 31 games and demonstrated to all the talent and skill we first witnessed in the spring of 2014.  If he can manage to avoid injuries the sky is the limit for the native of Cameroon in West Africa.

Indiana basketball
The State of Indiana has a rich basketball history especially the high school brand.  The 1986 movie Hoosiers starring Gene Hackman was loosely based on an actual event.  Milan High School with an enrollment of 161 won the state championship over Muncie Central with more than 1,000 students.  This achievement could never occur again Indiana has divided its high schools based on student enrollment.  Indiana might not send forth talent in the numbers it once did California, Texas and Florida have witnessed phenomenal population growth in the last several years.  Check out the rosters of college and NBA teams and locate the number with Indiana connections. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

The truth is more elusive than fiction

We begin our tale with a basketball program that’s been on life support for the past several years.  Somehow the number one high school prospect in the nation decides he wants to play for your school, there is much joy and merriment throughout the land.  The talented player leads the team to an NCAA championship and all is well. 

That was the fictional story how about the non-fiction version of the same story. Michael Porter Jr. the nations number one high school prospect in the nation was supposed to lead Mizzou to the promised land.  The “injury” that only allowed Porter Jr. two minutes on the court is season ending.  Mizzou announced the youngster will require back surgery and is likely sidelined for the season. 

There is good news in this story, this type of medical condition is not career ending, the unwelcome news portion he will NEVER play competitively for Mizzou.  With The prospect of an NBA career it will extremely unlikely he returns for his sophomore year and risk another injury?  It’s now time for the coach to gather his troops and get them focused again, no wonder they played in such a funk against Division II Emporia State on Monday night. 

As for the balance of the season there remains promise even without Porter Jr.  Despite the last game Mizzou has played much better than last season.  As for next season one list of prospects has Mizzou listed at 45 and another at 90.  Considering there are 400+ Division I programs across the nation that places the Tigers in the upper half if these prospects pan out and the freshmen this season become quality sophomores.  

They are not this bad

This is written after the Clippers lose to the Knicks.  It was pointed out on SportsCenter the Knicks win was the first over the Clippers since 2012, imagine that they have been unable to beat the Clippers for the last five years. The Knicks have played improved basketball I’ve written as much earlier.  The Clippers are certainly a better team, but the loss last night makes nine in a row.  This is a streak not seen since before Chris Paul arrived however its more than Paul gone. 

Sometimes I believe the mix of a team is talented enough to win more than they loss.  At the same time, they are not good enough to win a championship that’s where I believe the Clippers sit.  I read a later from a fan “about injuries” which certainly are part of the game.  Danilo Gallinari is one of those talents who is sidelined, the guy is talented, but he’s had an injury plagued career in Denver and now Los Angeles.  Patrick Beverly also injured returned to the lineup hopefully Doc Rivers will conclude his son is strictly a back-up player and not starting material. 

Say what

Now and again you come across something that makes you go……...hmmmmmmm.  I was once taught “You must write on a middle school level no matter the subject.”  The belief was at that level your thoughts would be easy to digest.  The same thought process applies in the sports world too.  I read an article about an NBA player in the publication Deadspin and there it was the word; vestigial.  Phonetically it’s pronounced ves-ti-gial.    

Poor me I had no definition for the word, according to Merriam-Webster the word has three definitions and I believe this one represents the basketball player I was reading about.  “Remaining in a form that is small or imperfectly developed and not able to function: being or having the form of a vestige.”  You figure how that relates to basketball I can’t, yes, I understand the meaning of the word but how its connected is a mystery to me.      

How about asking first

I’m unsure how to refer to former Knicks great Bernard King.  I'll just say he was one of the all-time Knick greats.  King finished his career 345 points shy of scoring 20,000 points, he might have eclipsed the mark if not for an injury.  King suffered a devastating injury that forced him to miss the 1985-86 season. 

Years after his retirement King was honored with his enshrinement in the College Basketball Hall of Fame.  Interviewed about his forthcoming book King was singing the praises of Kristaps Porzingis.  He said; “I’d never seen a player 7-3 that can hit 3-point shots the way he does.”  Stephen A. Smith continues to inform us of his NBA connections I wonder why he didn’t ask first about Porzingis before his classic 2015 complaint about the Knicks decision. 

Best Defense

Chris Paul selected All Defense First Team for six consecutive seasons, Draymond Green’s also a first team member for the last three seasons.  We could add the names of Tony Allen and Kawhi Leonard to this discussion.  NBA players who can score but are good to great limiting the opposition in scoring. 

Don’t fool yourself NBA teams do indeed play defense despite the belief of many casual observers of the game.  It was said Magic Johnson wasn’t a great defender however he played enormous team defense.  Magic was able to move his feet to cover areas of the court aiding his Laker teammates in playing defense.  So, add it up the intangibles and you discover there is more to defense other than blocking shots.  Every season the NBA selects a first, second and third team who earns the honor in 2018?

Basketball from a fans perspective

The journey is over……perhaps

7-3 220-pound Bol Bol has made his decision, he announced he will become an Oregon Duck next fall.  Bol one of the in the top 5 prospects in the Class of 2018 had reduced his choices to Oregon, Kentucky and Kansas.  Past success always aids recruiting plus a coach guys want to play for.  

That guy is Dana Altman who can coach and recruit but doesn’t receive near the amount of recognition of a Coach K., Calipari or Self.  Headed into his 8^th year at Oregon he’s never had a losing record.  Prior to that Altman turned around a losing program at Creighton and placed the school on a winning path.  He won at Kansas State although it seemed he always played second fiddle in the state to that other school. 

He’s also a candidate

The ink’s not dry on the paperwork however it appears Ben Simmons is the favorite to be named 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year.   In second place might be an athlete few would have figured prior to the start of the season.  The Bulls Lauri Markkanen is clearly in second place with the Lakers Kyle Kuzma in third.  The Bulls have been so bad (3-11) Markkanen’s game has been somewhat hidden. 

Markkanen from Arizona by way of Finland is a 7-foot power forward who is leading the Bulls in scoring and rebounding with 15.6 points and 8 rebounds a game.  Markkanen became the 7^th pick in the first round of the 2017 draft by the Wolves, they traded his draft rights to the Bulls.  Markkanen becomes only the third player in NBA history from Finland.     

He’s recovering

Good news for the Sixers, number one pick Markelle Fultz is healing.  According to USA Today “He will be re-evaluated in two to three weeks, Fultz was diagnosed with soreness and scapular muscle imbalance in his right shoulder.”  If you witnessed Fultz shooting the basketball it resembled the effort of Laker Lonzo Ball.  The difference of course Fultz was a better shooter in college than with the Sixers thus far.  His numbers as a Washington Huskie indicate he shot .476 from the floor however his free-throw shooting could have stood improvement at .649.   

The shot

Despite the deficiency we witness in shooting the basketball we should remain patient with Lonzo Ball for now.  Despite the poor shooting, the other aspects of his game are NBA ready.  His size (6-6) allows him to crash the boards successfully, he did that tonight with 16 rebounds.  He can effectively distribute the ball his 11 assists provide proof of that.  Shooting .385 from the floor left him with but 11 points however Ball managed his second triple-double of the season in a 127-109 win over the Nuggets. 

Never happen in the NBA

By the time this is read it might be concluded and perhaps it’s no story.  Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is threatening to sue the NFL over Roger Goodell’s contract extension.  I am not going to attempt to dissect the reasoning behind the Jones stance I’m simply pointing out the differences between NFL operations and those of the NBA.  Although the NBA has owners with deep pockets the net worth of all the NFL teams far exceeds that of any NBA franchise. 

Over the years there have been several issues regarding former commissioner David Stern that placed him in a bad light with many fans. The Seattle Sonics issue might be the first that comes to my mind.  Many fans were upset with Stern however I never read of any owner stating their intent to sue the NBA.  New Commissioner Adam Silver probably faced a historic issue firing former Clipper owner Donald Sterling after Silver was only at the helm a short time.  The owners (to my knowledge) lined up behind the decision made by the new commissioner.  

Basketball from a fans perspective

I was thinking if........

You follow sports as I do you might not share my belief and that's okay.  NFL owners have conspired to keep Colin Kaepernick on the sidelines rather than allow him to play.  Kaepernick participated in no violence he simply knelt during the playing of the National Anthem and continued this policy and gained allies mostly other NFL brethren.  His view was based on the belief police departments were guilty of brutalizing many in the minority community.  I cannot think of any point even in its worst times a healthy player was ever refrained from play in the NBA.  This research should not be considered complete, the players profiled were suspended more than 60 games which became the entire season in a few cases.  The nearest to a conspiracy to exclude a player similar to Kaepernick might be the case of Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf.   

Kermit Washington-Lakers suspended for 60 games in 1977 after he slugged an opposing player he returned the following season.  He would play for several NBA teams prior to his retirement from the game. 

Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf-Nuggets similar to Kaepernick refused to stand for the national anthem in 1996.  Suspended by the NBA I can uncover few games he missed, through negotiations he reached a compromise with the NBA.  It’s possible Abdul-Rauf might have come closer to being “black-balled” from the NBA than any other player I uncovered in my research.  He would move to the Kings and later the Grizzlies.  The later portion of his basketball career was spent playing for several Euro teams.  

Latrell Sprewell-Warriors missed 68 games after being suspended in 1997 for physically attacking his coach.  After he returned from the Warriors traded Sprewell yet he continued his career up to the point he retired from the NBA.  

Ron Artest-Pacers while a member of the Pacers he and several players were involved in the “Malice in the Palace.”  The fight between the Pacers and Pistons resulted in Artest and several players being suspended and fined.  Artest received the most severe punishment missing the balance of the season (86 games), in 2004 he returned to the NBA the following season. 

Over the years several NBA players were suspended for drug or alcohol abuse however that must be explored on a case by case basis.  As an example, Michael Ray Richardson was “banned for life in 1986” but could have returned to the NBA in 1988, he preferred to remain in Europe.  The late Roy Tarpley was banned as well for drug and alcohol abuse in 1990 but never returned to the NBA.  Tarpley would later sue the Mavs and a non-disclosed settlement was reached in March of 2009.  Tarpley died in 2015 at the age of 50 from liver failure.  

I’m concerned and so should you 

Anthony Davis left Friday’s game with concussion symptoms.  This is not unusual he’s not the first basketball player to experience this affect.  The concern it was reported this might be his third concussion an injury usually associated with football players.  My worry is how many how many is too many?  Late Sunday afternoon a check indicated Davis had suffered a bruise above the orbital bone and had suffered no concussion.  The issue of concussion continues to hang over the head of Davis.  As you are aware I have no medical background or training however this continuing issue with Davis is a concern. 

He may be NBA bound

Problems at Louisville triggered Rivals 5-star prospect Anfernee Simons to change his mind about attending the school. The 6-3 guard decided instead to search for another school however the latest news indicates the NBA rather than college might be ahead for Simons.  In a case like the Bucks Thon Maker whose class had graduated earlier Simon’s graduated in June 2017.  The young man turns 19-years of age in June 2018 just in time for the NBA Draft. 

This is a developing story and could be changed at a future date.  Simons parents must have been fans of former Magic guard Penny Hardaway who played in the NBA from 1993 to 2007 and now coaches high school basketball. Hardaway’s birth name is Anfernee while Penny is the nickname familiar to most fans of the game.  The story his grandmother with a southern drawl referred to him as pretty sounded like “penny.”  So, there you have it two stories for the price of one.      

It’s early

Quentin Grimes 5-star 2018 Scout prospect made his commitment known.  He’s a future Kansas Jayhawk, his promise moved Kansas into first place in Class of 2018 recruiting.   As for my Mizzou Tigers they are listed as an unimpressive 95^th place.  As this is written there is no “Michael Porter Jr. or Jeremiah Tilmon” on the horizon for Mizzou however there are factors restricting the ability to recruit. 

Seniors and the NBA is a factor however the Tigers are not losing a sizable portion of their roster.  With the incoming freshmen class plus two red-shirt players the ability to recruit is reduced.  The other factor to consider we don’t know whether Mizzou loses any player(s) due to lack of opportunity for playing time.  In addition, one more factor to consider is the spring signing period, one or two additional prospects might commit.     

Basketball from a fans perspective

Bits n Pieces

Steph Curry headed to college as a Rivals 3-star prospect at the time he was a 6-2 165-pound guard when he entered Davidson University.  He’s now grown to 6-3 and checks in at 190 pounds, the point?  He was an unheralded high school player who attended a smaller university, he becomes a continual NBA All-Star.  Sounds as if it this story might be a great script for a movie.    

I’d mentioned this previously but thought it was worth a repeat, the Kings drafted two of the best big men in the NBA currently and they were drafted the same year (2010).  Even more interesting neither is currently with the team although Cousins lasted longer.  The Kings chose 6-11 270-pound DeMarcus Cousins with the 5th pick in the first round.  In the second round the 33rd pick would become 7-foot 270 pound Hassan Whiteside.  At present Cousins is a member of the Pelicans while Whiteside is with the Heat.    

Would you believe the Lakers are ahead of the Clippers at this stage of the season?  In the Pacific standings the Lakers are 6-10 .375 and the Clippers are 5-10 .333.  Meantime in the Northeast Division the Thunder are 7-8 .467.  It’s early however the playoff the Clippers and Thunder would fail to qualify if the season ended today.  In the East the Celtics minus Gordon Hayward have been scorching hot with a 15-2 record and surprise, the Embiid/Simmons Sixers are 8-7.  As for the Cavs their play has been up and down but stand 9-7 currently.  

LeBron James has crowned himself King of New York, how about Joel Embiid for King of Los Angeles?  Embiid led the way as his Sixer team beat both the Clippers and Lakers on Monday and Wednesday.  His box score for the two games read 78 points, 31 rebounds, 9 assists and 8 blocked shots while shooting .625 from the floor.  All I can say I’m extremely impressed with the Big Man hopefully he can remain healthy.    

I’m not going to ignore the problem

Words eye view has not covered the Justice Department/FBI investigation into college basketball extensively up to this point in time.  The principal reason the investigation is not yet complete.  I have a degree of comfort in discussing a few facts related to basketball, this does not extend to possible criminal activity.  If you remember I laid out the information in front of me on the UCLA trio however I asked you to make up your own mind the degree of punishment. 

This we know for now a small number of assistant coaches have been terminated and in some instances arrested.  We can state former Louisville Coach Rick Pitino is the only well-known coach thus far to date fired.  Over the years I’ve read many unflattering terms about Dick Vitale due to him not addressing issues.  I’m certainly not placing myself in the category of a Vitale however I must be vocal in my criticism of those who cheat in whatever method it becomes.  As additional “real” substantial news is made known commentary will be provided.  

The building’s rich history    

Julius “Dr. J” Erving has long been retired but I guess not in the arena where much of the legend continued.  If you remember Erving was drafted and played for the Virginia Squires of the ABA prior to his arrival in New York.  The Nassau Memorial Coliseum opened its doors in 1972 and was the home of the “New York” Nets of the ABA until 1977.  In 1976 Dr. J. left for the Sixers where his exploits on the basketball court would continue to grow.     

Although the Nets left the Long Island Arena many years ago its continued to serve as home for many other sports franchises.  The NHL Islanders, the arena football Dragons and lacrosse and soccer franchises.  The Long Island Nets of the NBA G-League have begun play in the arena made famous by Dr. J.  The good doctor was requested to attend a ceremony his Nets jersey number 32 would be retired.  The venerable arena on Long Island will continue to be used into the future.