Basketball from a fans perspective

The change

Today Words eye view returns to a Monday, Wednesday Friday publication schedule.  The collegiate season ended last month, several NBA teams have been eliminated.  There is less and less news requiring 7-days a week publication.  I appreciate those who continue to read this fan publication. 

Surely, they retain her 

Doris Burke’s contract with ESPN concludes in October, although we have 6-months remaining there is no indication the network intends to renew her contract.  A few females serve as sideline reporters for basketball, a smaller number serve as studio host. Only a few find themselves behind the mic serving as an analyst.  Hiring of Burke certainly is no token hire, it’s not intended to fill some sort of quota.  She serves in the role of analyst because she’s good, hopefully ESPN will do the right thing and renew her contract.  Although neither Fox or CBS telecast NBA games I could envision them waiting anxiously for the opportunity to sign her.  One more bit of information Doris Burke was honored as the Curt Gowdy Media winner by the Naismith Hall of Fame for 2018.      

Soon(er) rather than later

As I’ve stated on several occasions I scour several mock draft sites.  They are never 100% accurate although usually the 1 through 5 picks are somewhat precise.  We are fast approaching the June draft and what are we checking, how about Trae Young?  You remember the diminutive point guard from Oklahoma, he led Division I schools in scoring and assists. 

First time the double achievement might have ever been accomplish although Oscar Robertson might have done it, we don’t know.  At the time Robertson played the NCAA didn’t track assist, so we are unsure.  In any event Mr. Young appears close to the top on five mock sites I checked.  He was designated the 7^th pick on one site while there were two 5’s and two 6’s.  If those numbers remain where they are currently this former Oklahoma Soon(er) would be drafted earlier than expected. 

They made the playoffs

The Tornados earned a playoff berth, certainly a noteworthy achievement in the teams’ first year in Kansas City and the North American Premier League.  The first four teams in this eight-team league make the playoffs.  Kansas City finished in 4^th place, they will play as the number 4 seed facing the number 1 seed Yakima (WA) SunKings in a best of three playoff series.  

He’s got a job

At the time David Fizdale was fired the Grizzlies announced B.J. Bickerstaff as interim head coach.  The job is now permanent, management decided rather than search for a coach outside the organization decided in favor of Bickerstaff, he will operate on a 3-year contract.

Was it really that bad? 
One of the sports websites I peruse regularly said: “Let’s re-do the 2016 draaft which was terrible.”  I thought for a moment; “Was it really that bad?”  It’s too soon to forecast a career but I can see the point they were attempting to make.  Ben Simmons drafted number one by the Sixers was sidelined for the season.  In his rookie year (second) he’s proven he’s a bonafide talent.  For a different reason the Lakers Brandon Ingram chosen with the second pick proved better in year two, his first year saw him score at a 9.4 point per game clip as a rookie. 

Celtics pick Jaylen Brown also required an adjustment, 6.6 points in his rookie year.  Dragan Bender of the Suns provides little evidence to date he’s NBA ready.  Finally, we arrive at pick number five Kris Dunn, after a rough rookie season he’s improved in his second year given additional playing time.  I’m not going to list the balance of a draft containing 60 players but hope you get the point.  Again, as a reminder I believe in the “right place, right time” scenario.  A few the Class of 2016 playing behind veterans might not have received adequate play.  In addition, as I stated its far too early to say someone can't play at this level.    

Who is the winner in the end?

Luka Doncic will be a Top 10 pick in the 2018 NBA draft, it’s too bad his name is attached to another native son in a somewhat negative connotation.  Darko Milicic was the number two pick in the 2003 draft, he arrived in the NBA with All-Pro stamped on his forehead.  Somehow, he never reached the level projected by scouts and others, he drifted from team to team, six in all.  He spent a month with the Celtics in 2012 and that was it, the end of his NBA career. 

I don’t remember seeing him play much, 7 feet and 275 pounds it was believed he had all the tools, but he just didn’t.  He’s now growing apples on his farm in Serbia, he owns about 125 acres and will likely acquire additional acreage.  As for Luka Doncic, ESPN’s Mina Kines wrote a profile of Doncic and titled it “Luka Doncic is no Darko Milicic”.  Sometimes we see the body, without being able to see the body of works.  That is likely the case with Darko Milicic gentleman farmer, maybe he is the winner in the end.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

“The glass is half full”

If you’ve read Words eye view any length of time you know the headline is one of my themes.  Nothing is as bad as it looks until you get there.  In this case I’m discussing point guard Courtney Ramey and his decision to play for Shaka Smart at Texas.  Smart’s had a rough time since his arrival in Austin however I maintain he’s a good coach.  I hope for Ramey’s sake is transition to college basketball is smooth and he shows great promise.  I would prefer he chose Mizzou but that’s all water under the bridge now.  I had to remind my friend losing out to Texas is not the end of the world.  As I indicated earlier point guard transfer Dru Smith will not be eligible to play until 2019-20, what do we do in the meantime. 

Jordan Geist led the team in assists returns in that role, Xavier Pinson is likely to back him up coming in as a freshman.  An article I read on a Mizzou fan website stated Cuonzo Martin believes in position-less basketball.  With that said the Tigers add two freshman shooting guards and one wing player to the 2018-19 roster.  Here’s what we didn’t know headed into the 2017-18 season, although shaky at times Geist led the team in assists plus big man Jeremiah Tilmon is expected to have an improved sophomore year.  In addition, there is another player or two I’ve missed who comes to the forefront.  I say rather than “half empty the glass is half full.”

Most don't know  

I didn’t realize until I began research for this account, Russell Westbrook was drafted by the Seattle Sonics in 2008.  Unlike former teammate Kevin Durant who played one year in the Emerald City Westbrook has been strictly Oklahoma City.  On Friday night the Thunder came up short once again losing to the Jazz 96-91 and the series 4 games to 2.   The game remains a team effort however the point guard controls much of the game, Westbrook dominates the basketball to the degree his teammates defer far too much to him in my view.       

If we just look at Westbrook’s scoring during this series it looks good (29.4 ppg), as for the shooting that’s another matter.  .397 from the floor indicates you are not shooting proficiently.   I ain’t calling this one way or another however the question becomes what incentive is there for Paul George.  He’s got to want to approach winning an NBA championship, I stated a week or so ago and will repeat it.  The Thunder will continue as a playoff team as structured, with Westbrook dominating the ball they will never win a championship.  After 9 years in the NBA Westbrook still fails to tailor his game to augment his team. 

Hardship

The NBA had a hard-fast rule, you couldn’t play until your college class graduated.  Wilt Chamberlain left Kansas after his junior year, he would play the 1958-59 season with the Harlem Globetrotters.  In 1959 he began his NBA career with the Philadelphia (Golden State) Warriors.  The upstart American Basketball Association had no such rule in fact they drafted players right out of high school something the NBA at the time frowned on.  All a player had to do was declare themselves a “Hardship Case” and presto-changeo their name would be added to the draft list of available players. 

The NBA realizing this talent drain also began accepting hardship players into their draft pool.  You know the balance of the story, the leagues eventually merged.  The NBA begin reaching into the high school ranks for players such as Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and others.  The 2005 NBA Draft would see the last high school players drafted with a few exceptions.  At least two players left high school for foreign shores to play at a pro level and returned a year later.  Recently we had the case of Thon Maker and soon in 2018 Anfernee Simmons.  In their case the high school class graduated a year previous, they played what could be a 5^th year and had turned age 19 thus eligible for the draft. 

State Line Road

I’m sure other states contained a State Line Road a street dividing two states.  The street in Kansas City (MO) divides the State of Kansas from the State of Missouri, it runs between 13 and 21 miles inside the metro before it changes names in the southern portion of Kansas City Missouri.  The Kansas Missouri side of the metro has witnessed several area players head to Columbia to play at Mizzou.  As for players on the Kansas side headed to Mizzou there have been very few.  In 1976 guard Larry Drew arrived on campus at Mizzou from Kansas City Kansas.  Drew might be the last player from the State of Kansas to play for Mizzou, it works in the other direction too. 

In 1989 the late Chris Lindley and Patrick Richey on the Missouri side signed letters of intent to play at Kansas.  An accident prevented Lindley from playing however Richey played four years in Lawrence.  In January 2018 Ochai Agbaji signed a letter of intent to play at Kansas, Ogbaji attends Oak Park High School in Kansas City (MO).  Mizzou’s made an offer to Rivals 5-star 2019 prospect Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, the 6-foot 8 inch forward attends Bishop Miege High School on the metro Kansas side.  It should be of note Robinson-Earl’s dad played basketball at Kansas.  As you can see there is little talent crossing back and forth between the two states.  Is there some kind of unwritten rule preventing recruiting in each other’s back yard?  Although Kansas and Missouri now compete in different conferences nothing has changed.  

Basketball from a fans perspective

New Mizzou Tiger

Dru Smith Evansville point guard is transferring to Mizzou.  The 6-foot 3-inch 190-pound Smith will sit out the 2018-19 season but will have two years of eligibility remaining.  Numbers don’t always transfer however those registered at Evansville look good, 13.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2 steals.  It was reported Mizzou beat out three other schools to secure the services of Smith.  Two transfers in two weeks, the backcourt in 2019-20 will appear to be a law firm or business. 

At the shooting guard 6-5 Mark Smith Illini transfer and at the point 6-3 Dru Smith Evansville transfer.  Smith and Smith would appear to be a law firm or place of business.  Coach and staff continue to look to the future one without the Porter’s.  One note, on the surface it would appear Mizzou is top heavy with guards.  Cuonzo Martin almost plays position less basketball which indicates there might be occasions there will be three or four guards on the floor at the same time.  This latest move might signal Courtney Ramey decides on a location somewhere other than Mizzou.  (NOTE) Ramey has decided on Texas as this narrative was completed. 

Scouting report

I attended my first Kansas City Tornados game unsure what to expect, brand new league, brand new team plus brand-new players most with unfamiliar names.  The Tornados play in the North American Premier League a start-up league that began play in January 2018.  As I mentioned earlier there are seven other teams in this new league.  The Tornados faced the Kentucky Thoroughbreds from Owensboro. 

The home team is coached by Calvin Thompson former Kansas player and feature a run offense, several times the ball barely touch the floor as the Tornadoes raced to a 132-108 victory.  I was particularly impressed by the long-range shooting of 6-foot 9-inch guard Taveres Sledge, he played his college basketball at Wright State.  The downside as I indicated earlier the metro has ignored the Tornados although this might be the closet Kansas City gets to pro basketball for years. 

He’s a throw back

He’s been over shadowed by social media king Joel Embiid and the dynamic Ben Simmons.   There are other Sixers who have contributed to the success of the team this season.  One of those is Robert Covington now in his 4^th year from Tennessee State.  Covington is a throw-back in a sense, over the last several years few NBA players from historically black colleges have made it to the NBA.  There are several reasons for the decline in what was once a lucrative pipeline for basketball talent. 

Up through the mid 1970’s a considerable number of talent arrived from Grambling, Jackson State, Texas Southern and others.  Willis Reed, Earl Monroe, Sam Jones and Luke Jackson thrived in the NBA after first gaining fame while in college.  Schools particularly in the southern United States who never recruited black athletes opened their doors, LSU, Ole Miss, Alabama to name just a few.  The historically black colleges were no longer able to recruit athletes at the same level of an Ohio State or Auburn.  Athletes such as Covington were not highly recruited at the high school level.     

Gone fishing

Miami Heat

San Antonio Spurs

Portland Trail Blazers

Minnesota T-Wolves

Washington Wizards

This will be updated as the playoffs continue

Basketball from a fans perspective

Held hostage

Mizzou is being held hostage not literally but figuratively!  Courtney Ramey a Rivals 4-star point guard in the Class of 2018 is yet to decide on a college choice.  Maybe he won’t or can’t make the leap to Division I basketball, I haven’t seen him play only highlights.  I’d mentioned previously this St. Louis prospects dad and Mizzou’s Cuonzo Martin have been acquainted for a number of years.  Despite the history it means little based on the number of schools after young Ramey’s services.  Dad stated on Wednesday an announcement would be forthcoming, they are down to four schools and Mizzou is one of the four.  We shall see what we shall see, that’s all I can state at this point. 

I don’t know

A great deal about Mike Budenholzer except he’s no longer coaching the Hawks by his choice.  I guess we should have figured something was going on, he asks for and received permission to interview for the Suns job.  Another report indicated he’s one of the legion of former coaches to be interviewed by the Knicks.  The 2014-15 NBA Coach of the Year had 2-years and $$$$$ remaining on his contract.  Budenholzer was plus .500 during his tenure but only 17-22 in the post-season.  He remains on the sidelines for a period, but he should return to coaching if he desires.  Jeff Van Gundy, Mark Jackson, Mike Fratello and Kevin McHale appear comfortable in the role of analysts. 

Two careers

Most of us are fortunate to say we had one successful career, how about two?  That’s the case for the late Wayman Tisdale.  Many in the jazz community probably thought he was just tall (6-foot 9 inches) for a bassist.  On the other hand, there might have been an equal number of basketball fans with no knowledge of his musical talent.     

The world first became cognizant of his basketball talent at the University of Oklahoma, he would distinguish himself being recognized as All-American three years.  Tisdale was drafted by the Pacers in 1985 and would play for the Kings, he concluded his NBA career in 1997 as a member of the Suns retiring with a 15.3 point and 6.1 rebounds a game.  Others leave the game not sure of what to do with their future…. Tisdale was aware of his destination. 

Tisdale would expand his music a talent he first began as a youngster, his discography would eventually consist of 10 albums.  We no longer have Tisdale with us however we’ll have his music forever, if you love jazz you need to check him out.  He died in 2009 at the age of 44 far too young, despite this fact his star shone brightly if but for a brief period on earth.  R.I. P. Wayman Tisdale you are missed by the basketball and music world. 

“Dropped in out of the sky”

The Lakers Kyle Kuzma didn’t really drop out of the sky, we use the term because few (including Larry Laker) were aware of him.  This is my excuse what’s yours, Kuzma played at Utah in the Pac-12?  In the Midwest weeknight games begin here at 9:00-10:00 p.m. far too late for those having to work the next day.  The 6-foot 9-inch Kuzma was the 27^th pick in the first round of the 2017 draft by the Nets who included him in a draft-day trade to the Lakers.  Laker fans excited about Lonzo Ball tuned into NBA Summer League games hoping to see the rookie. 

Kuzma “stole” the baton from Ball winning MVP for the league.  Kuzma detailed for the Lakers he knew how to play the game as he led the team in scoring.  Like most rookies he “hit the wall” as his numbers began to drop.  In the lineup once injuries took their toil he moves in the starting lineup once again.  Interesting in that his Laker scoring numbers in his rookie year are slightly higher than registered last season at Utah.  In the lineup he plays the small forward and power forward positions, one of the Laker kids with a bright future. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

A history

A friend reading the hockey versus basketball in KC offered his view.  Chris said in a few words “Hockey has been more successful than basketball.”  Chris might be correct in a sense we’ve had hockey since 2009, as for basketball it's 2018.  I’ve long believed the two sports play a winter schedule but are not in direct conflict with the other.  I could be wrong, I’ve always believed hockey fans were just that, they are not basketball fans and vice-versa.  

Let’s check the history and this is as accurate as could be found.  In an earlier period, Kansas City had minor league hockey I’m told in the 1940’s and 1950’s although I could locate no evidence.  As for a later time period the NHL arrived in the city in 1972 with the expansion Scouts, they left the city in 1976 first to Colorado and they are now the New Jersey Devils.  The Blades in the International League began play in 1990 and lasted to 2001 when the league folded.  The Outlaws lasted from 2004-2005, the team folded.  The Mavericks of the ECHL began play in 2009 and continue into the 2017-18 season. 

As for professional basketball, the KC Steers of the American Basketball League began play in 1961 and lasted till 1963, the league folded.  In 1972 the NBA Royals moved from Cincinnati and were re-branded the Kings.  1985 witnessed a new owner moving the Kings to Sacramento where they reside presently.  In 2000 the “new” American Basketball Association began play with a Kansas City team with the nickname Knights.  Prior to the 2005-06 season the team suspended operations and never returned.  2018 Kansas City would become home of the Tornados as they began play in a new league, the North American Premier Basketball League.    

Commission on College Basketball

We have yelled and screamed about the problems of college basketball and a commission was formed headed by former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice was formed.  Ms. Rice committee issued its report to the NCAA on Wednesday, I’m not going to attempt to detail all the findings in just a few sentences.  There is one area I’d like to detail the committee found needed change was players leaving school early for the NBA.  I applaud the committee for their work and diligence in completing the task. 

The committee believes college players who are not drafted should be allowed to return to school.  This is great because we know the failures of those who leave school and fail to be drafted.  If a player through his coach (John Calipari comes to mind) is told he’s going to be drafted that’s confirmation.  If uncle John, cousin Larry or a “friend” with vested interests is informing the player to submit his name that becomes a little suspect. As with any proposal there are kinks in the proposal and whether it could be implemented effectively.  Fully explore the changes and implement those workable the others toss out.    

One down and counting

My Sixers (you notice I said MY) close out the Heat on Tuesday evening.  The final score read 104-91 and the Sixers had balanced scoring attack led by J.J. Redick with 27-points.  Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid both registered double-doubles in scoring and rebounds.  Dwayne Wade was non-committal on his possible retirement but not that of the Sixers future.  Wade had a number of nice things to say about the team his Heat lost the series.

Wade said: "You want to see good things. I mean, these guys are the future of the NBA, and the NBA is in great hands with Ben Simmons and Joe and those guys."  They always say, “A broken clock correct twice a day”, that’s the case with me and Charles Barkley.  Rarely do I agree with several of his statements however we agree on the Sixers.  His argument with his co-host and his statement “The Sixers did not tank, they had players get hurt.  They had the top two picks (Embiid and Simmons) and they missed the season.”

Mizzou’s future

Blake Hinson was supposed to be leaning in another direction and it wasn’t toward Mizzou or at least that was the belief.  The 6-foot 7-inch 230-pound power forward is reported to lack skills in some of the areas Coach Cuonzo considers important.  Nevertheless, reports exist this Class of 2018 prospect remains on Mizzou’s radar.  Hinson is from Daytona Beach (FL) and attends Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita.  No way am I stating Hinson’s moved Mizzou to the top of his list, but it is interesting he wanted to visit Columbia.  How about the team’s future beyond 2018 might be a question?  2020 prospect Josh Christopher has let it be known he’s interested in Mizzou.  The 6-foot 4-inch sophomore shooting guard hails from Lakewood (CA). 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Sorry about that 
There was no Tuesday edition of Words eye view.  I wrote it however it wasn't published, there were powers at work beyond my control.  That's what it was....power, a branch from a tree in my backyard fell and took down my power line.  This occurred late afternoon on Monday, because a re-wire was necessary an electrician was required to complete the work before my power was returned early Tuesday evening.  Just about 24 hours with no television, no internet, no phone and no Words eye view.  

I can see the problem    

We tend to believe basketball minds could see a view different from fans, I guess it depends on which mind we speak of.  Fans of Russell Westbrook can tune out now because this is a critique of your main man as Ahmad Rashad would say.  I will go on record once again; the Thunder will NEVER WIN an NBA Championship.  Did you notice it’s in all caps, bold and underlined?  If we check out Westbrook’s scoring, rebound and assist numbers they look outstanding and they are. 

The only problem the Thunder earn a playoff berth every season and apart from one season are usually defeated by the opening or semi-final round.  Why do we suppose this occurs, we cannot simply blame this on one guy?  I beg to differ we can lay the blame at the feet of Russell Westbrook, over the course of his NBA career he’s never tailored his game to fit the existing talent surrounding him.  It was James Harden, then Serge Ibaka and Kevin Durant.  This season its Paul George and Carmelo Anthony. 

The debate is invalid for me

We have a Sunday night sports segment by one of the local stations in Kansas City.  The host serves as moderator for three media members.  Most of the discussion surrounds local sports although there is a departure on occasion.  Sunday night was an example, I must admit I had the sound muted working on Words eye view.  I turned on the sound just in time to hear one of the guests claim, “The NHL would be a better fit in Kansas City right now.” 

I’m guessing the question was posed regarding a possible NBA versus an NHL franchise.  My statement to you why is this even a point of discussion?  With the NFL Chiefs, the baseball Royals and Sporting Kansas City the sports dollar might be spread a little thin for a metro of 2 million plus citizens.  I excluded Mizzou and Kansas both schools being a short drive from the metro.  A better question is why are we discussing this non-issue? 

I guess I misunderstood

April 21 Luka Doncic submitted paperwork for entry in the 2018 NBA Draft.  I believe I must have misunderstood, the guard/forward has been listed on every mock draft site beginning immediately after the June 23, 2017 draft.  These same mock sites project Doncic at any pick from number 1 up to the number 5 selection.  Doncic from Slovenia plays for Real Madrid in the Euro League.  

Crunch these numbers

Bill Self and Kansas fans might find this interesting, I’m preparing for all the rocks and boulders tossed in my direction.  Up to play of the semi-final game versus Villanova the local radio and television guys were singing the praises of Self.  They mentioned his consecutive Big 12 conference winning record and other attributes.  Well consider this little jewel, it was mentioned Jay Wright at Villanova has won 136 games over the last four years, how many has Self won in that same period, 122.  Wright’s won two NCAA championships in three years what about Self?   There has been a single round of 32 appearance, two Elite Eight and one Final Four appearance.  Please inform us Dick Vitale who is the better coach?

Basketball from a fans perspective

Playoff basketball

They claim there is no difference, they say regular season basketball is no different from playoff basketball.  They say players perform no differently in the playoffs than regular season, they whoever the mysterious they are have other untrue tales about regular season versus playoff basketball.  Let’s check out a quote from Hall of Fame and legendary Celtic Bill Russell.  Reading his autobiography several years ago I came across a quote that stood out for me.   

I couldn’t locate the book for the exact quote, but it went something along these lines.  “We had guys complaining about playing time or shot opportunities.  Once the playoffs began they became extremely quiet, they didn’t want to touch the basketball for fear of having to take a crucial shot.”  You sure playoff basketball is no different from the regular season, I don’t believe you’ve watched much basketball. 

Did it past him by?

Often, we are reluctant to change, it’s not that we can’t we just sometimes fail to see the need.  Change is even more difficult when it involves our fellow humans.  Without detailing social and societal change how about coaching basketball?  Hall of Fame Coach Bobby Knight failed to change, he didn’t adapt.  How come 70 something Coaches K. and Roy Williams continue coaching at a prominent level, they are not the same coaches they were 20 or 30 years ago.  They and others adapted with the changes and continue, with Knight it was my way or the highway as they might say.   

Knight began his head coaching duties at Army in 1965, from 1971-2000 he was Indiana basketball.  His Indiana teams won three NCAA Championships and a single NIT Championship, Knight’s been inducted in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.  After he was fired at Indiana he would go on to Texas Tech and was a winner there as well.  It was clear to many the game had passed him by, not the X and O part…. the human part.  Did I mention Indiana had established a zero tolerance regarding the coach due to a past issue, violation of that policy caused him to be fired after 29 years at the helm.  Robert Montgomery Knight one of the most successful coaches in collegiate history but slow to adapt to change. 

Playoff triple-double

The Lakers Magic Johnson recorded a triple-double in 1980 his rookie year.  Several rookies have arrived in the NBA since that year, in the 38 years no rookie had ever accomplished the feat until October 21, 2018.  On this date the Sixers Ben Simmons recorded 17 points, 10 assists and 13 rebounds in his teams 106-102 victory over the Heat.  The Sixers now hold a commanding 3 games to 1 lead over the heat. 

Who do they trade?

Rumor now says the Lakers are talking trade with the Spurs regarding Kawhi Leonard.  Much earlier the conversation revolved around LeBron James and Paul George moving to Southern California and donning purple and gold.  There is a difference both players are potential free-agents while Leonard must be acquired in a trade.  The Lakers would put together a package of players and perhaps cash to acquire the disgruntled Spurs forward. 

Leonard is an All-Pro and is only 26-years old but who do the Lakers include in a package? They could bundle Julius Randle, Josh Hart and Ivica Zubac and cash or Luol Deng to the Spurs.  I’ve not checked salaries so I’m unsure if this would be approved, right now I’m just looking at possible combinations of players.  If I’m sitting in Magic Johnson or Rob Pelinka’s ’shoes do I contact the Spurs and “make them an offer they can’t refuse.”    

Basketball from a fans perspective

He’s willing

Brook Lopez center for the Lakers has gone on record.  Brook’s indicated he’d be willing to sign for less money if the Lakers become contenders next season.  We are unsure exactly what that entails however there is one area I desire improvement.  Wow, sounds as if I’m Magic Johnson or Luke Walton.  There’s never been a question regarding Robin’s offensive capability.  His offensive output of 13 points a game was the lowest since his rookie year with the Nets.  

It wasn’t the fact he couldn’t score he made sacrifices to his game for the benefit of the team.  With Brook I always only had two concerns, he didn’t rebound enough or block shots.  For a guy standing 7-feet tall and nearly 270 pounds my question, why are the numbers so low?  There are NBA players smaller in stature and weight with rebound numbers higher than Brook.  Brook finished the season at number 15 in blocked shots, ahead of 6 foot 10 inch Serge Ibaka and 6 foot 7 inch Draymon Green.  Brook is certainly accurate for a big man from the 3-point line which is okay but I’d rather see him improve the other numbers.  

The NFL in the NBA

The headline sounds as if it’s taken from those Geico Insurance commercials that proliferate our televisions daily.  There is a further explanation for the headline, and it does involve the NFL indirectly.  Long-time Green Bay (WI) Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is now a part-owner of the Milwaukee Bucks.

$15,000?    

Didn’t I inform you earlier bad blood became evident in the playoff series between the Heat and Sixers.  Game Three was witness to inanimate objects becoming part of this feud. In the second  quarter while scrambling for a rebound Sixers center Joel Embiid lost his facial mask as it fell to the floor.  The mask was reported to be indestructible so Heat forward Justise Winslow decided to conduct his own test.  He stepped on the mask and when that didn’t work he picked it up and attempted to break it with his hands.  Without benefit of tools Winslow was unable to accomplish his task.  His actions became the basis for a $15,000 fine by the NBA.      

One or two dominate coverage

The first thought to me one or two schools usually dominate the basketball news in a state.  We could debate that issue in North Carolina, it’s my view Carolina and Duke are on the same level.  On the other hand, Mizzou is clearly ahead of Missouri State, St. Louis University and Southeast Missouri State.  In California USC and Cal continually run behind UCLA.  Sorry Kansas State fans you run far behind the University of Kansas in news coverage.  As for the Florida of today I’m unsure if it’s Florida State or the University of Florida both might be on the same level. 

Texas with its huge population and numbers of Division I programs its still Texas, Texas and Texas, New Mexico over New Mexico State.  Further west it’s Arizona receiving far more news coverage than Arizona State.  Oklahoma State runs second to the University of Oklahoma.  In the west Colorado bests Colorado State and maybe Brigham Young over Utah. There are other states omitted but I hope you get the idea.  Remember I didn’t state one or two schools in a state was superior on the basketball court, the discussion centers on media coverage. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Look in the mirror please

It’s interesting listening to Knicks owner James Dolan, he blames Phil Jackson, Jeff Hornacek and vendor Joe Smith for the poor play of the team.  Just kidding about the vendor part, I don’t even know if the Knicks have anyone working for them named Joe Smith.  The point I’m attempting to make Dolan is blaming everyone except himself.  Dolan signed off on hiring Phil Jackson and we guess the same for Hornacek.  

I can admit the choice of Phil Jackson the general manager was not a good move, Phil Jackson the coach would have been much better. As for Dolan I offer you no proof except my belief, he is similar to the Wizard in the movie classic The Wizard of Oz.  When discovered his line was “Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain.  The great Oz has spoken.” Dolan is behind the curtain I don’t believe he’s simply allowing Phil Jackson and others to run his team into the ground.  Phil’s been history since June 2017 almost a year, how long are we going to hold on to that story because they were before Phil arrived on the scene.     

Phantom of the Opera Sixers

Joel Embiid has been complaining all week, not a usual complaint.  Embiid wanted in the Sixers lineup and the medical staff was yet to clear him.  He’d missed the first two playoff games and was desperate for action.  Late Thursday afternoon word came he would be in the lineup for the Thursday evening game.  He would don a mask due to the surgically repaired orbital bone injury he’d suffered. Those of us who wear eye glasses realize how difficult our peripheral vision is affected at times, how would the mask affect his shot? 

The verdict is in, Emiid and crew managed a 128-103 victory over the Heat, the Sixers now lead the series 2 games to 1.  In 30 minutes of action after missing 8 regular season and 2 playoff games it appeared Embiid had not missed a beat.  Embiid’s box score read 23 points while shooting .455 from the floor along with 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 blocked shots.  A feud might have begun between these two NBA teams, it involves late game layups at the time in Games 2 and 3 when the winner was already clear.    

Who is he?    

You might remember reading an account about the greatest centers in Laker history.  The Laker fan website omitted the name of Elmore Smith, on my list I replaced Andrew Bynum’s name with that of Smith.  You ask exactly what did he accomplish to be placed on your all-time list?  The first statement is bold on my part, Smith was a shot-blocking fool.  Although it is 2018 the single game block record of 17 is still held by Smith, he accomplished this feat Oct 28, 1973 in a game against the Blazers.  In the game Smith had a triple-double 12 points, 16 rebounds and the 17 blocked shots. 

We really don’t know how many blocks were recorded by Smith, he played two years prior to the time the NBA began tracking blocked shots.  Smith was drafted in 1971 by the defunct Buffalo Braves (Los Angeles Clippers) and two years later would become a Laker.  Smith along with two other players was later traded to the Bucks after the 1974-75 season wait for it…. Kareem Abdul Jabbar.  Smith arrived in the NBA from Kentucky State being the anchor on a triple NAIA championship run.  Although Smith was only a Lakers for two seasons I believe his impact was much greater than Andrew Bynum, besides the fact he was directly responsible for them acquiring Abdul Jabbar.

Hey Mizzou fans 
So, the season didn’t quite turn out as you hoped, disappointed?  I certainly can say I am, however I’ve not lost hope aimlessly passing the time?  No way, I’m excited for the upcoming basketball season for the Mizzou Tigers.  Recruiting is not yet complete but allow me two guesses, Michael Porter Jr. leaves and brother Jontay stays.  Jontay Porter remaining plus the incoming recruits should still make for a competitive run next season.  Recruiting is not complete, although this class is nowhere near the level of last season (3 by 247 Sports) Rivals list Mizzou’s 2018 class as the 44^th rated class in the nation. 

As I’ve often indicated I’m a “glass half full guy rather than half empty.”  This team with the Porter brothers was projected to finish 5^th in the SEC, with Jontay in the lineup Mizzou managed a tie for third place.  After a year of watching him prowl the sidelines I believe this was partially accomplished due to Cuonzo Martin at the helm.  Did he make some mistakes, no doubt but he managed to get this patched together team (injuries, transfers and suspensions) into the NCAA Tournament?  Mizzou had not played in the tournament since 2013.  We have no ability to see into the future however it appears quite bright. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Erin Popovich

The world doesn’t know Erin Popovich, her family does especially husband Gregg long-time NBA coach.  After a lengthy illness the Spurs announced yesterday Erin Popovich had died.  Someone said: “This is a tough time for the coach in the middle of the playoffs.”  I could say anytime there is a death of a spouse it’s a particularly difficult time-period.  The two were married 40+ years and had two children and two grandchildren, R.I.P. Erin Popovich.

My response

A friend called me to task on my playoff take, he said: “I noticed you really went out on a limb saying the Cavs wouldn’t win but the Warriors would.”  There were a couple of reasons how I managed my conclusion.  The Cavs remain offensively strong and could compete with any team in the NBA, teams must play defense too which appears to be a mystery at times to this version of the Cavs. 

I’d picked the Warriors to win the championship and he thought I was “brave” there.  Despite the injuries that have plagued them most of the season they still appear superior to the Cavs.  On the other hand, I could be wrong, the Cavs advance and win the NBA Championship.  The Cavs complete the task of winning an NBA Championship because the Warriors lose to the Rockets.  It could turn out and I would be mistaken in my playoff assessment.  

No way

There was no way Cuonzo Martin would have been selected Coach of the Year.  I make that statement despite the fact I believe he should have won.  Take into consideration these facts. 

Mizzou's win total increased from 8 to 20

Michael Porter Jr. expected to lead the way played only 2 games

Two freshmen point guards transferred another dismissed during the season

Projected for a 5^th place finish Mizzou finished in 4^th place in the SEC

Earned a post-season berth for the first time since 2014

That says it all for me, I know you might not agree but if you’ve been in basketball purgatory you might understand why I applaud Cuonzo Martin’s season.   

This is different

There are reports the Knicks will interview Kenny Smith for the head coaching position.  Smith a Queens New York guy played for six teams during his NBA career, none had New York on the front of the jersey.  After Smith retired in 1997 he went to work almost immediately for TNT as an analyst.  I believe it might be safe to say far more people are familiar with Kenny Smith analyst than Kenny Smith the former NBA player.  Does he know basketball, of course he does?  I’m unsure if this is just a story or Smith might be really be interested in coaching the Knicks, we shall see.
     

Basketball from a fans perspective

The sky is not falling

Kassius Robertson arrived from Canisius as an unknown, Mizzou Nation (and the coaching staff) hoped he could play.  He certainly adjusted well becoming the team leader in scoring with 16.3 points per game.  The graduate student is gone now, it’s time to find another “Kassius Robertson.”  That might not be the case this season, one by one those on Mizzou’s brief list have committed to other schools.  The Courtney Ramey visit was yesterday but word on his decision might be at least two to three weeks from now.  Worse case scenario Ramey chooses another school and they swing and miss on the graduate student search…. what happens then? 

Xavier Pinson a legitimate point guard is on the way but he’s making the leap from high school to Division I, Jordan Geist led the team in assists (95) and returns for his senior year.  In addition, 6-foot 7-inch Kevin Puryear on occasion was able to bring the ball up court.  I would list forward Puryear as the “back-up, back up” point guard.  Then K.J. Santos arriving from Tallahassee Junior College could be a help, the 6-foot 7-inch Santos is a true wing player but might be able to handle the ball in spots as well.  Finally, should Courtney Ramey choose Mizzou my coaching fix might become null and void, see I told you ‘The sky is not falling.”

“I think I can, I think I can, well maybe I can’t!”

Some of you might be familiar with the children’s book “The Little Engine that Could.”  The engine had difficulty climbing a very steep hill with all the cars behind it.  The engine kept saying to itself, “I think I can, I think I can” mind over matter.  Well he managed to make it to the top of the hill but I’m unsure of the Wizards.  The Wizards are not in this story, what are you talking about?  

Every year on paper they look as though they are ready to compete, the Wizards always have a respectable won-loss total earning them a playoff berth.  Once the playoffs begin they tell themselves “I think I can, I think I can” but they can’t.  They flame out in the first or second round every season.  I’ve not followed them close enough to detect the issue.  John Wall, Bradley Beal and company certainly exhibit talent…. what is the missing element?

I have no idea what to expect

It seems since Words eye view first began publication I’ve moaned about one issue, no NBA basketball in Kansas City.  Well it ain’t the NBA but Kansas City does have a professional team.   The Kansas City Tornadoes of the North American Premier League began play in January.  A funny thing occurred, nobody paid any attention, with Kansas basketball dominating the news plus revitalized play by Mizzou the Pioneers have become an afterthought. 

Games originally scheduled for venerable Municipal Auditorium have now been move to a college arena in South Kansas City.  The current standings indicate the Tornadoes are 12-11 and in 4^th place of the 8-team league.  League expansion is planned, my hope it doesn’t come anywhere near the ABA founded in 2000.  The ABA has 54 teams and 11 divisions, how in the world do they determine a champion.  Despite what might appear to be a negative report I plan on attending a game before the season ends and will provide you my impression of the Tornadoes.   

Thanks CBSSports.com/nba.com

I mentioned the three coaches fired since the end of the season, I was perusing  cbssports.com/nba site and discovered I’d missed several teams.  The Bucks, Suns and Grizzlies are all working with interim coaches.  The Bucks had fired Jason Kidd, same for the Suns relieving Earl Watson of his duties.  Earlier I’d written a complete account of the Grizzlies and the circumstance on replacing David Fizdale.  So, there are at least six NBA teams currently searching for a head coach.  By my count there are only six coaches on solid ground:

Steve Kerr-Golden State  

Gregg Popovich-San Antonio

Dwayne Casey-Toronto

 Brad Stevens-Boston

Brett Brown-Philadelphia

Tom Thibodeau-Minnesota

Ever seen video of a guy walking across hot burning coals?  That represents the balance of coaches, most are likely safe for now, but the playoffs are yet to be completed so questions remain.