Tuesday, July 17, 2018


Basketball from a fans perspective

Time’s up
It is time for the Lakers to trade Lonzo Ball!  The youngster remains a talent however his father has become an overwhelming presence which is quite difficult to tolerate.  It’s not LaVar Ball alone 90% of the finger pointing is aimed at the media be it print or television.  Whatever financial endeavor he undertakes is fine it’s his mouth that has become increasingly difficult for many of us.  Last Thursday evening a serious incident occurred with one of the team’s in his Junior Baller Association.  LaVar who loves the microphone has been strangely silent regarding the act of violence perpetrated by one of his leagues coaches.  LaVar has no problem discussing himself his family or his future action but has been quiet. 
Normally we might attempt to avoid all mention of LaVar Ball, in this instance we are anxious for a response.  LaVar is all talk, remember his claim “I could beat Michael Jordan one on one” or “Lonzo will make LeBron a better player.”  Check this out from Wikipedia, “Ball first began playing college basketball at West Los Angeles College in the low-tier Western State Conference despite having little experience at the prep level. In the season opener in 1986, he recorded 33 points and 18 rebounds against Porterville College.  Ball then transferred to NCAA Division I Washington State and became a starting forward.  In 26 games for the Cougars, however; he averaged only 2.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game.  After one season, Ball transferred again to Cal State Los Angeles, which competed in the NCAA Division II, playing alongside three of his four brothers.” 
Wikipedia
A great deal taller now
They are not sure at what age they first met, it was either kindergarten or perhaps the second grade.  E.J. Liddell and Mario McKinney are the two friends, one thing for sure both are a great deal taller now as Class of 2019 basketball prospects.  It’s been reported Liddell and McKinney want to attend the same college and Cuonzo Martin and Mizzou certainly hope this plan is in Mizzou’s favor.  The St. Louis area youngsters play distinct positions, Liddell is a 6-foot 7-inch 220 pound forward while McKinney is a 6-foot 2-inch 180-pound point guard.  Stay tuned for further developments on the two during their upcoming senior year of high school.   
Saga of Kawhi
The only action is there’s no action, no movement regarding Kawhi Leonard.  There is certainly plenty of speculation in media circles on what might eventually transpire.  As for this Laker fan I’d welcome him if A. He’s fully healthy.  B. We don’t empty the cupboard to acquire him.  Allow further discussion, it’s been mentioned on more than one occasion Kawhi was concerned about the medical report he received from Spurs management. 
It’s reported he sought a second opinion which contradicted the earlier report.  The Lakers must ensure Kawhi is healed before any trade is undertaken.  This you might have learned earlier too; the Lakers have said NO on including Brandon Ingram in any trade.  If the Spurs are talking future Kyle Kuzma plus Lonzo Ball and maybe a third player and cash could be a start.  The only issue at this point the Spurs are reported to be uninterested in Lonzo, where does that leave the Lakers?  Sub Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for Lonzo might work, it could at least begin dialogue. 

The greatness of Shaq
I believe there may be quite a few, some who believe the stories.  “Shaq wasn’t a complete player all he could do was dunk and bully his way to the basket.”  He might have been the best big man passer ever, sure he played a power game.  When you stand 7-foot 1 inch and check in at 350 pounds wouldn’t one utilize those dimensions to dominate the game.  In any event allow the video to prove my point, enjoy.