Tuesday, August 28, 2018


Basketball from a fans perspective

Politics you say 
There are rare occasions when the world of sport is impacted by politics, this is one of those occasions.  One of the millions expressing condolences regarding Senator John McCain was Lauri Markkanen of the Bulls.  The Bulls forward tells the story at the time he was trying to obtain a student-visa the process got bogged down.  The former University of Arizona player indicated the senator’s office got involved and the issue was resolved.  Markkanen claims he will forever appreciate Senator McCain for helping him obtain his visa.  The intervention by the senator’s office allowed Markkanen to come to America and fulfill his dream of playing basketball.   
Our opinion is null and void
Consider this fact, I have no idea of the inter-workings of Kansas City Power & Light.  My only connection is to pay my bill when due and to report my power when it’s out.  I have no idea the duties of the CEO of KCP&L, should I have input into his hiring?  That is an unqualified no, I am not in the position of deciding who should become GM of the Sixers any more than who becomes CEO of KCP&L.  Where am I going with this story you ask?  Recently Stephen A. Smith offers us his input on the matter and you’ve got to believe his “inside sources” might provide him information however they cannot detail the day to day operations of a GM. 
Bryan Colangelo committed an act which caused him to be fired as Sixers GM, the team decided to terminate him.  In my view it’s certainly okay within reason to comment on the story.  Who replaces Colangelo should lie strictly with Sixers management alone and the opinion of Stephen A. Smith is not required.  For those who believe I might be picking on Smith that is not the intent, I’m simply attempting to point out there are times his view is valid even though I might not agree.  On other occasions he’s simply offering a view of a subject which is just that his view. 
It’s Official
Last Saturday I wrote of the retirement reports surrounding Manu Ginobili, on Monday it’s become official, Ginobili is leaving the game.  The Argentinian sharpshooter is retiring after 16 years, I cannot add anything to the written word expressed over the weekend except these tidbits, he was a 4X NBA Champion with the Spurs.  In addition, a reservation is already been placed in the Naismith Hall of Fame for this sharpshooter and skilled passer. 
Kobe Haters get over it
LeBron James is traveling China as this is written, according to reports this creates a dilemma for most Chinese fans.  Despite retirement Kobe Bryant remains the most popular NBA player in the nation.  Many in the country had feelings like mine, they recognize the greatest in LeBron however he is now in purple and gold.  How about that other guy, the one who wore number 8 and then 24?  Kobe has already gone on record stating his belief Laker fans here will adjust, those in China will likely do the same. 
Is this the year?
Bryce Drew is now in his 3rd year as head coach at Vanderbilt, Drew was hired after an impressive record at his alma mater Valparaiso (65-19 in conference 124-49 overall).  A couple of thoughts from me, this institution is among many with above average academic standards.  To clarify my statement that’s not to say other schools don’t establish standards…. It just so happens Vanderbilt’s are much higher. 
According to my research the average GPA of an incoming freshman 3.76 on a 4.0 average, face facts several talented athletes simply don’t qualify at a Vanderbilt or other similar institutions.  Despite the high academic standards former coach Kevin Stallings managed to win impressively for over 15 years.  We cannot establish a time-frame for turning a basketball program around, there are several variables affecting success.  Three prospects on campus many believe will aid growth of the program and turn around last year’s 12-20 overall record.