BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

I don't know  
The Mizzou faithful and the team were poised for the 2018-19 season.  Then Jontay Porter was injured and lost for the year, many believed a disaster of epic proportions had occurred.  I mentioned the comment made by a St. Louis Post-Dispatch after the Porter injury; “Mizzou fans back away from the cliff.”  He went on to explain the situation might not be as dire as it first appears.  I don’t believe the season to be a catastrophe however I have no idea what prevails at Mizzou beginning next week.  Mizzou plays Central Arkansas on November 6 and Iowa State in Ames the following week. 

These early games should give us a glimpse of the season especially a young team playing on the road.    The Tigers are awful young, guard Jordan Geist and forward Kevin Puryear are the only returning seniors playing major minutes last season, Adam Wolf also a senior is strictly a reserve player.  What occurs in the 2018-19 season, I have no idea however this I do know.  Coach Martin will instill a winning attitude with this mix of talent.  This version of the Tigers is very young, I love the idea of recruiting talent however unless I’m looking at a Ben Simmons or Shaquille O’Neal I just don’t know about freshman talent.   

Think his shooting slump might be over?
The NBA season is only in its third week, despite the relative short time Klay Thompson has been mired in a shooting slump.  I have no idea of Klay’s percentage however he really broke out of his slump on Monday evening.  Thompson scored 52 points in the Warriors 142-124 win over the Bulls, in addition to the point total this is certainly noteworthy.  He shot a blistering (.583) from the 3-point line with 14 3 pointers in 27 minutes of action. 

He’s taken the lead
You might remember I indicated the early race for Rookie of the Year was a tie.  I named Hawks point guard Trae Young and Mavs forward Luka Doncic as the leading candidates.  On Monday Doncic took the lead in my view with an outstanding game.  Keep in mind, it’s difficult to determine his defensive impact but he clearly can score the ball.  In a 113-108 loss to the Spurs Doncic shot .611 from the floor, 31 points 8 rebounds and 4 assists.  Doncic is scoring at a nearly 19 point a game clip 4 assists and 6 rebounds. 

“You ain’t getting away that easy”
The Warriors move across the bay to San Francisco isn’t quite as easy as believed.  There are no geographical issues holding up the move they are strictly there monetary ones.  You know part of the story the team is moving into the Chase Center next season; the 2018-19 season is their last in Oakland.  Ownership must have forgotten about the sum spent renovating Oracle Arena in 1996.  The agency renovating the arena took out a $150 million loan of which the Warriors agreed to help finance.  The Warriors believed the lease runs out we don’t owe, an arbitrator ruled otherwise.  The team must pay $40 million to settle their portion of the work done.  There’s an adage some of us might have heard previously, “There’s no such thing as a free-lunch.”  You shake hands on a deal you’ve got to pay, we must guess the Warriors believing the lease was up would simply slip away.

Paul Pierce issues a warning
Former Celtic Paul Pierce is a panel member on The Jump an NBA themed program telecast daily on ESPN.  We don’t know this to be a fact, Pierce thinks there could be a problem ahead facing the Thunder.  He says if for example Russell Westbrook can return to action missing but a few games no issues.  Pierce says if he misses a significant amount of games leadership falls to Paul George. 

If the Thunder can win under the leadership of George what occurs when Westbrook returns?  He claims the Thunder might have some difficulty adjusting to the change in leadership, of course Westbrook is the clear leader regardless of his management of the team.  I’m sure Pierce is not stating the Thunder will fall apart however should the leadership be in question it could clearly cause a downturn in play.  What do you think, could Pierce be on track with his view? 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

It would have been nice
Balsa Koprivica is a 7-foot center who attends Montverde Academy in Montverde Florida in metro Orlando.  The youngster is another talent from the Balkan Nation of Serbia.  Four scouting sites rate Koprivica a 5-star prospect and this Class of 2019 prospect and was a highly sought talent, he was on Mizzou’s radar too.  As for the others Arizona, Kansas, Louisville and Kentucky all had offers on the table so I didn’t hold a great deal of hope Mizzou would land Koprivica. 

That turned out to be the case, Mizzou missed but so did several other schools vying for his services.  Koprivica has made his decision known, he’s verbally committed to Tallahassee and Florida State.  Tallahassee is less than 100 miles south of Montverde so he’s basically remaining at “home” in a manner of speaking.  This is yet another coup for Leonard Hamilton, the coach has shown a propensity for attracting big men to his program and once there developing them.      

Honestly, I find this difficult to believe
Sixers Stats tweeted this regarding Joel Embiid, “He is the first 76er EVER to post at least 20 points and 10 rebounds in six consecutive games to begin an NBA season.”  I’m sure someone besides me is   scratching their head after reading the tweet, didn’t Wilt Chamberlain play for the Sixers at a point?  He most certainly did, Chamberlain began his NBA career with the Philadelphia Warriors and ended it with the Lakers.  In between those teams he played 3 seasons as a member of the Sixers (1964-1967) after the Syracuse Nats moved to Philadelphia.  I’m sure Sixer Stats has access to more recorded information than me however that tweet will remain suspect for now. 

Just when you think you’ve heard it all
My grandmother had a tenant near her age, Mrs. Smith would often say, "Just when you think you've heard it all.”  She was simply stating don’t try to be too surprised by what you might hear, this story is an example.  Rick Barry is one of the Warriors All-time greats, Hall of Fame and all.  The Warriors honored him in a slightly different manner one few of us might have imagined.  Basketball historians realize Barry was one of the all-time great free-throw shooters, his career number .8931 and 7 of his 15-year NBA career he was in the .900 range.  Barry’s peak number .947 while a member of the Rockets in the 1997-98 season.  What did the Warriors do, they had a Rick Barry bobblehead buried beneath the spot where the free-throw line will lie in San Francisco’s Chase Center Arena?  The arena the new home of the Warriors will open for the 2019-20 season. 

You suppose….no, well maybe
The name Sagaba Konate might not be familiar to most of you, he's a 6-foot 8-inch 260 pound forward and and plays for West Virginia.  Born in the West African nation of Mali he came to the U.S. and was recruited from Kennedy Catholic High School in Hermitage Pennsylvania by Bob Huggins and West Virginia.  Konate has played basketball for a limited time his offense is WIP (work in progress), as for his defense and shot blocking that’s truly another story. 

He made the All-Big 12 Defensive Team and was Third Team Big 12.  Kennedy Catholic added another youngster to its team, Oscar Tshiebwe from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Tshiebwe is a 6-foot 8-inch 230-pound power forward, Kansas, Kentucky, Georgia Tech and others were recruiting the youngster.  Care to guess which school this 4-star recruit decided to attend?  Yes, you got it correct, he decided in favor of West Virginia.  This week Tshiebwe verbally committed and will play for West Virginia and coach Huggins. 

Of course, he can coach
The question revolves around former Louisville coach Rick Pitino.  Of course, he can coach, the question might be is anyone willing to hire him?  After stating in the spring, he was through with coaching that might not be quite the case.  At the point I seriously doubt any Division I school would be willing to hire the 66-year old.  As for the NBA that might be a slightly different story, unshackled from chasing after high school talent and eligibility issues the game is quite different at the NBA level.  In the late ‘80’s he coached the Knicks, from 1997-2001 he was head coach of the Celtics, the NBA might indeed be a better fit for him, what do you think?

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

I was in church
My iPhone was on vibrate so I didn’t disturb the service at the time the alert came in.  I quickly looked at it and discovered reports were circulating the Cavs had fired Ty Lue.  Since it wasn’t confirmed I didn’t take a great deal of stock.  By the time I arrived home and check sources it was official, the Cavs had fired Mexico (MO) and Raytown guy Lue.  This is unconfirmed however another report indicated Kansas City Kansas coach Larry Drew would take over on an interim basis.  The Cavs are 0-6 as this written however I’d like to ask owner Dan Gilbert one question. “Mr. Gilbert, what did you expect from a team which lost the best player in the NBA?  You couldn’t give Lue more than 6 games.”  

Gilbert is one of those owners I believe who meddles in the affairs of HIS team far too much.  Did you note the all caps, the Cavs are his team however his track record in hiring and firing coaches is not good?  Gilbert purchased the team in March 2005, since that time there have been 6 head coaches (5 if you count Mike Brown who was hired and fired twice).  Later I read a USA Today piece which indicates the number of coaches is actually 7 rather than the 6  I indicated.  In addition I failed to mention the front office, the Cavs are on general manager number 5 since Gilbert purchased the team.  After the season Gilbert will hire another coach, unless the new hire can turn the team around quickly he too will be standing in the unemployment line. 

Interesting observation
I hate to admit this, knowledge emanating from the Fox Sports program Speak for Yourself with Whitlock and Wiley.  A discussion on the Thunder and Russell Westbrook, after discussing his poor shooting one of the panelist made this statement.  “Nobody works harder than Westbrook, but he doesn’t always play smart.”  I’m going to read between the lines, I don’t believe anyone was questioning his intelligence just his decision making. 

I believe the decision making is my issue as well, example 3-point shooting.  Any percentage above 37% is considered good, in his 11-year NBA career he’s never eclipsed that number.  In the 2016-17 season Westbrook shot 34% behind the line other years its been much lower.  So, there you have it, the Thunder will never win a championship if Westbrook continues to play in this manner.  I’m sure he wants to win but unless he’s willing to make a change in his playing style a championship is out of the question. 

Business Law 101 & 102
Prior to a discussion of legal matters, I always want to clarify my official knowledge.  My major required l Business Law 101 and 102 which I completed more years ago than I can remember.  The New York trial has concluded, although judgment has been rendered the defendants are yet to be sentenced.  What about the schools, what I’ve read Kansas appears to be the most vulnerable, but this is where I become puzzled.  I read the comments of a U.S. Attorney who handled a prior play for pay scheme. 

Cory Maggette received payment from his AAU coach that Duke had no knowledge, the school reported itself and the NCAA didn’t penalize Duke.  This is where I become confused, to my knowledge what qualifies as self-reporting?  High profile Billy Preston was admitted to school although he practiced with the team never played due to questions.  Preston would leave for Europe where he began a pro career, as for Silvio De Sousa that appears to be a far different story.  De Sousa played 15 regular season and 5 post-season games for Kansas.  This is a case of more questions than answers, I cannot provide any conclusion. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

“But can he coach?”
Anytime an athlete changes his mind and decides on your school that’s outstanding.  Highly touted small forward D. J. Jefferies did just that, verbally committed to Kentucky then he wasn’t.  The Rivals number 48 prospect in the Class of 2019 is now headed to Memphis to play for Penny Hardaway.  This 6-foot 7-inch 200-pound small forward is from Olive Branch Mississippi about 30 miles from Memphis.  You know Penny, former NBA player who only began coaching after a friend from his youth asked him to serve as an assistant coach.  This childhood friend was ill and had a life-threating illness, his friend would later die and Penny became head coach of this high school team.  Apparently, Hardaway discovered he enjoyed coaching, in March of 2018 Memphis where he played basketball hired him as head coach.  We’ll soon see if the question can be answered, that’s okay that he was hired “but can he coach?” 

Assembled teams
We know the Wolves Jimmy Butler wants out, he’s made it known he’s got issues with the coach and at least two teammates.  All kinds of stories are circulating the Rockets are attempting to swing a trade for his services.  Should this trade be consummated I’m not sure if this assemblage of talent could win anything.  You notice I said TALENT, I would not short change the Rockets to any degree regarding this issue.  Hardin, Paul and Anthony off the bench plus adding Jimmy Butler what can we say?  We often talk about “enough basketballs to go around” with this number of shooters.  As for me I doubt the trade occurs, if it should well…….

Early leaders
Two weeks into the season I haven’t seen every team play, I haven't seen every rookie either.  With that statement in mind allow me to give you my early candidate for Rookie of the Year.  At this point there are two, Luka Doncic of the Mavs and Trae Young of the Hawks.  Even more interesting its been pointed out these guys rights were traded, the Hawks drafted Doncic and the Mavs Young.  As this is written Doncic is shooting .422 from the floor, 19 points 3.8 assist and 6.5 rebounds a game.  Young’s at .418 along with 21.5 points and 7.5 assists per game.  I’ll attempt to check out additional rookies and make another report in 4-6 weeks. 

“Smith check in at the scorer’s table” 
Coach Martin will be somewhat specific at the time he asks for Smith to go into the game.  Mizzou has three roster members named Smith.  Mizzou has 6-foot 4-inch Mark Smith shooting guard an Illinois transfer whose just been declared eligible.  In addition, there is 6-foot 3-inch Dru Smith a point guard who has transferred from Evansville on the roster.  Mizzou is requesting a waiver on this Smith hoping he can gain eligibility for the 2018-19 season.  A holdover from last season is redshirt sophomore Mitchell Smith a 6-foot 10 inch forward.  I’m sure this has occurred at some point with some team at a period.  I’m not going to research however with NFL and MLB rosters much larger it’s likely guaranteed there are multiple Jones’ or Smiths’ or some other common name.   

There are some nicknames that just sound cool   
“Downtown” Fred Brown is one of those nicknames, this prolific shooting guard would spend his entire 13-year career a member of the Seattle Sonics.  During that period, he would score over 14,000 points, consider this fact there is no telling how many points he might have scored with a 3-point line in effect.  The 3-point basket was in use by the ABA but was not implemented by the NBA until 1979-80, Browns 9^th year in the league. 

The Sonics would make this University of Iowa guard the number six pick in the first round of the 1971 draft.  He might have been given the nickname “Downtown” due to his prolific long-range shooting.  Brown was one almost automatic from the free-throw line shooting nearly 86% for his career.  He was an asset later as a 6^th man providing the Sonics instant offense and valued scoring as the Sonics won their first and only NBA championship in 1979.  You might be unfamiliar with his name however its likely long-time Sonics fans know the name “Downtown” Fred Brown.      

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

“Candyman”
How many of you saw the horror movie “Candyman?”  The short version of the movie a woman is researching an urban legend and comes across an account of people murdered under mysterious circumstances.  Later the audience discovers it’s the Candyman killing individuals in the movies.  The Candyman was the specter of an 19^th Century slave, his right hand had been cut-off as punishment for an illicit affair with a slave owners’ wife.  It was never clear (at least to me) how the hook replaced his hand.  In any event he’d use the hook to stab persons throughout the movie.  The Candyman couldn’t appear unless you stated his name 3 times in a row, one final thought. 

Sequels never approach the original, there were two sequels neither of which was a commercial success.  By now you are scratching your head and wondering “What the &*%$ is he discussing a movie I thought this was a basketball blog.”  You are so very correct, I was watching SportsCenter highlights of the Lakers-Nuggets game.  One host said at the end of the video, “Where is LaVar Ball?”  The other host said, “Quiet, if you say his name 3 times in a row he’ll show up.”  I guess the 3-name count could just as easily apply to Beetlejuice, in any event the Lakers beat the Nuggets with LeBron’s triple-double 121-114.  

Center play in the NBA
Despite Joel Embiid talking trash concerning Andre Drummond I will still add Drummond if I’m starting a team.  He’s not as polished offensively as Embiid and he’s not a good free-throw shooter, he makes up for his shortcomings in those departments rebounding the ball.  Drummond might be better at rebounds than Embiid.  Although the verbiage is one-way for the most part (Embiid) the NBA is in great shape at the center position.  This despite the fact we claim small ball as the game of the present NBA.  Check this out, Drummond is 25, Embiid is 24 and Karl-Anthony Towns is but 22.  There you have it the three best centers in the league and all under age 25. 

Jontay Porter
Mizzou fans were pumped for the season, this despite the fact Michael Porter Jr. left for the NBA.  The recruiting class while not as outstanding as the previous year was still good.  Jontay Porter the younger brother was expected to lead this group of young Tigers then BAM!  The roof caved in, during a Sunday scrimmage Porter suffered a devastating injury, he would sustain a torn ACL and MCL.  Porter is now lost for the season, it’s possible he might miss next season and there is a likelihood he might never play basketball again. I cannot and do not speak for Mizzou Nation but I’m extremely disappointed.  Disappointed for the young man, his family and the coaching staff, in closing allow me to clear an issue. 

I don’t believe in curses, someone said “The family is cursed” you can believe that if you wish however that’s not my view.  Moving forward senior Kevin Puryear, Mitchell Smith or Reed Nikko possibly move into the spot vacated by Jontay Porter.  The best line I’ve read thus far comes from Jeff Gordon St. Louis Post Dispatch.  He wrote; “Back off from the cliff people.  Missouri basketball will be just fine.”  NOTE:  Prior to publishing this story Mizzou received good news.  On Friday evening Mizzou announced Mark Smith 6-foot 4-inch 225 guard would become eligible to play immediately.  Smith a transfer from Illinois was to sit out this season and be eligible for the 2019-20 season.  Mizzou had appealed his case prior to the Jontay Porter injury so this is certainly good news.  

Is it the LeBron factor or something else?
No two-ways around it JaVale McGee is a journeyman or reserve player at least that was my belief.  Drafted in 2008 by the Wizards over the summer the Lakers became NBA team number five or six considering he’s played for the Nuggets twice. For the most part throughout his career he’s been a reserve player.  Suddenly at the age of 30 and playing starter minutes on the Lakers McGee is having a breakout year.  He’s moved from a career average of 7.5 points and 4.8 rebounds up to 16.3 points and 7 rebounds a game.  McGee has increased his scoring and rebounds but also is providing stellar defense around the basket.

Although I wasn’t a fan of Brook Lopez I assumed the Lakers would suffer at the post after he left for the Bucks.  I thought Ivica Zubac would come to the forefront and play major minutes, McGee has managed to keep Zubac’s butt planted firmly on the bench.  McGee playing limited minutes couldn’t be a full-time starter, could he?  The season is less than two weeks old and let’s just say I’ve been pleasantly surprised at McGee’s play.  I guess it must be the LeBron factor, he managed to raise the level of play of many Cavs and Heat teammates.  McGee will never allow Laker fans to consider him the second coming of Chamberlain or Abdul Jabbar, the LeBron factor has made him better than Brook Lopez in my view.

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

I don’t think so
Someone might argue “Steph Curry shoots too much!”  That might be true if he wasn’t so accurate, we need check no further than Wednesday evening as our example.  His 51 points led the way in a 144-122 win over the Wizards, Curry was 15 for 24 (.625) from the floor.  This feat was accomplished in 3 quarters and witnessed by close to 20,000 fans at Oracle Arena plus an undetermined television audience.  As for the comment someone might state he shoots too much, I don’t think so.

All-American
Once upon a time the honor of being selected an All-American basketball player was quite noteworthy.  In the day of one and done and players leaving after their sophomore or junior year it’s just not as significant as it once was.  Despite my negative comment the players honored are certainly talented and should be noted as such.  The AP picked in pre-season time, by March 2019 we could be looking at other names, however these are the chosen.   

Carsen Edwards                Purdue
Luke Maye                         UNC
R.J. Barrett                         Duke
Dedric Lawson                   Kansas
Ethan Happ                        Wisconsin
Caleb Martin                      Nevada

You probably haven’t noticed
Remember Wally Pipp, okay you don’t know baseball history.  Pipp was the starting first baseman for the Yankees in 1925, several players including Pipp were in a slump and manager Miller Huggins inserted Lou Gehrig in the lineup.  Gehrig would not leave the Yankee lineup for the next 2,130 games, a baseball record that stood for 56 years until Cal Ripken broke it.  Well that story is the basis for this account. 

See Laker starter Rajon Rondo was involved in an altercation and was suspended by the league, in his place the 6-foot 6-inch Lonzo Ball was inserted in the lineup.  This change is nothing as momentous as the Pipp-Gehrig exchange but might be meaningful.  26 points along with 12 assists and 13 rebounds have only led to a 1 win-1 loss record as this is written.  Ball’s field goal percentage has risen sharply from the depths of last season, over the last four games he’s at .486 from the floor.  Will this change be permanent at the point, time will tell? 

Mexico City in the NBA 
If ESPN’s Brian Windhorst is correct Mexico City might gain an NBA franchise before Seattle.  Several factors impact the decision the chief one time zone, if it’s 8:00 in Dallas it’s also 8:00 in Mexico City.  Remember former commissioner David Stern and his wanting the NBA in Europe, just not practical currently based on travel and time.  Mexico City the nation’s capital has a clear advantage over any European expansion.  The 2010 census indicates the metro population is over 10 million certainly quite adequate to support NBA basketball, advantage. 

Mexico has no third-world income, the latest figures I located indicate the county has the 11^th highest GNP.  Mexico is ahead of some nations that might surprise you like Russia, Australia and Sweden, advantage.  I’ve listed just a few of the advantages of having an NBA team in Mexico, now the disadvantages. 

NBA exhibition and regular season games have drawn well but consider this fact.  Soccer is growing in the U.S. but is quite far behind the NFL, NBA and MLB in popularity.  In Mexico football (or soccer) is the number one sport of the country, question mark.  The NBA of today contains athletes from all over the world.  They speak the language because the game is played in the U.S. and Canada both English speaking nations. 

The NBA has never had a franchise located in a country where the majority population speaks another language, in this instance Spanish.  The language issue becomes a question mark.  The last issue is travel, flight time between Mexico City and several NBA cities is under 6 hours a far cry from a 7-hour flight from New York to Paris or some other European destination, advantage.  There you have it, I’ve posed some issues I believe are valid without providing you any conclusions.    

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Bits n Pieces
Silvio De Sousa will not play in tonight's Kansas exhibition game; Coach Self indicates they have decided to have him remain seated until they review additional information.  My question, what information did they not know?  The local news in Kansas City has done a real good job of ignoring the embarrassing news regarding Kansas basketball. 

Speaking of exhibition games, I checked highlights of Duke’s game on Tuesday.  The unique occurrence, I noted was a block shot by freshman phenom Zion Williamson.  Fans don’t get this twisted I’ve not denied Williamson’s talent the issue I raised over and over did he have a complete game.  All we witnessed on YouTube were thunderous dunks while in high school. 

Piston forward Blake Griffin had a game for the ages on Tuesday evening against the Sixers.  He erupted for 50 points on 20-35 from the floor along with 14 rebounds and 6 assists.  He closed out the victory by scoring the winning basket in overtime.  During timeouts he served as a vendor at Little Caesars Arena, folks that was a joke. 

“Are we there yet?”
The Sixers have two shooters in the lineup that can’t……shoot.  We knew at the time Ben Simmons was drafted his jump shot was suspect, once he began play we discovered the truth, on the other hand his passing skill and court awareness made up for his below average shot.  As for Markelle Fultz that’s a completely different story, he came into the NBA as a combo guard with the ability to shoot at least that was the belief.  The numbers Fultz displayed his one season at Washington provided us an indication he could shoot.  On Tuesday with Simmons sidelined Fultz played 21 minutes in a loss to the Pistons, Fultz scored 13 points on a 6 for 9 night from the floor (.667). 

It’s early however his season numbers don’t appear to have risen significantly, despite shoulder surgery he continues to struggle with his shot. .333 thus far.  I’m no “shot doctor” so I have no idea what is going on with Fultz, at the same time I’m no psychologist either, I’m beginning to wonder if this has become a head issue rather than a physical one?  Our children might ask us on a long road trip “Are we there yet?”  We could be asking the same question of Markelle Fultz, are you there yet with your shot?  As for teammate Joel Embiid he continues to lead the NBA in talking trash.  After outplaying Andre Drummond and forcing a second technical on Drummond Embiid said this.  “I think I own a lot of real estate in his head.”

Defunct franchises  
I’m unsure if this franchise history has been covered, if you’ve read this previously then skip it.  Across the State of Missouri, the City of St. Louis had an NBA franchise prior to the Milwaukee Hawks.  The Hawks franchise moved to the city in 1958 and remained until 1968 moving to Atlanta.  Did you realize St. Louis had an NBA franchise prior to 1958?  I’d bet money if I were a gambler you didn’t know that bit of news.  The Bombers made their debut in 1946 as members of the Basketball Association of America. 

If you remember your history the BAA would later merge with the National Basketball League to become the NBA, we recognize today.  The Bombers played for four seasons compiling 122-115 overall record.  They made the playoffs every year apart from 1949-50 the team’s last year of existence.  The basketball history is unclear, I couldn’t locate any additional information why the Bombers and four other teams dropped out of the NBA in 1950.  As I indicated the NBA of the period experienced growing pains.  The records I could locate indicate several franchises were born while other expired between the period 1960 through about 1962.   

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Kansas City in the house
Landrey Shamet, Park Hill High School and Kansas City was the Sixer starter at shooting guard on Tuesday evening.  Ben Simmons rested a sore back necessitating the lineup change.  What I thought interesting J.J. Redick was the first guard off the bench, this provides us an indication Brett Brown will continue to go with his change.  Just in case you’d forgotten Markelle Fultz plays the first half of Sixer games and Fultz plays the second half.  Shocker fans forgive me, rookie Shamet played at Wichita State for Gregg Marshall. 

0-3
In the NFL an 0-3 start probably determines a team might be headed for a losing record.  History details several NFL teams beginning the season on a sour note yet rebounding in time to earn a playoff berth.  As for baseball, the NHL or NBA it simply entails a slow start.  The opportunity to recover from a slow start is not as damaging as it is in the NFL.  If the home team is playing bad in mid-December, you might indeed have a problem.  The calendar has not turned to November yet, I say I’m not worried.  If for example Laker defense remains spotty, if LeBron fails to bring this group together, if they continue poor 3-point shooting.  There are several IF’s on the road to victory however I haven’t lost hope yet regarding the Lakers.

Someone must break ground
Is Darius Bazley the one, the athlete who will change it all?  That's a silly quesiton, it is far too early in the process to determine an answer.  This we do know, with the NBA Players Association in discussions with the NBA the One and Done rule will eventually be eliminated, at this writing that’s unknown.  As for Bazley he’s making a change never done previously, the 6-foot 9 inch forward and McDonalds All American was headed to Syracuse to play for Jim Boeheim. 

That’s changed now, he decided in favor of the NBA G-League signing two contracts.  One with Chris Paul sports and the other with New Balance Shoes.  The shoe contract is reported to be about $14 million.  Boeheim has expressed the belief Bazley “is making a mistake and this is not the best method to play in the NBA.”  We can understand the statement by Boeheim however a similar issue existed at the time the NBA drafted 18-year old high school players. 

Is it hype?
Joel Embiid a youthful 24 years of age is the best center in the NBA!  That’s a strong statement by me but I believe it to be true, I recognize a series of injuries kept him off the court for the first few years of his NBA career.  Drafted in 2014 he was unable to see extended action until 2016-17 when he managed to play in 31 games.  Last season witnessed Embiid leading his Sixer team to a playoff series win over the Heat before succumbing to the Celtics.  With LeBron James now in the West much is expected of Embiid and his Sixers headed into the 2018-19 season. Exactly how did this apparent feud between Embiid and Suns rookie DeAndre Ayton begin? 

I wrote I wasn’t sure where or how it originated but now conclude it might be all hype, bear with me a minute while I explain.  My opening statement I believe without hesitation Embiid is the best center, it’s possible psychological warfare might be at work here.  The “warfare” is aimed at himself and only indirectly at Ayton, the youngster is an unassuming but appears ready for the spotlight.  At the same time, he appears quite humble in interviews I’ve seen.  Is Embiid envisioning a throwback to previous duels on the low post, Russell-Chamberlain or Hakeem-Shaq?  Rest assured the NBA hopes these two young giants will compete on the court for years and years to come. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

A good evening as well 
KC Chiefs QB had an outstanding Sunday evening, he tossed 4 TD’s against the Bengals in a 45-10 win.  In Ohio more specifically, Cleveland we could make the same statement about Hawks rookie Trae Young.  The young point guard scored 35 points along with 11 assists leading the way to a 133-111 win over the Cavs.  There are times rookies are not cut out to play at the NBA level, it might be paramount to allow them to play first.  The drive-time guy here decided Young wasn’t as good as advertised. 

The radio host mentioned this at a time the University of Oklahoma lost several games in a row and Big 12 teams begin to defense Young differently.  If this host had taken the time to see the big picture, he might have gained a different perspective.  This local media person’s take reminded me of Stephen A. Smith.  Remember Smith questioned why the Knicks would choose to draft Kristaps Porzingis.  Porzingis is injured currently but this has nothing to do with his ability to play at the NBA level. 

I’m not superstitious but…….
The last time I wrote of a Mizzou prospect the guy committed to Ohio State, you remember E.J. Liddell, don’t you?  It was hoped the power forward would join his buddy Mario McKinney who committed to Mizzou earlier.  It was not to be, instead of Mizzou Liddell chose Ohio State.  Do I dare post an account regarding another uncommitted Mizzou prospect?  I’m going to take a chance and introduce you to Josh Christopher, he’s a 6-foot 4-inch shooting guard, he hails from Bellflower California near Los Angeles. 

Christopher is a Class of 2020 prospect, so his decision might not be forthcoming soon.  Among the schools offering him a scholarship are Kansas, Arizona, Florida and Cal just to name a few.  With that manner of competition exactly where Mizzou stands is considered an unknown.  Christopher was supposed to have attended Saturday’s Mizzou-Memphis football game, I’ve not been able to confirm the visit as this account is completed.  NOTE:  Early Sunday evening came bad news from Columbia.  Jontay Porter tore an ACL in a scrimmage, he will miss the 2018-19 season.  More on the story later. 

Here’s hoping
Is Bill Self guilty, that’s what I have asked myself several times.  I didn’t want to write this for fear you might believe I am bias toward Kansas basketball and especially the coach.  I read the transcript of the text messages between the Adidas rep and Self, they failed to prove him guilty of anything.  At the same time, they didn’t provide us convincing proof he was innocent.  We tend to use the term black-white often to describe an issue, when it’s unclear we say, “there’s some gray there.”  I want to beat Bill Self on the basketball court not the court of public opinion.  This is it, this is all I’m going to write on the event until more evidence of guilt or innocence is available. 

Celebrity NBA owners
A few celebrities have purchased ownership in NBA teams.  In Philadelphia the Sixers count entertainers Will and Jada Smith as part-owners.  Wonder how many games Will attended as a youth growing up in Philadelphia?  In Memphis the Grizzlies count on native son and entertainer Justin Timberlake as a minority owner, in Cleveland singer, dancer entertainer Usher has been a minority owner prior to Dan Gilbert’s purchase of the majority share.  Actress Jami Gertz is an owner through her husband, Antony Ressler became one of the franchise owners in 2015. 

Gertz is less visible these days on television and in the movies, she graced the screen in several productions in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s.  Rapper Nelly was an owner of the Charlotte franchise until Michael Jordan assumed majority ownership.  In Brooklyn entertainer mogul Jay-Z was quite visible the first few years the Nets played in the borough, he sold his share and is involved in other business pursuits.  What I find most interesting Jack Nicholson and Spike Lee might be the most visible celebrities at Laker and Knick games.  To my knowledge neither owns any shares of the franchise they root for. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

CORRECTION
Football season for a few years now it’s been the Kansas State Wildcats at or near the top and the Kansas Jayhawks at or near the bottom of the Big 12.  That's what the sentence should have read yesterday on Kansas State basketball.  

Ain’t happenin’
I provided a critique of the Lakers game one, it ain’t happenin’ for the next 81 games.  I don’t have inclination far too much other roundball to cover.  Allow me to say the 124-115 loss to the Rockets was a disappointment.  The Lakers defense was shaky at times, 3-point shooting has got to improve for this team.  I don’t believe I was one of the crowd, remember all those folks who claimed LeBron had the blessing on all the foul calls?  “They” said if you breathe on LeBron the officials blew the whistle.  Well there is a new king, no LeBron remains the King, I’m referring to James Hardin.  Don’t breathe around him game officials are liable to call a foul on you too. 

Bits n Pieces
In the 1980’s Knick guard Walt “Clyde” Frazier wore Puma, so did a number of other NBA stars of that era.  Something occurred whether by choice or something else Puma lost its place in the NBA and in the shoe market period.  In June 2018 Puma re-entered the market signing draft choices DeAndre Ayton and Marvin Bagley III, they followed that up by signing Kevin Knox, Zhaire Smith and Michael Porter Jr.  It’s not just rookie’s veteran Celtic Terry Rozier and Rudy Gay of the Spurs also signed with Puma.  The latest, Boogie Cousins is leaving Nike for Puma, Nike can match the offer and he would remain with them. 

After being virtually invisible for an uncounted number of years Puma has re-entered the market with a vengeance.  James Wiseman is a 7-foot center from Memphis Tennessee.  Rivals.com list Wiseman as the number two prospect in the nation for 2019.  The youngster is not close to making his his mind up where he will attend college.  Wiseman's received 19 offers from several high-profile programs, he's now reduced that number to four schools.  Making the cut are Florida State, Kansas, Kentucky Memphis and Vanderbilt.  It's believed Kentucky and Memphis have the inside track for his services, John Calipari at Kentucky because he's Calipari.  Wiseman played AAU basketball for Penny Hardaway now head coach at Memphis.   

There are a few teams that make the playoffs nearly every season but never advance.  They are good however not good enough to win an NBA championship, who are they:

1.                 Atlanta Hawks
       Washington Wizards
       Portland Blazers
       Oklahoma City Thunder
       Los Angeles Clippers

I’m not going to detail the why just point out what we experience every season. 

The decision is made, remember my debate about NBA League Pass and the Lakers.  I decided I would not purchase the package for the following reasons. 

1.              Don’t want to pay an additional $18 a month.
     The LeBron aspect will guarantee an increase in the number of games on  the platforms.       
     I’ll be “forced” to watch the Lakers at a time Mizzou might be playing.

I know it might not make sense to you but that’s okay.    

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

I know, I know
We’re in the middle of football with baseball playoffs still in progress, there is continuing news on the basketball front for Mizzou fans.  Tray Jackson a Rivals 4-star prospect in the Class of 2019 committed to Mizzou.  The interesting story, this 6-foot 8-inch power forward committed earlier to Minnesota.  We guess since he’d not signed on the dotted line Jackson (and any other verbal) could still be contacted by a team’s coaching staff. 

Jackson is from Detroit but attends Sunrise Christian Academy in suburban Wichita Kansas.  He becomes the second-Class of 2019 prospect committing to Mizzou and now for my disclaimer.  This is no predictor of future success at the next level, the coach must believe Jackson could enhance Mizzou’s program going forward.  St Louis Post-Dispatch says; “This softens the blow on losing E.J. Liddell.”  Some might remember Liddell was a highly sought power forward from metro St. Louis, Liddell would choose Ohio State over Mizzou. 

“New” arenas
Sometimes our home reaches a point requiring remodeling, we believe there is a need for a new and improved version of our present living quarters.  That’s the case in the NBA as well, I’m not sure of the date I wrote of the newly built arenas open or under construction.  We begin this report in Cleveland, I’ve never been inside Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, so I can’t sign off on this comment.  Kevin Kleps of Cleveland Business wrote; “Quicken Loans Arena will look new after a two-year renovation.”   The report indicated $185 million was spent on the arena over that period, sadly the building will not replace LeBron. 

In Atlanta Philips Arena is no more, it’s been replaced by State Farm Arena.  No, its not a new arena it’s a name change plus a $200 million renovation.  Target Center home of the Wolves had undergone a $140 million renovation but will undergo a $2.5 million renovation to premium spaces.  In the discussion stage is Talking Stick Arena home of the Suns, no announced start date as this is written.  Included in this report is Key Arena in Seattle, the city has no NBA team at present, but it’s hoped the renovation will attract a new Sonics team.  I believe this brings us up to date on arena renovations planned and those completed. 

G-League proposal
By now you are probably aware of the G-League proposal for high school athletes.  The proposal is simple, high-profile basketball players will be eligible for a $125,000 salary to play.  Its intent is aimed at curtailing the one and done rule.  Unless a youngster comes from an upper middle-class family the monetary offering is tremendous.  There are no restrictions in earning money from shoe endorsements, media or other avenues of pursuit. 

Will it work, we don’t know until the first high school player travels this route.  One sure bet everything I read indicates the one and done rule will not be eliminated before 2020.  I didn’t read all the details however any 18-year old in the league must have an outside agency monitor his finances.  I could see an immature 18 or 19-year-old running through a month’s salary in a matter of weeks.  For me these issues are paramount to the success of this proposal and out weigh any objections from the NCAA.   

The State’s “Step-Child”
Football season for a few years now it’s been the Kansas State Wildcats at or near the top and the Kansas Jayhawks at or near the bottom of the Big 12.  Come basketball season the story almost reverses itself.  Basketball season the Wildcats become the State’s step-child, mistreated (media) and overlooked by those in Kansas.  The 2018-19 season might be completely different for the first time in years.  The CBS Sports Way Too Early Top 25 poll has Kansas ranked number 2 in the nation and Kansas State number 12, we are familiar with seeing Kansas at or near the top of any poll. 

For Kansas State this might be a first, without researching the issue I certainly can’t remember a time.  It might be the 2007-08 season the last time both teams were both represented in any media poll.  That was the Frank Martin led Wildcats which featured Michael Beasley and Bill Walker.  This veteran Kansas State team finished 22-11 with a 10-8 conference record.  Is the season Kansas State wins at least one of the home and home series?  I’m sure those in Manhattan Kansas are more excited for the start of basketball season in quite a few years.   

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Why the difference?
You might be asking why am I treating a Laker loss differently than one by the Sixers?  Glad you asked, hopefully this doesn’t appear to be an excuse although I’m sure a few will believe it to be just that.  Consider this fact, the Lakers had practice and LeBron and new members in a limited number of games during the pre-season.  The Sixers with a few exceptions came into the season with the same team with first round playoff success last season.  The Lakers are basically a new team besides LeBron, check the roster to confirm my statement and see how many teammates were acquired over the summer.  Despite having an perceptible mix of veterans and youth the Lakers are a WIP (work in progress). 

LeBron had an outstanding debut in Purple and Gold, 26 points 12 rebounds and 6 assists in the 128-119 loss to the Blazers.  The Lakers have no problem scoring (less 3-point shooting) it’s the defense which must be tweaked.  Lost in the LeBron first game was the outstanding effort (in my view) from newcomer Rajon Rondo.  He registered 13 points along with 11 assists, we are anxiously awaiting the commentary by LaVar Ball.  His son’s butt was planted firmly on the bench.  How about this for a rumor, Lonzo Ball an unknown Laker player in a trade for the Blazers Damian Lillard.  If you caught me a month or so ago I would have said Ball is my man, with Rondo’s play last night now I’m not so sure.  In summation I like LeBron’s comment, “Team chemistry is not like instant oatmeal.”

Speculation
I’ve said it in the past and I will repeat it, I can speculate with the best of them.  This is going to cause Dub fans to be upset with me but here goes, barring major injuries the Warriors are my pick to win the 2019 NBA championship.  As for 2020 that’s a completely different animal, the run will conclude based on several factors. 

Draymond Green-Sacrificed $$$$ for the team to sign Durant, now it is likely he wants to get paid.  

Klay Thompson-The sharpshooter claims he wants to remain but free-agency looming?  Dad played for the Lakers, I wonder.  

Andre Iguodala-The energy guy will have one more calendar year under his rung, he will be 36 by then.

The upside Kevin Durant and Steph Curry should still be in their prime, the chief question what does Boogie Cousins bring to the table and will he return to play at an All-Pro level?  With David West retired can the remainder of the supporting cast play a vital role again.  I could be wrong (I’ve been wrong before) the 2019-20 version of the Warriors could prove just as lethal as those past teams, we shall see what develops.   

The countdown is on
As this is written there are exactly 17 days and unknown number of minutes and seconds to commence play.  The reference is the beginning of college basketball November 6, 2018, there are several freshmen I’m anxious to see how they adapt to the college game.  I’m not expecting them to be the second coming of any player just watch them perform at this level.  They are not in any order and there are probably several omitted.

Zion Williamson-Duke

Bol Bol-Oregon

R.J. Barrett-Duke

Romeo Langford-Indiana

Cameron Reddish-Duke

It might appear Duke basketball has cornered the 2018 prospect list and they have in a sense.  I certainly don’t wish to appear I’m setting the bar too high for these freshmen, I just want to see if they are able to adapt themselves to this level of competition    

I was surprised   
I thought I knew everything there was to know about the late George Mikan.  We know how the Big Man was largely responsible for the evolution of pro basketball.  Although “only” 6 feet 10-inch players his height often failed to play at a high level.  Mikan began his basketball career in the National Basketball League playing for the Chicago Gear, the owner wanted his team in another league however the league folded and the Chicago team as well.  The players were distributed throughout the league and Mikan became a member of the Minneapolis Lakers. 

The owner of the Lakers (different owner) left the NBL and moved his Lakers into the Basketball Association of America.  A few years later the NBL merged with BAA becoming today’s National Basketball Association, did I confuse you with all the moves?  I always believed other than DePaul University the Lakers were the only team Mikan ever played for.  In addition, I didn’t realize in Mikan’s illustrious career he’d played in 3 professional leagues which earned him enshrinement in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.