BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Jalen Suggs
Suggs is a Class of 2020 rare prospect, he makes the Rivals list as a 4-star football quarterback and 5-star basketball point guard.  Suggs is hinting a desire to play both sports in college, shades of Charlie Ward remember him?  Ward won the Heisman Trophy while playing quarterback for Florida State but also played on FSU’s basketball team.  In 1994 the point guard was drafted by the Knicks in the first round, he would spend the bulk of his career in New York, he retired in 2005.  Mizzou’s Drew Lock played quarterback and shooting guard at Lees Summit High School in metro Kansas City.    

Lock recruited for football inferred he might play basketball as well.  All that went out the window as Lock’s NFL stock begin to rise over the past four seasons, the prospect of an injury might have been a contributing factor to curtail any thought of playing basketball at Mizzou.  As for Suggs he stands 6 foot 4 195 pounds, tall enough to see over defensive lineman and also see the entire floor as a point guard.  Currently Suggs has more basketball offers on the table than football however he maintains he’s undecided if he wants to play both sports.  The college that signs him to a letter of intent has a dilemma on their hands, do they allow him to play both sports? 

Yes, he was spot-on
Mizzou finished the month of December undefeated.  During this phase Mizzou registered 6 wins in a row, now the tough road ahead which represents the SEC race begins on Jan 8. The non-con schedule might not have been that tough however the words of the German philosopher cultural critic, composer, poet, philologist, and Latin and Greek scholar Friedrich Nietzche come to mind.

Nietzche said, "What does not kill me, makes me stronger."  The Porter brothers were expected to lead Mizzou back to respectability on the basketball court and then disaster struck.  Despite adversity Mizzou finished December 2017 with 10 wins and 3 losses with injured Michael Porter Jr. on the sidelines.  Finished December 2018 with 9 wins and 3 losses, younger brother Jontay Porter on the injured list sidelined for the season as well.      

An impressive crop of rookies   
The calendar will soon turn to January and the NBA rookie crop looks great.  It’s difficult to track all of them however these are the standouts.  Undrafted Allonzo Trier of the Knicks must be included in the count too.  The numbers behind their names represent up through December 27.  

DeAndre Ayton-Suns .599 FG 16.3 ppg 10.9 rebs
Luka Doncic-Mavs .429 FG 19.0 ppg 5.1 rebs
Trae Young-Hawks .382 FG 15.5 ppg 7.2 asst
Jaren Jackson Jr.-Grizzlies .512 FG 13.1 ppg 4.7 rebs
Marvin Bagley III-Kings .536 FG 12.7 ppg 6.1 rebs
Collin Sexton-Cavs .429 FG 14.9 ppg 2.6 asst

Those mentioned above continued to justify the scouting reports indicating they would move into the NBA without too much of an adjustment.  There are others however these 6 have moved smoothly into their role.  There is always an NBA learning curve, by no means are these players worthy of All-Star discussion yet but give them time.  

The Knicks are terrible but…….  
Light at the end of the tunnel is not another vehicle it’s the improving Knicks.  This might sound strange for a team with only 9 wins at this writing.  Knox, Robinson and Trier plus coach David Fizdale will be the primary reason for improvement.  The Knicks brain-trust selected Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson in the draft, rookie free-agent Allonzo Trier joined the Knicks along with the cast of a changing roster. 

The old saying “Rome wasn’t built in a day” applies here, it will take time for them to improve.  Here’s a couple of speculative views, Kristaps Porzingis returns to pre-injury form and Kevin Durant leaves the Warriors and joins the Knicks.  The Knicks win the lottery and select Zion Williamson, they improve instantly and become contenders for the Eastern Conference championship.  I’m getting ahead of myself, this scenario must be played out in order to improve instantly. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Perfect
Mizzou finished the month of December with a perfect record.  Mizzou began the month with an OT win over UCF and ended on Saturday with a 75-61 win over Morehead State.  Mizzou’s not played a tough non-conference schedule, but a win is a win is a win, 9 victories going into January looks good compared with the recent past.  Now the real-tough test begins….SEC Conference play.  Mizzou kicks off the season January 8 with a home game versus Tennessee.  The “experts” claim SEC play is down from last year, that should indicates a few wins that should be losses and losses that should be wins. 

Booed by the home crowd
To be fair I haven’t seen a great number of Andrew Wiggins NBA games.  I did at the time he played at Kansas, this was the view of one of the shop barbers.  I might add he’s a confirmed Jayhawk fan, Curtis said “Andrew Wiggins is playing to not get hurt.”  He went on to explain Wiggins was headed for the NBA after his freshman season which proved to be correct.  Arriving in the NBA winning Rookie of the Year I believed he was on his way to a stellar NBA career but a few bumps in the road have occurred in recent years.

Remember earlier former teammate Jimmy Butler indicated he wanted a trade, he made several statements about management and teammates.  Butler mentioned two teammates, Karl-Anthony Towns and Wiggins.  I never read any detail on Towns I did on Wiggins.  Butler questioned Wiggins dedication to the game and his work ethic.  The booing occurred because he went 5-12 from the free-throw line in an OT loss.  His numbers over the last five games have been up and down, one good game followed by a bad game and then a good one.  As I said this is not intended to be an indictment of Wiggins play perhaps, he will never reach super star status. 

“Don’t slay the messenger”  
I didn’t bother to look up the origin of the quote above.  The explanation is simple however, sometimes we are in the position of delivering information or commentary offensive to an audience.  That is the case, this is a Bleacher Report account I believe to be accurate.  Through his first 29 games the numbers posted by Luka Doncic are on a par with LeBron James.  No need of starting an argument, I didn’t say it and I’m pretty sure Bleacher Report didn’t either.  Doncic is not the second coming of LeBron James however his rookie numbers look very good…. end of story.       

The view from 30,000 feet
It’s likely unfair for me to choose one portion of a story to critique.  Well that’s exactly what I’m going to do with the Brad Botkin article.  He works for CBS Sports and decided to look at several NBA moves and non-moves over the last two years.  One of the accounts focused on the Lakers and their failure to acquire Paul George.  I cannot disagree with him in one instance, George is a talent and would have added greatly to the roster.  The portion I took exception had to do with the possible acquisition of George. 

Botkin says, “The Lakers would have been forced to trade Brandon Ingram or Lonzo Ball, neither will never be as GOOD as George.”  Currently neither player is at the same level of George however Botkin makes the statement about two 21-year old players.  George will turn 29 before 2019 is over but should have at least 6-8 prime years remaining.  As for Ingram and Ball if healthy and continuing to develop should easily have 10-12 more years in the NBA.  I believe Botkin is quite brave to state “neither Ingram or Ball will reach the skill level of George.”  With that closing statement mic drop.         

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Is there an intimidation factor at work?
The world was aware LeBron James would not play of Thursday.  The roster particularly Lonzo Ball had to step up, they did for 3.5 quarters losing on a last second shot 117-116 however that’s not the complete story.  Ball almost had a triple-double scoring 20 points dishing the rock out to the tune of 12 assists along with 9 rebounds.  This stat stuffer shot .615 from floor, the question might be asked. 

“Is there an intimidation factor at work” regarding LeBron and Rondo?  We knew LeBron was out, later came the announcement Rajon Rondo with miss the game as well.  No one left to share the basketball or cause the minutes for Ball to be reduced.  I’ve decided the Sixers Markelle Fultz has head issues perhaps Ball does as well intimidated by the dominance of LeBron and Ball.  Just my thoughts, doesn’t make it correct.  

“Didn’t you use to be…….”
In the 2015 NBA draft the Lakers had a decision in front of them.  Karl-Anthony Towns had been drafted number one by the Wolves, the Lakers could choose either 7-foot Jahlil Okafor from Duke or D’Angelo Russell from Ohio State.  The Lakers decided in favor of point guard Russell and all that season many in Laker Nation questioned the choice.  They saw the numbers of Okafor compared to Russell and believed the Lakers made an error.  The former Duke big man would average nearly 18 points and pull down 7 rebounds a game. 

Somewhere in his second year the scenario changed, it was Joel Embiid and other factors as his scoring average slid to 11 points a game as a reserve.  After one season in Brooklyn Okafor has found his way to New Orleans, with the Pelicans he’s again resumed the role of reserve player.  What happened to the Okafor witnessed at Duke and in his rookie year with the Sixers?  It should be of note Karl-Anthony Towns remains with the Wolves, the Lakers traded Russell to the Nets.   

Haven’t heard me say this for months
I quit lamenting for the days of Kansas-Mizzou basketball, one Jayhawk fan is responsible for my change.  This is the conversation prior to Cuonzo Martin being hired.  

Me:  I’d really like the two schools to play one another again.

Him:  Why?

Me:  To reprise the rivalry, besides the fact Mizzou is not good right now, automatic win for Kansas. 

Him:  There is no benefit Kansas loses in both instances, if Kansas wins, they were supposed to win, if they lose it becomes an upset win for Mizzou.  

Him:  Meet us in the NCAA tournament then there is no issue.

Remember this is prior to the Cuonzo hire, Mizzou made the tournament last season.  The chances during the tenure of the previous coach were slim and none.  The response I received was unexpected, since that time I’ve occasionally written about Kansas basketball and Bill Self.  I don’t believe I’ve written anything relating to a return to the rivalry days.    

Wonder why? 
It doesn’t matter where you play the game, it could be in Denver or Dubai, Venice Italy or Venice California, Paris France or Paris Texas.  The regulation height for a basketball goal is 10 feet (304.8 centimeters) from the floor.  Have you ever been curious enough to discover how Dr. James Naismith decided on that height in his original 13 Rules of Basketball?  Perhaps I’m providing information you were already aware of. 

For those who don’t know I’m happy you asked the question, in 1891 the peach basket he hung was attached to the railing on the running track of the Springfield (MA) YMCA.  The height of the railing was exactly 10 feet above the floor.  The 7-foot giants able to reach the basket with dunks and other shots today were quite uncommon back then, the average American male stood a little over 5 feet 8 inches tall.   

I would imagine   
I’m unsure what it must be like defending Steve Alford in Albuquerque.  It might be akin to an attorney defending a client he or she knew was guilty.  So, what do you do, defend them as best you can?  UCLA is struggling this season and the “wolves” are howling, he’s still secure in his job but for how long?  As this is written the Bruins have 7 wins and 5 losses not terrible but certainly unlike UCLA basketball of the past. 

As for Lobo Nation defending Alford lets go back in time, the coach had New Mexico playing outstanding basketball.  Coming off an NCAA appearance in 2013 Alford signed a 7-year extension, then UCLA fired Ben Howland and he leaped at the opportunity to coach UCLA signing a 10-year contract.  That action is what caused many in Lobo Nation to become quite upset with Alford.  In a manner of speaking can we really blame him?  Certainly, his timing was not good however consider the opportunity to coach one of the most prestigious basketball programs in the nation, Alford could not pass on the opportunity.     

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Why might be the question
LeBron is sidelined, focus on the words of a recent interview, he was questioned about “recruiting” players for the Lakers.  LeBron claims he’s always worked at attracting free-agents no matter where he played, an effort was made in Cleveland (with limited success).  As for Miami that was a far different matter, recruiting players to South Beach was not as difficult as Northern Ohio.  It causes us to ponder the question, why is it so much more problematic in one city and not in another?  I’ve always believed an athlete would only be required to live in the city he played in for 4-5 months of the year. 

The large sums of money NBA players earn allow them ultimate luxury even on a rental or leasing basis.  Bizarre as it might seem Klay Thompson’s dad Mychal housed himself in a hotel at one point during his NBA career.  Mychal indicated the ease was the attraction, “My bed is made every day the hotel staff cleans the room and the kitchen is always open.”  Perhaps it’s the night-light aspects plus weather that allow one area to be more attractive than another.  Every July the same 4-5 teams compete for the bulk of high profile free-agents, the other 20 or so teams are left with the remainder.     

Have I been fooled?
That might indeed be the case with Mizzou’s Cuonzo Martin.  A coach is hired by one of my favorite teams and I give him all the opportunity in the world to succeed.  I’m doing that now with the Lakers and Luke Walton, further east (or west) from you is Columbia Missouri home of Mizzou.  Martin has been on the job less than 2 years, Mizzou made an appearance in the NCAA tourney for the first time in like forever (not just seems that way).  Last season it was losing highly touted Michael Porter Jr. for all but 3 games, this season it’s brother Jontay. 

Despite what many referred to as bad luck or karma I discount.  The remaining players are left to extend themselves beyond what they might be is their capability.  There are a bunch of new pieces and very little senior presence, yet Mizzou has 8 wins and only 3 losses.  They could easily have 9 or 10 wins this early season.  The coach has got to be the X factor he’s pushed, pulled and cajoled this team to play beyond their expectations.  I have no idea where this Mizzou team will finish in the SEC race, one thing for sure they won't be out hustled.   

Tell me something I don’t know
That’s often been the case for me with several media members.  It appears at times their discussion(s) become theater, “Hey look at me or listen to this outlandish statement.”  Viewership in the instance of television drives the bus because it generates ratings.  As I’ve often stated there are a handful of people be it NBA or college basketball analyst, I value their opinion.  The main reason I make the statement they provide me (and the audience) with valid information, no hyperbole just cold hard facts. 

Example, prior to the Lakers-Warriors game one member prone to shock-journalism said; “KD will light them up for 40 points.”  KD scored 19 points below the game total this journalist predicted.  You going to say, “Larry Laker you do it as well!”  Of course, I do, I’ve anointed myself Capt. Speculation however I always attempt to ensure there is a possibility I could be wrong.  These radio/television guys want you to believe they are correct all the time.  In closing I always attempt to point out when I’m wrong, these guys rarely do that, mic drop.

I might be the King of Speculation
There are times I believe the headline might apply to yours truly, this in not one of them.  After a game in Madison Square Garden and Zion Williamson comments about playing in New York a few in Knick Nation have gone bananas.  This is what he said, “Forty-one games at the Garden, I mean, I would probably be incredible.”  Naturally Knick fans love the statement and begin to discuss, “What happens if we can draft Williamson and pair him with Kristaps Porzingis?”  No one could claim that would be a bad thing however the possibility of it occurring might be considered astronomical. 

Currently there are 6 or 7 teams that might be “positioning” themselves in the Williamson sweepstakes. Okay just for a moment I will go along with the speculation.  We move to the lottery drawing and are now down to the final two places.  The Knicks and one other team could foresee getting that top pick.  On the other hand, there is a 50% chance the Knicks lose and wind up with the second pick, with just the variables detailed the possibility of Williamson becoming a Knick are far too great to even ponder.  So, the probability of Porzingis at the power forward and Williamson at the small forward might not be in the cards even for the possibility of this combo is not in the cards even for the King of Speculation.  

Words eye view

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Valid scouting reports
The disclaimer, this was not reported by one of the usual sources I utilize for draft information.  I read what was reported to be the last 2018 NBA Mock Draft report.  I scrolled down and came across Oregon’s Bol Bol (7-2 235 pounds) and I began to scan the report.  I almost fell out of my chair with laughter, “Bol’s legs are very skinny which might cause him a problem in the NBA.”  I stopped reading the article at that point and thought who wrote this? 

You might remember a guy by the name of Kevin Garnett, Garnett was 6 foot 11 inches tall and 240 pounds.  Skinny leg Garnett is headed for the Hall of Fame just as soon as he’s eligible.  Remember the “worry” Kevin Durant couldn’t bench press a certain amount?  Durant was somewhat thin at the time he arrived in the NBA.  The Lakers Brandon Ingram probably wouldn’t win any weight lifting contest either.  In addition, at 6-foot 9 inches and 190 pounds Ingram’s a stick, he might lead the NBA in a skinny legs contest.  Ingram’s managed to carve out a successful NBA career to date. 

I try
I continue to maintain, “No more stories on LaVar Ball” yet I persist in writing them.  My belief is many of his outrageous statements require a counterpoint.  Let’s try this again but with a different personality, “No more stories on Sixer point guard Markelle Fultz.”  First story he’s being medically diagnosed, the GM and coach when contacted by the media were unable to address this issue or his status.  Later we read reports the Sixers indicated they had no desire to trade Fultz.  The next thing we read “He probably will miss the balance of the season.”  Then came news on Tuesday his agent claims Fultz will “return before the season ends.”  Are you confused, you might not be, but I know I certainly am?  

BOLO     
There might have been a BOLO (Be on the Lookout) posted for Ivica Zubac. The 2016 second round pick had pretty much disappeared.  Drafted with high expectation the 7 foot 1 Zubac saw his minutes being given first to Brook Lopez.  After Lopez left JaVale McGee moved into the starting position at center and Zubac hardly sawn the floor.  He’s moved back and forth between the Lakers and their G-League team.  It’s a shame McGee had to become injured before Zubac could return to the court. 

At this stage of his career Tyson Chandler is strictly a back-up center, the young Croatian found himself in the starting lineup against the Pelicans.  In 32 minutes of action as a starter Zubac shot 80% from the floor on a variety of shots mostly dunks, he pulled down 11 rebounds and blocked 2 shots.  He aided the cause in the Lakers 112-104 victory over the Pelicans.  Is this proof he’s arrived, far from it there remains a question regarding his defense.  Chandler is 36, McGee is 30 while Zubac is 21-years old.  I’m just saying don’t give up on the youngster becoming a bonafide center, several players require adjustments and growth to their game.   

The whole season flashed in front of our eyes
Anytime a player is injured we hold our collective breath.  It's much worst when it's a super star athlete named LeBron James. The Lakers had raced out to a 65-50 lead over the Warriors at Oracle and in the 3^rd quarter it occurred.  LeBron went to the floor injured, the diagnosis a strained groin injury.  At that point Laker fans and players knew LeBron was finished for the night, could they manage without him became the question?  The Warriors probably seeing an opening began a run, they managed to trim the Laker lead down to 3 points. 

At that stage the Lakers began a run of their own, led by Rajon Rondo, Kyle Kuzma and Ivica Zubac and others leading to a 127-101 victory over the Warriors.  As for the numbers Rondo in a reserve role scored 15 points dished out 10 assists and snatch 5 rebounds.  Kuzma had 19 points and 6 rebounds, Zubac 18 points 11 rebounds and 2 blocked shots.  At this point the “youthful” Lakers must win without LeBron, as this is written there is estimate on a return date.  A buddy said, “He needs to be at 100%, not 80 or 90.”  I can agree with that statement, they require LeBron for the long-haul. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Irish Hulk
These are two head scratchers, a high-profile basketball player from Ireland.  Number two that prospect being a black guy from the Emerald Isle.  I wonder if there’s ever been a big-time basketball player from Ireland?  Well we do now, Class of 2019 4-star prospect Aidan Igiehon is enrolled at Lawrence Woodmere Academy in Woodmere metro New York City.  The 6-foot 10-inch 235-pound Aidan Igiehon is committed to Louisville in the fall of 2019.  How did a black guy from Ireland wind up in New York City and is now committed to Louisville you ask? 

He was born in Dublin however his parents immigrated to Ireland from Lagos Nigeria so there’s the answer.  Growing up in Ireland Igiehon like most kids played soccer prior to discovering an orange round ball.  As for the height thing we’d have to check his family to determine that response.  In conclusion I’ve maintained for several years this is not the basketball of 30 or 40 years ago.  As for the nickname the Irish Hulk it might have something to do with his prowess on the court.  Igiehon is further proof if an athlete has any potential talent someone-somewhere will discover that prospect.  A basketball scholarship or his name will be placed in the NBA draft. 

AD versus the Ball brothers
On Tuesday I published a story indicating the Lakers should trade for Anthony Davis now.  My comment didn’t find favor in part of the country.  Seriously LaVar Ball has no idea who I am, but I certainly know him.  Daddy Ball is hearing the same stories we are about Davis and provides us his opinion.  “The Lakers don’t need Anthony Davis they only need LiAngelo and LeMelo to play beside Lonzo.”  Why does ESPN continue to place a mic in front of LaVar Ball might be my first question? 

The Ball brothers have been NBA All-Stars 5X, NBA All Star Game MVP once, All-Star NBA defensive first team, 2X All-Star NBA defensive second team. There are a few more accolades the Ball brothers have received besides those mentioned. In closing……Wait I’ve been informed the bio numbers listed above are not those of the brothers they belong to 6-foot 10-inch 253-pound Anthony Davis.  I apologize for my error or is it LaVar Ball.  Seriously if these were my son’s I’d be pumping them up as well.  The difference between us I wouldn’t make over the top statements impossible to defend or make no sense whatsoever.   

The Windy City
Over the course of time the Chicago Metro has produced a wealth of basketball talent.  Beginning with the legendary George Mikan down through Isiah Thomas along with Dwayne Wade to present day Anthony Davis.  That’s just a sketch of talent produced by area high schools over time.  You might believe it would be a good idea for the University of Illinois to recruit talent in its own backyard.  Allow me to introduce you to Xavier Pinson, he’s a 6-foot 1-inch point guard from Simeon High School in Chicago. 

Many contend he was the 5^th best player in the State of Illinois however the university apparently didn’t believe it or had others in mind.  The short version they didn’t recruit him and that lack of effort provided an opening for Mizzou’s Cuonzo Martin who recruited Pinson.  At this point Pinson remains an unknown talent in the middle of his freshman season.  There is a bigger picture here beyond Pinson, will Mizzou’s effort become the doorway to the rich Chicago basketball talent?  That question is unanswered for now we must wait and see how it plays out.   

Many thought it over
After a season with the Knicks and Cavs several (including me) believed Derrick Rose was at the end of his career.  We could check out his bio and realize he was only 30 years old however the MVP Rose had disappeared.  After arriving in Minnesota, the first season seemed proved somewhat ordinary, in his second season with the Wolves it appears he’s been reborn.  We’ll never witness the 22-year old MVP Rose however his numbers and play have been outstanding thus far this season.  Playing nearly 30 minutes he’s shooting nearly .500 from the floor and scoring at close to 19 points and 6 rebounds a game. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Honored
Mizzou sophomore Jeremiah Tilmon was named SEC Player of the Week on Monday.  Mizzou Nation witnessed the talent but raw potential of this youngster once he first arrived on campus in the fall of 2017.  Last week against Xavier and Illinois Tilmon averaged 19.5 points and 11 rebounds a game while shooting .650 from the floor.  Mizzou Nation knows his story, this bit is for those unfamiliar with his story.  Tilmon from East St. Louis Illinois was signed, sealed and delivered to Illinois until the administration changed. 

Illinois decided in favor of another coach firing John Groce, at that point fellow East St. Louis native coach Cuonzo Martin called on Tilmon securing a commitment to Mizzou.  Tilmon had an up and down freshman season, demonstrating talent but unable to remain on the floor for extended periods.  Foul trouble dogged him all last season, in fact there was a belief on my part his reputation preceded him.  If there was doubt between two players Tilmon almost always got the foul called on him.  Hopefully this sophomore season will be a break out for the 6-foot 10 255 pound forward. 

They got their number
I trust Sun Devil fans won’t become too upset with me in writing this account.  They got their number, i.e. Kansas that is.  Arizona State beats Kansas in Allen Fieldhouse last season and Wells Fargo Arena Saturday evening.  As for the recent Sun Devil victory it was quite interesting.  Kansas led for most of the game thanks to Dedric Lawson and company,

I’m unsure of the time but it seemed the Sun Devils must have led for less that two minutes not counting early in the game.  Kansas made a critical error which cost them the game, many are questioning whether they deserved the number one ranking in the first place.  My only response is what the poll says in April is the one that counts.  How many times have we heard Bill Self make this statement after a loss?  “It was a teaching moment.”  Life is full of teaching moments what do you do afterwards? 

I don’t think so 
A report circulated Mizzou quarterback Drew Lock would join the basketball team after the season.  Mizzou is playing in the Liberty Bowl against Oklahoma State on December 31, that’s a sure thing.  As for Lock joining the basketball team January 1^st, I don’t think so.  Lock can play, he was a two-sport athlete at Lees Summit HS (MO) however he’s got the NFL in his future.  No need of risking injury playing football especially as a quarterback.  As for others that’s a different story.  I tell the story all the time I first saw former Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzales on the basketball court playing for Cal.  Gonzales played on the Cal football team too. 

The Chargers Antonio Gates has been an all-pro tight end, at Kent State he was a basketball player.  Must be something about pass catching tight ends, the Chiefs have Demetrius Harris on their roster.  Unlike a few others he played no football in college strictly basketball.  Years ago, the late Hank Stram drafted 6-foot 10-inch Morris Stroud in 1970 as a you guessed it tight end.  If the occasion arose the coach would have Stroud stand next to the goal post and attempt to knock down any intended field goal.  A rule was later passed outlawing this practice. 

Now switching gears, how about the Kings Willie Cauley-Stein a 7-foot-wide receiver in high school or wide receiver LeBron James.  On the other hand, we have former All-Pro wide receiver Randy Moss.  Moss never played basketball at Marshall however he did in high school.  NBA vet Jason “White Chocolate” Williams was a teammate of Moss, we can only take his word on this.  He claims Moss was “good enough to play in the NBA.”  There you have it a brief glimpse of NFL athletes who played basketball and football but in some instance's basketball only.   

Anthony Davis to the Lakers
The hot rumor circulating has Anthony Davis to the Lakers, the question is will it be completed prior to the February 7 trade deadline?  A certain guy by the name of LeBron has already given his blessing on acquiring Davis.  The key questions, what are the Lakers prepared to offer and what are the Pelicans prepared to accept?  I’d like to see the trade consummated however it might be tough.  There is talk in New Orleans this could be   considered tampering, whether the Pelicans intend to file charges has not been determined as this is written. 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

I was wrong......but  
The Rockets announced they were signing Austin Rivers.  The move proves me wrong, once Rivers was released by the Suns, I thought for sure the Clippers and Doc Rivers would sign him.  I was proven wrong, much as I hate to admit it, I missed this one.  This move is going to be interesting in another manner.  Chris Paul and Austin Rivers are not exactly BFF’s, will they place their Clipper experience in the past.  All I can say is stay tuned for this rendezvous of former teammates.    

CORRECTION
Try as I might there are errors sometimes in Words eye view.  I'm not going to attempt to hide them as some newspapers do burying the correction on the last paragraph of the last page.  The story yesterday on the Nuggets Nikola Jokic required a correction.  The nation was correct however the region of the world was wrong.  It’s been changed, it read BALTIC STATES instead of the correct ADRIATIC STATES.  

The strange and unusual journey of
We don’t know for sure, Sixer GM Elton Brand says the club is unsure if Markelle Fultz returns before the end of the season.  Although I sometimes refer to myself as “Captain Speculation” I’m stepping aside on this one.  The Sixers likely have no more information than we do.  Here’s hoping he’s able to return to the team sooner rather than later. 

Addendum
I was curious, so I checked the numbers, last season with Michael Porter Jr. probably lost for the season the Tigers were 10-3 after the Braggin’ Rights Game.  This season without younger brother Jontay Porter playing fewer games they are 8-3 almost the same record.  Last season was the first under coach Cuonzo Martin, the year prior under the departed Kim Anderson they were 5-6 at this point in the season.  Good coaching plus talent makes for a more successful Mizzou team. 

Is it the college or the NBA?
He’s a rarity, one of those athletes with college or the NBA in his future.  His name is Jalen Lecque and he’s a 6-foot 4-inch combo guard at Brewster Academy in New Hampshire.  He’s in a unique situation, this Bronx native has already turned 18 and will turn 19 prior to the 2019 NBA draft.  In October 2018 Lecque committed to North Carolina State and it was believed that’s where he was headed. 

Last month came word Lecque might submit his name for the draft, as stated earlier he’s already 18 and is a 5^th year senior.  In addition to his age his class graduated in 2017 so you can understand Lecque has quite a decision looming in front of him.  It’s hoped Lecque receives suitable advice from family and valid reports from NBA scouts.  The next 6 months should prove quite interesting, is he bound for North Carolina State or is the NBA in his future? 

BASKETBALL FROM A FANS PERSPECTIVE

Braggin’ Rights
For those outside Illinois-Missouri every season the two schools meet in St. Louis for the Braggin’ Rights Game.  The location is ideal, the city located on the banks of the Mississippi River, cross the river and you are in Illinois.  As for the rivalry in recent years it’s been one-sided with Illinois winning the trophy 5 consecutive years.  This game found Mizzou with a 39-35 half-time lead, the second half of the game was totally different as Mizzou outscored Illinois 40-28 leading to victory. 

The final score Mizzou 79 Illinois 63 as guard Jordan Geist led the way with 20 points.  He was ably assisted by Jeremiah Tilmon and Javon Pickett both scoring 16 points.   Mizzou out rebounded Illinois 37-31 and were led by Tilmon with 12 rebounds.  My buddy says “This Mizzou team must play tough hard-nosed basketball.  Nothing will come easy, they will probably lose some games they should win but win some games they were suppose to lose.”

A few things
There are a few things that bother me, rumors without any substance.  Not speculation by me my circle is far too small this is aimed at sports media.  We read “Luke Walton is not Rob Pelinka’s and Magic Johnson’s type of coach.”  I didn’t bother reading the detail, we realize the duo inherited Walton they didn’t hire him.  Firing Walton might have been valid a 4-6 weeks ago the team is playing much better basketball.  As this is written the Lakers are in second place in the Pacific Division and appear playoff bound.

 You might remember I have a friend who mentioned in August he thought Walton was not a good fit.  Speculation on his part and I took it as that, he gave me no rational for his assessment.  A better question for my friend and this latest story floating about.  Exactly who is out there to turn the Lakers into a championship contender?  I could provide you my list of names but in my view it’s dangerous to change coaches at this stage.  We are 6-8 weeks away from the midpoint of the season no need to make wakes now unless the Lakers begin performing badly.   

Check this out
By the time this is published there could be a change, check out the Top 10 players in assists.  The first 9 are point guards and number 10 isn’t LeBron or Draymon Green.  It’s center Nikola Jokic center for the Nuggets, he’s averaging 7.4 assists per game.  Over the years several centers have distinguished themselves with their passing ability.  Despite his 350-pound frame Shaquille O’Neal was considered an excellent passer. 

In an earlier period, the legendary Wilt Chamberlain once led the NBA in assists.  With his scoring and rebounding talent Jokic is in some exclusive company.  The 23-year old Jokic is yet another gifted player to emerge from the Adriatic States region of the world.  The 7-foot talent is from Sombor Serbia, along with his skill to distribute the basketball is an 18 point and 10 rebound a game average.  

Study NBA history
I didn’t read the story just the headline, website news read, “LBJ and AD went out to dinner.”  The story was an account of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, understand they are friends off the court which is no big deal.  While we are discussing their friendship allow us to return to an earlier time.  It was the custom for Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell to host dinner for one another depending on location.  The fact that LeBron eat dinner with Anthony Davis is non-news as far as I’m concerned.