Basketball from a fan’s perspective

The words of the Big Aristotle  

I mentioned this previously but don't think I mentioned the basis for the account.  Folks complaining about the soft schedule the Lakers faced in this early season should heed the words of Shaq. The Big Aristotle had only been in the NBA four years when he was included as a member of the NBA's 50th Anniversary team. Shaq was questioned if he thought it fair since he'd only played a short time while others had finished or were about to conclude NBA careers.

His response, 'I didn't vote for myself.' The Lakers could make the same claim, the NBA set up the schedule the Lakers had no control of that.  NBA teams submit available dates based on building usage, in the case of Staples it’s even more difficult.  Clipper dates must be factored into the mix, so must concerts and other events held in the arena.  In closing if you believe you are a Laker Hater so be it, at the same time it’s unfair to criticize them over an issue they have no control.  🤔

No super teams

Once again Wednesday evening provided proof there are no super college teams.  Number 5 Michigan lost to unranked Illinois 71-62; this loss continues the trend this season.  We could conclude these games should no longer be considered upsets, just my thoughts don’t make it correct.  

This is not the SI jinx

Many are familiar with the Sports Illustrated narrative, the athlete or teams photo appears on the cover of the magazine.  Almost immediately thereafter an injury or something similar occurs which impacts the season.  All are aware LaMelo Ball and RJ Hampton have been toiling in the NBL in Australia.  Their stock regarding the 2020 NBA draft has steadily risen, both have been featured often in Words eye view. 

Bam, first it was Ball now its Hampton both youngsters have been sidelined by injury.  As reported earlier the NBL plays a shorten season both should return prior to the February conclusion of the season.  As Shaggy once sang ‘It Wasn’t Me’ injuries occur in the game.  Nothing written here should be a basis for the injuries to Ball and Hampton…I hope. 

He’s here now

A few might remember a report on Kai Sotto, he’s the 7-foot youngster from the Philippines.  He’s now in the U.S. attending the Skill Factory Prep School in Atlanta Georgia.  The on-line basketball roster does not include his name although he could possibly play in the spring semester.  This writer is totally unfamiliar with the rules regarding prep schools.  Educationally we can guess they must adhere to state requirements, as for sports that might be a different matter.  Will try to keep up with this developing story, those in the metro Atlanta area might have more information than most of us.