Basketball from a fan’s perspective

Coronavirus

Hundreds of deaths world-wide plus thousands ill with the virus.  Coronavirus has now begun to impact the sports world particularly college and NBA basketball.  Several college post-season tournaments have been cancelled.  The NBA is in discussions about continuing play in empty arenas although no final decision has been reached.  Media presence is now on a restricted basis between its members and NBA players.  The precautions might create issues for fans but are a required necessary based on world conditions.      

A “new” coach

The Cavs announced the hiring of J.B. Bickerstaff to a multi-year contract.  Bickerstaff had served as associate head coach under John Beilein, once Beilein was terminated Bickerstaff supposedly took over on an interim basis.  The most interesting part of the hire is this, the Cavs indicate Bickerstaff was to replace Beilein eventually at a future date.  

Beilein is not a rookie in the coaching profession he’d coached Michigan basketball for several years and he turned 67-years of age in February.  It’s possible he and the Cavs had a “wink-wink” arrangement where Beilein would step down at a point.   It’s possible neither Cavs management nor Beilein expected this change would occur so soon.  Finally an unidentified Cavs player claimed the difference between Beilein and Bickerstaff is “night and day.”     

This is interesting trivia

The following information was provided by Mizzou basketball, “list of SEC players since 2009 to hit or surpass 390 points, 130 boards, 120 assists and 64 steals in a season.”    

John Wall

Ben Simmons

Dru Smith

This is no indication Smith has an NBA  career ahead but it does point out one fact.  Despite the storm clouds hovering over Mizzou basketball this season Smith has been a ray of sunshine. 

I’m impressed

As a fan I guess I am easily impressed and that might be the case here.  Mike Schmidt ESPN basketball analyst imparted surprising information recently.  Questioned on the best athlete in the 2020 NBA draft, he responded with no hesitation LaMelo Ball.  Schmidt explained the basis for his belief including traveling to Australia and seeing Ball in action. 

Several mock drafts indicate Ball could be chosen anywhere from the top pick through number 5.  There is a further matter to this story, it’s one of critical importance.  We believe this Ball might be more talented than either brother however the LaVar factor must be included.  Will LaVar be an asset or hindrance for his youngest son?  We cannot be sure, but he might have been a factor why older brother Lonzo is in New Orleans rather than Los Angeles.  

NCAA Tourney play

In a few short weeks’ teams will prepare for the championship run.  Office pools will be rampant, not a great deal of work will be accomplished during the day.  What should we expect, if we look at the history almost anything?  One team will be dubbed a Cinderella team, they will begin a historic run defeating a few teams along the way.  Will this team be crowned NCAA champions, hardly Cinderella teams rarely earn a Final Four berth? 

A Duke, North Carolina or Kansas type will be upset by a lower seeded team, it occurs every year.  There will likely be a last second shot made earning victory and one missed causing tears on the court.  The NCAA Tournament is full of dramatic play and improbable endings.  Who wins the whole thing, this year more than ever it’s difficult to point toward one team over another? Las Vegas will provide us odds in advance regarding a winner, check with them.