Basketball from a fan perspective

Published Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday

A legend---I stated previously the term legend is often overused, in this instance speaking of the Celtics Tommy Heinsohn it fits him to a T and is certainly worth linking Heinshon and Legend together.  Heinsohn died on Tuesday at the age of 86 the cause of death is unknown as this is published.  He would spend an amazing 64 years associated with the Celtics in some capacity.  Heinsohn played for the Celtics from 1956 to 1965 and later he coached them from 1969 to 1978.  A championship player during the Bill Russell era, a championship coach in 1974 and 1976.  Heinsohn’s final stint with the Celtics was his work as color commentator for the teams broadcasts.  Although he played and coached for the hated Celtics this member of Laker Nation says job well done Tommy, R.I.P.  

A correction---The information contained in our Monday account regarding the Thanksgiving Hoopfest is changed, not only that participating teams and dates have also changed.  After the Monday edition was published, I made the decision to exclude the account.  Please note participating teams, location, and revised dates.   Teams are YSPI Prep (Michigan), Duncanville, St. Marks, and John Paul II. 

The location of the games is now American Airlines Center in Dallas and the date is Saturday November 28.  The schedule indicates St. Marks and John Paul II will play at 6:00 p.m. Central Time and Emoni Bates YSPI Prep team will face Duncanville at 8:00 p.m.  It’s highly likely ESPN or one of the other sports networks will likely televise the games for those living outside the Dallas Metro.  The television however is yet to be confirmed, as additional information is available it will be communicated to readers of the publication.   

“No Kawhi watch this time” ---The time of the year is different however the subject is the same, everything is compressed in 2020 even free agency which begins November 20.  Teams can begin conversation with free agents but cannot sign them until November 22, with such a short turnaround time that would lead us to believe tampering will not exist.  As for the headline it’s based on last season free agents, many in Laker Nation held their breath waiting for the apparent signing of Kawhi Leonard or Paul George. 

As you are aware, both did an end run on the Lakers signing instead with the Clippers.  Naturally, a bunch of Laker fans were totally disappointed however it didn’t endure especially after the Lakers captured their 17^th NBA Championship and first since 2010.  As they would say, “word on the street” the Lakers have quietly begun talks with potential free agents.  In this COVID-19 climate era players are likely not flying into Los Angeles which makes the process even more stealthy.  At this point, we have no idea which free agent(s) the Lakers might sign but rest assured Rob Peilinka and company are diligently at work. 

Stay in School---The NBA Draft has changed over the years, one and done has become the norm for many who believe they are ready to play at the next level.  Athletes tend to spend their freshman year in school and then declare for the draft.  As for others they often are unsure, Ja Morant played through his sophomore year at Murray State before declaring for the draft.  Although the latter two scenarios most often occur many decide they require four years of basketball before heading for the NBA. 

6-foot 2-inch point guard Payton Pritchard for his own reasons decided to remain in school.  If you are unfamiliar with the name Pritchard played his college ball at the University of Oregon and he’s NBA ready.  Scouting reports indicate the only negative regarding Pritchard might be his athleticism and potential, if there is a concern it might be potential which we unsure exactly what that entails.  In closing don’t be surprised to hear Commissioner Silver or Deputy Commissioner Tatum utter his name. 

The non-com---COVID-19 has impacted college football this fall and will continue into the basketball season.  Mizzou’s annual Braggin’ Rights game versus Illinois was cancelled earlier, as for the balance of the non-con schedule it certainly could be considered “liquid” at this point.  Non-con games could be added while COVID-19 might cause other games already on the schedule to be subtracted. 

Nov 25 – Oral Roberts

TBD – Multi team event

Dec 6 at Wichita State

Dec 9 – Liberty

Dec 22 – Bradley

Jan 30 – TCU (Big 12/SEC Challenge)