Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

The Terminator Rebounder

Remember in the 6 Terminator movies series the theme? Arnold Schwarzenegger was the “bad” Terminator in the first movie, although a cyborg he became a good cyborg in the subsequent series of movies. In any event what was the Terminators single mission…it was to eliminate John Conner and all offspring he might produce. Arnold plus the others had one goal in mind, we might say the same for Kentucky’s Oscar Tshiebwe. Apparently like the Terminator Tshiebwe has a single mission as well, his is to grab every rebound that’s obtainable.

After transferring from West Virginia, the young man from the Democratic Republic of the Congo snatched down 20 rebounds against Duke in his first game for Kentucky. Later he would set a Rupp Arena record with 28 rebounds against Western Kentucky. In his team’s recent game against Mizzou, he registered another double-double with 13 points and 20 rebounds. After the game Tshiebwe was more upset about his “poor shooting” over the fact he had another 20-rebound game. Through 12 games Tshiebwe is scoring at a 15.8 point per game clip along with 15.8 rebounds a game. We don’t know this for a fact, the 6-foot 9 260-pound Tshiebwe might soon find a home in the NBA if he continues to play at this level. His coach John Calipari has NBA connections so this view would not be too farfetched.

Bits n Pieces

Stanley Johnson has been an NBA journeyman to date, despite this fact he is likely to replace a Laker veteran on the team’s roster. Hit hard by covid the Lakers were scrambling to find players to fit their roster. One of those fits it was hoped would be Johnson, the 6-foot 7 255-pound power/small forward must have impressed. As they say don’t take this to the bank, but it APPEARS the Lakers will keep Johnson over wait for it, wait for it. Veteran center DeAndre Jordan, his numbers are the worst on an incredibly bad Laker team. He’s got another advantage working for him, Johnson although a veteran is only 25-years old making him a baby compared to the grizzly veteran Lakers.

Folks claim Power Memorial High School with Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar) played on the greatest high school team in history. We recognize he is in the Naismith and College Basketball Halls of Fame, there are hundreds of other awards he received over the course of his entire basketball career. Akron’s (Ohio) Central High School might not be held in the same esteem as Power Memorial however it too has a rich history. Two high school teammates Nate Thurmond and Gus Johnson are in the Naismith Hall of Fame, they might be the only two in the history of basketball with that distinction.

Tomorrow many of us will have an opportunity to see former Mizzou Tiger Kim English in action for the first time. Of course, English will no longer be on the basketball court in a jersey he will be dressed in the same warmups of most coaches. Last March English was hired as head coach at George Mason and they will play the Kansas Jayhawks at 4:00 p.m. Central time on ESPN+. At 32 years of age English is one of the youngest head coaches in Division I basketball. Good luck coach and those in Mizzou Nation want your team to bash those Jayhawks. 

A return to the Cavs

We can all live in our imagination and so it goes. A website said, “Suppose LeBron James leaves the Lakers and returns to the Cavs.” Sounds implausible maybe however the Cavs are on the edge of becoming a viable team. Currently, they might have the tallest starting front line in the NBA, they go 6 foot 10, 6 foot 11 and 6 foot 11. The names we attach to the reported heights are Jarrett Allen at center, at power forward Evan Mobley and Lauri Markkanen at the small forward. The Lakers it was believed to have the tallest starting lineup, with AD sidelined it would appear the Cavs might trump the Lakers with this lineup. At the point the Cavs have one of the best of the new breed of point guards, Darius Garland was the 5^th pick in Round 1 of the 2019 draft.

The only downside, Garland is only 6 foot 1 which leaves him at a disadvantage defending his position on the court, the other aspects of his game are good. If we mention Vanderbilt the thought is often academics not basketball, but Garland is among the best the school’s produced and he’s only 21 years old. At shooting guard is Isaac Okoro the 5^th pick in Round 1 of the 2020 draft, he’s from Auburn University. The balance of the roster contains a sprinkling of veterans Kevin Love and Ricky Rubio (lost for the season prior to this account) and others, the Cavs might have the youngest team in the NBA. On second thought perhaps we could see maybe a return to Cleveland might not be as far-fetched as first stated. This group is led by head Coach JB Bickerstaff who must receive a portion of the credit for building this competitive team. We almost forgot the Cavs have the tallest player in the NBA today, 7 foot 6 Tacko Fall now plays for them.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

The Admiral

David Robinson hoped for a career in the U.S. Navy, his growth in height plus athletic ability deterred that future. It was mentioned previously when he enrolled at Annapolis his plebe (freshman year) he stood 6 feet 6, by the time he graduated he was 7 foot 1. His talent on the basketball court grew along with his height. In any event Robinson holds the longest record of draft night versus his first NBA game.

The Spurs made Robinson the number 1 pick in the June 22, 1987, draft but he did not play his first regular season NBA game for the Spurs until November 4, 1989. Robinson was required to finish his naval commitment however instead of the normal 5 years he was only obligated to serve 2 years. Robinson is now enshrined in the Naismith and FIBA Hall of Fame as much for his All-American status at Annapolis and his brilliant career with the Spurs. Robinson holds a record that will never be eclipsed, the time between an athlete being drafted and their first NBA game.

Do we really care?

It appears Kyrie Irving will soon be in the Nets backcourt, as for Ben Simmons that is a different matter. NBA on Clutch Sports contained this headline: “Ben Simmons has lost nearly $7.5 million, and Kyrie Irving has lost $6 million due to games missed this season.” Anytime an athlete is injured and out of the lineup he or she has no control regarding that fact. In the instance of Simmons and Irving they made a conscious decision or stance (for varied reasons) to not play basketball for their respective teams.

That course of action is certainly warranted if they believe in the stance taken. Naturally, there are always consequences for the actions one takes, in the instance of these two athletes its loss of income. I wonder if Clutch Sports is just trying to stir the pot and this column might be a contributing factor as well. There is a final issue to consider, both athletes income is far above the average citizen anywhere in the world. Does Clutch Sports want us to sympathize with Simmons and Irving over lost income? This might appear mean spirited on my part however that is not the intent, its simply intended to point out the basis for loss of income.

Color me somewhat impressed  

A triple double during a game is not that unusual, as for a double-triple double now that’s a rarity? Prior to Tuesday night it had only been accomplished 12 times in NBA history. The Lakers certainly haven’t had a great deal to celebrate thus far, their struggles have been documented in this blog from time to time. On Tuesday evening in a game against the Rockets the Lakers had two players register a triple double. In the 132-123 victory over the Rockets LeBron James had 32 points, 11 assists and 11 rebounds. This was the third time in Laker history teammates had triple doubles in the same game. Teammate Russell Westbrook scored 34 points along with 10 assists and 12 rebounds.

The Lakers had changed their starting lineup to halt a 5-game losing streak, should we suppose this lineup move was a contributing factor in the win? This change featured LeBron starting at center, how much he played is unknown with the amount of switching in the game. With head coach Vogel sidelined with covid acting coach David Fizdale made the decision to start LeBron.

This was not a difficult decision for Fizdale based on the present state of the Lakers center status. No AD he’s injured, Dwight Howard recovering from covid and inconsistent play from DeAndre Jordan was likely the basis for the change. As for the double-triple double by LeBron and Westbrook most in Laker Nation while applauding this effort might say instead “give us some consistency. How about winning 5 or 6 games in a row for a change.” As for the history it is quite extensive, the last teammates to accomplish this feat was Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler of the Heat on February 18, 2021. The first to achieve this was Bob Cousy and Tommy Heinsohn of the Celtics April 5, 1958.

Bits n Pieces

There is no medical ability with this article, it is intended to ask the question. Should Pelican forward Zion Williamson be shut down for the season? It is now January and Williamson is yet to set foot on the court. We’d hate to see this budding talent shut down for good and that’s what might occur if he is rushed back after giving the go ahead by the medical staff. We have read reports saying Williamson’s weight has ballooned upward but that is easy to understand, the injury to his foot has keep him from working out. Based on the bit of medical information placed in front of us this is our belief. Williamson should sit out the 2021-22 season and be prepared to play in the fall.

I thought it might be time to check on Makur Maker’s progress. You might remember the 6-foot 11 youngster made news when he enrolled at Howard University an HBCU school. We are usure of the order, but Maker was injured which took him out of the lineup. Then covid forced the cancellation of the season thus ending his college career before it began. Maker decided in favor of a pro career and headed to Australia and the Sydney Kings. Unable to see NBL games on television we have only the numbers to make a judgement. It appears Maker is a reserve at this point based on the limited minutes he’s played therefore we can make no judgement on adjustment to the pro game.

So far, we’ve seen no Kyrie Irving this season however there is a concern. Nothing’s changed regarding news from the health department in New York City regarding covid. Despite this department making no changes there are reports the Nets are about to make a change. After first stating Kyrie would not be able to play apparently, they are in full retreat. Reports are circulating the Nets intend the mercurial point guard to play road games and practice with the team outside New York City. My only question, if covid hits the Nets (as it has already to a degree) will Kyrie be considered the culprit? This talented athlete decided early on his principles were more important than a city mandate. That’s okay except we don’t always get what we want, sometimes we must suffer from the consequence of our decisions.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

Alex who?

It’s been noted previously Laker fans loved Alex Caruso; the former Texas A&M player went undrafted in 2016. He played in the G-League for the Thunder, later it would be the Lakers G-League team. All during this time he worked on his game. In 2019 Caruso earned a spot on the roster where he began to make contributions. Last summer most believed he would re-sign with the Lakers, imagine the shock when Caruso decided on the Bulls. Despite losing Caruso his replacement is at hand already, over the summer the Lakers signed three undrafted free agents one of them Austin Reaves.

The Arkansas native had played first at Wichita State and concluded his play with the University of Oklahoma. It’s easy to see where his love for the game was perfected, both parents played basketball at Arkansas State and an older brother who plays professionally. Another story of interest, it would appear it was believed he was thought of as a second-round draft choice. As proof of his confidence, he’s reported to have informed NBA teams through his agent to not draft him.

The 6-foot 5-inch shooting guard had enough confidence in his ability to pick the NBA team he felt aided him most, that would be the Lakers. Reaves might continue in a reserve role although we could debate his future. It’s possible in the yet to come future he might become a starter for the Lakers or another NBA team. If his future with another NBA team its likely he makes the decision. If for example he continues to show ice water in his veins (the game winner) as he did with the Mavs NBA teams might be trying to bust down the door to get him. A few of us had uncomplimentary things to say about Caruso and look where he is…big payday and all.

One of the best

If we held a discussion of All-Time great centers, I’d bet money no one mentions Artis Gilmore’s name. Our conversations would include the usual suspects, Wilt, Kareem, Russell and maybe Bob Lanier or Shaq. Someone just might slip in the late Nate Thurmond’s name or The Admiral David Robinson few would mention Gilmore. Spurs fans are seething at this point, allow me to state, feel free to check. Although Tim Duncan stood 7 feet the bulk of his play was spent as a power forward, he formed a twin tower combo with David Robinson. As for Gilmore during his ABA/NBA career he would score over 24,000 points with nearly 12,000 rebounds.

Despite beginning his professional career with the ABA Kentucky Colonels, he would spend more time the Bull and Spurs. You might ask the question why is Gilmore so invisible compared to several of the other names, it’s likely his demeanor? The personality of a Wilt or Shaq drew the media to them; for Russell it was the same although somewhat subtle. Gilmore nicknamed the A-Train quietly scored, rebounded the basketball and blocked shots for three pro franchises. Born 72 years ago in Chipley Florida he arrived in the ABA from Jacksonville University. In 2011 a long over-due honor came his way as Gilmore was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. Since his playing days ended, he’s been active in the Jacksonville community, Artis Gilmore a link to basketballs rich history.

One of the best

Teamwork is needed, that is the goal. If there are more than two individuals involved, you must work to blend your effort. This also applies in sport too, there is no method to duplicate game conditions in practice. In addition, it is difficult to group talented players and expect them to blend their game to one another no matter how long they have played. We have first-hand evidence of this struggle in college and the NBA, the Mizzou Tigers and the Los Angeles Lakers. With Mizzou Cuonzo Martin recruited heavily but added four “veteran” players to the roster.

None of the four are outstanding prospects however it was thought their experience would blend in with the first-year players. Ronnie DeGray II, DaJuan Gordon, Jaron Coleman and Amari Davis would lead the way for Mizzou…to date that’s not been the case. As conference play begins will this quartet improve their play and lead the Tigers to victory? As for the Lakers the story is somewhat similar with Russell Westbrook, DeAndre Jordan, Carmelo Anthony and the balance of new additions have the same issue. Individually they are talented, collectively is the issue which has been the problem all season long. There are defensive lapses however this Laker team can effectively score the basketball, the issue can they turn this effort around and defend better i.e., score a little less but defend better?

Beware of the Phog

Kansas fans love motto “Beware of the Phog”, it is intended to intimidate opposing teams that play in historic Allen Fieldhouse. About 600 road miles south-southwest of Lawrence Kansas lies Waco Texas home of the Baylor Bears. Their counter to Kansas might say, “Beware of the Bears” as they prepare to face the opposition. We believed 2021 might be an anomaly with Baylor winning the NCAA Championship.

Losing players to the NBA we believed they might be a little down this season, so far that has not been the case. Head Coach Scott Drew arrived at Waco prepared to deal with the aftermath of a basketball program that fell on tough times due to its coaching staff. As this is written Baylor is the number one team in the nation in both polls with 10 wins as this is written and no losses. It’s interesting Kansas fans point to the belief this is the best team in at least two years, despite this fact they still might finish in second place to Baylor.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

What about Camby

Several might remember Marcus Camby, he played his college ball at UMass (for John Calipari) and had a 19-year career in the NBA. Right now, you are probably asking yourself where is he going with this story? Okay, at the time Camby was drafted by the Raptors in 1996 he stood 6 foot 11 but a rather thin 220 pounds. One of the comments made, “Thin as he is they will break him apart at the NBA level.” This scenario did not play out to be a fact, by the time Camby retired he’d gained an additional 20 pounds and was 240.

We are reading accounts regarding 7-foot Chet Holmgren at Gonzaga and being anointed the new unicorn, the only criticism we hear or read to date of the first-year youngster is his reported thin weight, 195 pounds makes him a lightweight for his height. Here’s the good, he is likely to gain muscle (not weight) once in the NBA. At this point he’s got an advantage over Camby, he’s a better shooter especially from distance with 3-point capability. Now the key at least for this writer Holmgren’s shot blocking ability, like Camby he excels at blocking shots and providing a defensive presence around the basket. No need to worry about the weight of Holmgren until it’s determined he can’t play at the NBA level.

Who replaces him?

Trust me, no one in Mizzou Nation including the coach is pleased at this point in the season. With loud cries of firing Cuonzo Martin grow, the question becomes who replaces him? There is always a deserving assistant coach somewhere in country but even that brings about a question. A school in this case Mizzou must hire the correct assistant or former head coach as an example. It’s been pointed out Coach K. was a disaster his first three seasons at Duke, what might have occurred if the AD decided to fire him after year three? Certainly, no Hall of Fame nor NCAA Championships might have ever occurred. Another coach retired after last season is Roy Williams and that case is also interesting. This long-time assistant to Dean Smith at Carolina was announced as the next Kansas coach. Around here folks said, “Roy Who”, fortunately for Kansas he turned out to be a winner during his tenure.

The Bruce Pearl story was mentioned earlier, despite troubles at Tennessee many in Mizzou Nation wanted him. Auburn got him and years later Pearl is in trouble with the NCAA once again. Rest assured someone reading this might conclude Mizzou needs to stay the course i.e., keep Martin on board. That’s exactly what this writer is saying, a new coach must implement his system in which his team must adjust, new coach, new everywhere. Martin needs a timeline that says by _____________your team will be at ___________ or your job will be in jeopardy. I think there is a belief there are good coaches just waiting for a chance to prove themselves and to a degree that does exist. The only problem you buy a used car and drive it off the lot and the wheels fall off. Do you have a warranty protecting your purchase (hire)? In response to my conversation this was the message I received from a member of Mizzou Nation. “What about Alabama’s coach or Arkansas?” In the case of both schools, they struck lighting, two former head coaches arrived in the front door and at once rewarded alumni and fans of the programs. NOTE: The day before this story was published Coach Martin announced he’d tested positive for covid.

The OKC dilemma

We can agree Thunder basketball is not good at the present, after playing at a winning level last season we have seen them slip below .500 for much of the season thus far. The only bragging at this point is beating the LeBron-less Lakers twice. From 2009 until 2020 although they did not win a championship their won-loss record made them one of the most successful teams in the NBA. Much of the success of the Thunder was given to Sam Presti, Presti has served as general manager since the team called Seattle home. Presti was hired as GM at the old age of 29-years, early it appeared there was an uncanny ability for him to spot talent, evaluate it and make wise draft picks.

Over the last 3-4 years the problem for the Thunder is keeping the talent at hand and building around it. For the most part that’s not been the case, Russell Westbrook, James Hardin and Kevin Durant plus Serge Ibaka have gone on to success with other NBA teams. Chris Paul almost led the Suns to an NBA Championship last season; he was a member of the Thunder in 2020 until a trade. Of the players mentioned Durant is the only former Thunder player who left in free agency Westbrook, Hardin, Ibaka and Paul were traded for talent which should have added the pursuit of a championship. This becomes the OKC dilemma, the ability to spot and draft talent but the inability to grow that talent. All the problems are surely not Presti’s fault however he is the man in charge, he is the one involved in the contract negotiations of the veteran players who with the players salary demands the Thunder were forced to trade them.

The largest

College arenas can sometimes be imposing especially those we might consider high-profile schools.  Let’s look at just a few of them and the number of tickets they can sell. The Carrier Dome on the campus of Syracuse University doubles for the Syracuse football team as well, the dome can host 35,454 for basketball. In second place is The Greensboro Coliseum home of UNC-Greensboro with a seating capacity of 23,377, behind this arena is KFC Yum Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

This home of the University of Louisville can hold 22,090 for basketball. Next up is the Dean Smith Center or “Dean Dome”, home for the University of North Carolina and can seat 21,750. The Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville Tennessee seats 21,749 and is home for the University of Tennessee. Up next is Rupp Arena, home to the Kentucky Wildcats, the building can seat 20,545 Kentucky fans. Imagine this, the arenas mentioned have larger capacity than most NBA arenas.

HBCU

In case you are unsure HBCU is the abbreviation for “historically black college or university.” Once upon a time except in the north and west black athletes were prohibited from attending colleges and universities. Black athletes especially those in the southern states generally attended HBCU schools, most of which are in the southern part of the nation. Celtic great Sam Jones arrived in the NBA from North Carolina Central, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe from Winston-Salem State University and Willis Reed Grambling State are a few of the contingent from HBCU schools. As the landscape in the U.S. began to change in the 60’s and 70’s Georgia Tech, Ole Miss, Texas and others began recruiting black athletes who previously left the south to play for northern and western schools. As these changes came about fewer and fewer black athletes would choose HBCU institutions.

Howard University made news in 2020 when the first high profile basketball player in years decided in favor of this HBCU school and then BAM covid struck. Makur Maker might not have remained at Howard beyond his first year anyway, he’s since chosen a professional path to the NBA through play in Australia. In another case Hercy Miller son of media mogul Master P. decided in favor of HBCU Tennessee State to play basketball. Recently he announced his son was leaving the school due to a medical issue which Master P. believed could not be managed at TSU. The question, in the 21^st Century can the HBCU compete for football and basketball talent effectively? Unfortunately, the answer is no, HBCU’s will continue to produce those who want careers in the medical field, educators and the legal field. The days of producing athletes for the NBA and NFL has slowed to a trinkle and will never return to what it once was in the 1950’s.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

Say what?

More than a few might remember the story, a year or so ago veteran point guard Darren Collison expressed interest in coming out of retirement. If you remember he retired at the conclusion of the 2018-19 NBA season and with his announcement both Los Angeles teams expressed interest in signing Collison. The Clippers and Lakers believed Collison would add a valuable presence missing from both rosters. Later Collison would decide to remain retired but that was then, this is now.

Covid has muddied the picture in the NBA, its run through the league like the plague it is, teams are scrambling to sign replacement players. That was then, this in now in all this movement Collison decides again he wants to play in the NBA. The Lakers signed Collison to a 10-day contract and he’s ready to resume play. We might question if there is any gas left in the tank, he’s 34-years old now. The Darren Collison that played in 2018-19 showed good numbers and would appear a worthy addition to the Lakers roster, at this point we just don’t know.

A normal season, hardly

Is this a normal season in the NBA, I think not based on developments? We can say with certainty the 2021-22 season has been far from normal. The first story involves two players who are yet to play, and neither is hurt. The Warriors, Suns and Jazz have played exceptional basketball as for others that’s been a different story. Although the Nets have a winning record they are not where we expected them, more on that later. At the top of the list of disappointments are the Lakers, no need of going into detail there, as for the Clippers they are barely above .500. We have Kyrie Irving who is yet to make an appearance due to his stance on vaccination. The Nets are playing well however Kevin Durant is playing a great deal of minutes due to James “milk carton” Hardin’s absence. Oh, Hardin’s not injured remember how authorities would place photos of missing children on milk cartons, that’s Hardin? Have the anti-flopping rules hurt his game to this extent?

Even the Bucks have not played like defending NBA Champions, as they stand 22-13. Surprise teams, the Bulls must be that being nine games above .500. The addition of Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso appears to have raised their level of play. Covid has ravaged the NBA thus far with players placed in health and safety protocol, in addition to that we’ve had games cancelled something that’s hardly ever occurred in the past. If the season were to end today, missing the playoffs in the Western Conference would be the Mavs and Nuggets in the Eastern Conference it would be the Knicks. As the great philosopher Forrest Gump once said, “My mom said life’s like a box of chocolates you never know what you gonna get.” With apologies to Mr. Gump and his mom, we are changing the quote slightly to read, “The NBA is like a box of chocolates you never know what you gonna get…until you open the season.” That might clearly apply to the 2021-22 NBA season.

How long are you given a free pass?

This from 2013 however still applies today. Colin Cowherd (formerly of ESPN) was discussing NFL football and its coaches one morning. He made the statement “how long does a coach receive a free pass when he’s no longer been on the sidelines?” Cowherd was referring to the fact at the time job openings occur the same few names always are mentioned. He pointed out two names always mentioned one of them being Jon Gruden. It was Cowherd’s belief winning a championship one time does not guarantee a life-time free pass. He pointed out Gruden and other television analysts had removed themselves from the coaching ranks.

I don’t believe Cowherd was picking on Gruden and neither am I however it’s been 5 years since he last served as head coach. It’s been even further for his Super Bowl win (2003). (Of course, we are aware of the demise of Gruden after less than spectacular years at the helm.) Cowherd’s discussion centered on the NFL however it could be the NBA too. The same issue exists whether it’s media driven or not in the NBA. Former Knicks and Rocket Coach Jeff Van Gundy’s name continues to crop up whenever a coaching position opens. There is a key difference in my view; Gruden did lead his team to a successful Super Bowl win. Van Gundy teams have played in one NBA finals over the course of his 11-year coaching career. NOTE: As we are aware since this was first written Gruden has been fired and Van Gundy continues to broadcast NBA games.

The National Basketball League

Australia and the NBL have become a destination for American players. The number includes former college player’s, but lately younger athletes have traveled to the Land Down Under. To date LaMelo Ball has been the best American prospect however native Aussies have been in the NBA for years. The first was Luc Longley, he was drafted by the Wolves in 1991 and played for two other teams. We remember him from the period he played center for those Michael Jordan Bulls Championship teams. Andrew Gaze was one of the early Aussies to play in the NBA along with Patty Mills, Andrew Bogut and Chris Anstey.

More recently the NBA’s added Joe Ingles along with Matthew Dellavedova and Aron Baynes. Although Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons were born in Australia their parentage is different. Simmons mom is Aussie while his dad is American, he met his wife in the country while playing there. Both Irving parents are American, Kyrie too had a dad playing basketball in Australia. With the 6^th pick in the first round of the 2021 draft the Thunder chose 6-foot 8-point guard Josh Giddey. This is incomplete, there are Aussie players missing but it’s hoped you see the growing number playing the game in the NBL, in American colleges and the NBA.

You might have thought

After reading my “taps” edition on Thursday about the Lakers 2022 Championship hopes you might have come to the wrong conclusion. You might have believed I was deserting my post; I was turning in my Laker Nation ID card. You might have forgotten the length of time I’ve been a fan of this team. Far from it, you must have forgotten I survived the Jim Buss years of him running the franchise. If not for sister Jeannie Buss “firing” her brother, there is no telling where the franchise might be.

You might not like Frank Vogel, but I will take his coaching over that of Luke Walton, those Walton teams were unbearable to watch at times. The Lakers added talent every season however there was little upward movement by the franchise. How could that be, it must be the front office led by Buss. How about the D’Angelo Russell-Swaggy P. feud which had nothing to do with basketball? As I tried to explain yesterday, I’m disappointed because I expected better than what I’ve seen thus far. There might be a point even a veteran team becomes too old, that might be the case for the 2021-22 Lakers. The solution is easy develop a team rather than putting pieces together. If I were a betting person, I’d say the ABC Network had no clue, how could they possibly foresee a below .500 Laker team playing on Christmas when the schedule was proposed?

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

My hope was….

Mizzou would play a good game, but my hope was dashed early. The Fighting Illini got off to a fast start and managed a double-digit lead over the Tigers by the middle part of the first half. In fact, the Tigers good shooting plus steals and turnovers saw the Illinois lead reduced to but 6 points and then it occurred Illinois went on another hot streak before the half. In the second half of the game Illinois raced out to an unsurmountable lead, final score read Illinois 88 Mizzou 63. The numbers detail the usual pattern for Mizzou shooting a poor 36.5% from the floor and 26.1% from the 3-line. The only area Mizzou won was at the free-throw line shooting 84.6% to 66.7% for Illinois.

Illinois would shoot a sizzling 48% from 3 which is outstanding, Mizzou plays reasonably good defense although the box score might convince you otherwise. IF Mizzou could manage to shoot better from the floor the bad numbers we are seeing might go away. Mizzou was led by guard Jaron Coleman with 16 points followed by forward Kobe Brown with 13. I’m unsure of the clear-cut answer but this team must shoot the basketball better. The first-year students are adjusting to Division I play as for Coleman, Amari Davis and Ronnie DeGray II transferred from other programs. They proved they could score at their earlier school it’s now time to prove you can score for Mizzou. Is the glass half full or half empty, it really depends on one’s perspective?

Climate Pledge Arena

In Seattle Washington, the city has a brand new-old arena in use for the expansion NHL Kraken and Seattle Seahawks men’s basketball team. Recently the Gonzaga Bulldogs journeyed over from Spokane to Seattle to play Alabama. Our view is obscure viewing a game on television, this is a reference to seeing the completed work. As for the new-old phrase the building opened back in 1962 and has undergone name changes over that period.

In addition to name changes the arena has undergone a re-build never seen in the past. The iconic roof line an architectural original still exists but everything else in the arena is new. Climate Pledge is a new arena with the environment the priority. Ice for Kraken games comes from rainwater and heating and cooling is provided by solar, so the environment was prime consideration before this re-build. As for the basketball game Alabama took down Gonzaga but prior to the start the analyst made this statement, “Bring back the Sonics.”

The other Kentucky school

Anytime we say Kentucky basketball the mind focuses on the University of Kentucky Wildcats in Lexington. Okay, with that said how about the other school? Western Kentucky found in Bowling Green has the second most wins by a college team in the State of Kentucky behind that other school. Like Kansas-Wichita State the wins for Western Kentucky hold few games against the University of Kentucky. Truth is the game on Wednesday night was the first for the two schools since 2001 and they are only separated by 160 road miles.

Whatever the reason the schools never play one another except on Wednesday. A benefit game for Kentucky tornado victims was schedule and was the basis for the two schools to meet. The game saw the University of Kentucky beating Western Kentucky 95-60. Kentucky forward Oscar Tshiebwe scored 14 points and snatched down 28 rebounds for the winners. It makes us wonder if residents of the state would like to see the schools play a home and home series every season. You might wonder who is this Tshiebwe guy? He hails from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is a 6-foot 9 255 pound forward. He spent a season at West Virginia before transferring to Kentucky.

Best NBA team to never win it all

That would be the 1977 Sixers, in the finals that year they were matched against Bill Walton’s Blazers. Keep in mind numbers of fans contend that Sixer team was the best to never win an NBA Championship. The Sixers would win in 1983 beating my Lakers but that’s another story…this is about 1977. The heavily favored Sixers would lose that series to the Blazers four games to two. As for the 1977 team from Julius “Dr.J.” Erving to the last player off the bench this team was loaded with talent. They were high scoring and had a strong defensive presence, this team had it all---all apart from a championship.

The starting lineup for this team was Dr. J. at small forward, George McGinnis power forward; center was manned by Caldwell Jones. Jones was backed by Harvey Catchings (WNBA Tamika’s father) and the late Darryl Dawkins. Henry Bibby was at the point and former coach and ESPN analyst Doug Collins was the shooting guard; reserves were Joe Bryant (Kobe’s dad) and Lloyd B. Free, later he would become World B. The Blazers defeated this talented collection of talent four games to two for one simple reason, the Sixers to a man probably believed their superior talent would overwhelm the Blazers. One more unusual occurrence, can you imagine not covering the championship trophy presentation? CBS which had the broadcast believed it was more important to supply coverage of the Kemper Open Golf Tournament, nothing similar would occur in this day but that was 1977.

Bits n Pieces 

The calendar is about ready to turn over to a new month and a new year. With January 2022 conference play will begin all over the nation. Despite the fact there will be competition for the conference crown it might not be as important as it once was. Practically every conference in the country plays a post-season tournament. Post-season tournament results might allow a team with a poor record to earn a spot in the NCAA tournament.

The signage is up inside and outside the arena, it is officially Crypto.com Arena. Never in my life have I heard of such a strange sounding name for an arena or stadium. We discussed the history of corporations paying to place their name on the front of buildings. Names can be corporate and still flow, Great Western Forum, FedEx Arena, or American Airlines Arena as examples. $700 million worth of naming rights goes much further than my pedestrian complaint. I don’t really care, as I wrote down earlier, I will continue to refer to it as Staples Center, Crypto.com Arena does not flow easily off the tongue.

I like Karl-Anthony Towns game always have, this goes back to his high school days in New Jersey and on to the University of Kentucky. Drafted by the Wolves he’s a proven talent over the length of his brief NBA career. How good is he, probably not at the level he might believe? Towns said and I quote, “I’m the greatest big man shooter of all time!” for him to make such a bold statement requires a look back. Who is Towns discounting in this diatribe? Is he referring to jump shooters only such as Patrick Ewing or Dirk Nowitzki, perhaps it’s traditional post players like Kareem Abdul Jabbar or Hakeem Olajuwon?

Basketball from a fans perspective   

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Christmas  

The Celtics had fallen on challenging times under then coach Rick Pitino. The speech Pitino made was historic as he tried to motivate the team. “Larry Bird is not walking through that door”, the former Celtic great had been retired by that time. I’m gonna borrow from Pitino and say, “Magic Johnson is not walking through that door.” Back in October Ben a friend and co-worker asked me about the slow start of the Lakers, this was my response. “If they are playing like this at Christmas then there is a problem.” This is written December 22 with the holiday three days away. On Tuesday evening the Suns took the Lakers to the woodshed and spanked their behinds 108-90. The game was at home for the Lakers so Staples Center (I refuse to use the new name) supplied no advantage.

This present Laker team was built to win now not in three years but in 2022. That will not occur in 2022 the season ended on Tuesday night; the Lakers will earn a playoff berth, but a deep run is difficult for me to see at this point. LeBron James brilliant play cannot be expected at this level much beyond next season so what is needed? The Lakers need to look toward the future, they have a good scouting system which brought them Jordan Clarkson, Kyle Kuzma, Lonzo Ball and others. Although talent has left through trades, they offer proof exceptional aptitude players are available even in the second round. This provides proof the scouting staff has skill in getting talent. A beginning exists with Talen Horton-Tucker, Austin Reaves and Malik Monk and we could add brittle Anthony Davis still only 28-years old. This quartet of talent along with wise draft picks and skillful trading could make for a competitive team. The key is patience, is Laker Nation prepared for losing now to win later, I cannot answer that question?

Down to earth

Wunderkind Emoni Bates has settled back to earth. We first heard of the 6-foot-9-inch combo player described in this manner. “Should the NBA repeal its rule and allow high school players in the draft Bates will be a favorite.” We anxiously waited for Bates to begin his pro career however there was a stop, he committed to Michigan State that commitment only lasted briefly. Later Bates would reclassify and then pledge to Penny Hardaway and his Memphis Tigers. At Memphis Bates got off to a great early season start and then BAM, it was as if a lid was placed on the basket as he took and missed shot after shot after shot.

In his latest game against Alabama Bates played but 15 minutes, he scored 7 points while shooting 16.7% from the floor. Overall, he is shooting 37.4% and 10.8 points per game certainly numbers expected to be higher. There are issues to consider which has been noted, Bates should be a senior in high school, there still is time for him to adjust to the collegiate game. He is no longer a starter which might lessen the anxiety on him to perform at a high skill level. We continue to believe the reports on Bates potential when he was still in high school. Scouts said “He (Bates) would be ready for the NBA by his senior year of high school.” Now hurt, the season that began so well has now hit a speed bump.

I cannot do this justice

If you are a certain age the name Bernard King might not be familiar to you. Recently a video was brought to my attention, it’s available on YouTube so perhaps you can check it out. Because I don’t own the video or didn’t originate it, I cannot supply it for you. This is an account of the King of the Garden Bernard King; you thought the king might have been Willis Reed or Patrick Ewing. Most only remember King from his tenure with the Knicks he played for the Nets, briefly for the Jazz along with the Warriors.

In brief during the video King describes how he divided the floor into zones for his shot choice, listening to the Hall of Fame small forward the confidence in his shooting ability comes across brilliantly all these years later as a 65-year-old. “I have 9 spots on each side, you can only defend me in 5 ways!” Don’t you find it odd apart from Walt Frazier and Alan Houston few Knicks players are associated with the franchise, it would seem the Knicks could find employment for New York born and raised Bernard King.

No, not that Michael this one

This Michael’s career overlapped that of the other Michael however his last name is different. He is Michael Cooper and back in the day he was one of the stars of the Showtime Lakers and a key to their success. The most points scored in a season by this Michael was 11.9 points a game in the 1981 NBA season. In 873 games he was an 8.9 point per game scorer, not much for this 6-foot 5 inch slender all-everything athlete. It was his defense which made him a star in fact Cooper was often the first reserve to enter the game for the Lakers.

Larry Bird was reported to have said nobody in the NBA defended him like Cooper. He and Magic Johnson would often have two or more “Coop-A-Loops” during a game. Cooper’s great leaping ability would see him at the rim to jam a lob pass from Magic. Coop as he was nicknamed was one of the few players to spend his entire career with one team, from 1978-1991 he performed invaluable service for the Lakers. 5 times NBA Champion, Defensive Player of the Year (1987) and 5 times All Defensive First Team and 3 times All Defensive Second Team. Do you see a common theme here, defensive specialist? Cooper finished his playing career in Italy and then moved into the coaching ranks.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

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Braggin Rights

Tonight, the annual basketball game between Mizzou and Illinois will be played in St. Louis, the game will be telecast on the Big Ten Network. Despite the play of Mizzou, the Enterprise Center should be evenly divided between fans of both teams. The history appears to be dominated by one team as an example. Mizzou has won the last three games played, before that Illinois was a winner in five consecutive games. From 2009 to 2012 Mizzou was the victor, based on the present we should be certain of an Illinois win. This assumes a down year for Mizzou basketball. As for the history Illinois leads all-time with 32 wins and 19 losses. This game ahead of time is always difficult to predict so far be it for me to give you a winner I have no idea.

NBA or professional future?

Jamarion Sharp of Western Kentucky doesn’t score much (8.2 ppg) but he can certainly block shots. He leads the NCAA in blocked shots with 58 in 12 games (4.83 per game) this season. Talent aside his height might be a key factor in effectively blocking shots or at least altering them. Sharp tips the scales at 235 pounds but stands 7-foot 5, is the NBA or at least a pro career in his future? Consider this fact, do you remember 7-foot 6 Tacko Fall who played at UCF?

Few of us believed the NBA was in his future for Fall, despite this widely accepted opinion it did occur in in 2019. The Celtics signed Fall as a free agent and during the season he played for the Celtics and Red Claws. This play followed through last season, in September 2021 Fall signed with the Cavs and it was converted to a two-way contract. Fall is currently playing for the Cavs G-League affiliate the Charge. Despite the emphasis on small ball change in the game of today, we can still conclude height might continue to play a role in an athletes future in basketball. Of course, that taller player must have a degree of potential.

Bits n Pieces 

They continue the march…Duke basketball that is. It was mentioned in December alone the school received two verbal commits from Class of 2022 prospects. They are Mark Mitchell 6-8 forward and Christian Reeves 7-1 center, these two join four others signed earlier. It should be of note 247Sports rate four of the six as 5-star prospects one is a 4-star and the other 3-star. Stars don’t mean squat if you can’t play or adjust to Division I basketball, it does supply us a clue because Duke’s been recognized as having the top class of recruits for the 2022-23 college season.

This metro Dallas-Fort Worth city’s high school basketball has always been outstanding, and it continues early in the 2021-22 season. Transferring from California for his junior year is Ashton Hardaway a 6-foot 7 small forward. If the last name sounds familiar it should, his dad is former NBA player and current Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway. Ashton has two years of high school lingering to decide on a college for the future.

Three NBA games were postponed on Sunday evening due to covid-19. This might be the most cancelled games in one date due to the virus. The NBA is supposed to be revising its policy regarding covid however the policy is confusing at this time. Players are health and safety protocol one day and the next they are cleared to play; the restriction is clearly confusing. LeBron James has been one of the players lodging a complaint.

Recently we read former Laker Alex Caruso and current Bulls player said this. “Austin Reaves is ahead of me when I first arrived in the NBA.” That’s an interesting comment from the former Laker reserve, apparently, he sees the potential of Reaves and believes it wasn’t as much of a step up for Reaves as it was for him adjusting to NBA play.

I am wasting your time (and mine too)

A website stadiumtalk.com had a headline pop up on my FB page. It read: “NBA players who shouldn’t be in the Hall of Fame”, I laughed out loud reading the headline never bothering to click on the story.  There are substantial numbers of players in the NFL, baseball and Naismith Hall of Fame most of us barely know. They played prior to our birth or during our childhood, in other words the name might be more familiar to us than anything. This is the area the problem begins, and we’ve seen it especially with the choice of the 75^th Anniversary All-Star team. We have scores of fans claiming because Joe Jones played in1950 he can’t be on the same level as Joe Smith who plays currently or at least beginning in 2000.

I return to Babe Ruth who retired from baseball in 1935 and died in 1948. Historians of the time wrote “He wasn’t much of an athlete” yet Ruth held the career home run record from 1935 until Hank Aaron broke it in 1974. The names that stand out are Lenny Wilkins and Paul Arizin, fans wrote they believed neither belonged on the team. There was no explanation other than Wilkins retired in 1975 and Arizin even further back 1962. We’ve got to take into consideration the evolution of the game be it football, baseball or the NBA. If we enter a discussion of athletes I am at the front of the line, today’s athletes are better conditioned and might be light years above those in the past. With that said does it disqualify the athlete of the past just because he played in a different era?

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An argument of epic proportion

I had no intent to begin a dispute but that appears to be the case. My reference is the recent story on the Pete Maravich-Travis Grant career scoring issue is just that, I uncovered more information to share with you. Maravich scored his 3,667 points in three seasons, at that time first-year student-athletes were ineligible to play varsity at NCAA institutions. On the other hand, NAIA basketball rules were  different, as far as I can figure out incoming student-athletes at these schools were always eligible to play four seasons.

Grant registered his 4,045 points in four seasons at Kentucky State. Neither player had benefit of the 3-point line, that change went into effect in April 1986 long after both had left school. I have no intent to take anything away from either player, each experienced greatness while enrolled at LSU and Kentucky State. Research is wonderful especially when you discover something you didn’t know. Grant’s record has been eclipsed too, Phil Hutcheson and John Pierce both roared past Travis Grant, Pierce would score 4,230 points for his career. Both Hutcheson and Pierce played at John Lipscomb University now an NCAA Division I program, when the later two played at the school it was an NAIA member.

Interesting note

We hear scores of complaints from Laker Nation about the durability of Anthony Davis. This latest injury last Friday continues the pattern of the Laker Big Man missing games. Did you realize over the last three seasons Jimmy Butler of the Heat has missed just about the same number of games as AD? It is difficult to keep a modern-day NBA player on the floor, as written earlier the injury AD suffered on Friday was not due to him doing something unusual or difficult. A Wolves player (not intentionally) was the cause of the MCL sprain to his left leg. Unfortunately, we cannot bubble wrap AD, Jimmy Butler or other NBA players, as they say about all sport, injuries are part of the game. That statement will fail to satisfy Laker Nation however it’s the truth and nothing can be done to negate it.

Player of the Year

Ochai Agbaji might be the single best college basketball player in the nation this season, he’s got a great deal of competition but is clearly the leader in the middle of December. Once again Kansas has cornered the basketball market on talent, and they have a good one with this Kansas City Missouri youngster. Ochai Agbaji’s numbers are astonishing at this point of the season, and he might be the single reason Kansas has but one loss as this is written.

How about these numbers 22.4 points a game on 63.2% from the floor with 49.3% coming from three? Naturally, no prediction of future success in the NBA or any other professional league is projected. The 6-foot 5 shooting guard will be coveted by teams throughout the NBA come draft time in June. Agbaji has gone from a relative unknown playing for Park Hill High School to the present day. A day in the future we might hear Commissioner Silver step to the podium at the draft and say, “With the _______ pick the _______ select Ochai Agbaji from the University of Kansas.” We shall see what eventually prevails for this young man and is the NBA in his future.

A presence

The history of Asian players in the NBA goes back to the beginning. The 1947-48 season the late Wataru Misaka played for the Knicks the very first Asian player in the NBA. Since the arrival of Yao Ming and his outstanding play with the Rockets the NBA has wanted to increase its presence in Asia. After Yao retired it was thought the arrival of Jeremy Lin would be a driving force for an increased presence of Asian players in the NBA. Unfortunate although talented Lin was never able to sustain his play in the NBA. This American born son of Taiwanese parents is now playing for the Beijing Ducks in the Chinese Basketball Association.

We introduced to a number Kai Sotto from the Philippines, although he would attend a part of his high school in the U.S. and play in the G-League. Currently Sotto is playing for the Adelaide 36ers in the Australian Basketball League, most likely he is still on the radar of NBA scouts at 7 feet tall and with a degree of talent. Playing for Davidson University is Hyunjung Lee a 6-foot 7-inch forward from South Korea. In addition, we have shooting guard Isaiah Wong at Miami, his great-great grandfather is of Chinese heritage. In the G-League we find 6-foot 11-inch Fanbo Zeng from Harbin China.

Currently in the NBA is Rui Hachimura from Yuta Watanabe both from Japan, Hachimura is with the Wizards and Watanabe the Raptors. At play for UCLA is Johnny Juzang a 6-foot 7-inch shooting guard, he was born in Tarzana California although his parents are from Vietnam. Jordan Clarkson is not thought of as being Asian however his mother hails from the Philippines while his father is African American. Also of note is 7-foot 4 295-pound Zach Edey freshman Purdue center, this youngsters mom is Canadian-Asian. There are names omitted here but it’s hoped you realize there are players of Asian heritage who love the game and play it at a high skill level. The plan is to continue developing this talent for play in the NBA one day.

A rivalry no more

Rivalries die for a variety of reasons as an example in the NFL Chiefs against the Broncos and Raiders. Earlier this month the Chiefs beat the Broncos for the 12^th consecutive time, in my view it’s no longer a rivalry when the other guy never wins. We could make the same statement about the Raiders series although lopsided they have beaten the Chiefs but not very often. In the NBA it was Celtics-Lakers or Lakers-Celtics rivalry but that no longer exists. Once upon a time it was Magic-Bird or Worthy-McHale, Kareem against Chief. These two franchises faced off against the other in 12 NBA Championship series in the past an NBA record.

The rivalry between these two teams existed during the regular season too playing home and home games. The days of the ‘70’s and ‘80’s no longer exist as the rivalry has only been played once (2010) for the NBA Championship, perhaps it is due to key players from both sides have retired. Time has also played a role in this once bitter rivalry, today’s Lakers and Celtics see it as “just another basketball game.” It’s no longer Kevin McHale clotheslining Kurt Rambis or Magic Johnson tossing his “junior-junior” skyhook to win a decisive championship game. When the Celtics beat the Lakers on November 19 it was “just” a regular season victory for them, the same for December 7 when the Lakers returned the favor each winning team at home.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

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The key to winning basketball

It’s simple, you outscore the other guy something Mizzou is unable to do at times this season. I have no idea of the outcome; this is written at the half for the Utah-Mizzou game. Utah is in the lead 33-32 because Mizzou is shooting 36.8% from the floor, 13.3% from the 3-line and 33.3% from the free-throw line. Numbers like that are going to win few basketball games. From the half-time score you can reason Utah has not exactly shot lights out however 40.6% is certainly improved over what Mizzou’s shot thus far.

The first name that comes to mind is the late John Chaney, his Temple teams even in the shot-clock era were not scoring machines. Opposing teams playing Temple knew ahead of time they would face belly button-hand in your face defense for 40 minutes, that's what Chaney teams did. These Tigers never seem to lack hustle the larger problem appears to be the difficulty shooting the basketball. The second half turned out more successful, as Mizzou scored 51 points while holding Utah to 42. Shooting improved for the game to 43.9% although the 3-point shot for Mizzou (19%) was dismal. One more point Mizzou outrebounded Utah 41-33 so there is a little hope. With my coaching hat on perhaps the fix for Mizzou is to play belly-button defense and score when they can.

I don’t believe in jinxes

Several might remember reading on Friday morning before the evening game Lakers-Wolves I wrote, “Anthony Davis or AD is key to Laker success going forward this season, if only he can avoid those knick-knack injuries.” In the Friday evening game against the Wolves AD was injured no less than twice, both times he was forced to leave the game. The second injury the most serious compelled him to leave the court is certainly the most serious, an MRI will be done on his injured left knee. Most distressing in both instances he was not guilty of actions which caused the injury. The hope of Laker Nation is he can return with few games as possible missed. I stated early my dis-belief in jinxes I hope you are on my side…are you? UPDATE: An MRI revealed an MCL sprain, AD will be out of the lineup for the next four weeks.

“I’m Back”

March 18, 1995, Michael Jordan sent out a Fax with the words “I’m Back.” He was returning to the NBA after trying to play baseball, hardly anybody uses fax machines these days. There are a variety of methods to communicate without use of a fax. Kyrie Irving could be making the same statement according to late breaking news on Friday. Irving would be a part-time player, he would play in road games only, in addition our guess the Nets move their practice location which is in Brooklyn.

Irving would be available to play in any game outside New York City. These gyrations are to circumvent the NYC Health Department mandate, “Beginning December 27, workers in New York City who perform in-person work or interact with the public in the course of business must show proof they have received at least one does of COVID-19 vaccine.” I have my opinion on this issue but will refrain from providing it, your view of the matter. What do you think? Are you okay with this attempt to move Irving onto the playing floor?

Bits n Pieces

We are thick in the middle of this pandemic as it continues to mutate into other variants. At a point it was believed by most the NBA was managing the epidemic correctly (perhaps they are) however an increasing number of teams appear to be dealing with problems. My Lakers are one of them with their roster hit significantly over the weekend. This has caused them to reach out to Isaiah Thomas who played for the Lakers in 2018, he signed a 10-day contract. With those in health and safety protocol plus Trevor Ariza and Kendrick Nunn on the injured list…see where I’m going? floor?

We don’t know what to make of the Pelicans Zion Williamson. None of us (okay a few might) have no medical training, with Zion he’s having difficulty returning to the floor. He’d broken his foot in off-season workouts which prevented him from playing this season, on top of this the latest from the medical staff. Zion received an injection in his right foot to aid the healing, the timeline says he will be re-evaluated in 4-6 weeks. You see the dilemma; the Pelicans are thrashing about trying to compete with Zion on the sidelines. As more information is made known you will be apprised of it.

Closer inspection is needed, if my memory is correct, it was 2-3 years ago. At that point I pronounced Joel Embiid the top center in the NBA now I’m not so sure. “Please clue us in Larry Laker, are you claiming his game has regressed”? No, that’s not what I’m stating it “appears” the leadership I believed he brought to the table might be lacking. On the other hand, I could be missing something, granted I’ve seen few of the Sixer games as this is written. Perhaps as this was said at the beginning closer inspection of Embiid’s game is required by yours truly.

Correction (or is it?)

On December 16 we profiled "Pistol" Pete Maravich and his scoring prowess. We even detailed for you he is the all-time leading scorer in college basketball history. That statement is partially correct but not fully, see Maravich scored 3,667 points in NCAA Division I basketball. An athlete few remember Travis "Macine Gun" Grant, playing for Kentucky State University then an NAIA school scored 4,045 points at the school. He was nicknamed "Machine Gun" due to the point totals he registered during games at such a rapid pace.  

As for Kentucky State the school is no longer associated with the NAIA it’s moved up to NCAA Division II however the scoring numbers registered by Grant are still recognized. During his time at Kentucky State the school would win three consecutive NAIA Championships and his scoring was a contributing factor. Grant would be drafted by the Lakers in the 1972 NBA Draft, unfortunately he was unable to transfer the success he achieved at the college level to that of a professional. Grant exited the NBA by 1976 having spent time with three other NBA/ABA teams. The question, do we negate his scoring record because it wasn’t recorded at the Division I level? 

Basketball from a fans perspective   

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We are unsure

Who rates high school prospects, we are unsure who is responsible? It might be one or more groups of folks but consider this fact. Rivals.com, 247Sports.com and others award 5 stars to the highest rated prospect while a prospect could go unrated, the question is this a true evaluation of that athlete? Of course not, awarding stars (or no stars) is just a measurement it has nothing to do with the ability only a projection of his or her future. There have been 5-star prospects who lack that something a coach first saw, on the other hand a prospect could be a late developer.

We could use the Lakers Anthony Davis as an example, AD was a 6-foot 3-inch point guard in high school. He’s grown to a 6-foot 10 253-pound power forward in the NBA, he showed enough talent to be awarded a scholarship to Kentucky. Did John Calipari or the coaching staff have any idea of his ultimate potential, of course they didn’t have a clue? A prospect site awarding stars doesn’t mean beans it is just a point of measurement. The two areas hidden from sight for all of us is the brain and heart of that athlete. The most critical part, can the prospect take in coaching, and is he capable of playing the game at a high skill level? What does the second part detail, his motor and desire which is impossible to measure.

AD

The date is still unknown, but we tried to point to a belief. We said the key to this season for the Lakers is not LeBron although his value to the team is certainly key. Although new to the Lakers Russell Westbrook has begun to “tame” his game to fit in with the Lakers. There are others Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard and Trevor Ariza when he returns. Anthony Davis or AD is the key to Laker success going forward, if only he can avoid the knick-knack injuries. If we check out the numbers by AD, they are acceptable, but they could be improved. It appears (notice the word) he is playing at half speed…which is troubling to Laker Nation.

Physically AD resembles “The Kid” otherwise known as Kevin Garnett but it ends there. Apart from his first year with the Lakers the fire appears missing. Notice the statement, nowhere was there mentioned he was lacking talent. This is the part that might be unfair to AD if you remember Amos Otis. The former Royals outfielder was said to be lacking hustle because he wouldn’t run into fences to catch the baseball. In addition, his effort with the bat and in the outfield appeared to the masses he was coasting. Perhaps that is the issue with our view of AD, he is doing all the things needed from him. Injuries aside we miss portions of his contributions. Is this true, perhaps a part but certainly not all of it.

Corporate names on the front

It will always be Staples Center to me, sorry crypto folks I don’t like the name. Far be it for me to rock this boat but when did this whole corporate thing first begin? I’m glad you ask the question; it might be Los Angeles and Dr. Buss? The Forum built by former owner Jack Kent Cooke opened as “The Forum” in 1967. In 1988 now the owner of the franchise Dr. Buss sold the naming rights to Great Western Savings & Loan and from that point on the arena became known as the Great Western Forum. After this move arenas and stadiums all over the nation began to pay naming right fees to attach their corporate name. Next up were the Bulls with Chicago Stadium being replaced by the United Center in 1995. The Gund Arena named after the owner brothers of the team would become Quicken Loans Arena in 2006.

As we move forward, we discover there are arenas now working with a second corporate name. In Denver, the arena opened as the Pepsi Center, it’s now the Ball Arena (no, not LaVar). Venerable Boston Garden was replaced by the brand-new Fleet Center in 1995 and in 2005 it was rebranded as the TD Garden. We have Barclays Center, American Airlines Center, Wells Fargo Center and a host of other corporate names on the front of these arenas. If you check you will discover Madison Square Garden is the only NBA arena working without a corporate name although Cablevision owns MSG. By the way, the original MSG goes back to the 19^th Century and the present arena opened in 1968 is the 4^th building under that name. As for our beginning the arena in Los Angeles will forever remain Staples Center, Crypto.com arena just doesn’t flow easily to me.

Hey Dave, did you know this?

I bet my friend David originally from Denver might not have read this earlier account. It is repeated for him and others who might not have read it or familiar with the history. Bet you didn’t realize Denver has the NBA franchise that belongs to Kansas City. Well, this is kinda true based on the history, when the American Basketball Association came into existence in 1967 Denver was not among the cities awarded a franchise, but Kansas City was. For unknown reasons, the Kansas City franchise was unable to secure a location to play (or at least that’s the report). This seems strange now considering Municipal Auditorium had served as host for a considerable number of NCAA and NAIA Championship Tournaments.

In addition, the arena was home for the short-lived American Basketball League Steers. As the countdown continued it became clear the Kansas City team had no place to play. The franchise was awarded to Denver and the Larks became the Rockets who would later become the Nuggets. When the ABA-NBA merger occurred in 1976 Denver was one of only four ABA teams that moved into the NBA. One more note, the Rockets became the Nuggets because the Houston Rockets were already in existence and the NBA didn’t want two teams with the same name. There you have the compacted version of how Denver got the franchise originally awarded to Kansas City, just kidding Dave, the Nuggets belong to Denver.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

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Pistol

With Steph Curry setting an NBA 3-point baskets made record I decided to check another prolific scorer in this instance we are discussing the college game. We are going to look back at “Pistol” Pete Maravich again, Maravich scored 3,667 points while enrolled at LSU playing from 1967 to 1970. His point scoring total would make him the all-time NCAA Division I scoring champion. Maravich was the offense for LSU back them averaging 43.8, 44.2 and 44.5 points a game. 

Can you even imagine a player in this age with those numbers? Maravich was just that talented, while executing all that scoring there are two facts which stand out for his collegiate career. He might have scored more career points, back then first-year student were not eligible to play on the varsity they were only eligible to play on the school’s freshman team. Until 1979 there was no 3-point line in college, just imagine how scores of added points Maravich might have recorded if he’d played four years and had benefit of the 3-point line.

He made the correct choice 

We believe Steve Kerr made the correct decision; you might not remember this story from the past. At the time Phil Jackson took over the Knicks March of 2014 he wanted to hire “his” coach; his preference was for Steve Kerr to be that choice. In April Jackson fired the Knicks coaching staff and at that point he was supposed to have reached out to Kerr. Despite the fact Kerr played for PJ with the Bulls he turned his former coach down. Recently he said, “If I had taken the Knicks job, I would have been gone in two years.” We can debate the merit of his statement however considering the Warriors success we could say for a fact Kerr made the right choice. Kerr’s been a three-time NBA Champion coach, 2015, 2017 and 2018. We can only guess, there are serious doubts Kerr would have achieved the success with the Knicks he’s received as head coach of the Warriors.

Bits n Pieces   

In a surprising move Danny Ainge makes a move from the Celtics to the Jazz. He was named as alternate governor and CEO of the team. According to ESPN.com Ainge will work with the GM and the ownership group which includes former player Dwayne Wade. The report says Ainge is still a popular figure in Salt Lake City having played at BYU. Later in his playing career Ainge played for the Kings, Blazers and Suns, for me and others he will always be associated with the Celtics due to his time with Bird, McHale and other Celtics of that era.

You might have heard the adage, “It’s easier to fire the coach than fire a player.” Well, he wasn’t fired, Rick Carlisle stepped down as Mavs coach after last season, now it comes out. The franchise otherwise known as Luka Doncic did not get along with Carlisle. Doncic is saying now he resented the way Carlisle treated other Mavs players. So, you have the story, we didn’t know for sure but believe there was a problem below the surface. Doncic has now confirmed there was difficulty between he and Carlisle.

Speaking of the Mavs, Laker rookie Austin Reaves hit a 3-point basket with 0.9 seconds remaining in OT. The shot was the winner as the Lakers beat those Mavs 107-104. We’ve read the team might be missing Alex Caruso who played tough defense and provided timely shooting as a reserve. In the off-season Caruso signed a free agent contract with the Bulls and Laker Nation were left bewildered with the development. Reaves in the middle of his rookie season but might prove more valuable than Caruso going forward.

They continue

They in this instance refers to Duke basketball and its recruiting effort. The latest is 3-star prospect Christian Reeves, he is a 7-foot 1-inch 235-pound center. Currently Reeves attends Oak Hill Academy found in Mouth of Wilson Virginia, and he is a Class of 2022 prospect. We don’t have any idea if Reeves can play at this level however the other question, how does Duke continue to attract the finest basketball talent in the nation and world?

There are factors that work in favor of Duke and at the top of the list must be, academics. Parents sending their son to Duke realize if their athlete son has no pro career in his future a degree from this institution goes a long way in the private sector. The basketball played at this university has been among the best and its reputation precedes it. Coach K. is on his way out the door however his replacement Jon Scheyer has begun a recruiting sprint on prospects. This is what my imagination informs me, coach is saying to prospects “Coach K. is gone but we still continue to play winning basketball at Duke University now and into the future.”