Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

You can tell

I’m ole skool to my detriment sometimes, I believe the game should be played with your head as much as your athletic ability.  As football coach Herm Edwards once said during a press conference, never mind check out the video below.    

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5-iJUuPWis

Down 112-110 to the Wizards with seconds remaining the Nuggets grab the rebound, they sprint down the court with a 4 on 1 break and each spread out at the 3-point line.  One takes the shot and misses, final score Wizards 112 Nuggets 110.  You have a clear path to a layup or dunk, and you take a 3-point shot hoping and praying you sink the basket, perhaps another video will aid the picture.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drsCI6uLHwk

Big Man basketball

The change in the game from post play to small ball’s created a problem.  Several players don’t fit the current trend, they stand 6 feet 11 inches and taller.  How do they continue playing the game we love?  Many have adapted their game; former Mavs power forward Dirk Nowitzki is headed to the Hall of Fame.  Dirk stands 7 feet tall, when he arrived in the NBA in 1998, he moved to the position which leads to his future enshrinement. 

Consider this, if Dirk had arrived 5-6 years prior, he would be a center but that’s another story.  The late Pete Newell began a Big Man’s Camp in 1976 with a single player, the idea was to aid the player in post moves and assorted play.  As the camp grew in importance an increasing number of athletes made their way to become better schooled in post play.  Just a few of the names who attended Newell’s camp in the past include Shaq, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Bill Walton.  Although Newell died in 1993 at the age of 93 the camp remains open, how did this question come about you ask?  Recently it was mentioned Mizzou has freshman Jordan Wilmore all 7 foot 3 and 245 pounds of him. 

Wilmore’s played little thus far, since he is unlike typical Cuonzo Martin recruits there was a question regarding who coaches him.  Coming from high school is he simply matched against Jeremiah Tilmon in practice or is a coach working with him.  We don’t have an answer but this we do know; Pete Newell’s camp remains open.  The focus in this instance was Newell however I managed to locate other Big Man camps across the nation, you can still be taught skill and moves if you seek them out. 

We don’t know the man

A 10-day contract is just that, sometimes a player is extended beyond the time limit or he is released.  In the instance of the Lakers picking up Damian Jones it’s hoped this move is more than 10 days for a couple of reasons.  The Lakers released guard Quinn Cook so they have two roster spots open.  I noted at least 4 players the Lakers could explore acquiring, it might require managing player movement but in the long run it could work.  Jones is a mystery, so I decided to go back in time and check how nbadraft.net rated him out of Vanderbilt. 

The strengths and weaknesses were noted however this is the overall assessment.  “Jones is a springy, skilled center who has the potential to make an impact at the next level, but often struggled to consistently make an impact at the college level … He’ll need to become more tenacious and a bit stronger in order to find the consistency to stick in an NBA rotation, but the framework is there and he’s by all accounts considered a high character kid.” I borrow this term from others, this appears a high yield low risk move by the Lakers, I will leave this assessment with the balance of Laker Nation for your evaluation. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Not the move expected

I’m going to reserve judgment and depend on Rob Pelinka, Frank Vogel, and the scouting staff; this was not the move I expected the Lakers to make.  Friday afternoon the team announced they signed Damian Jones to a 10-day contract, this after the Suns released him.  He’s only 25-years old, drafted by the Warriors in 2016 the 6-foot 11-inch Jones has also played for the Hawks and now the Lakers.  The report indicates he’s an athletic Big Man, does that statement indicate rim protection?  It should be noted I have been far more kind than a few members of Laker Nation on this latest move.   

The Logo

Several folks especially those 50 years and younger have no idea.  They don’t realize the logo used by the NBA over the decades represents former Laker great Jerry West, the league adopted the emblem in 1969.  The last few years we’ve witnessed several calls for the NBA to change its symbol, they point out the need for an updated logo.  We first heard calls for the symbol to be changed to LeBron James several years ago.  Recently Kyrie Irving added his voice to the chorus asking for change, rather than LeBron he stated his belief the logo should be changed to that of the late Kobe Bryant. 

This is an issue that fails to cause me to lose any sleep, my question how many really pay any attention to the logo?  The other professional sports simply have their name branded on the front of the logo.  At one point I was opposed to any modification but not for any specific reason.  I am in the middle on any proposed change, if it should occur, I would be okay.  If the logo should remain in place, I’m still okay…how do you feel?  One other note in closing, we uncovered information that points out West has no desire for his likeness to be used.

He told ESPN “He was embarrassed by it all and wanted the NBA to change the logo.  West suggested that perhaps Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s legendary sky hook, Michael Jordan’s Jump Man, or LeBron James’ Breakaway dunk would be better suited for the logo than he is.” * This was made by West four years ago and the NBA has simply ignored his request.  I would not do this account justice without mentioning Colorado, although the rape case against Kobe Bryant was dismissed it’s still “out there”, could the NBA in hoping to uphold its image replace Jerry West with Kobe Bryant in the age of the Me Too movement?     

*Courtesy SB Nation 

It depends   

I once read Celtic great Bill Russell refused to sign autographs.  It was reported he and his wife were eating dinner one evening and the constant interruptions made him refuse to sign them at any time.  We are unsure if Russell still makes this his practice of not signing autographs.  This is not to state basketball players are friendlier than other athletes I’ve just met more of them than other athletes.  Several years ago, a friend’s company was the sponsor for an NBA game in Kansas City. 

Retired NBA players living in the area were invited as guests, I met Scott Wedman and Clay Johnson.  To help some of you Wedman was a 2-time NBA Champion with the Celtics (1984 & 1986), he was drafted by the Kings.  Wedman’s NBA career ran from 1974 through 1986.  Johnson a Kansas City high school guy played at Mizzou and for the Lakers and Sonics for a time.  I found both players to be friendly conversationally which surprised me. 

The late Sam Lacey played center for the Kings; he was made the 5^th pick in the 1970 draft by the Royals.  When the team moved to Kansas City his career blossomed, never a great scorer the 6 foot 10 Lacey was a capable defender just ask Kareem.  One additional athlete I met was Jason Terry, the Jet as he was nicknamed played for a few NBA teams one of them the Mavs.  He retired in 2018 and we met while he was training a youngster in the Dallas area, Terry was quite personable and friendly. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Are we in a state of panic yet? 

The Lakers suffered another loss on Wednesday versus the Jazz.  The blowout win by the Jazz led to the Lakers being saddled with a 4-game losing streak.  Does the losing streak concern me, the simple answer is of course it does?  The fact that Anthony Davis and Dennis Schroeder are out of the lineup concerns me just as much.  An examination of the losing streak notes the Lakers lost games to the Nuggets, Nets, Wizards and Jazz. 

Apart from the Wizards all the teams mentioned earned playoff berths in 2020.  As for the Wizards they arrived in Los Angeles with a 4-game winning streak, the Wizards were hotter than the planet Venus.  Is this an excuse for the Laker losing streak…perhaps it is but I don’t think so?  Consider this prospect, if the Lakers are perennial losers with AD and Schroeder in the lineup on a regular basis, I can say yes…it is officially time to panic. 

Jobs, there are jobs

If you want a job it appears, there are many available, in this instance the reference is D-I basketball coaching jobs.  According to cbssports.com there are 11 jobs requiring a head coach.  Unlike them I have no intention of publishing a “job in jeopardy” type story.  Hopefully, these coaching jobs will not be recycled in the manner of   Coach B., he is terminated at State U. and then is hired by AM&N.  This practice serves no purpose and fails to move a quality assistant coach into a fulltime job as head coach.  Granted many schools are just like the NBA, they want a coach with a veteran pedigree.  

The G-League & the NBA draft 

The G-League will play but 15 games in the bubble, recently we had an opportunity to witness Team Ignite in action.  Ignite is the team mostly comprised of high school talent, most were probably headed to college until the opportunity to begin a professional career was presented to them.  How does this effect the NBA draft, we might pose the question? 

We can check out nbadraft.net for an early response, the site list Jonathan Kuminga a 6-foot 8 inch forward as the potential 2^nd pick in the 2021 draft.  The 5^th pick is listed as Jalen Green a 6-foot 6-inch shooting guard, the 31^st pick in the second round is 6-foot 5-point guard Daishen Nix.  Keep in mind this represents an early assessment, other G-League players might come to the forefront in the weeks ahead.  Most are likely to remain with Team Ignite and improve their skill next season. 

How do you coach a Big Man? 

Mizzou was able to secure the services of 7-foot 3 245-pound Jordan Wilmore.  He’s not Cuonzo Martin’s type of player so most of Mizzou Nation was caught off guard.  Wilmore’s played minutes in but 5 games thus far this season, his situation is different from Jeremiah Tilmon.  The 6-foot 10 260-pound Tilmon was given extensive minutes in his freshman year although he was extremely raw, finally in his senior year his skill has risen exponentially. 

It’s taken Tilmon three and a half years to develop his game.  As for Wilmore most didn’t expect him to replace Tilmon in the lineup but we believed he might gain minutes.  Thus far the minutes even with Tilmon sometimes in foul trouble have been few.  We pose the question are there any Big Men camps or better yet are their coaches to tutor the Jordan Wilmore’s of today’s basketball?  At this point allow me to stop and state my position, I have problems with Big Men shooting from 3-point range.  We are not going to return to the traditional back to the basket type center soon however it’s my belief it’s coming I’m just cannot place a time. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

What an ugly game

The stench in the air Tuesday night many smelled was emanating from the Ole Miss-Mizzou game.  Ole Miss guys won the game however I’ve concluded two things, and neither might be correct.  Either Mizzou plays a sorry game versus Ole Miss or they force Mizzou to play junk yard basketball.  I’m not sure which observation is correct.  If we just read the score (60-53) we might believe it was an ordinary victory for Ole Miss. 

A closer inspection details the tragedy which occurred Tuesday evening.  Mizzou shot 35.1% from the floor however Ole Miss wasn’t much better at a paltry 38.2%.  Ole Miss was 27.2% from the 3 line while Mizzou was 30.4, Mizzou usually a good team from the free throw line was 54.5%. Ever heard of a 2-3 zone, evidentially Mizzou nor its coaching staff had ever heard of it or witnessed it being implemented by a team? 

The staff and team made little if any adjustments to combat the defense.  The Tigers have now lost 4 of their last 5 games and going into the SEC and NCAA Tournament they should be playing their best basketball.  Mizzou’s game on Saturday has already been cancelled, Texas A&M has COVID issues.  It’s just as well based on the recent play of Mizzou, I will continue to root for these Tigers however my expectations have been lowered substantially…I’m out.   

An NBA future? 

The NBA draft will not be held until June, changes might occur between now and then.  We believe Ariel Hukporti might be drafted, Hukporti is a 7-foot 250-pound center from Germany and his game continues to improve.  We read in his bio as a 10-year-old he stood 5 foot 11, can you imagine the problems that created in youth sports for him?  Fast forward to the present day, he now plays for BC Nevezis in the Lithuanian Basketball League.  Although Hukporti was born in Germany his parents are from the west African nation of Togo. 

Hukporti’s name appears on several draft sites, as for a scouting report, “He projects as a role player early in his (NBA) and will have to earn minutes with his rebounding, interior defense, and running the floor but he’s got some offensive talent as well and should develop into more of a scoring threat.  His ability to get off the ground at his size is impressive.” *  Hukporti will turn 19 prior to the draft and all this could change, he could decide he’s not ready for the NBA.  On the other hand, he could do as several others in the past, he is drafted but the NBA decides on him remaining in Europe for additional development.  This is all speculation on my part as this is written, if there are further developments readers of Words eye view will be updated. 

*nbadraft.net 

McDonalds 2021 All Americans

24 young men can now add McDonalds All American to their resume, as mentioned earlier the pandemic forced the cancellation of the annual game.  No need to list the entire roster other publications will do that for us.  Naturally Rivals number one prospect Chet Holmgren is on the list, as this is written Holmgren is undecided for now on a college choice. In the Midwest in the States of Kansas and Missouri there are three McDonalds All Americans, point guard Kennedy Chandler headed to Tennessee and Baylor bound small forward Kendall Brown both from Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita.  Headed to Washington D.C. and Georgetown is shooting guard Aminu Mohammed Springfield Missouri.     

Bits n Pieces

Is stardom for several NBA athletes about to burst out?  We saw glimpses of Joel Embiid’s talent while at Kansas, injuries certainly impacted his game, we are just now witnessing his true potential.  We could make a similar statement regarding Laker second year man Talen Horton-Tucker.  The Lakers coaching staff especially Frank Vogel loves what he brings to the table.  The game of De’Aaron Fox of the Kings continues to mature, and we could make the same statement about others.  All many athletes require are the T’s, time and talent allowing their game to grow. 

By the time this is read Madison Square Garden and Barclays Center will serve as host for Knick and Nets fans and their opponents.  Up to 10% of the arena’s capacity will be allowed to see games in person.  As with most sports events in this pandemic age social distancing, limited seating and a negative COVID-19 test will be a requirement to enter the building.  A spokesperson said this; “We can’t wait until everyone is vaccinated before we allow fans in the building again.”

Kai Sotto came to these shores from the Philippines to improve his basketball skill. As high school concluded it was believed the 7-foot 2 232-pound Sotto would head off to college.  It was at this point the NBA G-League made its presence known, the G-League would build a team comprised of outstanding high school players.  These players would be paid immediately rather than wait a year for the NBA.  Sotto and his teammates began play and then it occurred.  Sotto left these shores to return home to play for his nation’s team.  In this pandemic age travel has become difficult and we now discover Sotto is not returning or rather he can’t.  As for the future will he submit his name for the 2022 NBA draft his ultimate dream?        

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Bits n Pieces    

The Lakers will not sign Boogie Cousins recently released by the Rockets; this member of Laker Nation has no inside information other than a gut feeling.  I wanted to provide you this information ahead of time for two reasons.   1.  You have advance notice on your friends, feel free to contact them if you feel brave enough.  2.  On the other hand you can laugh at me should the Lakers decide to sign Cousins. 

For the first time in recent memory there will likely be the fewest 20-win teams in NCAA history.  We could make the same statement for the post-season tournaments; it was once said a team might have difficulty being invited without winning at least 20 games.  The 2020-2021 pandemic season causes that view to go out the window.  Several teams have either cancelled games or postponed them in most instances the missed games have not been rescheduled.    

Speaking of the college game a shout out to Michigan coach Juwan Howard.  In his second year at the helm the Wolverines sport a 16-1 record as this is written.  There might have been doubts regarding Howard’s coaching credentials when first hired, we seriously doubt if anyone is questioning his coaching aptitude now. 

He continues to improve

LaMelo Ball has proficiency at the point, as the calendar heads toward March it’s likely he’s named Rookie of the Year.  Anthony Edwards is experiencing a good rookie year; we could make the same statement about the Warriors James Wiseman until his injury.  Back to Ball, as was pointed out earlier he was a mystery headed to the association.  Ball had size as a point guard (6 foot 6) but was considered a “hot-dog” in some circles. 

At times he seemed more concerned about a fancy pass to a teammate even if it sometimes missed its mark.  In addition, his shooting was considered suspect by several scouts.  Over the course of the season Ball is shooting a respectable 43.7% from the floor, over the last 10 games he’s raised that percentage to 47.5.  His rebound numbers (6.2 per game) are nearly the same level as his assists 6.1.  It would appear the Hornets are set at point guard for the future, now they must continue to add talent throughout the team. 

There are others

Our focus was Mohamed Bamba becoming a Laker, there are other Big Men they could pick up.  Naturally, several of these acquisitions might be more difficult to acquire than others.  A trade or buyout or something along that order must be required to add them to the roster.  Drummond is certainly the most talented with Whiteside coming in second.  Keep in mind none of the players listed are required for their offense…it’s strictly defense and rebounding the ball.  My guess, Marc Gasol will probably be moved at the trade deadline and the Lakers add Bamba or one of the players additional player. 

The Lakers are second in the NBA in fewest points allowed, they average 105.5 points per game on 40.0% opposition shooting.  That’s the good, the bad well it’s not terrible however it could stand improvement.  The Lakers could use rim protection help; they average 4.2 blocked shots per game which gives us an idea improvement is needed.  That certainly is not terrible it just details the need for someone other than Marc Gasol capable of shot blocking.  This ends my dalliance with Boogie Cousins, the Boogie I believe my focus was on the player witnessed in 2017-18 while he played for the Pelicans.  That was the pre-injury version of what we see now, he is slower and several years older now, the question can he help?  These are the names we should consider:  

Dewayne Dedmon

Thon Maker

Hassan Whiteside

Andre Drummond

Nerlens Noel

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

“Opps!...I did it again”

The title of the 2004 pop tune of Britney Spears has become the theme of the Wolves.  On Sunday they fired Ryan Saunders and replaced him with Chris Finch.  Finch is a former Raptors assistant who may or may not save the sinking ship.  NBA teams tread water while attempting to improve, the Lakers did that for years but there was difference.  Laker Nation believed they would eventually become competitive again and they have.  Remember when the Wolves were defined by Kevin Garnett, even “the Big Ticket” had enough and asked to be traded in 2007. 

If we check the Wolves won loss record, we can see it’s been a roller coaster over the last several seasons.  The last “good” season was 2017-18 when the team won 47 games.  There have been several talented players over the years wearing Wolves jerseys but the problem they never had much help or coaching.  Kevin Love is still playing for the Cavs, who did they receive in the trade? Andrew Wiggins with the Warriors, Anthony Bennett no longer in the league and Thaddeus Young with the Sixers.   

We believe Karl-Anthony Towns is a talent but how do we tell?  Remember the 2009 NBA draft when the Wolves drafted three-point guards?  Ricky Rubio had the longest tenure but even he’s gone now.  Owner Glen Taylor has gone on record indicating he wants to sell the team, from this observation that might be a good thing.  NOTE:  As this was completed Dame Lillard offered us his opinion.  Lillard claimed he doesn’t understand why the Wolves went outside for the hire when David Vanterpool was serving as an assistant. 

The season might rest on the shoulders

If you are part of Mizzou Nation you are familiar with Big Man Jeremiah Tilmon.  You remember him, the guy who couldn’t remain on the court for extended periods.  Tilmon fouled out of 10 games in his freshman year repeated the same number in his sophomore year.  Injuries sidelined him for several games last season so we can toss that out, what could we expect for his senior year?  His senior year has been eye opening compared to his first three years. 

If you haven’t seen him play this is no attempt to state, he is the second coming of Kareem or Shaq, but his play has improved significantly.  Mizzou was on a three-game losing streak and Tilmon was missing in two of those games due to a death in the family.  He returned to action in their win over South Carolina scoring 17 points and sunk all 7 of his shots from the line despite the fact he is a notoriously poor from the line.  I certainly don’t wish to place pressure on him, but the season might rest on the shoulders of the 6-foot 10 260-pound Tilmon. 

Clippers Arena

Rest assured before the arena opens it will have a corporate name upfront.  For now, we’ll refer to it as Clippers Arena, the Inglewood site is scheduled for groundbreaking ceremonies this summer.  We read the city council will utilize imminent domain to purchase the remaining properties required to allow for construction to begin on the $1.8 billion structure.  The 18,000-seat arena should open in time for the 2024-25 NBA season.  Clippers owner Steve Ballmer’s desire to separate his team’s identity from that of the Lakers will finally be fulfilled. 

Borough warfare

The Knicks have suffered from bad management, bad players, and bad coaching for several years.  How to partially address the issue, they settled on veteran Tom Thibodeau as head coach.  Given time the coach should be able to “fix” some of the roster issues facing the Knicks.  One of those moves was acquiring Derrick Rose who played for Thibodeau while both were with the Bulls.  Time will be required to determine if the coach can turn this franchise around. 

A 30+ minute drive you arrive at Barclays Center home of the Nets.  Last season witnessed them signing Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, this season it was James Hardin.  We have the two New York City franchises competing against Eastern Conference foes and the hearts and minds of New Yorkers.  Is that last statement “hearts and minds” really accurate or reflect the views of most?  I’ve only visited the city and have no insight here but pose the question, how did the Nets impact this picture while they called New Jersey home?

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

The issues

Mizzou Nation is pleased with the win over South Carolina on Saturday but there are gaping “holes” in this team, they have come to the surface in recent weeks.  As we head toward the NCAA tournament teams should be playing their best basketball, in truth that’s not Mizzou.  Mizzou is not a topnotch offensive team only averaging about 74 points a game, the defense gives up 71 points…see the catch.  Mizzou must play ahead; they cannot trail an opponent significantly and expect to win the game.

Once they fall behind that’s where the breakdown begins, Mizzou has limited ability to outscore any team.  They are often out rebounded, especially on the offensive end.  The ability to win games becomes limited unless all elements function in sequence and that’s been an issue over the last 5 or so games.  Mizzou Nation hopes the team plays out the season effectively.  As detailed yesterday if there is finger pointing it’s aimed at the coach, this writer continues to believe the coach receives my endorsement for whatever that’s worth.    

Is he worth it?

In a surprise move the Rockets and Boogie Cousins have decided to part ways.  A player is coming off the injury list and the Rockets want the minutes to go to the youngster.  The good, the Rockets will pay him for the balance of the season.  Boogie becomes a free agent and can sign with any team, is this a move for the Lakers?  Better yet do the Lakers want him, his game has deteriorated to the point he provides little if any defense.  If not Boogie you will note an account later related to a possible Laker Big Man addition. 

Power 5 versus mid-major

I thought it might be appropriate to re-visit aspects of college basketball terminology.  We hear sports anchors and writers use the term “Power 5” or “Mid-Major” when referring to college basketball teams.  What exactly does the term entail for those who might not be familiar with it?  The Big 10, Big 12, SEC, ACC & Pac 12 conferences and their teams are considered power 5. 

All the other conferences, the Missouri Valley, Ivy League, Atlantic 10 or Mountain West and the remainders are dubbed mid-major conferences.  What exactly is the definition of a mid-major, in my view the term applies to football more so than basketball.  Several mid-major schools have no football programs if they do, they fail to compete with Texas, Michigan, Ohio State, and others on the gridiron.  As for the basketball a good mid major will likely beat a poor power 5 school 5 out of 6 times.  The only reason the statement is made come NCAA Tournament time the ball bounces in the same manner for both conferences.       

Has Mark Jackson been blackballed?

Jackson last coached in the NBA in 2014, it’s been 7 years since he prowled the sidelines for the Warriors as head coach.  In May of 2014, the Warriors fired Jackson despite the fact the team had won 51 games and earned a playoff berth that season.  Losing to the Clippers might have been a contributing factor in Jackson being fired.  Every time a coach is fired or leaves for another team, we never hear Jackson’s name being mentioned as a replacement. 

There are individuals who don’t interview well, that might be part of the problem…maybe.  Jackson finally addressed the issue that’s been whispered around NBA circles.  Jackson is an ordained minister, the story goes he invited Steph Curry to his church, at the time Curry had suffered several ankle injuries.  No need of going into further detail except to say Jackson claims he never asked Curry to do anything which might have placed his career in jeopardy. 

We are unsure at this point if Jackson desires to return to coaching, remember it’s been 7 years.  Jackson’s not dealt with travel, massaging delicate player egos or other issues and most of all be unable to rest or sleep due to his teams play.  We mentioned this in the past ESPN is likely compensating him well as a television analyst.  Maybe Jackson doesn’t want to return to coaching as much as clearing questions regarding his past. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Jamal Murray is a talent too

The Nuggets guard had a career night on Friday scoring 50 points, however this report is focused on Joel Embiid.  If you are a fan of Murray this is no intent to downplay his outstanding game or his talent for that matter.  If you’ve read Words eye view any length of time you realize this writer loves to see Big Men play as Big Men.  Embiid becomes the 3^rd Sixer center with 50 or more points in a game, who are the others? 

One of the former players was named Wilt Chamberlain and the other Moses Malone, as you can see his game versus the Bulls places him in exclusive company.  Although we are discussing centers Allen Iverson must be mentioned when discussing single game point totals for a Sixer.  AI once scored 60 points against the Magic on February 12, 2005.  As for Embiid in this game he also pulled down 17 rebounds and dished out 5 assists while shooting 65% from the floor. 

No, I didn’t ignore him

Fool you didn’t I, you thought I was going to ignore Jamal Murray?  Murray of the Nuggets is an enormous talent, he’s proven it since he first arrived in the NBA.  In 2016 he was the 7^th pick in the first round of the NBA draft by the Nuggets.  On Friday Murray had one of those games for the ages with a terrific 50-point output versus the Cavs. 

This was no case of Murray just jacking up shots, he was 21-25 from the floor and 8 for 10 from the 3-line an amazing 84%.  This the most remarkable portion of the story, despite Murray’s enormous output he never ventured close to the free-throw line, he was 0-0.  I don’t have NBA League Pass so there was no opportunity to see the game.  Surely someplace during the game Murray must have been close to being fouled…oh well. 

A forgotten name

For unknown reasons, the name Elvin Hayes is rarely mentioned in a discussion of past basketball greats.  At the time, the NBA’s 50^th Anniversary team was selected Hayes was one of the numbers, he scored over 27,000 points while in the NBA.  If we return briefly in time the 6-foot 9-inch Hayes was the leader of a Houston Cougars basketball team from 1965-1968.  In January 1968 Hayes and his basketball team would play in the Game of the Century versus UCLA.  The game featured Hayes matched against Lew Alcindor and was played before 52,000 fans in the Houston Astrodome.  

The significance was more than two powerhouse teams matched against one another it was the first ever nationally televised college basketball game.  Hayes would score 39 points along with 15 rebounds while Alcindor with a scratched cornea suffered previously would score but 15 points.  Houston won 71-69 ending UCLA’s 47 game winning streak. Hayes would be drafted by the Rockets later that year becoming the first pick.  His NBA career was divided between the Rockets and Washington Bullets, in 1978 he would become an NBA Champion with the Bullets.  This is but a bit of information on one of the games outstanding players and a name from the past basketball fans should be aware. 

In complete

Mizzou beat South Carolina 93-78, not much to offer so this might be in complete.  Jeremiah Tilmon returned to action and his inside scoring (17 points) certainly was a valuable contribution to the win.  Dru Smith scored 17 and Mark (The Invisible Man) Smith chipped in 13 along with Xavier Pinson’s 16.  I must agree with analyst Jimmy Dykes the problem for Mizzou especially during the losing streak is leadership.  No one Mizzou player appeared capable of stepping in and saying follow me. 

Mizzou has played good in the first half of games and fallen apart in the second.  Today for the first time in weeks they played a complete game and one they certainly should have won.  South Carolina came into the game with a 5-10 record and it was clear why they have a losing record.  In the NCAA Tournament seeding Mizzou is reported to have dropped from a potential 4 seed to 6 during this losing streak.  Seeding is no big deal if you beat the team in front of you. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

He’s going to remain

Mizzou will not fire Cuonzo Martin; we don’t know if he decides to resign that might be a different matter.  This is written prior to Saturday’s game versus South Carolina, Mizzou is on a three-game losing streak.  As a fan I can claim they could have won at least two of them, well at least one.  Mizzou Nation is deflated at this point, we cannot figure out this team now. 

Are the Tigers contenders or simply pretenders is the question?  What about the coach, I remain solidly in Cuonzo’s corner, but he must earn my trust again?  Recruiting looks good in the fall, depending on which source you read Mizzou has a Top 50 recruiting class in the nation.  That is the future, we must deal with the present and that’s a little cloudy.  The roster appears skillful if only they were a little more consistent on both ends of the floor especially recently.

They are entitled to their opinions

From time to time it might appear I’m at war with the “talking heads”, you know those video guys be they on live television or of the podcast variety.  You know who they are without me bothering to name names.  This is certainly going to surprise some of you I believe they are entitled to their opinions…shocker.  I’d like to keep Kyle Kuzma but if one or more states the Lakers need to trade him, I might disagree but that’s their view.  The problem for me when they become actors or its theatre.

“LeBron James can’t catch Michael Jordan so he’s concentrating on Kareem Abdul Jabbar” figure that one out if you can, that is an actual statement uttered by one of the talking heads.  Did he bother asking LeBron his thoughts or just decide in his mind “Here’s what I’m going to say.”  I believe I have provided far too much space in this blog (and in my mind) to mention their names.  If you are a fan of one or more of these gentlemen so be it.  I made a vow to myself to no longer mention the name of a particular father and so it goes for at least three talking heads. 

McDonalds All Americans

McDonalds named a group of high school athletes they intend to pare down and name a Class of 2021 roster.  They announced a South, East, West and Midwest preliminary group of likely McDonalds All Americans.  The list will be paired down to a 24-person East-West team, an incoming Mizzou player made the preliminary list of those named. 

6-foot point guard Anton Brookshire earned a spot on the Midwest regional team, Brookshire attends Kickapoo High School in Springfield Missouri.  As noted earlier due to the pandemic the game itself will not be played for the second year in a row however as was mentioned it’s still an honor to be recognized as an All American.  Being honored in this manner is no guarantee of success at the next level yet there are few each year that can make the claim “I was a McDonalds All American.” 

This is not a question

Sometimes the obvious is clearly visible, clutchsports.com made this pronouncement.  The Lakers Alex Caruso received more All-Star votes than De’Aaron Fox of the Kings. Allow us to uncover the basis for this oversight.

      1. Caruso plays for the defending NBA champs, Fox plays for the Kings.

2.               2..  Fan voting, Los Angeles population is greater than Sacramento.    

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Now is the time

I try to stay out of the way of Rod Pelinka, the Laker GM has information I lack.  My opinion only applies to this blog, but this is what I’d like to see.  Lakers trade with the Magic for Big Man Mohamed Bamba.  The 7-foot center was made the 6^th pick in round one of the 2018 draft since that time despite his promise is yet to deliver.  He is a reserve currently and is likely to continue in that role if he remains with the Magic.

Bamba is not much of a scorer but the Lakers don’t need him to perform that task.  What they want is a shot blocker and rebounding relief for Marc Gasol.  Please note I’m not looking at Bamba to replace Gasol in the lineup, there are assets Gasol brings to the Lakers missing currently.  Now who do the Lakers trade to acquire the former lottery pick?  There are several Laker names to consider however the Magic must agree to exchange players.  Help must come in the form of Big Man, there are names such Trevor Ariza and others who are good however they cannot protect the rim. 

Reserve my view

Cade Cunningham decided in favor of Oklahoma State over other basketball programs.  Cunningham a Rival 5-star prospect could have punched a ticket to practically any basketball program in the nation.  He chose OSU over several others once they hired his brother as an assistant coach.  Is young Cunningham ready for the NBA his next move?  I’m going to reserve my opinion for now based on several factors. 

The few games we’ve witnessed thus far Cunningham has not been very impressive.  The second reason is me; I’ve told this story in the past but will repeat it.  A friend told me how impressed he was regarding a particular athlete.  I took the word of this friend saw him in action and was not impressed.  A year or so later that same player was drafted into the NBA and had quite an outstanding NBA career.  That should teach me a lesson, remember the past prior to making a judgement.    

Lost to basketball history 

Sherman White is a name few know unless you are steeped in basketball trivia.   White never played in the NBA although it was believed he had all the tools for the 1951 NBA.  White died in 2011 at the age of 82 but his life would become a “what if.”  He started out at Villanova in 1947 but did not find it comfortable being the only black man enrolled at the time.  White would return to Englewood New Jersey and enroll at Long Island University and from LIU the basketball world sat up and took notice of his basketball skill. 

Progress would continue through his senior year and then White would be caught up in the betting scandal that rocked the college basketball world in 1951.  He took money for shaving points that is not the issue, it’s the punishment, of all the guilty parties White was the only one to be incarcerated.  White would serve 12 months at Rikers Island and by the time he was released any promise of an NBA career evaporated, the NBA had banned him and others for life.  Keep in mind at that time the NBA was comprised of 8 teams all on the east coast, Euro basketball didn’t exist. 

White would play on weekends in the Eastern Professional Basketball League for several years.  Before retirement he spent the balance of his life as a salesperson for several enterprises, he also found time to coach and mentor youngsters.  It is the belief of many today’s athlete regardless of their ethnicity could not be scapegoated as White had been.  He stood 6 foot 8 and 210 pounds not big by today’s standards…back then he would dominate in the NBA.  The Knicks were ready to draft him as their top pick in 1951, White never claimed he was innocent his complaint was the belief racism played a substantial role in the manner judgement was rendered against him.     

No McDonalds game again

The pandemic has struck the basketball world once again, the annual McDonalds All Star game yet to be scheduled was cancelled. The 2020 game was planned for Houston and would have been played April 1, 2020 but was scratched.  Pre-pandemic an East, West squad had been selected for last years game, at this point we are unsure if a roster will be announced for the 2021 team despite the fact there will be no game.  Stay tuned for further developments regarding this story.          

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

This date in NBA History

On February 17, 1994 the Spurs David Robinson recorded a quadruple double versus the Pistons.  His line:

34 points 10 rebounds 10 assists 10 blocked shots

Whenever we begin discussing great centers of the past Robinson’s name is always among the missing, why I am not sure.  

The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

It’s been a considerable number of years since I last read the classic written by Robert Louis Stevenson or saw the movie.  The ending is a little fuzzy at this point, this part I remember, Dr. Jekyll perfected a concoction which allowed his alter ego to spring forth.  This other version of himself was Mr. Hyde who was totally unlike Dr. Jekyll, this is the Mizzou Tigers.  On Tuesday especially at a point the good Dr. Jekyll & Tigers were at play, they even had a 13-point lead at a time. 

And then BAM, the bad Mr. Hyde & Mizzou appeared as they went to sleep on the offensive and defensive side of the ball.  They allowed Georgia back in the game to an 80-70 win.  Mizzou and Georgia might be on the same level however it’s my belief the Tigers might be a bit better, of course Tuesday night certainly didn’t prove it.

Perhaps I need to read Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde again to determine the outcome for Mr. Hyde, as for the Mizzou Tigers outcome I’m unsure how it turns out.  The balance of the season and the NCAA Tournament must be the decider. I had to laugh out loud at scoopswithdannymac.com, Danny Mac wrote “Watching Mizzou Basketball Will Drive You Crazy.”  I believe that fits me and several others in Mizzou Nation. 

Didn’t take into consideration the real estate

Awhile back we discussed the dollar value of each of the 30 NBA franchises.  There was a change at the top, the Knicks remained number one in the NBA in value.  The Golden State Warriors moved into second displacing the Lakers who previously held the position.  What caused the change you ask; it was real estate that allowed the Warriors to move ahead of the Lakers. 

A financial expert pointed out the Warriors opening the $1.4 billion Chase Center in 2019 was the basis for the surge ahead of the Lakers.  Just in case you forgot or wondered about the Lakers you still gonna need $4.6 billion, the figure represents the 2021 net worth of the team.  As for the remainder of the top 5 the Bulls come in at four and the Celtics at five.

Senegal in da house

My focus is always on Big Men no matter where they might play in the world, that is the case here.  A name we might hear announced in the 2021 NBA draft is Ibou Dianko Badji, he’s a 7-foot 1 inch 230-pound Big Man.  Badji plays for FC Barcelona in Spain but originally hails from the west African nation of Senegal.  According to scouting reports his offensive game is raw however he shines on the defensive end with his shot blocking ability.  Here we go again, their words not mine one scouting report indicates his defense is compared to Dikembe Mutombo.

He’s got a nose for the basketball

By the time you read this Clint Capela of the Hawks should still be the NBA’s league leader in rebounds.  Capela stands 6 foot 10 and is 240 pounds certainly not huge by NBA standards.  What does Capela do well, “He’s got a nose for the basketball.”  If there is a rebound to be had he’s going to do his best to grab it.  Capela is one of a handful of basketball player who believes the ball is coming off the rim belongs to him. 

We could include Andrew Drummond of the Cavs in the count as well, the 6 foot 10 Drummond is always a double-double man.  Dennis Rodman and others certainly had/have the same mentality.  Rodman played for several NBA teams that didn’t require him to score, this allowed the 6-foot 7 228-pound Rodman time to become expert in rebounding the basketball.  He certainly qualifies as an expert, few guys with his height have manage to lead the NBA in rebounding and he accomplished these 7 consecutive years (1992-1998). 

The late Moses Malone stood 6 foot 10 but weighed 260 pounds, it was claimed he would sometimes pad his rebounding numbers by knocking the ball off the rim and going back up again. A coach can teach rebound positioning, but you must study angles as Rodman did.  It was claimed in practice Rodman would build a mental note the direction the ball would bounce off the rim.