Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts”  John Wooden  

Don’t do it

The Suns clinched a playoff berth Wednesday evening, the first in 11 years.  They beat the Clippers 109-101 led by point guard Chris Paul.  This teaches us a lesson some were already aware, don’t do it.  We should never underestimate the impact of a quality point guard on an NBA team.  These same Clippers recently acquired Rajon Rondo for that very reason.  As for the Suns the playoff berth wasn’t Paul alone, but he might be the main difference maker in this Suns team versus last season.

Here I go with my revisionist history, the date was December 8, 2011.  The Hornets (Pelicans now) had traded Paul to the Lakers however NBA commissioner voided the trade in the “best interest of the NBA” on that day.  Imagine 26-year-old Paul in the same backcourt with 33-year-old Kobe Bryant, the playoff drought for the Lakers that existed might never have occurred with this backcourt in action.  That Laker team would finish the season with a 41-25 record, just imagine what they might have accomplished with a Chris Paul distributing the basketball.  

The nerve of this guy

Georgia coach Tom Crean is one of the names we’ve heard for years, he’s been the head man at several college programs across the nation.  Ask Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell his opinion of Crean, he’s liable to be diplomatic but not me.  This is the reported story, while Crean was head coach at Indiana he was recruiting Mitchell.  Mitchell decided in favor of Louisville over Indiana, the response by Crean.  “You will never make it in the NBA”, talk about your words coming back and biting you in the butt.  In fairness to Crean it was said Mitchell was not highly recruited coming out of high school.  

Can he play?

The YouTube highlights failed to paint an accurate portrait for us; in this instance the subject at hand is Pelicans forward Zion Williamson.  I remember we first began seeing amazing dunks while the 6-foot 6-inch phenom was in high school, my chief concern all we saw in these videos were the dunks.  I said to myself, “This guy must develop a game other than dunks”, once he arrived in the NBA, we discovered his game.  He’s still not a great shooter from distance however that can be developed.  Around the basket we see him contest the ball and score numerous times on put backs of his and teammates. 

As for the dunks they are still part of his repertoire as an NBA pro, the difference we know he can do more than one thing i.e., dunk the ball.  Zion will continue to refine his game if he is able to remain healthy.  There are many who believe he needs to lose weight; they claim his height and 284 pounds are too much of a detriment to his continued play at a high skill level.  I will leave the weight issue to his training staff and Zion; I refuse to venture into that area.  My last concern is simple, why certain members of the media point to their belief Zion should be playing somewhere other than the Crescent City?  These are the same voices we heard regarding Dame Lillard of the Blazers. 

Contract extension

In news of no great surprise the Lakers will offer coach Frank Vogel an extension this summer.  At the time the team was exploring coaching choices I don’t remember offering an opinion however I didn’t want the front runner, Jason Kidd.  There was concern on my part about his resume.  Then word came Vogel was the leading candidate and then he was hired.  I breathe a sigh totally unfamiliar with the coach except during his tenure with the Pacers.  After leading the Lakers to the 2020 NBA championship I thought this is the guy.  He’s a player’s coach and remains in the background unassuming.  Whatever the Lakers decide to pay him this member of Laker Nation is solidly in his corner.      

They love to hate

It seems the NBA always contained several players that were hated by fans.  The term is used loosely despite the vitriol aimed at these players they were of the superstar variety.  The level has been increased in this day of social media.  We must journey back in time, if we check the record books the name Wilt Chamberlain occupies volumes of scoring records yet numbers of fans claimed they hated him.  He was criticized for not winning more championships, it was said by groups of fans Chamberlain was selfish and was only concerned about himself.  Chamberlain when compared to his rival Bill Russell said, “He (Russell) had better teammates than me.” 

For unknown reasons, the success of the Bulls and Michael Jordan never ranked remarkably high in the hate category.  Once Kobe Bryant arrived on the scene, he became the new target for haters, we heard all of them.  Thanks to social media several of the stories we heard were just that…. stories.  “He’s trying to imitate Michael Jordan” was one of the many.  Then it occurred, Kobe retired, and the hatred dried up like a prune.  With no Kobe there must be a new target of focus and LeBron was just a budding superstar for a while, the move to Miami changed all that.  He won championships yet the hatred continued, what’s most interesting in all three cases they were winners.  Chamberlain didn’t win as many championships as folks believed he was capable but there were two.  As for the others Kobe won 5 championships and LeBron is at 4 and counting. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“Young people need models, not critics” John Wooden  

We are not sure

The NCAA will continue to plod along never moving faster than necessary.  Global warming is causing many of the earth’s glaciers to melt at a greater rate than NCAA action. For like forever we have written about the penalties facing Kansas basketball but no more it ends today…why you ask? A recent article I read the NCAA said, “Judgement will be rendered regarding the basketball program in the next 12 months.” Our question might be what has the NCAA been doing for the last 3-4 years except leveling charges. The length of time should be ample to remove the anvil hanging over the head of the basketball program.  I realize that’s a shocking statement coming from a Mizzou fan however that’s my belief.

How would you like it?

You have a job interview scheduled; upon your arrival you discover the HR manager has a list of negatives of your past work record.  That is the case here, I listened to a 45-minute podcast providing the listeners details on the things Laker center Andre Drummond can’t do well. You might remember once Drummond decided in favor of the Lakers, I stated there were no expectations of Kareem or Shaq by me.  I believed there were elements Drummond brought to the court sorely lacking with a Marc Gasol playing major minutes in the post. Drummond will not be the reason the Lakers win or lose the NBA championship; he is what he is be it good or bad. 

The validation

This story was written ahead of the leading story however a portion remains as is.  Standing 6-foot 7 Christian Bishop was an undersized center playing for the Creighton Bluejays.  After the season ended several high-profile programs were after Bishop once he entered the transfer portal. Among several schools attempting to secure his services were Blue Blood programs North Carolina and Kansas. Bishop has local history in the metro area.

He attended high school in Lees Summit Missouri in the KC Metro, he is headed to the University of Texas to finish his collegiate career. Bishop’s now taken a pass on Kansas basketball twice when he had an opportunity. He said “Thanks but no thanks” at the time he graduated high school and repeated it recently when he decided on Texas rather than Lawrence Kansas. For those who might be geography challenged the Kansas school is some 70 miles from home in Lees Summit. Could the second “no thanks” have something to do with possible future penalties facing the Kansas Jayhawks?  We have no actual proof just an observation. 

Why

Charles Oakley is one of the past NBA players I respect, he laid it on the line every time he went on the floor.  A tough, hard-nosed defender who took no prisoners on the court, this time I must respectfully disagree with him.  Pelicans forward Zion Williamson had the New York media singing his praises with the possibility of seeing him in a Knicks jersey one day.  Apparently, Oakley wasn’t pleased with media comments and decided to voice his opinion on the matter.  He said it was his belief the Knicks Julius Randle had a more complete game than Zion and failed to see why everyone was giving Williamson so much love. 

Here I am riding in on my white horse automobile to defend the honor of the young Pelican forward.  Zion Williamson is not a complete player; I believe we can all agree with the statement he’s experienced one season of competitive basketball at Duke.  That was followed by nearly a half season of NBA play, remember he did not see any action until January 2020 due to injury.  The 2020-21 season is the first full season for him in the NBA.  Oak, if you inform us Zion is not a complete player, I don’t believe anyone would argue that. If the comparison is between him and Julius Randle check out the number of games Randle’s played in the NBA versus those of Zion.   

Make it so

A basketball (or football) player transfers from Rutgers to Cal, he is forced to sit out a year, exactly why I’ve never been sure.  Transferring within a conference is no different however that player faces the same penalty.  The NCAA will do away with the rule next season and it makes sense on so many levels, we need look no further than Mizzou for an example of the confusion. 

Dru and Mark Smith (no relation to one another) both transferred to Mizzou from Evansville and Illinois, respectively.  One player was granted immediate eligibility while the other was forced to sit out a year.  There was probably no negligible effect on the one forced to shut down except why?  Mizzou appealed the judgement but was still turned down.  This rule is one more NCAA regulation in existence from the Middle Ages that requires it be removed. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“Make each day your masterpiece” John Wooden  

The NBA in Australia?

Allow an explanation for the headline above, the National Basketball League or NBL has been in operation in Australia since 1979.  In that span of years several American players have journeyed to The Land Down Under to play professionally.  We could look at Nets guard Kyrie Irving, he was born in Australia at that time his father was in the country playing in the NBL.  We could make a similar statement regarding Sixer point guard Ben Simmons.  Over the years several native Australians have played in the NBA. 

Most recently LaMelo Ball used the NBL to provide proof to NBA scouts he could play, until his injury the point was proven.  American interest have attempted to buy into the NBL by purchasing stock in the teams.  Bucks forward Khris Middleton purchased a share in the Brisbane Bullets group, he joins Bulls forward Thaddeus Young who obtained a portion of the team earlier.  Rockets guard John Wall is a part-owner of South East Melbourne Phoenix and Victor Oladipo purchased interest in the New Zealand Breakers last season.  After playing for the Illawarra Hawks LaMelo Ball’s group attempted to purchase the team however his group lost out to Bryan Colangelo’s party.    

Will this work?

Like me you might have seen their work in the past, the reference is a company titled Overtime.  They produce highlight tapes we see over the internet, this time they are venturing into a new area.  In September 2021 prepare yourself for Overtime Elite a basketball league for 16–18-year-old athletes.  The early indication this startup league if successful might prove to be another nail in the coffin for college basketball.  In addition, this league intends to lead the way to a pro career in the NBA or elsewhere.  This is the startup leagues proposal:

$100,000 minimum salary

Health benefits

Equity stake in Overtime

“If an athlete decides to not pursue basketball professionally, Overtime will cover college tuition up to $100,000.”  What does this appear to you, can this proposed league work considering they must compete with colleges, NBA G-League, Euro and Australian leagues for basketball talent? 

Ignoring the elephant in the room

The headline is a classic statement; it simply implies although a significant problem exists you simply ignore the possible ramifications.  That is the case for much of Jayhawk Nation, they ignore the pending NCAA judication which will impact the basketball program.  The NCAA claimed there were rampant improprieties existing, they slapped five Level 1 violations on the Kansas program.  As you are aware Level 1 violations are the most serious of charges.  It indicates lack of institutional control and is aimed squarely at the head coach and his staff.  The response by Kansas as reported earlier is to sign Bill Self to a lifetime contract giving the NCAA the middle finger. 

How has this affected recruiting, this is no proof only speculation.  Here are the examples, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl attended a metro Kansas City school on the Kansas side.  The connection, his father Lester Earl began his college basketball at LSU but finished at Kansas so what does the son do?  He leaves the area signing with Villanova rather than his father’s school.  That was the old, the more recent recruiting example is Hunter Sallis rated the number 7 prospect in the Class of 2021.  This prospect was on the radar for Kansas, and he played but 3 hours’ drive time north of Lawrence in Omaha Nebraska.  When it became time to decide, he chose Gonzaga over Kansas.  The west coast school has been particularly good in recent years but losing a prospect to Gonzaga wouldn’t have occurred 5-6 years ago.  It is certainly not doom and gloom there are prospects heading to Lawrence in the fall, the question how many chose somewhere else with sanctions likely headed for Kansas basketball.    

Is he there?

Every NBA draft a mostly unknown foreign-born player is announced by the commissioner in the annual draft.  The most recent examples are Kristaps Porzingis drafted in 2015 by the Knicks, he’s since been traded to the Mavs.  More recently it was Luka Doncic drafted by the Hawks in 2018, his rights were later traded to the Mavs.  In the July 2021 draft is there a pick from Europe, Asia or Australia that might surprise? 

Let’s peek at the mock draft sites and identify several names, foreign born players at U.S. colleges or in the G-League are not included in this account.  The first athlete we identify is Josh Giddey a 6-foot 8-inch point guard from Australia who played for the Adelaide 36ers in the Australia Basketball League.  We also have Usman Garuba a 6-foot 8-inch power forward, Garuba played for Real Madrid in the Euro League.  We close this with 6-foot 9-inch Roko Prkacin a power forward from Croatia.  This is a guesstimate, there is no guarantee the names mentioned will be drafted in the first round.  

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“If you are always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be.”   

Maya Angelou

King of New York

Technically the headline is incorrect; the Nets have a better won-loss record than the Knicks plus the fact their jerseys read: Brooklyn.  We are pointing to the Knicks and their playoff run the first in a long while (2012-2013).  The 1990 movie King of New York was about criminals and these Knicks are certainly not close to that lifestyle.  The change in their fortunes are quite evident they are the hottest team in the NBA led by do-everything forward Julius Randle. 

The last 10 games has witnessed him scoring at nearly 30 points a game while shooting a meteoric 44.3% from 3.  Randle is ably assisted by shooting guard RJ Barrett with his almost 18 points a game scoring.  This group of Knicks is led by coach Tom Thibodeau who preaches defense and apparently, they are listening.  Even injured LeBron James has taken note of the Knicks play recently.  Perhaps this is one of those rare occasions, Knicks owner James Dolan has signed off on the correct hire. The only issue at this point is the jerseys, I don’t like the new ones the Knicks are currently sporting. 

Say what?

The other day I came across this post on my social media feed, “How many of you have watched not one minute of NBA basketball this season?”  Naturally, plenty of folks weighed in on his post affirming his view.  My initial thought of the post, these persons and anyone else is certainly free to express their opinion, if they don’t like NBA basketball that’s okay.  To take this one step further I don’t pay a great deal of attention to professional soccer (football).    

Despite my view I recognize there are others who enjoy and follow the sport.  Soccer has a large fan base in Kansas City and the world for that matter.  I could post “How many of you have not watched one minute of soccer?”  That would be me but why trash a sport I don’t follow, what is the purpose of it?  We gravitate to the things we enjoy whether it be movies, television, theatrical plays or the NBA.  Friend your opinion is valuable to you however I can point out bunches of others who don’t agree with you.  Then again, what purpose would that serve?  I wonder if I should……Naw!

Where I sit, I am unable to see the future

Is he a rental or can they sign him long-term, the reference of course is Laker center Andre Drummond?  Because they must pay LeBron James, Anthony Davis and others do they    have the financial clout to pay Drummond as well?  Enter the second portion of our accounting story starting point guard Dennis Schroeder, he’s been at least two maybe three steps above the play of Danny Green last season however there is a BUT! 

It’s being reported the Lakers offered Schroeder a 4-year extension valued at $84 million which he turned down.  Laker owner Jeanie Buss has gone on record indicating she is willing for the team to exceed the salary cap, but the question remains by how much?  The reported asking price by Drummond is about $34 million for two years but is that amount adequate?  For now, we probably need to relax and allow the Schroeder-Drummond drama to be resolved this summer.  Where I sit, I am unable to see the future for either player, perhaps I need to relax and focus on the balance of the season and playoffs. 

Laker Nation this is different for me, as mentioned previously I try and avoid discussions related to finance for one simple reason, I believe most professional athletes are overpaid.  My hope if Drummond is not the future the Lakers attempt to acquire a quality center.  It’s my belief locating a valuable center is more critical than losing a Schroeder whom I really like.  On the other hand, my barber has a differing belief and he voiced it.  He claims you need a point guard (Schroeder) over Drummond, in a pinch a Gasol could play center backed up by Anthony Davis. 

Junior College

In this day it’s become more difficult to see junior college players impact play at the D-I level.  Off the top of my head the first name that comes to mind is Bob McAdoo.  McAdoo has been enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame but where did it begin?  McAdoo lacking the academic requirements enrolled at Vincennes University then a two-year junior college in 1969.  From there it was North Carolina and into the NBA for several teams. 

McAdoo was a 2-time NBA champion with the Lakers in 1982 and 1985.  We might also remember Steve Francis who managed to lead both San Jacinto and Allegheny into the National Junior College Tournament.  Francis would move onto the University of Maryland and later the NBA (1999) where he became nicknamed Stevie “Franchise” due to his prolific play.  The last example however not the only one is Heat forward Jimmy Butler.  His case is different, he was a late bloomer with few schools offering a scholarship.  He would attend Tyler Junior College in Tyler Texas and later Marquette University. 

In 2011 Butler became the 30^th pick in the first round of the NBA draft and the balance of his story continues to evolve.  As for others what occurred, why did the talent of a McAdoo, Francis or Butler disappear from the junior college ranks?  Likely there is no single answer we just state 4-year school should remain vigilant regarding all the talent out there. Here we mention Malevy Leons from the Netherlands, he played at Mineral Area College in Park Hills Missouri.  His numbers are quite good but keep in mind they represent competition against junior college talent, Mizzou is scouting him. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.” – Benjamin Franklin 

Things are settled…to a degree

We speak of Mizzou basketball; things are mostly settled after a record number of transfers. Several might point to a conflict with head coach Cuonzo Martin, that might be the case with at least one or possibly two of the transfers.  The others appeared to just take advantage of this “pandemic basketball season” and chose to move.  With the holdovers, plus incoming freshman and the portal transfers where does Mizzou stand.  We don’t know; the 2021-22 season will be a wishing and hoping one again. The last statement might sound scary for much of Mizzou Nation however that is not the case for this journalist. 

The departures leave Mizzou with two open slots, exactly what does the coach do about that?  Mizzou’s backcourt would appear to be in good shape however there is a necessity for depth in the post.  7-foot 3–245-pound Jordan Wilmore returns for his sophomore year but barely played last season, he should see increased time in this upcoming season. Also coming on board is 6-foot 9-inch 225-pound Yaya Keita however you see the dilemma.  One frontcourt member is a sophomore who barely played and the other a freshman who must adjust to collegiate basketball.  Reports are the coaching staff is exploring the junior college ranks and the few post players in the transfer portal to fill the last two slots, who is out there?

Laker injuries

The 2020-21 season has not been kind to the Lakers.  The old saying, “Injuries are part of the game” certainly apply to this version of my favorite NBA team.  Anthony Davis has returned to the lineup, he's  been M.I.A. since the middle of February.  Laker Nation thought “Okay we should be able to hold on as long as we have LeBron” BAM he goes down with a high ankle sprain.  Despite the negative news there is a good and bad with all the injuries.  The bad, missing the two stars has caused the Lakers to slide downward in the standings. 

This is no excuse rather the facts as they exist, they sit in 5^th place in the playoff standings.    We intend to cover the good of this injury plagued season.  The NBA season is long, and the 2020-21 season is the shortest break in history, the championship the Lakers won occurred October 11, 2020 and the season began again on December 22, 2020.  LeBron has a great deal of mileage on his 36-year-old body, when he returns to the lineup he should be fully rested for a stretch run.  The same applies for Anthony Davis although he’s certainly much younger than LeBron.  So, there you have it the good and the bad of this Laker injury afflicted season.  It so happens with Kyle Kuzma, Markieff Morris and Talen Horton-Tucker inserted into the lineup their depth is superior to last season. 

Coaching tree

The Spurs Gregg Popovich’s coaching tree has often been mentioned and it is quite extensive, his length of time coaching the Spurs is partially responsible.  Former Sixers coach Brett Brown and the Bucks Mike Budenholzer were on Pop’s staff at a point in time.  Besides these two there are other current and former coaches.  Alvin Gentry former NBA coach at the Suns and Pelicans, current Hornets coach James Borrego, Quin Snyder Jazz and Taylor Jenkins Grizzlies.  I’m unsure if we should include current Sixers coach Doc Rivers who played for Pop at a point in his career, the same might be said for Mike D’Antoni. 

D’Antoni was a scout for the Spurs in between head coaching jobs.  The list doesn’t conclude there we also have former head coaches Mike Brown, Jacque Vaughn and Earl Watson, each also served as a member of Pop’s staff.  In truth we can state a number of these coaches have not had the long-term success of Pop.  This I believe someday Becky Hamon will become the first female head coach in the NBA.  Who first hired her as an assistant, that would be one Gregg Popovich?  This was done quickly, and I hope accurately, the hope is we missed no one. 

The merger

Since 1976 we’ve used the term NBA-ABA merger as the description of American Basketball Association teams being absorbed into the NBA.  It wasn’t a merger, as example at the time the American Football League merged with the National Football League all AFL teams moved into the NFL.  It was different in basketball; the Virginia Squires had gone bankrupt and two other team’s owners received financial compensation for dissolving their teams.  The Kentucky Colonels owner might have used a portion of his payout to later purchase the Celtics, John Y. Brown would later sell his share of the Celtics.

The remaining ABA teams were almost bankrupt, owners were hemorrhaging money.  Many believe if the NBA had held out for another two years there would have been no ABA teams to absorb.  As for the players that would have been a different story, they would have found a home somewhere in the NBA.  Brothers Ozzie and Daniel Silna owners of the Spirits of St. Louis received only $2.2 million in 1976 dollars.  Their attorney secured a long-term deal that allowed them to continuing receiving financial payment as this is written, they received 1/7 of a share of each of the four remaining ABA (now NBA) teams’ television rights in perpetuity. 

The definition, “A perpetuity is an annuity that has no end, or a stream of cash payments that continues forever.” 1. The Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, Indiana Pacers and the New York Nets moved into the NBA.  As you see the term merger was used to describe the events, but it was really a term allowing ABA owners to stop hemorrhaging money.  As for the Silna brothers they probably don’t care what it’s called as money continues to roll into them and their families.

1.  History.com

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

 “Money is not the only answer, but it makes a difference.” – Barack Obama

Is he the next big thing?

He might not be big however he’s certainly tall, 7-foot Chet Holmgren who recently committed to Gonzaga.  The journey has been long but not without reward and in this instance notoriety and numerous colleges offering scholarships.  Holmgren’s work ethic says after some adjustment he should do okay at the collegiate level beyond that is anyone’s guess.  Realizing we are discussing high school however Holmgren has been taught and adapted the skills of a much smaller player.  It’s funny listening to a description of himself by several, “They thought I couldn’t play I was just a tall white skinny kid.” 

We have discovered Holmgren is more than that.  The ability to dribble, dribbling behind the back plus 3-point range and other stuff.  Skills that you might not uncover on most players his size which is another question.  Currently Holmgren is listed at 195 pounds, there is no requirement for a “Shaq” body however an increase in muscle is a requirement, notice we said muscle and not weight.  This is not an assessment by the writer alone, his former high school teammate Jalen Suggs speaks highly of Holmgren.  After seeing Suggs in action for Gonzaga we might trust his word, if he says you good then you are.  Can’t wait for the season to begin to see Holmgren in action at Gonzaga.   

Not sorry

Not sorry, that’s the general reaction to a coach be they college or the NBA with problems.  One might state “You knew the job was dangerous when you agreed to accept it” however there is an exception.  For me that might be the Rockets head coach Stephen Silas.  He’s no late arrival to the coaching ranks, he’s paid his dues, he’s been an assistant for several NBA teams serving since 2000.  When Silas finally receives an opportunity as a head coach he is hired by a team in transition, coach Mike D’Antoni left then it was GM Daryl Morey’s turn. 

The moves by the head coach and GM could have been the other way around without research on my part, I just don’t remember who left first.  These changes also witnessed the Rockets trading Russell Westbrook; shortly after the season began James Hardin forced a trade leaving Silas with one of the worst teams in the NBA.  Hopefully, the coach is given adequate time to build the team he desires and not one he inherited.  Of course, the job is difficult, unless you are the coach replacing John Wooden at UCLA or Phil Jackson with the Bulls there will be difficult days for any coach.  Hang in their coach Silas it will improve one day. 

G-League news     

On Friday came word 6-foot 9-inch Michael Foster is headed to the G-League rather than college.  Saturday brought additional news as 6-foot 10-inch Fanbo Zeng from China decommitted from Gonzaga and is also headed to the G-League and Team Ignite.  As you might remember G-League Team Ignite is comprised of highly skilled high school players and was formed last year by the league.  For those unfamiliar with the name Foster, he was the Rivals number 12 prospect in the Class of 2021. 

As for Zeng he was a 4-star prospect and played at Windemere Prep in Windemere Florida. We are yet to determine if the G-League and the effort by Team Ignite has been successful, you remember last season they cornered substantial talent many believed were headed to college.  A portion of that talent, Jalen Green, Johnathan Kuminga, Daishen Nix and Isaiah Todd are listed on NBA mock draft sites.  Our answer as to the success of the G-League will likely be borne out with the results of the July 2021 NBA draft.  If any member of the quartet is drafted it will certainly raise the profile of the G-League.   

I will believe it when I see it

The college basketball season ended with a whimper for Kentucky basketball and their fan base.  The Wildcats finished with an 8-9 conference record and 9-16 overall.  Question, when was the last time a Kentucky team finished below .500?  Well, sort of, the 1973-74 team was 13-13 the next was 1966-67 and that team also finished 13-13.  With that kind of gap, you can see Kentucky basketball has been a winner under a successive number of coaches. 

Due to the poor record registered this past season by Kentucky there’s been all kinds of speculation regarding John Calipari’s future.  This is all speculation, but it’s my belief Calipari has no desire to leave the game with a losing record.  In addition, he’s not likely to leave Kentucky for greener pastures unless that job pays more than Kentucky and has more prestige, scratch that last statement.  Kentucky basketball is one of the Blue Blood college programs in the nation.  I along with a bunch of other folks will be surprised if John Calipari is anywhere next November other than Lexington.   

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“If there is no struggle there is no progress” Frederick Douglass

He’s a Zag

His decision is final, center Chet Holmgren the number one prospect in the Class of 2021 is headed to Gonzaga to play for coach Mark Few.  Among the schools Holmgren turned down was his home state University of Minnesota along with Georgetown, Ohio State, North Carolina and Memphis.  For him to settle on Gonzaga over the other schools is not exactly shocking news.

The 7-foot 1-inch Holmgren was reported to be leaning toward the school all along.  This is good news for Gonzaga as he joins Hunter Sallis 6-foot 5-inch point guard and the number 7 prospect in the Class of 2021, last month he committed to Gonzaga.  Guards Joel Ayayi and Jalen Suggs have declared for the NBA draft and the Zags also lose senior Corey Kispert.  The remaining Zags will likely return which leads us to believe they will be quite competitive in the 2021-22 college basketball season again. 

“Goin’ Back To Indiana”

Mike Woodson has spent the greater portion of his adult years as an NBA player and later as an NBA head coach and stops as an assistant.  Over the years he’s been more closely identified with the pro game over college however all that’s changed.  Woodson played at Indiana from 1976-1980 prior to the NBA and in the same vein of the pop tune by the Jackson 5 he’s “Goin’ Back to Indiana."  

Woodson is not returning to the college ranks without recruiting, he got a potential good one in Tamar Bates.  This 6-foot 5-inch guard is from Kansas City Kansas and Mizzou held out hope.  He was committed to Texas but changed his mind when Shaka Smart departed for Marquette.  He was a prospect Mizzou recruited and there was a slight glimmer of hope he’d choose Mizzou.  I ain’t mad at him I hope Bates (and Woodson for that matter) is successful in Indiana, I always like to see local kids become successful.   

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aD-LpRA5I

The obstinate James Dolan     

In the Sunday edition of Word’s eye view we discussed Knicks owner James Dolan and his feud with Charles Oakley.  I ask my friend David to read it and provide me his input, David is originally from the Bronx New York but lives in the KC Metro.  He informed me “There is resentment by Dolan regarding several Knicks that played prior to his purchase of the team.”  Could my friend David be correct, then I remembered former Knick center Patrick Ewing also had issues with MSG security this past season which is unbelievable.  Ewing along with others was the anchor on those great Knick teams of the 1980’s through 2000. 

Ewing now serves as head coach at Georgetown, the former Knick center had an issue when attempting to gain entry to MSG with his team for a game versus Villanova in March.  I find it difficult to believe a security crew was unable to identify the 7-foot Ewing.  Surely there must be a Wall of Hero’s someplace in the arena containing photos, maybe not.  I forgot Ewing was part of that other group of Knicks, those who played for the previous ownership group.  This incident was reported to have been resolved with Dolan contacting Ewing by telephone.  If you thought, it’s just former players suffering Dolan’s wrath you are wrong, it extends to fans as well.      

Dolan’s fury was aimed at several fans last season who brought in a sign imploring him to sell the team, it was reported they were requested to leave the building.  As for the Knicks record under Dolan’s ownership, they have won 623 games and lost 965 which would qualify them as one of the worst franchises in the NBA.  Research indicates since his purchase the Knicks have recorded three winning seasons.  Can all the losing be laid at the feet of the owner, not entirely however poor decisions regarding coaches, front office personnel and players have resulted in this dismal record which is Dolan. 

Almost there

Recently we checked Rivals.com Class of 2021 prospects for an update.  Rivals is not the only scouting source for high school talent but is among the most familiar to all.  Their Top 50 list indicates few undecided prospects, the majority or signed or verbally committed to a school.  Only 6 remain undecided, below is their rank on Rivals along with their height and name:  

  2. 6-4 Jaden Harden shooting guard

  4. 6-9 Patrick Baldwin power forward

12. 6-9 Michael Foster power forward

24. 7-1 Efton Reid center

32. 6-4 Ty Ty Washington point guard

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

“Dig up all the information you can, then go with your instincts.”  

 Gen Colin Powell

Sport is….

An escape for most of us from the routine of daily life, in basketball we love the 3-point shot, the driving basket or the dunk.  We can entertain ourselves by deciding which player should be playing more or which one is the better player.  An area I only venture on occasion is salary but even that’s fair game in a discussion for you and others.  As for what a player does with his life it’s not my decision, yours or the media what a player does.  Allow me to provide you an example, we’ve discussed the idea by a few in sports media Dame Lillard and Zion Williamson should be playing for major market teams. 

Is that really the call of the media or is that a decision for the individual to make?  The answer is easy for me it is the players responsibility, until Dame or Zion desire a change of scenery it’s not up to Stephen A. Smith or anyone else to plan or even suggest a move.  I’ve discussed this matter with two of my younger co-workers and they see no problem with this type of sports journalism.  I believe it was Ben Simmons who said, “ESPN is not on any television in my house.”  The explanation might be clear if we read between the lines, the “Talking Heads.” 

Simmons approach might be extreme but, in several instances, I believe we can understand why.  Just because they say it or write about it doesn’t make it so, the same applies for anything read in Words eye view.  There is no intent to indicate this is the only interpretation what is read and reported, always seek out several sources if available.  Most of all remember Stephen A. Smith, Skip Bayless, Jason Whitlock and others are actors, their opinions for the most part are scripted.  I wonder if this trio and others believe it’s okay for us the public to critique on their career pursuits. 

They came up short

Laker Nation was eager, they would witness the return of Anthony Davis to the lineup, he'd been missing in action since the end of February.  Although AD-1 was on a minutes restriction he was in the starting lineup.  From the beginning we could see he was extremely rusty offensively; he missed his first 5 shots before sinking the first jumper.  AD-1 would finish the game with 8 points in 17 minutes of action, and we shall see on Saturday evening if his minutes are increased.  Oh, the game, the Lakers came up short to the Mavs 115-110 as Luka Doncic led them in scoring with 30 points 8 assists and 9 rebounds.

The Lakers backcourt of Dennis Schroeder and KCP would score 25 and 29 points, respectively.  Critics continue to disparage the Laker point guard because he doesn’t do everything well.  Not in this corner, 13 assists in this game indicates to me Schroeder can play.  I forget, AD-2, Andre Drummond had the type of game we expected with AD-1 and eventually LeBron in the lineup.  His numbers were 14 rebounds, 19 assists and 3 blocked shots as he continues to adjust to his teammates.  I’m going on record April 23, 2021, I believe IF LeBron returns healthy and AD-1 returns to his form prior to injury and they are injury free the Lakers will be crowned 2021 NBA Champions, remember where you heard this declaration. 

Mac

In the immortal words of outlaw Taggert from the movie Blazing Saddles, “What in the wide, wide world of sports is a going on here?”  You remember on Tuesday I wrote “The Saga of Mac McClung” which dealt with his history.  Georgetown, then Texas Tech and the latest report had him exploring a transfer to another school.  This effort was made to enhance his determination toward an NBA career.  On Thursday McClung announced he was no longer in the transfer portal.  At this point we are left to guess he returns to Texas Tech to continue his college studies and basketball development, we hope McClung manages to find himself. 

Correction

You might have read in Word's eye view I stated ESPN.com indicated Mizzou had a Top 40 Recruiting Class for 2021.  That’s not correct, I mixed the research information uncovered with several others, you must be an ESPN.com Insider to read content on their website.  As for the others what do they think, well 247Sports.com ranks Mizzou number 40 while Rivals.com list them at 38. 

It’s likely Mizzou is probably somewhere around that figure with ESPN.com too, but the question becomes what does this information prove?  0, nada, nothing… it simply details for the reader a university has several prospects headed to the school in the fall.  As for Mizzou unless one of these prospects is the second coming of Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant adjustment is required.  There is a vast difference between high-level high school basketball and Division I, the hope each of the incoming crop have a small learning curve and can adapt to this level of basketball. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

"I failed my way to success." -Thomas Edison

What to expect

Actually, the headline should be corrected, we don’t know what to expect.  We are discussing Mizzou transfer guard DuJuan Gordon.  Here I sit smack in the middle of Big 12 country, yet I never witnessed him play.  The reason…Kansas State was one of the worst teams in the conference.  Kansas State most likely had few viewers for their games apart from alumni, administration, students and fans.  Mizzou senior Mark Smith headed to K-State and Gordon transferred to Mizzou, I made a joke about a trade however its more than that.  The coaching staff at Mizzou must have scouted Gordon to the point they believe he can adjust to the program.  Of the transfers thus far, he is the biggest mystery, his numbers at K-State are average however the hope of Mizzou Nation he can play.   

Bits n Pieces 

This is not intended as a slam at Lloyd Pierce, I really don’t know much about him.  I do know former player and long-time coach Nate McMillian.  The change in the fortunes of the Hawks has been quite noticeable around the NBA.  Pierce was fired as Hawks coach on March 1 and replaced by the veteran Nate McMillian who was an assistant.  The Hawks were 14-20 at the time the coaching change was made, since the change the team has been one of the hottest in the NBA with 17 wins versus 6 losses. On March 1, the Hawks were in 11^th place in the Eastern Conference playoff race they are now 4^th as this is written.  The formerly under achieving Hawks are now in 1^st place in the Southeast Division of the NBA.

The recent NCAA Championship reminds us of another time a winning team was forced to sit at home.  Can you imagine, this team finished the regular season with a 24-2 record 12-2 in the conference yet wasn’t invited to the NCAA or NIT post season tourneys.  That scenario wouldn’t occur today however fewer teams were invited to the NCAA in 1970-71.  The team, the Southern Cal Trojans went through their non-conference schedule undefeated, the two games they lost…UCLA.  Earlier Notre Dame has stopped the UCLA winning streak at 88 but the Bruins would finish 29-1 and win the 1971 NCAA Tournament over Villanova 68-62.

Do you remember the name Kai Sotto, he’s the 7-foot 2-inch center who played this past season with G-League Ignite?  His agent announced Sotto is headed to Australia and the NBL to play for the Adelaide 36ers.  He arrived on these shores to improve his game and earn a spot in the NBA; his agent indicates that is still the desire for the young man from the Pacific island nation of The Philippines. 

He’s back, well not quite but Hornets point guard LaMelo Ball will return before the end of the season.  You remember he suffered a wrist injury which required surgery, at first it was believed he would miss the balance of the season which apparently is not the case.  The remaining question will he be able to return to the lead in the rookie of the year race.  Anthony Edwards of the Wolves and Tyrese Haliburton of the Kings improved their position with the absence of Ball.

Finally the A Rod and Marc Lore group failed to mention the fact the Lynx of the WNBA were also part of the announced sale of the T-Wolves franchise.  Why this important bit of information was not included is a mystery to us all. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

When you are through improving, you are through.      unknown

I love nicknames

His name is Jarron Coleman, and he is a 6-foot 5-inch 205-pound combo guard.  The numbers produced at Ball State led him to be named Mid-America Conference Freshman of the Year.  After the season he chose to enter the transfer portal and Cuonzo Martin recruited him.  In this instance we must trust the Mizzou coaching staff regarding Coleman’s ability, his scoring average is good however the standout mark is his shooting from distance. 

Last season Coleman shot an outstanding 42.5% beyond the 3-line, those who follow Mizzou remember how the team suffered at times last season shooting the 3.  The hope given time Coleman will adjust his game to the play of SEC basketball, oh the nickname thing.  He’s got a somewhat interesting nickname he is Boogie.  For Mizzou Nation we must trust the coaching staff and its scouting ability and expect the transition to SEC will be smooth for Boogie. 

Take the money

If you peruse the NBA mock draft sites like me you will note a change over time, there are freshmen, sophomores, juniors and international players and few seniors. Missing for the most part are college seniors and there is an explanation for that, if an athlete has ability (or maybe not) they leave school for the draft after their freshmen year.  Several are not drafted but wind up playing in Europe, Australia or the G-League.  Back to the subject at hand at one time I was totally opposed to players leaving school after their freshmen year.  I had an old fashion belief a player should remain in school four years however a couple of issues changed my mind.  The first, the possibility of severe injury impacting their basketball future. 

I cannot remember the name; this occurred more than 10 years ago, a Colorado player was projected to be one of the top picks in the upcoming draft that year.  He said no to the draft preferring to return to school where he would later suffer a severe injury.  After rehabbing this player was able to return to the court however the NBA never called his name.  The second issue, assurance of draft position.  NBA teams can inform a player in advance, if it appears he is a possible second round pick the player should remain in school.  Money not guaranteed in the second round, it is in the first.  If there is assurance it’s the first round, the odds say you should proceed directly to go.  Projected as a lottery pick that player should seal himself in bubble wrap and wait for the draft.  As for an education college will always be there, the player can return to school in the off season.

Dumb statements I’ve heard

I’ve made a few dumb statements regarding basketball or those who play the game.  Hopefully, none have been as ridiculous as some on the list below.  Most often they are intended to be serious by the person uttering the sentence.  

“I only watch the last 5 minutes or so of a basketball game.”  Really, so you turn on the baseball or football game in the 7^th inning or 4^th quarter.  Really a strange comment by a “fan.” 

“I don’t follow the NBA since Michael Jordan retired.”  You were not a fan of the game; you were a fan of the player, which is okay, but the statement sounds a bit strange. 

“They don’t play defense, especially in the NBA.”  This one is half correct, there are teams that play better defense than others.  To make a blanket indictment covering all elements of the game is ridiculous. 

After the Lakers acquired Ben McLemore, this from a letter writer.  “Ben McLemore is better than Kyle Kuzma,” no further explanation required here, what a dumb statement.

“The commissioner is out to get us.”  Whether we agree or not decisions are rendered in the best interest of the NBA and not individual teams.

How about this one, “The refs must have money on the game.”  The conspiracy theorists who believe everyone is cheating in one way or another. 

“He plays the game the right way,” This one defies explanation, is there a wrong way to play the game?

“The game isn’t what it use to be”, this could be tied in with the Michael Jordan quote above.  Most of us are nostalgic however the game and players change over the years.  There are elements of the game I don’t like however I remain a fan of the game.   

“The coach should give that guy a chance”, the guy might not be on the floor because his talent and skill level is below the player in front of him.  The coach certainly can comprehend portions of the game we as fans are unable to see.

Bully ball

We discussed bully basketball in which Shaq demonstrated throughout his NBA career.  We’ve discovered Laker center Andre Drummond plays it however there are others, and all don’t play the center position.  Although Pelican forward Zion Williamson is relatively new to the NBA, he plays bully basketball.  At 6 foot 7 and 284 pounds better get out of his way as he drives to the basket for a dunk or layup. 

We’ve seen Zion move opposing players out of the way as he goes back up to score on a missed shot.  LeBron James has bullied opposing players since his arrival in the NBA back in 2003.  He certainly demands you move over whenever he is driving for the basket, his size 6 foot 8 and 250 pounds demands it.  Draymond Green is the smallest at 6 foot 6 and 230 pounds he’s played bully ball for several seasons, think he’s not tough?  Green moves into the center position at times providing us proof how tough he is.  There are probably others, you might include several I omitted in this brief account.