Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

Is the NCAA Tournament on the way out?

That’s only a question for now however it might become reality. Bob Huggins West Virginia coach is one of the proponents of a new format. He is proposing the large schools formulate their own tournament. The little guys would not be part of this tournament only schools with student populations of 14,000 plus. If this format was utilized, it would eliminate a number that qualify for the tournament. The basis for this move is revenue, Huggins declares football is already conducting its post-season excluding the NCAA.

The NCAA will fight this effort for one reason alone $$$$. It’s been reported the annual championship tournament provides the NCAA with roughly 60% of its annual revenue. Any time we are discussing millions of dollars no one gives that up without a fight. There are issues with this plan to be tailored or revised, one of them is Huggins proposed number of participants. He says only schools with enrollment of 14,000 or more would be participants. This would say the majority would be Power 5 conferences Pac-12, Big XII, SEC, Big 10 and ACC. Omitted would be traditional teams like Gonzaga, Marquette, Georgetown and others. Rest assured the smaller schools would band together for tournament play, but it just might not be the same under this proposed scenario. 

Was he ever a leader?

I believe the jive talk of former players winds up someplace in the atmosphere. Most times I believe it’s just posturing, “Hey look at me” would appear to often be the case. I happen to like Chris Bosh, but his latest statement leaves me in a different place. This from Bosh on a podcast “And, you know, you’re playing against firefighters,” Bosh responded. “You know, dudes had jobs in the summertime. Dude’s going to be a lifeguard, go work on construction after the NBA season. They had part-time jobs, they went (during) summertime and got a job, bro.”

No argument from me, part of the statement is correct, there were a smaller number of teams during Russell’s time. In addition, salaries were nowhere near the level they are now, many players had off-season jobs to supplement their NBA salaries. Basketball requires teamwork and those Celtic teams played the game at a high skill level allowing them to win multiple championships. In closing Bill Russell has 11 championship rings, how many you got Chris, I will wait for your count? Bosh goes on to claim he was just offering his view and wasn’t trying to slight Russell. How about this, the Celtics probably don’t win 11 championships without Russell in the lineup. The Heat win with LeBron and D. Wade and somebody else at the power forward, there I said it.

Perhaps it was destiny all along

For those who might be unaware the original home of the Lakers was Detroit Michigan, in that city they played as the Gems. The NBL Gems would move to Minneapolis a year after their founding and underwent another name change. They became the Lakers adopting a motto of the state, “The Land of 10,000 Lakes.” In those early days in all sports teams changed locations but rarely names, the move to Los Angeles in 1961 saw the Laker name continue.

Those familiar with the lay of the land realize there are few lakes in Southern California, sorry if you were thinking the Pacific Ocean that doesn’t count. An acquaintance who lives in Los Angeles has begun a trend I find interesting which I will share here. In instances instead of spelling Lakers in the form we are accustomed to seeing for him it’s become LAkers. The LA in all caps signifies Los Angeles, I think it’s cool. Now I have no idea if he originated this trend or not, I intend to adopt for the future use. Maybe it was destiny all along the move from Minneapolis to Los Angeles and maintaining the team name.

The palaces of the NBA

We reported earlier groundbreaking ceremonies have been held on the Intuit Dome, the new home in Inglewood (CA) has a planned opening for the 2024 NBA season. It’s been the view for owner Steve Ballmer is for his Clippers to move out of the shadow of the Lakers and Staples Center. The Intuit Dome will be privately financed in a manner like that of the Chase Center in San Francisco. The Warriors site opened in 2019 and there is a chief reason both arenas were financed privately…cost.

Chase Center and the Intuit Dome planned construction total price tag is more than $1 billion, no way are taxpayers going to underwrite astronomical expenses of that type. It’s our belief this method of construction will continue as costs escalate. In a manner of speaking NBA teams are in decent shape, most arenas are new or have been refurbished. Madison Square Garden in New York City opened in 1968 is still the oldest operating arena. We should take into consideration renovations occurred to MSG in 1991 and 2013. Below are the NBA “homes” opened in the 21^st Century, while others were opened in the early to late 1990’s.

 American Airlines Center-2001(Dallas)

AT&T Center-2002 (San Antonio)

Chesapeake Center-2002 (Oklahoma City)

Toyota Center-2003 (Houston)

Amway Center-2010 (Orlando)

Barclays Center-2012 (Brooklyn)

Golden 1 Center-2016 (Sacramento)

Little Caesars Arena-2017 (Detroit)

Fiserv Arena-2018 (Milwaukee)

Chase Center-2019 (Golden State)

Intuit Dome-2024? (Clippers)

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

His new job

What to do, what to do…that might have been the question and thought process of JJ Redick. After a splendid 15-year NBA career the sharpshooter announced he was retiring prior to the 2021-22 season. Redick will go to work as a studio analyst for ESPN beginning November 3, he will also be part of the broadcast crew for several NBA games. This is not his first venture into this realm, he previously hosted his own podcast. Redick’s best years in the NBA might have been with the Clippers and the Lob City crew, unfortunately that bunch was a talented team that never ascended to the heights expected. In any event Redick certainly did, his NBA career might have been stuck in neutral if he’d not become one of the best 3-point shooters and 6^th man in the NBA. Good luck with this future endeavor Mr. Redick.

We need a reminder from time to time

A fellow member of Laker Nation reminded me of my past statement. I told him, “I was concerned about the Lakers trading for Russell Westbrook but I’m okay now.” I went on to explain the basis for my statement and then he countered with this. “Remember you made a similar assertion about LeBron James?” I was brought down to earth because he was correct, although LeBron arrived via free agency I wasn’t pleased with the addition, and it had nothing to do with his ability to play the game.

The journey back in time took me to one Dennis “The Worm” Rodman, although his tenure with the Lakers was brief, I was still skeptical of his arrival and not pleased at the time he was picked up. This member wants the best additions for the team that has set the gold standard in the NBA. Sure, you can say they are tied with the Celtics for the number of championships (17). We can say with conviction the Lakers have won more over the past 10-15 years over the Celtics…want a count? The Celtics last won it all in 2008, the Lakers have won three since then. If we go back to the year 2000, we can add three more championships, that is a 6 to 1 advantage. As for the subject at hand, I never claimed Westbrook wasn’t talented my issue was part of his game. Could he adapt and become more of a collaborator with this storied Laker franchise?

The question can, or will Westbrook adapt will remain unanswered until playoff time however he is certainly capable. I’m just an ordinary guy who loves basketball especially that of the Lakers and Mizzou. The claim is not of an expert however it would appear there are times I’m held I believe to a different standard. That’s okay, there are statements made in the past that have come back to bite me in the butt but that’s okay.

We are happy for him!

Clippers owner Steve Ballmer is happy, he’s got a right to be euphoric. He owns one of the best teams in the NBA, in addition the Intuit Dome future home of the Clippers is under construction. This ultramodern arena in Inglewood will be like none other as for the balance of this story that’s another matter. Ballmer in an interview discussing the Intuit Dome says he “hopes to draw some fans from the Lakers with this new building.” I could be wrong however “I’m from Missouri you’ve got to show Me” how you intend to siphon fans of the Lakers. The arena will certainly be a draw once it’s completed for the 2024-25 NBA season but what occurs beyond that?

Butts in the seat is the easy part, the difficult part is winning. In this instance we are not discussing deep playoff runs we are deliberating on championships. The Lakers are too ingrained in SoCal with fans, after all they have been there since 1961. The Clippers are late on the scene by comparison (1984), I believed at the time Ballmer bought the team they would be moved to Seattle for a couple of reasons. His association with Microsoft is where he made his $$$$ and the fact there was no NBA team in Seattle. I was proven wrong in both instances; Los Angeles is the location where they stay. The Clippers need to win at least ONE NBA Championship before they can begin to compete with the Lakers for fans. Buildings look nice but even they fade after a while especially if there is nothing of significance occurring there i.e., NBA Championships. 

The (other) Kansas school

No, we are not discussing Wichita State, this is an account on Kansas State University in Manhattan. We rarely discuss the Wildcat program due to it now being in third place. In the hearts and minds of Kansans and others it’s the University of Kansas, Wichita State and K-State. It’s not always been that order; Kansas State had a national profile beginning in the 1940’s and extending into the 1960’s as the program competed successfully. Coaches were key to success; the late Jack Gardner’s Wildcat team won the 1951 NCAA Championship and the school won 147 games losing only 81 between 1931-1953. Remember the name Tex Winter, you associated his name with Phil Jackson. There’s a reason, Winter was an assistant coach with Jackson with the Bulls and Lakers. From 1953 through 1968 Winter was head coach for the Wildcats.

His teams won 261 games and made two Final Four appearances (1958, 1964). Winter’s replacement was Cotton Fitzsimmons although only there for a brief time he continued winning onto Jack Hartman who replaced him. Hartman’s replacement was Lon Kruger who played for Hartman. With the departure of Kruger came a succession of coaches, they include Dana Altman, Bob Huggins, Frank Martin and Bruce Weber. All the names mentioned had winning records while at K=State however there was one issue…failure to beat Kansas on a consistent basis.

In addition, the game particularly recruiting changed, with a national profile and winning the school in Lawrence was able to attract top notch talent. It appeared all K-State could do in that department was second tier players and occasional success on the basketball court. Back in the day K-State managed to send players into the NBA, Bob Boozer, Rolando Blackman, Mitch Richmond and others, that’s not been the case recently. Bruce Weber’s been on the job since 2012 and his record is a 143-85 but only 63-55 in the Big XII. There is no rivalry when you never beat the other guy and that is what has occurred in the games. Despite playing twice a season the last time K-State won was 2019 prior to that it was 2015 and then 2014. Win streaks, K-State won 5 games in a row twice, 1972-75 and 1982-83. Kansas 31 consecutive games from 1994-2005.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

This is the last time

We’ve heard voices raised in two areas about the NBA’s 75^th Anniversary team.

*The players who believe they were slighted because they were not included.

*The fans who decide because “Sam Smith” played in 1951 he doesn’t belong on the team.

Let’s check, sorry Klay Thompson you have been an outstanding player thus far. Outstanding enough to include on an All-Time list? Dwight Howard was slighted, he should have been a member of this team. As for others it is impossible to account for all players in the 75-year history of the NBA. This is the last article about the anniversary team.

He might be the tallest mayor in the nation

Carl Gerlach is mayor of Overland Park Kansas, a city in the Kansas City Missouri metro. Gerlach was first elected mayor of this city in 2005, he was re-elected in 2009 and 2013. He decided against running in 2021. The basketball connection, Gerlach played basketball at Kansas State University, how good was he you ask? He was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 1976, an injury in training camp would dash his hopes for an NBA career so he went to work in the private sector. Gerlach began his political career first being elected to the Overland Park City Council in 1995. As for the basketball background, we have no method to confirm this claim. At 6 foot 10 inches surely, there is no other mayors in the nation as tall as Gerlach.

Bits n Pieces   

Chet Walker lasted into the 2^nd round of the 1962 draft, we must pause and consider a key factor. The NBA at that period had only 9 teams. If we look at that year’s draft, it had a number who would later earn a Hall of Fame career. That would include Chet Walker who played his college basketball at Bradley University however this is what is most interesting. Bill McGill, Paul Hogue and Len Chappell were outstanding players in college, the NBA would prove difficult for those named and others. As for Walker he arrived as a two time All American first team member plus once a second time All American. He was a member of the NBA All Rookie Team.

What to expect, it’s just that we don’t know. In this instance we speak of Mizzou Nation and the outlook for the upcoming basketball season. Javon Pickett along with Kobe Brown return plus Jordan Wilmore and get this Wilmore never played. As for the other two they played although we can say with certainty, they didn’t play major minutes so that’s it. With graduation and transfers the cupboard would appear bare. Mizzou will field a crop of newcomers with incoming first-year students plus the transfers. This team is flying beneath the radar with the national and SEC media, this might be a good thing for them. A young team having to build on the fly says they might surprise once conference play begins. That last statement certainly reflects the belief of most in Mizzou Nation.

I’m one of the few who does not see the need, in this instance we are discussing GOAT conversations. I’ve stated over and over it serves no purpose and offers no solution. Was Pete Maravich a better shooter than Ray Allen, how about post play…Wilt Chamberlain or Shaquille O’Neal? We could go on and on and on painting this picture which serves no purpose except discussion or in a few instances an argument. The game changes, players change and even game conditions change. There is no true answer except the one in your HEAD.

He doesn’t belong either

There is another 75^th Anniversary player that “doesn’t belong on the team.” Billy Cunningham was nicknamed The Kangaroo Kid during his NBA career. Cunningham played his college basketball for Dean Smith at North Carolina; he was made the 5^th pick in the 1965 NBA Draft by the Sixers.  That Sixer team was so loaded with talent the former All American began as a Sixth Man. After 7 seasons as a member of the Sixers Cunningham jumped to the ABA where he continued to distinguish himself. He played for the Carolina Cougars for two seasons before returning to the Sixers to play the balance of his basketball career.

When he retired Cunningham served as an analyst for one season for CBS before assuming the role of head coach for the Sixers in the 1977-78 season. Cunningham has two NBA Championship rings, one as a Sixer player in 1967 and the other as head coach of the team in 1983. Cunningham has a dual honor being enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. The first sentence saying “doesn’t belong on the anniversary team” was just to poke fun, we decided because an athlete played in a certain era, they shouldn’t be part of the 75^th Anniversary team. Isn’t that the idea behind an anniversary, i.e., to honor ALL?

This is interesting news

You might remember NFL Europe; this was an attempt by the NFL to expand the game to Europe. There were as many as 10 teams spread across the European continent at one time, the league went out of business in 2007. There might be debate on the success or lack of this effort to import NFL style football to Europe. How about today’s news, a report exists the NBA and FIBA have begun talks to create NBA Europe, this new league would take in 13 of the current Euroleague teams.

We are only in the talking stages is all we can report. A couple of notes, this predicted effort coincides with the dream of the late David Stern. While Stern served as commissioner NBA teams began playing exhibition and regular season games in Europe. Creating NBA Europe has huge advantages should it come to fruition. These teams would only play on the continent, no flights to the U.S. to play an NBA schedule. There is a built-in advantage here, Europe is more accustomed to pro basketball than American football. That’s not to say it will be a slam-dunk, but this has a built-in advantage NFL football never had.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

The Curry brothers      

This is not a direct quote from dad Dell Curry, but its reported he declared to son Steph early. This thought should be in the forefront of your mind when shooting the basketball, he told Steph (and Seth too). “If it (basketball) doesn’t go in center, it’s a miss. It’s clear the son’s adopted the words of their father. No bouncing are rolling around on the rim or something similar, it’s center mass only. It’s interesting the students have become better than the teacher, Dell was a good shooter, but the sons have become superior shooters over the father. Baby brother Seth’s replication is not as broad as Steph, but he too can shoot the basketball as well.

Drafting the wrong guy

A website questioned if the Pelicans made the right choice in 2019, they made Zion Williamson the number one pick over Ja Morant who was chosen second. Last season and this early part of 2021-22 we see why that statement might be a question. The Grizzlies point guard lite up the Lakers on Sunday evening, with no national telecast and no NBA League Pass we don’t know. We have no idea who was “watching” Morant since it’s apparent they certainly were not guarding him.

Morant’s box score was 40 points, 10 assists, 81.8% from the free throw line. As for the shooting it was 61.9% from the floor, 71.7% from 3 as he was a juggernaut for much of the game. The only downside a crucial missed free throw with seconds left in the game. Morant took the shot behind the three line, sinking all of them would have forced an overtime. He made the first two shots and missed the last one, Lakers escaped with a 121-118 win. As for the draft we can debate that issue from now into the future, rest assured the Grizzlies are certainly satisfied with their choice.

I’m not impressed

My attempt always is to avoid politics in Off the Dribble, there are time’s its unavoidable and this is one. New York City has a mayor’s race upcoming, and Kyrie Irving is in the middle of it. Current Mayor Bill De Blasio appears content to allow medical people to make medical decisions. The leading candidate Eric Adams apparently has an opposing view. Adams has said he “Will try and lift the ban prohibiting Irving from play.”

Is this an attempt on the candidate Adams part to increase his vote total or does he believe he’s got more information than the health department of the city? If Adams is chosen mayor and follows through on this effort, will he make the same directive for others who might be opposed to the law? This moves us further into a danger area if we continue to allow politics to become a part of this epidemic. I realize my view might not be popular with a number reading this, but I hope you will see the basis for formulating this opinion.

A Big Splash is needed

The media covering the SEC announced its outlook for the upcoming basketball season. Most have the Mizzou Tigers finishing either 9 or 10 in the 14-team conference. That ranking ain’t good enough for me, it’s time for a greater than expected season by Mizzou for 2021-2022. It’s been mentioned previously the Tigers return only two players from last season. Despite this fact the transfer portal brought in “veteran” talent guys who proved they could score the ball, the question can they defend? Coach Cuonzo’s emphasis is always on the defensive side of the ball so if the newcomers and holdovers…well you know.

The basketball program has turned around from the earlier coach, Mizzou is now competitive however they have not exceeded expectations. This is the time, Cuonzo is in no danger of being fired but it’s time to exceed, it’s time for Mizzou to exceed expectations. What does this member of Mizzou Nation expect (or hope) for the upcoming season? First place, no just kidding if this team finished 6^th I would be pleased. Why such a low conference record, I believe that would get them into the NCAA Tournament. As most are aware once a team earns a tournament berth anything can occur. For me this is the make-or-break year for the coach, this statement is made despite the fact I like Cuonzo Martin. Unless the bottom drops out it is unlikely, he’s fired however those who follow the program that are concerned about the lack of upward progress.

What!!

As Pelicans forward Zion Williamson recovers from a right foot injury comes this shocking news. Reports are circulating the talented youngster is on the north side of 300 pounds. You might remember there was a great deal of conversation about his weight when Williamson arrived in the NBA. The numbers reported by the Pelicans showed he checked in at 284 pounds, this caused among others Charles Barkley to comment. While playing at Auburn Barkley was nicknamed “The Round Mound of Rebound” for his rather overweight stature. Now an analyst for TNT, Barkley said excess weight will prove troublesome for Williamson’s knees in the future. This certainly is not good news if correct, it appears Williamson might need a personal trainer or worst yet an intervention.

Basketball from a fans perspective   

Published Monday through Friday

I like this

If you’ve read this blog any length of time you realize Doc Rivers is not among my favorite coaches. I don’t hate him I believe he’s not as good a coach as most believe. Despite my statement there is no argument he can be insightful in his outlook. This statement probably was brought about by the on-going drama surrounding Ben Simmons.” Average players want to be left alone. Good players want to be coached. Great players want to be told the truth.” Thus the words of Doc Rivers Sixers coach 

What did you expect?

So, you thought the Warriors beating the Lakers the other night was an anomaly. You thought they were still trying to figure out things which they are to a degree, which might apply to both teams. A better match would be the Clippers despite no Kawhi Leonard, the Warriors were missing Klay Thompson. This back and forth up and down game saw Steph score 45 points, as Dan Patrick might say “Steph was En Fuego.” The Warriors won 117-115 and now sit atop the Pacific Division of the NBA with a 2-0 start. Why are you surprised, did you expect a repeat of the horrific 2020-21 season, I certainly didn’t?

Klay might not return for a while however Jordan Poole has performed admirably along with the rest of the gang. This includes grizzly veteran Andre Iguodala who’s returned to the Warriors plus point forward Draymond Green. The mystery man to date for me is Andrew Wiggins, when fully immersed in the game he’s a deadly shooter from anywhere on the court. Once the cavalry arrives in the form of Klay Thompson and James Wiseman, they will be fully prepared to battle for Western Conference supremacy.

As for Friday night’s fight or altercation what concerns the most, the blow out of the Lakers at a point by the Suns or this. Oh, one other issue I’m uncomfortable with the outside game thus far of Anthony Davis in the first two games. At 6 foot 10 and 253 pounds he would stand out during the Lakers 2020 NBA Championship, that AD seems to be missing in action. I wrote, success for the 2021-22 Laker season is dependent on an engaged player. The real problem, the AD and Dwight Howard bench altercation, was it really a fight not really? One of the issues with Andre Drummond last season was his tendency to clog the lane, has the same issue cropped up with Howard?

He’s now a point guard 

NOTE: Bates was a late scratch, a deep thig bruise kept him sidelined. The balance of the report is presented due to the fact it is likely Bates will become a point guard eventually. 

By the time you read this it probably has occurred. Penny Hardaway dropped a hint on Saturday wunderkind Emoni Bates will play a new position; Bates will play the point at least that is the sign for now. Memphis played an exhibition game yesterday afternoon playing LeMoyne-Owen. This is written Sunday morning, so I have no idea who won or how Bates played. At 6 foot 9 and 190 pounds it would appear Bates might be suited for the point or shooting guard. It was mentioned at one time in this blog his body type closely resembles George “Iceman” Gervin who played at 6 foot 7 and 180 pounds. 

Now there is no intention to claim his future will be that of “Ice”, all this goes out the window should Bates gain substantial weight over the next two years, that’s the length of time he will likely play at the collegiate level. Perhaps he reminds the coach of himself at a time in his life, for those who might not be aware Penny was a 6-foot 7-inch point guard at Memphis and throughout his NBA career. If Bates can adapt to the point, it makes sense, as a tall point guard he would be at advantage over most guards. Sidebar, the game was available on ESPN+ however I didn't watch it, why? I'm far too stingy to pay for this game. 

This is me!

It’s not going to serve a purpose other than allowing me to complain. I’m tired, the NBA continues to announce its choices for the 75^th Anniversary Team. There is a player omitted you believe should be there or he played in the 1950’s or ‘60’s. Because he played long before your birth or while you were a small child you decide “He doesn’t belong on the team.” Allow me to ask you a question, do we discount the accomplishments of an athlete just because we never saw them play? This type of thought could exist for other greats of the past. You might have read Babe Ruth was not a great athlete, despite this fact the all-time home run record was held by Ruth from 1927 to 1974.

Hank Aaron would eclipse the Babe’s record in that year. In addition to never seeing Ruth, you may have never seen Aaron play either. Was Jesse Owens swift or was it the fact he performed outstandingly in the 1936 Olympics? We could go on and on and on, there is no era with a monopoly on great accomplishments by athletes. I believe most recognize the fact, there are some who believe “If I didn’t see it, it doesn’t exist” or worst yet this view. “The league was smaller” or “There was less competition” or “The athletes of today are much better.” Any of those statements might be true but to decide someone doesn’t belong on an anniversary team is quite a stretch for me.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday through Friday

See you on Monday

The first week of the Monday through Friday publishing cycle is complete. Enjoy your weekend and check back with us next week.  

I’ve chosen my side

The Wednesday night match featured the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics. These two storied franchises date their history to 1946 and the anniversary of the league. This double overtime match would see the Knicks winning 138-134 as both teams were bombing away from the 3-point line. The game had to be played in New York for a simple reason, Madison Square Garden refurbished and all is a celebrated arena, the original Boston Garden has long since been demolished and replaced by the TD Garden.

This has no relation to this game however it is noteworthy, I’ve chosen my side in the Battle of New York City. I have aligned myself with the Knicks, I know…I know. Much of the media has anointed the Nets 2022 NBA Champions before the NBA tipped off year 75. I like coach Tom Thibodeau, I like Julius Randle and Kemba Walker. Center Mitchell Robinson continues to justify the Knicks drafting the 7-foot center, at age 23 barring injury his ceiling is unlimited. So, there you have it, with Kyrie Irving or without the mercurial guard it’s not the Nets for me its Spike Lee’s Knicks.

No more characters

Once upon a time all sports had an assortment of characters. These were players or coaches who defied the norm by being funny and sometimes even controversial. We’d mentioned long-time Mizzou coach Norm Stewart had his share of classics. The coach was once asked, “Do you have any McDonalds All Americans on your team?” The response, “No we don’t but we eat at McDonalds.” Stewart hated spending any amount of money in the State of Kansas, he got around this in the following manner. Rather than spend any added time in Lawrence Mizzou players boarded a bus and headed 150 miles west to Kansas City Missouri.

The team would spend the night in a Kansas City hotel and be bussed game day to Allen Fieldhouse. No opportunity to spend a dime in Kansas by the Mizzou team. One more from Stewart, “We are shooting 100%-60% from the floor and 40% from the free throw line.” The late Al McGuire long time coach of Marquette said; “A team should be an extension of a coach’s personality. My teams are arrogant and obnoxious.” Hank Iba former Oklahoma State coach, “I’m not against taking shots, but I am against taking bad shots.” Dean Smith, North Carolina, “If you make every game a life and death proposition, you’re going to have problems. For one thing, you’ll be dead a lot.” Finally, this classic from the late Billy Tubbs who was then head coach at Oklahoma. I don’t own the rights to this video, the audio is a little difficult to understand so play it a couple of times to hear the words of Tubbs.

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

Who is Austin Reaves?

He’s a 6-foot 5-inch shooting guard who played his college ball at Oklahoma. Reaves went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft which might not be as bad as it sounds. Former Piston Ben Wallace is in the Hall of Fame, and he wasn’t drafted either so allow that fact to sink in. Now don’t think we are saying Reaves is headed for the hall of fame. Reaves signed a free agent contract with the Lakers and because it was a two-way contract, it was expected he would split time between the South Bay Lakers and the Big Club.

After playing for the Summer League team, he began to impress with his game savvy. Grizzly veterans Rajon Rondo and LeBron James have gone on record saying they are impressed with the play of Reaves. The question for now where does Reaves go from here with this veteran Laker team? It’s clear playing time will be limited however he’s got an advantage…LeBron likes him. Does he fill the role held by the departed Alex Caruso? Although Reaves played at Oklahoma, he hails from Newark Arkansas a 2 hour and several minutes’ drive from Memphis Tennessee.

A closer look

In a recent edition of Off the Dribble we profiled prep schools with extraordinarily talented basketball programs across the nation. We used the term “Basketball Factories” and its hoped this is not a criticism of prep schools. Consider this bit of information, Adem Bona is deciding on UCLA, Kentucky or another school. Bona is a 6-foot 10-inch 225-pound power forward, he hails from the African nation of Nigeria however he plays at Pacific Prep. Jalen Green was the number 2 choice in the first round of the 2021 NBA Draft, the Rockets chose the 6-foot 6-inch 180-pound shooting guard.

Green played his college basketball at Pacific Prep. This institution founded in 2014 is in Napa California 60+ miles northeast of San Francisco. Prep schools are not new, although some are with recent founding and emphasis on their basketball programs. Below is a partial list which certainly is not complete nor an endorsement of any of these schools. These schools have sent athletes to colleges and universities across the nation, they have also produced a considerable number of NBA talent. Don’t consider this account complete, it profiles institutions sending the most talent to colleges and the NBA.

Pacific Prep, Napa, California

Minnehaha Academy, Minneapolis Minnesota

Admiral Farragut Academy, St. Petersburg, Florida

IMG Academy, Manatee County, Florida

Montverde Academy, Montverde, Florida

Sunrise Christian Academy, Wichita, Kansas

Word of God Academy, Shreveport, Louisiana

Brewster Academy, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Findlay Prep, Las Vegas, Nevada

Ypsi Prep, Ypsilanti, Michigan*

Bishop Gorman, Las Vegas, Nevada

*Ypsi Prep was begun by the father of Emoni Bates, he withdrew his son from public school to begin this    school. At this point we are unsure of the school’s future since Bates has graduated and enrolled at the University of Memphis. Will Elgin Bates continue his effort to build a prep school basketball program at Ypsi is an unknown as this is written?

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday through Friday

You parked in the wrong spot

If you expected the Lakers to be lambasted by yours truly you’ve parked in the wrong spot. If you wish a critical critique of the Tuesday evening events you need to check out Skip Bayless, Stephen A. Smith or another hater rather than Larry Laker. Oh, did you say, “the Lakers suffered a 121-114 beat down by the Warriors” and you have nothing to say? I will return to another statement, “New players in New places” as Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony and others adjust to play on the same page.

There were brief glimpses on Tuesday evening of what we believe the Lakers will eventually play in April (we hope). This is the litmus test, is it December yet, we judge it to be near the end of October? If the Lakers are playing as they did on Tuesday evening, we do indeed have a problem. I will reserve deep criticism until late November or early December that is all. Besides the fact any attempt by me to see the positives will simply be explained away as an excuse…so there you have it. By the way, Steph Curry with a triple-double led the way to the victory along with sparkling bench play for his Warriors.

They got fans too

The Knicks have their share of celebrity fans too. For reasons unknown, we tend to focus on Laker celebrity fans however nightly at Madison Square Garden quite a few can be spotted. The Lakers have actor Jack Nicholson, the Knicks counter with director, actor Spike Lee. Lee can always be spotted in his courtside seat and a story you might not know, he’s from Brooklyn. Don’t ask why he’s not rooting for the Nets. Radio personality Howard Stern is often seen at games the same for Chris Rock and Jerry Seinfeld. Musical talent Alicia Keys along with Katie Holmes and Olivia Wilde are often in attendance. Also seen in the Garden are Tracy Morgan, Jon Stewart, Dustin Hoffman and Ben Stiller. The celebrity crowd certainly matches that in attendance at Staples Center.

The past meets the present 

I hate to be tellin’ tales in school but I told you. Earlier I mentioned the number of fans would become vocal, “Why isn’t __________ included in the Anniversary Top 75 NBA players?” 50 players have been named in two announcements thus far. Relax we have another 25 players to be added to the anniversary team before you begin complaining about missing names. This is the issue for me, one guy complaining about Paul Arizin on the team.

Arizin spent 1950 through 1962 as a member of the Philadelphia Warriors, he played long before my time. He is worthy of being honored despite the fact you never saw him play, someone else believed he was worthy of this honor. Also, Bill Walton’s inclusion is being questioned as well comparing him to players who are yet to be chosen, fact Shawn Kemp might not be selected. Fans need to quite bitching about players of a different era, the game is the game. It wasn’t invented within your lifetime, it existed long before many of you were born.

He finally got the job  

Patrick Ewing is entering year five as head coach of Georgetown basketball. Hoya teams under Ewing have never won more than 19 games and that was only once. It was believed the program might return to its earlier glory with one of the staples of the program as player leading them. That has not been the case to date, Georgetown basketball has barely kept its head above water. Perhaps it’s time for a national coach to take over the program, it was believed John Thompson III would lead the Hoyas to success.

The son of the legendary coach had an impressive record 346 wins versus 193 losses however apart for 2014-15 season the Hoyas winning began to drop and after 13 seasons at the helm III was fired and replaced by Ewing. What’s the problem, has the landscaped changed dramatically in the Big East Conference to the point Georgetown can no longer compete effectively. One thing is abundantly clear, it is too bad Patrick Ewing the coach doesn’t have Patrick Ewing the athlete playing for him. If that were the case the Hoyas would certainly be more successful than to date.

Braggin’ Rights

If you live outside of Missouri or Illinois, the headline above probably means nothing to you. It’s the annual basketball game event held every season between SEC Mizzou and Big 10 Illinois. The Border Battle by Missouri with Kansas also exists with the State of Illinois. This game is held in St. Louis at the downtown Enterprise Arena, why here you ask? The city on the banks of the Mississippi River is about a 2-hour drive from Columbia (MO) and Champaign (IL) home of Mizzou and Illinois.

The two schools first began play back in 1932 although the Braggin’ Rights game only came about in 1980, Illinois leads in victories with 25 versus 15 losses. Despite the record Mizzou’s won the last three matches when played. This year’s game will be played on Wednesday December 22 at 8:00 p.m. Central Time on the Big 10 Network. In addition, sometimes both schools usually have Illinois athletes with Missouri roots and vice versa.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday through Friday

Mizzou season

If we explore the Tigers upcoming season there are three games that standout for most Mizzou fans. They are games against Kansas City (UMKC) on November 15, November 26 versus Wichita State. This would conclude with the first regular season match versus Kansas since the 2011-12 Big XII season. All three of the schools are regional which could create new and, in another instance, renew old rivalries. The first one to review is the game versus Kansas City, we have two University of Missouri schools one in Columbia and the other in Kansas City facing each other.

This is not new because the teams have played previously however not every season, this would appear a natural rivalry both schools affiliated with the state. Next up the Wichita State Shockers, this south-central Kansas school is less than 400 road miles from Columbia. These schools have also played previously but not every season. Finally, the big one, the game against the Kansas Jayhawks a rivalry of epic proportions. The first game played between Kansas and Mizzou occurred back in the 1906-07 season, Kansas leads the all-time rivalry with 172 wins versus 95 losses. This proposed rivalry would be great for students, alumni and fans of all the programs.

Did you know?

Prior to the National Basketball League’s merger with the Basketball Association of America it was the larger league. The NBL once consisted of 39 teams before most teams went out of business prior to the 1949 merger with the NBA.  Original NBL teams still playing today include the Minneapolis Lakers, Rochester Royals (Sacramento Kings), Fort Wayne Zollner Pistons (Detroit Pistons), Buffalo Bisons (Atlanta Hawks) and Syracuse Nationals (Philadelphia Sixers). The NBL had several teams lost to history as the reason for their demise. World War II saw countless players in military service, two teams the Toledo Jim White Chevrolets and Chicago Studebakers signed black players. 

Breaking the color barrier in basketball occurred 5 years prior to Jackie Robinson however professional basketball was major league in name only. The Nuggets or at least the name associated with the present-day team existed previously, in 1948 they began play in the NBL and later came into the NBA with the merger but lasted but one season. Chicago had 3 NBL teams over the years the league ran but none of these franchises functioned at the same time. Detroit also had 3 teams and one of them the Gems would later move to Minneapolis. Once found in Minnesota they were renamed the Minneapolis Lakers. A brief look back at the history of professional basketball in America. 

This is still funny one year later

Actor, comedian Michael Rapaport a NYC guy has been a life-long Knicks fan, after a discussion on his Knicks the conversation turned to the Sixers and their coach. Rapaport made this statement about the hiring of Doc Rivers as head coach of the team, Rivers had moved from the Clippers to the Sixers and this from Rapaport which still is funny. “He (Doc) is now Glenn, there can be only one Doc in Philadelphia.” Of course, he was referring to Hall of Fame forward Julius “Doctor J” Erving. We might guess other than Wilt Chamberlain Dr. J. might be the second most popular to play for the Sixers. As for others the doctor might be at the top of the list.

An update to an earlier story

Imagine this story a newly hired coach registers a 38-47 record after his first three years on the job. In the third year at the school the team finishes 11-17; you suppose that coach might still have a job? In this microwave/internet/twitter age we wish, no we demand instant results or answers. Depending on the state of a basketball program a coach must be allowed adequate time to recruit “his” players and implement his coaching philosophy.

It’s possible the coach might be forced to cut players recruited by his predecessor although that might not be frequent practice. On the other hand, a player or two might decide to leave unable to adapt to the new coach or his program. By the way the 38-47 won-loss record was registered by Coach Mike Krzyzewski of Duke. Coming into the season Coach K’s record at Duke is 1097-302 (.784), his joint record at Army and Duke is 1170-361 (.764) at); we could guess what might have occurred if Coach K. had begun his career in today’s highly volatile stage of college basketball. The word of the day might be patience, patience and more patience.

I guess we’d better pay attention

We in the Midwest or those of you on the East Coast often miss Pacific Time games and for a good reason. Weeknight games in these time zones begin at 9:00 p.m. Central 10:00 p.m. Eastern time, most games conclude at 12:00 or 1:00 a.m. That’s far too late for folks east of the Rocky Mountains who must be in bed asleep preparing for the following day’s work. The pre-season polls place the UCLA Bruins in the Top 5, the CBS poll places them second in the nation.

Last season the Bruins didn’t win their own conference ending 4^th in the Pac-12. Mick Cronin’s team finished with a 22-10 record but made a run in the NCAA Tournament, they were eliminated by Gonzaga which battled Baylor for the national championship. The Bruins have a veteran team returning for the 2021-22 season which should place them in the national picture for this upcoming season. Despite the late nighttime issue, we ought to make sure we don’t overlook the Bruins as we did this past season.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday through Friday

75^th Anniversary NBA Team

We mentioned the most youthful of all pro sports the NBA is observant of the league’s 75^th Anniversary. Events are planned throughout the season to celebrate the event, one of them will be a team selected of past and present plays during this period. Today the NBA will release the names of those selected for the anniversary team, in the meantime we’ve seen team members chosen by the media. Stand by for controversy on the selections made by the NBA at the time the team becomes official.

My statement is made on past events and present day, consider this fact. There have been complaints about those selected by the media. As for others this was mentioned recently, and it will be once again. In 1996 a 50^th Anniversary Team was made known which included Shaquille O’Neal. Shaq was drafted by the Magic in 1992 and this was said, “How could he be selected for the team, he’s only been in the NBA four years.” The response to the statement by Shaq was classic, “I didn’t vote myself on the team.” Perhaps history will not repeat itself with those honored, I would not place any bets on this view, however. 

“If there is no video it didn’t happen”

I work with a couple of 20 somethings, every time we discuss sports exploits of the past their statement to me and others is always the same. “If there is no video it didn’t happen”, on a serious note they believe us however that statement appears common place depending on a sports fan’s age. In this instance we are discussing Wilton Norman Chamberlain, a.k.a. The Big Dipper and other nicknames. It’s my belief with no 3-point ability the 7-foot 1-inch 275-pound Chamberlain could play in 2021. Young people look at the 50 points he averaged one season and the 100-point game.

For his career Chamberlain averaged 22.9 rebounds a game and you say no way could that occur in today’s NBA. The NBA in 1959 certainly didn’t have the number of teams we have today. Despite that statement the game might have needed more stamina than today…it was a physical game back then. Chamberlain was an athlete not only in basketball but track and field too. Chamberlain high jumped 6 feet 6 inches which was close to the record in the 1950’s, he ran the 440 in 49 seconds and the 880 in 1 minute and 58 seconds. Shot put was 53 feet and Chamberlain leaped 22 feet in the long jump. Next time you read or hear of exploits of the past they just might be true.

Bits n Pieces 

We introduced Jean Montero in June to countless readers of Off the Dribble, Montero is a 6-foot 2 inch-point guard. Montero from the Dominican Republic signed with Overtime Elite back in June, the new professional basketball league started in the U.S. If he is to be included in the 2022 draft, he must secure a buyout. Montero is on loan from the Spanish ACB team Gran Canaria, in his first professional game he scored 41 points however this scoring outburst might be somewhat suspect. Montero playing in Spain as a pro and the competition he faced in his first OTE game are 7 to 8 months removed from competition at the prep level.

Jay Huff wasn’t drafted in 2021, you are probably asking “Who is Jay Huff?” If you follow Virginia basketball you are familiar with the 7-foot 1-inch 240-pound Huff. Although not drafted in 2021 the Lakers announced his signing on Monday as a two-way player. What exactly does he bring to the table, after all they have DeAndre Jordan, Dwight Howard and Anthony Davis to play the four? Best guess Huff plays for the Lakers G-League team but is subject to recall by the Lakers. What is the advantage in having a player like Huff on your roster? He is a decent 3-point threat having shot 38% while at Virginia, this would appear a decent signing maybe for the future. In other Laker news it is being reported the team signed veteran guard Avery Bradley off waivers. Similar to others Bradley returns to the Lakers as several others have done. 

Is the SEC the best?

Prior to beginning play we really have no answer to the question. If we check ESPN’s Way too early Top 25 the SEC would appear to be the best conference in the nation. They placed more schools on the poll than any other conference.

Kentucky – 9

Arkansas – 14

Alabama – 16

Tennessee – 18

Auburn -22

It will be interesting to see how the SEC Conference regular season and post-season concludes. Could Kentucky, Arkansas or Alabama compete for the NCAA Championship.

It probably works both ways

We hear the arguments all the time, “Athletes in the early days of the NBA _________ couldn’t play in today’s NBA!” The argument is valid, the players of today are certainly more athletic but there is a missing element…physical play. The NBA beginning at some point in the early 2000’s became less physical, example hand checking. At the guard position Oscar Robertson was allowed to impede his opposing player down the court with his hands.

An opposing player could be seen placing one hand and sometimes two “forcing” that player in the direction he wanted. You’ve heard the term “No harm, no foul”, that’s exactly what it meant, if it didn’t appear a foul none was called. You complain about today’s player moaning and crying to game officials, they would have great difficulty playing in the ‘50’s, ‘60’s or later. In conclusion this argument about today’s athletes being better condition than those of the past is correct. On the other hand, the physical aspect of the game of that era would cause a few of today to appear not as talented as perceived. You can choose to agree or disagree with this hypothesis.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday through Friday

A funny thing occurred waiting on the NBA season to begin

A primary element of basketball be it NBA, college, prep or AAU. One must have the ability to JUMP to a degree to play successfully. Have you ever noticed the number of pop tunes have that word as part of their title? It should be of note at least 3 of these tunes can be heard in arenas during those rare occasions that call for a jump ball. I don’t own the rights to any of this music,

Jump-Van Halen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwYN7mTi6HM

Jump (For my Love)-Pointer Sisters

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyTVyCp7xrw

Jump Around-House of Pain & Cypress Hill

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhzpxjuwZy0

Jump-Kriss Kross

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=010KyIQjkTk

Jump On It-Sugarhill Gang

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=jump+on+it+sugarhill+gang

Jump Right In-Zac Brown Band

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rb7tbzuGHzw

There are other tunes omitted which have JUMP in the title, oh well hurry up Tuesday I’m anxious for real play on the basketball court.

We’ve touched on this issue previously  

This illustration was used in the past and its used here again. Remember in the movie Hoosiers, the small-town team in fictional Hickory Indiana had beaten all comers? After playing in tiny gyms, they arrive at massive Butler University Fieldhouse, the team was intimidated by the size of the building. Coach Dale (Gene Hackman) had his players measure the court and the height of the basket. Dale was trying to impress upon his team despite the size of the building basketball remained the same.

We discussed the schools choosing to join the Big XII we also showed they now belong to a Power 5 conference. What exactly does that entail, could Cincinnati beat Oklahoma State in basketball? How about Central Florida and Texas Tech matched against one another? Cincinnati and Central Florida could certainly win if matched against these Power 5 schools. As for the term Power 5 it is valid however it has nothing to do with the ability of a so-called mid-major to win over a power school. The point we are trying to make is from Hoosiers, the measurements on the basketball court are the same no matter where you play. Any college team can beat another, that is all.

Don’t become confused by numbers

I don’t often agree with LaVar Ball except in one area, he is prone to say, “Stay in your lane.” I’ve always taken that to imply if you perform a task successfully continue it, the warning don’t venture into unexplored or areas you have little knowledge and offer a conclusion. Where am I going with this rant, to our resident “experts.” Memphis released figures on several of its players, our focus was on Emoni Bates, at 6 foot 9 it is noted Bates has a 6 foot 7 ¼ inch wingspan. On reading the news this from the first writer, “6 foot 7 wingspan, that’s not good. Along with 24.5 vertical, ouch! From another writer, I was thinking the same thing…he’s gonna struggle with length and athleticism.”

These two have concluded Bates will labor at the collegiate level prior to him venturing onto the court. We might indeed realize he’s not cut out for the college game, but it might be helpful to see him play in college before concluding he can’t. This might appear to be contradicting my point but consider this fact. Russell Westbrook is distinctive; he stands 6 foot 3 but has a 6-foot 8-inch wingspan. Pre-draft Kevin Durant was unable to lift a makeable weight for his height and weight. I’m not opposed to these fans offering their opinion on Bates but to figure out a theory without evidence is a little ridiculous in my view. I guess all the time however the area these two “experts” feel comfortable to discuss I certainly would refuse. The final factor to consider, Bates is only 17-years old he’s got time and he can certainly work at improving his physical numbers over the course of time.

A re-visit

If you held a discussion of All-Time great centers its likely no one mentions Artis Gilmore’s name. The usual suspects are always Wilt, Kareem, Russell and maybe Bob Lanier and Shaq. There are other centers the late Nate Thurmond and David Robinson come to mind. Sorry Tim Duncan fans great as he was the bulk of his play was spent as a power forward. As for Gilmore during his joint ABA/NBA career he scored over 24,000 points and had nearly 12,000 rebounds.  Despite beginning his career in the ABA, he spent more time with the Bulls and Spurs than he did with the Kentucky Colonels.

Why is Gilmore so ‘invisible’ you ask it’s likely his demeanor?  Shaq and Wilt’s personality drew the media to them; Russell did as well although not in the same manner. Gilmore nicknamed the A-Train “quietly” scored, rebounded the basketball and blocked shots for three franchises. He was born 67 years ago in Chipley Florida and arrived in the ABA from Jacksonville University. In 2011 a long over-due honor came his way as he was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. It's reported Gilmore's been active in the Jacksonville community since his playing days ended. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday through Friday

It ends here

This is the last Sunday edition (at least for now) of Off the Dribble. As detailed earlier we begin a Monday through Friday publication schedule tomorrow, no more weekend editions. It’s hoped this new schedule will meet your needs as much as mine. Thank you for continuing to read this blog from its start in 2011 or just now.

It ain’t me!

This soap opera of Kyrie has forced me into a corner so be it, I’m tired of reading letters saying how poorly Kyrie Irving is being treated. As I tried to point out on social media this is what I see:

Life is about choices; there are good choices and bad choices made, learn to live with your choice.

According to Forbes Kyrie’s 2021 net work is reported to be $90 million, wow and wow.

Are you telling me a guy making a little more than minimum wage working a 40 hour a week job is suppose to feel sorry for Kyrie?

Sorry Kyrie fans, that ain’t me.

Old faces in unfamiliar places or vice versa

Elements in Laker Nation are perplexed, “What’s wrong with our team, they can’t beat anybody”. That statement is far from the truth if we consider the big picture. The Big Two, LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been missing major time in these exhibition games. The other member of the trio Russell Westbrook is trying to acclimate himself to define his role with this new team. The others as the headline read old faces (Kent Bazemore, Dwight Howard & Wayne Ellington) in recent places.

These former Lakers after being re-acquired are finding their way too. Then we have the injuries, Trevor Ariza and Talen- Horton Tucker which has not allowed Frank Vogel and staff time to access this “new” Laker team. Calm down Laker Nation one thing for sure will not occur. The current Western Conference standings have the Kings in first place and the Lakers last, that ain’t gonna happen. The estimation by this member of Laker Nation it might be December before we see a cohesive team on the floor. Until that occurs calm down it will improve eventually (I hope).

The real Superman

Who is the real Superman, it’s not Henry Cavill or the late Christopher Reeves? It’s not Shaquille O’Neal or Dwight Howard who battled for years in the NBA on the title. The real Superman is Kyrie Irving who is certainly “bulletproof.” Allow us to omit his civic and philanthropic efforts it is clear he marches to the beat of his own drummer. Accept a further explanation, we finally heard the words from his mouth. He claims to be “neither in favor of the vaccine or opposed he is looking out for his body.” This is the key; letters of support have come forth defending the stance Irving’s taken. 

Even more interesting supporters of Irving have chosen to attack the NBA on this issue although the NBA had nothing to do with his status. An unknown number of the public have taken this stance despite the fact New York City has a public gathering mandate. This rule says you must have at least one shot of any of the available vaccines, it’s not the NBA people…it’s New York City. Now the question for you to ponder, after being somewhat skeptical LeBron James went on record saying he’d been vaccinated. This certainly was no ringing endorsement, but further said it should be an individual’s choice. The point of course is clear, what if this had been LeBron James rather than Kyrie Irving? Any idea how this subject would have been addressed by the media and fans, I don’t know about you however I do?

He is key to success

There is no requirement to defend the fact, NBA basketball has always been a team sport. Despite this statement there are athletes more valued over others. With the Lakers most say its LeBron James. For me it is Anthony Davis, the Laker Big Man can do so many different things when healthy, note the statement…healthy. The 6-foot 10-inch AD is not only valuable, but he is only 28-years old, contrast his age with the balance of the grizzled Laker veterans. There is but one key as mentioned his health, as Shaq would say about himself nick-nack injuries. 

That’s AD however the problem injuries have caused him to miss critical time while a member of the Pelicans and this past season with the Lakers. It’s reported AD will see playing time at the center position and this has been mentioned in the past. He prefers playing power forward although AD says he is willing to play the position on occasion. It would appear the Lakers might have the perfect scenario, three centers. Dwight Howard proved to be valuable emerging from the bench in the Lakers championship season, we believe DeAndre Jordan might supply the same spark. Both veterans are proficient at blocking shots and clogging the lane. The Lakers with a healthy AD for offense and Howard/Jordan on defense you see where this critique is headed? The key to a successful season is the health of AD start to finish.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Sunday, Monday, Wednesday & Friday

I see you and I hear you

You are upset at the actions surrounding Nets guard Kyrie Irving, that’s okay. This is no attempt to criticize you for your stance but allow this added input. Let’s check out the background, the City of New York not the NBA laid down a rule at least one vaccine shot is needed for entry into a public building. That would apply to Barclays Center and Madison Square Garden which lie in that privy. Later Nets management came forward and said he could not practice or play with the team. This from the Nets GM “We have no choice but to play without Kyrie.”

Now, imagine this scenario to play out, Irving is allowed in Barclays (or MSG) unvaccinated. He meets not only his teammates but front office personnel plus ticket agents, ushers and food handlers. This scenario could be considered oversimplified because its unlikely Irving would meet all those employees but. In the arena those fans sitting in the $1,000 seats are served by an usher who passes by Irving, you get the result, I hope. We are in a strange time; we have a view our rights are in danger because there is a belief government is forcing citizens into areas, they believe have become an infringement.

Our journey now takes us from Brooklyn to Philadelphia for this added news. You might remember reading or hearing a declaration from Ben Simmons claiming he would never play in Philly. There were reports he’d even moved out of the metro, evidently those reports turned out to be false. All that’s changed now, Simmons has reported to training camp. We are unsure at this point if he plays for the Sixers, or a trade is in his future to somewhere. This story like that of Kyrie Irving has been a continuing developing story, stay tuned.

Is he the one?

Yao Ming retired from the NBA and the Rockets in 2011, since then at least 3 Chinese prospects have either been drafted. Each of those prospects was thought to be the ONE, the NBA successor to Yao. Allow me to introduce to some Fanbo Zeng, he began as a 6-foot 9-in 190-pound forward and now stands 6 foot 11-inches. Zeng originally from Harbin China has played for Windemere Prep School in Windemere Florida, a city in the Orlando Metro. Zeng has signed with Team Elite in the G-League and has declared for the 2022 NBA Draft. As for his future will he prove skilled enough to be drafted next season? It should prove interesting if Zeng indeed becomes the successor to Yao Ming especially those in China.

The NBA

As we approach the dawn of another NBA season the question might be asked…how healthy is the league? Neither you are I can see the books of any of the 30 teams, despite this fact the health of the NBA would appear good. This statement is made despite the pandemic which affected the 2019-20 season significantly. Using Forbes as our barometer the NBA places three of its teams in the Top 10 in the World in value with the Knicks at 3, the Warriors and Lakers at 6 and 7, respectively. The Intuit Dome is on the horizon for the Clippers, the planned arena is expected to cost $2 billion. When it opens in the 2024-25 season it will move in front of the Chase Center in San Francisco opened in 2019 as the newest arena in the league. Most NBA arenas more than 15 years old have undergone renovation to update them with the latest amenities and services.

Billion-dollar arenas continue to be built for existing teams, there is no ability to predict which city might be next in line for a new building. A new television contract is on the horizon for the NBA, in addition to increase revenue for owners the players collective bargaining agreement will certainly be adjusted upward. Another potential revenue stream might come about just as the Inuit Dome is completed. NBA expansion might be in the works by 2025 with Seattle and one other city vying for a franchise. How does this affect the health of the league, owners will receive added revenue derived from expansion? These are the keys as we look toward the future, there are events on the horizon we may have overlooked however these mentioned are probably front and center.   

“It’s Gotta be the Shoes!”

NBA Rookie of the Year LaMelo Ball has a signature shoe now. The youngest brother signed with the Puma company and his shoe will debut in December, price is $125.00. This is vastly different from Mars Blackmon (Spike Lee) and the Air Jordan commercials he helped popularize in the middle ‘80’s. Not only did the Air Jordan brand rise to the top of the food chain so did the Nike brand. Earlier Magic Johnson and Larry Bird held the world captive with their Converse commercial.

It was Mars Blackmon who propelled Air Jordan and Nike to areas not envisioned to that point. From the middle ‘80’s up to the present-day vast numbers of NBA players have signed with Nike, Air Jordan, Converse and other shoe brands. Consider this fact, the first Air Jordan’s sold between $65-70 which is a figure sneakerheads would love. LaMelo owes a debt of gratitude to Dr. J., Magic plus Bird and MJ. Thanks to these past NBA greats shoes can retail for $125 with a percentage to the athlete in this instance LaMelo Ball.

Who is the best?

Recruiting top notch talent to your campus is key to success on the basketball court. We need look no further than Duke, North Carolina and more recently Kentucky. Polls are artificial in a sense, as an example what occurs if the school discovers that 5-star can’t miss prospect does not adjust to the college game successfully? We checked 247Sports to figure out who is competing for the top prospects on their website. Currently this site and others place Anfernee Hardaway’s Memphis Tigers at the top.

They are followed by Michigan and Gonzaga, where is Kentucky on their list? The Wildcats are ranked number 10 followed by Kansas at 11. Just in case you wondered I will save you a search, they place my Mizzou Tigers number 50 in the nation which in my view is good. Consider in that Notre Dame, Auburn, Oregon have fewer top recruits arriving over Mizzou. What do you think, do we place more emphasis on this information than is valid?