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47 divided by 38

You’ve heard the old statement “father time remains undefeated.” It’s understandable, as players age they are unable to continue to play at a high skill level. No matter the sport think about this a minute consider how many athletes you’ve witnessed become slower and slower as their ability to continue play at a high skill level begins to wane. The slowing down applies to everyone except LeBron James or at least it seems that appears to be the case. December 30, LeBron turned 38 years of age, he’s not the oldest player ever in the NBA.

Vince Carter a.k.a. Vincesanity was 43-years old prior to his retirement but most of his game had disappeared over time. Robert ‘Chief’ Parrish retired at 44 years of age; those are but two who managed to continue play after the age of 40. There is no doubt LeBron James is special, special due to his immense talent and special in managing his career outside of basketball. Soon he will become the NBA’s all-time scoring leader breaking the record held by Kareem Abdul Jabbar. The 47 represent his point total in Friday night’s win over the Hawks, the 38 of course is his age. It doesn’t matter if LeBron is your favorite player you’ve got to give him his props.  

Emoni Bates update

I had another opportunity to see Emoni Bates in action, this time against South Carolina. Eastern Michigan was a loser 74-64 because other than Bates EMU had little offense working for them. Of the 64 points scored Bates recorded 36 of them and he shot 53% from the 3pt line. Check these numbers out, South Carolina didn’t shoot that well (44.4%) as a team, but EMU shot even worst with 39.7% from the floor.

With this latest loss EMU sinks to a 3-win 10 loss non-conference record, South Carolina raises its record to 7 up and 6 down. Coach Stan Heath is in the middle of his second year at EMU, can he turn this program around might be the next question. EMU has a rich history in producing talent, The Iceman George Gervin first became a name while playing at EMU. Earl Boykins 5-foot 5-inch point guard had a 13-year NBA career, but his start was also at the school. The two are but 9 of the EMU players who managed NBA careers, will Bates become number 10?

MVP, MVP

Thought you heard or read all there was about Victor Wembanyama? I’m just scratching the surface, there is plenty more to discuss about this young man. On Thursday evening I wonder if the French crowd was similar to one in this country, you know where near the end of the game a chant begins MVP, MVP? It continues as more and more in the crowd join the chant. This game action continues the further exploits of 18-year-old Victor Wembanyama, he was named MVP in the French LNB All Star Game,

This is an annual game played between French and non-French players in the league. What did the teen phenom accomplish in the game to be named MVP, how about 27 points 12 rebounds and 4 assists in leading the way to a French victory 136-128. Much as I like Scoot Henderson there is no doubt the 7 foot 3 (or 4) Wembanyama will be the top choice in the June 2023 draft. In my view it does no good to analyze his game versus other Euro players. The only question remaining is weight. Can Wembanyama gain another 15-20 pounds without it affecting his quickness? This is not to discount Euro talent but play in the NBA will be totally different for Wembanyama.

It’s good to be incorrect

The date is unclear to me however I questioned if injuries had robbed Kawhi Leonard and left him with pieces of his MVP game. Well Leonard must have read my blog (of course I’m kidding) his play has increased significantly since my account was written. With that said the Clippers are playing better basketball and Leonard has been present in 8 of the last 10 games. He’s now played in 15 of the team’s 37 games, it’s my understanding Leonard remains sidelined on back-to-back games.

As for my earlier assessment I based part of it on my prior reading others and seeing for myself the game might have passed him. Maybe we might never see a true return to form after all he’s 31 years of age with a great deal of wear and tear on his NBA body. Despite that fact 90 or 95% of Leonard is better than 100% of others. In any event in this instance I’m glad to be wrong, perhaps Leonard might have returned to as close a form as we might see for now and into the future.

Winning streak

If I were to ask which college team has the longest winning streak at home, do you have the answer? If you guessed Allen Fieldhouse and Kansas, you are incorrect. How about the Dean Dome and Carolina Blue, wrong again? That was strike two, how about the trifecta, Duke and Cameron Indoor…you just struck out its none of the teams or arenas named. Okay rather than continuing the guessing game allow me to inform you its Gonzaga and tiny McCarthey Athletic Center (6,000-seating capacity). The Bulldogs have won 72 consecutive games the longest win streak in Division I basketball.

They are nowhere close to the all-time mark; it’s held by the Kentucky Wildcats with 129. Can you imagine this from 1943 to 1955 Kentucky never lost a home game. In second place a surprise for you and me, St. Bonaventure with 99 wins in a row, this streak ran from 1948-1961. Over the last 40 years the Bonnies have not been as competitive as they were at one time in our recent history. In third place and probably the team most figured is UCLA, their streak is only one game (98) behind that of St. Bonaventure. I might be unsure if this next school is a surprise, it’s the University of Cincinnati with an 84-game winning streak. Arizona (1945-1951) and Marquette (1967-1973) round out our top 5 tied with 81 wins in a row on their home court. Right on their heels is Lamar University in Beaumont Texas, the Cardinals were home court winners for 80 consecutive games (1978-1984).

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We talkin’ basketball

I hope you don’t believe hiring that particular college coach entails a lifelong commitment. His name is Dion Sanders and its football, but it doesn’t matter it’s the intent. Sanders is being criticized in some circles because he left Jackson State an HBCU school for the University of Colorado. I’m not going to detail his reasoning simply point to the fact coaches whatever the sport are always seeking greener pastures. That often entails them moving from school to school, often the move is for more prestige or money…sometimes both.

With the retirement of Coach K. and Roy Williams earlier the longest tenure coach is Jim Boeheim at Syracuse, he’s been prowling the sidelines since November 1976 while Greg Kampe at mid-major Oakland has been head coach since 1985, as for a few of the others. Tom Izzo’s been at Michigan State since 1996, Mike Bray, Leonard Hamilton, Scott Drew and Bill Self were all hired in the early 2000’s. Perhaps a number of others might have more extensive time however the spotlight is those remaining at one school. 363 Division I coaches from Bangor Maine to San Diego California, from Seattle Washington to Miami Florida. 

What’s going on

James Harden decided to drop his thoughts on us, the Sixer guard recently said he’d be open to a return to Houston. If you remember he was a member of the Rockets from 2012-2021, the timing of his announcement is more important than anything. The Sixers are fighting for an Eastern Conference championship and Harden is in a discussion with us regarding play for another team. Sure, he’s a free agent at the end of the season but don’t you agree there is a time and place for that discussion.

This type of discussion does not occur in the middle of contending for a playoff berth and perhaps a championship. But wait, there might be more to the reasoning by Hardin. The Rockets are in a position that might allow them to choose Victor Wembanyama in the 2023 NBA draft. Could that also be a partial basis for Hardin discussing his possible move?  I hope no one misunderstands, I believe whole heartly in free agency. Players should have the right to decide which team that want to play for. Despite my belief I continue to maintain the timing for the Hardin announcement is quite unusual. 

It could happen

I am almost always on the side of caution, generally I don’t make bold predictions, and this should not be placed in that category. Some in Mizzou Nation claim Mizzou could earn an NCAA invite in March and guess Joe Lunardi agrees with them. The ESPN Bracketologist includes Mizzou in his early Field of 68. If you said tournament to me last October, I might have asked the question “What’s wrong with you?” Now I’m hesitating but saying yes possibly. As this is written Mizzou has 12 wins with one over number 16 Illinois and the other number 19 Kentucky. These folks claim, “If Mizzou is .500 in SEC play, they could earn an invitation.”

Okay, if that’s what you are stating I’m going to add 9 to the current total which now become 20 wins, that’s not enough in my view to make The Big Dance. Iona and Belmont won 25 games last season, Texas A&M along with Wake Forest were 23 game winners. All four of the schools mentioned missed the NCAA Tournament but were invited to the National Invitation Tournament. Once upon a time winning 20 games was almost an automatic directive to the tourney but no more. Cautious Calvin (me) says Mizzou can earn an invitation to the NCAA tournament but it’s going to take more than a .500 record in the SEC. Most of all it’s going to require Mizzou to continue playing the type of basketball we’ve seen over the last three games. This is a fact; they are not going to sneak up on any opposition team going forward. They must be prepared to play the type of defense/offense we’ve seen thus far.

Conflict

There are occasions I am in conflict with some portion of Laker Nation. I’m sure if you are a member this is known to many of you. There is the belief the method LeBron James arrived he doesn’t belong in the pantheon of Laker greats. I don’t know this to be a fact but consider this the issue, LeBron arrived as a free agent rather than being drafted or acquired in a trade. The other issue might be his impact or what’s occurred since his arrival. The Lakers have won but one championship since he’s come on board and let’s face it, Laker Nation is spoiled. In four years the expectations have been higher than reality. Every time LeBron ventures into areas not connected to basketball the boo birds are quick to pounce on him.

For me the approach has been quite different, I was the single member hoping LeBron “didn’t” sign with the Lakers. Prior to his arrival the Lakers had assembled a potential talented bunch of athletes. They hadn’t won anything, but the future looked bright. Then BAM, LeBron arrives and all that changes. Instead of upward progress playing youngsters a win now mantra was decided. Despite the apparent change in philosophy when healthy I still enjoy seeing LeBron on the court at age 37. The Lakers might not win another championship with him in the lineup however it’s been a good run. Laker Nation has witnessed an exciting talented player in Purple & Gold regardless of championships.

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This space reserved

It is early Wednesday afternoon some 4 hours and 30 minutes before tipoff. The Mizzou Tigers will face John Calipari and his Kentucky Wildcats at Mizzou Arena. I don’t know who wins the game but I’m hoping it’s the Tigers. A brief glimpse of the game follows for your reading pleasure or displeasure it all depends. It’s now about 8:25 p.m. Central Time, the Tigers have beaten number 19 Kentucky 89-75. Believe me when I say the score was not as close as the 14 points might indicate. As I figured Oscar Tshiebwe would lead the way for Kentucky scoring 23 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. The Tigers received another 30-point scoring game from Kobe Brown, but he had plenty of help in this win. D’Moi Hodge contributed 15 points to the total and others made their contribution with timely steals or shots.

It figures Kentucky with its much taller lineup would outrebound the Tigers and they managed to do that; this would be the only area they would surpass Mizzou. The Tigers shot 49.1% from the floor 40% from the 3pt line. They led Kentucky in steals and assists, also in a surprise they had 4 block shots to Kentucky’s 1. Mizzou forced Kentucky into 14 TO’s while they only had 8, I almost skipped over this one. Mizzou shot better from the free throw line 82% to 62%. I believe the question on Mizzou’s “soft-schedule” is now at rest. Victorious over then number 16 Illinois and beating number 19 Kentucky I believe the message is now clear…no more talk about the non-conference schedule. Mizzou now has 12 wins versus 1 loss and is 1-0 in the SEC. Mizzou is off until next Wednesday as they journey to Fayetteville to face number 9 Arkansas.

“The best laid plans”

Are you aware of the adage, “The best laid plans of mice and men.” It simply states no matter how carefully you plan something it doesn’t always work out, that would be yours truly. On Tuesday evening I discovered the Mavs and Knicks were available on NBA-TV. I decided to watch the game but halfway through I had to complete Off the Dribble, so I changed channels and missed history. I discovered after the game was completed; I’d missed a historic night in the association. The Knicks had a 9-point lead with under two minutes, despite that fact the Mavs were winners in OT. Luka the Don had a historic game, something the NBA had never experienced 126-121 was the final score but Luka, what can I say?

A triple double in an OT game but the numbers, 60 points 21 rebounds and 10 assists in 47 minutes. 21 rebounds for a 6-foot 7-inch athlete is amazing in itself. This was not a case of Doncic just tossing up shot after shot, he only took 31 of them but scored on 21. It wasn’t a 3pt barrage either he only took 6 sinking 2 of them. He would shoot 67.7% from the floor with only 33% of it coming from three. Consider this fact, in the 47 minutes of play Doncic only had 4 TO’s. A 50-point 20 rebound triple-double game shows only two others in NBA history. Wilt Chamberlain accomplished the feat twice, Elgin Baylor and now Doncic. All this action occurred on an evening a statue of Dirk Nowitzki was unveiled outside American Airlines Center. It might be possible one day to see an image of Luka Doncic as well.

I see both sides of this issue

What you are about to read is based on my reading but also my observation of the issue. I’ve written a few paragraphs on Scoot Henderson who will be the number 2 (or 1) NBA draft pick in 2023. Jonathan Givony ESPN writer discusses the G-League Elite wunderkind and speculates whether he ever plays again. Henderson has not played since November 18; he’s been sidelined with a fractured nose and concussion protocol. The calendar is about to change over to 2023 and Henderson has yet to return to action. What goes, does he shut it down or continue to play. I’m on both sides of the issue, the pro is simple.

The 6-foot 2 combo guard continues to play and enhance his game that much more. Continued play can only make him a better player right…yes kinda? The con is very simple, Henderson returns to action and suffers a devastating injury which seriously impacts his NBA future. What to do, what should Henderson’s future action become? As I stated early, I’m able to see both sides of this pro-con discussion. Whatever Henderson decides to do I’m okay, as an example let’s look at past drafts. A number of projected lottery players played through the college season or the NCAA Tournament. As soon as play ended, they shut it down, most didn’t bother to even work out for NBA teams. With assurances of being lottery picks they decided to not risk injury, only players on the periphery must really work out for teams.

They are playing better

I’m going to write this for now and make this statement. It “appears” the drama might be over at Barclays Center…the Nets are playing much better basketball. As this is written they just beat the Cavs 125 to 117 giving them 22 wins for the season. Currently they are in third place in the Eastern Conference, only behind the Celtics and Bucks but ahead of the Sixers and Cavs. I like Steve Nash the player, there were questions about Steve Nash the coach for me.

In any event Jacque Vaughn appears to have stabilized the ship, it’s no longer sinking as it was just a few weeks ago. Kevin Durant short of injury was always there, Kyrie Irving was a different matter but even anything connected with him is strictly basketball. The win against the Cavs was number 9 in a row for the Nets. Point guard Ben Simmons has been moved into the lineup and is making progress toward that player some of us believed he was capable. I remain unsure if this Nets team has enough depth to win an NBA championship.

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Not so funny now

A change has occurred in the NBA standings, if you remember the early story the Pelicans own the Lakers first round pick thanks in part to the Anthony Davis trade. The poor start by the Lakers at the beginning of the season gave hope to Pelican fans they had a shot at drafting Victor Wembanyama. In addition it had the legion of Laker haters laughing at them because it appeared they would lose the opportunity to draft a potential star like Wemby.

Although nothing is settled at the time it is not the laughing matter the haters hoped for just a few weeks ago. It’s changed because the Lakers have shown signs of improved play over time. It’s still far too early in the season to determine the final resting place for the Lakers however I’m sure it won’t be in last place as it appeared early. As for the Pelicans and their fans they remain a twofold winner, the team has played improved basketball thanks in part to having Zion Williamson in the lineup. As this is written they have the opportunity for the 6^th pick in the 2023 draft although it could be higher. The Pelicans remain in an enviable position as they remain winners no matter the outcome of the final standings. 

Where does he stand

Arkansas made a slam dunk hiring Eric Musselman as head coach. The Razorbacks have never won less than 20 games going into his fourth year at the helm. The 2022-23 Arkansas team was expected to duplicate or possibly exceed the standard established by last season’s team. Musselman recruiting brought on board McDonalds All American and 5-star prospect Nick Smith to choose Arkansas.

Most mock draft sites project Smith as the number three pick in the 2023 draft, only behind Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson. With Division I play and the NBA in his immediate future came a present-day issue, Smith would face a serious injury concern, the 6-foot 5 combo guard is out indefinitely with a new term I’ve never heard previous. The school used the term “knee management” to describe Smith’s current condition. This is a developing story which I will continue to update as additional news becomes available.   

No do overs permitted

As most are aware Texas coach Chris Beard has been suspended, I have my doubts if he returns as coach of his alma mater. We only know an altercation occurred, when his fiancée called the police, she claimed Beard choked her which he denied. After his arrest she indicated a desire to drop the charges however that’s not possible. I certainly make no claims about my legal knowledge however I don’t believe you can accuse someone of assault and later claim “it didn’t happen.”

There are no do overs in the legal system so what is to occur going forward. Beard remains suspended until a trial occurs which means no more basketball. I’ve read it could be February before this case comes up for assignment to a court. Texas was thought to be a contender for the Big XII championship this season with Beard leading the way, all that’s changed now. This is a “He said, she said” account but that’s all the system has to work with for now. In addition today’s climate leaves no room for even the hint a male subject might have physically assaulted a female.

He's a throwback

Joel Embiid’s led the Sixers into the playoffs several times, play for a championship is yet to occur. Once Embiid was able to resolve his early NBA history of injuries, he’s been an All Star in my view. I was not upset when Nikola Jokic was awarded the MVP for the second year in a row, I believed it should have been Embiid. That issue aside other than his 3pt shooting I believe he’s a throwback to centers of the ‘50’s, ‘60’s and ‘70’s. Embiid has no sky hook or anything close, but he’s got a series of shots in and around the basket that make him an outstanding talent. Embiid’s come quite a distance from that raw player I first saw at KU years ago.

Many probably don’t remember this, he was not the starting center during the first portion of his freshman year. Tarik Black (6 foot 9 260 pounds) was playing center although he was more a power forward. There is no day and date, but Embiid would eventually displace Black in the starting lineup. Embiid would go down with an injury and miss the balance of his freshman year. I said at the time, “He needs to return to school for his sophomore year.” That would not be the case, Embiid declared for the draft and would become the 3^rd pick in the first round of the 2014 draft. His early NBA career was plagued by injuries allowing few opportunities to demonstrate his talent. It is likely Embiid misses the MVP again, but it has little to do with his ability or talent.

KenPom and others vs Top 25

I admit up front I don’t understand KenPom totally I understand why it’s an effective tool. You and I are conditioned to look at the weekly Top 25 to gauge who’s who in the collegiate world but is it accurate? I’m unsure any poll is as accurate as KenPom for this reason. Do you really believe coaches have so much time on their hands they can rate the play of teams they have never seen? We could apply the same to beat writers, I could look at myself alone.

I’m trying to follow Mizzou, Eastern Michigan, SLU, New Mexico and the Lakers (yes, I know they are not college) as closely as possible and with that I still miss or overlook stories. With KenPom teams are rated on SOS (strength of schedule) so that’s why the anomaly of Mizzou exists. Prior to facing number 16 Illinois Mizzou was rank 40 in KenPom, after the victory they dropped two spots. ESPN college uses Basketball Power Index, the difference, they have Mizzou at 67 with their tool. Bottom line whatever method used it’s my belief the Top 25 might be the shakiest of all. On the other hand nothing wrong with using the Top 25 as your barometer should you choose.

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Attention boys and girls, ladies and gentlemen

A change at the top, although nbadraft.net is the only mock site to reflect a change thus far. I call your attention to the draft site there is movement, I say surprising movement. The December 26 update by the site places Victor Wembanyama in second place, we have a new number one…drum roll please. The new number one by this site is Scoot Henderson of G-League Team Elite. This change is interesting on several levels, most are probably not aware Henderson’s missed a number of games recently.

The 6-foot 2 Scoot is listed as a point guard but in the vernacular of today’s NBA he’s more a combo. He suffered a nose fracture was in concussion protocol as well. Despite the nose issue Henderson assured us there is no intention on his part to shutting it down in anticipation of the NBA draft. Scoot will not make the rounds demonstrating his talent for several NBA teams as some draft choices. Whatever develops in the future expect the commissioner on June 22 to announce Scoot’s name be it the top choice or the second one.

“Build it and they will come”

In the movie Field of Dreams Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) hears a voice over and over. The voice convinces him to change a portion of his cornfield into a baseball diamond. Legendary baseball players from the past emerge from the edge of the baseball field to begin playing a game. Okay Larry Laker how does that relate to basketball? The University of MO announced the Wednesday game against Kentucky is a sell-out. This represents the second sell-out game in a row and provides us proof If you build it, they will come. In this instance the build represents a competitive team on the basketball court. I’m quite sure there are some reading this stating “Two sold out games in a row…big deal.”

It is a big deal because the students and fans are present, but you must give them an acceptable product. Much as I hate to admit it Mizzou basketball has not been very praiseworthy over the past few years. Since movies are ever present for me, I leave you with The Matrix. Remember when Neo was trying to figure out if he was The One? All through the movie those of us seeing the movie were not sure. In the end it was revealed, he was who they believed he was. I think that statement can be made about coach Dennis Gates, is he The One? Mizzou Nation’s seen several coaches come in the front door and leave by the back door. The 11-win start is no guarantee of future success. Will Mizzou be able to beat Kentucky…I don’t know, the hope is they play a competitive game. A game that demonstrates Mizzou is a winner.

The importance of scouting…maybe

2017 the NFL Chiefs struck the mother lode in the draft. That draft saw the Bears select Mitch Trubisky with the second pick, the Chiefs on the advice of a scout moved up in the draft to acquire Patrick Mahomes. Since then Mahomes has been a consistent touchdown maker, he’s led the Chiefs into two Super Bowls. As for Trubisky he’s now with the Steelers, he was unable to play at the level projected. In the NBA Damian Lillard a.k.a Dame recently broke the team scoring record of Hall of Fame player Clyde Drexler. Lillard played his college basketball at Weber State in Ogden Utah, I’m quite sure in 2012 the question might have been asked…who? Was he simply overlooked by scouts based on where he played? That may have been a question about his ability however Lillard was pick number 6 in that draft.

We could add Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson to our list. Playing at Tulsa and later Mizzou he became the 46 player in the second round of the 2014 draft. Last season Clarkson was the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year, this season has seen him move into the starting lineup. One more player for us to check out is now in the Naismith Hall of Fame. Without confirming I’m sure he’s the only NBA player Division II West Texas State A&M has ever produced. His name is Maurice ‘Mo’ Cheeks the brilliant point guard for the Sixers of Dr. J., Moses Malone and others, the Sixers drafted him in 1978 with the 36^th pick in the second round. There are other NBA players these are but two who may have been overlooked by scouts at a point in time. One more consideration, we have no ability to see inside someone and their desire to succeed. In the instances detailed these players clearly had talent however scouts assessing their potential talent couldn’t see the drive or will to achieve.

Who listens

A relative indicated she no longer listens to local sports talk radio. I must admit I haven’t completely divorced myself; it often depends on the day of the week and my mood. I thought it was just me but it’s clear she has a problem too. As an example this past Friday I turned on one of the locals and they spent roughly 5-6 minutes discussing the Mizzou-Illinois basketball game plus K-State basketball. They moved swiftly into a discussion of the NFL Chiefs game which was played Christmas Eve. I can’t speak for my cousin, but it appears the Chiefs inside and outside the season dominate their blab. The baseball Royals and football Chiefs are certainly of interest to me as a fan.

With no NBA or NHL here those sports are rarely discussed but I understand the why. With the World Cup being completed recently I heard lively discussions on which teams were winning, the ones who advanced etc. Do I expect talk about the NBA, of course not we have no team. That also entails for NHL hockey or other sports, but I wouldn’t expect the host to ignore basketball completely. One of the local stations has Mike DeCoursey of the Sporting News on weekly. Driving recently to work the sub host introduced him and because he also is the radio voice of Sporting Kansas City did this. He spent the next 15-17 minutes discussing the World Cup with a media member more associated with his coverage of college basketball. I realize this rant is going nowhere except to those who bother to read it, but it’s got to be my number one gripe with local sports talk radio.

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The explanation

Even the so-called experts err from time to time, I’m not in that category I’m just a fan. Despite the fact some two weeks later I’m still being asked “What happened to Mizzou” or “How could you not pick Kansas to win?” A brief explanation on my part, despite the fact of a soft non-con schedule headed into the game with KU the Tigers had produced outstanding numbers. In the prior 10 games they shot above 50% from the floor and from the 3pt line it had been well over 40%. In addition their assist, steals and opposition TO’s were outstanding.

The only negative was Mizzou being on the smallish side, no Big Men in their lineup for rebounds and putbacks. The Mizzou lineup in the KU game and the one used in the thrilling victory over Illinois was heavy with seniors and graduate transfers. This veteran presence worked well against a youthful Illinois team not so well against KU. In the end if you check my account prior to the game, I believe I stated Mizzou would win a close one. The unexpected, KU played much better than I anticipated, and Mizzou failed to play at the level I believed they were capable of. Since that loss Mizzou has wins over UCF and Illinois, I don’t have any idea what occurs on Wednesday. I hope it’s a win, but Kentucky is tough but so was UCF and Illinois.

They are missing

Christmas morning I read Steph Curry will be missing from the Warriors for two more weeks. The latest report from the Lakers indicates Anthony Davis will be missing in the same timeframe. The Warriors and Lakers are hurting without these players in their lineup. Question is one team suffering more than the other? Curry is the key to much of the success the Warriors have experienced over the last several years. As for AD it’s a slightly different record, just check this out.

The Lakers had gotten off to a terrible start however there was hope. AD rose to play as a man possessed and they began to move upward in the standings and then the injury. I offer you no specifics on the why but come to this conclusion. The Warriors missing Curry have suffered more than the Lakers. What do you think, did I miss the point I was attempting? In the Pacific Division Christmas Day finds the Warriors at 15 up and 18 down, the Lakers 13 and 19. Both teams are at the bottom of the division looking up at everyone else.

Does he remain coaching

It’s clear by now the Spurs are in rebuild mode, the question does Coach Pop remain in place. Gregg Popovich is 73 years old; he’s been coaching the Spurs since 1996. He’s the longest tenure coach in the NBA and has been for a period of time. Pop’s done it all, five-time NBA champion, that represents one of the many accomplishments of this Hall of Fame coach. Okay, I know he’s not been enshrined yet however induction will occur as soon as he’s eligible. Pop represents one of a number, those guys who could have quit coaching years ago. They continue in the role due to their love of the game and I expect one day he’ll call it quits.

This is the part I found most interesting on Pop’s resume, he’s a loser. Before you begin tossing rocks in my direction allow a brief explanation. At Division III Pomona-Pitzer his teams were winners 76 times, but they lost 129 games. In eight years at the school Pop had only two winning seasons. After a time as an assistant coach for the Warriors he returned to the Spurs as general manager and vice president of basketball operations in 1994. After the Spurs started 3-15 in the 1996-97 season, he fired Bob Hill and named himself head coach. The balance of this history continues to be written in 2022 extending into 2023. The question is posed again, does coach Pop remain in place rebuilding this Spurs team?

Prep school

KU’s Gradey Dick has clearly become a leader for his team in his freshman year. The 6-foot 8 shooting guards 16.8 point per game scoring might not detail his prowess. I attribute part of it for this Rivals 5-star prospect playing in Bill Self’s offense, the impressive part of his game is his shooting. As this is written Dick is 50.4% from the floor and 49.2% from 3pt. Dick arrived at KU from Sunrise Christian Academy in metro Wichita. We first became aware of the school with the first prolific shooter Buddy Hield.

Hield went on to the University of Oklahoma and into the NBA. There are other talented players the school’s produced, but we might question how did it start? The school was begun in 1983 by Dr. Robert Lindsted as a grade school with emphasis on excellence and biblical teaching. That first year consisted of one teacher and six students, over time it’s now 500 students on an 18-acre campus. Once the high school program was begun competitive basketball was added. I am unsure when the decision was made to play a national schedule. Once that decision was made Sunrise had to begin recruiting on a national and international basis.

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The NBA on Christmas

The NBA has scheduled games on Christmas Day since I can remember. If you intend to watch the games no need of me going over the schedule, let’s check the history. I was surprised to discover the first Christmas Day game was played December 25, 1947. The Knicks played the defunct Providence (Rhode Island) Steamrollers at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks were winners of that first game 89-75. Sidebar, the Rhode Island team was a founding member of the Basketball Association of America forerunner of today’s NBA. They went out of business in 1949 and there is no history as to why.

Back to the Christmas game a moment, it’s been played every season since 1947 except for 1998 when a lockout prevented it being played. NBA expansion changed the number of games, it would go from a single game to a double-header then to three games back to one and now the quintet we have now. I can’t close this out without mentioning Ralph Nader. In 2011 the consumer advocate wrote then NBA commissioner David Stern suggesting the games be cancelled. It was his conviction coaches and NBA players would rather be home with family on Christmas Day. Nader might have believed in his letter however his suggestion the games be stopped failed to register with the commissioner nor any fans. So there you have the brief history of the NBA Christmas Day game.

Officiating

More difficult in my view, officiating a game over playing it especially at the professional level. I realize the NFL is not the NBA but note this issue. In the Chiefs game last week a Texan safety leveled a hit on a wide receiver of the Chiefs. Six days later the NFL determines the hit qualified for a fine but wait there’s more. Game officials didn’t toss a flag on the play although they had an opportunity. Let’s face it, our eyes cannot always focus on the swiftness of NFL or NBA play. The NBA has done a similar thing, after the game admitting the official erred on his or her call. I have no answer only repeating what I once read by a basketball official.

He said, “I want you to walk out at the end of the game and not realize I was even there.” In other words that official should not become so noticeable that fans begin booing when they hear your name announced. Ask Chiefs fans about a certain NFL official. The statement by the official is true, I would ask the question “are you so concerned about being second guessed you don’t make a call?” A tool that’s aided the cause is instant replay, its used in the NFL and NBA by game officials but even that has drawbacks at times. It’s claimed officials in both sports are evaluated during and after the season. We have no idea the rating system utilized to determine the good from the bad however they certainly need to do a better job.

I didn’t realize this

Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska has always been a hotbed for basketball. A number of NBA players in the past matured their game at Creighton, the only current active player is Doug McDermott of the Spurs. From time to time we’ve discussed athletes who could have played professionally in more than one sport. I can add a name to the list one just discovered, I can add the late Bob Gibson. Those of us who might be familiar with the name remember him as a Hall of Fame pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals.

The principal reason he’s been enshrined in the hall is based on the exemplary record during his 16-year baseball career. I discovered while enrolled at Creighton Gibson played basketball. Not only did he play he was good, but the records also indicate Gibson averaged 22 points a game during his junior year at Creighton. Not only a scorer the 1955-56 records indicate he averaged 7.6 rebounds a game, but that’s also a good number for a player standing but 6 foot 1. Gibson would later play for the Globetrotters before eventually settling on baseball fulltime. So I learned valuable information while researching the career of the Cardinals legendary pitcher Bob Gibson it’s my hope you find this interesting too.

Breakout year

Despite great promise Bol Bol has fail to accomplish a great deal in his brief NBA career… till now. Bol is the son of the late Manute Bol and has shown promise however his progress has been slow. I discovered as I was writing this he was named after his great-grandfather a Dinka chief. Bol was born in Sudan but grew up in the Kansas City metro, there is a significant Sudanese population here. His bio indicates Bol attended two area high schools and two prep schools before playing 9 games for the University of Oregon. He declared for the draft and 2019 saw him selected as the 44^th pick in the second round.

The 7-foot 2 inch 220-pound Bol never played for the Heat; he spent three years with the Nuggets where he hardly played. He was traded to the Magic in February 2022 where he appears to have bloomed. He’s scoring at a 12.2 point per game clip, that might not sound as anything special. If we look at the single digit scoring in his first three years his output is certainly a bonus. The key appears to be playing time or P/T as Dick Vitale might say, Bol and anyone else certainly cannot learn to play in the NBA sitting on the bench. Bol’s been a starter in the first 27 of the Magic’s 32 games. At the time I compiled a list of Kansas City metro NBA players on another occasion, I overlooked Bol. In closing the question is posed again, has this become a breakout year for Bol?

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This is interesting

Searching for stuff to write about I came across this bit of information. I was looking at the Kansas City Roos roster and focused on a name, Abdullah Olajuwon a 6-foot 4 freshman guard. My first thought “Is he related to Hakeem”, after checking Hakeem’s bio it was confirmed? The bio confirmed my belief, he is the son of Hall of Fame center Hakeem. I attempted to research Abdullah however not a great deal of information is available. Abdullah represents one additional player I will attempt to follow in the 2022-23 college season.

$100,000

It’s my contention the Kings now called Sacramento home in lieu of $100,000. That is not a great deal of capital today however in 1976 it was, a cash convertor indicates in 2022 we are talking $523,746.92. I’m not going to detail inflation and other factors raising the amount. This discussion centers on the ABA dispersal draft. There is no doubt management of the Kansas City Kings wanted players but only based on what they could manage to pay for. The Nuggets, Spurs, Pacers and Nets were absorbed into the NBA, players from the remaining teams were placed in a pool.

The existing NBA teams were allowed to draft from this pool, the Kansas City Kings would choose third based on their won-loss record. They chose 29-year-old Ron Boone a very good player but a guard. Keep in mind the NBA of that era was a Big Man’s league. Every team was vying for a quality center and the Blazers with the 5^th pick secured that player. Although he didn’t remain with them the Blazers, they chose the late Moses Malone. Keep in mind Malone had come off a rookie campaign for the ABA Utah Stars, drafted directly from high school there was little need for adjustment to professional play. Malone’s rookie year with the Stars saw him score at an 18.8 point a clip along with 14.6 rebounds a game.

The Kings signed talented Boone for $250,000 while the Blazers added Malone to their roster for $350,000. If Malone surrounded by additional talent with the Kings, it’s no telling what might have been the future for the franchise in Kansas City. Malone would go on to a stellar NBA career eventually being enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. As for Boone it would be a highly successful 13-year NBA career but nowhere close to what Malone was able to accomplish. Hey, I’ve caught myself once again conducting revisionist history I apologize.

24-hours

This is written within 24 hours of the Mizzou victory; it will not be published within the window. I said on Friday morning Mizzou Nation had a narrow window to celebrate the victory. On Wednesday the Tigers will face another Top 25 team, number 19 Kentucky will be in Columbia. Kobe Brown was the clear leader in the Illinois win but there was plenty of help by his teammates.  Coach Gates continued his pattern of playing his roster, 9 Tigers saw action in this game against Illinois. D Moi Hodge contributed 20 points and DeAndre Gholston emerged off the bench scoring 15 points. Ronnie De Gray III only scored 10 points but the 6 foot 6 De Gray III played a key defensive game. Mizzou got off to a slow start against UCF, that would not be the case against Illinois. Although they raced out to a lead Illinois did rebound and at one point tied the game 10-10.

From that point on Mizzou sprinted ahead playing tough defense first and then timely shooting racing out to a lead over Illinois they would never relinquish. My only concern looking ahead Mizzou is an under-sized team. On the roster but not on the floor for game action is Mohammed Diarra 6 foot 10 from Garden City Community College and 7 foot 2 Mabor Majak who arrived from Cleveland State. Maybe both need additional seasoning to prepare themselves for Division I play, it sure would be an outstanding addition if either one can begin contributing. The road is certainly going to be tougher ahead, I certainly don’t expect an “Illinois game” every time Mizzou is on the court. I was a Cuonzo Martin fan, but there was a need for change. There were plenty of naysayers at the time Dennis Gates was hired…I was not among that number. Is Mizzou a Top 25 team, its my contention they belong in the number. They were laughed at based on their early season schedule, then beat Wichita State and UCF. They lost their game against the 2022 NCAA champions but beat number 16 Illinois.

Is this the right time?

I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage “Timing is everything.” That might indeed be the case for the Lakers Wenyen Gabriel, don’t worry if the name is unfamiliar to you. Gabriel is a 6-foot 9-inch power forward; he played his college basketball at Kentucky but only played two years before declaring for the NBA draft. Gabriel went undrafted and then his basketball journey began as he moved from point to point. It was the NBA Kings then Stockton in the G-League and from there it was the NBA Blazers and Pelicans. He then moved to the G-League Herd from there to the NBA Nets, the NBA Clippers and the Pelicans.

In March 2022 Gabriel signed a two-way contract with the Lakers which he later signed a standard contract through the season. LeBron James indicates he’s going to help Gabriel as much as possible. I’m going to read the mind of James and say, “He sees the raw talent and potential ability of Gabriel.” The bio for Gabriel indicates he arrived at the University of Kentucky from Massachusetts, but the journey began much further. He was born in South Sudan and the family moved to Egypt due to the civil war, from there it was immigration to the U.S. From all the moves it appears likely the timing wasn’t right or there were too many bodies in front of him preventing play.

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Best ever

I had no idea what to expect, Mizzou was coming off a tough win against UCF. Illinois came into the game the number 16 team in the nation so you can see my concern. My hope was a good game and hopefully a Mizzou win. This Tiger team gave me so much more than I expected as they ran past Illinois winning the game 93-71. How did they win, outstanding shooting from the floor 59% from the floor and 50% from 3pt? 

They added 23 assists and 13 steals against Illinois at one point in the game the Tigers had a 35 points lead and that was the scoring in another area. The Tigers scored an astounding 35 points off of Illinois turnovers. Senior Kobe Brown led the way with 31 points and 8 assists but it was a team effort by these Tigers. They played belly button defense on Illinois holding them to 40% shooting from the floor. Mizzou came close to playing as perfect game as possible, the team plus Mizzou Nation has 24 hours to celebrate the victory because always tough Kentucky is next as SEC play begins. 

51 years ago

It was December 22, 1971, the Lakers beat the Baltimore Bullets (Wizards) 127-120. The win became number 27 in a row breaking the professional team win record established by the 1916 New York (San Francisco) Giants.  That 1971-72 Laker team might have been the best NBA team in history despite the fact the Celtics had won more championships at the time. That team had Wilt Chamberlain-center, Elgin Baylor-small forward, Hap Hairston-power forward, Jerry West-guard and Gail Goodrich-guard.  

Envision this, four of the five starters on this Laker team are enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. I’m unsure without research if any other team might have contained a similar lineup with the exception of the Celtics. From that December 22 game they would go on to win 33 games in a row establishing the current record. Since 1972 no professional team in any sport has broken that record. The 2012-13 LeBron led Heat came close, they won 27 games in a row before their streak ended. Back to the Lakers, that team finished with a 69-13 record which has since been eclipsed by the Bulls and Warriors.

What I’d like to see

We see and some attend a number of tournament games early in the non-conference portion of the season. It’s likely to never occur however I’d like to see Division I teams in Missouri play a round robin tournament during the non-conference portion of their season. One year the tournament could be played in Kansas City, the following season it would be held in St. Louis. How it would be set up I am unable to offer any plans in advance, I would leave that to those who do that kind of stuff.

It would be great to see these teams play one another which almost never occurs. Mizzou’s played Southeast Missouri State and University of MO-Kansas City in the recent past but never the others. The “others”, Southeast Missouri State, St. Louis University and UMKC. Could it occur, of course its certainly possible. I believe without offering any proof it would be well attended. Does it sound feasible to you, it does to me?

Eastern domination

Is the NBA following the lead of the NFL, that parity thing. Generally speaking we always see the Western Conference as the dominant one. Don’t get me wrong there are very good teams in both conferences, but this season is different. In the east we have four teams with 20 or more wins, Bucks, Celtics, Cavs and Nets. Checking out the Western Conference we have none, the leaders are Nuggets, Grizzlies, Suns and Clippers with 19 each. 

This is really not critical in a sense we have ¾ of the NBA season remaining. Usually by Christmas one or two Western Conference teams are playing dominant basketball, this is a distinctive season. The defending champion Warriors suffering injuries and other stuff have been spanked big time. The Lakers also expected to contend in the Western Conference cannot seem to get out of their own way. Despite the unusual standings there is still ample time for each of the Western Conference teams mentioned and perhaps others to improve their win-loss records.   

I don’t hate KU basketball

Many friends and associates perhaps some reading the blog look at the headline and say Yaa. Contrary to popular belief that is not the case, the historical record of KU basketball has been exemplary. The small cadre of head coaches allowing them to attain the degree of success cannot be compared anywhere in the nation. I have no deep issues with anyone playing for KU with the exception of Paul Pierce. As for Pierce it’s actually an incident while a member of the Celtics involving my Lakers. In my opinion maybe the best player ever matriculated at KU…Wilt Chamberlain. I have two issues which continue and cause me to look at the school side eyed. The coach, Bill Self and the small number of arrogant students, alumni and fans. Self for his downright refusal to play Mizzou after the Tigers left the Big XII.

As I’ve pointed out on more than one occasion Nebraska and Colorado two border states also left the conference, they departed a year prior to Mizzou. I cannot remember the other school, but I read Rutgers and this unidentified school changed conferences. Because they were such fierce rivals, they scheduled a home and home (similar to what Mizzou and Kansas are doing currently). Immediately after leaving the Big XII I approached a KU fan with my belief, and this is what he said. ‘If Missouri got in the NCAA more often, they might have a chance to play Kansas.’ I realize this was one individual however it’s my belief there are a small minority of fans who possess similar arrogant attitudes toward Mizzou basketball. In closing I get it; KU is either second or third in all-time wins which speaks highly of the program. One of the coaches was the guy who invented the game. Despite these facts come down to earth, everybody fails to see KU basketball as highly regarded as you see yourself.

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An unusual stat line

Big Man Nikola Jokic’ aided the cause for his Nuggets in beating the Grizz 105-91. If you check the box score for the game, you will note 13’s across the board for the Joker. 13 points, 13 rebounds and 13 assists, he shot 50% from the floor and 100% from the 3pt line. His previous game against the Hornets the line was 40 points, 27 rebounds and 10 assists. The twice MVP winner is attempting a trifecta this season. In the past there have been several NBA players winning more than two MVP’s, three wins in a row would place Jokic’ in some exclusive company few have accomplished. You know the names all in Hall of Fame. They are Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Larry Bird but none since Bird.    

It caused me a return to his pre-draft days to determine the assessment for Jokic’ and it proved quite interesting, keep in mind this is one scout’s view. The strengths are important, but I always check what are perceived as weaknesses. “An average athlete lacking great speed and leaping ability…Foot speed is a big liability. He may struggle to stay in front of NBA athletes at the center position…Needs to improve as a post player, gain strength and develop a repertoire of back to the basket moves.” The speed part we can debate, leaping ability is a question now since he’s a constant double-double man. So there you have it, Nikola Jokic’ a.k.a. The Joker. One might ask who are the 40 players drafted ahead of Jokic’? In my view the only comparable player is his MVP rival Joel Embiid drafted at 3. Most are average to good; some are no longer in the NBA so you can easily understand my question. 

Have you heard this saying?

“The more things change the more they stay (or remain) the same.” 5-star prospect and 6-foot 11 center Makur Maker committed to Howard University a historically black college in the nation’s capital in July 2020. The landscape was to change at least that was the statement made at the time. It had been decades since a high-profile high school basketball player committed to an HBCU. For those who might not be aware of the history it was a different time. A larger number of black basketball players chose to attend HBCU’s over state or private schools. In the deep south strict segregation policies wouldn’t allow a Mississippi or Alabama black youth to attend Ole Miss or the University of Alabama.

Civil rights legislation and society changes would see these schools especially in the south begin to recruit black players. HBCU schools were no longer able to recruit the top talent in the nation. As an example today there is one black player in the NBA where once upon a time, HBCU players dominated the rosters of most NBA teams. As for Maker, it was said in 2020 “The landscape would change with his commitment to Howard.” We are two years down the road, Maker declared for the NBA draft after playing but two games when he suffered a groin injury. Maker went undrafted and would play in Australia, currently he is playing with the Wizards G-League team. As for the expected change for HBCU schools it never came about and there might be serious thoughts it just might not ever occur.

They need to make a move

Laker Nation (and sports media folks) claim the team needs to move Russell Westbrook. That might indeed be the case however it’s my contention rather than Westbrook it should be Patrick Beverly who gets the pink slip. Allow me to state this up front I was less than enthused when the Lakers chose to trade for Westbrook. I almost became violently ill when they announced the acquisition of Beverly. This doesn’t just apply for the Lakers I’ve always seen Beverly as a one-dimensional player, more than adequate on the defensive end. He couldn’t throw the ball in the ocean if you paid him (on second thought, the Lakers are paying him). I’ve mentioned in the past the scouting staff’s ability to spot talent and that might be the case for Max Christie.

The Lakers drafted Christie out of Michigan State in the second round with pick 35. I know this because I do, Christie will not impact the defensive side of the ball in the same manner of Beverly. He will score more that is a guarantee, so what do the Lakers do? Should there be a win now or build for the future attitude, my view is why not both? There is one more youngster to consider, point guard Scotty Pippen Jr., he’s also raw although his play with the G-League Lakers has been good. The Lakers called him back to the parent club so there might be minutes available for him in the future. Let’s face it they are in a jam; they are not very bad but not very good either. An infusion of youth even in a limited role for Christie and Pippen Jr. would sure beat in my mind what I’ve seen thus far…come on coach Ham make the move…please.

Really

A website bvmsports.com contained a story recently titled “Top 10 Missouri boys basketball players in the Class of 2023.” It is interesting the top four athletes on the list are all enrolled at one school, Link Academy in Branson Missouri. We probably think the best basketball players in the state might come from St. Louis or Kansas City with their large metro populations. No it’s not St. Louis or Kansas City containing the best basketball talent in the state its Branson in the Missouri Ozarks.

What comes to mind first if we discuss Branson, well how about family vacation destination. Located in   Branson is a theme park, Silver Dollar City and a significant number of entertainment venues throughout city and its surrounding area. As for the basketball question, how did this basketball talent make its way to Branson, turns out its not local talent. All four of the athletes mentioned attend Link Academy a high school containing grades 9-12.  The prep school is fairly new having opened in 2009, the hope is it becomes the IMG of the Midwest. Keep an eye on this Ozark school as it impacts boys basketball in the State of Missouri.  

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Stretch run

Gary Parrish CBS Sports confirmed what I’d written weeks ago. His words (paraphrased) “Mizzou (and Kansas State) played an adjusted schedule based on new coaches taking over. Dennis Gates and Jerome Tang worked their schedule to condition their teams to win.” I took the words of Parrish as I looked at the road ahead for Mizzou. Sidebar, this week’s KenPom has Mizzou rated number 59 in the nation which is certainly much better than most of us might have figured.

As for the recent past and present, the game and win against UCF was certainly a tough nut but nothing like the stretch run Mizzou must now face. In parenthesis are the Top 25 teams Mizzou will face beginning Thursday in the annual Braggin’ Rights game. Mizzou will face (16) Illinois, following that game will be (19) Kentucky, (10) Arkansas and Vanderbilt. No doubt they have a mountain in front of them, can they win? Of course they can, Mizzou has a roster of players who believe in themselves and trust coach Gates. It would be stupid for me to claim they will be winners in all four matches, the hope is competitive basketball.  

I knew it wouldn’t be long

At the time John Sherman purchased the baseball Royals he was an unknown name. We have the same situation in the NBA today, Mat Ishiba agrees to purchase the Suns for $4 billion. Ishiba is a billionaire mortgage lender and although his name is unknown to most of us its claimed many in the NBA are familiar with him. Why were the Suns placed on the market, you might remember commissioner Silver suspended former owner Robert Sarver. Rather than serve out a suspension Sarver decided to place the Suns on the market.

Without checking I cannot be sure of a start date, but this has also been mentioned. I can’t make the statement about other sports, as for the NBA its different. I can only think of one instance an NBA team remained on the market an extended period of time. The instance cited involved an owners death and sale of the team was delayed due to this issue. The information indicates Ishiba’s business is headquartered in Michigan, so we guess that’s where he lives. There is an additional item of interest, a report indicates Ishiba was a walk-on athlete for Tom Izzo at Michigan State and a member of the 2000 NCAA Championship team.

Top 25 by conference

The week of 12/19 the Top 25 by conference, this is no indication of conference strength strictly the numbers: 

1 West Coast

4 ACC

6 SEC

4 Big XII

4 Big10

2 Big East

1 American Athletic

3 Pac-12

Mexico City is ahead of Kansas City

Over the weekend the Spurs and Heat played a game in Mexico City. 20,160 fans were in Arena Ciudad de Mexico as the Heat beat the Spurs 111-101. Commissioner Silver indicated “one day Mexico City could have an NBA expansion team.” He’s never made a statement like that about St. Louis, San Diego, Vancouver or Kansas City or any other city to my knowledge. We must guess Mexico City’s moved in front of all those excepting Seattle and Las Vegas. Is it a bother for me, yes, it is and allow a brief explanation. The NBA can look at Mexico City or another Canadian city for expansion but why not explore all those in this nation first. I only caught a small tidbit on NBA TV unaware the game was being nationally telecast. As for the crowd it was difficult for me to judge because neither team represented a true home team. 

Zion

When healthy he can be a force on the basketball court. I speak of Zion Williamson Pelicans power forward, according to roster he checks in at 6 foot 6 inches in height and 284 pounds. A number of folks have stated since his NBA debut “He needs to lose weight, “one of the legion of critics was former NBA player Charles Barkley. As a reminder the Round Mound of Rebound also was the same height but weighed considerably less at 252 pounds. The running, jumping and general play of an NBA game can and does impact the legs, knees and feet.

Williamson now in his third year has seriously been impacted by the injury bug, boy when healthy he’s been amazing. Yes, when he’s able to play he’s been a monster on the basketball court. As for the weight issue that’s between him and his trainer, it’s not Barkley’s call or anyone else for that matter. This issue aside Williamson is now leading this team to a higher plain. As this is written the Pelicans have an 18-10 record and sit in second place in the Western Conference. The NBA season is lengthy, it remains to be seen if they can continue to play exemplary basketball.

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We stand on the shoulders of others

It’s been mentioned in this blog multiple times, the American Basketball Association went out of business in 1976. Historians have politely referred to it as a merger, everyone is included in a merger. That was not the case as the Nuggets, Spurs, Pacers and Nets were the only teams that moved into the NBA. With that understanding what occurred with ABA players, the majority were placed in a dispersal draft and chosen by NBA teams. What about the remainder, there were players not selected by the NBA. With their teams no longer operating they were tossed into neverland. Most of these players went to work on 9-5 jobs and today those who remain alive are retired from those jobs. Since that time a group has been in dialogue with the NBA, NBA Players Association over some type of pension or payment. An agreement was reached in July and payment of $24.5 million to these former players.

From Bleacher Report, “The NBA deemed that 115 players who played three or more years in the ABA or combined in the ABA and NBA were eligible for ‘recognition payments,’ not pensions.” There is no indication of the amount rendered although in Bleacher Report “Scott Tarter, the co-founder and president of Dropping Dimes, described former players’ reactions to the payments this month: “They were all literally sitting around going, ‘What the hell?’ These checks were so much bigger than many expected. Tarter called the timing ‘a Christmas miracle.” Keep in mind most of these former players are in their late 60’s and early 70’s. Whatever the amount these former players receive is long overdue and despite the length of time details a fix has been applied. As for the headline, whatever level we rise to we stand on the shoulders of others, those who came before us.

Medical emergency

I was somewhat uncomfortable with the latest development for the Lakers; Anthony Davis was out and would not return until the middle of January. Perhaps the Lakers could soldier on with Thomas Bryant occupying AD’s position. Monday afternoon came news LeBron James would be out for Monday evenings match against the Suns. I decided to check and see who else might be missing. Guards Austin Reaves and Randy Beverly would also miss the game. Before this was completed, I discovered Russell Westbrook won’t play either. I am becoming increasingly frustrated, I realize injuries are part of the game, but these Lakers…whoa.

They seem unable to remain on the court for any extended period of time. How can they even ponder a playoff run based on their current status? They are in last place in the Western Conference but has played better lately. Darvin Ham speaks of the Lakers moving in a positive direction and I have no reason to doubt him. Afterall, he sees the team up close but even the coach cannot predict an injury. It would certainly be great if the Lakers could adopt a “Next Man Up” attitude but even that might not be possible. They need the youngsters to have a baptism of fire…play them even with the prospect of losing. You cannot learn how to play in the NBA by sitting next to the coach.

Father and son

Generally this type of discussion centers on the father coaching his son, that might have occurred in the past, without research I’m unsure. This time it was a father facing the son or vice versa as opposing coaches, we had long-time coach Rick Pitino and son Rich Pitino. The elder Pitino was named coach of Iona men’s basketball in March 2020. The covid season witnessed Iona finishing with a 12-6 overall record and 6-3 in the Metro Atlantic Conference, last season it was 25-8 along with 17-3 in the conference.     

Rick is in the College Basketball Hall of Fame; son Rich probably hopes that occurs for him one day in the future. New Mexico becomes the third stop for him and after a 13-19 (5-12 conference record) last season his Lobos are 10-0 headed into this game. Sunday night would see the father-son face one another on the basketball court at the Pit in Albuquerque. The son was the winner with his Lobos winning 82 to 74 over the Gaels, and then the question what’s a Gael? Since I raised the issue, I figured I’d provide an explanation for those like me unsure. As Wiktionary explains “A member of the Gaelic-speaking peoples inhabiting Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man.” For us who didn’t know the definition of a Gael we do now.

Not that unusual anymore

SI.com recently published its list of the Top 60 NBA draft prospects for 2023. After checking the names where they played, I began a count, their list contained 5 seniors. The bulk of the prospects were either college freshman, international players, Australia, G-League or OTE. I showed the list to a co-worker and after informing him about the limited number of seniors he said this. “Evidently they can’t play”, not necessarily I assured Keenan, sometimes players are slow to adapt their game.

I used Ja Morant as an example, he was drafted from Murray State after his sophomore season. Was it possible he could have been drafted after his freshman year…maybe. On the other hand the talent was evident but there were other aspects of his game requiring work. He accomplished this during his sophomore year and was made the second pick in the 2019 draft. Morant might be an exception, a larger number of prospects after tailoring are ready for the NBA after but one collegiate season. In June when you hear of a college junior or senior drafted it has little to do with lack of talent, the issue quite often is improvement in that prospects game.

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How can your value be calculated

I’m tired and he can’t help it, he in this instance is the Lakers Anthony Davis. I witnessed the play against the Nuggets, it was a smooth move up and around Nikola Jokic’ but that was it. When AD came down, his limp down to the other end of the court on defense was obvious. He was removed from the lineup for the second half of the game, fortunately for the Lakers teammates stepped up and the Lakers registered the win. Sunday evening we received the news, AD would be missing for the next month. It will be at least January 18 before he’s back on the court again and I’ve had it.

The guy cannot seem to remain on the court any length of time. I was a defender when he was given the tag “street clothes”, a reference to his continuous pattern of injuries. My question has become how can his valued be calculated when he is always injured and out of the lineup? Notice nowhere did you read where I stated he wasn’t talented. AD has tremendous Big Man talent but his inability to remain on the court for an extended time is disappointing and mind boggling to this member of Laker Nation. At this point I would have no issue if the Lakers attempted to trade him, the only problem could they locate a trading partner with AD’s injury history?

The record

After the nail biting 68-66 win over UCF I wondered, when was the last time a Mizzou team had a similar record or one exceeding 10-1. My research indicates the 1972-73 Mizzou team playing for the legendary Norm Stewart began the season 10-1 matching this team. The All-Time record is held by the 2011-12 squad which played for former coach Frank Haith. That team comprised of Marcus Denmon, Kim English, Michael Dixon Jr. and several other outstanding players. They would begin the season with 13 consecutive wins, the first loss would occur in January as they lost to K-State.

Mizzou would go on to win four additional games before suffering a second loss against Oklahoma State. That Mizzou team won 30 games (another record) before losing in the NCAA tourney and being upset by Norfolk State. The 2022-23 Mizzou team is built much different from that 2012 team, I don’t believe anyone in Mizzou Nation is expecting a repeat of that 30-win season however we shall see what develops in the competitive SEC and the NCAA tourney should that be in the future. I’ve mentioned previously this new team consist of a bunch of guys who played elsewhere. On the surface this team appears to embrace the role the coach has placed on them, kudos to coach Gates.

Always pleasing to me

Suns guard Chris Paul helped the cause in defeating the Clippers on Thursday evening. Immediately after the game he and family boarded a private plane for an east coast flight to North Carolina. Back in his youth Paul attended and played at Wake Forest, similar to a number of athletes he left school prior to completing his studies. Cross town HBCU Winston-Salem State would become the school to complete his work.

Paul graduated with a degree in Mass Communications some 19 years after beginning his NBA career. These types of stories are always gratifying to me for one simple reason. Paul, Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Vince Carter and others have returned to school to complete their studies for an undergraduate degree. Despite the fact these athletes pursued a successful NBA career they felt the need to complete their education believing in the importance of it. We read and hear so many negative stories regarding athletes and education, it’s always a good thing for us to see there are a number completing the journey.

The NFL interfered

I didn’t realize Eastern Michigan was scheduled to play, besides the fact Chiefs football would have prevented me from seeing the game. The Eastern Michigan Eagles won a tight game 79-77 over Detroit Mercy, Emoni Bates was tied for team high in points with Tyson Acuff they scored 19 points apiece. The balance of numbers registered by Bates were good, he shot 42% from the floor and 50% from the 3pt line, also in the number was 6 rebounds along with 2 steals. I’m unsure if this was mentioned the last time, Bates is now listed as 6 foot 10 and is recorded as a guard/forward on the EMU roster.

Facts

The hire of Jacque Vaughn by the Nets was a significant event, more than half of the 30 head coaches in the NBA are black, Erick Spoelstra of the Heat is Filipino-American. It’s not just the NBA we can look at coaches in Division I college basketball. The figures represent the 2021-22 season, and I discovered this information. The number was 358 total and of that number 110 were black and they hold coaching positions from coast to coast. In addition I discovered black head coaches at the University of Maine and the University of Montana two states with small black populations.

How about the nations favorite sport the NFL? The number of black head coaches in the NFL stands at 3, you remember the story, don’t you? The league set up the Rooney Rule to ensure a coaching search was fair and concise. You might ask about college football, there are 13 black coaches in NCAA FBS programs out of 131 college teams. This shouldn’t be considered an attack on the NFL, college football or Major League Baseball however these sports could do a better job in their hiring practices especially since black athletes make up the majority of most rosters with maybe baseball being the exception.