Basketball from a fans perspective

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No swoosh nor 3 stripes for him

The headline is pointing toward Nike (swoosh) and Adidas (3 stripes), those are the symbols associated with the apparel and shoe giants. Despite Nike being the leader followed by Adidas Duke’s Cooper Flagg decided to go another direction. Flagg has signed a deal with New Balance which includes his NIL year at Duke and multiple years in the NBA. I along with most of you were aware Flagg hails from Newport Maine. This is the portion of the account that was enlightening for me and maybe you as well. 

New Balance has a shoe manufacturing plant in Skowhegan Maine about 25 miles from Newport. No $ amount is indicated in the news release for Flagg but you can bet there will be large sums of money headed to his bank account. This in a related story was a little confusing for me but I’m going to report it anyway. Paul George when questioned hinted Flagg’s capability to that of Michael Beasley which I thought rather odd. If you remember Beasley had no issues scoring there were other facets that kept him from reaching his full potential. Is George indicating he sees portions of Cooper’s game similar to Beasley? Wait there is more, former NBA player and podcaster Gilbert Arenas had a comment on the Cooper shoe deal. You realize of course Arenas has an opinion on practically EVERYTHING. 

Arenas hinted he was surprised Cooper didn’t sign with Nike, “Evidently they saw something they didn’t like.” He makes this statement despite the fact Joel Embiid has a Sketchers contract and Steph Curry’s with Under Armour are well compensated. This is what I don’t undertake, I never want to spend someone else’s money. I cannot be sure of this statement however should the Skechers or Under Armour agreements expire Embiid and Curry are headed someone…maybe to Nike.

Can they do that?

Currently twice NCAA champion UConn is a member of the Big East Conference…maybe not for long. As you are aware several sources are reporting the team is possibly moving to the Big XII Conference. The reason I use the term possibly is one party to this move is not so pleased. Allow a further explanation, Fox Sports has an agreement in place to broadcast Big East basketball and that is the issue. If UConn moves to the Big XII the broadcast agreement will not disappear, it’s more than one team leaving the conference.  

With Georgetown basketball no longer what it once was UConn has now become the crown jewel of Big East basketball. A pause now, if you are a student, fan or alumni of Marquette, Creighton, Seton Hall, St. John’s and others this should not be taken as me being critical of your teams. This is strictly a dose of reality for some reading this, UConn, a two-time NCAA champion is the main focus of Fox Sports. Based on this issue alone Fox has gone on record indicating they oppose this move, what might occur in the future? I ain’t no attorney however the broadcast agreement is with the conference not an individual team (UConn), 

Big East basketball is likely to continue to exist although that is not assured. We need look no further than the Pac-12 which apparently is on life support at this period. This is another basketball case that might be settled in court rather than on the court. In addition according to Dennis Dodd of CBS Sports all presidents are not in favor of adding UConn. The reported number indicates there are 8 unidentified schools in opposition.

Wow, I didn’t know that

I read an article that claimed the State of Texas has the 3rd most billionaires in the nation. Could that be a partial explanation why there are three NBA teams in the state? That fact probably has little to do with basketball but let’s check out the history briefly. The team with the longest tenure is one you might not have considered the Spurs. The Spurs were an ABA team originally having been founded in 1967. San Antonio was not their original home, it was Dallas (yes I wrote Dallas). The Dallas Chaparrals played in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro but had trouble drawing fans.

The owners tried to market it as a regional team playing in Fort Worth and Lubbock. A new ownership group purchased the team and moved them to San Antonio for the 1973-74 season where they have remained to date. The second team to play in Texas was not born in the state either, in 1967 the NBA expanded to San Diego, the Rockets called California home until 1971 when the franchise moved to Houston. The last Texas team, unlike the others, always had Dallas across the front of their jerseys. The Mavericks were an NBA expansion team who began play in 1980. All three teams have tasted success over the years, all have won NBA championships however I must say the Spurs sit above the others. The Spurs lead the way with their 5 championship wins.

More is expected

The Spurs won only 22 games last season, this record was recorded despite Wemby. You know his full name its Victor Wembanyama NBA Rookie of the Year, he should have been Defensive Player of the Year as well but that’s another story. In any event the Spurs were active over the summer in the NBA draft and free agency. They signed point guard Chris Paul and small forward Harrison Barnes two veteran players who should be worth an additional 15-20 wins for the Spurs.

As for the draft they selected 6 foot 6 inch combo guard Stephon Castle from the NCAA champion UConn Huskies. Returning from last season is shooting guard Devin Vassell now beginning his 4th season at the ripe age of 24. The Wemby we saw at the end of last season should be enhanced even more with the addition of Paul to the roster. The remaining question is depth, the reserves appear adequate however season play will be the final determinator just how good. The coaching of Gregg Popovich will be a key as well to Spurs success.

Basketball from a fans perspective

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Bits n Pieces of information

The Maui Invitational Tournament is scheduled to be played November 25 through the 27. You might remember it could not be played in Maui last season due to the devastating fire suffered by the island residents. Due to the fire last season the tournament was held but moved to Honolulu. Scheduled to play this November are Memphis which will face UConn, Colorado and Michigan State, Auburn against Iowa State and finally Dayton against North Carolina. Those are the initial games and one of those teams named will find itself the tournament winner on the 27. As for the location the games will return to the Lahaina Civic Center which was spared damage last year despite the tremendous loss of life and property all around the island.

The comment by Anthony Edwards managed to upset Magic Johnson. Edwards said this: “Michael Jordan was the only skilled player back in the day,” that statement did not sit well with Magic Johnson. This from Johnson “I never respond to a guy who’s never won a championship…He didn’t win a college championship, I don’t even know if he won a high school championship.” I can answer the question for Johnson, Edwards did win a state championship for Holy Spirit Prep in 2018. In Georgia private, independent and parochial schools play separately from public schools, they compete in the Georgia Independent School Association. My two cents worth, Edwards is only 23-years old. The only opportunity for him to see Jordan or anyone else of that era is video. Nothing beats the ability to see that player in action, Edwards certainly couldn't have witnessed anyone of that period except via YouTube.  

I am writing this not upset only offering an explanation of my dilemma and perhaps yours as well. Next season when the new NBA television contract takes effect change will occur in my household. The games on the NBC Network or ESPN no problem, I don’t have Peacock nor do I plan on paying for another streaming service so I will miss those games. The same goes for Amazon although it’s slightly different, Thursday night NBA games cannot begin until after the NFL season is complete. As most are aware Amazon has an NFL agreement in place. In conclusion there will be plenty of NBA games available the question might be…can you the viewer see all of them? Better yet the question might be are you willing to pay more to view them?

Once upon a time younger players would gladly give up their jersey number if a veteran player were acquired that wore the number previously. That was then, this is now at least for Russell Westbrook. As most of you are aware the longtime point guard has worn 0 throughout his NBA career with several teams. He’s now a member of the Nuggets and this is the development, Westbrook says he never approached Christian Braun regarding his jersey number. In any event its been reported Westbrook will sport Nuggets jersey number 4 when the season begins, that’s an interesting development.

Akron 

This is pretty amazing, we might wish to refer to Akron as the basketball capital of America. This northern Ohio city according to the 2022 census contains 188,509 persons certainly not huge, despite that fact check out the talent born in the city. The late Gus Johnson 1983-1987, at the time the power forward position was first described in the NBA he was the model. In addition to that fact Johnson’s greatest years were the period he played for the Baltimore Bullets 1963-1973.

Johnson had a high school teammate the late Nate Thurmond 1941-2016. Thurmond a longtime NBA center spent his best NBA years with the Warriors and Bulls. The next two profiled were born at the same Akron hospital, they are Steph Curry and LeBron James. For me this is the most interesting portion of this story, Johnson and Thurmond are enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. Curry and James are awaiting retirement when the clock begins ticking for them, imagine four hall of fame players born in one average sized population Midwest city. There are many others born in the city but I will close now with Larry Nance Jr. currently with the Hawks also was born in Akron.

That term used again

Dick Vitale was looking at the 2024-25 college basketball season, his outlook focused on mid-major schools. This is not intended as a criticism of Vitale only the term mid-major, what does it describe. Is it student enrollment, conference affiliation or some other barometer of measurement? We can easily eliminate at least one of the terms described…student enrollment. As an example Notre Dame University long a football and basketball power nationally has only 13,000+ students.

As most are aware the Fighting Irish are considered a major player, contrast this with Loyola University Chicago which contains 16,000+ students yet is termed a mid-major by the sports media. It was once written major schools consisted of Big 10, Big XII, SEC, ACC and Pac-12 conference. Unless there is a revival in the future the Pac-12’s gone out of business. If we use football as the basis this is the interesting part UCF, Cincinnati and Houston didn’t accomplish anything so to speak in football except move to “major” conference. I’m a party of one, I alone cannot force sports media to cease using the term. It’s my belief mid-major is no longer valid.

Basketball from a fans perspective

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8-24

Why now and not when he was alive is the question? I don’t remember, this may be the first 8-24 I paid attention. The numbers 8 and 24 represent the two jersey numbers worn by Kobe Bryant while playing for the Lakers. Kobe Bryant was a lightning rod for a number of NBA fans, you either loved him or hated him. As for the haters at the top of the list is one Jason Whitlock who never ever had anything kind to say about Kobe in life. Once he died in the tragic helicopter crash even his words changed. Whitlock and several others wrote and made nice regarding Kobe.

What were the reasons for “I hate Kobe” and after his death it became “I love Kobe.” It was written he wasn’t a good teammate, he expected those on his team to work as hard as he did. That is the basis for the feud that developed between him and Shaq. As for others one story sticks out in my mind…working. An unidentified teammate once told Kobe he wanted to work out with him. So the story develops when the teammate shows up in the gym at 7 or 7:30 a.m., Kobe had been there since 6:00 a.m. He is reported to have said “I knew then he was very serious.” I believe he would have made a terrible coach for one reason alone, Kobe would have expected every member of the team to practice and play at the same level as him. None of us walk through life without controversy and certainly the most serious was the Colorado rape trial of Kobe Bryant.

I’m not going to comment other than to say it was a serious matter, despite that fact an agreement was reached between the two parties and it was over in time. The controversy was over for some but not others. Veteran news anchor Gayle King brought it up days after his death, this for reasons unknown to me and perhaps others. The Lakers unveiled a statue of Kobe and daughter Gigi which says it all for many. Next year I am going to look at August 24 or 8-24 a little differently remembering the legacy of one Kobe Bean Bryant.

The fix

If you are one of the many complaining about international players in the NBA draft I have the fix. The NBA should return to the 1990’s, back then only a small number of international players appeared in the draft. There I have fixed it for you, forget that statement international players are here to stay. The vast majority have been vital contributors to successful play, a number have become NBA champions. With that said allow me to really brighten your day, did you think the “French Invasion” was over after the 2024 draft…hardly.

This is early but I’m checking out nbadraft.net, their number 3 prospect in August 2025 is Nolan Traore. Traore is a 6 foot 4 185 pound point guard who plays for PFBB in the Euro League. At number 22 is Zacharie Perrin a 6 foot 10 220 pound power forward, Perrin plays for Sluc Nancy. We close this with the name of Noa Essengue a 6 foot 10 200 pound small/power forward, his current team is Ratiopharm Ulm. These names are listed as first round draft choices, although no French players appear in the second round don’t fool yourself. There are always unexpected names who popped up in this round and we might see other French players in the draft.  

No longer operating

It was mentioned earlier that NBA G-League Team Elite closed shop in March 2024. What occurred for the promise of developing talent for the NBA? Four years ago the landscape was different, I’m not going to attempt a chronological order but just events surrounding basketball which changed how Elite would operate. As you might remember high school prospects with the NBA in their future had two choices, they would play in Australia or attend college for one year. The NBA maintains an age 18 or one year after high school to play so that’s what faced prospects. The “ground began to shift,” a prospect might remain a one and done player however Name, Image & Likeness money was available. Once considered a no-no being (legally) paid in college was now okay.

In addition there were likely college basketball players earning far more income than those playing for Team Elite. Another downside, instead of spreading the players throughout the G-League all were concentrated on a single team. Despite this issue several Elite talent managed to find its way into the NBA draft although probably not the number anticipated. Let’s just say G-League Team Elite might have been a novel idea but circumstances changed that. Some of the changes could not be anticipated (NIL) while others should have been planned more carefully. So what’s left, for now Overtime Elite in Atlanta appears to remain in operation. High school prospects can play there if desired, at the same time the NBL in Australia remains a possible destination for others. The NBA Players Association along with the NBA appear in no rush to repeal the age 18-one year after graduation rule.

Bits n Pieces of info

There are individuals in Laker Nation who held out hope the Clippers would leave town. They believed Seattle would be the destination for at least two reasons. Number 1. Owner Steve Ballmer likely has connections from his Microsoft days. Microsoft HQ is Redmond Washington located in the Seattle footprint. Item 2., Seattle has a tremendous desire for the NBA to return, of course it ain’t happening soon but apparently someday. Now that owner Ballmer’s dream of his own arena is complete with the Intuit Dome you really believe he’s going anywhere. My belief is Los Angeles will always remain a two-team NBA city, the Clippers will never ever be the Lakers. In order to be successful the Clippers must be the best version of the Clippers. The Clippers have certainly tasted success in the regular season but have never extended that into the playoffs. Injuries to key players has been the key, how do you avoid them?

Is UConn on the move, we don’t know that to be a fact however reports continue to circulate that is the case. The reported destination for basketball play is the Big XII Conference (or whatever the name eventually becomes). It appears the conference wants UConn more than the other way around. The move is clear regarding basketball but what about football…how would this move affect the Big XII Conference. As for the football UConn is listed as a Division 1 FBS program, which totally confuses me. It says UConn does not play football at the same level as Kansas.

NBA TV ran a documentary titled Bad Boys, for those who might be unaware it dealt with the Detroit Pistons of the late 1980’s through a portion of the 1990’s. I’m unsure who tagged the team Bad Boys but the term certainly fit. I have no method to prove the point I’m about to make only a belief. Whenever a team wins there exists a number of fans who hate a team for winning. It’s my belief unlike the Bill Russell led Celtics, the Showtime Lakers or even the Jordan Bulls the Pistons have always been omitted in conversation of great teams. I believe part of that was due to the “roughhouse” style of basketball they played. If we look at the other teams mentioned they won championships and offended quite a number of fans. For the most part they never played the physical style of basketball of the Pistons, it’s my belief that might be the basis why they are not held in high regard as the other teams mentioned.

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We have come to a halt for now

Intuit Dome is now open officially the project is finished, I had posted earlier entertainer Bruno Mars would be the opening act, October 23 the first regular season game will be played by the Clippers as they begin the start of the season. As for other projects I will state they appear in a holding pattern. The only one approved thus far is a new arena in Oklahoma City has been announced but that’s about it, no architectural renderings have been produced to date.

The arena has a planned opening of 2029 which is still possible however groundbreaking must occur by the end of this year to reach the established timeline. In Philadelphia, the water is certainly murkier than in Oklahoma City, there are residents and city government concerns on 76 Place at Market East. I’d reported earlier Camden New Jersey is now in the middle of this project hoping to lure the Sixers to move across the state line. In San Antonio, the Spurs want to build a $1.2 billion arena and stadium downtown. The Express-News indicates the Spurs are working with city officials trying to figure out who pays. There you have the latest information available on various arena projects.

What if I told you

If you live in Chicagoland and age 50 and below you thought it was the Bulls. As far as you were aware Chicago’s had only one NBA team and that’s the Bulls, that is actually not the case. Chicago and the NBA go back to the origins of the league…that long ago. Chicago was an inaugural member of the Basketball Association of America (NBA) which began play in 1946. The Stags were good, the first season saw them finish with a 39-22 record. In the playoffs the Stags won in the semi-finals against the defunct Washington Capitols 4 games to 2

Despite this fact in the finals they lost against the Philadelphia Warriors 4 games to 1. The following season would be the only losing one in their brief history, after the 1949-50 season they closed shop. With that came a bit more NBA history, Bob Cousy was drafted by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks but wouldn’t sign. Cousy’s draft rights were traded to the Stags and when the team folded a dispersal draft was held. The Celtics chose Cousy and the balance of that is NBA history. Home court was Chicago Stadium which later became the House of Michael Jordan but that would be much later. In 1961 the NBA expanded and Chicago was awarded a franchise nicknamed the Packers. The basis for a name change is unclear but the second season witnessed a name change as the team became the Zephyrs, year three the franchise moved to Baltimore Maryland.

Expansion teams suffer in their early years due to the number of losses. Despite this issue they managed to draft a Hall of Fame player Walt Bellamy who became NBA Rookie of the Year in 1962, this was followed by Terry Dischinger who was 1963 NBA Rookie of the Year. Bellamy is in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame, Dischinger was honored by his selection to the College Basketball Hall of Fame. After this move Chicago was without an NBA team until the expansion Bulls were born in 1966. The Bulls become the third NBA team to have Chicago on the front of their travel jersey.

The rivalry continues

As this is written I’m unsure if the Pac-12 still exists, despite my statement I believe a portion of the conference lives on. Arizona and UCLA longtime conference rivals will continue their own court battles. This will be done despite the fact these two Pac-12 members are now in separate conferences. Arizona’s now moved into the Big XII and UCLA is a member of the Big 10. According to the statement the school’s will face one another at least 3 times over the next 4 years.

This development reminds me of the Kansas-Mizzou rivalry, at the time Mizzou departed for the SEC parties associated with the Jayhawks were upset with the move. I continue to believe to this day without offering you any proof it was Kansas coach Bill Self. A charity game between the two schools was primarily responsible for renewing the rivalry again. This effort to continue play with rivals is not new, Rutgers was a member of the AAC from 1991-2013. At the time Rutgers departed for the Big 10 Conference they continued non-conference play with one former longtime rival.

Did it begin with him

I just watched Iceman on NBA TV, the copyright says 2023, although I’ve never seen it before I’m sure some of you have. Magic Johnson claims, “Without George Gervin there would be no Magic,” a compelling statement made by him. Although Gervin is in the Naismith Hall of Fame for a number of reasons his name is missing in conversation when we discussed the best ever. Although Magic was born in Lansing it’s only 100 miles as the crow flies from Detroit. Detroit, nicknamed the Motor City and it was also the home of Motown and headquarters still for much of the American automobile industry. Gervin was born April 27, 1952, in Detroit.

His bio indicates “He struggled on and off the basketball court until his senior year, a growth spurt allowed him to average 31 points and 20 rebounds.” It was Eastern Michigan were he made his name although initially he began college play at Cal State-Long Beach. Gervin tasted success on the basketball court however a fight with an opposing player and yearlong suspension caused him to withdraw from school. Initially he played for a team in the defunct Continental Basketball Association, later it would be the San Antonio Spurs of the ABA. How did the nickname “Iceman” come about, it was claimed he played the game at a high skill level without sweating. There is so much to cover about the man most of it his interaction with other human beings over basketball. He is one of those individuals enshrined twice, in the College and Naismith Hall of Fame, time and space will not permit all there is to the George “Iceman" Gervin story.   

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It was 1975

Prior to the Steph Curry Warriors the last championship was won in 1975, that team was led by Hall of Fame players Rick Barry and Jamal Wilkes. Of course Barry and Wilkes had help from a deep bench as they swept the Washington Bullets 4-0. That team was led by former Warriors point guard turned head coach Al Attles, he was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors from HBCU North Carolina A&T in 1960. He moved with the team once they relocated to San Francisco.

Attles would remain with the Warriors initially as a player, then it was player-coach and then a move to the bench. His teams won 557 games including the 1975 NBA championship. Once Attles retired from coaching he didn’t leave the game in the rear view mirror he remained with the Warriors as general manager, vice-president and consultant. On Wednesday it was announced 87-year old Al Attles died after spending several weeks in hospice care. Attles once said, “Me and Wilt Chamberlain combined for 117 points in a game.” Of course this was Chamberlain’s 100 point game which set the NBA record. Al Attles was a 2019 Naismith Hall of Fame honoree as a contributor to the NBA.

Soft or easy schedule

A sizable number of schools program soft schedules in order to inflate their resume. At the same time there is the prevailing thought if the schedule is tough it prepares the team for an NCAA run in March. How about a team’s schedule being somewhere in the middle not too easy nor tough. After checking the non-con portion of the schedule that appears to be the case for Mizzou. It begins on the road against the always dangerous Memphis Tigers and coach Hardaway, the game is November 4. A few days short of a month on December 8 to be specific Mizzou will return to Lawrence to face the Jayhawks once again. 

On December 14, a road trip will see the team travel to New York City to play Long Island University coached by former NBA player Rod Strickland. A few days before Christmas the annual Braggin’ Rights game will occur, this is the match where Mizzou faces Illinois it will occur on December 22. The game will be played at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis. I hope anyone checking out the balance of the schedule believe I am shortchanging the remainder of teams. Far from it every team has ability, coach Gates has practically a new team considering the portal transfers and freshman, all must adapt to new teammates to determine how the Mizzou system is intended to work.

A way too early look at the 2025 NBA draft

You are reading this now, by the time June rolls around it could all change. Not the names but the order of the draft. An early look finds wunderkind Cooper Flagg at the top in all three mock drafts. From 3 through 5 the names are the same only the position, let’s take a look:

nbadraft.net                           nbadraftroom.com                   tankathon.com

Cooper Flagg Duke                   Cooper Flagg Duke                    Cooper Flagg Duke

Drake Powell N Carolina           Nolan Traore France                  Ace Bailey Rutgers

Ace Bailey Rutgers                    Dylan Harper Rutgers                Dylan Harper Rutgers

VJ Edgecombe Baylor               Ace Bailey Rutgers                    Nolan Traore France

Dylan Harper Rutgers                VJ Edgecombe Baylor               VJ Edgecombe Baylor

The “experts” have given us their opinion

I cannot provide you the date however I wrote of Oliver Rioux the 7 foot 9 basketball prospect earlier. Rioux played his senior year at IMG Academy and now has taken his game to the University of Florida. There is YouTube video of him in action of course it’s against high school competition, in college he won’t face anyone close to his height however an adjustment will certainly be necessary. At this stage I have no idea if Rioux can play at the collegiate level or if the NBA is in his future. As for the headline the letters came flying in after the story on Rioux was published.

I can inform you 95% of those written indicated a belief “He can’t play.” Why not wait until he appears on the basketball court before deciding he can’t play. I mentioned his height at the beginning of this account, he checks in at 290 pounds. With that height and weight he needs to gain a few pounds if we look at some post players of the past. Wilt Chamberlain was 7 foot 1 and 275 pounds, as for the 7 foot 1 Shaquille O’Neal it was a different story. Shaq was reported to be 325 pounds although its believed he exceeded that figure. I checked NBA rosters, although there are many heavy weights the Suns Jusuf Nurkic at 290 pounds is the heaviest current NBA player. Bottom line Rioux might not see much of the game his freshman year as he adjusts to the college game.

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He’s got a job

In the Olympic Gold Medal game against France Team USA found itself in a tough match. It wasn’t only Victor Wembanyama’s play he received help from Guershon Yabusele. Yabusele averaged 14 points a game while helping France earn the Silver Medal. Almost immediately after the game it was reported Yabusele indicated he wanted to return to the NBA. He briefly spent time in the NBA playing for the Celtics but returned to France. 

On Sunday ESPN’s Woj announced the Sixers signed Yabusele to a one-year contract. This is not his first NBA appearance he played a total of 74 games in two seasons as a member of the Celtics, it’s difficult to determine his NBA skill level since he received so little playing time. In any event he’ll be hustling from day one probably determined to remain in the league for a much longer period of time on this second go round.

Kansas City Blues

The headline might give you the impression the story centers on music. That is not the case, in a basketball blog 99% of it consists of basketball and that is the case here. Research led me to another league no longer in existence, the Professional Basketball League of America came into being at the same time as the Basketball Association of America (1947). Also existing at the time was the National Basketball League and the American Basketball League.

As most of you are aware the BAA and NBL merged in 1949 to become today’s NBA. The American Basketball League began play in 1925 and lasted until 1955. The history fails to provide a clear picture, it denotes the league suspended operations for the 1953-54 season and disbanded after 1954-55. As for our early focus the Kansas City Blues were one of 16 teams in the Professional Basketball League of America. I would be willing to bet money even old folks in Kansas City are likely unfamiliar with this team that existed for such a brief period long ago.

Northern Division                                                              Southern Division

Chicago Gears                                                                   Houston Mavericks

St. Paul Saints                                                                   Atlanta Crackers

Grand Rapids Rangers                                                        Birmingham Skyhawks

Louisville Colonels                                                             Tulsa Ranchers

Omaha Tomahawks                                                            Chattanooga Majors

Kansas City Blues                                                               Oklahoma City Drillers

Waterloo Pro-Hawks                                                           New Orleans Hurricanes

St. Joseph Outlaws                                                            Springfield Squires

The history indicates that with competition from three other leagues the PBLA opened and closed its doors without completing its initial season.       

Intriguing early season games

In August we have no idea if there is a 3-peat in store for college basketball, will UConn do it again? Of course that cannot be determined until April 2025. On the other hand a check of several early season games indicate a number of interesting and highly competitive one’s stand out. Let’s check out just a few of them:

Kansas-Duke is always of interest to college basketball fans. This match featuring Duke wunderkind Cooper Flagg will be played at neutral site Las Vegas on Tuesday, November 26. These two student bodies hate (strong word) one another although Coach K. is no longer on the scene.

Alabama at North Carolina-The Crimson Tide are now a basketball power (maybe they have been for a time). We know the story of Carolina Blue, both teams are highly competitive on the basketball court. This game is scheduled for Wednesday December 4.

UConn-Gonzaga is also an interesting contest, this one matches two highly competitive programs against one another. This game is scheduled for neutral site Madison Square Garden, I’m sure fans of the Bulldogs are laughing at the thought since MSG is so near Connecticut. In any event this game is scheduled for Saturday December 14

Alabama-Houston is another neutral site game scheduled for Tuesday, November 26 in Las Vegas. There is no one around to argue Alabama coach Nate Oats is playing non- viable teams during the non-conference portion of the team’s schedule. Kelvin Sampson’s Cougars are coming off an outstanding season their first in the highly competitive Big XII Conference.

Bits and Pieces of Info

Soon after the Celtics won the 2024 NBA Championship they went on the market. Ownership announced the team would be sold, I failed to mention it then I am now because of the name. Most of you are aware Jeff Bezos is one of the richest individuals in the nation maybe the world. In any event came word Bezos was interested in purchasing the Celtics, not that unusual until you are made aware of the balance of the story. The new NBA television contract beginning after the 2024-25 season contains broadcast partner Amazon. You are aware Bezos owns Amazon, this would appear to be a conflict…one I question how the NBA intends to circumvent this issue should he become the purchaser. Stay informed.

Did you catch the news, there is a “new” Zion Williamson on the scene. Remember the talk that’s followed him since day one in the NBA…he weighs too much for his height? Williamson indicates he’s now down to 281 pounds and plans on 272 by the time the season begins. I hope he succeeds in this effort to slim down. This weight issue is certainly beyond my knowledge however numerous persons have voiced their opinion on Williamson. One of those names voicing an opinion was Charles Barkley, when he arrived in the NBA he was dubbed “The Round Mound of Rebound.” The official stats claimed Barkley stood 6 foot 6 and 252 pounds, truth is he was 6 foot 5 and ½ inches.

A bit of trivia regarding The Ohio State basketball team, the 1960 team was crowned NCAA Champion. I’m sure UCLA, Kentucky can make similar claims, did you know that team would produce three Hall of Fame players and a coach? The first name is the late Bobby Knight, most know of him as the longtime coach at the University of Indiana and later Texas Tech. He was a reserve on that team however it was his role as coach that led him to be enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. The on court leader of that team was Jerry Lucas, the 6 foot 8 Lucas was a power forward and center during his long and illustrious NBA career. He too was enshrined by Naismith and the College Hall of Fame. The last name is the late John Havlicek who spent his entire career as a member of the Boston Celtics. Havlicek is also a member of the Naismith and College Hall of Fame.

Basketball from a fans perspective

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Bits n Pieces of info

Former NBA player and head coach George Karl is suffering. His illness is…well it’s a little difficult to describe. Allow this brief explanation, from time to time Karl believes it’s his responsibility to inform all within earshot how much he HATES the Lakers. Recently I wrote of the television schedule and the fact the Lakers would appear 39 times during the 2024-25 NBA season. This from Karl, “They might not win 39 games all season.” It appears the Lakers have permanent space in the mind of the former coach, honestly I think it’s funny.

One of the high profile players in the Class of 2025 made his intention known on Friday. Malachi Moreno 7 foot 1 220 pound power forward will remain “at home.” The Rivals number 22 prospect is from Georgetown Kentucky about 16 miles north of Lexington and Rupp Arena. I’m sure a few of you question whether the “NBA” pipeline would continue to roll through Kentucky with no John Calipari. We have no idea if Mark Pope can keep the line moving but this is one of the Blue Blood basketball programs in the nation. What is most interesting Moreno says Pope (a former Big Man at Kentucky and the NBA) was the source for him deciding on Kentucky.

Don’t squander the opportunity it might be over sooner than you hoped. One of the NBA sites contained a question, who is the better point guard Ja Morant of the Grizzlies or the Knicks Jalen Brunson. I have no intention of answering the question, rather this is a pensive view of Ja Morant. I was young once, I did some stupid things (certainly not as stupid as Morant). 

In my view the incredibly talented Morant is at that point, he can continue to raise the level of his game so he’s recognized as one of the best. My opening statement, after suspension Morant was prepared to exhibit his budding talent and then BAM. An injury shut him down for the season, it could have been career ending injury. He would leave the game while others say, “If only he had __________________.” Ja focus on the court and not off it while continuing to maintain who you are.

Late yesterday afternoon came word of a Laker signing. His name, Armel Traore and he’s a 6 foot 8 215 pound forward. Traore who is from France went undrafted in the 2024 NBA draft, this past season he played for ADA Blois located in Blois France. It’s a two-way contract signing so he’s likely to divide time between the South Bay Lakers and the parent club. Despite the fact Traore is only 21 years old his pro career extends back to the 2018-2019 season in France, a trivia note can be added. Traore was a teammate of Victor Wembanyama on Metropolitans 92 in the 2022-23 season. Welcome to the NBA and the Lakers in whatever capacity it turns out to be.  

1984 vs 1996

We’ve held discussions in the past, was a particular year a good NBA draft or poor. Maybe it was only average with a number of serviceable players arriving but none that might be considered outstanding. Dating back to 1947 the first BAA draft there are two that stand out, 1984 and 1996. Both contain players enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame, in addition there are perennial All-Stars who missed the cut and possibly could still be elected. Who are these players, we’ll begin with 1984 and behind their name an N will follow indicating they are in the HOF.

Class of 1984 was Michael Jordan (H), John Stockton (H), Charles Barkley (H) and Hakeem Olajuwon (H). There is star power behind the names listed in Sam Perkins, Kevin Willis and Jerome Kersey. How about 1996, that would be Kobe Bryant (H), Ray Allen (H), Steve Nash (H) and Allen Iverson (H). The class also had star power less HOF honors, Derek Fisher, Stephon Marbury, Peja Stojakovic and Jermaine O’Neal. Several names were omitted in both classes but you see where I’m going with this. I would have a great deal of difficulty stating one of these drafts is better than the other…truth is they might be on the same level in my opinion.

No introduction required

It’s the time of year when college athletes become acquainted with their new teammates. What if you knew a teammate previously going back to elementary school? Mizzou players Tamar Bates and Mark Mitchell became acquainted with one another at the time they played for opposing teams while in the 5th grade. As far as I am able to determine neither attended the same elementary school. Years later Bates would attend Piper High School in Kansas City Kansas, for Mitchell it was Bishop Miege in Roeland Park Kansas.

The two schools are located about 20 miles from each other, neither school is in the same conference. Bates and Mitchell may have played against one another in high school although that is unclear. After high school shooting guard Bates would attend the University of Indiana before transferring to Mizzou this past season. In the transfer portal forward Mitchell arrives at Mizzou after first attending Duke. Can you say CHEMISTRY, I’m sure coach Gates hopes there is a degree of that between the two. I wonder if Bates might have played a part in recruiting Mitchell to Mizzou. In any event I sure hope these new teammates manage to mesh on the basketball court.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday

“Don’t slay the messenger”

This is written for TNT analyst Charles Barkley and several others, in the recent past they have appeared on television or in print whining about the number of Laker games on television. This past week the NBA released its 2024-25 television schedule. Despite Barkley and several others complaining their opinion evidently fell on deaf ears, once again the Lakers will lead the NBA in television appearances. The schedule list 39 televised Laker games spread over ESPN/ABC, TNT and NBA TV.

Let’s delve into the reason why this exists once again. In all likelihood there is no single basis for the larger number of games but probably several.  Here are just a few thoughts of mine, if you don’t agree they are legitimate that’s okay too. As for these Lakers opening night of NBA play will see them serve as host for the Wolves on October 22 at Crypto.com Arena. By the way if you are in agreement with Barkley and company that’s okay. The headline represents an old expression, I’m just providing the news don’t become upset with me.

1. The continued elevated level of play by LeBron James who will turn 40 in December.

2. Bronny James being drafted and the opportunity to see him alongside his father.

3. They remain the NBA’s Gold Standard although last winning a championship in 2020.

4. The roster could exceed expectations.

5. The JJ Redick hire as head coach.

A similar story

In the spring of the year Jackson County voters rejected a bid for a Royals baseball park downtown and renovations to Arrowhead Stadium home of the Chiefs. Those who might be unfamiliar with the geography here a metro exists on both sides of State Line Road in Kansas and Missouri. The government in Kansas almost immediately seized on an opportunity to move the baseball Royals and football Chiefs across the line. The Kansas legislature would accomplish this without appealing to the people for a tax vote. The proposed stadiums would be constructed using bond money, locally we remain in the discussion stage nothing has been accomplished other than the vote for the bonds. Further developments will occur with another planned vote on the Missouri side of the line.

By now you are asking “This is baseball and football, what does that have to do with basketball?” I’ve attempted to make you aware of arena processes throughout the NBA, in this instance our focus is Philadelphia. The Sixers were attempting to extricate themselves from Wells Fargo Center by building their own arena. The site chosen in Philadelphia received a great deal of push back by a citizens group. What eventually occurred was a similar scenario to here, out of state elements entered the picture. It is being reported Camden New Jersey entered the picture eager for the arena to be constructed there. We have been informed the Sixers practice facility is located in Camden at the present time. We are only at the talking stage nothing’s been finalized I just thought it was an interesting story and contains some similarity to what’s occurred in Jackson County and Kansas City.

The U.S. Olympic Committee

We held the discussion at work, what occurs for Team USA men’s basketball in 2028? Several things, at the top of the list expect the Euro teams to be four years better…in addition several African nations might be in the mix as well. As for Team USA LeBron James will likely be retired, the same statement could be made regarding prolific shooting Steph Curry. With that said who is left, don’t tear up it’s not as gloomy as some might believe. I took a look at those on the 2024 Olympic team plus 2024 NBA All Stars to help the U.S. Olympic Committee to amass the 2028 Team USA roster:

Ja Morant                                 Anthony Davis

Tyrese Haliburton                      Anthony Edwards

Jaylin Brown                             Karl-Anthony Towns

Jason Tatum                             Scottie Barnes

Bam Adebayo                            Chet Holmgren

Paolo Banchero                         Devin Booker  

Tyrese Maxey                            Donovan Mitchell

Kevin Durant

There are two question marks, Paolo Banchero could play for Italy, his father is Italian. Durant might be retired by 2028 since he mentioned the possibility immediately after these Olympics. This roster is a good mix and match it contains two point guards, five shooting guards, three post players, two power forwards and three small forwards. Anthony Davis is listed as a center but could slide over to power forward, the same could be said for Karl-Anthony Towns. The portion I cannot answer as this is written what about that outstanding 2025 or 2026 rookie whose presence would aid this roster greatly. That’s the single question that cannot be answered at this time. In conclusion what do you think, is this a good mix in your view?

I couldn’t do it

After compiling a Top 10 list for Kansas, UCLA and Duke I prepared for Kentucky. After checking several names I concluded this is an almost impossible task, talent for the Wildcats goes back to the 1940’s. I’m sure fans of those programs above might be upset with my decision, I found it impossible to list 10 Kentucky players all-time. Keep in mind each of the school’s mentioned previously had players from that era but none were close to the number produced by Kentucky.

Some might considered the period and claim “those players were not as athletically talented as those of the last 20 or so years.” I can concur with that belief however I am not going to adopt it. I could start with Ralph Beard (1945-1949), then move to Bill Spivey (1949-1951) from there it was Cliff Hagen (1950-1954) later it was Cotton Nash (1961-1964). Kevin Grevey (1972-1975), Sam Bowie (1979-1984). How about DeMarcus Cousins, Mel Turpin, Rex Champman, Shai-Gilgeous Alexander. There is John Wall, Anthony Davis, Dan Issel, Jamal Mashburn and Julius Randle. I am going to stop at this point for failing to list a particular player for I’ve missed quite a few. 

Tanking

I’m reading that ugly word again, a word I have begun to detest. The word is tanking or NBA teams losing on purpose to improve their draft prospects. Why are we hearing it again, two words (or names) Cooper Flagg. If you check every NBA mock draft site Flagg’s name is listed as the number one choice. The most interesting part of this equation he’s yet to play a competitive game for Duke, as they say, “His reputation precedes him.” It’s clear Flagg is a one and done athlete although no one is making that claim.

Flagg’s 18th birthday occurs on the 21st days before Christmas which ensures he will be draft eligible in 2005. At the college level it appears Flagg is a natural small forward at standing 6 foot 9 and 205 pounds. With his skill and savvy he could slide over to shooting guard.  As for the question raised about tanking rest assured the commissioner’s office will be closely monitoring those NBA teams near the bottom of the standings. Flagg’s got some mighty big shoes to fill as the next “great player to emerge from college.” The spotlight shining on him will only intensify over his freshman basketball season, it will increase exponentially once Flagg begins play in the NBA.

Basketball from a fans perspective

Published Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday

It ain’t the NBA

Guerschon Yabusele had an outstanding Olympics for Team France. Although his name might have been unfamiliar to most he played for a time in the NBA. Yabusele was drafted by the Celtics with pick 16 in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft. Despite being a high draft pick it was only two years before he left the NBA. Although I don’t remember Yabusele as well, he played on two occasions for the Main Red Claws the G-League affiliate of the Celtics.

Yabusele would play a total of 71 games before he left the Celtics to play in China. From there it was time spent playing for a French team and in 2021 he began play for Real Madrid in Spain. Standing 6 foot 8 and 271 pounds he certainly has the girth to play power forward in the NBA. After distinguishing himself in the Olympics Yabusele indicates he is ready to return to the NBA. I’m unsure regarding his status but believe the Celtics no longer retain his rights. It would appear a team might be willing to take a chance and sign him.  

A modest life 

James Naismith died in November 1939 at age 78, that would indicate he lived long enough to see his game played at every level. In addition basketball was first played at the 1936 Olympics and has been a main stay since then. Naismith was able to see the game he “invented” played at a level he probably never dreamed as a 30-year old. Most of you are familiar with the story, Naismith a physical education teacher was looking for a winter exercise for his YMCA teams in Springfield Massachusetts. The cold New England winters meant the sport must be played indoors.

Imagine what that first game December 21, 1891, appeared, few had any idea what to do. That first game certainly look nothing like what we witness today. The players attempt to toss the soccer ball into the peach basket above them. Peach baskets were attached to the railing on the YMCA running track. Have you ever wondered about the height between the floor and a basketball goal? The track was exactly 10 feet above the gym floor. Although much of the game has changed over time the basketball goal still remains at the 10 foot level established at the time the first basketball game was played. Later Naismith would leave Massachusetts and in 1898 he would initiate the basketball program at the University of Kansas. He would teach the game to legendary coach Phog Allen who would go on to serve as head basketball coach from 1919-1956 at Kansas.

There are large sums of Naismith history space and time will not permit a full scale look at his life. If your curiosity is peaked seek out additional sources on his life, James Naismith, the inventor of basketball. In 1959 Naismith was enshrined in the Hall of Fame that bears his name. At the time the college basketball Hall of Fame came into existence he was honored there as well in 2006. As for the headline despite the fact overtime many have made millions playing the game there is no indication Naismith reaped any great riches from his invention.

Just the facts

Sometimes when compiling information undocumented sources are used. In other words the information provided is valid, how about NBA revenue? Is the league in decent shape financially might be the question. The NFL is king, there is no argument in this corner, I’m unsure if there are more NFL fans however the revenue the league derives is far above MLB and the NBA. Because this is a basketball blog that will be the focus of this account, with that statement here we go. In 2023 the NBA derived $10.9 billion from all its sources revenue is broken down in this manner.

National TV/Media (41%), Ticket Sales (26%), local TV/Media (13%), Team Sponsor (12%) and we close with Concessions/Parking (8%). Okay now that we’ve managed to digest this information what’s the objective? It’s to offer an argument we often hear from non-NBA fans. I’m sure you’ve heard it too, “Nobody is watching the NBA,” my objective is to not get into an argument with these folks but I am tempted to ask them to prove their theory. As I’ve often stated you are always entitled to your own opinion on practically everything, you are not entitled to your own set of facts. If you don’t like NBA basketball that’s your prerogative, you cannot decide if anyone is watching it just because you fail to do so.

The unwritten rules

Over the years I’ve heard a number of statements made about basketball that might require clarification or additional information. For the most part they are rather nondescript although a number I believe defy explanation, that certainly applies to all.     

1. Never match players from different eras against one another.

2. A nickname is given, a player cannot bestow a handle on himself.

3. Comparing draft choice ensure the player you use as the example is well known.

4. Become well acquainted with basketball abbreviations or phrase.

5. Research high school prospect sites periodically, they are a valuable source.

6. NBA mock draft sites are a reference tool only, an analyst opinion.

7. Don’t attempt to invoke humor discussing a serious event or person.