Basketball from a fans perspective

Published daily except Tuesdays & Thursday

Update on Victor Wembanyama

The Spurs have announced that center Victor Wembanyama will be out for the season due to "deep vein thrombosis" in his right shoulder, indicating a blood clot. While I do not have a medical background and will not speculate about next season, the Spurs remain positive about his return. Further updates on his medical condition will be provided as more information becomes available. The only speculation on my part is the NBA Draft, this issue will likely affect the Spurs outlook. I will report on the Spurs draft outlook in the next 2-3 weeks.

From a Member of Mizzou Nation 

As a long-time fan of Missouri basketball, I would like to address some of the recent comments from Kansas fans about their basketball team's performance. Many will recall that Missouri and Kansas were once both in the Big XII before Missouri moved to the SEC several years ago. With this context, I will proceed with my observations. The decline in Kansas basketball this season has led to various criticisms from some Kansas fans. I have read letters from individuals identifying as KU supporters, expressing views such as: "The game has passed him (Self) by," "Self is wasting NIL money," and "He needs to retire."

In my opinion, these statements are unfounded. Coach Self is only two years removed from an NCAA Championship. While I do have concerns regarding Self, they do not pertain to his coaching abilities. Self is adept at developing talent, but the evolving college basketball environment has presented challenges. Regarding complaints about Kansas and the transfer portal, it is important to recognize that a coach may sometimes select players who do not perform as expected. A player, regardless of talent, must be willing to adapt to changes, which might be the core issue in Lawrence, Kansas. As evidence of the effective use of the transfer portal, one need look no further than Dennis Gates at Missouri. Although I realize that Self may not contact Gates directly, he can still examine the successful results that Missouri’s coach has achieved in two of his three years on the job.

Unlike some in the media

The following reflects the perspective of a long-time NBA aficionado. Today's NBA faces several challenges loosely connected with the game. What are they, notably the influence of social media and criticism from commentators like Charles Barkley, Jason Whitlock, and Stephen A. Smith. These critics, along with social media, often highlight the league's shortcomings. They suggest (often with only their opinion) the NBA is uniquely problematic among professional sports.

Those named and others would have you believe the NBA is the only professional league with difficulties. However, a detailed examination reveals that other major leagues such as the NFL, MLB, and NHL also encounter numerous issues. The NBA does have its own on-court and off-court difficulties, yet the continuous criticism from figures like Barkley may contribute to distancing many fans who once enjoyed the sport. What are your thoughts on this examination of the sport?

They are ascending

As we approach March, some college basketball teams begin to lose momentum. The collegiate season is long, and some teams face disappointments that can affect their performance. However, there are teams like the Missouri Tigers that are on an upward trajectory. Their recent 110-98 victory over Alabama serves as further proof of their progress. At the start of the season, media predictions placed Missouri 13th in the SEC rankings, while Kansas held the top spot without Missouri being considered. On December 8, the unranked Tigers defeated the number one Kansas Jayhawks 76-67. This game likely played a key role in shaping the team's current form.

Subsequently, Missouri secured wins against number 5 Florida, number 16 Ole Miss, number 14 Mississippi State, and finally number 4 Alabama. In between those wins there were a few losses although few. With a record of 20 wins, the Tigers are now ranked 15th and are expected to break into the Top 10 by Monday. The team is preparing for the NCAA Tournament with confidence, believing they can compete against any opponent. While this may sound ambitious, it reflects the team's unity and commitment. Coach Gates has instilled a sense of determination in the players, who would willingly take on any challenge for him. Despite starting the season unranked, the Missouri Tigers have proven themselves to be formidable contenders. Although they may not be widely recognized yet, the SEC is fully aware of their capabilities.

I luv me some Rui

If the Lakers decide to move Rui Hachimura after the season I will be forced to accept it. I will not be happy but I’ve adjusted when the Lakers have traded others, allow me to explain the why. JJ Redick said, “Rui does whatever I ask of him” which says a great deal about the coach and player. If you check his numbers, as this is written they are a modest 13.4 points a game but it’s the other things. 32 minutes on the floor see him shooting nearly 51% which includes a sizzling 43.4% from three. How about a little background on Rui, born in Toyama Japan 27 years ago.

His mother is Japanese and his father is from Benin a nation in west Africa. Growing up in Japan he arrived on these shores to play at Gonzaga, and then he was drafted 9th in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft. In January 2023, the Lakers acquired Rui in a trade with the Wizards, later that year in July he re-signed with the Lakers. Back to his scoring a moment, his per game average is far from impressive but it’s the other things the 6 foot 8 230 pound small forward does. I hope Rui remains a Laker as long as he desires…if the team chooses to trade him or he signs a free agent contract elsewhere I will adjust I suppose.