A Fans Perspective

Published Monday, Wednesday, Friday through Sunday

All-time Missouri and Kansas champions

Boys' teams at several high schools in both Missouri and Kansas have achieved notable success, securing multiple championships across various levels. In Missouri, Scott County Central High School in Sikeston leads with 18 boys' championships. Vashon High School in St. Louis follows in second place with 16, while Charleston High School in Charleston has claimed 11 titles; Cardinal Ritter College Prep, also in St. Louis, holds 9 championships. In the State of Kansas, Wyandotte High School in Kansas City stands out with 20 trophies. Newton High School in Newton and McPherson High School in McPherson each have earned 13 championships, closely followed by Wichita South High School, which boasts 10 titles. Wyandotte High School is distinguished by the leadership of Walt Shublom, who served as head coach from 1955 to 1969. During his tenure, Shubloms' teams secured 10 of the championships referenced above.

How about them

On Sunday I wrote about player movement in the NBA, it was titled ‘No one remains home.’ Well that might be correct now but it’s not always been the norm. Kobe Bryant and Steph Curry’s name were mentioned as players spending their NBA career with the team that drafted them however there were others. Dirk Nowitzki spent 20 seasons in a Dallas Mavericks jersey despite the fact the Milwaukee Bucks originally drafted him. A later draft day trade sent him to the Mavs, Udonis Haslem went undrafted in the 2002 NBA draft but spent 20 seasons playing for the Miami Heat. Stockton to Malone pick and roll, on the front end was John Stockton who wore a Utah Jazz jersey for 19 seasons.

*“On May 7, 1995, with less than 19 seconds left, (Reggie) Miller scored eight points in just 8.9 seconds, including two three-pointers and two free throws.” The Indiana Pacers would remain home to Miller for 19 seasons. The San Antonio Spurs have twins in more than one manner, David Robinson and Tim Duncan both spent time as teammates one playing center the other power forward. Robinson was in the post for 14 seasons while Duncan was the team’s power forward 19 seasons. Boston Celtic forward Larry Bird and point guard Magic Johnson of the Los Angeles Lakers both arrived in the NBA the same season, they played 13 seasons. Most of the names are familiar to you however the length of their career might be unknown, now you have the information. It should be of note, with the exception of Haslem, each of the names are enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame.

*Wikipedia

Mindboggling

The Los Angeles Lakers currently hold a record of 14 wins and 5 losses, placing them in second place in the Western Conference behind the Oklahoma City Thunder. They were riding a six-game winning streak prior to their Monday night matchup with the Phoenix Suns. Although the Lakers have perform well to date, I often hear arguments that they should have chosen other players over those they decided to go with. For instance, some critics argue when the trade was made to acquire Deandre Ayton it should have been for Robert Williams III instead of Ayton.

Turning to the Washington Wizards, critics note that they picked up Rui Hachimura rather than Deni Avdija—who now plays for the Blazers. In 2024, the Lakers selected Dalton Knecht in the draft, despite Ja’Kobe Walter and Kyshawn George being available—both of whom are currently demonstrating exceptional skill levels. No matter, decisions made by groups or individuals, are usually intended to yield positive results. At times, these decisions turn out to be wrong, leaving us with no choice but to accept the results and continue on. Managing player personnel is a complex task, and anyone who claims otherwise likely misunderstands what it entails. For now, we often have to make peace with the choices made, hoping that better opportunities will arise at some point in the future.

She speaks

Stories have been circulating regarding the New Orleans Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies. In both instances the teams were “reported to be on the market.” I am unsure of the Grizzlies status however Gayle King owner of the Pelicans and NFL Saints spoke and we should listen. She indicated “neither team is for sale and there are no plans for relocation” which squashes the story of a possible move, Benson went on to address the coaching situation leaving the hire of a head coach to Joe Dumars. This is the most telling part of her interview.

“Benson explained that upon her death, the teams will be sold and proceeds will go to a charitable foundation focused on New Orleans community investment.” Benson will turn 79 years of age in January, she could live a relatively healthy life for the next 20 years. The Hornets/Pelicans franchise has not seen a great deal of stability having 9 head coaches since the 2002-03 season. Paul Silas finished above .500 (47-35) in the single season he coached, Tim Floyd who followed finished 41-41 in his lone season. Byron Scott hired to replace Floyd was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2008 but he was even later fired. From the movement surrounding the head coach there would appear to be a front office issue as much as a coaching issue. Perhaps the earlier hire of Dumars in April 2025 as executive vice president of basketball operations was intended to address front office issues.