Basketball from a fans perspective
Villanova
Sitting in the Midwest I admit I was blind-sided by east coast Villanova winning the 2015 NCAA Tournament. Don’t misunderstand they were good but good enough to win it all I didn’t think so. Just to let you know I wasn’t completely in the dark I went back to last season to check and it appears I wasn‘t alone. Villanova began the season in 12th place moved up to 7th and the first post-season poll they were in 2nd place.
Pre-season Pre-season
AP Top 25 USA Today
12th place 12th place
Week 12 Week 12
7th place 7th place
Post-season Post-season
2nd place 2nd place
Big East Conference
Every season once training camp begins I long for the Big East Conference. Oh sure the conference still exists but not as it once did in its glory years. Georgetown, Syracuse, St. John’s and other independents came together to form the Big East. Although several conference members fielded football this was a basketball conference. It was formulated for basketball, its strength was basketball.
Boy was it good back in the day, Chris Mullin at St. John’s, Pearl Washington Syracuse and Patrick Ewing at Georgetown just three of the outstanding players the conference produced at the time.
There were a number of outstanding winning coaches, Big John Thompson at Georgetown, Lou Carnesecca at St. John’s and Jim Boeheim of Syracuse plus Rollie Massimino at Villanova. There was no single reason for the demise of the conference but it all came apart in 2013. The American Athletic Conference came into existence which includes several former Big East Members. Syracuse, Providence and Boston College left for a number of reasons.
He’s a power forward
Carte’Are Gordon is a 6-8 257 pound power forward. Generally in high school sometimes there is a refrain from using the term small or power to describe front court players in high school. The primary rationale youngsters continue to grow in height and weight. This requires a departure due to Gordon’s 257 pounds; in any event Gordon attends Webster Groves High School in suburban St. Louis.
He’s a 5-star prospect in the Class of 2018 and Mizzou is on his radar with an offer. The competition is intense for his services, 13 other schools indicate interest in Gordon such as Kansas, Notre Dame, Texas and UNLV. It sure would be a coup if Mizzou could wrestle him away from any of the high profile programs after him.
Bits n Pieces
ESPN Recruiting Nation published its Top 10 recruiting class for 2017. In case you didn’t see it the usual suspects are missing. There is no Kentucky, Kansas or Duke that make the cut. At the top of the list are Washington and Lorenzo Romar, they have 4 top prospects planning on arriving at the Seattle campus next August. In a surprise second place with three prospects is Auburn and Bruce Pearl. Several other schools are surprise additions to the list among them Western Kentucky, Butler and Creighton. Don’t get too excited it’s early a significant number of 2017 prospects are yet to sign or announce a school choice.
Kansas basketball and its world-wide web continue to attract talent from all over to Lawrence Kansas. The school invited a number of potential prospects to Late Night at the Phog the annual first night of basketball practice. Kansas announced the verbal commitment of one of the prospects; he wasn’t a senior or a junior. High school sophomore Markese Jacobs from Uplift Community High School in Chicago announced he was headed to Kansas, he‘s a 5-11 point guard.
The ESPN Network is clearly the leader in the number of college basketball telecast. The Fox Network is in third place followed by a number of smaller cable networks. In the upcoming 2016-17 CBS with its broadcast network and cable network is challenging ESPN in numbers. They announced a television schedule of 270 games spread across CBS Sports and CBS Sports Network. Their broadcast arm continues to host the semi and finals of the NCAA Championship.
I’m glad Jeremy Lin is back in New York City, that’s where he first came to prominence in the NBA. I believe he’s ready for the Big Apple the second time around. As a Laker fan I cannot say with conviction he got a fair shake in Los Angeles. I’m not sure what occurred prior to that with the Rockets. From his statements he wanted to remain with the Hornets however it appeared it just didn’t work out there. The aggressive Nets signed Lin to a 3-year contract indicating they wanted him for the long-haul.
Sunday, October 16, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Midnight Madness
I was confused, Kansas held Late Night at the Phog on Saturday October 1. Based on this occurrence I communicated the college basketball season had begun---I wasn’t completely correct. According to ESPN.com “Rule changes in 2013 gave teams more flexibility on when they could start their practices.” On Friday evening (10/14) Kentucky and North Carolina held their version of Midnight Madness. A number of other schools plan on hosting similar events on this upcoming Friday and Saturday, sorry for the confusion on my part.
Bits n Pieces
Wonder why NBA basketball exists in “small market” Salt Lake City? The ABA Los Angeles Stars were unable to survive in Lakerland the franchise was moved to Utah for the 1970-71 season. Although successful on the court the ABA Utah Stars were hemorrhaging money, once the merge occurred the franchise was dissolved. All was not lost for the fans in Salt Lake City the New Orleans Jazz would move to Utah in 1979 where they have since remained.
The NCAA missed the boat once again on a life issue. A former Army soldier at Oakland University was declared ineligible to play this season. Isaiah Brock’s high school numbers were not top notch is the basis for NCAA ruling. He’s taken college courses and maintained a 3.0 grade point average however that fails to appease the NCAA. While in service Brock was awarded four medals plus a certificate of achievement. Brock’s allowed to practice with the team and will be able continue his enrollment he just can‘t play for now. I for one believe the NCAA should allow Brock to play.
I will continue to root for the University of Missouri-Kansas City despite the fact it’s in the “wrong” conference. The Western Athletic Conference or WAC is rather youthful compared to the Big 10, SEC or ACC only coming into existence in 1962. The name implies member schools are located in the western portion of the nation and that was the case until more recently. As defections have occurred (UNLV, New Mexico, Colorado State) members from other portions of the country were added. That’s actually why the conference now includes UMKC as well as Chicago State.
Number two remains in stiff competition for athletes with number one. Kristaps Porzingis although just 21 years old was under contract to Nike with Nike through October 1. Adidas has signed Porzingis however there remains an out. Nike can match the offer. Stay tuned to see if Nike regains the upper hand in this shoe deal.
What to do---what to do
Coach Brett Brown says Joel Embiid might be ready to play back to back games. In addition both Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel both recovering from surgery should be ready for the season opener. I certainly am not trying to micro-manage the team but three (3) centers and not one prepared to play backup center. Those are my words and not those of the coach or management.
Midnight Madness
I was confused, Kansas held Late Night at the Phog on Saturday October 1. Based on this occurrence I communicated the college basketball season had begun---I wasn’t completely correct. According to ESPN.com “Rule changes in 2013 gave teams more flexibility on when they could start their practices.” On Friday evening (10/14) Kentucky and North Carolina held their version of Midnight Madness. A number of other schools plan on hosting similar events on this upcoming Friday and Saturday, sorry for the confusion on my part.
Bits n Pieces
Wonder why NBA basketball exists in “small market” Salt Lake City? The ABA Los Angeles Stars were unable to survive in Lakerland the franchise was moved to Utah for the 1970-71 season. Although successful on the court the ABA Utah Stars were hemorrhaging money, once the merge occurred the franchise was dissolved. All was not lost for the fans in Salt Lake City the New Orleans Jazz would move to Utah in 1979 where they have since remained.
The NCAA missed the boat once again on a life issue. A former Army soldier at Oakland University was declared ineligible to play this season. Isaiah Brock’s high school numbers were not top notch is the basis for NCAA ruling. He’s taken college courses and maintained a 3.0 grade point average however that fails to appease the NCAA. While in service Brock was awarded four medals plus a certificate of achievement. Brock’s allowed to practice with the team and will be able continue his enrollment he just can‘t play for now. I for one believe the NCAA should allow Brock to play.
I will continue to root for the University of Missouri-Kansas City despite the fact it’s in the “wrong” conference. The Western Athletic Conference or WAC is rather youthful compared to the Big 10, SEC or ACC only coming into existence in 1962. The name implies member schools are located in the western portion of the nation and that was the case until more recently. As defections have occurred (UNLV, New Mexico, Colorado State) members from other portions of the country were added. That’s actually why the conference now includes UMKC as well as Chicago State.
Number two remains in stiff competition for athletes with number one. Kristaps Porzingis although just 21 years old was under contract to Nike with Nike through October 1. Adidas has signed Porzingis however there remains an out. Nike can match the offer. Stay tuned to see if Nike regains the upper hand in this shoe deal.
What to do---what to do
Coach Brett Brown says Joel Embiid might be ready to play back to back games. In addition both Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel both recovering from surgery should be ready for the season opener. I certainly am not trying to micro-manage the team but three (3) centers and not one prepared to play backup center. Those are my words and not those of the coach or management.
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He’s leaving
Fox Sports 1 is attempting to raise its NBA profile, FS1 launched August 2013 is lacking the expertise of an ESPN. Based on this brief history they reached out and hired Chris Broussard from ESPN. Broussard has covered other sports for ESPN but generally known for covering the NBA for the network.
Pre-season All Conference
Depending on the portion of the country are world the initials might not be familiar. I’m going to point out again UMKC stands for the University of Missouri-Kansas City. From this point forward I’m going to just write UMKC and hopefully it will become familiar to you. In any event there is news ahead of the season.
Local UMKC guard Martez Harrison (University Academy KCMO) was honored along with teammate LaVell Boyd. Harrison was a first team selection while Boyd was picked for the second team. Boyd is a 6 foot guard and also a senior, home for Boyd is Chicago. Boyd was the second leading scorer for UMKC behind Harrison with a 14.1 ppg clip. WAC coaches project UMKC to tie for 5th place in the WAC Conference.
Not BFF’s
I’m not sure when I wrote this piece I mentioned recently the friendliness of many of today’s NBA players. I would guess Draymon Green and Paul Pierce will not be considered "best friends forever", they are likley to not exchange birthday, Christmas or any other type of friendly acknowledgment. Green took exception by Pierce and other to the issue regarding Kevin Durant signing with the Warriors. “Give it a break nobody complains when somebody leaves Apple for Google” Green said.
Its likely Rick Barry loves this
Unless you are a certain age or an NBA historian the name Rick Barry might not be familiar. Barry’s been out of the spotlight for a number of years after serving as an analyst after retirement. Barry’s NBA career led to induction into the Naismith Hall of Fame and College Basketball Hall. Over a 14-year NBA/ABA career his lowest free-throw percentage was .862 in his rookie season (1965-66). For 7 seasons Barry was at .900 or higher, the guy rarely missed a shoot from the free-throw line. The year prior to retirement Barry missed nine of 169 free-throw attempts a .947 percentage. I’ve mentioned this previously he shot his free-throws under hand or “granny” style.
He’s recommended over the years poor to average shooters should adopt it. The Rockets have a rookie forward on their team Chinanu Onuaku who shoots his free-throws “Rick Barry” or “granny” style. At this point we have no idea if Onuaku makes the final cut but its interesting his manner of shooting free-throws. According to the Huffington Post Onuaku adopted this style because he was such a poor free-throw shooter. He improved his percentage from .470 he shot as a freshman to .590 in his sophomore year, hey DeAndre Jordan hear that? In 8 seasons the highest percentage Jordan has shot is .525.
He’s leaving
Fox Sports 1 is attempting to raise its NBA profile, FS1 launched August 2013 is lacking the expertise of an ESPN. Based on this brief history they reached out and hired Chris Broussard from ESPN. Broussard has covered other sports for ESPN but generally known for covering the NBA for the network.
Pre-season All Conference
Depending on the portion of the country are world the initials might not be familiar. I’m going to point out again UMKC stands for the University of Missouri-Kansas City. From this point forward I’m going to just write UMKC and hopefully it will become familiar to you. In any event there is news ahead of the season.
Local UMKC guard Martez Harrison (University Academy KCMO) was honored along with teammate LaVell Boyd. Harrison was a first team selection while Boyd was picked for the second team. Boyd is a 6 foot guard and also a senior, home for Boyd is Chicago. Boyd was the second leading scorer for UMKC behind Harrison with a 14.1 ppg clip. WAC coaches project UMKC to tie for 5th place in the WAC Conference.
Not BFF’s
I’m not sure when I wrote this piece I mentioned recently the friendliness of many of today’s NBA players. I would guess Draymon Green and Paul Pierce will not be considered "best friends forever", they are likley to not exchange birthday, Christmas or any other type of friendly acknowledgment. Green took exception by Pierce and other to the issue regarding Kevin Durant signing with the Warriors. “Give it a break nobody complains when somebody leaves Apple for Google” Green said.
Its likely Rick Barry loves this
Unless you are a certain age or an NBA historian the name Rick Barry might not be familiar. Barry’s been out of the spotlight for a number of years after serving as an analyst after retirement. Barry’s NBA career led to induction into the Naismith Hall of Fame and College Basketball Hall. Over a 14-year NBA/ABA career his lowest free-throw percentage was .862 in his rookie season (1965-66). For 7 seasons Barry was at .900 or higher, the guy rarely missed a shoot from the free-throw line. The year prior to retirement Barry missed nine of 169 free-throw attempts a .947 percentage. I’ve mentioned this previously he shot his free-throws under hand or “granny” style.
He’s recommended over the years poor to average shooters should adopt it. The Rockets have a rookie forward on their team Chinanu Onuaku who shoots his free-throws “Rick Barry” or “granny” style. At this point we have no idea if Onuaku makes the final cut but its interesting his manner of shooting free-throws. According to the Huffington Post Onuaku adopted this style because he was such a poor free-throw shooter. He improved his percentage from .470 he shot as a freshman to .590 in his sophomore year, hey DeAndre Jordan hear that? In 8 seasons the highest percentage Jordan has shot is .525.
Friday, October 14, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Ripped from the headlines”
That was the tag line from the long-running television series Law and Order. I don‘t remember if it was used on any of the spin-off versions of the popular series. If you recall the television program first a crime was committed then the investigation portion of the purported crime and arrest, the second half of the program dealt with the trial.
We are in the trial portion of the Derrick Rose civil trial for rape. As for the investigation portion the Los Angeles detective was conducting a separate criminal investigation. Whitter police received a phone call regarding a suicide and discovered the detective wounded who later died at the hospital. As this is written we are unsure if it’s a homicide or suicide but certainly unusual and tragic at the same time.
No surprise
This was reported previously and now it’s confirmed. The 2016-17 season will be the last for Paul Pierce future Hall of Fame candidate. Pierce is currently playing for the Clippers but also spent time with the Nets and Wizards. He spent the first 15 years of his NBA career as a member of the Boston Celtics. At the end of the 2016-17 season Pierce will sign a 1-day contract and retire a Celtic.
What should we expect for an encore?
Speaking of Rookie of the Year 2016 Karl-Anthony Towns was the overwhelming winner. It was well deserve based on the above average rookie year for the former Kentucky power forward. Towns received all of the first-place votes finishing with 650 points. Finishing in second place was the Knicks Kristaps Porzingis. He hit the rookie wall the second half of the season as his field goal percentage dropped however his scoring went up slightly. Now that he’s got a year under his belt in the NBA what should we expect for an encore? I expect an upgrade in all offensive areas and a better defensive game over last season.
Every time I think of Porzigis two individuals come to mine. The 10-year old youngster at last years draft so upset with the pick he took a selfie crying at the time Porzingis was announced. Somewhere near the middle portion of the season that same youngster was sporting a Porzingis jersey. Stephen A. Smith the supposed ESPN’s basketball “expert.” The day and maybe up to a week after the pick Smith was crying and moaning how Phil Jackson and the Knicks “Had lost their everlasting mind.” Smith too had a change of heart near the middle of the season.
Its life not just money
We’ve known for awhile Chris Bosh had a health issue with blood clots. The Heat’s doctors are yet to clear him for action. He’s been “fighting” with the front office over the issue of play. In all likelihood they will keep him off the court as long as possible for financial reasons. I believe we can all understand Bosh wants back to play but for me it’s different. I certainly have no desire to see another Reggie Lewis or Hank Gathers die on the court.
Point guard or shooting guard?
It’s an exhibition game so I’ll try not to read too much into it. D’Angelo Russell lead the way with 33 points as the Lakers defeated the Suns 124-114 in a recent game. The Lakers roster indicates Russell is a point guard however he only contributed 3 assists to the match. Just in case you think he might have shot the ball too much he was .684 from the floor. Many believe Russell might have been a mistake pick last year lets just say it was a surprise choice for me. As for his rookie year Russell had two issues last year which he want face this season one is removed (Coach Scott) the other remains (Nick Young).
Has Russell made peace with Scott over his release of a detrimental tape Russell released to the media?
Russell claims it was a mistake so I guess we must take his word for it. This we know minus a shooting percentage that could be improved (.410) Russell at 13.2 ppg had a good but not great rookie year. 3.3 assists while leading the team in steals. He appears to have a good relation with his new coach so much that an outsider former Spurs guard Stephen Jackson accused him of “brown nosing.” The youngster came into the NBA as a teen but had his 20th birthday prior to the end of the season. Youth will be served despite the bumps that often occur in the road. I still don’t have an answer is he a point or shooting guard?
“Ripped from the headlines”
That was the tag line from the long-running television series Law and Order. I don‘t remember if it was used on any of the spin-off versions of the popular series. If you recall the television program first a crime was committed then the investigation portion of the purported crime and arrest, the second half of the program dealt with the trial.
We are in the trial portion of the Derrick Rose civil trial for rape. As for the investigation portion the Los Angeles detective was conducting a separate criminal investigation. Whitter police received a phone call regarding a suicide and discovered the detective wounded who later died at the hospital. As this is written we are unsure if it’s a homicide or suicide but certainly unusual and tragic at the same time.
No surprise
This was reported previously and now it’s confirmed. The 2016-17 season will be the last for Paul Pierce future Hall of Fame candidate. Pierce is currently playing for the Clippers but also spent time with the Nets and Wizards. He spent the first 15 years of his NBA career as a member of the Boston Celtics. At the end of the 2016-17 season Pierce will sign a 1-day contract and retire a Celtic.
What should we expect for an encore?
Speaking of Rookie of the Year 2016 Karl-Anthony Towns was the overwhelming winner. It was well deserve based on the above average rookie year for the former Kentucky power forward. Towns received all of the first-place votes finishing with 650 points. Finishing in second place was the Knicks Kristaps Porzingis. He hit the rookie wall the second half of the season as his field goal percentage dropped however his scoring went up slightly. Now that he’s got a year under his belt in the NBA what should we expect for an encore? I expect an upgrade in all offensive areas and a better defensive game over last season.
Every time I think of Porzigis two individuals come to mine. The 10-year old youngster at last years draft so upset with the pick he took a selfie crying at the time Porzingis was announced. Somewhere near the middle portion of the season that same youngster was sporting a Porzingis jersey. Stephen A. Smith the supposed ESPN’s basketball “expert.” The day and maybe up to a week after the pick Smith was crying and moaning how Phil Jackson and the Knicks “Had lost their everlasting mind.” Smith too had a change of heart near the middle of the season.
Its life not just money
We’ve known for awhile Chris Bosh had a health issue with blood clots. The Heat’s doctors are yet to clear him for action. He’s been “fighting” with the front office over the issue of play. In all likelihood they will keep him off the court as long as possible for financial reasons. I believe we can all understand Bosh wants back to play but for me it’s different. I certainly have no desire to see another Reggie Lewis or Hank Gathers die on the court.
Point guard or shooting guard?
It’s an exhibition game so I’ll try not to read too much into it. D’Angelo Russell lead the way with 33 points as the Lakers defeated the Suns 124-114 in a recent game. The Lakers roster indicates Russell is a point guard however he only contributed 3 assists to the match. Just in case you think he might have shot the ball too much he was .684 from the floor. Many believe Russell might have been a mistake pick last year lets just say it was a surprise choice for me. As for his rookie year Russell had two issues last year which he want face this season one is removed (Coach Scott) the other remains (Nick Young).
Has Russell made peace with Scott over his release of a detrimental tape Russell released to the media?
Russell claims it was a mistake so I guess we must take his word for it. This we know minus a shooting percentage that could be improved (.410) Russell at 13.2 ppg had a good but not great rookie year. 3.3 assists while leading the team in steals. He appears to have a good relation with his new coach so much that an outsider former Spurs guard Stephen Jackson accused him of “brown nosing.” The youngster came into the NBA as a teen but had his 20th birthday prior to the end of the season. Youth will be served despite the bumps that often occur in the road. I still don’t have an answer is he a point or shooting guard?
Thursday, October 13, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Bits n Pieces
Laker rookie Brandon Ingram wants to earn his way in the NBA. After all Ingram is the number two pick in the 2016 draft. He realizes he’s under pressure to succeed. Maybe he might be more secure than we might believe. News reports state he is succeeding Kobe Bryant in at least one area. Ingram has taken over Bryant’s old locker in the clubhouse.
You think it’s just me with a Doc Rivers problem. At the barber shop I question both barbers without first giving them my opinion. The question was posed to the barbers a few feet apart so I can state with conviction neither heard the other. What I found most interesting both had similar responses to my question. Both stated the Austin Rivers situation was ridiculous.
There is a difference of opinion by two coaches’ one current Rockets coach and the other a former Rockets coach. You might remember I wrote new Rockets Coach Mike D’Antoni planned on moving James Harden to the point. I checked Harden’s numbers last year and they indicate he might be a capable point guard. Wait there is more; Kevin McHale who coached Harden for a few years has his doubts if this change will work. He says; “I’m unsure he can be a facilitator first.”
The foot injury that forced Yao Ming to retire at 31 continues to impact his life. He was quoted recently saying “The feeling on the top portion of my left foot never retired after the 2008 surgery.” He would play three additional years before retiring in 2011, I wonder if weight might be a factor. At 7-6 his playing weight was said to be 310 pounds, at his Hall of Fame induction in street clothes he appeared to have not lost any weight.
What might have been?
If a player is unable to fulfill the promise we often wonder what might have been. I read a story about basketball players who died without finishing their college or NBA careers. Among the 15 players profiled was Loyola Marymount’s Hank Gathers. 26 years ago Gathers collapsed on the basketball court and died far too soon. In the 1988-89 season he became on the second player in NCAA history to lead in scoring (32.7) and rebounding (13.7) in the same year.
His stats indicate Gathers stood 6-7 and weighed 210 pounds which might say “small forward”, he never played like one. His game was one of power and incidentally he never shot from more than 10 feet from the basket. Gathers was found to have an irregular heart beat and he was given medication to correct the issue. He said the medication affected his on-court performance, it was reported he likely was not taking the prescribed dosage on game days. Gathers would suffer a heart attack during the game and later be pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
ROY
Prior to training camp opening we guessed Ben Simmons would be named Rookie of the Year. Now that he’s injured and will likely be out until January we must look elsewhere. As I indicated earlier number two pick Brandon Ingram will begin the season on the bench we can exclude him. I took a look at the rest of the candidates. After checking the field of candidates rather than choose one I going to look at five and these are not in any sort of order.
Jaylen Brown-Celtics
Kris Dunn-Wolves
Buddy Hield-Pelicans
Thon Maker-Bucks
Domantas Sabonis-Thunder
Then again it could be somebody completely different.
Bits n Pieces
Laker rookie Brandon Ingram wants to earn his way in the NBA. After all Ingram is the number two pick in the 2016 draft. He realizes he’s under pressure to succeed. Maybe he might be more secure than we might believe. News reports state he is succeeding Kobe Bryant in at least one area. Ingram has taken over Bryant’s old locker in the clubhouse.
You think it’s just me with a Doc Rivers problem. At the barber shop I question both barbers without first giving them my opinion. The question was posed to the barbers a few feet apart so I can state with conviction neither heard the other. What I found most interesting both had similar responses to my question. Both stated the Austin Rivers situation was ridiculous.
There is a difference of opinion by two coaches’ one current Rockets coach and the other a former Rockets coach. You might remember I wrote new Rockets Coach Mike D’Antoni planned on moving James Harden to the point. I checked Harden’s numbers last year and they indicate he might be a capable point guard. Wait there is more; Kevin McHale who coached Harden for a few years has his doubts if this change will work. He says; “I’m unsure he can be a facilitator first.”
The foot injury that forced Yao Ming to retire at 31 continues to impact his life. He was quoted recently saying “The feeling on the top portion of my left foot never retired after the 2008 surgery.” He would play three additional years before retiring in 2011, I wonder if weight might be a factor. At 7-6 his playing weight was said to be 310 pounds, at his Hall of Fame induction in street clothes he appeared to have not lost any weight.
What might have been?
If a player is unable to fulfill the promise we often wonder what might have been. I read a story about basketball players who died without finishing their college or NBA careers. Among the 15 players profiled was Loyola Marymount’s Hank Gathers. 26 years ago Gathers collapsed on the basketball court and died far too soon. In the 1988-89 season he became on the second player in NCAA history to lead in scoring (32.7) and rebounding (13.7) in the same year.
His stats indicate Gathers stood 6-7 and weighed 210 pounds which might say “small forward”, he never played like one. His game was one of power and incidentally he never shot from more than 10 feet from the basket. Gathers was found to have an irregular heart beat and he was given medication to correct the issue. He said the medication affected his on-court performance, it was reported he likely was not taking the prescribed dosage on game days. Gathers would suffer a heart attack during the game and later be pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
ROY
Prior to training camp opening we guessed Ben Simmons would be named Rookie of the Year. Now that he’s injured and will likely be out until January we must look elsewhere. As I indicated earlier number two pick Brandon Ingram will begin the season on the bench we can exclude him. I took a look at the rest of the candidates. After checking the field of candidates rather than choose one I going to look at five and these are not in any sort of order.
Jaylen Brown-Celtics
Kris Dunn-Wolves
Buddy Hield-Pelicans
Thon Maker-Bucks
Domantas Sabonis-Thunder
Then again it could be somebody completely different.
Wednesday, October 12, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
ACC basketball
Around this part of the nation I heard plenty of talk “The Big 12 is the best in the nation.” There might be a challenge to that statement, I submit the ACC as equal if not exceeding the Big 12. There are more ACC teams (15) to Big 12 (10) so you might believe that’s the advantage. Not totally true, last year 6 of 10 Big 12 teams won 20 or more games. As for the ACC 11 teams won 20 or more games. In the East Regional’s two ACC teams Notre Dame and North Carolina faced off against one another.
While conference members Virginia and Syracuse faced one another in the Midwest Regional. Then Syracuse lost to North Carolina in the National Semi-Finals with Carolina playing for the championship. Where was the Big 12 you ask, the only remaining Big 12 school Oklahoma bowed out in the semi-finals? I’m not trashing the Big 12 it just appears the dominance of Kansas basketball sometimes makes it appear the conference is stronger that it actually is. BOOM---I just dropped the mic.
Moral victory!!
I took this account from the NFL and the actual occurrence was three years ago. Despite the timing it could just as easily apply to the 76ers playing the Warriors or Cavs. In 2013 Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is reported to have made this statement. “We (Cowboys) had a moral victory in losing to the Broncos.” To me it doesn’t matter the sport football, basketball, checkers or dodge ball you either win the game or lose it. Please inform me has a moral victory ever allowed a coach to remained employed? We can look no further than David Blatt for an answer; he was fired with his Cavs team in first place. To borrow the Herm Edwards rant; “You play to win the game---Hello!” Moral victories only exist in the minds of a small number of people.
Home grown talent
One of the reasons for my optimism regarding UMKC basketball stands 5 feet 11 inches. In a game of big men you might believe it might be difficult for Martez Harrison to become a standout in the game. The UMKC bio page indicates among his favorite athletes are Blazer and Clipper guards Damian Lillard and Chris Paul NBA players close in size. The local connection Harrison graduated from University Academy in Kansas City; he once scored 58 points in a game.
His senior year of high school saw a 34 ppg average along with four rebounds and four assists. The collegiate honors, last season he was named second team all WAC and his junior year Honorable Mention All American. Chances are real good you probably want hear his name at next year’s NBA draft. You might not hear his name but don’t believe that’s any indication of his skill level. Did I mention he is a STUDENT-athlete; he was on the honor roll at University Academy and majors in Communications at UMKC.
Political season
We are nearing the end of the presidential race in the nation. ESPN.com NBA page wrote a piece on coaches who might become candidates for the White House. Instead of concentrating on this fiction how about someone who was a legitimate candidate for the highest office in the land. Bill Bradley is the name and basketball was his game, well that’s not quite correct allow further explanation. Bradley emerged from Crystal City High School near St. Louis he was educated at Princeton University.
Few NBA player come from Ivy League schools, these schools tend to produce corporate types not athletes. In 1965 the Knicks made Bradley their territorial pick. (Up to 1965 NBA teams were allowed a territorial draft choice, a player within a 50 mile radius of its home arena.) Bradley traveled to Italy playing for Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano a year before he returned to began play for the Knicks. The 6-5 Bradley was placed in the backcourt were he struggled, the next season he would move to the frontcourt.
The 2X NBA Champion Bradley retired in 1977 after a 10-year career but he was only beginning. He’s one of the few athletes to be enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. In 1979 Bradley was elected U.S. Senator from New Jersey and remained in the Senate until 1997. In 2000 he decided to make a run for the presidency on the Democratic ticket. He would lose in the primaries to Al Gore the eventual primary winner. Since his retirement from politics he’s remain active working in a number of endeavors. This short bio fails to provide a true picture Google his name when you have an opportunity.
ACC basketball
Around this part of the nation I heard plenty of talk “The Big 12 is the best in the nation.” There might be a challenge to that statement, I submit the ACC as equal if not exceeding the Big 12. There are more ACC teams (15) to Big 12 (10) so you might believe that’s the advantage. Not totally true, last year 6 of 10 Big 12 teams won 20 or more games. As for the ACC 11 teams won 20 or more games. In the East Regional’s two ACC teams Notre Dame and North Carolina faced off against one another.
While conference members Virginia and Syracuse faced one another in the Midwest Regional. Then Syracuse lost to North Carolina in the National Semi-Finals with Carolina playing for the championship. Where was the Big 12 you ask, the only remaining Big 12 school Oklahoma bowed out in the semi-finals? I’m not trashing the Big 12 it just appears the dominance of Kansas basketball sometimes makes it appear the conference is stronger that it actually is. BOOM---I just dropped the mic.
Moral victory!!
I took this account from the NFL and the actual occurrence was three years ago. Despite the timing it could just as easily apply to the 76ers playing the Warriors or Cavs. In 2013 Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is reported to have made this statement. “We (Cowboys) had a moral victory in losing to the Broncos.” To me it doesn’t matter the sport football, basketball, checkers or dodge ball you either win the game or lose it. Please inform me has a moral victory ever allowed a coach to remained employed? We can look no further than David Blatt for an answer; he was fired with his Cavs team in first place. To borrow the Herm Edwards rant; “You play to win the game---Hello!” Moral victories only exist in the minds of a small number of people.
Home grown talent
One of the reasons for my optimism regarding UMKC basketball stands 5 feet 11 inches. In a game of big men you might believe it might be difficult for Martez Harrison to become a standout in the game. The UMKC bio page indicates among his favorite athletes are Blazer and Clipper guards Damian Lillard and Chris Paul NBA players close in size. The local connection Harrison graduated from University Academy in Kansas City; he once scored 58 points in a game.
His senior year of high school saw a 34 ppg average along with four rebounds and four assists. The collegiate honors, last season he was named second team all WAC and his junior year Honorable Mention All American. Chances are real good you probably want hear his name at next year’s NBA draft. You might not hear his name but don’t believe that’s any indication of his skill level. Did I mention he is a STUDENT-athlete; he was on the honor roll at University Academy and majors in Communications at UMKC.
Political season
We are nearing the end of the presidential race in the nation. ESPN.com NBA page wrote a piece on coaches who might become candidates for the White House. Instead of concentrating on this fiction how about someone who was a legitimate candidate for the highest office in the land. Bill Bradley is the name and basketball was his game, well that’s not quite correct allow further explanation. Bradley emerged from Crystal City High School near St. Louis he was educated at Princeton University.
Few NBA player come from Ivy League schools, these schools tend to produce corporate types not athletes. In 1965 the Knicks made Bradley their territorial pick. (Up to 1965 NBA teams were allowed a territorial draft choice, a player within a 50 mile radius of its home arena.) Bradley traveled to Italy playing for Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano a year before he returned to began play for the Knicks. The 6-5 Bradley was placed in the backcourt were he struggled, the next season he would move to the frontcourt.
The 2X NBA Champion Bradley retired in 1977 after a 10-year career but he was only beginning. He’s one of the few athletes to be enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. In 1979 Bradley was elected U.S. Senator from New Jersey and remained in the Senate until 1997. In 2000 he decided to make a run for the presidency on the Democratic ticket. He would lose in the primaries to Al Gore the eventual primary winner. Since his retirement from politics he’s remain active working in a number of endeavors. This short bio fails to provide a true picture Google his name when you have an opportunity.
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
A familiar name
The Lakers signed Thomas Robinson former Kansas Jayhawk recently. The 6-10 237 pound Robinson was drafted by the Kings with the 5th pick in the first round of the 2012 draft. After a good junior year and the impressive run Kansas made in the NCAA stardom was predicted for Robinson. I admit I lost track as Robinson drifted from team to team 5 in all and 6 if we count two runs with the Blazers. I have no idea if he will make the final cut the Lakers although not a good team has plenty of depth in the backcourt. Hope he makes it just because I feel a connection.
Two teams
The New York metro has an estimated population of 20 million souls. It’s likely with a population that huge it equates to a team in Manhattan (Knicks) and Brooklyn (Nets). The greater Los Angeles area is roughly 13 million and two teams the Lakers and the Clippers. Is Los Angeles too small to serve as home base for two NBA teams? The question is posed based on Clippers owner Steve Ballmer’s comments during the summer. Although Ballmer’s team is tied to Staples Center by contract what exactly is Ballmer saying.
Ballmer mentioned his Clippers were last in securing dates for Staples lined up behind the Lakers, NHL Kings and other events. He hinted building his own arena somewhere in west Los Angeles. I suggested this once previously and still believe it’s an option move the Clippers to Seattle. 1. Ballmer lives in the Seattle metro from his days at Microsoft. 2. He’d have an exclusive market no more sharing an arena (or popularity) with another team. 3. Despite their poor record over the last several years Los Angeles will always be Laker town.
Broadcasters
Four current broadcasters who once called Kansas City Kings are still working. Kevin Harlin the voice of the NBA on TNT began his professional career in 1982 broadcasting Kings basketball while the team was in Kansas City. Harlin was the long-time radio voice of the NFL Chiefs before leaving to broadcast Wolves basketball. He divides his broadcast time between CBS Sports and TNT. A voice often heard on ESPN NBA telecasts is Kevin Calabro; in addition to the NBA he was also the voice of Sonics basketball. After Harlin left Calabro broadcast Kansas City Kings basketball 1983-84.
Bulls fans are familiar with the voice of Neil Funk so are older NBA fans in Kansas City. Radio voice for the Kings he moved to the same duty with the Bulls in 1991 and moved over to the television side in 2008. There must be some connection between the Chiefs and the Kings at the time the later called Kansas City home. Wayne Larrivee is closer identified with football broadcasting Bears and Packers football. He also broadcast Kings game while the team was in Kansas City. As you can see in addition to the athletes selected members of the broadcast media also have a Kansas City connection.
Comparison
A couple of week’s back I indicated I didn’t believe the NBA and NHL were fighting for the same sports dollar. Right or wrong on my part I’ve always believed a person is either or. They are NBA or NHL fans I believe it’s likely rare you will locate someone who says; “I love the NBA but I also love the NHL.” I just don’t think that’s the prevailing thought of most sports fans. My hometown Kansas City has neither sport as indicated previously. I was curious to discover which exhibition game would draw the largest number of fans.
The NHL exhibition game between the Blues and the Capitals October 5th drew 11,000+ fans to Sprint Center in downtown Kansas City. The NBA exhibition between the Wolves and Heat October 8th drew 13,000+ fans to Sprint Center. I didn’t check ticket pricing but believe it would have been comparable. Even more interesting was an article in the Kansas City Star indicating the growth of junior hockey. This is not a trash the NHL piece however I can conclude basketball is still the winner in Kansas City.
A familiar name
The Lakers signed Thomas Robinson former Kansas Jayhawk recently. The 6-10 237 pound Robinson was drafted by the Kings with the 5th pick in the first round of the 2012 draft. After a good junior year and the impressive run Kansas made in the NCAA stardom was predicted for Robinson. I admit I lost track as Robinson drifted from team to team 5 in all and 6 if we count two runs with the Blazers. I have no idea if he will make the final cut the Lakers although not a good team has plenty of depth in the backcourt. Hope he makes it just because I feel a connection.
Two teams
The New York metro has an estimated population of 20 million souls. It’s likely with a population that huge it equates to a team in Manhattan (Knicks) and Brooklyn (Nets). The greater Los Angeles area is roughly 13 million and two teams the Lakers and the Clippers. Is Los Angeles too small to serve as home base for two NBA teams? The question is posed based on Clippers owner Steve Ballmer’s comments during the summer. Although Ballmer’s team is tied to Staples Center by contract what exactly is Ballmer saying.
Ballmer mentioned his Clippers were last in securing dates for Staples lined up behind the Lakers, NHL Kings and other events. He hinted building his own arena somewhere in west Los Angeles. I suggested this once previously and still believe it’s an option move the Clippers to Seattle. 1. Ballmer lives in the Seattle metro from his days at Microsoft. 2. He’d have an exclusive market no more sharing an arena (or popularity) with another team. 3. Despite their poor record over the last several years Los Angeles will always be Laker town.
Broadcasters
Four current broadcasters who once called Kansas City Kings are still working. Kevin Harlin the voice of the NBA on TNT began his professional career in 1982 broadcasting Kings basketball while the team was in Kansas City. Harlin was the long-time radio voice of the NFL Chiefs before leaving to broadcast Wolves basketball. He divides his broadcast time between CBS Sports and TNT. A voice often heard on ESPN NBA telecasts is Kevin Calabro; in addition to the NBA he was also the voice of Sonics basketball. After Harlin left Calabro broadcast Kansas City Kings basketball 1983-84.
Bulls fans are familiar with the voice of Neil Funk so are older NBA fans in Kansas City. Radio voice for the Kings he moved to the same duty with the Bulls in 1991 and moved over to the television side in 2008. There must be some connection between the Chiefs and the Kings at the time the later called Kansas City home. Wayne Larrivee is closer identified with football broadcasting Bears and Packers football. He also broadcast Kings game while the team was in Kansas City. As you can see in addition to the athletes selected members of the broadcast media also have a Kansas City connection.
Comparison
A couple of week’s back I indicated I didn’t believe the NBA and NHL were fighting for the same sports dollar. Right or wrong on my part I’ve always believed a person is either or. They are NBA or NHL fans I believe it’s likely rare you will locate someone who says; “I love the NBA but I also love the NHL.” I just don’t think that’s the prevailing thought of most sports fans. My hometown Kansas City has neither sport as indicated previously. I was curious to discover which exhibition game would draw the largest number of fans.
The NHL exhibition game between the Blues and the Capitals October 5th drew 11,000+ fans to Sprint Center in downtown Kansas City. The NBA exhibition between the Wolves and Heat October 8th drew 13,000+ fans to Sprint Center. I didn’t check ticket pricing but believe it would have been comparable. Even more interesting was an article in the Kansas City Star indicating the growth of junior hockey. This is not a trash the NHL piece however I can conclude basketball is still the winner in Kansas City.
Monday, October 10, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Defunct franchises
We’ve discussed re-located NBA franchises, the Kings moving from Kansas City to Sacramento the Lakers from Minneapolis to Los Angeles. This discussion is Basketball Association of America and National Basketball League teams which no longer exist. The BBA and NBL would merge in 1948-49 to become today’s NBA. Washington D.C. had a pro team long before the Wizards even existed. The Capitals were a BBA team and played from 1946-1951. Most noteworthy event their first coach was the legendary Celtic Coach Red Auerbach. Toronto also had a BAA team which only lasted one season 1946-47. A Huskies player Ossie Schectman has the distinction of scoring the first basket in the “new” league against the Knicks.
The State of Iowa was represented by the Waterloo Hawks a NBL team, formed in 1948 the team folded in 1951. In 1972 when the Cincinnati Royals moved to Kansas City a contest was held to change the name of the team. The choice was Kings being the winner after all the baseball Royals were already in town, you can’t have two pro teams in the same city with the same nickname can you?
We assume in an earlier time in history it didn’t matter. Pittsburgh had a basketball and baseball team with the same nickname? The Pirates (basketball) were an NBL team; founded in 1937 they played the next two years. 1940-43 the team did not play likely due to World War II; the team would go defunct in 1945. One team the Chicago Stags began play as a BAA team (1946) and actually moved into the NBA with the merger but went out of business in 1950. These are but a few of the BAA and NBL teams which went out of business.
NOTE: Same nickname same city however it wasn’t basketball. Cardinal baseball is historical but what about football. The Chicago Cardinals of the NFL were a storied franchise tracing their roots back to 1923; they played football in the Windy City until 1960 when they moved to St. Louis. They didn’t bother with changing the nickname they just kept the old one. Media at the time had to designate which Cardinals they were referring to until 1988 when the NFL franchise relocated to Arizona.
Backup
I was proven incorrect once again; Derrick Rose will miss some games due to the trial. If you remember I first suspected he might be suspended for the duration of the trial and then discovered I was mistaken. The order of the day Rose will likely miss games as the trial progresses based on game dates.
Successful without the NBA
We are all guilty, guilty of measuring a successful basketball success using the NBA as the blueprint. Could a player have a stellar career without the NBA? You bet they can, we need look no further than Coney Island’s Stephon Marbury. Drafted by the Wolves four other teams would utilize his skill before he headed overseas. There was no doubt about the talent of this 6-2 point guard just check his early record. It appeared Marbury fell into disfavor with teammates, coaches and the front office.
In 2010 Marbury would leave for China, since that time he’s played for three Chinese League teams and has been on the roster of the Beijing Ducks since 2011. Marbury’s been a 3X Champion a Finals MVP and been selected for six All Star Games. How popular is Marbury, for starters just like Jordan, Johnson and Abdul Jabbar he’s got a statue erected in his honor. The lawn area alongside the LeSports Center where the Ducks play is the location of the statue. Marbury’s received a “green-card” or permanent residence status only the 5th American player to receive the honor. In addition he’s made a movie. At age 39 Marbury has received accolades he might have expected from an NBA team believe me he’s at a happy point in his basketball career and life. His 2008 salary was reported to be in the range of $20 million dollars.
Second coming
Joel Embiid of the 76ers scored 12 points in limited time on the court. If he is fully healthy and able to remain at play I don’t believe offense is his greatest attribute. Sure Embiid can score if called on but excuse me if I make a comparison. His movement on the court reminds me of Hall of Fame player Dikemebe Mutombo. I for one have stated it’s unfair to compare a youngster who’s barely in the NBA versus a Hall of Fame member.
Consider this tidbit of information Embiid was not the starting center until well into the spring semester. In addition to witnessing his play at Kansas I looked at the numbers. The 40 minutes per game projection by www.sportsreference.com indicates Embiid would have scored 19.4 points per game pulled down 14 rebounds and blocked 4.5 shots per game at Kansas. The block shots number is what stands out to me. I’m one guy rooting for Embiid to remain healthy.
Defunct franchises
We’ve discussed re-located NBA franchises, the Kings moving from Kansas City to Sacramento the Lakers from Minneapolis to Los Angeles. This discussion is Basketball Association of America and National Basketball League teams which no longer exist. The BBA and NBL would merge in 1948-49 to become today’s NBA. Washington D.C. had a pro team long before the Wizards even existed. The Capitals were a BBA team and played from 1946-1951. Most noteworthy event their first coach was the legendary Celtic Coach Red Auerbach. Toronto also had a BAA team which only lasted one season 1946-47. A Huskies player Ossie Schectman has the distinction of scoring the first basket in the “new” league against the Knicks.
The State of Iowa was represented by the Waterloo Hawks a NBL team, formed in 1948 the team folded in 1951. In 1972 when the Cincinnati Royals moved to Kansas City a contest was held to change the name of the team. The choice was Kings being the winner after all the baseball Royals were already in town, you can’t have two pro teams in the same city with the same nickname can you?
We assume in an earlier time in history it didn’t matter. Pittsburgh had a basketball and baseball team with the same nickname? The Pirates (basketball) were an NBL team; founded in 1937 they played the next two years. 1940-43 the team did not play likely due to World War II; the team would go defunct in 1945. One team the Chicago Stags began play as a BAA team (1946) and actually moved into the NBA with the merger but went out of business in 1950. These are but a few of the BAA and NBL teams which went out of business.
NOTE: Same nickname same city however it wasn’t basketball. Cardinal baseball is historical but what about football. The Chicago Cardinals of the NFL were a storied franchise tracing their roots back to 1923; they played football in the Windy City until 1960 when they moved to St. Louis. They didn’t bother with changing the nickname they just kept the old one. Media at the time had to designate which Cardinals they were referring to until 1988 when the NFL franchise relocated to Arizona.
Backup
I was proven incorrect once again; Derrick Rose will miss some games due to the trial. If you remember I first suspected he might be suspended for the duration of the trial and then discovered I was mistaken. The order of the day Rose will likely miss games as the trial progresses based on game dates.
Successful without the NBA
We are all guilty, guilty of measuring a successful basketball success using the NBA as the blueprint. Could a player have a stellar career without the NBA? You bet they can, we need look no further than Coney Island’s Stephon Marbury. Drafted by the Wolves four other teams would utilize his skill before he headed overseas. There was no doubt about the talent of this 6-2 point guard just check his early record. It appeared Marbury fell into disfavor with teammates, coaches and the front office.
In 2010 Marbury would leave for China, since that time he’s played for three Chinese League teams and has been on the roster of the Beijing Ducks since 2011. Marbury’s been a 3X Champion a Finals MVP and been selected for six All Star Games. How popular is Marbury, for starters just like Jordan, Johnson and Abdul Jabbar he’s got a statue erected in his honor. The lawn area alongside the LeSports Center where the Ducks play is the location of the statue. Marbury’s received a “green-card” or permanent residence status only the 5th American player to receive the honor. In addition he’s made a movie. At age 39 Marbury has received accolades he might have expected from an NBA team believe me he’s at a happy point in his basketball career and life. His 2008 salary was reported to be in the range of $20 million dollars.
Second coming
Joel Embiid of the 76ers scored 12 points in limited time on the court. If he is fully healthy and able to remain at play I don’t believe offense is his greatest attribute. Sure Embiid can score if called on but excuse me if I make a comparison. His movement on the court reminds me of Hall of Fame player Dikemebe Mutombo. I for one have stated it’s unfair to compare a youngster who’s barely in the NBA versus a Hall of Fame member.
Consider this tidbit of information Embiid was not the starting center until well into the spring semester. In addition to witnessing his play at Kansas I looked at the numbers. The 40 minutes per game projection by www.sportsreference.com indicates Embiid would have scored 19.4 points per game pulled down 14 rebounds and blocked 4.5 shots per game at Kansas. The block shots number is what stands out to me. I’m one guy rooting for Embiid to remain healthy.
Sunday, October 9, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“I am your father”
Luke Murray is in his second year as an assistant coach at Xavier has a famous father? He previously served in a similar capacity at Rhode Island and earlier at Towson. This Murray is better known for basketball his father‘s life pursuit has been in another field. Luke’s father is comedian, writer Golden Globe, Academy Award and Emmy winner Bill Murray. My apologies I couldn’t help but use the Star Wars line for my headline based on the younger Murray’s name being Luke.
Bits n Pieces
I had to smile after reading the Popovich message. The coach wants to convey the impression he’s this “hard-nose” military type individual. Far from it he’s a softy and sentimental. He said he missed having Tim Duncan around at the start of pre-season. First time in 20 years the “Big Fundamental” has not been in Spurs training camp.
Next up is Doc Rivers, okay he won an NBA Championship (Celtics) however check his overall record. In his 17-year coaching career with three teams (Magic, Celtics & Clippers) he’s managed just that one championship. This saddens me to include a former Laker great Byron Scott in the mix. In 18-years of coaching and four teams as the head man he’s only experienced 4 winning seasons.
Prove you can win which is yet to occur but the road looks good. CBSSports.com has its pre-season Top 25 teams and sitting at number 17 are the Texas Longhorns. I have no idea how Rick Barnes left the program however under Smart they won 20 games in his first year. Can you say the sky is the limit?
Oregon has a change of basketball jerseys for almost everyday of the week however there is a basis for this. Nike co-founder and former CEO Phil Knight is a graduate of the University of Oregon. I’m unsure how this arrangement works out financially for the school.
The Missouri/Kansas City connection
Missouri and Kansas City lie in the middle of the country 1,619 road miles from Kansas City to Los Angeles. Despite the distance there is a connection to the Laker basketball. On the Laker roster at present is Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson didn’t attend high school in the metro however he played ball at Mizzou. He was a second round pick in 2014 and traded draft night to the Lakers; Clarkson has been a starter at the two guard for the Lakers. Clarkson is just the latest Laker with Missouri/Kansas City connections, it’s unusual the link goes all the way back to the mid-’70’s.
The Lakers didn’t draft point guard Lucius Allen although he played for them from 1974 through 1977. Allen played his high school ball at Wyandotte in Kansas City (KS). Clay Johnson’s high school ball was at Manual High School, Penn Valley CC and finally Mizzou. Shooting guard Johnson was on the Laker roster from 1982-1983. Point guard Larry Drew left Wyandotte High School in Kansas City Kansas for Mizzou. He was not drafted by the Lakers although he played for the team from 1989-1991.
Shooting guard Anthony Peeler played at Paseo High in the city and Mizzou. In 1992 Peeler became the 15th pick in the 1st round by the Lakers. He played for the Lakers the next four seasons. Tyronn Lue Cavs coach was drafted by the Nuggets and traded to the Lakers on draft night. Lue’s high school ball was played at Raytown (MO) a KC suburb. From 1998 through 2001 Lue was a back-up point guard for the team.
In 2002 the Raptors selected Kareem Rush who was subsequently traded to the Lakers. Rush a 6-5 guard played at Pembroke in the city and later at Mizzou. Rush would remain with the Lakers through the 2004 season. As you can see beginning in 1974 up to the present there have been few years there was no Kansas City area or Mizzou player on the Lakers roster. Have these players distinguished themselves in the NBA only you can make judgment on that subject. Maybe you don’t find this nearly as interesting as I do this
Laker-Kansas City/Mizzou connection.
“I am your father”
Luke Murray is in his second year as an assistant coach at Xavier has a famous father? He previously served in a similar capacity at Rhode Island and earlier at Towson. This Murray is better known for basketball his father‘s life pursuit has been in another field. Luke’s father is comedian, writer Golden Globe, Academy Award and Emmy winner Bill Murray. My apologies I couldn’t help but use the Star Wars line for my headline based on the younger Murray’s name being Luke.
Bits n Pieces
I had to smile after reading the Popovich message. The coach wants to convey the impression he’s this “hard-nose” military type individual. Far from it he’s a softy and sentimental. He said he missed having Tim Duncan around at the start of pre-season. First time in 20 years the “Big Fundamental” has not been in Spurs training camp.
Next up is Doc Rivers, okay he won an NBA Championship (Celtics) however check his overall record. In his 17-year coaching career with three teams (Magic, Celtics & Clippers) he’s managed just that one championship. This saddens me to include a former Laker great Byron Scott in the mix. In 18-years of coaching and four teams as the head man he’s only experienced 4 winning seasons.
Prove you can win which is yet to occur but the road looks good. CBSSports.com has its pre-season Top 25 teams and sitting at number 17 are the Texas Longhorns. I have no idea how Rick Barnes left the program however under Smart they won 20 games in his first year. Can you say the sky is the limit?
Oregon has a change of basketball jerseys for almost everyday of the week however there is a basis for this. Nike co-founder and former CEO Phil Knight is a graduate of the University of Oregon. I’m unsure how this arrangement works out financially for the school.
The Missouri/Kansas City connection
Missouri and Kansas City lie in the middle of the country 1,619 road miles from Kansas City to Los Angeles. Despite the distance there is a connection to the Laker basketball. On the Laker roster at present is Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson didn’t attend high school in the metro however he played ball at Mizzou. He was a second round pick in 2014 and traded draft night to the Lakers; Clarkson has been a starter at the two guard for the Lakers. Clarkson is just the latest Laker with Missouri/Kansas City connections, it’s unusual the link goes all the way back to the mid-’70’s.
The Lakers didn’t draft point guard Lucius Allen although he played for them from 1974 through 1977. Allen played his high school ball at Wyandotte in Kansas City (KS). Clay Johnson’s high school ball was at Manual High School, Penn Valley CC and finally Mizzou. Shooting guard Johnson was on the Laker roster from 1982-1983. Point guard Larry Drew left Wyandotte High School in Kansas City Kansas for Mizzou. He was not drafted by the Lakers although he played for the team from 1989-1991.
Shooting guard Anthony Peeler played at Paseo High in the city and Mizzou. In 1992 Peeler became the 15th pick in the 1st round by the Lakers. He played for the Lakers the next four seasons. Tyronn Lue Cavs coach was drafted by the Nuggets and traded to the Lakers on draft night. Lue’s high school ball was played at Raytown (MO) a KC suburb. From 1998 through 2001 Lue was a back-up point guard for the team.
In 2002 the Raptors selected Kareem Rush who was subsequently traded to the Lakers. Rush a 6-5 guard played at Pembroke in the city and later at Mizzou. Rush would remain with the Lakers through the 2004 season. As you can see beginning in 1974 up to the present there have been few years there was no Kansas City area or Mizzou player on the Lakers roster. Have these players distinguished themselves in the NBA only you can make judgment on that subject. Maybe you don’t find this nearly as interesting as I do this
Laker-Kansas City/Mizzou connection.
Saturday, October 8, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
“Throw it in to the Big Man”
Luke Walton’s dad Bill has often made the above statement telecasting a game. The Laker offense under Coach Luke might not be structured in the same manner dad played in the ‘70’s. Laker Coach Luke Walton indicates rookie Ivica Zubac will likely back up Timofey Mozgov at the center position. I’m not going to get into an argument with the coach early on but I see this a little different.
No doubt rookie Zubac is likely to be taken to the cleaners by the Gasol brothers and others. The youngster wants to learn the game it’s been reported he studied video of Marc Gasol and Hakeem Olajuwon. The veteran Mozgov appears to have an advantage defensively as for the offense that’s questionable. I don’t believe anyone including Laker fans expect the second coming of Chamberlain, Abdul Jabbar or Shaq around the basket. They do expect an improvement over Robert Sacre.
I was wrong
The pending civil trial of Derrick Rose I made an observation which has turned out to be incorrect. Lets go back in time during the preliminary testimony of Kobe Bryant’s rape hearing, he would fly charter from the Colorado courtroom to Los Angeles or wherever and play that evening. I said with the pending Rose trial that wasn’t going to occur again in a similar manner. I’m unsure now how I reached that conclusion other than this is not 2003.
I believed the climate regarding reported sexual assaults had changed. In addition this was not David Stern’s NBA it was Adam Silver’s. In any event Rose played Tuesday night in Houston but was expected to be in court in Los Angeles on Thursday. How distracting this is we don’t know however it appears until this is concluded he’ll divide his time between the Los Angeles trial and when and wherever the Knicks are playing.
She’s correct
People say retirement is difficult, all your life you’ve worked. You rise one morning and realize retirement is smacking you in the face what do you do? This occurs at 65 or 70 for a number of folks how about an NBA player. A number have played until their early 40’s most often they are retired by age 36, they are retired whether they realize it or not. Jackie McMullen ESPN Senior Writer wrote on this issue earlier and her points are valid. If I stopped and thought a moment I could probably list 10 or more players who played too long.
At one time I attributed this to the “roar of the crowd”; these players have been cheered since high school. This approval continued through college and into the NBA however I’ve discovered its more than mass appeal. What do you do with the rest of your life when you are retired in your middle 30’s? That’s where post-retirement planning should have taken place at some point. A number of NBA players acquired businesses or lent their services to the media. For many the salary earned might not have been as important as “having a life pursuit.” By the time you read this J.R. Smith, Steve Blake, Chris Kaman or Kendrick Perkins will be signed I wouldn’t hold my breath.
Establish your own
I’ve attempted to table my criticism of LeBron James since his return to Cleveland. I believe for the most part I’ve accomplished that until now. This is in response to the comment made by his former teammate Dwayne Wade. Wade essentially said “It’s going to be impossible to eclipse Michael Jordan.” My question to LeBron might be why is it necessary? “My motivation James told Sports Illustrated over the summer, after winning his third title, is the ghost I’m chasing."
The ghost played in Chicago.” Don’t get me wrong if he wins the next three championships is that going to cement his legacy in the minds of NBA fans? I can admire someone from afar; I might even inform them they are my role model. Why is it necessary to eclipse them? As someone who witnessed the play of both I question LeBron’s reasoning. If for example LeBron closes his career with two more championships and ends with five we guess he won’t be satisfied.
“Throw it in to the Big Man”
Luke Walton’s dad Bill has often made the above statement telecasting a game. The Laker offense under Coach Luke might not be structured in the same manner dad played in the ‘70’s. Laker Coach Luke Walton indicates rookie Ivica Zubac will likely back up Timofey Mozgov at the center position. I’m not going to get into an argument with the coach early on but I see this a little different.
No doubt rookie Zubac is likely to be taken to the cleaners by the Gasol brothers and others. The youngster wants to learn the game it’s been reported he studied video of Marc Gasol and Hakeem Olajuwon. The veteran Mozgov appears to have an advantage defensively as for the offense that’s questionable. I don’t believe anyone including Laker fans expect the second coming of Chamberlain, Abdul Jabbar or Shaq around the basket. They do expect an improvement over Robert Sacre.
I was wrong
The pending civil trial of Derrick Rose I made an observation which has turned out to be incorrect. Lets go back in time during the preliminary testimony of Kobe Bryant’s rape hearing, he would fly charter from the Colorado courtroom to Los Angeles or wherever and play that evening. I said with the pending Rose trial that wasn’t going to occur again in a similar manner. I’m unsure now how I reached that conclusion other than this is not 2003.
I believed the climate regarding reported sexual assaults had changed. In addition this was not David Stern’s NBA it was Adam Silver’s. In any event Rose played Tuesday night in Houston but was expected to be in court in Los Angeles on Thursday. How distracting this is we don’t know however it appears until this is concluded he’ll divide his time between the Los Angeles trial and when and wherever the Knicks are playing.
She’s correct
People say retirement is difficult, all your life you’ve worked. You rise one morning and realize retirement is smacking you in the face what do you do? This occurs at 65 or 70 for a number of folks how about an NBA player. A number have played until their early 40’s most often they are retired by age 36, they are retired whether they realize it or not. Jackie McMullen ESPN Senior Writer wrote on this issue earlier and her points are valid. If I stopped and thought a moment I could probably list 10 or more players who played too long.
At one time I attributed this to the “roar of the crowd”; these players have been cheered since high school. This approval continued through college and into the NBA however I’ve discovered its more than mass appeal. What do you do with the rest of your life when you are retired in your middle 30’s? That’s where post-retirement planning should have taken place at some point. A number of NBA players acquired businesses or lent their services to the media. For many the salary earned might not have been as important as “having a life pursuit.” By the time you read this J.R. Smith, Steve Blake, Chris Kaman or Kendrick Perkins will be signed I wouldn’t hold my breath.
Establish your own
I’ve attempted to table my criticism of LeBron James since his return to Cleveland. I believe for the most part I’ve accomplished that until now. This is in response to the comment made by his former teammate Dwayne Wade. Wade essentially said “It’s going to be impossible to eclipse Michael Jordan.” My question to LeBron might be why is it necessary? “My motivation James told Sports Illustrated over the summer, after winning his third title, is the ghost I’m chasing."
The ghost played in Chicago.” Don’t get me wrong if he wins the next three championships is that going to cement his legacy in the minds of NBA fans? I can admire someone from afar; I might even inform them they are my role model. Why is it necessary to eclipse them? As someone who witnessed the play of both I question LeBron’s reasoning. If for example LeBron closes his career with two more championships and ends with five we guess he won’t be satisfied.
Friday, October 7, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Its basketball season again---thank goodness
Every year Kansas fans wait anxiously for basketball season. The school known world-wide for round ball has suffered on the gridiron since 2010 the record on the field reads 14 wins and 62 losses. No wonder the Kansas faithful began salivating come basketball season. It’s not always been the norm several outstanding NFL players can point toward Kansas University where they excelled in football.
Gayle Sayers might be the most famous football Jayhawk in history nicknamed “The Kansas Comet.” Sayers the great Chicago Bears running back was born in Wichita but grew up in Omaha Nebraska. Quarterback John Hadl spent the bulk of his NFL career with the Chargers. Big John Riggins running back for the Jets and Washington was devastating running through opponents with the football. Those mentioned are but a few outstanding Jayhawk football players. Alas basketball was, is and will always remain KING in Lawrence Kansas.
Delayed start
Duke big man Harry Giles underwent arthroscopy surgery and will be out six weeks. The college season begins much later than the NBA however the return date remains a question; I wouldn’t be surprised if they decided to red shirt the 6-11 Giles. Duke has the top or second best recruiting class in the nation depending on your source. Duke should be okay without Giles my view he should begin rehab and forget about basketball until next season.
Say what?
Did you read the story on LeBron’s rookie card? On Sunday LeBron’s autographed card was sold for get this------ $312,000 dollars. That should send you scrambling to see if you have any cards of value. I located a significant number of mine however I don’t believe any will reward me in the manner some individual received over the weekend. I read a number of email complaints about spending money in this manner.
Someone else wrote “You should spend no more than $50 on ANY card.” That view certainly is a matter of opinion for example I remember hearing the term disposable income. According to the definition it is, “Income remaining after deduction of taxes and other mandatory charges, available to be spent or saved as one wishes.” I believe that might say to all what you do with your money is your business unless it’s done in some illegal or unethical manner.
He might have been the first
Many of you might remember Rik Smits nicknamed the “Dunking Dutchman.” Born in Eindhoven, Netherlands in 1966 Smits came to the U.S. to play basketball at Marist College in Poughkeepsie (NY) in 1984. Smits would become the second pick in the first round of the 1988 NBA Draft and would go on to a 12-year NBA all spent as a member of the Pacers. Nowadays most Euro players travel a different route in order to gain a spot in the NBA draft. The draft is still high however Euro players remain at home. Smits might have been among the first to travel the college route to gain an NBA position.
Nepotism
My belief Doc Rivers does a whole lot more talkin’ than producing. He continues to extol the virtues of his team yet fails to reach the promised land. Doc the window is slowly closing on this roster I don’t remember the number however I believe the Clippers now have the oldest average age team in the NBA. As for the nepotism title, if I were in a position I could see myself hiring my son if they were qualified for the job.
That’s the issue for me qualification can we in truth say Austin Rivers fits? I know this is pre-season but how in the world do you start a 6-4 guard at the small forward which was done on Wednesday the Clippers won the game. Rivers totals in 24 minutes he was 4-9 from the field 1 rebound 1 assist 10 points and 5 personal fouls. There were no takers last summer when he became a free-agent so what occurs daddy as director of player personal re-signs him.
Its basketball season again---thank goodness
Every year Kansas fans wait anxiously for basketball season. The school known world-wide for round ball has suffered on the gridiron since 2010 the record on the field reads 14 wins and 62 losses. No wonder the Kansas faithful began salivating come basketball season. It’s not always been the norm several outstanding NFL players can point toward Kansas University where they excelled in football.
Gayle Sayers might be the most famous football Jayhawk in history nicknamed “The Kansas Comet.” Sayers the great Chicago Bears running back was born in Wichita but grew up in Omaha Nebraska. Quarterback John Hadl spent the bulk of his NFL career with the Chargers. Big John Riggins running back for the Jets and Washington was devastating running through opponents with the football. Those mentioned are but a few outstanding Jayhawk football players. Alas basketball was, is and will always remain KING in Lawrence Kansas.
Delayed start
Duke big man Harry Giles underwent arthroscopy surgery and will be out six weeks. The college season begins much later than the NBA however the return date remains a question; I wouldn’t be surprised if they decided to red shirt the 6-11 Giles. Duke has the top or second best recruiting class in the nation depending on your source. Duke should be okay without Giles my view he should begin rehab and forget about basketball until next season.
Say what?
Did you read the story on LeBron’s rookie card? On Sunday LeBron’s autographed card was sold for get this------ $312,000 dollars. That should send you scrambling to see if you have any cards of value. I located a significant number of mine however I don’t believe any will reward me in the manner some individual received over the weekend. I read a number of email complaints about spending money in this manner.
Someone else wrote “You should spend no more than $50 on ANY card.” That view certainly is a matter of opinion for example I remember hearing the term disposable income. According to the definition it is, “Income remaining after deduction of taxes and other mandatory charges, available to be spent or saved as one wishes.” I believe that might say to all what you do with your money is your business unless it’s done in some illegal or unethical manner.
He might have been the first
Many of you might remember Rik Smits nicknamed the “Dunking Dutchman.” Born in Eindhoven, Netherlands in 1966 Smits came to the U.S. to play basketball at Marist College in Poughkeepsie (NY) in 1984. Smits would become the second pick in the first round of the 1988 NBA Draft and would go on to a 12-year NBA all spent as a member of the Pacers. Nowadays most Euro players travel a different route in order to gain a spot in the NBA draft. The draft is still high however Euro players remain at home. Smits might have been among the first to travel the college route to gain an NBA position.
Nepotism
My belief Doc Rivers does a whole lot more talkin’ than producing. He continues to extol the virtues of his team yet fails to reach the promised land. Doc the window is slowly closing on this roster I don’t remember the number however I believe the Clippers now have the oldest average age team in the NBA. As for the nepotism title, if I were in a position I could see myself hiring my son if they were qualified for the job.
That’s the issue for me qualification can we in truth say Austin Rivers fits? I know this is pre-season but how in the world do you start a 6-4 guard at the small forward which was done on Wednesday the Clippers won the game. Rivers totals in 24 minutes he was 4-9 from the field 1 rebound 1 assist 10 points and 5 personal fouls. There were no takers last summer when he became a free-agent so what occurs daddy as director of player personal re-signs him.
Thursday, October 6, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
The ring, the ring
Just in case you didn’t hear the news, the Cavs have reached out to former Coach David Blatt. They contacted him regarding a championship ring. I believe it was deserved despite being dismissed in the middle of last season. I love that my homie Tyronn Lue was made head coach but I’m a realist. Whether “it” was working for Blatt and the Cavs we can debate that. I dare you to locate a head coach that was fired when he’d lead his team to a 30-11 record and first place in their division.
Finally he’s arrived
7 foot Joel Embiid scored 6 points snatched 4 rebounds and blocked 2 shots in 13 minutes of game action. The significance of the event the 7-2 center finally arrived on an NBA court. It almost makes up for the bad news of Simmons. By the way the 76ers won the pre-season game over the Celtics. He said he was rusty but provided evidence why the 76ers drafted him.
They haven’t forgotten
The NBA pre-season game on Saturday I spotted a number of Vancouver Grizzlies jerseys worn by attendees. The game between the Warriors and Raptors was played at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. The game was announced as a sell-out which is not surprising. The question what occurred with the franchise now located in Memphis. The Vancouver Grizzlies first began play in 1995 as an expansion team. Why the Raptors have tasted success and the Grizzlies failed are too difficult to dissect in a couple of paragraphs.
If we just looked at the attendance figures they were relatively good by comparison to the on-court performance.
In the teams first year they averaged 17,183 in the 18,000 seat arena. The lowest attendance figure occurred in their last year in Canada 13,737 in attendance. Unfortunately the win totals were pathetic as they never proved very competitive on the court. The highest win total was their last year in Vancouver winning 23 games. If we look over the draft choices a number were above average it happens they had better seasons elsewhere. These are but a few of the players drafted by the team while in Canada.
Shareer Abdur-Rahim
Steve Francis-traded to the Rockets before playing for the Grizzlies
Shane Battier
Matt Barnes
Mike Bibby
Bryant Reeves-injuries curtailed a promising career
"Give ‘em some love!"
A friend of mine said; “Why don’t you give UMKC some love in your blog.” I believe he doesn’t realize I’ve been quietly rooting for the University of Missouri-Kansas City for a number of years. I‘d mentioned earlier I wanted Louisville, DePaul or St. John‘s a successful basketball program in a large metropolitan city. The problem in Kansas City unless you win the shadow of Kansas basketball looms over college basketball here.
Although Sprint Center is in Kansas City (MO) Kansas basketball will draw a larger crowd than Mizzou. Part of the problem Lawrence is less than 50 miles where as Columbia (MO) is 120 miles away. UMKC has gone through a succession of coaches and athletic directors over the years and that’s been a big problem. Three years ago Kareem Richardson was hired as head coach and this will be the year the team turns the corner on success. I’m not saying you will see highlights on SportsCenter however play should improve.
The ring, the ring
Just in case you didn’t hear the news, the Cavs have reached out to former Coach David Blatt. They contacted him regarding a championship ring. I believe it was deserved despite being dismissed in the middle of last season. I love that my homie Tyronn Lue was made head coach but I’m a realist. Whether “it” was working for Blatt and the Cavs we can debate that. I dare you to locate a head coach that was fired when he’d lead his team to a 30-11 record and first place in their division.
Finally he’s arrived
7 foot Joel Embiid scored 6 points snatched 4 rebounds and blocked 2 shots in 13 minutes of game action. The significance of the event the 7-2 center finally arrived on an NBA court. It almost makes up for the bad news of Simmons. By the way the 76ers won the pre-season game over the Celtics. He said he was rusty but provided evidence why the 76ers drafted him.
They haven’t forgotten
The NBA pre-season game on Saturday I spotted a number of Vancouver Grizzlies jerseys worn by attendees. The game between the Warriors and Raptors was played at Rogers Arena in Vancouver. The game was announced as a sell-out which is not surprising. The question what occurred with the franchise now located in Memphis. The Vancouver Grizzlies first began play in 1995 as an expansion team. Why the Raptors have tasted success and the Grizzlies failed are too difficult to dissect in a couple of paragraphs.
If we just looked at the attendance figures they were relatively good by comparison to the on-court performance.
In the teams first year they averaged 17,183 in the 18,000 seat arena. The lowest attendance figure occurred in their last year in Canada 13,737 in attendance. Unfortunately the win totals were pathetic as they never proved very competitive on the court. The highest win total was their last year in Vancouver winning 23 games. If we look over the draft choices a number were above average it happens they had better seasons elsewhere. These are but a few of the players drafted by the team while in Canada.
Shareer Abdur-Rahim
Steve Francis-traded to the Rockets before playing for the Grizzlies
Shane Battier
Matt Barnes
Mike Bibby
Bryant Reeves-injuries curtailed a promising career
"Give ‘em some love!"
A friend of mine said; “Why don’t you give UMKC some love in your blog.” I believe he doesn’t realize I’ve been quietly rooting for the University of Missouri-Kansas City for a number of years. I‘d mentioned earlier I wanted Louisville, DePaul or St. John‘s a successful basketball program in a large metropolitan city. The problem in Kansas City unless you win the shadow of Kansas basketball looms over college basketball here.
Although Sprint Center is in Kansas City (MO) Kansas basketball will draw a larger crowd than Mizzou. Part of the problem Lawrence is less than 50 miles where as Columbia (MO) is 120 miles away. UMKC has gone through a succession of coaches and athletic directors over the years and that’s been a big problem. Three years ago Kareem Richardson was hired as head coach and this will be the year the team turns the corner on success. I’m not saying you will see highlights on SportsCenter however play should improve.
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Tallest average team in the NBA
I’d mentioned this previously but thought it might be worth a repeat. At the same time I’m unsure if I can locate any records to confirm my observation. The 2016-17 Bucks might have the tallest average team in the NBA. Take a glance at their training camp roster.
*Giannis Antetokounmpo 6-11
*Thon Maker 7-1
*Greg Monroe 6-11
*Miles Plumlee 6-11
*Michael Beasley 6-10
John Henson 6-11
Steve Novak 6-10
Jaleel Roberts 7-1
*Mirza Teletovic 6-9
This should not be considered final just my observation I believe those with an asterisk next to their name are likely the final cut.
High School Teammates
Several college teammates have managed an NBA career how about high school teammates. I saw a photo of Harrison Barnes and had a thought. I wonder how many high school teammates have made it to the NBA. We have Harrison Barnes now with the Mavs and Doug McDermott with the Bulls. They were teammates at Ames (IA) High School. In the next instance one teammate played several years in the NBA and the other did likewise except it was the NFL. They were high school teammates at DuPont High School in Belle (WV).
Jayson Williams spent most of his productive years as a member of the Kings; he might have perfected his alley-opp pass utilizing Randy Moss who would use his leaping ability hauling in passes from a number of NFL quarterbacks. These high school teammates might be the best ever because both are in the Naismith Hall of Fame. The late Gus Johnson and the late Nate Thurmond were high school teammates at Akron (OH) Central’s High School. The last two high school teammates were actually twin brothers. Tom and Dick Van Arsdale competed at Emmerich Manual High School in Indianapolis (IN).
Bits n Pieces
One game fails to make a season however Buddy Hield had a good first game. The Pelicans rookie shooting guard tied for the team high scoring 19 points (8-12 from the floor, 3-6 from the 3-point line). He just might have a head start in the rookie of the year contest. With Ben Simmons sidelined and Brandon Ingram starting his season on the Lakers bench it would appear Hield might be in the lead.
Jeff Goodman wrote of over-rated college teams, I’d like to take his premise further regarding a number of coaches. This is not in any order just as it comes to me. We can begin with George Karl who is no longer coaching anywhere. If you check his won-loss record it really looks good, the downside Karl always falls into disfavor with management causing them to fire him or he resigns. In nearly 40 years of NBA coaching his teams have only managed one 1) NBA Championship appearance.
To my knowledge this has never occurred in the past. Concerns about the zika virus have caused ESPN to move the Puerto Rico Tip-Off Tournament from Puerto Rico the eight team tournament will be moved to the World of Sports Complex in Orlando (FL). Orlando is not Miami in Miami city-wide spraying to kill mosquitoes was conducted. Are zika mosquitoes going to just remain in the Miami metro and not venture 204 miles north to Orlando? This is a silly conversation on my part however I hope you understand the issue.
I’ve never believed the NHL and NBA were rivals in a true sense. Sure the regular seasons almost parallel each other however my belief is you love hockey and tolerate the NBA or vice-versa. Kansas City has neither an NHL nor NBA team however I’m curios. There’s an NBA and NHL pre-season game schedule, which will draw the most fans, I’ll keep you posted how it turns out
Tallest average team in the NBA
I’d mentioned this previously but thought it might be worth a repeat. At the same time I’m unsure if I can locate any records to confirm my observation. The 2016-17 Bucks might have the tallest average team in the NBA. Take a glance at their training camp roster.
*Giannis Antetokounmpo 6-11
*Thon Maker 7-1
*Greg Monroe 6-11
*Miles Plumlee 6-11
*Michael Beasley 6-10
John Henson 6-11
Steve Novak 6-10
Jaleel Roberts 7-1
*Mirza Teletovic 6-9
This should not be considered final just my observation I believe those with an asterisk next to their name are likely the final cut.
High School Teammates
Several college teammates have managed an NBA career how about high school teammates. I saw a photo of Harrison Barnes and had a thought. I wonder how many high school teammates have made it to the NBA. We have Harrison Barnes now with the Mavs and Doug McDermott with the Bulls. They were teammates at Ames (IA) High School. In the next instance one teammate played several years in the NBA and the other did likewise except it was the NFL. They were high school teammates at DuPont High School in Belle (WV).
Jayson Williams spent most of his productive years as a member of the Kings; he might have perfected his alley-opp pass utilizing Randy Moss who would use his leaping ability hauling in passes from a number of NFL quarterbacks. These high school teammates might be the best ever because both are in the Naismith Hall of Fame. The late Gus Johnson and the late Nate Thurmond were high school teammates at Akron (OH) Central’s High School. The last two high school teammates were actually twin brothers. Tom and Dick Van Arsdale competed at Emmerich Manual High School in Indianapolis (IN).
Bits n Pieces
One game fails to make a season however Buddy Hield had a good first game. The Pelicans rookie shooting guard tied for the team high scoring 19 points (8-12 from the floor, 3-6 from the 3-point line). He just might have a head start in the rookie of the year contest. With Ben Simmons sidelined and Brandon Ingram starting his season on the Lakers bench it would appear Hield might be in the lead.
Jeff Goodman wrote of over-rated college teams, I’d like to take his premise further regarding a number of coaches. This is not in any order just as it comes to me. We can begin with George Karl who is no longer coaching anywhere. If you check his won-loss record it really looks good, the downside Karl always falls into disfavor with management causing them to fire him or he resigns. In nearly 40 years of NBA coaching his teams have only managed one 1) NBA Championship appearance.
To my knowledge this has never occurred in the past. Concerns about the zika virus have caused ESPN to move the Puerto Rico Tip-Off Tournament from Puerto Rico the eight team tournament will be moved to the World of Sports Complex in Orlando (FL). Orlando is not Miami in Miami city-wide spraying to kill mosquitoes was conducted. Are zika mosquitoes going to just remain in the Miami metro and not venture 204 miles north to Orlando? This is a silly conversation on my part however I hope you understand the issue.
I’ve never believed the NHL and NBA were rivals in a true sense. Sure the regular seasons almost parallel each other however my belief is you love hockey and tolerate the NBA or vice-versa. Kansas City has neither an NHL nor NBA team however I’m curios. There’s an NBA and NHL pre-season game schedule, which will draw the most fans, I’ll keep you posted how it turns out
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
He’s the leader
It’s probably been clear for awhile now Kwahi Leonard is the leader of the Spurs. Okay there was guy named Tim Duncan but in the last few years he’d moved to more of a supporting role. We could make the same statement regarding Manu Ginobili; he too has fallen into more support than leader. Swift and once young Tony Parker is now 34 years old and of course Duncan has now retired. What should we expect from the 2016-17 version of the Spurs?
There is likely a drop off but it will not be tremendous because of Kwahi. We apply the term leader loosely and we have a guy that prefers to remain in the background. Everything I’ve read indicates that’s where he prefers to be. Leonard’s scoring average has continued to climb each of his first five years in the NBA. In the end his leadership is conducted in a quiet manner, he appears to be non-verbal but manages to get the job done.
Knick fans know----maybe
A number of all-time Knicks standout among them Willis Reed. Reed would lead the Knicks to their last two (1970, 1973) NBA Championships. It’s interesting in that Reed is enshrined in both the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. That’s impressive for a second round draft choice but who knew, he arrived from Grambling College (now Grambling State University) in 1960. Grambling one of a number of historically black institutions in the nation has sent more football players into the NFL than basketball players into the NBA. The story is told when he arrived at Grambling a coach asked him “How tall are you?” Reed is supposed to have responded “I’m 6 feet 9 inches tall.” The coach then informed him “You are 6 feet 10; the NBA pays players more at 6-10.”
From that point and throughout his NBA career Reed was listed at 6-10. The first Knick championship (1970) was monumental, the big center had been injured and missed Game Six, the Lakers behind Wilt Chamberlain smashed the the Knicks forcing a Game Seven. The day prior and leading up to game time Knick fans waited anxiously hoping somehow Reed would be able to play. Game Time the Knicks are warming up with no sighting yet of Reed. With minutes remaining Reed emerged from the tunnel and took several jump shots. Tip off and the Knicks behind Reed’s outside shot hit both. Dragging his injured leg up and down the court he couldn’t play but he provided the psychological advantage the Knicks needed. Reed’s jersey 19 is now retired hanging in the rafters of Madison Square Garden. Reed a giant in size and heart.
The other direction
Much has been written or discussed regarding college coaches moving into the NBA. Fred Hoiberg with the Bulls and Billy Donovan of the Thunder are the most recent. How about former NBA coaches now at the collegiate level. The Little General Avery Johnson after stops with the Mavs and Nets is now coaching the Alabama basketball. Terry Porter has been a head coach at two stops; his last one in the NBA was an assistant with the Wolves. In April 2016 Porter was hired as head coach of the University of Portland.
We could also include John Calipari in the count although technically he was college then NBA and then college (Memphis, Kentucky) again. Eric Musselman has journeyed far and wide as an assistant and two head coaching stops in the NBA. March 2015 Musselman was hired as head coach at the University of Nevada. This short study is not complete but we must include Louisville Coach Rick Pitino in our count. He’s served as head coach with the Knicks and Celtics. Lon Kruger appears to favor coaching at the college level after a less than stellar NBA coaching tenure.
Break-out year
I expect great things from Semi Ojeleye this season. Unknown name to you I would suppose, he’s been invisible for awhile. He set the all-time high school scoring record for the State of Kansas. His college choice was Duke where he languished on the bench. The 6-8 230 pound Ojeleye transferred to SMU in 2015-16 he would sit out the fall semester as a transfer.
Later he would decide to red shirt for the spring semester preparing to play for Brown in the fall. Over the summer Brown suddenly decided to quit SMU leaving Ojeleye to ponder what might have been. The young man might be more inclined to prove he can play at this level. We might add he should become a focal part of the offense having lost a few of last years key contributors.
He’s the leader
It’s probably been clear for awhile now Kwahi Leonard is the leader of the Spurs. Okay there was guy named Tim Duncan but in the last few years he’d moved to more of a supporting role. We could make the same statement regarding Manu Ginobili; he too has fallen into more support than leader. Swift and once young Tony Parker is now 34 years old and of course Duncan has now retired. What should we expect from the 2016-17 version of the Spurs?
There is likely a drop off but it will not be tremendous because of Kwahi. We apply the term leader loosely and we have a guy that prefers to remain in the background. Everything I’ve read indicates that’s where he prefers to be. Leonard’s scoring average has continued to climb each of his first five years in the NBA. In the end his leadership is conducted in a quiet manner, he appears to be non-verbal but manages to get the job done.
Knick fans know----maybe
A number of all-time Knicks standout among them Willis Reed. Reed would lead the Knicks to their last two (1970, 1973) NBA Championships. It’s interesting in that Reed is enshrined in both the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. That’s impressive for a second round draft choice but who knew, he arrived from Grambling College (now Grambling State University) in 1960. Grambling one of a number of historically black institutions in the nation has sent more football players into the NFL than basketball players into the NBA. The story is told when he arrived at Grambling a coach asked him “How tall are you?” Reed is supposed to have responded “I’m 6 feet 9 inches tall.” The coach then informed him “You are 6 feet 10; the NBA pays players more at 6-10.”
From that point and throughout his NBA career Reed was listed at 6-10. The first Knick championship (1970) was monumental, the big center had been injured and missed Game Six, the Lakers behind Wilt Chamberlain smashed the the Knicks forcing a Game Seven. The day prior and leading up to game time Knick fans waited anxiously hoping somehow Reed would be able to play. Game Time the Knicks are warming up with no sighting yet of Reed. With minutes remaining Reed emerged from the tunnel and took several jump shots. Tip off and the Knicks behind Reed’s outside shot hit both. Dragging his injured leg up and down the court he couldn’t play but he provided the psychological advantage the Knicks needed. Reed’s jersey 19 is now retired hanging in the rafters of Madison Square Garden. Reed a giant in size and heart.
The other direction
Much has been written or discussed regarding college coaches moving into the NBA. Fred Hoiberg with the Bulls and Billy Donovan of the Thunder are the most recent. How about former NBA coaches now at the collegiate level. The Little General Avery Johnson after stops with the Mavs and Nets is now coaching the Alabama basketball. Terry Porter has been a head coach at two stops; his last one in the NBA was an assistant with the Wolves. In April 2016 Porter was hired as head coach of the University of Portland.
We could also include John Calipari in the count although technically he was college then NBA and then college (Memphis, Kentucky) again. Eric Musselman has journeyed far and wide as an assistant and two head coaching stops in the NBA. March 2015 Musselman was hired as head coach at the University of Nevada. This short study is not complete but we must include Louisville Coach Rick Pitino in our count. He’s served as head coach with the Knicks and Celtics. Lon Kruger appears to favor coaching at the college level after a less than stellar NBA coaching tenure.
Break-out year
I expect great things from Semi Ojeleye this season. Unknown name to you I would suppose, he’s been invisible for awhile. He set the all-time high school scoring record for the State of Kansas. His college choice was Duke where he languished on the bench. The 6-8 230 pound Ojeleye transferred to SMU in 2015-16 he would sit out the fall semester as a transfer.
Later he would decide to red shirt for the spring semester preparing to play for Brown in the fall. Over the summer Brown suddenly decided to quit SMU leaving Ojeleye to ponder what might have been. The young man might be more inclined to prove he can play at this level. We might add he should become a focal part of the offense having lost a few of last years key contributors.
Monday, October 3, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Expect it for awhile
Kevin Durant’s move to the Warriors is not the earth-shattering move of LeBron. It has nothing to do with talent for me it’s just the idea of the move. As for Durant it’s going to take some fans time to adjust to Durant in a Warriors jersey. It was reported last night many in the crowd booed when he was announced. Consider this fact the pre-season game was held in Vancouver British Columbia Canada. Can we fast-forward in our minds to Durant’s first game in Oklahoma City?
Its official
The broken bone in Ben Simmons foot will require surgery; he will be out a minimum of three months which likely entails a January return. I have no medical background just an opinion; it would seem more beneficial if Simmons waited till next season to return. This would guarantee the bone is fully healed with 9-10 months post-surgery. Just an observation from a lay medical person.
Trivia
Was it fun on Saturday? Let’s try this again and I’ll try and make it a little more difficult. The answers are listed below.
A. What NBA team is named after an auto part, what city did they begin play?
B. In 2015 he became the first player from India to be drafted by an NBA team. Can you name him and the team that drafted him?
C. In the 50’s Paul Arizin and Bevo Francis scored 100+ points in a college game. In 2013 a player scored 109 points and followed it up with 138. Can you name him and the bonus his college?
Answers at the bottom of the page, don’t cheat.
The new guy
I know very little about Maurice Joseph however he’s been named interim coach for George Washington University. If you missed the story Mike Longergan had been fired for reported abuse of players, he’s filed a lawsuit which is yet to be adjudicated. As for Joseph he played basketball at Michigan State after becoming Canada’s National Player of the Year in high school. Joseph played professional basketball in Israel before moving into the coaching ranks. Basketball be it college or the NBA continues to exceed other sports in minority hiring.
Best of the Best
Perhaps the most talented player in the State of Missouri last year is no longer enrolled in a high school here. 6-10 Michael Porter Jr. from Columbia (MO) verbally committed to the University of Washington earlier. Is Porter Jr. actually headed to the Pacific Northwest its most likely, he transferred from Tolton High School for Nathan Hale High School in Seattle. I’d mentioned this previously his dad was hired as an assistant coach for the UW. That’s a connecting part. An additional connecting point is Coach Lorenzo Romar; Romar is Porter Jr.’s godfather. It should be of note Porter Jr. is rated the number two prospect in the Class of 2017.
A. Pistons, Fort Wayne
B. Satnam Singh Bhamara, Mavs
C. Jack Taylor, Grinnell College Division III
Expect it for awhile
Kevin Durant’s move to the Warriors is not the earth-shattering move of LeBron. It has nothing to do with talent for me it’s just the idea of the move. As for Durant it’s going to take some fans time to adjust to Durant in a Warriors jersey. It was reported last night many in the crowd booed when he was announced. Consider this fact the pre-season game was held in Vancouver British Columbia Canada. Can we fast-forward in our minds to Durant’s first game in Oklahoma City?
Its official
The broken bone in Ben Simmons foot will require surgery; he will be out a minimum of three months which likely entails a January return. I have no medical background just an opinion; it would seem more beneficial if Simmons waited till next season to return. This would guarantee the bone is fully healed with 9-10 months post-surgery. Just an observation from a lay medical person.
Trivia
Was it fun on Saturday? Let’s try this again and I’ll try and make it a little more difficult. The answers are listed below.
A. What NBA team is named after an auto part, what city did they begin play?
B. In 2015 he became the first player from India to be drafted by an NBA team. Can you name him and the team that drafted him?
C. In the 50’s Paul Arizin and Bevo Francis scored 100+ points in a college game. In 2013 a player scored 109 points and followed it up with 138. Can you name him and the bonus his college?
Answers at the bottom of the page, don’t cheat.
The new guy
I know very little about Maurice Joseph however he’s been named interim coach for George Washington University. If you missed the story Mike Longergan had been fired for reported abuse of players, he’s filed a lawsuit which is yet to be adjudicated. As for Joseph he played basketball at Michigan State after becoming Canada’s National Player of the Year in high school. Joseph played professional basketball in Israel before moving into the coaching ranks. Basketball be it college or the NBA continues to exceed other sports in minority hiring.
Best of the Best
Perhaps the most talented player in the State of Missouri last year is no longer enrolled in a high school here. 6-10 Michael Porter Jr. from Columbia (MO) verbally committed to the University of Washington earlier. Is Porter Jr. actually headed to the Pacific Northwest its most likely, he transferred from Tolton High School for Nathan Hale High School in Seattle. I’d mentioned this previously his dad was hired as an assistant coach for the UW. That’s a connecting part. An additional connecting point is Coach Lorenzo Romar; Romar is Porter Jr.’s godfather. It should be of note Porter Jr. is rated the number two prospect in the Class of 2017.
A. Pistons, Fort Wayne
B. Satnam Singh Bhamara, Mavs
C. Jack Taylor, Grinnell College Division III
Sunday, October 2, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
This is interesting
Food vendors, janitors and ticket agents are employees of the Cavs and work at Quicken Loans Arena. Gilbert and partners announced they are paying an additional $1 million dollars to provide all Cavs employees championship rings. Reminds us of the Oprah Winfrey program at the time she would provide audience members automobiles. Instead its---YOU get a championship ring and YOU get a championship ring. Okay you would have had to see her program to fully understand my Oprah reference.
Bits n Pieces
The plan will be implemented early, as for late season into the playoffs that might be a completely different story. Tyronn Lue has announced in training camp he hopes to decrease the number of minutes LeBron is on the court. LeBron was at 35.6 minutes during the regular season and 39.0 in the playoffs. Considering NBA games are 48 minutes long you can see LeBron logged a great number of minutes last year and has throughout his career. He’s not over the hill but he turns 32 in December.
He’s one of those dual sports athletes I overlooked. Bill Sharman would be a vital part of the Celtic mystic of the 1950’s but he had a baseball career too. From 1950 to 1955 Sharman was in the Brooklyn Dodgers minor league farm season. As for basketball it might be the luck of the draw, drafted by the Washington Capitols and the team was disbanded. Sharman was selected by the Fort Wayne Pistons in the dispersal draft and the Pistons would trade him to the Celtics and the rest is history. After retirement Sharman would distinguish himself coaching in both the ABA and NBA.
I’m surprised Nick Young (at least to this point) remains a Laker. Young can shoot however the problem was he didn’t perform it very efficiently last season. Young just turn 31 which is not old however he needs to step up his game if he expects to remain a Laker.
The 76ers have three centers Nerlens Noel, Joel Embiid and Jahlil Okafor. The problem how do you play all three at the same time. Just joking that ain’t happening. There is an issue though, Embiid has been pronounced ready to play and we know what Noel and Okafor can do. Noel could be moved to power forward but you are not going to have Embiid playing backup to Okafor or vice-versa. Somebody get’s traded and who that might be is unknown as camp opens.
Snake bit
Are the 76ers snake bit might be the next question? If I were a superstitious person I might say yes however I’m not. Enter Joel Embiid stage right exit rookie Ben Simmons stage left well not quite correct. Simmons will be sidelined for awhile after breaking a bone in his foot. As this is written we have no idea of a possible return date for Simmons.
I’m sure 76er fans are screaming loudly; “We cannot catch a break can we?” We can say not completely though. Its been announced Joel Embiid who’s been sidelined like forever will start on Tuesday in the teams first pre-season game. Embiid’s had two birthday without stepping onto a court in competitive action. In truth we can say the news out of 76er training camp is good and bad.
Point guard?
Rockets Coach Mike D’Antoni claims James Harden will see time at the point this upcoming season. Hey isn’t Harden the guy who’s never seen a shot he didn’t like? We also know D’Antoni’s history offensive fast pace basketball history with a number of NBA teams but Harden? Is he talking about the same guy many teammates (not named Dwight Howard) consider a black hole. That’s the term one applied to former Rockets Coach Kevin McHale.
At the time McHale played for the Celtics it was said you passed the ball to McHale you never saw it again. Rather than just pontificate I decided to check the numbers. I was in for quite a surprise and I will issue an apology to Mr. Harden aka “The Beard” after checking his numbers. In 82 games last season Harden scored at a 29 points per game clip and dished out 7.5 assists, in the playoffs in 5 playoff games he scored 26.6 ppg and 7.6 assists. Harden registered these numbers without D’Antoni’s high power offense.
This is interesting
Food vendors, janitors and ticket agents are employees of the Cavs and work at Quicken Loans Arena. Gilbert and partners announced they are paying an additional $1 million dollars to provide all Cavs employees championship rings. Reminds us of the Oprah Winfrey program at the time she would provide audience members automobiles. Instead its---YOU get a championship ring and YOU get a championship ring. Okay you would have had to see her program to fully understand my Oprah reference.
Bits n Pieces
The plan will be implemented early, as for late season into the playoffs that might be a completely different story. Tyronn Lue has announced in training camp he hopes to decrease the number of minutes LeBron is on the court. LeBron was at 35.6 minutes during the regular season and 39.0 in the playoffs. Considering NBA games are 48 minutes long you can see LeBron logged a great number of minutes last year and has throughout his career. He’s not over the hill but he turns 32 in December.
He’s one of those dual sports athletes I overlooked. Bill Sharman would be a vital part of the Celtic mystic of the 1950’s but he had a baseball career too. From 1950 to 1955 Sharman was in the Brooklyn Dodgers minor league farm season. As for basketball it might be the luck of the draw, drafted by the Washington Capitols and the team was disbanded. Sharman was selected by the Fort Wayne Pistons in the dispersal draft and the Pistons would trade him to the Celtics and the rest is history. After retirement Sharman would distinguish himself coaching in both the ABA and NBA.
I’m surprised Nick Young (at least to this point) remains a Laker. Young can shoot however the problem was he didn’t perform it very efficiently last season. Young just turn 31 which is not old however he needs to step up his game if he expects to remain a Laker.
The 76ers have three centers Nerlens Noel, Joel Embiid and Jahlil Okafor. The problem how do you play all three at the same time. Just joking that ain’t happening. There is an issue though, Embiid has been pronounced ready to play and we know what Noel and Okafor can do. Noel could be moved to power forward but you are not going to have Embiid playing backup to Okafor or vice-versa. Somebody get’s traded and who that might be is unknown as camp opens.
Snake bit
Are the 76ers snake bit might be the next question? If I were a superstitious person I might say yes however I’m not. Enter Joel Embiid stage right exit rookie Ben Simmons stage left well not quite correct. Simmons will be sidelined for awhile after breaking a bone in his foot. As this is written we have no idea of a possible return date for Simmons.
I’m sure 76er fans are screaming loudly; “We cannot catch a break can we?” We can say not completely though. Its been announced Joel Embiid who’s been sidelined like forever will start on Tuesday in the teams first pre-season game. Embiid’s had two birthday without stepping onto a court in competitive action. In truth we can say the news out of 76er training camp is good and bad.
Point guard?
Rockets Coach Mike D’Antoni claims James Harden will see time at the point this upcoming season. Hey isn’t Harden the guy who’s never seen a shot he didn’t like? We also know D’Antoni’s history offensive fast pace basketball history with a number of NBA teams but Harden? Is he talking about the same guy many teammates (not named Dwight Howard) consider a black hole. That’s the term one applied to former Rockets Coach Kevin McHale.
At the time McHale played for the Celtics it was said you passed the ball to McHale you never saw it again. Rather than just pontificate I decided to check the numbers. I was in for quite a surprise and I will issue an apology to Mr. Harden aka “The Beard” after checking his numbers. In 82 games last season Harden scored at a 29 points per game clip and dished out 7.5 assists, in the playoffs in 5 playoff games he scored 26.6 ppg and 7.6 assists. Harden registered these numbers without D’Antoni’s high power offense.
Saturday, October 1, 2016
Basketball from a fans perspective
Trivia
The photo of Kevin Durant in a Warriors jersey brought me full circle. I thought he’s in Oakland now and will play at Oracle Arena. He’s also had two other home courts, can you name them? The answer is at the bottom of the page. Don’t cheat I can see you scrolling down.
It’s started
Tonight Late Night at the Phog will be held at Kansas University. The Jayhawks have 5 Top 50 prospects invited to the annual start of the collegiate season with the practice game. In addition the cable guide indicates ESPN2 has an hour plus time open on Saturday evening. Usually Dick Vitale is somewhere Kentucky or North Carolina and other media are scheduled throughout the nation. I don’t know about you but I’m excited, NBA training camp opens and college basketball training as well. In a few short weeks we’ll hear the rhythm of bouncing basketballs, I’m excited how about you.
The Warrior
First it was Clipper’s Coach Doc Rivers attempting to hire the recently retired Kevin Garnett. Okay that’s partially understandable after all Garnett was the driving force behind the Celtics winning an NBA Championship while Doc was coaching the team. Next up its Cavs Coach Tyronn Lue who is also trying to hire him for a coaching position. We shouldn’t expect movement right away for Garnett; he might even take a turn at the analyst desk for ESPN, TNT or NBA TV. If it should occur don’t expect it to be long lasting.
“You going or stayin’?”
Hamidou Diallo is a 6-5 shooting guard from Queens (NY), he’s the number 10 prospect in the Class of 2017. In addition he’s got his eye on the NBA already declaring himself “available.” Remember last June I wrote once Thon Maker was successful emerging from high school into the NBA, I stated he would not be the last. Along comes Diallo who says he graduated from Putnam Science Academy (CT) in the spring.
I see you are puzzled how Diallo could still be in high school right? He says he is in “post graduate” studies. We are led to believe each student-athlete has 8 semesters of eligibility unless there are unusual circumstances. The other question if he turns 19-years old before the end of the school year he’s automatically declared ineligible. At the same time Diallo indicates he’s likely to enroll at one of the high profile programs recruiting him. Just a few of the schools attempting to recruit him are Arizona, Kansas, Kentucky UConn and Indiana.
Trivia answer
Kevin Durant was actually drafted by the Seattle Sonics and played his rookie year in Seattle. Durant moved with the franchise to Oklahoma City his sophomore year where he would become a star player and is now in Oakland.
Trivia
The photo of Kevin Durant in a Warriors jersey brought me full circle. I thought he’s in Oakland now and will play at Oracle Arena. He’s also had two other home courts, can you name them? The answer is at the bottom of the page. Don’t cheat I can see you scrolling down.
It’s started
Tonight Late Night at the Phog will be held at Kansas University. The Jayhawks have 5 Top 50 prospects invited to the annual start of the collegiate season with the practice game. In addition the cable guide indicates ESPN2 has an hour plus time open on Saturday evening. Usually Dick Vitale is somewhere Kentucky or North Carolina and other media are scheduled throughout the nation. I don’t know about you but I’m excited, NBA training camp opens and college basketball training as well. In a few short weeks we’ll hear the rhythm of bouncing basketballs, I’m excited how about you.
The Warrior
First it was Clipper’s Coach Doc Rivers attempting to hire the recently retired Kevin Garnett. Okay that’s partially understandable after all Garnett was the driving force behind the Celtics winning an NBA Championship while Doc was coaching the team. Next up its Cavs Coach Tyronn Lue who is also trying to hire him for a coaching position. We shouldn’t expect movement right away for Garnett; he might even take a turn at the analyst desk for ESPN, TNT or NBA TV. If it should occur don’t expect it to be long lasting.
“You going or stayin’?”
Hamidou Diallo is a 6-5 shooting guard from Queens (NY), he’s the number 10 prospect in the Class of 2017. In addition he’s got his eye on the NBA already declaring himself “available.” Remember last June I wrote once Thon Maker was successful emerging from high school into the NBA, I stated he would not be the last. Along comes Diallo who says he graduated from Putnam Science Academy (CT) in the spring.
I see you are puzzled how Diallo could still be in high school right? He says he is in “post graduate” studies. We are led to believe each student-athlete has 8 semesters of eligibility unless there are unusual circumstances. The other question if he turns 19-years old before the end of the school year he’s automatically declared ineligible. At the same time Diallo indicates he’s likely to enroll at one of the high profile programs recruiting him. Just a few of the schools attempting to recruit him are Arizona, Kansas, Kentucky UConn and Indiana.
Trivia answer
Kevin Durant was actually drafted by the Seattle Sonics and played his rookie year in Seattle. Durant moved with the franchise to Oklahoma City his sophomore year where he would become a star player and is now in Oakland.
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