Words eye view 

Basketball from a fan perspective

Mizzou-Georgia

This is not a first-hand account, early on as I could feel my blood pressure rising, I decided rather than yell and scream at the television I would simply turn the game off.  This action might be shocking to some, but I had to do it for my sanity.  This is strictly box score, Mizzou beat Georgia 73-70, the Tigers shot 43% from the floor and 35% from 3.  Xavier Pinson led the way in scoring with his 17 points, he was assisted by Dru Smith and Kobe Brown both with 16 points apiece.  Now all Mizzou must accomplish is beat Arkansas tonight one of the hottest teams in the nation.  Despite this colossal impediment in the path of Mizzou I plan on viewing the game and remaining to its conclusion.   

Basketball sort of

A day after football coach Les Miles departed Kansas so did the guy who hired him, athletic director Jeff Long also left his position at the university.  A search will begin for a replacement AD and football coach.  This is an unusual situation, but the school must hire an AD first and then begin searching for a football coach, at Kansas we have a distinct dynamic at work.  Kansas University is reverse of most major universities in that basketball is the mover and shaker for athletics.  Regardless of a program won loss record most schools find football the money-maker, at Kansas it’s the opposite.  I’d bet money if I were a betting person, basketball coach Bill Self will be involved in the hiring process of the next football coach.   

Shame on you 

Luke Garza’s had an outstanding career at the University of Iowa, this latest issue shines a negative light on his tenure.  The decision to retire Garza’s 55 jersey certainly wasn’t his.  The judgment was made by the school, this was decided after Garza broke the school’s scoring record set by Roy Marble.  Marble held the record for 32 years however his number 23 has never been retired; he would die of cancer in 2015 at the age of 48. 

His son would later attend Iowa and play for the Hawkeyes probably due to his father.  With this announcement he’s made it known how upset he is with the actions of the school.  The elder Marble and Garza are the only two athletes in the school’s history to score more than 2,000 points.  As for Iowa they reached out to young Marble and apologized however there is no method to fix this egregious error.  Rest assured Garza bears no responsibility for this dilemma, it’s likely he was pleased by the school initially now not so much.    

The anniversary

Turner Network Television or TNT is celebrating an anniversary, the is the 30th Anniversary since the network first began telecasting NBA games.  As noted in the past the NBA has moved around over the years between several broadcast networks.  The first cable system to telecast the NBA was USA which began in the 1979-80 season, this would last until 1983-84. 

From 1984 through 2002 NBA games were telecast on TBS although Hawks games were exclusive to the network prior to that period.  ESPN became a broadcast partner in 2002 along with NBA TV.  NBA TV began its broadcast history before televising games and even their usage is different from the others.  NBA TV rarely uses their broadcasters; they utilize the local feed and the home team’s broadcast crew.  NBA League Pass will be covered later for those unfamiliar with it.   

Just shut up

As parents we attempt to guide our children in what we hope is the best direction for them. That statement is for your offspring and not professional basketball players.  The subject of our discussion is Dame Lillard outstanding point guard of the Blazers.  In the modern era in all professional sports athletes’ stories play out before our eyes.  The latest, Russell Wilson of the NFL Seahawks wants to be traded, in other instances free agency allows the player to pick the team he desires.  As for Lillard he’s made it clear in public at least Portland is the only city in the NBA he desires to play. 

In private perhaps that is not so true, but we are only as good as the information in front of us.  Despite the statement by Dame a media member has decided the player needs to re-locate.  In addition to the move this person provides us the address he believes Dame should seek…New York and the Knicks.  My statement prior to addressing the media person, who appointed him King of the NBA?  As King we guess he can execute a degree moving players around…Dame in this instance.  This person is a fan of the Knicks so we might question his integrity on his decree.  As for the other portion it's strictly Dame's move or non-move, this member of the media needs to just shut up.     

Words eye view 

Basketball from a fan perspective

Now is the time

The NBA playoffs are yet to begin, in March and early April college basketball dominates our thoughts.  With the good comes the bad, we must discuss the dark side or underbelly of the game.  Details of the five Level One violations regarding Arizona basketball were detailed.  This is no attempt to detail them one by one but to provide an information update.  The NCAA has turned this case over to an Independent Accountability Resolution Process, in addition this body is also handling Kansas, Louisville and the NC State cases. 

Your guess is as good as mine how these cases are to be resolved however this is my thought.  The NCAA must believe it has too much skin in the game to justify making a judgement without independent counsel.  This thought might have been made considering the Bill Self threat to sue the NCAA.  It’s my belief this panel can only make recommendations and the NCAA will issue appropriate punishment based on their findings.  Keep in mind this view is only a presumption on my part I’ve read nothing indicating this to be the case.  In addition, I might add I have no formalized legal training. 

Surprise, double surprise

The Lakers announce they intend to sign center Damian Jones to a second 10-day contract.  Since his arrival in Purple and Gold his field goal percentage is 100% having sunk all the shots he’s taken. Keep in mind that number represents a small number since his time on the floor has been limited.  Rest assured nobody in Laker Nation expected him to supplant Marc Gasol, but we did expect to see him play more minutes.

Perhaps that is the future for the 6-foot 11-inch Jones, additional play to determine if the investment in him works for the long-term future.  Jones is only 25-years old and perhaps, with emphasis on the word perhaps under the umbrella of LeBron James and others he learns.  The key of course is Jones himself; he cannot remove all the negatives that might have impacted and limited his game in the past.  He can work at improving those and minimizing the shortcoming to improve his game.   

All SEC

The SEC all conference first team contained Mizzou guard Dru Smith.  Witnessing his play for the last two seasons this is not surprising news.  As a senior his leadership has been clear to the winning record of Mizzou.  At the time he transferred from Evansville University we didn’t know what to expect, we believed he could play but the SEC is a step above the Missouri Valley Conference.  As mentioned previously we don’t know if there is a pro career in his future, but the 6-foot 3 combo guard could find a role in the NBA as a reserve or in the G-League or Europe.  Job well done Dru Smith, those in Mizzou Nation appreciate your play and leadership. 

Earning a spot on the second team was 6-10 center Jeremiah Tilmon.  Many of us remember four short years ago the potential, but he was never able to fulfill it.  Continuous foul trouble kept him seated on the bench much of his first two seasons, last season it was injuries that kept him sidelined.  In his senior year Tilmon has finally come full circle, he’s managed to remain on the floor and be productive.  Remember his foul issues of the past, his 27.5 minutes on the court were the third highest on the team? Tilmon was the third leading scorer (12.5 a game) and led Mizzou in rebounds and blocked shots.  This East St. Louis young man had now come full circle and lived up to the promise Mizzou Nation hoped.        

Naismith Hall of Fame

During his playing days Michael Cooper was an all-everything player for the Lakers.  He was the Lakers first reserve in the game and his defense would often be the difference in a win versus a loss.  Although he stood 6 foot 5 and was a slender 170 pounds, he often took on the task of defending taller and heavier players during his time. 

Cooper’s career points, assists and steals provide no indication of his value to those Showtime Laker Teams.  The 6-foot 9-inch 220-pound Larry Bird claimed, “Nobody played defense on me tougher than Cooper.” Coop made the preliminary hall of fame cut along with 13 other former players, coaches and others.  There is no guarantee Cooper makes the final round and is enshrined but he should be.  He was a five-time NBA champion with the Lakers and in 1987 was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year.   

Words eye view 

Basketball from a fan perspective

Different sport, same results

Kansas University football has reached an agreement with Les Miles, the coach will resign with an unreported payout amount.  I’m not going to detail the background story however it did provide us a reminder, Mizzou suffered a similar account several years back although only a portion resembles the other.  A negative story regarding Mizzou’s Frank Haith while he coached Miami was reported by Yahoo Sports in 2011.  Haith headed Miami basketball for a time before departing for Mizzou

In 2013 an agreement between Haith and the NCAA witnessed the coach being suspended for 5 games and by April of 2014 Tulsa hired him.  Poor play along with the events surrounding Haith’s past may have been contributing factors in his eventual departure.  In the same manner Haith like Miles departed after the season concluded.  In the case of both coaches’ background checks were reported to have been conducted, in both instances adverse information was missed.  I claim no HR expertise but wonder how much can be detailed to future employers.

Nobody leaves

The Lakers have an open roster spot, when they acquire a player it’s the hope it will be a buyout.  Despite the fact I stated the Lakers wouldn’t sign Boogie Cousins he remains on the open market.  The player I personally covet is Andre Drummond, his positives far outweigh the negatives.  Since we are discussing him let’s check them out, he’s got no 3-point shot a skill several current Big Men possess.  He’s not a good free-throw shooter but any team that endured Shaq on their roster what can I say? 

Drummond is not a great defender around the basket however good team defense could support him.  The positives, he is furious at rebounding the basketball and is an adequate rim protector.  In Drummond, the positives far outnumber the negatives.  The Nets can throw more money in his direction, but the stipulation might be the ability to start.  If he took the Brooklyn money does he replace DeAndre Jordan in the lineup?  With the Lakers this is a non-question, he becomes the starter and Gasol backs him up.  Finally, I’m unsure if the Lakers have enough assets to interest the Cavs in a trade unless another team is added in the mix. 

The landscape has changed

I hardly ever listen to sports talk radio but did so this afternoon.  Ken Pomeroy of kenpom.com was a guest, naturally the discussion centered on the upcoming NCAA tourney however the other dialogue is the basis for this account.  Pomeroy mentioned how much the college landscape has changed and he’s correct.  Today’s high school prospect desiring an NBA career has multiple paths to that objective.  They could decide to get paid immediately by heading overseas to play (see LaMelo Ball and R.J. Hampton). 

On the other hand, they could choose the G-League and Team Ignite and get paid, see Jalen Green or Daishen Hix projected 2021 draft picks.  The final choice is become a one and done player the route of most top prospects.  This represents those athletes who believe the NBA is in their future, there are others who might require seasoning.  A pro career might be in the back of their mind, they remain in school a full four years developing their game. 

They are the exception over most prospects, as you can see the landscape indeed has changed.  NOTE: As this account was completed came an announcement.  Overtime Elite i.e., OTE plans on a September launch, we have no idea if it makes an impact, but this is the proposal.  “They will target top-ranked players ages 16 to 18 who are willing to forfeit their remaining high school eligibility and future college eligibility to earn six figures.” *  

*ESPN.com/nba/story

Is it true?

ESPN’s Jalen Rose claims “The Warriors informed LaMelo Ball he was their choice.”  This story remains in the realm of it could have occurred, I have no reason to disbelieve Rose but it’s a problem if true.  The draft is always a mystery even to the evening of the event however why make a promise you have no intention to maintain. This draft like those of the past might have come down to a 50-50 proposition if you are debating a James Wiseman and Ball decision that’s okay but the promise remains a question. 

Words eye view 

Basketball from a fan perspective

All-Star Game

This might be shocking to a number, there is no report.  Much earlier I decided to skip the game but view the skills portion.  We had an engagement on Sunday, I left the house without setting my DVR to record the part I intended to view.  I returned in time to watch the game itself but rather chose a movie.  So, there you have it, I believe for the first time in several years no All-Star Game report.  In fact, I’ve seen not a single highlight to this point, this is written early Monday morning.   

Ball brothers be ballin’ 

Lonzo and LaMelo have provided us proof they can play at the NBA level.  Rest assured we don’t know which brother was under the more intense pressure to produce.  It’s been mentioned on more than one occasion the bright lights of Los Angeles plus parental “noise” might have been a contributing factor in Lonzo’s initial foray into the NBA.  He might never be a superstar however the trade to the Pelicans has proven beneficial to him in more ways than we might have imagined. 

As an example, his career field goal percentage is 39.8 compared to 43.3 this season, his 3-point percentage has risen slightly, and he’s improved his free throw line to 77.5.  Lonzo’s rebounds (4.3) and assists (5.2) remain about the same, his scoring average of 14.8 points a game has risen.  Lonzo’s numbers across the board have improved significantly over his first three years.  I’m sure he’d resent this, but baby brother LaMelo has been quite the rookie thus far.

LaMelo’s exploits have caused Warrior fans to question if James Wiseman were the better choice since they could have selected Ball.  Unlike older brother Lonzo for LaMelo his numbers are the now, they certainly could improve but are exceptional as he leads all rookies.  Through 34 games LaMelo is shooting 44.6 from the floor along with 36.7 from 3.  Unlike his brother at the line, he’s at 80.8 along with 6 rebounds and 6.4 assists while scoring 15.7 points a game.  After all the parental posturing it’s good to see the brothers succeed on their own, a great deal of resentment has been aimed at them most of it due to the father. 

Do you remember the Baltimore Bullets?

This bit on NBA history is quite a distinctive story, until I begin research, I didn’t realize there was a Bullets I and Bullets II team.  Allow me to explain further, the team I was familiar with moved from Baltimore to the Washington D.C. area eventually being re-named the Wizards, they had an elaborate prior history.  The Bullets played in three leagues, from 1944-1947 they played in the American Basketball League.  The history is unclear regarding the league, however the ABL like others during that period went out of business. 

In 1947 the Bullets moved into the Basketball Association of American or BAA, when the league merged with the NBL in 1949 Baltimore moved into the newly formed NBA team.  The Bullets would remain NBA members until the 1954-1955 season when the team went out of business.  Once again, the history is unclear except, all we can uncover just indicates the Bullets closed shop.  In 1963 the expansion Zephyrs moved from Chicago to Baltimore and the Bullets name was reborn with the new team.  Baltimore had a team in three leagues with the same name and an 8-year break between two versions.        

 

Words eye view 

Basketball from a fan perspective

It’s confirmed

It’s being reported Blake Griffin late of the Pistons intends to sign with the Nets.  On the surface I don’t believe anyone finds this news shocking or even surprising.  The Nets are attempting to corner the market on every available free agent about.  We understand they have even contacted a former New York Nets player named…wow, I forget his name.  It's John or Jack Erving…no, I believe his name is Julius Erving.           

All-Star proceeds

Despite criticism raised by several players including LeBron James and Donovan Mitchell the game proceeded.  Besides the health and safety issues raised over $3 million in revenue from proceeds will be turned over to HBCU schools.  The amount might appear a pittance divided among a substantial number of schools, as one might state every little bit helps.  In this instance we are not discussing funds to be utilized by athletic programs, the funds are intended for use by the educational institutions in a variety of areas. 

Safeguard your words 

College and NBA coaches probably use a wide variety of methods to motivate their teams.  Whatever method is utilized should not be one that inflicts more damage than its purpose.  Creighton’s Greg McDermott has been among the most successful college coaches in recent years.  He’s been suspended indefinitely for comments made after a tough loss to Xavier.  “Guys, we got to stick together.  We need both feet in.  I need everybody on the plantation.” 

The statement made to an all-white team might be considered routine but that’s not the case at this point.  Creighton like most college basketball teams has a roster containing a sizable number of black players, the plantation statement relates to the institution of slavery. McDermott certainly doesn’t warrant being terminated but he needs to understand the meaning behind his words.  Several reading this might conclude on the surface the statement is not that serious if that’s you I will simply state okay and leave it there.  Others certainly realize we should guard the words we use considering our surroundings. 

This is amazing

Many of us are unpaid basketball scouts, we believe we can assess basketball potential.  That statement is questionable but how about the folks who get paid?  No wonder the Wolves and Warriors are talking to themselves, they had the ability to draft LaMelo Ball.  The Hornets point guard is flying high in rarified air, he’s accomplished feats few projected prior to the 2020 NBA draft.  At the All-Star break Ball ranks first among all rookies in total points (553), rebounds (211), assists (221) and steals (57) despite the fact he didn’t become a starter until February 1. 

According to Elias Sports Bureau, “Ball is the only player in the last 60 seasons to lead rookies in the categories mentioned.”  I admit I was stuck in the middle on Ball, reading some reports indicating he was a hot dog and wasn’t serious about the game.  Other reports painted a vastly different portrait of the youngest Ball brother, they indicated he was exceptionally talented.  We have this teenage phenom (19-years old) playing with the Big Boys and proving his skill and ability is on their level.  If the fire in his belly continues to burn at this pace can we whisper “Magic, Isiah” or some other Hall of Fame point guard? 

 Words eye view 

Basketball from a fan perspective

Another disappointing loss

From my perspective the wrong Tigers won the game, it was LSU Tigers 89-Mizzou Tigers 80.  Another loss that coulda, woulda, shoulda, been a win, again the last 5 minutes of a game Mizzou manages to figure out a way to lose.  Was it the LSU defense or the poor shot selection that was a contributing factor to the loss?  Afterall Mizzou managed to shoot a measly 37.1% from the floor as a team?  That type of shooting is not going to win many games in the SEC or the Parks & Recreation league. 

My chief frustration, no one on the Mizzou side appears capable of stepping up and taking over a game and this was one of them.  Dru Smith wants to be THE MAN but even he came up short in this game.  Guard Xavier Pinson scored 14 points but shot a minuscule 25% from the floor, in addition the decision making by X appears chaotic especially over these last 5-6 weeks.  Has the opposition seen enough video to figure out a method of curtailing the penetration of X?  Oh well, I've settled down it's on to the SEC post-season tournament next week.   

I ain’t mad at you

I have indicated on more than one occasion I’m ol skool, based on my statement as things stand, I will not watch the All-Star game this evening.  The skills competition and slam dunk contest will certainly be on my agenda.  Allow me to briefly explain my complaint, in the past it was East-West match.  The best of one division versus the best of the other, no more.  We have Western Conference LeBron James on the same team with Easter Conference Giannis Antetokounmpo.  I wish I understood the purpose of having two opposing regular season players on the same team.  In any event if you like the format as it's structed now that's okay, I ain't mad at you.   

He’s dropped out

Remember Kevin Garnett stating at one time he wanted to become an NBA owner?  His hope was to own the team he spent the greater portion of his playing career the Wolves.  For undisclosed reasons Garnett now indicates his group is no longer pursuing ownership of the team. 

Owner Glenn Taylor indicates the team is on the market however when it’s eventually sold (and it will be) Garnett will not be one of the owners.  As for the statement the team will be purchased that’s a fact, despite the enormous financial undertaking NBA teams don’t remain on the market a great deal of time.  Back to Garnett a moment, we can understand his desire to purchase the Wolves having played for them.  Perhaps his group might be interested in ownership of another franchise should it come on the market.   

Big Game

That was the nicknamed given to Laker great James Worthy, he almost always had an outstanding or big game during his career.  In both the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame how did he managed to be enshrined in both?  A collegiate All American at North Carolina and the top NBA prospect in 1982.  Through a trade the defending NBA champion Lakers had the Cavs pick, a coin flip determined the Lakers would have the number one pick which turned out to be Worthy. 

Imagine that, a team wins the championship and could choose the potential best player in the draft.  He didn’t become a fulltime starter until his third year in the NBA, from that point on Worthy became Big Game.  The 6-foot 9^-inch forward was on the receiving end of many Magic Johnson passes as he sprinted down the court for a dunk or layup.  He was a 3-time NBA champion while a member of the Showtime Lakers and the 1988 Finals MVP.  We are unsure even now if there was a speedier small forward than Worthy during that period, this concludes a brief lookback at Big Game James Worthy Laker legend.    

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

“It wasn’t Me”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2wPCYPRdt8

The late Chuck Berry recorded this prior to Shaggy; the theme of both songs is the same, it was someone else.  That also applies to yours truly, “It wasn’t Me” with comments you might have perceived as negative toward Mizzou’s Cuonzo Martin.  Yes, I have been disappointed over the last few weeks with several of the losses, at least three I believe shouldn’t have occurred but I’m just a fan.  Was it the coaches’ fault, ultimately the responsibility falls on him but consider what transpired?    

Cuonzo took not one shot; he never turned the ball over nor failed to rebound the basketball.  He did not a bit of those because he wasn’t on the floor as a player.  The team he sent out was to implement the game plan, his responsibility ends with game preparation and the ability to implement changes during the match.  One of the challenges in the past (my opinion) with Mizzou’s athletic administration is hiring the right person.  Despite what might appear to be complaints on my part regarding Cuonzo Martin I believe he is that correct hire until he proves he cannot be the man.

Who are those guys?

There are some guys with jerseys that read Knicks, they must be imposters because the Knicks don’t play .500 ball.  As this is written they have A 10-point lead over the Pistons with about 5 minutes remaining.  And get this if the season ended Thursday night the Knicks would earn a playoff berth.  This would be the Knicks first playoff appearance since the 2012-2013 season. 

He doesn’t play a minute however coach Tom Thibodeau has got to be one of the keys to this resurgence of the Knicks.  Knick fans have got to be among the best in the nation for putting up with inept play for countless years.  We are unsure if it’s competition from the Nets or just a new attitude, but these appear to be the new and improve Knicks.  It should be noted the Knicks did indeed win the game.   

It makes sense

In a pandemic age there should always be a backup plan, that is the case with the NCAA tournament.  Based on the college season games have been postponed or cancelled, what occurs with the NCAA tournament?  During the collegiate season we witnessed several games rescheduled while others are just listed as postponed.  The tournament is a whole different animal, what occurs.  The NCAA’s decided should a team test positive prior to a game it goes into the books as a forfeit. 

The proposal certainly is not comforting for the healthy team but is the only outcome possible.  This will not be an NBA Bubble; these are 18–23-year-olds for the most part.  Although all participants will be in Indianapolis social distancing and other parameters, we live with in this pandemic age must continue to be implemented.  No intention to be the voice of doom and gloom but it could occur.  A team could "lose" a game without setting foot on the basketball court.   

All Star pause

I’m unsure if the 2021 version of Blake Griffin has any gas in the tank, after all the Pistons released him.  This is just being real; the Pistons certainly are not among the NBA elite which becomes an interesting story.  If Griffin can’t play in Detroit can he really help any playoff contender?  

I’d forgotten seniors could return to school and they would not be counted against a team’s current roster.  Mizzou coach Cuonzo Martin indicates he’s not going ask any one of the four seniors on the roster to return.  He can’t however I can, I’d love if center Jeremiah Tilmon and guard Dru Smith returns.  I seriously doubt any of the four return.   

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Thanks to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch we can offer proof why Mizzou basketball is so confusing to Mizzou Nation or anyone that follows the basketball program in recent weeks.  The win on Wednesday night against Florida provided another Quad 1 win for Mizzou, they now have a 7-4 Quad 1 record.  Only Illinois and Oklahoma State have more Quad 1 wins than Mizzou as this is written.  Also tied with Mizzou and it's 7 wins are Gonzaga, Michigan, Alabama, Ohio State and Kansas.  This places Mizzou in some exclusive basketball company.  

The bait

The headline read: “Did the Laker loss to the Suns show any weakness?”  The Suns beat the Lakers rather convincingly.  Well let’s check what occurred, Anthony Davis didn’t play he’s been out of action for about 2 weeks.  Marc Gasol was health and safety protocol absent, although certainly not the player he once was he still brings a veteran presence to the starting lineup.  In addition to the two starters, top reserve Kyle Kuzma was injured and sat out the game.  The writer of the Bleacher Report story should return to this subject once all parties are healed and available to play.  If the Suns beat the Lakers, then in unison we'll know if there is a true weakness.   

Is it possible?

The Naismith Prep Player of the Year will be announced by the Atlanta Tipoff Club soon.  The award begun in 1987 honors the top high school basketball player in the nation, the list of past winners reads like who’s who of basketball.  Several of the high school winners went on to outstanding NBA careers.  The late Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Kevin Love and Ben Simmons are just a few of those names. 

The Tipoff Club will decide which of the five players are worthy of the award, it should be noted one of the five is Emoni Bates.  Will Bates a junior all everything prospect be awarded the honor of prep player of the year over four seniors?  It certainly is possible it wouldn’t be the first time he beat out upperclassmen for honors.  As an example, Bates was named Gatorade National Player of the Year as a sophomore, in addition he's got two Michigan Gatorade POY, two AP Michigan POY and two Ann Arbor POY awards.   

It’s all Steph’s fault   

Steph Curry is a remarkable talent and prolific shooter, in addition he is an adept point guard.  His shooting along with the success of the Warriors (until team injuries occurred) were visible and to be emulated by those desiring success on the basketball court.  That’s the difficulty, you know the old saying “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” 

You draw inspiration from those appearing successful i.e., championship Warriors and the Splash Brothers.  Everyone wants to be Steph, streak down the court and jack up shots however that’s the issue, they are not the smooth shooting diminutive guard.  Most don’t have close to his shooting ability and that’s why it’s all Steph’s fault.  Steven or Stephen (CarMax commercial) has set the standard few can reach no matter; they are going to continue stacking brick on top of brick in other words missing shots.   

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

MIZ-ZOU

Most of Mizzou Nation had no idea which team would show up, after all Mizzou had lost 4 of the last 5 games played.  Bear with me through a portion of this review it’s the fan in me, I don’t believe they are as bad as the last 5 games idicate.  On the other hand, they are not the same team that beat Illinois, Arkansas, Tennessee and Alabama during the season.  Headed into the game Florida and Mizzou would appear to be two evenly matched teams, playing at home Florida must be favored although I never bothered to check.

The game was as most believed, it would be like a heavyweight championship bout each team throwing haymakers not being able to knock out the other.  A reverse baseline layup by guard Dru Smith with 0.7 seconds remaining would become the winner to a 72-70 victory. It should be expected the winning basket would be scored by Smith who led the way with 17 points and dished out 9 assists along with 6 steals.  Mizzou has one additional regular season game scheduled; LSU will be the opponent on Saturday.  The SEC tournament follows and then the NCAA tournament, how far Mizzou travels your guess is as good as mine.  The key to winning  is which Mizzou team shows up for battle. 

59 years ago

I subscribed to NBA League Pass at the time, I was present in front of my television and watched Kobe Bryant score 81 points against the Raptors January 12, 2006.  I can only imagine what it must have been like the night Wilt Chamberlain set the single game scoring record.  It was March 2, 1962, Wilt Chamberlain of the Philadelphia Warriors would score 100 points against the Knicks…it remains the highest point total by an individual player.  The game was not played in Philadelphia it was “farmed” out to Hershey Pennsylvania about 100 miles east, this practice was common in the NBA during this period. 

The game was played before 4,124 fans in the Hershey Sports Arena although literally thousands more NBA fans claimed to have witnessed the game in person.  It was   played in the “dark ages” of the NBA no film or video of the game exists.  Now for the stats of the historic game, Chamberlain notoriously poor at the line managed to sink 28 of his 32 free throws, for his career it was .511 from the line.  He shot .571 from the floor on 36 of 63, Chamberlain also managed to pull down 25 rebounds in this momentous game.  The only known photo existing is one of Chamberlain with a handwritten 100 on a sheet of paper.  Below is the link to a brief portion of the only known radio broadcast.   

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Agchvbxd8A

10-day contract

Damian Jones made his Laker debut Sunday evening; he could have played Friday however the coach decided to withhold him.  This is the portion that confuses, a player’s 10-day contract could be extended, or he could be released after the contract lapses.  His team’s game against the Warriors would become a blow out so coach Vogel inserted Jones into the game in the second half.  Jones would play 8 minutes scoring 8 points along with 3 rebounds, he was 100% from the field and 100% from the free throw line.  The box score also detailed 2 blocked shots in Jones limited time on the floor.  I had no belief he would supplant Marc Gasol but held the belief the 7-foot Jones would play more than 8 minutes.   

5 Reasons why I dislike Jeff Van Gundy

The headline is actually “read me bait” regarding ESPN/ABC analyst Jeff Van Gundy, there is only one reason why I dislike him.  It’s his tendency during telecast to go into the twilight zone, I’ll provide an example.  In the middle of a broadcast Mike Breen begins a discussion on the number of Laker championships.  Van Gundy: “I think they should only count the championships won in Los Angeles.” 

The first five championships were won while the team called Minneapolis home however what team fails to count their total championships.  The last time the Kings won a championship was two cities ago (Kansas City, Cincinnati), it was the 1951 Rochester Royals who won it all that year.  If you check the Sacramento Kings list it as part of their history.  If you are one who enjoys him so be it, I want my analyst to discuss the game in front of us, not revert and attempt to change a historical event(s).     

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

The Schroder effect

I remember the time Dennis Schroder was drafted it was 2013; the Hawks made him the 17^th pick in the first round of the draft that year.  Although a product of Euro basketball their scouts must have seen potential talent in the rather slender point guard for him to be drafted so early.   Schroder now weighs 173 pounds; not much more than the 165 pounds listed on most mock draft sites.  His time with the Hawks is a blur to me, I only remember him after the Thunder acquired him in a trade. 

Schroder would come off the Thunder bench prepared for battle with an opposing point guard, his speed and especially his defense was a thing of beauty.  Draft sites claim Schroder has an 80-inch wingspan; I find that difficult to believe until a play I witnessed recently.  Sunday evening a Warriors guard attempted a pass beyond what we might believe is Schroder’s reach, he easily intercepted it forcing a Warriors turnover. 

Schroder arrived in Los Angeles as runner up in the Sixth Man of the Year award in the 2019-20 season, instead of reverting to his role as a reserve he indicated a desire for starter minutes.  My first thought, this is going to be a problem if he expects to play most of the time at the point.  In the Lakers 4 game losing streak it’s my belief they may have suffered more with Schroder out of the lineup than Anthony Davis.  He was out of the lineup due to the NBA's health and safety protocols in place, Schroder has been a major upgrade over Danny Green in my estimation over last season.  Hopefully, the speedy point guard can continue his play at this level. 

Behind the scenes 

The modern NBA owes much of its success to several innovative individuals since its inception.  One of the pioneers of the game was the late Harvey Pollack, he was there at the founding and continued to work in several capacities over the years. What was his forte, sportswriter, statistician, how about lover of the game of basketball especially the NBA? Pollack’s wisdom and vision provided much of what we have come to expect of the NBA.  Several weeks ago, he was profiled on a Wilt Chamberlain story however I’m unsure if we provided enough information about Pollack.  There are two brief videos below which outline the life of Harvey Pollack, enjoy. 

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=10154025973768463

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=10154684524777516

The anvil

Remember those Roadrunner cartoons, at some point an anvil would fall on the head of the coyote.  Naturally, the damage sustained by the coyote forced him out of contention for a time in his attempt to catch the roadrunner.  That’s the scenario with Kansas basketball, this does not directly affect this season, but it does the future.  On the court the Jayhawks are experiencing a non-traditional season but that’s not nearly as bad as what is going to eventually face them. 

At some point after the NCAA championship is decided in April a decision will come forth that is going to rock the well of Jayhawk Nation.  The NCAA will make public the depth of punishment the basketball program will be dealt.  In between time there are two four-star prospects signed for the 2021-22 season to date.  What we are unable to see at this point is graduate transfers, will the Kansas basketball program (on the court) be saved in this manner? 

I have a belief (and no method to prove it) Bill Self is not recruiting the players Kansas normally attracts and its due to the anvil.  What I find most interesting the local channels fail to even hint Kansas basketball might be in trouble.  Ever heard the term “Whistling past the graveyard”, it simply implies you are attempting to appear confident when you are afraid?  That’s the locals reporting, its Kansas basketball 24-7 except the pending NCAA penalty. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Thank you

From time to time I must pause and say thank you, many of you have been faithful readers of Words eye view for several years and it is appreciated by me.  My hope in beginning this blog was to convey the love of the game by yours truly, I also hoped to represent the large number of basketball fans around the nation and across the world.  I’ve never claimed my view of a subject is the only one out there, I admit I have bias too.  Rooting for the Lakers and Mizzou basketball is my passion, my hope is you bear with me especially on those two topics.  Again, thank you for being a loyal reader of this blog, I will continue to publish it as time permits.    

He said it

The NBA TV crew was providing analysis on Sunday games, Greg Anthony gave us interesting insight on the Clipper loss to the Bucks.  This paraphrases his comment, “The Clippers need a point guard, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard can’t carry the offense and play the point too.”  For all Patrick Beverly brings to the floor defensively he’s uniquely lacking as a point guard.  It’s more than just scoring it’s the leadership exhibited for a team.  It’s clear if former point guard Anthony sees this issue rest assured Clippers management does too.  The Clippers depth chart indicates Reggie Jackson is the backup to Beverly and then it’s Lou Williams.  I have no idea of Jackson's playmaking ability and Sweet Lou is more a shooter than a distributor.   

I’m not complaining

Mizzou’s been dropped from the AP and Coaches poll; I’m not surprised but do find this next portion interesting.  Illinois, Arkansas, Alabama, and Oregon all schools Mizzou defeated remain in the Top 25.  I guess it just proves there is a good time and a bad time to suffer a losing streak, unfortunately Mizzou’s losing streak was at the wrong time.  At this point they won’t return to any polls unless they make a deep, deep run in the NCAA tournament.  This team remains an enigma to me, over the last 6 weeks or so we have no idea which Mizzou team is going to show up to play.  Just a short 3 weeks ago they were the number 10 team in the nation in both polls.   

“Dee Fence, Dee Fence”

The chant heard in NBA and college arenas across the nation, exactly who plays the best defense in the association?  You might be a bit surprised at the answer, we are discussing points allowed and opposition field goal percentage: 

               PA          FG

1. Knicks 104       37.1%

2. Lakers 105.6   39.9%

3. Jazz 106.5       40.4%

4. Suns 107.5      39.6%

5. Clippers 109.0 40.9%

And your question is, how are the Knicks number one, it’s clear they must be playing effective defense at least through February 28. 

The logo

After reading comments by several NBA fans, I reached a conclusion at least for me.  I’m sure I was influenced by much of what I read.  Leave everything as is, after the issue of changing the logo was raised, we discover the NBA appears in no rush to make a change. We read Jerry West made his feelings known four years ago indicating he believed it was an embarrassment to him and he wanted a change. West mentioned Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul Jabbar as possible replacements.  Someone mentioned Kobe Bryant, he remains one of my all-time great players however there are issues if he were to become the logo.  Kobe’s death was a tragedy however that’s no basis to make the change.  Leave things as they are at least for now, in 5-10 years the views of the public might undergo a turn.      

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

The season is complete  

On Saturday Kansas basketball achieved the improbable…they beat number 2 Baylor; the score wasn’t close it read 71-58.  Baylor hadn’t played in 21 days due to COVID issues no matter to the victor goes the spoils as they say.  Although Jayhawk Nation will deny this comment the basketball season is now complete. 

Bits n Pieces 

Unsure if this issue was explained recently regarding the NCAA tournament.  Any tournament team forced out due to a positive COVID test will not be replaced.  The game will go into the record books as a forfeit.  This is the portion I’m unsure if it was fully explained in detail.  No replacement team would be named for the team forced out due to a positive test, hope this clarifies the issue for some. 

Never in the history of the NBA has this ever occurred.  On Friday, the Thunder and Hawks played the first half in almost the same color theme.  Orange was the color of the Thunder jerseys while the Hawks wore their red.  With the color scheme so close it was difficult to discern the difference between the teams.  At the half, the home team Thunder changed to white jerseys which made it much easier to determine the difference.     

The interim tag has been removed from in front of Isaac Brown’s name.  You might remember the name; Brown took over the Wichita State program after they fired Gregg Marshall.  The issue as I remember Brown was hired shortly prior to the season, now that he’s been hired for 5 years given time the athletic department will be able to fully analyze his ability.  He’s led them to a 9-2 conference record and 13-4 overall. 

“Damn if you do, damned if you don’t” might be the theme.  Remember the critical remarks once aimed at Michael Jordan the player, it was said he had no social conscience because he wouldn’t speak to issues.  Michael Jordan the owner has now taken on a different tone since retirement.  LeBron James has been criticized because he does have a social conscience and speaks to issues.  One point for sure there are members of the public who will hardly ever be satisfied with your take on a subject.   

A pioneer

LaVannes Squires died last week in Pasadena California at the age of 90.  If his name is unfamiliar to you no worry, I’d never heard of him either until I read the story after he passed.  We must go back in time to appreciate his contribution to Kansas and basketball history.  The racial climate in the State of Kansas was somewhat different versus its next-door neighbor Missouri.  History says Kansas schools on all levels were never purposely segregated as they were in Missouri. 

Numbers of black students attended Kansas University over the years, but none played basketball.  None until 1952 when LaVannes Squires arrived on campus, Squires became the first black player on the basketball team, in addition he was a member of the NCAA championship that year.  No professional pro basketball career awaited him, but he would become successful in the banking and real estate world.  So, we profile LaVannes Squires another life well lived and a pioneer.