Basketball from a fans perspective

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Bits n Pieces 

Mark your calendar, the date is December 11^th for the match. Mizzou will play Kansas at Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence. This rivalry goes back to March 11, 1907, when the two teams faced one another for the first time. A total of 267 games have been played between the two schools, the Kansas Jayhawks are the leader in wins with 173 versus 94 losses. This long-time rivalry came to a halt in 2012 when Mizzou left the Big XII for the SEC, the schools did face one another on the court of T-Mobile Center in Kansas City in October 2017. Receipts from this exhibition game was awarded to four charities for victims of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Maria. In 2019 Mizzou and Kansas agreed to play a total of six games, due to the COVID pandemic the first game of the series scheduled for December 2020 was cancelled.

I’m Frank Vogel, not really, I remain Larry Laker however I’m going to finish his job by finalizing the roster. The Lakers currently are short three roster members, the decision is easy for me. One spot should go to 6-foot 8-inch power forward 2^nd year man Devontae Cacok, he was on the roster last season although he divided his time between the G-League and regular roster. I believe newcomer guards Austin Reaves and Mac McClung should get the other two slots. The key factor is youth, Cacok is 24 years old, Reaves turned 23 in May and McClung is a baby face 21 years of age. Adding them to the roster would reduce the average age of the Lakers significantly downward and would look toward the LeBron less future of the Lakers.

Kel’el Ware, Rivals 4-star center verbally committed to Oregon, Ware is a 7-foot 215-pound center from North Little Rock (AR). He verbally committed on Monday, Ware’s decision may have been impacted by Dior Johnson pledging his word to Oregon in late June of this year, Johnson is a 6-3 175 pound 5-star point guard. Johnson attends Oak Hill Academy and is rated the number 7 prospect in the Class of 2022.

No love from two continents

Since the NBA playoffs ended for the Sixers, we might believe this fiction, the Sixers lost the series due to Ben Simmons. We have Simmons traded to every third team in the NBA yet to date there’s been no movement. So that’s the North American continent raining on Simmons but wait there’s more. Dave Simmons is an American however he married an Australian woman while playing basketball there. Ben was born from this union so technically he could have played for Australia in the Olympics if he desired. As most are aware Simmons didn’t play for Team USA or Team Australia, but it didn’t go over very well Down Under. Team Australia won Bronze, and several took offense of a Simmons photo included in the 2024 photo of the team.

“James Harden” rule

The 13 rules of basketball laid out by Dr. James Naismith have changed since 1892. We can debate a modern change or the validity of some rules that changed the game i.e., ban on the dunk. The NCAA implemented a ban on the dunk from 1967-1976 for what purpose? It was the “Lew Alcindor” rule although no one gave it the name. The inspiration was to slow the dominance of the game by the UCLA center at the time. We have another rule which has gone into effect for Summer League play and into the regular season going forward, we can refer to it as the “James Harden” rule. The intent in this instance is to curtail trips to the foul line by players. Although there is no name, like Lew Alcindor this is implemented to curtail one player, Nets guard James Harden. Below are provisions of the new rule, courtesy espn.com.

*When a shooter takes shots by either leaning into or jumping into a defender in an abnormal way

 *An offensive player either abruptly goes sideways into a defender, or simply stops in front of him, giving the defender nowhere to go but running into the offensive player

*Shooters kick their legs either out or to the side in an unnatural way to draw contact with a defender

*An offensive player uses his non-shooting arm to hook the defender

Basketball from a fans perspective

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They won Gold too

Team USA Women followed the win by the Men’s Team on Saturday with a win of their own. They managed to beat a stubborn well coached Japanese team 90-75. The inside presence of 6-foot 9 Brittney Grinner and 6-foot 4-inch A’ja Wilson proved too difficult for the smaller Japanese team to solve; the Japanese team averaged 5-foot 6-inch in height. I didn’t realize like the Men’s Team the Women’s Team also lost an exhibition game; their game was against Team Japan. Congratulations are due Team USA Women for gaining Gold.

Swing and miss

Recently I wrote “Chris Paul was a dinosaur” and it had nothing to do with his age. It was the fact I stated he was the only legitimate point guard remaining in the NBA. The guys playing the point now are more combo guards than anything, well I made a huge error. There was a failure on my part to include Mike Conley of the Jazz in the assessment, I hope fans of the team and Conley forgive me for this oversight. He is now 33-years old but remains a past first shoot second point guard. He’s performed as a traditional point guard over the course of a brilliant career first with the Memphis Grizzlies and now with the Utah Jazz. An oversight on my part and hopefully this corrects that story.

It will be interesting

The Western Conference race in the NBA will be interesting for the 2021-22 season. A little down next season the Los Angeles Clippers, Paul George is good so is Reggie Jackson. PG cannot carry this team without Kawhi Leonard for a major portion of the season. They will be plus .500 but nowhere near the level of the 2020-21 season. One of the teams trending upward competing with the Lakers, Suns and the Nuggets will be the Golden State Warriors.

You remember them don’t you…Steph Curry and company? They return healthy and invigorated with Klay Thompson inserted back into the lineup. Kelly Oubre Jr. is gone however in his place rookie Johnathan Kuminga. As a newcomer its he doesn’t exceed the minutes experienced by Oubre Jr. but expect to see him in action. Also expected to see action is Moses Moody the 6-foot 6-inch shooting guard from Arkansas. SEC foe to my Mizzou Tigers I saw Moody in action plenty, in addition to his scoring he’s a hard-nosed defender. Sorry Jerome I don’t think they have enough horses to compete for the championship, but this is a playoff team.

2-way contracts

What exactly are 2-way contracts, I’m glad you ask the question. This from nba.com, “Two-way contracts are contracts that allow for a player to play for both the NBA and the G League while being under the control of an NBA franchise for the duration of that season. These contracts are limited to two per team and can only be given to players with less than four years of NBA experience.” This past Thursday the Lakers signed Oklahoma’s Austin Reaves and Gonzaga’s Joel Ayayi to two-way contracts, there is no promise of future stardom in this type of signing.

We read glowing reports especially about Reaves and Ayayi, in fact there are claims by some scouts they were rated high enough they could have been drafted in the second round. Ask my wife, she claims I am one of the most impatient persons ever and guess what…. she’s correct. Seeing the Lakers swing a trade which concerned me rather than draft a youngster caused concern on my part. “What could the post-Lebron Lakers accomplish for the future,” we could look at Laker guard Alex Caruso. Caruso was originally signed as a two-way player he bounced back and forth between the G-League and the Lakers, eventually he secured a roster spot. It’s possible the post LeBron Lakers might witness Reaves or Ayayi play a significant role with the team.

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Bits n Pieces  

If you read Off the dribble on Friday, you might have been given a false impression. You may have thought I was conceding victory to France for Olympic Gold in basketball, far from it. I was just prepared for the possibility of Team USA losing. In 2004 Team USA had to satisfy itself with Bronze that year. I’m unsure of the roster count but I believe France had a minimum of four players with NBA experience there could have been more. It was easy to see last night Team USA with little practice losing to France in an exhibition game. Leads by Team USA was almost always countered by a comeback by the French team. Congratulations are due Team USA as they beat a highly competitive team 87-82. “Don’t give up, don’t ever give up,” despite what might be said early.

We might question the in-game strategy of Penny Hardaway, after all he remains somewhat new to this coaching thing. Former NBA athlete Hardaway certainly has a basketball pedigree but it’s only since 2018 he’s been a college head coach. We might be unsure of the X’s and O’s however we are aware of his recruiting skill, this time he’s managed to do it again. Jalen Duran a Rivals 5-star prospect and number one in the Class of 2022 will enroll in Memphis. Students, alumni and fans will not wait to see him in action, the 6-foot 10-inch 230-pound Duran re-classified and is now a member of the Class of 2021.  Duran attended Montverde Academy in Montverde Florida although home is Philadelphia Pennsylvania.  

Finally, someone with financial sway

I have lamented for years, no NBA basketball in my hometown. Every time someone mentions the possibility of basketball, I become excited and then my joy begins to subside after a time. It occurred again, this time with a person who we can believe has a degree of finance behind him. Number 15 in your program is Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Blair Kerkhoff in the Kansas City Star wrote Mahomes believes there would be interest here for an NBA team.

Remember a few weeks ago it was mentioned Seattle was at the top of the list for NBA expansion. It’s not likely the NBA only adds one team it’s likely two, the belief a tie existed between Las Vegas and Kansas City for the second franchise. Not hearing any talk locally, I wrote my hometown was now in third place in the minds of the NBA Board of Governors. That might still be the case however it would appear Mahomes is interested in the idea of a team locally, this is no indication he must be a majority owner. It points out the fact he MIGHT be willing to be an investor in an NBA franchise, his name recognition could move Kansas City past Las Vegas solidly into second place.

Three speeds

The NCAA operates at three speeds, they are slow, slower and slowest! Offered as evidence is the ongoing penalty regarding Kansas University. We are now near the third year this case has been pending. The NCAA has utilized the independent accountability resolution process (IARP) to resolve penalties, this began in June 2019. The portion most interesting the NCAA admitted this body has yet to settle a case. The incident involving Kansas is fresh in this part of the nation due to Lawrence being so nearby.

More interesting the NCAA chose to make the announcement while the ground beneath the organizations foundation is crumbling. Jay Bilas former Duke basketball player and ESPN analyst said this, “Welcome to the summer of reckoning, and what happens next.” The NCAA is not going away however we are witness to this body having less authority over student-athletes in the future. As for the past we must believe the NCAA was begun earlier to administer and police activities of universities and colleges across the nation. We continue to see the need for management however not in the manner the NCAA has operated in the past.

Stop…please stop

By now you are aware the Detroit Pistons made Cade Cunningham the top pick in the 2021 draft. That’s not all for the young man who grew up in Arlington Texas and played at Oklahoma State, he’s got another connection. Before we detail Cunningham let’s travel back in time with me a moment, at the time the late Kobe Bryant arrived in the NBA in 1996, he didn’t play heavy minutes. In fact, it was his third year with the Lakers we begin to hear the statement. “He’s trying to be like Michael Jordan” or “He’s imitating Michael.”

We heard these and similar statements throughout his NBA career, it didn’t help in that Kobe came into the NBA near the end of MJ’s career. It didn’t occur often however Kobe was matched against Jordan on occasion. Was the comparison fair, of course it wasn’t but that’s what fans do. It’s early but the talk has started again, and we are three months from the start of the 2021-22 NBA season. Cade Cunningham has yet to set foot on an NBA court, yet Cunningham’s name has been linked to Kobe Bryant. People please stop, allow Cunningham to be the best version of himself.

The draft and free agency

No other sport compares to the NBA in its annual draft followed up by free agency. The NBA draft will be covered first, basketball nerds are familiar or at least have heard the name of all the first-round selections. At one time Euro athletes would be a surprise but that rarely occurs except late in the second round of the draft. There is much excitement and anticipation for NBA fans weeks prior to the draft. Can we make a similar statement regarding the NFL or MLB draft?

I would be willing to bet unless you are a devoted football or baseball fan the names in those drafts are likely unfamiliar to them just as they are to most of us. Free agency in other sports is nowhere close to what exists in the NBA. For days we hear the names and entertain the amounts of money the free agent is to receive. The news is solid on the destination of that free agent and so is the pay he is to receive. Often free agent movement in sports other than the NBA appears to be obscure.

Basketball recruiting

Gathering talent for your basketball program can vary like night and day. No two coaching staffs approach recruiting in the same manner. A couple of close by examples, because Kansas basketball has a national footprint Bill Self can recruit anywhere in the nation and often does. On the other hand, 170 miles east of him or in Columbia Missouri Cuonzo Martin’s approach is different when it comes to recruiting. Mizzou’s coach prefers the St. Louis Metro an area he is familiar with and able to recruit successfully. This line is borrowed from longtime Mizzou coach Norm Stewart, ask if he had any McDonald’s All Americans on his team Stewart said, “No but we eat at McDonald’s.” 

That’s the difference between the two programs but it’s not only Mizzou we can look at other schools as an example. We could travel eastward and check out Villanova basketball; Jay Wright has been a consistent winner yet doesn’t often have 5-star recruits. Out west we could make a similar statement about Mark Few at Gonzaga a winner without top-notch talent. A giant stop sign here, this is not stating Villanova and Gonzaga has lesser talent than the Kentucky’s, Duke’s and North Carolina’s. It’s just to point out the recruiting effort differs at these universities over others. There are other schools we could list, bottom line…it’s not necessary to be a Kentucky or Duke to have success at the collegiate level. Good recruiting plus good coaching usually produces a winning basketball program.

Basketball from a fans perspective

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The mouth that roared

Charles Barkley says “LeBron James stacking his teams has hurt his legacy. This from the man with 0 championship rings, this from the man who played with the Sixers, Suns and Rockets. Anytime a discussion begins regarding championship basketball Charles Barkley should exclude himself from the conversation. Back then stacked teams was not a term widely used but consider this fact, the drafted Barkley arrived on a Philadelphia Sixer team that had Julius Erving and Moses Malone on its roster.

Both of them are now enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. Later as a member of the always playoff bound Suns free agent Barkley left them for the Houston Rockets many said, “still chasing that championship ring.” The Rockets team at that time had Clyde Drexler at one guard position and Hakeem Olajuwon at center, both now in the Naismith Hall of Fame. LeBron James is a large enough person to defend himself, in addition he’s got means I don’t have to defray the arrows headed his way from Barkley. The only reason this is being written is to point out to some Barkley is a 6-foot 6-inch 250 pound (?) hypocrite. Based on his NBA journey Barkley played on stacked teams as well the term was just not in common usage. 

A reminder

Team USA beat Australia 97-78, they will now face France which beat them in an earlier game for the championship. I haven’t seen a minute of Olympic basketball due to the time start and my schedule. We have no idea who wins the Gold Medal however I offered this observation at the time Team USA lost to France. Both France and Slovenia feature NBA talent, with the amount of NBA players dotting international teams it should not be a surprise if Team USA fails to win. It is clear I took a more honest approach to Olympic basketball than others. It was clear my view was not shared by all especially many in the media.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qia-YRr60dU

Strange move

Wunderkind Emoni Bates reclassified into the Class of 2021; reclassifying is not that unusual in this age. The most interesting part of this story the NBA draft is a non-factor, Bates won’t be eligible in 2022. He won’t turn age19 until January 2023 which prohibits him from entering the 2022 draft. These are the choices Bates is exploring, G-League, Michigan State, Oregon or Memphis. If the choice is college for Bates your guess as a choice is as good as mine.

It appears…

No inside information exists here just my belief, as the days drag on it appears Kansas University is headed for the Big 10 leaving the Big XII Conference. My guess, the Big 10 will be thrilled with the arrival of Kansas basketball and the rich history that will accompany the arrival. On the other hand, the football…. well, that’s another matter. We are in the death throes of the Big XII Conference as we know, with Texas and Oklahoma soon gone the school in Lawrence is it. Kansas remains the only power school in this once vaunted conference. It’s come apart so quickly however perhaps the signals were there all along and we just didn’t see them. They are playing taps and the fat lady has begun tuning up to sing.

Auf Wiedersehen

The word above is Goodbye in German and it is for Laker guard Dennis Schroeder. You remember, don’t you? The Lakers offered him a contract in February 2021 many believed exceeded his value. Schroeder said, “Thanks but no thanks, I’m headed to free agency.” At the time the Lakers obtained the swift point guard I might have been his biggest champion. I believed he would bolster their bench until he declared, “I’m no reserve, I want to start.” Frank Vogel and the Lakers said “okay,” and Schroeder was moved into the starting lineup.

After injuries struck the team especially the one to LeBron, we discovered his game was sorely lacking and then the playoffs ensued. We heard the reports Schroeder was headed to the Knicks, Bulls or somewhere other than Staples Center. Agents for other players moved much faster than Schroeder’s, the destinations mentioned became closed very quickly. It remains feasible he will receive a contract somewhere other than from the Lakers however there are two keys. The contract certainly won’t be as large as the one he turned down in February, in addition he is unlikely to land with any of the reported destinations from a few short weeks ago. On the other hand Schroeder could remain with the Lakers although I seriously doubt that.  

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Laker moves  

The hatin’ will now officially begin as the Lakers have commenced making moves. Defensive specialist (and good 3-point shooter) Trevor Ariza was signed to a 1-year contract. Also coming on board 3-point specialist Wayne Ellington signed for one year and ditto for center Dwight Howard also 1-year. Then we had a late addition, another former Laker guard Kent Bazemore signed you guess it a 1-year contract. Most interesting the other three at one time played for the Lakers as well with Howard being the most recent departure. His return is different from the others, he was a key to their 2020 NBA championship. According to reports at the time Howard signed with the Sixers ahead of the Lakers attempt to re-sign him.

Marc Gasol announced his intention to fulfill his contract so he’s back. It would appear the center position is now solidified with the Gasol/Howard combo. On Tuesday, the Lakers announced the signing of guards Malik Monk and Kendrick Nunn, in addition veteran forward Carmelo Anthony came on board. The latest continue the trend of 1-year contracts. Holdover Talen-Horton Tucker signed a three-year deal, so he returns. It’s not all winning for the Lakers they lose reserve Alex Caruso; he signs a 4-year deal with the Bulls. As for the other negative the age factor, most of the free agents assigned thus far are on the other side of thirty.

We realize injuries are part of the game and a team long in the tooth might face this issue more than a younger team. It is a concern however there remains no reason to not become optimistic about the potential future of this team once it is complete. Hopefully, Talen-Horton Tucker (20), Austin Reaves (23) and Joel Ayayi (21) will lower the average age of the team a bit. This is now the oldest team in the NBA averaging 33 years of age. Losing Caruso, Morris and some of the others doesn’t entail this team “forgetting” how to play defense. That’s what we hear from those criticizing the free agent moves. We have also heard this one, “_______ Lakers are trying to buy another NBA championship.” I am preparing myself early should the Lakers win in 2022.

No Chamber of Commerce connection

With Texas and Oklahoma leaving for the SEC the Big XII faces an uncertain future. That outlook is directly tied into the economics of Kansas City Missouri. Mayor Quinton Lucas mentioned the Big XII Conference Basketball Tournament generates $15 million in revenue for the City of Kansas City Missouri. I have no Chamber of Commerce connection; I’m not related to anyone who works at T-Mobile Arena, I have no personal stake in the tournament continuing to be held here.

Despite the disclaimer I would hate to see the city lose revenue should the Big XII come apart at the seams. At the same time there are hundreds of employees who work at the arena, restaurants, hotels and other venues across the metro. Most would continue to be employed but it’s almost certain a number might see themselves working less days a week with no tournament. Okay, I’m selfish, not for me but for others who must purchase groceries and make that auto and day care payment. The tournament is a vital part of Kansas City’s economic outlook.

This was interesting

Thanks to NBA on ClutchPoints for this history check, in 2016 LeBron James and Kyrie Irvin were teammates with the Cavs, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook were fellow members of the Thunder. In 2021 LeBron James and recently traded Russell Westbrook are now Laker teammates while Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irvin are with the Nets. The “experts” have the Nets facing the Lakers for the 2022 NBA Championship. Here the reminder is inserted, remember the thought process about October or so of last year. I speak of the period immediately after James Hardin was traded to the Nets. The legion of so-called knowledgeable folks had the Nets and Lakers facing one another for the 2021 NBA championship. We all know how that played out at the end don’t we?

The third season begins 

Playoff basketball in the NBA is often titled “The Second Season,” the NBA is about to begin it’s “Third Season.” You are questioning the statement; the third season is NBA Summer League action, with COVID-19 raging last summer there was no play. As for 2021 it will commence August 8 in Las Vegas Nevada; we have an opportunity to observe rookies and a few second-year players in action. This will not be the first pro action for Jalen Green and Josh Giddy and others.

Those two played in the G-League and NBL (Australia) previously. In recent years we’ve witnessed Jae Morant, Trae Young and others in their first professional debut, it was in the summer many Laker fans “discovered” Kyle Kuzma. If you are an NBA junkie and happen to be in Vegas between August 8-17 you can catch some interesting NBA action at the Cox Pavilion or Thomas & Mack Center. All 30 NBA teams will participate in summer league play with a champion crowned on August 16 or 17. I failed to mention the games will be broadcast on NBA TV too.  

Basketball from a fans perspective

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Bits n Pieces  

With my schedule and life pursuits I have witnessed very little Olympic coverage…even basketball. From the comment I would guess Jayson Tatum is not starting for Team USA, Tatum must have been crucial to their 119-84 win over the Czech Republic. This from Gregg Popovich, “I just told Jayson to act like he’s playing the Spurs. Every time he plays us, he scores 90.” Typical dead pan humor from one who is reported to be humorless. 

It’s only a number, on the other hand it is important to a player. Rookie Cade Cunningham has worn   number 2 through his freshman year at Oklahoma State, we are sure he probably wanted it with the Pistons but there was a problem. Number 2 was retired; it belonged to the late Piston coach Chuck Daly. The number represents the two Pistons championships (1989, 1990) while Daly served as head coach. Piston management contacted the Daly family, and they gave permission to provide the number to Cunningham.

Kansas City’s Landry Shamet is on the move again, this time to the Suns who become his 4^th NBA team. The 24-year-old Park Hill High School and Wichita State athlete was drafted by the Sixers but was traded to the Clippers. The Nets acquired him in a trade however draft night witnessed him being trading again this time to the Suns. All that movement for such a young player might be misleading to several. Shamet in a short space of time has become a valued reserve for each of these teams, the Suns acquired him to enhance their bench. 

“Too short. Too slow. With luck, maybe a career in Turkey,” those are the actual draft notes of Mark Jackson (who would later become his coach) on Steph Curry. Proving once again you cannot read the heart of an athlete (or any other person).  Generally, by the time of the NBA draft the growth cycle is complete, rarely does anyone gain additional speed. There are elements we can never see only experience. The will to win, the ability to overcome, those are internal and impossible to see. 

He’s a walking dinosaur  

We talk about the demise of the Big Man in the game, perhaps it’s not entirely their fault.  Consider this fact, can you name a true point guard besides Chris Paul? There are plenty of guys in position less basketball claiming they play the point but do they really? It’s my contention 99% of them are “shoot-first” point guards, Paul is a walking dinosaur. He might be the last remaining true point guard; I’ll give you time to come up with a second one. Rajon Rondo is nearing the end of his career, but he too is a throwback to the days of the true point guard. It’s been said LeBron James loved when he and Rondo were on the court at the same time.

Okay you point at Russell Westbrook; he’s been near the top of the NBA every season in assists, once again I must question whether he is a true point guard. You might state Paul’s not won anything however his situation might be unique. He’s made several moves over his career and playoff injuries must be taken into consideration. This shoot first or combo guard mentality didn’t begin yesterday the NBA trend has been heading that direction for several years. Steve Francis might not be the beginning however he’s the name that comes to mind. Arriving in the NBA in 1999 as a point guard his speed and shooting plus his assists made him valuable to the Rockets back then. There are no more guys scoring 9, 10 or 12 points a game and dishing out 10 or 11 assists a game, we say Big Men are lacking in the game. Perhaps it’s the other way around, the issue there are few true point guards anymore. Example, the Clippers placing Patrick Beverly in the position and referring to him as a point guard.  

I offer you the proof

Below this account is the one originally written, it’s been lined through, but I wanted to ensure you it was written. I wrote it believing the Kansas athletic department should take the lead in the departure of Texas and Oklahoma. I decided not to publish it after a conversation with a friend (a member of Jayhawk Nation). I wrote Kansas should take the lead to maintain the Big XII Conference and keep it from imploding, I was wrong. My friend aimed his ire not at Texas or Oklahoma but in a different direction…toward the Big XII commissioner.

My friend pointed out other than the “attack” letter Bob Bowlsby sent to ESPN he’s done nothing else. Realizing the position requires diplomacy I don’t believe my friend was stating Bowlsby needed to attack Texas or Oklahoma for their move. Okay they are gone, has the commissioner reached out to any schools to replace them? Has Bowlsby attempted to ensure eastern time zone West Virginia remains in the conference? Exactly what has he done since his letter to ESPN? At this point The University of Kansas with its rich basketball history is key for the Big XII to continue. Must they reach out to this commissioner, or should it be the other way around? If he makes no move, we might see Kansas bolt for the Big 10 or ACC too.

If they were smart

Kansas University is now the leader of the pact, Texas and Oklahoma are de-facto now. Instead of allowing the Big XII to crumble at their feet the Jayhawks should begin looking at additional teams. That is if they don’t have other aspirations (Big 10, ACC) in mind. How do you maintain the Big XII as a power conference? You add four teams to raise the conference back to 12 teams. I’m assuming West Virginia will decide to leave so they too must be replaced.

Who are the candidates the Big XII could add: Several folks will not be pleased with the suggestion these are mine, Southern Methodist University, University of Houston, Missouri State and Wichita State? Wichita State is the lone school without a football program but that shouldn’t be a basis for not considering them. In closing I know ahead of time what the cynics will say, none of the schools are from Power 5 conferences. That’s true however does it matter if the intent is to keep the Big XII from going the way of the Southwest Conference or The Great Midwest Conference.

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The last edition

This is the last weekend edition of Off the Dribble, the next issue will be available on Monday August 2. The basketball off season has officially begun. We now begin a Monday, Wednesday, Friday publishing schedule. At an undetermined date in late September or early October Off the Dribble will return to a daily. Thank you for being a loyal visitor and it’s hoped you enjoy this as much as we enjoy placing it before you.    

The Lakers tossed us a curve

Several in Laker Nation including this member believed the Lakers would get younger. They would draft 24-year-old Chris Duarte out of Oregon. At his age he’s probably the oldest player in the draft. Instead of acquiring a 24-year-old the Lakers settled for a player 9 years older. He was just any 32-year-old he was the mercurial Russell Westbrook thus the woeful shooting from 3 will continue for the Lakers. I should bring it to your attention West-brick is one of the worst in the NBA in shooting beyond the line. Despite his nearly 10 assists a game total there are the TO’s, at times he becomes a turnover machine.

Guards are expected to be quality shooters from the free throw line, that has not been the case for Westbrook the last several years. Last season he shot 65.6% from the line, not terrible but nowhere close to the 79% for his career. Those are the negatives in his game, how about the positives? Westbrook has a very good mid-range game; he is fearless when driving to the basket doesn’t matter who is in front of him. The fearless nature of his game also includes rebounding the basketball. Westbrook’s been a double-digit man in rebounds 3 out of the last 4 years for the Thunder, Rockets and Wizards.

Will LeBron consent to Westbrook handling the ball, better yet can Westbrook become a pass first shoot second point? Laker offense suffered whenever LeBron was resting, can this detriment be alleviated with Westbrook on the floor minus LeBron? This trade becomes a “win now” mentally by the Lakers rather than plug in a youngster and hope for growth. Russell Westbrook is a Laker now; I will embrace him as part of the Laker family. I will attempt to be objective regarding his game and remain concerned about certain aspects of it. In closing this next portion is interesting, as this is being completed, I’ve discussed the trade with three people by text or phone. Knowing my passion for the Lakers all are attempting to convince me this trade for Westbrook is a good thing.

In other news

We know a great deal about top pick Cade Cunningham chosen by the Pistons. We had an advantage, there was opportunity to witness Cunningham in action at Oklahoma State that generally didn’t exist for number two pick Jalen Green of the Rockets. Several college programs across the nation had scholarship offers for Green however he made a different news. Instead of heading off to college last fall it was the G-League and Team Elite. With just a few games on NBA TV we had little occasion to witness Green in action.

Green stands 6 foot 6 and a slim 180 pounds, if he is good as advertised, he should be able to move into the Rockets lineup almost immediately. Having little opportunity to see his play this statement might appear premature. The Rockets have cleaned house, there remain just a few who play shooting guard on the roster. The break to play immediately looms quite large for Green in the fall and winter ahead. This next statement will appear shocking however I didn’t originate it, he’s been compared to the late Kobe Bryant. We know there is only one, surely, they must be discussing Green’s work ethic and athletic gift. I’m unsure of your thoughts, the Rockets will probably not be very good however seeing Green in action might prove interesting. 

You remember, don’t you?

Mac McClung broke the Virginia high school scoring record of a guy by the name of Allen Iverson, he surpassed 948 points in 5 fewer games than Iverson. Despite his prolific scoring and dunking ability there is an issue with him. It’s been said in some circles, “McClung is a shooting guard in a point guard’s body.” Don’t allow that statement to confuse he can and does pass the rock.  The issue most pro scouts mention McClung stands 6-foot 3 ideal for the point not so much for a shooting guard.

McClung began his collegiate play at Georgetown and later transferred to Texas Tech but decided it was time for the NBA. He wasn’t drafted although he declared, McClung would sign as a free agent with the Lakers. This probably entails NBA Summer League play in his immediate future, if he plays well then, an invitation might be extended to Laker training camp in the fall. There is at least one factor working for him possibly earning a roster spot, with KCP gone a roster position is now open. 

Here’s hoping McClung earns a roster spot as a reserve. The former Texas Tech Red Raider might have difficulty earning a position on the team. The Laker roster is somewhat unclear at this point, bodies are required to complete it. KCP is gone so one spot is free however the competition McClung faces is from other rookies. The Lakers signed Oklahoma’s Austin Reaves, Joel Ayayi of Gonzaga, and Chaundee Brown Wake Forest. All these athletes are shooting guards and all stand 6 foot 5 or taller, it might do McClung a world of good if he concentrates on playing the point. 

A strange and unusual occurrence

Do you love “Rudy” stories, this is certainly close to one. How did a guy averaging 2 points a game in high school manage to get drafted in the NBA?  He improved to 6 points a game as an Ohio University freshman however his story is more involved. Evidently, he did one thing, he worked at his craft and improved to the point an NBA team was willing to gamble he could play at this level. Jason Pearson of Ohio University was drafted in the second round by the Magic with the 33^rd pick. As most of you are aware second round is not guaranteed however Pearson’s journey gives us an idea, he might stick even in a reserve role.

Pearson is a 6-foot 4-inch point guard, from Orlando Florida. Part of the reason he might not have played much at Boone High School he stood 6 feet tall but weighed a slim 140 pounds. He decided to attend Believe Prep Academy in Athens Tennessee, in addition he grew four inches. Pearson began play on the B team was elevated to A for a period but opted for the C team after limited play. By the time he was ready for college only Ohio University and Longwood offered him a scholarship. Preston began rather slowly in college as evident by his scoring, by the time he reached his junior year it was time for the NBA. The Magic drafted him however he was sent to the Clippers in a trade. Just in case a movie titled Rudy was released in 1993 it told the story of a football players struggles to earn playing time at Notre Dame University. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

No pick

I am stunned, after expecting the Lakers to consider two prospects they decided on neither one. Instead, they pulled off a blockbuster trade which caught Laker Nation off guard until late Thursday afternoon. The Lakers will receive mercurial point guard Russell Westbrook. Leaving the Lakers in exchange are Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and the Lakers 2021 draft pick. Saturday’s edition will contain more detail on this shocker of a trade.  

The draft

This is written about an hour prior to the start of the 2021 NBA draft, we have no idea how this will be viewed in the future. We had to wait several years to assess the 1984, 1996 and 2003 NBA drafts. We approach each draft as good however a number have fallen short, these certainly didn’t. In 1984 we saw Hakeem Olajuwon, Michael Jordan, John Stockton and Charles Barkley being selected all in the Naismith Hall of Fame. In 1996 drafted that year was Ray Allen, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson and Steve Nash, all are now in the Naismith Hall of Fame.  In 2003 the NBA added LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh and D. Wade to its list of 2003 talent. There are others while not quite All-Star talent in the 1996 and 2003 draft managed to have respectable careers. 

As for 2021 prospects Cade Cunningham, Jalen Suggs and others stand out because they have received great coverage in various forms of media. This is almost a guarantee, we cannot name him at this point there will be one perhaps two prospects who fly beneath the radar. Murray State a mid-major school produced 2020 NBA Rookie of the Year Jae Morant. We can also insert the name Dwayne Wade here; Wade wasn’t an unknown having played at Marquette. It’s the level of talent he exhibited that amazed and surprised many. After an NBA championship career spent for the most part with the Heat Wade will be inducted in the Naismith Hall of Fame one day, that certainly might not have been projected in June 2003. There is a sleeper somewhere in this draft we are just yet to discover his name.

Mizzou in the NBA

Around these parts the local media always reminds us of the number of Kansas players in the NBA. Although Mizzou is not close to the Jayhawks in volume the number is not what you might believe. I’m talking drafted or free agent in the NBA even if but a few months. Currently we have the Porter brothers, Jontay with the Grizzlies and Michael Jr. with the Nuggets. We must also include NBA 6^th Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson.

The trio are the only active Tigers but there have been others who are now retired, if the names are not familiar that’s okay, they did play at Mizzou and once upon a time in the NBA. We begin with Larry Drew whose been a player and coach plus Anthony Peeler. Injuries curtailed what might have been an All-Pro career for Pacer Steve Stipanovich, we also include Keyon Dooling and Jon Sundvold in the count along with Kareem Rush and DeMarre Carroll. Those named and additional athletes total 33 in all, more players than might be first believed.  

The Empire Strikes Back

Okay now that I have your attention let us explore the latest development with the Big XII Conference. Let’s speculate a bit on the latest news, commissioner Bob Bowlsby has declared war on the Entertainment and Sports Programming Network or ESPN. The commish has accused the network of being responsible for Texas and Oklahoma divorcing themselves from the Big XII. How serious is this matter you ask; they believe in their position so much they sent a cease-and-desist letter to ESPN? I ain’t no attorney, Business Law 101 and 102 is the depth of my legal expertise. One guy says one thing and the other says the opposite. One person with a legal background claims the conference might be indicating the next step is legal, as for the other guy. He claims a cease-and-desist letter is just a piece of paper with little power, we shall see how this case plays out. We shall see if “marriage counseling” is required for these two partners.  

Piston moves in time 

New York’s had several buildings with the name “Madison Square Garden” on the front of the arena. We might find a similar situation existed in Detroit as well although not under the same name. The Pistons franchise was founded in Fort Wayne Indiana but later moved to Detroit. In 1957 the Pistons would share Olympic Stadium with the NHL Red Wings, Olympic would serve as home from 1957 to 1961 and then it was Cobo Arena. On the banks of the Detroit River Cobo was the site of play until 1978.

The history is unclear as to why the change was made because unlike many of the others Cobo remains in use today. The Pistons moved to Pontiac and the Silverdome a football stadium which they shared with the NFL Lions. In 1988 the Palace at Auburn Hills would become the location of three Piston NBA championships (1988, 1989 & 2004). New owner and change occurred once again; the team moved into Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit in 2016. How about the sites of former arenas, in 1987 the wrecking ball found Olympic, and it was demolished? The same story held true for the Silverdome in 2018 and The Palace in 2020. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

What’s next?

We understand Stephen A. Smith has provided a review of Space Jam II, makes sense. I realize the statement might appear shocking but bear with me. Movie reviews are entertainment, Smith is an entertainer, so it makes sense. Next up for Smith will be a review of several Broadway plays, after this he will begin reporting news on Entertainment Tonight. Soon co-host Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner will be calling on correspondent Smith for juicy news stories regarding movies and television. Friends, apart from the opening sentence this is strictly a work of my imagination. We realize Space Jam II is a basketball cartoon however why is it necessary for Smith to critique what essentially is a children’s program?

My choice

The NBA draft will be held this evening, the usual suspects should be near the top. Cade Cunningham Oklahoma State point guard, Jalen Green, G-League and Evan Mobley power forward USC are just a few of the names. As for my Lakers we have been all over the map with the 23^rd pick however I am going to stick my neck out again. I believe the Lakers will choose 1 of 2 players in Thursday’s draft, by the way these are not in order of preference just as I see it. Chris Duarte, a 6-foot 6-inch 190-pound shooting guard who played his basketball at the University of Oregon. The other possible choice is 6-foot 8-inch 230-pound power forward/center Usman Garuba from Spain.

We must look beyond 2021 however as proof of this drafts value, on the surface it appears deep so there is an opportunity for a win by the Lakers whomever is chosen. Why these two, because it’s my belief they are probably ready to contribute right away based on the needs of the Lakers. One mock site in describing Duarte states “Think Klay Thompson.” That’s enough for me if he can add offense firepower off the Laker bench like the Warriors sharpshooter., another site claims "He's one of the most NBA ready rookies." As for Garuba he compares to a “Faster Tristian Thompson” according to this same mock site. Rest assured I’m not aware what that states however Garuba appears dominate on the defensive side of the ball.  Both players appear capable of stepping into the lineup on day one. As for my forecast, we shall see what occurs later tonight, I could be wrong in both instances.  

The ability to fly

Once upon a time in my youth I played basketball against a guy who stood 6 feet 1, he was able to dunk the ball with ease although he never did this during a game. The Hawks Spud Webb who stood all of 5 feet 6 inches entered the 1986 NBA Slam Dunk Championship. Guess what, he won the event the shortest player to date. No human can fly it just seems as though that occurs when the ball is being dunked. The player goes up and up and simply slams the ball through the cylinder, how and why did the dunk come about? The first slam occurred long before Dr. J., Connie Hawkins and Michael Jordan were even thought about. A name few of us are familiar with is credited with the first dunk, his name Joe Fortenberry the year was 1936. The location was the basketball mecca Madison Square Garden in New York City. From 1946 to 1952 Oklahoma State was led by Bob Kurland and he regularly dunked the basketball in games.

How good was the 7-foot Kurland, good enough to intercept opponents shots toward the basket? He caused the NCAA to implement defensive goal tending rule. Several of you are informed while others are reminded the dunk was banned in college from 1967-68. This was done due to the impact Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul Jabbar) made on the game. In closing a couple more notes, the dunk has always been that it didn’t become “Slam” Dunk until word master Chick Hearn longtime Laker broadcaster added it to our lexicon. The event held Saturday evening would exist if not for the American Basketball Association. In that period the NBA just played the game. In 1976 the new ABA to draw fans held a Slam Dunk event prior to its All-Star game. Years later the NBA would follow suit and add this event to its Saturday evening activities. This part you might find just as interesting, the term Slam Dunk has crept into our everyday conversation. It no longer describes basketball rather it says, “whatever the activity the individual is guaranteed success.”

How to handle a bully!

You smack them in the mouth first, you deny them the opportunity to push you. In this instance the bully is the University of Texas and all that oil and gas money backing the athletic program. The Longhorns bullied their way in the Big XII having set themselves up with the largest revenue generator in the conference. They complained about the post season basketball tournament being played annually in Kansas City so what did the conference do? They moved the tournament to Dallas, and it remained there until they realized despite a larger market it failed to attract the audience they perceived.

The tournament was moved to Oklahoma City and finally back to Kansas City at least through 2025. This latest bully effort “We are going to take our basketball and go home; we don’t want to play with you anymore” i.e., we want the SEC. Why Texas A&M is in the SEC is unclear, as for Mizzou the basis is clear-cut. The Longhorns with their television network deriving additional revenue which was not shared with other conference schools. Texas is right where Texas wishes to be at this point, they have exactly what they wanted. They will leave the Big XII in the dust with little if any concern what might occur for it in the future. Bullies never learn, the Longhorns should have been smacked in the mouth at the start. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Wishing n Hoping

Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes is now part of the ownership group of Sporting Kansas City. Now he is part owner of the soccer team and an owner of the baseball Kansas City Royals. It is clear Mahomes is investing in Kansas City professional sports. It sure would be nice if this former high school basketball player would assemble a group of investors to bid on an NBA team. Former baseball player Alex Rodríguez is now an NBA owner…why not an NFL QB an NBA owner? 

There was a plan

If you are a LeBron hater you can stop at this point, don’t bother reading this account. This is written about him but only a small portion deals with his athletic talent. LeBron arrived in the NBA at age 18, back then high school athletes were eligible for the draft. He is now 36 years old and will have another birthday in December, a report indicates he is the first athlete to earn $1 billion during his career. How did he accomplish this one might ask, there was a plan? This was really two-fold, the first part he was blessed with God given talent which would become the building block to his financial success. While patting him on the back as with anything no one accomplishes feats on their own…they have help.

In this instance he was the driving force for the help. Behind LeBron was Carter, Paul and Mims who provided direction for many of the financial pursuits of the athlete. The names are Maverick Carter, Rich Paul and Randy Mims, of these named Carter played basketball with LeBron at St. Vincent-St. Mary’s but attended Western Michigan and the University of Akron. Carter has served as the business manager for LeBron while Paul has served as his agent. Mims runs a sports marketing enterprise we guess funded by earnings we believe earned by LeBron. The other day after the Bucks won their championship, I mentioned the local sports radio guy.

He was quite critical of LeBron for in his words “moving from team to team”, Giannis was more his type of athlete having made the Bucks better. LeBron continues to draw the ire of sports talk guys like him, he also draws criticism due to the social and political stance he often takes. Rarely do we hear about his philanthropic gifts to the society from this crowd. His I Promise School in Akron founded for at risk kids. This elementary school opened in 2018 but that’s just one example. In closing just, this is but a thumbnail sketch of LeBron James who began his NBA career immediately after high school, he decided early there would be a plan in place for him. Great financial success fails to make one a better person, but it certainly can’t hurt if that person is focused.

How about Kansas basketball?

We are pre-supposing several things here…how about Kansas basketball? Where does Kansas fit in the “earthquake” that’s become the Big XII? It’s our understanding once upon a time there was a movement toward the Big 10. If we are talking basketball that’s a good thing, the football is another matter. Kansas football doesn’t compete currently, in addition that’s been the case since the Mark Mangino days. After his departure in 2009 the program is 24-108 not an exciting record.

In fact, Mangino was the last Kansas coach to produce a winning record, this goes back to 1953. As for the focus of this blog basketball, rest assured the Big 10 or Pac-12 would probably love to have Kansas basketball in the conference. As for Kansas football that might be a slightly different matter. Jayhawk fans take note, unless we return to a Big 8 Conference the dominance by Kansas is over. Bill Self team’s will not run roughshod through the Big 10 or Pac-12 for that matter. Don’t confuse the statement there is no mention of a failure to win they will not dominate either of those conferences as they did with the Big XII.     

Age ain’t nuthin’ but a number 

Awhile back we covered 80-year-old Larry Brown and the fact he is still working. Brown is taking on the role as assistant coach for the University of Memphis this fall. Well Brown is second in line in the age category to Bill Bertka. Bertka will turn 94 next month and he is still working, his job title consultant and special assistant for the Lakers. He played basketball at Kent State finishing in 1951, he would begin the following season as a high school basketball coach. From there Bertka would move to Hancock College and finally to his alma mater Kent State in 1957.

In 1971 Bertka went to work for the Lakers as an assistant coach and the rest is this story is Laker history. There is a coaching overlap so it’s unclear if he was part of Joe Mullaney or Bill Sharman’s staff. He’s served in that capacity for several head coaches over time. He was on the sidelines during the Showtime era but remained through the Phil Jackson hire. The Lakers have changed coaches twice and both times Bertka took over as interim head coach (1994 & 1999). Bertka is presently providing input on talent the Lakers have brought in for workouts. As for Bertka is there an age he or anybody should retire? Perhaps Bertka might believe as others his age, if you can physically and mentally perform a task is there any reason for anyone including Bertka to retire?

Basketball from a fans perspective

August

Beginning Monday August 2 Off the Dribble will begin a Monday, Wednesday, Friday publishing schedule. The first week of April college basketball crowned the Baylor Bears 2021 men’s NCAA champions. On July 20 the Bucks defeated the Suns 4 Games to 2 becoming 2021 NBA champions. On Thursday July 29 the NBA draft will be held and August 1 NBA free agency begins. There is basketball news however the world slows at this point. If a story breaks in between the published dates a special edition consisting of that story will be published. In closing allow me to thank you once again for being a loyal reader.

Research, research

It’s proven valuable to me, and I hope to you as well. Conducting research, I’ve uncovered bunches of stuff before my time regarding my hometown Kansas City and it’s pro basketball connection. This one is brand new; the Professional Basketball League of America came into being in 1947 one year after the Basketball Association of America began play. The PBLA consisted of 16 teams spread across the nation, the team representing Kansas City was named the Blues. The name is interesting in more ways than one, the AAA baseball team playing here also utilized the same name, we guess it wasn’t much of a concern since the basketball team and league only lasted one season. According to the information I uncovered the PBLA was severely underfunded unlike the BAA and NBL.

It’s believed the basketball Blues played their games at the Pla-Mor Ballroom which has since been demolished. The cities second team and league was the American Basketball League mentioned earlier. The Kansas City Steers were certainly more successful than the ABL which lasted from 1961 to December 31, 1963. As with the PBLA the ABL was also not financially sound. The Steers played most of their games in Municipal Auditorium and a number at Memorial Hall in Kansas City Kansas. Finally, we cover the American Basketball Association which operated from 1967 to 1976, you say Kansas City never had a team in the ABA. Well, they did, for some odd reason the lack of an arena to play sealed their fate. The franchise after being awarded to Kansas City was passed to Denver which became the Rockets, they moved from Kansas City without ever playing a single game here. I’m sure several you probably might debate if these leagues and teams were professional level. Stop and think a moment, despite the winning record of the Celtics the NBA was perceived as a minor league probably through the late 1950’s. 

Wait for the dust to settle

As this is written we don’t have an outcome for the Big XII, despite that fact some thoughts by this local guy. It is possible the former Big 8 rivals (Kansas, Kansas State & Mizzou) will play in three conferences. Mizzou long time conference member moved to the SEC in 2012. Reports indicate Kansas is looking toward joining the Big 10, as for Kansas State it’s the Pac-12. Apart from Mizzou, the other portion is strictly speculation but worth considering based on the history of the institutions. Kansas City Missouri has served as host city for the old Big 8 and now the Big XII Basketball Tournament forever. Most interesting after the Texas schools were added the tournament was moved.

It’s been played in Oklahoma City and Dallas however it was moved back to Kansas City in 2010 and will remain here until 2024. With the status of the conference unclear will 2024 be the last tournament played in Kansas City. Mayor Quinton Lucas when questioned claimed the city earns about $15 million annually from the tournament. It was mentioned by one of the local sportscasters said, “whatever occurs hopefully Kansas City could compete for a tournament.” As for the immediate future we must wait for the dust to settle to determine how these proposed moves work out. Perhaps there are elements remaining who are still upset with for leaving the Big XII back in 2012. 

The nearness of Lawrence Kansas to Kansas City MO might be part of the reason, they conveniently forget conference members Nebraska and Colorado left prior to Mizzou and Texas A&M. The schools must have had a problem with the manner the conference was being operated. As for Mizzou they could state success on the football field or basketball court is negligible in the SEC. There would be no argument from this corner however there are benefits. The revenue has been greater in the SEC and now an additional plus. They certainly have stability now over Kansas, Kansas State and other Big XII programs. Is it the Big 10, Pac-12, WAC or something else for the "former" Big XII Conference?

How important is a name?

It was mentioned at the time the owners of the Cincinnati Royals moved the NBA team to Kansas City they made a name change. Because the baseball Royals were in place, they chose to avoid confusion with two professional teams with the same name, it seemed in other historical instances it didn’t matter. Did you realize there was a New York Yankees baseball team and football team that played at the same time? The football Yankees were in the All-American Football Conference and played in NYC from 1946-1949.

You just read a story of the basketball Kansas City Blues above, there was a Blues baseball team that played in the city from 1907 until 1954. Brooklyn Dodgers baseball and Brooklyn Dodgers football operated during the same period. The NFL Dodgers played under that name from 1930-1943, baseball Dodgers had use of the name for a much longer period. The City of Chicago had two NFL teams, the Bears and the Cardinals. In 1960 the NFL Cardinals moved to St. Louis, so we had a baseball team and an NFL team playing at the same time as the St. Louis Cardinals. Perhaps the Royals ownership wanted to make a distinction between the city’s baseball team and NBA…who really knows?

Basketball from a fans perspective

What do you think?

We continue to read Kawhi Leonard stories, those indicating he remains a potential hot commodity on the free agent market. The Mavs and Heat were early bidders for his service now it appears the Knicks have joined the group, there might be others over the next few weeks. The part we find most interesting we are unsure if he even plays next season. The medical update failed to provide a timeline when he would be able to return to action. Healing power and return to action varies among players, ACL surgery probably entails Leonard being out at least to late February or March.

Although Kevin Durant did not suffer the same injury and he was missing in action for a full season which is certainly a possibility for Leonard. Worst of all Leonard might return but not have the skill level as before. The late Kobe Bryant is an example, again different type of injury but he never returned to the pre-injury Kobe. His advancing age may have been a contributing factor in the erosion of Kobe’s game. Despite all the potential negatives these teams will be bidding on The Claw on August 1. What do you think, not the talent issue we acknowledge that? Signing a player who might not play for you in the 2021-22 season. What do you consider, you are in the front office of one of these franchises? Do you attempt to sign Leonard? 

Qualifying offer

The Lakers extended a qualifying offer to Talen-Horton Tucker, what is it and exactly what does it entail? I’m glad you ask the question because not only does it apply to the Laker guard but others as well. These are not my words rather direct from nba.com, “The qualifying offer is a standing offer for a one-year guaranteed deal, which becomes a regular contract if the player decides to sign it. This ensures that the team does not gain the right of first refusal without offering a contract themselves.” Have you got that; I sure hope so? 

No guarantee

This blog has been praising the potential of Warriors center James Wiseman for a while. We did this at a point many questioned his being drafted so high. Unfortunately, an injury shut him down for the greater part of his rookie season however the 2021-22 season continues the promise of a bright future for the youngster. No less a voice than Warriors coach Steve Kerr has said it, recently he went on record regarding Wiseman. “Over the long haul, we’re going to develop James and we feel like he’s going to be our starting center at some point, for a long, long time ahead.”

Note the last part of the Kerr statement which indicates they have the belief Weisman is a keeper. Kerr indicated they were looking at the development of DeAndre Ayton as a model for what they believe the 7-foot 1-240-pound Wiseman is capable. The return to action of Klay Thompson is a key to improved play by the Warriors along with a return to action by Wiseman too. As this account was being completed, we read of a proposed trade sending the youngster to another team. Unless we are misreading Kerr, I don’t think this is going to occur at least with Wiseman being a part of the trade. 

clutchsports.com

The middle brother might have a job 

The Hornets announced LiAngelo Ball will play for their Summer League team; this is no indication the move will be permanent. The middle brother certainly has a degree of talent it’s unlikely he would have been able to play at UCLA no matter how short the time. It’s been the belief by NBA scouts the middle brother is not as talented as the others. With the Ball brothers comes father LaVar, many claim LaVar’s bravado is a throwback to Muhammad Ali or Joe Namath, he’s been a promoter of his family’s basketball talent. In other news baby brother LaMelo has signed with Puma, Lonzo is wearing Kobes so we have no idea the status of Big Baller Brand begun by LaVar.

West Virginia…where?

Where does West Virginia head if the Big XII Conference breaks up as it appears might occur. For me this thing of adding WVU to a conference in the middle part of the nation was a little strange in the first place, geography was certainly not part of the decision. Another example, all Big XII schools are in the Central Time Zone, WVU is only one on Eastern Standard Time. What does WVU do now, they cannot return to the Big East from which they departed in 2012.

It appears their parting from the Big East was not one of convenience for either the conference or WVU. What’s left for WVU to consider, the SEC might be the last conference to choose based on the moves of Texas and Oklahoma. This is certainly not intended to be in any order of choice just random thoughts on a direction for WVU. The ACC could be a fit for the Mountaineers, the America Conference might also be taken into consideration. Also, the Atlanta 10 might work or the Big 10 might be the choice. There is certainly no rush for a decision at this point this potential Big XII breakup is possibly 3-4 years from now. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Convince me please

On Saturday a list of point/shooting guards were named associated with the Lakers. All are talented however a couple of players are head and shoulders above the rest of the pack. Best of the best is Dame Lillard who I place at the top. In second place is Russell Westbrook but that is the issue for me. Westbrook is a walking triple-double, but portions of his game are suspect. His shooting has caused a name change instead of Westbrook it’s become West-BRICK as he’s struggled the last two seasons shooting from the floor.

Westbrook’s game has suffered at two levels, at the free-throw line and shooting from the field. He remains supreme driving and dishing the ball to a teammate, it’s the other thing. NBA teams play off him attempting to stifle his sprint toward the basket, they routinely dare him to take a shot 15 feet or more from the basket. So, what does the future hold for the Laker backcourt? Lillard is out of the picture strictly due to money, here’s hoping Westbrook is excluded based on his poor shooting from the field and at the free-throw line. I know I omitted Chris Paul but it's my belief he wants to be paid and the Lakers can't meet his number.  

He speaks 

We thought college was out the window for wunderkind Emoni Bates…not so according to the statement he released.  He now indicates there are 8 possible destinations on his radar, the projections are not in any order just as it’s published. Bates could turn pro with the NBA G-League, Overtime Elite or the NBL (Australia). Although he de-committed from Michigan State the Spartans remain on his list, as for the others they are, Oregon, Memphis, Baylor and Miami. Where do you think Bates is headed, is it an early pro career or college?

R.I.P. Big XII…maybe

The Big XII conference is not dead but it’s in ICU and might soon expire, Texas and Oklahoma headed possibly to the SEC and talk of Kansas and perhaps Iowa State joining the Big 10. Left in the wake of this exit would be Oklahoma State, West Virginia, Kansas State, Iowa State, TCU, Texas Tech and Baylor. West Virginia on Eastern Time might explore a conference in the same time zone. The Texas schools along with Oklahoma State could look at the Mountain West Conference or WAC.

These moves might leave Kansas State and Iowa State out in the cold, but they could find a conference I’m just unsure which one. Once again, the mover and shaker in this possible change remains the same, the University of Texas. The Longhorns are the culprit in Texas A&M and Mizzou leaving the Big XII as mentioned in the Thursday edition. What becomes of the Big XII, they have three possible outcomes? The conference can play with 8 teams, add teams or dissolve as the Southwest Conference did back in 1996. Several might remember the old SWC which contained all the schools listed below, behind the school's name is the conference they now represent. 

Texas-Big 12

Texas Tech-Big 12

Baylor-Big 12

TCU-Big 12

Texas A&M-SEC

Arkansas-SEC

Rice-Conference USA

SMU-American Athletic Conference

In the 1993 movie comedy Freaked the hero of the movie was taken prisoner by henchmen who worked for the mega corporation E.E.S. You are probably wondering what this has to do with university conferences the subject at hand. In the movie E.E.S. stood for ownership of Everything Except Shoes. That is the future, with probably rare exception the power will be concentrated with 2-3 conferences consisting of 16 to 24 teams. Can you just imagine what type of round robin post season tournament must be configured?

Where does he stand?

If we check the Mizzou roster and listen to the coach it says guards and faster paced play this season. That makes for a question, where does Jordan Wilmore fit in this picture? Wilmore is a 7-foot 3-inch 310-pound post player, he played limited minutes as a freshman. Was it Wilmore’s adjustment to Division I basketball or the fact his skills might be limited? We can only check out highlights from high school since Wilmore played so little as a Mizzou freshman. That can be deceptive since he’s matched against players much smaller in stature and weight than him.

Video indicates Wilmore can move up and down the floor easily despite his weight. He is adept defensively although to play in the SEC he must adjust his game. The video available indicates he is skilled offensively, naturally his height makes the dunk most easily for him. Despite that fact Wilmore has a jump hook with range and a bank shot from the wing. Where does this leave Jordan Wilmore as he moves into his sophomore season. Last season senior Jeremiah Tilmon was in front of him on the depth chart as was expected. Although coach Cuonzo appears to be leaning toward an up-tempo offense Wilmore might be able to convince him otherwise. The job is Wilmore’s for the taking however he’s got to prove to the coaching staff he wants it.