A fans perspectives

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An adjustment was required

Portland Trail Blazer fans are very familiar with Deni Avdija although he might be unknown to many NBA fans. This focus is on Avdija because he is having a breakout year for his Blazer team…he’s been so good this season he should win most improved player in the NBA for 2025-26. What’s Avdija’s done so far through the middle of January:

Scored more points than James Harden

Has more assists than Shai-Gilgeous Alexander

More rebounds than Draymond Green

Has more threes than Kevin Durant

Made more free throws than Luka Doncic

You can see the type of year he’s experienced thus far, 26.1 ppg and 6.9 assists per game provide the evidence. Where and how, the where is Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel where he began his pro career prior to being drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2020. Avdija was the 9th pick in the first round of that draft. The how, the fact the Wizards were either unable or unwilling to see an adjustment plus time was required for the first Israeli player to be drafted into the NBA. 

IMO

This is written in the middle of January, I have no idea if the Los Angeles Lakers win the NBA championship. Whatever the outcome of the 2025-26 season for the Lakers in my opinion its time. Time for LeBron James to retire because despite his outstanding play over a 20 year plus NBA career he’s become a ‘millstone’ around the neck of the Lakers. He is the all-time NBA scoring champion, several of his records will never be eclipsed, LeBron is a four time NBA champion one of those, the 2020 with the Lakers. I could go on with the accolades this Akron Ohio native has compiled over the course of his brilliant NBA career.

The chief reason retirement should be in the forefront is a single reason, he is delaying his replacement. Let me re-state that, no one replaces LeBron, a rookie or veteran player would move into the position LeBron presently holds. I remember reading Kobe Bryant was a difficult teammate, I have no idea if the statement was true however the same might be evident for LeBron. Players of great talent have difficulty understanding why some not all around them don’t play at the same level as they do. I wouldn’t attempt to point out a possible replacement just say once again its time for retirement. The big difference, several NBA all-pros had farewell tours around the NBA. To date there’s been no planned farewell tour for LeBron although this is certainly no requirement. We shall see what eventually develops but now you know my view.

These issues require attention

Problems facing the college game have by mentioned by several in the media. I thought I would discuss this because it’s my belief these issues are compelling factors why some believe the college game is no longer the ideal product it once was. Over the last decades bunches of change have come into effect but from my view there have been none that have made the game a better product. Let’s take a look at some of the problems the college game faces, below are those I believe are causing issues for most fans:

 

*Name, Image & Likeness (NIL)

*Transfer Portal

*Euro professional players in college

*Eligibility

The NCAA is directly responsible for Name, Image & Likeness (NIL) coming into use across the nation. Should athletes be financially compensated is the question? Technically it’s a fine line between amateur and professional play however good or bad it’s become the law of the land. The transfer portal has got to be addressed fully, there should be a limit on the number of transfers. As an example an athlete in his junior year was enrolled in his third school in three years. Unless there are extenuating circumstances an athlete should be limited to two (2) transfers only. Athletes transferring from school to school need to end. Euro players in college is a gray area, for several years we’ve witnessed “pro” players enrolled and playing college competition.

There have been Euro players who arrived on these shores and begin play at  American high schools and then college. This will be mentioned once again, anytime a player is drafted into the NBA there is no allowance for him to play college basketball. The same for the two G-League players now enrolled and playing college basketball. More and more it’s my belief that a College Basketball Commissioner would handle these issues much better than the hodge podge method in place at present. I realize some issues have been missed while others were not detailed enough, I hope you see there is a huge problem facing college basketball today.

I informed you I don’t know

As this is written I have no idea how good a defender Kon Knueppel Charlotte Hornets guard is. I do know this at least for now, he can sink baskets and this is the proof. Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons tied Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Wolves for most three-point baskets made in consecutive games. Edwards set the standard with 14 in his rookie year, more recently Ivey tied the record but it now belongs to neither player anymore. Knueppel has set the new standard with 16 consecutive games sinking a three-point basket.

As far as Draymond’s Green questioning Knueppel’s defensive chops I said it before, Green needs to allow the youngster to fully adjust to the NBA. I believe this was stated by me previously, the spotlight was shining brightly last season on Cooper Flagg at Duke. That’s understandable, Flagg arrived on campus as a hype-machine with 99% of it media driven. Knueppel was content to play ‘Robin’ to Flagg’s ‘Batman’ probably content in his ability to play the game at a high skill level. Both players were fortunate in a manner of speaking, high draft choices allowed to move into their team’s starting lineup day one. I might have written this previously but will repeat it, if not for Flagg coming into the NBA at the same time Knueppel might have been deemed NBA Rookie of the Year.

A fans perspectives

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The return of a Kobe

His name is Kobe Bufkin, there remains a question if his parents named him after the Kobe which remains unclear. Since he just turned 22 in September it’s certainly plausible that could be the case. Bufkin’s had an unusual journey to arrive with the Los Angeles Lakers, allow an explanation. The 6-foot 4 guard was an All-State high school basketball player in Michigan, he was a 2021 McDonald’s All American. Bufkin had a slow start at the University of Michigan his freshman year but showed vast signs of improvement during his sophomore year.

He would then declared for the 2023 NBA draft, Bufkin was made pick number 15 in the first round by the Atlanta Hawks. From that point on it seems he fell off the edge of the earth, two years in which Bufkin received little playing time on the court. In September 2025 he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets and was waived by them in October prior to the start of the 2025-26 season. He was traded by Detroit’s G-League team to the South Bay Lakers, after appearing in 14 games for South Bay the parent club signed Bufkin to a 10-day contract. JJ Redick is looking for scoring off the bench and must believe this addition will prove beneficial for them. So there you have the story behind this Kobe and his connection to the Los Angeles Lakers.

A revolving door

The conference season has just begun and change is forth coming early, Kansas City or the University of MO-Kansas City is at the forefront. The school announced veteran coach Marvin Menzies will be replaced at the end of the season. I have long been unsure if the administration of my hometown university desires to play Division I basketball at a competitive level. The school moved from the NAIA level to Division I under Lee Hunt in 1987, memory says that was his only job….move the basketball program to the next level. Sounds somewhat easy however its been mostly downhill over the decades. Menzies is the school’s 7th head coach since 1996.

Every coach at the helm has a losing record with the exception of Billy Donlon (2019-22), in his three years his teams won 46 while losing 39 games. There must have been issues the public was unable to see, Donlon left the program at the end of 2022 and took the job as associate head coach for Clemson. I have long held the belief that without offering a shred of proof over time there’s been a divide between the athletic department and the school’s administration. Despite the passage of time the divide remains in place otherwise a high profile coach would have been hired day one. Once the school moved from the NAIA ranks to Division I my hope (and others) was a St. John’s or UCLA type program, an urban basketball power. My hope never materialized and the truth of the matter I’ve given up.

An uncommon occurrence

If you’ve read Off the Dribble any length of time you might be aware of this single fact. There are a number of concerns I’ve expressed 99% of them I can do nothing about except complain, one of those complaints is the NBA All-Star Game. I resent the change in the format of the game today, it reminds me of a playground or YMCA pickup game in the manner teams are place together. Despite that fact it is time to profile what might be a historic event, I checked all-star history and uncovered the fact there have been 45 rookies to play in the all-star game since it was first played in 1951, 25 of them since 1969. Since that year fewer and fewer rookies have been named NBA All-Stars, Michael Jordan was named to the 1985 game however since then only 5 rookies have been selected.  

Michael Jordan-1985

Shaquille O’Neal-1993

Grant Hill-1995

Tim Duncan-1998

Yao Ming-2003

Blake Griffin-2011

All-Star voting continues at the time of this account, with final selections pending there is a possibility of a 7th rookie being named to this year's NBA All-Star roster. Voting closes at midnight on January 14, and the starters will be announced on Monday, January 19. Current frontrunners in the voting include Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Stephen Curry, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, and Anthony Edwards. Additionally, Dallas Mavericks rookie forward Cooper Flagg has attracted considerable attention, receiving a notable number of votes and potentially earning a position on the 2026 NBA All-Star roster. The starters will be announced first and then the reserves, in all probability, the balance of the roster might not be revealed until sometime next week.

He’s got an offer in middle school

This is a report only, I make that statement because the athlete profiled is only 13 years old, his name is Omar Muhammad and he’s in the 8th grade. Muhammad is an outstanding talent and appears more gifted than his competition on the basketball court however with that statement comes a warning. What will be his position by the time he graduates high school in 2029 or 2030 is the question, Muhammad is 6-feet 2 inches tall and is likely to continue growing. Muhammad could gain several additional inches by the time he graduates from high school. If you check out his Instagram video you will see video of him scoring on high wire dunks.  

Home for Muhammad is West Fresno California were he attends Reyburn Intermediate School. By now you are wondering “Why is he profiling an 8th grade basketball player?” For this reason, last week Kansas offered him a basketball scholarship but they appear late to the party. According to Muhammad’s Instagram account he’s received a total of 7 offers from Division I programs. Among the schools with offers for him are Tennessee, Missouri, Arizona State, Rutgers and now Kansas. If you followed the sport any length of time you are aware time to time we are made aware of a new phenom, sometimes that youngster goes on to great things and other times the competition catches up with them. In any event you should store this youngsters name in your memory bank for the future.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNM_-9yuGhF/?hl=en

A fans perspective

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It certainly fits for all

The headline read: “Lakers lose winnable game,” of course that statement could be applied to the Lakers-Bucks game however it could just as easily be applied to the game Saturday afternoon between Ole Miss and Mizzou. Sure it was a road game for Mizzou but losing 76-69 is a gut punch for Mizzou Nation. If we look at the stats and not the score you might believe the visitors won the game. From the floor they outshot Ole Miss 49% to 43%, from the three line was key, Ole Miss shooting 41% to Mizzou’s 29. The game didn’t begin in that manner as Mizzou was shooting lights out from three early in the game.

The free-throw line would also become Mizzou’s kryptonite, you can’t shoot 50% as a team from the line and expect to win any game Ole Miss or anybody. Mizzou had 13 TO’s to the 7 Ole Miss registered. Headed into the game Ole Miss had not played particularly well, they had an 8-7 record prior to the game while Mizzou was 12-3. This game was certainly frustrating considering much of what was presented earlier. Next up Mizzou will face a tough Auburn team at Mizzou Arena on January 14. Hopefully, the outcome on Wednesday will much different from the Ole Miss game.

Never say never

Throughout NBA history, some extraordinary events have shaped the league’s development. One such episode involved two team owners swapping franchises—yes, they literally took control of each other’s teams. For me it is extremely difficult to imagine anything like this happening again. The story began with business interests however they were actually outside of basketball. John Y. Brown owned the Buffalo Braves at the time, having previously led the Kentucky Colonels in the ABA. After the expansion he became a minority, then majority owner of the Braves.

Next to enter this account, Irv Levin, then owner of the Boston Celtics, his business operations were located in Southern California. Levin a California type wanted the west coast, however, the NBA would have refused to let Levin move the legendary Celtics out of Boston. As a solution, Levin and Brown agreed to exchange ownership of their teams. At the time, the Braves were struggling both on the court and at the box office. After the swap, Levin received NBA approval to move the Braves to San Diego, rebranding them as the Clippers in 1978. Brown became the owner of the Celtics, and both men were content with their new arrangements. This summary is a simplified version of what happened, and there were likely more details involved than simply trading franchises. Despite my reluctance I’m going to say it anyway, ‘never would something similar occur again.’

He is the last name

If you were to list the top NBA coaches all-time or just those coaching now, his name probably would be missing. Who am I referring to…how about Erick Spoelstra head coach of the Miami Heat?  Spoelstra has been head man of the Heat since 2008 and how he came to be the Main Man is unique in itself. He was a point guard in college playing for the Portland Pilots, the NBA was not in his future as a player however coaching was a different matter. Few could claim they began their NBA career as a video coordinator, that’s was his first hire with the Heat. Later Pat Riley added Spoelstra to his staff at the time he was head coach of the Heat, in 2008 Riley stepped down from his role. As president of basketball operations and general manager Riley named Spoelstra as head coach.

My guess once Chris Bosh and LeBron James joined the Heat and Dwayne Wade who was already in place might have been Spoelstra’s most difficult coaching role initially. That first year (2011) the Heat played for the NBA championship but lost to the Dallas Mavericks. The following season the Heat would not be denied, they won it all in 2012 and 2013. The departure of LeBron and Bosh saw the Heat settle into a routine however they were always competitive with Spoelstra providing the coaching. This early 2025-26 season witnessed Spoelstra collecting his 800th victory as an NBA head coach. Recently retired Gregg Popovich former coach of the San Antonio Spurs is the all-time leader in wins and there is no active coach close to him in wins. Doc Rivers, with more than 1,200 wins, is the closest to Popovich. However, if— and that's a significant "if"— Spoelstra stays in his position long enough, he might have a chance to reach Popovich's record of 1,390 wins, though that would be quite a remarkable feat.

How about a non-move

It’s Los Angeles and it’s the Lakers, the spotlight shines intently on the franchise. An example, player acquisition…it seems there are always 55 people lined up to say, “Why it was a mistake the Lakers failed to acquire _________.” Those same 55 people never tell you about the potential drawbacks of acquiring a player, but that's exactly what I'm going to do now. Over the course of his NBA career Brook Lopez has been an outstanding player for several NBA teams, that is what many in the NBA expected as a free agent. Despite standing 7-foot 1 and 284 pounds Lopez was a decent shooter from three and could stretch the floor with his range.

Lopez had left the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency last summer, the Los Angeles Lakers were a team that needed a center and somehow this series of events occurred. Lopez would sign with the Los Angeles Clippers and that other team was forced to look elsewhere. That ‘elsewhere’ move arrived in the form of Deandre Ayton who arrived with questions regarding his attitude. Fast forward to the middle portion of December, although Ayton’s play to date has not been outstanding its met what the Lakers hoped would transpire. As for Lopez and his time with the Clippers, that is a different story. Ivica Zubac was to play major minutes in the post with Lopez providing a backup role, to date he’s underperformed in that role. The lack of change by the Lakers might have been a blessing in disguise based on the results.

A fans perspective

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Records are made to be broken

Friday evening an event of epic proportion occurred, Kevin Durant moved past the legendary Wilt Chamberlain in points scored. Over the course of his career Durant’s never come close to the regular season numbers of Chamberlain however he’s been consistent. Durant is now in 7th place (31,445 and counting) among all NBA career scoring leaders. I certainly didn’t wish to take anything from the accomplishment of Durant but my eyes led me to Moses Malone. His point total is listed as 27,409 and my initial thought, that must include his play in the American Basketball Association. A careful check indicated that was not the case, the numbers above represent the time Malone spent in the NBA.

Then I remember once reading the NBA didn’t include any numbers once expansion took place. If you are curious (as I was) I discovered Malone’s combined point total was 29,580. Malone would remain behind Chamberlain in points scored but exceed Shaquille O’Neal and several others. Back to Durant a moment, his career has proven quite interesting in another aspect. I’m unsure exactly when this occurred, he was required to power lift a weight I don’t remember the figure. In any event he was unable to lift it. At the 2007 Draft Combine Durant checked in at 215 pounds, that is quite skinny for someone 7-feet tall. Contrast that slim number with the Durant of today who is 240 pounds. Congratulations Kevin Durant, the next stop for you is the Naismith Hall of Fame.

The top pick 

I know what you are going to say, “Why are you checking NBA mock draft sites so far in advance, we are yet to play 10 college games.” This is done for a specific reason, to see the movement up or down for the Top 10 prospects. Let’s check a couple of sources on November 23, forward AJ Dybantsa of BYU is at the top of the list for nbadraft.net. As for nbadraftroom.com they place shooting guard Darryn Peterson from Kansas number one. Darryn Peterson is also number one for tankathon.com/mock, while bleachereport.com also places Peterson at the top of their mock draft.

Based on the NBA mock sites checked we might conclude Peterson would be the top pick in 2026 but I wouldn’t necessarily believe that holds true for the balance of the season leading up to the draft. Last year the Dallas Mavs Cooper Flagg held onto the top position in all the mock sites from October through the June draft. Two years ago it was the same for Victor Wembanyama leading up to his selection by the San Antonio Spurs, it seems to me last season was different. Most of the 2024-25 season the mocks had Zaccharie Risacher or Alex Sarr alternating most of the season, of course Risacher nor Sarr were named NBA Rookie of the Year. The rookie of the year honor went to Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs.

19

We are nearly there, close to the anniversary of the second highest individual point total scored in NBA history. It was January 22, 2006, that was the night Kobe Bryant scored 81 points against the Toronto Raptors. Dissecting the box score there were 28 baskets from 46 attempts (60.9%) from the floor with 7 for 13 from three (53.8%). At the free-throw line Kobe was 18 for 20, get this 55 of his point total came in the second half of the game. The balance of the box score read in 42 minutes he also had 6 rebounds 2 assists, 3 steals and 1 blocked shot.

The question might be asked, “who was ‘watching him’ that evening” based on his scoring binge? I’m sure the entire Raptors team at a point, despite this fact when you are in a zone it’s difficult to stop or even hinder an opposing player. Kobe Bryant had one advantage over Wilt Chamberlain…video evidence. Mostly everyone from the Wilt time period is no longer living except for Tom Meschery who was a teammate of Wilt. He’s 87 years old now but probably has a vested interest in maintaining the myth of Wilt’s 100 point game. I have come to a simple conclusion, you witnessed Kobe’s 81 point game. Why couldn’t Wilt have scored 19 additional points in his game against the Knicks? Let’s check single game high scorers in history:

Wilt Chamberlain 100 pts

Kobe Bryant 81 pts

Wilt Chamberlain 78 pts

Luka Doncic 73 pts

David Thompson 73 pts

Wilt Chamberlain 73 pts

Starter minutes

This isn’t intended to disparage Los Angeles Laker reserve center Jaxson Hayes, it’s only an explanation. Last season after Anthony Davis was traded to the Mavs Hayes moved from a backup role at center to a starters role. It wasn’t Hayes along however he played rather well until. Once the playoffs began he found himself overmatched, in a number of games he was missing from the starting lineup all together. In July, despite concerns about his past performance, the Lakers signed Deandre Ayton to a two-year deal—this is where we begin.

It’s likely since elementary school most playing basketball have been in the role of a starter, nobody wants to sit on the bench and play a reserve role. Once we reach the NBA a number believe they should be playing starter minutes, the only problem it’s a talent issue. Hayes and others can still play, but limited talent often shifts them from starters to reserves once they reach the NBA. Despite what might appear to be a negative is a positive for many, over the history several players experienced sterling careers and actually preferred the role over starting. The Bad Boy Pistons had Vinnie ‘Microwave’ Johnson emerge from the bench and aid the cause for the Pistons. The Showtime Lakers had Michael Cooper who was a defensive dynamo, he’s in the Naismith Hall of Fame to illustrate his contribution to those championship Laker teams. Robert Horry was nicknamed ‘Big Shot’ Rob due to his timely shooting as a reserve for a number of NBA teams including my Lakers.

Former Celtic great Kevin McHale actually was a 6th man for the Celtics prior to his move into the starting lineup. Just a few names in today’s NBA, Payton Pritchard of the Celtics, Alex Caruso Thunder guard along with Gary Trent Jr. and Bobby Portis valued Bucks reserves. In conclusion everyone probably wants to play starter minutes, everyone is not talented enough offensively or defensively enough to play major minutes. Reserve players, especially in the NBA, serve a valuable role. A coach once said; “It’s more important who is on the court at the end of the game over the beginning.”

A fans perspective

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Meanwhile….

Anytime a discussion is held regarding injuries everyone seems to get an excuse except the Los Angeles Lakers. This week they lost their match against a very good San Antonio Spurs team. One pundit said; “The Lakers missing LeBron James Wah Wa Wa Wah Wa Wa” (think adults talking in the Peanuts Charlie Brown cartoons). They received commendable play from Luka Doncic but that was it, then I thought out his comment and said, “he’s only looking at a portion of the problem.” Starting guard Austin Reaves has been missing from the lineup with a grade 2 left calf strain, he’s out for another 2 weeks at least. Starting forward Rui Hachimura has a calf industry he might play in the Friday evening game against the Bucks. Rookie Adou Thiero hasn’t played major minutes however he is sidelined as well. If all are healthy the Lakers beat the Spurs but that is not . The answer cannot be determined except to say the Lakers might have stood a better chance than missing major parts of its roster being unavailable to compete.           

The losing streak is over at least for now, the New York Knicks were in some kind of funk having lost 4 games in a row. On Wednesday they would face the hot and streaking Los Angeles Clippers at Madison Square Garden. The Clippers held a slight lead at the half but much later witnessed a resurgence by the Knicks, the final score would read Knicks 123 Clippers 111. So what happened, for one thing the Knicks had all 5 starters score in double figures plus reserve Jordan Clarkson scored 12. Jalen Brunson led in scoring with 26 points, he and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 7 assists a piece. The Clippers didn’t actually roll over they just ran into a Knicks team determined to break out from a slump. The Clippers were held to 43% shooting meanwhile the Knicks were at 50%, three point shooting saw the Clippers at 36% compared to the Knicks 42%. The Clippers had 4 players score in double figures, they were led by the 25 points scored by Kawhi Leonard.

Not much going there

Jeff Borzello, who covers college basketball for ESPN.com had an interesting column on Friday. It was a guesstimate which team would win the conference race and who were the contenders. Of interest to me the Big 12 and SEC race, it would appear he believes Kansas and Missouri will come up short. As an example in the Big 12 he’s got Arizona favored (no surprise) but the biggest threats to them are Iowa State, Houston and BYU. Did you notice among the missing….the Kansas Jayhawks. Folks around these parts including plenty of Kansas fans continue to revel in the mystique of Allen Fieldhouse and Bill Self. Kansas will field a competitive team one with tournament aspirations they will not win the Big 12 regular season crown.

Let’s check out the SEC, he’s got Vanderbilt as the favorite. That says something, the school once referred to as “The Harvard of the South” has quite a competitive basketball team this season. Borzello list the biggest threat to the top rung as Florida, Arkansas, Alabama, Tennessee. Each of those schools could win the SEC regular season championship however there is a missing school. The Missouri Tigers are absent from his list however the chief question can they contend with the other named conference members? This is what I think, this is not what I know, a couple of those teams will not finish at the level to be considered contenders. That will allow Missouri basketball to succeed in passing them in the standings, could it happen? I am allowed to dream ain’t I?

He is the man….at least that’s what I believe

Recently without offering a shred of evidence I pronounced Cooper Flagg the leader of the Dallas Mavericks. I came to this conclusion after seeing several Mavs games plus highlights from others, this was done from the beginning of the season through games played in December. I can now offer what I believe is credible proof of that leadership that Flagg’s demonstrated on the court to date. This rookie small forward leads the Mavs in four categories, they are:

Points 682

Rebounds 233

Assists 151

Steals 44

Check this portion out, a healthy Anthony Davis and Flagg is probably in second place in point totals, he also might be behind AD in rebounds too. As for the assist department a healthy Kyrie Irving might find Flagg behind him as well. As for the steals category that’s a tossup in my view, he could lead or exceed even with a healthy Irving in the lineup. On the other hand maybe Flagg is only providing us proof he is a Bonafide NBA talent for now and injuries aside should have a successful career. Flagg is clearly The Man in Dallas. As further proof the Mavericks announced; “Everyone on the roster is subject to trade except for Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg.” That’s a strong statement coming from management, a closer look reveals Irving while certainly valuable and talented is 33 years old while Flagg just turned 19.

What is going on

At the time Ben Simmons was drafted out of LSU it was evident there was a ‘hole’ in his game. The Philadelphia Sixers were aware his shot range only extended about 10 feet from the basket i.e., there was no jump shot. There were other elements Simmons brought to the table which made him a potential talent, in his first few seasons with the Sixers that appeared to be the case. His first 4 seasons saw him average 16 points and nearly 8 assists a game, despite no shot from distance his low from the floor was .545% and a high of .580%.

A back injury saw Simmons miss the entire 2021-22 season, by the time he returned it was all downhill after that. The promise that was once held for him ended, from there it was 3 years with the Nets and last season spent with the Clippers. As the 2025-26 season approached, not a single NBA team contacted him. The season began and Simmons was without a team for the first time in years. So what occurs in the life of Ben Simmons at present, he’s taken up another sport. Simmon’s is focused on sport fishing, he’s become the controlling owner of South Florida Sails in the Sport Fishing Championship. According to reports I uncovered he is hoping to return to the NBA at some point in the future. So there you have it, an update on the latest developments in the life of Ben Simmons.

A fans perspective

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Meanwhile….

How to lose a game you should have won. The final score read Kansas 104 TCU 100 in OT, TCU appeared to win the game in Lawrence Kansas in regulation. That was not to be as TCU provided numerous methods to ‘give the win’ to Kansas. Darryn Peterson would sink three free throws to tie the game 87-87 after TCU surrendered a lead which was up to 16 points during a portion of the game. How do you lose a game where your team held such a large lead it’s simple…you choke. On a tip in Kansas cut the lead by TCU to three and a short time later Peterson was fouled, Kansas would hold the lead throughout the OT. Some reading this critique would believe I am overly critical of TCU and maybe I am, perhaps I will stop at the coach, Jaime Dixon. I’m unsure of the number of  time outs that remained for TCU in regulation however I don’t remember one being called. So now we have both teams 11-4 and with one win and one loss in the early Big 12 conference race.

There are a number of poorly run NBA franchises, this is not the plan however it is what exists. These teams hire coaches and general managers allow them to remain for a time then fire one or both. In addition the selection of players might be a key why these teams never improve, they draft players who are not NBA ready and at the same time trade or free agency sees a few blossom at other locales. In addition a number of these teams appear to have owners who success in the business world allow them to believe they can run an NBA franchise in the same manner. It just doesn’t work that way although few are willing to relinquish their ‘hands on’ approach with their teams. Every season whenever prospects are discussed, these teams are never considered contenders for a championship. Who are they, how about the New Orleans Pelicans, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards and surprise the Atlanta Hawks. It’s not the fact that these teams don’t desire to win they simply have not been shown the way. I realize that statement sounds elementary and it is.

“Human sacrifice! Dogs and cats living together! Mass hysteria!” Okay it’s not terrible enough to use the line uttered by Bill Murray’s character in the 1984 Ghostbusters movie but it is not good. I speak of the NCAA allowing “professional” basketball players in the college game. No requirement to detail what’s been reported previously it’s just a concern. Someone, I’m unsure who to credit claimed, “College basketball needs a commissioner.” I don’t know if that solves all the issues facing the game at this level however it’s my belief it would be a beginning. I could use Adam Silver or NFL commissioner Roger Goodell as examples. They are the ‘face’ of their respective league and critical decisions no matter how controversial they might be become law. At the same time I don’t believe in any instance decisions are made by these two without input from all parties. The other issue the NCAA at this point has a spokesperson but no one the public sees.

I have mentioned the lack of defensive cohesiveness by the Los Angeles Lakers at times this season. There is one additional shortcoming that has not been detailed by me. It’s the fact they have been abused, opposing teams have physically beat up the Lakers. This issue was quite evident in their playoff loss last season to the Wolves. I cannot point to a specific game this season however in their 11 losses (as this is written) there have been a number of blowouts. It is clear to me the Lakers need to become a more physical team over the balance of the remaining season. If not they will find themselves coming up short once again in the playoffs.

Come on Draymond….go easy on the youngster

Before I begin this rant allow me to state at the beginning, I saw Kon Knueppel play numerous times in a Duke jersey last season. As for seeing him in action with the Charlotte Hornets it’s been infrequent except for highlights. The stats indicate Knueppel is having an outstanding rookie season, truth is he might edge out his college teammate Cooper Flagg for Rookie of the Year. I believe the praise Knueppel’s received is bothersome to Draymond Green of the Warriors. How annoying you ask, enough for Green to comment on the play of Knueppel. I would guess someone compared Knueppel’s 3-point shooting to former Warrior Klay Thompson and that’s when it occurred.

Keep in mind these are not Green’s exact words however he alluded to the defensive skills of Thompson over that of Knueppel. Friends, I have literally no idea how good Knueppel is defensively. What I witnessed last season at Duke can in no way be compared to the NBA however there is a difference and I will offer an explanation for you and Green. I see evidence constantly, we make comparisons all the time to a player we are familiar with. I’m sure that is the case here, now let’s check the stats other than defense as this is written. After 36 games Knueppel is scoring at a 19.3 per game clip, his field goal percentage is 47.4 with 42.9% coming from the 3-line. As for Green my response is simple, allow the youngster to grow his game, maybe his defense will equal or exceed Klay Thompson one day.

Winning ugly

The final score read Mizzou 73 Kentucky 68, I will get that out of the way first. After the win over last season’s defending NCAA champion Florida those in Mizzou Nation wondered what might occur on Wednesday evening. This game against Kentucky will take place at the renowned Rupp Arena, a venue where Mizzou has yet to achieve a victory.  The first half of the game both teams appear sluggish, was it the defense probably. Was it turnovers, most certainly, despite the poor play Mizzou led at the half 33-32 despite a half court made shot by Kentucky.

The second half commenced with Kentucky quickly gaining an advantage; however, Missouri responded effectively, capitalizing on Kentucky's missed shots and turnovers. Statistically, Missouri achieved a shooting percentage of 52%, outperforming Kentucky's 43%. Kentucky recorded 13 turnovers, while Missouri committed 12. In terms of rebounding, Kentucky secured 31 compared to Missouri’s 29. During the second half, Missouri outscored Kentucky 40 to 36 based on a 15-2 run and subsequently took the lead. Checking the updated SEC standings they reflect Missouri, Texas A&M, and Mississippi State in a three-way tie for first place, each with three victories. Missouri’s next matchup will be played away on Saturday against Ole Miss.

A fans perspective

Published Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Sunday

It’s not just Wemby

The San Antonio Spurs are much better than last season, enough to compete for a championship? That question remains just that for the time being but they have gotten better but a closer inspection is required. Wemby is vastly improved over his sophomore season and that must be at the top of the list. His impact against the Thunder, when Wemby is in the game their % of shots at the rim is 11% versus 20% when he’s on the bench. Their percentage of mid-range especially SGA 42% when Wemby is on the floor against 49% seated. The defensive rating on is 88.9 off its 118.4 with Wemby seated. How about the offensive rating, 88.9 Wemby on and 115.1 when he’s on the bench.

Those numbers only represent his impact against the Thunder, it’s got to be close to that against other NBA teams. The second key is guard play, there were questions why the Spurs drafted guard Dylan Harper when they had Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle and had added De’Aaron Fox in trade. Well that three guard tandem has caused plenty of problems especially for the defending NBA champion Thunder as you can see by the numbers. This is the neat thing, the three guard tandem is never on the floor at the same time despite their impact. The reserve unit has stepped up especially Luke Kornet and Keldon Johnson. This ‘love fest’ closes with a salute to Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, I’m sure he talks to coach Pop but this is clearly his Spurs team. Watching a baby take his or her first few steps is always exciting, that’s my belief in checking out the baby Spurs, we are watching their grow before our eyes.

Is he the key

We’ve been reading since the beginning of the season, “The Los Angeles Lakers need Andrew Wiggins to win it all.” As most are aware the veteran forward plays for the Miami Heat and at a point we read “The Heat want too much (players) in a trade to acquire Wiggins.” That becomes my chief concern, over the course of Wiggins career for several NBA teams he’s been a lights out shooter especially from deep. For Wiggins career it’s been nearly 36% and this season for the Heat he’s at 37.1%. There is no doubt on the ability of Wiggins to stretch the floor with his shooting it’s the other stuff.

The question becomes do you break up a cohesive lineup hoping to win a championship. The subject is posed in this manner because NBA basketball like all other forms remains a team game. In addition will he be able to do the things a Rui Hachimura is able to accomplish? Once upon a time the Lakers made such a trade and it aided their championship aspirations. They acquired Klay Thompson’s father Mychal and he provided immediate dividends for the Lakers. If there is a belief that acquiring Wiggins will help in the Laker effort to win a championship I’d say go ahead and do it. My chief concern is breaking up the team and then not gaining any reward in doing so. Laker management has a decision in front of them, my hope is that whatever is accomplished will prove fruitful in the long run.

Meanwhile….

Players have attempted to remain close to the game in a variety of different roles. In most instances they become coaches, examples would be Jason Kidd, JJ Redick, Tyronn Lue. Leon Wood, who was also a player, took a different route, by now you are scratching your head trying to figure out who Leon Wood is. I will help you with that, Wood was the 10th pick in the first round of the 1984 draft by the Philadelphia Sixers. He would play for a number of NBA and Euro teams before his playing career ended in 1994. Talk about reinventing oneself that’s exactly what occurred for Wood, in 1996 he became an NBA referee the first former NBA player to take on that role.

As mentioned earlier the final score of the game read UCF 81 KU 75 which left the Kansas faithful upset with the outcome. My response to Jayhawk Nation better get ready as the landscape has changed, no longer will Bill Self and crew be dominate in the Big 12. They will certainly win their share of games but to run the table as they once did in the past ain’t happening. There are several reasons why the change in Big 12 play has come about. 1. NIL, no need of going into a great deal more detail on it. 2. A bevy of coaches unafraid about playing in Allen Fieldhouse, they have taken the mystique out for their teams as well. 3. The conference itself is just as much to blame. Continuing to add competitive teams such as Arizona, UCF, Houston or BYU to the conference and expect everything to remain the same, it simply doesn’t work in that manner. In addition Kansas must entertain improved play from Iowa State, Baylor and Oklahoma State.

One of my social media feeds called the 2000 NBA draft the worst ever, so I decided to take a closer look. First off, it's important to note that achievement in basketball doesn't always reflect success in life more broadly. Interestingly, none of the players from that draft have been inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. In terms of scoring, Michael Redd—chosen 43rd overall by the Milwaukee Bucks—had perhaps the most notable career. Jamal Crawford, selected eighth by the Cleveland Cavaliers, is another standout. While the 2000 draft may not have produced superstars, it did yield many valuable role players. Whether it truly was the worst draft ever can be debated, but it certainly ranks among the top five least memorable drafts in NBA history.

For those who might be unfamiliar with the names Charlie Ward and Reggie Theus both had extensive careers in the NBA as players. Now both are retired and have moved into the coaching ranks, Ward was hired as head coach at a historical HBCU school Florida A&M in April 2025. As for Reggie Theus he was appointed Athletic Director and head men’s coach at Bethune-Cookman also an HBCU school in July 2021. The time spent in the NBA never saw these two guards matched against one another. Theus was ending his playing career at the time Ward arrived in the NBA, although they never met on the basketball court as players they did as coaches. Recently Theus’s Bethune-Cookman won the game 87 to 83 over Ward’s Florida A&M team.

The NBA’s all-time won-loss record established by the 2015-16 Warriors is no longer in jeopardy. That Warriors team finished the regular season winning 73 games and losing only 9. The fast and meteoric start by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025-26 season had some stating “The NBA record established by the Warriors is in danger.” That was then this is now, on Sunday night Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns sunk a three-point basket as the buzzer sounded for a 108-105 win. The record setting year the Warriors suffered loss number 6 in their 55th win mark, the loss to the Suns was number 6 at the 30 win mark. Don’t  misunderstand me, I’m not saying the Thunder will not defend their championship, they just might however they won’t do it eclipsing the Warrior record.

A fans perspective

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Finally, a Quad 1 victory

Allow the coach to coach his team, that statement is aimed at me and most of Mizzou Nation. After a loss to Notre Dame and two blow out losses to Kansas and Illinois we knew why. It was the ‘soft’ non-con schedule Mizzou had played, it didn’t allow them to prepare for tough teams. Well that’s not exactly the way Dennis Gates sees it, apparently the issue of scheduling must have been a topic of discussion. One of the broadcasters indicated Gates was okay with their schedule, so much for guys like me. I’m sitting in front of my television trying to coach the team 150 miles away from my home. As for the ‘meat and potatoes,’ it was a contested game, Florida, the defending NCAA champion was ranked the number 22 team in the nation.

The apparent lack of effort by Mizzou in several past games was not evident Saturday night, Mizzou had two goal tending calls in the first half. That type of play will never be criticized by me, it details team effort by Mizzou. The final score would read Mizzou 76, Florida 74 as the Tigers almost gave it away at the end. Mizzou’s Mark Mitchell went to the free-throw line and bricked both free throws giving Florida a last second attempt at a basket which missed. The Tigers had three players score in double figures and despite several hiccups Mizzou was aggressive throughout the game. What does this hold for the future of Mizzou basketball? The hope Mizzou Nation held at the beginning of the season has been validated at least for this game, the truth of the matter there are a number of tough games remaining in the SEC.

Where is he

There are several who broadcast NBA games I look forward to listening to them. I was fortunate to hear the voice of the legendary Chick Hearn a few years before his passing, he certainly had a unique style. I wondered why he was so descriptive and I later discovered at that time Laker games were simulcast on radio and television, Hearn was being descriptive for the radio portion of his audience. The other legend was Marv Albert who’d been the longtime broadcaster for the Knicks until he took on a national broadcast role with NBA which had the rights and later TNT.

We also have Mike Breen who doubles his role as a broadcaster for the Knicks and ESPN/ABC. A voice that’s been missing so far this season is that of Kevin Harlan, he was a longtime broadcaster for NBA games on TNT. I’m sure there were questions regarding his status since TNT was no longer part of the NBA family of networks. I found out Harlan signed a three year deal with Prime, he will broadcast games for the network but reduce the number. Harlan will continue to do NFL for CBS and radio for Westwood One. There been no mention of Harlan and college basketball broadcast for CBS. There you have it, the status of one of the voices of the NBA that’s been missing thus far. This only represented those who conduct play by play and excludes those providing color commentary.

It's no longer an issue

I read a letter I believe from a Kansas fan, it was written regarding Darryn Peterson presumed top 2026 draft pick. In the game against UCF he returned to action scoring 26 points with 23 coming in the first half. On a minutes restriction and with a leg problem cropping up again he sat for the final 10 minutes of the 81-75 victory by UCF. The writer said and I paraphrase “All he’s doing is waiting his time to begin play in the NBA.” Peterson missed 7 games in November then played 4 and finally missing the past 2. My thought, “buddy you just now discovering there is such a thing called “one n done.” Once upon a time I might have echoed a similar view, it was my belief that if a player committed to a school he was there at least through his junior year. I too wasn’t pleased when player after player declared for the NBA draft however my perspective had to change if I were to continue enjoying college basketball.

It’s not my duty to convince this fan to come to my side of the table because there might be other factors affecting his view of the process. In any event I cannot relate the year or the particular athlete that caused me to change my mind regarding one n done. As for the educational part of the equation a number of NBA players have returned during or after their NBA career to secure a degree. They have done this at a time there is no requirement except self-satisfaction or a promise to mom or dad. You know the names, Shaquille O’Neal, Dr. J., Vince Carter and Isiah Thomas are just a few of the names. Non athletes beginning college don’t always gain a degree so the fact a number of athletes don’t either why should that be surprising? In any event the newly adopted motto for me has become this, “Try and not become too upset on those things you have little if any control over.”

Slightly misleading 

NBA teams such as the Spurs don’t have a monopoly regarding NBA Rookie of the Year. It just so happens they have been in a position to draft the consensus top pick who eventually earns the honor of being selected the best first year player in the association. A writer claimed, “The Spurs know how to choose players who become Rookie of the Year.” He identified David Robinson, Tim Duncan, Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama as examples. My belief, how could the Spurs not choose these players with the exception of Castle, more on him later. Check this out, Robinson’s entry into the NBA was delayed due to his military commitment and the Spurs were aware of this at the time he was chosen number one. Robinson was a two-time All American plus College Player of the Year in 1987.

Robinson began play in the NBA two years after the draft, 1989 would become his rookie year. As for Duncan he was a three-time All American and twice ACC player of the year, he was drafted number one in 1997 by the Spurs. I’m going to skip Castle for now and move to Wemby, he’d demonstrated his talent in France but the two games he played in Las Vegas against G-League Team Elite in October 2022 had scouts raving about his skill set. After his play there were few who didn’t believe Wemby would be the top pick. Now we take a peek at Castle the Spurs multi-purpose guard, seeing his play for UConn and winning the NCAA championship he was projected to be an NBA talent however there was a bit of difference. Unlike the others Castle was the number 4th pick in the first round of the 2024 draft. He certainly has demonstrated his talent to date but my contention, his outcome was different from the others. He was a potential talent but hardly expected to be named Rookie of the Year. 

A fans perspective

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A divorce

The headline above might be a slight bit misleading but read on anyway. The ownership group of the Dallas Mavericks has made it known they intend to pursue a new arena. Their lease at American Airlines Center which they share with the NHL Stars expires in 2031 so change must occur soon due to time required to construct a new arena. Also of note, the NHL Stars are seeking a ‘divorce,’ they intend to build their own arena. The Stars are reported to be looking at a location in Plano about 20 miles north of downtown.

The Mavericks are currently considering four potential sites for their new arena, including a parcel of land in Irving formerly occupied by Texas Stadium, which has remained vacant since its demolition in 2010. Ownership is aligning with the prevailing trend of integrated development around new sports venues, planning to incorporate retail, office space, and additional entertainment facilities into the project. To meet the proposed 2031 completion deadline, it is essential for Mavericks ownership to promptly finalize the location and initiate groundbreaking. So the latest developments as they are known regarding a new Mavericks arena.

He’s the one 

In the instance of the statement you are about to read I am unable to provide you a shred of evidence, you must see for yourself what I believe has occurred. Rookie Cooper Flagg is the leader of the Dallas Mavericks, I wouldn’t have written this back in October. As we approach the end of the year we see this as evidence, he’s scoring nearly 20 points a game with 6.5 rebounds and almost 4 assists while shooting 49% from the floor. In addition sometimes a key element we miss is his defensive effort, he’s not a great defender but above average.

Why do I claim Flagg is the leader of these Mavs, the talented Anthony Davis continues to suffer. AD remains unable to remain healthy and in the lineup for an extended period of time. Kyrie Irving is talented enough to qualify as a leader however at age 33 his ‘shelf-life’ is somewhat limited by his age. Who remains, talented Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II however both are better suited with the second unit of the Mavs. Although I wasn’t able to witness the entire game Flagg and the Mavs came up short Monday evening against the Portland Blazers 125-122. I believe the Mavs might have lost the game due to Flagg’s poor game, the 15 points are average however he shot rather poorly (6-20) from the field.

A party of one

Before I weigh into this story I will say up front I like Scott Drew for this feat alone. In 2003 he took over a Baylor program which was decimated by scandal. This from Wikipedia: “Drew took over Baylor as a program in ruins, following decades of mediocre-to-poor performance and a public scandal that resulted in numerous NCAA sanctions. After four seasons rebuilding the program, Drew turned Baylor from a program with only one NCAA tournament appearance since 1950 into a perennial tournament contender.”

I wanted to provide you this up front to allow you to understand this is the fork in the road for me and the coach. He is a party of one, he is the only college coach apparently okay with adding former NBA draft pick James Nnaji to the Baylor roster. I have no intention to detail all their concerns let’s just say Drew is the lone coach okay with this development. Those opposed, UConn’s Dan Hurley, Michigan State’s Tom Izzo has probably been the most outspoken however even Mark Few of Gonzaga weighed in on this development. Him I intend to quote, “We really don’t have any organizational or any real rules right now. I think guys are just trying to do whatever they can. Until there’s a rule that says you can’t do it, it’s hard to blame anybody for doing what they’re doing. Our lack of leadership has really shown.” Although there is no quote Arkansas’s John Calipari lined up with the throng of coaches opposed to the change.

Maybe in truth the real culprit is the NCAA which has been in charge of validating athletes to play. Prior to my account being published the NCAA offered its explanation for the change and while it wasn’t overpowering there were concerns they mentioned which should be resolved. As an example we have allowed Euro players to attend college although technically they too are professionals. The point is valid, there can be no halfway on this issue…either you are eligible to play as an amateur or you are not.

I don’t hold grudges

Among the notable exceptions in sports media commentary is Bill Simmons, who recently stirred discussion with his suggestion that "The Lakers should consider trading LeBron James for Jimmy Butler." I should have taken into account the source of the proposal before moving on i.e., Simmons. My chief question for Simmons is straightforward: What possible benefit could there be in orchestrating a trade of this magnitude? Reports have indicated that LeBron is reluctant to pass control of the Lakers to Luka Doncic. If LeBron were to be traded, would he really arrive in San Francisco and immediately take over Steph Curry’s team, that scenario seems highly unlikely.

My longstanding grudge with Simmons goes back quite a few years, although the specifics have become hazy over time. What I do recall is that the Lakers were considering a significant move, and Simmons—while voicing his opposition—admitted in the same breath to being a Celtics fan. With the history of fierce rivalry between the Showtime Lakers and the Larry Bird-led Celtics, I found myself immediately discounting Simmons’ opinions on the matter. Over the years, my feelings toward Simmons have softened somewhat, although I still recognize his loyalty to the Celtics. Memories linger of iconic moments like Kevin McHale’s ‘clothesline’ foul on Kurt Rambis and the sweltering conditions in the Lakers’ locker room at the old Boston Garden. These instances remind me of the deep-rooted rivalry that continues to color my perception of Simmons and his commentary. The bottom line I must admit for Simmons and others I do hold grudges. 

A fans perspective

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Everybody has one

A podcast that is, those in sports media including former NBA players. One of those former players is Jeff Teague who played for 12 seasons in the NBA, based on that fact alone he’s got credibility. Despite his years in the NBA I take issue with a recent podcast. I searched for his podcast but was unable to locate the specific one but here’s what he said. “If Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins another NBA championship, he could rank above Stephen Curry and Magic Johnson.” Below that its reported “his comment is a subjective take, reflecting common sports debate around legacy, championships, and individual impact.”

I ain’t hatin’ on SGA but how do two championships supersede the 5 Magic Johnson championships and the 4 won by Steph Curry? This view by Teague in his podcast leaves me questioning what is he attempting to achieve? Time and time again I’ve maintained your opinion belongs to you alone. Before I close this exercise I decided to check the definition for subjective. Used as an adjective it is: “based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions.” Utilizing this definition it would appear this is Teague’s basis for his conclusion. I am going to turn it around and state based on my feelings, taste and opinion I don’t agree with Teague. 

Bad Boys part deux

Okay I might be getting ahead of myself a bit, the 2025-26 version of the Pistons is yet to win its first championship. Despite my previous comment they look outstanding and this I don’t understand. After witnessing them run away from my Lakers in the middle of the third through the fourth quarter (128-106) how could they lose to the Clippers on Sunday 112-99? In any event it was more than Piston Cade Cunningham who led them to the victory. The Pistons shot 63% from the floor and a sizzling 46% from the three line, contrast that with Laker shooting 45% and a dismal 28% from three.

As per usual the primary issue once again for the Lakers was their team defense, they are in some dubious company. The Wizards have 10 losses of 20 points are more however the Lakers are not that far behind tied with the Pacers both teams having 6. The overall record of the Lakers looks good on the surface however December has not been kind to them. With the loss on Tuesday they now total 11 but 7 of the losses have occurred during the month. In addition team defense is rank number 29 in the NBA surrendering 120.3 points per game. This is not offered as an excuse but injuries have impacted them tremendously. Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves are all sidelined, which certainly doesn’t aid the cause.  

Meanwhile….

Duke and Jon Scheyer do what they do i.e., continue to recruit outstanding talent. That is the case here as the Blue Devils have maintained the number one recruiting slot for the Class of 2026. This occurred after securing a commitment from Deron Rippey Jr. a 6-foot 1 point guard and 5-star prospect attends Blair Academy in Blairstown New Jersey. For those who might be wondering about the location of the school its about 66 miles west and north of New York City. Besides Duke other schools under consideration by Rippey Jr. were North Carolina State, Tennessee, Miami and Texas.   

La presio’n ser’a tremenda for Karim Lopez in the fall of 2026. Prior to that he will hear his name announced the evening of the 2026 NBA draft by commissioner Adam Silver, where and who drafts Lopez is an unknown in early January. I sure hope he doesn’t succumb to the pressure, he’s not the first Mexican to play in the NBA but he might be the best to date. This native of Hermosillo, Mexico is currently playing for the New Zealand Breakers of the NBL, Australia’s professional basketball league. Lopez is a 6-foot 8 210 pound small forward, who’s also played for Club Joventut Badalona in Badalona, Catalonia, Spain. He’s only 18 years old so whichever NBA team drafts him must take into consideration his youth despite the fact he’s played professionally.

This is an interesting bit of history for Mizzou Class of 2026 point guard Jason Crowe Jr., he is ranked 4th in ESPN’s Top 100. In the past the only incoming freshman to rank higher was Michael Porter Jr. The recruitment of Crowe Jr. is noteworthy, for another reason, Kentucky and Southern Cal were considered to be in the driver’s seat, especially Kentucky. It was pointed out recently that Jason Crowe Sr. had played college basketball with current Kentucky assistant Jason Hart, the two were reported to have remained friends over the years. For unknown reasons Mizzou became the recruiting winner.

A fans perspective

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It appears he is okay  

Wemby was having a typical Wemby game, 31 points 13 rebounds and 1 block shot along with 83% shooting from the floor. He was a +17 for the game, the Knicks had led for the most part but thanks to a ferocious comeback led by Wemby and Julian Champagnie the Spurs were in it to win it. As for Spurs forward Champagnie he scored 36 points and was 64.7% from the floor and understand this…64.7% from the three line. 

Champagnie was 11 for 11 from three as he broke the Spurs single game record established by Chuck Person, in addition Champagnie’s scoring total was accomplished without him attempting a single two-point basket. Everyone held their breath at a point when Wemby went up for a rebound and then came down awkwardly and crumpled to the floor. He would limp off the court and I am sure everyone had the same thought I did but kept it to themselves. The game was still in doubt when Wemby returned from the locker room walking normally. A Thursday morning report indicated Wemby had hyperextended his left knee but there was no indication of damage. A follow up check would be made later in the day, warrior that he is Wemby said “I expect to be back the next game.” 

That would not be the case, he will not be available for tonight's game and Saturday is questionable as well. The question for you is Wemby too aggressive at times during games? I love his aggressiveness however he cannot block every opposition shot or grab every missed rebound. It seems at times he appears out of position yet attempts to impact the game . The final score read Spurs 134 Knicks 132, the Spurs continue to provide us proof they are ready to compete with the best teams in the NBA.  

Shame on me

I owe the Los Angeles Clippers an apology and that will be explained at the end. If we return to the past the NBA draft was not as concise as it would later become. In 1996 Jerry West GM of the Los Angeles Lakers had brought Kobe Bryant in for a workout. He was excited about the talent this high school player had demonstrated but it was impossible for the Lakers to draft him. The Lakers had pick number 24 and it was believed Kobe would be gone by the time it would become their turn. Sure enough the Charlotte Hornets made Kobe the number 13 pick in 1996, later his draft rights were traded to the Lakers in exchange for Vlade Divac, the balance of the story is NBA history.

Fast forward to the 2018 NBA draft, with pick 11 the Charlotte Hornets selected Shai Gilgeous-Alexander however his draft rights were later traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. SGA spent the 2018-19 season on the Clippers roster, he started 73 games his rookie season with a modest 10.8 points per game average. Over the summer SGA and others were sent to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the balance of his story is NBA history too. Charlotte drafted one hall of fame player and possibly a future hall of famer and neither ever wore a jersey for the team. The apology is extended to the Clippers, I had written several accounts critical of them for trading SGA. My indignation should have been aimed at Charlotte who traded his draft rights to the Clippers. Of course we could use the fallback line, the draft is a crap shot and its difficult to project future stardom.

The television numbers

It’s long been the understanding of most in the nation the NFL is king of the television broadcast market. There really is no effective manner to gauge the popularity for a sport that schedules and plays games once a week (NFL) versus the NBA that  schedules and plays its games any one of 7 days during a week. It’s been pointed out that the NFL with Thanksgiving to itself believed it might be good to move a share of its games to Christmas December 25. Because I’m an NBA fan I can refer to this move by the NFL as encroachment.

As for the broadcast numbers for the date this is what was revealed recently, “The NFL averaged 22.9 million viewers across its three Christmas games (Cowboys-Commanders, Lions-Vikings, Chiefs-Broncos). The NBA averaged 5.5 million viewers across its five Christmas games (Knicks-Cavs, Spurs-Thunder, Mavs-Warriors, Rockets-Lakers, Wolves-Nuggets).” Does the information provided substantiate anything, in my personal view, not really? A well-informed NFL or NBA enthusiast, when asked on December 24 or at any point prior to game day, could likely forecast the outcome of the broadcast, although they may not be able to provide precise viewership figures.

The Harvard of the South

It’s my understanding Vanderbilt doesn’t like the title I used as a headline. It is understandable this Nashville institution is more known for academics over sports but what I’ve read the school desires a separate identity from Ivy League Harvard. So in a true attempt to paint a different pictures sports is the emphasis of this look see at Vanderbilt. The Commodores will play in the Reliquest Bowl against Iowa as this is written. Regardless of the outcome they will finish the season with 10 or 11 wins versus 2 or 3 losses which is impressive. How about the basketball, that is up as well.

The end of the year has the men’s team headed into January with a 13-0 record. As you can see all Commodore sports are on a steady incline upwards. Head coach Mark Byington is in his second year after he spent the last four seasons at James Madison serving in the same capacity. There is likely no single answer as to why the stepping up of the major sports teams (football & basketball) at Vanderbilt has occurred. Checking the record the football team has never won more than 9 games since its first season in 1901. As for the basketball the path has been a roller-coaster, the Commodores have been winners in the past however there was no consistency from season to season. Have both programs turned the corner, it’s too early to make that determination however this is a good time for Vanderbilt in the tough SEC.