Basketball from a fans perspective
Your view please
It’s often been stated the NBA requires winning and successful franchises in New York and Los Angeles. We never hear the NFL or MLB being discussed in the same manner. Let’s check the big picture, for this purpose the Nets will be excluded because they only moved into the city in 2012. When’s the last time the Knicks made the playoffs? In 2011 they finished two games above .500 and were swept in the first round by the Celtics. 2012 lost again in the first round losing to the Heat 4-1. 2013 saw a slight improvement, they won in the first round over the Celtics 4-2 but lost to the Pacers 4-2. Since that period the Knicks experienced four consecutive losing seasons. Out West the Lakers in 2011 won over the Hornets (4-2) and were swept by the Mavs.
2012 witnessed the Lakers winning against the Nuggets (4-3) but losing to the Thunder (4-1). The next year they were swept by the Spurs in the first round. The Lakers have also experienced four consecutive losing seasons. Has placing a poor product on the court affected the Knicks and Lakers….probably? How about the value of each team? Consider this fact the Rockets were sold for $3.3 billion dollars in August of this year. Forbes in their February 24 edition this year claims the current value of the Knicks to be $3.3 billion and the Lakers $3.0. The same edition claimed the net value of the Rockets to be $1.65. Imagine the riches James Dolan and Jeanie Buss might command if they decided to sale their respective franchises. What do you think, is losing really hurting the two storied franchises?
Work out
This is minor news however it’s interesting none the less. Laker rookie Lonzo Ball announced he’d been working out with Steve Nash and Kevin Durant. Lonzo went on to state he learned a great deal regarding the pick and roll from Nash. Former point guard Nash was a master of the pick and roll during his time with the Mavs, Suns and Lakers.
Bit n Pieces
How about this bit of trivia thanks to ESPN, Tracy McGrady was a member of the latest class to be inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. McGrady played for seven NBA teams and not one of seven has retired his number. Points to a fact many of us haven’t considered is your jersey hanging in the rafters’ proof of your value as a player?
After the season I pronounced the Thunder a contender but unlikely NBA Champion. I question the reputation of GM Sam Presti, the GM made a key move acquiring forward Paul George from the Pacers. In the draft they chose 6-7 guard Terrance Ferguson who skipped college for the Australian pro league. He became the 21st pick in the first round by the Thunder but he‘s a rookie. Unless I’m surprised the crew of Westbrook, George and company will be competitive and be playoff bound baring injury. As for NBA Champion I doubt that will occur in 2018.
I hope to not mention Seattle in conjunction with the NBA anymore. I just read an Associated Press story regarding Chris Hansen and Key Arena. The letters begin flying in about half opposed to anything Seattle does and the other half in favor of a new Sonics team. I’m unsure how many of the writers live in the Seattle Metro and I make the statement for one reason. The residents of a municipality are really the only valid voices. They often pay the taxes that building the entertainment houses for sports. We might have a thumbs up or thumbs view of Seattle but that would be the extent.
ESPN makes a valid point regarding tampering. I’m making no excuses for the Lakers guilt in the Pacers complaint regarding Paul George. The Lakers were found guilty and were penalized $500,000 for the effort. ESPN points to the fact players who sometime initiate these efforts often escape free whenever collusion or tampering is mentioned.
“Toto I’ve got a feeling were not in Kansas anymore”
You recognize the Dorothy quote from the movie classic “The Wizard of Oz.” We could just as easily insert the name Dana Altman, Frank Martin or Lon Kruger in place of Toto. Those are just three of the coaches the athletic department of Kansas State allowed to “escape.” Bob Huggins situation is different from the others he left after but one season at the helm to coach at his Alma Mater West Virginia.
We must return to the days of the late Jack Hartman (1970-1986) or Cotton Fitzsimmons (1968-1970) to uncover two coaches who appeared not pressured to win. See I’ve been a casual observer of Kansas State along with Kansas both schools located in my backyard so I’ve had an opportunity to view both programs over the years. This focus of course is on the school in Manhattan which is almost always overshadowed (except for football) by its sister school. Think I’m exaggerating the situation at Kansas State. Check it out current Coach Bruce Webber annually is on the hot seat despite winning more games than his teams have lost.
Friday, September 15, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
ESPN is not the only culprit
The other day I mentioned Stephen A. Smith and his rant regarding the networks ranking of NBA players. My complaint was aimed at the host however a portion I reserved for the network. I’ve since discovered ESPN is not the only “guilty” party, SI.com NBA page and maybe others I omitted has run similar accounts. I’m unsure why this is required for some as for others their view might be similar to mine.
If you read LeBron James is the number one player in the NBA that’s likely to cause many to nod their head in agreement. At the same time if you read “Kyrie Irving is better than Isaiah Thomas or vice-versa” that becomes a subject of debate. Perhaps that is the basis for these polls; they prove nothing but fodder for discussion.
This might be over
By the time you read this might be a non-issue, once again LaVar managed to make the story about himself rather than his sons. Again I have no problem with his effort to create his own shoe line; the problem is his over the top arrogance. He’s releasing a signature shoe for his youngest son and the possible consequence was mentioned. His response was to issue a profanity and state the “NCAA is not my boss,” I believe we recognize that but we also recognize the responsibility of the NCAA even during times of decisions we disagree with.
Once upon a time the NBA drafted players out of high school its likely there will be no change in policy in the next two years. There is an out for LaVar if he chooses; I mentioned a number of athletes bypassed the NCAA by playing in Europe or Asia for a year and return in time for the NBA Draft. This could be the path for Melo otherwise he and Daddy must deal with the NCAA. In the end if the NCAA deems Melo a professional I’m unsure what direction LaVar might head.
Exclusive company
It’s been reported the Lakers plan on retiring both Kobe jersey numbers. Number 8 and 24 will be hosted to the rafters in December to join those of:
Wilt Chamberlain #13
Elgin Baylor #22
Gail Goodrich #25
Magic Johnson #32
Kareem Abdul Jabbar #33
Shaquille O’Neal #34
Jerry West #44
James Worthy #42
Jamal Wilkes #52
Why the rush?
The Charlotte Hornets arrived in the NBA in 1988 as an expansion team. The team would move to New Orleans in 2002 but retain the Hornet name. Two years later the NBA expanded once again and Charlotte was awarded a franchise which became the Bobcats. Tom Benson owner of the team wanted a name more closely identified with the Crescent City thus the Pelicans were born in 2013. Once the name change in New Orleans Michael Jordan petitioned the NBA for his franchise to become the Hornets once again. In 2008 the Sonics moved from Seattle to Oklahoma City and were re-branded the Thunder.
Where am I going with this story you ask? If you note the dates Charlotte waited exactly two years before they received another franchise. As for Seattle that’s been a completely different story. It’s been 9 going on 10 years since the NBA bounced a basketball in Key Arena. This is an easy fix for the NBA, since the league was in such a rush to return to Charlotte why not Seattle can you say “Steve Ballmer?” This is all speculation on my part however why build a new arena in Los Angeles when a refurbished Key Arena will be ready before you can construct a new one.
ESPN is not the only culprit
The other day I mentioned Stephen A. Smith and his rant regarding the networks ranking of NBA players. My complaint was aimed at the host however a portion I reserved for the network. I’ve since discovered ESPN is not the only “guilty” party, SI.com NBA page and maybe others I omitted has run similar accounts. I’m unsure why this is required for some as for others their view might be similar to mine.
If you read LeBron James is the number one player in the NBA that’s likely to cause many to nod their head in agreement. At the same time if you read “Kyrie Irving is better than Isaiah Thomas or vice-versa” that becomes a subject of debate. Perhaps that is the basis for these polls; they prove nothing but fodder for discussion.
This might be over
By the time you read this might be a non-issue, once again LaVar managed to make the story about himself rather than his sons. Again I have no problem with his effort to create his own shoe line; the problem is his over the top arrogance. He’s releasing a signature shoe for his youngest son and the possible consequence was mentioned. His response was to issue a profanity and state the “NCAA is not my boss,” I believe we recognize that but we also recognize the responsibility of the NCAA even during times of decisions we disagree with.
Once upon a time the NBA drafted players out of high school its likely there will be no change in policy in the next two years. There is an out for LaVar if he chooses; I mentioned a number of athletes bypassed the NCAA by playing in Europe or Asia for a year and return in time for the NBA Draft. This could be the path for Melo otherwise he and Daddy must deal with the NCAA. In the end if the NCAA deems Melo a professional I’m unsure what direction LaVar might head.
Exclusive company
It’s been reported the Lakers plan on retiring both Kobe jersey numbers. Number 8 and 24 will be hosted to the rafters in December to join those of:
Wilt Chamberlain #13
Elgin Baylor #22
Gail Goodrich #25
Magic Johnson #32
Kareem Abdul Jabbar #33
Shaquille O’Neal #34
Jerry West #44
James Worthy #42
Jamal Wilkes #52
Why the rush?
The Charlotte Hornets arrived in the NBA in 1988 as an expansion team. The team would move to New Orleans in 2002 but retain the Hornet name. Two years later the NBA expanded once again and Charlotte was awarded a franchise which became the Bobcats. Tom Benson owner of the team wanted a name more closely identified with the Crescent City thus the Pelicans were born in 2013. Once the name change in New Orleans Michael Jordan petitioned the NBA for his franchise to become the Hornets once again. In 2008 the Sonics moved from Seattle to Oklahoma City and were re-branded the Thunder.
Where am I going with this story you ask? If you note the dates Charlotte waited exactly two years before they received another franchise. As for Seattle that’s been a completely different story. It’s been 9 going on 10 years since the NBA bounced a basketball in Key Arena. This is an easy fix for the NBA, since the league was in such a rush to return to Charlotte why not Seattle can you say “Steve Ballmer?” This is all speculation on my part however why build a new arena in Los Angeles when a refurbished Key Arena will be ready before you can construct a new one.
Thursday, September 14, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
On the outside looking in
Might the Kansas Jayhawks still be on his list? This reference is to the status of Bol Bol 7 foot power forward and Rivals number 3 in the Class of 2018. The NCAA allows 5 official trips for each prospect. A prospect is not prohibited from additional trips however the school is not obligated to pay. Bol’s choice of schools is Arizona, Kentucky, Oregon, UCLA and USC. Nothing wrong with an unofficial visit to Kansas it probably indicates that school is not near the top of his list. ADDENDUM: Bol's stature (that's funny) begin rising while enrolled at Bishop Miege HS in Roeland Park (KS) about 40 miles from Kansas University. Bol would transfer to Mater Dei HS in Santa Ana (CA) his junior year.
First Take
Debate especially sports is always enjoyable for many with one possible exception, if both parties agree on a particular subject it fails to accomplish its purpose i.e debate. Example I tuned in for just a minute or two on my favorite ESPN program First Take. The topic during the portion I viewed was the rating system for NBA players ESPN set up.
Smith and Kellerman were both discussing their belief Carmelo Anthony should have been ranked higher than 64. Someone or several parties at ESPN came up with this rating system however the question remains why are Smith and Kellerman discussing it with us? The public has their view but no say so in the production. Both Smith and Kellerman need to check with the folks at THEIR network we had nothing to do with this.
Bits n Pieces
Did you hear this one, Stephon Marbury wants to retire in China and return to the NBA. His NBA return would be March 2018, the question any NBA team want a 40-year old point guard? I didn’t say he couldn’t play however he left the NBA in 2010 under a cloud of issues with coaches and other players.
I thought Los Angeles guy Shabazz Muhammad might sign with the Lakers. He was a free-agent after receiving a release from the Wolves. His hometown team had an open roster spot and a role planned for him. Muhammad decided in favor of returning to the Wolves with a 1-year contract.
Russell Westbrook signed a 10-year contract however it wasn’t the one Thunder fans hoped. Westbrook signed with the Jordan Brand and not the extension the Thunder has waved at him. He will become a free-agent in 2018 and fans hope he’s not headed out of Oklahoma City.
This is not surprising news, the Michigan State Spartans will wear a patch this upcoming season honoring the late Jud Heathcote. The long-time coach died August 28 at the age of 90. Heathcote had retired in 1995 after coaching the Spartans 19*years.
On the outside looking in
Might the Kansas Jayhawks still be on his list? This reference is to the status of Bol Bol 7 foot power forward and Rivals number 3 in the Class of 2018. The NCAA allows 5 official trips for each prospect. A prospect is not prohibited from additional trips however the school is not obligated to pay. Bol’s choice of schools is Arizona, Kentucky, Oregon, UCLA and USC. Nothing wrong with an unofficial visit to Kansas it probably indicates that school is not near the top of his list. ADDENDUM: Bol's stature (that's funny) begin rising while enrolled at Bishop Miege HS in Roeland Park (KS) about 40 miles from Kansas University. Bol would transfer to Mater Dei HS in Santa Ana (CA) his junior year.
First Take
Debate especially sports is always enjoyable for many with one possible exception, if both parties agree on a particular subject it fails to accomplish its purpose i.e debate. Example I tuned in for just a minute or two on my favorite ESPN program First Take. The topic during the portion I viewed was the rating system for NBA players ESPN set up.
Smith and Kellerman were both discussing their belief Carmelo Anthony should have been ranked higher than 64. Someone or several parties at ESPN came up with this rating system however the question remains why are Smith and Kellerman discussing it with us? The public has their view but no say so in the production. Both Smith and Kellerman need to check with the folks at THEIR network we had nothing to do with this.
Bits n Pieces
Did you hear this one, Stephon Marbury wants to retire in China and return to the NBA. His NBA return would be March 2018, the question any NBA team want a 40-year old point guard? I didn’t say he couldn’t play however he left the NBA in 2010 under a cloud of issues with coaches and other players.
I thought Los Angeles guy Shabazz Muhammad might sign with the Lakers. He was a free-agent after receiving a release from the Wolves. His hometown team had an open roster spot and a role planned for him. Muhammad decided in favor of returning to the Wolves with a 1-year contract.
Russell Westbrook signed a 10-year contract however it wasn’t the one Thunder fans hoped. Westbrook signed with the Jordan Brand and not the extension the Thunder has waved at him. He will become a free-agent in 2018 and fans hope he’s not headed out of Oklahoma City.
This is not surprising news, the Michigan State Spartans will wear a patch this upcoming season honoring the late Jud Heathcote. The long-time coach died August 28 at the age of 90. Heathcote had retired in 1995 after coaching the Spartans 19*years.
Wednesday, September 13, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Canada in the NBA
The Vancouver Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors expansion teams were an addition to the NBA in 1995; the Raptors were a new franchise however Toronto was not new to the NBA. In 1946 the Basketball Association of America predecessor of the NBA began play one of those teams was the Toronto Huskies. It was reported a number of folks wanted the expansion team to have the same name as the 1946 team.
The Husky logo closely resembled the likeness of the Timberwolves so you can see why the Raptors became the choice. In any event the 1946 team only lasted one season, low attendance, poor play and coaching problems was a factor in the team folding. The Huskies finished their one and only season with a losing record 22-38. It’s possible a number of Canadians might not be aware of this portion of the nation’s basketball history.
Great Minds
You know what they say about great minds….never mind forget that. If you remember on August 31 I compiled my list of all-time great Laker coaches. The fan website Lakers Nation September 11 must have read my blog, they compiled their own list. Here’s the comparison for you.
My list Lakers Nation
1. Pat Riley 1. Phil Jackson
2. John Kundla 2. Pat Riley
3. Phil Jackson 3. Bill Sharman
4. Fred Schaus 4. Paul Westhead
5. Bill Sharman 5. Del Harris
I’m have no disagreement with the choices just a difference of opinion; I can see why they choose Westhead and Harris over my selections. Westhead was an assistant coach who took over for head coach Jack McKinney. McKinney suffered a bicycle accident early and was lost to the team for the season. Westhead took over and was able to lead the team to an NBA Championship in Magic Johnson’s rookie year. West only lasted two seasons at the helm after falling into disfavor with Magic Johnson he was fired 11 games into the 1981-82 season. As for Harris his Laker teams won 224 games in 4 years and earned a playoff spot in each year except his last. Harris was fired 12 games into the 1998-99 season, note the names Riley, Jackson and Sharman are on their list and mine.
Bits n Pieces
I admit at the time reality television began to creep into our lives I watched a few of them. After a time I began to believe “they are pretending the cameras are not there but they are acting.” Shortly thereafter I extricated myself from all reality television. Now the man we all love to hate is about to begin his on reality program. By the time you read this “Ball in the Family” on Facebook will be available on a laptop, desktop or IPhone.
Kevin Durant is closer to the subject than any of us. He claims LeBron James “will remain in Cleveland.” We are not sure of his relationship with Dan Gilbert however consider this view. I wasn’t pleased at the time LeBron left for Miami and his return pleased me. Leaving again for whatever reasons becomes a concern for me. On the other hand LeBron doesn’t care what I think.
I posed the question in an earlier account would the Celtics draft Michael Porter Jr. with the pick they received in the Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade? The team drafted Jaylen Brown from Cal in 2016; last June they drafted Jayson Tatum from Duke. Both are small forwards but so is Michael Porter Jr. Next year the Celtics could have one 21 year old and one 20 year old and a potential 19-year old. Can you say the Celtics are full at the position; someone is leaving exactly who might be the question.
Canada in the NBA
The Vancouver Grizzlies and Toronto Raptors expansion teams were an addition to the NBA in 1995; the Raptors were a new franchise however Toronto was not new to the NBA. In 1946 the Basketball Association of America predecessor of the NBA began play one of those teams was the Toronto Huskies. It was reported a number of folks wanted the expansion team to have the same name as the 1946 team.
The Husky logo closely resembled the likeness of the Timberwolves so you can see why the Raptors became the choice. In any event the 1946 team only lasted one season, low attendance, poor play and coaching problems was a factor in the team folding. The Huskies finished their one and only season with a losing record 22-38. It’s possible a number of Canadians might not be aware of this portion of the nation’s basketball history.
Great Minds
You know what they say about great minds….never mind forget that. If you remember on August 31 I compiled my list of all-time great Laker coaches. The fan website Lakers Nation September 11 must have read my blog, they compiled their own list. Here’s the comparison for you.
My list Lakers Nation
1. Pat Riley 1. Phil Jackson
2. John Kundla 2. Pat Riley
3. Phil Jackson 3. Bill Sharman
4. Fred Schaus 4. Paul Westhead
5. Bill Sharman 5. Del Harris
I’m have no disagreement with the choices just a difference of opinion; I can see why they choose Westhead and Harris over my selections. Westhead was an assistant coach who took over for head coach Jack McKinney. McKinney suffered a bicycle accident early and was lost to the team for the season. Westhead took over and was able to lead the team to an NBA Championship in Magic Johnson’s rookie year. West only lasted two seasons at the helm after falling into disfavor with Magic Johnson he was fired 11 games into the 1981-82 season. As for Harris his Laker teams won 224 games in 4 years and earned a playoff spot in each year except his last. Harris was fired 12 games into the 1998-99 season, note the names Riley, Jackson and Sharman are on their list and mine.
Bits n Pieces
I admit at the time reality television began to creep into our lives I watched a few of them. After a time I began to believe “they are pretending the cameras are not there but they are acting.” Shortly thereafter I extricated myself from all reality television. Now the man we all love to hate is about to begin his on reality program. By the time you read this “Ball in the Family” on Facebook will be available on a laptop, desktop or IPhone.
Kevin Durant is closer to the subject than any of us. He claims LeBron James “will remain in Cleveland.” We are not sure of his relationship with Dan Gilbert however consider this view. I wasn’t pleased at the time LeBron left for Miami and his return pleased me. Leaving again for whatever reasons becomes a concern for me. On the other hand LeBron doesn’t care what I think.
I posed the question in an earlier account would the Celtics draft Michael Porter Jr. with the pick they received in the Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade? The team drafted Jaylen Brown from Cal in 2016; last June they drafted Jayson Tatum from Duke. Both are small forwards but so is Michael Porter Jr. Next year the Celtics could have one 21 year old and one 20 year old and a potential 19-year old. Can you say the Celtics are full at the position; someone is leaving exactly who might be the question.
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Correction
On Sunday I wrote Torrance Watson might have left Ohio State for Mizzou due to a coaching change. Apparently that is not the case, Watson committed to Ohio State after Thad Matta was fired. The Class of 2018 guard and blue chip prospect must have had other reasons for changing his mind.
Investigative journalism
I’ve checked two sources and can find no proof to verify the claim of Stephen A. Smith. As a reminder I mentioned Smith claimed at the time Greg Anthony was at UNLV he earned money because he wasn’t on scholarship. Smith went on to state the NCAA could do nothing about it. One of the sources was the NCAA Rules and Regulations specifically the compliance portion. I could find nothing in print to account for Smith’s version of events.
Smith claimed the NCAA was powerless to do anything about Melo Ball’s signature shoe if young Ball was not on a financial aid scholarship. As stated previously its quite possible he could play for UCLA without being on scholarship. At the same time 99% of the compliance regulations apply to an athlete on scholarship however its my belief (I offer no proof) a student-athlete is not in charge of anything as long as they are playing a sport at a NCAA member institution. I have no issue, check for yourself and see if you come to the same conclusion I did.
Please no
First we read or heard the name of Carmelo Anthony, later it was Paul George and lately it’s been LeBron James. Those are the names of players supposedly headed to the Lakers, I might add they were just rumors there was never anything official. Lakers Nation a fan website reported on Monday another one of those stories.
“Once Dwayne Wade receives a buy-out from the Bulls he could be headed to the Lakers“ the story read. Again I scream loudly, NO WAY, no doubt Wade’s star shone brightly however at age 35 (36 in January) how much can Wade aid a young and upcoming Laker roster? Two years ago not a single name free agent wanted to come to Los Angeles now according to reports players are lining up left and right to head for Southern California.
Junior College basketball
I tried to wrack my brain regarding junior college basketball. The junior colleges of the nation were fertile recruiting ground for 4-year institutions. Usually academic achievement was the prime reason a number of athletes chose the junior college route. Once leaving for 4-year institution the player would blossom into an all NBA talent. The junior colleges of the nation continue to be scouted extensively however each year it seems they produce smaller numbers of players.
I’m unsure if I can provide an answer however this talent pool is drying up. This pool that once produced Spencer Haywood, Michael Cooper, Stephen Jackson and Mitch Richmond can only count the Wolves Jimmy Butler or the Cavs Jae Crowder as one of its own. Do your research there have been players drafted in recent years and a number are still playing in the NBA however none with the exception of Butler and Crowder appear to be vital components of their respective teams.
It’s a St. Louis thang
It’s no secret why Cuonzo Martin has not strayed very far from the St. Louis Metro in recruiting. The best high school basketball continues to be played on the east side despite the fact the metro populations are comparable. St. Louis Metro (2,811,588) has a slight advantage over Kansas City (2,159,159). 247 Sports compiled its list of the top 13 players in the State of Missouri in the Class of 2018, 8 of the 13 hail from metro St. Louis.
For unknown reasons the Metro St. Louis area was Death Valley for Mizzou recruiting. It’s possible with Martin in place maybe there will be a pipeline from the metro east on I-70 to Columbia (MO). If all the commits arrive and the returning letter men Mizzou will have 13 players on the 2018-19 despite the fact Michael Porter Jr. might be in his rookie NBA year. I don’t wish to get too far ahead of the story injuries, eligibility and other factors could severely impact the development of Mizzou’s roster.
Correction
On Sunday I wrote Torrance Watson might have left Ohio State for Mizzou due to a coaching change. Apparently that is not the case, Watson committed to Ohio State after Thad Matta was fired. The Class of 2018 guard and blue chip prospect must have had other reasons for changing his mind.
Investigative journalism
I’ve checked two sources and can find no proof to verify the claim of Stephen A. Smith. As a reminder I mentioned Smith claimed at the time Greg Anthony was at UNLV he earned money because he wasn’t on scholarship. Smith went on to state the NCAA could do nothing about it. One of the sources was the NCAA Rules and Regulations specifically the compliance portion. I could find nothing in print to account for Smith’s version of events.
Smith claimed the NCAA was powerless to do anything about Melo Ball’s signature shoe if young Ball was not on a financial aid scholarship. As stated previously its quite possible he could play for UCLA without being on scholarship. At the same time 99% of the compliance regulations apply to an athlete on scholarship however its my belief (I offer no proof) a student-athlete is not in charge of anything as long as they are playing a sport at a NCAA member institution. I have no issue, check for yourself and see if you come to the same conclusion I did.
Please no
First we read or heard the name of Carmelo Anthony, later it was Paul George and lately it’s been LeBron James. Those are the names of players supposedly headed to the Lakers, I might add they were just rumors there was never anything official. Lakers Nation a fan website reported on Monday another one of those stories.
“Once Dwayne Wade receives a buy-out from the Bulls he could be headed to the Lakers“ the story read. Again I scream loudly, NO WAY, no doubt Wade’s star shone brightly however at age 35 (36 in January) how much can Wade aid a young and upcoming Laker roster? Two years ago not a single name free agent wanted to come to Los Angeles now according to reports players are lining up left and right to head for Southern California.
Junior College basketball
I tried to wrack my brain regarding junior college basketball. The junior colleges of the nation were fertile recruiting ground for 4-year institutions. Usually academic achievement was the prime reason a number of athletes chose the junior college route. Once leaving for 4-year institution the player would blossom into an all NBA talent. The junior colleges of the nation continue to be scouted extensively however each year it seems they produce smaller numbers of players.
I’m unsure if I can provide an answer however this talent pool is drying up. This pool that once produced Spencer Haywood, Michael Cooper, Stephen Jackson and Mitch Richmond can only count the Wolves Jimmy Butler or the Cavs Jae Crowder as one of its own. Do your research there have been players drafted in recent years and a number are still playing in the NBA however none with the exception of Butler and Crowder appear to be vital components of their respective teams.
It’s a St. Louis thang
It’s no secret why Cuonzo Martin has not strayed very far from the St. Louis Metro in recruiting. The best high school basketball continues to be played on the east side despite the fact the metro populations are comparable. St. Louis Metro (2,811,588) has a slight advantage over Kansas City (2,159,159). 247 Sports compiled its list of the top 13 players in the State of Missouri in the Class of 2018, 8 of the 13 hail from metro St. Louis.
For unknown reasons the Metro St. Louis area was Death Valley for Mizzou recruiting. It’s possible with Martin in place maybe there will be a pipeline from the metro east on I-70 to Columbia (MO). If all the commits arrive and the returning letter men Mizzou will have 13 players on the 2018-19 despite the fact Michael Porter Jr. might be in his rookie NBA year. I don’t wish to get too far ahead of the story injuries, eligibility and other factors could severely impact the development of Mizzou’s roster.
Monday, September 11, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Moon walk
The late Michael Jackson was reported to have popularized the moonwalk. Not so stated another source it was actually Jeffery Daniels of the R&B group Shalamar who first moon walked for the public. Later it was determined Cab Calloway 1930’s dancer, jazz singer and band leader might have been first. This account has nothing to do with dance moves but it does pose the question “who did it first.”
Tim Hardaway brought the crossover into the NBA however he was not the first. Allen Iverson refined the move and since then Klay Thompson, Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook and Steph Curry have continued to utilize the move. My research indicates Rucker Park playground legend PeeWee Kirkland now age 72 may have been the first to utilize the crossover. There you have it an interesting bit of basketball trivia.
My difficulty
In the instance of a count-counter point debate you want to score points to benefit your view. I’ve mentioned on more than one occasion sometimes the words emanate from the mouth of Stephen A. Smith without any documentation. Example; on his ESPN program First Take he made a statement I could locate no proof. Smith claimed current analyst and former UNLV guard Greg Anthony “worked and earn money one year and the NCAA could do nothing about it.”
Smith claimed Anthony wasn’t on scholarship so the NCAA could do nothing about it. This is the portion I question; the NCAA had a long-ruining inquiry on Coach Jerry Tarkanian. Tarkanian eventually sued the NCAA but this is the question do we suppose this governing body would turn the other direction if such a situation existed? This debate was based on the signature Melo ball shoe and the question would he be eligible in two years. There is no doubt Melo could attend UCLA on his own money. At the same time I don’t believe just because he’s not on scholarship the NCAA cannot impact his college basketball career.
Is he really serious?
Reports indicate Nets owner Mikail Prokhorov was grinning from ear to ear when he received the news. The news of course is the sale of the Rockets for $2.2 billion dollars, reports have circulated for at least two years Prokhorov desired to sale the team……however the question becomes is he really serious? On closer inspection let’s check the sale of the Clippers and Rockets. I cannot provide a day by day countdown however it was a short period after Donald Sterling was removed as owner and Steve Ballmer purchased the team. The Clippers sale in 2014 exceeded the $2 billion dollar mark for the first time in the sale of an NBA franchise.
As for the Rockets it was mid-July 2017 when Leslie Alexander placed the team on the market, by early September Tilman Fertitta stepped forward as a buyer. As I’ve written previously few NBA franchises have failed to draw interest once they are placed on the market. Now I pose the question once again is Prokhorov really serious? I believe there would be potential owners lining up by two’s to purchase the Nets. Reports are with both Barclays Center and the Nets Prokhorov has lost a large amount of money over the last several years. I have no reason to doubt the stories however if he was losing THAT MUCH MONEY as a billionaire business man don’t you think he’d divest a losing property?
They miss the cut
The Big 12/SEC Challenge overlooked Mizzou this season, don’t misunderstand I ain’t mad. Mizzou won a grand total of 8 games so the reasoning is clear, the conferences want to match the best teams in each conference against one another. These I believe might be the key matches, should be interesting.
Tennessee at Iowa State
Texas A&M at Kansas
Kentucky at West Virginia
Baylor at Florida
Moon walk
The late Michael Jackson was reported to have popularized the moonwalk. Not so stated another source it was actually Jeffery Daniels of the R&B group Shalamar who first moon walked for the public. Later it was determined Cab Calloway 1930’s dancer, jazz singer and band leader might have been first. This account has nothing to do with dance moves but it does pose the question “who did it first.”
Tim Hardaway brought the crossover into the NBA however he was not the first. Allen Iverson refined the move and since then Klay Thompson, Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook and Steph Curry have continued to utilize the move. My research indicates Rucker Park playground legend PeeWee Kirkland now age 72 may have been the first to utilize the crossover. There you have it an interesting bit of basketball trivia.
My difficulty
In the instance of a count-counter point debate you want to score points to benefit your view. I’ve mentioned on more than one occasion sometimes the words emanate from the mouth of Stephen A. Smith without any documentation. Example; on his ESPN program First Take he made a statement I could locate no proof. Smith claimed current analyst and former UNLV guard Greg Anthony “worked and earn money one year and the NCAA could do nothing about it.”
Smith claimed Anthony wasn’t on scholarship so the NCAA could do nothing about it. This is the portion I question; the NCAA had a long-ruining inquiry on Coach Jerry Tarkanian. Tarkanian eventually sued the NCAA but this is the question do we suppose this governing body would turn the other direction if such a situation existed? This debate was based on the signature Melo ball shoe and the question would he be eligible in two years. There is no doubt Melo could attend UCLA on his own money. At the same time I don’t believe just because he’s not on scholarship the NCAA cannot impact his college basketball career.
Is he really serious?
Reports indicate Nets owner Mikail Prokhorov was grinning from ear to ear when he received the news. The news of course is the sale of the Rockets for $2.2 billion dollars, reports have circulated for at least two years Prokhorov desired to sale the team……however the question becomes is he really serious? On closer inspection let’s check the sale of the Clippers and Rockets. I cannot provide a day by day countdown however it was a short period after Donald Sterling was removed as owner and Steve Ballmer purchased the team. The Clippers sale in 2014 exceeded the $2 billion dollar mark for the first time in the sale of an NBA franchise.
As for the Rockets it was mid-July 2017 when Leslie Alexander placed the team on the market, by early September Tilman Fertitta stepped forward as a buyer. As I’ve written previously few NBA franchises have failed to draw interest once they are placed on the market. Now I pose the question once again is Prokhorov really serious? I believe there would be potential owners lining up by two’s to purchase the Nets. Reports are with both Barclays Center and the Nets Prokhorov has lost a large amount of money over the last several years. I have no reason to doubt the stories however if he was losing THAT MUCH MONEY as a billionaire business man don’t you think he’d divest a losing property?
They miss the cut
The Big 12/SEC Challenge overlooked Mizzou this season, don’t misunderstand I ain’t mad. Mizzou won a grand total of 8 games so the reasoning is clear, the conferences want to match the best teams in each conference against one another. These I believe might be the key matches, should be interesting.
Tennessee at Iowa State
Texas A&M at Kansas
Kentucky at West Virginia
Baylor at Florida
Sunday, September 10, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Can he coach?
We could pose the question regarding Mizzou Coach Cuonzo Martin. We don’t know if he can coach we know he can recruit, the coach received a commitment from another blue chip prospect. It’s not just the Porters’ who hope to turn the Mizzou program around. Torrence Watson a 6-4 175 pound shooting guard had committed to Ohio State once again a coach firing possibly impacted Watson’s decision.
June 5th Thad Matta was fired as head coach at Ohio State I cannot truthfully confirm this was the basis for Watson changing his mind. Might I remind you again Cuonzo Martin is from the St. Louis Metro, Watson is from St. Louis is there a trend developing here? Webster Groves is a city in St. Louis County and the home of Carte’Are Gordon. Gordon is a 6-8 260 pound power forward, last year he committed to St. Louis University. From Gordon’s Snapchat account this was seen, SLU or Miz? Is there a hidden meaning in this?
Basketball Power Index
You know what I always say; “I’m from Missouri you’ve got to Show Me“, this is defiantly a Show Me time for me. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index rated the Big 12 pre-season. They excluded transfer players however in order:
West Virginia-6
Oklahoma-8
TCU-9
Kansas-10
If I understand this correctly ESPN claims Kansas is likely to finish 4th in the conference race. I realize this is not an actual prediction but a power rating however shouldn’t a power rating provide us an example of the position a team might finish? I’ve stated annually every year it seems pundits claim somebody will rise up and dethrone Kansas. The only instance this has occurred was in the post-season Big 12 Tournament.
Inside the mind of Steve Ballmer
It’s impossible to gain entrance to the mind of the man however these are my thoughts. At the time Ballmer purchased the Clippers the team was riding high, after years of mediocre play they had become a playoff team every season despite the failure to win a championship. Their co-tenants at Staple Centers were wallowing in last place under the leadership of former Laker Byron Scott. The Lakers appeared mismanaged on the court and the front office. Jeanie Buss fired her brother and the GM, she hired Magic Johnson as president and he hired Rob Pelinka as GM.
Under new leadership the Lakers had an outstanding draft and made several changes in the composition of the team. In the meantime Chris Paul decided his services would be better serve with the Rockets and requested a trade. Over the spring and summer the media especially nationally was discussing the Lakers over the Clippers. A team with only 26 wins was in the news more than the playoff team. Somewhere in the middle of this Ballmer decides his team needs its own arena. So at the dawn of the NBA season that’s a thumbnail sketch where we stand. It’s yet to be determined if the Lakers are truly improved and some of the luster has left the Clippers.
Can he coach?
We could pose the question regarding Mizzou Coach Cuonzo Martin. We don’t know if he can coach we know he can recruit, the coach received a commitment from another blue chip prospect. It’s not just the Porters’ who hope to turn the Mizzou program around. Torrence Watson a 6-4 175 pound shooting guard had committed to Ohio State once again a coach firing possibly impacted Watson’s decision.
June 5th Thad Matta was fired as head coach at Ohio State I cannot truthfully confirm this was the basis for Watson changing his mind. Might I remind you again Cuonzo Martin is from the St. Louis Metro, Watson is from St. Louis is there a trend developing here? Webster Groves is a city in St. Louis County and the home of Carte’Are Gordon. Gordon is a 6-8 260 pound power forward, last year he committed to St. Louis University. From Gordon’s Snapchat account this was seen, SLU or Miz? Is there a hidden meaning in this?
Basketball Power Index
You know what I always say; “I’m from Missouri you’ve got to Show Me“, this is defiantly a Show Me time for me. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index rated the Big 12 pre-season. They excluded transfer players however in order:
West Virginia-6
Oklahoma-8
TCU-9
Kansas-10
If I understand this correctly ESPN claims Kansas is likely to finish 4th in the conference race. I realize this is not an actual prediction but a power rating however shouldn’t a power rating provide us an example of the position a team might finish? I’ve stated annually every year it seems pundits claim somebody will rise up and dethrone Kansas. The only instance this has occurred was in the post-season Big 12 Tournament.
Inside the mind of Steve Ballmer
It’s impossible to gain entrance to the mind of the man however these are my thoughts. At the time Ballmer purchased the Clippers the team was riding high, after years of mediocre play they had become a playoff team every season despite the failure to win a championship. Their co-tenants at Staple Centers were wallowing in last place under the leadership of former Laker Byron Scott. The Lakers appeared mismanaged on the court and the front office. Jeanie Buss fired her brother and the GM, she hired Magic Johnson as president and he hired Rob Pelinka as GM.
Under new leadership the Lakers had an outstanding draft and made several changes in the composition of the team. In the meantime Chris Paul decided his services would be better serve with the Rockets and requested a trade. Over the spring and summer the media especially nationally was discussing the Lakers over the Clippers. A team with only 26 wins was in the news more than the playoff team. Somewhere in the middle of this Ballmer decides his team needs its own arena. So at the dawn of the NBA season that’s a thumbnail sketch where we stand. It’s yet to be determined if the Lakers are truly improved and some of the luster has left the Clippers.
Saturday, September 9, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
We are almost there
As this is written we have exactly 22 days to the first two NBA pre-season games. The first question might be where has the summer gone? A little under a month later the regular season begins, October 17 will find Boston at Cleveland and Houston at Golden State. Both games will be a double-header telecast on TNT. On November 10 college teams begin tournament and non conference play, friends we are almost there.
Tanking
The word Tanking is rather upsetting to a number of fans and the NBA. Tanking is the intention for an NBA team to lose on purpose, the team loses in order to improve its draft position. My memory says I first heard it used applied to the Sixers, their poor won-loss record found them sitting in position allowing them the top pick in the draft each season. The Sixers would “stockpile” draft choices however the team failed to improve it won-loss record. They qualified every season for the first, second or third pick despite the lottery.
Despite the regular season record the Sixers are yet to provide proof they remain a “work in progress” on the basketball court. I would be re-miss if I didn’t include my Lakers in the discussion as well……they too have been accused of “tanking.” It appears Commissioner Silver has heard enough the NBA is going to look at methods to incentives’ teams to play at top notch levels. The proposal has not been worked out yet and there are steps that must be taken. Any plan must first be approved by the NBA’s Competition Committee; from there it would go before the Board of Governors. The earliest the change could be adopted would be the 2018-19 NBA season.
Is this the break-out year?
The Wizards won 49 games last year with the exception of 2015-16 (41-41) they have won 40+ games for four consecutive years. Although I haven’t followed the team closely I believe with John Wall leading the way they would make a deep playoff run. That deep run would entail competing for an NBA Championship but first they must get past the Cavs and perhaps the Celtics.
If we look at their starting lineup they have a veteran but youthful team. Center Marcin Gortat at 33 is the old guy the other four are all in their 20’s. In the playoffs they slipped past the Hawks but were losers against the Celtics. Can John Wall and crew prevail in this upcoming season? Off-season moves were minor by comparison to other NBA teams we shall see how the future develops.
Revisit of an old discussion
I have a friend who is a Mizzou fan; he would voice his concern with Kim Anderson and Frank Haith, not the fact of losing but recruiting. My friend believed the basketball team needed to adopt the policy of the former football coach. Gary Pinkel would talk constantly about “closing the borders” indicating he didn’t intend talent to leave the State of Missouri. On the surface the policy is sound however is it practical?
We can look at two of the nation’s most successful basketball programs Kentucky and Kansas. Both schools have a national and international recruiting base, few Kentucky or Kansas high school players wind up playing for Coaches Calipari and Self. As for Mizzou Coach Martin has attracted talent from the St Louis metro which includes the Illinois side as well. My question in 2017 is the Pinkel approach still possible? Perhaps in the end Coach Pinkel might be correct however basketball recruiting is far different from football.
We are almost there
As this is written we have exactly 22 days to the first two NBA pre-season games. The first question might be where has the summer gone? A little under a month later the regular season begins, October 17 will find Boston at Cleveland and Houston at Golden State. Both games will be a double-header telecast on TNT. On November 10 college teams begin tournament and non conference play, friends we are almost there.
Tanking
The word Tanking is rather upsetting to a number of fans and the NBA. Tanking is the intention for an NBA team to lose on purpose, the team loses in order to improve its draft position. My memory says I first heard it used applied to the Sixers, their poor won-loss record found them sitting in position allowing them the top pick in the draft each season. The Sixers would “stockpile” draft choices however the team failed to improve it won-loss record. They qualified every season for the first, second or third pick despite the lottery.
Despite the regular season record the Sixers are yet to provide proof they remain a “work in progress” on the basketball court. I would be re-miss if I didn’t include my Lakers in the discussion as well……they too have been accused of “tanking.” It appears Commissioner Silver has heard enough the NBA is going to look at methods to incentives’ teams to play at top notch levels. The proposal has not been worked out yet and there are steps that must be taken. Any plan must first be approved by the NBA’s Competition Committee; from there it would go before the Board of Governors. The earliest the change could be adopted would be the 2018-19 NBA season.
Is this the break-out year?
The Wizards won 49 games last year with the exception of 2015-16 (41-41) they have won 40+ games for four consecutive years. Although I haven’t followed the team closely I believe with John Wall leading the way they would make a deep playoff run. That deep run would entail competing for an NBA Championship but first they must get past the Cavs and perhaps the Celtics.
If we look at their starting lineup they have a veteran but youthful team. Center Marcin Gortat at 33 is the old guy the other four are all in their 20’s. In the playoffs they slipped past the Hawks but were losers against the Celtics. Can John Wall and crew prevail in this upcoming season? Off-season moves were minor by comparison to other NBA teams we shall see how the future develops.
Revisit of an old discussion
I have a friend who is a Mizzou fan; he would voice his concern with Kim Anderson and Frank Haith, not the fact of losing but recruiting. My friend believed the basketball team needed to adopt the policy of the former football coach. Gary Pinkel would talk constantly about “closing the borders” indicating he didn’t intend talent to leave the State of Missouri. On the surface the policy is sound however is it practical?
We can look at two of the nation’s most successful basketball programs Kentucky and Kansas. Both schools have a national and international recruiting base, few Kentucky or Kansas high school players wind up playing for Coaches Calipari and Self. As for Mizzou Coach Martin has attracted talent from the St Louis metro which includes the Illinois side as well. My question in 2017 is the Pinkel approach still possible? Perhaps in the end Coach Pinkel might be correct however basketball recruiting is far different from football.
Friday, September 8, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
He finally made it
George McGinnis is a name only basketball historians recognize. McGinnis stood 6-8 and checked in at 235 pounds after leaving Indiana University he began his pro career with the ABA Pacers. He played for the Pacers for four years before leaving for the NBA Sixers. McGinnis played for the Nuggets before eventually returning to the Pacers and retiring in 1982. Once he retired he was “lost” to the basketball world until recently.
The Naismith Hall of Fame chose to honor ABA players for selection to the HOF; several players were selected in this manner however McGinnis was overlooked. Being overlooked had nothing to do with his numbers 20.2 ppg and 11.0 rebounds along with 3.7 assists clearly provide proof of that fact. The call finally came on Friday McGinnis along with several others will enshrined in the HOF on Friday. He waited long enough and it certainly was overdue, happy for him. Google his name and gather information that space would not allow.
He changed his mind???
A story circulated and I reported Pacer owner Herb Simon intended to sue the Lakers. The suit was related to the tampering charges regarding Paul George. Now Simon claims the report is not true it was a story circulating with no truth to it. What do you think? I read one report indicating a number of NBA owners reported to be upset if the suit was to proceed. It’s entirely possible Simon receiving negative commentary decided it might be best to drop any potential law suit.
King of Gotham City
The Nets finished last season 20-62, the Knicks 31-51 both certainly sub par. One team plays in an arena first opened in 1968 and it’s been refurbished several times, the other team’s arena opened in 2012. We have old building versus a new location (New Jersey vs. Brooklyn) of course there is something to be said for history. I could declare the Knicks the “champions” of the boroughs. Consider these facts the Knicks finished 5th in attendance for the NBA with 810,741 fans coming through the turnstiles which averages 19,744. As for the Nets they finished 28th in attendance with 632,608 and 15,429 averages. The outlook for 2017-18 doesn’t appear it might be much different from 2017-17.
It‘s over when its over
Remember the Quicken Loans Arena renovation which was recently cancelled? It’s been revived once again. According to the Associated Press the Cavs plan to fund $70 million of the $140 million dollar package. We shall see if this revised effort works this time.
“Show me the money”
I’m not going to go into the history of the headline I’m just going to say “Jerry McGuire.“ The last two franchises (Clippers, Rockets) eclipsed the billion dollar mark at the time they were placed on the market. Check out the net worth of the Top 10 teams by Forbes Feb 15, 2017. Especially noteworthy is the Rockets value versus the reported sale price of $2.2 billion.
1. Knicks $3.3
2. Lakers $3.0
3. Warriors $2.6
4. Bulls $2.5
5. Celtics $2.2
6. Clippers $2.0
7. Nets $1.8
8. Rockets $1.65
9. Mavs $1.45
10. Heat $1.35
He finally made it
George McGinnis is a name only basketball historians recognize. McGinnis stood 6-8 and checked in at 235 pounds after leaving Indiana University he began his pro career with the ABA Pacers. He played for the Pacers for four years before leaving for the NBA Sixers. McGinnis played for the Nuggets before eventually returning to the Pacers and retiring in 1982. Once he retired he was “lost” to the basketball world until recently.
The Naismith Hall of Fame chose to honor ABA players for selection to the HOF; several players were selected in this manner however McGinnis was overlooked. Being overlooked had nothing to do with his numbers 20.2 ppg and 11.0 rebounds along with 3.7 assists clearly provide proof of that fact. The call finally came on Friday McGinnis along with several others will enshrined in the HOF on Friday. He waited long enough and it certainly was overdue, happy for him. Google his name and gather information that space would not allow.
He changed his mind???
A story circulated and I reported Pacer owner Herb Simon intended to sue the Lakers. The suit was related to the tampering charges regarding Paul George. Now Simon claims the report is not true it was a story circulating with no truth to it. What do you think? I read one report indicating a number of NBA owners reported to be upset if the suit was to proceed. It’s entirely possible Simon receiving negative commentary decided it might be best to drop any potential law suit.
King of Gotham City
The Nets finished last season 20-62, the Knicks 31-51 both certainly sub par. One team plays in an arena first opened in 1968 and it’s been refurbished several times, the other team’s arena opened in 2012. We have old building versus a new location (New Jersey vs. Brooklyn) of course there is something to be said for history. I could declare the Knicks the “champions” of the boroughs. Consider these facts the Knicks finished 5th in attendance for the NBA with 810,741 fans coming through the turnstiles which averages 19,744. As for the Nets they finished 28th in attendance with 632,608 and 15,429 averages. The outlook for 2017-18 doesn’t appear it might be much different from 2017-17.
It‘s over when its over
Remember the Quicken Loans Arena renovation which was recently cancelled? It’s been revived once again. According to the Associated Press the Cavs plan to fund $70 million of the $140 million dollar package. We shall see if this revised effort works this time.
“Show me the money”
I’m not going to go into the history of the headline I’m just going to say “Jerry McGuire.“ The last two franchises (Clippers, Rockets) eclipsed the billion dollar mark at the time they were placed on the market. Check out the net worth of the Top 10 teams by Forbes Feb 15, 2017. Especially noteworthy is the Rockets value versus the reported sale price of $2.2 billion.
1. Knicks $3.3
2. Lakers $3.0
3. Warriors $2.6
4. Bulls $2.5
5. Celtics $2.2
6. Clippers $2.0
7. Nets $1.8
8. Rockets $1.65
9. Mavs $1.45
10. Heat $1.35
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Bits n Pieces
Did you hear this latest revelation in the Pacer-Laker saga? The Lakers were found guilty of tampering regarding Paul George. The NBA slapped their hand issuing a fine of $500,000. Today Magic Johnson asked Laker owner Jeanie Buss to deduct the fine from his salary. All I can say it must be nice to write a check for that amount of money.
All summer reports circulated Carmelo Anthony was headed everywhere except NYC. Well not quite everywhere however Houston, Cleveland, Boston and the Clippers were reported as possible destinations I read. Did I miss any location, all said and done at the dawn of the season Carmelo remains with the Knicks? Because he’s got veto power maybe he’s the reason none of the trades were accomplished.
Kansas picked up a commitment in the Class of 2018. Silvio De Sosa a 6-8 240 pound forward from the southwestern African nation of Angola. De Sosa relocated to the U.S. and attends IMG Academy in Montverde (FL). Rivals rates him a 5-star prospect and number 25 in the Class of 2018.
It’s likely Beyonce and Jay Z money couldn’t afford to purchase the Rockets outright. If the pair intended to purchase the team its likely there would have been partners involved in the sale. Wait there’s more Tilman Feritta says; “He made it known that he would welcome having her in any capacity, as he understands how great of an ambassador she would be for the Rockets.”
Deep, deep draft
Preliminary reports indicate the 2018 NBA Draft will be just as deep as 2017. Keep in mind the 2017 season is yet to begin and we can only take the word of those who access talent. The belief is at least through the first round almost all teams with draft choices benefited. I decided to re-check the 2015 and 2016 draft. Both produced talent however it appears the 2017 draft alone has the potential to eclipse two years worth of prospects. If the early 2018 draft looks as good as 2017 the NBA is on a continuing ascending talent rise.
College versus NBA
On several occasions we’ve discussed the lack of success by coaches moving from the collegiate ranks to the NBA. Larry Brown always come to mind and in second place is………..I have no idea. How about the others the NBA coaches who decide to give the college game a try, what are the differences. The first difference might be recruiting, at the collegiate level a coach is almost always recruiting.
The only recruiting in the NBA is for free-agents and that is for the most part a much shorter time period. Both college and NBA you must be able to impart your game plan to your players. A number of college and NBA coaches have failed at communicating with their teams. The NBA season s is considerably longer than the collegiate one. By the middle of March most college teams are finished competing, a number of NBA coaches might not conclude their season until the middle of June. Those are just a few of my thoughts, what do you think? I know I probably missed a significant number.
Short people
Songwriter-Singer Randy Newman had a pop hit in 1977 titled “Short People.” The second stanza: “They got little hands and little eyes and they walk around telling’ great big lies.” Newman’s song was intended to poke fun at short people but that’s not my intent. I’m going to extol the virtues of smaller NBA players in this account and they do exist. I once had an opportunity to meet Nate “Tiny” Archibald, the NBA list Tiny as 6-1 which I found difficult to believe. How about 5 foot 10 or maybe 5-11 so much for inflated heights in the NBA.
This past season Russell Westbrook equaled the triple-double record established by Oscar Robertson in 1962. Many (including yours truly) believe the record would never be equaled, Westbrook me and others wrong. Here’s another one, in the 1972-73 season Tiny led the NBA in scoring at 34.0 ppg and also led the league in assists with 11.4 per game while playing for the Kings in Kansas City. Later as a member of the Celtics Tiny won an NBA Championship (1981). He was selected a member of the 50th Anniversary All-Time Team and has a double honor. He’s enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. He certainly disproved the theory short people can’t play the game.
Bits n Pieces
Did you hear this latest revelation in the Pacer-Laker saga? The Lakers were found guilty of tampering regarding Paul George. The NBA slapped their hand issuing a fine of $500,000. Today Magic Johnson asked Laker owner Jeanie Buss to deduct the fine from his salary. All I can say it must be nice to write a check for that amount of money.
All summer reports circulated Carmelo Anthony was headed everywhere except NYC. Well not quite everywhere however Houston, Cleveland, Boston and the Clippers were reported as possible destinations I read. Did I miss any location, all said and done at the dawn of the season Carmelo remains with the Knicks? Because he’s got veto power maybe he’s the reason none of the trades were accomplished.
Kansas picked up a commitment in the Class of 2018. Silvio De Sosa a 6-8 240 pound forward from the southwestern African nation of Angola. De Sosa relocated to the U.S. and attends IMG Academy in Montverde (FL). Rivals rates him a 5-star prospect and number 25 in the Class of 2018.
It’s likely Beyonce and Jay Z money couldn’t afford to purchase the Rockets outright. If the pair intended to purchase the team its likely there would have been partners involved in the sale. Wait there’s more Tilman Feritta says; “He made it known that he would welcome having her in any capacity, as he understands how great of an ambassador she would be for the Rockets.”
Deep, deep draft
Preliminary reports indicate the 2018 NBA Draft will be just as deep as 2017. Keep in mind the 2017 season is yet to begin and we can only take the word of those who access talent. The belief is at least through the first round almost all teams with draft choices benefited. I decided to re-check the 2015 and 2016 draft. Both produced talent however it appears the 2017 draft alone has the potential to eclipse two years worth of prospects. If the early 2018 draft looks as good as 2017 the NBA is on a continuing ascending talent rise.
College versus NBA
On several occasions we’ve discussed the lack of success by coaches moving from the collegiate ranks to the NBA. Larry Brown always come to mind and in second place is………..I have no idea. How about the others the NBA coaches who decide to give the college game a try, what are the differences. The first difference might be recruiting, at the collegiate level a coach is almost always recruiting.
The only recruiting in the NBA is for free-agents and that is for the most part a much shorter time period. Both college and NBA you must be able to impart your game plan to your players. A number of college and NBA coaches have failed at communicating with their teams. The NBA season s is considerably longer than the collegiate one. By the middle of March most college teams are finished competing, a number of NBA coaches might not conclude their season until the middle of June. Those are just a few of my thoughts, what do you think? I know I probably missed a significant number.
Short people
Songwriter-Singer Randy Newman had a pop hit in 1977 titled “Short People.” The second stanza: “They got little hands and little eyes and they walk around telling’ great big lies.” Newman’s song was intended to poke fun at short people but that’s not my intent. I’m going to extol the virtues of smaller NBA players in this account and they do exist. I once had an opportunity to meet Nate “Tiny” Archibald, the NBA list Tiny as 6-1 which I found difficult to believe. How about 5 foot 10 or maybe 5-11 so much for inflated heights in the NBA.
This past season Russell Westbrook equaled the triple-double record established by Oscar Robertson in 1962. Many (including yours truly) believe the record would never be equaled, Westbrook me and others wrong. Here’s another one, in the 1972-73 season Tiny led the NBA in scoring at 34.0 ppg and also led the league in assists with 11.4 per game while playing for the Kings in Kansas City. Later as a member of the Celtics Tiny won an NBA Championship (1981). He was selected a member of the 50th Anniversary All-Time Team and has a double honor. He’s enshrined in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame. He certainly disproved the theory short people can’t play the game.
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
5-4-3-2-1
That‘s the countdown on the sale of the Houston Rockets, in mid-July owner Leslie Alexander announced he intended to place a for sale sign on his team. A number of individuals were mentioned as potential owners a number with celebrity attached to their name. Although not official yet it’s been announced Tilman Feritta has purchased the team for a reported $2.2 billion dollars.
Feritta owns Landry Restaurants and the Golden Nugget Casino and Hotels, this sale also includes operation of the Toyota Center. What I find most interesting if the NBA Board of Governors approve the sale is the swiftness of the sale. I continue to hear naysayer’s claim “Nobody is watching the NBA.” As for them all I can say is provide us proof, it’s easy to make incendiary statements give us proof. The NBA certainly cannot match the NFL or even MLB in numbers of fans however they are there.
“The truth is out there”
Fans to the Sci-Fi series X-Files are familiar with the title above; it’s associated with the television series. I ask the question if you “have the truth” and no method to document it or no witnesses how truthful is it. Twice in the last three weeks Stephen A. Smith’s made statements on First Take regarding separate issues I can find no proof of its accuracy. Don’t get me wrong I’m not calling Smith a purveyor of inaccuracies I have issues ‘providing the truth” but nothing more than your word.
I’ll clue you in on the subject; Smith and co-host Max Kellerman were discussing the possible future eligibility of Melo Ball. Smith claimed “Greg Anthony was not on scholarship one year while playing at UNLV. He was making enough money to pay for his tuition, room and board. The NCAA couldn’t touch him because Anthony wasn’t on scholarship.” Smith reasoning is the NCAA can’t touch Melo if he’s not on scholarship (which might be true). The issue for me I searched the Internet and couldn’t locate any source to authenticate Smith’s statement regarding Anthony. .
America a winner
The United States won the FIBA Americup Championship. The USA team had to overcome a 20-point deficient in order to win its game against Argentina. Final score was 81-76, too bad nobody witnessed Jeff Van Gundy leading Team USA to victory. The game was available on ESPNU however the games were not heavily advertised.
Kobe haters
I long ago conceded Kobe Bryant like all of us is imperfect. It was evident Kobe was the principle reason Shaq was traded to Miami. I’m not going to re-hash the history since both are now retired. I want to focus on Kyrie Irving-LeBron James which is current. For years it seems Kobe haters would constantly want to remind me “Kobe ran Shaq out of town etc…etc…” was the direction of the of the conversation.
I didn’t argue with them because their statement was correct but the constant reminders of the Kobe-Shaq feud begin to bother me. Fast forward to the summer of 2017, Kyrie Irving says “He wants to be the man” and wants his own team. He’s traded to the Celtics and admits he’s not held any conversation with LeBron. I’ve tried over and over to get a comment from the LeBron fans to no avail…..they don’t want to talk about it. How come they want to always discuss Kobe with me but refuse to discuss LeBron?
5-4-3-2-1
That‘s the countdown on the sale of the Houston Rockets, in mid-July owner Leslie Alexander announced he intended to place a for sale sign on his team. A number of individuals were mentioned as potential owners a number with celebrity attached to their name. Although not official yet it’s been announced Tilman Feritta has purchased the team for a reported $2.2 billion dollars.
Feritta owns Landry Restaurants and the Golden Nugget Casino and Hotels, this sale also includes operation of the Toyota Center. What I find most interesting if the NBA Board of Governors approve the sale is the swiftness of the sale. I continue to hear naysayer’s claim “Nobody is watching the NBA.” As for them all I can say is provide us proof, it’s easy to make incendiary statements give us proof. The NBA certainly cannot match the NFL or even MLB in numbers of fans however they are there.
“The truth is out there”
Fans to the Sci-Fi series X-Files are familiar with the title above; it’s associated with the television series. I ask the question if you “have the truth” and no method to document it or no witnesses how truthful is it. Twice in the last three weeks Stephen A. Smith’s made statements on First Take regarding separate issues I can find no proof of its accuracy. Don’t get me wrong I’m not calling Smith a purveyor of inaccuracies I have issues ‘providing the truth” but nothing more than your word.
I’ll clue you in on the subject; Smith and co-host Max Kellerman were discussing the possible future eligibility of Melo Ball. Smith claimed “Greg Anthony was not on scholarship one year while playing at UNLV. He was making enough money to pay for his tuition, room and board. The NCAA couldn’t touch him because Anthony wasn’t on scholarship.” Smith reasoning is the NCAA can’t touch Melo if he’s not on scholarship (which might be true). The issue for me I searched the Internet and couldn’t locate any source to authenticate Smith’s statement regarding Anthony. .
America a winner
The United States won the FIBA Americup Championship. The USA team had to overcome a 20-point deficient in order to win its game against Argentina. Final score was 81-76, too bad nobody witnessed Jeff Van Gundy leading Team USA to victory. The game was available on ESPNU however the games were not heavily advertised.
Kobe haters
I long ago conceded Kobe Bryant like all of us is imperfect. It was evident Kobe was the principle reason Shaq was traded to Miami. I’m not going to re-hash the history since both are now retired. I want to focus on Kyrie Irving-LeBron James which is current. For years it seems Kobe haters would constantly want to remind me “Kobe ran Shaq out of town etc…etc…” was the direction of the of the conversation.
I didn’t argue with them because their statement was correct but the constant reminders of the Kobe-Shaq feud begin to bother me. Fast forward to the summer of 2017, Kyrie Irving says “He wants to be the man” and wants his own team. He’s traded to the Celtics and admits he’s not held any conversation with LeBron. I’ve tried over and over to get a comment from the LeBron fans to no avail…..they don’t want to talk about it. How come they want to always discuss Kobe with me but refuse to discuss LeBron?
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
World-wide Words eye view
At the time I begin writing Words eye view my intent was simple, I wanted to share my passion for basketball from a fans viewpoint. I’ve heard the term “world-wide web” for a number of years but I failed to comprehend the meaning until I begin publishing Words. It truly is a world publication; the majority of readers are in the United States however there is a wide mixture of nations throughout the world. We all share a love of basketball at whatever level. Thanks once again for reading this humble publication.
Laker update
It’s been reported Pacers owner Herb Simon is considering filing a suit against the Lakers. It was determined the Lakers were guilty of tampering regarding Paul George. The NBA without releasing much detail found the Lakers guilty and fined the franchise $500,000. Apparently the guilty plea and fine were not enough for Simon reports are Simon intends to file a suit against the Lakers.
Let’s see how he likes this move, last week LaVar Ball announced he would begin a reality program on Facebook. It would be titled appropriately enough Ball in the Family. The Lakers announced almost immediately no taping would be permitted around Laker facilities during training camp. Daddy Ball says that’s okay however I wonder if he or a camera person are caught in the stands taping during games if they might confiscate his camera.
Shabazz Muhammad left Bishop Gorman HS in Las Vegas as a 5-star prospect. He would enroll at UCLA but left for the NBA after his freshman year. The 6-6 223 pound guard/forward was drafted by the Jazz however his rights were traded to the Wolves. Muhammad never blossomed into the star many thought he’d become injuries certainly might have been contributing factors. After four years with the Wolves the Long Beach (CA) free-agent is considering going “home” and playing for the Lakers.
No possibility now
I was checking a list of past and present NBA arenas and came across an interesting item. At the time the Cincinnati Royals moved to Kansas City in 1972 and became the Kings the only arena to serve as home for an NBA team was Municipal Auditorium (9,287) in downtown Kansas City, the 16,000 seat Kemper Arena was opened in 1974 becoming the home of the team.
Due to limited dates at Municipal the Kings were forced to play a number of games in the Omaha (NB) Civic Center which held 9,300 fans. Eventually dates for Municipal would allow the Kings to play all their games in Kansas City. The point the NBA would never allow a team to move into an arena that was not deemed “NBA-ready.” The second point there would be no two city franchises allowed in the NBA of today.
Will this become the new norm?
On August 25th I wrote of Mitchell Robinson’s decision to skip college. The 7 foot prospect was a 5-star prospect in the Class of 2017. Since enrolling and then leaving Western Kentucky Robinson decided in favor of the NBA. We questioned if this was wise on his part we asked? Later Robinson would change his mind return to Western Kentucky but what about the history. Bucks forward Thon Maker skipped college for the NBA however his situation was not the same as Robinson, Maker had turned 19 by the arrival of the 2016 draft.
Emanuel Mudiay played what would have been his freshman year in China. He returned in 2015 and was drafted by the Nuggets. Prior to Mudiay was Brandon Jennings who’s playing in China, Jennings first journeyed to Italy playing for Lottomatica Roma. Jennings returned in 2009 and the Bucks made him their top pick that year. It’s highly likely I may have omitted a player move but you get the idea I hope. Whatever the manner a number of athletes managed to avoid college yet wound up in the NBA
World-wide Words eye view
At the time I begin writing Words eye view my intent was simple, I wanted to share my passion for basketball from a fans viewpoint. I’ve heard the term “world-wide web” for a number of years but I failed to comprehend the meaning until I begin publishing Words. It truly is a world publication; the majority of readers are in the United States however there is a wide mixture of nations throughout the world. We all share a love of basketball at whatever level. Thanks once again for reading this humble publication.
Laker update
It’s been reported Pacers owner Herb Simon is considering filing a suit against the Lakers. It was determined the Lakers were guilty of tampering regarding Paul George. The NBA without releasing much detail found the Lakers guilty and fined the franchise $500,000. Apparently the guilty plea and fine were not enough for Simon reports are Simon intends to file a suit against the Lakers.
Let’s see how he likes this move, last week LaVar Ball announced he would begin a reality program on Facebook. It would be titled appropriately enough Ball in the Family. The Lakers announced almost immediately no taping would be permitted around Laker facilities during training camp. Daddy Ball says that’s okay however I wonder if he or a camera person are caught in the stands taping during games if they might confiscate his camera.
Shabazz Muhammad left Bishop Gorman HS in Las Vegas as a 5-star prospect. He would enroll at UCLA but left for the NBA after his freshman year. The 6-6 223 pound guard/forward was drafted by the Jazz however his rights were traded to the Wolves. Muhammad never blossomed into the star many thought he’d become injuries certainly might have been contributing factors. After four years with the Wolves the Long Beach (CA) free-agent is considering going “home” and playing for the Lakers.
No possibility now
I was checking a list of past and present NBA arenas and came across an interesting item. At the time the Cincinnati Royals moved to Kansas City in 1972 and became the Kings the only arena to serve as home for an NBA team was Municipal Auditorium (9,287) in downtown Kansas City, the 16,000 seat Kemper Arena was opened in 1974 becoming the home of the team.
Due to limited dates at Municipal the Kings were forced to play a number of games in the Omaha (NB) Civic Center which held 9,300 fans. Eventually dates for Municipal would allow the Kings to play all their games in Kansas City. The point the NBA would never allow a team to move into an arena that was not deemed “NBA-ready.” The second point there would be no two city franchises allowed in the NBA of today.
Will this become the new norm?
On August 25th I wrote of Mitchell Robinson’s decision to skip college. The 7 foot prospect was a 5-star prospect in the Class of 2017. Since enrolling and then leaving Western Kentucky Robinson decided in favor of the NBA. We questioned if this was wise on his part we asked? Later Robinson would change his mind return to Western Kentucky but what about the history. Bucks forward Thon Maker skipped college for the NBA however his situation was not the same as Robinson, Maker had turned 19 by the arrival of the 2016 draft.
Emanuel Mudiay played what would have been his freshman year in China. He returned in 2015 and was drafted by the Nuggets. Prior to Mudiay was Brandon Jennings who’s playing in China, Jennings first journeyed to Italy playing for Lottomatica Roma. Jennings returned in 2009 and the Bucks made him their top pick that year. It’s highly likely I may have omitted a player move but you get the idea I hope. Whatever the manner a number of athletes managed to avoid college yet wound up in the NBA
Monday, September 4, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Let’s play this…….
Everything must fall into place for the Cavs to draft Michael Porter Jr of Mizzou. Most 2018 mock draft sites list Jr. as the number one choice. First the youngster must clearly demonstrate he’s a top prospect. Currently he’s got the “Ben Simmons” factor to deal with; we believe he’s going to be a good player however we have questions. I wrote previously Simmons played well his freshman year at LSU however there were problems.
Bad coaching and bad team play produced a slightly above average record for LSU. The barely.500 record caused LSU to miss any opportunity for post-season play. The Cavs have the Brooklyn pick and we guess the Nets must finish with the worst record or somewhat close. What if the Nets play better than expected no NBA Championship or even playoff but exceed projections. Jr. would be drafted however it might be a team other than the Cavs.
NBA owners (and NBA fans)
As I see the continued controversy swirling around NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick I wonder, I question how the events might have played out if the QB played in the NBA rather than the NFL. Kapernick cannot seem to latch on with a team despite what many have told me he remains a talent. I believe a number of NBA owners (and some of the fans) would not appreciate the stance he’s taking not standing during the nations’ national anthem. In an earlier time period Mahmoud Abdu-Rauf (Chris Jackson) refused to stand for the national anthem as well.
After first suspending him Adul-Rauf returned but controversy continued to surround him. Many might hold the belief Abdul-Rauf was “forced” from the NBA in 2000-01 for the stance he took. Over the course of its history the NBA has suspended and in some cases banned a number of players for infractions. “The Malice in the Palace” the fight between the Pacers and Pistons in November 2004 was an embarrassment to the league. In the 1970’s the NBA had a drug issue with a number of its players. I have no method of proving my hypothesis but believe if Kaepernick played in the NBA it’s likely this is not a point of discussion after a year’s time.
“Revenge is a dish best served cold”
Imagine my shock when I discovered the quote didn’t originate in the 1982 movie Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. In this case it might not be revenge but it is certainly respect Frank Ntilikina believes he’s not receiving. Ntilikina thinks he’s got something to prove, The New York Post indicates many of his fellow rookies think little of Ntilikina despite the fact he was the 8th pick in the first round of the 2017 draft. The 6-5 point guard from France spent the last 3 years playing for SIG Strasbourg and believes he’s ready for the rigors of NBA play despite the belief held by others. He’s another player I plan on closely watching during the upcoming season.
They didn’t do it!
Awhile back I compiled a list of the very best Laker coaches in history. 16 NBA Championships and numerous playoff appearances there have been few bad coaches sitting in the lead chair. A few who given time proved they were not up to the task, they are in order. I’ve excluded a number of interim coaches because they were only intended to fill the postion until a permanent head coach was hired.
1. Byron Scott 2014-16 38 wins 126 losses .227
2. Randy Pfund 1992-94 66 wins 80 losses .452
3. Mike Brown 2011-12 42 wins 29 losses .591
Go back and read my “Best of the Best” coaches, there were five. After careful research and excluding interim or short-term coaches Scott, Pfund and Brown become the select few. I expected Scott to succeed however he might have been too old school for many of his millennial team. I don’t remember much about Randy Pfund as for Mike Brown this this might be a surprise too. Brown is the only one of the three with a winning record but appeared to lose control of the team.
Maybe it was the Kobe Bryant factor or something else that caused Brown to be included in this group. Are you surprised Mike D’Antoni isn’t in the number? Although I’m no fan of this coach the team was not terrible and D’Antoni was not close to being fired he resigned when the team would not give him an extension. Although Luke Walton’s record is not good I’m going to allow him time to build HIS team. If he’s unable to turn the Lakers around he might find company with Scott, Pfund and Brown.
Let’s play this…….
Everything must fall into place for the Cavs to draft Michael Porter Jr of Mizzou. Most 2018 mock draft sites list Jr. as the number one choice. First the youngster must clearly demonstrate he’s a top prospect. Currently he’s got the “Ben Simmons” factor to deal with; we believe he’s going to be a good player however we have questions. I wrote previously Simmons played well his freshman year at LSU however there were problems.
Bad coaching and bad team play produced a slightly above average record for LSU. The barely.500 record caused LSU to miss any opportunity for post-season play. The Cavs have the Brooklyn pick and we guess the Nets must finish with the worst record or somewhat close. What if the Nets play better than expected no NBA Championship or even playoff but exceed projections. Jr. would be drafted however it might be a team other than the Cavs.
NBA owners (and NBA fans)
As I see the continued controversy swirling around NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick I wonder, I question how the events might have played out if the QB played in the NBA rather than the NFL. Kapernick cannot seem to latch on with a team despite what many have told me he remains a talent. I believe a number of NBA owners (and some of the fans) would not appreciate the stance he’s taking not standing during the nations’ national anthem. In an earlier time period Mahmoud Abdu-Rauf (Chris Jackson) refused to stand for the national anthem as well.
After first suspending him Adul-Rauf returned but controversy continued to surround him. Many might hold the belief Abdul-Rauf was “forced” from the NBA in 2000-01 for the stance he took. Over the course of its history the NBA has suspended and in some cases banned a number of players for infractions. “The Malice in the Palace” the fight between the Pacers and Pistons in November 2004 was an embarrassment to the league. In the 1970’s the NBA had a drug issue with a number of its players. I have no method of proving my hypothesis but believe if Kaepernick played in the NBA it’s likely this is not a point of discussion after a year’s time.
“Revenge is a dish best served cold”
Imagine my shock when I discovered the quote didn’t originate in the 1982 movie Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. In this case it might not be revenge but it is certainly respect Frank Ntilikina believes he’s not receiving. Ntilikina thinks he’s got something to prove, The New York Post indicates many of his fellow rookies think little of Ntilikina despite the fact he was the 8th pick in the first round of the 2017 draft. The 6-5 point guard from France spent the last 3 years playing for SIG Strasbourg and believes he’s ready for the rigors of NBA play despite the belief held by others. He’s another player I plan on closely watching during the upcoming season.
They didn’t do it!
Awhile back I compiled a list of the very best Laker coaches in history. 16 NBA Championships and numerous playoff appearances there have been few bad coaches sitting in the lead chair. A few who given time proved they were not up to the task, they are in order. I’ve excluded a number of interim coaches because they were only intended to fill the postion until a permanent head coach was hired.
1. Byron Scott 2014-16 38 wins 126 losses .227
2. Randy Pfund 1992-94 66 wins 80 losses .452
3. Mike Brown 2011-12 42 wins 29 losses .591
Go back and read my “Best of the Best” coaches, there were five. After careful research and excluding interim or short-term coaches Scott, Pfund and Brown become the select few. I expected Scott to succeed however he might have been too old school for many of his millennial team. I don’t remember much about Randy Pfund as for Mike Brown this this might be a surprise too. Brown is the only one of the three with a winning record but appeared to lose control of the team.
Maybe it was the Kobe Bryant factor or something else that caused Brown to be included in this group. Are you surprised Mike D’Antoni isn’t in the number? Although I’m no fan of this coach the team was not terrible and D’Antoni was not close to being fired he resigned when the team would not give him an extension. Although Luke Walton’s record is not good I’m going to allow him time to build HIS team. If he’s unable to turn the Lakers around he might find company with Scott, Pfund and Brown.
Sunday, September 3, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
The shot clock
Imagine a clock saved the NBA game, not a regular clock but one with time expiration. Bad teams in the ’50’s would often use stall tactics to keep the Minneapolis Lakers and other dominating teams of the period from scoring. The opposition would dribble the ball up the court and it became a passing game back and forth between the guards and occasionally the forwards would be involved as a player waited on the opportunity for a lay-up or wide open shot. The Fort Wayne Pistons beat the Minneapolis Lakers 19-18 utilizing this method of play. The late Danny Biasone owner of the Syracuse Nationals (Phil Sixers) general manager Leo Ferris and a scout for the team sat down and addressed the issue.
Biasone (and maybe others) believed stalling tactics were ruining the once wide open game. GM Ferris divided 2880 (the number of seconds in 48 minutes) by 120 (the total number of shots taken per game when each team took 60 shots) and arrived at a figure he believed optimal one shot every 24 seconds. Thus the 24-second clock was born and it would be adopted for the 1954-55 season and it’s been utilized to this date. The college game would see the clock much later however it was adopted principally for the same reason stall tactics. College began with a 45 second clock reduced it to 35 and in 2015-16 placed it at 30-seconds where it remains.
*Wikipedia
The results
I polled a number of NBA fans rather than just reading media comments I found the results quite interesting. The question their view of the Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade; most of the folks I surveyed pronounced the Cavs clear winners. As for me I’m not so sure based on my conclusions. The hip injury to Thomas aside (see Bits n Pieces below) neither is an outstanding defensive player however it‘s 6-3 versus 5-9.
Without switching Irving clearly has an advantage when taken into the post over the smaller Thomas. There are significant numbers of guards able to shoot over the 6-3 Irving. On the offense end the numbers of Irving and Thomas are nearly the same, as for distribution of the basketball Thomas has a slight advantage over Irving. Not a strong or convincing argument for either player however this is as I see it. Basketball in addition to skill and talent is a game of height; the Cavs are winners in this trade.
Bits n Pieces
I guess I’m late to the party, I didn’t realize the seriousness of the Isaiah Thomas hip injury. A report I read on Friday indicated he might not be ready to play until the All-Star break. No wonder the Cavs wanted additional compensation, can we really blame them? Thomas claims he’ll return good as new and I have no reason to doubt his statement.
I don’t remember if I mentioned this news item last season so I‘m late. If you are a student at the university or live in the Kansas City metro UMKC is easily identified. The balance of the nation probably has no idea what the initials U.M.K.C. stand for. ESPN, Fox Sports and others sites begin using “Mo-Kansas City” reporting basketball scores which is sorta okay. Last season the university changed their road jerseys, they now have Kansas City displayed on the front providing the location of the school.
The top prospect in the Class of 2018 is named R.J. Barrett, Barrett plays at Montverde Academy in Montverde Florida. The 6-7 guard hails from suburban Toronto Canada and leapfrogged several players moving to number one at the beginning of summer. He’s got a plethora of schools on his radar including Mizzou. No Mizzou could not sign the number one player two years in a row……..could they?
The shot clock
Imagine a clock saved the NBA game, not a regular clock but one with time expiration. Bad teams in the ’50’s would often use stall tactics to keep the Minneapolis Lakers and other dominating teams of the period from scoring. The opposition would dribble the ball up the court and it became a passing game back and forth between the guards and occasionally the forwards would be involved as a player waited on the opportunity for a lay-up or wide open shot. The Fort Wayne Pistons beat the Minneapolis Lakers 19-18 utilizing this method of play. The late Danny Biasone owner of the Syracuse Nationals (Phil Sixers) general manager Leo Ferris and a scout for the team sat down and addressed the issue.
Biasone (and maybe others) believed stalling tactics were ruining the once wide open game. GM Ferris divided 2880 (the number of seconds in 48 minutes) by 120 (the total number of shots taken per game when each team took 60 shots) and arrived at a figure he believed optimal one shot every 24 seconds. Thus the 24-second clock was born and it would be adopted for the 1954-55 season and it’s been utilized to this date. The college game would see the clock much later however it was adopted principally for the same reason stall tactics. College began with a 45 second clock reduced it to 35 and in 2015-16 placed it at 30-seconds where it remains.
*Wikipedia
The results
I polled a number of NBA fans rather than just reading media comments I found the results quite interesting. The question their view of the Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade; most of the folks I surveyed pronounced the Cavs clear winners. As for me I’m not so sure based on my conclusions. The hip injury to Thomas aside (see Bits n Pieces below) neither is an outstanding defensive player however it‘s 6-3 versus 5-9.
Without switching Irving clearly has an advantage when taken into the post over the smaller Thomas. There are significant numbers of guards able to shoot over the 6-3 Irving. On the offense end the numbers of Irving and Thomas are nearly the same, as for distribution of the basketball Thomas has a slight advantage over Irving. Not a strong or convincing argument for either player however this is as I see it. Basketball in addition to skill and talent is a game of height; the Cavs are winners in this trade.
Bits n Pieces
I guess I’m late to the party, I didn’t realize the seriousness of the Isaiah Thomas hip injury. A report I read on Friday indicated he might not be ready to play until the All-Star break. No wonder the Cavs wanted additional compensation, can we really blame them? Thomas claims he’ll return good as new and I have no reason to doubt his statement.
I don’t remember if I mentioned this news item last season so I‘m late. If you are a student at the university or live in the Kansas City metro UMKC is easily identified. The balance of the nation probably has no idea what the initials U.M.K.C. stand for. ESPN, Fox Sports and others sites begin using “Mo-Kansas City” reporting basketball scores which is sorta okay. Last season the university changed their road jerseys, they now have Kansas City displayed on the front providing the location of the school.
The top prospect in the Class of 2018 is named R.J. Barrett, Barrett plays at Montverde Academy in Montverde Florida. The 6-7 guard hails from suburban Toronto Canada and leapfrogged several players moving to number one at the beginning of summer. He’s got a plethora of schools on his radar including Mizzou. No Mizzou could not sign the number one player two years in a row……..could they?
Saturday, September 2, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Where did that come from?
Life is often about confusion especially what other folks say or do; this is certainly one of them. Cavs owner Dan Gilbert dropped the mic on us; “CLE, Lets put those silly rumors to rest: I will never move the Cleveland Cavaliers out of Cleveland. Period. And that’s unconditional. @cavs” read the tweet. Could the rumors have begun due to citizens rejecting the Quicken Loans renovation?
On the other hand it’s possible the owner started the rumor? For all the success the Cavs have experienced on the court the front office appears somewhat disorganized and confused. The Cavs could be headed to Seattle or somewhere else however I seriously doubt it. For now I guess we must wait for further develops on this story.
I could care less
LaVar Ball rises early in the morning and decides; “What outlandish thing can I do today to generate publicity for me and BBB?” LaVar appears to believes “What I do and what I say I could care less what the public thinks.“ I’ve written several stories when I first began publishing Words eye View and I ripped the NCAA for some of the organizations antiquated decisions. This one is easy although we have a couple of years before a judgment must be rendered. .
The elder Ball in his wisdom has decided to produce a signature shoe for his youngest son Melo. Placing his name on a shoe on the surface doesn’t sound that harmful except to the NCAA. The organization that must determine the youngsters’ eligibility might say the decision will affect his son’s eligibility. I read a letter from a fan defending this move. “The money is going in LaVar’s pocket not Melo.” That’s certainly true however it looks improper but what does LaVar care. It’s all about the publicity and people like me writing about him and the shoes.
Home run king
Giancarlo Stanton has 51 home runs and 110 runs batted in (as this is written); he’s on the road to 60 plus homers for the Miami Marlins. Hey Larry you writing about a baseball player I thought Words eye view was strictly a basketball blog. Hold on a minute our emphasis remains basketball however I read an article and found out the 6-6 250 pound Stanton played round ball in high school. The publication indicated he “was like Charles Barkley on the basketball court.“
That statement makes it easy to understand how Stanton managed to average double-digits in rebounds his sophomore year of high school. In addition he was a standout football player too, Stanton might have been one of the few athletes talented enough to play which ever sport he desired at a high skill level. Stanton decided in favor of baseball which is a loss for football and basketball fans everywhere.
It was an epic championship game
Texas Western (now University of Texas-El Paseo) faced Kentucky for the 1966 NCAA Championship. This NCAA Championship game would be far different from those previously because it effectively changed the basketball landscape. The Kentucky Wildcats (27-1 going into the game) would face the unlikely Texas Western Miners for the championship. Both teams had coaches who later would be elected to the hall of fame, Adolph Rupp certainly was well know, Don Haskins at Texas Western would gain notoriety after the game and into the future. For the first time the game found an all-white Kentucky team facing Texas Western with 5 black starters, today for any team with an all-black lineup on the floor is not that unusual. In 1966 this certainly was not the norm even for schools with white and black athletes.
Texas Western was the victor over the Kentucky Wildcats 72-65 and basketball was changed forever. The world did not change immediately history tends to move much slower however it did change. Texas Western was not invited to The Ed Sullivan Show a popular television program of the period. Every NCAA Championship team had received an invitation to the television program up to that time. A year after this historic game (1967) the Southeastern Conference would begin recruiting black players and the world would be changed forever. In 1969 Kentucky’s first black player arrived on the campus, schools throughout the Deep South began recruiting black players and the system changed. Hollywood would later tell the story for a younger generation in the 2006 movie Glory Road.
Where did that come from?
Life is often about confusion especially what other folks say or do; this is certainly one of them. Cavs owner Dan Gilbert dropped the mic on us; “CLE, Lets put those silly rumors to rest: I will never move the Cleveland Cavaliers out of Cleveland. Period. And that’s unconditional. @cavs” read the tweet. Could the rumors have begun due to citizens rejecting the Quicken Loans renovation?
On the other hand it’s possible the owner started the rumor? For all the success the Cavs have experienced on the court the front office appears somewhat disorganized and confused. The Cavs could be headed to Seattle or somewhere else however I seriously doubt it. For now I guess we must wait for further develops on this story.
I could care less
LaVar Ball rises early in the morning and decides; “What outlandish thing can I do today to generate publicity for me and BBB?” LaVar appears to believes “What I do and what I say I could care less what the public thinks.“ I’ve written several stories when I first began publishing Words eye View and I ripped the NCAA for some of the organizations antiquated decisions. This one is easy although we have a couple of years before a judgment must be rendered. .
The elder Ball in his wisdom has decided to produce a signature shoe for his youngest son Melo. Placing his name on a shoe on the surface doesn’t sound that harmful except to the NCAA. The organization that must determine the youngsters’ eligibility might say the decision will affect his son’s eligibility. I read a letter from a fan defending this move. “The money is going in LaVar’s pocket not Melo.” That’s certainly true however it looks improper but what does LaVar care. It’s all about the publicity and people like me writing about him and the shoes.
Home run king
Giancarlo Stanton has 51 home runs and 110 runs batted in (as this is written); he’s on the road to 60 plus homers for the Miami Marlins. Hey Larry you writing about a baseball player I thought Words eye view was strictly a basketball blog. Hold on a minute our emphasis remains basketball however I read an article and found out the 6-6 250 pound Stanton played round ball in high school. The publication indicated he “was like Charles Barkley on the basketball court.“
That statement makes it easy to understand how Stanton managed to average double-digits in rebounds his sophomore year of high school. In addition he was a standout football player too, Stanton might have been one of the few athletes talented enough to play which ever sport he desired at a high skill level. Stanton decided in favor of baseball which is a loss for football and basketball fans everywhere.
It was an epic championship game
Texas Western (now University of Texas-El Paseo) faced Kentucky for the 1966 NCAA Championship. This NCAA Championship game would be far different from those previously because it effectively changed the basketball landscape. The Kentucky Wildcats (27-1 going into the game) would face the unlikely Texas Western Miners for the championship. Both teams had coaches who later would be elected to the hall of fame, Adolph Rupp certainly was well know, Don Haskins at Texas Western would gain notoriety after the game and into the future. For the first time the game found an all-white Kentucky team facing Texas Western with 5 black starters, today for any team with an all-black lineup on the floor is not that unusual. In 1966 this certainly was not the norm even for schools with white and black athletes.
Texas Western was the victor over the Kentucky Wildcats 72-65 and basketball was changed forever. The world did not change immediately history tends to move much slower however it did change. Texas Western was not invited to The Ed Sullivan Show a popular television program of the period. Every NCAA Championship team had received an invitation to the television program up to that time. A year after this historic game (1967) the Southeastern Conference would begin recruiting black players and the world would be changed forever. In 1969 Kentucky’s first black player arrived on the campus, schools throughout the Deep South began recruiting black players and the system changed. Hollywood would later tell the story for a younger generation in the 2006 movie Glory Road.
Friday, September 1, 2017
Basketball from a fans perspective
Guilty
The tampering case involving the Lakers and Paul George is over; the Lakers were fined $500,000 for illegally contacting George’s agent. This turns out to be Interesting in that it was Laker GM Rob Pelinka and not Magic Johnson who turned out to be the guilty party. The initial report indicated Johnson was supposed to be the culprit based on a statement he made on a late night television program.
We lose another
Rollie Massimino died at the age of 82; Massimino coached at a number of schools across the nation however one stint stands out above the others. While coaching Villanova his team upset defending Champion Georgetown in the 1985 NCAA Championship. It’s said he was a coach who just loved to coach his last job serving as head coach at an NAIA school. I thought he was already in the Naismith Hall of Fame however I discovered he just missed the vote count earlier this year. R.I.P coach one of the best and another who loved the game.
Middle of the road
The bad teams (Lakers, Sixers, Nets and Suns) are often a subject of discussion. On the other end the spectrum are the Warriors, Cavs, Spurs and Celtics who dominate the conversation on the NBA’s good teams. How about middle of the road teams, they often finish above .500 but have little chance of winning a championship. You know them as the Magic, Bucks, Pistons, Pacers and Jazz. There are probably others I failed to mention but you get the idea, these are the good but not good enough teams, they fail to move into the upper echelon of NBA teams allowing them to compete for an NBA Championship.
“Trust the process”
The Sixers remain in the business of assembling draft choices. Remember all the complaints about the Sixers drafting talent without any plan to improve. All that’s out the window now since the team is on the cusp of becoming competitive once again. The rebuild will continue in 2018, the Sixers have one first round choice and three in the second round.
Second round choices don’t always pan out however it’s never an issue to have too many draft picks; in addition there are always trade possibilities. Former GM Sam Henke caught a great deal of grief over the team compiling draft choices however the Sixers might have just about turned the corner toward success. Provided all the bodies are able to play at the same time Sixer fans should expect slight improvement over last season.
Bits n Pieces
As we move some two months from NBA arena’s open how about an update regarding the arenas under construction. The Pistons closed the door on the Palace at Auburn Hills last spring; they will begin play in Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit in October. As for the yet unnamed arena in Milwaukee the Bucks will begin play there in 2018, they will play one more season in the Bradley Center. The Chase Center in San Francisco will open in the fall of 2019, its interesting it was probably the first one planned and will be the last opening much of the delay due to lawsuits.
The best ever, that’s one report I’ve read regarding Luka Doncic. Never hear of him you say, he’s a 6-7 215 pound shooting guard from Slovenia and he plays for Real Madrid in the Euro League. USA Today claims he is one of the five players who could be the top pick in the 2018 draft. As I’ve often stated YouTube highlights don’t provide proof Doncic or anyone else for that matter can play basketball at a high skill level. You and I must depend on NBA scouts who claim Doncic has the ability to play at the NBA level.
As for the 2018 Rookie of the Year Vegas sees the results differently. One betting parlor in Las Vegas picked the Lakers Lonzo Ball, another chose the Sixers Ben Simmons. Simmons qualifies since he missed all of last season due to injury. For the first time in forever we have a deep, deep rookie class, don’t be surprised someone other than Ball and Simmons could actually be selected ROY.
Guilty
The tampering case involving the Lakers and Paul George is over; the Lakers were fined $500,000 for illegally contacting George’s agent. This turns out to be Interesting in that it was Laker GM Rob Pelinka and not Magic Johnson who turned out to be the guilty party. The initial report indicated Johnson was supposed to be the culprit based on a statement he made on a late night television program.
We lose another
Rollie Massimino died at the age of 82; Massimino coached at a number of schools across the nation however one stint stands out above the others. While coaching Villanova his team upset defending Champion Georgetown in the 1985 NCAA Championship. It’s said he was a coach who just loved to coach his last job serving as head coach at an NAIA school. I thought he was already in the Naismith Hall of Fame however I discovered he just missed the vote count earlier this year. R.I.P coach one of the best and another who loved the game.
Middle of the road
The bad teams (Lakers, Sixers, Nets and Suns) are often a subject of discussion. On the other end the spectrum are the Warriors, Cavs, Spurs and Celtics who dominate the conversation on the NBA’s good teams. How about middle of the road teams, they often finish above .500 but have little chance of winning a championship. You know them as the Magic, Bucks, Pistons, Pacers and Jazz. There are probably others I failed to mention but you get the idea, these are the good but not good enough teams, they fail to move into the upper echelon of NBA teams allowing them to compete for an NBA Championship.
“Trust the process”
The Sixers remain in the business of assembling draft choices. Remember all the complaints about the Sixers drafting talent without any plan to improve. All that’s out the window now since the team is on the cusp of becoming competitive once again. The rebuild will continue in 2018, the Sixers have one first round choice and three in the second round.
Second round choices don’t always pan out however it’s never an issue to have too many draft picks; in addition there are always trade possibilities. Former GM Sam Henke caught a great deal of grief over the team compiling draft choices however the Sixers might have just about turned the corner toward success. Provided all the bodies are able to play at the same time Sixer fans should expect slight improvement over last season.
Bits n Pieces
As we move some two months from NBA arena’s open how about an update regarding the arenas under construction. The Pistons closed the door on the Palace at Auburn Hills last spring; they will begin play in Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit in October. As for the yet unnamed arena in Milwaukee the Bucks will begin play there in 2018, they will play one more season in the Bradley Center. The Chase Center in San Francisco will open in the fall of 2019, its interesting it was probably the first one planned and will be the last opening much of the delay due to lawsuits.
The best ever, that’s one report I’ve read regarding Luka Doncic. Never hear of him you say, he’s a 6-7 215 pound shooting guard from Slovenia and he plays for Real Madrid in the Euro League. USA Today claims he is one of the five players who could be the top pick in the 2018 draft. As I’ve often stated YouTube highlights don’t provide proof Doncic or anyone else for that matter can play basketball at a high skill level. You and I must depend on NBA scouts who claim Doncic has the ability to play at the NBA level.
As for the 2018 Rookie of the Year Vegas sees the results differently. One betting parlor in Las Vegas picked the Lakers Lonzo Ball, another chose the Sixers Ben Simmons. Simmons qualifies since he missed all of last season due to injury. For the first time in forever we have a deep, deep rookie class, don’t be surprised someone other than Ball and Simmons could actually be selected ROY.
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