Basketball from a fans perspective

The Big O

Basketball great Oscar Robertson is 79-years old now, despite his age he continues to follow the game that made him famous and he would become The Big O.   I mentioned on Friday the critical remarks aimed at Oklahoma’s young point guard Trae Young.  There is no doubt he’s struggled with aspects of his game, at the same time he’s certainly not as horrible as some of the words we’ve heard.  Young tweeted on Thursday Robertson telephoned offering encouraging words after his somewhat downturn in play. 

From the statement made by Young all we can gather is he was truly humbled by the telephone call from one of the greatest to ever play the game.  If I could make one statement to him it would be continuing to play your game.  Don’t pay any attention to Stephen A. Smith and others offering critical remarks on your game.  Those doing most of the complaining couldn’t come close to your skill level in their youth. 

Ill feelings still exist

Celtic jersey number 34 belonging to Paul Pierce was retired on Sunday.  In attendance at the ceremony was Doc Rivers Clippers coach, Rajon Rondo member of the Pelicans and Kevin Garnett who is retired.  Missing from the ceremony was Ray Allen who was also part of the 2008 championship team.  Allen wasn’t ill nor any of his family members, Allen was off playing golf.  Allen had “jumped” ship signing a free-agent contract with the Heat, he chose to leave the Celtics prior to the eventual breakup of the championship roster of Rondo, Garnett and Rivers.  Later Allen was quoted as stating there was much love for Pierce and the others.  Could have fooled me. 

The original Mav

Before there was Mark Cuban there was Donald Carter, Carter along with Norm Sonju were the original owners of the expansion Dallas Mavericks team born in 1980.  Carter and Sonju sold most of their interest in the team in 1996 to H. Ross Perot Jr. In 2000 ownership would change again as the Perot group sold the team to Mark Cuban who remains as owner.  As for Carter it was easy to spot him, usually seated on the front row wearing his classic cowboy hat.  Despite what might appear to be a flamboyant personality I’m unsure if I ever remember him being interviewed.  Carter retained ownership in the Mavs (4%) and could be seen at Mavs games on occasion.  Carter died February 14 at the age of 84, R.I.P. Donald Carter.   

Bits n Pieces

As most of you are aware I’m not a big-time LeBron fan.  I have no argument with his talent issue, he's the best there is currently.  The bothersome point for me is noise surrounding his potential move.  We have no idea what might occur in July even LeBron probably is unsure however this is my question.  If he intended to leave Cleveland why did he return in the first place?  Dan Gilbert might be near the top of the list as the worst owner in the NBA, there is no requirement for him to love the guy. 

Larry Nance Sr. was drafted by the Suns in 1981, he spent 7 years in Phoenix prior to a 1988 trade to the Cavs.  He would spend the balance of his career (1994) as a member of the Cleveland Cavs.  Larry Nance Jr. was drafted by the Lakers in 2015, February 2018 he was traded to the Cavs.  Father and son drafted by other teams but play for the Cavs. 

Hey NBA fans do you realize San Diego had two NBA teams at different points in time?  The “San Diego” Rockets came into existence as an expansion team in 1967.  This version of the Rockets was not very good and in 1971 they were sold for $8 million to Texas investors who moved the franchise to Houston.  Next was the former Buffalo Braves who arrived in 1978 and were reborn as the Clippers.  San Diego would remain home until 1984 when the team moved north to Los Angeles.    

If Oklahoma’s Trae Young manages to lead NCAA Division I teams in points and assists he might not be the first player.  The assist portion is what I speak of, it wasn’t until 1983-84 the NCAA began tracking assists in the same manner as scoring.  We don’t know, it’s possible an Oscar Robertson or Pete Maravich could have led Division I teams in scoring and assists in the same season.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

What do you think?

In a mock 2018 draft Mitchell Robinson’s name is listed as a Laker selection. He’s the 7-foot center who was headed to Western Kentucky then changed his mind once on campus.  Robinson left the school but later returned, he would choose a different path once again leaving school.  He announced to all within earshot he intended to prepare himself for the NBA draft. 

I’ve not seen the youngster play however indications are the 7-foot 1 inch 225-pound center is talented but extremely raw.  Thanks to the Jordan Clarkson-Larry Nance Jr. trade the Lakers have a first-round draft choice.  Should they take a chance on Robinson?  It’s your call, you are sitting in Magic Johnson’s office making the pick June 21, do you pick Robinson or someone else?

Change

Bruce Pearl is in his fourth year at Auburn, Rick Barnes is in year three at Tennessee.  As this is written Auburn and Tennessee are ahead of Mizzou in the SEC standings.  Cuonzo Martin is in his first year at Mizzou, last season they finished with 8 wins and 24 losses (2 wins and 16 losses in the SEC).  With five games remaining Mizzou has won 18 games and lost 8, they are 8 and 5 in the SEC.  Forget what I wrote on Thursday, Cuonzo Martin should be SEC Coach of the Year, in fact maybe he should receive a few national votes for the same honor.

Chill to the next episode

First it was Stephen A. Smith, then a local sports radio not selected for any there have been others.  Trae Young has fallen from the ranks of the popular with media members (or maybe they are just being annoying).  “He’s pressing, he’s turning the ball over too much”, “he’s not shooting good” are just a few of the negatives tossed his way recently.  This is the one most often mentioned: “He’s no comparison to Steph Curry.” 

Do these folks stop a moment and realize this 19-year old is Oklahoma’s OFFENSE.  Young is playing about 35 minutes a game, he’s scoring almost 30 points a game and dishes out 9.3 assists a game.  I believe that pretty much says it all, I could understand some of the critical remarks if Young was ego driven or a hot dog.  From interviews I’ve seen he appears level headed and an all-around good guy.  Why do we build up folks to turn around and tear them down?  As Dr. Dre might say these folks need to Chill to the next episode. 

Your call

Boy time really is flying, we are at NBA All-Star time, players not selected for any events are likely to use this break to rest and heal nagging injuries.  As for yours truly I indicated earlier my intentions.  I will take in as much of the events as possible but will skip viewing the game itself.  The format change (East vs West) no longer being utilized leaves me scratching my head.  Well I guess when you're an old guy change is sometimes difficult to accept.  As for you the the weekend events are your decision.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

Texas Longhorn basketball

At the time Shaka Smart was first named coach at the University of Texas I thought that’s great.  He’d made a name for himself at Virginia Commonwealth University, he was 163-56 in six years at the school.  His VCU team reached the NCAA Tournament in 5 of the 6 years Smart served as head coach.  I thought “with all the high school basketball talent in the State of Texas this was a slam-dunk hire.”  That has not been the case thus far. 

Texas has struggled in Smart’s third year at the helm, in his first year with Rick Barnes holdovers the Longhorns finished 20-13, last season it was 11-22 and so far, this season their record is 15-11.  Despite the glowing credentials at the time Smart was first hired his Longhorn team is one game over .500 in year three as this is written.  He might not be in danger of losing his job this season however the following season might be make or break.   

Stay in your lane

LaVar Ball bothers me on so many levels however I appreciate his “Stay in your lane” comment.   A number in the media believe they are Moses coming down from Mount Sinai with the 10 Commandments.  Give you an example, the other day Kevin Keitzman claimed: “I believe Bill Self recruits’ players 1 through 50 for Kansas, on the other hand Bruce Weber (Kansas State) recruits 50 and up.”  

In other words, Kansas State doesn’t recruit the same players as its in-state rival. I find that statement difficult to believe, what I believe might occur is this.  Kansas has a national and world-wide reputation, players gravitate to Lawrence because it is Kansas basketball.  How in the world is a coach going to refuse to recruit a player strictly saying: “He’s not coming here no need of making an offer?  I think guys like Keitzman truly believe in their words or they are simply intentionally provoking guys like me.   

Coach of the Year

Steven St. John of WHB 810 is correct, Bruce Pearl at Auburn will be named SEC Coach of the Year.  St. John made this statement despite the season Mizzou has experienced thus far.  As for Mizzou two players transferred, one player was suspended indefinitely and the major story.  No Michael Porter Jr. expected to lead the school into the promised land has been sidelined for the season.  January 31 Mizzou was on a 3-game losing streak and faced Alabama on the road, they stood 13-8 (3-5 SEC). 

After their win on Tuesday against number 21 Texas A&M they are 18-8 (8-5 in conference).  Mizzou will probably not finish the season streaking however they could.  Is this team comparable to some of the Duke, North Carolina or Kentucky teams in years past?  No certainly not, I said it the other day and will repeat it, Coach Cuonzo Martin has changed the culture at Mizzou Arena.  The “Doom n Gloom” that hung over the building for the last three years are no more.  Yes, the coach won’t be named SEC Coach of the Year, but he should.     

Rookie of the Year

Awhile back I don’t remember the date, at that time I pronounced Sixer Ben Simmons ROY.  I stated at one point some other rookie could come to the forefront and challenge Simmons.  In the west Donovan Mitchell of the Jazz has moved into contention, the 6-foot 3-inch shooting guard is scoring at nearly 20 points a game. 

He’s allowed Jazz fans to say: “Gordon who”, that being a reference to Gordon Hayward who left for the Celtics.  Mitchell is scoring at a 19.5-point clip versus the 16.4 of Simmons however it’s the other things Simmons brings to the table.  The 6-foot 10-inch point guard is close to 8 rebounds a game, he’s tied for 5^th in assists at 7.3.  Sorry Donovan I believe you will finish in second place behind Rookie of the Year Ben Simmons.  If I’m wrong I will return to admit my error.        

Basketball from a fans perspective

Mizzou wins, Mizzou wins

It’s 150 miles between my home and Mizzou Arena.  I’m sure those in the building heard me yelling and screaming at my television.  Final score Mizzou 62 Texas A&M 58.  It was an ugly game at times however the Tigers managed to hold on for the victory as A&M came roaring back with minutes remaining in the game.  The usual suspects were key to the victory Kassius Robertson, Jordan Barnett and Jontay Porter. 

Some guy named Jeremiah Tilmon stayed out of foul trouble for the first time in ages, he scored 14 points and registered 2 blocked shots.  Mizzou only shot 39% from the floor but A&M was even worst at 38.7%.  Again, it wasn’t pretty, but this goes on the left side (win) versus the right side (loss) of the page.  The ball wasn’t going in the basket however turnovers were a non-factor.  For the second game in succession Mizzou was able to reduce the number of turnovers, this time they only committed 9.     

He burst on the scene

At the beginning of the season perhaps only students at Park Hill High School knew the name Ochai Agbai, the 6 foot 5 inch swing man senior wasn’t listed on Rivals or any other sites.  Agbai and his family moved to Kansas City when he was in the first grade.  Scoring about 25 points a game major programs began to take notice and offers came forward including one from Kansas.  Last week verbally committed to play for Bill Self and Kansas, hope the youngster has an outstanding collegiate career. 

Bad owner(s)

This is one-sided, I am in no position of viewing the bottom line.  I have no idea the day to day decisions required of any NBA owner, at the same time I can only offer observations as a fan.  Now that Jim Buss is no longer in place the title of worst NBA owner is open.  There are several candidates who could occupy the top spot, these are just a few.

James Dolan-Knicks

Dan Gilbert-Cavs

Jerry Reinsdorf-Bulls

Robert Sarver-Suns

It’s possible I’ve omitted an owner you believe might be added, on the other hand perhaps I should have removed a name above.    

A photo

I saw a photo of Kareem Abdul Jabbar and Bill Russell, February 12^th was Russell’s 84^th birthday.  A fan wrote, “Betcha they didn’t smile when they faced each other on the court.”  The fan wasn’t aware of a crucial fact, Russell retired as a member of the Celtics in the spring of 1969.  Abdul Jabbar began his 20-year NBA career in the fall of 1969, if they faced one another it would have been in a pick-up game.  As for Wilt Chamberlain that was a different story, Abdul Jabbar and Chamberlain faced off against each other often.   

The return

I have mixed feelings regarding Michael Porter Jr., he wants to return to the court   if the medical staff gives him clearance to play.  Two issues the most serious might be injuring his back again curtailing what could be a promising NBA career.  Less serious but still an issue, he returns but the chemistry of the team is affected.  There is no doubt about Michael Porter Jr.’s potential talent however can he return and not upset Mizzou's harmony, what do you think?  

Basketball from a fans perspective

Seattle Sonics

2008 was the last season the Seattle Sonics existed, the fall of that year would see them in Oklahoma City rebranded as the Thunder.  Bet you didn’t realize there are three (3) players in the NBA who played for the team in Seattle.  I don’t mean the Thunder they actually were in Seattle, who are they? 

Kevin Durant now with the Warriors, Durant was the 2^nd pick in the first round of the 2007 draft by the Sonics and arrived in Oklahoma City when the team moved.  Nick Collison was the 12^th pick in the first round in 2003 by the Sonics, he remains with the team as a member of the Thunder to the present.  Jeff Green was the 5^th pick in the first round of the 2007 draft by the Celtics, his rights were traded to the Sonics, he’s now a member of the Cavs.     

Grad transfer 

I must admit Soren Petro WHB 810 caused me to research this account presented to you.  On his radio program he’s discussing grad transfers and says: “Kassius Robertson of Mizzou might be the best grad transfer ever.”  Okay, I’m not sure about EVER but certainly he’s the best for 2017-18 season.  I did some quick research and I think Petro might be correct, I cannot locate any other grad transfer with comparable numbers.  Back to Back SEC Player of the Week, yes I think he could be considered the best.  

Just in case

You may have witnessed Pacer highlights from Sunday and noticed the Pacers had replaced their regular jerseys with jerseys reading Hickory on the front.  What was that all about you may have asked?  It was a two-phase salute, first to the 1986 movie titled Hoosiers starring Gene Hackman.  Hackman portrayed the basketball coach of fictional Hickory High School.

The second phase, the movie was loosely based on the 1954 Indiana High School Basketball Championship.  For those who might not be aware until 1997 there existed no divisions just a single state championship.  Milan Indiana had a student enrollment of 161 students and faced Muncie Central with over 1,000 students.  Milan was the upset winner 32-30 and was crowned 1954 Indiana State High School Champion.

Don’t allow his numbers to confuse you

Mizzou’s Kevin Puryear is scoring 9.2 points per game and nearly 5 rebounds.  This is a contrast from his freshman and sophomore years, he scored at an 11.5 ppg clip and last season it was 11.8.  Despite the dip in scoring I believe he’s a better player in this his junior year.  Sidebar, as this account was completed a commercial played on my television. 

The commercial referred to the school as “MU”, it's now nicknamed Mizzou.  I remember an article years ago in the Kansas City Star stating MU was confusing in other parts of the nation.  Did the initials stand for Michigan University or Memphis University or Minnesota University? Many folks might be unsure about Mizzou, but it certainly will not be confused with the schools mentioned and perhaps several others.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

A tough game

Normally in Words eye view you are likely to read an after story regarding a game, this one is written in advance.  Tuesday evening Texas A&M visits Mizzou Arena.  In my view Mizzou might have played their worst game of the season January 20 losing to A&M 60-49.  This time the Mizzou faithful are hoping for a more favorable outcome.   

Chase Center

Construction of the Warriors new arena in San Francisco appears to be progressing smoothly.  The building at Third Street & South Street has the majority of its “skeleton” in place, steel girders are evident.  Chase Center is schedule to open for the 2019-20 NBA season and the Warriors will re-locate across the bay to the city they left in 1971.  If you live in the Bay Area and are a certain age your insight might be more informative than mine. 

The Warriors moved from Philadelphia in 1962 but never had a permanent home on the San Francisco side.  The Warriors would play in the Cow Palace, Civic Center and Oakland plus San Jose before the 1971 move to was then the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena.  This would become permanent home except for a few years whenthe arena was being renovated.  In 2006 the arena was re-named Oracle after a 10-year agreement was instituted with the Orale Corporation.   

Zip your lips 

Last week the NBA fined Magic Johnson $50,000 in case you hadn't heard. I believe all of us understand tampering and the reason behind it.  Magic was fined for making a complimentary statement about the Bucks Giannis Antetokounmpo.  This is a second slap on the wrist for Magic, in the future it might be advisable to make no future statements regarding any NBA player.   

Clipper re-build?
By the time you read this it might be more Clippers missing than those noted below.  Since last season shooting guard J.J. Redick has left in free-agency as did power forward Mbah a Moute, point guard Chris Paul was traded.  The latest of course is forward Blake Griffin, count that, four of last year’s starters are no longer members of the Clippers.  DeAndre Jordan remains the only holdover starter from last season.  

Valuable reserve Jamal Crawford is gone too, if we check out the roster on January 30 there exists a collection of talented players.  The greater question is this roster ready to compete for a playoff berth?  An NBA Championship is out of the picture at least for now.  For the past few years this Laker fan has been forced to admit the Clippers were clearly a better team.  At this point I’m not so sure, it appears the Lakers are ascending, and the Clippers are descending.  What do you think? NOTE: After discussions on a few players the Clippers made no deals.

Agree to disagree

An acquaintance would use the above term routinely.  If there was a point we didn't agree, he would always say: “We can agree to disagree.”  A point of compromise could not be reached but at the same time he respected my view and he hoped I respected his without an argument.  I’m watching Baylor-Oklahoma, Trae Young has 44 points, 9 assists but 6 turnovers. 

I thought about the uncomplimentary comments made by a local radio guy regarding Young.  It’s quite easy to sit behind a mic and offer an opinion, its far more difficult to go out and compete.  The radio guy is 50-years old, I seriously doubt he could even play a game of H O R S E with Young, but I hope you get my intent.  The radio guy is entitled to his opinion and so am I, this a rebuttal to his comment.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

Scrappy

I like the Urban Dictionary definition best for Scrappy: “seemingly small and unthreatening but shockingly able to kick your ass and anyone else’s”.  Sounds about right for a description of a Mizzou team many folks counted out, the “bump in the road” three game losing streak was offered as evidence.  With the overtime win 89-85 on Saturday against Mississippi State the Tigers have now won four games in a row, as usual we must claim team victory.  Guard Kassius Robertson led in scoring with 22 points, he was assisted by Jordan Barnett and Kevin Puryear. 

Guard Jordan Geist chipped in with 17 points off the bench, Jontay Porter in foul trouble for much of the game managed to score 10 points.  For the second game in a row the turnovers were manageable by Mizzou with only 12.  Close, close and close, they need to learn how to close out teams.  Ahead by 12 points with 1:27 remaining they allowed Mississippi State to tie the game forcing overtime.  The climate inside Mizzou Arena is changed, no longer is it a house of gloom but one of winning basketball.  

Waived

In 2009 Derrick Rose was NBA Rookie of the Year, 2011 the league’s MVP.  The entire world lay in front of the Chicago native.  At the age of 23 he might have been the youngest MVP in league history but all that has changed now, he’s been dogged over the last several years with injuries.  His hometown Bulls finally traded him to the Knicks in 2016 but that would not be his last stop.  

July of 2017, he would sign with the Cavs.  A trade deadline deal last Thursday saw Rose move to the Jazz, on Saturday the team waived him.  It’s possible a team might pick him up the Wizards are reported to be interested in signing him.  Rose is only 29-years old, but the injuries plus off-court issues may be more than an NBA team might be willing to deal with.       

We have a problem already

Channing Frye is headed to the Lakers bench no surprise there, a 3-point specialist.  As for Isaiah Thomas that’s a completely different story, the Lakers indicate Thomas will come off the bench for his first game in a Laker jersey but beyond that is a mystery.  According to the agent for Thomas his client has no desire to be a permanent resident of the bench i.e., he's a starter.   

As rich as last season

We often must wait several years to fully analyze an NBA Draft.  For the most part players drafted 1-5 usually turn out to be pretty good.  My barber accessing the 2018 draft claims at one through five are interchangeable depending on team needs.  His statement reminded me of the old Dallas Cowboys view of the draft.  They would often draft the best athlete available despite the fact they might have two or three players at the same position.

He mentioned Trae Young, Michael Porter Jr. and Mohamed Bamba just a few who could fit any teams needs.  As I wrote previously we have four months and days remaining prior to the draft.  My Lakers had no pick in the first round prior to the recent trade.  I believe they will now receive the Cavs number 25 pick, this is a deep draft and the Lakers could receive a player who will benefit them.  Jordan Clarkson who could have selected Sixth Man of the Year this season had he remained with the Lakers, he was a second-round draft pick.  

Remember

Salaries for NBA teams have risen drastically over the past few years.  Teams that once were near the top (Lakers, Knicks) are nowhere to be found.  Technically that’s just a play on words, they remain but not anywhere near the top.  The leaders for 2017-18 are:

\   1.   Warriors

    2.   Cavs

    3.   Thunder

    4.   Heat

    5.   Wizards

    Where are the Lakers and Knicks you ask, the Knicks sit in the number 19

    position while the Lakers are number 21?

Basketball from a fans perspective

Play this season

Mizzou forward Michael Porter Jr. indicates “he might return this season.”  I’m unsure what to make of this statement.  Keep in mind doctors have not given him permission to practice with the team.  We must wait and see how this story develops.   

“Damaged goods”

The number one draft pick in 2017 Markelle Fultz of the Sixers played four games and then was shut down.  His shooting had become tragic and it was discovered surgery was required.  It is now February and after a procedure he’s yet to set foot on the court.  He’s not the first rookie to miss a season, teammate Ben Simmons might be the most recent example.  Simmons is likely to win Rookie of the Year although he was drafted in 2016.  In his absence Simmons has been able to excel at the point guard the position Fultz plays.  I'm hoping the youngster can return to the court but it doesn't appear it will occur this season.  

This is going to shock you

If you live in Kansas City or St. Louis, you are going to find this far-fetched.  You might not agree with me however I believe the NBA has taken the lead over baseball, if not now it soon will.  Much later in Words eye view you are going to see a story revolving around a Forbes report, the 2018 story indicates all 30 NBA teams’ net worth now eclipses $1 billion.  Most NFL or MLB franchises still exceed that of an NBA franchise, but times are a changing.  It’s been mentioned in the past anytime an NBA team hangs out a for sale sign a few potential buyers are always present.     

Many of us might remember at the time Ewing Kaufmann died no one stepped forward to purchase the baseball Royals.  Whether it was an inside deal I don’t remember, David Glass who was already part of the franchise after locating no buyer purchased the team himself.  For us in Kansas City and St. Louis baseball will never go away, Chiefs football will likely never decline.  It’s not just me although I’m unsure if I am willing to go as far as Kareem Abdul Jabbar.  The architect of the sky-hook claims "The NBA will surpass the NFL".  As for me check out the balance of the nation, millennials are NBA fans.   

“Can’t tell the players without a program”

Above you is as a headline is the phrase once used by baseball vendors.  Of course, this goes back to the early days of baseball, this was prior to electronic scoreboards, radio and television.  Fans often had no method of determining who was on a major league baseball roster, selling programs with player names and numbers was crucial.  We are in 2018 however a list might be required for Cavs and NBA fans based on trade deadline moves by the team.  

Dwayne Wade–Heat

Isaiah Thomas/Channing Frye–Lakers

Derrick Rose/Jae Crowder–Jazz

Iman Shumpert–Kings

For an NFL roster with 53 players or a MLB roster with 25 players this might appear to be no big deal.  For an NBA roster with only 16 players moving 6 at any one time is considered quite huge.  

Basketball from a fans perspective

I’m mad!!!

This Laker fan is truly upset WITH HIS team, the deadline trade on Thursday left me with a sour taste in my mouth.  Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr. are headed east for Isaiah Thomas and Channing Frye.  Thomas is an outstanding shooter but is a liability on defense at 5 feet 9 inches.  At this stage 34-year old Channing Frye is strictly a 3-point shooting specialist.  Clarkson (Mizzou guy) has an enormous contract, as for Larry Nance Jr. his high-flying dunks were exciting, but shooting was uneven. 

The basis for the trade on the Lakers side is to clear up cap space to compete for free-agents this summer.  The upside for the Lakers both Thomas and Frye have expiring contracts.  This trade will improve the Cavs chances of winning a championship however I seriously doubt they escape the east.  They won’t be required to play the Raptors and Celtics but either can knock them out of the playoffs.  Although I’m no Cavs fan tomorrow we are going to explore the house cleaning minus the two players mentioned already.    

Part Deux

This is a continued story from yesterday between radio sports talk show host Kevin Keitzman and former television sports director Jack Harry.   Harry mentioned Coach K. is not very demonstrative hinting Mizzou’s Cuonzo Martin might be the same type of person.  Keitzman’s says: “I don’t like Coach K”, I guess that provides us where this guy's head is.  

Twin Towers

In 1970 Pembrook Burrows and Artis Gilmore playing for Jacksonville University might have become the first twin towers in basketball history, both players stood 7-feet tall and played as a tandem.  Gilmore would go on to a distinguished ABA-NBA career and would be enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame, as for Burrows he would go on to become the tallest Florida Highway Patrolman in department history. 

In 1983 the Houston Rockets would draft 7-foot 4-inch Ralph Sampson with the first pick in that year’s draft, in 1984 they drafted 7-foot Hakeem Olajuwon and formed their Twin Tower version.  A few years later another tandem would come into prominence David Robinson and Tim Duncan with the Spurs.  

It was reported David Robinson entered the naval academy as a 6-foot 6-inch plebe, he would grow to 7 feet 1 inch by his senior year far too towering for submarine duty.  The U.S. Navy allowed him to leave his Navy obligation early and in 1987 the Spurs made him their top pick.  In 1997 those Spurs would draft 7-foot Tim Duncan from Wake Forest and the Robinson-Duncan duo would began a reign of terror on NBA opponents. 

Andrew Bynum and Paul Gasol had a brief period of play while members of the Lakers.  Although neither is 7 feet tall they are close and prior to the injury they were an offensive and defensive juggernaut, the injured Boogie Cousins (6-11) and Anthony Davis (6-10).  There might have been others, these players mentioned are the only one's of note I believe.  

A coach who doesn’t want to win?

I know the headline above sounds crazy but that’s what Stephen A. Smith hinted this morning.  In this instance the discussion centered on the Super Bowl and Coach Bill Belichick.  See the coach benched a Patriots player and he never returned to the game.  In fairness I didn’t hear Smith say the coach didn’t want to win but hinted as much.  We are taught as small children when playing the sport whatever it might be the objective is to win the game.  Of course, due to circumstances we don’t always win, I must admit I turned on First Take after the discussion had begun so hopefully I’m wrong and misunderstood Smith’s view of winning. 

Basketball from a fans perspective

Lakers & Mizzou

This morning I listened to one of the local sports talk guys I like.  He knows basketball much better than any others in my opinion.  He was discussing Mizzou and several of the negatives things he saw.  I thought for a moment I can’t glance over problems with Mizzou or the Lakers.  Sometimes I might not pick up on a topic when it’s still pending i.e. Mizzou guard Terrance Phillips. 

I could provide you my opinion but its just that, the school must render the final verdict whether I agree or not.  Same for the Lakers and the problem that is LaVar Ball, he’s been a distraction (which I’ve reported from time to time) I hope my focus has not been misplaced.  I love the Lakers and Mizzou Tigers yet live in the world of reality, I will continue stories I believe impact the team be it positive or negative.  

I’m bias

After reading the above story prepare now as I must go on the offensive toward the local sports talk guy.  This was a portion of Kevin Keitzman’s discussion on Wednesday with former Channel 41 Sports Director Jack Harry.  The conversation was directed toward Mizzou basketball and I’m paraphrasing just a portion of the dialogue. 

Keitzman: “Cuonzo Martin doesn’t look as though he’s having any fun.”

Harry: “Well we can’t be sure he’s not a (John) Calipari.”    

Two issues, first Keitzman is good he’s got psychic abilities that allow him to determine a person’s feelings.  In addition, why is it necessary for the coach to be demonstrative to please people like Keitzman?  At that point I turned the radio off and decided once again this guy is an idiot trying to provoke me....he succeeded.   

The Unicorn

Kristaps Porzingis tore his ACL after a dunk on Tuesday night, basketball.  Knicks for the balance of the season.  What does the future hold for the young man, 10 or more years ago an ACL meant the end of your career whatever the sport.  Medical advancements have allowed most athletes to resume play, its likely with rehabilitation he’ll miss a portion of the 2018-19 NBA season as well.  I’m sure several fans might be looking at potential free-agency for Porzingis, as a fan all I want is for him to return to full status.               

Road Warriors

In the same manner of Mel Gibson, the Mizzou Tigers have become “Road Warriors”.  Last week it was a victory against Arkansas, tonight it was a win against Ole Miss.  Of course, on Saturday they were victorious over Kentucky, tonight it was a 75-69 victory over Ole Miss. 

As usual it was a team victory, Kassius Robertson led the way with 27 points and was ably assisted by Kevin Puryear with 12 points and 6 rebounds.  Jontay Porter off the bench scored 18 points along with 13 rebounds and 5 blocked shots and 4 assists.  Jordan Geist scored 10 points and contributed 6 assists, turnovers were manageable with 11 total.  The team is primed for a good point guard, see why Xavier Pinson might have picked Mizzou over some other programs.   

Cleveland Cavs Cadavers

I didn’t have an opportunity to see the game only the highlights.  The Magic (at home) beat the Cavs….Cadavers 116-98.  Everybody in Northern Ohio (plus a guy in KC) are asking the same question, “What is wrong with this team?”  I heard a local guy today state the Cavs were losers in the trade, the Kyrie for Isaiah exchange of jerseys. 

He said Kyrie really forced the Cavs hand and they had to make a trade.  He went on to state as good an offensive player as Isaiah is he suffers on the defensive end.  Prior to the beginning of the season I wrote of my belief the Wade/Rose/Thomas combination would allow the team to overcome the loss of Kyrie.  There is a smell emanating from Quicken Loans Arena and that is the decaying corpse of another NBA Championship for the Cavs.   

Basketball from a fans perspective

Mizzou’s All-Time team   
Often when you attempt to compile an All-Time list you omit a few very talented players.  I excluded Larry Drew, Kim English and Kareem Rush to name just a few, no players from 1920 through 1970 was selected.  Mizzou has certainly had its share of talented athletes in the recent past.  We often use success in the NBA as the mark of accomplishment which I believe is unfair.  My list was somewhat easy I chose Mizzou athletes who were selected on All-American teams.  There are six names that come to the forefront in discussing Mizzou basketball.  See if your list matches mind. 

Willie Smith 6-foot 2-inch point guard 25.3 points a game in 1976 leading Mizzou to a Big 8 championship.  Second team All-American (1976)

Steve Stipanovich 6-foot 11-inch center, his senior year (1982-83) averaged 18.4 points a game, Big 8 player of the Year.  Second team All-American (1983)

Derrick Chievous 6-foot 7 inch forward, Mizzou’s All-Time leading scorer (2,580 points), Second team All-American (1987)

Anthony Peeler 6-foot 4-inch guard, McDonalds All-American, Third Team All-American (1990), Second Team All-American (1992)

Doug Smith 6-foot 10-inch forward, Second Team All-American (1990), Second Team All-American (1991)

Jon Sunvold 6-foot 2-inch shooting guard, Second Team All-American (1983)

“What’s in a name?”  

Juliet asks the question in Romeo and Juliet, we ask the question now.  The names of sports teams important to its fans sometimes have unusual origins.  Example; it was mentioned previously the New Orleans NBA franchise wanted a name closer identified with the city.  Pelicans replaced the Hornets which arrived with the franchise from Charlotte.  Of course, the original franchise the New Orleans Jazz moved west to become the Utah Jazz.  The owners decided to maintain the name although I doubt if there are more than a handful of nightclubs in Salt Lake City featuring jazz.  The franchise could have been named the Dukes, Crescents, Pilots, Cajuns, Blues, Deltas and Knights a contest in 1974 decided in favor of Jazz which certainly reflected New Orleans.      

As for the Sacramento Kings that story is just as interesting, born as the Rochester (NY) Royals in 1945 the team maintained the name through a move to Cincinnati in 1957.  In 1972 the owners decided to move once again, Kansas City would become the new home however a new name was required.  The baseball Royals began play in 1969 and the prevailing thought: “We can’t have two Kansas City Royals teams."  A name change once again and the NBA team was re-named "The Kings." The Wizards franchise was once known as the Bullets, at that time Baltimore was their home.  They maintained the name once the team moved into the District of Columbia area.  Much later the former owner believing bullets was not a good name, bullets promoting violence, so the name was changed to the Wizards.      

He’s made his choice      

Yuat Alok a 6-11 forward committed to TCU recently, Alok is enrolled at Chipola College in Marianna Florida 70 road miles from the capital Tallahassee.  Although Alok was born in Kenya his family moved to New Zealand when he was a youngster.  Alok is a sophomore at Chipola and was exploring a 4-year college to attend. 

It is hoped Alok can transfer his junior college skill (12.4 points per game and 7 rebounds) to the Division I level at TCU.  He’s got one skill lacking in most big men he can shot from the free-throw line to the tune of .820.  The question how did he arrive at TCU?  Thunder center Steven Adams played for Jamie Dixon while he was enrolled at Pitt, Dixon has since moved on to TCU.  Adams also from New Zealand recommended his former coach to Alok.    

I never said he couldn't play  

This morning (or last night) highlights were shown of the Pistons-Blazers game.  on ESPN's SportsCetner.  Even more noteworthy was the statement made by the host after the highlights.  He said: "The Pistons are 4-0 since Blake Griffin arrived in trade, in addition their team per game scoring has risen four or five points."  I don't know about you however I don't remember ever claiming Griffin couldn't play or wasn't talented.    

The continuing Griffin problem over the course of his NBA career has been his health, i.e. remaining injury free.  From my memory all the injuries suffered to date have occurred on the court apart from the incident with the Clipper trainer.  I'm unfamiliar with the Pistons roster beyond Griffin and Andre Drummond, do they have enough to earn a playoff berth this season?  We shall see how this plays out for the future.  

 

 .