Basketball from a fan’s perspective

Bits and Pieces

Wolves owner Glen Taylor is interested in selling the team.  It appears his only condition is the team remains in the Twin Cities.  If you remember at one time Kevin Garnett was reported to be interested in owning an NBA team.  As for the Wolves it appears that ship has sailed since Garnett appears to want nothing to do with Taylor.  Garnett probably still desires to become an owner but purchasing it from Taylor is a different matter.  

The NBA Draft lottery has been moved from August 25 to August 20.  The date for the draft itself remains the same, October 16.  August 3 is the last date for college players to remove their name from the draft.  As for the location of the draft it will be held in the Barclays Center Brooklyn New York.   

New York City Dude 

Chris Mullen was a rarity, a New York City guy who remained at home.  Mullin first attended Power Memorial Lew Alcindor’s former school, he transferred to Xaverian High School.  After graduation (1981) Mullin chose to remain at home attending St. John’s University over several school choices.  The talented Mullin was All Big East three seasons while attending at St. John’s, in 1985 Golden State made him the 7^th pick in the first round.  Mullin would play for the Warriors until 1997.  Matched with Tim Hardaway, Mitch Richmond along with Chris this high scoring trio would be nicknamed Run TMC. 

The 1996-97 season saw Mullin traded to the Pacers where he continued to play outstanding basketball, he returned to the Warriors for his final season as an active player.  Mullin’s held several roles since his playing days, front office for the Warriors and Kings.  He would become an analyst for ESPN briefly, March 2015 witnessed a return to New York City to serve as head coach of St. John’s.  Although his won-loss record was satisfactory he resigned the position in April 2019.  Currently Mullin returned to the Bay Area and serves as an analyst for Warrior games.  This is but a brief portion of the career of one of the many talented basketball players produced by New York City.

I’ve got a secret 

This has nothing to do with the television quiz show of the 1950’s.  On second thought maybe it is not much of a secret for many around the Philadelphia metro just the balance of us.  Coaching aside notice I did not restrict myself by separating Jay Wright from NBA coaches I said the best dressed---period.  I’m trying to imagine who might come nearest to Wright and I’m drawing a complete blank.

Now we know what a number of folks know in Philadelphia, no off the rack suits for Wright his suits are custom tailored.  Wright’s suits range in price from $300 to $500 which is economical for a custom-made suit.  This cannot be confirmed but it is reported the coach has two closets in his bedroom one for his suits and one for shoes, slacks, and shirts. I’ve already noted it but perhaps we should pay as much attention to the sartorial style of Wright as his X’s and O’ philosophy.  Wright is a winner as denoted with two NCAA Championships on his resume.  

Bird watching

We read, “If you can back it up it ain’t trash talking.”  That was the case for the Celtics Larry Bird, okay he became a Pacer but that was after his play on the court.  His contemporaries claim he was one of the best at talking trash against the opposition.  His basketball journey began at the University of Indiana and many believe there was an issue with the fiery Coach Bobby Knight.  That was not the case, small town Bird was more comfortable playing at Indiana State.  He blossomed at the school and here is another bit of information most are unaware.  Legendary former coach and general manager Red Auerbach drafted Bird although the Indiana sharpshooter had another year remaining in college. 

Bird’s senior year was outstanding as the Sycamores were undefeated leading up to the NCAA Championship.  Bird would face off against Michigan State’s Magic Johnson the first of several later meetings in the NBA.  The 1979 championship would witness Magic’s team beating Indiana State but finished the season with 33 wins and that single loss.  As for the NBA Bird won Rookie of the Year honors over Magic Johnson the following year.  In 1997 he surprised many by returning to his native Indiana and becoming head coach of the Pacers.  Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame, member 50^th Anniversary All-Time NBA Team, Olympic Gold Medal winner, his number 33 retired by the Celtics and Indiana State.  Those are but a few of the honors for "The Hick from French Lick" one of the NBA's All-Time greats.   

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

There are 8

By late July, every top high school prospect has chosen an institution of higher education, this year is quite different for several reasons.  Certainly, at the top of the list is COVID-19 which curtailed state championships and AAU summer basketball.  Rivals Class of 2020 list 150 high school players across the nation, these are not necessarily the best in the nation, but they are as far as Rivals is concerned.  Of the 150 prospects 8 chose a professional path rather than college.  Moving into the professional ranks is not that unusual however this might be the largest number to ever decide in favor of a pro career.   

Less than a week away

We are 10 days (as this is written) from the re-start of the NBA season.  Utah at New Orleans and the late game has the Clippers at the Lakers, of course all will be played in Orlando.  What type of play should we expect, I can only speak for myself I am ready regardless of the level of play?   

The first time

This is somewhat connected to the above account, for the first time in forever.  The NBA Draft will be held Tuesday August 25 which is about a month from now.  Although no details other than the date have been announced we guess it will be a virtual draft like one conducted by the NFL earlier in the spring.  Unless there is a drastic change over the next four weeks, we are still unclear who the top pick might be.  Who is picked number one is only important to that team and athlete?  

In previous years we had a clue who the top pick might be, in 2020 it is a roll of the dice.  At least two mock draft sites have Georgia’s Anthony Edwards as the top pick.  As for another, cbssports.com NBA page indicates the choice might be James Wiseman University of Memphis Big Man.  Despite this information I am not exactly sure this is the case; I believe it depends on which team is up first in the lottery.  Unlike the NFL draft held in April the NBA Draft will be conducted while teams are completing the seasons and prior to the playoffs.   

Like father not always like son

Bronny James is on the basketball player just like dad LeBron.  Will he taste success at the same level of his famous father?  That question is unanswered at this point but check out others in the recent past.  Both Marcus and Jeffrey Jordan managed college basketball careers, neither was able to reach the height of Father Michael. 

Much earlier we looked at Rick Barry’s offspring Scooter, Drew, and Jon all except Scooter experienced NBA life although nowhere close to their dad.  Youngest son Canyon Barry is currently playing in the G-League, does he have the NBA in his future?  Perhaps the best move might be that made by Grant Hill and Patrick Mahomes, Hill is retired now however Mahomes is active.  Neither son took of the sport of their fathers, Grant’s father was an NFL running back and Patrick’s father a major league pitcher.   

Bits n Pieces

The late George Mikan wore jersey number 99 for the Minneapolis Lakers, he was the first legitimate good Big Man in the NBA.  Checking NBA rosters, I discovered there is another jersey wearing 99 on the scene, 7-foot 5 inch 311-pound Tacko Fall is sporting the number.  Tacko remains a work in progress although it is interesting the Celtics kept him on a 2-way contract.  This contract allowed him to spend time playing on their G-League team as well as the Celtics.   

St. Thomas a Division III program now holds a unique distinction.  The NCAA approved the move of this former Division III school to compete in Division I, they become the first school in modern history to move this type of move.  The St. Paul (MN) school was the 2011 and 2016 NCAA Champions in Division III, they will join the Summit League in the fall.  

Mavs owner Mark Cuban tells Dan Snyder owner of the NFL Washington team to “man-up.”  Recently it was reported there were instances of sexual harassment by members of the NFL franchise.  Cuban should know, he went through a similar situation with his Mavs in 2018.  It was discovered there was widespread harassment within the Mavs.  Once given the information Cuban issued a public apology and contributed $10 million to women’s organizations.  He went about making internal changes regarding reporting these types of incidents. 

It was mentioned previously St Louis had an NBA to prior to the arrival of the Hawks.  The St. Louis Bombers folded in 1950 however they were an original member of the BAA (1946) and arrived in the NBA with the merger between the BAA and NBL.  The only player who might have a recognizable name was “Easy” Ed McCauley.  McCauley had the distinction of playing for both St. Louis teams, the Bombers and later in his career a trade brought him to the Hawks.  In 1960 McCauley was enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

No requirement to pile on

Football defense can be penalized for piling on a down player.  That is the case here, after reading an indictment of NCAA President Mark Emmert on Yahoo Sports I cannot add anything whether you have read the article or not.  The NCAA as you are aware is accountable for all sports including our game basketball.  Leadership has been lacking from his office for years, expect no significant change until after 2023.  Emmert’s contract expires in 2023 and if the NCAA extends his contract well…….  There is a revolution brewing, do not be shocked if the Power 5 Conferences break away and form their own governing body.   

The Big Fundamental

We are unsure of the accuracy; it is believed Shaq hung the nickname “The Big Fundamental” on Tim Duncan.  6-foot 11-inch Timmy spent his 19-year NBA career with the Spurs after being drafted number one in 1997.  By my definition nothing Duncan did on the court was flashy except for the fact he clearly demonstrated he was a winner.  Proof, it is still a team sport however five NBA Championship rings offer the proof of his value to the Spurs. 

Duncan grew up in the Virgin Islands before he arrived at Wake Forest.  Duncan first stood out athletically in high school as a championship swimmer rather than on the basketball court.  He was Rookie of the Year which provided us early evidence of his eventual NBA stardom.  Duncan was 3x Finals MVP, twice NBA MVP and was an NBA All Team performer 15 of his 19 years in the NBA.  With no surprise his jersey number 21 been retired by the Spurs.  In 2019 surprising many he accepted a role as assistant coach on the Spurs.   

Rookie of the Year

Few persons reading this might be familiar with the first NBA Rookie of the Year.  The honor was not awarded until 1953, Don Meineke of the Fort Wayne Pistons was given the honor.  Meineke experienced a rather brief career retiring as a member of the Cincinnati Royals in 1958.  Several of the other names read as Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame members while others await their HOF honor, check these names:

Elgin Baylor 1959  

Wilt Chamberlain 1960

Oscar Robertson 1961

Rick Barry 1966

Lew Alcindor 1970

Larry Bird 1980

Michael Jordan 1985

Shaquille O’Neal 1993

Tim Duncan 1998

LeBron James 2004

There are other names missing from the list which might surprise readers, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and Dirk Nowitzki as examples.  Magic contended with Larry Bird for the honor, as for Kobe and Dirk they played little in their rookie seasons.  Other names after distinguishing themselves in their rookie season reversed course and did not continue the play that saw them awarded Rookie of the Year.  It should be of note 1953 represented the first “official” year of the award.  “Prior to the 1951-53 season, the Rookie of the Year was selected by newspaper writers, however, the NBA does not officially recognize these players as winners.” *

*Wikipedia 

The Spencer Haywood Rule

Most reading this might be unfamiliar with Spencer Haywood, they have no idea how much he impacted today’s game.  We digress a bit here to provide background to the Haywood story.  Wilt Chamberlain left Kansas after his junior year; he could not play in the NBA at the time.  NBA players were not permitted in the league until four years after their high school class had graduated.  Chamberlain spent his “senior year” as a member of the Harlem Globetrotters prior to beginning his NBA career.  As for his professional career Haywood cast his fate with the ABA Denver Rockets, in 1970 he left them for the NBA Sonics. 

At that point Haywood would change the basketball landscape, not alone of course but his actions forced a landmark modification in the rules.  Then Sonics owner Sam Schulman was determined he would fight the NBA over its rule, and he did.  Schulman filed an anti-trust lawsuit against the NBA which made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court.  The court ruled in the Haywood and Sonics favor.  Of course, this ruling would pave the way for the NBA to begin accepting high school players at that period.  It is not only high school, consider Michael Jordan left North Carolina after his junior year.  The Spencer Haywood Rule is not so named but it should be.  Just research the number of past and present NBA players who were able to utilize a rule directly impacted by Haywood. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

Baltimore had the Bullets twice?

Charlotte and Baltimore both share a unique story, on separate occasions they had two separate teams with the same name.  In this account our focus is on Baltimore and the name Bullets.  The original Baltimore Bullets first began play in 1944 and lasted to 1947 in an earlier incarnation of the American Basketball League.  In 1947 these Bullets would become a Basketball Association of America team; the BAA would later merge with the NBL after a 3-year battle over players and fans. 

The two leagues would merge in 1949 becoming today’s National Basketball Association.  The Bullets remained playing in Baltimore until 1955, that Bullet franchise would go out of business after beginning the season with a 3-11 record.  Keep in the mind many of the NBA of that era operated on shoestring budgets.  Their situation was not aided in that the Bullets were consistent losers; the 1947-48 season was the last winning team the city experienced.  Baltimore would remain without NBA basketball until the 1963 season.  The Chicago Packers left the city for Baltimore and were re-born as the Bullets.   

Junior college basketball 

Often there are athletes who attend junior colleges after high school, most often they attend a community or junior college to raise their GPA.  Often, it is more than grades holding back an athlete, sometimes its skill.   The youngster shows promise but there are “holes” in their game a year or two in junior college can sometimes be beneficial to continued development.  They might wind up a Division I or II program somewhere in the nation with the NBA in their future.  Bob McAdoo former player is in the Naismith and College Basketball Hall of Fame.  Prior to displaying his skill at North Carolina and later the NBA it began at Vincennes Junior College in Indiana.   

McAdoo was enrolled there from 1969-71.  Also, from the junior college ranks Dennis Rodman, Naismith Hall of Famer Rodman begin his basketball journey at Cook County Community College now known as North Central Texas College.  As for the present Wolves guard/forward Jimmy Butler begin his ascension to the NBA from Tyler Junior College in Tyler Texas.  Cavs forward Jae Crowder played at Howard College a two-year community college in Big Spring Texas.  There are others not mentioned but the point is this, it does not matter where your journey begins the key is where it ends. 

What the heck is a Billiken? 
I am pleased you asked the question; I can provide the answer to your question.  A billiken is the mascot for Saint Louis University, how this came about is interesting, the information below was acquired from the school’s website slued. It is interesting in a manner of speaking SLU along with University of Missouri Kansas City receive little if any national media hype although both are Division I programs.     

“The billiken is a mythical good-luck figure who represents things as they ought to be, before he was Saint Louis University’s mascot, he was a national sensation, a figure who was reproduced as dolls, marshmallow candies, metal banks, hatpins, pickle forks, belt buckles, auto-hood ornaments, salt and pepper shakers and more.”* 

As for the basketball team the Billikens have played basketball beginning in the 1914-16 season.  Currently the school is a member of the Atlantic 10 Conference, from 1937-1974 SLU was in the Missouri Valley Conference.  After the Billikens suffered several subpar years Coach Travis Ford has them playing competitive basketball again.  If not for the pandemic their 23-8 record would have secured their second consecutive NCAA appearance.   

*Wikipedia

The dimensional makeup of an NBA player

With our look at talent we often overlook a vital area, scouts and front office personnel do not, but we do.  The reference is a player’s wingspan and his handspan with extended fingers. I discovered Rajon Rondo and Yao Ming share a common basketball trait.  I know what you are thinking what has a 6-foot 1-inch guard and 7 foot 6-inch center have in common besides the fact both have played in the NBA.  Each has the same handspan, fingers extended a whopping 10 inches.  How about additional numbers, Julius Erving stands 6 foot 7 inches, Dr. J. has a 7-foot 2-inch wingspan and his handspan is also 10 inches. 

Yao Ming nearly a foot taller only exceeds the reach of the good doctor by 3 inches, Dr. J. also had a 10-inch handspan the same as Rondo and Yao.  Check out YouTube video of Dr. J. and you will note his ability to hold the basketball in the same manner as a grapefruit as he would glide toward the basket on one of his many amazing thrilling dunks.  We could check several others; Wilt Chamberlain had a 7-foot 8-inch wingspan with a 9.5-inch handspan.  Shaquille O’Neal was 7-foot 7-inch wing and 10.25-inch handspan.  Finally, the legendary Connie Hawkins stood 6 foot 8 inches but had a 10.5 handspan and 7.3 wingspan.  Hawk could soar as well, his dunks were just as amazing as Dr. J.  There were others but you get the general idea, gigantic wingspan and handspan aided these athletes greatly. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

A Kid from Coney Island

Stephon Marbury arrived in the NBA from Coney Island New York, he would attend Georgia Tech and then declare for the 1996 NBA Draft.  He was made the 4^th pick by the Bucks and a draft night trade sent him to Minnesota rather than Milwaukee.  The Wolves should have been a perfect landing spot with his buddy Kevin Garnett in place.  After gaining success two factors appeared to cause a rift, money, and snow.  Garnett was able to sign a max contract, the following season the NBA Labor Relations changed, Marbury was paid but nowhere near what he thought he should have been paid. 

It snows in New York City as well as Minnesota but with no family in the Twin Cities it became a place of dread.  After a series of trades Marbury found himself without an NBA job, next stop China and a revival of his basketball career.  From 2010-2018 he would play successfully for several teams in China, he now serves as head coach of the Beijing Royal Fighters.  Stephon Marbury, one of the most talented players to emerge from New York City.  It was not the NBA, but his basketball career was renewed while planning in China, if you have Netflix check it out for yourself.  

“Every fit is not a good fit” 

We might ask the question what occurred at Kansas for Quentin Grimes?  The former Texas Mr. Basketball and McDonald’s All American in 2019 headed to Kansas to further develop his basketball talent.  Grimes freshman year proved uneventful in that he averaged a mere 8.4 points while shooting .384 from the floor.  Near the end of his freshman season Grimes would submit his name for the 2019 NBA Draft but withdraw his name later.

Grimes would transfer to the University of Houston to play for Coach Kelvin Sampson. Rather than sit out the season Grimes was granted eligibility immediately and was inserted into the Cougars lineup by the coach.  The 6-5 shooting guard finished the season scoring 12.1 points while raising his shooting to .443 while being praised as the best defender on the team.  The elder Grimes said this about his son, “Every fit is not a good fit”, without registering any complaints about Bill Self and the Kansas coaching staff.   

They share a border too
I have lamented the loss of the Kansas-Missouri rivalry with the SEC move by the Tigers. For those who might be unfamiliar with the geography Kansas and Missouri share a common border, the rivalry has been renewed beginning this winter.  Missouri also shares a border with several others including the State of Arkansas. Arkansas and Mizzou have played one another over the years in football and basketball however until recently not in the same conference. 

Arkansas was a member of the defunct Southwest Conference for 76 years the only non-Texas school, in 1990 Arkansas became a member of the Southeastern Conference. Mizzou had been a founding member of the conference which would eventually become the Big 12, Mizzou made its move to the SEC in 2012. The “Battle Line Trophy” has been implemented; this is a traveling trophy in football awarded to the winning school.  As for basketball there might not yet be a basketball equivalent of the Battle Line Trophy however a natural rivalry is already in existence between the two border schools.  The border, Missouri’s southern and Arkansas’s northern border which should be a natural rivalry.   

“Where in the world is Carmen San Diego”?

This ‘90’s PBS television program was initiated due to America’s limited knowledge of geography.  It was said at the time “one in four could not locate the Soviet Union or the Pacific Ocean.”  Our title is rephrased to “Where in the world is Markieff Morris.”  The twin was signed February 23 but saw limited action due to the season shut down early.  Avery Bradley was missing but Laker Nation was aware of his decision, as for Morris that might be a slightly different story.  He is not in Orlando as this is written but it appears Laker management is not upset, perhaps they know something we do not.

Bells

Walt Bellamy has been profiled in the past; I read a recent account reminding us of his basketball prowess.  Bells as he was nicknamed stood 6 foot 11 and weighed 225 pounds and was an imposing figure on both offense and defense.  Bells was an All-American at Indiana at the time he was drafted as the first pick in the 1961 NBA Draft.  His team the Chicago Packers who became the Zephyrs, in year three the team moved to Baltimore (Bullets). 

The numbers prove why he was rookie of the year, 31 points and 19 rebounds a game placed Bells among NBA best of that era.  Despite experiencing a Hall of Fame career, he was never able to duplicate his rookie of the year numbers.  Despite hidden in the background so to speak Bells was honored twice by the Naismith Hall of Fame.  He was inducted for his NBA career and 1960 Olympic team membership.  Once the College Basketball Hall of Fame opened, he was honored once again with a 2006 selection.  Bells died in 2013 at the age of 74, Walt Bellamy a name from basketballs rich past we all should know. 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

The earth is moving beneath our feet

Jonathan Kuminga is rated the number three prospect in the Class of 2020 by Rivals.com.  Duke, Kentucky, LSU, and others were on Kuminga’s list of school choices, this 6-foot 8 inch small forward decided instead to head for the G-League and a pro career.  As this is written we are unsure if Kuminga will be a member of the Elite Team.  “I see my potential as an NBA player, and with the G League, they'll help me a lot more than college," Kuminga told The Athletic. "They'll help me off and on the court and to reach my goal to be the No. 1 draft [pick] in 2021. The G League will help me more than how college was going to help me on being the player I want to be right now and going pro."”  Rest assured college coaches are not pleased with this continuing drip, drip, drip as high profile talent continue to go pro rather than one and done in college. 

*The Athletic

His name is likely missing 

You and your friends are discussing the best college coaches of the day.  The list is compiled, Coach K.’s name is mentioned so is John Calipari.  Others might name Roy Williams or Bill Self, oh do not forget Jay Wright.  There are several others we might add but few mention the name Mark Few.  We could venture a time zone issue; Gonzaga is in Washington Pacific Standard Time.  Gonzaga weeknight games begin at 9:00 or 10:00 p.m. on the east coast.  Depending on your work schedule you could be into REM sleep before the game is over. 

All that is needed is to check out the coaches won-loss record.  Few’s been head man at the school since 1999, in that time his Bulldog teams have won 599 games losing only 124 for a sparkling .828 winning percentage.  In the NCAA Tournament his teams have won 31 and lost 20, he is 45-5 in WCC Tournament.  Few has not won an NCAA Championship, perhaps that has been the reason most fans (outside of Gonzaga) would mention his name.  Despite this fact Few belongs in any conversation regarding the best active college coaches. 

Exit stage left, enter stage right

James Wiseman played few minutes for Penny Hardaway at Memphis.  You remember the story; the NCAA suspended the 7-foot prospect 12-games and Wiseman decided, he would leave school and enter the NBA Draft rather than sit out a suspension.  Likely Wiseman was going to be a one and done commit anyway.  Memphis did not see much of him in action so exit stage left for Wiseman and enter stage right Moussa Cisse.  Cisse’s measurements are almost comparable to those of Wiseman, 7 feet tall 210 pounds.  He is a Rivals 5-star prospect and the number 13 prospect in the Class of 2020.  Memphis basketball should continue to play exciting and winning basketball under Coach Penny.

It is not even close   

Michael Jordan’s been retired since 2003, despite this fact his $130 million shoe earnings exceed those of LeBron James in second place with $32 million annually in sales.  As for the others 3 through 10 are listed below:     

Kevin Durant $25 million

Steph Curry $20 million

Kobe Bryant $16 million

Zion Williamson $15 million

James Harden $14 million

Dwyane Wade $12 million

Russell Westbrook $12 million

Kyrie Irving $11 million

*thesource.com Feb 26, 2020

How to….
Be informative in describing the game but do not talk too much.  I do not have the answer however the shorten version of this account is the role of a basketball television analyst.  They are hired due to their expertise and ability to communicate the game to the viewer.  It has always been my belief a radio analyst requires far more verbal skills than video, it is obvious the picture.  You might not see the nuances of the game however an untrained eye can see the shot or the pass, blocked shot or TO.  It was said the late Chick Hearn simulcasting Laker games on radio and television was much more descriptive than required for television. 

It was done on purpose the action on the court had to be communicated to those in his audience listening on radio.  We have reached a stage now especially with television, the picture quality is so clear and concise we now see plays our grandfathers and fathers never witnessed.  I believe it is important for that analyst to highlight areas which they believe are critical for the viewer.  At the same time, its unimportant to talk incessantly as Jeff Van Gundy often does during games.  Do not get me wrong, I have no doubt of Van Gundy’s basketball knowledge.  For me it appears he often is on a tangent which usually has nothing to do with the game in front of us.  Now you ask, could I perform the role of an analyst?  Currently no, with training and coaching an emphatic yes.

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

Not that unusual

Kansas City’s Sprint Arena recently became T-Mobile Arena, I learned there is also a T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas too.  There also exists T-Mobile Park which is home for the baseball Mariners.  As for the multi name arenas and stadiums I thought this highly unusual until a friend reminded me of Dallas and Miami.  The Mavs building is American Airlines Center, in Miami we have the Heat playing in American Airlines Arena.  So, in the age of corporate naming rights its probably going to become more and more unusual for a corporation to have its name on a single stadium or arena.  

The Knicks need a coach

Knick fans are accustomed to waiting, they have waited for years for the Knicks to become competitive again.  What are a few more months delay in the search for a head coach?  Perhaps management is hoping to avoid what have become a revolving door as coach after coach has been fired.  As for the list of perspective coaches most are veteran names along with Mike Miller who served as interim head coach.

Kenny Atkinson

Tom Thibodeau

Mike Miller

Jeff Van Gundy

Mike Woodson

Although this list is complete there could be a surprise, a name not listed above might be the one hired. 

It’s not over until the fat lady sings

The desire was wait for a jury verdict before proceeding with the Zion Williamson story.  The short version, the Pelicans forward has been sued by his former agents.  During the proceeding this jumps out from the account the agent claimed he paid “someone” who was supposed to be part of Williamson’s family.  Williamson’s attorneys claim the documents provided the court are fake and the agent.  He now claims he was conned, he never spoke to or met Williamson or any member of the family.  This line from Alice in Wonderland certainly fits, this saga has become “Curiouser and curiouser."  

Why Florida

Your view might be different from mine and that is okay.  My wife asked me the other day, “Why is the NBA in Florida and not playing home games, covid is spiking in the state.”  I informed her the NBA was making a valiant effort to complete the 2019-20 season.  The fact Florida and more specially Orlando was chosen had to do with facilities to accommodate the number of teams.  In addition, if the games were played in Los Angeles or Las Vegas fans would be clambering for tickets.  It is planned for NBA players to remain in a “bubble” from fans.  The question if this plan works is still up in the air at this point.  

No such thing
I do not honestly believe them when it is said, "they are jinxed!" You have heard it too, earlier I mentioned the Sports Illustrated curse or jinx. Well this is a story you take at its face value. What in the world is the problem in Portland? Star guard Brandon Roy at 27 is a medical retiree, we can make the same statement about Big Man Greg Oden he never reached the heights projected for him as the 1st player picked in the 2007 draft.  Injuries kept Oden off the court for the bulk of his brief NBA career. 

The franchise has a history of drafting centers who cannot play or who are injury prone. Number one pick LaRue Martin in 1972 failed and Sam Bowie number two pick in 1984 was injury prone. It has not been all doom and gloom for this Pacific Northwest team, there were the Clyde Drexler/Kevin Porter teams of the '90's. Those Blazer teams were extraordinarily successful although never winning a championship.

Earlier with Bill Walton at center and the late Maurice Lucas at power forward they won their one and only NBA Championship in 1977. That year they faced a talented 76er team of Dr. J. and George McGinnis but won the series 4-2. The "jail blazer" era came into prominence, they went downhill after much success in the late '90's. Various Blazer players were sometimes more visible in court as much as on the court, a house cleaning was required. Once this was completed the team began turning the corner toward success, the drafting of Roy and others made the Blazers become competitive again.

Basketball from a fan’s perspective

This ain’t your father’s NBA (or NFL) 

Good luck with that, finding something else to spend your time pursuing. I read a letter the other day from an NBA fan, he was upset with the social and political stance taken by many of the players. My first thought, "This ain't your father's NBA (or NFL) for that matter." Athletes of today will continue to address political and social issues as they see a need. I have got two suggestions for my friend, ignore the stance taken and focus on the games or take up bird watching or stamp collecting.  Today’s athletes are informing Laura Ingraham she’s the one who needs to “Shut up.” 

Municipal Auditorium

Kansas City’s basketball arena opened in 1936, once Kemper (HyVee) and Sprint (T-Mobile) Arena opened the Muni witnessed fewer and fewer basketball games being played.  The venerable building has seen many giants of the game both college and NBA grace the court over those years.  At present the arena is home court for the University of MO-Kansas City.  Beginning in 1937 the arena served as host site for the NAIA since its inception, the only years missing were 1994 through 2001 when the tournament was held in Oklahoma. 

Tennessee State won 3 consecutive NAIA Championships 1957-59 in the Muni and was duplicated later by Kentucky State 1970 through 1972.  The American Basketball League Kansas City Steers called the Muni home the 1 ½ years the league was in existence.  At the time the Cincinnati Royals arrived in town and rebranded as the Kings their games were in the Muni until Sprint Center was later opened in 1974.  Prior to the NCAA moving championship games to football stadiums the Muni held the record for the most championships played in a one building. 

The triple overtime championship game in 1957 won by North Carolina over Kansas was played at the Muni.  The list of Hall of Fame players on the floor over the years read like a who’s who of college and NBA talent.  Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Wilt Chamberlain, Oscar Robertson, Tiny Archibald, Jerry Lucas, Elvin Hayes, and John Havlicek are just a few of the hundreds of names written in the annals of history of Municipal Auditorium or the Muni.  This brief look back in time omits the number of high school games played in the building over the years. 

Once upon a time

In the 1960's and '70's the Missouri Valley Conference was one of the toughest basketball conferences in the nation, it is still tough today however it is somewhat unrecognized by the national sports media. It is unrecognized until one of its schools’ "upsets" a national power team.  Valley schools of that long-ago period were the equivalent of the ACC or Big East today, the conference is now considered a mid-major conference.  Mid-major number 9 seed Northern Iowa took out the mighty Kansas Jayhawks a number 1 in the 2010 NCAA tourney? In addition to successful teams the conference has turned out several outstanding NBA players.

Yahoo Sports compiled a complete list, but I will profile just a few. Larry Bird of Indiana State, anybody ever heard of him? How about Walt "Clyde" Frazier New York Knicks legend, he would earn his defensive spurs at Southern Illinois University. Former Chicago Bulls forward Chet Walker was a 2X first team All-American at Bradley University and member of the 1963 NBA Rookie Team. Doug Collins, former NBA player and coach honed his basketball skill at Illinois State University.  These are just a few of the outstanding players produced by the Valley over its history.  Great NBA players do not all come from Power 5 conference schools.    

Help Wanted (no longer)  

Craig Robinson former Oregon State head coach and brother of Michelle Obama has a new job, he will lead the National Association of Basketball Coaches as executive director. What does the NABC do, from the website of the organization “The National Association of Basketball Coaches Foundation, Inc., was organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, and to support the charitable and education purposes of the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), a Kansas non-profit corporation.  The NABC Foundation operates the NABC Foundation Benevolent Fund, the College Basketball Experience (CBE), the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, and the annual Court of Honor Gala.”*  With its headquarters in Kansas City we guess the Robinson family would be moving to the metro area, congratulations coach. 

*nabc.com 

Basketball from a fan’s perspective  

A replacement

First it was Avery Bradley and now its Rajon Rondo, the Laker guard roster is shrinking rapidly.  Earlier Bradley announced he was remaining at home but provided no detail and would not be in Orlando to complete the season.  Then came news regarding Rondo, in practice he broke his right thumb, the Laker medical staff indicates the thumb will require surgery.   

There is a 6-8-week time frame before Rondo can return to action.  Worst case scenario Rodman would be sidelined until the first week of September.  The question becomes do the Lakers replace Rodman or attempt to make do with the remaining roster?  We shall await further developments regarding this account.  As this was being completed late word arrived from Orlando in the words of head coach Frank Vogel.  The coach stated, “I expect Rondo back for the playoffs.”         

Specialist
I have told this story previously; a friend asked me if Dennis Rodman would be elected to the Naismith Hall of Fame. I did not hesitate to answer him with an emphatic NO. I believed his value as a rebound/defender might not be Hall of Fame worthy. Of course, I was wrong Rodman was elected in the Class of 2011. There are other specialists who may be HOF material. How about Robert Horry, many are unaware Horry’s won more championship than Michael Jordan with his total of seven. He won NBA Championships with the Rockets, Lakers, and Spurs.

One of the most effective 3-point clutch shooters in championship history. Derek Fisher won three NBA Championships with the Lakers he too proved clutch at crucial times and won more than one game with a crucial 3-point basketball. Neither Horry nor Fisher scored much during their careers, Horry a reserve was never in the lineup as a starter. Fisher the starter always deferred his game to other scorers on his Laker, Warrior, Jazz and Thunder teams. In conclusion does either of these specialists or somebody I have missed become Hall of Fame candidates?

Reason #5 why I love college basketball
I love Dick Vitale, Dickey V.’s enthusiasm for the game in legendary. I know a few folk’s claim he refuses to discuss problems that exist in the sport. When questioned I have not heard him refuse to answer a question. He and Jay Bilas (whom I also like) are from different generations. Bilas will take on all comers when discussing the evils that exist within the game and especially the NCAA.
As for Vitale he claims he is going to cut-back on the number of games this season. “Diaper dandy,” “baby” and “aircraft carrier” are just a few of the terms he is personally responsible. An example of his enthusiasm, years ago I am watching a game in the family room. My wife walks through on the way to the kitchen, on hearing the animated Vitale for the first time she said; “what’s wrong with that guy?” Vitale is 75-years old now so we can understand why he might want to reduce his broadcast schedule.

The view from 30,000 feet

Makur Maker caused a seismic shock when he decided in favor of Howard University over Kentucky and several blue blood programs.  A top high school prospect choosing to attend an HBCU school, the landscape could still change in the future.  Consider this tidbit of information, it is quite a bit easier to produce a winning basketball program over football.  You could have Patrick Mahomes at quarterback but with no offensive line and decent backs and receivers well…you get the picture. 

Basketball is completely different, if a coach manages to recruit one or two talented players a team can become a juggernaut depending on the balance of starters and reserve talent.  Howard, Jackson State, Texas Southern, Alcorn State and others must recruit in the same manner as Kentucky, North Carolina, and Kansas.  No concession to the blue blood programs of the nation, one or two talented players and your program is national news. 

They were still Kings

It has been discussed the Kings were not particularly good during the 13 seasons Kansas City was home.  They finished above .500 only four times while here and the of those most games they won in any one season was 48.  Despite the poor team record and even poorer draft choices the Kansas City edition of the Kings had several outstanding players, this is my Top Five best of the best.  Leading the way is Nate ‘Tiny’ Archibald, he is in the Naismith Hall of Fame, need I say anymore.  Talking about records that will never be tied or eclipsed Archibald holds one of the records.  In the 1973 season he led the NBA in scoring (34.0) and assists (11.38).  It just so happens he might have been the first combo guard in the NBA. 

No doubt center Sam Lacey is the second best to wear a Kansas City Kings jersey. The 6-10 Lacey played tough defense on the best of centers of that period which include Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Dave Cowens and Nate Thurmond to name just a few.  Lacey was quite skillful at passing the basketball, in one season he averaged 5.7 assists leading NBA centers in that category.  Scott Wedman arrived in the NBA from Colorado, Wedman would go on to play a significant role with the Kings.  What happened, with free agency pending the Kings could not afford to keep both Wedman and Otis Birdsong so what did they do?  They allowed Wedman to leave in free agency and traded Birdsong. 

Otis Birdsong was probably the best shooting guard the University of Houston had produced up to that time.  The Kings taking Birdsong in the first round he would have four outstanding seasons prior to his trade to the Nets.  Finally, we arrive at Phil Ford an All-American point guard at North Carolina, he was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 1979.  For reasons unknown Ford (now in the College Basketball Hall of Fame) was traded to the Nets for Ray Williams.  Williams would play all of one season in a Kings jersey.  There you have it the best of the best, most left Kansas City due to managements inability to pay them.