Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

I’ve lost faith

Mizzou lost again on Tuesday night, the third lost in a row.  This time it was the Georgia Bulldogs whom they played in Athens, the score Georgia 80 Mizzou 70.  The problem for me and others Georgia was/is on the same level, there is no excuse for losing to them.  Jeremiah Tilmon was missing again with a death in his family, but it was more than him.  This Mizzou team appears to have lost their way on the road to the NCAA. 

We can begin pointing fingers at individual players, guard Mark Smith who appears incapable of tossing the ball in the ocean.  How about Xavier Pinson, over penetrating at times and the king of taking difficult or impossible shots.  Did I mention the number of unforced turnovers committed by X?  Finally, we arrive at the coach, I have been one of the biggest fans of Cuonzo Martin, but it appears he is unable to set a course correction for this sinking ship. 

I certainly am not calling for the coach to be fired let’s just say I’m extremely disappointed he appears unable to make the necessary course corrections.  After streaking toward the NCAA Tournament, the Tigers have run smack into a brick wall.  It will do no good to earn a berth and be eliminated in the first game, that’s it I’m out.  In my view it is time to shake up this team, except for Dru Smith and Jeremiah Tilmon a new lineup. 

He’s under no time limit

The countdown has begun, where is Chet Holmgren headed to college?  The 7-foot Big Man and Rivals Top prospect in the Class of 2021 has 7 schools on his list, and one might be out of the running.  Gonzaga is an incredibly good program, but the conference is not strong.  Holmgren even with limited play is likely to not be pushed much in the West Coast Conference. 

This is my belief, the best school for Holmgren to attend is either Michigan or Memphis.  Both schools are coached by former NBA athletes, they know the NBA play like the back of their hand.  They might be able to coach him in a manner none of the others might be capable.  On the other hand, if it’s Ohio State, Minnesota or somewhere else he still should be okay.  Although thin at 190 pounds Holmgren has skills lacking in several other Big Men that’s why I believe he should be okay whatever his choice.    

The brothers

It remains early but consider this thought, the Ball brothers apart from the middle son are decent talents.  Decent because they were talented enough to be drafted and earn a place on an NBA roster, is there superstar status in their future?  LaMelo is in the middle of his rookie year so he certainly has not played enough games to answer that question.  As for older brother Lonzo we can say no, that’s not intended to cast doubt on his ability. 

We can name several players who experienced lengthy NBA careers and never received All-Star prominence.  We have reached the line of reasoning; it states we can say with certainty both brothers have NBA aptitude.  If they manage to keep their heads on straight LaMelo and Lonzo will be able to earn a great deal of money over an NBA career.  Our intention is to focus on them rather than “he said” of the father, in fact the intention is to no longer mention his name in this blog going forward.  

College rivalries

Several rivalries are easy to understand, they could be in the same city (UCLA & USC) or the same state (Kansas & Kansas State).  As for others they might be a little more difficult to understand why the two schools might have become rivals.  The rivalry between Syracuse and Georgetown goes back to the days when both schools were members of the Big East Conference but no more. 

Syracuse is now in the ACC while the Hoyas remain a member of the Big East, how about New Mexico and New Mexico State?  The two schools play in different conferences but are located less than 300 road miles apart.  Kentucky and Louisville must certainly be included in this list, both programs are steeped in basketball lore. 

The same statement could be made regarding these two nearby schools Duke and North Carolina, the campuses are located less than 30 miles distance from the other.  Michigan and Michigan State are contenders for basketball talent and the allegiance of those who live in the state.  There are others omitted however there was a desire to point out those rivalries some going back to the 1900’s. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

It is what it is

Anthony Davis left the game Sunday night against the Nuggets.  It was thought to be his Achilles acting up again, he would have an MRI done to detail the setback.  On Monday afternoon it was announced AD will be sidelined for 2-3 weeks, turns out it was a calf strain rather than the Achilles.  There is not much the Lakers can do beyond plugging in a replacement for AD. 

I’ve not read of his stand-in however it’s likely to be Kyle Kuzma, Markieff Morris or LeBron James.  If it is James it’s likely Kuzma moves to small forward and Wesley Matthews plays somewhere.  Whoever the replacement might be they will be unable to produce the numbers of AD.  Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game, it is what it is, and the Lakers can only hope AD’s replacement will be able to halfway compensate for his loss.   

They wonder why I have a problem

Riddle me this, riddle me that…how does Kansas drop out of the Top 25 poll one week and return the following week?  The explanation, it’s Kansas basketball and its history…they beat then number 23 Oklahoma State at home, that was followed by TWO WINS versus Iowa State at home and on the road.  Just in case you might not be aware Iowa State is the worst team in the Big 12, currently 0-11 in the conference and 2-14 overall.    

Father time remains undefeated 

I’m sure you’ve heard this adage as often as me, “Father time remains undefeated.”  Your definition might be different from mine, simply stated an athlete’s game must evolve.  You cannot continue to play the game at the same skill level at 22 versus age 32.  That is the case for the Wizards Russell Westbrook, for years his pure athleticism allowed him to play at an accelerated level. 

An athlete must make changes even slight to account for the lessoning of athletic skill, we must factor in injuries to the equation they too can affect the game.  When the late Kobe Bryant returned after his Achilles injury, he wasn’t the same player.  He would only play two additional years before he retired the ability to will his team to a win was no longer available.  There are others who were slowed by age or injury, in some instances they adapted their game to continue play. 

We could mention Ron Harper who played for the Bulls and Lakers, he was unlike the early Ron Harper drafted by the Cavs.  Due to injury and other factors Harper’s game changed, per wikipedia.org “reinventing himself as a big perimeter defender, ball handler, and mid-range scorer.”  Back to Westbrook his issue appears to be stubbornness, he is slow to change.  His game has declined over the last 2-3 years, yet he’s made no course corrections. 

Bits n Pieces 

“All the world’s a stage” Is a line from William Shakespeare’s As You Like It spoken by Jaques in Act II Scene VII Line 139?  This certainly ain’t Shakespeare but we do indeed have several actors.  In this instance we speak of the talking heads who populate our television sets in a variety of formats.  They are loud, obnoxious, and opinionated to the point they believe their view of an issue or subject is the only one that counts.  This is the general belief, 85% or so of what we often hear is an act designed to stoke up the audience viewing the program.  No more I ain’t fallin’ for the okey doke anymore I know it’s an act.  Whatever is stated is often for effect, “How can I appear more controversial than (fill in the blank).”

Luka Garza in the NBA, certainly not exactly a shocking statement.  After all the 6-foot 11-inch 260-pound Garza has numerous positives working in his favor but let’s check out the negatives.  “His lack of mobility will be a huge liability on defense at the NBA level and he will likely get abused in the pick and roll” says nbadraftroom.com.  He’s projected as a late first round to mid second round pick.  Why Garza will be in the NBA drafted or as a free agent is his shooting.  He’s nearly 60% from the floor and 45% from the 3 line.  Despite his size he’s only average at rebounding the ball which isn’t the worst thing in the world.  The Lopez twins have made an NBA career without being skilled at rebounding the basketball.   

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Politics & basketball

The world of social issues and politics has crept into the basketball world again, Valparaiso University in Indiana has decided to change its mascot and team name.  Long known as the Crusaders and with a knight in faux armor it was time to make a switch.  The school announced the mascot and logo have been copied by hate groups, as a faith-based institution, they believed this change was necessary. 

In addition, their mascot refers to a time in the middle ages when Crusaders waged war on Muslims.  On the east coast Bluefield College in Virginia had its time in the spotlight too for the national anthem.  Earlier Bluefield forfeited a game due to players kneeling, several team members claim they will now remain in the locker room.  The plan by Bluefield members is to not lose any more games due to forfeiture.  Many reading this will be upset by the action of Valparaiso administration and Bluefield athletes however these are the times we live in. 

They won anyway

For a variety of undetermined reasons, the Lakers have started slowly.  The reference is certainly not the season thus far they have 21 wins versus 6 losses as this is written.  Anthony Davis was missing in 2 of those games but that’s no excuse for the tortoise like opening act.  Was it the competition the Lakers faced they might have taken lightly? 

They were matched against the Pistons once the Thunder twice and finally the Grizzlies, all teams with records below .500.  Why am I complaining they won anyway, certainly true but consider this fact?  It took 2 OT’s to beat the Pistons and the Thunder took them to OT in each game.  The Pistons and Thunder are just as capable on a given night as the Bucks, Clippers or Celtics.  The Lakers better be prepared for what’s in store for them whomever they face. 

Analytics

I’m unsure the time or the sport we first heard the term analytics applied. Whatever the point in time we first heard or read of it applied principally now in the sports world.  This writer has lamented the lack of development of a traditional big man in the college and NBA game of today.  For the first time we can point a finger at the culprit…you guessed it correctly it’s analytics. 

This is the belief of Tyrone Ellis head coach of the G-League Stockton Kings.  Ellis shares his thoughts and beliefs with Stephen Beslic of 1-ON-1 Basketball Network.  A link to his interview is provided below for you to view.  Larry Laker certainly makes no claim on his basketball knowhow, this I do know.  Almost everything in this universe appears cyclical, what is old becomes new again. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgPDDGK-gc8

Black History Month 

A few basketball coaches have won consecutive national championships, few have won three. Throughout more than 100 years of college basketball history only three coaches have managed to accomplish this unique deed, UCLA’s John Wooden, John McClendon Tennessee State and Lucius Mitchell Kentucky State. It should be of note Tennessee State and Kentucky State are among the many HBCU schools, historically black colleges, and universities in the country.  

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

You just don’t know

Once again, the Tigers disappoint, they have reached the stage Mizzou Nation has no clue which team shows up.  On Saturday playing Arkansas for the second time would there be a return match like the January 2^nd game.  Mizzou won that first meeting 81-68 at Fayetteville, this time they have the Razorbacks on their home court.  Final score in OT, Arkansas 86-81 but it was more that causes confusion for us. 

This team is currently ranked number 10 in the nation, on Monday the floor will drop out beneath them.  They will likely not drop out of the Top 25 wherever they land should not be a surprise.  How do you go 2 minutes and 50 seconds of OT and not score a point?  In addition, several key free-throws were missed, and Mizzou is generally a good team from the line.  Most of Mizzou Nation is like me, you just don’t know which team shows up for the game. 

Can you say re-alignment?

The NBA requires re-alignment in my view regardless of future expansion.  The Memphis Grizzlies are in the Western Conference, they should be in the east.  Memphis is in the Central Time Zone same as Chicago and Milwaukee.  The latter cities play in the Eastern Conference of the NBA.  As for Memphis the city is located on the eastern side of the Mississippi River which clearly indicates it’s in the east. 

How did this occur, simple the franchise was in Vancouver British Columbia Canada?  That made them a Western Conference team when the franchise moved it remained in the west. No argument, the Thunder are in the Western Conference but the Northwest Division?  The franchise is in the division with the Jazz, Nuggets, Wolves and Blazers.  That’s easy to explain the Seattle Sonics were once grouped with them, at the time the franchise moved to Oklahoma the location remained the same.       

Imagine this?

Recently NBA TV featured an interview with the high school coach of James Harden.  Unfortunately, I was unable to hear too much of the interview however it did prompt this account.  Witnessing the talent of a James Hardin, Kareem or others at a youthful age should we suppose their coaches saw their potential?   We could ask a similar question of a youth football, baseball, hockey, or soccer coach, keep in mind we reference a career coach.  It’s my belief without offering proof even amateurs can foresee potential at times. 

How about Steph Curry, his dad was an NBA player however the son’s talent develop slowly, this is not a reference to a Kobe Bryant or LeBron James.  We never had an idea the two mentioned would reach the heights they did, but we could see the potential.  We are discussing the player who slowly developed his talent over time with work and coaching.  It’s said Steph Curry was not a highly sought talent when he graduated high school, there were few scholarship opportunities.  Curry’s become an NBA star; however, I’d bet money his high school coach didn’t say to anyone “He will probably be in the NBA someday!”  Practice, practice, and more practice and one can become a star…sometimes. 

St. Louis pro basketball 

Depending on one’s age there might be quite a few St. Louis residents who remember the Spirits of St. Louis.  Yes, the city had an American Basketball Association team in the last 2 seasons the ABA existed prior to the NBA-ABA merger.  Earlier to that time the city was home to the Hawks from 1955 through 1968 before the franchise moved to Atlanta.   

Most don’t realize the city had professional basketball prior to the Hawks, the St. Louis Bombers existed from 1946 through 1950.  The Bombers were an original member of the Basketball Association of America which merged with the National Basketball League in 1949 forming the NBA of today.  In the 4 seasons the Bombers were active they had a winning record, there is no indication why the team folded in 1950.  The city would wait 5 years before the NBA would return with the Hawks.  The question now becomes will the NBA ever return to The Gateway City?  

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

I’m just the messenger

After being taken to the woodshed and being spanked thoroughly by Ole Miss we in Mizzou Nation received a second surprise.  An SI.com story detailed 8 teams that could be crowned NCAA champion in April.  I scanned the piece, and it contained the usual suspects, Gonzaga, Baylor, and several others.  Surprise, surprise as I continued to read my eyes dropped to the bottom of the page there it was…Mizzou.  No need to read the why they chose to include Mizzou just completely shocked to see them placed in the company of 7 other potential NCAA champions, go figure if you wish.     

“Err on the side of caution”

These age-old words of wisdom certainly apply to the subject you are about to read.  As this is written Laker Anthony Davis has missed 2 games with his Achilles issue.  He was at practice on Thursday however there is no reported time when he should return to the lineup but I’m okay with that, unfortunately I’ve become one of those fans who looks at the playoffs rather than the regular season.  It’s been concluded by me the Lakers can earn a playoff berth and from there the championship is a possibility. 

Notice nowhere did I state the Lakers were guaranteed a championship, they must play enough winning basketball to earn a finals trip.  As for AD he stated his numbers are slightly down from last season and they might be.  Part of the reason is Schroeder/Harrell, the arrival of Dennis Schroeder and Montrezl Harrell added to the roster have provided more offense translated more shots.  AD and Lebron are going to continue their leadership role in scoring however these two and others take up some of the numbers AD received last season.  I want AD to heal so he is fully ready to compete, no requirement to rush him back in the lineup…chill to the next episode.  NOTE:  As this was headed to publishing came word AD would be in the lineup Friday evening, his minutes restriction are unknown.  

Kareem Abdul Jabbar award   

I came across this while surfing the net, perhaps several reading this had prior knowledge I didn’t.  The Naismith Hall of Fame annually awards the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Center of the Year Award to the top collegiate center.  Just a few of the candidates this season include Charles Bassey, Western Kentucky, Kofi Cockburn, Illinois Luke Garza, Iowa and Liam Robbins, Minnesota and 15 other centers on the list.

According to website information a candidate can play his way on or off the list prior to the award being issued.  Research indicates the first year of the award was 2015, last year’s winner was Garza now in his senior year.  This award is noteworthy in an aspect, despite the fact small ball has become the norm the center remains an important part of the game.  Everything in the world cycles, at some point in the future skilled Big Men will assume the role they once held again.    

I hate to read stories of this type

There remain stories of someone falling through the cracks.  Provisions are made (at least you believe they are) for everyone and then you read this.  There are 108 former ABA players who did not qualify for a pension.  When the ABA merged with the NBA in 1976 remaining ABA players not with the Nets, Pacers, Spurs and Nuggets were drafted by existing NBA teams.  As for others not included in the merger, we lost track of them, where did they go? 

Some went to Europe to continue playing pro basketball, others latched on to NBA teams for one or two years but didn’t play long enough to be included in the NBA’s pension plan. An NBA player is vested after 3 years and could earn at age 62 a minimum of $56,000 annually, naturally the longer you play the larger the pension.  That is the issue, there are 108 former ABA players who failed to qualify, they played in the ABA but less than 3 years.  As indicated most led ordinary lives after their playing days were over, many qualified for pensions from their life career. 

As for others it has not been so good, health issues have plagued a number, and some are destitute.  Dropping Dimes Foundation is an organization designed to aid these former ABA players.  The founder is in discussions with the NBA to offer some form of assistance.  Keep in mind most of these former players range in age from 68 years through their 80’s.  Hopefully, the NBA is just not waiting for them to die. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

“It wasn’t Me”

Shaggy’s made a career from a single hit song, “It wasn’t Me”.  We’ve heard his 2000 hit used in several scenarios.  Mizzou Nation could be singing the same tune, we are not the one’s embarrassed by the loss to Ole Miss it’s the Mizzou Tigers.  The first half of the game had Ole Miss leading 42-37, the second half they came back and ran by and over the top of Mizzou.  They outscored Mizzou 38-22 in the second half, Guard Dru Smith was the only Tiger on the flight to Oxford Mississippi. 

That statement is made because he was the only Tiger player who managed to appear interested in playing, he shot 44.8% and 17 points.  Not a single Mizzou player aside from Smith managed to score in double figures.  There were a bunch of other guys who resembled the Mizzou team that rose to number 10 but certainly didn’t play like it.  Perhaps it was the ascension to the upper level of the poll or something else, the 80-59 loss was the worst thus far this season. 

Bits n Pieces

The National Transportation Safety Board issued its final report, they provided us information most of us concluded without technical expertise.  The NTSB indicated the pilot flying Kobe Bryant’s helicopter became disoriented flying into the clouds.  Bottom line the weather conditions were too inclement to fly that day, but the pilot felt pressure to ensure his party arrived on time.  

No word yet regarding Kansas City and its basketball tournaments.  The 64-team NAIA Tournament and Big 12 Tournament are both held in the city every March.  With COVID being in the forefront several tournaments have been relocated to other areas, no news on how this might impact Kansas City.   

Speaking of tournaments there might be several blue blood programs to miss the cut for the NCAA Tournament this season.  Despite a down season Kansas is likely to earn a slot, at this point Kentucky, North Carolina, Duke and UCLA are liable to watch the tournament at home unless one or more decides in favor of the NIT Tournament.

The next phase, soon you will begin to see fans in attendance at Madison Square Garden for Knicks games and Barclays Center for the Nets. New York Governor Mario Cuomo’s office announced large sports venues can open with 10% occupancy soon.  Naturally both teams are looking forward to having butts in the seats even at a reduced number.  This applies to football, baseball, and hockey as well, in this COVID age safeguards will be in place with this announced change. 

Are they number 10?

Mizzou jumped into the Top 10 list of schools for the first time in ages.  I was questioned, “Are they the 10^th best team in the country?”  I cannot answer the question, I seriously doubt if Coach Cuonzo can answer it either.  On more than one occasion we’ve mentioned the Top 25 sometimes becomes a beauty contest.  Teams move in and out, up, and down, if you are Kansas, Duke or North Carolina you almost never drop out although other programs do.  The polls are good for students, the athletic department, alumni, and fans.  As a reminder the real winner is crowned the first Monday in April. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

“Whoa, hold hold! I don’t play no defense”

Remember the movie Space Jam, the reference is the scene when Bill Murray arrived to save the day?  Check the link below if you’ve forgotten the 1996 movie.  The line could easily apply to the Brooklyn Nets at this point, they love scoring the basketball it’s the other things that become issues.  In this instance those “things” we reference are attempting to play defense on a consistent basis. 

Wednesday morning on ESPN’s SportsCenter one of the studio host was describing the previous night’s action against the Pistons provided us these words.  He offered us a screen shot indicating the Nets play well against +500 teams it’s the below .500 teams they have difficulty.  Certainly, sounds like an excuse to me, can we state improvement required.  The video clearly detailed an intense discussion by three Nets players during a time out. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIV_9--awCI

Color me unimpressed (to date) 

In the big picture many of us (including me) have only had the opportunity to witness Emoni Bates in action this season.  Most of us had little ability to see him in his freshman and sophomore seasons at Lincoln High School in Ypsilanti Michigan.  We’ve seen him play at Ypsi Prep the school he transferred to for his junior year.  I must confess I’ve only seen glimpses of what many believe are his ability on the basketball court. 

In two of the three games on television, it appears he is placing himself under tremendous pressure.  Perhaps in the back of his mind he realizes the games are being seen across the nation and maybe around the world.  In an earlier story it was mentioned Bates might graduate in the Class of 2021, this might be a good thing.  He could mold his game around the existing roster and those incoming freshmen.  Before you run off and claim I said he couldn’t play far from it.  Bates appears to struggle in the nationally televised games, at Michigan State he can mold his game to those around him. 

My sense of humor   

Sometimes I’m sure my attempt at humor is not funny as I might think (ask my wife) but I don’t believe it’s thoughtless.  An example from several years back I’m watching ESPN SportsCenter and the studio host is providing the viewers with the nightly scores.  He reads the Wichita State score and looks directly into the camera, “I didn’t know Wichita had a state.” 

Guess what, not funny, this idiot (and I am being nice) failed to consider “state” is included in the name of several colleges and universities across the nation.  As an example, we have Tarkio State located in Tarkio Missouri, in other parts of the country we have Ball State in Muncie Indiana, Cheney State located in Cheney Pennsylvania and Albany State in Albany Georgia.  I love humor, silly not so much I hope somebody schooled this guy.    

Class of 2021

Recruiting is key to any college basketball teams success on the court.   Several schools like Duke, Kentucky or Kansas do truly little in depth recruiting.  Allow an explanation, those schools and others can recruit based on their history.  Others such as Mizzou must beat the bushes for talent.  Some don’t believe it’s important to recruit Top 50 talent, I believe it’s a must. 

I’m sure if we checked we’d discover Villanova and Jay Wright are always Top 50 which they turn into achievement.  In the Class of 2021 Mizzou is ranked number 40 by 247sports.com, Rivals.com places them at 36.  My friend is correct no program is guaranteed a winning record due to a Top 50 recruiting class, on the other hand it certainly cannot hurt.  We are in the middle of the 2020-21 basketball season, but I can hardly wait to see the incoming crop of freshman recruited by Cuonzo Martin. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Harvey Pollack

I realize after reading yesterday’s lead story you are asking the question; did he error in some manner?  The “he” refers to Harvey Pollack longtime Philadelphia record keeper.  Yesterday we profiled a Wilt Chamberlain game in which the box score totals are questionable.  You are asking did Pollack give Chamberlain credit for a block shot registered by Chet Walker or Luke Jackson? 

Was either Walker or Jackson given recognition for one or two blocks that belonged to Chamberlain?  Did guard Hal Greer or another have a steal that should have been credited to Chamberlain?  No argument on my part it is entirely possible Pollack missed a block or steal that should have been credited to another.  It’s also conceivable the opposite could have occurred; Chamberlain’s numbers might be larger than we realize.  This is all conjecture at this point, so this discussion remains in the realm of we don’t really know. 

The promise…remains unfulfilled

Last July the college basketball world received a seismic shock. Makur Maker 5-star prospect and Rivals.com number 19 in the Class of 2020 chose to attend Howard University in Washington D.C.  He would become the highest ranked player to attend an HBCU school in several decades.  It was believed other talented athletes might follow the same path as the 6-foot 11 235-pound Maker. 

Dreams sometimes fail to match reality and that’s what occurred with Howard basketball and Maker.  Maker played two games for Howard and then was sidelined with a groin injury on November 28, the world crashed in on the Bison team as COVID-19 health issues forced the Bison to cease play.  They have not played since December 18; on Tuesday, the school announced the remainder of the 2020-21 basketball season would be cancelled.  This likely ends Maker’s time at Howard, he was expected to be a one and done candidate.   

Is he the real deal…he just might be?

LaMelo Ball arrived in the NBA with “baggage”, if you are unfamiliar with the slang term it’s defined as issues or concerns.  That was indeed the case, as he journeyed from high school to high school go on to play briefly in Lithuania.  There were questions if he might be eligible to play in college, so he decided in favor of a pro career.  Ball ended this national and international basketball tour by winning rookie of the year in Australia, was he ready for the NBA?  Ball became the 3^rd pick in the 1^st round by the Hornets in the 2020 NBA draft, early he would display flashes of his skill but strictly in a reserve role until recently. 

The youngest of the brothers just might be the best of the 3 and his numbers provide us proof.  His shooting which has been a concern is slowly trending upward, the other concern was his defense.  Ball may never be a great defender but even in that area has shown improvement, as this is written he’s 14 points (43.3%), 6 rebounds and 6 assists per game.  Those are certainly not outstanding numbers but good enough to place Ball in first place among 2021 NBA rookies.  In the Hornets Monday evening win over the Rockets Ball scored 24 points along with 7 rebounds and 10 assists, included in the total was 7 3-point baskets.  It is still early in his NBA career however LaMelo just might be the real deal. 

COVID-19 broadcasting

Basketball television broadcast have certainly taken on a different role in this COVID era.  For the most part the NBA crews with ESPN/ABC/TNT are on site with plastic screens placed between the broadcaster and analyst.  As for some college and NBA local broadcast teams that’s a slightly different subject.  As an example, with the Thunder on the road in Staples facing the Lakers the broadcast team for the Thunder was in Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City. 

There are exceptions, as an example last week during two Mizzou games we witness something out of the ordinary.  In one game the broadcaster appeared to be at home, the analyst was also at home and even mentioned it.  Then we had a game the analyst began the telecast with no play-by-play broadcaster.  Later the broadcaster “arrived” and began working and his voice sounded as if he was in a canyon with an echo sound.  He would admit he’d called in on his phone and we presume watching the game on a feed, I’m sure you have your own COVID-19 broadcast stories. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

Quintuple doubles

We are familiar with triple doubles, a few NBA players of the past have quadrable doubles on their resume, how about a quintuple double (5)?  This is where Harvey Pollack becomes part of this account, we can be sure the late Mr. Pollack picked up a basketball at some point in his life.  We’ll cover Mr. Pollack’s role in this story shortly, one more record Wilt Chamberlain may have accomplished.  Notice we state he may have achieved although it cannot be officially proven. 

On March 18, 1968 in a 158-128 win for his Sixers over the Lakers Wilt accomplished a feat which certainly will never be duplicated.  Chamberlain would score 53 points along with 32 rebounds 14 assists 11 steals and 24 blocks, he shot 82.8% from the floor.  As mentioned previously the NBA did not officially begin tracking steals and blocked shots until the 1973-74 season.  Harvey Pollack served a variety of roles in his 69 years associated with the NBA, one of these roles was tracking NBA statistics. 

With that said we have a choice; we can trust Pollack’s dedication to the game or not.  It’s reported the Chamberlain numbers comes from his tracking.  Many today attempt to negate the play of NBA players of the past, stop a moment, and consider this fact.  The athletes today might be better conditioned however back then fewer NBA players meant only the best were able to earn a roster spot.  Note for the record there were 14 NBA teams at the time of Chamberlain’s record setting evening. 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harvey_Pollack

9 & 12 

The Mizzou Tigers did it, the team’s win on Saturday versus Alabama has led them to rarified air.  Monday’s AP and Coaches poll places Mizzou in 10^th place among the nation’s college basketball teams.  For those who might be led to believe they are not a Top 10 team Mizzou Nation says prove they are not.  Although Mizzou doesn’t score a great deal (74.8 a game) they play tough defense, apart from Jeremiah Tilmon they don’t block a great number of shots either. 

A crucial blocked shot by Mitchell Smith was key to the victory over Alabama with 4.1 seconds remaining in the game.  As for the 9 years in the title, that represents the last time Mizzou was a Top 10 team, December 24, 2012.  MIZ ZOU, MIZ ZOU!  If you read the Sunday morning edition of Words eye view it was stated Kansas would be dropped from the Top 25 for the first time in 12 years. 

The Jayhawks began their run February 2, 2009 and it lasted until Monday February 8, 2021.  There is an upside to this down year for Kansas basketball, tournament specialists assert the Jayhawks have enough quality wins to earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  So, you can see for Kansas it’s a down year but unlike many of their blue blood cousins (Duke, North Carolina, and Kentucky) who will likely miss the tournament Kansas will play in Indianapolis.   

How did I miss this guy?

Last season in a playoff game Laker coach Frank Vogel inserted rookie Talen Horton-Tucker in the lineup.  In the short pre-season leading up to the season start we noticed the second-year man was featured in a variety of roles.  Once the regular season started coach again indicated he wanted to find more time for Horton-Tucker on the floor.  What’s good for Horton-Tucker might be bad for veteran Wesley Matthews, the minutes have been switched.  At this point we have no idea if this plan will continue throughout the balance of the season. 

The 6-foot 4-inch shooting guard was inserted into the lineup against the Nuggets on Thursday.  In 22 minutes, he would score 17 points shooting 66.7% from the floor (50% from 3) with 3 steals and only 1 turnover.  Is this going to be our expectation every game effort by Horton-Tucker, we have no clue at this point but Laker Nation can hope?  This we do know the Lakers are sold on this 20-year-old with the gigantic wingspan.  I don’t live in Iowa however I’m smack in the middle of Big 12 country; how did I miss this guy?  I don’t ever remember even hearing his name the brief period he played at Iowa State.

We should have figured

This might not be correct all the time but does appear to occur quite often.  An undefeated team such as Drake will usually drop its first game against a losing team, we offer as proof the game played on Sunday.  The Drake Bulldogs of the Missouri Valley Conference went in to the game with a sparkling 18-0 record, in addition they were the 25th rated team in the nation.  Someone forget to inform the Valp Crusaders who came into the game with a 6-12 record.  Playing at home Valparaiso defeated Drake 74-57 leaving Drake with a still exceptionally good 18-1 record.   

 

 

   

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

The Zen of Kobe Bryant

“Learn to love the hate.  Embrace it.  Enjoy it.  You earned it.  Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and everyone should have one about you.  Haters are a good problem to have.  Nobody hates the good ones.  They hate the great ones.”

Kobe Bean Bryant

He ain’t done nothing yet

Mizzou’s win Saturday over Alabama might be coach Cuonzo Martin’s most noteworthy event since his arrival in Columbia.  More significant than recruiting Michael Porter Jr. to Mizzou, injuries saw Jr. play only 3 games and depart for the NBA.  The Tigers won 20 games in the coaches’ first year at the helm, the win over Alabama was number 13 and his Missouri State team once won 26.  As you can see the numbers don’t reveal what many of us witnessed. 

I’ve nicknamed this Mizzou squad the “Rodney Dangerfield” team, nobody gives them any respect.  The win Saturday reflected the coach, they play tough hard-nose defense.  This team is not built around a bunch of guys who can score the ball, in fact sometimes they have difficulty scoring.  The toughness of a coach who recovered from injury while an athlete, recuperated from non-Hodgkin lymphoma. 

We are witnessing this year what should have occurred last season, injuries and other factors contributed to a 15-16 record 7-11 in the SEC.  Don’t consider this revisionist history the coach believes it and I’m dumb enough to believe him.  In closing consider the fact he ain’t done nothing yet, Mizzou must finish the season strong.  They will earn an NCAA invitation, if they make the second weekend of the tournament it will be historic for him at Mizzou.  The team is looking forward to exceeding the Sweet 16 finish of Cuonzo's 2013-14 Tennessee team, the best is still yet to come for this coach.  

Lights out shooting

The Warriors lost their game against the Mavs 134-132. I’m sure Steph Curry would have rather won the game.  Despite the loss Saturday night, we witnessed a thing of beauty.  Curry scored 57 points on 61.3% shooting with 57.9% from the 3-line, in 37 minutes on the floor Curry had only 3 TO’s. 

This is written ahead of time

Kansas is ranked the number 22 or 23 team in the nation depending on which poll you read.  This is written ahead of time, without research we cannot determine the date, the date we are referencing is the last time the Kansas Jayhawks were not in the Top 25.  We are not there yet; voting will not occur on the Top 25 until Monday, but they will fall out of the poll.  How did this unfold, the latest example was the loss to West Virginia 91-79?  It might be more than that, Kansas is a good team but certainly nowhere close to any of the past teams. 

The last 7 games has witnessed Kansas winning only 2 of them.   Of the remaining 6 games on their schedule, they should be favored in 2 the remainder might be a toss up to determine a winner.  During the SEC-Big 12 Challenge color analyst Dick Vitale stated his belief the penalty hanging over the head of Kansas might be a reason for their poor play this season.  I can’t by that, regardless of any forthcoming judgment by the NCAA this team has not been placed on probation.  We must face the facts for the first time in several years Bill Self’s failed to produce a championship caliber team. 

Words eye view

Basketball from a fan perspective

The pushback

Several additional players have voiced their opposition to the NBA holding the All-Star Game.  It appears the NBAPA and the NBA are the driving force and revenue from the game is split 50-50.  Saturday events, game on Sunday and leave Atlanta on Sunday night or at least that’s the preliminary plan.  The only question will the NBA allow players to opt out, you remember, don’t you?  Once the season was restarted last July players were given the option of heading to Orlando, several chose to remain home for a variety of reasons.  Personally, I believe this is not good decision and I hope it is cancelled before the March date.  What are your thoughts on the matter?   

What occurs    

This is written about 7:00 a.m. Saturday morning, Mizzou faces Alabama at 11:00 a.m.  This is probably the most significant game for Cuonzo Martin since he arrived in Columbia.  Just in case you didn’t realize Alabama is the number 10 team in the nation while Mizzou is number 18.  Alabama is undefeated in SEC play while Mizzou’s lost three games so what follows about 1:30 p.m. or so this afternoon.  I believe Alabama will be the winner although that is not the outcome Mizzou Nation desires.  Okay, the game is being played in Columbia so that should be a slight advantage for the home team. 

How many points does Mizzou gain playing at home, my guess at least 2-3, will that be enough points to allow a Mizzou upset?  On the other hand, Alabama could blowout Mizzou however that’s only occurred twice this season.  The two teams are close in points allowed by the opposition (69.2 Ala-70.2 Mizzou).  Well, this certainly didn’t turn out as many expected (including this writer), at a point in the first half the backcourt of Dru and Mark Smith had 25 points for Mizzou, the Alabama team had 26.  Alabama came roaring back with less than 5 minutes remaining in the game, final score read Mizzou 68 Alabama 65. 

For Ty Lue & Paul George

Remember the turmoil created last week with the release of the Jared Dudley book.  Laker reserve Dudley writing on the championship season apparently made derogatory remarks regarding the Clippers Paul George.  George took exception with the comment even George’s coach Ty Lue made a statement on the matter, both apparently forget the December George news. 

In early December 2020 George laid the Clippers playoff loss on Doc Rivers.  If you’ve read Words any length of time you realize I am no fan of Rivers however this series of events has proven quite interesting.  Rivers didn’t take the shot that went off the side of the backboard…or did he?  Former President Harry Truman made a statement which still rings true, “If you can’t stand the heat you need to get out of the kitchen.”  Apparently, George (and Lue) can dish it out but cannot absorb push back.  No worry this is the last account you will read on this account.   

Jeremiah Tilmon

He stands 6 foot 10 and 260 pounds, Jeremiah Tilmon is an East St. Louis Illinois guy who decided to make his college choice Mizzou.  Although he appeared to have plenty of talent his first few years were not as productive as hoped by the coach and fans. Appearing in games his freshman and sophomore years he was continually in foul trouble.  Lack of discipline is my contention, he would go for shot fakes, jump out to defend the lane trying to pick up another’s player and be called for fouls.  In addition, the offensive fouls as he often tried to bulldoze his way to the basket. 

An injury in his junior year reduced the number of games he would play to 17.  The potential was always there it was a matter of understanding his role in addition to playing under control.  Tilmon’s blossomed in his senior year, his scoring along with rebounds and defense have step up over his prior seasons. As a senior his numbers are nearly 14 points and 8 rebounds a game along with gaining a defensive stance in the paint.  It’s not likely we hear his name called in the 2021 draft however it’s conceivable he could sign a free agent contract.  If not, the NBA there is always the possibility of Euro basketball, Tilmon’s game is vastly improved over that he first set foot on campus 4 years ago.