tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1899819652453868142024-03-05T02:16:13.179-08:00The Bench ReviewUp-to-Date Analysis on the Latest Basketball DevelopmentsSpencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-42599561656530418762012-05-25T11:08:00.001-07:002012-05-25T11:11:59.823-07:00The Bench Review Official Website<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Bench Review has found a more permanent location!</span><br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div></div></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-90141826444567447982011-10-05T13:34:00.000-07:002011-10-23T12:05:20.229-07:00NBA Lockout Special: Money Talks<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We just passed the 90-Day NBA Lockout milestone. That’s 3 months for those of you marking your calendar. The league has already canceled the entire preseason, multiple annual events, and is now threatening to cancel the first two weeks of the regular season if a deal isn’t made by Monday. Sadly, it doesn’t seem as if one’s going to be made by Monday, if at all. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The league is evidently more concerned with narrowing the gap on its 300 million dollars in lost revenue from last season than actually constructing a new collective bargaining agreement. ESPN reports, “The league offered players a 46 percent share of basketball-related revenue, 11 percent less than they received in the last deal and 7 percent less than the last proposal by the players.”<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So it seems that money does in fact talk, and, conversely, it seems that those without money <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">can’t</i> talk.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">All the focus thus far has been on the multi-millionaire players who are suffering more from boredom than income loss, and the multi-billionaire owners whose only concern is that the players don’t get a majority of next year’s revenue pie, but what about those without access to the media’s headlines? The individuals who maintain the functionality of the league through their unnoticed and unheralded work behind the scenes are the ones that are being most affected by this work stoppage, yet their words are being drowned out by those in the limelight. Overlooked and underappreciated, this league’s staff and officials, maintenance workers, concession stand employees, security personnel, and others like them are being denied the privilege to work because of the greediness of those atop the NBA’s hierarchy. And, worst of all, they’re being ignored; turned a blind eye to. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Over 110 employees (which makes up about 11 percent of the league’s head offices) have already been laid off as of July, and who knows how many more are to come. NBA spokesman Mike Bass told The Associated Press that they weren’t laid off because of the lockout, but rather as “a response to the underlying issue that the league’s expenses far outpace [its] revenues.” <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The lockout and the laying off of these individuals are solely due to the league and its unregulated spending. It has allowed the franchises to spend an excessive amount of money. Subpar players are receiving multi-million dollar contracts and owners are completely disregarding team salary caps. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I’m all for coming to an economical and reasonable solution to this lockout, but to ask the individuals whose income, or possibly even livelihood, is at stake to sacrifice for the good of those who are already financially stable is selfish and an utter travesty.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">All in all, the world is a better place with professional basketball in action. There should be no room for petty arguments over the distribution of billions when those only seeking minimum wage are being denied the privilege to work. The media needs to begin to address the positions and opinions of the majority of those affected by the work stoppage—not just those with the majority of the cash.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-38165615148564153422011-09-22T17:47:00.001-07:002011-10-23T12:07:45.766-07:00Mount Rushmore<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Mount Rushmore, South Dakota. Only America’s most distinguished presidents have reached this pinnacle of leadership. This high honor represents a level of achievement and success only experienced by few. Each of the four presidents whose visages are forever memorialized on this granite surface did the most with the time that they were given. Just as these presidents surpassed their peers and embodied success, so have four players, whose legacies will forever enshrine them in basketball greatness. </span></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><br />
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</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Let’s get started…<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><u>Michael Jordan</u><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Not much need be said. As arguably the greatest player to ever grace the hardwood, Michael Jeffrey Jordan posted 30pts, 6rebs, 5assts, and 2stls a game during his 15-year career. He managed to raise his career scoring, rebounding, and passing averages from the regular season to the postseason. His achievements are remarkable and unrivaled by any player of his era. MJ had 14 All-Star game selections, 10 All-NBA 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Teams, 9 NBA All-Defensive 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Team nominations, and a Defensive Player of the Year Award. As for his hardware, the man had 5 League MVPs, 6 Finals MVPs, 2 Olympic Gold Medals, and 6 NBA Championships. Jordan’s contributions to the game are unparalleled. His name is still the most recognizable in all of basketball, and he will forever be the most polarizing figure the game has had the pleasure of witnessing. It would be a disgrace to not include his face on the Mount Rushmore of basketball.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><u>Magic Johnson</u><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Earvin “Magic” Johnson averaged over 19pts, 11assts, and 7rebs as the face of the Laker organization during his 13-year NBA career. His averages of 85% from the charity stripe and 52% from the field are among the best all-time for NBA guards. Johnson was featured in 12 All-Star games and on 9 All-NBA 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> teams. He was able to capture 3 League MVPs, 3 Finals MVPs, 1 Olympic Gold Medal (as a part of the ’92 Dream Team), and 5 Championships. His statue outside Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles is a monument for his leadership and success during his years on the Showtime Lakers. Magic’s numerous accolades give him the nod as one of the four players on basketball’s Mount Rushmore.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><u>Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</u><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Kareem’s career was defined by longevity. The NBA’s all-time leading scorer played in an incredible 20 NBA seasons. He averaged over 24pts, 11rebs, and 2.5blks a game. His 19 All-Star game selections and 6 League MVPs are the most ever by an NBA player. He also managed to be nominated to 10 All-NBA 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Teams and 5 NBA All-Defensive 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Teams. To top it off, he won 2 Finals MVPs and 6 NBA Championships. He is the most decorated player in NBA history in terms of the amount of records he currently holds and awards won. His trademark combination of the sky-hook and goggles earn this former Milwaukee Buck and Los Angeles Laker a spot on the basketball Mount Rushmore.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><u>Bill Russell</u><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Russell averaged over 15pts, 22rebs, and 4assts a game. These numbers are misleading though, as a vital statistical category which contributed heavily to Russell’s legacy wasn’t even kept track of during his era: blocks. Referees and reports though, estimated that Russell averaged 6bpg—on the low end. But, for the purpose of this article, I will agree to stick with this conservative statistic. Call it speculation if you want, but when so many individuals witnessed Russell throughout the entirety of his career and came to a near consensus, I’m willing to bet on it. Aside from in-game statistics, the man had as many accolades as HE COULD during his time period (I’ll address the specifics of that statement below). 12 All-Star games, 11 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> and 2</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">nd</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Team All-NBA selections, 5 MVP’s, and a record 11 NBA Championships. There are a few caveats that I should mention before you begin to analyze these accomplishments:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ol><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">His 8 2</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">nd</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> All-NBA selections were only due to the fact that he played in the same era as arguably the most dominant center of all-time. For God’s sake 3 of the 5 times he won MVP he was on the 2</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">nd</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> All-NBA Team! Imagine if Derrick Rose, LeBron James, or Kobe Bryant was ever named the MVP of the league and then proceeded to be placed on the 2</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">nd</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> All-NBA team—the league would have more dumbfounded fans and complaint mail then they’d know what to do with!</span></span></span></span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">I bet some of you out there are saying, “How can this guy be one of the four greatest players of all time when he’s NEVER won a Finals MVP?” That would be a great question except the trophy didn’t even exist during his playing days. As a matter of fact, when the trophy did come into existence it received the name the “Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award.” Russell’s second home was the Finals—his name was practically synonymous with the series—so it was only appropriate to give the award his name.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> </span></span></span></o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Lastly, I'm guessing many of you are wondering why he never won an NBA Defensive Player of the year award, or multiple All-NBA Defensive 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Team selections for that matter. Again the absence of the accolade in Russell’s trophy case has less to do with Russell’s performance on the court and more to do with the non-existent nature of the award. The first year the All-NBA Defensive 1</span></span></span><sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">st</span></span></span></sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"> Team award was presented (Russell’s last season) he received a nomination.</span></span></span></span></span></li>
</span></ol><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">The man is second all-time in MVPs and first all-time in championships won as a player (not to mention that he won 2 of those championships as a player/coach), which is enough to give him the nod as one of the four players on basketball’s Mount Rushmore.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Just Missed the Cut:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Oscar Robertson—only player to average a trip-dub in a season<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Jerry West aka Mr. Clutch—the game’s logo<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Wilt Chamberlain— the game’s most dominant player ever, scored 100 in a game<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black;">Larry Bird aka Larry Legend—face of the Celtics franchise during the 80’s</span></span></span></span></div></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-58397635519572945102011-06-26T15:09:00.000-07:002011-06-26T15:12:19.566-07:00Mini Draft Article: The Houston Rockets’ 2001 Draft Woes<div style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Houston Rockets’ 2001 Draft has proved to be one of the worst ever. The Rockets had 3 first round draft picks that year and botched all of them. With the 13<sup>th</sup> pick the team took Richard Jefferson, who actually turned out to be a solid role player and scorer, but the team combined him, the 18<sup>th</sup> pick (Jason Collins), and the 23<sup>rd</sup> pick (Brandon Armstrong) in a deal for PF Eddie Griffin. <a name='more'></a>Griffin averaged 8.7pts and 5.9rebs in his 2 years with the Rockets before he himself was traded. Like I stated before, Richard Jefferson was actually a great selection as he went on to average 16.4pts and 5rebs in his career. The problem was that the team traded him before he ever even stepped foot on the court in a Rockets’ jersey. The team’s atrocious draft didn’t end there though, as they took Jason Collins with the 18<sup>th</sup> pick. Collins has gone on to average 4pts and 4rebs in his career, so from that perspective it was a great that the team traded. When looking at who they could’ve had in his place though, you might think otherwise. Zach Randolph, the seemingly perennial 20 point, 10 rebound guy, was selected with the next pick by the Trailblazers. Randolph has averaged over 17pts and 9rebs in his career, and despite having an attitude problem early on in his career, has been a reliable work horse and blue-collar player throughout his career. The next issue with the Rockets’ draft class obviously lies with their last pick: the 23<sup>rd</sup>. With this pick they took Brandon Armstrong, who averaged a staggering 2.2pts in his short-lived career. Again, when looking back on it, you might say it was smart to have traded him. Think again. Not to quote LeBron but… “Not 1, Not 2,” but 3 stars were still left on the board! Gerald Wallace, Tony Parker, and Gilbert Arenas were taken within the next 7 picks. Gerald Wallace, although a solid player, is not the same caliber player as Parker or Arenas, and with Jefferson already on this hypothetical team, a PG is more fitting so we will stick to examining Parker and Arenas. Parker has an array of accolades under his belt, as he has averaged over 16pts and 5assts throughout his career, while winning 3 Championships and 1 Finals MVP award. Gilbert, although less equipped with hardware, has put up an even more impressive stat line with over 21pts, 5assts, and 4rebs a game, while receiving 3 NBA All-Star and All-NBA selections. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">When adding these players to that year’s roster headlined by Steve Francis and Cutino Mobley (both 20+ pt scorers at the time), you had the potential for a competitive and championship-caliber team. Francis, Mobley, Jefferson, Randolph, and either Arenas or Parker, would have meant a very youthful core and a matchup nightmare. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, looking back on the 2001 NBA draft night, tell me if you would have traded Tony Parker/Gilbert Arenas, Zach Randolph, and Richard Jefferson for Eddie Griffin? Nahhh, I didn’t think so.</span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-39297118535589834332011-06-24T12:27:00.000-07:002011-10-09T12:04:54.979-07:00Draft Day Special: 5 Dynasties that Never Were<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;"><br style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;" /></span> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Prerequisites: </span></div><ul style="background-color: black; color: white;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">Player had to be selected sometime between the 1985 and 2010 drafts. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Player has NOT won/did NOT win an NBA championship</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">All-Star/All-NBA caliber player </span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: black;">In order to talk about or analyze a situation that “could’ve been, but never was,” you must utilize speculative and </span>assumptive techniques (AKA educated guesses) based on statistics to arrive at a hypothetical conclusion that is as accurate and well-founded as possible. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">5) </span><span style="color: #999999;">Kevin Durant</span></b> was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics (now Oklahoma City Thunder) in 2007 with the 2<sup>nd</sup><sup>st</sup> overall pick. Oden was supposed to be the “cream of the crop” center in the ’07 draft, but has failed to meet expectations. His career has been plagued by injury, as evidenced by Oden’s career 82 games played. This would be a great number for someone who just finished his rookie year, but Oden has been in the league for 4 years. He has averaged 15pts, 12rebs, and 2blks in the 2 seasons that he’s participated in, but again, he’s missed 3 season’s worth of games. Durant on the other hand, has been arguably one of the Top 10 players in the league during this same span with averages of 26pts and 6rebs a game. Durant has led the league in scoring the past 2 seasons, while shooting about 47% from the field and 89% from the line. He is currently one of the league’s most premiere scorers (along with players like Carmelo Anthony, LBJ and Wade). Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge were received in the previous draft, which could’ve made this one of the league’s most frightening and dominant 3-somes. Roy has averaged over a solid 19pts, 4rebs, and 4assts even when taking into account his unproductive season this past year. Aldridge has averaged over 17pts and 7rebs during his 5 year career, and this past season proved to be his coming out party as he put up career highs of 21.8pts, 8.8rebs, and 50% shooting. The Trailblazers have failed to get over the 1<sup>st</sup> Round playoff hump throughout the B-Roy/Aldridge years. The Blazers struggles can be boiled down to one thing: injuries. Greg Oden and Brandon Roy are especially responsible for this team’s title of being injury plagued. The replacement of Durant with Oden though, could’ve removed years of uncertainty and substituted them with assurance and confidence. A Durant/Roy/Aldridge combo could’ve proved enough to win it all this year when considering the Lakers’ struggles in the Western Conference. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">4)</span> <span style="color: #999999;">Tracy McGrady</span></b> was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the 8<sup>th</sup> pick in the 1997 draft. The 76ers had the 2<sup>nd</sup> overall pick in that year’s draft and took Keith Van Horn, who was later traded for Jim Jackson, Eric Montross, Anthony Parker, and Tim Thomas. Instead of trading Van Horn for these pieces, the team could’ve landed Tracy McGrady. T-Mac, a 7 time all-star and 7 time All-NBA recipient, could have provided the 76ers with the best duo in the NBA at the time (not including the Kobe-Shaq Lakers). McGrady, a 2-time scoring champion, averaged over 21.5ppg, 6rebs, and 4assts during the 9 year span that he and Iverson would’ve played on the same team. During that span, Iverson averaged over 28.5ppg, 2.4stls, and 5.9assts. This would make Iverson and McGrady the highest scoring duo in the league during that duration. Also, Iverson’s 76ers reached the Eastern Conference Semis 3 times and the NBA Finals once. T-Mac’s presence could’ve reduced Iverson’s defensive attraction and provided a second 20pt + scorer, as well as another playmaker. Holding all things constant (and yes, I understand that is very unlikely considering it would be hard to get Iverson and McGrady their necessary amount of shots per game), the 76ers would’ve had the leading scorer in the NBA 6 of those 9 years! They would’ve arguably been the best scoring and most dreaded backcourt of all time. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">3)</span> <span style="color: #999999;">Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh</span> </b>each had the potential to be an instrumental piece in this next “dynasty that never was” scenario. This dynasty could’ve been made through the drafting of 3 different players, but only 2 meet the qualifications stated at the beginning of the article. Carmelo Anthony was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 3<sup>rd</sup> overall pick in the 2003 draft, while Bosh was drafted with the 4<sup>th</sup> overall pick by the Toronto Raptors. The Detroit Pistons took Darko Milicic with the 2<sup>nd</sup> pick in that year’s draft. Calling Milicic a bust would be an understatement. In a draft featuring 4 of the top 20 current players in the league, and 3 of the top 10, Darko did anything but live up to expectations. He has career averages of about 6pts and 4rebs per game, and has bounced around more times than a Russell Westbrook dribbled ball. Anthony and Bosh on the other hand, have produced All-NBA numbers. Melo has been putting up about 25pts and 6rebs throughout the course of his career, while Bosh has averaged about 20pts and 9rebs. Anthony could’ve been an upgrade from Tayshaun Prince, while Bosh could’ve provided more front court depth and scoring. The Pistons did win the 03-04 championship without the services of either of these guys, but the franchise’s next 4 seasons were characterized by deep playoff exits. During the 04-05 season, the Pistons made it all the way to the Finals again, before losing in 7 games to the Spurs. The Pistons’ late postseason runs didn’t end there though, as the team made it to the Eastern Conference Finals each of the next 3 seasons. A combination of Billups/Hamilton and either Carmelo or Chris would’ve proved deadly, especially when adding in competitor/role-players like Prince and the Wallace duo. The scoring threat and star power of either player might have been just what the Pistons needed to get over the hump and tag the franchise as a dynasty. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2)</span> <span style="color: #999999;">Reggie Miller</span></b> was drafted by the Indiana Pacers with the 11<sup>th</sup> pick in the 1987 draft. Chicago had both the 8<sup>th</sup> and 10<sup>th</sup> picks in the 1986 draft. With the 8<sup>th</sup> pick they took Olden Polynice, who they later traded for Scottie Pippen (the 4<sup>th</sup> pick in that year’s draft), and with the 10<sup>th</sup> pick they took Horace Grant. Now, although Grant was an instrumental piece in the Bulls’ first three-peat, the Bulls could have taken Reggie Miller in his place. Imagine a trio of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Reggie Miller. During the Bulls first three peat years (91-93), Miller averaged over 21pts, 3rebs, 3assts, 49% shooting and 88% free throws, while never missing a game. Grant averaged over 13pts and 9rebs, 54% shooting, and 69% free throws. Miller had 5 all-star appearances and 3 All NBA 3<sup>rd</sup> Team selections throughout the course of his career, while Grant only had one all-star appearance. The offensive production that Miller would have provided might have been unnecessary considering that the Bulls had the greatest scorer of that era in MJ, but Miller’s presence and impact really would’ve been felt during the years that Michael left to pursue baseball (the ’94 and ’95 seasons). The duo of Pippen and Miller could’ve provided enough fire-power to push the team over the mountain which Jordan’s absence left. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">1)</span> </b><b><span style="color: #999999;">Karl Malone</span> </b>was drafted by the Utah Jazz with the 13<sup>th</sup> overall pick in the 1985 draft. The Chicago Bulls, who had acquired Michael Jordan with the 3<sup>rd</sup> pick in the previous year’s draft, selected Keith Lee with the 11<sup>th</sup> pick. Lee, in a draft day trade, was sent to Cleveland for Charles Oakley. Charles Oakley was an average player throughout his career, with a stat line of 9.7pts and 9.5rebs, and only played for three years on the Bulls. The Bulls could’ve instead selected Karl Malone whose career was defined by longevity and greatness. Malone is the 2<sup>nd</sup> all time leading scorer in NBA History, and averaged a staggering 25pts and 10rebs in his 19yr career. The Mailman’s inside presence, matched with the greatest player of all time, could’ve been a greater duo than Pippen and Jordan. This hypothetical combination is extremely interesting and ironic considering the Bulls and Jazz had somewhat of a rivalry going on during the late 90s. The Bulls beat the Jazz twice in the NBA Finals, and proved to be the sole reason Malone never won a championship. With Malone on the Bulls, the threat of the Jazz would’ve been removed and Malone would’ve had a relatively easier path to the Finals. So much 90s NBA History would’ve vanished if the Bulls selected Malone… most notably the Stockton/Malone combo and Jordan’s pull back “J” on Byron Russell in the 1998 NBA Finals. </span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-49140869959117363482011-06-22T00:46:00.000-07:002011-06-22T10:54:48.847-07:00Father’s Day Special: Top 7 Father/Son Combos in NBA History<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">7) </span><i style="color: #999999;">George and Coby Karl:</i></b><b> </b>Okay, this one is a stretch, but hear me out. This is the only combo where I will be looking past the stats and on court accolades, but will instead be examining the will and strength of both of these individuals. Not only did both George and Coby play in the league (yes, I realize that they both experienced short and somewhat unremarkable careers), but they both have survived cancer. Their resolve and determination is inspiring, as both battled cancer during the midst of their careers. George has had prostate and throat cancer, but, through treatment and with a drive to survive, he has kept himself from succumbing to the disease. George said that “cancer is a vicious opponent. Even the ones that are treatable, you never get a 100-percent guaranteed contract.” Coby had thyroid cancer while playing for Boise St. He was a redshirt junior at the time and had to undergo an extensive and invasive 7-hour surgery to remove the growth. Despite his battle with cancer during his collegiate career, he still managed to play for several NBA teams. He hasn’t had much success on the NBA level, but did manage to average 18.6pts, 5.3rebs, 4.9assts in 65 D-League Games. He currently plays overseas in Spain for CB Granada. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">The fight and will within these two individuals earns them the 7 Spot. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">6)</span> <i style="color: #999999;">Bill and Luke Walton & Dolph and Danny Schayes:</i></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">I combined these first two tandems because of their similarities: phenomenal fathers and subpar sons. Bill and Dolph were voted as 2 of the 50 Greatest Players of All time, while Luke and Danny are only recognized because of their father’s success. Bill averaged over 13pts and 10rebs, while earning multiple All-NBA and All-Defensive selections, and winning 2 Championships. He also got one MVP and one Finals MVP award. Dolph averaged over 18pts and 12rebs, while receiving 12 All NBA selections and playing in 12 All-Star games. He also won one NBA championship with the Syracuse Nationals in ‘55. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">The dads carry these two duos into the 6 Spot.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">5)</span> <i style="color: #999999;">Dell and Stephen Curry:</i></b> Okay, I understand that Stephen Curry has only played 2 seasons in the league, but the baby-faced kid is a stud and has a long, successful career ahead of him. He has put up 18pts, 4rebs, and nearly 6assts a game for the Warriors (not to mention he’s doing this while competing for touches with Monte Ellis). He earned All-Rookie honors his first year in the league, and is closing in on All-NBA honors. Steph has one of the best strokes in the league exemplified by his league best 93% free throws this year, as well as his astounding 44% career average from 3, which ranks him 4<sup>th</sup> all time. It’s obvious where Steph got his shot from when looking at the career of his dad. Dell Curry averaged 11pts a game on 40% 3s and 84% free throws. Dell also won the 6<sup>th</sup> Man of the Year award for his solid play during the 93-94 season. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Curry's silky-smooth shooting earns them the 5 Spot. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">4)</span> <i style="color: #999999;">Ernie and Kiki Vandeweghe:</i> </b>Ernie Vandeweghe played 6 years with the Knicks during the 50’s. He managed to average 9.5pts and over 4.6rebs. His most notable achievement though, was producing one of the greatest white players to ever grace the hardwood: Kiki Vandeweghe. Kiki put up 19.7pts and 3.4rebs during his 13 year career. During his prime (81-88 seasons), he averaged over 24pts and 4rebs a game. His exploits on the court earned him 2 All-Star appearances.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Vandeweghe’s production earns them the 4 Spot. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">3)</span> <i style="color: #999999;">Jimmy Walker and Jalen Rose:</i> </b>Jimmy Walker, Jalen Rose’s dad, averaged 16.7pts and 3.5assts during his 9 year career. He was selected to 2 NBA All-Star games during the 70’s. Jalen Rose put up similar numbers during the course of his career with over 14.3pts, 3.8assts, and 3.5rebs. Rose is an overlooked player though, considering the fact that during his “prime” (what I would consider his 99-03 seasons) he averaged about 20pts, 4assts, and 4rebs. Rose was also given the Most Improved Player award for the 2000 season (this is a debate for another time, but this is easily the worst award in all of sports … by receiving this you’re pretty much being told that you sucked the previous year and managed to improve your game just enough to where you received recognition for it—hardly award-worthy… by the way, this isn’t hating on Jalen Rose—I have a lot of respect for him as an athlete and a human being … it’s just an observation). </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">This father-son duo gets the nod for the 3 Spot because of their collective, but also individual, success.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">2)</span> <i style="color: #999999;">Joe “Jelly Bean” and Kobe Bryant:</i></b> We all know why this combo is on the Top 5 so I’m going to make the write-up on “Jelly Bean” quick. He put up 8.7pts and 4rebs a game during his 8 year career. Joe is more known for his nickname and superstar son than for his own accomplishments on the court. Kobe needs no introduction and it would take another article to list his achievements so I’ll try to sum it up in as few sentences as possible. He has career averages of 25.3pts, 4.7assts, and 5.3rebs. He has managed to be selected to an All-NBA team an astounding 13 times and an All-Defensive team 11 times. He has played in 13 all-star games resulting in 4 All-Star MVPs. He has 1 MVP award, 2 Finals MVP awards, and 5 NBA Championships. All of this puts Kobe in the argument for being the 2<sup>nd</sup> Greatest Shooting Guard of all time, as well as for being one of the top 10 greatest ever. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">If Mark Madsen was the other half of the Bryant family they would still be in the Top 7. Kobe’s success alone places them at the 2 Spot. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">1)</span><i> <span style="color: #999999;">Rick and Jon, Brent, Drew Barry</span></i></b><i style="color: #999999;">:</i> Rick Barry, the father of this basketball family, averaged over 23pts, 6rebs, and 5assts in his 10 NBA seasons (Rick also played 4 seasons in the ABA in which he averaged over 30pts, 7rebs, and 4assts). He was by far the most accomplished of the group, with 8 NBA All-Star appearances, 5 All NBA 1<sup>st</sup> team selections, and 1 NBA Championship/Finals MVP. He is also 3<sup>rd</sup> all time with 90% free throws during his NBA career. Jon Barry averaged 5.7pts, 2.2assts, and 39% 3s a game during his 14 year stint in the league. Brent Barry, arguably the best Barry behind his father, averaged over 9pts, 3rebs, and 3assts a game during his 14yr career. Drew Barry had the shortest and most unsuccessful career of the family characterized by his 3 NBA seasons with averages of 2.2pts and 38% 3s a game. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Barry family comes in at the 1 Spot. Yes, only Rick was a GREAT player, but the fact that 4 of them played in the league, and for a combined 41 NBA seasons, is remarkable and unrivaled. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u style="color: #999999;">Interesting Facts</u><span style="color: #999999;">:</span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bruce Hale, the grandfather of the Barry brothers, played 3 seasons in the BAA and 2 seasons in the NBA (‘50 and ’51 seasons). </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rick Barry was selected to the All-NBA 1<sup>st</sup> team during the 65-66 season—his Rookie year. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i style="color: #999999;"><b>Other Notable Father/Son Combos:</b></i> George/Larry Mikan, Stan/Kevin Love, Mike/Mike Dunleavy, Wes/Wesley Mathews, Patrick/Patrick Ewing, and Henry/Mike Bibby</span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-72472345913903231072011-06-15T20:11:00.000-07:002011-10-11T19:51:28.318-07:00“11 Thoughts, Reflections, and Questions: 2011 Finals Edition”<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">1)</span> When considering that NBA teams (especially those in big markets) are attempting to follow the “Big 3” format, which both the Celtics and Heat attempted and succeeded (to different degrees) with…Does the Mavs’ success revitalize other teams’ hopes in a traditional one-two star/role players combination? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2)</span> Over the past 2 decades, and arguably further into history, I can only think of three teams which have obtained a championship with fewer than 2 “Stars”…The 93-95 Rockets w/ Olajuwon, 03-04 Pistons w/ Billups (although I would argue he wasn’t even a “star” per say), and the 10-11 Mavericks w/ Nowitzki. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">3)</span> Where does Dirk Nowitzki now rank among NBA all-time great power forwards like Tim Duncan, Charles Barkley, Karl Malone, Bob Pettit, Elvin Hayes, Kevin Garnett and the like? How far do his new pieces of hardware move him up on that list (if at all)?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">4)</span> Does LeBron James officially remove himself from any and all arguments for his being one of the all-time greats, as well as any comparisons to Jordan? Do his Finals’ performances demote him to the class of “Robins” (Pippen, 99-02 Kobe, etc.)?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">5)</span> Is D-Wade underrated? Where does he stack against the likes of MJ, Kobe, and other great shooting guards, when taking into consideration his Finals success/statistics?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">6)</span> Do the Heat regret their pre-season championship celebration? (Recall smoke machine entrance and LeBron’s “ not 2, not 3…but 8 championships”)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">7)</span> With all of the attention being on the Dallas Mavericks for the past couple weeks…I wonder if even Jim Carrey is aware of how much Rick Carlisle resembles him.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">8)</span> Shawn Marion and Rick Carlisle were the unheralded keys to the Mavs’ Finals victory. Marion posted 13.7pts and 6.3rebs, while defending either LeBron James or Dwyane Wade constantly. Also, it was evident that Carlisle fine-tuned his gameplan following Game 1…most notably through his implementation of a zone defense, containment of LeBron, specially-designed offense for high quality looks (getting Dirk and Terry with the ball in the right spots), rebounding, and FINISHING GAMES (something that he was clearly better than Spoelstra at) </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">9)</span> I would argue that considering the average margin of victory was 5.7pts and there were 3 games decided by 3 or less points that the winner of the series was decided by superior coaching, sooo…if the Heat had a more experienced coach, namely Pat Riley, would they have won?</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">10)</span> How good could the Mavericks have been if Caron Butler, who averaged 15pts and 4rebs and was their best perimeter defender, and Rodrigue Beaubois, who averaged 8.4pts a game and started 26 of the 28 games he appeared in (clearly their starting SG), played in not only the Finals, but the entire season? (This also shows their potential for next year)</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">11)</span> Finally…why did LeBron disappear? Was it the reported family and personal issues thar are circulating (there are rumors of Wizards forward Rashard Lewis having slept with James’ girlfriend, Savannah Brinson), or was it as simple as “he couldn’t step up to the plate and handle the pressure?” </span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-12144147196578749202011-06-12T14:49:00.001-07:002011-06-12T14:50:08.986-07:00A Veteran’s Emergence: Dirk Nowitzki<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dirk Nowitzki has amassed an array of accomplishments throughout his 12 year career, but not until recently has he been given the recognition and praise which he’s deserved. Yes, he has received multiple All-Star and All-NBA selections, and even an MVP award, but because of his team’s repeated early exits from the post season he has not been able to obtain the most coveted and praise-worthy award of all: The O’Brien Trophy. This high honor (along with a Finals MVP award) will distinguish him from those who were not able to reach the Mecca of the basketball world. It will also boost his name into conversations with all time greats, as if that hasn’t already happened. Dirk’s recent exploits have brought about comparisons to Larry Bird, and although the assessment is far-fetched, he has definitely made a case for his enshrinement in the Basketball Hall of Fame. <a name='more'></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dirk has managed to raise his regular season averages from 23pts, 7rebs, 39% 3Fgs, and 89% free throws to 28pts, 8rebs, 51% 3Fgs, and 94% free throws in the post season. He has become increasingly efficient, while performing repeatedly in the clutch as evidenced by his Finals 4<sup>th</sup> quarters scoring. During the 4<sup>th</sup> quarters of the Finals, he has averaged 10.2 pts a game while shooting 48% and 100% from the free throw line.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dirk’s unorthodox footwork, yet balanced style of play has gained the attention of millions on the news, blogs, and especially social networking sites across the globe. All of this, along with his one-footed, nearly indefensible stroke (arguably the third most “un-guardable” shot in NBA history behind Kareem’s sky hook and MJ’s fadeway) has boosted his resume into the argument of top 10 Greatest Bigs of all time. Fans and media aren’t the only ones taking heed to Nowitzki’s success though, as opposing team’s have begun preparing their game plan especially for him. Regardless of the opposing team’s awareness of the Mavs’ game plan though, he continually, and almost flawlessly, assesses the defense on each and every possession and makes the corresponding best possible play. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">4<sup>th</sup> Quarters During the Finals:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Game 1:10 pts on 2/4 shooting</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Game 2: 8 pts on 4/7 shooting</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Game 3: 15 pts on 4/7 shooting</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Game 4: 10 pts 2/6 shooting</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Game 5: 8 pts on 1/3 shooting</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Just to put into perspective what Nowitzki has been able to accomplish this series, LeBron James has managed to score only 11pts on 25% shooting in all of the 4<sup>th</sup> quarters combined! Don’t forget that Nowitzki’s performance is coming against the best defensive team in the league whose main focus has been on limiting his touches and opportunities. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Don’t count on Dirk receiving the Finals MVP regardless of the Mavs victory in this series, as only Jerry West has won the award when his team didn’t win the championship, not to mention Dwyane Wade’s stellar performance throughout the series. If Nowitzki does manage to close out the Heat in Game 6 tonight though, we could see Hall of Fame talks beginning for the best 7-Foot scorer ever as soon as the post game discussions. The actual induction of the German Giant into the Hall of Fame though, can only be decided by a panel of experts, and more importantly, time.</span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-87693442674343608012011-06-09T12:47:00.000-07:002011-10-21T15:34:43.729-07:00Batman & Robin: The D-Wade v. LBJ Argument<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Lebron’s “The Decision” brought an unprecedented amount of media attention to the Miami Heat organization. Every move by The Big 3 was scrutinized and examined with no regard or sympathy for the franchise. One of the major issues that was under the magnifying glass throughout the course of the regular season was the Batman & Robin argument. The media and fans were trying to figure out who would establish their position as the team leader and who would be satisfied with winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor AKA the Scottie Pippen award. The argument raged out of control throughout the regular season, and just when you thought you had it all figured out it seemed that the individual being deemed “Robin” at that point in time managed to post a performance to keep his case alive. The regular season though, is only a conduit by which a team hopes to reach the Promise Land: The NBA Finals. Here is where the real dissecting begins. Those who perform on this stage are glorified and those who don’t answer the call are exiled. Because of Dwyane Wade’s performance, leadership, and experience on this main stage, I’m here to say that the Batman & Robin argument is now dead and buried. A true member of royalty has established his thrown—and it’s not the King who everyone has become so accustomed to. LeBron, please exit stage left. Dwyane Wade is the Miami Heat’s floor general, most experienced player, and leader.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Up to this point in the first season with the James-Wade experiment, it’s clear that down the stretch this team is D-Wade’s. Lebron’s performance in the 4<sup>th</sup> quarter has been shaky and inconsistent at best throughout the course of the season and has been magnified in the Finals. Wade has been here before as evidenced by his 2006 ring and Finals MVP award, while LeBron’s sole Finals appearance prior to this season was characterized by a sweep at the hands of the Spurs. In that series, he averaged a mere 22pts, 7rebs, and 7assts, while shooting 36% from the field and under 70% from the charity line. Conversely, Wade put up huge numbers in his sole finals appearance with 35pts, 8rebs, and 4assts on 47% shooting from the field and 77% from the line. Wade clearly has more experience in this arena and has performed at higher level on Broadway than the supposed King. In this current finals series (through 4 games), Wade is averaging 30ppg, 8rpg, and 4apg, while shooting 59% from the field. LBJ on the other hand is averaging 17ppg, 7rpg, and 6apg, while shooting 46% from the field.To make matters worse, LeBron put on his best Houdini impression in Game 4 producing what was quite easily the worst game he has had thus far in a Heat uniform, and arguably in his entire career. Many thought that LeBron would answer the call after repeated call-outs from the media and other players, but it must’ve gone to voicemail. One reporter following LeBron’s subpar performance in Game 3 even went as far as to ask if he felt himself “shrinking” in the fourth. Yes, even great players have shocking and atrocious performances, but do they have them on the biggest stage in basketball? People who I have recently addressed LeBron’s atrocious Finals performances argue that his Game 4 lapse is similar to that of Kobe’s 2010 Game 7 dreadful shooting performance. There are a few striking issues with this argument though, which I will detail in the following points:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> F<span style="font-size: large;">irst, </span></span>although Kobe shot a shooting percentage worthy of a Charles Barkley “Turrrible” (at 25% vs. LeBron’s 27%), he managed to focus his efforts on the court towards two other facets of the game: attacking the paint and rebounding. Kobe managed to pull in 15 rebounds, while going 11-15 from the strike. Great players figure out a way to put their team in the best position to win. His efforts on the offensive end, although valiant, weren’t producing results so he began to attack the paint relentlessly, while grabbing board after board down the stretch. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> S</span>econd: he still managed to put up 10 points in the fourth quarter. LeBron has 9 points on 3/12 shooting in all of the 4<sup>th</sup> quarters combined this series! Great scorers find a way to put the ball in the basket in crunch time, regardless of their poor performances during the first 3+ quarters. Kobe’s killer instinct is something that I am yet to see in LeBron, but have seen frequently in the eyes and performances of one Dwyane Wade. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> T</span>hird: LeBron’s 2011 finals statistics are incomparable to that of Kobe’s 2010 stats. Kobe averaged 28ppg, 8rebs, and 4 assts, while Lebron is averaging 17ppg, 7rpg, and 6apg. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Final Point-Kobe won the O’Brien Trophy and the Finals MVP award last year, while LeBron is being overshadowed by Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki, and arguably Chris Bosh. How can a player be simultaneously considered the greatest player in the league and the fourth best player on the court up in the series? Great players don’t do that; they arise to the occasion. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">LeBron is in the company of Derrick Rose, Dwight Howard, and Josh Smith in regards to their super-human combination of athleticism, agility, and strength. He is truly a physical specimen in the world of sports…a freak of nature, yet his performance in the Finals is not mimicking his title as the best and most dominant player in the game today. Dwyane Wade, on the other hand, has exemplified his prowess on the court as the best player in this series. His statistics, attitude, and experience are all evidence for him being Batman on this Heat squad. LeRobin on the other hand, seems content and comfortable in the passenger seat allowing everyone to ridicule and underestimate his value on the team. The best way to silence a crowd of haters is to perform on the court, but we are yet to see that. If the King is really out there, he’s preparing to make us all Witnesses come Game 5 tonight. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Side Note: I don’t know if LeBron will be content with ridding in the passenger seat for his entire career, especially when he is so close to being compared to Jordan. If Kobe Bryant’s first three championships are somehow nullified or tainted by the fact that he was Shaq’s partner, then LeBron’s legacy has already been written. It will be impossible to even be mentioned in the same breath as Jordan if he never wins a Finals MVP Award or proves himself worthy of being called “clutch”, regardless of how many championships he wins. </span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-21318171548677586932011-06-05T19:54:00.000-07:002011-06-08T09:16:04.496-07:00Shaq’s Case for being the Greatest Center of All-Time<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shaq’s on court dominance unarguably places him on the top five all-time centers list, accompanied by the likes of Russell, Chamberlain, Kareem, and Olajuwon (Moses Malone, Patrick Ewing, David Robinson, George Mikan and Artis Gilmore are a few that deserve consideration.) I would place Shaq 4<sup>th</sup> on this list behind Russell, Chamberlain, and Kareem with Olajuwon and Malone close behind. Shaq’s ranks:<a name='more'></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><ul><li><span style="font-size: large;">5<sup>th</sup> all time in regular season points</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">12<sup>th</sup> all time in regular season rebounds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">7<sup>th</sup> all time in regular season blocks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1<sup>st</sup> all time in regular season FG%</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">4<sup>th</sup> all time in postseason points</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">3<sup>rd</sup> all time in postseason rebounds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">3<sup>rd</sup> all time in postseason blocks </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">5<sup>th</sup> all time in postseason FG%</span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">On only two occasions does Shaq NOT rank in the top 5 in the above categories. His ranking of 7<sup>th</sup> on the all time regular season block list is behind only 4 other competitors, which I listed above. The only instance where he does not rank in the top 5, when in comparison to the other centers which I have listed above, is in the category of regular season rebounds, which he ranks 7<sup>th</sup> overall in. Shaq is tied for 5<sup>th</sup> in regular season MVP awards with 1, and 3<sup>rd</sup> in championships with 4, when in comparison to the above players. When speaking simply in terms of career statistics and awards, Shaq repeatedly ranks in the top 5 among the all-time great centers, which makes his placement in the top 5 as close to factual as can be. The argument for him being the 4<sup>th</sup> best center of all time then rests upon whether or not he is statistically superior to both Olajuwon and Malone, as I listed them as the 5<sup>th</sup> and 6<sup>th</sup> best centers, respectively. Shaq ranks higher than each of them in post and regular season points, post and regular season FG%, and postseason rebounds. He also ranks above Malone in regular season and postseason blocks. That means that Shaq ranks above both Olajuwon and Malone in 5 of the 8 categories listed above, not to mention the fact that he has more championships than both of them combined. Shaq’s statistical dominance solidifies his spot as the 4<sup>th</sup> greatest center of all time when taking into consideration each competitor’s production during their respective eras. The next order of business is determining Shaq’s positioning on that list if every individual played during the same, standardized time period. Now, clearly this is impossible to conceive as there has been a noticeable evolution in nearly every aspect of the game when looking at the NBA in twenty year segments. Changes that have occurred during this time period include changes in areas such as rules and regulations, equipment and apparel, athleticism, average player size, knowledge and IQ, and the list goes on. It is safe to assume that there has been a clear development and improvement in the collective ability of the players from one era to another. This opinion can be clearly seen and supported through the simple task of watching highlights or games of players from the 60s and comparing them to that of players today. Through this type of reasoning, I would argue that Shaq’s dominance throughout his career trumps that of Wilt, Russell, and Kareem during their respective time periods. Shaq’s massive frame alone would ensure his supremacy over the likes of Wilt, Russell, and Kareem in a head to head matchup. When ranking the top 5 centers of all time using this formula, I would argue that Shaq is the greatest and most dominate player to ever grace the hardwood. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">(All information from Basketball-Reference.com)</span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-53392424470848593382011-06-05T14:40:00.000-07:002011-06-06T01:06:53.523-07:00Can You Dig It? : A Look at His Shaqness’ Colossal Footprint on the Game<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Whether it was his charisma on air, his feats on the court, or his endless array of nicknames and quotes on record, The Big Fella had a resounding impact on the game of basketball. He managed to single-handedly change the game through the use of his enormous frame and personality. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shaquille O’Neal was a consummate professional; his impact was visible on and off the court as evidenced by his four O’Brien trophies, three finals MVP awards, and MBA from the University of Phoenix. A few of his astounding and seemingly endless accomplishments and accolades are as follows: </span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div><ul style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><li><span style="font-size: large;">28,596 Regular Season points ranks 5<sup>th</sup> All Time </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">5,250 Postseason points ranks 4<sup>th</sup> All Time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">2,142 Postseason rebounds ranks 4<sup>th</sup> All Time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">393 Postseason blocks ranks 3<sup>rd</sup> All Time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">58% Regular Season Field goals ranks 2<sup>nd</sup> All Time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">56% Postseason Field Goals ranks 5<sup>th</sup> All time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1996 “Best Supporting Actor” for his role in <i>Kazaam</i> (just making sure you’re still with me … P.S. If there was no part of you which second-guessed this, then you must not have seen the movie.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">15 career All-Star appearances rank 2<sup>nd</sup> All Time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1993 Rookie of the Year</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1999-2000 League MVP</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">1996 Olympic Gold Medal </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">One of the 50 Greatest Players of All Time</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">B.A. in General Studies at LSU</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">And the list goes on…</span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shaq’s career has him being called one of the most dominant players of all-time, as well being mentioned in the same breath as all-time greats like Russell, Chamberlain, Kareem, and Olajuwon. His success and legacy won’t be defined solely by his remarkable list of statistics and awards though, but rather by the intangible aspects of his career. He is widely recognized as the first exceedingly outgoing big man in the NBA. He paved the way for current personalities like that of Dwight Howard. His charisma in front of a camera or microphone was rivaled by none during his 19 year career. <span style="line-height: 115%;">His well-balanced persona was enhanced by his extensive educational background supported by his two degrees. </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> O’Neal is even in the process of earning his doctorate from Barry University with the subject of his dissertation aimed at “How Leaders Utilize Humor or Aggression in Leadership Styles.” </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-size: large;">“The Diesel” will always be remembered as a well-rounded player and human-being, which makes his retirement, is a bitter-sweet one. It allows us to memorialize a career defined by longevity and success, but also represents the end of an era—an era led by one of the most polarizing players in NBA history, Shaquille O’Neal. </span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189981965245386814.post-56628033912506081522011-06-04T21:25:00.000-07:002011-06-22T11:03:56.708-07:00The Prospective Future of Ricky Rubio and the Timberwolves<div style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">Following Minnesota Timberwolves’ General Manager David Khan’s selection of three point guards in the 2009 NBA draft, experts and fans alike expressed sentiments of bewilderment and outrage. These sentiments were undoubtedly warranted after the fall through of the Timberwolves’ selections throughout the course of the next two seasons due to the trading of Ty Lawson, the inability of Jonny Flynn to meet towering expectations complicated by a hip injury, and the decision of Ricky Rubio to remain a member of his club FC Barcelona. Three picks which could’ve seemingly suspended the franchise above the depths of despair, instead sent them spiraling rapidly downward. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">But it seems that the Timberwolves, who haven’t seen a playoff berth since the Kevin Garnett era, can see the light at the end of the tunnel, or at least the stairway to that tunnel. </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: large;">These past two seasons were marked by little success, but did provide glimpses of hope. Kevin Love’s emergence as one of the league’s marquee players and a double-double machine, the acquisition of a scoring talent in Michael Beasely, the potential of Syracuse’s Wes Johnson, and the rights to this year’s 2nd overall pick in the draft (probably Arizona's Derrick Williams), could prove to be the building blocks for this collapsing franchise. The potentially promising future of this franchise doesn’t end there though, as a series of recent developments swarming around Ricky Rubio has confirmed his signing of a contract with the Timberwolves to play in the NBA starting with the 2011-2012 season. The Spaniard’s decision to play stateside has come as a surprise to many, including all-star Kevin Love who Tweeted on June 1, “Ricky Rubio huh? I'll believe it when I see it.” The tandem’s ability to “Pick n’ Roll,” as Kevin Love also Tweeted about later that day, could be an integral part of the Twin City’s basketball future. The prodigy’s presence in Minnesota’s Target Center could revive the atmosphere in Minneapolis by adding a new dimension of viewership and means for additional revenue for the Wolves—similar to the Gasol brothers’ impact on both the Lakers and Grizzlies organizations. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Timberwolves still have a ways to go though, considering ESPN’s report that attendance hasn’t surpassed the 80% mark since the 2007-2008 season and the valuing of the team at 264 million by Forbes magazine, which ranks a measly 29<sup>th</sup> among all NBA franchises. The Timberwolves’ failure to perform on the court might actually overshadow the team’s ability to turn a buck taking into account the fact that they posted a dismal record of 32-132, ranking them as the worst team in the league over the past two seasons. The supposed future all star Ricky Rubio had struggles of his own throughout the duration of his time overseas, marked by his nagging foot injury and low production with a mere 6.5 points and 3.6 assists a game. The team’s inability to compete matched with their savior-hopeful’s hardships makes this team’s future gloomy and uncertain. At worst though, the Prodigal Son’s arrival will ensure the persistence of the long standing tradition of “waiting,” which the Wolves’ organization and fans have become so accustomed to.</span></div>Spencerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13918376912968598414noreply@blogger.com0