Chris Bosh update
C.L. Anthony | 5:25 PM | Boston Celtics , chris bosh , eastern conference finals , game time decision , Miami Heat , returning from injury
After the Heat's game 4 loss to the Celtics, the news broke that Heat forward Chris Bosh would be activated for tonight's game. Heat coach Eric Spoelstra indicated yesterday that no decision had been made on the playing status of Bosh, but the official update lists Bosh as a game time decision. Those in the know are all expecting to see Bosh take the court this evening.
The Pulse: Your Take
C.L. Anthony | 8:34 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Last evening the Oklahoma City Thunder arrived in San Antonio and stole the Game 5 victory. In a best of 7 series, teams that win game 5 win the series is knotted a two games apiece advance to the next round almost 85% of the time. Has the time finally come to close the chapter on the San Antonio Spurs or do you believe that they can come back and defeat the Thunder in 7 games?
Game 5 Analysis: Thunder-Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:30 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Anthony can't wait to reunite with D'Antoni
The two didn't mesh well as player and coach on the biggest stage of them all but Carmelo Anthony is "excited" about reuniting with Team USA and former Knicks head coach Mike D'Antoni this summer during the Summer Olympics. As he was in mid town yesterday afternoon promoting USA Basketball, Melo discussed joining team USA once more.
“It’ll be good to reunite with him......When he left there wasn’t any bad blood between me and him......He was a big part of the ’08 win, and he’s there again,” Anthony said. “I’m actually excited about going over there and trying to win a gold medal with him again.”
“It’ll be good to reunite with him......When he left there wasn’t any bad blood between me and him......He was a big part of the ’08 win, and he’s there again,” Anthony said. “I’m actually excited about going over there and trying to win a gold medal with him again.”
Lakers pick up Bynum's option
The Los Angeles Lakers have opted in and picked up Andrew Bynum's contract valued at $16.1 million. Bynum however could still be traded for Dwight Howard.
Heat to pursue Andre Miller?
The offseason isn't even here yet and player movement rumors are already starting to fly. According to sources, the Miami Heat will look to sign veteran point guard Andre Miller who has expressed a desire to play for a championship contender. The Heat would use its mid level exemption to try to lure Miller to South Beach.
Rudy Gay on the trade market?
Hoopsworld.com is reporting that the Memphis Grizzlies will seek to trade Rudy Gay in the offseason. Gay has 3 years and $53 million remaining on his contract and the Grizzlies are said to be extremely disappointed with their first round playoff exit. According to sources, the Magic, Nets, Raptors, and Warriors are all interested in acquiring the services of Gay.
Suns after Deron Williams?
The Suns have a master plan and it involves current point guard Steve Nash as well as the soon to be biggest free agent on the market Deron Williams. Stage one of the master plan is to offer Steve Nash a 2 year deal valued at $20 million to lure Nash back to the franchise since reports indicate that he wants to play for a contender. Should Nash decline the offer, the Suns would then turn there attention to Deron Williams as a replacement for Nash and rebuild around Williams as he would become their "franchise" player.
Bosh to return Tuesday
C.L. Anthony | 1:19 AM | abdominal strain , Boston Celtics , chris bosh , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat , returning from injury
Barring a setback, Miami Heat forward will be activated for Tuesday's game 5 against the Celtics. Bosh has missed the last 11 games with an abdominal strain but practiced the majority of the last week with the team.
Pierce worked on strength/conditioning
C.L. Anthony | 6:50 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat , paul pierce
While Game 4 of the 2012 eastern conference finals is a little less than 2 hours away, Celtics forward Paul Pierce was on the court earlier working on strength and conditioning drills. Pierce injured his knee on May 6th but he's yet to reveal the nature of the injury, according to sources, Pierce had an elastic band between his ankles and did some lateral steps. The exercise was designed to build strength on both side of his knees.
Thunder Serges as KD closes out Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
2012 NBA Finals Schedule Set
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba finals
Game 1: Tue. June 12, Miami or Boston at San Antonio or Oklahoma City, 9 p.m. ABC
Game 2: Thu. June 14, Miami or Boston at San Antonio or Oklahoma City, 9 p.m. ABC
Game 3: Sun. June 17, San Antonio or Oklahoma City at Miami or Boston, 9 p.m. ABC
Game 4: Tue. June 19, San Antonio or Oklahoma City at Miami or Boston, 9 p.m. ABC
Game 5*: Thu. June 21, San Antonio or Oklahoma City at Miami or Boston, 9 p.m. ABC
Game 6*: Sun June 24, Miami or Boston at San Antonio or Oklahoma City, 9 p.m. ABC
Game 7*: Tue. June 26, Miami or Boston at San Antonio or Oklahoma City, 9 p.m. ABC
LaMarcus Aldridge details his scary week
Blazers forward LaMarcus Aldridge addressed his fans with a blog on Blazers.com about an apparent setback that he endured this past week, below it what he posted and it's very revealing.
Hey Blazers fans. I write this post with a lot of thankfulness and gratitude. My first rehab is going well. I'm officially walking and no longer need to use crutches at all. I’m getting my mobility back and have started some strengthening activity.
But, this past week was a very scary one for me. On Saturday I came down with a blood virus. I quickly became sick and had to be rushed to the hospital. I thought it was a case of bad food or a bad cold, but I was wrong. It turned out to be a very serious virus that if not treated quickly could actually be deadly! One thing I know for sure is that I’ve never felt worse in my life and there were times I wasn’t really sure where I was going. Thankfully I had a lot of family support and great medical care that helped me fight through it and now I’ve turned the corner and I’m feeling much better.
I know it was God ultimately that decided my fate and looked out for me to make sure I got healed. I'm truly thankful for still being here and being able to do functions like walk, talk and open my eyes as those things were hard to do during that time. Never take your health for granted. Good health is a true blessing. Have a great weekend and I’ll check in next week.
Hey Blazers fans. I write this post with a lot of thankfulness and gratitude. My first rehab is going well. I'm officially walking and no longer need to use crutches at all. I’m getting my mobility back and have started some strengthening activity.
But, this past week was a very scary one for me. On Saturday I came down with a blood virus. I quickly became sick and had to be rushed to the hospital. I thought it was a case of bad food or a bad cold, but I was wrong. It turned out to be a very serious virus that if not treated quickly could actually be deadly! One thing I know for sure is that I’ve never felt worse in my life and there were times I wasn’t really sure where I was going. Thankfully I had a lot of family support and great medical care that helped me fight through it and now I’ve turned the corner and I’m feeling much better.
I know it was God ultimately that decided my fate and looked out for me to make sure I got healed. I'm truly thankful for still being here and being able to do functions like walk, talk and open my eyes as those things were hard to do during that time. Never take your health for granted. Good health is a true blessing. Have a great weekend and I’ll check in next week.
Thunder Cover: Trying to get even "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , thunder cover , western conference finals
Mo Evans' doesn't think Anthony Davis is a "franchise player"
While being interviewed on 106.7 The Fan, Wizards guard Mo Evan shared his thoughts on the projected first pick in the NBA draft, Mo Evans. The Wizards won the rights to the 3rd pick in the draft and it seems as if Evan wouldn't like to have Davis play for the Wizards as he doesn't seem to buy into the Davis hype. Evans stated the following in his interview.
“I think that we’re in a better position having gotten the third pick, than had we gotten the first pick. I think Anthony Davis is a great player. I don’t think he’s gonna be the player that’s gonna, you know, be the player the most impactful in a franchise,”
“I think it would have been great had he come to us, but I don’t think he’s going to be, like, a franchise player so that’s gonna put a GM in a tough position to go pick Anthony Davis because he is number one. I think New Orleans needs more of an impact player, like a Kobe Bryant type player and I don’t foresee Anthony Davis being that player. I think defensively he’s a gem. He’s going to able to alter a lot of shots and do a lot of things, but I don’t think he’s going to be able to go out and get you 25 points a night, like what they’re gonna need."
“I think that we’re in a better position having gotten the third pick, than had we gotten the first pick. I think Anthony Davis is a great player. I don’t think he’s gonna be the player that’s gonna, you know, be the player the most impactful in a franchise,”
“I think it would have been great had he come to us, but I don’t think he’s going to be, like, a franchise player so that’s gonna put a GM in a tough position to go pick Anthony Davis because he is number one. I think New Orleans needs more of an impact player, like a Kobe Bryant type player and I don’t foresee Anthony Davis being that player. I think defensively he’s a gem. He’s going to able to alter a lot of shots and do a lot of things, but I don’t think he’s going to be able to go out and get you 25 points a night, like what they’re gonna need."
Wittman receives new deal
The news broke recently that the Washington Wizards were going to retain the services of interim coach Randy Wittman. According to sources, the Wizards are close to finalizing a new deal with Wittman that will allow him to remain coaching the team for the next two seasons.
First Glimpse at Slam 160
Usually Slam Magazine never reveals a picture of their cover until it's already on newsstands but Anthony Davis is seen by many as a unprecedented talent and thus here's the cover of Slam 160 featuring Davis.
Chris Bosh near return?
C.L. Anthony | 2:41 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , chris bosh , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat
Miami Heat forward/center Chris Bosh participated in shootaround with the team this morning. According the sources, Bosh looks like he is able to play as soon as tonight but the Heat will likely wait to see how the rest of the series will plays out. The Heat however continue to state that Bosh is still out indefinitely.
Thunder thumps Spurs, trails series 2-1 "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:43 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Larry Bird still undecided?
Since becoming team president, Larry Bird has been patient and very successful at reconstructing the image and roster of the Indiana Pacers and his hard work paid off this current season as they advanced to the 2nd round of the NBA playoffs and pushed the Miami Heat to a six game series. Simply put, this team will be around for sometime and should be a consistent 50 win team but Bird wants more. Larry Bird desires to lead the Pacers to a championship, something he almost did when he coached the team in the late 90's.
So what's left to add? The Pacers have a good young core and a young coach that belongs, the only thing that the franchise is missing is a superstar, the likes of Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, or LeBron James and Bird knows that there's only one way to guarantee having such a superstar. In the coming days, Bird will ask Pacers owner Herb Simon if he will raise the Pacers payroll to help aid in acquiring a superstar. If Bird receives an answer that would indicate that the franchise isn't willing to take the next step, then Bird will indeed walk away.
So what's left to add? The Pacers have a good young core and a young coach that belongs, the only thing that the franchise is missing is a superstar, the likes of Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, or LeBron James and Bird knows that there's only one way to guarantee having such a superstar. In the coming days, Bird will ask Pacers owner Herb Simon if he will raise the Pacers payroll to help aid in acquiring a superstar. If Bird receives an answer that would indicate that the franchise isn't willing to take the next step, then Bird will indeed walk away.
New Orleans Hornets New Logo?
Could this be the new logo of the New Orleans Hornets, the timing seems to be right based on all of the "great" news the franchise has received in the last few months.
Bulls' Deng/Watson to participate in Basketball Without Borders
Chicago Bulls players Luol Deng and CJ Watson will participate in the 10th season of the NBA's Basketball without Borders program. The pair will be part of the contingent that will visit Johannesburg, South Africa beginning on August 30th and ending September 2nd.
Basketball without Borders is a joint venture between the NBA and FIBA and it is a global basketball development program that uses the sport to create positive social change in the areas of education and health and wellness.
Basketball without Borders is a joint venture between the NBA and FIBA and it is a global basketball development program that uses the sport to create positive social change in the areas of education and health and wellness.
The Pulse: Your Take
C.L. Anthony | 8:01 AM | 2012 nba draft lottery , anthony davis , nba fixed , New Orleans Hornets , The Pulse
As I woke up yesterday evening I was informed that the Hornets had won the 2012 NBA Draft Lottery. After taking a moment to digest the news, I immediately put my head down and stated the following "I should have known". I should have known that the Hornets would "win" the lottery based on their recent past. Lets have a look at the last 12 months for the Hornets.
I need to really hear from you guys today on this matter because I am torn, do you think the NBA fixed the Draft Lottery to further aid the Hornets or is all of this just one massive coincidence? Let us know at The Real NBA, please don't be shy on this matter.
- Being acquired by the league
- League owners nixing the Chris Paul trade to the Lakers for "Basketball Reasons"
- The Hornets being sold to Tom Benson and being promised the 2014 NBA All-Star Game
- Winning the Draft Lottery last evening
Not a bad year to say the least for a franchise that the NBA is trying desperately to revive and perhaps the most damming evidence of all. The following photo was allegedly taken days ago. It could be nothing but a huge coincidence or it could have been a sign of foreshadowing but there's Anthony Davis with his Hornets cap on and yes he will be the 1st overall pick.
 |
| Anthony Davis days ago? |
Wally Szczerbiak blasts Kevin Garnett
C.L. Anthony | 12:06 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , eastern conference finals , kevin Garnett , Miami Heat , wally szczerbiak
There was a time when the two were teammates for 7 years but apparently there was no love there. Moments after the Celtics were defeated by the Miami Heat during game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Wally Szczerbiak sent out this tweet about Kevin Garnett.
KG is another one who lacks the #clutchgene always has!
Could the Orlando Magic secure the 1st overall pick?
C.L. Anthony | 5:38 PM | 2012 nba draft lottery , Brooklyn Nets , deron williams , Dwight Howard , Orlando Magic , trade to nets
The Nets only have a 7.5% chance of acquiring the first picks in tonight's 2012 NBA Draft Lottery but sources indicate that if the Nets were to acquire the pick, they would be willing to trade the pick to the Orlando Magic for center Dwight Howard. It's no secret that Anthony Davis of Kentucky will be the first player selected and the Magic would be able to rebuild around him as they did Howard. By landing Howard, the Nets would almost guarantee the resigning of guard Deron Williams.
Ray Allen update
C.L. Anthony | 10:50 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat , Ray Allen
Tonight's Eastern Conference Finals Game 2 is a little over 9 hours away and Celtics guard Ray Allen is already at the American Airlines Arena putting up shots in preparation. Thus far this postseason, Allen is averaging career lows when it comes to ppg 9.4 and shooting percentage.
Allen to be limited?
C.L. Anthony | 10:43 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , Doc Rivers , injured ankle , Miami Heat , Ray Allen
It's obvious that Ray Allen isn't well and Celtics coach Doc Rivers indicated that he's not going to sit Allen for the rest of the series but he would consider playing Allen every other game in the series. Allen has been plagued by his bad ankles for the majority of the season and one can tell that his shot has fallen flat as he's tried to play through said injury.
2012 NBA Draft Lottery Odds
C.L. Anthony | 8:30 AM | 2012 nba draft lottery
Tonight the face of a franchise could change forever as we all will find out who'll earn the first pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. Below are the odds for each team in the lottery of earning the first overall pick.
Uphill battle: Thunder falls to Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:30 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Gasol refutes trade claim
Lakers forward Pau Gasol denied that he'd liked to be traded from the Lakers to the Bulls. Earlier this week the internet was buzzing over the speculation that Gasol wanted to be paired with Bulls guard and former MVP Derrick Rose. The Gasol to Bulls trade senario begin gaining traction around the trade deadline and the whispers have remained, with the only roadblock seemingly being the Lakers not wanting Carlos Boozer who would be apart of a trade of this magnitude.
Thunder Practice Report: Bounce back or else "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 12:49 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Jeff Van Gundy believes Bobcats tanked
While speaking on a conference call with the media this morning, Jeff Van Gundy stated that he felt as if the Bobcats organization tanked the season. Below are some of Van Gundy's comments:
“I don’t think the players and the coaching staff (tanked). I think the organization did by not getting the best roster.....You could make the case at any position that they did not have a top-15 player....What they’re doing, most (front office) people would do. But it’s by design....I don’t think you should get extra odds in the lottery for being bad,’’ Van Gundy said. “To consistently reward bad teams with extra (chances) is bad.’’
Thunder Cover: OKC must learn from mistakes "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Gasol to Bulls?
According to sources, Lakers forward Pau Gasol would like to play for the Chicago Bulls along side of Derrick Rose. Gasol and Kobe Bryant have been at odds for sometime now and Gasol wants a fresh start with a new team. Any deal bringing Gasol to the Bulls would likely involve forward Carlos Boozer who the Lakers are not interested in but a 3rd team could be invited to acquire the services of Boozer should the trade be discussed again as it was earlier in the season.
Heat preps fans
C.L. Anthony | 7:30 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat
The Miami Heat have always been the leader in the league for team apparel during the playoffs, tonight fans who attend the game will be able to partake in the custom shirts that spell HEAT that the franchise has supplied free of charge.
Video: Heat-Celtics Series Preview
C.L. Anthony | 7:07 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat
Would the Sixers waive Brand?
This senario will be quite possible in the coming months, the Sixers could very well use the amnesty clause to waive Elton Brand to free up the necessary cap space to sign more free agents. The move would be considered as additions by subtractions. Brand can still be a capable scorer on some nights but his prime years are behind him due to injuries and age. A power forward the likes of Kris Humphries would fit comfortably in the Sixers system and would be considered an upgrade from Brand. Along with Humphries, the Sixers could add a veteran point guard to aid Jrue Holiday.
Spurned: Thunder squanders chance to steal Game 1 "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:02 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Game 1 Analysis: Thunder-Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 7:57 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Updated Playoff Previews
The Closer has updated his NBA Conference Finals playoffs picks which now includes who he thinks will be the team who represents the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals. Once you're done there, head over to The Real NBA blog page and check out my preview of the Heat/Celtics series which begins tonight.
Rondo doesn't fear Heat
C.L. Anthony | 6:29 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , Boston Celtics , eastern conference finals , Miami Heat , Rajon Rondo
Despite the Heat defeating the Celtics last season during the playoffs in five games, Celtics guard Rajon Rondo has no fear of the Heat. The two teams will face off tomorrow evening and one can expect fireworks. Speaking to reporters yesterday evening, Rondo stated the following:
“We feel we can beat Miami. Obviously, we got to this point. There’s no doubt in our mind we can. We got to go down there and take care of business.”
“We feel we can beat Miami. Obviously, we got to this point. There’s no doubt in our mind we can. We got to go down there and take care of business.”
Haslem reveals the truth
After the Heat's practice Saturday afternoon, Udonis Haslem admitted that he did strike Tyler Hansbrough to retaliate for Dwyane Wade being struck by Hansbrough moments earlier. The two have been teammates, friends for nearly 10 years and both have sacrificed for one another. Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh all took cuts in pay so that the Heat could resign the likes of Haslem who has turned millions down from other teams for remain with the Heat.
“I can’t imagine anything I wouldn’t do for Dwyane,” Haslem said, “It is all fun and games to beat up the Heat in the media, to say the Heat are soft....but as soon as the Heat take a stand and hit back, it’s not funny anymore. Rabbit hunting is fun. But it ain’t funny when the rabbit has the gun.”
“I can’t imagine anything I wouldn’t do for Dwyane,” Haslem said, “It is all fun and games to beat up the Heat in the media, to say the Heat are soft....but as soon as the Heat take a stand and hit back, it’s not funny anymore. Rabbit hunting is fun. But it ain’t funny when the rabbit has the gun.”
Would the Knicks sign Allen Iverson?
It's no secret that the Knicks will look to add a veteran point guard this offseason and it's no secret that Allen Iverson wants to return to the NBA bad. The questions is, would the Knicks entertain the thought of signing Iverson. Indirectly the Knicks know Iverson very well, coach Mike Woodson was once an assistant of Larry Brown while in Philadelphia and Carmelo Anthony and Iverson spent time playing together in Denver. According to sources, the Knicks consider Iverson too big of a gamble to sign but what if that perception were to change?
British hoops sends shot at Bulls
Luol Deng would love to play for the British Basketball program during the 2012 London Olympics, but a battle is brewing over who will cover the insurance for Deng due to his wrist injury. Now comes the accusation that the Bulls would like for Deng to withdraw and focus on his long term health. Chris Spice, the director of the British Basketball program recently stated the following:
"Luol Deng is hugely committed to the British Basketball program and he has maintained this stance despite recent pressure for him not to play after injuring his wrist during the highly-demanding shortened NBA season," Spice's statement said. "We admire and support his stance. Luol is a true professional and manages his body extremely well as shown by the high amount of minutes he was able to play for his club after sustaining the injury in January."
Wizards remain quiet on the status of Wittman
Wizards Head Coach Randy Wittman compiled a record of 18-31 after he took over for the fired Flip Saunders. The largest improvement was on the defensive and the addition of Nene only made matters betters but despite having supports from him players such as John Wall, Wittman has yet to receive word from Wizards' ownership on whether or not he'll be retained. According to sources, the Wizards are close to retaining Wittman but nothing is official yet as Wittman continues to operate business as usual.
Does Kyle Lowry want out of Houston?
Kyle Lowry is still not over his issues with Rockets' coach Kevin McHale and said as such as he was leaving the team facility recently. When asked if he and McHale can coexist, Lowry stated the following.
“I don’t think so,” Lowry said. “I honestly think it would be tough. Things have to be addressed. The situation would have to be addressed.....If things aren’t addressed coaching-wise, I guess I have to be moved.”
McHale was surprised by the comments apparently having moved on from the spat the two had near the end of the season where McHale pulled Lowry into a team huddle and Lowry reacted negatively.
Del Negro in trouble?
Despite leading the Clippers to the second round of the NBA playoffs, coach Vinny Del Negro will learn his fate at some point next week according to sources. Del Negro was rumored to be fired in March when the Clippers hit a rough patch but he was able to navigate the team through that turbulent time. If Del Negro is indeed let go, two names that have come up as potential replacements are OKC Thunders' Scott Brooks and the Hornets' Monty Williams.
Thunder Insider: Thunder vs. Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 6:44 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Jeff Van Gundy defends his brother
Yesterday Jeff Van Gundy appeared on ESPN radio and one of the topics that was discussed was the Magic's handling of Stan Van Gundy's firing.
"As you just said his coaching is beyond approach, so he doesn't need me to defend him. At the same time teams throughout professionals sports they change coaches. Now how you go about it is important. For him to have been in the office all day and the President, Alex Martins, knows that he is there and let them leave and then he calls him on the phone to fire him? It’s unprofessional. It’s unprofessional. To hide behind the fact or try to make everyone believe that Dwight Howard didn't have a part in this is absurd. Say listen we fired this guy because we know this our best chance to keep Dwight Howard. Dwight Howard and I decided to fire him. To do anything else is playing a game of semantics. It really is. Third at the press conference that they hold to be going on and on how difficult of a day it is for you personally Alex Martins to fire people? He does this every time he fires somebody at the Magic with countless disregard at how it impacts people that he just fired. Now my brother is fine financially, but he has uprooted so many other lives that to force…you want sympathy and empathy because you have it hard? Countless disregard for what normal Americans are going through. He’s fired many people there and he always comes up with the same thing that it’s been a tough day on me without any regards for their feelings. Finally and this is the biggest one to me he said that my brother is the finest ‘X and O’ coach he has been around in his 25 years in the business. Okay listen [Alex Martins] all you have done in your 25 years in the business is release press releases and run the business side. You don’t know if a ball is blown up or stuffed. You don’t know if the pick and roll coverage on the side is right or wrong. Just say that I have no knowledge about basketball. It’s offensive when someone who has no knowledge about basketball even in a positive comment tries in those ways to sort of negate what Brian Hill did as a coach or what Matt Guokas did as a coach. He doesn’t know one thing about basketball so please hold off your comments on my brothers expertise since you know nothing about basketball.’”
"As you just said his coaching is beyond approach, so he doesn't need me to defend him. At the same time teams throughout professionals sports they change coaches. Now how you go about it is important. For him to have been in the office all day and the President, Alex Martins, knows that he is there and let them leave and then he calls him on the phone to fire him? It’s unprofessional. It’s unprofessional. To hide behind the fact or try to make everyone believe that Dwight Howard didn't have a part in this is absurd. Say listen we fired this guy because we know this our best chance to keep Dwight Howard. Dwight Howard and I decided to fire him. To do anything else is playing a game of semantics. It really is. Third at the press conference that they hold to be going on and on how difficult of a day it is for you personally Alex Martins to fire people? He does this every time he fires somebody at the Magic with countless disregard at how it impacts people that he just fired. Now my brother is fine financially, but he has uprooted so many other lives that to force…you want sympathy and empathy because you have it hard? Countless disregard for what normal Americans are going through. He’s fired many people there and he always comes up with the same thing that it’s been a tough day on me without any regards for their feelings. Finally and this is the biggest one to me he said that my brother is the finest ‘X and O’ coach he has been around in his 25 years in the business. Okay listen [Alex Martins] all you have done in your 25 years in the business is release press releases and run the business side. You don’t know if a ball is blown up or stuffed. You don’t know if the pick and roll coverage on the side is right or wrong. Just say that I have no knowledge about basketball. It’s offensive when someone who has no knowledge about basketball even in a positive comment tries in those ways to sort of negate what Brian Hill did as a coach or what Matt Guokas did as a coach. He doesn’t know one thing about basketball so please hold off your comments on my brothers expertise since you know nothing about basketball.’”
Josh Smith speaks on his contract situation
Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith would like to see his contract extended. Smith currently has 1 year remaining on the contract that was signed in the summer of 2008 when the Hawks matched the offer given to Smith by the Grizzlies.
“I can’t get extended,” Smith said. “They didn’t give me the money; I had to go get it. That’s something I have to play it out and see how it goes from there.....“All I know is I have one more year on my contract so I will definitely be here....I just have to go into the offseason to better myself and do whatever I have to do to help this ballclub. I was an Atlanta Hawk after the trade deadline and I’m one now, so I have to look at some of the things I can do to help my basketball team win ballgames, especially in the postseason.”
“I can’t get extended,” Smith said. “They didn’t give me the money; I had to go get it. That’s something I have to play it out and see how it goes from there.....“All I know is I have one more year on my contract so I will definitely be here....I just have to go into the offseason to better myself and do whatever I have to do to help this ballclub. I was an Atlanta Hawk after the trade deadline and I’m one now, so I have to look at some of the things I can do to help my basketball team win ballgames, especially in the postseason.”
Bradley to miss time
Celtics guard Avery Bradley will undergo surgery today to repair his shoulder issues. Bradley will be out of action for at least four months for rehab.
James Harden vs Manu Ginobili Comparison "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:05 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , james harden , Manu Ginobili , western conference finals
The Pulse: Your Take
There's two words that resonate more than in the NBA than any others......Game Seven! Tomorrow evening the Celtics will host the Sixers in the 2nd game 7 during this years' playoffs. When I posted my playoffs prediction on The Real NBA Blog, I knew that this series would go seven games and I picked the Celtics to prevail, only through veteran leadership. I'm sticking to that of course but I want to know what you think, who'll win tomorrow nights' game 7 and why?
Magic's GM search to begin next week
Orlando Magic CEO Alex Martins will begin interviewing candidates to become the teams' next GM next week. Chris Sheridan of sheridanhoops.com reported yesterday that the Orlando Magic had decided to trade Dwight Howard but sources close to the team claim that those reports were false.
Press Row: 5 in 5 - West the Best? "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 6:16 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
NBA Announces 2011-12 All-NBA Teams
2011-12 ALL-NBA FIRST TEAM
LeBron James, Heat (596), Kevin Durant, Thunder (591), Dwight Howard, Magic (476), Kobe Bryant, Lakers (568), Chris Paul, Clippers (484)
2011-12 ALL-NBA SECOND TEAM
Kevin Love, Wolves (365), Blake Griffin, Clippers (170), Andrew Bynum, Lakers (400), Tony Parker, Spurs (367), Russell Westbrook, Thunder (239)
2011-12 ALL-NBA THIRD TEAM
Carmelo Anthony, Knicks (154), Dirk Nowitzki, Mavs (136), Tyson Chandler, Knicks (60), Dwyane Wade, Heat (235), Rajon Rondo, Celtics (142)
Magic to trade Howard?
C.L. Anthony | 6:02 PM | Dwight Howard , magic to trade dwight howard , Orlando Magic , Otis Smith , stan van Gundy
According to Chris Sheridan, The Orlando are prepared to trade Howard sooner rather than later. A meeting took place in Michigan between the team president and owner Rich DeVos and it was there that the conclusion was reached to part ways with coach Stan Van Gundy, GM Otis Smith, and Dwight Howard. The Magic will begin to solicit deals from Howard once the Draft Lottery has been completed next week.
Celtics to lose Bradley?
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , avery bradley , Boston Celtics , shoulder injury , sixers
The Boston Globe is reporting that there's a 90% chance that Celtics' guard Avery Bradley will be shut down for the remainder of the playoffs due to his ongoing shoulder issues. Bradley has missed the last two games due to soreness in both shoulders and he may require surgery. If Bradley were to play and cause further damage to the injury, he could end up missing an entire season.
Thunder Practice Report: Savvy Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , OKC Thunder , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
Udrih to remain with Bucks
Bucks backup point guard Beno Udrih has opted into the player option on his contract and will return to the team next season. It will be the final year of his contract and the 8 year vet will earn $7.8 million to return.
Russell Westbrook talks beating Lakers, thinking Spurs "Video"
C.L. Anthony | 8:00 AM | 2012 nba playoffs , nba sports , OKC Thunder , Russell Westbrook , San Antonio Spurs , western conference finals
OKC makes change
Due to the recent shooting after the OKC Thunder defeated the LA Lakers earlier this week, the Thunder have decided to cancel their outdoor viewing parties during games.
Breaking News
The NBA has suspended Miami Heat forward Udonis Haslem for tomorrow's game 6 in Indianapolis and Heat center Dexter Pittman has been suspended 3 games.
Team USA's 1st Round Olympic Basketball Schedule released
July 29, France (9:30 a.m. ET)
July 31, Tunisia (5:15 p.m. ET)
Aug. 2, Qualifier TBD (5:15 p.m. ET)
Aug. 4, Qualifier TBD (9:30 a.m. ET)
Aug. 6, Argentina (5:15 p.m. ET)
July 31, Tunisia (5:15 p.m. ET)
Aug. 2, Qualifier TBD (5:15 p.m. ET)
Aug. 4, Qualifier TBD (9:30 a.m. ET)
Aug. 6, Argentina (5:15 p.m. ET)
Danny Granger agrees with "Soft" label
C.L. Anthony | 4:59 PM | 2012 nba playoffs , calls pacers' soft , Danny Granger , Larry Bird , Miami Heat
While watching his teammates practice today, Pacers' forward Danny Granger agreed with the Soft label that team President Larry Bird dropped after the Pacers' suffered a devastating defeat via the Miami Heat last evening. Granger left the game in the 3rd quarter with a sprained ankle and his playing status for tomorrow night is unknown, Granger is currently listed as day to day.
"I agree with his assessment. We did play soft. We got smacked around. We got beat up. We got bullied,'' Granger said. "And we didn't really respond well. You give up 61.4% to anybody is really uncalled for. I think they set all kinds of records for points scored and I think it was our worst playoff loss ever, so that's really unacceptable.....I've known Larry since I've been in Indiana for seven years. He's not one to hold his tongue and 99 percent of the time what he's saying is right. I think he just called out what everyone else saw. We played a soft game. We didn't come with the playoff intensity that we needed to win and he called us out.''
"I agree with his assessment. We did play soft. We got smacked around. We got beat up. We got bullied,'' Granger said. "And we didn't really respond well. You give up 61.4% to anybody is really uncalled for. I think they set all kinds of records for points scored and I think it was our worst playoff loss ever, so that's really unacceptable.....I've known Larry since I've been in Indiana for seven years. He's not one to hold his tongue and 99 percent of the time what he's saying is right. I think he just called out what everyone else saw. We played a soft game. We didn't come with the playoff intensity that we needed to win and he called us out.''
NBA's All-Defensive Team
NBA Announces All-Defensive team. First Team: LeBron James & Serge Ibaka at forward, Dwight Howard at center, Chris Paul & Tony Allen guards
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