Friday, August 31, 2012
Collins likes Sixers moves
With the additions of Dorell Wright and Andrew Bynum, Sixers head coach Doug Collins is very excited about his teams' moves this off season. The Sixers have made it to the playoffs the last two seasons under Collins and have their sights on reaching new heights this upcoming season.
“My mind is always going and I am a crossword puzzle guy, how to solve a puzzle....We have new pieces and I like our pieces....Anytime you change your team you have to give up talent and we lost an incredible professional in Elton Brand,” Collins said. “We lost a tremendous all-star, Olympian and world champion Andre Iguodala. We lost one of the best sixth men in the NBA in Lou Williams and lost a guy who helped us win a lot of games in Jodie Meeks....We think we have added size, we think we have added shooting....If we have our health I think we can do a lot of things.....I like our versatility, I think we can play big, we can play small and I think we have the best low post player in the NBA...The big thing is how quickly we can put it together.”
“My mind is always going and I am a crossword puzzle guy, how to solve a puzzle....We have new pieces and I like our pieces....Anytime you change your team you have to give up talent and we lost an incredible professional in Elton Brand,” Collins said. “We lost a tremendous all-star, Olympian and world champion Andre Iguodala. We lost one of the best sixth men in the NBA in Lou Williams and lost a guy who helped us win a lot of games in Jodie Meeks....We think we have added size, we think we have added shooting....If we have our health I think we can do a lot of things.....I like our versatility, I think we can play big, we can play small and I think we have the best low post player in the NBA...The big thing is how quickly we can put it together.”
Bobcats can't move.......
According to sources, the Charlotte Bobcats are willing to trade forward Tyrus Thomas for virtually nothing but as of yet have found no takers.
NBA's smartest Spenders
Bloomberg's businessweek.com decided to conduct a study based on individual team salaries and the amount of wins per player salary that the team accumulates to see who are the smartest spenders in the NBA. The study covered the last five years and looked at who finished over .500, playoff wins, and also championships. Below is their list of the top 10 smartest spenders and I must say that there's a few surprises on the list as well as many usual suspects.
1. Lakers
2. Celtics
3. Heat
4. Magic
5. Spurs
6. Thunder
7. Mavericks
8. Hawks
9. Nuggets
10. Bulls
1. Lakers
2. Celtics
3. Heat
4. Magic
5. Spurs
6. Thunder
7. Mavericks
8. Hawks
9. Nuggets
10. Bulls
Lakers to retire #34
After playing eight years with the Los Angeles Lakers all the while averaging 27 points and 11 rebounds per games, NBA great Shaquille O'Neal will have his number 34 retired by the franchise on April 2nd 2013.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Sonics to rise again?
Billionare Chris Hansen has made a $400 million bid to acquire the Sacramento Kings from the Maloof family. Hansen's goal is to move the Kings to the city of Seattle who still owns the rights to the Sonics. Hansen recently purchased land south of the Safeco Field for $49 million that would be used for an NBA/NHL arena and also to accomodate parking for such events.
Pacers begin early
After receiving the ok from the NBA, the Indiana Pacers coaching staff and 8 players from the roster spent last week in Los Angeles to get an early jump on the rest of the league. Among the players that participate were Roy Hibbert, Danny Granger, Paul George and D.J. Augustine.
Curry back in New York?
NBA veteran center Eddy Curry worked out with the Brooklyn Nets yesterday. Curry, 29, returned to the NBA last season with the Miami Heat and could be used in Brooklyn as a backup to Brook Lopez.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Howard remains unsigned
The NBA Off season has slowed to a crawl but there's still good role players yet to be signed. Free agent forward Josh Howard is still on the market and reports indicate that the Knicks and Bulls are interested in acquiring his services.
Chalmers speaks on the state of point guards
While speaking to the media recently, Miami Heat point guard Mario Chalmers explained that he thinks he's a top point guard in the NBA.
“Rondo's not the best, but he’s in the top five. There are a lot of great point guards in the league, Deron Williams, Chris Paul and Steve Nash. There are a lot of great guards in the NBA so for him to say he’s the best is a pretty bold statement. I’d say that I am in the front end of the top 10. [By the end of my career] if I’m not the best, than at least one of the best.”
“Rondo's not the best, but he’s in the top five. There are a lot of great point guards in the league, Deron Williams, Chris Paul and Steve Nash. There are a lot of great guards in the NBA so for him to say he’s the best is a pretty bold statement. I’d say that I am in the front end of the top 10. [By the end of my career] if I’m not the best, than at least one of the best.”
Q&A: Kevin Durant
Courtesy of Michael Lee
I don’t know how you keep this up — you’re a busy man.
This is what I signed up for.
This is what I signed up for.
You signed up for all of this? A movie?
Not when I first came out…That’s something I didn’t think of, but it was spontaneous, you know what I mean.
Not when I first came out…That’s something I didn’t think of, but it was spontaneous, you know what I mean.
Was there any concern? Because that’s really stepping out there, when you do a movie. I was actually arguing with people today, because I saw Kazaam, and everyone pans Kazaam as terrible and it’s actually not as bad as folks make it out to be…
It’s not a bad movie. It’s just the fact that a basketball player is in it. When people are used to you doing something, they want you to stay in that lane. When you go outside of it and do something out of the normal, of course it’s going to be as good, because that’s not my regular field. I’m not a star, I’m not an actor. But I had the courage to do something else and most people don’t want to see you do that. I really don’t care. I’m going to enjoy it. My family is going to enjoy it and people that go into it with an open mind are going to enjoy it. We’ll see what happens.
It’s not a bad movie. It’s just the fact that a basketball player is in it. When people are used to you doing something, they want you to stay in that lane. When you go outside of it and do something out of the normal, of course it’s going to be as good, because that’s not my regular field. I’m not a star, I’m not an actor. But I had the courage to do something else and most people don’t want to see you do that. I really don’t care. I’m going to enjoy it. My family is going to enjoy it and people that go into it with an open mind are going to enjoy it. We’ll see what happens.
What was it like the first time you watched yourself on film?
Yeah, um, I was shocked. The movie turned out pretty good. I was nervous to see myself. Because I watch a lot of movies and I know what’s a good movie and what’s a bad movie. I just tried to go in there with an open mind, I guess, and be real with myself. But I liked it. It was a really good turnout. I had fun doing it and I’m glad that I did it.
Yeah, um, I was shocked. The movie turned out pretty good. I was nervous to see myself. Because I watch a lot of movies and I know what’s a good movie and what’s a bad movie. I just tried to go in there with an open mind, I guess, and be real with myself. But I liked it. It was a really good turnout. I had fun doing it and I’m glad that I did it.
If there had been no lockout, do you think you would’ve been able to do this movie?
It would’ve been close. Training camp was supposed to start Oct. 1 and I started filming on my birthday, Sept. 29, so that cut it close. I had to do it probably early in the summer, but the lockout helped and I was able to get it knocked out in about a week and a half. I was able to finish it out. I’m pretty sure I would’ve still did it.
It would’ve been close. Training camp was supposed to start Oct. 1 and I started filming on my birthday, Sept. 29, so that cut it close. I had to do it probably early in the summer, but the lockout helped and I was able to get it knocked out in about a week and a half. I was able to finish it out. I’m pretty sure I would’ve still did it.
I read where you said your mom had to really encourage you. What did she say to you to convince you that this is something that you should do?
The thing that I was more concerned about is that I was just so shy. I didn’t want to look dumb. She told me don’t worry about that. You can’t let other people dictate how you live. She gave me a whole little speech. I said, why not? I thought I could be funny in it. Just go out there and be myself. I want people to see another side of me that they don’t see on the basketball court. I said, hey, why not? Knocked it out.
The thing that I was more concerned about is that I was just so shy. I didn’t want to look dumb. She told me don’t worry about that. You can’t let other people dictate how you live. She gave me a whole little speech. I said, why not? I thought I could be funny in it. Just go out there and be myself. I want people to see another side of me that they don’t see on the basketball court. I said, hey, why not? Knocked it out.
You talk about doing something different. There has been a lot of buzz around Stephen Jackson’s new solo album coming out. Apparently you went to the studio and dropped a verse for him?
Yeah. I did. I enjoy doing a lot of different things. I’m a basketball player. That’s what I do and what I love but that’s just not all who I am. I’m talented in a lot of different areas. Rapping is one of those things I just enjoy doing. I have fun doing. Stephen Jackson is pretty good. He’s a nice rapper. It’s a privilege to be on a song with him. It’s not one of those songs where you’re just talking about how much money you got. It’s one of those inspirational kind of deals.
Yeah. I did. I enjoy doing a lot of different things. I’m a basketball player. That’s what I do and what I love but that’s just not all who I am. I’m talented in a lot of different areas. Rapping is one of those things I just enjoy doing. I have fun doing. Stephen Jackson is pretty good. He’s a nice rapper. It’s a privilege to be on a song with him. It’s not one of those songs where you’re just talking about how much money you got. It’s one of those inspirational kind of deals.
Does it make you want to go in the studio and put out your own album?
I think I’m going to do something. I have some resources and some nice people that’s going to help me out. I have a studio in my house already. Maybe I might put out a little something and have a little something.
I think I’m going to do something. I have some resources and some nice people that’s going to help me out. I have a studio in my house already. Maybe I might put out a little something and have a little something.
London. I’m sure that had to be at the top of things that you’ve been able to accompl ish.That’s the top for sure. Not just because we won the gold. It’s just the memories that we had while we was over there. Every day was fun. Waking up and knowing that you’re going to be around a bunch of guys that enjoy life, that enjoy what they do and don’t worry about anything else. All we was worried about was trying to bring the gold back home and once we did, it was the funnest thing ever, celebrating with those guys on the court. Hearing those USA chants all throughout the arena is something you can’t beat. It was an unbelievable experience. Being a part of the whole Olympic experience was cool. The opening ceremonies. Meeting all the athletes from different countries was fun. I can’t wait to go back.
We’ve talked a lot and you’ve always said that you hope to one day be on the level of a Kobe or LeBron. Being on that team and being a guy who they really looked to for scoring, do you see yourself there?
I feel good. One thing I can tell you is, I get upset now when people say, KD, Anthony Davis, Kryie Irving, they are going to be good for the league down the line. I don’t like that. Because I think I’m established now. My time is now. I feel as though I’ve proved myself these last five years that I can be one of the top players in the league. I’ve got a long way to go to being the ultimate best, but I think my time is now. And I’m starting to enter my prime. I’ve heard a few times, in three or four years, this league is going to be yours, and I feel as though I’m competing with the top guys in the league right now. It feels good to be a part of great group of guys, to do something special for the country. We all respected each other and they never looked at as the younger guy coming up and waiting his turn. They were just, ‘Go out there and play, do what you do.’ And that’s what I did.
I feel good. One thing I can tell you is, I get upset now when people say, KD, Anthony Davis, Kryie Irving, they are going to be good for the league down the line. I don’t like that. Because I think I’m established now. My time is now. I feel as though I’ve proved myself these last five years that I can be one of the top players in the league. I’ve got a long way to go to being the ultimate best, but I think my time is now. And I’m starting to enter my prime. I’ve heard a few times, in three or four years, this league is going to be yours, and I feel as though I’m competing with the top guys in the league right now. It feels good to be a part of great group of guys, to do something special for the country. We all respected each other and they never looked at as the younger guy coming up and waiting his turn. They were just, ‘Go out there and play, do what you do.’ And that’s what I did.
Did you go in there with that attitude or did it change while you were playing with those guys each day in practice and feeling like, ‘Okay, I’m here?’
I’ve had that attitude since all-star game in LA. I had that attitude since then. I always felt that I belonged on top with those guys and I just have to continue to keep working to maintain that. That talk that the league is in good hands in four or five years, I think it’s in good hands with the guys we’ve got now, including me.
I’ve had that attitude since all-star game in LA. I had that attitude since then. I always felt that I belonged on top with those guys and I just have to continue to keep working to maintain that. That talk that the league is in good hands in four or five years, I think it’s in good hands with the guys we’ve got now, including me.
Why has it taken you so long to say something like this?
I don’t like to talk about myself, but I had to get that out there.
I don’t like to talk about myself, but I had to get that out there.
You were saying similar things doing the Finals, when you said you didn’t like people saying that Oklahoma City is going to be good for years and you don’t necessarily have to win the title now. The fact that teams are loading up, the Lakers adding Dwight Howard. How does that affect your window?
I don’t think it affects it. We all are going to have to compete. I don’t think no team is going to lay down for anybody. We made it to the Finals. It’s not guaranteed that we’re going to make it back. The Lakers added Dwight Howard, Steve Nash, Jamison, but it’s not guaranteed those guys will make it to the Finals. Everybody has got to play and I like our chances. We’re all fighting together in Oklahoma City. I’m not saying we’re going to make the Finals again or even make the playoffs but I think we’ll give ourselves a chance and go out there and fight from the beginning and see where we end up. I’m not going to let people define my career as a player thus far if I don’t win a championship. They are going to say I’m a bust or I flopped or that I didn’t have a good career in the NBA because I didn’t win a championship in the time that they wanted me to do it. I’m just going to keep enjoying what I’m doing and hopefully I get there sooner than later.
I don’t think it affects it. We all are going to have to compete. I don’t think no team is going to lay down for anybody. We made it to the Finals. It’s not guaranteed that we’re going to make it back. The Lakers added Dwight Howard, Steve Nash, Jamison, but it’s not guaranteed those guys will make it to the Finals. Everybody has got to play and I like our chances. We’re all fighting together in Oklahoma City. I’m not saying we’re going to make the Finals again or even make the playoffs but I think we’ll give ourselves a chance and go out there and fight from the beginning and see where we end up. I’m not going to let people define my career as a player thus far if I don’t win a championship. They are going to say I’m a bust or I flopped or that I didn’t have a good career in the NBA because I didn’t win a championship in the time that they wanted me to do it. I’m just going to keep enjoying what I’m doing and hopefully I get there sooner than later.
Oklahoma City just re-signed Serge Ibaka. What are your thoughts on keeping him and what do you think is going to happen to James Harden?
I’m happy for Serge. He deserves every penny of it. He works so hard and it’s just a joy to see how much he’s grown. We’ve grown together as a group but Serge has worked so much on his game and he’s got that confidence and once you get that confidence and opportunity in this league, of course everybody knows you can play, but he’s worked to maintain that level and his confidence is sky high. He deserves it and James deserves whatever he’s going to get. Hopefully, we can get him locked in and move forward with our team and get better.
I’m happy for Serge. He deserves every penny of it. He works so hard and it’s just a joy to see how much he’s grown. We’ve grown together as a group but Serge has worked so much on his game and he’s got that confidence and once you get that confidence and opportunity in this league, of course everybody knows you can play, but he’s worked to maintain that level and his confidence is sky high. He deserves it and James deserves whatever he’s going to get. Hopefully, we can get him locked in and move forward with our team and get better.
What’s going to stand out as fuel over the past few months: The Finals loss or the Olympic gold medal?
I think this summer, I’ve been on both sides of the spectrum. Winning a gold medal and losing in the Finals. I’ve felt losing and winning. It felt good to win the gold medal but I learned a lot by losing in the Finals and just going through every single obstacle throughout the season. The ups and downs. I can learn a lot more from losing and going through tough times rather than just winning it and going from there. I’m excited. I’m looking forward to the season and getting better from Day One. And we’ll see what happens.
I think this summer, I’ve been on both sides of the spectrum. Winning a gold medal and losing in the Finals. I’ve felt losing and winning. It felt good to win the gold medal but I learned a lot by losing in the Finals and just going through every single obstacle throughout the season. The ups and downs. I can learn a lot more from losing and going through tough times rather than just winning it and going from there. I’m excited. I’m looking forward to the season and getting better from Day One. And we’ll see what happens.
How have you been able to keep going at this pace? You played all offseason in those exhibition games, went into a lockout shortened season, the Finals, then the Olympics, now you’re promoting a movie. Do you get any rest?
I rest. I’m blessed by God that he’s keeping me healthy and keeping me focused on what I have to do. But I’ll be fine. I just got to pace myself and know when I need to take rest. That is one thing I need to work on, knowing when I need to chill out and just sit down and relax.
I rest. I’m blessed by God that he’s keeping me healthy and keeping me focused on what I have to do. But I’ll be fine. I just got to pace myself and know when I need to take rest. That is one thing I need to work on, knowing when I need to chill out and just sit down and relax.
Will you play any ball between now and the start of camp?
I’m sure I’ll get some work in. I’m not sure if I’ll play one of them games or anything like that. I just have to work out and be ready.
I’m sure I’ll get some work in. I’m not sure if I’ll play one of them games or anything like that. I just have to work out and be ready.
Miller to present Miller
On the evening of September 7th, Reggie Miller's journey as an NBA player will officially be over as he will be enshrined into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Miller will be presented into the Hall by Magic Johnson, Charles Barkley, and his older sister Cheryl Miller.
Wade returns to court
Yesterday Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade returned to the court for the first time since undergoing knee surgery early in July. Wade used Twitter to make the announcement and he sent out the following picture of himself and longtime Heat assistant coach David Fizdale.
"Whew..first day on the court since my surgery..oh and that look on my face was b4 the workout started..haa."
"Whew..first day on the court since my surgery..oh and that look on my face was b4 the workout started..haa."
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Davis to mentor Knicks?
Everyone should remember the painful sight of Baron Davis tearing both his ACL and MCL in the playoffs against the Miami Heat. Davis has been undergoing rehab in an attempt to return to the league as he is an unrestricted free agent. Should his attempt fail, Davis is preparing for the next chapter in his NBA career as he is being groomed for a possible front office position with the Knicks.
Via ESPN New York:
Via ESPN New York:
Knicks unrestricted free agent Baron Davis will remain with the team in "some capacity," his agent Todd Ramasar told ESPNNewYork.com. ..... Ramasar said Davis is very excited about the opportunity, but it won't involve a job title or him sitting on the bench during games. Instead, it will likely be more of a mentorship role behind the scenes and during practices.
"He'll still be around the team and could kind of help some of the younger guys just through his experience," Ramasar said. "The Knicks have been wonderful in terms of just extending support to Baron, whether it be through obviously his physical therapy or just having him involved with the organization going forward. He really loves that team and that organization has done an excellent job with Baron, and Baron feels like that's home. He really, really enjoyed last season with the Knicks."
Head signs
NBA point guard Luther Head has been signed by the Hapoel Holon, a basketball franchise in Israel. The deal is a 1 year deal and the terms of the deal are currently undisclosed. Head has previously played six years in the NBA with the Rockets, Heat, Pacers, and Kings.
Scalabrine finds work?
Reports have indicated that veteran Brian Scalabrine is close to being hired by the Chicago Bulls as an assistant coach. Scalabrine had wanted to continue to play in the NBA but it seems as if there was no interest from NBA franchises to bring him aboard as a player. During his 9 year career, Scalabrine has played for the Celtics, Nets, and Bulls.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Marshall describes the rookie transition program
The Rookie Transition program is a little talked about program that most professional sporting league implement to help their new talent become acclimated to the league and the drama that the transition may bring. The program also prepares the rookies for life after basketball and how to handle relationships with women. Phoenix Suns rookie Kendall Marshall spoke to the media in Phoenix and gave them insight into some facets of the program.
"I didn't know how in-depth we would go and how much it could really apply to me...It turns out I've really learned a lot.....It was a real eye-opener for us," Marshall said. "You hear the financial stories about guys who go bankrupt and you hear about the relationship stories about guys that have things go wrong with their spouse or girlfriend. You always think that can't happen to you but the odds are that it can happen. They've done a great job of preparing us for that and bringing it to realization and making us want to make the right decisions....The female species are a lot smarter than us so we have to realize maybe it's not always that we're the best-looking guy they've ever seen....Maybe there is some incentive behind it. At the same time, there are great cases where guys have happy marriages. They've shown us both cases. We just have to be smart (and realize) that people don't always have our best interests in mind."
"I didn't know how in-depth we would go and how much it could really apply to me...It turns out I've really learned a lot.....It was a real eye-opener for us," Marshall said. "You hear the financial stories about guys who go bankrupt and you hear about the relationship stories about guys that have things go wrong with their spouse or girlfriend. You always think that can't happen to you but the odds are that it can happen. They've done a great job of preparing us for that and bringing it to realization and making us want to make the right decisions....The female species are a lot smarter than us so we have to realize maybe it's not always that we're the best-looking guy they've ever seen....Maybe there is some incentive behind it. At the same time, there are great cases where guys have happy marriages. They've shown us both cases. We just have to be smart (and realize) that people don't always have our best interests in mind."
Two more seasons for Dirk?
Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki has played in the NBA for 14 seasons and his current contract will end two seasons from now. Last evening on Twitter Dirk answered a fans questioned and it seemed to indicate that Dirk will finish out his contract with the Mavericks and then at that time re-evaluate his future.
“@DribblePasShoot: @swish41 Your game looks like it will age really well, how many more yrs you playing?” 2 for sure and then see how I feel
“@DribblePasShoot: @swish41 Your game looks like it will age really well, how many more yrs you playing?” 2 for sure and then see how I feel
Durant speaks on Lakers
He's dodge the question for the last few weeks but while speaking with Yahoo!'s Marc Spears, Kevin Durant finally shared how he really feels about the Los Angeles Lakers acquiring Dwight Howard.
“People outside, fans, media, of course they are going to say [the Lakers are the favorites] because on paper they have the best lineup in the league. But you still got to play the games. We respect everybody. We are going to go through the league respecting everybody as well…
“It was a great move for [the Lakers],” Durant said. “[Howard] is the most dominant center in the league. It’s going to make it tough on other teams. But I like that challenge. We all like that challenge in OKC. It should be fun.”
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Charles Oakley addresses the Dwightmare
NBA Legend Charles Oakley has never been one to care what others think of him but recently he decided to voice his opinion of the Dwight Howard situation. While speaking to ESPN radio, Charles Oakley stated the following:
“A lot of guys cry in this league these days. I try not to get caught up in that. The management in Orlando let him get away with it. Most times, they put kids in timeout. They never put him in timeout. He just kept crying and got his way. Now he’s in LA with Kobe so they got a chance to win a couple championships in the next two or three years. … They could have traded him and got something better for him last year. I think they just tried to play along. They just pleased him anyway they could but he never did anything to please them.”
“A lot of guys cry in this league these days. I try not to get caught up in that. The management in Orlando let him get away with it. Most times, they put kids in timeout. They never put him in timeout. He just kept crying and got his way. Now he’s in LA with Kobe so they got a chance to win a couple championships in the next two or three years. … They could have traded him and got something better for him last year. I think they just tried to play along. They just pleased him anyway they could but he never did anything to please them.”
Kevin Durant "My Time is now"
While in his hometown of Washington DC to promote his new film Thunderstruck, Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant took the time to address something that has bothered him. He simply feels as if his time is now.
“I’ve heard a few times, in three or four years, this league is going to be yours. . . . I don’t like that. Because I think I’m established now. My time is now,” Durant said. “I feel as though I’ve proved myself these last five years that I can be one of the top players in the league. I’ve got a long way to go to being the ultimate best, but I think my time is now. And I’m starting to enter my prime.”
“I’ve heard a few times, in three or four years, this league is going to be yours. . . . I don’t like that. Because I think I’m established now. My time is now,” Durant said. “I feel as though I’ve proved myself these last five years that I can be one of the top players in the league. I’ve got a long way to go to being the ultimate best, but I think my time is now. And I’m starting to enter my prime.”
Collins addresses rumors
This weekend the 1972 US Olympic Mens Basketball Team reunited and Doug Collins, who was a member of the team, was asked if he'd be interested in replacing Coach K who has stated that he will not return to coach Team USA for Rio games in 2016. It was the first time that the members of the 72 team have been together since they lost the Gold Medal game to Soviet Union in controversial fashion.
"It's a tremendous honor that somebody would even throw my name out there....It's four years down the road and I understand in this business you hope you are an active coach at the time....I am hoping that I am still active and I would like to coach four or five years in Philadelphia...Jerry Colangelo is a great leader, and see what he did with Coach K, putting him together, being the guy....Obviously if they would ask me to do it I would be thrilled to do it, but there are a lot of great candidates....I guess it would be sort of fitting, getting to end my Olympic experience where I started in '72," he said. "And it has been amazing that I have been able to broadcast four Olympics."
"It's a tremendous honor that somebody would even throw my name out there....It's four years down the road and I understand in this business you hope you are an active coach at the time....I am hoping that I am still active and I would like to coach four or five years in Philadelphia...Jerry Colangelo is a great leader, and see what he did with Coach K, putting him together, being the guy....Obviously if they would ask me to do it I would be thrilled to do it, but there are a lot of great candidates....I guess it would be sort of fitting, getting to end my Olympic experience where I started in '72," he said. "And it has been amazing that I have been able to broadcast four Olympics."
Wade speaks on Heat evolution
While still in Chicago for his charity event, Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade took the time to speak to the media and the topic of the day was the Heat evolving, not staying the same.
"Every year is different; every season is different....You feel it out, and understand that throughout the year it changes," he said. "I think we'll come in with the mentality that our success is us winning as a team, and all of us being successful at the same time.....Our mentality, obviously, is LeBron is one of the best players in this game, hands down, and we want him to continue to be that player," he said. "But, also, you never know who's going to emerge....You never know what player is going to start off and be playing a certain way and you switch things up a little bit But we have that luxury, because we have not only three marquee players, but we have a lot of other players on our team that's very capable, highly capable, and very good."
"Every year is different; every season is different....You feel it out, and understand that throughout the year it changes," he said. "I think we'll come in with the mentality that our success is us winning as a team, and all of us being successful at the same time.....Our mentality, obviously, is LeBron is one of the best players in this game, hands down, and we want him to continue to be that player," he said. "But, also, you never know who's going to emerge....You never know what player is going to start off and be playing a certain way and you switch things up a little bit But we have that luxury, because we have not only three marquee players, but we have a lot of other players on our team that's very capable, highly capable, and very good."
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Warrick already working out
New Orleans Hornets forward Hakim Warrick is already participating in non mandatory workouts to prepare for the upcoming NBA season. Warrick is a power forward but coaching staff has given Warrick the option to play both forward positions.
``Whatever I can do to get out on the floor, they said I can play either position,’’ Warrick said. ``Just being able to play multiple positions that’s something I’ve worked hard to improve my game and be able to play a few minutes at the three.....I think it’s good that a lot of us have got down here early to a good start on things.....We’re getting used to each other and seeing how we like to play and what we’re comfortable of doing.’’
``Whatever I can do to get out on the floor, they said I can play either position,’’ Warrick said. ``Just being able to play multiple positions that’s something I’ve worked hard to improve my game and be able to play a few minutes at the three.....I think it’s good that a lot of us have got down here early to a good start on things.....We’re getting used to each other and seeing how we like to play and what we’re comfortable of doing.’’
Griffin excited about future
In a telephone interview with the Times, Blake Griffin expressed his excitement about his recovery from surgery as well as the moves that the Clippers have made during the off season.
"I came back after surgery and started rehabbing and getting back into it. I've been shooting and lifting (weights) and all that for a while now....So, I'm pretty much back at 100 percent, been back at 100 percent for a little bit. So I'm good.....To be honest, everybody knows the state that the Clippers were in, or have been in, for the last however many years," Griffin said. "I think that shows a lot about where we're at and where we're going, that guys want to play here and that guys want to buy in. You've got a guy like Grant Hill who is at the end of his career and he chose us....So, I think we can be very good. I think we can contend in the West and for a championship."
"I came back after surgery and started rehabbing and getting back into it. I've been shooting and lifting (weights) and all that for a while now....So, I'm pretty much back at 100 percent, been back at 100 percent for a little bit. So I'm good.....To be honest, everybody knows the state that the Clippers were in, or have been in, for the last however many years," Griffin said. "I think that shows a lot about where we're at and where we're going, that guys want to play here and that guys want to buy in. You've got a guy like Grant Hill who is at the end of his career and he chose us....So, I think we can be very good. I think we can contend in the West and for a championship."
Q&A: Kenny Smith
Courtesy of Mark Medina
How will the Lakers fare against Miami?
I never compare much East to West, because you have to get all the way to there. But I think Miami has three guys who are the top five in their position. I don't think they're nervous about what happened with the Lakers. They kept an eye on it for sure. But they have a better chance and have done it now. I would say Miami is still the team to beat.
What challenges do the Lakers face in winning a title?
Injuries. They're older. They're great players, but they're not the Miami Heat, where those guys are in the middle of their prime. These guys are at the end of their prime, with the exception of Dwight Howard. But all of these guys have plateaued.
That veteran experience that you cited, where does that give the Lakers an advantage in how they'll execute against the Thunder?
Steve Nash is a guy who makes shots easier. This is the first time Kobe doesn't have to play as a point guard. He'll get to play as a shooting guard. His responsibility his entire career has involved handling the basketball too much. I don't think anyone on a consistent basis got him easy shots. This is the first time they'll actually run pick and roll. When the Lakers run pick and roll, it was with Kobe Bryant. This will be the first time they can say, 'Kobe, go on the other side of the floor and not be part of it' on a consistent basis.
With the talent the Lakers have, how do they make sure as a unit they're the most efficient?
That's Steve Nash's job, which has been his job his whole career. The point guard's job is to make sure everything runs smoothly and that the ball is distributed throughout the team to the right people at the right times. That's why he's a two-time MVP. It's not because of his great athleticism. It's not because of his great shooting abilities. It's because of his great understanding on how to get everyone involved. That's why he's often led the league in assists. To me, Mike Brown has an easy job because he has a guy who already knows how to manage that.
Mike obviously was dealt a tough hand last year with a limited training camp, dealing with new players and being new. How would you compare that to this year's challenge in having to manage such a high level of talent?
He was replacing Phil Jackson with Phil Jackson's team. No one is going to look at this team as a Phil Jackson team. Mike had to run the triangle offense at times because those guys would go to it instinctively. Dwight Howard has never run the triangle. Steve Nash never ran a triangle offense. Jamison and Meeks have never run a triangle offense. So Mike has a team that doesn't fall on the crutch of Phil Jackson.
I don't think training camp [last year] was an issue. I think the personnel was. If he had this personnel last year and didn't have a training camp, he wouldn't have been complaining. He can implement the system he wants in these guys' heads and they don't already have something in their mind that works and won championships for them.
With Howard, how does he go about having a championship mind-set, rehabbing the reputation he had with Orlando and dealing with the possibility he won't be the No. 1 option?
I do think he's the No. 1 option. I don't think he has to change anything. I'm from the school of thought that great players don't change what they do. You implement what they do. Guys who can't play, you have to create a system for them and opportunities for them. Guys with great players, they are the system (laughs). Dwight Howard commands a double team. So now there is an offense once they get double teamed. What are they going to do?
With you saying Howard should be the No. 1 option, is there a particular pecking order you think the Lakers should follow?
Dwight is the No. 1 offensive option, but I don't know about a pecking order. To me, what makes a great team is no one thinks their role is less important. I don't think Steve Nash should think his role is less important because he's leading the team in assists and not scoring. I don't think Dwight should think he has a lesser role because he leads the team in rebounds, but maybe not scoring. But in terms of establishing the inside presence, that's going to be done through Dwight Howard. That's what typically wins basketball games.
Given the veteran makeup of this team, do you envision the Lakers having that mind-set in which they're not concerned about a pecking order and concerned with just running the offense correctly?
Having the ball inside will have the offense run smoothly. Kobe has played with Shaq before. Their issue was only off the court, not on the court. They won championships and looked great together. It was just guys not getting along together off the court. Being in L.A., we heard about it. If they were playing in Cleveland, we probably wouldn't have heard as much about it.
What do you make of the Lakers reportedly using the Princeton offense, mixed with pick and roll?
I'll believe it when I see it. I don't know how many NCAA championships Princeton won. I don't know if I'd go to that offense. I think they're saying they want to share the ball and that's why they're calling it that. But I don't know how many championships Princeton won.
So you are of the mind that they just should run pick and roll and they'll be fine?(laughs).
I'm doing the North Carolina, Duke and Kentucky offense. Those are the teams that won a lot of championships in the NCAA.
How do you see Pau Gasol's role evolving from last year's?
I think he'll have one of his best years because the expectation level will be changed. The expectation of what he was supposed to do and how much he was supposed to do, I thought was a little bit unwarranted. Now, 17 points for him now will be a killer 17. I think 17 was a disappointment last year, at times.
In what respects were the expectations unwarranted?
I don't think he's ever been a guy who will get 25 or 30 points a night. I thought the expectation at times from the Lakers fans was for him to dominate and have a low-post presence. That's not really his thing. If you compare it to boxing, he's not Mike Tyson where he will knock you out with one punch. He's going to jab you, do different things and counterpunch you. Sometimes you need a knockout punch and he's not a knockout punch. He's not going to end the game with 45.
What will Metta World Peace's role be?
Metta is a guy who understands. If you ask him, would you rather have 40 points or hold your man scoreless, he will say, "Hold my guy scoreless" every time. So he'll have to chase guys around. Gasol doesn't have to chase the [power forward] guys. Put Ron [Artest] on him. Or he can guard the other small forwards and shooting guard so Kobe doesn't have to guard them. Ron's always going to guard LeBron [James] when he comes to town. It's a great fit for Metta.
Friday, August 24, 2012
Bosh admits Lakers are the best
While speaking to Miami radio station WQAM Heat forward/center Chris Bosh explained that on paper the Los Angeles Lakers may be the best team in the league.
"The Lakers, I think, right now, I mean on paper, they probably have the best team in the West and probably the league right now," he said. "On paper. I'm saying on paper. But it's a lot, a lot, it's a long season. And the best team always isn't the one who starts out the season as the best team....We know we're the champs, but we have to start off from scratch. We have a lot of chemistry building to do. And we have to come out there and we have to start over. We know favorites and all that stuff really doesn't matter."
Heat looks at Harrellson
The Miami Heat worked out big man Josh Harrellson yesterday as they have one roster spot still available. Last season Harrellson backed up Amar'e Stoudemire in New York and averaged 4.4 ppg and 3.9 rpg.
Wade speaks on Rose
While in Chicago for a charity event, Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade spoke to Chicago Tribune Live and expressed his feelings playing against the Bulls and the injuries that Derrick Rose has had.
“You just feel bad for him,” Wade said of Rose. “We all deal with injuries and every time you deal with an injury, you hope it’s not the big one. You hope it won’t end your season. So to see a guy like D-Rose, who was battling injuries all year, minor injuries, and then it took its toll. And it was sad to see….We didn’t want to see it and we want to play the Bulls. We want to play the best teams,” Wade said. “We want him and his family to be fine, so to hear he was in high spirits and doing well, outside looking in, as a fan of the game, I’m excited for him.”
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Birdman to Miami?
According to sources, there's still mutual interest between the Miami Heat and Chris Anderson. Anderson recently bypassed a lucrative offer from a European franchise and would have to take the veteran's minimum if he were to sign with the Heat.
Virginia Beach Kings?
It's no secret that the Maloofs have been unhappy with the Kings situation in California and multiple reports indicate that Virginia Beach has become a possible destination for the long time NBA Franchise. George Maloof released the following statement to address the situation.
"We have been approached by several cities over several years about moving the Kings, and we will not comment other than that."
"We have been approached by several cities over several years about moving the Kings, and we will not comment other than that."
Jordan fined $250
Marcus Jordan, son of NBA great Michael Jordan had to pay a fine of $250 after pleading no contest to a charge of disturbing the peace after an incident in July.
Q&A: Kevin Durant
Courtesy of Marc Stein
Q: Everyone seems to be impressed with your acting skills. Sounds like you did pretty well for a first-timer.
A: Yeah, I did all right. I was having fun with it. It was different for me. I'm just so used to playing basketball. But it was cool.
Q: Have you seen the whole movie start-to-finish by now?
A: I watched it for the first time Sunday and I was very impressed. Before I only saw the scenes that I was in. It was sort of like a surprise to me when I saw it the first time. Very cool.
Q: It's only been about a week since the Olympics and here you are on a press junket for your movie. What are your plans for the rest of the summer? Is there any rest in there, or now will we start to see you popping up at pickup games like last summer?
A: I think I'm just going to work out, get my cardio back up. If anybody knows me, I probably won't stop [playing]. But I'm going to have to force myself, too. I know rest is very important, just as important as getting better on the basketball court. I gotta make sure I get my proper rest [to be] ready for the start of training camp.
Q: To know that Serge [Ibaka] just re-signed, how reassuring is that?
A: It's a really big deal. I'm happy for him, first of all, him and his family. He worked so hard to get that [extension] and I'm just excited that he's signed on for four more years and really believes in us.
He easily could have said no, waited for next summer, played well this year and got more [money]. But he sacrificed for us and we appreciate him for that. He's the ultimate team player.
Q: But you know us in the media. We're always going to talk about what happens next and that means James Harden's deal. How involved will you get in trying to make sure that James stays?
A: I want James to be here with us, of course. He's one of my closest friends. Hopefully it works out, that's all I can say.
I haven't asked [Thunder GM] Sam [Presti] about anything and I haven't asked James about anything. I'm just going to let that take care of itself, be the best teammate I can be and hopefully by the time camp starts we have him locked up.
Q: But he has a lot of incentive to wait until the summer to become a restricted free agent. How worried will you be if there's no extension [by the Oct. 31 deadline]?
A: I'm not a big worrier. I always believe things are going to be all right and that everything's going to work out on its own.
Q: So I guess that means you're not worried about the Lakers. Are the Thunder still the favorites in the West?
A: Who knows? It's different every year. What we did last year is out the door, though. We can't bring that into the new season. The target is going to be on our back, just like it has been for the last two years.
Q: How nervous were you that you guys could actually lose the gold-medal game to Spain?
A: I wasn't. Because we had so many guys that can change the game with one play. We got the Kobes and LeBrons and Melos and CP3s and D-Wills and Russells. We knew that team was going to be bigger than us and we knew they were going to pound it down low to try to beat us, but it feels really good, just to see how well we came together as a unit and how happy everybody was for each other.
Q: Everyone seems to be impressed with your acting skills. Sounds like you did pretty well for a first-timer.
A: Yeah, I did all right. I was having fun with it. It was different for me. I'm just so used to playing basketball. But it was cool.
Q: Have you seen the whole movie start-to-finish by now?
A: I watched it for the first time Sunday and I was very impressed. Before I only saw the scenes that I was in. It was sort of like a surprise to me when I saw it the first time. Very cool.
Q: It's only been about a week since the Olympics and here you are on a press junket for your movie. What are your plans for the rest of the summer? Is there any rest in there, or now will we start to see you popping up at pickup games like last summer?
A: I think I'm just going to work out, get my cardio back up. If anybody knows me, I probably won't stop [playing]. But I'm going to have to force myself, too. I know rest is very important, just as important as getting better on the basketball court. I gotta make sure I get my proper rest [to be] ready for the start of training camp.
Q: To know that Serge [Ibaka] just re-signed, how reassuring is that?
A: It's a really big deal. I'm happy for him, first of all, him and his family. He worked so hard to get that [extension] and I'm just excited that he's signed on for four more years and really believes in us.
He easily could have said no, waited for next summer, played well this year and got more [money]. But he sacrificed for us and we appreciate him for that. He's the ultimate team player.
Q: But you know us in the media. We're always going to talk about what happens next and that means James Harden's deal. How involved will you get in trying to make sure that James stays?
A: I want James to be here with us, of course. He's one of my closest friends. Hopefully it works out, that's all I can say.
I haven't asked [Thunder GM] Sam [Presti] about anything and I haven't asked James about anything. I'm just going to let that take care of itself, be the best teammate I can be and hopefully by the time camp starts we have him locked up.
Q: But he has a lot of incentive to wait until the summer to become a restricted free agent. How worried will you be if there's no extension [by the Oct. 31 deadline]?
A: I'm not a big worrier. I always believe things are going to be all right and that everything's going to work out on its own.
Q: So I guess that means you're not worried about the Lakers. Are the Thunder still the favorites in the West?
A: Who knows? It's different every year. What we did last year is out the door, though. We can't bring that into the new season. The target is going to be on our back, just like it has been for the last two years.
Q: How nervous were you that you guys could actually lose the gold-medal game to Spain?
A: I wasn't. Because we had so many guys that can change the game with one play. We got the Kobes and LeBrons and Melos and CP3s and D-Wills and Russells. We knew that team was going to be bigger than us and we knew they were going to pound it down low to try to beat us, but it feels really good, just to see how well we came together as a unit and how happy everybody was for each other.
Donte Greene signs
Ex-Kings forward Donte Greene has agreed in principle to sign a contract with the Brooklyn Nets.
Q&A: Stephen Jackson
Courtesy of Beaumont Enterprise
Q: What was the experience like going back to the Spurs this year?
A: It was a blessing. When I left (in 2003) it was kind of sour because we had just won a championship and I wanted to go back. But the contract and business part didn't work. But going back this time was extra sweet to be back with the team I won a championship.
Q: How much longer do you envision playing?
A: I don't know. If things work out in San Antonio I wouldn't mind finishing my career there. But you know it's a business and I'm one of those guys that doesn't mind going to play somewhere else. I've been on seven different teams.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Top NBA Salaries for 2012/13
1. Kobe Bryant (Lakers) $27,849,149
2. Dirk Nowitzki (Mavericks) $20,907,128
3. Carmelo Anthony (Knicks) $20,463,024
4. Amare Stoudemire (Knicks) $19,948,799
5. Joe Johnson (Nets) $19,752,645
6. Dwight Howard (Lakers) $19,536,360
7. Pau Gasol (Lakers) $19,000,000
8. Chris Paul (Clippers) $17,779,458
9 (T). Chris Bosh (Heat) $17,545,000
9 (T). LeBron James (Heat) $17,545,000
(Bonus) 11.Dwyane Wade (Heat) $17,182,000
2. Dirk Nowitzki (Mavericks) $20,907,128
3. Carmelo Anthony (Knicks) $20,463,024
4. Amare Stoudemire (Knicks) $19,948,799
5. Joe Johnson (Nets) $19,752,645
6. Dwight Howard (Lakers) $19,536,360
7. Pau Gasol (Lakers) $19,000,000
8. Chris Paul (Clippers) $17,779,458
9 (T). Chris Bosh (Heat) $17,545,000
9 (T). LeBron James (Heat) $17,545,000
(Bonus) 11.Dwyane Wade (Heat) $17,182,000
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