Florida and Texas...Best NBA Teams?

Tonight in America Airlines arena the top two NBA Teams in the Western Conference squared off in TNT as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Dallas Mavericks. Not only are these two teams the best in the West but they make a strong case for who is the best pro team in Texas? Further east in the state of Florida the new look Orlando Magic led by Dwight Howard claim they're the best team in the NBA but the triple three in Miami claim that the Heat are not only the best team in Florida but also the NBA.

All four teams make strong cases for best team in the NBA but for now lest decide who's the best team in Florida and Texas:

Heat vs. Magic: With the addition of Jason Richardson and Gilbert Arenas, the Magic added additional scoring for Dwight Howard. Most Improved candidate JJ Reddick is improving every game and even regained his long range shooting. The biggest advantage for the Magic is Jamer Nelson. Miami has been unable to contain calaber point guards all year and Nelson and drive and dish all day. For the Miami Heat, it starts and ends with The Big 3. James, Wade, and Bosh can score any given night but the with the return of Mike Miller, he must provide the long rage shot when the triple threat are in trouble. Without a quality point guard I give the edge to the Orlando Magic.

The Texas Showdown: Tonight we saw the San Antonio Spurs victorious and I believe they're still the best team in Texas for reasons why. The Spurs are the smartest team in the NBA. The veteran team that's won 4 titles since 1999 has the same formula working since they won their first title. This team breathes defense and never takes any bad shots. Tony Parker is still one of the quickest point guards in the league and Manu Ginobili provides the additional scoring for Tim Duncan. Richard Jefferson has secured his role which is attacking the basket and having DeJuan Blair is a huge plus. Dallas is getting older and still does not practice defense. Jason Kidd can no longer guard the speedy guard and Dirk is still soft on the defensive end. Kidd's guard play, Dirk's scoring, Marion doing everything, and Tyson Chandler rebounding & blocking shots is still not enough for Mark Cuban's crew to win Texas.

What Basketball has taught me so far....

With the big Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Lakers game headed this Christmas at the Staples Center, we would have completed two months worth of NBA ball and with college basketball just about wrapping up non-conference play, here's what I've learned..

• Kemba Walker is the best player in college basketball and a future lottery pick. The UCONN Huskies are the surprise of the Big East. With a fast start, they're not ranked in the top 5. It starts and ends with the Bronx PG.

• Kyle Irving should stay in school because a 3 guard lineup with Austin Rivers-Kyle Irving-Seth Curry is flat out scary.

• Illinois is my Final 4 sleeper but a bad loss to Illinois-Chicago then again to Missouri now  make me wonder going into conference play are they the best Big 10 team in the state.
• Speaking of Illinois teams in the Big 10, this is finally the year Northwestern does play in the big dance. 

• Unless the Miami Heat land a point guard via trade, they will not represent the Eastern Conference in the NBA Finals. 

• Don't count out the former champions Spurs & Celtics. Both teams have a lot of miles on them but they're both off to a great start. Let's hope their health holds up come playoff time. 

• The Dallas Mavericks are making a strong case that they're not only the best team in Texas, Western Conference, but in the NBA. Other than Tyson Chandler, no other Maverick is committed to defense.

• Dirk, Amare Stoudamire are the biggest impacts on they're team and have a strong case for MVP but the trophy belongs to Derrick Rose. 

• The new NBA rules are terrible and the Lakers are still the best team in the NBA...they're just bored until the playoffs. 

Potential 1st Time NBA All-Stars

With 2 months before the NBA All-Stars head to the Staples Center for the annual classic the usual suspects such as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony have their spots secured. Every year players are snubbed and first time players are inducted as all-stars. Last year Derrick Rose, Gerald Wallace, and Deron Williams saw their first action but who are some the players that head to LA?

YES THEY'RE GOING

• Russell Westbrook - With averages of 23 ppg  8 assist 5rebounds he's definitely headed to Staples Center.

• Joakim Noah - Has improved every year in the league. Averaging a career high of 14 ppg and second in rebounding at 12. Expect him to backup Superman. 

• Kevin Love - The coaches should not penalize him because he plays for the Wolves. 20 ppg 15 rebounds...he's going home.

BARING INJURY FROM ANOTHER PLAYER THEY'RE GOING

• Blake Griffin - Karl Malone in training will have a tough time getting the nod over Dirk, Melo, Timmy, Gasol but it's hard to keep 20 ppg 11 rebounds out the lineup. He's also a fan favorite. 

• Monta Ellis - Just like Griffin Ellis has Bryant, Nash, DWill, CP3 to contend. He can only hope for the coaches or injury to get the nod. 

• Brook Lopez - Skills similar to Tim Duncan but unless Noah or Howard stay home, he's not going home. 18 ppg but should average more than 6 rebounds. 

• John Wall - Same story...has to contend with Wade, Rose, Rondo but it's hard denying his 17 ppg 9 assist and 2 steals per game. Then again AI didn't make it his rookie year as well. 

• Andrea Bargnani - Finally living up to his #1 draft pick billing and putting up 20 a night. 

MAYBE NEXT YEAR

• Brandon Jennings - Not even the best PG in his division or on I-94
• Eric Gordon - 24 a night but he plays for the Clippers. If they were a playoff team...yes
• Al Jefferson - Now that he's on a winning team this might be the year...or not 16 ppg 8 rebounds

NO CHANCE 

• Stephen Curry - Great range comes with is 21 PPG and 5 assist. Unfortunately he plays for the Warriors. 

• David Lee - Should have made it last year as a Knick but it will be much harder in the Western Conference. 15 PPG and 9 REB are down from last year. 

The Return of the NYC Point Guard

One of the things I've enjoyed watching in college basketball is a great point guard. The New York City point guard have always been exciting because they excellent ball handling, outstanding court vision, stellar at getting steals in the passing lane, but unfortunately most NYC lead guard lack a decent jump shot. 

Over the years I've enjoyed watching Ed Cota, Shaeen Holloway, Stephon Marbury, Andre Barrett, Taliek Brown, Omar Cook, God Shammgod, Rod Strickland, Mark Jackson, Kenny Smith. Rafer Alson, and my personal favorite Kenny Anderson. 

The excitement is back this year in college basketball as the Bronx native Kemba Walker has truly transformed his game. The biggest change in Walker's game is his ability to now hit the open jump shot as well as honing his already impressive ball-handling skills. Last week, Walker scored over 30 points in four straight games and has truly become a leader of the Huskies. At this rate I should expect Kemba to reach 1st team all-american and then depart to the NBA come June. He's not only the best lead guard in the nation but has proven to be the best guard this season. He will highlight SportsCenter every Huskie game and will probably finish this season with a 20 PPG average. 

Corey Fisher is also a typical NY PG but like his forefather, Fisher lacks a true jumper for the pro level but should have a great career overseas once his collegiate careers ends in March. 

Once their collegiate career ends, we'll have to wait until Jerron Love arrives on campus. 

Blake Griffin is Karl Malone in Training

The 2010-2011 NBA season almost has a month under it's belt so I just wanted to take the time to reflect on what we've learned so far:

• As usual the Clippers are in mid-season form preparing for the 2011 Lottery but Blake Griffin is proving why he was chosen the top pick in 2009. This monster power forward has power, and is a great ball handler at his position. Griffin has the making to be the greatest power forward of all-time if he can remain healthy. Eric Gordon is also a promising limelight for the Clippers as several defender has taken fiscail slams from teh former Hoosier guard. Gordon is a power point guard who has improved since the FIBA Games. 

• Several more losses form teh Miami Heat and we can expect Pat Riley to become the next head coach of the new Big 3. I've always stated that there is no way Pat Riley puts this team together and not have the desire to coach them. If the Heat do not win this season, then Riley will coach this team next year. 

• Don't count out the San Antionio Spurs yet!!!!!!! Forget Tony Parker's off court issue this veteran team has at least one more title run in them. They're off to the best record in teh League at 10-1 and with a year under Pop's system, Richard Jefferson has found has game again. 

• Shannon Brown has a jump shot!!!!!! Working on his shooting was the best thing for the former Proviso East star. Brown's game is already explosive and his leaping ability is second to none. With his hops to go along with his new jump shot the only thing missing is better ball handling. 

• John Wall & JaVelle McGee are nice together...these two are the cornerstone of the Wizards future.

• Roy Hibbert is proven that he is an NBA player. He's currently leading the league in block shots. 

Problems with the Miami Heat???

With the hype that the fans and media pretty much gave the Miami Heat the NBA Title before the season began, somebody forgot to tell the rest of the NBA that they must play the games. The new Big 3 are currently on a two game losing streak (both home losses) to the Utah Jazz and tonight to the Boston Celtics.

 When Pat Riley put this team together, he forgot to include a solid point guard, center and bench. This unit will have their share of blowout victories (like they did against Orlando) but their lack of not having a lead guard and bench will be the main reason this team will not win an NBA Title unless they address those issues. Deron Williams made a case why he's one of the best point guards in the lead but dictating the pace of the game. Tonight Rondo added 16 assist and the Heat were not able to control him. Chris Bosh is doing double duty playing the 4 & 5 positions and his stats are not worth $100 millions only averaging 15 pts 5 rebounds. Other than Rondo tonight, the Celtics bench ran the floor the entire night out playing the Heat bench.

How can the Heat win...the new Big 3 needs to restructure their deal so Pat Riley can afford more quality players. Mike Miller will help once he returns but he's not the solution. 

Who is the best NBA Point Guard

With the NBA season less than 10 games the point guards have dominated this season. If the MVP award were given today, several point guard are making strong cases. The question so far this season and asked by Kenny Smith..."Who is the best point guard in the NBA"? Well lets meet the contestants:

*For argument sakes Chris Paul & Deron Williams will not be mentioned*

• Brandon Jennings - Young Money is not having a sophomore slump already dropping a triple double in the first week. Some say the Kenny Anderson clone is the best point guard in the Central Division. Once his jump shot matches his quickness and passing ability, you'll have to consider the Compton native one of the best. 14pts 7ast 4 reb

• Russell Westbrook - The FIBA game did wonders for the former guard out of UCLA. He's not a true point guard but very explosive and finishes very hard at the rim. Compliments Kevin Durant very well. 20ppg 7ast 6reb

• Derrick Rose - "I WANT TO BE MVP" That's what Pooh said in the latest issue of SLAM. Already strong, fast, explosive, great passer. So far Simeon's finest has proven to be a leader of this team and is not afraid of Miami. He worked on his jump shot over the summer and if automatic, he'll be the king of the PGs hands down. Expect him to be in the running for MVP all season long. 27ppg 8ast 5reb

• Rajon Rondo - Right now the Black Irish PG is not only the best player on his team, but if the MVP award were given today Rondo would win it in a landslide. Rondo is a classic lead guard and has dished out 60 assist over 4 games (Stockton being the other). Still has a tendency to over dribble but his passing ability is second to none. Jason Kidd never worked on his jumper and he's one of the best ever. 11pppg 16ast 6reb

• John Wall - Whatever John Calipari is doing it's amazing. Flashes of Derrick Rose are completely accurate. Speed, finisher, #1 overall pick, athleticism, court vision, potential rookie of the year. FYI...he's only a rookie. 

Opening Night - Ring Night - Big 3 Battle

Huge night for TNT tonight as they prepare for a double header. The first game of the year has my favorite to win the Eastern Conference the Boston Celtics which features The O'Neals (Jermaine & Shaq), and elite point guard (Rondo), and the old big 3 (KG, Pierce, Allen). They will face the new big 3 (LBJ, DWade, Bosh) and the rest of the Miami Heat. The Heat will be without 3-point specialist Mike Miller until January as he injured his shooting hand in practice guarding LeBron. Plenty of scoring from Miami's Big 3 but they're bench is not a strong supporting cast. Meanwhile Boston lost Tony Allen but gained the O'Neals and have Nate Robinson, Big Baby, Delonte West as their supporting cast which should be more than enough to secure the victory tonight. Rondo should get a tripple double and one of the Celtics Big 3 will have a big game. Celtics by 10 tonight.

On the west coast, NBA Commissioner David Stern presents Kobe Bryant with ring #5 then shortly after Kobe & Co. should blowout Yao Ming & the Houston Rockets. Kevin Martin will have a hard time scoring with Ron Artest guarding him meaning Aaron Brooks will have to elevate his scoring by running circles over Derrick Fisher, Steve Blake, and Shannon Brown.

Both games should be interesting but tomorrow my Chicago Bulls will face the Oklahoma City Thunder. Good point guard match up Rose vs. Westbrook.

 

Preview - Chicago Bulls 2010-2011

With the NBA training camp underway every team has an eye to dethrone the defending champions Los Angeles Lakers. Today we'll focus on my home team the Chicago Bulls and their outlook for the upcoming season. Jokim Noah resigned which gives the Bulls a solid defender for the next six years but the team caught a bad break Sunday when newly signed Carlos Boozer broke his had and is out for 2 months. According to Boozer this injury occurred at home but he's been injury prone throughout his career. Once Boozer returns to action, pencil him in for 20-10 every night. He's the lone low post scorer they've been missing since Elton Brand. All Rookie Taj Gibson will start until Boozer returns and should be improved after an impressive rookie season. 

For the back-court it starts and ends with Derrick Rose. The best point guard in the League has improved his game every season going back to his junior year at Simeon. Ronnie Brewer is an defensive minded guard with great athleticism should be great in transition. The Bulls lost out on JJ Reddick but got a much better shooter in Kyle Korver. Expect Rose to rank top 5 in assist as well as a legit MVP candidate. 

Overall: Coach Tom is a defensive minded coach with championship experience. This team will contend with the Heat, Celtics, and Magic for Eastern Conference supremacy. Another first round exit not excepted. 

Preview - Fighting ILLINI Basketball

The Final 4 teams of 1989 and 2005 were without a doubt the best teams in school history. I have not been pleased with the recruiting class Bruce Weber has brought in until now. With senior players Demetri McCamey and Mike Davis leading the way along with a top ten recruiting class led by Jereme Richmond, this team has the makings of a Final Four sleeper. Sophomores Brandon Paul should improve after a rocky freshmen year but DJ Richardson has the makings an all Big Ten player in the future. DJ Richardson's hidden potential is similar when Deron Williams starred for ILLINI.

Crandall Head should be healthy after tearing his ACL last summer and should provide some offense for this group. Myles Head will be thrown into the starting lineup day one as he's a legit seven footer.

With Michigan State, Ohio State, and Purdue as the best teams in the conference, this Fighting ILLINI team should challenge the Buckeyes for the third best team in the conference.

USA vs. Russia Recap

The game is airing now live on ESPN and I'm not enjoying what I see out of Team USA. Way too much 1-on-1 play for the American team that I think I'm watching guys play at X-Sports or the Y on 63rd Street. If Kevin Durant & continue to play the isolation game, I would not be surprised if they ended up going home. But if they decide to play team ball, this game could be a rout. Coach K's group needs to show offensive & defensive patience.

With 90 seconds left in the 3rd quarter USA has decided to show patience on offense & defense and own a commanding 15 point lead. Kevin Durant (23 points) has played the entire game but is still in isolation mode. Good hang time move by Velvet Hoop to finish strong with the left hand...no foul was called.

KD finished with a game high 33 as Team USA advances to the semifinals. Once again Russell Westbrook provided us with two highlight dunks to send the USA bench off their seats. Pushing the Lakers to 6 games plus FIBA experience has done wonders for Westbrook & Durant. I can't wait to watch Thunder basketball this year.

FIBA Basketball on ESPN 2

USA Basketball vs. Angola 11 AM ET on ESPN2 Labor Day. I will post a recap later.

FIBA World Championship

With everyone projected Spain vs. Team USA in the championship both teams have struggled in the FIBA World Championships so far. The difference is, Team USA remains undefeated. The defending world champions Spain have lost 2 out of their last 3 losing most recently to Lithuania?!?!?!? Exactly other than Team USA, Spain has the most NBA ready players on their roster.

Last night Brazil gave Kevin Durant & company a scare as this new group of American ball players held on to defeat a Leandro Barbosa squad by a single bucket 70-68.If Team USA is healthy then someone needs to check Andre Iguodala's ankles. Close to the end of the game, Barbosa gave Iggy a sick behind the back dribble that sent AI to the ground. USA Basketball still has two major problems that they need to adjust:

1. Turnovers
2. Consistent lineup

I'm aware any player on Team USA can score 20 plus any given night but Coach K needs to focus on a consistent lineup. Other than Kevin Durant, nobody know if they'll play the next game. Turnovers continue to be a problem for Team USA as they are sloppy and needs better clock management.

Once those two problems are solved, Team USA should win the FIBA Championship as well as the 2012 Olympics. 

USA Basketball Recap

With Kevin Durant's game winning block against Spain a few night ago, Team USA remained undefeated in International play. Team USA is in the pursuit for their first gold medal since 1994. Chicago's own Derrick Rose dominated down the stretch hitting clutch free throws and finishing strong with the left hand (and one).

Ricky Rubio impressed me the most as he showed why the Minnesota drafted him fifth in the 2009 NBA Draft Draft. Rubio reminds me of a taller version of Steve Nash minus the 3-point range. Spain and USA have become quite a rivalry the past five years and I can pretty much say these two teams will meet in the World Basketball Finals.

Without Howard, Boozer, Bosh, Team USA has to rely on Tyson Chandler, Brook Lopez, and Kevin Love as their big man. This current group is more athletic than the Redeem Team but not as talented. Kevin Durant is the new leader of this group according to the coaching staff and the media but Big Shot Chauncey Billups is the one these young ball players need to listen to.

Way too many slashers in this group and not enough big men and shooters. Therefore when the next cuts take place, Coach K should say goodbye to Russel Westbrook, Ruddy Gay, and Danny Grainger. Reasons being Curry, Gordan, Billups are the shooters. Rose, Rondo play the lead guard. Odom, Wallace, and Iggie are the athletic do everything forwards.

The group is good enough to win the gold along with the 2012 Olympics but they better not take Spain for granted.

Shaq in Boston - Pippen HOF Week

Basketball might be over but there was still plenty of action that took place in the NBA the past two weeks so let's recap:

Two former Chicago Crane high schools point guards signed NBA contracts. Will Bynum re-signed with the Detroit Pistons which was a solid move by Joe Dumars because now Rodney Stuckey has a quality backup lead guard in Bynum. I've seen Will "Da Thrill" play since he was 15 and don't be surprised if Stuckey is the one coming off the bench. Remember against the Wizards "Da Thrill" was one assist away from tying Isiah Thomas mark for most dimes in a game. Will has also gotten better every year in has career and I'm always happy when Chi-Town players do well.

After not being drafted in this year's NBA Draft, Sherron Collins signed a two-year deal with the Charlotte Bobcats. Collins will have the chance to compete with Shaun Livingston for the backup point guard spot. With Livingston's history of not being able to remain healthy, the former Kansas All-American should fit well with the young Cats. Somewhere Anthony Longstreet and Tim Anderson are proud of these guys. Both Collins & Bynum have strong handles but Collins is a better shooter.

Speaking of Bynum, hopefully he can rack up plenty of assist with his new teammate Tracy McGrady. After discussions with the Bulls did not fall though, the former scoring champ signed a 1-year deal in Motor City. If T-Mac can give the Pistons 20 mpg or 15 PPG, he'll be a lock for Comeback POY. Let's hope that back holds up.

Double honors for the greatest sidekick in NBA history Scottie Pippen. Yesterday Pippen asked the G.O.A.T. to stand with him while being inducted into Springfield. Growing up in Chicago, I've had the pleasure of seeing the development of #33 until his retirement with the Bulls in 2004. The Rocket and Blazers years do not count. During the 90s' the basketball debate was who the was second best player? The answer was Scottie Pippen. Durant, McGrady, Horry, Rudy Gay, LeBron should all thank Pippen as he reinvented the point forward position.  Congrats Scottie!!!!!!!!

Eastern Conference Supremacy

 With Shannon Brown re-signing with the Champs along with the addition of Matt Barnes, Steve Blake, and Theo Ratliff, the Lakers will waltz through the Western Conference and make their fourth consecutive trip to the NBA Finals. Their opponent remains to be determined as the Eastern Conference has reloaded. The Celtics, Heat, Bulls, Hawks, and Magic will beat each other up all season long but only one will face Kobe in June. Let's take a look at the contenders:

Atlanta Hawks: Swept by LeBron James the past two years the Hawks will most likely get swept this year as they have not imporved their roster during this free agancy period. Re-signing Joe Johnson was huge but a team full of wing players and an aging point guard will result in this team not representing the Eastern Conference.

Chicago Bulls: Not since Elton Brand traded to the Clippers the Bulls answered their low post answers by signing Carlos Boozer who should provide 20 points 10 rebounds at best. Chicago missed out signing JJ Reddick but added Kyle Korver for long distance shooting and Corey Brewer who's a defensive minded shooting guard. With the best young point guard in the League and Noah improving every year the Bulls should be the third or fourth best team in the East at best. CJ Watson is the backup point guard but I'm not sold on him.

Orlando Magic: Adding Chris Duhon finally give Jameer Nelson the quality backup he's needed since Rafer Alson. Re-signing JJ Reddick along with the addition of Quentin Richardson gives the Magic long distance shooting. If Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis have another disappearing act as they did against the Celtics, don't expect the Magic to return to the NBA Finals. Hopefully Superman learned some offensive moves from assistant coach Patrick Ewing.

Miami Heat: The winner of the 2010 free agency period appears to be the best team in the Eastern Conference.....on paper. The addition of LeBron James and Chris Bosh along with resigning Dwayne Wade spells trouble plus an increase in ticket sales. An extremely week bench means the three superstars will work extra hard for all 82 games. The addition of Mike Miller and the experience of Juwan Howard and Eddie House helps but not that much. Remember Wade and House are the only player on this team with championship rings.

Boston Celtics: The Black Irish are my predictions to win the  Eastern Conference. They're the only team that can play in the all-star game and legends game the same day. Adding the two O'Neals (Shaq & Jermaine) is a huge upgrade over the loss of Rasheed Wallace. Shaq will start until Kendrick Perkins returns but if he and Jermaine can play 20 minuets a game would be huge. Rondo will continue to run the team but this might be the last run for the future hall of fame line up of Shaq, KG, Pierce, and Allen.

Lorenzen Wright R.I.P

Tragedy struck the Wright family in Memphis as they found the body of former Memphis Tiger and NBA player Lorenzen Wright last week. Police have yet to arrest any suspects but I hope this family finds the animals that murdered this father of three. When the three men with guns approached the ex-wife's house last week, her first thought should have been to notify the police. This is a huge loss to the Memphis basketball community but most importantly, the children lost their father to senseless violence. Let's all most these men are brought to justice soon.

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Final 4 NBA Free Agents

With the 2010 NBA Free Agency buzz pretty much dead, there remains four former mega stars that have yet to find new NBA homes. Stephon Marbury who last played in China is still on the market, former scoring champs Tracy McGrady, Allen Iverson, and Shaquille O'Neal are also waiting on that phone call from an NBA GM. At this point in their careers, these players must realize whatever team picks them up, they're no longer the #1 option on offense. Here's my take to the four free agents available:

1. T-Mac: Ten years ago T-Mac turned down the Bulls to sign with the Orlando Magic and only lasted with that organization for 4 years. This week T-Mac worked out with the Bulls and even has Derrick Rose and newly acquired Kurt Thomas saying positive things. Even McGrady talked as if he were already a part to this team. If McGrady can give the Bulls 20 minuets a night, that's fine with me. Hope he signs.
2. SHAQ - At this point in the career of the Big Cactus, he's slow, lost his scoring ability, and lost the work ethic to play a full 82 games. Reports are the Atlanta Hawks will pick up the Diesel. We all know there's no going back to Cleveland. 
3. Starbury - If the NBA were only a 1-on-1 game, Marbury would make A-Rod money. Over the years this shoot first point guard has found it difficult to catch on to an NBA team whereas he played his 2009-2010 season in China....WOW!!!!!! If Starbury can change his tone he could become a decent backup for...........The Miami Heat. He's cheap but still an excellent passer and ball handler (he's a NYPG duh) and he'll have no choice but to know his role.
4. The Answer - AI revolutionized the game today because all the young ball player emulate his version of the crossover, the shoot first point guard, and stat stuffing. After a brief retirement last season the Sixers resigned him only to send him home a few months later. This 1st ballot HOF player should sign with a team that's on the cusp on an NBA Championship. The clock is ticking AI!!!!!     

Michael Finley, Sam Cassell, Clyde Drexler, Dennis Rodman are former stars that signed with championship teams which resulted in a ring. Let's hope these 4 player are smart enough to do the same. 

2010 Free Agency Recap

The Catch, The Drive, The Fumble, The Shot, The Jose Mesa Error, The Decision...that describes Cleveland sports...LeBron James announcement is simply known as "The Decision"

The superpowers are now a trio. That trio is Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and LeBron James. I believe these three have planned on being teammates since the 2003 NBA Draft. The Miami Heat also traded away Michael Beasley to the Minnesota Timberwolves for a second round draft pick. Besides the superpowers, Mario Chalmers and newly signed Mike Miller are the only other Heat player on their roster. I still believe the Magic and Celtics are better than the Heat with the Bulls challenging them for the third best team in the Eastern Conference. The rest of the Heat will consist of D-League players which is why I don't see the Heat winning a championship soon.

My Chicago Bulls were not shutout of the 2010 free agency class. The Bulls inked Carlos Boozer for 5 years which is the low post scorer that the Bulls have been missing since Elton Brand. Kyle Korver also signed with the Bulls. I like their chances in the Eastern Conference now even with the superpowers.

I have no idea what Amare Stoudamire was thinking by leaving the Suns for the Knicks......oh $100 million would make anybody leave for a new team. Good luck being in the Lottery because Melo is not coming in 2011. David Lee also completed a sign-and-trade to Golden State. He has 20-11 written all over him.

2010 NBA Free Agents

With the NBA free agency period beginning in 24 hours, not only is this the greatest free agency class in NBA history sports history period. Never have there been so many franchises attempting to dump salary for the rights to land a LeBron, D-Wade, Stoudamire, Boozer, and many more star quality power. With Paul Pierce opting out of his deal in Boston I will predict where the top 10 free agents will most likely land. I predict Pierce will re-sign with Boston similar to what A-Rod did with the Yankees.

1. LeBron James - Ohio player finally leaves the nest and arrives in Chicago and fills the void to but the young Bulls over to top to Eastern Conference supremacy.
2. Dwyane Wade - South Beach or Homecoming...My prediction is that the 2006 NBA Finals returns home. 
3. Chris Bosh - Not Toronto...Chicago or Miami are the likely destination for the lefty Texan 20-10 power forward. 
4. Dirk Nowitzki - Hard to imagine the 2007 MVP playing elsewhere. He stays with Mark Cuban. 
5. Amar'e Stoudamire - Miami to possibly team with D-Wade assuming he stays otherwise a reunion with Coach D in New York. 
6. Carlos Boozer - Staying in Utah is the best move but teaming with LeBron wherever he lands seems more fitting. Just like 5 years ago, it's all about the highest bidder. 
7. Joe Johnson - Just like Phoenix 5 years ago, the highest bidder will land this dynamic shooting guard.
8. Paul Pierce - A-Rod move...The Truth will get a better payday from the Celtics for less years. 
9. Ray Allen - Pure shooting guard will probably stay with Boston but the Bulls should make a run as Jesus still has game.
10. David Lee - Former Florida Gator has turned into a nice 20-10 guy for the Knicks. Too soon to tell but expect Lee to play for a contender in the Western Conference when the season starts. 

NBA Lottery Mock Draft

Everybody will get the first two picks right but what about the rest of the lottery? Here's where I'll think these players will go based by team's need:

1. Washington Wizards: Need PG: My Selection - John Wall
2. Philiadelphia 76ers: Need Shooting Guard: My Selection - Evan Turner
3. New Jersey Nets: Need PF-SF-SG: My Selection - DeMarcus Cousins
4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Need SF: My Selection Wesley Johnson
5. Sacramento Kings: Need PF-PG: My Selection Derrick Favors
6. Golden State Warriors: Need C: My Selection - Greg Monroe
7. Detroit Pistons: PF-C: My Selection - Kole Aldrich
8. Los Angeles Clippers: SF: My Selection Al Farouqq Aminu
9. Utah Jazz: Need PF: My Selection Ed Davis
10. Indiana Pacers Needs PG: My Selection - Eric Bledsoe
11. New Orleans Hornets: Need SF My Selection - Paul George
12. Memphis Grizzlies: Needs PF: My Selection - Daniel Orton
13. Toronto Raptors: Needs PF My Selection - Patrick Patterson
14. Houston Rockets: Needs SF My Selection - Gordon Hayward

Tune in Thursday to ESPN for the official Draft selection.

2010 NBA Draft

Thursday marks the annual NBA Draft in Madison Square Garden. My prediction for the top three are John Wall, Evan Turner, and DeMarcus Cousins.

It's late but check back tomorrow as I predict the NBA Lottery and where will Sherron Collins & Jerome Randle will end up. 

Game 7 - Lakers Repeat

Yankees-Red Soxs, Ohio State-Michigan, Duke-North Carolina rivalry's have nothing on the Celtics-Lakers rivalry. Winners of the last two NBA titles squared off in an epic game 7 inside the Staples Center which resulted in Phil Jackson ending up with ring #11. In game 5, Phil Jackson mentioned the Boston Celtics are one of the worst 4th quarter team in the League and are terrible at closing games. That came to life as the Celtics were up by 14 with 6:42 left in the third but could not close out and nab title #18.

With Kobe Bryant not having his best performance, his teammates stepped up then Bryant closed out the game. Derrick Fisher and Ron Artest made clutch 3's along with Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom out playing the Celtics big men.

Black Mamba notched his second NBA Finals MVP and celebrated Jordan style by standing on the table with his world champion hat on counting to 5 toward the rest of the Laker fans. When Michael Jordan won his 5th title, he did the exact same thing at the United Center. Will the Lakers 3-peat? Probably so because I do believe they'll re-sign Phil Jackson and Derrick Fisher. The rest of the team is locked up for years.

Thank You Ron Artest for one of the funniest post-game interviews of all-time:

• Part 1
• Part 2

Celtics 1 away from 2010 Title

Last night in Boston the Celtics now lead the series 3-2 heading back to the Staples Center for game 6 Tuesday. Kobe had a monster 3rd quarter as well as a monster game with 38 points but he's the only Laker that's scoring. Andrew Bynum has been useless this entire series due to his bad knee. The Celtics bench of Allen, Wallace, Robinson, and Davis has been the key to this series. Unless the Lakers can get another scorer other than Bryant, expect a repeat of the 2008 Finals. Overall I still predict the this series will go seven games which will end up Phil Jackson landing ring #11.

Congratulation to Avery Johnson (Nets), Larry Drew (Hawks), and Monty Williams (Hornets) on becoming the new head coaches for those organizations. Coach Johnson has NBA Finals experience and was the 2006 Coach of the Year. Coach Drew & Williams have been assistants for the Hawks & Trailblazers for years and this is their first year coaching. Someone should still give Mark Jackson a head coaching gig as I know he would make and outstanding coach someday.

NBA Finals Tied 1-1...Coaching Moves

The Boston Celtics get their wish which was a split in the Staples Center. Ray Allen set an NBA Finals record  with 8 3-point buckets made and Rondo is turning into a regular Jason Kidd by getting triple doubles every other night. The Laker front-court of Gasol & Bynum have played great thus far but without another scorer to backup Kobe (meaning step up Larmar Odom) this series might not return to Los Angeles. At this point, Rondo is the MVP of the Finals so far.

Congrats to Monty Williams on landing the New Orleans Hornets coaching gig. I remember watching Monty Williams at Notre Dame plus he was also a solid pro. For the past 5 season, Coach Williams was the assistant coach for the Portland Trailblazers...good luck in the Big Easy.

My Chicago Bulls finally land a new head coach which is defensive minded guru Tom Thibodeau. He's been the mand behind the Celtics defense but I hope he can coach offense as well and is not a Jeff Van Gundy clone.

Reports are Tom Izzo will be the next coach of the Cavs but his is all speculation and if I were Izzo, I'm not leaving Michigan State whose teams is good enough to compete for the 2011 Final 4 with Kalin Lucas returning. Unless LeBron stays in Clevaland, Coach Izzo should stay in East Lansing.

NBA Finals - Celtics & Lakers

The NBA Finals finally begin tomorrow at the Staple Center between the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics which is a rematch from the 2008 NBA Finals. This is the third straight Finals appearance for the Lake Show and the second out of three years for Boston. This also marks the finals between the last two NBA Champions.

Phil Jackson's squad knows that in order to compete, Kobe Bryant needs another teammate to also score otherwise this series will be similar to the 2008 one. Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom are capable of scoring 20 or more and occasionally Ron Artest but he's primarily here for defense. Doc Rivers's crew know that Rondo is now the engine of the Big 3 and everything starts and ends with him. Once again Laker point guards have their hands full with another speedy point guard.

Who should make an impact to this series:

• Rondo - Garnett, Pierce, Allen can have an average game but if Rondo doesn't step up, the Celtics become runner-ups.
• Pau Gasol - He must prove that he's not scared of Boston's bigs...primarily Kevin Garnett
• Ron Artest - Any extra scoring is helpful
• Andrew Bynum - Minimum 10 points 10 rebounds is expected
• Shannon Brown - The only other Laker guard that is not afraid to attack the basket

My prediction: Lakers in seven

Celtics - Lakers in Trouble?

Don't prepare for the Lakers-Celtics finals just yet. Monday night in Boston, the Black Irish could not send Superman and the Orlando Magic fishin' just yet as Rajon Rondo was finally outplayed at the point guard position by his counterpart Jameer Nelson. The Big 3 for the Celtics along with Dwight Howard, Vince Carter, and Rashard Lewis are the Magic's version of the "Big 3" but the key to this series starts and end with the Nelson vs. Rondo battle. Paul Pierce missed two 3 point shot under a minute to play but the biggest question is why didn't Ray Allen take that final shot. If the Magic win a pivotal game 5 tomorrow, expect this series to got the distance.

The Lakers took the Suns lightly and now find themselves tied 2-2 against Phoenix. The Stoudamire & Nash combination was ok but the bench for Los Suns were the deciding factor tonight. Kobe Bryant is probably giving his teammates a good lashing as he was the only offensive force for the defending champs. Phil Jackson's crew is only .500 on the road but great when playing at the Staples Center.

I'm still predicting a Celtics-Lakers finals but it's just taking a little bit longer.

The Black Irish

Tonight in Boston, the Black Irish aka Boston defeated the Orlando Magic in epic porpotion 94-71 to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the best of seven. I'm truly dissapointed in Vince Carter in this series as he was acquired by the Magic during the draft of big series like this one. As a result we've come to realize that he is not playing like the Tar Heel or Toronto Raptor version and that's Vince is just a shell of his former self. At this point is his career, he should know when to turn it on and when to rely on Lewis, Howard, or Nelson. The Magic should have won game 2 but Vince Carter had a Nick Anderson moment missing clutch free throws down the strech. Another double-double for Rajon Rondo with 11 points and 12 assist including a nasty crossover on White Chocolate Jason Williams in the first half.  It's safe to say the natives in Boston will be chanting......BEAT LA....BEAT LA......BEAT LA.....BEAT LA....starting Tuesday.

Tomorrow the Los Angeles Lakers hope to comand a 3-0 lead against the offensive minded Phoenix Suns. Unless Steve Nash and Amare Stoudamire commit to defense (yeah right) this series is just about over and David Stern gets his Lakers-Celtics finals ratings bonanza.

Well, my time in Clevaland was......ok but I'm ready to get back to Chicago.

NBA Conference Finals

I'm off to Cleveland, OH for the weekend hopefully I get a chance to visit Progressive Field and watch the Indians play the Reds. The NBA Conference finals resume this weekend in Phoenix and Boston and when I return to Chicago on Monday both the Celtics & Lakers should have a 3 - 0 lead.

A Laker-Celtics finals would be a ratings bonanza for ABC but this current Lakers have revenge on their minds as they were defeated by these same Celtics for the crown back in 2008. This time around I don't see anybody stopping Kobe Bryant as he and Derrick Fisher capture championship ring number 5.

Wizards Win Lottery - Conference Finals Recap

Congratulations to the Washington Wizards for winning the 2011 NBA Draft Lottery tonight in New Jersey. This team's 2009-2010 season was not a good one by dealing with the death of longtime owner Abe Polen, trading the core of their team (Antwan Jamison, Caron Butler, Brendon Hayword, and Deshawn Stevenson), followed by the season long suspensions of Javaris Crittenton for gun play. The upside for this franchise is that this team is young and now have the opportunity to draft John Wall or Evan Turner. The main question is with this young team do they draft Wall then trade Agent Zero who has a monster contract that no owner wants to touch. My theory is that the Wizards buy him out then let Arenas pursue other interest with another ball club then start fresh with John Wall as their point guard for the future. Wizard's assistant coach Sam Cassell will make sure John Wall learn the lead guard position from an NBA champion guard.

Game 1 of the NBA conference finals are complete as the Lakers and Celtics were both victorious. The Phoenix Sun could not find an answer for Kobe Bryant who dropped 40 who also made Grant Hill fall off this crossover. I'm not upset that he missed the floater but he still should have converted. The almost highlight of the game was Shannon Brown almost dunking over Michigan State alum Jason Richardson but took off too early. I was also very impressed with Derick Fisher's defense on Steve Nash after getting abused by Russell Westbrook and Deron Williams in the previous series. Game two is tomorrow at the Staples Center.

Boston Celtics took a 2 game to zero lead over the Orlando Magic tonight down in South Florida. At one point the Magic had a one-point lead but KG hit a key fade away shot over Dwight Howard (good defense...better offense). After a smart foul on Vince Carter by Paul Pierce which was his sixth, Vince had the opportunity to but his club up one with less than a minuet but the former Tar Heel had a Nick Anderson moment and missed both free throws. At the end, Orlando had to go the length of the court but Jameer Nelson missed a half-court 3 to send the game to overtime.

Both series are over and I'm already prepared for a Celtics-Lakers Finals.

LeBron James - John Calapari Package Deal?

I will comment on both conference finals game 1 after the Sun-Lakers game tonight.

The big news out of Chicago is that LeBron James and John Calapari are a package deal that will call the Chicago Bulls home next season. Calapari mentioned on his Twitter page that he has the best job in the world as the Kentucky Wildcats coach but coaching any pro team is always a step up over any college team. Both parties are denying any reports but come July 1st, we will find out the truth.

LeBron James 2010

Not even 72 hours have past and the world wants to know where will LeBron James play next season. Expect his phone (and his agent's phone) to ring non-stop come July 1, 2010. Let's look at some possible destination for King James:

• New York Knicks: Why would LeBron want to come here? The positives are they have done a pretty decent job by tanking the season, clearing cap space, potential high lottery pick, have run-n-gun offensive style of play, and it's NYC. 
• Chicago Bulls: The Madhouse on Madison. Out of all the potential team, this is where King James should call home next season. A starting five of Noah, Gibson, James, Deng, Rose challenges only Boston & Orlando for Eastern Conference supremacy. This team is pretty much the same each and they could all grow old together.
• New Jersey Nets: Billionaire owner and potentially landing John Wall or Evan Turner. Friends with part owner Jay-Z and right next door to the Mecca. Overall it's still New Jersey. 
• Los Angeles Clippers: Can the two biggest basketball stars share the same limelight in Hollywood. Landing the 1st or 2nd pick boast it's chances. 
• Miami Heat: Three words...tax free state....Two words....Dwayne Wade.....Pat Riley & South Beach..nuff said
• Cleveland Cavaliers: There's no place like home. Since this bird has never left the nest it will be hard to leave Cleveland .

My prediction: LeBron James wears #6 for Chicago Bulls

LeBron'sFinal Home Game?

Many expected (including myself) predicted the Cavaliers would defeat the Celtics today then finish the series Thursday in Boston. LeBron James never got started taking only 14 shots which resulted to Cleveland losing 120-88. The highlight of the game was a double crossover that Rondo displayed which had Rasheed Wallace in stitches.

At this stage in his career Shaq should not be the team's leading scorer when LeBron is on the court. Once again Mo Williams continued to get exposed defensively by his counter part at the point guard position. Derrick Rose is the first round now Rondo's turn. They are passing him around like foreign currency. If Cleveland looses Thursday we know Danny Ferry will not return O'Neal, most likely fire Mike Brown, and probably loos LeBron James via free agency.

Like my Chicago Blackhawks, this is the best chance for the Cleveland Cavaliers to win a world championship. The last time the Cavs had this good of a team to win a title was 1989 but their season ended by The Shot. 

Better Duo:Steve Nash & Amare Stoudamire or John Stockton & Karl Malone

While watching the Phoenix Suns take a 2-0 advantage lead over the San Antonio Spurs I've noticed that Steve Nash and Amare Stoudamire are the new John Stockton and Karl Malone duo. No matter how many time you try to stop the pick and pop or pick and roll, the results end up a jump shot, lob pass, or slam dunk.

My question is who runs the play better Stave Nash and Amare Stoudamire or John Stockton and Karl Malone?

1. Steve Nash & Amare Stoudamire highlight reel
2. John Stockton & Karl Malone highlight reel

Young Money = Bucks Future

The Bucks season is now over after getting blown out Friday at the Bradley Center then loosing this afternoon in the final game of the series. Scott Skiles did a wonderful job coaching this team after loosing Michael Redd & Andrew Bogat earlier in the season. As a result, the Bucks regrouped by adding veteran Tar Heel Jerry Stackhouse, trading for John Salmon, and lead by rookie point guard Young Money aka Brandon Jennings. The game seven highlight of the Bucks/Hawks game was Jennings going behind the back on a fast break that shifted Mike Bibby to the other side and Young Money converted with the left hand.

With Brandon Jennings leading this group with John Salmon and a healthy Redd & Bogut, the future of the Milwaukee Bucks looks bright. The Kenny Anderson clone needs to get stronger, develop a right hand, and work on his outside shooting in order to compete with the Pauls, Williams, Roses, of the League.

LeBron James received his second straight MVP award at the University of Akron today along with the city of Akron, teammates, and family. The million dollar question is how many MVPs will King James win when his career is over?

Chicago Bulls Gone Fishin'

Before I blog about teams that have gone fishin' for the summer J.R. Smith just pulled off an incredible dunk in the 4th quarter which is probably on YouTube about now. Now...the Bulls, Heat, Bobcats have all started their summer vacations with Chicago and Miami losing in five games while the Bobcats got swept by the Orlando Magic.

Last night The Chicago Bulls lost by 2 points to the Cleveland Cavaliers 96-84 which was probably the last game for Vinny Del Negro. If Jerry Reinsdorf paid attention he would clean house by firing John Paxon, Gar Foreman, and Vinny Del Negro. But since coaches are always the first to go Del Negro will probably be relieved of his duties by the weekend. Jokim Noah & Derrick Rose displayed that they're the new blood in the NBA with Derrick Rose potentially being the best point guard east of Steve Nash. When the real season begins July 1st, I hope Mark Jackson or Byron Scott is the Bulls coach and my team lands Wade, Stoudamire, Bosh, or Boozer. The future is bright for the madhouse on Madison.

The Cavaliers move on into the next round to face the Black Irish aka Boston Celtics. With Kevin Garnett healthy again, expect this series to go the distance but this time the Cavs moving on the Eastern Conference Finals. The winner between the Hawks or Bucks series will most likely get swept by the Magic in that round (Young Money aka Brandon Jennings in my Rookie of the Year). Side Note: Before the Hawks/Bucks game tonight Jamal Crawford receive his well deserved 6th man of the year trophy.

http://ping.fm/9TQfm

Testing

Chicago Bulls Defeat Cleveland Cavs

The Chicago Bulls defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers tonight 108-106 thanks to Anthony Parker's missed shot as time expired. The Bulls were up by as much as 21 points and then LeBron decided to remind the world that he's LeBron. The highlight of the game was Deng going behind the back vintage Kenny Anderson against LeBron for the score. That play got all the oooh & ahhhs at the United Center. LeBron will average his 30 plus for the series but once again Derrick Rose is making a case that he's the best point guard in the NBA.

Derrick Rose has yet to have a bad game this series and and long as Mo Williams is guarding him, he'll continue to have a great game. Mike Davis decided to have King James guard Rose which did not do any good as Inglewood's Finest displayed a clinic for the home crowd. No matter what happens, I still want Avery Johnson or Mark Jackson as the Bulls next head coach.

Game 4 this Saturday at the United Center...let's hope the Bulls tie the series!!!!!!!

Side-note: Not drafting Jimmy Clausen in the 1st round was a huge mistake!!!!!!!

Bulls Down 2-0

MVP...MVP...MVP...MVP

The Chicago Bulls are down two games to none in the best of seven series against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Game 1 was a game to forget as the Cavs just toyed with the Bulls. In game one, the Bulls cut the lead to six with 6 minuets to go after being down by as much as 22. From that point LeBron proved that he is the king to secure the Cavs the victory.

Tonight Derrick Rose and the Bulls played tough and even took the lead in the 4th quarter. Pooh proved once he develops a jump shot that he'll become the best point guard in the League over CP3, Westbrook, DWILL, and Young Money. J. Noah was the leading scorer tonight with 23 but if he's the Bulls leading scorer.....that's a problem!!!!! Game 3 is Thursday at the United Center and the Bulls will bring the same fire they did tonight at Quicken Loans but this time secure the victory.

Playoffs or NBA Lottery

With two games left to go in the season I have a dilemma with my Chicago Bulls about tanking the last two games and heading into the lottery or landing the final playoff spot only to face LeBron James in the opening round. Let's view both sides:

Missing the playoffs: If the Bulls miss the playoffs, they end up with a lottery pick and we all know what happened the last time Chicago was in the lottery. ESPN 100 Radio here in Chicago believe the draft that year was rigged because Derrick Rose declared that year and this year local product and potential #1 pick Evan Turner declared this past Tuesday. The potential of having a Turner & Rose back-court would drive ticket sales at the United Center though the roof and they would really compliment each other since they both have excellent handles, great athleticism, and a Chicago swagger that no other city can handle. Not only would this city have the best back-court in the NBA for years to come, we still have plenty of money to offer Chris Bosh or Amaire Stoudamire this summer. Most importantly, they avoid getting swept by LeBron James in round one.

Making the playoffs: Their playoff experience should be better and more matured after last season's seven game series against Boston. Last year Boston didn't have KG but face the Cavs, the Bulls will face Shaq, LeBron, and Antawn Jamison. Those are three miss matches that will pound the undersized Bulls. Derrick Rose will have his way with Sebastian Telfair and Mo Williams but that's pretty much where the Bulls win. Which Chicago Bulls team will show up...the team that lost the the New Jersey Nets twice this season or the one who overachieves on the court at times.

My Verdict: Miss the playoffs even if we don't end up with the top two pick we still end up with a lottery pick with plenty of money to spend come July 1st. 

Underclassmen Declare for 2010 NBA Draft

Now that college basketball is done for this year, the coaching carousel is taking place along with underclassmen declaring for the NBA Draft even if they're not ready. This week several notable underclassmen declared for the Draft with the obvious Evan Turner and John Wall headlining this year's class. John Calapari has the toughest assignment as his entire starting lineup declared and will most likely be drafted in the 1st round. Here is my take on the underclassmen that has declared so far:

•  Evan Turner - Unless the Jazz or Hornets, or Bulls land the top pick, he's a lock for #2
• John Wall -  A lock for #1 unless Utah, Chicago, New Orleans draft 1st.
• DeMarcus Cousins - Elton Brand clone is a lock for a top 5 pick.
• Lance Stephenson - Born Ready needs another year in school but will be selected in round one.
• Kole Aldrich - Big body, great rebounder = top 10 pick
• Willie Warren - Undersized shooting guard will get drafted in the late 1st round or early 2nd round
• Eric Bledsoe - Had a great tournament and has moved into a top ten slot
• Daniel Orton - A star on another ball club but took a backseat to Cousins. Late 1st round pick
• Patrick Patterson - Has gotten better each year and is a lock for a late 1st round pick
• Avery Bradley - NOT READY....NEED TO STAY IN SCHOOL
• Xavier Henry - NBA ready....1st round pick but a lock for 2011 top 5 pick had he returned to Lawrence

Duke-Butler Championship Game Recap

This morning on Sportscenter & Mike & Mike, Coach K mentioned that if this game were to go into overtime his Blue Devils loose. After viewing the brackets for the tournament again it's clear to say that Duke had the easiest path to the championship. The committee made sure that Kansas State, Michigan State or any other powerhouse were not placed in their bracket. Other than West Virginia, Duke had a layup all the way to the Final 4.

Butler will be back next season as a top 5 team that's loaded with underclassmen and with Kyle Irving playing the point in Durham, NC Duke will be a top 25 team but I don't expect a repeat. My early top 5 predictions for next season are Butler, North Carolina, Michigan State, Washington, Purdue.

Butler-Duke

The hometown Butler Bulldogs will face the Duke Blue Devil in the NCAA Division 1 title game tomorrow. If Kyle Stringler and John Schyer want to elevate their draft status they should be the ones making the clutch shots tomorrow. My early prediction of tomorrow's game in Indianapolis is that Butler will play hard for 30 minuets but Coach K will cut down the nets by 10:30 CT Monday Night.

Final 4

Butler, Michigan State, Duke, West Virginia.....those are the participants in the Final 4 not chosen by President Obama or myself. My Final 4 picks Kansas State, Kansas, Villanova, Kentucky have gone fishin' until November. Sherron Collins, The Wildcats starting 5, Scottie Reynolds, will not return next year but Jacob Pullen will return to be one of the top point guards in the country along with Kalin Lucus, Demetri McCamey, Kemba Walker.

What have I learned from this weekend:

• I enjoyed Evan Turner from the St. Joseph to Ohio State days and will follow him to the pros as the #2 overall pick. 
• John Wall will be the first to shake David Stern's hand come June 2010.
• The rest of the Kentucky Wildcats will be drafted in round one 2010.
• Head coached from Cornell, Butler, Baylor and hot assistant coaches will leave for a better coaching job.
• The New Jersey Nets will win at least 10 games and will not win the 2010 NBA Lottery.
• The Chicago Bull will miss the playoffs and win the 2010 NBA Lottery.
• Sherron Collins will be drafted in the 2010 NBA 1st round.
• Nolan Smith has elevated his draft stock......to a Euroleage player
• Butler has a lot of pressure this week have home advantage. 

On to the Sweet 16

With the opening round of the 2010 NCAA Tournament complete what have we learned from Thursday to Sunday:

• To my Chi-Town PGs....thank you Jerome Randle & Sherron Collins for 4 solid years in a major conference. Good luck in the NBA.
• Kansas - Just because you're #1 you have to play like the nation's top team at all time (see UNC 2009)
• Cornell & Northern Iowa head coaches phone are ringing off the hook from high major programs...Seton Hall, Iowa, Oregon, Auburn, St. Johns job all became available last week
• Korie Lucious will become a household name after nailing the game winner 3 to send Maryland home
• The torched was past: while Sherron Collins was walking back to the dressing room, Jacob Pullen reached out to him and showed the senior much love. Nothing but west side Chi-Town love....made me smile
• Kentucky Wildcats are now the front runner to cut down the nets
• A team that knows their roles always dances much longer...Northern Iowa, Cornell, BYU, St. Mary's
• Washington Huskies deserve more credit
• The Big East was overrated
• New Mexico got exposed once they faced some real competition
• Jimmer Fredette & Ali Farokhmanesh have great pro careers ahead of them.......overseas
• Derick Favors & Greg Monroe will not return to school
• I am tall enough to play center for the Marquette Warriors (I'm only 5'8)
• EVERYBODY'S BRACKET IS RUINED

That's it for now..Congrats to Simeon for winning the Class 4A state title over the weekend. 

Time 2 Dance

Today & tomorrow is the least productive work day across the US. Folks are rooting for their school or if you're like me you're just a fan of college basketball. Office pools are going on across the country even the President Obama filled out his bracket for the second year in a row. Currently I'm at work but expect an update on the games this weekend.

ILLINI Snubbed - Dance Begins Thursday

Now that the brackets have been revealed topled Kansas is the top overall seed followed by Kentucky, Syracuse, and Duke. West Virginia and Ohio State made strong cases of landing the final number one seed but they gave it to Coach K.

Why is Illinois playing in the NIT rather than the NCAA? Simple they lost to the Minnesota Golden Gophers (at home) torwards the end of the season followed by losses to Purdue, Ohio State, and Wisconsin. Then defeat the Badgers in the first round of the Big 10 tourney followed by a double overtime loss to the Buckeys. What makes matters worse is that the Gophers reached the finals in Indianapolis doomed Bruce Weber's chances. Good luck against Stony Brook in the Not Invited Tournament

Expect Kansas State, Villanova, Kentucky, and Kansas to reach the final for with Sherron Collins cutting down the nets. He'll finally get a piece of John Wall.

Who's Dancing Tomorrow

Tomorrow 5 PM ET the brackets are released for the 65 teams that will be dancing. This afternoon my Fighting ILLINI loss a double overtime game to Ohio State after leading by as much as 11 points in the second half. With Illinois up by four with less than a minute, Evan Turner proved why he's the a shoe in for the Wooden Award by scoring those four points to force the game into overtime. Turner also scored the tying bucket to force the game into a second overtime before fouling out. With Minnesota advancing to the title game, that puts Illinois back on the bubble watch. Expect Bruce Weber & co. not to sleep for the next 12 hours. FYI....MIKE DAVIS...DUNK THE BALL!!!!!!

If Evan Turner is the Wooden Award winner, John Wall will be the #1 pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. Last night Mr. Wall scored the last 7 to secure the win and today with a single isolation play, the future lottery pick wrapped some Tennessee guard then rolled with the right to advance the Kentucky Wildcats to the title game tomorrow night.

Expect only Washington & California to get bids out the Pac-10 and congrats to Kansas for landing the top #1 overall seed come tomorrow. Here's hoping Sherron Collins cuts down the nets come April.

Expect Kansas, Kentucky, Syracuse, and Ohio State to land to top seeds tomorrow.

Championship Week

I can't lie...these mid-major conference games are boring. Bring on the big boys ACC, Big 12, SEC, Big 10 tournaments!!!!! What are these mid-major conferences playing for? The rights for a 12 to 16 seed but every year one of these mid-major schools have deep tourney run. Gonzaga lost to St. Marys in the WCC Title game which means nothing because the Gonzaga Bulldogs were already in the dance.

Illinois went from a sure fire NCAA tourney team to a bubble team after losing to Minnesota, Ohio State, and Wisconsin. This Friday, the ILLINI have a rematch with the Badgers in the first round of the Big 10 tournament. Wisconsin is only playing for a higher NCAA seed but the ILLINI cannot afford to loose or it's hello NIT.

With conference tournament games being played this week, 4 out of 6 POY in BCS conferences hail from Chicago:

• Jerome Randle - California - Pac 10
• Evan Turner - Ohio State - Big 10
• Sherron Collins - Kansas - Big 12
• John Schyer - Duke - ACC

March Madness - Senior Night

I DON'T CARE IF DELONTE WEST WAS FOULED THE LOB PASS TO LEBRON LAST NIGHT WAS ONE OF THE GREATEST IN GAME DUNKS IN NBA HISTORY.

Madness is everywhere in the hoops world. Today Missouri Zyar Taylor went Tyus Edney against Iowa State for the game winner to silence the crowd. People in Champaign, IL are growing mad because Illinois dropped another game in the Big 10 against Ohio State hindering their tourney chances. With the loss tonight, Ohio State wrapped up the Big 10 regular season title and Evan Turner played his last game in Columbus. Now it's off to Indianapolis for the Big 10 tourney where I hope ILLINI can win a few games and get into the dance.

Congratulations to UTEP for winning the Conference USA title it's the first time in nine years another team other than Memphis wins the title. Memphis will be back as they have the top recruiting class in the nation coming in next year.

Tomorrow tune into ESPN as two Chicago west side point guard Sherron Collins and Jacob Pullen go head to head as Kansas State plays Kansas. That should be a great game and I know Kansas State will play hard tomorrow night.

Good for LeBron switching his number I agree no ball player should ever wear the #23. LeBron James will wear the #6 next season.

Weekend Recap

Let me start off by saying I'm not a fan of hockey but I did watch the USA/Canada Gold Medal game and I'm disappointed and proud of the young USA Hockey team. Now back to the show............

I'm know I'm wrong for typing this but I'm rooting against the Nets. I want them to set the all-time record for most losses in a season. The Celtics must have went out the night before and came in a the crack of dawn because they forgot to bring their "C" game against New Jersey. The bench of the Boston Celtics alone can destroy the New Jersey Nets starting five. My Chicago Bulls keep showing mix signals by defeating the Portland Trailblazers on Friday night then last night losing to the Lottery bound Indiana Pacers. Playing to the level of your competition will not work in the L.

Speaking of playing to the level of the competition, Fighting ILLINI pretty much punch it's ticket to the NIT after a bad loss at home to Minnesota 62-60. I've said this before but for the ILLNI this season, it's whatever but next season pencil in Illinois as a top ten team with Lenord Myles, Mike Davis, Jereme Richmond, Brandon Paul, and Demetri McCamey with Crandle Head and DJ Richardson coming off the bench.

The nation's top two teams suffered losses this weekend as well as Kansas fell to Oklahoma State and Kentucky lost to Tennessee. Bottom line, Kentucky and Kansas will still be seeded #1 two weeks from today. Side note: Good for Sherron Collins calling John Wall a little boy. I hope these two teams meet in the finals.

There is plenty of basketball to watch this week (especially college ball) so I will see you guy later.

TOMORROW IS A GOOD DAY TO HOOP!!!!!!

Scared Straight - UNC Tarheel Version

First of all regarding last night, I believe Kobe's ankle was never hurt. The way he dominated Memphis and hit the game winning bucket was just pure Kobe. 'Nuff said!!!!

This is about my favorite college basketball team other than Illinois. WHAT IS WRONG WITH NORTH CAROLINA TARHEELS?!?!?! They need the Tar Heel version of scared straight version. Michael Jordan, James Worthy, Phil Ford are somewhere speechless. Dean Smith, Larry Brown, George Karl are somewhere crying. Vince Carter, Sean May, Rasheed Wallace are somewhere shaking their heads in shame. Eric Montrose and JR Reid should be on the phone cursing Ed Davis out. Ed Cota should be slapping Larry Drew II around for poor point guard play.

The traditional Tar Heel route is the McDonalds All-American game, shine on ESPN and the NCAA tournament, be seeded #1, nothing less than a Final 4 trip, then go lottery. This system has worked from Dean Smith to Roy Williams. The swagger, the heart, the cockiness, the killer UNC instinct has not been there and they also lost to Duke for the first time since 2007.

As Brendon Haywood cries to bed in his new Dallas condo, I hope Harrison Barnes can lead the Tar Heels back to the #1 spot they belong. The NIT is not expectable!!!!!!

Clearing Cap for 2010

This year the trade made were basically about freeing money up for the 2010 free agent class. The Knicks, Nets, Clippers, Bulls have an unlimited charge card to give one maybe two players this off-season. Let's examine the players traded from Thursday:

• Nate Robinson to Celtics - Knicks dumped Nate for a chance at LBJ on 7/1. Great pickup for Boston as he provides instant offense.
• Tracy McGrady - Headache in the Rockets front office but another smart move by the Knicks as they continue to dump salary after this season. Scored 26 in his Knick debut.
• Tyrus Thomas - I believe Larry Brown will turn this guy into a player. Tar Heels can work miracles.
• John Salmon - Good move by my Bulls to dump this guy. Milwaukee can have him
• Antwan Jamison - Tar Heel was the missing piece to get LBJ into the finals.
• Marcus Camby - Great pickup by Portland as they need a legit center until Greg Oden returns.
• Sebastian Telfair - 2004 was a long time ago. Don't expect much from Bassy in Cleveland. 

All-Star Recap - Trading Deadline

What did I learn about this weekend...this has been one of the worse all-star weekends in recent history. For starter no Bryant, CP3, or Brandon Roy. The dunk off was a complete joke...A slasher wins the 3-point contest. The most disappointing event in Dallas was the dunk contest. Shannon Brown had better dunks in Proviso East than he did in Dallas. The best dunk of the contest was the Demar dunk of the side of the backboard for a windmill. Nate Robinson did what I expected him to do. Nothing creative but he got the job done to secure his title. Derrick Rose did not defend his skills title but did play in the ASG. The 2003 class dominated the ASG and they all should have walked away with the MVPs.

With the second half beginning tonight, Marcus Camby is now a Blazer. This is huge because Portland now has a legit center on their roster until Greg Oden returns next season. It wouldn't surprise me if Portland jumped all the way to the 5th seed. Will "Da Thrill" Bynum had a career high 14 assist against Minnesota tonight. Glad to see Will is finally playing the point the right way.

In college John Wall and Kentucky got a scare against Mississippi State and were down by 7 with 3 minuets left to go. But like true Final 4 contenders, the Wildcats pulled through with the overtime victory. Tom Izzo & Tom Cream had a mini reunion but once the game begin, Michigan State were the ones that left the court smiling. Indiana Hoosiers will be bad for a least two more seasons. Thanks Sampson.

Finally pray that coach George Karl has a speedy recovery and good luck Bulls tomorrow night in MSG.

Rookie/Sophomore Game - Dunk Off

Last night in Dallas the Rookies finally defeated the Sophomore class in the annual game that takes place during All-Star weekend. Tyreke Evans walked away with the MVP but DeJuan Blair have the best game of the night putting up 22 points 21 rebounds. One play Blair even threw the ball off the backboard then slammed it down with one hand. What's most amazing is that this guy tore his ACL in both legs. I expected Brandon Jennings aka Kenny Anderson clone to shine in this type of game but not a flashy as he was during his AAU days.

Demar Rozen qualified to participate in the dunk contest defeating Eric Gordon. I don't know why a shooter like Gordon even challenged a dunker like Rozen. I've seen Rozen do better dunks on YouTube versus the ones he did last night (don't wanna give away too much).

Tonight I'm predicting Derrick Rose will win the skills challenge along with Chauncey Billups to win the 3-point contest followed by Shannon Brown to win the dunk contest.

Tune into TNT to watch all the activities this weekend!!!!!

Weekend Recap

With the rest of the world (including me) watching the Super Bowl, I have not neglected my hoops obligations, just this blog. Now that the week is up let me tell you what I've learned this week:

• I have no idea what to expect from the Bulls. They win 5 straight against playoffs teams then loose their next 3. Two against bad teams (Clippers, Sixers)
• U of Texas is overrated...Ever since they lost their #1 ranking they're dropped 3 out of the last 5. Expect a loss against Kansas tomorrow night. 
• ILLINI.....The victory against Michigan State was huge for there tourney resume but I still expect them to be the 5th Big 10 team to make the dance
• U of Kentucky...The entire starting 5 will enter the 2010 draft with John Wall going 1st along with Cousins & Favors being lottery picks
• Pac 10 Basketball is a joke....California & Washington were supposed to be top 25 teams all years but like their conference, they stink
• Chris Paul is not coming back this year...serious knee injury should shut CP3 down until 2011....4-6 weeks yeah right
• The Lakers have a team (without Kobe)...Last night's victory at Portland without Black Mamba proved the Champs have fire power
• Finally............Since I lived in New Orleans for 5 years....GO SAINTS!!!!

5 Straight fo the Bulls

Once again congratulations to the All-Star guard Derrick Rose as the Bulls have won 5 straight road games. The latest victims were Chris Paul and the New Orleans Hornets. The two all-star guards did not guard each other until the end of the 4th quarter as the better defender Kirk Hindrich guarded Paul. If Derrick Rose wants the crown as best PG in the League, he'll have to improve his jumper and defense. He already has the speed and strength but his defense is suspect. Looking forward to what he does in Dallas all-star weekend.

Big day in college basketball especially in Kansas as two Chicago west side guards will go hard on each other on ESPN tonight. Sherron Collins and Jacob Pullen will do battle as the ranked Kansas vs. Kansas State is the marquee game of the evening.

Right now I'm watching ILLINI loose to Indiana at home and this would be an extremely bad loss for Illinois as the Hoosiers have no chance of making the NCAA Tournament. It appears as if when UCONN lost their coach they also loss their game as they fall to Marquette by 2..70-68.

Well let me get back to watching the ILLINI game and holla at me readers later.

GO DU...BEAT XU

AGENT ZERO GONE

It's official...the Godfather David Stern has suspended Gilbert Arenas for the rest of the season. The Wizards organization are thinking about terminating the remaining $111 million left of Arena's contract and I'm pretty sure they will. What's worse is that Arenas has yet to be sentenced. Keep your head up. If Michael Vick can bounce back after losing millions so can you.

Another good game for Derrick Rose against the Thunder tonight. The Chicago native had 26 points and 7 assist and tomorrow we find out if Pooh makes the all-star game. Let's hope so.

New #1 Goes Down

The newly crowned #1 Kentucky Wildcats receive an encouraging phone call from President Obama on maintaining being on top. As a result John Wall & Co. did not play like a number one team against South Carolina. The end result the student body rushes the floor as South Carolina pulled off the SEC upset. The highlight of the game was a vicious crossover from Devin Downey (30 pts) and finished high off the glass. It doesn't matter because UK will still be seeded #1 come March.

Kentucky Wildcats did not learn from the Lakers when interacting with the Commander in Chief. Yesterday Kobe Bryant and the Lakers met President Obama then today handled business against the Washington Wizards. The two highlights of the game was an nice wrap from Mike Miller along with Shannon Brown finishing a lob pass.

Jalen Rose & Jimmy King were in Ann Arbor to see Michigan play Michigan State. I thought the Wolverines would steel the victory but Big 10 POY Kalin Lucas hit a jumper with a few seconds left to seal the victory. I don't know what was louder the student body at Ann Arbor or Jalen Rose's red sports coat.

TNT announces the all-star reserves this Thursday and I'm really pulling for Derrick Rose to make the game.

Weekend Recap

Congrats to the Saints and Colts for their trip to Miami. I'm so proud of the Saints because I lived in New Orleans for 5 years while attending college. New Orleans will always be my second home. Bring the trophy back to Canal & Bourbon Street.

What happened this weekend.....

• The Knicks were so focused on the Jets game that they go worked by 50 in MSG to Dallas
• Texas losing twice this week meaning Mr. Wall and the Kentucky Wildcats will be the new #1 come Monday. They might run the tables
• Memphis Tigers looses....first Conference USA loss since President Bush first term in office
• UNC loosing twice this week will not be in the top 25 on Monday
• Northwestern Big Dance Bound?....Beating Purdue & Illinois looks really good on their resume
• Allen Iverson should not play in the all-star game
• PAC 10 Basketball is a joke
• Syracuse is really really good without Johnny Flynn

Potential Western Conference All-Stars

Earlier I announced the candidates for the East All-Star lineup. Now I will announce who should represent the Western Conference Dallas and land their first all-star bid.

• Deron Williams - Near double-double averaging 19 pts 9 ast but since this a popularity contest it does not bold well......again Verdict: OUT
• Al Jefferson - Putting up 19 pts 9 reb but with Dirk, Timmy, Stoudamire, Melo plus his team stinks his chances are not that well but is deserving...Verdict: OUT
• Kevin Durant - Velvet hoop is in his third year and is having a career year. Pure scorer droppiong 30 a night will not be left out in the cold....Verdict: IN
• Tyreke Evans - 20 pts 5 reb 5 ast has all-star numbers all day. The problem is Bryant, Nash, Parker, CP3, Billups are also guards that play in the west (plus they're teams are winning) Verdict: OUT
• OJ Mayo - 19 pts per night will have many all-star games in his career but just don't expect any this season or the next. Verdict: OUT
• Rudy Gay - 20 pts 6 reb for the former Huskie but once again too many forwards come out the west. Verdict: OUT

Who Should play in Dallas

With the All-Star lineup announcement scheduled for January 21st, the usual suspects (Bryant, James, Wade, Duncan) have guaranteed starting spots until they retire. In this two part blog I'm here to announce it's time for some new blood to shine in the all-star games. Right now I will announce the potential first time all-stars for the eastern conference followed by the western conference tomorrow.

Eastern Conference candidates:

• Derrick Rose - The 2008 Rookie of the Year started out slow with an ankle injury but has now regained form. Pooh is starting to score more and is a human highlight real. 18 PPG - 6 AST Verdict: IN
• 
  
• Brandon Jennings - Young Money has the season high in points (55). Kenny Anderson in training. Also avg 18 PPG and 6 AST but even LeBron didn't make it his rookie year. Verdict: OUT
• 
  
• Brook Lopez - Take away his team's record but just focus on his number. 18 PPG - 9 REB - 2 BLK. Playing for the worst team in the League does not bold well for this twin. Verdict: OUT
• 
  
• Joakim Noah - Candidate for most improved averaging a double double. 11 PPG - 12 REB. Verdict: OUT
• 
  
• Gerald Wallace - Should have made the game last year. Finally averaging a double double.      17 PPG along with 11 REB. Verdict: IN
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• Rajon Rondo - Could he be the 4th Celtic to make the game? Fake behind the back pass works everytime. 14 PPG - 9 AST - 2 SPG. Verdict: IN
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• Josh Smith - A lefty version of Gerald Wallace which involves highlight dunks, blocks, and playing both ends. Verdict: OUT

Weekend Recap - SNL

I'll be honest...I didn't watch a lot of basketball this weekend. As I blog, I'm also watch NBA Gametime on NBA TV so I'll comment on the highlights as they roll along.

I did catch the first half of the Kansas-Tennessee game and I had a gut feeling The Jayhawks were in trouble before I went grocery shopping. By the time I came home the #1 team in the land suffered their first defeat by the Volunteers. Much respect to Tennessee as they're playing with a brand new team as four of there players are off the team due to some "off court issues". Congrats to Texas for being the new #1 come Monday morning (their school needs some type of good news after the week they've had).

By the time I arrived home, I caught the second half of the Cavs-Blazers game on ESPN. LeBron had 31 by the end of the first half but his fashion statement was something else. With the Cavs wearing vintage blue jerseys, LeBron James wore different color shoe to pay homage to Mark Price, Brad Daughtery, Larry Nance...no mention of Ron Harper. King James finished with 41 points and 10 assist.

What did I think of Charles Barkley on Saturday Night Live? The McGuber skit and the weekend update with the blind New York governer was classic but overall the show was horrible. Several times Barkley messed up his lines then held his laughter but then again he's not an actor. Alicia Keys was hot I enjoyed seeing her perform.

Time to hit the court Mondays are always a great day for pickup ball I'll let you know how it went.

GILBERT ARENAS SUSPENDED WITHOUT PAY

The NBA Godfather David Stern has suspended Gilbert Arenas indefinitely without pay due to Arenas's gun allegations that took place a few weeks ago. Agent Zero has made jokes about this on his Twitter page and last night during the Wizards's huddle, Agent Zero shot down his teammates with his fingertips.

David Stern mentioned Arenas making light of the situation was the reason for suspending the Wizards star. This is a very serious moment and not only is he facing a possible season ending suspension, but potential indictment and jail time.

My advice to Gilbert Arenas is first appear on Oprah. Then hire a body guards if you need protection and the most important factor....DO NOT BRING A GUN TO WORK IT IS AGAINST LEAGUE POLICY!!!! !!!!! I only hope Agent Zero realizes that he'll most likely loose some of his endorsement (see Tiger Woods or Charlie Sheen) because the moment a celebrity is in trouble with the law, they always seem to loose their endorsements.