Official 2008-09 NBA Thread

[gogetter0587]

I find it amusing that people throw the word "choke" around. I hate that term because it shouldn't be applied to any player. None of us are out there in the heat of the moment when the pressure is at its highest.

We sit around criticizing and making fun of players like a Dirk, Webber, and etc for not being big time clutch players. I doubt any of us would be able to perform under the pressure that some of the players are under when a championship is on the line.

GhostVirus is entitled to his opinion. He, much like a lot of fans in this thread have always hated Dallas. It is what it is and I take responsibility for that due to my constant whining and moronic conspiracy theories during the whole 2006 Miami/Dallas championship. While I still believe calls were made in favor of Miami, Dallas still lost the championship match and Miami showed they wanted it more. I was wrong in 2006 and I'm not going to pretend I didn't make those ridiculous claims.


How is this a response to what i said?

[LastSunrise1981]

How is this a response to what i said?

I put GhostVirus on ignore and I saw where you responded to his post about Kidd and Terry being better than Dirk. So I wanted to put in my thoughts on what he said since I can still see his posts whenever someone quotes him.

[LastSunrise1981]

Here's the difference, we're not paid millions of dollars to play a game.

I agree. But even if we were who's to say we would be able to perform under the pressure? It's easy for us to sit in the chair and point out how this player choked, but what if it was you, me, or anyone this thread at the free throw line?

There's always that chance that a player will miss the shot. We've seen Magic miss, we've seen Jordan miss, we've seen Kobe miss, and etc. It's a part of the game. Some players thrive under the pressure and some don't. But I do agree that you expect some players to play better than they do under the pressure.

Players today don't have the confidence that the players of the past had.

[Darthphere]

We've seen Magic miss, we've seen Jordan miss, we've seen Kobe miss, and etc.

Are you ****ing kidding me? How many rings do all those cats have? Are you ****ing serious. :huh::huh::huh::huh::huh:

:facepalm

[LastSunrise1981]

Are you ****ing kidding me? How many rings do all those cats have? Are you ****ing serious. :huh::huh::huh::huh::huh:

:facepalm

What I'm saying is the greatest have even missed when the game is on the line. It's part of the game. Yes, Magic, Jordan, and Kobe have championship rings. I'm not denying that. You're just playing the blind card in hopes of trying make my statements look foolish, you know full well what I meant so you can stop playing stupid now.

Just because a certain player fails to make a shot when the game is on the line I feel it doesn't perceive the word "choke artist". I feel that is an insult to the player and an insult to the game itself.

[Mister J]

Yes, that's it, you nailed it dude.
He did. With his supernatural powers of being able to accurately discern who's followed the game for how long, I'm tempted to ask him for the lottery numbers. Alas, I don't think he'd comply. :(
Then again, this is the same cat that tried to tell me the league changed the home/away game format in the 2006 Finals to benefit the Heat. Maybe I shouldn't take it so hard. :o

I find it amusing that people throw the word "choke" around. I hate that term because it shouldn't be applied to any player. None of us are out there in the heat of the moment when the pressure is at its highest.

We sit around criticizing and making fun of players like a Dirk, Webber, and etc for not being big time clutch players. I doubt any of us would be able to perform under the pressure that some of the players are under when a championship is on the line.

As Darthphere alluded to, that's the thing. When someone continually doesn't show up in the clutch, they get ridiculed ...in all sports. The guys that do come through in pressure situations get lauded and elevated into the pantheon of great players, so the backlash is just as proper. How the average fan would perform doesn't remotely enter into the equation. Why would it? If that's the litmus test for criticism, then no one has any business criticizing a crappy movie, album, TV show or anything else that they couldn't make a better effort toward. That doesn't make any sense.

If a player is good enough to be looked upon as a marquee talent, they're good enough to be expected to step it up come winning time. The measure isn't whether or not they succeed in every situation, or even most of them, but when someone gets noted for continually failing in those scenarios, when they're acknowledged as being a bona fide talent, it's a problem.

Stephon is getting paid 21.9 million not to play a game :mad: :(
I hope the Knicks don't budge. Stankbury is an ass. All of sudden, he wants to so graciously offer to put his willingness to forgo 1M as part of a buyout. He wants to go ring chasing and try to ride the coattails in Boston. To hell with that. 1M is nothing to the Knicks, their revenue stream and the luxury tax issues that they've shown no concern for over the last few years points to as much. Let him sit at home and rot.

[Darthphere]

What I'm saying is the greatest have even missed when the game is on the line. It's part of the game. Yes, Magic, Jordan, and Kobe have championship rings. I'm not denying that. You're just playing the blind card in hopes of trying make my statements look foolish, you know full well what I meant so you can stop playing stupid now.

Just because a certain player fails to make a shot when the game is on the line I feel it doesn't perceive the word "choke artist". I feel that is an insult to the player and an insult to the game itself.

There's a difference though, Dirk just doesn't miss the last shot, he fails to show up.:o

[Go Web Go!]

Quiet or he'll eat you :csad:

...or pull out a gun & demand that I "touch it" :csad:

[Double Down]

He did. With his supernatural powers of being able to accurately discern who's followed the game for how long, I'm tempted to ask him for the lottery numbers. Alas, I don't think he'd comply. :(
Then again, this is the same cat that tried to tell me the league changed the 2006 Finals setup to benefit the Heat. Maybe I shouldn't take it so hard. :o


Since I am older than him, I have been a lifetime fan of the game, and I actually get paid to cover basketball, I will continue to trust my own opinion over his. And, as I have seen approximately 95% of Lebron's pro games and I covered several of his games when he was in high school, I can safely say I know more about LeBron than he does. And while he can play the "it's an opinion" card, it's an ill-informed opinion at best.
Anyone who knows anything about basketball knows that the "battle" for the best-player-in-the-game crown is down to LeBron or Kobe. And he didn't even mention the third-best player: Dwayne Wade. But not only did he say LeBron is overrated, he said LeBron is "very, very overrated."
If you want to do a fun little experiment, tell someone they can start a basketball team, and to start that team they can have any player in the NBA. How many would pick LeBron and how many would pick Dirk?

[gogetter0587]

I put GhostVirus on ignore and I saw where you responded to his post about Kidd and Terry being better than Dirk. So I wanted to put in my thoughts on what he said since I can still see his posts whenever someone quotes him.


Gotcha , fair enough

[gogetter0587]

Since I am older than him, I have been a lifetime fan of the game, and I actually get paid to cover basketball, I will continue to trust my own opinion over his. And, as I have seen approximately 95% of Lebron's pro games and I covered several of his games when he was in high school, I can safely say I know more about LeBron than he does. And while he can play the "it's an opinion" card, it's an ill-informed opinion at best.
Anyone who knows anything about basketball knows that the "battle" for the best-player-in-the-game crown is down to LeBron or Kobe. And he didn't even mention the third-best player: Dwayne Wade. But not only did he say LeBron is overrated, he said LeBron is "very, very overrated."
If you want to do a fun little experiment, tell someone they can start a basketball team, and to start that team they can have any player in the NBA. How many would pick LeBron and how many would pick Dirk?


Do you work for an Ohio newspaper? or?

[Double Down]

Do you work for an Ohio newspaper? or?

Yes.

[gogetter0587]

Yes.

Always wanted to cover sports as a profession.

[Double Down]

Always wanted to cover sports as a profession.

It's only part of what I do and have done, but it's not too bad. The hardest parts are that you feel like you are writing the same thing over and over (there are only so many things you can say about a game or a team), and the fact that in meeting many athletes you realize how many of them are jerks (that's the clean version of the word I actually wanted to use).
The best part is, of course, the free tickets.
Currently (as in what I should be doing right now), I am writing on a high school team that has a 3-6 record. But at least they lost their first three games, so they have gone .500 since then (yay! :whatever:).

[gogetter0587]

It's only part of what I do and have done, but it's not too bad. The hardest parts are that you feel like you are writing the same thing over and over (there are only so many things you can say about a game or a team), and the fact that in meeting many athletes you realize how many of them are jerks (that's the clean version of the word I actually wanted to use).
The best part is, of course, the free tickets.
Currently (as in what I should be doing right now), I am writing on a high school team that has a 3-6 record. But at least they lost their first three games, so they have gone .500 since then (yay! :whatever:).


Yeah i have a friend who writes for a small texas town. Said he likes it ok but it kind of wears on you and gets like you said repetitive.

[Ghostvirus]

This is more absurd than the guy who said Dirk or Amare might be better than Lebron

Why don't you explain to me how that is absurd? Kidd 2 finals appearances, & pretty much the Double/Double king. Terry...Well you could probably make a case for him, but Kidd is most def the best player on that team.

[Go Web Go!]

Yes.

It's too bad that newspapers are kind of a dying breed with the internet and all sorts of other media outlets. I, for one, do still enjoy picking the roll up from the lawn and parking myself in a comfy seat. Pretty old-mannish of me being only 23. :csad:

[Double Down]

It's too bad that newspapers are kind of a dying breed with the internet and all sorts of other media outlets. I, for one, do still enjoy picking the roll up from the lawn and parking myself in a comfy seat. Pretty old-mannish of me being only 23. :csad:

Yeah, it sucks. I am working toward transitioning to the internet. I just have to figure out how to do it.

[Darthphere]

Hey look at that, Dirk hit a game winning shot. He must've been reading this thread.

[Mister J]

I always thought Dirk was a regular in the Misc. Films section.

This is good news. Mirko has wanted to expand the European membership here. I'll forward this over and see if we can't get some media on it.

[Immortalfire]

Hey look at that, Dirk hit a game winning shot. He must've been reading this thread.

They all read the Hype Sports forum.

[Lobo]

He did. With his supernatural powers of being able to accurately discern who's followed the game for how long, I'm tempted to ask him for the lottery numbers. Alas, I don't think he'd comply. :(
Then again, this is the same cat that tried to tell me the league changed the home/away game format in the 2006 Finals to benefit the Heat. Maybe I shouldn't take it so hard. :o


As Darthphere alluded to, that's the thing. When someone continually doesn't show up in the clutch, they get ridiculed ...in all sports. The guys that do come through in pressure situations get lauded and elevated into the pantheon of great players, so the backlash is just as proper. How the average fan would perform doesn't remotely enter into the equation. Why would it? If that's the litmus test for criticism, then no one has any business criticizing a crappy movie, album, TV show or anything else that they couldn't make a better effort toward. That doesn't make any sense.

If a player is good enough to be looked upon as a marquee talent, they're good enough to be expected to step it up come winning time. The measure isn't whether or not they succeed in every situation, or even most of them, but when someone gets noted for continually failing in those scenarios, when they're acknowledged as being a bona fide talent, it's a problem.


I hope the Knicks don't budge. Stankbury is an ass. All of sudden, he wants to so graciously offer to put his willingness to forgo 1M as part of a buyout. He wants to go ring chasing and try to ride the coattails in Boston. To hell with that. 1M is nothing to the Knicks, their revenue stream and the luxury tax issues that they've shown no concern for over the last few years points to as much. Let him sit at home and rot.

I'm pretty sure Donnie wont

http://i43.tinypic.com/1pz5s3.jpg

[NewYorkSpider]

Nice little article from J.A Adande about the Kobe/LeBron debate.


Kobe/LeBron (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=adande_ja&page=KobeLeBron-090119)

[Excel]

The reality is that they are both different kinds of players. Kobe is a lot more like Michael Jordan while LeBron is more like Julius Irving. The MJ comparisons come from dominance, where Jordan dominated individually as well as playing for a very dominant team. Kobe was a very dominant player but his teams were never very good aside from the years he had Shaq and now Pau. LeBron is the more dominant individual player of the 2 currently, though he has yet to reach Kobes level from 2002-2005. However, LBJ's teams have performed much better than Kobe's.

[Double Down]

Nice little article from J.A Adande about the Kobe/LeBron debate.


Kobe/LeBron (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=adande_ja&page=KobeLeBron-090119)


He wrote that two hours after I wrote this:

Anyone who knows anything about basketball knows that the "battle" for the best-player-in-the-game crown is down to LeBron or Kobe.

And J.A. Adande knows basketball.

[Excel]

Well anybody who knows basketball will also tell you that it is merely an argument, because the best player in the league is blatantly obvious in everyway...its LBJ :up: :up:

[Venom'sDad]

Well anybody who knows basketball will also tell you that it is merely an argument, because the best player in the league is blatantly obvious in everyway...its KB :up: :up:

Absolutely & Completely agree. :up::up::up:

:)

[Silver Knight]

Well anybody who knows basketball will also tell you that it is merely an argument, because the best player in the league is blatantly obvious in everyway...its LBJ :up: :up:
Well done.

[Mister J]

The Detroit/Memphis game was a snorefest.
Boston/Phoenix was one-sided from the start and missing Amare.
Cleveland/LA needs to deliver the goods.

[NewYorkSpider]

LeBron's 180 turnaround fadeaway was beautiful.

[NewYorkSpider]

That was an intense end to the first quarter. Cavs gave up some selfish turnovers to allow LA to come back. Vujacic hit some nice 3-pointers there at the end.

[Docker2.0]

I think Kobe is showing LBJ way to much respect. The old Kobe would have taken this as a personal challenge......but now Kobe just aint bringing his A game.........I'm possibly drunk by the way. :O

[Mister J]

That typing is way too good to reflect inebriation. You need to tip a few more back. :stark

[Go Web Go!]

The Detroit/Memphis game was a snorefest.


I'd like to know how that game made it on to TNT

[MSwift]

this is too awesome. 2 best players in the world going head up guarding each other

[Double Down]

this is too awesome. 2 best players in the world going head up guarding each other

It would be better if the Cavs weren't missing two starters. You want a game like this to be at full strength for both teams.

[MSwift]

It would be better if the Cavs weren't missing two starters. You want a game like this to be at full strength for both teams.

yea you always want to see these kind of matches at full strength, but watching Kobe and Lebro going at each other is still pretty exciting stuff. Maybe we'll get to see these 2 teams in June.

[Docker2.0]

That typing is way too good to reflect inebriation. You need to tip a few more back. :stark

Believe me when I say I'm drunk.....you'd be surprised at how long it took me to type this one post. :)

[empire]

I think Kobe is showing LBJ way to much respect. The old Kobe would have taken this as a personal challenge......but now Kobe just aint bringing his A game.........I'm possibly drunk by the way. :O
Kinda... sorta agree with you. What I've notice most about KB this season is he doesn't seem as aggressive as he was in seasons past. (offensively that is) My guess is with the make-up of the team, he really doesn't need to be that aggressive or he's pacing himself after playing in the Olympics this past summer. He's got help now and he has really matured as a team player more than ever. I would like to see him drive to the lane more and manufacture points like MJ use to do in the day.

[empire]

Great win for the Lakers. KB showing his toughness and playing through the dislocated finger. I just hope the injury isn't anything serious.

[Mister J]

That was some good stuff tonight.
Believe me when I say I'm drunk.....you'd be surprised at how long it took me to type this one post. :)
Ahh, the excruciatingly long period of time in composing a post when you want to make sure what you type resembles English. I've been there. Good times. :funny:

[Mister J]

Kinda... sorta agree with you. What I've notice most about KB this season is he doesn't seem as aggressive as he was in seasons past. (offensively that is) My guess is with the make-up of the team, he really doesn't need to be that aggressive or he's pacing himself after playing in the Olympics this past summer. He's got help now and he has really matured as a team player more than ever. I would like to see him drive to the lane more and manufacture points like MJ use to do in the day.
You pretty much touched on it. He realizes he doesn't have to dominate offensively like he used to. Over the last year or so, he's begun to trust his teammates more and just score in clutch moments, like tonight when he led that run to blow the game open in the 4th. Consequently, he can focus on playing hard defense on the opposing star. He did it tonight against LeBron and he did it last week against Wade. Both times, he got outscored, but he played a big part in harassing those guys into difficult shooting nights. Both times, LA won. With the potential exception of Boston, and I'm not entirely sure there, he's got the best supporting cast in the league. If they can produce and let him pick his moments, it's ugly come playoff time.

Great win for the Lakers. KB showing his toughness and playing through the dislocated finger. I just hope the injury isn't anything serious.
I doubt it is. They snapped it back in place and few minutes after it popped and he looked OK playing through it.

[gogetter0587]

Why don't you explain to me how that is absurd? Kidd 2 finals appearances, & pretty much the Double/Double king. Terry...Well you could probably make a case for him, but Kidd is most def the best player on that team.

Kidd averages under 10 ppg

Does anyone else in here, out of all these folks that follow the NBA think that Jason Kidd is currently a better player than Dirk Nowitzki?

[Darthphere]

I'd like to know how that game made it on to TNT

Memphis has played for the last 6 years on MLK day.

[Go Web Go!]

Ah. Well, there's my answer.

[Raiden]

Great win by the Lakers. Although they lost to Magic and a heartbreak against Spurs, going 2-2 against 4 of the toughest teams in NBA when their backcourt is depleted with injuries isn't too bad. Hopefully they will be healthy when it counts toward the end of the season.

[Double Down]

From Rotoworld.com:
Carlos Boozer is hoping to return by the All-Star break, but concedes that it could be longer than that before he returns.

Boozer underwent surgery on January 9th, and while the original expectation was that he'd be out four weeks, he said on Tuesday, "Four, five six weeks -- whatever it ends up being." Six weeks would have him sidelined until February 21st, and given the fact that he's never seemed to be in a big rush to come back from the injury, we wouldn't be surprised to see him out at least that long.

Boozer is my least favorite athlete by far.

[Mister J]

As injury-riddled as he's been, I wonder if he still plans on opting out.

Brilliant move, announcing that in the middle of the season and while he was still injured. Ass.

[Double Down]

I'd like to see him opt on out of the whole league.

[Venom'sDad]

Memphis has played for the last 6 years on MLK day.

Yeah... I think Memphis on MLK Day is the NBA equivalent to the NFL Detroit on TG. :O

[Darthphere]

Yeah... I think Memphis on MLK Day is the NBA equivalent to the NFL Detroit on TG. :O

Memphis is now 3-4 on MLK Day.

[Go Web Go!]

From Rotoworld.com:
Carlos Boozer is hoping to return by the All-Star break, but concedes that it could be longer than that before he returns.

Boozer underwent surgery on January 9th, and while the original expectation was that he'd be out four weeks, he said on Tuesday, "Four, five six weeks -- whatever it ends up being." Six weeks would have him sidelined until February 21st, and given the fact that he's never seemed to be in a big rush to come back from the injury, we wouldn't be surprised to see him out at least that long.

Boozer is my least favorite athlete by far.

I pray to NEVER see this jerkoff in a Heat uniform.

[Go Web Go!]

Miami Herald -
As the Miami Heat continues to consider a deal for Jermaine O'Neal, Miami has been giving thought to other Shawn Marion trade scenarios, including one involving Dallas small forward Josh Howard, according to an official involved in the Marion discussions. Several teams have inquired about Marion, who's unlikely to re-sign here, but it's not certain a deal will happen.

[Mister J]

Miami Herald -
You seem to be reading the same page that I am, so I'll spare the link, but I was encouraged to read how unlikely the Boozer signing is.

After being cold to it initially, I'm starting to warm up to this Howard/Stackhouse thing, with the hope that Stack is flipped shortly afterward (preferably help at the 1 or 5). It doesn't address the chief concern, but it does provide a better potential Wade sidekick at the 3, with relatively low risk. Apparently, there was a 4-team trade on the table to facilitate that. I'd like to know who else was involved.

The longer O'Neal is held out by Toronto, the more apprehensive I'm getting about this thing.

[gogetter0587]

Who would you take with the first pick in the upcoming draft if it were today? Assuming no you have no GLARING needs

[gogetter0587]

You seem to be reading the same page that I am, so I'll spare the link, but I was encouraged to read how unlikely the Boozer signing is.

After being cold to it initially, I'm starting to warm up to this Howard/Stackhouse thing, with the hope that Stack is flipped shortly afterward (preferably help at the 1 or 5). It doesn't address the chief concern, but it does provide a better potential Wade sidekick at the 3, with relatively low risk. Apparently, there was a 4-team trade on the table to facilitate that. I'd like to know who else was involved.

The longer O'Neal is held out by Toronto, the more apprehensive I'm getting about this thing.

Mavs would be getting much needed defense from Matrix. But that contract is Loaded. I guess they could just let him leave if they don't win with him after this season. They need to get banks with him though. Barea is to small

[Mister J]

Who would you take with the first pick in the upcoming draft if it were today? Assuming no you have no GLARING needs
Blake Griffin. Ricky Rubio would be next for me; I think the upside there is ridiculous. I'm not that big of a James Harden fan, but acknowledge the talent.

Thabeet would intrigue because of his size and natural athleticism, but still seems too much of a project on offense to go #1; like a more physically gifted Roy Hibbert. Still a 7'3, 260 lbs prospect, in an age where true centers are scarce, is all kinds of tempting.
Mavs would be getting much needed defense from Matrix. But that contract is Loaded. I guess they could just let him leave if they don't win with him after this season. They need to get banks with him though. Barea is to small
If they, or anyone else, wants Banks, they can have him. :funny:

[gogetter0587]

Blake Griffin. Ricky Rubio would be next for me; I think the upside there is ridiculous. I'm not that big of a James Harden fan, but acknowledge the talent.

Thabeet would intrigue because of his size and natural athleticism, but still seems too much of a project on offense to go #1; like a more physically gifted Roy Hibbert. Still a 7'3, 260 lbs prospect, in an age where true centers are scarce, is all kinds of tempting.

If they, or anyone else, wants Banks, they can have him. :funny:


I agree Banks is laughable, but Barea is tiny and is negative on the defensive end , he is a joke, he cannot guard any point guard in the NBA.

[Mister J]

It's nights like this when I'm reminded of why I go off so many trade rants for the Heat. That was some mean Boston defense. Ouch.

A far better effort against the 3 better show up for the Magic game or it'll be an even longer misadventure. Eddie House looked like damn Dale Ellis out there tonight.

[gogetter0587]

Bynum

[Go Web Go!]

The Heat are holding a press conference later this afternoon where Alonzo Mourning is expected to announce his retirement.

[Mister J]

It's official now.

When Zo had the comments a week or so ago about being at peace if he didn't return, I figured as much. I'm happy for him. The man had a hell of a career and persevered in the face off actual life issues, far more than anyone would have imagined. A true champion, in every sense of the word. I think his Springfield prospects look good and I look forward to seeing the #33 retired.

[Go Web Go!]

He was a bad bad man on the court & did so much more off it. I was lucky to have him as the centerpiece of a team I rooted for growing up & am glad I got the chance to meet him after the title run. It's good to know that he's walking away on his own terms, in good health, & with a ring on his finger.

[ih8nyy]

I'm sorry but I just saw that a Girls High School Hoops team lost 100-0.

The final score of the high school girls basketball game was 100-0, and his team had the nothing. Still, a week later, Dallas Academy Athletic Director Jeremy Civello was chalking up the game in the win column.

"My girls never quit," he said. "They played as hard as they could to the very end. They played with all their hearts at 70-nothing, 80-nothing and 100-nothing. I was really proud of them. That's what I told them after the game."

The game took place Jan. 13, on the road, against The Covenant School. Civello didn't expect his girls to win. He never really does. His girls haven't won a game in his four seasons at the White Rock Lake-area school, renowned for its work with students with a variety of learning problems. In most games, they haven't come close.

The Bulldogs play, Civello said, for more than the final score. They play in hope of improving skills, learning teamwork and picking up whatever life lessons athletics may bring.

But they won't be playing Covenant again this season; they canceled their Jan. 30 game against the team. After the game, Dallas Academy informed the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools that it was withdrawing its girls team from the league for the rest of the season.

"We just said, 'The hell with it,' " said Jim Richardson, Dallas Academy's headmaster.

Against Covenant, Dallas Academy was surprised to see an obviously superior team keep the pressure on until it scored its 100th point in the fourth quarter. "I'm sure they could have won by 30 points and still had just as good a time," Civello said.

Civello, as is his custom, didn't say anything to anyone from the opposing school after the game. He always allows for a cooling-down period. A week later, he has not been in contact with anyone from Covenant.

In a brief e-mail statement Wednesday evening, Covenant coach Micah Grimes called his team's 100-point total "unfortunate."

"It just happened, and we are not happy about that," Grimes wrote. "Please know Covenant intended no harm against them. I see this as a real learning opportunity, so we can prevent this from happening in the future."

Grimes was not available for further comment.

Kyle Queal, head of school at Covenant, a North Dallas Christian school, was not at the game, but he said there have been internal discussions about it and that more are coming.

"It was poor judgment," Queal said. "I look at the box score and look at the box score, and it was not justified. It will never happen again."

Queal said he hopes his school will work "behind the scenes" with Dallas Academy to make sure the schools continue their "long-standing" relationship.

"I'll say this," Queal said of the Dallas Academy girls, "that was an amazing testimony to their tenacity and perseverance."

Edd Burleson, director of 236-member TAPPS, had a different description. He called the Class 2A, District 3 game an "embarrassing incident."

"Our motto is 'Competition With Honor,' " Burleson said. "I can't see how the one school can live up to that."

The box score that the Covenant head of school has been staring at reveals that his team scored 35 points in the first quarter before building a 59-0 lead at the half. The score after three quarters was 88-0.

"They are really good," Civello said. "Their point guard is terrific. This is what it came down to in the second half: steal at half court and layup. Steal and layup. Steal and layup. It was a layup drill. They finally eased up when they got to 100 with about four minutes left." Covenant's point guard had 48 points.

Dallas Academy is busy piecing together a new schedule of nonleague games. The school, which has final exams this week, played its final TAPPS game of the season Thursday night. The Bulldogs lost, 41-8, to Cambridge School of Dallas.

Cambridge Athletic Director Luke Yarbrough, the TAPPS district president, said he hired his basketball coach with the understanding "that it is possible to beat a team without attempting to demoralize it."

He said he could see the joy on the faces of the Dallas Academy girls when their team scored its points. He enjoyed the view. "I was so happy for those girls," he said.

Yarbrough said the 100-0 game will be among the first orders of business discussed when the district athletic directors meet next month.

Dallas Academy's Civello will be there. His school's boys team remains in the six-team TAPPS district. In fact, he was quick to point out that his boys, with a little extra motivation, beat Covenant, 50-38, immediately after the 100-0 girls game.

[Go Web Go!]

How do you not score at least 1 [bleeping] basket in a game. A free throw? A lay up? Anything? Good God. I played basketball in school & it got pretty bad one year when there were 6 people on the team, but we at least put up 30-40 in our worst games. Sheesh.

[Mister J]

That school that got beaten caters to students with learning disabilities. The victorious school just seems like the standard private prep school. I don't know what the composition of the teams are, and I'm all for whipping a lesser team's ass, but this seems pretty low.

[LastSunrise1981]

I saw Zo holding a press conference announcing his retirement. Even though he was a big key to the Miami Heat's 2006 championship win, I was very happy to see him get a ring. He's always been a class act, a man with a good heart, and gave it his all on the court. Truly one of the best players to ever step onto the court.

Hopefully they offer him a spot on the analyst team for Inside The NBA or Shootaround.

[Mister J]

All-Star Game Voting Results


Western Conference

Forwards
Player Votes
Tim Duncan (SA) 2,578,168
Amare Stoudemire (Pho) 1,460,429
Bruce Bowen (SA) 1,392,398
Ron Artest (Hou) 1,362,565
Carmelo Anthony (Den) 1,337,519
Dirk Nowitzki (Dal) 1,107,926
Pau Gasol (LAL) 948,301
Shane Battier (Hou) 694,112
LaMarcus Aldridge (Por) 497,550
Luis Scola (Hou) 405,851
Josh Howard (Dal) 298,810

Guards
Player Votes
Kobe Bryant (LAL) 2,805,397
Chris Paul (NO) 2,134,798
Tracy McGrady (Hou) 1,678,516
Manu Ginobili (SA) 1,642,350
Tony Parker (SA) 1,084,361
Steve Nash (Pho) 677,211
Jamal Crawford (GS) 665,038
Rafer Alston (Hou) 550,199
Jason Kidd (Dal) 477,792
Brandon Roy (Por) 468,688
Chauncey Billups (Den) 466,073

Centers
Player Votes
Yao Ming (Hou) 2,532,958
Shaquille ONeal (Pho) 1,850,018
Andrew Bynum (LAL) 549,131
Mehmet Okur (Utah) 437,106
Greg Oden (Por) 359,318
Andris Biedrins (GS) 357,984
Al Jefferson (Minn) 310,643
Tyson Chandler (NO) 242,356
Chris Kaman (LAC) 231,928
Marcus Camby (LAC) 158,491
Nick Collison (OKC) 154,309

Eastern Conference

Forwards
Player Votes
LeBron James (Clev) 2,940,823
Kevin Garnett (Bos) 2,066,833
Yi Jianlian (NJ) 1,813,829
Paul Pierce (Bos) 1,238,763
Chris Bosh (Tor) 1,101,052
Hedo Turkoglu (Orl) 632,051
Shawn Marion (Mia) 405,573
Danny Granger (Ind) 365,810
Josh Smith (Atl) 321,129
Tayshaun Prince (Det) 274,540
Michael Beasley (Mia) 273,471

Guards
Player Votes
Dwyane Wade (Mia) 2,741,413
Allen Iverson (Det) 1,804,649
Vince Carter (NJ) 1,239,613
Devin Harris (NJ) 1,182,406
Luke Ridnour (Mil) 1,039,902
Ray Allen (Bos) 851,205
Gilbert Arenas (Wash) 635,540
Derrick Rose (Chi) 474,384
Jose Calderon (Tor) 445,584
Joe Johnson (Atl) 420,210
Jameer Nelson (Orl) 354,773

Centers
Player Votes
Dwight Howard (Orl) 3,150,181
Kendrick Perkins (Bos) 621,709
Rasheed Wallace (Det) 402,991
Samuel Dalembert (Phi) 396,119
Andrew Bogut (Mil) 357,997
Jermaine ONeal (Tor) 342,723
Al Horford (Atl) 323,302
Brendan Haywood (Wash) 291,490
Ben Wallace (Clev) 263,862
Zydrunas Ilgauskas (Cle) 219,697
Emeka Okafor (Char) 212,539

Reserves will be announced next Thursday.

[Double Down]

Dwight Howard had no competition.

[Silver Knight]

A question to you all.

What all star do you see getting traded by the all star break?

[Go Web Go!]

No one?

& I don't know why the hell fans continue to vote Iverson as a starter year after year.

[Double Down]

I'm fine with fans not voting any more.

[Silver Knight]

No one?

& I don't know why the hell fans continue to vote Iverson as a starter year after year.
I agree.

[ih8nyy]

Another High School Deal. But this is pretty sweet.

j8SKdQYAB2I

[Immortalfire]

Grizzlies fire their coach..http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-grizzlies-iavaroni&prov=ap&type=lgns

[Eric Draven]

So let me get this straight. Yi almost got a starting spot in the all-star game :dry:

[Trainwreck2100]

so let me get this straight. Bruce bowen almost got a starting spot in the all-star game :dry:

fify

[Mister J]

I imagine Yi got a lot of votes from the international community, particularly China. There was a similar deal last year with Rockets players benefiting from being teammates of Yao (particularly Shane Battier being in contention for a starting spot early on in the voting). It's the only way to explain it. How else does Ron Artest get more votes than Carmelo? Tracy McGrady hasn't done jack this year. How is he (and similarly Rafer Alston) ahead of guys like Ginobili, Nash, Roy and Billups? Those last two names should be way higher.

It'll work out when the reserves are announced.

[Trainwreck2100]

I imagine Yi got a lot of votes from the international community, particularly China. There was a similar deal last year with Rockets players benefiting from being teammates of Yao (particularly Shane Battier being in contention for a starting spot early on in the voting). It's the only way to explain it. How else does Ron Artest get more votes than Carmelo? Tracy McGrady hasn't done jack this year. How is he (and similarly Rafer Alston) ahead of guys like Ginobili, Nash, Roy and Billups? Those last two names should be way higher.

It'll work out when the reserves are announced.

That doesn't explain how Bruce Bowen was 60000 votes away from the all star game.

[Mister J]

Gremlins.

[empire]

Not exactly NBA, but cool nevertheless.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agenl3kuWsI&eurl=http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/Small-college-player-embarrasses-hapless-defende?urn=ncaab,&feature=player_embedded

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8SKdQYAB2I&eurl=http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/blog/ball_dont_lie/post/Video-Designed-double-alley-oop?urn=nba,136223&feature=player_embedded

[L.A.]

So let me get this straight. Yi almost got a starting spot in the all-star game :dry:
Same with Bowen

[Double Down]

LeBron hit a shot at the buzzer to give the Cavs a one-point win. He released the ball with .1 on the clock.

[Silver Knight]

What was with the Bobcats unis today? They were horrible.

[Bond]

The Mavs put a ****ing beat down on the Pistons last night. Why can't they play like that every game? Such a confusing team.

[Go Web Go!]

Good win for Miami against Orlando tonight. Stellar bench play & huge efforts from Haslem & Chalmers down the stretch. Marion sat out again. Just goes to show how having him on the floor means close to nothing to this team.

[Silver Knight]

Orlando 2 losses in a row.

[Mister J]

Marion wasn't missed ...at all. It's incredible. There was a blurb by one of the Herald writers about him the other day. Something like 'You don't get enough from him when he's there and you don't really miss him when he's gone'. That's it entirely. You can always use more defense and rebounding, but it's hardly a dealbreaker if he's not in uniform. There's real productivity to be had somewhere for 17.8M.

Nice win though. Of course, they had to make it exciting by blowing a 15-point lead in the 4th. It's good to see the other guys step it up down the stretch.

[Double Down]

Cavs won tonight. They went 3-1 on a west coast swing with two starters missing. :up:

[LastSunrise1981]

The Mavs put a ****ing beat down on the Pistons last night. Why can't they play like that every game? Such a confusing team.

That was a complete dismantling of the Pistons. However our biggest test comes tomorrow with the Celtics. If they can come out with a victory tomorrow I'll be a very happy fan. Beating the Celtics would be a big confidence booster for them and it should get them rolling.

It won't be an easy task obviously. Here's hoping that if they lose they put up a fight and make it exciting.

[LastSunrise1981]

Wow, I'm absolutely disgusted with Dallas right now. This is a really pathetic showing from them. They might as well have never showed up because that's what they're playing like.

[Lobo]

Knicks could have, and should have had 4 W's in a row. Though, I suppose, I should be happy for going 3-1 over the last four games.

[Bond]

:facepalm in Boston right now.

[Go Web Go!]

Yeah, that's pretty ugly. They did the same to Miami so I feel your pain.

[Go Web Go!]

I just heard on the ABC broadcast that Michael Redd tore his ACL last night. His season's done...and so is the Bucks season. Ouch.

[Double Down]

That doesn't explain how Bruce Bowen was 60000 votes away from the all star game.

Bowen runs basketball camps in China.

[Mister J]

It's Bruce Bowen's world. We're just renting space.
His teammates were astonished Friday when they learned that Spurs forward Bruce Bowen finished third, a scant 68,031 votes behind second-place Amare Stoudemire in fan balloting for starting forwards for the Western Conference All-Star team. Bowen, who spoke at a campaign rally last fall with then-Presidential candidate Barack Obama, had a perfectly logical explanation. “Surprised?” the team's defensive stopper said. “Not at all. People can relate to me. Maybe it's because I've had the opportunity to take some pictures with President Obama, and sit down and talk to him. And through his campaign, we know that ‘Yes, we can.'”

Spurs power forward Tim Duncan, the leading vote-getter among Western forwards, wished he had found the extra votes needed to pass Stoudemire. “That would have been awesome,” Duncan said of Bowen's near-miss. “One more trip to China, and he's in.”

Manu Ginobili, who finished fourth in voting among guards, has his own plan to increase his future totals. “I'm going to India,” he said. “All the business is taken in China.”
Source: San Antonio Express-News

[Dr. Evil]

Seeing a clean shaven Phil Jackson is odd.

[Etienne]

I don't know why the hell fans continue to vote Iverson as a starter year after year.
Agreed, I could think of at least one player who should be in his place...Jameer Nelson.
It's Bruce Bowen's world. We're just renting space.

Source: San Antonio Express-News
:funny: Knowing Bruce Bowen's sense of humor that was all just tongue in cheek.

[Go Web Go!]

Agreed, I could think of at least one player who should be in his place...Jameer Nelson.


You can probably put Devin Harris above AI this season as well. Such crap.

[Darthphere]

Eddie House, MVP.

[Mister J]

Seriously. What the hell has gotten into him as of late?

[Silver Knight]

Seriously. What the hell has gotten into him as of late?
Why do you say this?

How much has he been scoreing lately?

[Ziggyman]

Sorry but...Amare shouldn't be starting in All Star...

[Ziggyman]

Miami Herald -

You seem to be reading the same page that I am, so I'll spare the link, but I was encouraged to read how unlikely the Boozer signing is.

After being cold to it initially, I'm starting to warm up to this Howard/Stackhouse thing, with the hope that Stack is flipped shortly afterward (preferably help at the 1 or 5). It doesn't address the chief concern, but it does provide a better potential Wade sidekick at the 3, with relatively low risk. Apparently, there was a 4-team trade on the table to facilitate that. I'd like to know who else was involved.

The longer O'Neal is held out by Toronto, the more apprehensive I'm getting about this thing.

Ever since he came back...He's been playing well...Not sure if it's for the team or if he's auditioning...

[empire]

Great win for the Lakers against the Spurs.

http://www.pe.com/imagesdaily/2008/04-14/lakers14tlpf_400.jpg

[empire]

Question to all the Hoop fans.

Who would win in a 7 game series between the 2001 Lakers vs the 2008 Celtics?

[LastSunrise1981]

Question to all the Hoop fans.

Who would win in a 7 game series between the 2001 Lakers vs the 2008 Celtics?

That is a tough one. But I would definitely say the 2001 Lakers win in seven games. The Lakers were pretty much dominating every team in 2001.


Now if you said 2002 Lakers vs. 2008 Celtics then I'd say it would be the Celtics in either 5 or 6 games.

[Silver Knight]

Question to all the Hoop fans.

Who would win in a 7 game series between the 2001 Lakers vs the 2008 Celtics?
01 Lakers.

[gogetter0587]

Question to all the Hoop fans.

Who would win in a 7 game series between the 2001 Lakers vs the 2008 Celtics?


Shaq in 5 games.

[Raiden]

Great win for the Lakers against the Spurs.

http://www.pe.com/imagesdaily/2008/04-14/lakers14tlpf_400.jpg

Dunno why Pop sat Duncan and Parker down in the 4th period when they were only down by 13 pts and plenty of time left to play. But it was a good win for the Lakers.

[Doomed_hero]

depends on the foul situation. The finals last years where plagued with bad calls to the point commentators where commenting on it. Some have said it was the same for the Lakers way back, but I don't know.

[LastSunrise1981]

depends on the foul situation. The finals last years where plagued with bad calls to the point commentators where commenting on it. Some have said it was the same for the Lakers way back, but I don't know.

The only time I felt the Lakers championships were called into question was 2000 and definitely 2002 when they faced Sacramento in the WCF.

But whatever the situation was is over now. Nothing can be done and the Lakers have been the only team in this millenium who have managed to repeat three times. I don't think the calls last year were that bad. You have to remember the NBA was under the spotlight with the whole Tim Donaghy situation, it would've been suicide for them to try and fix the finals.

[Double Down]

For anyone who followed basketball in the late '80s to the mid-'90s, I'm writing a story on a high school basketball team and one of the team's assistant coaches is former NBA player Jerome Lane.
I was actually a fan of his when he was in college at Pitt. He later played for the Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

[Mister J]

Send it in, Jerome!

[Darthphere]

Why can't the Heat play like this every night?

[Double Down]

Send it in, Jerome!

Jerome was a rebounding machine.

[Double Down]

Mo Williams has 25 points at the half for the Cavs. LeBron has 17 so far.

[Double Down]

Mo Williams finished with a career-high 43 points. He was 2 rebounds shy of a triple double.
LeBron James got a triple double.
The Cavs are 21-0 at home.

[Docker2.0]

According to Marbury, the Heat and Celtics have given him verbal commitments. :grin: Good luck with that Heat! :up:

[Raiden]

I just have to give Lakers a :facepalm over their loss to Bobcats at Staples Center last night. It marks the 5th time they have lost to Bobcat over the last six meetings between the two teams, and I wonder just how bad the Lakers are for constantly losing to the same mediocre team. This loss makes me wonder how they can expect to win the championship if they can't even prepare for Charlotte.

[LastSunrise1981]

Dallas against Golden State tonight. Here's hoping they don't lay an egg like they did against Boston, or better yet, here's hoping they actually show up unlike they did against Boston.

[gogetter0587]

Dallas against Golden State tonight. Here's hoping they don't lay an egg like they did against Boston, or better yet, here's hoping they actually show up unlike they did against Boston.


They played Defense against Detroit and when they play D they win. The offense is fairly consistent. The D is what they struggle to keep up. I say trade J-Ho if they can and get someone who can score inside or play defense. Marion seems like a brilliant move cause he is lock defender and can run as well as get inside. plus if he does not work out just do not sign him and get some cap room for a point guard in the offseason which they desperately need for next season

[Double Down]

From Rotoworld.com:
Gerald Wallace has a collapsed left lung and a broken rib as the result of the flagrant foul from Andrew Bynum in last night's game against the Lakers.

Wallace could be released from the hospital on Thursday, but there's still no timetable for when he might return, and our guess is it could be a while before he's back on the court. Hopefully a timetable for his recovery will become clearer in the next couple of days.


That could affect some potential trade talk.

[Etienne]

From Rotoworld.com:
Gerald Wallace has a collapsed left lung and a broken rib as the result of the flagrant foul from Andrew Bynum in last night's game against the Lakers.

Wallace could be released from the hospital on Thursday, but there's still no timetable for when he might return, and our guess is it could be a while before he's back on the court. Hopefully a timetable for his recovery will become clearer in the next couple of days.


That could affect some potential trade talk.
Damn, how hard was that flagrant?

[Bond]

Eddie House, MVP.
This still stands.

[Lobo]

So after 45 games, the Knicks are 20-25, we could go 4-33 and have a better record than we did last year, which at this point we were 14-31.

With the deadline fast approaching, I wonder if Donnie has anything up his sleeve.

[BigSams50]

the knicks should just let go of marbury so he can sign with the celtics and win a ring

[Darthphere]

This still stands.

He needs to be in the 3 point shooting contest.

[Mister J]

House is shooting like he's being paid per 3 and owes the mob money.

Two straight home blowouts for the Heat. Yeah, I don't understand it either, but I'll take it. :up:

[Darthphere]

And Wade only scored 14. Looks like the team is gellin'.

[Mister J]

It's that sponsorship from Dr. Scholl's. You gotta take care of your feet.

[Darthphere]

I read an amusing report about Beasley's knee pads. Apparently, it's team policy he wear them in practice. :huh:

[empire]

That is a tough one. But I would definitely say the 2001 Lakers win in seven games. The Lakers were pretty much dominating every team in 2001.
Agreed. They went 15-1 in the post that year. Not too many teams in the NBA can say they did that.

Shaq in 5 games.
Mos' def. The Diesel would've been a handful for Garnett and Perkins.

[empire]

I just have to give Lakers a :facepalm over their loss to Bobcats at Staples Center last night. It marks the 5th time they have lost to Bobcat over the last six meetings between the two teams, and I wonder just how bad the Lakers are for constantly losing to the same mediocre team. This loss makes me wonder how they can expect to win the championship if they can't even prepare for Charlotte.
It pisses me off how they play at times. Especially against the sub-par teams. They just can't focus. They play well however, when its against the elite teams. Not sure what else Jackson can say or do to thump it into their heads. :csad::csad::csad:

[Excel]

House is shooting like he's being paid per 3 and owes the mob money.

damn straight I love it. And Rondo should be an all star, he is simply dazzling.

[JaD]

Two straight home blowouts for the Heat. Yeah, I don't understand it either, but I'll take it. :up:I just watched Sportscenter and saw that :wow: play with Wade saving it, throwing it to Beasley who throws it back to an offbalance Wade who alley's it to *insert player name here* :oldrazz:

What a play! :applaud

Reminded me of that awesome play of Wade dribbling behind Pavlovic's back, and alleying it to Shaq from long range :up: *Hell, I should make a .gif of that, I have that play plus 8+ gigs of NBA clips on my comp :hehe:*

[Mister J]

damn straight I love it. And Rondo should be an all star, he is simply dazzling.
I'd have Joe Johnson, Ray Allen, Devin Harris and Jameer Nelson (in some order) getting the reserve mods at guard before him. He's catching attention though.

Speaking of attention, I haven't been able to get a bona fide link yet, but whatever


The most overrated PG
Rajon Rondo

"It used to be Jason Williams. People used to love him because he was making fancy assists and they were forgetting the passes in the stands. Nowadays it's more difficult. Maybe Rajon Rondo. He is a bit overrated. Playing with Pierce and Garnett helps a lot and people tend to forget that."
Uh-oh! It's on ...or not. Again, whatever. :oldrazz:
I just watched Sportscenter and saw that :wow: play with Wade saving it, throwing it to Beasley who throws it back to an offbalance Wade who alley's it to *insert player name here* :oldrazz:

What a play! :applaud

Reminded me of that awesome play of Wade dribbling behind Pavlovic's back, and alleying it to Shaq from long range :up: *Hell, I should make a .gif of that, I have that play plus 8+ gigs of NBA clips on my comp :hehe:*
Yeah, that was definite highlight material. Cook caught the alley. Apparently, they call him 'Day Day', which reminds me of those two unnecessary Friday sequels. Eh.

[Lobo]

the knicks should just let go of marbury so he can sign with the celtics and win a ring

Why would they do that? Not to mention if the Celtics sign Marbury, they won't win a ring.

[gogetter0587]

They played Defense against Detroit and when they play D they win. The offense is fairly consistent. The D is what they struggle to keep up. I say trade J-Ho if they can and get someone who can score inside or play defense. Marion seems like a brilliant move cause he is lock defender and can run as well as get inside. plus if he does not work out just do not sign him and get some cap room for a point guard in the offseason which they desperately need for next season


Got em coach

[BigSams50]

well if the knicks keep marbury theyll be paying him that 20+ mill that he's making now, and i dont think marbury would hurt the celts that much, he wont be getting much pt, and hell just be there in case rondo gets in foul trouble. Marbury can still play, he just isnt as good as he once was

[Darthphere]

Why would they do that? Not to mention if the Celtics sign Marbury, they won't win a ring.

Honestly, I don't think they'll win anyway.

[BigSams50]

I honestly think its between the celtics and the cavs. Lebron is freakin beastin

[gogetter0587]

I honestly think its between the celtics and the cavs. Lebron is freakin beastin

The Lake show is legit , Your crazy not to include them in the conversation. I think Orlando has just as good a chance as Bron also

[BigSams50]

i know theyre legit, but lebron has tooken cleveland the finals by himself b4, now with help, theyre a completely different beast. And im not quite sold on orlando, they live and die by the 3.

[gogetter0587]

i know theyre legit, but lebron has tooken cleveland the finals by himself b4, now with help, theyre a completely different beast. And im not quite sold on orlando, they live and die by the 3.


They live by the three but Dwight is capable of superhuman feats and that my friend is why you cannot count them out. IMO

[Robin Finck]

Man, poor Pistons. How the mighty have fallen.

I hope they regret that stupid A.I. trade.

[Raiden]

Man, poor Pistons. How the mighty have fallen.

I hope they regret that stupid A.I. trade.

It looks like Nuggets got the better end of the deal.

[gogetter0587]

Detroit is gearing up for a big shake up IMO. Wallace gone, AI gone. '10 free agent or a big trade

[JaD]

Man, poor Pistons. How the mighty have fallen.

I hope they regret that stupid A.I. trade.Familiar face?

*banned*

[Mister J]

I thought the Billups trade was more of a move to the future, and a taciturn admission that they knew they weren't going to beat Boston or Cleveland (and now, Orlando) in the playoffs), but they've had more trouble utilizing that lineup than I imagined.

On the other hand, Denver is performing far better than I expected. With Chauncey, I had them pegged to lock up a playoff spot, but in the 6-8 range. Of course, they're cap is jammed for the next few years and I don't see them toppling the Lakers, Spurs or Hornets, but they're playing at a much higher level than before.

[BigSams50]

Yea detroit lost on that trade. now theyre core players are old, and i just dont c them making a run in the playoffs

[gogetter0587]

they were never going to make a run , that is the point

[Etienne]

All Star reserves announced
http://www.nba.com/2009/allstar2009/01/29/reserves_release.allstar09.20090129/index.html

Eastern conference reserves

Chris Bosh (Raptors)
Danny Granger (Pacers)
Devin Harris (Nets)
Joe Johnson (Hawks)
Rashard Lewis (Magic)
Jameer Nelson (Magic)
Paul Pierce (Celtics)

Western Conference reserves

Chauncey Billups (Nuggets)
Pau Gasol (Lakers)
Dirk Nowitzki (Mavericks)
Shaquille O'Neal (Suns)
Tony Parker (Spurs)
Brandon Roy (Trail Blazers)
David West (Hornets)

[Ziggyman]

If Calderon didn't get injured...I think he would be high up for consideration...

[Darthphere]

All Star reserves announced
http://www.nba.com/2009/allstar2009/01/29/reserves_release.allstar09.20090129/index.html

Eastern conference reserves

Chris Bosh (Raptors)
Danny Granger (Pacers)
Devin Harris (Nets)
Joe Johnson (Hawks)
Rashard Lewis (Magic)
Jameer Nelson (Magic)
Paul Pierce (Celtics)

Western Conference reserves

Chauncey Billups (Nuggets)
Pau Gasol (Lakers)
Dirk Nowitzki (Mavericks)
Shaquille O'Neal (Suns)
Tony Parker (Spurs)
Brandon Roy (Trail Blazers)
David West (Hornets)

I would've taken Ray Allen over Rashard Lewis in the East.

[Mister J]

I had that and Carmelo over David West.

[Excel]

Ok LBJ....anytime...

[Mister J]

This got ugly quick.

[Silver Knight]

Even though OKC have a bad record I feel Durant got snubed.

[Trainwreck2100]

Stupid refs are ruining a good game, they swallowed their whisrles in the first it was awesome.

[Darthphere]

I had that and Carmelo over David West.

Carmelo has had a monster year, slightly overshadowed by Chauncey's rising in the Rockies.

[Trainwreck2100]

Al Jefferson deserved it more than both of them

[LastSunrise1981]

Stupid refs are ruining a good game, they swallowed their whisrles in the first it was awesome.

I thought no one was going to complain about officiating in this thread? :whatever:

But there does seem to be a lot of whistles going on in this game. I expect a very physical and intense fourth quarter with Phoenix/San Antonio.

[LastSunrise1981]

Phoenix is looking very out of sync right now. They need to find a way to start locking their defense and stop leaving shooters wide open. Plus I've noticed quite a few of their shot selections have been poor.

Amare needs to stop trying to create his own shot and let Nash create a wide open shot for him. Phoenix needs to get better with their interior defense and start knocking Ginoboli down when he penetrates, same with Parker.

[Trainwreck2100]

I thought no one was going to complain about officiating in this thread? :whatever:

But there does seem to be a lot of whistles going on in this game. I expect a very physical and intense fourth quarter with Phoenix/San Antonio.

Its bad for both sides

[NewYorkSpider]

Cavs played some horrible offense in the second half. 16 points in both the third and fourth quarter. Even though they lost, I really like the way Mo Williams is playing. He's becoming someone that LeBron can count on all the time.

[LastSunrise1981]

Trading Raja Bell hurt Phoenix really bad as it eliminated any kind of perimeter defensive presence they had. What I'm seeing right now from them as far as defense, passion, and hustle is non-existant. What needs to happen is they need to start locking down as I said and start taking better care of the ball.

Phoenix tends to get a bit out of control with the ball which, unfortunately, creates easy steals for the opposition.

San Antonio is an easy team to figure out honestly. They're the type of team that coasts and will start going all out come the third and fourth quarter. As great a team as they are, I find them to be very overrated and if teams actually played them straight up by running, playing physical defense, and eliminating their penetration options you can beat the Spurs.

[LastSunrise1981]

Wow, they're making Parker and the other scrubs on the Spurs look out flat out superstars with the wide open layups, threes, and twos. This is a pathetic display on Phoenix. As Doug Collins said they could've rotated a couple of defenders into the lane to stop the Parker layup.

[Trainwreck2100]

i really didn't get the whole fouling Bowen thing, he's 28% on 8 freakin FT's if you're going to foul a guy on purpose it should be duncan

[LastSunrise1981]

Obviously it slows up the oppositions offense and a lot of teams don't realize that eventually said player will start making free throws. You see Shaq has started to make his free throws now that he takes his time.

Edit: Guess I jinxed Shaq.

[LastSunrise1981]

Wow, I don't know about that call there. Looked like all ball to me with Duncan getting stripped.

[gogetter0587]

The Lake show is legit , Your crazy not to include them in the conversation. I think Orlando has just as good a chance as Bron also

Got em coach

[gogetter0587]

Who is the better overall power forward

Amare or Dirk?

[BigSams50]

Nah i told u orlando lives and dies by the 3, last night they lived. Next time they might die. And orlando was at home. Cleveland has the best record in the east, and they will finish with the best record. THat means the road in the easts through cleveland. That means cleveland plays at home, which they are UNstoppable at

[gogetter0587]

Nah i told u orlando lives and dies by the 3, last night they lived. Next time they might die. And orlando was at home. Cleveland has the best record in the east, and they will finish with the best record. THat means the road in the easts through cleveland. That means cleveland plays at home, which they are UNstoppable at

Well whether or not Cleveland will finish with the best record or not. That is clearly not a lock. The Celtics currently have a better record. Also the Magic have only one more loss. So saying that Cleveland WILL finish with the best record is a little far fetched at this point.

I do however agree that whoever does lock up the number one seed will have an advantage in the post season

[Mister J]

Agreed on that last point, big time.

That 2/3 East matchup is going to be a killer. Then, #1 gets home court against the winner, after having two series against non-elite teams. Whoever gets the East #1 seed stands a pretty good shot at having home court all through the playoffs too. Sets up pretty sweet.

All this is barring any collosal upsets along the way, of course.

[gogetter0587]

Agreed on that last point, big time.

That 2/3 East matchup is going to be a killer. Then, #1 gets home court against the winner, after having two series against non-elite teams. Whoever gets the East #1 seed stands a pretty good shot at having home court all through the playoffs too. Sets up pretty sweet.

All this is barring any collosal upsets along the way, of course.


Colossal indeed

[BigSams50]

Now mind you the cavs are playing without Ilgauskas. So they are not at their best yet. Now i do think the celtics are the best team in the east, but i just can never count out lebron in the playoffs

[Mister J]

Hmm. I thought I'd look in here for the Heat's defense. No such luck.

I'll keep looking. Maybe someone will find it before the second half.

:dry:

[Darthphere]

Check Beasley's knee pads.

[Ziggyman]

Jose Calderon's consecutive free throw streak ends at I think 87 or 88...He's second in all-time...!

[Mister J]

Well, that was ugly. It was like playing against a team of Eddie Houses. Cripes, Miami hasn't won a game in Indiana since ****ing 2001.

[Ziggyman]

Man...The atmosphere in the Toronto game against the Bucks was just crazy...Such an important game for the race for eighth...Too bad for the Raps...They have a pretty hard schedule coming up...We really needed this!

...Crap!!!

[Mister J]

It's official. Mike Brown will coach the Eastern Conference in the All-Star Game.

I will now light myself on fire.

[LastSunrise1981]

Who is the better overall power forward

Amare or Dirk?

Better power forward? Are you talking about in terms of offense or defense? As far as offense is concerned Dirk has Amare beat since his offense is all-around and he can shoot from anywhere. Dirk handles, shoots, and passes better than Amare.

Where Amare has Dirk beat is his athletic ability to be all over the floor and he is explosive when he's near the rim, rebounding, blocking shots, and etc. I think if Amare was able to shoot of the dribble like Dirk I'd say he would be the better power forward. He is a better defender than Dirk obviously.

[empire]

It's official. Mike Brown will coach the Eastern Conference in the All-Star Game.

I will now light myself on fire.
I was hoping it would be Doc Rivers. Jackson vs Rivers. We all know these 2 coaches are not fond of each other. Would've been nice to have an underlying tone to the otherwise not-all-too-serious exhibition game.

[Silver Knight]

Better power forward? Are you talking about in terms of offense or defense? As far as offense is concerned Dirk has Amare beat since his offense is all-around and he can shoot from anywhere. Dirk handles, shoots, and passes better than Amare.

Where Amare has Dirk beat is his athletic ability to be all over the floor and he is explosive when he's near the rim, rebounding, blocking shots, and etc. I think if Amare was able to shoot of the dribble like Dirk I'd say he would be the better power forward. He is a better defender than Dirk obviously.
Good post here.

[Darthphere]

It's official. Mike Brown will coach the Eastern Conference in the All-Star Game.

I will now light myself on fire.

They really need to go the MLB route and have the dudes from the previous World Series teams do it.

[Mister J]

Two nights. Two asswhippings. :dry:

Dallas shot 60 bloody percent ...all game. That's video game type ****.

Seeing the Clippers come to town on Monday will be most joyous ...I think.

[empire]

Anyone see Lakers vs Grizzlies? Despite the fact that LA got the victory, a grey cloud hangs over due to the injury of Andrew Bynum. :csad::csad:

Bynum injured his right knee in the 1st quarter and did not return. Early diagnoses say its a sprain knee. MRI to follow up in NYC.

Here's a few ironic facts regarding the injury.
1. The injury suffered last year was also against the Grizzlies.
2. Andrew injured his left knee last year on January 13 and if you flip that around, he injured his knee today... January 31.

The look on the Lakers face when the injury happened was that of shock. More so of Kobe who was part of the play that resulted in the injury. I just hope the injury isn't severe and we can get him back ASAP. A disappoinment just when Bynum was getting into a groove on both ends of the floor.

[Docker2.0]

I'm hoping the injury lights a fire under Kobe. I'm not exactly the biggest Kobe fan but he's been playing TO much team ball. His killer instinct........is missing something. I don't know, I just miss the threat of Kobe scoring 80 or possibly even 90......it's just not the same any more. :(

[Mister J]

Mamba doesn't need to take on the scoring burden that heavily anymore. As stacked as that roster, the Lakers are more than capable of playing elite-level ball without him gunning away. He knows this, has trusted his teammates more and they're a better ball club because of it. He's capable of dominating the box score, but now he can pick his spots, conserve himself (he's logged more than 1,000 games at this point in his career) and be better positioned to raise hell come playoff time ...all while LA is winning games. Anyone whose seen Bryant in the clutch this year knows he's every bit the assassin he's ever been.

When #24 was scoring 62 in three quarters and 81 in a single game, LA was going home in the first round, at best. Now that he's playing more cooperatively, they're a threat to raise another banner.

For the record, I still don't really like the ****er. :o

[Mister J]

I hope it's nothing serious with Bynum. The league is stretched thin enough at the center position as is. It'd be a damn shame for this to turn into something chronic. He was starting to put it together.

For the record, I still don't really like the ****ing Lakers either. :o

[Docker2.0]

I'm probably the biggest Kobe/Laker hater there is but I just hate the LBJ hype more. I just want Kobe to burn his arse and show him he's still top in the NBA........unless LBJ goes to the Knicks.....then I'd become the biggest James's supporter ever. And as far as Kobe still being an assassin.....I just don't see it. His team is a lot better but I see him missing a lot more shots in the clutch. Whether or not that has more to do with that broken finger than he is letting on, then I don't know but he is not the same Kobe as he was when he scored 81 points.

[Lobo]

Good win for the Knicks last night, especially with hell week coming up.

[Docker2.0]

Lobo as a fellow Knick fan, were you happy with them trading Randolph and Crawford? Also do you agree with them not buying Marbury out?

[Lobo]

I liked the Crawford for Harrington deal, still not sure how I feel about the Randolph deal since all we ended up with was Tim Thomas but hey all for 2010 right? I figure even if/when we don't get LeBron, we'll have the money to add a couple of nice pieces.

Yes, I do. I think Donnie is doing the right thing letting him rot at home.

I got to get to work now :(

[Silver Knight]

How long is Bynum expected to be out for?

[Double Down]

How long is Bynum expected to be out for?

They won't know until Monday.

[Double Down]

I love it when the Cavs win and I love it when the Pistons lose. It's twice as good when the Cavs beat the Pistons. :up:

[Caped Crusader]

I love it when the Cavs win and I love it when the Pistons lose. It's twice as good when the Cavs beat the Pistons. :up:

:whatever::whatever:

I hope the Cards lose now.

[Double Down]

:whatever::whatever:

:whatever::whatever::whatever: As usual, you are a sore loser.

[Caped Crusader]

Well you took a shot at my team

I know what it feels like when my team wins a championship, far from a sore loser

[Double Down]

Well you took a shot at my team

I know what it feels like when my team wins a championship, far from a sore loser

The Cavs and Pistons are arch rivals, why wouldn't I want them to lose? Do you cheer for the Cavs?

[Caped Crusader]

No not at all but i'm not gonna go out and say "It's twice as good when the Pistons beat the Cavs" on a board

[Double Down]

No not at all but i'm not gonna go out and say "It's twice as good when the Pistons beat the Cavs" on a board

Whatever.

1. You have written plenty of anti-Eagles posts. Don't try to act like you are above it all.
2. You are going to root for the Steelers just because I don't like the Pistons. It doesn't get any more petty than that. But the joke is on you. As I have stated time and time again, the Steelers are my favorite team, but Warner is my favorite player of all time. I literally cannot lose today.

[Caped Crusader]

So wait. Your team is the Steelers but Warner is your favorite player, so either way its a win?

[Caped Crusader]

BTW the Pistons-Cavs rivalry is no where near the Eagles-Giants rivalry

The Cavs were one of the leagues doormats before Lebron, Pistons biggest rival is the Celtics but maybe for Cavs fans its the Pistons.

Oh and Im rooting for the Steelers, because they have a great franchise, great faithful fans.

I usually like the underdog but I cant stand when theres a team that city NEVER supported until they started to do good

(example: Tampa Bay Rays) and now the Arizona Cardinals

[Mister J]

Cleveland looked damn impressive in asserting themselves in the early 4th with LBJ on the bench.

If Gibson is going to start chiming in, it's going to be ridiculous. Toss in when Big Z gets back in the groove and West coming back ...yikes.

[Double Down]

Cleveland looked damn impressive in asserting themselves in the early 4th with LBJ on the bench.

If Gibson is going to start chiming in, it's going to be ridiculous. Toss in when Big Z gets back in the groove and West coming back ...yikes.

It will be nice to get Delonte West back, too.

[Bond]

I found this interesting, seeing as how the Mavs owned all ass last night, and shot like 60%.

Kidd now calls the shots
Jason Kidd is at his best with the ball in his hands and his mind engaged.

Rick Carlisle has made sure that will happen.

Carlisle no longer calls the majority of the plays. The Mavericks coach met with Kidd earlier in the week and told the point guard to take over. Carlisle then handed Kidd a CD with the plays he had been calling and how efficient the players were in those sets.

There has been a noticeable offensive improvement in the two games Kidd has called.

"I think I have a pretty good feel of where we need to get the ball,'' Kidd said. "The big thing is have everyone understand what we're running.

"Now, nobody has to look over and figure out what we're running. We've tried to eliminate some of the steps of the process and just play.''

Several players estimate that Carlisle called 70 to 80 percent of the plays in the first three months of the season and Kidd took the rest. That ratio has now been reversed.

"He's orchestrating what goes on and I'll help out a little bit here and there,'' Carlisle said. "He's doing a great job of leading the guys who are out there on the court.
"We really need him in that role as a leader, as a guy calling the shots out there.''
Source (http://mavsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/02/kidd-now-calls-the-shots.html)

[Caped Crusader]

I love it when the Mavs lose :)

[Silver Knight]

i love it when the mavs lose :)
+1.

[gogetter0587]

I found this interesting, seeing as how the Mavs owned all ass last night, and shot like 60%.

Kidd now calls the shots

Source (http://mavsblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2009/02/kidd-now-calls-the-shots.html)


Heard this. I cannot stand Carlisle as a coach, This will be a great improvement in my eyes. Mavs are back in the chase.

At least make it to the playoffs mavs please.

should get at least 7th, could be mavs spurs - Fantastic matchup.

I still think they should try and get Matrix for some defensive lock.

[Dark Donnie]

Andrew Bynum-C-Lakers Feb. 2 - 11:27 am et

The preliminary diagnosis is that Andrew Bynum has a sprained right knee and will miss the next six weeks.

This isn't an official report --the Lakers are still awaiting the MRI results-- but the NY Daily News reports that "it could be longer, and the damage could be more serious."
Source: NY Daily News

[gogetter0587]

Source: NY Daily News


That ain't good

[Darthphere]

Hahahahahaha! Oh that Bynum.

[LastSunrise1981]

I love it when the Mavs lose :)

Pretty much everyone with the exception of me and Bond loves when the Mavs lose. Majority of the fans in this thread are anti-Dallas anyways, so whatever.

Beating the Heat will always be bittersweet for me though. :cmad::oldrazz::woot:

[Darthphere]

Too bad you didn't beat the Heat when it actually mattered.

[gogetter0587]

Too bad you didn't beat the Heat when it actually mattered.

Who goes further in the playoffs this year Mavs or Heat?

[Caped Crusader]

Pretty much everyone with the exception of me and Bond loves when the Mavs lose. Majority of the fans in this thread are anti-Dallas anyways, so whatever.

Beating the Heat will always be bittersweet for me though. :cmad::oldrazz::woot:

Nah I could care a less about the Mavs, it was just a little jab at my buddy Bond.

Hate the Cowboys though.

[Darthphere]

Who goes further in the playoffs this year Mavs or Heat?

I think they both lose in the first round, unless they make some major personnel changes.

[LastSunrise1981]

Too bad you didn't beat the Heat when it actually mattered.

Too bad that someone was too stupid to actually take note of the smilies I posted at the end. :whatever:

Hint hint.

[Darthphere]

Too bad that someone was too stupid to actually take note of the smilies I posted at the end. :whatever:

Hint hint.

Adding smilies to the end of the post doesn't negate what you said. Watch this:

You're retarded.:oldrazz:

See, by your logic, I don't think you're retarded, but, I do.

[LastSunrise1981]

Who goes further in the playoffs this year Mavs or Heat?

Honestly, as much as it pains me to say this, I think the Heat would go further than Dallas right now. Depending on who the Heat plays in the first round they could surprise some doubters.

Dallas? We need to make some major changes for our interior defense and our perimeter defense. We have too many holes that need to be addressed. I firmly believe an athletic center and maybe even someone like like Marion would really help us. Whatever the solution is we need to make the necessary changes that are obvious in order for us to make it to the championships again.

So honestly I say the Heat. Wade is a big time player and Marion plays great in the playoffs too. I mean who would've thought Atlanta would take Boston to seven games? In my opinion I feel Miami has been somewhat more consistent than Dallas and that's because Wade has been playing out of his mind too.

[LastSunrise1981]

Adding smilies to the end of the post doesn't negate what you said. Watch this:

You're retarded.:oldrazz:

See, by your logic, I don't think you're retarded, but, I do.

Now that was just cruel Mr. Darthphere.

[Darthphere]

See, that was retarded.

[Raiden]

I hope Byrum is okay.

[LastSunrise1981]

See, that was retarded.

Guess you would be the expert on retardness eh? :wow:

[empire]

ESPN reports that BYNUM will be out 8-12 weeks with torn MCL.

If I remember correctly, they also said last year that he would be out 8-12 weeks but ended up out for the season and the post.

THIS REALLY SUCKS !!!

[Bond]

Pretty much everyone with the exception of me and Bond loves when the Mavs lose. Majority of the fans in this thread are anti-Dallas anyways, so whatever.

Beating the Heat will always be bittersweet for me though. :cmad::oldrazz::woot:
Yuh yuh yuh!

Nah I could care a less about the Mavs, it was just a little jab at my buddy Bond.

Hate the Cowboys though.
Oh, you.

[Go Web Go!]

Shawn Marion's sore vagina is well enough to play tonight.

[Excel]

ESPN reports that BYNUM will be out 8-12 weeks with torn MCL.

Ouch.

[Mister J]

I'm hoping the injury lights a fire under Kobe. I'm not exactly the biggest Kobe fan but he's been playing TO much team ball. His killer instinct........is missing something. I don't know, I just miss the threat of Kobe scoring 80 or possibly even 90......it's just not the same any more. :(
You may be getting your wish. The Viper has 34 at halftime. :funny:

Although, I imagine you're not happy it's coming against the Knicks. You gotta watch how you work that mojo.

[Bond]

The Mavs have won two straight road games... in Miami and Orlando. And I didn't watch one second of either game. I am not going to watch a regular season game for the rest of the year.

[Double Down]

Chris Paul left the Hornets game against the Blazers with a strained groin.

[Mister J]

Nothing like this year's Clippers for what ails your team. Beatdown at the Triple A. Hopefully, they can take that inspired play to Detroit and Philly this week.
The Mavs have won two straight road games... in Miami and Orlando. And I didn't watch one second of either game. I am not going to watch a regular season game for the rest of the year.
I didn't see tonight's game, but you would have thoroughly enjoyed Saturday's game in Miami. I imagine it would have been the converse of my displeasure.

It was friggin' target practice.

Chris Paul left the Hornets game against the Blazers with a strained groin.
Toss in Jameer Nelson's dislocated shoulder from tonight, and the ugly injury train keeps rolling. :down

[empire]

KB 24 dropped 61 @ MSG. :wow::wow::wow:

[Go Web Go!]

Yes indeed. A blowout is what this team needed. Now it's on to Wednesday vs. the league's worst all-star and his gang of cronies.

[Mister J]

KB 24 dropped 61 @ MSG. :wow::wow::wow:
That's a bloody record.

That also gives him 5 60-point games in his career, passing Mike and second only too Wilt (32).
Yes indeed. A blowout is what this team needed. Now it's on to Wednesday vs. the league's worst all-star and his gang of cronies.
Anytime a derivation of the word 'crony' is used, it's a good day. :funny:

I'm an AI fan, and don't really give the All-Star Game much credence beyond a popularity contest, but that's Mo Williams' spot.

[Docker2.0]

You may be getting your wish. The Viper has 34 at halftime. :funny:

Although, I imagine you're not happy it's coming against the Knicks. You gotta watch how you work that mojo.

Shut up! :cmad:

Besides.......the Knicks are dangerously close to Miami for the same playoff position. :o

[Double Down]

That's a bloody record.

That also gives him 5 60-point games in his career, passing Mike and second only too Wilt (32).

Anytime a derivation of the word 'crony' is used, it's a good day. :funny:

I'm an AI fan, and don't really give the All-Star Game much credence beyond a popularity conteat, but that's Mo Williams' spot.

Word. :word:

[Go Web Go!]

Shut up! :cmad:

Besides.......the Knicks are dangerously close to Miami for the same playoff position. :o

You stop worrying about the Heat's seeding and worry about how your team has yet to broker that deal to get Stephon down here & in turn, sabotage the season for Wade & Co. :word:

[Mister J]

Shut up! :cmad:

Besides.......the Knicks are dangerously close to Miami for the same playoff position. :o
What? You got what you wanted. I have it good authority that Mamba reads this thread diligently. :ninja:

5 games is 'dangerously close'? :confused:
I will say that the efficacy of D'Antoni's 'seven seconds or less' approach on offense is greater than I thought. Duhon's agent should be sending Mike D. appreciation baskets every month.

My playoff aspirations for Miami would be much higher if this Marion trade (for whomever) would go down. I still believe trading Marion for help down low adds a dimension the team simply doesn't have and one that will be magnified if they're fortunate enough to make the playoffs 8. Marion certainly has useful attributes, but they're areas to can be addressed easier with the current roster, as opposed to the hole in the post, which is woeful and would presumably be the crux of any trade.

Have I mentioned I'm in favor of trading Shawn Marion?

[Docker2.0]

You stop worrying about the Heat's seeding and worry about how your team has yet to broker that deal to get Stephon down here & in turn, sabotage the season for Wade & Co. :word:

Don't worry about Marbury yet, looks like Marion is doing a good enough job of that. :up:

[gogetter0587]

Mavs need to continue the elevated play. Portland and then Utah with Boston just around the bend. If they can take 2 out of 3 of those games. They should be in Good shape.

[Darthphere]

What? You got what you wanted. I have it good authority that Mamba reads this thread diligently. :ninja:

5 games is 'dangerously close'? :confused:
I will say that the efficacy of D'Antoni's 'seven seconds or less' approach on offense is greater than I thought. Duhon's agent should be sending Mike D. appreciation baskets every month.

My playoff aspirations for Miami would be much higher if this Marion trade (for whomever) would go down. I still believe trading Marion for help down low adds a dimension the team simply doesn't have and one that will be magnified if they're fortunate enough to make the playoffs 8. Marion certainly has useful attributes, but they're areas to can be addressed easier with the current roster, as opposed to the hole in the post, which is woeful and would presumably be the crux of any trade.

Have I mentioned I'm in favor of trading Shawn Marion?


You know what the Heat should really do. I mean, for real? trade Shawn Marion.

[Silver Knight]

Shawn Marion's sore vagina is well enough to play tonight.
LOL, dude..

[Raiden]

Kobe's 61 pts at MSG was unbelievable last night, but with Byrum out he'll have to more nights like this, esp. with their upcoming games against Celtics and Cavs. I hope that Byrum, like Farmar, will be able to return earlier with that MCL injury.