Thank Naismith

Keeping a Straight Face with Kwame Brown in the Room

2008-07-04T21:42:00.000-07:00

It has become a tradition that with the increased numbers of high school prospects looking to make the jump to the NBA, whether directly, or with the current restrictions, every time such players are hyped up they recall the 2001 draft, and thus they exclaim 'Remember Kwame Brown!'

The young man who was once a 'future NBA superstar' is now the epitome of an NBA 'bust'. The player who the NBA was in awe for one off season at the least, is now often the butt of jokes.

The path that Kwame Brown has taken is as follows.

-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.

Kwame Brown was born March 10, 1982 in Charleston, South Carolina to Joyce and Willie Brown. When Kwame was a child he would endure the physical and psychological abuse his father, Willie, would put his family through.

"He would tell us," says Kwame, "'I gave my life to the devil.' We couldn't say anything about God, about church—nothing. He would pick up whatever he could find and beat you or spank you. The next day he would come home from work with a gift for you. I don't know why. I guess that was how he would try to buy your friendship."

Joyce tried to leave Willie, she says, "almost every year. I'd get away, and he'd get me right back." She would flee to Brunswick, and he would come after her, and tell her, "These are my children. They belong to me. You might leave, but you aren't taking them."

When Kwame was 7 years old, Willie Brown was convicted of murder and sentenced to life without parole. In search of a new beginning, Joyce Brown, Kwame, and her seven other children moved to the small town of Brunswick, Ga.

In his early teen years, Kwame was a full foot shorter at 5'11, flaunting the nickname 'Bobo'. He often hung out at Howard Coffin Park, right across the street from the Days Inn his mother, Joyce, worked at before injuries forced her to go on disability. Then playing point guard, he possessed superior quickness and ball-handling skills that would later help him earn the luxury of going straight from high school to the NBA.

Kwame then attended Glynn Academy High School. There he received national attention for his size, outstanding athletic abilities, and stand-out performances. Brown led his team to an 81-21 record from 1997-2000. His senior year Brown averaged 20.1 points, 13.3 rebounds, 5.8 blocked shots, 3.0 assists, and 2.0 steals and was honored as Georgia's Player of the Year. Also in his senior season, he was named to the McDonald's All-American squad, joining future NBA colleagues David Lee, Tyson Chandler, Eddy Curry, TJ Ford, DeSagana Diop, and Josh Childress. He is still to this day, the school's all-time leading rebounder with total of 1,235 rebounds and the school's all-time leading shot-blocker with 605 blocks. He's also the school's second all-time leader in scoring.

"He's got the potential to be a special player," said Eric Musselman, then assistant coach with the Atlanta Hawks, recently the former Sacramento Kings head coach. "He has a great combination of strength and speed. You can see he will able to play multiple positions. He's got a pro body, and he was impressive in interviews. For his age, he is extremely mature."

Kwame molded himself into the player executives would dream about. He said the right things, did the right things, and acted in the right manner.

Outside of basketball; however, Kwame was an immature, troubled teen in need of guidance. Local Pastor John Williams, or as Kwame calls him, 'Mr. John', mentored Kwame Brown throughout high school. Reverend Williams was the father figure Kwame needed and that he had lacked during his childhood. Williams emphasized the need to do well in school and as a result Brown made the honor roll the last four semesters of his high school career. "I don't treat Kwame any different from any other kids I mentor, and he can't fire me, because he never hired me," Minister Williams said, "Our relationship is based on telling each other the truth."

Nearing graduation, Kwame Brown decided to leave a University of Florida scholarship behind and declare for the 2001 NBA draft. The basketball world was eager to let the 6'11, 250-pound Kwame in.

In the following weeks, Kwame flirted with the possibility of being the 1st overall pick. In a particular workout with the Wizards, Kwame Brown left an impression upon NBA legend Michael Jordan by outplaying another highly-ranked high school prospect, Tyson Chandler. To his idol, Michael Jordan, he vowed, "If you draft me first, I'll never disappoint you."

Jordan was intrigued by Brown's confidence, 'maturity', and potential. Also impressed by Brown's promise, Jordan decided to take a chance on Kwame. Passively, Jordan commented "we have to try to make sure that this kid has a chance to mature as a person not just as a basketball player."

Finally, draft day came and the announcement came... "With the 1st pick of the 2001 NBA draft the Washington Wizards select Kwame Brown out of Glynn Academy High School."

Brown was the first high school player ever selected 1st overall. The mere title was an honor to Brown. An honor with some added pressure.

"I guess I just made history," said the 19-year-old Brown. "It's great. I've never been so overwhelmed and nervous in my life. I'm now the representative of all high school seniors, and I have to show it wasn't a mistake."

The next week, Brunswick held a 'Kwame Brown Day ceremony'. He was presented with a proclamation from the City Commission. Mayor Pro Tem Doris Atkinson Davis handed over a key to the city.

"Please touch me," she told Kwame Brown, as her granddaughter had requested.

Kwame Brown was a class act. He impressed the crowd with his humor, and poise. Parents would admire him as he advised the children to stay in school and work hard.

Referencing his own mentor, John Williams, he urged youth to find a true mentor to guide their lives.

"You've got to find somebody that's true ... not out for what they can get," Brown said. "It takes people like that in your life."

The media, the fans, the Wizards, the sport, set expectations so high...so high. Chosen by the man acclimated as the greatest basketball player ever, Kwame had expectations that no other player had ever experienced in their entry to the NBA.

In the street, Bullets' fans were asking Brown to be the savior of their team. At the grocery store, fans would observe as Kwame would sift through the several brands of cereal... they would await as to what his choice would be. Regis Philbin invited Kwame to his show, as an eager audience would await in awe.

And thus number 5 snatched his multi-million-dollar contract.

Once the season commenced, Kwame was ready to suit up and play the forward position for the Washington Wizards. Before the season kicked off, Michael Jordan offered a word of advice: ''All eyes will be on you, but just have fun. Play like you know how to play.''

Throughout Kwame's run in Washington the Wizards brought in a number of mentors. His rookie season, veterans Popeye Jones and Duane Ferrell were given the assignment. Then through a couple of seasons, Patrick Ewing and Charles Oakley were brought in to mentor the young forward. The most significant; however, was his relationship with Michael Jordan.

Jordan built a comfortable relationship with Kwame as a mentor on and off the court. In a sense, Jordan became a friend of Kwame. When asked about his relationship with his airness, Kwame responded, "I'm sorry but I have to say, I hate all these people asking me about Michael Jordan -- 'What's Michael like, what's it like to play with Michael?' " he said. "I mean, he's not Jesus Christ, he's just a regular dude."

Kwame went on to say that Jordan would also offer encouragement.

''When I got a little discouraged, he said: 'Keep your head up. Don't lose confidence. Remember, this is a marathon, it's not a race.' I've got a lot to learn, and I'm looking forward to trying to learn it.''

The perfect prospect had made it's way to the perfect situation in Washington. The sky was the limit, winning was the goal, and patience was the key. To the Wizards though, the psychological aspects of this mission were not taken into consideration. The young man's effort was not clear, and the Wizards had plans the kid was naively unaware of.

Somewhere down the line, Kwame's relationship with Michael Jordan drastically changed. As Jordan made his second return to professional basketball, Jordan's patience and attitude with the younger players on the squad changed. During practice sessions, Jordan started embarrassing them more on the court, stopped helping them up off the floor when they fell. He started taunting Kwame. He stressed the importance of work ethic, urged the young player to work hard. Of course, he did it in his own manner.

As the season progressed, coach Doug Collins realized the Wizards' plans were not realistic. This young kid, straight out of high school, was not ready to be the cornerstone of a franchise. Soon they realized they hadn't done all of their homework, instead the short-sighted management became enamored with the kid's imposing physical frame and remarkable athleticism. While Jordan had claimed he understood the job at hand, I don't think he realized the importance of the process and the difficulty. But hey, the team still had a job to do... and that was to prepare this high-schooler to become a dominating force in the NBA.

Since being drafted, Brown gained 20 pounds credited to the strenuous weight training program the Wizards had implemented. The added bulk would not translate into improved basketball skills on the floor; however, as Kwame only averaged 4.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and only 14 minutes per game his rookie season.

The media was quick to label Brown a bust, even this early in his career. There were concerns about his maturity and his work ethic already. The frustration was becoming evident.

"I know God wouldn't have given me all this pressure and attention if I couldn't handle it, but sometimes I second-guess him, say 'What are you doing, man?' Then I think about Michael," he says. "He's been through all of this, but a hundred times. Hopefully, he'll show me the way."

At the end of the season, Kwame would go on to describe his rookie year as 'public humiliation'.

"There's a part of me that questions, when your confidence drops like mine did, are you a good ballplayer and do you deserve to be here, or what?" he says. "You're just scared. Scared to do anything."

The media is harsh, that's a given. Throughout his rookie season and thereafter; however, the man Kwame idolized struck Kwame with a barrage of verbal abuse. In one particular instance, during a scrimmage, Kwame was complaining about fellow veterans Christian Laettner and Jaihidi White being a little too agressive. Jordan, apparently not amused, walked toward the rookie. "You f-cking flaming f-ggot," Jordan exclaimed. "You don't get a foul call on a g-ddamn little touch foul, you f-cking f-ggot. You don't bring that f-ggoty shit here. Get your g-ddamn ass back on the floor and play. I don't want to hear that f-cking sh-t out of you again. Get your ass back and play, you f-ggot."

One has to believe that brought back old memories. Later, Kwame recalled the incident. "It was pretty rough," he says, "But that's Michael Jordan. You deal with it. You learn you're a rookie and you're not going to get calls.... But sometimes I felt all alone out there, like I was surrounded by sharks."

In some ways, Jordan took on the traits Kwame's father, Willie Brown, had expressed. One moment, he would attack him. Attack him. The next, with the smallest of gestures, with the bits of advice, he would try to comfort Brown.

The 2002-2003 season showed flashes of hope for Kwame Brown. Yet despite increased playing time, he only averaged 7.4 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Still, Brown continued to show off some solid performances. He recorded a total of five double-doubles and had career highs both in rebounds and points.

His third season (2003-2004), he continued to improve. As Jordan made his final retirement, Brown began to feel less pressure. Although his work ethic and commitment was still questionable, he had career year in both points (10.9 ppg) and rebounds (7.4 rpg). Brown also recorded career highs, scoring 30 points and snatching 19 rebounds against the Sacramento Kings.

The 04-05 season was the turning point in Kwame Brown's career. Kwame rejected a five-year, 30 million contract offer by the Wizards, instead electing to become a free agent after his rookie contract expired. His season was less than stellar, playing only 42 out of 82 games due to a serious knee injury and only averaging 7 ppg and 5 rpg. He not only had trouble on the floor, reports indicated he had feuds on the sidelines with new coach Eddie Jordan, and future all-star Gilbert Arenas. As the Wizards made the playoffs for the first time since the '96 season, Kwame Brown seemed disinterested. As a result of misconduct, Kwame Brown was suspended for the entire post season.

During the '05 offseason, in a move that would later be cherished by Washington fans, the Los Angeles Lakers traded Caron Butler and Chucky Atkins for Kwame Brown and LaRon Profit.

The following season, Kwame did nothing to prove critics wrong, as he averaged a mere 6 ppg/6rpg his first season as a Laker. On his first game back in Washington, the crowd showed no remorse, and Brown was booed throughout the game. After the game, Brown stated that "they should be cheering that I'm gone."

For the 2nd half of the season, Chris Mihm would go down to injury leaving Kwame Brown to jump onto the starting five. He would go on to average 12 ppg, 9 rpg, maintaining an integral role in the playoffs.

During the Lakers' first round playoff series, Kwame was accused of sexual assault. To the relief of Laker fans, charges were later dropped.

The next season, Kwame was out with an injury for the beginning of the season and veteran center Chris Mihm was still out with an injury, leaving the inexperienced Andrew Bynum to take over the starting position. The next couple of seasons, critics would continue to call Kwame an 'under-achiever' and knock on his poor ball-handling skills. Even the Lakers coach, Phil Jackson, would join in.

“We’re going to feed him Butterfingers on the flight home just so he can feel the effects of it. There was certainly some disappointment in the ability, or non-ability, of Kwame to complete plays that we thought were big plays for us. His teammates are disappointed. He just has to accept the fact that the next time he gets that chance, he doesn’t [fumble].”

On January 13, 2007 the 'cake incident' occurred. Kwame was accused of throwing a cake at a man. Out celebrating Laker teammate Ronny Turiaf's birthday, Kwame asked Ronny to pose with him in a photograph. The cake-owner later caught up with Brown and Brown threw the cake at the man. Later, Kwame explained that he had thought the cake was Turiaf's and his intent was to throw it at Turiaf. He was not prosecuted, and to compensate the incident, he bought the gentleman dinner.

As claims Phil, Kwame became the team joker. In one instance, reporters recall Kwame shooting 3's with the guards instead of practicing on his post moves, as Phil Jackson had ordered. As opposed to his earlier teams, in this younger team he seemed to fit right in.

The fans, they weren't too helpful. After the promising Andrew Bynum went down to injury, Kwame Brown again took over the starting center position, to the dismay of Laker fans. Spoiled Laker fans booed Brown's performance in one particular game against the Suns, where his teammates kept feeding him the ball after unsuccessful field goal attempts.

Phil Jackson explained.

"I think that there's always performance pressure on a guy who has been looked at as the first pick in the draft and has not fulfilled that," coach Jackson said. "Those things, I'm sure, weigh. Those are things that we want him to get over. ... That happened, that's done."

Later that year, Kwame would again have a run-in with the law. His cousin was caught by police driving on the opposite path of a one-way street. Brown tried to explain that the car was his but he was not in the car during the incident. Though as a result of his aggressiveness, he was charged with disorderly conduct and interfering with police investigation.

Nearing the trade deadline last season, Kwame was traded in a blockbuster deal that would land the LA Lakers former all-star Pau Gasol. Stephen A. Smith would mock 'Kwa-mey' Brown as being the center piece of the deal.

The Grizzlies have already decided not to re-sign Kwame Brown this offseason, so he's off as a free agent. To the player that has been heckled more times than any other basketball player in the history of Western Civilization I say this... Thank the game, Kwame.

Sources: Leahy, Michael. (2004) When Nothing Else Matters, New York. Simon & Schuster
http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/070701/spo_6625506.html
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/nba/01draft/stories/2001-06-29-wizards-brown-father.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwame_Brown
http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1022963/index.htm
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=jackson/050505
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn?pagename=article&node=&contentId=A14426-2002Apr19&notFound=true
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D01E6DA173AF93AA25754C0A9679C8B63
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1355/is_5_100?pnum=2&opg=76697967&tag=artBody;col1
http://hoopedia.nba.com/index.php/Kwame_Brown
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1208/is_32_225/ai_77227872 http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A39978-2001Oct10?language=printer

Clipper Nation Holds its Breath

2008-07-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

This time, in utter excitement.

After enduring 38 years of mediocrity (and I'm being nice here), Clipper fans have something to look forward to this season. A couple of days ago I brought up the intriguing idea that either Baron Davis or Elton Brand were concerting a scheme to get the other player to join their team. Considering episodes like these almost never happen, I dismissed the notion.

Well it turns out Baron Davis has verbally agreed to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, leaving Chris Mullin and co. stranded on the outskirts of Oakland. How did this happen? Tim Kawakami blames the charade on Brand's agent, David Falk. Others let history be their guide.

The Warriors aren't going to give up though, they are putting out their best efforts to replace the gaping hole Davis has left, even if they are just trying to save face. To top it off, that's not the only thing the Warriors have to worry about--reports indicate the Heat and the Cavaliers are interested in Monta Ellis. Mullin would be crazy not to match the offers. Wouldn't it be something if Ferry or Riley offered a ridiculous amount of money just to piss off the Warriors?

A couple of days ago the Clippers were the franchise of bad news, today LA got a lot fuzzier. For Clipper fans, it's time to get excited, even if some are a bit more realistic. Me? I'm excited too. I can't wait for a Lakers-Clippers rivalry to ensue, as I'd finally be able to get a decent deal on a good Laker game.

While Clipper Nation holds a reunion party, Warriors fans may need to add a question mark to their 'We Believe' slogan.

UPDATE: Check out Steve's post at ClipsNation. He goes a bit more in-depth on who exactly was/were the one(s) behind the scenes.

Andrew Bynum (or His Agent) Lobbying for an Extension

2008-07-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

Word on the street is that Andrew Bynum is seeking a maximum contract from the Lakers. In other words, Bynum's agent David Lee wants his share of the dough--and he wants it gift-wrapped this summer.

Lee had these words of encouragement for the Lakers:

"The ball is in their court," Lee said. "They've got a decision to make. The question is whether they believe in him the way I believe in him. It's their decision to make if they want him there for the future."

Bynum averaged career highs in points and rebounds this season along with a career high in minutes played under philosophical coaches. His play was certainly impressive but he only did it for a few months before he went down with a knee injury. Heck, he's only played one full season--his sophomore year, which typically translates into a Phil Jackson rookie year.

In the article, Lee also mentions how he skewed the young, naive Andrew Bynum into seeking a fat maximum contract. Before you put blame on the gold-digging agent, the best option for Bynum would be to get the most out of his share...he already hired the leech anyway. In such a case that Bynum would sign for less cash, it's not likely the Lakers' owner Jerry Buss would be willing to utilize the savings in team investments.

Should the Lakers pay up and secure Bynum ASAP or should they take the easier route and let Bynum prove himself another season? The latter is the safest option in my opinion.

Your thoughts?

Artest stays put; Baron Davis, Elton Brand opt out

2008-06-30T20:02:00.001-07:00

Word from Sacramento is that Artest is not opting out:

Sacramento Kings forward Ron Artest will honor the final year of his contract and play for the Kings in the 2008-2009 season.
In an email sent to News10's Bryan May, Artest confirmed he is not exercising the free agency option in the final year of his contract, meaning he will earn $7,450,000 the coming season.

Artest is entering his third year with the Sacramento franchise, having come over in a January 2006 trade for Peja Stojakovic to the Indiana Pacers.

I think it's the best situation for Artest. Expect the Kings to actively shop Artest right about...now.

In other news is the mildly shocking revelation that both Baron Davis and Elton Brand are opting out. There's only a few teams with available cap space and two of those teams happen to be the Los Angeles Clippers and the Golden State Warriors. Anyone else envisioning a swap here? The teams are in the same division but a trade could be worked out considering the teams would get the most value out of their players in such a trade.

Both players can still be re-signed by their respective teams and both teams have a substantial amount of cap space. Is there the possibility that one of these players will get re-signed for less money in order to make room for a big free agent? Hmmm... hehe, probably not.

I'll tell you what though, the outcome of this off season will be interesting.

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Steve Blake made it, why can't Drew Neitzel?

2008-06-28T17:51:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to lie, I'm a casual college basketball fan and I can't say I'm anything close to being a good talent evaluator. However, I have seen a few Michigan St. games and I do know when someone deserves a chance.

With this in mind, I tell you, Drew Neitzel of Michigan State can play basketball. He won't bully his way through the lane, he won't give you lock-down defense, but he will give it 110% every time down the court.

Drew Neitzel averaged 13 ppg, shot 40% from the field, and close to 40% from 3-point land with the Spartans. Not astonishing numbers, but a relatively solid display. What I really like about him is that he has a high basketball IQ, good basketball awareness, and a quick release on his jump shot. Oh, and great three-point shooting. I mean, he can flat-out shoot. If you ask the average college basketball fan (and I did :D) Neitzel was arguably the best guard of his conference last season.

The knock on Neitzel is his lack of athletic abilities. He doesn't have the 'tools' to become a great defender or a great scorer. To those people I say this, I'd rather have a player who leaves it all on the court than a player with outstanding athletic ability who leaves it all in the locker room. It's a safe bet for an intelligent player like Neitzel to listen to everything the coach demands.

I don't mean to sound like some Drew Neitzel fan boy (and trust me, I'm not), I'm just trying to explain the real issue here is that the NBA should give more players like him a chance. I've kind of had a grudge against NBA scouts/Gm's/etc. for picking potential over talent. For example, Al Thornton is arguably the steal of the 2007 draft. His age and 'ceiling' were no doubt factors in his late lottery selection. If teams would only look past that, they would have much better drafts.

The NBA these days is so interested into finding the next steal in the NBA draft that they forget about solid talent with ability to contribute. Usually in the second round of the draft, solid players like Neitzel are dismissed by GM's and more than likely the most athletic knucklehead left is selected. This year was no different. Sure, there's a chance that a player could pan-out, but you must remember the gamble. For every 'potential star' there are dozens of Matt Carroll's out there.

UPDATE:
Today, the Minnesota Timberwolves invited Drew Neitzel to their summer league team. It's a good opportunity for him because Minnesota has a point guard spot up for grabs. He'll likely be competing for that backup guard spot, possibly with a few other undrafted guards. I wish him the best of luck.

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Pat Riley responds to Shaq dissing Kobe

2008-06-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

Is Elton Brand really Pat Riley's main target?

2008-06-25T19:47:00.000-07:00

The latest draft rumors from ESPN indicate that the Heat are more interested in acquiring a point guard than drafting Michael Beasley at the no.2 slot in the draft. Such rumors suggest that Pat Riley is interested in exploring his trade options.

It's always been obvious to me that Pat Riley isn't a big fan of the rebuilding process. He's implied to the public before that he'd like to start winning as quickly as possible. That strategy has been successful for him before (2006 Heat) and the one-year turnaround of the Boston Celtics has certainly given some inspiration.

This is why I believe the recent rumors is just a smokescreen by Riley to pull off some leverage in trade talks. If you look at the top picks in this draft, most of them are in need of a point guard. Most of those teams are also in dire need of a big man. I am highly doubtful that Riley's willing to skip on Michael Beasley because of his 'personality'. My theory is that he has a larger goal in mind...getting his hands on some Elton Brand.

The Los Angeles Clippers are in need of a point guard after suffering a harsh season with Smush Parker and Brevin Knight 'running' the show. Shaun Livingston could be the answer, but currently they're in a dilemma on whether they should sign him to a long-term contract because it is not known how he'll come back from this unfortunate injury. With Al Thornton's successful rookie year, the departure of Sam Cassell, and the aging of Cuttino Mobley, it may just be time to rebuild (once again) in Clipperville. Many mock drafts are speculating that the Clippers will select the best point guard available. It would make sense for Pat Riley to pull this smokescreen to frighten the Clippers and a couple of other teams in the hunt for OJ Mayo and Jerryd Bayless. Also notice how Riley brings both players into the mix...hmmmm...

Pat Riley has taken some gambles in the past, so my prediction is that he tries to acquire Elton Brand and perhaps take on Tim Thomas' contract by offering the no.2 pick with either Marion or Haslem as the core offer. Resigning either Ricky Davis or Jason Williams as an expiring contract would also be a possible incentive. Riley may also have some interest in taking a gamble on Shaun Livingston, the Clippers may want to get rid of Cuttino Mobley. The Heat also have the MLE which could be useful in luring in a point guard like Beno Udrih.

Don't be surprised to see Elton Brand in a Heat uniform next season.

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Compiling Evidence for Conspiracy Theorists

2008-06-24T13:50:00.001-07:00

Disclaimer: Don't brand me a conspiracy theorist, because I am not. Rather this article is to give you an idea of a conspiracy theorist's perspective.

I've decided to pretend I am one of those conspiracy theorists that believe the NBA is rigged to the point where millions of fans have been fooled. The following is compiled in order to prove the dirty tricks that the league pulls off and David Stern's authoritarian tactics.

Draft History

From 1978-2007, exactly 15 Western Conference teams and 15 Eastern Conference teams have 'won' the 1st overall pick of the nba draft. This year, the Chicago Bulls, an Eastern Conference team, received the 1st overall pick.

By coincidence, 1978 was the year David Stern became the NBA's General Counsel.

A match made in heaven.

Media

This guy says it better than I can (From TrueHoop):

From a league perspective they have done a great job sweeping this scandal under the rug, and downplaying it.
I keep on reading how Donaghy "provided information" as though this was the crux of the scandal.

The guy fixed games. He didn't "provide information" he bet on games he was working, and made calls to insure he would win those bets. It's pretty basic stuff but the NBA has somehow turned the focus of the whole investigation away from this and instead focused on the "inside information" angle.

I understand what the league is trying to do, I think in this instance the truth doesn't jibe with the league's best interest. In that respect the League and the Commissioner have done a great job of downplaying the scandal.

Honestly, do you really think that if a similar scandal had happened in the NFL, ESPN wouldn't still be covering that story right now? The Donaghy scandal barely got any run.

Then all of a sudden the NBA was the most competitive league on the planet. All of a sudden is the resurgence of the Lakers/Celtics rivalry.

Why doesn't the media cover this story as much as say...Baseball's steroids scandal? It's ridiculous. You have to believe Stern has his hands on the media, one way or another.

Unwritten Rules Over Actual Rules

The problem with referees in the NBA is that they are not required to follow the rule book. Rather, calls are the outcome of a refs opinion and not based on actual rules . Often you hear that referees should allow more contact in the NBA playoffs, or that some calls shouldn't be called at the end of a game. Don't you think Stern welcomes these demands?

There's always going to be debate over 'Common Sense' vs 'Actual Rules' since calls are such a big part of the game, but my opinion is that the actual rule book should dominate.

The 'Real' NBA Rule Book

The Infamous Game 6 of the 2002 WCF

Some claim it is the worst-officiated game in the History of Western Civilization.

Check it out for yourself (Caution: grotesque in nature):

Game 6 Part 1
Game 6 Part 2
Game 6 Part 3

I am told you are automatically converted into a conspiracy theorist after watching these videos. Me, I prefer to stay a realist, so I'll just pretend I never saw them.

Also check out my earlier post on Game 6.

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Examining Payrolls of Championship Teams

2008-06-23T13:46:00.000-07:00

I have listed the payrolls of championship teams of the last ten years, along with other supportive salary cap information.

'98-'99 Spurs $39,606,000
Set Salary Cap: $ 30,000,000
[ $ 9,606,00 above the salary cap ]

'99-'00 Lakers $56,141,180
Set Salary Cap: $ 34,000,000
[ $ 22,141,180 above the salary cap ]

'00-'01 Lakers $58,698,213
Set Salary Cap: $ 35,500,000
[ $ 23,198,213 above the salary cap ]

'01-'02 Lakers $64,262,017
Set Salary Cap: $ 42,500,000
[ $ 21,762,017 above the salary cap ]

'02-'03 Spurs $53,804,581
Set Salary Cap: $ 40,300,000
[ $ 13,504,581 above the salary cap ]

'03-'04 Pistons $71,209,997
Set Salary Cap: $ 43,800,000
[ $ 27,409,997 above the salary cap ]

'04-'05 Spurs $65,632,919
Set Salary Cap: $ 43,900,000
[ $ 21,732,919 above the salary cap ]

'05-'06 Heat $60,732,452
Set Salary Cap: $ 49,500,000
[ $ 11,232,452 above the salary cap ]

'06-'07 Spurs $65,654,320
Set Salary Cap: $ 53,100,000
[ $ 12,554,320 above the salary cap ]

'07-'08 Celtics $81,133,740
Set Salary Cap: $ 55,600,000
[ $ 25,533,740 above the salary cap ]

Conclusions:

- The Average payroll of the last ten seasons is $61,687,542. In the last five seasons, the average salary is $68,872,686 which is about 13 mil above the most recent set salary cap ($55.63 million for the 2007-2008 season).

- Considering the salary cap in 05-06 was so much higher than the 98-99 season, I would conclude the 05-06 Heat was the cheapest championship team of the last ten seasons.

- The Celtics won the trophy this season with the highest payroll of the last ten seasons.

- The 03-04 Pistons have the largest gap between their salaries and the set salary cap.This a surprise considering their leading scorer was Rip Hamilton at 17 ppg and Ben Wallace and Chauncey Billups were making a measly 5 million each.

- Make your own conclusions!

Sources:
Basketball Reference
NBA Salary Cap

Top 5 Free Agents Most Likely to Change Teams

2008-06-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

Some of the most notable 'free agents' this summer are restricted free agents. This group consists of players such as Atlanta's athletic phenom Josh Smith and the Chicago Bulls' Luol Deng. The reason these free agents are 'restricted' is because the players could receive offers from whatever team, but the original team has the right to match the offer. Very often, the offers are matched and the players stay put. This is why I exclude these players from my breakdown.

( 5 ) Corey Maggette - Corey hasn't exactly had a great relationship with Coach Mike Dunleavy during his tenure with the Clips. Rumors indicate that he will opt out for free agency, but you never know what Donald Sterling has in mind.

( 4 ) Grant Hill - This talented veteran is anxious to get to the big stage. After the Suns' unsuccessful run this post season, Grant Hill will be exploring his options. I wouldn't be surprised to see him head back East.

( 3 ) James Posey - Most recently described as the 'new Robert Horry', James Posey could mimic Robert Horry's ring-chasing ways. His play in the finals against the Lakers showed that Posey is a definite winner. Posey could possibly be receiving a raise soon. Some teams that may be interested are the Lakers, the Suns, and the Jazz.

( 2 ) Ricky Davis/Jason Williams - Either (or both) of these players could sign a new deal this summer, perhaps even net an MLE deal. Despite the Heat's struggles, both players provide assets that teams are searching for. Either/both players could also be subjects of a sign-and-trade deal, especially with Pat Riley exploring trade opportunities. I guarantee that at least one of these players will not be with the Miami Heat next season.

( 1 ) Kwame Brown - After the Gasol-to-LA deal was completed, the Grizzlies let it be known that they were only interested in Kwame's expiring contract. There is no doubt he will not be around with the Grizzlies next season.

Bonus: Jannero Pargo - During the Hornets' big rise, general managers have had a glance at what Pargo can provide off the bench. If the Hornets decide to go Mike James direction, Pargo could be seeking a new home.

Also Smush Parker, Devean George, Matt Barnes, and Mickael Pietrus.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Free agents least likely to switch teams:

Gilbert Arenas - Many fans freaked out a few months ago when Gilbert Arenas stated he would opt out of his deal this summer. Most writers thought otherwise, concluding it was nothing more than a smart business move. I agree with my fellow brethren, that Arenas will stay a Wizard for years to come.

Lindsey Hunter - Unless someone offers him a big chunk of change (think double his salary), Hunter will not be leaving the Pistons. Hunter seems to be comfortable with the organization, and will likely stick around after his retirement.

Jermaine O'Neal - Jermaine O'Neal's injury-plagued season (and career?) has hurt his chances at opting out for big dough this summer. He'll be making superstar money, which he wouldn't get out in free agency. In fact, I bet the Pacers would be delighted if he opted out.

.......................................................................................................................................................................

A Day in the Life of Eddy Curry

2008-06-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

Get Your FREE Sports Fan Pack

2008-06-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

Just e-mail or fill out the contact form for the team requesting
a "Fan Pack" and they will send one to you free of course. Most
include a team photo (some may be autographed), stickers, calander
ect. These are great for true fans.
Thanks sourlemonhead

Basketball Teams

Harlem Globetrotters
info@harlemglobetrotters.com

Miami Heat
GuestServices@heat.com

Minnesota Timberwolves
fansfirst@timberwolves.com or
http://www.nba.com/timberwolves/w...ct_us.html

Detroit Pistons
http://www.nba.com/pistons/contac...stons.html

Baseball

Seattle Mariners
fanfeedback@mariners.mlb.com

New York Yankees
fanfeedback@yankees.mlb.com

Milwaukee Brewers
fanfeedback@brewers.mlb.com

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
fanfeedback@angels.mlb.com

Houston Astros
fanfeedback@astros.mlb.com

Atlanta Braves
fanfeedback@braves.mlb.com

Chicago White Sox
fanfeedback@whitesox.mlb.com

Pittsburgh Pirates
fanfeedback@pirates.mlb.com

Baltimore Orioles
fanfeedback@orioles.mlb.com

Philadelphia Phillies
fanfeedback@phillies.mlb.com

Los Angeles Dodgers
fanfeedback@dodgers.mlb.com

Arizona Diamondbacks
fanfeedback@diamondbacks.mlb.com

New York Mets
fanfeedback@mets.mlb.com

Cincinnati Reds
fanfeedback@reds.mlb.com

Cleveland Indians
fanfeedback@indians.mlb.com

Toronto Blue Jays
fanfeedback@bluejays.com

Football

Carolina Panthers
feedback@panthers.nfl.com

Philadelphia Eagles
fanfeedback@lincolnfinancialfield.com

San Diego Chargers
fanmail@chargers.nfl.com

Houston Texans
fanfeedback@houstontexans.com

Arizona Cardinals
rodenwald@cardinals.nfl.net

Atlanta Falcons
feedback@fans.atlantafalcons.com

Seattle Seahawks
customerservice@seahawks.com

San Francisco 49ers
49ersfaninfo@niners.nfl.com

Chicago Bears
fanservices@bears.nfl.com

Pittsburg Steelers
feedback@fans.steelers.com

Dallas Cowboys
Requests can be mailed to:

Dallas Cowboys Football Club
One Cowboys Parkway Irving, Texas 75063

Hockey

Vancouver Canucks
info@canucks.com

St. Louis Blues
Webmaster@stlblues.com

Kansas City Cheifs
http://www.kcchiefs.com/contact/

Baltimore Ravens
contactus@ravens.nfl.net

Indianapolis Colts
http://www.colts.com/sub.cfm?page...amic&id=83

This had been around for a while but I thought it was still worthy of a post.

Anyway, request a free fan pack (include your name & address) and await your FREE fan pack. I can't assure you every team will send you one, but there's no shame in trying!

Credit to the good folks at Slick Deals

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Should Faking Injuries Be Considered Flopping?

2008-06-18T17:52:00.000-07:00

The blogging world has always been pretty harsh on floppers. Callin'em cheaters. Callin'em disgraces. Callin'em European. Me, I'm the kind of guy that roots for the little guy. The underdog. The victim.

Most recently, the horrible and intolerable injury to Paul Pierce in Game 1 of the NBA Finals led me to the discovery that faking injuries has become a growing trend in the NBA. When the 'knee injury' occurred, he was carried off the court and onto a wheelchair, to my dismay. I thought that dude was in serious, deadly pain. Yet, 5 minutes later, he came out the tunnel to the tune of the roaring crowd, without a visible limp. I could have sworn I saw him do a back flip over Pau Gasol.

I mean, he could have fooled an electrocardiogram.

Yesterday, yet again, we see a similar occurrence with Ray Allen. A Laker gives him a little tap on the face and suddenly the dude's eye is about to pop. In fact, this isn't the first time a basketball player with 'Ray Allen' in his name has flopped his way to a win.

Such an act would make Bill Belichick proud.

Photo via Deadspin

Aha! Mr. Belichick in attendance! No matter what he says, Garden (TD banknorth whatever the f it's called) security, that is not a cellphone! (Unless it takes pretty decent quality video)

Now let us go back to this exchange from the 2007 Western Conference Semis. I was surprised the NBA took absolutely no action against this incident. If you slide over to the 0:43 mark you can clearly see that Steve Nash drove his shoulder right at Robert Horry's forearm. Are you kidding me? Horry was amiable enough to walk right back to his bench and try to seek help for Nash from the team physician. But NO, those darn Phoenix Suns had to put a halt to that tremendous act of grace. Selfish bastards.

Still don't believe me? Take a look at the 0:48 mark. Horry gives Raja Bell a pretty decent shoulder massage, using nothing but his forearm (!!), and Bell reacts by violently pushing away Horry's arm. That's disgusting.

If you ask me, that sort of behavior should not be tolerated by the NBA.

The league should seriously consider penalizing players for committing these 'injury flops'. Not only does it hurt the reputation of the innocent victims at the other end of the flop, but the image of the NBA. It's time to take action or it will not be long before the number of championships will be dictated by the number of injuries you fake.

Celtics oust Lakers, Win NBA Championship

2008-06-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

You've got to give that team credit. Everything they did, the Lakers did not do. Being a die-hard Laker fan, it'll probably take a few Kobe martinis to forget this one. Then I'll head to the sack, hoping I don't wake up with a wet bed the next day.

Seriously though, this was a fun yet disappointing series. The Celtics gave it their all, the Lakers took it all, rolled it up, and shoved it straight up their bums...

Until next season, all the Lakers can do is contemplate what do next. Scuba diving? Mexican cruise? A couple of pairs of limited edition Gucci swim trunks? Who knows. One thing that is for sure , is that the Lakers are not done yet. This learning experience is just another step on the latter... and next year, a seven-foot 20 year old center is about to climb up.

In midst of Donaghy's accusations

2008-06-17T14:03:00.000-07:00

This is what the Lakers think of Game 6 of the 2002 WCF...

Youtube version (worser quality)

How YOU (the fans) can help the Lakers win Game 4

2008-05-26T10:50:00.000-07:00

As I was browsing blogs early-bird-style, I stumbled upon this. I thought it was a great idea. Considering you don't need a 'Yellowbook cam' to watch Kobe the entire game, and that Pau Gasol wouldn't be anything better than mildly-entertaining, no other player is the best candidate.

Okay, now I know I'm voting for Ronny's Turiaf but...what SPUR do I vote for?

Tim Duncan?

No, booooring.

Ginobili?

I don't think he speaks.

Parker?

No, but may I suggest a 'Longoria cam'?

I know the perfect candidate. And voting him for the last 12 minutes of the game may just cost the Spurs a win. I'll tell you who: Bruce Bowen.

Why you say? Well, we all know Bruce's past history (ahem) and we know he can get a little...violent. Why not keep a cam on Bowen for 12 minutes? Sure, if something 'out of the ordinary' happens Stu Jackson may just not give a crap, but as for us, the fans, our comments will be justified.

EVERY OTHER FAN: "Bowen is a dirty player"

SPUR FAN: " Bowen is not dirty. He is just an opportunist"

You know the drill. Game 4, vote Bowen. At http://www.tnt.tv/sports/nba/playoffs08_preview/.

Save a game for the Lakers, but most importantly, save a player.

HYPE IT UP!

Kobe Buys Teammates 9,000 Watches

2008-05-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

Orange County Register -
To celebrate his MVP award, Kobe Bryant gave each teammate a personally engraved Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Chronograph watch from Switzerland. They retail for $9,000 apiece.

That's some reward for well...hitting your shots. I say the Lakers should pitch in and set up a Kwame Brown support fund. It's going to be tough signing autographs and getting pissed on at Wendy's for minimum wage.

2008-05-19T21:29:00.000-07:00

Barkley bet on more than 100 NBYA games: report

2 hours ago

Aluhbamuh — Charles Barkley, former nba allstar, placed bets upon more than 100 NBA Youth Association games he attended from 2004 to 2008, the Alabama Daily Scroll reported.

Federal prosecutors filed paperwork Monday indicating the scope of the scandal, the newspaper reported Saturday, with Barkley having already pleaded guilty to five counts of illegal gambling on public pickup games.

"The government's investigation revealed that Barkley provided picks for anywhere from 30 to 40 games for each of those three seasons," Assistant US Attorney Jeffrey Goldberg said in a letter filed in federal court.

Barkley, 41, who was previously convicted for for misdemeanors on Krispy Kreme establishments, is currently 'busy hitting the blackjack table' and declined to comment. He faces up to 20 years of intense weight watchers regimes.

While Barkley has not been accused of match-fixing games he wagered upon, his actions could have affected margins, point totals and eventual outcomes and clearly shattered the integrity and self esteem of the National Basketball Youth Association.

Barkley would pass along information about which referees were going to handle which games, giving gamblers insight into games long before the children even knew which referees were going to handle their games. When asked to comment, 10 year old Richie Jones responded, "It's a terruble, terruble, incident."

Shawn Kemp, among Barkley's gambling partners who pleaded guilty in April to their roles in the plot, said Barkley received $5 dollars for each correct selection, including those in games he sat through.

Damon Jones Deserves a Post

2008-05-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

This is a classic right here. Seriously, the NBA should consider Jones and Craig Sager for the marketing department--I'm sure they can come up with some useful ideas...'Witness Stern' tees anyone?