Category Archives: Basketball

Feb 18 2013
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

Happy Birthday 50th Michael Jordan!!!

6 NBA championships, 6 NBA MVP finals, 5 MVP, 10 scoring titles, 9 All Defensive first team,First player in NBA history to record 200 steals and 100 blocked shots in a season, and third in the NBA All-time leading scoring with 32,292 points. I’m talking about none other than the greatest to player to ever play Michael Jordan. These are just a few of his great accomplishments. As a Chicagoan growing up a bulls fan I can’t simply explain how much Michael meant not only to the organization but also to the city of Chicago. No one can deny that Michael Jordan changed the game, he was the player that everyone wanted to imitate. Future Hall of Famers Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and Kobe Byrant credit MJ as the person that inspired them when they were falling in love with the game of basketball.

Jordan became the first global icon of the sport! The NBA never seen someone of that athletic talent and skill before. The dunks, the turnaround jumper, his defensive prowess, and his ultimate competitve killer instinct was something no other player embodied before Jordan came along. Jordan was also a trendsetter off the court as well. Let’s be honest he made Nike what it is today! Jordan’s shoes still outsell Kobe,  and LeBron  sneakers. That just shows you how much people still want to associate with the Jordan a decade after his retirement. His partnership with Spike Lee made everybody want to be like Mike! Since his retirement the league has been on the hunt to find the next Jordan, often considering Lebron James and Kobe Bryant. Although legit reasons can be made for their arguments about LeBron and Kobe, today lets just celebrate his greatness, and appreciate what he’s done for the game of basketball! As a Bulls fan I will always be grateful for the moments  MJ gave us. He played his heart out every night! He is the embodiment of a champion and has served as an inspiration to many on and off the court, including me. He’s truly the best to ever do it! Happy 50th birthday Michael ‘Air’ Jordan!!! 

Image

Click the link above to see a tribute to MJ!

Tagged , ,
Feb 17 2013
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

Derrick Rose said WHAT?!

To the dismay of many Bulls fans Derrick Rose said in his USA today interview published February 13th, that he wouldn’t mind sitting out the whole season. He said he wants to be 110% before he returns and according to his estimation he’s only 80%. This comes as a little bit of shock to Bulls fans who have been suffering for nearly 10 months waiting for Rose’s return. Prior to the interview various Bulls insider and Coach Thibs said that Rose was taking part in full contact practice. The thought behind full court practice is that if he can practice he can play, so what’s the holdup?!

Once I wiped away my tears  after realizing that Derrick won’t be returning, I came to my senses and realized what all was at stake. Derrick is the face of one of the most popular franchises in the NBA, and he is also the face of Addias. Signing a $250 million contract nearly a two years ago. He is simply to expensive to risk. Derrick Rose is the second coming in Chicago the organization knows that and Derrick knows that.

If Rose was to come back a shell of himself or comeback and get injured again his personal stock and the championship dreams of the Bulls will never come true. As rational fans we have to ask ourselves if Derrick Comes back now what are we going to win, really? Even though we can challenge the Heat there’s no way we can beat them with the current roster that we have. We still lack a second go to scorer. No one can create their own shot, and until the Bulls address this issue we won’t get past the Heat. That issue is bigger than Derrick Rose.  Looking at it from this prospective I can understand why Derrick Rose wouldn’t want to come back, what would he come back for? It’s best for Derrick Rose to sit out and get as healthy as possible, it’s simply not worth money or our championship dreams to bring back Derrick Rose this season. So Bulls fan we have to be patient, Derrick will be worth the wait!

Image

Tagged , ,
Nov 25 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

Big Brother, Little Brother: Nets and Clippers growing up?!

For the last decade- arguably even the last two decades the Clippers and the Nets have been the laughing stock of the NBA. No one took them seriously, the NBA and its fans turned their noses up or frankly laughed out loud at the idea of the two teams ever being competitive! But the little brothers are growing up and people are paying attention, and there is nothing more a younger sibling loves more than attention, and proving people wrong; as the younger sibling I can attest to these feelings and frustrations.  The Nets have always played second fiddle to the New York Knicks a team whose record at some point was just as laughable as the Nets, but still beloved by New Yorkers, and of course die hard Knicks fans. But with the move to Brooklyn, a fresh look, and a celebrity to call their own, Jay-Z, the Nets and Brooklyn have something to brag about! The little brother Nets are finally growing up right in front of their big brother’s eyes (Knicks) and lets just say the big brother doesn’t feel so big anymore! Both teams have a respectable roster and come playoff time I would argue that these two teams shouldn’t be looked over. The gritty personality and pride that embodies Brooklyn and the celebrity posh attitude of the Knicks is definitely going to be battle to enjoy!

The Clippers share they same story as the Nets they were considered the ‘other’ team in LA, I mean really, who the hell rooted for the Clippers?! With their eccentric, some might say even morally corrupt owner of the LA Clippers were the complete opposite of the what the Lakers symbolized-championships, celebrities, class, and most importantly, fans! The LA Clippers are prime time now with a solid squad that might give the LA Lakers a run for their money in popularity once their team is back healthy and they develop more throughout the season. Can the Clippers run deep into the playoffs, well it depends on a number of things such as health but I wouldn’t count them out!

Last night I was able to watch the little brothers at the Barclays center and it was a great battle between two up-incoming teams! With the Nets winning 86 to 76. I observed two solid teams finally coming into their own and finding their identity. As a younger sibling I’m rooting for both teams to show up their older sibling, and for once that dream can come true for these teams! Jay-Z Vs. Spike Lee, Jack Nicholson Vs. Billy Crystal, this sibling rivalry is about to get good! Let the battles begin!

Image

Tagged , , , , , , ,
Nov 06 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

Can Dwight Howard handle the LA Spotlight?

As I watch the Lakers I find that Center Dwight Howard looks increasingly uncomfortable. On one hand I think his discomfort is more related to trying to find chemistry with his new teammates NBA future Hall of Famers, Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash. Or it could very possible be because his back is not 100% However, I am more inclined to believe that he is more uncomfortable with being the number 2 or even number 3 guy on the team, and that the LA spotlight is way more than he can handle.Howard knows that he is going to be compared to Laker greats, such as Kareem, and Shaq. This very fact intimidates him. The fact that there are great expectations of him on a storied team like the Lakers is something Howard has never faced before. Before the trade Howard made it clear he wanted to go the Brooklyn Nets, a team with no history of championships and few championship expectations. That would’ve have the ideal place for Howard he would get the big market attention that he craves without the pressure and expectation of winning a championship NOW! If there is anything the Laker franchise and their fans want, it’s to win a championship, now, especially since Kobe is nearing the end of his career. Will Dwight Howard shrink under the pressure, or will this be his time to show that he is worthy to be a legendary Laker? Dwight, it’s simply up to you.

Image

Tagged , ,
Oct 30 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

Why you mad Celts?

Am I the only one confused on why Celtics fans and players are mad over the departure of Ray Allen. The writing had clearly been on the wall for some time. There was the almost trade to Memphis earlier in the year, there was the tension between him and Rondo, and finally the signing of Jason Terry that seemed to say Allen you are no longer welcomed. So it was surprising and shocking to see and hear that Celtics fans and players react so angrily to Allen leaving. Kevin Garnett (who has know turned into an old mad man) said that he deleted Allen’s number, even Doc Rivers got in the mix saying that Allen was selfish. All this anger makes no sense the Celtics did everything to push Allen away and now that he has went away to your rival nonetheless you act like Allen “LeBroned” you which was not the case. Celts fans I am truly puzzled on “Why you mad”.

Image

Tagged , , , , , , ,
Oct 25 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

NBA Preview: Chicago Bulls.

With Derrick Rose out at least until January or February the expectations for the Bulls are extremely low. Keep in mind that I’m a native Chicagoan, so I’ll try to be as unbiased as possible. During the offseason the Bulls made some radical changes, they got ride of our beloved Bench Mob. With new additions Nate Robinson, Nazr Mohammed, Kirk Hinrich, and Marquis Teague, the Bulls have put together a solid bench. With hopes that second year Jimmy Butler has improved his shooting the Bulls can be relatively competitive without their superstar, Derrick Rose. Will they win the East win Derrick comes back? Of course not, but I can see the Bulls capturing the number 8th spot in the East when Derrick Rose returns. Coach Thibs, has shown what he could do with what some might say a arguably mediocre team. So I wouldn’t completely sleep on the Bulls.

The Bulls have to do two things to make their offense more efficient. 1. Boozer and Noah have to score more in the paint. Grabbing rebounds is great but they have to learn how make high percentage shots. The Bulls relied too heavily on the jumpshot in previous seasons, that has to change! 2. Spread the floor. If Rip hamilton is healthy this season he and Hinrich will be able to spread the offense allowing more opportunities to score not only for themselves but for luol Deng as well. With Coach Thibs being on the great defensive minded coaches in the league, I’m not worried about defensive improvements, but we have to improve our offense tremendously in order to grab the 8th seed in the East. With that being said LETS GO BULLS.

Image

Tagged ,
Oct 21 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA Aside

Lebron James won’t be a Free Agent until 2014, but the speculation has already started as where he will end up. With an aging Dwyane Wade and Miami’s future in Lebron’s hands, where will LeBron go next If he decides to leave Miami? Some might describe LeBron as a ring chaser ever since he joined up with Wade and Bosh, but in today’s league, how many rings you get will determine your legacy. So could you blame him? He wants to be considered as one of the greattes to ever play.

So where does Chris Paul come in this conversation? LeBron James and Chris Paul are the best of friends, I would argue that he’s even more close to Paul than he is to Wade. And outside of Kobe Bryant, Chris Paul is one the most competitive players in the NBA, he wants to win BAD! If the situation is right and they can make it happen, LeBron James WILL pair up with Chris Paul to add rings on his resume. Obviously, the pair would have to have great role players along with them but don’t be surprised if you see these two as teammates within the next to years! Where will go? So which team will be able to afford the two superstars? Only time will tell!!!

Image

LeBron James and Chris Paul: The Next Dynamic Duo?!

Tagged , , ,
Aug 13 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, Football, NFL

Chad and Evelyn: It was all cool just a month ago

NFL player Chad Johnson and his wife Basketball Wives reality star Evelyn Lozada seemed to be a match made in reality tv heaven. As you all know by now Johnson was arrested for allegedly headbutting Evelyn during an argument in their car.  Domestic violence situations are always sticky, because they involve people’s personal lives. The Dolphins wasted no time by cutting him late yesterday. Who exactly knows what happen in that car, but from Chad’s professional track record this is out of character. Domestic violence is wrong, but you hate to see a Johnson probably end his professional career like this. Johnson can’t blame anyone but himself for the situation that he is in- lets face the facts Lozada may not have been the best person to marry. It would be interesting to see how all of this turns out,- Johnson has a tough road back if he wants to play in the NFL again.  Thoughts and reactions?

Image

Tagged , , , , , , , ,
Jul 07 2012
Leave a comment
Basketball, NBA

Steve Nash, the Lakers answer?

After the Lakers exit from the playoffs, many people thought that they had to get younger this offseason to compete with the Thunder, whom many assume will be the favorites in the West for years to come. So the signing of Steve Nash was a bit of a shocker! Surprisingly, many sports commentators dismissed this signing as the answer the to Lakers problems, mainly youth and athleticism. Nash is a two time MVP and although old, and lacks defensive skills, I think he is a great addition to the team, and gives them a great chance to compete with the Thunder. Lets keep in mind the Thunder are still young, and even though the Finals were a great growing experience for them, Kobe Bryant is on a mission, he wants that sixth ring! And  Nash wants to be called a champion! Steve Nash is still a great point guard; there is no doubt that he will improve Andrew Bynum’s game as well as Pau Gasol’s game. Nash is an intelligent player that will alleviate some of the offensive stress on Kobe Bryant by giving the bigs on the team easier buckets. Will they beat the the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals? ( I know I’m jumping ahead of the game here)  I can’t say that will, but I can say that they have a great chance to beat the them this upcoming season. The pairing of one the best point guards in the game and one the best shooting guards to ever play the game, it will be fun to watch, although both older and have many miles of wear and tear on their body, I think they will be serious contenders for the championship. Lets see what happens!

Image

Tagged , ,
Jun 25 2012
1 Comment
Basketball, NBA

Will LeBron James go down as one of the top 10 to ever play?

One of 8 players in NBA history to ever win 3 MVP’s, one of 8 players in NBA history to score at least 2,000 points in seven straight seasons, one of 4 players in NBA history to average 20 points 5 rebounds and 5 assists in their rookie season. One of two players in NBA history to average 21 points 6 assists and 6 rebounds for six consecutive season, only behind Oscar Robertson, and finally the youngest player in NBA history to score 30 points in a game at 18 years and 334 days, and this list isn’t even exhaustive!  Love him or hate him LeBron James at the age of 27 has already cemented his legacy as one of the all time greats. After finally capturing his much deserved NBA title LeBron has left no room for his critics to say that he can’t be mentioned in the same breath as Micheal Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, or Kobe Bryant. Granted its only one ring, but LeBron put the Miami Heat on his back, with a injured Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh during the season and postseason, and inconsistent bench, many thought that even if LeBron won a ring it wouldn’t be as significant because he’d be playing along two other great players. That argument was completely debunked by LeBron’s play this season, it was clear that it was LeBron’s team and it was even more clear that if it wasn’t for LeBron Miami wouldn’t have won the title this year. James made up for Dwyane inconsistent play at times and Bosh’s absence during the season. He covered many of Miami’s flaws.  At 6-8 250 plus, the NBA has never seen a player like LeBron. Is he Jordan? No. Is  heMagic? No. In my opinion he’s a mixture of both! He’s one of the best, if not the best passer the game has ever seen (with the exception of Magic), especially for a man his size. His chase down blocks, defensive prowess, rebounding, and ability to finish at the rim, is a combination of skills the league has never seen in one player before. James is only going to get better, his play in the paint has greatly improved, his jump shot is much better, and he even developed a nice push shot/ teardrop to his game. With these added dynamics to his game LeBron James will be more unstoppable next season. James is a unique player, the player of the decade and a player that more than deserves to be considered one of the top ten players to ever play. His ring only validates what we already knew, there will never be another player like James and to me that’s worthy enough to put him in the 10 to ever play.

*stats provided by NBA.com, ESPN.com, Newobserver.com, and Wikiapedia

Image

Tagged ,
← Older posts
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 140 other followers