Houston Roundball Review Basketballs for Thought

Coogs' Disappointing Season Continues

2012-02-12T10:18:00.002-06:00

Before the 2011-2012 college basketball season began, the Houston Cougars men's basketball team was tabbed to finish 11th in Conference USA by Basketball Times. Based on the few practices I had seen and the incoming talent, I didn't believe there was even a remote chance that the 11th place prediction would ring true.

Oops.

As of today, the Coogs are one half-game out of 12th place. Their 3-8 conference record ties them with East Carolina; however, since the Coogs' 11-13 overall record is worse than the Pirates' 12-12 overall record, the Houston Cougars reside in 11th place.

What's wrong with the Coogs?

Personally, I do believe this year's team has talent and athleticism. However, it's clear to me the team lacks toughness (mental and physical) to be successful. Plus, the team's youth and inexperience (eight newcomers) do not mask an apparent lack of high basketball IQ. Players simply do not make good basketball decisions in key moments of ball games.

In 11 C-USA games, the Coogs are 0-6 on the road. None of the six road losses has been by less than double digits. Opponents are shooting 48.3% from the field including 37.3% from the three-point line which indicates the team's defense needs an awful lot of work.

Good team defense is based on good communication, trust, and an individual mindset of 'my man isn't going to beat me'. Trust enters the picture when, even if your man does get by you, your teammates will have your back and be in position for the help defense.

In this Houston Chronicle article from February 9, head coach James Dickey, senior Darian Thibodeaux, and sophomore Alandise Harris are quoted stating what needs to be done to improve the team and salvage this season.

"We've got to continue to fight," Dickey said. "We still have a lot to play for. We have six games left. We've got to gain some momentum and continue to try to improve every day in practice, be ready for every game and go into the conference tournament on a positive note. Talent-wise and when we guard and we play like we're capable, our guys know that we can compete at a very high level, and we've got to do that."

"It starts at practice," sophomore forward Alandise Harris said. "We have to get tougher there and then carry it over to the game."

"The good thing about that is mostly everyone is always positive," senior guard Darian Thibodeaux said.

"Last year, I don't think the guys were always (operating) as one. Not to take anything away from last year's team, but there was a lot of negative in the locker room or on the court. This year's guys - we're a family. We just have to bring that family on the court, stay together and play as one."

Saturday evening, the Coogs got blasted 72-48 at Tulsa. So much for the words of toughness and togetherness leading to a victory.

Let me be clear, I did not expect this year's team to reach the NCAA Tournament; however, I did expect them to be more competitive than the 2010-2011 team (12-18, 4-12) and instill hope for the 2012-2013 season which would propel the Coogs into competing in their inaugural season in the Big East in 2013-2014.

The 3-8 conference record and the 11-13 record overall have been big disappointments. Being competitive in the Big East seems light years away.

NBA is back

2011-11-27T19:53:00.001-06:00

Nothing very profound in the next few words I type. (Some of you may think I haven't written anything profound for a while if ever; but, I digress.)

Assuming the NBA owners and the NBA players ratify the new collective bargaining agreement, the 2011-2012 NBA season will begin on Christmas Day.

I enjoy covering college basketball -- men's and women's college hoops; but, nothing beats the NBA.

Welcome back.

Let the Kevin McHale head coaching era begin.

For the betterment of the league going forward

2011-11-06T22:07:00.000-06:00

"David Stern told me three years ago – and I keep reiterating that because people keep pulling up their cup on it – that they were going to lock out [the players] in order to get what it was they wanted."

Those words were spoken by Billy Hunter, the executive director of the National Basketball Players' Association, nearly three weeks ago.

I'm confused. Since Hunter said David Stern told him three years ago the owners would lock out the players, why didn't Hunter choose the players' best form of leverage -- to decertify the union -- in July of this year?

New Jersey Nets' guard Deron Williams wondered the same thing. Williams tweeted he wanted to sign a decertification petition in July.

Rather than decertify the union in July, Hunter opted to file a case with the National Labor Relations Board in hopes the NLRB would rule in the players' favor and declare the lockout illegal. The NLRB has not yet ruled on the case.

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

Weeks ago, Amare Stoudemire said he believed the players should form their own basketball league.

"It's very, very serious. It's just a matter of us strategically coming up with a plan, a blueprint and putting it together," he said. "So we'll see how this lockout goes. If it goes one or two years, then we've got to start our own league."

Obviously, forming a new league and running the league effectively, efficiently, and logistically is a lot easier said than done; however, if the players had been told to prepare to be lockout for at least two years, why didn't they use those 730 days to contemplate and consider forming a new league rather than say it now?

Saturday night David Stern issued an ultimatum to the players to accept the owner's latest deal (a 50-50 split of the Basketball Related Income, with a chance to reach 51 percent) by Wednesday, November 9, or the owners' next offer will be a 47 percent BRI with a flex salary cap. Take it or leave it.

After's Stern ultimatum, the decision to decertify the union gained momentum and may be inevitable. However, first things first, at least 130 players must sign a petition to vote on decertification. Once the petition is filed, the NLRB would need to determine whether a decertification vote should occur. That determination would take approximately 45 days. Apparently, the threat of decertification is supposed to make the owners fearful enough of losing in court, to spur the owners to return to the bargaining table, during that 45 day window, and negotiate in good faith and reach a "fair deal" which the players will accept.

Please explain to me why the players believe the owners will suddenly have epiphanies and start making concessions?

I'm befuddled at players saying they are prepared to miss an entire season in order to get a fair deal. Heck, New York Knicks guard, Chauncey Billups, has been quoted saying he's willing to give up his entire 2011-2012 salary (all $14.3 M) "for the betterment of the league going forward".

Billups said, "I'm willing to fight with the union. Do I want to lose $14 million or whatever it might be? I don't want to lose a dime. My career is almost over. I want all of that. But at the same time, I was in that other lockout (in 1998-99) and I know what those older guys were willing to do for me. ... I'm in that position now and that's where I stand."

Why does Billups believe missing an entire NBA season is going to result in a better deal for the players? What planet is Billups and other NBA players living?

I am not questioning the players' resolve to stand united for a fair deal. I'm questioning their common sense.

In 2004, the National Hockey League players stood united and fought the owners in the negotiations. The NHL players did not believe the owners would cancel an entire season. Oops. The 2004-2005 season was wiped out. The players did not receive one dime of their salaries. If any NHL player is asked whether missing an entire season was worth the fight, the answer will be the same: No.

Bill Guerin, former player for the NHL's Dallas Stars, said, "It's not worth it. Get a deal done. I learned a big lesson: It’s not a partnership. It’s their league, and you are going to play when they want."

Guerin added, "It is not worth it to any of them to burn games or to burn an entire year. Burning a year was ridiculous. "It wasn’t worth me giving up $9 million a year, or 82 games plus the playoffs, then having a crappy year and being bought out."

I'm agreeing with Guerin. Unless the NBA players can convince me the owners will give them a better deal than the one currently on the proverbial table, I cannot understand the players' willingness to lose an entire season simply because of pride and principles.

A reduced paycheck is better than no paycheck.

Deal Day or Doomsday?

2011-11-05T07:12:00.000-06:00

Today, the NBA owners and the National Basketball Players Association is scheduled to meet. Today's meeting may go a long way in determining whether there will be a 2011-2012 season at all. Considering the rhetoric (letters from union president Derek Fisher as well as players' association executive director Billy Hunter) tossed around earlier this week and gems like this: "The league is facing an equal threat from a group of 10 to 14 owners — led by Charlotte’s Michael Jordan — who are determined to cap the players at 50 percent, according to a person who has spoken with the owners.", this meeting may not last longer than five minutes.

Pressure? Nah. Not at all.

Neither side seems willing to budge; however, both sides seem willing to fiddle while the 2011-2012 NBA season burns away.

Earlier this week, 50 players met Tuesday and Thursday to discuss and learn the details about possibly decertifying (dissolving) the union unless the owners agree to union's demand of 52.5 percent basketball related income (BRI) rather than the 50 percent the majority (not all) the owners seek.

The players, led by Boston Celtics forward Paul Pierce, and seven big-time agents believe decertification is the players' best leverage against the owners to get a fair deal. Said one player on the calls: “If nothing else, this takes us off our heels.”

Hardly a boring week in the NBA, right?

If / when today's meeting ends with no agreement, this week will appear uneventful compared to future weeks if the players decide to decertify the union; and, the owners decide to cancel the 2011-2012 NBA season.

NBA...Where canceled games happen...Again.

2011-10-11T07:17:00.002-05:00

I haven't written anything regarding the NBA lockout because, I suppose, in the back of my mind, I always believed the owners and the players would reach a new agreement and avoid the cancellation of any regular season games.

I was wrong. For the first time since the 1998-1999 season, NBA regular season games have been canceled.

Monday night, NBA Commissioner David Stern said, "I'm sorry to report, particularly for the thousands of people that depend on our industry for their livelihood, that the first two weeks of the season have been canceled," Stern said. "We certainly hoped it would never come to this. I think that both sides worked hard to get to a better solution. We think that we made very fair proposals. I'm sure the players think the same thing. But the gap is so significant that we just can't bridge it at this time."

The cancellation includes all games originally scheduled to be played through November 14.

Games have been canceled. Both sides blame the other. Blah. Blah. Blah.

David Stern has always maintained if a new collective bargaining agreement were not reached before games were canceled, the owners' proposals / offers would become worse as time passes in order for the owners to recoup the money they lose.

Case in point, Commissioner Stern have now backed away from their "50-50 BRI (basketball related income) split" to expecting the players to accept 47 percent rather than the 57 percent the players received in the previous collective bargaining agreement and the 53 percent today's players say is their "bottom line".

Billy Hunter, National Basketball Players Association Executive, cautions the owners to not question the resolve of the players. Hunter says the players will remain united as long as it takes in order for them to get what the players believe is a fair deal.

"I think it goes back to a comment that David made to me several years ago when he said, 'Look, this is what my owners have to have.' And I said, 'The only way you're going to get that is if you're prepared to lock us out for a year or two, and (this) indicated to me that they're willing to do it," Hunter said. "So my belief, my contention is that everything he's done has kind of demonstrated that he's following that script."

Hunter added, "I think everybody's waiting for the players to cave," Hunter said. "They figure that once a player misses a check or two, it's all over. And I'm saying to you that that would be a horrible mistake if they think that's going to happen, because it's not going to happen."

Don't those words give you a warm, fuzzy feeling inside?

The NBA's slogan has been: "The NBA...Where Amazing Happens."
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I guess that slogan is still accurate if you believe it's amazing the NBA owners and players could not reach an agreement and avoid games being canceled.

College basketball season starts in a few weeks.

Conference shuffling and Pat Summitt

2011-09-05T08:59:00.001-05:00

I haven't posted a new commentary in almost one month. However, the fact I've been remiss in posting new thoughts does not mean my mind has been without thoughts or opinions these last few weeks. Basically, I'm trying to figure out a reasonable balance among blog posts, tweeting on Twitter, and podcasts.

First, with ALL of the conference shuffling discussed in NCAA Division I football -- Texas A&M's decision to leave the Big 12; Oklahoma may decide to leave the Big 12 and head west to an expanded Pac-16 (which became the Pac-12 two months ago); etc. -- here's my two cents: the Big 12 (minus 3) should add BYU, TCU, and Houston to form a new Big 12. If the league decides not to make that happen, then the Big 12 is doomed to implosion within a year.

Mark Cuban, owner of the reigning NBA champions - Dallas Mavericks, wrote on his blog on Sunday reasons why the current teams in the Big 12 should stay in the Big 12. His reasons for maintaining the status quo of nine teams makes some sense. Check it out.

Plus, with the discussions of super / mega-conferences spreading across the college landscape at a rapid pace, perhaps a few of those "people in the know" should take a few minutes and remember that, in 1995, the Western Athletic Conference tried and failed with 16 member schools spread across a huge geographical landscape.

Conference shuffling / realignment is happening because of football. Hardly any college presidents, athletic directors, wealthy alumni, involved in these talks are considering the "other" sports such as basketball nor the "Olympic sports". Clearly, football drives the bus in big-time college athletics; however, the non-football student -athletes will be impacted more by the conference shake-ups because they will travel more as well as longer distances. (So much for the NCAA's noble gesture of keeping students first.)

On August 23, Pat Summitt, iconic head coach of the Tennessee Lady Vols, announced she has early onset dementia, Alzheimer type. The news stunned and saddened countless people; however, coaches, colleagues, friends, supporters, etc. each believe Coach Summitt will commit to battling dementia with everything she can and continue coaching to the best of her legendary ability.

I admire and respect Coach Summitt a great deal; and, her decision to publicly announce she has dementia will bring attention to the disease. Realistically, barring a miracle medical cure, this battle against Alzheimer's is unwinnable for her; but, the courage Coach Summitt has shown and will continue to show will inspire numerous people.

The 'Houston Sports Review'?

2011-08-08T14:12:00.001-05:00

With each passing day, it seems the NBA owners and the National Basketball Players Association are intent on not trying to reach a new collective bargaining agreement.

Combine the lack of meetings with no progress made in the handful of meetings which have actually been held plus a pithy comment such as this: "the owners are tired of making these guys rich", the 2011-2012 NBA season is headed towards cancellation.

I'm not surprised the NBA owners have locked out the players. The decision to lockout the players was expected nearly two years ago. However, I am surprised at the apparent willingness of the owners to risk cancelling an entire season.

David Aldridge, highly respected basketball reporter and columnist for NBA TV and TNT, wrote in his current "Morning Tip" a specific paragraph regarding the lockout which left me flabbergasted.

DA wrote: A source who deals with owners on a regular basis said that they remain determined to, if not break the union, break its current salary structure. The source said owners frequently speak of "being tired of making these guys rich" and are even contemplating asking for more, such as including income the players receive from their commercial endorsements and sponsorship money into the BRI pot -- the theory being the players wouldn't become famous and able to make such deals if not for the NBA infrastructure that puts them on television and other media. (Good luck with that one. And, yes, I asked my source if that were the case, why not cut players in for a slice of the action when owners sell their teams? I got something about there being a difference between the risks the players assume on the court and the risks owners take in financing their teams, got a headache in my eye and stopped listening.)

Many basketball people (including me) believe the owners are trying to break the union; so, the first sentence isn't a shocker. However, the second sentence caused me to roll my eyes in disbelief: Owners speak of "being tired of making these guys rich" and contemplating asking for more, such as including income the players receive from their commercial endorsements and sponsorship money...

WHAT THE HELL?!

If there are NBA owners who have those draconian and asinine expectations, then NBA fans might as well as switch their support to FIBA and NCAA hoops because there will definitely NOT be a 2011-2012 NBA season.

I've already been asked by a colleague what will I do if the '11-'12 NBA season is wiped out. I told him "I'll cover college basketball." And more.

I've covered college hoops for years; but, this season may be different because I may broaden my sports spectrum and spend time covering college and pro football and hockey (Go Red Wings!), too. In fact, I've already started discussing football in a few of the podcasts.

The "Houston Sports Review" doesn't have as good a flow as the "Houston Roundball Review"; but, sometimes, adjustments need to be made.

The NBA ... where the '11-'12 season may be canceled.

NBA proves common sense is not always common

2011-07-17T14:00:00.000-05:00

As I get ready to watch the United States women's national soccer team face Japan's national soccer team in the finals of the 2011 World Cup, I figured I may as well chime in and give my one cent (a penny for your thoughts) regarding the NBA's ridiculous decision to disallow contact between NBA personnel / team executives and active NBA players.

Since the NBA owners decided to lockout its players on July 1, unless the league grants permission (how considerate of the league to grant adults permission to communicate with each other) to a team executive and allows that person to communicate with active NBA players, contact is banned and, reportedly, results in a fine of $1 million. Yes, that's correct: ONE MILLION DOLLARS!

I'm amazed (not really) how a league built upon a solid foundation of business sense lacks so much common sense.

Case in point: when news about Yao Ming's retiring became public the Rockets' organization did not release any public statements because they cannot. They're forbidden to make a statement because Yao is considered an active player.

Next, Dallas Mavericks owner, Mark Cuban, had to get permission from the league office to allow him to communicate with his own players at the ESPY awards.

The NBA's own "Basketball Without Borders", for the first time in its existence, will not use current players as goodwill ambassadors in foreign countries this summer because of the lockout.

Since Alonzo Mourning is a Vice President in the Miami Heat organization, current NBA players are not allowed to participate in Zo's charity event -- the 15th annual "Zo's Summer Groove".

I have more examples of this lunacy.

Michael Jordan, team owner of the Charlotte Bobcats, was allowed to participate in a charity golf event as long as he did not communicate with the active NBA players who were schedule to participate in the event.

Brian Grant is unable to have active NBA players participate in his charity event because Grant is a "franchise ambassador" of the Portland Trailblazers.

Who in the NBA league office agreed to this childish behavior?

The "no contact" / "no communication" between team personnel and active players even extends to Twitter. NBA GMs / coaches can still 'follow' their players on Twitter; but, they cannot retweet or mention.

Apparently, the NBA's childishness extends to no comments about active players as well.

Minnesota Timberwolves General Manager David Kahn, during his press conference to announce the firing of Kurt Rambis as head coach, Kahn mentioned new point guard Ricky Rubio and other current Timberwolves' players. Many in the media are waiting for Kahn to be fined; but, so far, silence from the NBA's ivory tower.

Heck, fans and media are expecting Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle to be fined for a few comments he made during a radio interview last week. Carlisle answered a few questions; and, during his answers he mentioned current Mavs players as well as few players for the Portland Trailblazers. So far, still no fine for Carlisle; but, apparently, someone from the NBA league office was indeed listening to the radio interview.

When will this idiocy end by the NBA; so, some common sense can begin?

How do these numerous examples impact the NBA lockout? None of these situations involve discussions pertaining to the lockout.

Clearly, the sooner the NBA lockout ends and a new collective bargaining agreement is reached the better. Because, the longer the lockout lasts, the more childish the NBA looks.

Clearly, common sense is not always common.

Dear NBA fans, Welcome to before 1994

2011-07-03T11:19:00.001-05:00

The NBA is not the NFL. No newsflash in that first sentence. The NFL's lockout is, in a nutshell, a dispute between the NFL owners and the NFL players about how to divide $9 billion.

The recently imposed NBA lockout is more than determining how to divide $4.3 billion. The NBA owners want to re-invent the wheel and create an entirely new business model "that allows all 30 teams to be able to compete for a championship, fairly compensates our players, and provides teams, if well-managed, with an opportunity to be profitable." NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver said those words.

I'm not going to debate the merits of the NBA's lockout. I'm not going to side with the owners nor the players. I'm not going to say the players are correct when they say the owners need to be smarter with their money when it comes to handing out huge contracts to average / below average players. Nor am I going to say the players need to realize their options are limited to earn millions of dollars per season.

Blah. Blah. Blah.

I'm simply wondering why the NBA has chosen to alienate its fans.

Go to NBA.com. All of the players' images / pictures have been removed.

Head over to NBA TV. The only new programming on the channel pertains to the WNBA. The NBA has removed any programming which involves any current NBA players from the 1994 NBA Draft to the present. (Since Jason Kidd, Grant Hill, and Juwan Howard are still playing in the league and were drafted in 1994, the 1994 draft is the beginning point of this digital eraser.)

NBA TV is filled with "Dunk Contests" (before the 1994 Draft, of course), NBA Hardwood Classics, NBA Gametime, and NBA Drafts.

After checking out the barren NBA.com and skimming through NBA TV, head over to the nba's official YouTube channel.

Every video that included a current NBA player has been removed from the channel and replaced with a lockout a statement and clips featuring Magic Johnson, Shaquille O'Neal and Julius Erving.

The NBA's official twitter page hasn't been updated since June 30 when the league sent a press release announcing when the lockout would commence.

Keep in mind the NBA was the top professional sports league in the United States when it came to interacting with its fans via social media.

On April 25, 2011, Maria Burns Ortiz of espn.com, wrote an article titled "The NBA's social media explosion". Here are a few excerpts:

It's generating its highest TV ratings across networks (ESPN, TNT, and ABC) and an all-time high in traffic to NBA.com, 2 billion video views on its website, and has one of the most-trafficked YouTube channels.

It's no coincidence that this surge is happening as the league experiences unprecedented growth among its social media platforms. The NBA just surpassed 100 million combined followers and likes on Twitter and Facebook. That number, which includes the official league, team and player pages, is up from 63 million at the start of the season.

Approximately half of the NBA's players (220 and counting) are on Twitter, including almost all of the game's biggest stars -- from LeBron james to the ever-entertaining Dwight Howard. Shaquille O'Neal and Steve Nash were both named among Time magazine's top Twitter feeds. Kobe Bryant is a notable Twitter exception.

The NBA has embraced social media in a way that perhaps no other sport has, making it an integral part of the league's day-to-day operations.

In addition to the NBA's tremendous success in social media, the league also enjoyed a ratings boom for the 2010-2011 NBA season and playoffs.

In fact, the 2011 NBA Playoffs generated $417.7 million in total ad sales revenue for ESPN / ABC and TNT. NBA TV takes in approximately $50 million in sponsor dollars.

NBA Commissioner David Stern said "We had a great year in terms of the appreciation of the fans for our game. It just wasn't a profitable one for our owners. And, it wasn't one that many of the small-market teams particularly enjoyed or felt included."

The NFL did not take / has not taken similar actions during its lockout. Players images are still on NFL.com. NFL network continues airing programming featuring its current players.

Why is the NBA turning a blind eye toward its fans?

"We don't think it is appropriate to be using video and photography of our current players at this time," NBA spokesman Mike Bass said.

Huh?

The NBA doesn't believe it's appropriate to keep its fans happy and showcase the league's current players in video and photography. I wonder if the league will believe it's appropriate when its fans decide to spend their discretionary income elsewhere.

Did the Rockets improve on Draft Night?

2011-06-24T12:02:00.000-05:00

The Houston Rockets sure do have a lot of forwards; however, the Houston Rockets do not have a legitimate clutch player, a top level defender, nor a quality big man at the center position.

Yet.

I hope the case is indeed 'Yet' because, after Thursday night's 2011 NBA Draft, the Rockets acquired three more forwards who, at first glance, seem to duplicate the skills of the forwards already on the team.

It's far too early to be overly critical of the newest Houston Rockets. None of us know what Marcus Morris, Donatas Motiejunas, and Chandler Parsons will do in the NBA; but, personally, I don't believe the Rockets improved themselves on defense.

Rockets' general manager Daryl Morey and Rockets' Director of Global Scouting (that IS a cool title), Arturas Karnisovas both told the media the Rockets graded Marcus Morris as one of the top players in the NBA Draft.

Great.

But, I don't believe Marcus is a quality defender at the small forward position. Marcus Morris is described as a versatile player on offense and defense; but, ironically, his twin brother, Markieff, is generally thought of as the better defender.

Marcus, 6'9", 235, is a better power foward than a small forward. Donatas Motiejunas, 7'0", 222, is a better power forward than a center. Chandler Parsons, 6'9", 200, is a small forward; but, he's better on offense than he is on defense.

The Rockets do not draft based on need. They draft the best available player regardless of position.

Morey said, “We’re very value oriented in the Draft because, right now, we need to continue try and upgrade the talent on our team. I hope to have the day when I can just worry about ‘Hey, I just need to add to this position or that position and we’re good.’ Right now, we just need to get the best players we can. We have a great coach who will work with each player to make them better.”

Morey added, “We looked at guards and wings at 14. We make picks thinking these guys will help us over three or four years. As you know, we do move things around a lot in terms of upgrading the team. I think it’s a mistake to overly pick for any sort of roster situation. We’ve challenged the roster a little bit in terms of the total number of guys at the different positions. But, we’d rather have the problem of too much talent; too many good players than too little talent and just be happy that everything balanced.”

I'm not sure these three rookies have upgraded the team's overall talent level because they are an unknown -- especially on defense. The only certainty is they make the Rockets a taller team overall; but, a shot blocking presence and an above average defender at the wing positions are still needed.

Morey, in fact, acknowledged defense is not a strength of the three rookies.

“We didn’t come out of this draft with a rim protector; but, that doesn’t mean we can’t address that some other way. We went with who was the best player available over the next two to four years. We recognize our needs. We recognize our needs to upgrade the defense. We do think Marcus, probably for me, has the most potential as the defender and is farthest along.

“Chandler really competes on the defensive end as does Motiejunas; but, you would not call them ‘plus defenders’ at this point in their careers.”

I know the Rockets are not a finished product. They know that as well. Whenever the NBA owners and the players reach a new collective bargaining agreement, Morey and the Rockets need to make some trades or sign a free agent or two because defense and rebounding wins championships.

Heck, the Dallas Mavericks just won the NBA title thanks to improved defense.

25 years ago

2011-06-19T12:25:00.001-05:00

Today is Father's Day. Today is also Juneteenth Day. Two very, very important days. June 19th also marks another important day. Twenty-five years ago, June 19, 1986, my world changed. My outlook on life changed.

June 19, 1986, Len Bias, my hero, died.

I was 14 years old. Ironically, my father told me the news.

College basketball wasn't televised as much as it is now; however, I was able to see enough Maryland Terrapins hoops to realize the tremendous skills and athleticism Len Bias possessed. Len Bias, 6'8", 225, could, literally, do everything on a basketball court.

In the summer of 1986, I was attending Kinkaid School to prep for 9th grade in the fall. I was in a Drafting class. I hated Drafting. I disliked Drafting so much I dreaded going to the class. In fact, on June 18th, I tried to get sick in order to stay at home on June 19th. (My grandmother didn't fall for it.) I went to school on June 19th.

However, during the day, I pouted and convinced myself I needed to go home. I called my dad and asked him to come get me. My dad picked me up. He knew I wasn't really sick; but, he didn't dwell on it. While riding in my dad's car, my dad asked me if I had heard the news about Len Bias. I told him no. My dad replied, "Len Bias is dead."

When I heard those words, I was stunned. I sat in the passenger seat in disbelief. I think I asked my dad if anyone knew how Len died. My dad told me no; but, he did say he would not be surprised if it were drug related. I ignored those words because I never, in a million years, believed Len would take drugs. I don't remember much of the ride home. Heck, I don't remember much of that day; but, I do remember that night.

I remember hearing about Len's sensational 35-point showcase he displayed in North Carolina versus the Tar Heels months earlier in February. I vaguely remember seeing highlights of Len's playing in Houston in the early rounds of the 1983 NCAA Tournament. Those moments are nowhere as vivid in my mind as "seeing" Len Bias in my room.

I woke up in the middle of the night; and, in the darkness, I saw Len sitting in my chair. (Remember, I was 14 years old.) Len had his head in his hands; and, he said to me, "Don't do what I did." I answered, "Okay."

After I said, "Okay.", Len disappeared; and, I went back to sleep.

I have never forgotten that moment.

Len Bias died of "cardiorespiratory arrest brought on by the use of cocaine".

Len's death changed me. I stopped placing people high on a pedestal never expecting them to fall. I stopped believing people were infallible.

I've never forgotten Len Bias.

Len Bias died June 19, 1986. Twenty-five years ago.

Something has changed - 16 free throws in five games

2011-06-10T11:20:00.000-05:00

May 31, 2007, LeBron James erupted and destroyed my beloved Detroit Pistons in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals in a 109-107 win by the Cleveland Cavaliers in double-overtime. In the final 13 minutes of the game, James' performance was one of the most dominating one-man efforts seen on an NBA basketball court.

The Cavs trailed the Pistons 88-81 with 3:15 left in the fourth quarter. Then, James went to work like Captain Kirk. James scored the Cavs' final 25 points -- let that resonate...Twenty-five points of the game. In other words, James, literally, defeated the Pistons by himself: one against five. James scored 29 of the Cavs' last 30 points in the game.

James scored 48 points in the game; and, he slashed his way to the basket numerous times and finished with three thunderous dunks; two driving layups; and five made free throws.

After the game, James said, "They are definitely a great defensive team. I was determined to attack."

What happened to that LeBron James?

That was four years ago. A lot has happened since that spectacular performance. LeBron led the Cavs to the 2007 NBA Finals (the Cavs got swept by the Spurs). LeBron led the Cavs to the top record in the league twice. James led the Cavs to the 2010 Eastern Conference Finals versus the Boston Celtics; but, instead of having another epic Game 5 performance in the conference finals, James made just 3 of 14 shots from the field. In fact, during the game, James looked as if he wanted to be any where but Boston versus the Celtics.

Shortly after the conclusion of the 2010 NBA season, James decided to "take his talents to South Beach" and sign with the Miami Heat. LeBron had a great regular season as well as great games during the first three rounds of the NBA Playoffs. LeBron seemed to exorcise any demons he had with his dominance of the Celtics in the second round. Next, LeBron continued his spectacular play in the conference finals versus the Chicago Bulls -- on both ends of the court -- including crunch time in the final five minutes of games.

However, in the first five games of the 2011 NBA Finals, LeBron has been missing in action (M.I.A.) for Mia. LeBron has attempted 16 free throws in five games. Sixteen. That's all. LeBron has scored 11 points -- combined -- in the five fourth quarters in the series. Yes, LeBron had a triple-double in Game 5; but, in the fourth quarter, LeBron scored a meaningless two point basket; missed two shots; and was called for a charging foul in the final three minutes of the game.

After Game 5, James said, "Everyone. Guys made plays. They (the Mavs) just made a few more than we did. That's what it came down to."

What a difference two weeks, let alone four years can make. James has gone from electrifying the NBA by scoring 25 straight points in 13 minutes to a disappointing and baffling 16 free throw attempts in five games.

Something has changed in LeBron James; and, he has two games, possibly, to answer the challenge.

44 minutes per game

2011-06-08T10:33:00.000-05:00

After watching Game 4 of the NBA Finals, I cannot explain LeBron James 'apparent disinterest on the basketball court Tuesday night. I don't know why he only took one field goal in the fourth quarter. But, I do know LeBron did not miss one of two free throws and bobble a pass in the final seconds like Dwyane Wade did.

Clearly, basketball people do not like LeBron James anymore.

LeBron dominated the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals. Dwyane Wade didn't.

There were times in the conference finals, Wade was so ineffective people started wondering if Wade were injured. Fast forward to the NBA Finals, hardly anyone has wondered if anything is wrong with LeBron. (I'm not saying LeBron has a 101 degree temperature or playing injured; but, LeBron is such a polarizing figure, people aren't giving him the benefit of the doubt -- at all -- for his subpar play.)

Look at these numbers in the 2011 NBA Playoffs. LeBron is averaging 44 minutes per game in the Heat's 19 playoff games. LeBron averaged 42.5 minutes per game in the first round; 44.6 in the second round; 45.2 in the conference finals; and 44.0 in the NBA Finals.

Wade is averaging 39.6 minutes per game in 19 games. Wade averaged 38 minutes per game in the first round; 41 per game in the second round; 39.6 in the conference finals; and 39.5, thus far, in the NBA Finals.

Maybe all of those extra minutes are starting to take a toll on LeBron.

LeBron has attempted a total of 14 free throws in the four games of the NBA Finals. LeBron has not shot more than four three throws in one game in the Finals. He's not attacking the basket with an almost reckless abandon.

I'm willing to give LeBron the benefit of the doubt and say something (physical or mental) is wrong with him. However, if LeBron has another listless eight point effort in the NBA Finals, LeBron is on his own.

Les' hollow words

2011-06-04T12:31:00.000-05:00

During the Houston Rockets' press conference introducing Kevin McHale as new head coach, Rockets team owner, Les Alexander, made this comment:

"We think the game has evolved tremendously; and, that the coach has to be someone who will evolve with the game. One person, I don't think, can do it all anymore. I just think that the game is too complex. We play back-to-backs. We play four (games) in five nights. It's just an impossible thing for one person. You've got to be a leader of men who can work with them; know who's input to take; and who's input not to take. How to take this input. How to use this input. Kevin knows the game so well. I think he's ideal for that."

I have to assume Mr. Alexander said those words to make Kevin McHale look good. After all, that is one of the reasons teams hold press conferences when announcing new coaching hires -- to make the new person look good. Another reason is to make the team look good and provide rationale for why the team hired the person.

However, I take issue with Les' words.

First, basketball isn't complicated. It's not the study of nuclear fission. The game of basketball is simple: put the ball in the hoop more than your opponent. Clearly, that's an oversimplification. Yes, the amount of time studying and preparing for opponents has increased tremendously; but, basketball is not brain surgery. The people involved in the sport make basketball complicated. The egos of the players, coaches, front office personnel, etc. make basketball difficult.

Next, Rick Adelman did not try to do everything by himself. Rick Adelman delegated authority to his assistant coaches. Adelman wanted input from Elston Turner; Jack Sikma; and R.J. Adelman. Turner ran the practices on occasion. Sikma worked with the big men in practice. R.J. worked with the perimeter players.

Adelman and his staff communicated very well with the players which is one big reason the players wanted Adelman to return for another season.

I'm not an Adelman 'yes' man. I wasn't thrilled with the regression in the team's defense; but, considering the injuries to key players and the lack of star talent Adelman had to overcome, Adelman did a very good job as Rockets' head coach.

Les' "back-to-backs; four in five nights" remarks confused me. Rick Adelman played and coached in the NBA. Adelman is very used to dealing with games on back-to-back nights and four games in five nights. Weeks like that are simply part of life in the NBA.

As far as the "who's input to take and who's input not to take" remarks, perhaps Les was referring to Adelman and general manager Daryl Morey. Despite Morey's insisting there was "not a disconnect" between him and Adelman, the bottom line is Adelman is no longer coaching the Rockets and Morey is still the team's general manager.

As owner of the team, Les could have given the media any number of answers regarding why Kevin McHale was hired. Heck, Les could have been glib and simply said "I'm the owner. I like Kevin McHale. Period."

However, from my perspective, Les' comments about the evolution of basketball and the job is impossible for one person do not apply at all.

Personally, Les' words ring very hollow.

2011 NBA Finals: Heat vs Mavs

2011-05-31T09:40:00.000-05:00

The 2011 NBA Finals will tip-off Tuesday night at 8pm CDT (probably a few minutes later to allow for unnecessary pre-game hype and fluff). The Miami Heat will square off versus the Dallas Mavericks.

The "Heatles" versus Dirk and the Digglers. (Dirk Nowitzki's teammates are much more than afterthoughts.)

This series has plenty of star power; but, the champion will probably be the team which gets most from the non-stars.

First things first, the NBA Finals is a 2-3-2 format. The first two games will be in Miami. The next three games are in Dallas; and, the final two games are scheduled for Miami.

Dwyane Wade is a better player than Jason Kidd and DeShawn Stevenson. Wade says he's not hurt nor is he bothered by migraines. I'll take Wade at his word; but, his body language in the Eastern Conference Finals versus the Chicago Bulls told a different story. Wade looked sluggish in Games 4 and 5; and, his legs looked heavy -- until, that is, he transformed into D-Wade down the stretch in each game and displayed his spectacular skills. However, if Wade's body is a better guide than Wade's mouth, something is bothering Wade which is limiting his effectiveness. Kidd and Stevenson are very, very capable of making Wade's work much more difficult in the Finals. Stevenson and Kidd and physical defenders. Stevenson will make Wade work for his points which is all any solid defender needs to do when guarding a superstar. If Stevenson can make Wade take shots out of his comfort zone, Stevenson would have done his job. Stevenson is on the court for his defense not his offense. Stevenson shot 27.1% from the field overall (31% on threes) in the Western Conference Playoffs.

Jason Kidd was better than Mike Bibby years ago; and, Jason Kidd -- even at age 38 -- is better than Mike Bibby now. Bibby's main job is to make the open perimeter shots he'll get when the Mavs pay attention spending so much time and energy defending Dwyane Wade and LeBron James. However, in the 2011 NBA Playoffs, Bibby shot 26.3% from the field in 21.9 minutes per game. Bibby averaged 3.6 points, 1.2 assists, and 0.9 turnovers per game in the three rounds of the Eastern Conference Playoffs. Those numbers are atrocious; but, obviously, Miami was able to overcome Bibby's poor performances and advance to the NBA Finals.

Jason Kidd is not Derrick Rose. In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Heat trapped Derrick Rose on the high pick-and-rolls. Since Rose was the Bulls main scoring threat, the ball needed to be in his hands the majority of the time in order for the Bulls to score. Jason Kidd is not the main scoring threat for the Mavs. Jason Kidd does not attack the basket with reckless abandon. Kidd won't look to finish at the basket. Kidd is a pass first point guard. Kidd has averaged 7.7 assists per game in these playoffs. Kidd will pass the ball to set up his teammates. If the Heat trap Kidd in pick-and-rolls, Kidd will quickly pass the ball -- including throwing lob passes to Tyson Chandler as Chandler rolls to the basket. When the Heat amp up the defense against Nowitzki and Jason Terry, Kidd has to make the open outside shots.

LeBron James is match-up nightmare for anyone in the NBA. Ditto for Dirk Nowitzki.

Shawn Marion will be the Mavs' main defender against James. Marion will need to be physical against LeBron; however, Marion needs to stay out of foul trouble because the more time Marion spends on the bench the more time Jason Kidd, slender Corey Brewer or zone defense will be needed. James' outside shooting has improved greatly; but, despite shooting 37% from three-point range, keeping James out of the paint and shooting perimeter jump shots is the Mavs' preference. Of course, that is much, much easier than done.

James is more effective dribbling to his left and pulling up for shots; therefore, Marion must work toward forcing James to his right as much as possible. In the first three rounds of the playoffs, James made 66% of his shots inside the restricted area; but, he only made 39% in the paint outside the restricted area and just 37% from mid-range.

In addition to exhausting himself trying to defend LeBron James, Shawn Marion has to score and rebound for the Mavs. As great as Dirk has been in these playoffs, Marion's scoring and rebounding helped Dallas defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder in Games 4 and 5. Marion is effective in transition; but, he must get his garbage points around the basket as well.

Chris Bosh has had a solid playoffs thus far. Bosh averaged 18.6 points and 8.9 rebounds per game in the first three playoff rounds. At times, Bosh has admitted he has bowed to the pressure in certain moments; so, I'm curious to see how well he handles the brightest of bright lights on this grand stage in addition to trying to guard Dirk Nowitzki. The Mavs will spend so much time trying to defend James and Wade which should allow Bosh ample opportunities to make open perimeter shots as well as get a few one-on-one looks in the post. Bosh must defend Dirk without fouling. Plus, Bosh must keep his focus if and when Dirk starts making shots only Dirk can make.

Nowitzki's numbers in the first three rounds of the playoffs were sensational; and, he improved them in the Western Conference Finals. Nowitzki averaged 32 points on 55% field goal shooting and 95% free throw shooting versus the Thunder. Through the overall playoffs, Dirk averaged 28.4 points; 51.7% field goals (52% on threes); and 93% from the foul line. However, Dirk did turn the ball over 28 times compared to 21 assists. Nowitzki needs to do more work on the boards than the 5 rebounds per game he produced versus OKC. Nowitzki had a difficult time scoring against Nick Collison; but, when the Mavs needed him to step up, Dirk scored over Collison inside and outside. Everyone expects LeBron James to defend Dirk in the crunch time minutes like LBJ did against Derrick Rose in the closing minutes of the Eastern Conference Finals. Cool. Dirk isn't going to try to beat LeBron off the dribble. Dirk will attempt to beat LeBron in the post and with his jump shot. Dirk can do both. Dirk is 7'1". LeBron is 6'8".

Tyson Chandler and his back up, Brendan Haywood, are more important to the Mavs' chances than their Heat counterparts Joel Anthony, Udonis Haslem, and even Jamaal Magloire. Chandler and Haywood have to rebound the basketball -- on both ends of the floor. If Chandler and Haywood control the offensive boards, the Mavs will not only get extra possessions and extra chances to score; but, the Heat will have less chances to score in transition. Anthony is a solid rebounder and a solid defender; but, he struggles catching the ball in contested areas. Anthony thrives on being ignored by the opposition and making the opponents pay for it. The Mavs cannot afford to ignore Anthony. Haslem provided a big boost to the Heat in Game 2 versus the Bulls; but, he was not as impactful in Games 3, 4, and 5. In the 2006 NBA Finals, Haslem's physical defense gave Nowitzki problems. Dirk isn't bothered by physical defenders anymore.

J.J. Barea, Jason Terry, and Peja Stojakovic will be very important in this series. If they're shooting well, the Mavs' chances to win the title will improve greatly. However, as important as their offense is to the Mavs, the Heat will try to exploit the threesome's shaky defense. If all three are on the floor at the same time, the Mavs will utilize zone defenses to hopefully lessen the Heat's ability to race past them. J.J. Barea's quickness was able to carve up the Lakers and the Thunder. Barea's quickness equates to Derrick Rose's quickness; therefore, I believe the Heat will defend Barea with traps and double-teams. Barea will need to be smarter with the ball than Rose was in the ECF and pass the ball before the Heat's defense attacks.

Mavs head coach Rick Carlisle may decide to use Corey Brewer in this series. Brewer is 6'9"; but, he's too thin to defend LeBron James in the post. However, Brewer's long arms and quickness could have an effect on Wade and James leading to Wade and James taking more perimeter shots.

Mario Chalmers, Mike Miller, Eddie House, and, possibly, James Jones are perimeter shooters. I believe the Mavs are going to make the non-Heatles beat them which means the role players will have to step up and knock down shots. Chalmers is the Heat's back up point guard and Miami's top perimeter defender off the bench. However, Chalmers is not as quick as J.J. Barea. In crunch time, Wade or James will run the Heat's offense; so, ball handling won't be an issue for Chalmers, Bibby, or anybody else -- making shots will be the issue.

Rebounding and three-point shooting will be big factors in this series. If the Mavs can't rebound, they're in trouble. If the Mavs are "raining threes", the Heat's in trouble. Miami's team defense is very, very good -- especially against teams with limitations on offense such as the Chicago Bulls. The Mavs can spread the floor with scoring threats at all five positions; therefore, the Heat's team defense will be stretched more in this series.

As a basketball analyst, I'm expecting an intriguing series. As a fan of basketball, I'm hoping for an entertaining series because this series may be the last basketball games we see for a while (re: NBA lockout).

The NBA is a make or miss league. Mavs will make more shots. I'm picking the Mavs to win in 6. Dirk Nowitzki wins his first NBA title.

Not surprised McHale is new head coach

2011-05-28T20:26:00.000-05:00

On April 19th, Houston Rockets General Manager Daryl Morey told the media "I think we have one of the top jobs available by far. I think we're going to have the pick of most of the coaches that will be out there." On May 27, the Rockets agreed to contract terms with Kevin McHale to make McHale the Rockets' new head coach. The Rockets are expected to make a formal announcement about the hire after this Memorial Day weekend. Many Rockets' fans are already screaming the sky is falling and declaring gloom and doom for the Rockets.

Based on what Morey said at the press conference combined with the three coaches who made the final round of candidates, I'm not surprised McHale was chosen.

First, McHale, Dwane Casey and Lawrence Frank each have losing records as head coaches. McHale coached the fewest games of the three. McHale's record is 39-55. Casey's record is 53-69. Frank's record is 225-241. At the press conference, Morey spoke in general terms regarding the coaching process; but, he told the media and asked the fans "don't judge the name; judge the results".

Morey also said "Judge the staff that we put together." Morey did not say 'judge the staff the new coach puts together'.

I don't believe McHale is the best head coach for the Rockets; but, I do believe McHale is the one candidate who was willing to accept the Rockets' terms as head coach. I don't have concrete evidence; but, I am going with a gut feeling based on the actions taken by the Rockets in this coaching search.

Compare the Rockets' hiring of Kevin McHale to the Lakers' hiring of Mike Brown two days earlier. The Los Angeles Times reports Mike Brown has coaches in mind for his assistants; however, in regards to the Rockets, the Houston Chronicle mentions coaches the Rockets (not McHale) would like to add as assistant coaches. Big difference.

McHale is not known as an "X's and O's" coach. He's known for player development -- specifically with post players such as Kevin Garnett, Al Jefferson, and Kevin Love -- which is not a surprise considering McHale was one of the best low post players in NBA history. McHale's footwork in the post was a thing of beauty to behold. The Rockets must be hoping McHale will be able to develop young men Jordan Hill, Marcus Cousin, and Hasheem Thabeet into efficient and effective post players.

The Rockets are promoting Chris Finch to the coaching staff to maintain continuity on offense. Finch was head coach of the Rockets' NBDL Rio Grande Valley Vipers team the last two seasons. Two seasons ago, Finch guided the Vipers to the NBDL title; and, Finch led the Vipers back to the championship series this past season.

For the fans who believe hiring McHale is a good move only because the Rockets will earn a better position in the NBA Lottery due to an awful win / loss record, Daryl Morey has no intention of being a terrible team. Morey has a plan which involves acquiring players via trades and free agency rather than losing.

"We believe in the plan. The plan is to continue to bring in quality players who are improving rather than declining as much as possible," Morey said. "And continue to use trades. We're not here to be a bad team. An easy way to improve the team -- well, not easy for the fans because it's painful for the fans and everyone and all involved -- is to be a terrible team. It's definitely one way to improve; but, it's not the way we're going to go.

"We're going to be a team that's young and improving. We're going to be a team that tries to trade our way to improvement. At the end of the day, judge that. If you're ready to judge that we're already not executing that plan, that's fine. We're going to continue to execute on it until it works."

Time will tell if the Rockets -- specifically Daryl Morey -- made the right decision. Until we see the results, I'm willing to give McHale an opportunity to succeed or to fail. (Not exactly a ringing endorsement.)

Caught on Camera

2011-05-23T18:51:00.002-05:00

Sunday, in the first quarter of the Eastern Conference Finals game between the Miami Heat and the Chicago Bulls, Bulls center Joakim Noah headed to the bench after picking up his second foul. While sitting on the bench, Noah got into a heated verbal exchange with a Miami Heat fan. Noah uttered one expletive (starts w/ the letters 'f' 'u') followed by a homophobic slur (starts w/ the letters 'f' 'a').

This afternoon, the NBA announced a $50,000 fine for Noah "for using a derogatory and offensive term from the bench during the first quarter of the Bulls' 96-85 loss to the Miami Heat last night in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals".

I know the NBA started running a public service announcement (PSA) featuring NBA players Grant Hill and Jared Dudley stating the usage of the word "gay" to mean dumb or stupid is not cool and is offensive to gay people. I agree 100 percent with the PSA.

I'm going to cut to the chase: Noah was not fined because he said the homophobic slur. Noah was fined because the camera caught him saying the homophobic slur; and, millions of people watching the game on TNT (and the Internet) saw him say it.

After the game, Noah spoke with the media and apologized for what he said. After speaking with the NBA Monday morning, Noah knew he would be fined.

The NBA is very, very politically correct; and, NBA Commissioner David Stern is quite media conscious in this Age of Social Media. As a result, everyone expected Commissioner Stern to take quick action and fine Noah. Stern fined Noah less than 24 hours later.

My point is fining Noah $50,000 for what he said Sunday night happened because the cameras caught him saying it.

I believe usage of the homophobic slur should not be tolerated at all. I know we live in a homophobic society (no newsflash there); however, it does seem to me people are becoming more and more tolerant and sensitive (at a snail's pace perhaps) to the social issues of gays and lesbians. However, I have no doubt fans, coaches, and players, sitting courtside have heard that same homophobic slur (and worse) said by someone seated near them during a basketball game as well as other sporting events. And, it's not limited to just sporting events. Let's not be naive. Homophobic slurs are heard in classrooms, restaurants, concerts, etc.

Later in the game, when Noah sat down on the bench, a TNT camera zoomed in to show Noah's face. The camera stayed on Noah for a few seconds as if the producers were hoping to catch Noah say something else inflammatory and offensive. Thankfully, Noah didn't utter one word.

With Noah's fine following the $100,000 fine last month to Kobe Bryant for using the same slur directed towards NBA referee Bennie Adams (on camera), clearly, catching an NBA player saying a homophobic slur on camera will result in that player getting fined; however, the cameras won't catch everything the players say. Will there be fines for "hearing but not seeing" a player use the slur?

Without a shadow of doubt, the homophobic slur Noah used should be removed from our lexicon.

But, I must admit I'm still waiting for the NBA to produce a PSA to denounce the use of the 'N' word.

Two Years?!

2011-05-20T10:14:00.000-05:00

The Houston Rockets have narrowed their coaching search for the next head coach to three candidates: Dwane Casey, Lawrence Frank, and Kevin McHale. That fact is common knowledge in NBA circles. Casey is currently an assistant coach for the Dallas Mavericks. Frank is an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics. McHale is currently working as basketball tv analyst.

On April 19, Daryl Morey, Rockets general manager, told the media "On the coaching front, we've been more stable than pretty much any franchise out there except Utah. We make solid coaching hires; and, we stick with them. That's been our history and that's the plan again."

If Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports is correct, the Rockets plan must have changed. Wojnarowski hints the Rockets are not planning to stick with the next head coach very long. Wojnarowski writes "The hiring of a coach could come down to the willingness of a candidate to accept a deal on Houston's terms. It's possible that an offer could come with only two guaranteed years, and $2 million per season."

Two guaranteed years?

That doesn't sound very stable to me.

Wojnarowski adds "Another element of the Rockets' job will be the prospective coach's willingness to include the Rockets' D-League affilate's coach (Chris Finch) as an assistant. Rockets management is enamored with Rio Grande's Chris Finch, and some see him as a future head coach in the NBA. Finch left a European coaching career to join the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in 2009. He's won a D-League title and advanced to the finals in 2011."

Casey, Frank, and McHale have all been NBA head coaches before. Since Casey and Frank are currently assistant coaches, I have a tough time believing either one of them would agree to a two-year guaranteed contract to become the Rockets' head coach. Since McHale isn't currently coaching, I can understand him accepting those terms but even that's a stretch simply because better contract offers could be available.

In fact, all three men have interviewed with the Golden State Warriors for the head coaching job.

I don't understand the Rockets' rationale. If they're contract offer is only a two-year guarantee AND the new head coach has to have Chris Finch on the staff as an assistant, then why not go ahead and give the head coaching job to Chris Finch?

This coaching search has been extensive; but, a two-year offer makes the search seem to be an exercise in futility full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.

OKC Thunder vs Mavs

2011-05-17T12:13:00.003-05:00

Updated -- Mavs won the series 4 games to 1.
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Since I've written my thoughts on the Eastern Conference Finals match-up between the Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat, it's only fair I share my opinion on the Western Conference Finals match-up between the Dallas Mavericks and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

One of the reasons this series is intriguing is because of the "old versus young" dynamic. The Thunder is led by two dynamic 22-year olds: Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook while the Mavs are led by 32-year old Dirk Nowitzki and 38-year old Jason Kidd.

Both teams rely on key bench players for points -- Jason Terry for the Mavs and James Harden for the Thunder.

I believe the Mavs will utilize zone defenses to disrupt the Thunder's offense and limit Russell Westbrook's drives to the hoop. Westbrook must be smart when he attacks the paint and avoid picking up charging fouls.

Dirk Nowitzki is a match-up nightmare for any NBA team; however, the Thunder has enough players to defend Dirk and give him different types of defense. Serge Ibaka is athletic enough to beat Nowitzki to spots on the floor; however, Dirk may use Ibaka's inexperience against him with numerous pump fakes to get Serge off balance and out of position. Nick Collison and Nazr Mohammed are very good defenders in the post; but, Dirk can stay on the perimeter to lessen their effectiveness.

Kevin Durant will get his points; but, Durant cannot be a statue on offense and stand still. If Durant does not move without the ball effectively, he'll allow shorter and / or slower Dallas players such as Shawn Marion, Corey Brewer, DeShawn Stevenson, and perhaps Jason Kidd to defend him much easier.

Neither team relies on the starting center position for much offense. Kendrick Perkins is the anchor of the Thunder's defense just as Tyson Chandler is the anchor for the Mavs' defense. Perkins is more physical than Chandler; but, Chandler is more athletic and a better shot blocker. Both players can be prone to foul trouble and temper tantrums. Brendan Haywood, Chandler's back up, is similar to Perkins' strength; but, Haywood is a bit taller than Perkins. Perkins' backup is Collison or Mohammed -- whichever one is not battling with Dirk Nowitzki. Collison and Mohammed are better perimeter threats than Chandler and Haywood which could be useful when the Thunder spreads the floor for Westbrook, Durant or James Harden.

The series may hinge on points from the bench. The Thunder's offense was much more effective in the conference semifinals with James Harden on the floor. Harden's abilities to make outside shots and also create shots for himself and his teammates will be key. Jason Terry is the Mavs' second best scorer on the team. Both Harden and Terry are very capable to erupt for huge offensive outbursts; but, Harden has also shown to be a willing defender. Terry and defense are like two ships passing in the night.

J.J. Barea lit up the Lakers with his quickness and his effectiveness running the pick-and-roll in the conference semifinals. However, OKC's Eric Maynor has quickness to match Barea one-on-one; but, solid pick-and-roll-defense is a team concept which means the Thunder will need to be on the same page regarding the rotations (to help each other) on defense.

If Peja Stojakovic can make three point shots versus the Thunder at the amazing clip he did versus the Lakers, OKC will have a problem. However, if Peja's outside shooting is shaky, his leaky defense will have to be hidden by defending non-scorers like Collison, Mohammed, or even Kendrick Perkins.

The Mavericks have the edge in experience while the Thunder has the edge in athleticism. The Mavs' team defense is better. Bench production is about even. Overall, the teams are even; and, the series should be entertaining with many outstanding individual performances.

I'll pick the Mavericks to win the series in seven.

Bulls vs. Heat

2011-05-13T18:38:00.003-05:00

Updated -- 5/26/11, Miami won the series 4 games to 1. That's what I get for picking the Bulls.
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The Chicago Bulls and the Miami Heat will square off in the NBA's Eastern Conference Finals Sunday, May 15, at 7:00 pm (CDT). The series will feature three of the league's top players: Chicago point Derrick Rose and, of course, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade for the Heat.

Thus far, I've heard numerous people pick the Heat to win the series. In fact, a large majority favors the Heat to win the series; and, a few of that majority believe the Heat will win rather easily.

I don't share that view. Not at all.

During the Heat - Celtics series, Doc Rivers, Celtics head coach, stated his team needed to win the battle at two (if not three) of the five positions. Doc conceded shooting guard and small forward to the Heat because LeBron and Wade are elite of the elite. In order for the Cs to win the series, Doc knew he needed Rajon Rondo to win his match-up at point guard and Kevin Garnett to win his match-up at power forward. Neither happened enough in the series; therefore, Miami won the series 4 games to 1.

Simple.

Now, no one in his or her right mind expects Derrick Rose to be outplayed by Mike Bibby nor Mario Chalmers. Therefore, count the point guard match-up in favor of the Bulls. (Clearly, if Rose suffers an injury -- like Rondo did -- which limits his effectiveness, then this match-up becomes neutral which will not bode well for the Bulls' chances to win the series.)

However, assuming Rose is healthy and wins his match-up, then, the power forward position becomes a big factor. Chris Bosh is part of Miami's "Big Three" in name only. Bosh has talent; but, he's been known to wilt under the pressure. Simply put, Chicago's Carlos Boozer must win this match-up for the Bulls. Boozer struggled mightily in the first round of these playoffs (10 and 8) versus the Indiana Pacers; and, Boozer did not play much better in the second round versus the Atlanta Hawks until Game 6 when he produced 23 points and 10 rebounds. If Boozer delivers numbers closer to 20 and 10 rather than 10 and 8, the Bulls win that match-up. Obviously, Boozer's play is a big question mark in the series; but, the Bulls also have Taj Gibson. Gibson is quite capable of playing well off the bench.

Gibson's play off the bench is part of another advantage for the Bulls: the bench.

Gibson and center Omer Asik can match the energy and numbers of Miami's most productive big man: Joel Anthony. Kyle Korver is a better version of Miami's James Jones. Chicago's back up point guard, C.J. Watson, may not be as effective as Miami's Mario Chalmers in the series; but, Watson simply needs to give Rose at least 10 minutes of rest per game. Both teams have at least one old-head in the front court -- Chicago has Kurt Thomas while Miami has Juwan Howard. Miami's Udonis Haslem could see minutes in this series; but, since Haslem missed most of the season due to injury, his productivity is still a question mark. Ronnie Brewer is active on offense and defense; and, Brewer should help the Bulls more than Mike Miller's broken down body helps the Heat.

The starting center spot is advantage Bulls. Joakim Noah is much more active and more productive than the older, slower Zydrunas Ilgauskas. If Miami starts Joel Anthony at center, Noah not only matches Anthony's energy; but, Noah has more offense (not a lot more) in his game than Anthony.

Here's a non-newsflash, if no Bulls player other than Derrick Rose steps up in the series and the series simplifies into two stars being better than one star, then, clearly, advantage Heat. Personally, I don't believe Rose's teammates will pull disappearing acts -- especially in the four potential games in Chicago.

Therefore, I believe this series will hinge on which team is better. Consequently, I'm picking the Bulls to win the series in seven games.

Yep, that's right, a die-hard fan of the Detroit Pistons (Bad Boys Forever) is picking the Chicago Bulls. (I hope that's not a sign of the Apocalypse.)

Coach Chris Finch

2011-05-03T20:10:00.000-05:00

April 21, I mentioned Chris Finch as a possible candidate to join the Houston Rockets' coaching staff, at the very least, as an assistant coach.

One name which hasn't been mentioned much publicly is Chris Finch. Finch is the head coach of the Rockets' minor league franchise the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the National Basketball Development League. Finch guided the Vipers to the NBDL's 2010 championship and has the Vipers in position to win back-to-back titles. Finch does not have the NBA coaching experience Morey has cited as a qualification; but, Finch is highly regarded and, at the very least, may join the Rockets' coaching staff as an assistant.

May 2, the Houston Chronicle's Jonathan Feigen writes about one reason former Rockets' head coach Rick Adelman and the Rockets' organization "mutually agreed to part".

The reason: Chris Finch.

In Feigen's article he writes: There were discussions about adding Rio Grande Valley Vipers coach Chris Finch to the Rockets staff, according to both persons familiar with the talks, but it is unclear if Finch would have been designated as the head coach in waiting.

Feigen also writes Finch is not expected to be a candidate for the head coaching position with the Rockets apparently seeking a coach with experience as an NBA head or assistant coach.

I mentioned Finch as a candidate for the coaching staff based on his solid coaching abilities and the respect he has within the Rockets' organization. However, I also mentioned Finch as a candidate for this statement Rockets' general manager Daryl Morey said during his press conference on April 19:

"Don't judge the name. Judge the staff that we put together; and, judge the results from that."

The phrase 'Judge the staff that we put together' stuck with me. How many former head coaches or longtime assistant coaches would accept a new head coaching job without the ability to assemble his own coaching staff? Therefore, if Morey is not only hiring the new head coach but also determining which coaches will be on the new coaching staff, I thought of Chris Finch.

Now, if Rockets' management wants Chris Finch to be groomed as "the coach-in-waiting", I also believe the Rockets, by default, are limiting their list of coaching candidates because very few coaches will agree to be hired as the new coach with (adult) "babysitter duties" also attached.

No newsflash: Rockets not in the East

2011-04-17T13:52:00.000-05:00

This commentary is my first "official" commentary in more than year; so, I'm still rusty. As a result, this commentary won't be very long nor will it be as thought provoking as the commentaries that will follow it. However, to stop beating around the bush, here goes: the Rockets are not a playoff team.

Period.

Rockets' fans and the Rockets' broadcast announcers have touted ad nauseum "If the Rockets were in the Eastern Conference, they'd be a sixth seed and a playoff team."

Yawn.

Since I live in the real world, let me state the obvious: the Rockets are not in the Eastern Conference which means, "ding. ding. ding.", the Rockets are in the Western Conference. Therefore, unless the NBA moves the Rockets to the Eastern Conference or changes the qualifications for reaching the postseason to the top 16 teams with the best records, the Rockets need to be one of the top eight teams in the West in order to qualify for the playoffs. Consequently, if they're 43-39 record is not one of the top eight records in the Western Conference, guess what, the Rockets are not in the playoffs. Period. Bottom line.

It warmed my heart, to read about the "lovefest" the Rockets players have for their head coach Rick Adelman. To a man (except for probably Terrence Williams), each of the Rockets' players want Rick Adelman to return as their head coach next season. Apparently, the players love Adelman so much their defense was barely better than awful. The "Adelman man crushes" also help explain why their 25-16 home record was only the 10th best in the West.

Since Adelman's contract is about to expire, Adelman would have to sign a new contract in order to return. Personally, I doubt Rockets' owner, Les Alexander, will bring Adelman back.

Despite injuries to Yao Ming (again) and starting point guard (before he was traded) Aaron Brooks early in the season, Adelman failed to lead his team to the playoffs. The Portland Trail Blazers, Dallas Mavericks, and Boston Celtics suffered as many (if not more) games missed by players due to injuries this season than the Rockets. Guess what? All three of those teams are in the playoffs.

The Rockets 43-39 record is solid; but, the Rockets finished last in their own division -- three games behind playoff teams New Orleans and Memphis. Rockets' fans will clamor the "Southwest Division" is the toughest division in the NBA; therefore, finishing last in that division is not such a bad thing. Wrong. Finishing last in the toughest division in the NBA isn't the issue. Missing the playoffs (again) is the issue.

Rockets' fans, please stop turning into the Texans where mediocrity (or worse) reigns supreme.

Selection Sunday and Monday

2010-03-15T09:28:00.000-06:00

"Selection Sunday" has taken place for the "Field of 65" in men's college basketball and "Selection Monday" for the "Field of 64" will take place Monday night in women's college basketball.

Coaches of teams which do not or did not make the tournament will be disappointed; however, I'm still surprised to hear a coach or two (or more) wonder why his or her team didn't make the tournament.

Personally, if you're in one of the "Big 6" conferences also known as BCS conferences, please stop relying on your conference schedule (and, I assume, good win / loss record) as the sole reason your team should qualify for the NCAA Tourney.

If you're a "big boy" or a "big girl", play other "big boys" or other "big girls" from the power conferences.

Unless you have an outstanding team, you'll lose a few of those match-ups; but, assuming you have a good team, you should win a few of those match-ups, too.

Non-conference games count on your schedule. The teams you play in the non-conference matters. Picking up wins over inferior non-conference foes (teams playing to pick up a paycheck) don't do anything except give your players a false sense of worth.

If the non-conference games weren't important, teams would only play conference games.

For some reason, some coaches still don't seem to understand the selection committee looks at the "body of work" of a team which considers a team's entire schedule and answers these questions: Who did you play?; Who did you beat?; and Who beat you?

Here's a news flash: winning a head-to-head match-up is important; however, if a comparison of non-conference opponents between the two teams clearly favors the loser of that head-to-head match-up, the committee will select the losing team.

Why?

Easy answer: body of work.

Will Robinson, 1911-2008

2008-04-30T06:23:00.003-05:00

Update: May 4, 2008 -- "Legendary Robinson was a dignified trail blazer", by Jerry Green of The Detroit News.

A great man, Mr. Will Robinson, passed away at 12:45 Monday morning (Detroit time). Mr. Robinson was 96 years of age.

You may ask who was Will Robinson?

Will Robinson was a man of many, many firsts; and, he touched countless people throughout his fantastic life.

This title in The Detroit News is a good description of Mr. Robinson: "Basketball pioneer, former Pistons scout, was a legend".

He was the first African-American coach in the Detroit Public Schools and first NCAA Division I head coach when he guided Illinois State (1970-75).

He led Detroit Pershing to state championships in 1967 -- a legendary team that featured Ralph Simpson and Spencer Haywood, who was Robinson's adopted son -- and '70.

Robinson was an NBA and NFL scout. He was a journalist, and he sold nickel pies during the Great Depression.

I've been a Detroit Pistons fan for about 22 years; so, I've definitely heard and learned about Mr. Robinson's numerous accomplishments in that time. In fact, I had the tremendous honor of meeting him a few years ago.

The Houston Rockets were still playing their games at Compaq Center; and, Mr. Robinson was at the game. I don't remember who the Rockets were playing that night; but, I clearly remember speaking with Mr. Robinson. He didn't know me from Adam; but, we spoke for a few minutes late during halftime while going over the first half stats.

My night was made; yet, as he was leaving to go to his seat, Mr. Robinson thanked me for my time. I was stunned; but, I did manage to thank him for his time and I wished him the best.

Thank you, Mr. Robinson, for everything you did in your life. God Bless.

USBWA votes

2008-03-15T10:44:00.003-06:00

As a new member of the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA), this year was my first opportunity to vote for the national awards for men's and women's college basketball.

Ballots for men's hoops were due on March 10 while the ballots for women's hoops are due on March 17.

There were difficult decisions to make; but, here are my votes for a few of the categories:

Men's College Basketball

Freshman of the Year: Michael Beasley, Kansas State.

Player of the Year: Michael Beasley, Kansas State.

Coach of the Year: Matt Painter, Purdue.

Women's College Basketball

Freshman of the Year: Maya Moore, Connecticut.

Player of the Year: Candace Parker, Tennessee.

Coach of the Year: Keitha Adams, Texas-El Paso.

UPDATED: 3/22/08 --
Here are the announced winners (thus far) of the awards:

Men's College Basketball

Freshman of the Year: Michael Beasley, Kansas State.

Coach of the Year: Keno Davis, Drake.

Player of the Year: not yet announced.