I think if the mavs win, obviously dirk gets the glory but rick carlisle will get a ton of credit from the congnosenti. I'm just now listening to the simmons final preview podcast and there is some tentative
speculation about benching deshawn stevenson in place of terry. Evidently pre-finals, the mavs starting five was a net minus for the playoffs. In the last few games, Carlisle has responded, shuffling his starting lineup. And he gets credit for pushing it even further - going with jj and benching stevenson, benching peja for cardinal, and dealing with a ton of injuries (haywood, butler, etc.). I bet we will hear that in the next simmons podcast whenever it comes.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
The Play That Sparked Dallas’ Comeback
Check out this great blog post on the Mavs comeback:
http://nbaplaybook.com/2011/06/03/the-play-that-sparked-dallas-comeback/
http://nbaplaybook.com/2011/06/03/the-play-that-sparked-dallas-comeback/
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Post G1 Finals Analysis
Aubrey: The only silver lining for the mavs is that barea and terry had off nights.
Charlie: i hope that's true but i'm not so sure...i thought it was the unrelenting defensive pressure that threw their games off. (something i thought the announcers were underselling when they kept saying how terry and barea were getting open looks; to me they seemed a lot more contested, not only the shots themselves but the constant spectre of rushing help defenders.) barea was blocked in a most definitive fashion almost every time he tried to drive, and the closeouts on terry were really fast. to me the question is whether the heat can keep up that level of intensity every game, because it seemed to me the mavs were playing pretty well. though i guess it's also true that terry and barea might just individually figure out how to get themselves more space now that they've gotten a feel for the D. but that's also a coaching adjustment.
i feel like this next game is going to be very revealing...
Charlie: i hope that's true but i'm not so sure...i thought it was the unrelenting defensive pressure that threw their games off. (something i thought the announcers were underselling when they kept saying how terry and barea were getting open looks; to me they seemed a lot more contested, not only the shots themselves but the constant spectre of rushing help defenders.) barea was blocked in a most definitive fashion almost every time he tried to drive, and the closeouts on terry were really fast. to me the question is whether the heat can keep up that level of intensity every game, because it seemed to me the mavs were playing pretty well. though i guess it's also true that terry and barea might just individually figure out how to get themselves more space now that they've gotten a feel for the D. but that's also a coaching adjustment.
i feel like this next game is going to be very revealing...
Friday, May 27, 2011
The Six Seconds You Might Not Remember If Not For This Blog Post
When I was in college, I used to play ping pong for what seemed like hours a day in the school cafeteria. One of my favorite opponents was this teenaged math whiz kid, who I'll call Mike, who had graduated high school at the age of 12 and thus started New College much younger than his classmates. We used to play these intense ping pong contests (sorry Charlie, there were others, but I was totally thinking of you the entire time) where we should sweat profusely, dive for shots, and generally not impress any of the females in the area (the story of my college years).
In general, we were fairly well matched skill-wise, but the thing about Mike was that I always knew I could turn it on when I needed to. I just owned him psychologically. In fact, it became kind of a thing that he never won a match. I mean, he won once in awhile, but I must have beat him something like 97 percent of the time. As my wife knows, I don't have the greatest memory for stuff like this, but I can actually remember thinking, almost 20 years ago, "I can take this guy" even when I was down by 9 or 10 points at match point - and sure enough, I would come back and win.
I was thinking about this today in the aftermath of the Heat's stunning G5 victory, and specifically, the 18-3 run that they went on during the last three minutes of the game. What is it like to turn on the jets and blow someone away like that? How does that happen? I got curious and started watching this sequence of game play, and in a special Top Five edition, am presenting, in sequence, the Top Ten plays of the 18-3 run as a means of painting a picture of what that kind of dominance entails.
My take-away? While it's a lot easier to focus on the amazing offensive from Wade and LBJ, particularly some of the three point shots, this comeback was about one thing: DEFENSE, DEFENSE, and DEFENSE. I mean, the kind of suffocating, incredible defense that you can only appreciate when you watch individual plays over and over again to see how it all unfolded.
Here's my list:
1. Dwayne Wade's genius. Ok, it's 77-67 with 2:49 left in the game. Rose has the ball with players all around him moving to try and create an open passing lane. Dwyane Wade is trailing Deng under the basket but is somehow still watching Rose, who slips around LBJ, but then confronts Haslem who switches off from Taj Gibson to close off the lane. Rose goes up but can't take the shot over Haslem and adjusts to make a pass to the suddenly open player (Gibson) left by Haslem, but Wade leaves Deng and darts in to intercept the ball. What incredible recognition by Wade to anticipate the pass! To top it off, Wade races down the court, takes the pass from LBJ, and converts a layup over two Bulls player and draws a fall. He misses the free throw, but now it's 77-69.
2. Why I love Udonis Haslem. Ok, so the Heat go on a 7-2 run in a stunning quickfire offensive sequence: LBJ hits a three pointer over Rose, who takes too long to contest the shot and even pulls up short, probably fearing that LBJ would drive around him to the basket, Rose makes a beautiful spinning shot in the lane, and then Wade steps back, hits a three-pointer AND is fouled by Rose. Once again Rose's defense is a bit at fault: he falls asleep a bit, perhaps trying to sneak over to help on LBJ but lets Wade get into position to receive the ball. That sequence is what people will probably remember from the game, but what happens on the next possession is what gets me charged up. LBJ is all over Rose, and Kurt Thomas is frantically trying to get in position to set a pick on LBJ to free Rose up. He's finally successful, and Rose slips by only to immediately confront Haslem, who sticks his long arms up to cut off the shooting angle and (probably more importantly) keep himself from fouling Rose. Rose missses the jump shot, and Wade boxes out Taj Gibson under the basket (actually, he fouls him) and LBJ grabs the rebound.
3. Why I love Udonis Haslem, part two. LBJ takes the ball up the court in that casual way of his with Ronnie Brewer guarding him. Haslem slips out and sets a lovely pick on Brewer, LBJ is suddenly open and hits a three pointer. 79-79 with 1:01 left.
4. Great Defense, the LBJ Way. Rose has the ball and is being guarded by Bosch, with LBJ lightly guarding Kurt Thomas but actually closing in on Rose. Thomas slides into a corner, open, ready to receive a pass from Rose, but LBJ times a jump perfectly and steals the ball from Rose.
5. Jeff Van Gundy fundementals award. LBJ brings the ball up the floor and, driving to the left to create space, hits an 18-foot jumper. 81-79 Heat, 29 seconds left. The shot is created by a textbook isolation play: LBJ is on the right side of the floor, and the only guy near him is Wade, who is being guarded by Rose. All of the rest of the Heat players are all the way on the other side of the floor. Rose knows he can't leave Wade or else LBJ will pass him the ball. That gives LBJ all the time in the world to size up Bogans, who has a deer in the headlights kind of look.
6. Reggie Miller versus Steve Kerr debate. Here's how Miller and Kerr broke down this play:
Miller: "Where does LeBron like to go? To his left. If you're Ronnie Brewer, you have to get on his left side and force him right."
Kerr: "The problem you have, if you send him right, he goes to the hoop. I think Chicago's strategy throughout the series has been to send him left and force him into that jump shot because they're so worried about him going to his strong hand and going to the basket. The problem now, he's making that shot, there's nowhere to send him."
7. Steve Kerr sizes up the situation. Rose drives and draws a foul, makes 1 of 2 free throws, Heat up 81-80 with 26.7 seconds left. The Heat call timeout and the camera focuses on a young Bulls fan, who is clutching his chest like he's having a heart attack. Steve Kerr: "Bulls fans (pause) -- nervous."
8. If only Kurt Thomas was five years younger. On the inbound at half court, the Heat make a risky pass and Kurt Thomas stretches out his old, not particularly lithe frame . . . and the ball slips off his hands and back to the Heat. Bosch is fouled and calmly makes two free throws. 83-80.
9. The Six Seconds You Might Not Remember If Not For This Blog Post. Ok, Bulls down 83-80 with 16.8 seconds left. Rose brings it up and it's clear they have no other option than him. Rose gives it up to Korver at 9.9 seconds, clearly expecting to get it right back, except that LBJ is draped all over Rose and Miller does a nice job of trapping Korver. Six agonizing seconds pass with Korver trying to figure out what the hell to do before Rose gets it back - even further away from the basket than when he started, in a bad offensive position. Those are the six seconds I will probably remember the most about this game: the incredible intensity of LBJ and the entire Heat team on the defensive end.
10. The totally not surprising ending. Rose drives to the left with LBJ all over him and barely any time on the clock. Taj Gibson steps up and provides a so-so screen, but Haslem (who was guarding Gibson) steps up and cuts off Rose, who goes up and takes a wild shot that is blocked by LBJ. Game over.
*****
Bonus Bill Simmons quote: in a podcast recorded the day before Bulls-Heat G5, Simmons presciently says: " I think the Bulls need to figure out who their toughest guys are and play them. That means Kurt Thomas and Keith Bogans. I think you put Boozer on the bench." That's the lineup that (almost) won them the game. Love it when coaches throw their rotation out the window (ala Westbrook-Harden-Maynor on the floor at the same time) in a moment of desperation.
Extra bonus: Rick Boucher revealing that "Big Sexy" and "Old Crazy Eyes" are Kurt Thomas nicknames.
In general, we were fairly well matched skill-wise, but the thing about Mike was that I always knew I could turn it on when I needed to. I just owned him psychologically. In fact, it became kind of a thing that he never won a match. I mean, he won once in awhile, but I must have beat him something like 97 percent of the time. As my wife knows, I don't have the greatest memory for stuff like this, but I can actually remember thinking, almost 20 years ago, "I can take this guy" even when I was down by 9 or 10 points at match point - and sure enough, I would come back and win.
I was thinking about this today in the aftermath of the Heat's stunning G5 victory, and specifically, the 18-3 run that they went on during the last three minutes of the game. What is it like to turn on the jets and blow someone away like that? How does that happen? I got curious and started watching this sequence of game play, and in a special Top Five edition, am presenting, in sequence, the Top Ten plays of the 18-3 run as a means of painting a picture of what that kind of dominance entails.
My take-away? While it's a lot easier to focus on the amazing offensive from Wade and LBJ, particularly some of the three point shots, this comeback was about one thing: DEFENSE, DEFENSE, and DEFENSE. I mean, the kind of suffocating, incredible defense that you can only appreciate when you watch individual plays over and over again to see how it all unfolded.
Here's my list:
1. Dwayne Wade's genius. Ok, it's 77-67 with 2:49 left in the game. Rose has the ball with players all around him moving to try and create an open passing lane. Dwyane Wade is trailing Deng under the basket but is somehow still watching Rose, who slips around LBJ, but then confronts Haslem who switches off from Taj Gibson to close off the lane. Rose goes up but can't take the shot over Haslem and adjusts to make a pass to the suddenly open player (Gibson) left by Haslem, but Wade leaves Deng and darts in to intercept the ball. What incredible recognition by Wade to anticipate the pass! To top it off, Wade races down the court, takes the pass from LBJ, and converts a layup over two Bulls player and draws a fall. He misses the free throw, but now it's 77-69.
2. Why I love Udonis Haslem. Ok, so the Heat go on a 7-2 run in a stunning quickfire offensive sequence: LBJ hits a three pointer over Rose, who takes too long to contest the shot and even pulls up short, probably fearing that LBJ would drive around him to the basket, Rose makes a beautiful spinning shot in the lane, and then Wade steps back, hits a three-pointer AND is fouled by Rose. Once again Rose's defense is a bit at fault: he falls asleep a bit, perhaps trying to sneak over to help on LBJ but lets Wade get into position to receive the ball. That sequence is what people will probably remember from the game, but what happens on the next possession is what gets me charged up. LBJ is all over Rose, and Kurt Thomas is frantically trying to get in position to set a pick on LBJ to free Rose up. He's finally successful, and Rose slips by only to immediately confront Haslem, who sticks his long arms up to cut off the shooting angle and (probably more importantly) keep himself from fouling Rose. Rose missses the jump shot, and Wade boxes out Taj Gibson under the basket (actually, he fouls him) and LBJ grabs the rebound.
3. Why I love Udonis Haslem, part two. LBJ takes the ball up the court in that casual way of his with Ronnie Brewer guarding him. Haslem slips out and sets a lovely pick on Brewer, LBJ is suddenly open and hits a three pointer. 79-79 with 1:01 left.
4. Great Defense, the LBJ Way. Rose has the ball and is being guarded by Bosch, with LBJ lightly guarding Kurt Thomas but actually closing in on Rose. Thomas slides into a corner, open, ready to receive a pass from Rose, but LBJ times a jump perfectly and steals the ball from Rose.
5. Jeff Van Gundy fundementals award. LBJ brings the ball up the floor and, driving to the left to create space, hits an 18-foot jumper. 81-79 Heat, 29 seconds left. The shot is created by a textbook isolation play: LBJ is on the right side of the floor, and the only guy near him is Wade, who is being guarded by Rose. All of the rest of the Heat players are all the way on the other side of the floor. Rose knows he can't leave Wade or else LBJ will pass him the ball. That gives LBJ all the time in the world to size up Bogans, who has a deer in the headlights kind of look.
6. Reggie Miller versus Steve Kerr debate. Here's how Miller and Kerr broke down this play:
Miller: "Where does LeBron like to go? To his left. If you're Ronnie Brewer, you have to get on his left side and force him right."
Kerr: "The problem you have, if you send him right, he goes to the hoop. I think Chicago's strategy throughout the series has been to send him left and force him into that jump shot because they're so worried about him going to his strong hand and going to the basket. The problem now, he's making that shot, there's nowhere to send him."
7. Steve Kerr sizes up the situation. Rose drives and draws a foul, makes 1 of 2 free throws, Heat up 81-80 with 26.7 seconds left. The Heat call timeout and the camera focuses on a young Bulls fan, who is clutching his chest like he's having a heart attack. Steve Kerr: "Bulls fans (pause) -- nervous."
8. If only Kurt Thomas was five years younger. On the inbound at half court, the Heat make a risky pass and Kurt Thomas stretches out his old, not particularly lithe frame . . . and the ball slips off his hands and back to the Heat. Bosch is fouled and calmly makes two free throws. 83-80.
9. The Six Seconds You Might Not Remember If Not For This Blog Post. Ok, Bulls down 83-80 with 16.8 seconds left. Rose brings it up and it's clear they have no other option than him. Rose gives it up to Korver at 9.9 seconds, clearly expecting to get it right back, except that LBJ is draped all over Rose and Miller does a nice job of trapping Korver. Six agonizing seconds pass with Korver trying to figure out what the hell to do before Rose gets it back - even further away from the basket than when he started, in a bad offensive position. Those are the six seconds I will probably remember the most about this game: the incredible intensity of LBJ and the entire Heat team on the defensive end.
10. The totally not surprising ending. Rose drives to the left with LBJ all over him and barely any time on the clock. Taj Gibson steps up and provides a so-so screen, but Haslem (who was guarding Gibson) steps up and cuts off Rose, who goes up and takes a wild shot that is blocked by LBJ. Game over.
*****
Bonus Bill Simmons quote: in a podcast recorded the day before Bulls-Heat G5, Simmons presciently says: " I think the Bulls need to figure out who their toughest guys are and play them. That means Kurt Thomas and Keith Bogans. I think you put Boozer on the bench." That's the lineup that (almost) won them the game. Love it when coaches throw their rotation out the window (ala Westbrook-Harden-Maynor on the floor at the same time) in a moment of desperation.
Extra bonus: Rick Boucher revealing that "Big Sexy" and "Old Crazy Eyes" are Kurt Thomas nicknames.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Responses to NBA League Pass Survey
I just filled out the league pass survey. Overall, I'm pleased, but had some comments:
1) Cut out the commercial breaks! The NFL version of this service doesn't include any commercial time (they cut right from game action to game action), nor should the NBA league pass. At a minimum, if you have to keep the commercial break section, NBA league pass has to change the insipid programming in the breaks. If I watch the same four highlights from NBA history much longer, I will go stark raving mad.
2) Also, it would be great if you were able to add the halftime show of either the ESPN or TNT game feed, although I understand that this may be a copyright issue.
Another problem, which mostly seems to have been fixed (though not entirely), is the data bar at the bottom of the screen used to include a section marked "overtime," which again, made it obvious that the game was going to go into overtime. I haven't seen that lately - and I know I can hide the bar - but I found that annoying as well. And even when the Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4 and OT markers are taken out, it's still possible to "recognize" a pattern, particularly at the end of games, where there's a very long break between baskets and then a cluster of activity, as indicating overtime. There have to be solutions to these problems, but it has to start with a recognition of the importance of the basic principle: don't give away the ending! A smart fan who follows the league pass can figure it out if you give enough clues.
Feel free to contact me at hayriot@yahoo.com if you want more suggestions, feedback or ideas. I'm happy to help if I can.
Basically the problem is that site administrators aren't thinking like a fan who logs in after the games are over hoping to preserve the suspense of who won and who didn't, particularly when they live in places overseas where it's almost impossible to watch games live.
10. What features would you like to see added for next season?
Two things on my wish list:1) Cut out the commercial breaks! The NFL version of this service doesn't include any commercial time (they cut right from game action to game action), nor should the NBA league pass. At a minimum, if you have to keep the commercial break section, NBA league pass has to change the insipid programming in the breaks. If I watch the same four highlights from NBA history much longer, I will go stark raving mad.
2) Also, it would be great if you were able to add the halftime show of either the ESPN or TNT game feed, although I understand that this may be a copyright issue.
13. Please provide any additional suggestions or comments.
My biggest comment, and something that detracts from what is otherwise an excellent site, is the tendency of NBA league pass to inadvertently give away the ending of games before the viewer has a chance to watch them. This has been a particular problem during the playoffs, where the schedule bar at the top of the screen typically spans two or more days into the future. (I typically log in and watch games the morning after they happen in London - so, if I log into the site at 6 am, that means it's the equivalent of 1 am EST.) Here are two examples: 1) Game 7 of the Memphis-OKC conference semifinals, where the schedule at the top of the screen showed that the league pass would be showing G1 of the OKC - Dallas series in two days. Doesn't take a genius to figure out that OKC had won g7. 2) G5 of the OKC - Dallas series. This time the problem was what the schedule bar omitted: there was no G6 between the two teams listed on the schedule, which logically meant that Dallas had won g5 and the series was over.Another problem, which mostly seems to have been fixed (though not entirely), is the data bar at the bottom of the screen used to include a section marked "overtime," which again, made it obvious that the game was going to go into overtime. I haven't seen that lately - and I know I can hide the bar - but I found that annoying as well. And even when the Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4 and OT markers are taken out, it's still possible to "recognize" a pattern, particularly at the end of games, where there's a very long break between baskets and then a cluster of activity, as indicating overtime. There have to be solutions to these problems, but it has to start with a recognition of the importance of the basic principle: don't give away the ending! A smart fan who follows the league pass can figure it out if you give enough clues.
Feel free to contact me at hayriot@yahoo.com if you want more suggestions, feedback or ideas. I'm happy to help if I can.
Basically the problem is that site administrators aren't thinking like a fan who logs in after the games are over hoping to preserve the suspense of who won and who didn't, particularly when they live in places overseas where it's almost impossible to watch games live.
Economic Advantage Helps Players Get Into NBA
Interesting and somewhat counter-intuitive article on the economic background of NBA players:
An African-American child raised in a lower-class family is 37% less likely to become a professional basketball player than is an African-American child raised in a middle- or upper-class family, according to Joshua Kjerulf Dubrow of the Polish Academy of Sciences and jimi adams of Arizona State. Contrary to the popular stereotype, most black professional basketball players come from the middle class and above, the researchers say, and economic advantage improves players' likelihood of being selected into the NBA.
An African-American child raised in a lower-class family is 37% less likely to become a professional basketball player than is an African-American child raised in a middle- or upper-class family, according to Joshua Kjerulf Dubrow of the Polish Academy of Sciences and jimi adams of Arizona State. Contrary to the popular stereotype, most black professional basketball players come from the middle class and above, the researchers say, and economic advantage improves players' likelihood of being selected into the NBA.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Memphis-OKC Highlights: Announcer Edition; or, The Institute of Applied Nonsense
As much as I appreciate the unflappable, good-natured cerebrality of Steve Kerr and the reassuring snarkiness of Marv "Voice of the NBA" Albert, Mike/Jeff/Marc is far and away my all-time favorite NBA announcing team. If I were ever in a broadcasting booth that was in a foxhole, those are the guys I would want to have my back. Here are some highlights from the last two Memphis-OKC games.
You Look Forward to Going into Somebody Else’s House, and Putting Your Feet All on Their Couch and the Table
Mark Jackson on Dallas coming into OKC’s great arena:
“That’s what you look forward to as a veteran player: you begin as you get older and older to embrace these situations. You look forward to going into somebody else’s house, and putting your feet all on their couch and the table.”
Can I Get an Amen, Mike?
Jeff Van Gundy (JVG)’s NBA Psychology Corner: After Stevenson gets an early technical for pushing Sefalosia after he knocked the ball out of Stevenson’s hand right after a whistle:
“The number one cause of technicals is a member defensive team trying to take the ball out of the hands of the offensive player holding it on a dead ball. What would be so irritating about that? That would be for a coach like somebody took your clipboard.”
Mark Jackson: “I could see if he was sitting over here next to you—then he got something to be upset about. That’s irritating. Can I get an a-men, Mike?"
Mike Breen: "A-men."
The Institute of Applied Nonsense
Camera pans to Dirk’s shooting coach, Holder Gershwinder, sitting in the stands.
Breen: "Holder’s methods always unconventional. He’s called his basketball academy the Institute of Applied Nonsense. But it’s certainly been effective for the seven-foot German."
Some Guys Have a Hard Time Making 48 Straight Layups
JVG: “Two consecutive days in practice, Stoyankovitch made 94/100 threes, then 96/100 threes.
Jackson: “And he also had a run where he made 48 straight. Which is impressive…some guys have a hard time making 48 straight layups.”
Fear the Beard Pt. 1: I Think it Would Complete You
An OKC fan sign – “FEAR THE BEARD” – sparks Mike Breen to inaugurate a new announcer feature: Notable Playoff Beards.
Breen (re Harden): “Just one of many great playoff beards!”
Jackson to JVG: “Have you ever thought about growing a beard. Cause I think it would complete you.”
JVG: “I might go, what’s that—goatee? I might do the goatee.”
Fear the Beard Pt. 2: I Don’t Think There is a Good Look of Me
(aka Jeff Van Gundy’s Low Self-Esteem Corner)
Camera pans to another fan holding up a different and much stranger “FEAR THE BEARD” sign: a big poster-sized drawing of JVG’s face…with Harden’s beard.
Mark Jackson: "Did you like that…that, look of you?"
JVG: "I don’t like any look of me. I don’t think there is a good look of me."
It’s Something to Do
Crowd starts anti-ref chant in protest of a (stupid and obvious) Ibaka foul on Dirk with 12 seconds left in the half.
JVG: "Are these fans kidding me? They’re yelling at the ref on that call?"
Breen: "It’s something to do."
JVG: "They should be able to have a crowd technical for lack of basketball IQ."
1992 All-Star Game Bonus!
He’s the Only Person I Know Who Wears Makeup for Radio
One Fratello signature that seems to be emerging is that every game, amidst two-hours worth of pablum, he focuses in for one random moment of lucidity. Apparently this has always been his m.o.: at the 1992 All-Star Game, a young Mike Fratello announces the game with a young Mike Breen. Camera pans to a younger (sort of) Marv Albert, who is doing a radio call.
Fratello on Marv: “He’s the only person I know who wears makeup for radio.”
Best game of the NBA playoffs?
Wow. This post covers the stunning come from behind win by the the Mavs in G4 of the OKC series.
Best game of the NBA playoffs? That game had it all: great offense by OKC if the first 3 and 2/3 quarters; amazing comeback by the Mavs powered by a Dirk "I Won't Be Stopped Except by Homicide" Nowitski in the final four minutes of the fourth quarter; incredible defense by Jason Kidd/Shawn Marion; and on and on. Sad to see OKC go down - unlike their resilient performance in winning G4 of the Memphis series in triple overtime, they had nothing to draw upon at the end of the game.
Scott Brooks failed attempt to rally the troops award: Perhaps the most plaintitive moments of the NBA playoffs came as Brooks called time out after time out in a doomed attempt to rally the troops. I've never seen worse body language than when Brooks called a full timeout with OKC down by 3 in the final minute of overtime.
Hidden History: Even though Durant and Westbrook completely disappeared at the end of the game, Sefolosha (who has been fairly quiet throughout the playoffs) made two very nice plays to keep OKC in the game that will be completely forgotten because of the loss. His first was keeping Terry scoring on what looked like a clean breakaway towards the end of regulation that would have cut the lead to 101-100. Then he made a nice mid-range jump shot in overtime to calm the team a bit and bring it to 105-103.
Quickfire round: Here's a few random thoughts I jotted down while watching the game:
--James Harden is developing a nice blank stare to go along with his rapidly developing game. Look for more of that in the future.
--Kevin Durant may have the nicest mother in all of professional sports.
--Worst (but accurate) nickname: Serge I-Block-A.
--Worst extended announcer debate: the ESPN guys spending 7 minutes on the importance of "protecting the fans" from bad language
The Mavs March On, or Not: The conventional wisdom is that the Mavs will win G5 and advance. And I would probably bet on that outcome. However, and this gets back to the difficulty of being in Scott Brooks' shoes, if they can muster up a good performance in G5 and go back to OKC, this series is not over. They played great basketball for almost 90 percent of the game!
Best game of the NBA playoffs? That game had it all: great offense by OKC if the first 3 and 2/3 quarters; amazing comeback by the Mavs powered by a Dirk "I Won't Be Stopped Except by Homicide" Nowitski in the final four minutes of the fourth quarter; incredible defense by Jason Kidd/Shawn Marion; and on and on. Sad to see OKC go down - unlike their resilient performance in winning G4 of the Memphis series in triple overtime, they had nothing to draw upon at the end of the game.
Scott Brooks failed attempt to rally the troops award: Perhaps the most plaintitive moments of the NBA playoffs came as Brooks called time out after time out in a doomed attempt to rally the troops. I've never seen worse body language than when Brooks called a full timeout with OKC down by 3 in the final minute of overtime.
Hidden History: Even though Durant and Westbrook completely disappeared at the end of the game, Sefolosha (who has been fairly quiet throughout the playoffs) made two very nice plays to keep OKC in the game that will be completely forgotten because of the loss. His first was keeping Terry scoring on what looked like a clean breakaway towards the end of regulation that would have cut the lead to 101-100. Then he made a nice mid-range jump shot in overtime to calm the team a bit and bring it to 105-103.
Quickfire round: Here's a few random thoughts I jotted down while watching the game:
--James Harden is developing a nice blank stare to go along with his rapidly developing game. Look for more of that in the future.
--Kevin Durant may have the nicest mother in all of professional sports.
--Worst (but accurate) nickname: Serge I-Block-A.
--Worst extended announcer debate: the ESPN guys spending 7 minutes on the importance of "protecting the fans" from bad language
The Mavs March On, or Not: The conventional wisdom is that the Mavs will win G5 and advance. And I would probably bet on that outcome. However, and this gets back to the difficulty of being in Scott Brooks' shoes, if they can muster up a good performance in G5 and go back to OKC, this series is not over. They played great basketball for almost 90 percent of the game!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Why NBA League Pass Pissed Me Off
I just need to get this off my chest. Before G7 of OKC-Memphis, I went into Game Pass lockdown mode, blocking my view of the screen and starting the game without looking at the schedule at the top of the screen. Then I spent the entire game chopping wood (including the entire halftime break) so that I wouldn't risk seeing the schedule - the danger being it would include mention of which team was playing Dallas (and thus had won G7). After the game was over, I thought, "maybe I was being paranoid." Sure enough, however, there it was - a mention of an OKC - Dallas game one. Whazzup with the League Pass? They really don't understand their fans.
Charlie's Analysis of Dallas-OKC
It's the only thing keeping me sane on my (totally life affirming) travels:
dallas-okc was wow. dirk is playing like a man on fire. barrea looks like a guy doing magic tricks. jason terry has that indomitable peppe lepeiu bounce to his step (and shot). the biggest hole in okc's offense seemed to me in this game to be durant's lack of a post game. if you can chase him around you can, not shut him down, but keep him and the rest of the office scrambling. dirk went into the post over and over and over, inevitably either scoring or drawing a foul. he just totally demoralized them.
dallas-okc was wow. dirk is playing like a man on fire. barrea looks like a guy doing magic tricks. jason terry has that indomitable peppe lepeiu bounce to his step (and shot). the biggest hole in okc's offense seemed to me in this game to be durant's lack of a post game. if you can chase him around you can, not shut him down, but keep him and the rest of the office scrambling. dirk went into the post over and over and over, inevitably either scoring or drawing a foul. he just totally demoralized them.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
From the Inbox: Bulls-Heat Game 1 Overview and Stuff
aubrey had to go to the states for some dubiously non-nba-related business. he wasn't able to catch the ECF game one and asked me for an overview...
dear aubrey,
how could you leave? now, of all times?
i know that wasn't in my initial e-mail but i just had to clear the air.
dear aubrey,
how could you leave? now, of all times?
i know that wasn't in my initial e-mail but i just had to clear the air.
bulls-heat: both teams played to type, and it seems like if that continues the bulls will continue to win. barkley said chicago is playing the best defense he's ever seen in the n.b.a. and brings some convincing clips to prove it. it was awesome to watch, such a high level of energy and coordination that you just rarely see. you know how usually when someone can ditch their man on a move to drive inside, it's usually some kind of defensive chaos and/or collapse that ensues--either a layup, a kick out to an open man, or a foul? with the bulls you get the feeling their defense is totally in the moment at every moment: someone gets past a perimeter defender, there's like a whole SECOND LEVEL of set defense operating in the paint to smother, block, and rebound--usually without fouling. and they killed the heat on offensive rebounding (i have a blog item coming up about this; i've been slumping a little on my blogging, but it's not against the blog; i think i'm still finding my voice) to where it was just raining second-chances. this was all a symptom of the main thing the bulls had/will have over miami: when the whole team shows up, they are DEEP. i think i'm remembering right that there were, don't remember the number, but a bunch of chicago players with around ten points. boozer was solid, noah was awesome and everywhere and smothering on d, corver knocked down i think two 3's, and man, taj gibson was a MANIAC. oh, and so was Asik! (marv couldn't resist: "THE ROOKIE OUT OF TURKEY") there are two monster highlights from him gibson have to see. they got points and hustle out of ronnie brewer and c.j. watson. rose was his normal special self. and oh oh oh---DENG!!!! was dang special as well.
so basically for most of the game it felt like three on nine. bosh had his biggest game of the playoffs and was good; lebron was okay; wade started strong but then struggled and seemed to get really, really, really tired guarding rose. no other standouts for miami.
key analysis point: the importance of offensive rebounds for Chicago. Miami doesn’t pound the boards b/c they’re so focused on getting back for transition defense. If Chicago can grab offensive rebounds they have a good chance of finding someone open as Miami scrambles to get back. If Miami grabs it, quick outlet, break, lebron and wade. Kerr: “That’s kind of one of those game-within-a-game type battles that you’re going to have to look for.”
so basically for most of the game it felt like three on nine. bosh had his biggest game of the playoffs and was good; lebron was okay; wade started strong but then struggled and seemed to get really, really, really tired guarding rose. no other standouts for miami.
the synergy that is taj gibson: both the game- and announcer-highlights coalesced around taj gibson's two ridinkulankulous dunks:
1) driving dunk over wade, taking off from behind the restricted area.
reggie: AAAghhurlpaahhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
kerr: You wanna get off me now, Reggie? It’s getting physical here in the booth.
2) mid-air-catch-tomahawk-dunk-offensive-rebound-putback.
reggie: I HAVE BEEN TO THE MOUNTAINTOP AND BACK!
kerr: giggles and stammers like a schoolboy (literally)
key analysis point: the importance of offensive rebounds for Chicago. Miami doesn’t pound the boards b/c they’re so focused on getting back for transition defense. If Chicago can grab offensive rebounds they have a good chance of finding someone open as Miami scrambles to get back. If Miami grabs it, quick outlet, break, lebron and wade. Kerr: “That’s kind of one of those game-within-a-game type battles that you’re going to have to look for.”
Possible Finals Preview/Definite What-I'll-Be-Doing-This-Summer Preview
With the playoffs funneling down, this is the first time since November I haven't had at least a game to watch every day--which is giving me a newfound sympathy for junkies. This is my methadone:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32ZujkyERK8&feature=related
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Maximalist v. Minamilist, or Why I'm Rooting for the Grizz
Today's post is a celebration of a very entertaining and hard fought G6 between OKC and Memphis - as well as a preview of what's ahead.
Maximalist v. Minamilist, or Why I'm Rooting for the Grizz. When I was growing up, my older brother and I spent hours playing a primitive, stats-heavy computer baseball game. I created these elaborate, 12-team leagues full of scrappy players (defensive specialists, good speed guys, a strong bullpen and at most one or two HR hitters) and enjoyed "managing" these teams to 4-2 or 3-1 wins. By contrast, my brother stacked his teams with greats from throughout baseball history (e.g. Ruth would play with Roger Maris, Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax and Jim Palmer) and cruised to 12-3 victories. When we played each other, his team would crush mine. I call this the "maximalist" (my brother) versus "minamlist" (me) approach, and it's informing my attitude towards the NBA playoffs. I'm enjoying teams like the Grizz that are overcoming their inherent limitations, playing well despite obvious deficiencies (such as the Grizz's inability to make perimeter shots). The good news about these playoff is that almost every team can be described in a minimalist fashion. The Bulls lack consistency from their supporting cast, OKC has big lapses of concentration, Dallas is an aging team riding a wave of good play, and even the Heat have major problems after their big two and a half. I suspect my writing partner (actually, I know this) is a minimalist as well. Good for us but maybe bad for the SBC and the maximalists out there.
Hidden History: It's easy to forget quiet mistakes made by the winning team, because it falls out of the narrative of the game itself. That's a mistake, and probably the kind of thing that keeps coaches up at night. One example: the Grizz starting off Q4 with a ton of momentum and yet . . . scoring 2 points and not executing their offense for several minutes, which allowed OKC to stay in the game. One consequence of this sequence is that while individual bench players have played very well (Battier comes immediately to mind, as does Darrell Arthur at times), the Grizz can't really afford to play their full second team for more than a few minutes in G7. Here's an example of history that probably WILL get talked about but would have been forgotten if OKC has managed to pull out the game: Scott Brooks taking out Durant in the first quarter after his second foul, halting early OKC momentum and making it harder for Durant to get into his game. Good job by Van Gunday and Mark Jackson highlighting the significance of that decision.
Game Seven Preview: This is going to be an epic showdown. The obvious big question is what OKC does to slow down Z-Dog. Even after expending a lot of resources in G6 (such as Collinson giving up on defensive rebounds just to keep Randolph from getting in position under the basket), they couldn't stop him. I wouldn't be suprised if they asked Ibaka, Perkins, and Collinson to sacrifice their games completely to stop Z-Dog. Get those elbows flying! For the Grizz, the big questions I have are whether Conley can make his jump shots and how many minutes Gasol and Randolph are on the floor. I'd put the over/under on them at 43 minutes.
Economic Injustice of the Day: Nick Collison makes $13 million a year. Westbrook? 4 million. Durant? 6 million. It's hard to call any guy making a lot more than his two best teammates an intangibles guy, as much as he may deserve it for his play.
Unsung Hero. As good as Z-Dog played, he wasn't the best entertainer at the game. That award goes to Jeff Van Gundy for his excellent G6 performance. Here are the highlights:
--"I would do that (keep a player on the floor with two early fouls) with a guy like Allen Houston because - and I hope he's listening - he didn't guard enough to pick up that third foul."
--"If I'm Tony Allen, I'm upset about being called a Volkswagon. I'm at least a Lexus." (In response to a Mark Jackson comment about a Tony Allen - O.J. Mayo fast break.)
--"Sam Young has the premiere shot fake in the NBA." (Just after saying this, Young gave three head fakes and then threw the ball out of bounces.)
--"The ref should be able to stare you down after that, (saying) like, what kind of basketball play is that?" (Referring to a bad play by Tony Allen)
--"It really doesn't have a great flow right now . . . (long pause) . . . Really that was such as stupid comment." (Mike Breen: "You Mean Me?") "No, me!" (Mark Jackson after a pause: "I like the fact that you let it hang around, let it marinate, then you commented. Good job.")
Bonus Unfortunate Fan Sign of the Night: "G7 ESPN 7:30 PM." As Mike Breen pointed out, the game's on ABC - and is at 3:30.
Maximalist v. Minamilist, or Why I'm Rooting for the Grizz. When I was growing up, my older brother and I spent hours playing a primitive, stats-heavy computer baseball game. I created these elaborate, 12-team leagues full of scrappy players (defensive specialists, good speed guys, a strong bullpen and at most one or two HR hitters) and enjoyed "managing" these teams to 4-2 or 3-1 wins. By contrast, my brother stacked his teams with greats from throughout baseball history (e.g. Ruth would play with Roger Maris, Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax and Jim Palmer) and cruised to 12-3 victories. When we played each other, his team would crush mine. I call this the "maximalist" (my brother) versus "minamlist" (me) approach, and it's informing my attitude towards the NBA playoffs. I'm enjoying teams like the Grizz that are overcoming their inherent limitations, playing well despite obvious deficiencies (such as the Grizz's inability to make perimeter shots). The good news about these playoff is that almost every team can be described in a minimalist fashion. The Bulls lack consistency from their supporting cast, OKC has big lapses of concentration, Dallas is an aging team riding a wave of good play, and even the Heat have major problems after their big two and a half. I suspect my writing partner (actually, I know this) is a minimalist as well. Good for us but maybe bad for the SBC and the maximalists out there.
Hidden History: It's easy to forget quiet mistakes made by the winning team, because it falls out of the narrative of the game itself. That's a mistake, and probably the kind of thing that keeps coaches up at night. One example: the Grizz starting off Q4 with a ton of momentum and yet . . . scoring 2 points and not executing their offense for several minutes, which allowed OKC to stay in the game. One consequence of this sequence is that while individual bench players have played very well (Battier comes immediately to mind, as does Darrell Arthur at times), the Grizz can't really afford to play their full second team for more than a few minutes in G7. Here's an example of history that probably WILL get talked about but would have been forgotten if OKC has managed to pull out the game: Scott Brooks taking out Durant in the first quarter after his second foul, halting early OKC momentum and making it harder for Durant to get into his game. Good job by Van Gunday and Mark Jackson highlighting the significance of that decision.
Game Seven Preview: This is going to be an epic showdown. The obvious big question is what OKC does to slow down Z-Dog. Even after expending a lot of resources in G6 (such as Collinson giving up on defensive rebounds just to keep Randolph from getting in position under the basket), they couldn't stop him. I wouldn't be suprised if they asked Ibaka, Perkins, and Collinson to sacrifice their games completely to stop Z-Dog. Get those elbows flying! For the Grizz, the big questions I have are whether Conley can make his jump shots and how many minutes Gasol and Randolph are on the floor. I'd put the over/under on them at 43 minutes.
Economic Injustice of the Day: Nick Collison makes $13 million a year. Westbrook? 4 million. Durant? 6 million. It's hard to call any guy making a lot more than his two best teammates an intangibles guy, as much as he may deserve it for his play.
Unsung Hero. As good as Z-Dog played, he wasn't the best entertainer at the game. That award goes to Jeff Van Gundy for his excellent G6 performance. Here are the highlights:
--"I would do that (keep a player on the floor with two early fouls) with a guy like Allen Houston because - and I hope he's listening - he didn't guard enough to pick up that third foul."
--"If I'm Tony Allen, I'm upset about being called a Volkswagon. I'm at least a Lexus." (In response to a Mark Jackson comment about a Tony Allen - O.J. Mayo fast break.)
--"Sam Young has the premiere shot fake in the NBA." (Just after saying this, Young gave three head fakes and then threw the ball out of bounces.)
--"The ref should be able to stare you down after that, (saying) like, what kind of basketball play is that?" (Referring to a bad play by Tony Allen)
--"It really doesn't have a great flow right now . . . (long pause) . . . Really that was such as stupid comment." (Mike Breen: "You Mean Me?") "No, me!" (Mark Jackson after a pause: "I like the fact that you let it hang around, let it marinate, then you commented. Good job.")
Bonus Unfortunate Fan Sign of the Night: "G7 ESPN 7:30 PM." As Mike Breen pointed out, the game's on ABC - and is at 3:30.
From the Archives
I'm not happy with NBA league pass today, though fortunately I managed to work around it. More later, but for now, here's another email from the Dear League Pass archives.
March 23, 2011
To Whom It May Concern,
I recently signed up for the NBA league pass from London. I very much enjoy the technology and access to NBA games. I have been watching games with a friend in another country the day after the games have been completed in the United States.
I have a few suggestions that I think would make a good product even better. Mostly they relate to helping "hide" the final result of the game and improving the flow of the game for the viewer.
1. The bar at the bottom of the screen contains too much information - inadvertently, I think. (This is the bar that has the four quarters of the game, with circular "d"s and "m"s that viewers can click on to advance the game action.) One specific problem is that you can tell very easily if the game has gone into overtime because the overtime periods are contained in the bar. An example of this is the Lakers-Suns game last night: I knew immediately that the game went into three overtimes because that information appeared in the bar, which reduced the tension and drama of the game b/c I knew how long it would last! One alternative (which I don't know if it is practical), is to hide the overtime periods in the bar; if a game goes to overtime, the regular time bar can be replaced by an overtime bar so that you don't know that there is an overtime until you get to the end of regular time. Another easy option is to allow viewers the option of "closing" the bar and opening it again as wanted.
2. I find the commercial break transitions to be very irritating. The games should be edited so that you don't have to fast forward through the commercial action. I have the NFL game pass and they do that for their games. It can't be that hard to do. Also, the "great moments in NBA history" feature is fairly annoying, especially after you've seen them 100 times.
Thanks,
Aubrey Fox
March 23, 2011
To Whom It May Concern,
I recently signed up for the NBA league pass from London. I very much enjoy the technology and access to NBA games. I have been watching games with a friend in another country the day after the games have been completed in the United States.
I have a few suggestions that I think would make a good product even better. Mostly they relate to helping "hide" the final result of the game and improving the flow of the game for the viewer.
1. The bar at the bottom of the screen contains too much information - inadvertently, I think. (This is the bar that has the four quarters of the game, with circular "d"s and "m"s that viewers can click on to advance the game action.) One specific problem is that you can tell very easily if the game has gone into overtime because the overtime periods are contained in the bar. An example of this is the Lakers-Suns game last night: I knew immediately that the game went into three overtimes because that information appeared in the bar, which reduced the tension and drama of the game b/c I knew how long it would last! One alternative (which I don't know if it is practical), is to hide the overtime periods in the bar; if a game goes to overtime, the regular time bar can be replaced by an overtime bar so that you don't know that there is an overtime until you get to the end of regular time. Another easy option is to allow viewers the option of "closing" the bar and opening it again as wanted.
2. I find the commercial break transitions to be very irritating. The games should be edited so that you don't have to fast forward through the commercial action. I have the NFL game pass and they do that for their games. It can't be that hard to do. Also, the "great moments in NBA history" feature is fairly annoying, especially after you've seen them 100 times.
Thanks,
Aubrey Fox
Friday, May 13, 2011
VERTIGO! Player most in need of a trip to the Plumb Clinic
Hawks End of Season Awards: Last night's sole playoff game was the Bulls dismantlement of the Hawks in Game 6, which ended the Hawks up and down season. As I have already discussed how the Hawks are like a surly teenager (see the May 7 entry), I found myself imagining that like a youth soccer team, the Hawks would get together for an end of season pizza party to hand out awards of the "good sportsmanship" variety. Here are four suggestions:
--Player Most Likely to End up as Bond Villian: Zaza Pachulia
--Most Optimistic in the Face of All Compelling Counter-Evidence: Josh Smith and his jump shot.
--Best Impersonation of Mrs. Doubtfire: Hubie Brown (making a guest appearance) for clucking in approval whenever the Hawks executed their offense competently.
--I Told You So, Larry Drew: Jeff Teague
Signs that a Game Six playoff game has lost its steam: Hubie Brown and Mike Tirico spending several minutes discussing Ted Turner's career midway through the fourth quarter of a Hawks-Bulls close out game. Illustrative quote: "He (Turner's father) had the biggest billboard business in the Southeast." Not incidentally, what sparked the conversation was Turner walking out of the arena.
VERTIGO! Player most in need of a trip to the Plumb Clinic: Z-Dog (who barely jumps at the best of times) showing the side effects of a 57 minute Game 4 by refusing to create any space between his feet and the floor. See http://the-op.com/media/image2.php?oid=373&i=6058
Fresh Hope That the Evil Miami Heat will not March Inexorably to the NBA Championship: Boozer 23-10-5, Deng 13-5-5-5, Noah 11-6, Gibson 10-4, Asik 5-3-2.
Z-Dog Shirt Watch: Today's likelihood of a Memphis Grizz championship (and Zach Randolph shirts for both Charlie and Aubrey, paid for out of winnings from the bet): 12 percent.
--Player Most Likely to End up as Bond Villian: Zaza Pachulia
--Most Optimistic in the Face of All Compelling Counter-Evidence: Josh Smith and his jump shot.
--Best Impersonation of Mrs. Doubtfire: Hubie Brown (making a guest appearance) for clucking in approval whenever the Hawks executed their offense competently.
--I Told You So, Larry Drew: Jeff Teague
Signs that a Game Six playoff game has lost its steam: Hubie Brown and Mike Tirico spending several minutes discussing Ted Turner's career midway through the fourth quarter of a Hawks-Bulls close out game. Illustrative quote: "He (Turner's father) had the biggest billboard business in the Southeast." Not incidentally, what sparked the conversation was Turner walking out of the arena.
VERTIGO! Player most in need of a trip to the Plumb Clinic: Z-Dog (who barely jumps at the best of times) showing the side effects of a 57 minute Game 4 by refusing to create any space between his feet and the floor. See http://the-op.com/media/image2.php?oid=373&i=6058
Fresh Hope That the Evil Miami Heat will not March Inexorably to the NBA Championship: Boozer 23-10-5, Deng 13-5-5-5, Noah 11-6, Gibson 10-4, Asik 5-3-2.
Z-Dog Shirt Watch: Today's likelihood of a Memphis Grizz championship (and Zach Randolph shirts for both Charlie and Aubrey, paid for out of winnings from the bet): 12 percent.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Awkward Announcer Moment of the Day: Does Dick Stockton Know Something About Retired UMD Coach Gary Williams That We Don’t?
Awkward Announcer Moment of the Day: Does Dick Stockton Know Something About Retired UMD Coach Gary Williams That We Don’t?
Fratello (re Greivis Vasquez): How exciting was he when he played at the University of Maryland under Gary Williams, and I’m very sad to see Gary Williams retire. A great coach at the University of Maryland.
Stockton: Well he may not be sad in retiring. I think he thinks it’s the right move to make.
Fratello: Well, if it’s the right move for him, and it makes him happy, then that’s the right thing for him.
Bill Simmons Gratuitously Mean Swipe of the Day: “O.J. mayo is doing a poor-man’s Rudy Gay impersonation.”
Inspired Music Cue of the Day: The Memphis arena, after Conley’s last-second-of-regulation, game-tying three-pointer, blasting “You Dropped a Bomb on Me.” I pray to God they were playing the video on the JumboTron:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17lkdqoLt44
Most Exciting and Impactful Bench-Scorer Battle: Mayo vs. Harden. They’re both playing pretty well, but so far I think Mayo has the edge.
Best Fan Sign (from game 3): “No Rain, Flood, or Thunder Can Stop Memphis.”
* * *
Bonus Awkward Announcer Moment of the Day: Kevin Durant opens his response to Marty Snider’s first post-game courtside interview question with his usual (and steadily growing-on-me), “I just wanna thank the good Lord for letting us play this game that we love.” At which point Snider averts his eyes to the ground as if violently slapped, and keeps them there until Durant is done with his prayer session and ready to talk basketball.
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Source of Kobe - Gasol Conflict?
Loyal reader Alf S. reports this nugget of gossip:
"According to my son, the word is that Gasol's girlfriend broke up with him at the urging of Kobe's wife....not sure what was the problem that they were addressing but one can imagine....at any rate, looks like Pao may not be long for the Lakers...."
Here's a link to a story backing up the theory: http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2011-05-09/did-breakup-affect-pau-gasols-playoff-performance
"According to my son, the word is that Gasol's girlfriend broke up with him at the urging of Kobe's wife....not sure what was the problem that they were addressing but one can imagine....at any rate, looks like Pao may not be long for the Lakers...."
Here's a link to a story backing up the theory: http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2011-05-09/did-breakup-affect-pau-gasols-playoff-performance
The Wild and Wonderful World of Doris Burke and Dave Pasch
The Wild and Wonderful World of Doris Burke and Dave Pasch. Welcome to the highs and lows of life with the announcing partnership of Burke and Pasch. It includes a bit of the obvious ("There's flooding in Memphis, but not in the arena" noted Pasch helpfully at the start of the game), the logic challenged ("Durant prepares every day like he's the 12th man!" said Burke, though you'd guess the 12th man might actually take a few nights off) and the plaintive ("I hope there are four game 6's because it's the only way we get to work" declared Burke). Wait for them to fall in love and start their own reality TV show!
24/7 with Zach Randolph. Speaking of reality shows, why hasn't someone created a show for Zach Randolph? I mean, the guy would be fascinating to watch - you want to learn so much more! Why, for example, did he show up only an hour before the 3rd OKC game, probably the biggest of his career? Why did he go sit by himself at the end of the bench? What was he saying while he jawboned OKC opponents all game long? And best of all, what does he put in the secret compartments of his custom built car?
Coaching aides. Watching Josh Smith have, again, the best worst game of all time made me think of accessories that would be useful for NBA coaches. Here are my top three nominations. 1) An electric shock for Josh Smith every time he jacks up an long jump shot (that doesn't activate when he has to take a shot before the 24 second clock expires - I'm no barbarian, Steve Kerr!); 2) An alarm clock for Z-Dog; and 3) Handcuffs for Artest, Odom and Bynum. Bonus accessory just for Shaq: an extra large spoon so he can finish off both Big Baby with a side order of Kristic - that dude is the biggest guy I've ever seen.
The most entertaining team you'll never remember was in the NBA playoffs a year from now award. The Atlanta Hawks and their rollercoaster ride. You never know which team will show up, but it's almost impossible to imagine them advancing past this round.
But am I wrong? Could the Bulls actually lose this series? It seems inconceivable, but . . . they haven't played that well! And as long as they can't find a decent second option after Derrick Rose, they are very vulnerable. As Bill Simmons likes to say, how good would they be if they had paid for Ray Allen instead of Kyle Korver?
Bonus analysis: Today's likelihood of a Memphis Grizz championship (and Zach Randolph shirts for both Charlie and Aubrey, paid for out of winnings from the bet): 20 percent.
24/7 with Zach Randolph. Speaking of reality shows, why hasn't someone created a show for Zach Randolph? I mean, the guy would be fascinating to watch - you want to learn so much more! Why, for example, did he show up only an hour before the 3rd OKC game, probably the biggest of his career? Why did he go sit by himself at the end of the bench? What was he saying while he jawboned OKC opponents all game long? And best of all, what does he put in the secret compartments of his custom built car?
Coaching aides. Watching Josh Smith have, again, the best worst game of all time made me think of accessories that would be useful for NBA coaches. Here are my top three nominations. 1) An electric shock for Josh Smith every time he jacks up an long jump shot (that doesn't activate when he has to take a shot before the 24 second clock expires - I'm no barbarian, Steve Kerr!); 2) An alarm clock for Z-Dog; and 3) Handcuffs for Artest, Odom and Bynum. Bonus accessory just for Shaq: an extra large spoon so he can finish off both Big Baby with a side order of Kristic - that dude is the biggest guy I've ever seen.
The most entertaining team you'll never remember was in the NBA playoffs a year from now award. The Atlanta Hawks and their rollercoaster ride. You never know which team will show up, but it's almost impossible to imagine them advancing past this round.
But am I wrong? Could the Bulls actually lose this series? It seems inconceivable, but . . . they haven't played that well! And as long as they can't find a decent second option after Derrick Rose, they are very vulnerable. As Bill Simmons likes to say, how good would they be if they had paid for Ray Allen instead of Kyle Korver?
Bonus analysis: Today's likelihood of a Memphis Grizz championship (and Zach Randolph shirts for both Charlie and Aubrey, paid for out of winnings from the bet): 20 percent.
Dear League Pass
To Whom It May Concern,
I thought I'd pass along some feedback and concerns about NBA league pass and specifically, ways in which you are inadvertently giving away the results of NBA playoff games before I have a chance to watch them.
I logged into the league pass this morning to watch Game 4 of the Dallas - Lakers series. As I logged in, I saw a schedule of games at the top of the window for both Monday and Tuesday. The significant part is the Tuesday part of the schedule; the Atlanta-Chicago game 5 was the only game listed. Because I know that the Atlanta - Chicago and Lakers - Dallas games have been paired (e.g. played on the same night), the fact that there was no Lakers-Mavericks game listed could mean only one thing: the Mavs had won Game 4, the Lakers had been eliminated from the playoffs, and there is no Game 5 to be played. And in fact, the game was a blowout, which I quickly established by forwarding through the game a bit.
I think this could be a fairly significant problem going forward for all of the playoff matchups. My recommendation would be to only have one day posted in the schedule at a time. In practice this morning, that would have meant only listing Monday's scheduled games and not Tuesday's (e.g. I would have seen that Mia - Bos and OKC - Mem were scheduled to play Monday night). That at least gives the viewer a day after the fact to catch up to live action.
Thank you for the opportunity to give my feedback,
Aubrey Fox
I thought I'd pass along some feedback and concerns about NBA league pass and specifically, ways in which you are inadvertently giving away the results of NBA playoff games before I have a chance to watch them.
I logged into the league pass this morning to watch Game 4 of the Dallas - Lakers series. As I logged in, I saw a schedule of games at the top of the window for both Monday and Tuesday. The significant part is the Tuesday part of the schedule; the Atlanta-Chicago game 5 was the only game listed. Because I know that the Atlanta - Chicago and Lakers - Dallas games have been paired (e.g. played on the same night), the fact that there was no Lakers-Mavericks game listed could mean only one thing: the Mavs had won Game 4, the Lakers had been eliminated from the playoffs, and there is no Game 5 to be played. And in fact, the game was a blowout, which I quickly established by forwarding through the game a bit.
I think this could be a fairly significant problem going forward for all of the playoff matchups. My recommendation would be to only have one day posted in the schedule at a time. In practice this morning, that would have meant only listing Monday's scheduled games and not Tuesday's (e.g. I would have seen that Mia - Bos and OKC - Mem were scheduled to play Monday night). That at least gives the viewer a day after the fact to catch up to live action.
Thank you for the opportunity to give my feedback,
Aubrey Fox
Perception ≠ Reality: Analyzing Specific Allegations of NBA Referee Bias
Abstract
The 2007 gambling scandal involving a National Basketball Association (NBA) referee, coupled with the NBA’s follow-up investigation, put allegations of basketball referee bias in the spotlight. This paper analyzes specific allegations of bias by Miami Heat coach and general manager Pat Riley against NBA referees Steve Javie and Derrick Stafford. In the course of analyzing every referee who officiated a Miami Heat during a nine-year period, neither Javie nor Stafford exhibited systematic bias that had an adverse effect on the Miami Heat. In fact, the Heat performed slightly better than predicted when Javie officiated their games. The results provide real-world empirical evidence consistent with “confirmation bias,” a theory grounded in the finding that individuals with a vested interest in certain self-justifying outcomes may reach generalized conclusions unsupported by actual evidence.Sunday, May 8, 2011
Too Easy, Too Deep, and Too Often
The I Can’t Quit You (i.e., I Can’t Help Wanting You to Succeed on Every Possession Even Though I’m Not Necessarily Rooting for Your Team) Award: Derrick Rose—one of four children of a single mom who has called him “Pooh” since the day he was born.
The I Guess My Headband Wasn't the Problem After All Award. Or just, The Unimaginable Inner Hell of Steve Blake.
The Ad-Libbed Voiceovers of Kobe Bryant Interacting with People Throughout the Game Award: Mark Jackson.
--“Have you seen my work?” Kobe (per Jackson) after hitting one of his signature impossible corner fadeway, turning to Mavs bench and smirking at Mark Cuban.
--“Have I told you I love you lately?” Kobe (per Jackson) to Shannon brown, bear-hugging him as he comes to the bench for a timeout, after Brown hit a driving layup.
The One Laker Who Actually Seems to Care Award: Andrew Bynum, taking it coast-to-coast on a steal from dirk way out on the perimeter, dribbles down the court -- the closest thing I’ve seen to something in real time seeming like it’s in slow-motion -- for the massive dunk.
The Convincing Sobriety (or, It’s a Cliché but You Can Tell He Really, Really Means It) Award: Dirk, to Heather Cox after the game, on the fact that no team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit in the playoffs: “I’ve seen a lot in this league, and I don’t wanna be the first one.”
* * *
The Daily That’s What She Said: “This is too easy, too deep, and too often.” (Jeff Van Gundy on Bynum’s inside clinic on Chandler early in game three.)
Bill Simmons Bonus Quote (from the podcast, re his latest column): “I don’t think I’ve ever written about the playoffs where 8000 words wasn’t enough to say…I had more in me. I left some on the table.”
Saturday, May 7, 2011
A Smart Thing I Probably Should Have Been Doing All Along
Ways the Atlanta Hawks are like a surly teenager (a) They inspire parental reactions by those frustrated by their unrealized potential, as in Hubie Brown saying of Josh Smith, "There you go!" when he finally executed a play correctly; (b) They are capable of both greatness and stupidness - aka Josh Smith jacking up wild jump shots but also playing strong defense and interior offense; (c) They are full of odd boastfulness - see Jamal Crawford claiming pre-game that they had nothing to fear from the Bulls.
A Smart Thing I Probably Should Have Been Doing All Along. The Lakers putting Gasol/Odom/Bynum on the floor at the same time. Also see Teague, Jeff.
Best challenge of a coaching cliche. Jeff Van Gundy pointing out that taking Kobe Bryant out of the game in the first quarter after his second foul isn't necessarily the right move - and Mark Jackson backing him up. Strong play like that might get him a sponsor for his proposed nightly Fundamentals highlight reel.
Best low-five of the playoffs. Derek Fischer and Kobe Bryant staring deep into each other's eyes after Fischer connected on a three pointer midway through the third quarter.
Best LA drama since Melrose Place. Paul Gasol getting beat up by his teammaters and Phil Jackson throughout the game.
--Bonus Edition--
That's What She Said: Peja Stojakovic with Yugoslavia's sweetest stroke from the three point line.
A Smart Thing I Probably Should Have Been Doing All Along. The Lakers putting Gasol/Odom/Bynum on the floor at the same time. Also see Teague, Jeff.
Best challenge of a coaching cliche. Jeff Van Gundy pointing out that taking Kobe Bryant out of the game in the first quarter after his second foul isn't necessarily the right move - and Mark Jackson backing him up. Strong play like that might get him a sponsor for his proposed nightly Fundamentals highlight reel.
Best low-five of the playoffs. Derek Fischer and Kobe Bryant staring deep into each other's eyes after Fischer connected on a three pointer midway through the third quarter.
Best LA drama since Melrose Place. Paul Gasol getting beat up by his teammaters and Phil Jackson throughout the game.
--Bonus Edition--
That's What She Said: Peja Stojakovic with Yugoslavia's sweetest stroke from the three point line.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
The God’s Not Done With Me Yet Award
The Bill Simmons Math Lesson Award Presented by Tyson chandler: I may not be as good as the next four players on the trailblazers, but I’ve had three alley-oops in the first two games of the second-round series against the second-seed, 2-time defending champions.
Favorite Announcer Exchange: (Camera pans to Larry David watching courstide) Kerr: "Larry David just makes me laugh. He doesn’t even have to say a word, just his facial expressions are hilarious." Marv: "He said the same about you earlier."
Favorite Supporting-Player Signature Move of the Day: Shawn Marion’s running floater.
Least Emotionally Compelling Storyline Award: Phil Jackson's quest for his fifth threepeat.
The God’s Not Done With Me Yet Award: Ron Artest, no meaningful time left in the game AND after a foul had already been whistled on Odom, jumping over to J.J. Barea with the sole purpose of clipping him in the face and neck with his humongous forearm, THEN creepily lingering there with his hand on the back of Barea's neck as if trying to help (or comfort??) him.
Charles Barkley Bonus Quotation (from Inside the NBA): “If you’re guarding Dirk Nowitzky, all you need is a blindfold and a cigarette.”
Favorite Announcer Exchange: (Camera pans to Larry David watching courstide) Kerr: "Larry David just makes me laugh. He doesn’t even have to say a word, just his facial expressions are hilarious." Marv: "He said the same about you earlier."
Favorite Supporting-Player Signature Move of the Day: Shawn Marion’s running floater.
Least Emotionally Compelling Storyline Award: Phil Jackson's quest for his fifth threepeat.
The God’s Not Done With Me Yet Award: Ron Artest, no meaningful time left in the game AND after a foul had already been whistled on Odom, jumping over to J.J. Barea with the sole purpose of clipping him in the face and neck with his humongous forearm, THEN creepily lingering there with his hand on the back of Barea's neck as if trying to help (or comfort??) him.
Charles Barkley Bonus Quotation (from Inside the NBA): “If you’re guarding Dirk Nowitzky, all you need is a blindfold and a cigarette.”
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Did You See This?
Chris Paul is a good dude:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=6436820&type=story
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=6436820&type=story
Wake Me Up
I must be dreaming. Greatest mash-up in sports column history:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/part1/110503&sportCat=nba
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/part1/110503&sportCat=nba
Leg-en-dary!!!
Who are these Atlanta Hawks? (part one) The least loved (and respected) team in the final 8 comes out and . . . spanks the Bulls! What's more, you got guys like Teague and Pachulla contributing major minutes. Teague playing 44 strong minutes after only getting 9 minutes in the Orlando series is a particularly amazing story.
Who are these Atlanta Hawks? (part two) On the same theme of unloved and unrespected, how about Joe Johnson? There's probably no more hated NBA star by the cognoscenti than Johnson, but he poured in 34 points against a tough Bulls defense. Does that mean he's worth $119 million over 6 years? (The value of his contract, which is more than either Wade - at $110 million -- or James -- at $107.5 million -- is getting paid.) No, but it'll be great to watch how far he can take these Hawks team. You gotta love the NBA for putting up a compelling late season storyline like the Hawks!
Who are the Chicago Bulls? Maybe this is the more significant question. The Bulls have been getting a lot of pre-playoff love, and for good reason: they have the presumptive MVP and a lot of nice complementary pieces. But they haven't played particularly well in the playoffs, getting by the Pacers in round one though they were outplayed in at least 3 of their 5 games. Now we'll see how good they really are.
Leg-en-dary!!! The Dallas-Lakers series is going to be awesome. As Charles Barkley has said, the Mavs are a much better team than they're getting credit for. Particularly with guys like Tyson Chandler and Brendan Haywood to throw at the Lakers, they can keep up -- provided that Dirk continues to play the best basketball of his life. I'm just concerned about Mark Cuban's health - he's looking particularly red-faced and beefy these days, a heart attack waiting to happen.
Who does Aubrey root for? Aubrey (referring to himself in the third person) has a bunch of conflicting loyalties. He thinks he likes OK City to most out of all teams, but admits to a sneaking admiration for the Grizzlies. He's now back to liking Dallas, and (as points #1 and #2 show) has caught some Hawks fever. Worst NBA final from Aubrey's perspective: Lakers - Heat. Worst NBA final from the league's perspective: Memphis - Atlanta. Most likely final as Aubrey writes this email today? Why not go out on a limb and say it: Mavs - Heat.
--posted by AF
Who are these Atlanta Hawks? (part two) On the same theme of unloved and unrespected, how about Joe Johnson? There's probably no more hated NBA star by the cognoscenti than Johnson, but he poured in 34 points against a tough Bulls defense. Does that mean he's worth $119 million over 6 years? (The value of his contract, which is more than either Wade - at $110 million -- or James -- at $107.5 million -- is getting paid.) No, but it'll be great to watch how far he can take these Hawks team. You gotta love the NBA for putting up a compelling late season storyline like the Hawks!
Who are the Chicago Bulls? Maybe this is the more significant question. The Bulls have been getting a lot of pre-playoff love, and for good reason: they have the presumptive MVP and a lot of nice complementary pieces. But they haven't played particularly well in the playoffs, getting by the Pacers in round one though they were outplayed in at least 3 of their 5 games. Now we'll see how good they really are.
Leg-en-dary!!! The Dallas-Lakers series is going to be awesome. As Charles Barkley has said, the Mavs are a much better team than they're getting credit for. Particularly with guys like Tyson Chandler and Brendan Haywood to throw at the Lakers, they can keep up -- provided that Dirk continues to play the best basketball of his life. I'm just concerned about Mark Cuban's health - he's looking particularly red-faced and beefy these days, a heart attack waiting to happen.
Who does Aubrey root for? Aubrey (referring to himself in the third person) has a bunch of conflicting loyalties. He thinks he likes OK City to most out of all teams, but admits to a sneaking admiration for the Grizzlies. He's now back to liking Dallas, and (as points #1 and #2 show) has caught some Hawks fever. Worst NBA final from Aubrey's perspective: Lakers - Heat. Worst NBA final from the league's perspective: Memphis - Atlanta. Most likely final as Aubrey writes this email today? Why not go out on a limb and say it: Mavs - Heat.
--posted by AF
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Why Do You Hate Me, Reggie Miller?
Poetic Justice: Most commentators are (rightly) focusing on the Neal three pointer, but what about the miraculous Ginoboli shot just before that, which closed the Memphis lead to one point? Falling out of bounds in the back corner, lofting up a prayer, and it goes in. It was a two-pointer, but just based on degree of difficulty it was worth a three (and made the Neal shot possible).
Perkins Lives! Besides being locked in a WWF-style death match with Nene, Kendric Perkins has not contributed much to the Ok City offense -- until (at least the first half of) Game Five, when he showed up with a flurry of layups and free throws. Nice to get some high percentage field goals and more low post presence from Perkins. This is the corollary to your Carlos Boozer point.
Why Do You Hate Me, Reggie Miller? This was actually from yesterday's game (and I can't remember if I mentioned this to you already), but what's up with the abusive relationship between Reggie MIller and Kevin Harlan? Miller spent the entire game criticizing Harlan's calls in a coldly condescening way, with Harlan apologizing. Very uncomfortable viewing.
Everyone Loves Fratello: If Miller-Harlan is an abusive relationship, how would we describe the other announcing partnerships? Here how I see them. Steve Kerr would be Marv Albert's younger, cuter trophy wife (though geniunely smart and capable), with Craig Sager as the spurned other woman. Mike Fratello and Dick Stockton are the couple who've been married for 50 years, with no chemistry and Fratello spending his time flirting with the waitress at the early bird special. Pete Pranica and Brevin Knight? The less said, the better.
Pundit-terrorism: Russell Westbrook has gotten the message about not taking too many shots. Really, really gotten the message. Ok, maybe over-gotten it.
--Posted by AF
Perkins Lives! Besides being locked in a WWF-style death match with Nene, Kendric Perkins has not contributed much to the Ok City offense -- until (at least the first half of) Game Five, when he showed up with a flurry of layups and free throws. Nice to get some high percentage field goals and more low post presence from Perkins. This is the corollary to your Carlos Boozer point.
Why Do You Hate Me, Reggie Miller? This was actually from yesterday's game (and I can't remember if I mentioned this to you already), but what's up with the abusive relationship between Reggie MIller and Kevin Harlan? Miller spent the entire game criticizing Harlan's calls in a coldly condescening way, with Harlan apologizing. Very uncomfortable viewing.
Everyone Loves Fratello: If Miller-Harlan is an abusive relationship, how would we describe the other announcing partnerships? Here how I see them. Steve Kerr would be Marv Albert's younger, cuter trophy wife (though geniunely smart and capable), with Craig Sager as the spurned other woman. Mike Fratello and Dick Stockton are the couple who've been married for 50 years, with no chemistry and Fratello spending his time flirting with the waitress at the early bird special. Pete Pranica and Brevin Knight? The less said, the better.
Pundit-terrorism: Russell Westbrook has gotten the message about not taking too many shots. Really, really gotten the message. Ok, maybe over-gotten it.
--Posted by AF
The Most Well-Earned Use of the Well-Earned Neologism “Z-bound” Award
The Grinding Out Foul Shots While Getting Repeatedly Getting Pounded to the Floor as a Surprisingly Successful Offensive Strategy Because Your Jump Shots Aren’t Falling Award—Manu Ginobli, known by his teammates as “El Contusion.”
The Role-Player Unceremoniously Carrying the Whole Team on His Back for a Critical Late-Game Stretch Award: George Hill.
The Most Annoying Announcer Tic Award—Grizzlies Announcer/Former Grizzly Brevin Knight, who literally cannot seem to go two sentences without addressing his broadcasting partner as “Pardner.”
The Most Well-Earned Use of the Well-Earned Neologism “Z-bound” Award: Upon Randolph’s one-handed, one-motion rebound-and-putback because his other arm was being held in a vice grip by Antonio McDyess to tie it at 103 in OT.
The Announcer Redemption Award: Former Grizz Coach and Usual Master-of-the-Obvious Mike “Czar” Fratello provocatively attributing the Grizzlies’ (re-) appearance in the playoffs to Shane Battier’s return.
--posted by CB
The Role-Player Unceremoniously Carrying the Whole Team on His Back for a Critical Late-Game Stretch Award: George Hill.
The Most Annoying Announcer Tic Award—Grizzlies Announcer/Former Grizzly Brevin Knight, who literally cannot seem to go two sentences without addressing his broadcasting partner as “Pardner.”
The Most Well-Earned Use of the Well-Earned Neologism “Z-bound” Award: Upon Randolph’s one-handed, one-motion rebound-and-putback because his other arm was being held in a vice grip by Antonio McDyess to tie it at 103 in OT.
The Announcer Redemption Award: Former Grizz Coach and Usual Master-of-the-Obvious Mike “Czar” Fratello provocatively attributing the Grizzlies’ (re-) appearance in the playoffs to Shane Battier’s return.
--posted by CB
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Amazing What an Elbow in the Face from Ron Artest Can Do for Your Jump Shot Award
Unexpected Unsung Hero Who Just Quietly Goes About His Business Award: Ron Artest, who along with Bynum has been the Laker's backbone throughout the series in terms of pure consistency and reliability. A low profile that's allowed him to get away with elbowing two Hornets in the face.
The Bulls Will Be Seriously Dangerous When He Gets Going, If He Ever Does, Award: Carlos Boozer. The most dangerous thing about him so far in the playoffs has been his unstinting glare.
The Flashes (or is it only Flashbacks?) of Relevance Award: Orlando. At the beginning of this very season it was unthinkable for them not to get national coverage in the playoffs. They went to the finals two years ago, with many of the same players! Literally nobody takes them seriously anymore, but they showed that if they can wake themselves -- and particularly their talented but for some reason unconscious bench -- up, they still have the raw potential to seriously compete.
You can't claim Kobe's dunks all to yourself. But I would add, the I Still Know How to Impose My Will on a Game in a Way that, Admit it, Literally No One Else in the League Comes Close To Award.
The Amazing What an Elbow in the Face from Ron Artest Can Do for Your Jump Shot Award: Marco Bellineli, who after slumping since the beginning of the playoffs went on a jump-shooting rampage that (along with Ariza's relentless job at the rim) (which I absolutely refuse to abbreviate as "Ariza's relentless rim job") gave New Orleans great momentum through the first half.
--posted by CB
The Bulls Will Be Seriously Dangerous When He Gets Going, If He Ever Does, Award: Carlos Boozer. The most dangerous thing about him so far in the playoffs has been his unstinting glare.
The Flashes (or is it only Flashbacks?) of Relevance Award: Orlando. At the beginning of this very season it was unthinkable for them not to get national coverage in the playoffs. They went to the finals two years ago, with many of the same players! Literally nobody takes them seriously anymore, but they showed that if they can wake themselves -- and particularly their talented but for some reason unconscious bench -- up, they still have the raw potential to seriously compete.
You can't claim Kobe's dunks all to yourself. But I would add, the I Still Know How to Impose My Will on a Game in a Way that, Admit it, Literally No One Else in the League Comes Close To Award.
The Amazing What an Elbow in the Face from Ron Artest Can Do for Your Jump Shot Award: Marco Bellineli, who after slumping since the beginning of the playoffs went on a jump-shooting rampage that (along with Ariza's relentless job at the rim) (which I absolutely refuse to abbreviate as "Ariza's relentless rim job") gave New Orleans great momentum through the first half.
--posted by CB
Beaten Up at the Schoolyard Award
Best coaching move of the playoffs: Thibodeau putting Derrick Rose back in the game in the 3rd quarter even though he had four fouls. As Steve Kerr astutley pointed out, taking a guy out to save him from fouls is as bad as the guy fouling out! Coaches don't take that risk enough.
Possibly bad coaching move though not germane to the result: Thibodeau leaving Rose in at the start of the 4th quarter with the Bulls cruising and up by 20. Why not keep him in reserve? Again, totally didn't matter to the result but could have.
Beaten up at the school yard award: The Hornets, unable to stop the Lakers from getting endless offensive rebounds and second chance points.
Holy shit dunk awards: Kobe, twice.
Stop the crazy: Today was the return of conventional wisdom in terms of playoff matchups.
--posted by AF
Possibly bad coaching move though not germane to the result: Thibodeau leaving Rose in at the start of the 4th quarter with the Bulls cruising and up by 20. Why not keep him in reserve? Again, totally didn't matter to the result but could have.
Beaten up at the school yard award: The Hornets, unable to stop the Lakers from getting endless offensive rebounds and second chance points.
Holy shit dunk awards: Kobe, twice.
Stop the crazy: Today was the return of conventional wisdom in terms of playoff matchups.
--posted by AF
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