tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69259319862900585372024-03-16T14:50:08.825-04:00postmodcastKevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-13544371025110251192023-10-23T00:21:00.008-04:002023-10-25T21:34:35.024-04:00NBA preview / It’s about Dame time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmMjZu5dMbXfsx17OJLWEGyhNmHnrxL1KluBmVTRiyO-8l-Uw8C9Kdgp5pA3NDGpP2TR5VkEp-me8upM9_rvUYFTHjppscLpOa_YZDXg6-YkNewfrx0tpC4rhbCmhmj0UP7PWc7PKydzG_LikP0BV9FWSOQRTDveXeUuSgG1iOGhT5zsklDYY7tEPWjd5/s1600/lillard%20bucks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmMjZu5dMbXfsx17OJLWEGyhNmHnrxL1KluBmVTRiyO-8l-Uw8C9Kdgp5pA3NDGpP2TR5VkEp-me8upM9_rvUYFTHjppscLpOa_YZDXg6-YkNewfrx0tpC4rhbCmhmj0UP7PWc7PKydzG_LikP0BV9FWSOQRTDveXeUuSgG1iOGhT5zsklDYY7tEPWjd5/s1600/lillard%20bucks.jpg"/></a></div><br />
<BR>
Point guards are in transition this season. The Milwaukee Bucks acquired Damian Lillard, pairing him with perfect pick-and-roll partner Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Celtics picked up Jrue Holiday, giving them the strongest starting lineup in the league. James Harden, who called <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7GJhzEdD0k">Daryl Morey</A> a liar, is a conscientious objector. In the West, the Warriors traded for Chris Paul, giving them two pantheon lead guards. The Rockets added the savvy Fred VanVleet to their young team. The Grizzlies found Marcus Smart to spell the suspended Ja Morant. The Trail Blazers cleared the floor for rookie Scoot Henderson.
<P>
The games played projections are based on last season, the previous two seasons, and the idea that players gravitate toward 72 games played. A player’s recent history is the leading indicator of how many games he will play. There is little chance that that LeBron James, Anthony Davis or Kawhi Leonard play 65 games. The charts include each player’s age, games played last season and projected games played this season.
<P>
The NBA’s <A HREF="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/38386013/how-nba-new-rules-resting-stars-work">new player participation policy</A> (PPP) and end-of-season <A HREF="https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-cba-new-details-emerge-about-in-season-tournament-65-game-threshold-for-mvp-other-awards/#:~:text=Players%20who%20want%20to%20be,minutes%20across%20those%20games%2C%20too.">awards requirements</A> won’t make a significant difference. But in some notable cases, like Damian Lillard or Jimmy Butler, I rounded up to 65 games — the minimum for receiving All-NBA recognition.
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SobCsN2oQIM?si=-S_f7pffUQiB3S9o" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Denver Nuggets</B> >> The favorites to win again, with the undisputed best player in the league. Denver’s top four players are either in their prime or entering their prime. >> <B> 51 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Nikola Jokic 28 69 72
Aaron Gordon 28 68 69
Jamal Murray 26 65 57
Michael Porter Jr. 25 62 59
</PRE></small>
<B>Milwaukee Bucks</B> >> The only team with two of the league’s top 10 players, but who is the fifth starter? Bobby Portis? Pat Connaughton? Malik Beasley? >> <B>53 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Giannis Antetokounmpo 29 63 67
Damian Lillard 33 58 65
Brook Lopez 35 78 69
Khris Middleton 32 33 52
</PRE></small>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xn0N9vHSf-0?si=RCn66a-HRZ07EXyH" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Boston Celtics</B> >> Jayson Tatum scored 2,225 points in the regular season (first), 543 in the playoffs (third), and 55 in the All-Star Game (first). >> <B>52 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Jayson Tatum 25 74 74
Jaylen Brown 27 67 68
Jrue Holiday 33 67 68
Kristaps Porzingis 28 65 63
Derrick White 29 82 74
</PRE></small>
<B>Phoenix Suns</B> >> Kevin Durant hasn’t played 70% of a season since he was in Golden State. Devin Booker is the only player remaining from their NBA Finals team. >> <B>49 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Devin Booker 27 53 65
Kevin Durant 35 47 53
Bradley Beal 30 50 57
</PRE></small>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T0CFWsMHHT0?si=u_1m4uTQNKjfiaTI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Philadelphia 76ers</B> >> Nick Nurse is an upgrade at coach. Doc Rivers is a downgrade as ESPN’s lead analyst. >> <B>48 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Joel Embiid 29 66 67
James Harden 34 58 61
Tyrese Maxey 23 60 66
</PRE></small>
<B>Cleveland Cavaliers</B> >> Could be the team of the future, but Donovan Mitchell is a free agent in 2025. >> <B>47 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Donovan Mitchell 27 68 68
Darius Garland 24 69 69
Jarrett Allen 25 68 68
Evan Mobley 22 79 75
</PRE></small>
<B>Golden State Warriors</B> >> Chris Paul addresses their biggest weakness during their championship run: They are a losing team when Stephen Curry is on the bench. >> <B>46 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Stephen Curry 35 56 65
Draymond Green 33 73 69
Chris Paul 38 59 66
Klay Thompson 33 69 57
</PRE></small>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wvI1L7IHwdY?si=X58EEcuSzwFvTMQM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Memphis Grizzlies</B> >> Ja Morant will miss the <A HREF="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37864109/everything-need-know-ja-morant-25-game-suspension">first 25 games</A> with of a gun fetish. Marcus Smart will steel them. >> <B>46 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Ja Morant 24 61 51
Jaren Jackson Jr. 24 63 61
Desmond Bane 25 58 66
Marcus Smart 29 61 64
</PRE></small>
<B>Miami Heat</B> >> There isn’t a more complete player in the league than Jimmy Butler. He may not score like Joel Embiid. Pass like Nikola Jokic. Or shoot like Stephen Curry. But he is the total package — offense, defense, clutch ability, decision making, conditioning, competitiveness. In the Heat’s Game 4 victory over the Bucks in the first round of the playoffs, Butler scored 56 points from every spot on the court and “guarded <A HREF="https://youtu.be/vT41riJio80?si=wgTiQk0g06Gn3498&t=120">every single person</A> on their roster at some point.”
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8H9PLRnqh18?si=V7-p8CG3_swDpOOE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
Butler, who turned 34 last month, just finished the definitive four-season stretch of his career, leading the Heat to two Finals appearances and within a basket of a third.
<P>
Nikola Jokic led the league in regular season wins shares + playoff win shares with 19.9. Jimmy Butler was second, easily ahead of Jayson Tatum. <A HREF="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/38625043/nbarank-2023-player-rankings-2023-24-50-11">ESPN ranked</A> him 12th among the league’s best players. >> <B>46 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Jimmy Butler 34 64 65
Bam Adebayo 26 75 72
Tyler Herro 24 67 68
</PRE></small>
<B>Los Angeles Clippers</B> >> Kawhi and Paul George should start staggering their PTO and injuries now. >> <B>45 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Kawhi Leonard 32 52 51
Paul George 33 56 58
</PRE></small>
<B>Los Angeles Lakers</B> >> LeBron and Anthony Davis should start staggering their PTO and injuries now. >> <B>44 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
LeBron James 39 55 59
Anthony Davis 30 56 56
Austin Reaves 25 64 65
</PRE></small>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O-zsYmHnQBE?si=cRkprZKe_EZ9bPA3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Sacramento Kings</B> >> Last season’s most improved team and the best offense. They will take a step back. >> <B>44 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Domantas Sabonis 27 79 74
De’Aaron Fox 26 73 70
Kevin Huerter 25 75 75
</PRE></small>
<B>New York Knicks</B> >> From pillar to post, no team plays harder. It’s a real tribute to Tom Thibodeau. >> <B>44 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Julius Randle 29 77 76
Jalen Brunson 27 68 72
</PRE></small>
<B>Minnesota Timberwolves</B> >> Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns played just 27 games together. >> <B>43 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Anthony Edwards 21 79 77
Mike Conley 36 67 68
Rudy Gobert 31 70 71
Karl-Anthony Towns 28 29 49
</PRE></small>
<B>Oklahoma City Thunder</B> >> Improved by 16 games last season. They won’t make another leap. >> <B>42 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 25 68 65
Chet Holmgren 21 -- 72
</PRE></small>
<B>Atlanta Hawks</B> >> There’s a great backcourt here. Quin Snyder should be able to unlock it. >> <B>42 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Trae Young 25 73 73
Dejounte Murray 27 74 73
</PRE></small>
<B>New Orleans Pelicans</B> >> Zion Williamson could play 20 games or 60 games. The projection splits the difference. The Pelicans were 17-12 with him, 25-28 without him. >> <B>42 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Brandon Ingram 26 45 56
Zion Williamson 23 29 41
</PRE></small>
<B>Dallas Mavericks</B> >> The Kyrie Irving experiment feels desperate because it is. He has played in 53% of his team’s games over the past four seasons. >> <B>42 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Luka Doncic 24 66 69
Kyrie Irving 31 60 59
</PRE></small>
<B>Brooklyn Nets</B> >> Mikal Bridges averaged 26.1 points on 53/38/89 shooting after being traded from the Suns to the Nets in February. Has never missed a game. >> <B>40 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Mikal Bridges 27 83 80
Nic Claxton 24 76 66
</PRE></small>
<B>Chicago Bulls</B> >> Lonzo Ball is out for the season. Too much of the load will be on Alex Caruso. >> <B>39 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
DeMar DeRozan 34 74 73
Zach LaVine 28 77 73
Nikola Vucevic 33 82 78
</PRE></small>
<B>Toronto Raptors</B> >> Kawhi Leonard left. Kyle Lowry left. Fred VanVleet left. The Raptors keep running it back, because they think Pascal Siakam is a great player and OG Anunoby is untradeable. He’s not, and he’s not. >> <B>38 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Pascal Siakam 29 71 70
OG Anunoby 26 67 64
Scottie Barnes 22 77 75
</PRE></small>
<B>Indiana Pacers</B> >> Could be this season’s fun, Kings-sized surprise, with Tyrese Haliburton, Bruce Brown and <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHfA70aXWRE">Obi Toppin</A> in transition. >> <B>37 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Tyrese Haliburton 23 56 65
Myles Turner 27 62 61
Bruce Brown 27 80 76
Obi Toppin 25 67 69
</PRE></small>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BUcOo7Cvacc?si=yjZ-oM8M_5RZ3dPU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Utah Jazz</B> >> Lauri Markkanen was last season’s breakout All-Star. John Collins gets a reboot. >> <B>37 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Lauri Markkanen 26 66 66
</PRE></small>
<B>Orlando Magic</B> >> Their best players are 21 to 25 years old. A winning team next season. >> <B>35 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Franz Wagner 22 80 78
Paolo Banchero 21 72 72
</PRE></small>
<B>Charlotte Hornets</B> >> Haven’t won a playoff series since 2002. Where have you gone, Jamal Mashburn? >> <B>32 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
LaMelo Ball 22 36 53
</PRE></small>
<B>Portland Trail Blazers</B> >> The final return on Damian Lillard: Deandre Ayton, Robert Williams III, Malcolm Brogdon, Toumani Camara, three first-round picks and two pick swaps with the Bucks. >> <B>32 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Scoot Henderson 19 -- 72
</PRE></small>
<B>San Antonio Spurs</B> >> It’s not hype, if it’s real. Victor Wembanyama is the best prospect since LeBron. >> <B>30 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Victor Wembanyama 20 -- 72
</PRE></small>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q_ygGfnFzQc?si=XHgMEW65Eckstn_X" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>Washington Wizards</B> >> Draymond Green punched Jordan Poole all the way into basketball purgatory. >> <B>30 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Jordan Poole 24 82 76
</PRE></small>
<B>Houston Rockets</B> >> Fred VanVleet is a good addition. The rest of the team is young and dumb. >> <B>29 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Fred VanVleet 29 69 68
</PRE></small>
<B>Detroit Pistons</B> >> They signed coach Monty Williams for six years, $78.5 million. Now they need players. >> <B>26 wins</B>
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
age 2023 2024</B>
Cade Cunningham 22 12 41
</PRE></small>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-3984310482727564292023-05-12T00:30:00.007-04:002023-10-23T00:21:42.000-04:00Age [38] All-Star team<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaMX0SGtaCZ4mHmrD_pfSfen8FGuTM1MM16na-YLMSZOU0M6S36GlSFqgzpAgIbxZxri0JQ2IM8gEWS2XHlxM1l71vvYf1HEa5NyJ7F_wN6G-L6FehSOOYeW14WTqC4uh4jnVle_9Qnxf3wjqTZGKXWIITpk3b-3FuNuxmXpsx2LqSzF9LsCOT5Z4wQ/s1600/lebron%20age%2038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="351" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaMX0SGtaCZ4mHmrD_pfSfen8FGuTM1MM16na-YLMSZOU0M6S36GlSFqgzpAgIbxZxri0JQ2IM8gEWS2XHlxM1l71vvYf1HEa5NyJ7F_wN6G-L6FehSOOYeW14WTqC4uh4jnVle_9Qnxf3wjqTZGKXWIITpk3b-3FuNuxmXpsx2LqSzF9LsCOT5Z4wQ/s1600/lebron%20age%2038.jpg"/></a></div><br />
<BR>
LeBron James, who received <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/2022-23-all-nba-teams-announced">All-NBA honors</A> for the 19th consecutive season on Wednesday, is the best 38-year-old player of all time. He averaged 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds and 6.8 assists, shooting 58.0% on 2-pointers. He also broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOPjtuzoSyA">all-time scoring record</A> with a fadeaway jumper over Kenrich Williams and the Oklahoma City Thunder in February. The Lakers (43-39) were 30-25 with James in the lineup. He is the third 38-year-old to make an All-NBA team. Abdul-Jabbar made the first team in 1986, Tim Duncan the third team in 2015 and James the third team this season.
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E5JBSJa4flo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>Age 38</B> >> Starting lineup</B>
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> LeBron James, Lakers, 2022-23<BR>
>> 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, 6.8 assists (55 games)
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Tim Duncan, Spurs, 2014-15<BR>
>> 13.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, 2.0 blocks<br />
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lakers, 1985-86<BR>
>> 23.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 56.5% 2-point shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> John Stockton, Jazz, 2000-01<BR>
>> 11.5 points, 8.7 assists, 51.4% 2-point shooting
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Reggie Miller, Pacers, 2003-04<BR>
>> 10.0 points, 3.1 assists, 40.1% 3-point shooting
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CxSwW59iSdw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>Age 38</B> >> Bench
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Karl Malone, Jazz, 2001-02<br>
>> 22.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.3 assists
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Michael Jordan, Wizards (!), 2001-02<br>
>> 22.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists (60 games)
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Manu Ginobili, Spurs, 2015-16<br>
>> 9.6 points, 39.1% 3-point shooting (58 games)
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Robert Parish, Celtics, 1991-92<BR>
>> 14.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, 53.5% 2-point shooting
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Hakeem Olajuwon, Rockets, 2000-01<BR>
>> 11.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, (58 games)
<P>
<P>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-86326695124523386412023-04-12T21:15:00.007-04:002023-04-18T22:27:02.710-04:002023 NBA awards / The Big Score<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jPGLz9ZhrnQdZrLNkuajkzwztOpHSWmqwxV5OBgu1ozJp5YDEuI701D1cH0khIZjTATztvURz_NeOuZvuZ5q5V2ixNVVHLM5EOrfgKYcjEHCa_Lm7sdXLOP58e8Lc40aRMeJCYwMu170fSGBbRzMFQ8-C8zKzlKsmYvITtKi0-yWjNki5MGITkxUcQ/s1600/nikola%20jokic%202023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jPGLz9ZhrnQdZrLNkuajkzwztOpHSWmqwxV5OBgu1ozJp5YDEuI701D1cH0khIZjTATztvURz_NeOuZvuZ5q5V2ixNVVHLM5EOrfgKYcjEHCa_Lm7sdXLOP58e8Lc40aRMeJCYwMu170fSGBbRzMFQ8-C8zKzlKsmYvITtKi0-yWjNki5MGITkxUcQ/s1600/nikola%20jokic%202023.jpg"/></a></div><br />
<BR>
Scoring reached an all-time high this season.
<P>
Scoreboards tilted. Dogs and cats living together. <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sED4fzIV0k">Mass hysteria.</A>
<P>
Donovan Mitchell and Damian Lillard each scored 71 points in a game. The Sacramento Kings beat the Los Angeles Clippers 176-175 in the second-highest scoring game of all time. And <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-7rL8xyo7A">Ol’ Man River</A> just keeps rolling along: LeBron James broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record with a fadeaway over Kenrich Williams and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
<P>
If you’re scoring at home, a record six players averaged 30-plus points: Lillard, Joel Embiid, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jayson Tatum. A record 43 players averaged 20 points — and that doesn’t include LeBron, Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Anthony Davis and a few others who played less than the qualifying 58 games.
<P>
There were 25 individual 50-point games. Doncic had four, including a 60-point triple-double. Lillard, Embiid and Antetokounmpo had three, Curry and Booker two.
<P>
>> Nikola Jokic was the league’s top player for the third straight season. Possibly the greatest, most creative <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsE3ZcQ25Zw">passer of all time</A>, the Nuggets center was 12 total assists shy of averaging a triple-double. He shoots like a guard, rebounds like a center. He led the league in virtually all <A HREF="https://dunksandthrees.com/epm">advanced metrics</A>, and my personal <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oBwgts95YSg">eye test.</A>
<P>
>> The Brooklyn Nets trashed their four-year championship plan, trading Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving and splitting up with Steve Nash — and they still made the playoffs.
<P>
>> Klay Thompson led the league in <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWgMuKUDrpE">3-pointers</A> made and attempted in his first full season back from knee and Achilles injuries.
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g4PN3J6ObcY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>TEAMS</B>
<P>
<b>Best record</B> >> Milwaukee Bucks, 58-24
<P>
<b>Worst record</B> >> Detroit Pistons, 17-65
<P>
<b>Home team</B> >> Golden State Warriors
<P>
<b>Road team</B> >> Sacramento Kings
<P>
<b>Best offense</B> >> Sacramento Kings
<P>
<b>Best defense</B> >> Cleveland Cavaliers
<P>
<b>Fastest pace</B> >> Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs
<P>
<b>Slowest pace</B> >> Cleveland Cavaliers
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zOqhgaJtH0k" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>AWARDS</B>
<P>
<b>Most Valuable Player</B> >> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
<P>
2. Joel Embiid, 76ers<br>
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br>
4. Jayson Tatum, Celtics<br>
5. Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers
<P>
<b>Coach of the Year</B> >> Mike Brown, Kings
<P>
2. Tom Thibodeau, Knicks <br>
3. Joe Mazzulla, Celtics
<P>
<b>Teammate of the Year</B> >> Jalen Brunson, Knicks
<P>
<b>Clutch Player of the Year</B> >> De’Aaron Fox, Kings
<P>
<b>Rookie of the Year</B> >> Paolo Banchero, Magic
<P>
<b>Sixth Man of the Year</B> >> Immanuel Quickley, Knicks
<P>
<b>Bench</B> >> Malcolm Brogdon, Bobby Portis, Christian Wood, Tyus Jones, Malik Monk, Brandon Clarke
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5-7KXyI2uxg" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>ALL-NBA</B> >> First team
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br>
>> 31.1 points, 11.8 rebounds, 59.6% 2-point shooting
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Jayson Tatum, Celtics<br>
>> 30.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 85.4% free throw shooting
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets<BR>
>> 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, 9.8 assists<br />
>> 67.5% 2-point shooting, 82.2% free throw shooting
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Luka Doncic, Mavericks<BR>
>> 32.4 points, 8.0 assists, 58.8% 2-point shooting
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers<BR>
>> 28.3 points, 4.4 assists, 57/39/87 shooting splits
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EmHJI0NRqmk" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>ALL-NBA</B> >> Second team
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Jimmy Butler, Heat<BR>
>> 22.9 points, 5.3 assists, 85.0% free throw shooting
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> LeBron James, Lakers<BR>
>> 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, 6.8 assists
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Joel Embiid, 76ers<BR>
>> 33.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, 85.7% free throw shooting
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Stephen Curry, Warriors<BR>
>> 29.4 points, 6.3 assists, 58/43/92 shooting splits
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Damian Lillard, Trail Blazers<BR>
>> 32.2 points, 7.3 assists, 57/37/91 shooting splits
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MOPjtuzoSyA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>ALL-NBA</B> >> Third team
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Julius Randle, Knicks<BR>
>> 25.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists
<P>
<b>Forward</B> >> Jaylen Brown, Celtics<BR>
>> 26.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 57.6% 2-point shooting
<P>
<b>Center</B> >> Domantas Sabonis, Kings<BR>
>> 19.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, 7.3 assists
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder<BR>
>> 31.4 points, 5.5 assists, 90.5% free throw shooting
<P>
<b>Guard</B> >> De’Aaron Fox, Kings<BR>
>> 25.0 points (5.0 in clutch minutes), 6.1 assists
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RnVWsRkoITY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>LEADERS</B>
<P>
<B>Box Plus-Minus</B> >> Nikola Jokic, 13.0
<P>
<B>Estimated Plus-Minus</B> >> Nikola Jokic, 7.9
<P>
<B>Box score RAPTOR</B> >> Nikola Jokic, 13.6
<P>
<b>Scoring</B> >> Joel Embiid, 33.1
<P>
<b>Total points</B> >> Jayson Tatum, 2,225
<P>
<b>Rebounding</B> >> Domantas Sabonis, 12.3
<P>
<b>Total rebounds</B> >> Domantas Sabonis, 973
<P>
<b>Assists</B> >> James Harden, 10.7
<P>
<b>Total assists</B> >> Trae Young, 741
<P>
<b>Steals</B> >> OG Anunoby, 1.9
<P>
<b>Blocks</B> >> Jaren Jackson Jr., 3.0
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e7FODbmNc4s" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>SUPERLATIVES</B>
<P>
<b>Best shooters</B> >> Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant
<P>
<b>Best mid-range shooters</B> >> Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokic
<P>
<b>Best 3-point shooters</B> >> Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson
<P>
<b>Best free throw shooter</B> >> Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
<P>
<b>Best backcourt</B> >> Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, Cavaliers
<P>
<b>Iron man</B> >> Mikal Bridges, Suns and Nets (83 games)
<P>
<B>Sensation</B> >> Mac McClung, 76ers
<P>
<b>Best young player</B> >> Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves
<P>
<b>Best old player</B> >> LeBron James, Lakers
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mu-780U8w6M" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-8778535912422598852023-04-10T00:51:00.013-04:002023-04-11T03:55:18.483-04:00Udonis Haslem is done.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-FdgGb6X9212PDl9T9zWAVZEIbEdKUDknt9hSfEV2n5sc2vI4ZuEbhLHOVup5PVV4yio4y3atRvKCFbKbxm5y5K-qqrO2k4wrav4QuWef2mEQuRZjP_HcwXWqLAAtT0fzVnRgXod1VkZpbXX6sOfoMgC_h-PlUlEH3Dy7Byx0MBBOl1746N2t60g21g/s1600/udonis%20haslem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-FdgGb6X9212PDl9T9zWAVZEIbEdKUDknt9hSfEV2n5sc2vI4ZuEbhLHOVup5PVV4yio4y3atRvKCFbKbxm5y5K-qqrO2k4wrav4QuWef2mEQuRZjP_HcwXWqLAAtT0fzVnRgXod1VkZpbXX6sOfoMgC_h-PlUlEH3Dy7Byx0MBBOl1746N2t60g21g/s1600/udonis%20haslem.jpg"/></a></div>
<BR>
Udonis. U-did it.
<P>
On the final day of the regular season, when Rudy Gobert fought Kyle Anderson on the Timberwolves bench, Bones Hyland fought Mason Plumlee on the Clippers bench, Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels broke his hand by punching a wall, the Warriors scored a record 55 points in the first quarter, Stephen Silas coached his last game with the Rockets, and Dwane Casey coached his last game with the Pistons …
<P>
Udonis Haslem, 42 years old, in his 20th season, all with Miami Heat, scored 24 points, including three 3-pointers, in the final game of his career as the Heat beat the Orlando Magic 123-107.
<P>
It was Haslem’s highest scoring game since he had 28 points against the Nets on Nov. 14, 2009, when they were in New Jersey, and Dwyane Wade led the league in scoring.
<P>
Haslem, who played just seven games this season and just 102 games over the past eight seasons, has mostly been a solid-as-oak locker room presence late in his career. He averaged double figures four times and earned a reputation as one of the better post defenders in the league. He was a part of three NBA championship teams and three more NBA finals teams.
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hy2mHQC4ykQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
Undrafted out of Florida (where he played with Mike Miller and David Lee), Haslem entered the league with Wade and future teammates Chris Bosh and LeBron James, who is four years younger than Haslem.
<P>
In fact, Haslem played with more than 150 teammates.
<P>
He played with a King (LeBron James) and a Barron (Earl).
<P>
He played with a Cook (Daequan), Waiters (Dion) and three Butlers (Jimmy, Caron, Rasual).
<P>
He played with a Herro (Tyler) and Justice (Winslow). He played with a Person (Wesley) and a Guy (Kyle).
<P>
He played with a Birdman (Chris Andersen) and a Dedmon (Dewayne). He played with two Walkers (Antoine, Henry) and a Parker (Smush).
<P>
He played with a Nunn (Kendrick) and a Bimbo (Coles).
<P>
He played with a House (Eddie) and a Shaq (O’Neal). He played with Banks (Marcus) and a Penny (Hardaway).
<P>
He played with a Head (Luther) and a bust (Greg Oden).
<P>
He played with all sizes and colors: White (Chocolate), Brown (Shannon) and Green (Gerald).
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HiCik4vRO8U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-87683023823227337862023-02-22T00:00:00.000-05:002023-02-22T00:17:18.770-05:002022-23 NBA season, Q3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgdTqgtrxRcOu5NFUxihvbgiuOp9oxMBZmLyHMYCF0um_LZaaTtPjfO56i-v7RUGwxCfKdXOPWey_ziyewggRjGDWsi_NdYdh-0t0c8cELHoxOZdpkVRH1kxsmgPbmQP1mE9GsWDKul0X-EO3VGH1wCQeud5b6pydrYPXesI1rSobLZ3rn3OJiN5gRA/s1600/Q3%20report.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgdTqgtrxRcOu5NFUxihvbgiuOp9oxMBZmLyHMYCF0um_LZaaTtPjfO56i-v7RUGwxCfKdXOPWey_ziyewggRjGDWsi_NdYdh-0t0c8cELHoxOZdpkVRH1kxsmgPbmQP1mE9GsWDKul0X-EO3VGH1wCQeud5b6pydrYPXesI1rSobLZ3rn3OJiN5gRA/s1600/Q3%20report.jpg"/></a></div>
<br />
In the third quarter of the NBA season:
<P>
>> LeBron James, 38 years old, broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record.
<P>
>> The Brooklyn Nets traded Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks and Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns.
<P>
>> The Milwaukee Bucks have won 12 straight games.
<P>
The favorites to win the NBA championship are:
<P>
>> Boston Celtics<BR>
>> Milwaukee Bucks<BR>
>> Denver Nuggets<BR>
>> Philadelphia 76ers<BR>
>> Phoenix Suns
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MOPjtuzoSyA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
The NBA season after three quarters (or at the All-Star break):
<P>
<B>TEAMS</B><P>
<B>Best record</B> >> Boston Celtics, 42-17
<P>
2. Milwaukee Bucks, 41-17<BR>
3. Denver Nuggets, 41-18
<P>
<B>Worst record</B> >> Houston Rockets, 13-45
<P>
2. San Antonio Spurs, 14-45
<P>
<B>Best net rating</B> >> Boston Celtics, 6.2
<P>
2. Cleveland Cavaliers, 5.9<BR>
3. Denver Nuggets, 4.4<BR>
4. Philadelphia 76ers, 4.0
<P>
<B>Worst net rating</B> >> San Antonio Spurs, -9.9
<P>
<B>No. 1 draft pick favorite</B> >> <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/friv/proj_draft.html">San Antonio Spurs</A>
<P>
<B>Trending up</B> >> Milwaukee Bucks, 16-3 (in the third quarter)
<P>
>> Philadelphia 76ers, 14-4<BR>
>> Washington Wizards, 11-7
<P>
<B>Trending down</B> >> San Antonio Spurs, 1-18
<P>
>> Indiana Pacers, 3-16<BR>
>> Brooklyn Nets, 7-11
<P>
<B>Home team</B> >> Golden State Warriors
<P>
<B>Road team</B> >> New York Knicks
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2cwvUtfjn9c" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>PLAYERS</B>
<P>
<B>Player rankings</B> >> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
<P>
2. Jayson Tatum, Celtics<BR>
3. Luka Doncic, Mavericks<BR>
4. Joel Embiid, 76ers<BR>
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks
<P>
<B>Overrated</B> >> Pascal Siakam, Raptors
<P>
<B>Underrated</B> >> Jimmy Butler, Heat
<P>
<B>Sensation</B> >> Mac McClung, 76ers
<P>
<B>Most points, all time</B> >> LeBron James, 38,411
<P>
<B>Most points, single game (this season)</B> >> Donovan Mitchell, 71
<P>
<B>Injured</B> >> Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Zion Williamson
<P>
<B>Games missed</B> >> Zion Williamson, 30
<P>
Devin Booker, 27<BR>
Kawhi Leonard, 27<BR>
Anthony Davis, 24<BR>
Chris Paul, 21<BR>
Stephen Curry, 20<BR>
Kevin Durant, 19
<P>
<B>No games missed</B> >> Julius Randle, Anthony Edwards
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YDF-FrqAA3w" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-3935047387195032552023-01-09T01:39:00.012-05:002023-01-09T08:00:06.630-05:002022-23 NBA season, Q2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRVXOZViS5jEUG3rjKmWWj-hLugm-gbKmjqHLrtgOxH_Rfkvu-VYDU-Jr9GjK1_rwYqPKeq06SLfb55-ZHMU4N4tVrGh_xpJpDNaZzxIszt50UMOfWxIS_kbwAe6QNLIsmiGL1sNOV5msxEJiw-oAfv0SJxxEAptidty012LT-D_5B4scpzOEDTmhzQ/s1600/donovan%20mitchell%20q2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRVXOZViS5jEUG3rjKmWWj-hLugm-gbKmjqHLrtgOxH_Rfkvu-VYDU-Jr9GjK1_rwYqPKeq06SLfb55-ZHMU4N4tVrGh_xpJpDNaZzxIszt50UMOfWxIS_kbwAe6QNLIsmiGL1sNOV5msxEJiw-oAfv0SJxxEAptidty012LT-D_5B4scpzOEDTmhzQ/s1600/donovan%20mitchell%20q2.jpg"/></a></div>
<br />
Donovan Mitchell scored 71 points last week in an overtime win over the Bulls — the <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/pts_game.html">eighth-highest total</A> in league history and one of 14 50-point games this season:
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
min 2p 2pa 3p 3pa ft fta reb ast pts</B>
Mitchell 50 15 19 7 15 20 25 8 11 71
</PRE></small>
A few hours later, Klay Thompson scored <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdASjnBzTwI">54 points</A> in a double overtime victory over the Hawks — his first 50-point game since returning a year ago from knee and achilles injuries.
<P>
Luka Doncic, who scored 50 points three times in nine days in December, had an unprecedented 60-21-10 triple-double in an overtime win over the Knicks. The league’s best player scored nine points in the final 33 seconds of regulation to send the game into overtime.
<P>
<small><B><PRE>
min 2p 2pa 3p 3pa ft fta reb ast pts</B>
Doncic 47 19 25 2 6 16 22 21 10 60
</PRE></small>
This season’s other <A HREF="https://stathead.com/basketball/player-game-finder.cgi?request=1&match=player_game&order_by_asc=0&order_by=pts&year_min=2023&year_max=2023&comp_type=reg&comp_id=NBA&season_start=1&season_end=-1">50-point players</A>: Joel Embiid (twice), Devin Booker (twice), Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis, Pascal Siakam, Darius Garland and Stephen Curry.
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g4PN3J6ObcY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
The NBA season at halftime:
<P>
<B>TEAMS</B><P>
<B>Best record</B> >> Boston Celtics, 28-12
<P>
2. Brooklyn Nets, 27-13<BR>
3. Denver Nuggets, 26-13<BR>
3. Memphis Grizzlies, 26-13<BR>
5. Milwaukee Bucks, 25-14<BR>
5. Cleveland Cavaliers, 26-15
<P>
<B>Worst record</B> >> Houston Rockets, 10-30
<P>
2. Detroit Pistons, 11-32
<P>
<B>Best net rating</B> >> Boston Celtics, 5.8
<P>
2. Cleveland Cavaliers, 5.1<BR>
3. Memphis Grizzlies, 4.8<BR>
4. New Orleans Pelicans, 4.0<BR>
4. Brooklyn Nets, 4.0
<P>
<B>Worst net rating</B> >> San Antonio Spurs, -8.5
<P>
<B>No. 1 draft pick favorite</B> >> <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/friv/proj_draft.html">Houston Rockets</A>
<P>
<B>Trending up</B> >> Brooklyn Nets, 17-2 in the second quarter
<P>
>> Memphis Grizzlies, 14-5<BR>
>> New York Knicks, 13-7
<P>
<B>Trending down</B> >> Phoenix Suns, 7-14 in the second quarter
<P>
>> Toronto Raptors, 7-14<BR>
>> Utah Jazz, 8-13
<P>
<B>Home team</B> >> Golden State Warriors
<P>
<B>Road team</B> >> New York Knicks
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JMUMc-IoO88" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>PLAYERS</B>
<P>
<B>Player rankings</B> >> Luka Doncic, Mavericks
<P>
2. Nikola Jokic, Nuggets<BR>
3. Kevin Durant, Nets<BR>
4. Jayson Tatum, Celtics<BR>
5. Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers
<P>
<B>Having their best season (age)</B> >> Tyrese Haliburton (22), Luka Doncic (23), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (24), Lauri Markkanen (25), Donovan Mitchell (26)
<P>
<B>Injured</B> >> Joel Embiid, Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Anthony Davis, Zion Williamson
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EmHJI0NRqmk" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-46116105746430442652022-11-28T01:24:00.001-05:002022-11-28T08:01:14.098-05:002022-23 NBA season, Q1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAFpVIuXWSEZ7IqLFKvM6oIGRDICzfWKJ7-0-DGpg5QXTKZEebVoMXOR_6cTFKhtlTjM_bJC5MynkkO_yeaaD48P9ABlvRC07XAT0V74RJPcKEeUteMh2rP3Hdn7bwd5ARGg15nv6EfN4fiQSteOuHaLGQNWBXgdTTIzQV_6l8Nm1bHt8Q-6gtZzQVA/s1600/jayson%20tatum%20Q1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnAFpVIuXWSEZ7IqLFKvM6oIGRDICzfWKJ7-0-DGpg5QXTKZEebVoMXOR_6cTFKhtlTjM_bJC5MynkkO_yeaaD48P9ABlvRC07XAT0V74RJPcKEeUteMh2rP3Hdn7bwd5ARGg15nv6EfN4fiQSteOuHaLGQNWBXgdTTIzQV_6l8Nm1bHt8Q-6gtZzQVA/s1600/jayson%20tatum%20Q1.jpg"/></a></div>
<br />
Kyrie Irving tweeted a link to an anti-Semitic documentary, sucking the air out of the first quarter of the season. Steve Nash is gone. Ben Simmons is back.
<P>
Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla is the league’s top rookie.
<P>
The NBA season after one quarter:
<P>
<B>TEAMS</B><P>
<B>Best record |</B> Boston Celtics, 16-4
<P>
2. Milwaukee Bucks, 14-5<BR>
3. Phoenix Suns, 13-6<BR>
4. Cleveland Cavaliers, 13-7<BR>
5. Denver Nuggets, 12-7
<P>
<B>Worst record |</B> Detroit Pistons, 5-17
<P>
<B>Best net rating |</B> Boston Celtics, 7.0
<P>
2. Phoenix Suns, 7.0<BR>
3. Cleveland Cavaliers, 6.9<BR>
4. New Orleans Pelicans, 5.5<BR>
5. Milwaukee Bucks, 4.9
<P>
<B>Worst net rating |</B> San Antonio Spurs, -10.2
<P>
<B>No. 1 draft pick favorite |</B> <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/friv/proj_draft.html">San Antonio Spurs</A>
<P>
<B>Trending up |</B> Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz
<P>
<B>Trending down |</B> Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat
<P>
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<P>
<B>PLAYERS</B>
<P>
<B>Player rankings |</B> Stephen Curry, Warriors
<P>
2. Luka Doncic, Mavericks<BR>
3. Nikola Jokic, Nuggets<BR>
4. Jayson Tatum, Celtics<BR>
5. Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers
<P>
<B>Having their best season (age)</B> Tyrese Haliburton (22), Luka Doncic (23), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (24), Donovan Mitchell (26)
<P>
<B>Playing hard |</B> Anthony Davis, Lakers<P>
<B>Not playing |</B> Jae Crowder, TBA<P>
<B>Why?</B> Kyrie Irving, Nets<P>
<P>
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Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-78779931884742161242022-11-21T00:01:00.001-05:002022-11-26T19:17:38.628-05:00NBA’s best, 1980s<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTstdmwi9z16b5A2GbLzTsDDx9bTTaiQl_gpegKySyRiK0SB0ac1vqgyK5bj8AEAREyk4gIiTKknLMX1MZNfQaUTcVnPKAYo5W6Fh8cZvE73riHIKnzbXUjc5Ycy582ARKFQqGWG_zqL32kIEhW8N376KBCVjrTQuiuO3hPs0bfypvIRdIl8Se-bTvxw/s1600/magic%20vs%20bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTstdmwi9z16b5A2GbLzTsDDx9bTTaiQl_gpegKySyRiK0SB0ac1vqgyK5bj8AEAREyk4gIiTKknLMX1MZNfQaUTcVnPKAYo5W6Fh8cZvE73riHIKnzbXUjc5Ycy582ARKFQqGWG_zqL32kIEhW8N376KBCVjrTQuiuO3hPs0bfypvIRdIl8Se-bTvxw/s1600/magic%20vs%20bird.jpg"/></a></div>
<br />
The best players of the 1980s, with statistics from each player’s four-season peak.
<P>
<B>FIRST TEAM</B>
<P>
<B>Forward |</B> Larry Bird, Celtics<BR>
>> 28.1 points, 9.7 rebounds, 6.8 assists<BR>
>> 53.1 2-point / 41.4 3-point / 90.1 free throw shooting
<P>
<B>Forward |</B> Julius Erving, 76ers<BR>
>> 24.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 52.9 2-point shooting
<P>
<B>Center |</B> Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lakers<BR>
>> 24.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 58.7 2-point shooting
<P>
<B>Guard |</B> Magic Johnson, Lakers<BR>
>> 21.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, 12.4 assists
<P>
<B>Guard |</B> Michael Jordan, Bulls<BR>
>> 34.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 2.9 steals
<P>
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<P>
<B>SECOND TEAM</B>
<P>
<B>Forward |</B> Charles Barkley, 76ers<BR>
>> 24.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, 62.7 2-point shooting
<P>
<B>Forward |</B> Adrian Dantley, Jazz and Pistons<BR>
>> 30.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, 56.4 2-point shooting
<P>
<B>Center |</B> Moses Malone, Rockets and 76ers<BR>
>> 27.3 points, 14.8 rebounds, 51.3 2-point shooting
<P>
<B>Guard |</B> Sidney Moncrief, Bucks<BR>
>> 21.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists
<P>
<B>Guard |</B> Isiah Thomas, Pistons<BR>
>> 21.0 points, 11.5 assists, 2.2 steals
<P>
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<P>
<B>Honorable mention</B> (in alphabetical order)
<P>
Maurice Cheeks, 76ers
<P>
Clyde Drexler, Trail Blazers
<P>
Alex English, Nuggets
<P>
George Gervin, Spurs
<P>
Marques Johnson, Bucks
<P>
Bernard King, Knicks
<P>
Fat Lever, Nuggets
<P>
Kevin McHale, Celtics
<P>
Larry Nance, Suns and Cavaliers
<P>
Akeem Olajuwon, Rockets
<P>
Robert Parish, Celtics
<P>
Jack Sikma, SuperSonics
<P>
John Stockton, Jazz
<P>
Dominique Wilkins, Hawks
<P>
James Worthy, Lakers
<P>
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Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-44228453346870639912022-10-17T21:34:00.012-04:002022-12-31T19:52:01.036-05:002022 NBA player rankings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6wlYuJv7sgmHEot4qtBh-PEaCpyVJAKD4gUy0ikAlK-j-6lDDZAfQwa3UwJW9O5ZQybtfeyIZyuTLdcL-29vSWQlNOBs0sj6rQI4BH3jmZCl29n7UrN4qXFzgNDc5FHBiRmMqsGnoeaZ-RSspZHrcQ-ZoUybpV0JedEllBP63epYOB69qcCxbfiZmw/s1600/2022%20player%20rankings.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6wlYuJv7sgmHEot4qtBh-PEaCpyVJAKD4gUy0ikAlK-j-6lDDZAfQwa3UwJW9O5ZQybtfeyIZyuTLdcL-29vSWQlNOBs0sj6rQI4BH3jmZCl29n7UrN4qXFzgNDc5FHBiRmMqsGnoeaZ-RSspZHrcQ-ZoUybpV0JedEllBP63epYOB69qcCxbfiZmw/s1600/2022%20player%20rankings.jpeg"/></a></div>
<br />
Since the Golden State Warriors beat the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals, winning their fourth title in eight seasons …
<P>
Celtics coach Ime Udoka was suspended for an <A HREF="https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/ime-udokas-mistress-revealed-amid-nia-long-cheating-scandal/">improper relationship</A> with a female subordinate. Warriors forward Draymond Green wasn’t for <A HREF="https://www.tmz.com/2022/10/07/draymond-green-video-punch-jordan-poole-practice-golden-state-warriors/">punching</A> teammate Jordan Poole.
<P>
Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell and Dejounte Murray were traded. Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and Russell Westbrook weren’t.
<P>
Suns owner Robert Sarver announced he will sell the team, after a 10-month independent investigation into his behavior, which <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-investigation-robert-sarver-suns-official-release">“clearly violated common workplace standards.”</A>
<P>
<a name='more'></a>
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<P>
My annual player rankings based on last season:
<P>
<b>PROSPECTS</B>
<P>
Who played more than 2,000 minutes:
<P>
<b>Age 19</B> >> Jalen Green
<P>
<b>Age 20</B> >> LaMelo Ball, Evan Mobley, Scottie Barnes, Cade Cunningham, Anthony Edwards, Franz Wagner.
<P>
<b>Age 21</B> >> Tyrese Haliburton, Tyrese Maxey, RJ Barrett, Cole Anthony.
<P>
Haliburton and Maxey have two things in common. They are the only two players named Tyrese in league history, and both are excellent shooters:
<small><B><PRE>
2021-22 pts 2 pt 3 pt ft</B>
Tyrese Haliburton 15.3 51.7 41.4 84.2
Tyrese Maxey 17.5 51.2 42.7 86.6
</PRE></small>
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qQ4_r3hhrZY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>ESTABLISHED TALENT</B>
<P>
<b>Age 22</B> >> 1. Luka Doncic, Mavericks. 2. Ja Morant, Grizzlies. 3. Darius Garland, Cavaliers.
<P>
A couple generations ago, this group would have just finished its rookie season. Instead, Doncic and Morant are All-NBA players, and Garland was third in the Most Improved Player voting.
<P>
<b>Age 23</B> >> 1. Jayson Tatum, Celtics. 2. Trae Young, Hawks.
<BR>3. Jarrett Allen, Cavaliers. 4. Desmond Bane, Grizzlies. 5. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder.
<P>
Tatum played a league-high 3,714 minutes in 100 games, including the playoffs. He was spent in the NBA Finals.
<P>
Young was the most one-way player in the league — possibly the second-best offensive player and near the bottom in defense.
<P>
Bane shot 48% on 2-pointers, 44% on 3s and 90% from the line.
<P>
<b>Age 24</B> >> 1. Bam Adebayo, Heat. 2. Robert Williams III, Celtics.
<P>
Head-to-head in the Eastern Conference finals:
<small><B><PRE>
2021-22 min pts reb 2 pt</B>
Bam Adebayo 37.3 15.0 8.4 60.3
Robert Williams III 22.5 9.2 6.0 70.4
</PRE></small>
<P>
Williams played hurt and missed Game 3, when Adebayo had 31 points, 10 rebounds and six assists.
<P>
Adebayo is the better player over the next five seasons.
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DiXyZbWSIhc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>PEAK</B>
<P>
<b>Age 25</B> >> 1. Devin Booker, Suns. 2. Dejounte Murray, <mark>Hawks</mark>. <BR>
3. Donovan Mitchell, <mark>Cavaliers</mark>. 4. Domantas Sabonis, Kings. <BR>
5. Jaylen Brown, Celtics.
<P>
Three All-Star guards:
<small><B><PRE>
2021-22 pts reb ast TS%</B>
Devin Booker 26.8 5.0 4.8 57.6
Donovan Mitchell 25.9 4.2 5.3 57.2
Dejounte Murray 21.1 8.3 9.2 53.3
</PRE></small>
<P>
Murray, the best all-round player of this group, was <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/hawks-spurs-dejounte-murray-trade">traded to the Hawks</A>, who were 26th in defensive rating last season. An elite defender who led the league in steals, Murray should change that.
<P>
Murray and Trae Young are <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guMrgRKKENI">the most interesting backcourt in the world</A>. Murray will play plenty of point, allowing Young to play off the ball.
<P>
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<P>
<b>Age 26</B> >> 1. Nikola Jokic, Nuggets. 2. Karl-Anthony Towns, Timberwolves. 3. Zach Lavine, Bulls. 4. Kristaps Porzingis, Wizards (51 games).
<P>
Jokic’s season was a masterpiece: 27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, 7.9 assists, with 65/34/81 shooting and Magic passing.
<P>
Best seasons this century:<BR>
1. Stephen Curry, 2016<BR>
2. Nikola Jokic, 2022<BR>
3. LeBron James, many seasons<BR>
<P>
Towns says he is “the greatest big man shooter of all time.”
<P>
He’s not. It’s Dirk Nowitzki, according to <A HREF="https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/mavericks/2022/03/25/kevin-durant-checks-karl-anthony-towns-greatest-big-man-shooter-claim-in-favor-of-dirk-nowitzki/">KD</A> and <A HREF="https://twitter.com/kirkgoldsberry/status/1506787448445181960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1506787448445181960%7Ctwgr%5E%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mavsmoneyball.com%2F2022%2F3%2F25%2F22995079%2Fdirk-nowitzki-is-the-greatest-shooting-big-man-of-all-time">science</A>.
<P>
<b>Age 27</B> >> 1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks. 2. Joel Embiid, 76ers. 3. Fred VanVleet, Raptors. 4. Marcus Smart, Celtics. <BR>
5. Pascal Siakam, Raptors.
<P>
Antetokounmpo has been among the top three players in the league for four seasons. Two MVP awards. One Finals MVP.
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j4QPE88Ctw0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
Embiid is a great player. Just not as great as Jokic.
<P>
<b>Age 28</B> >> Injured: Anthony Davis (40 games), Bradley Beal (40 games).
<P>
Davis should return to form. He’s great every other season.
<P>
<b>Age 29</B> >> 1. Rudy Gobert, <mark>Timberwolves</mark>. WTF. Kyrie Irving, Nets (29 games)
<P>
The Timberwolves <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/jazz-wolves-rudy-gobert-trade">acquired</A> Rudy Gobert as part of Danny Ainge’s Utah Jazz teardown, which means they will start Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns — two of the four best centers in the league.
<P>
It’s worth a shot, because great players don’t come to Minnesota on purpose. Towns is all offense, no defense. Gobert is a three-time Defensive Player of the Year who led the league in rebounding (14.7). He is limited on offense, but the Jazz used him so well that he led the league in 2-point shooting (71.8).
<P>
The pairing won’t be as good as Tim Duncan and David Robinson or Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson. But they will be better. At least better than Patrick Ewing and Bill Cartwright.
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KgjoI014Afs" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>IN DECLINE</B>
<P>
<b>Age 30</B> >> Khris Middleton, Bucks. DNP. Kawhi Leonard, Clippers.
<P>
Leonard has played nine seasons, just three of the past five. There’s some resume rebuilding to do.
<P>
<b>Age 31</B> >> Jrue Holiday, Bucks. Injured: Draymond Green (46 games), Klay Thompson (32 games), Paul George (31 games), Damian Lillard (29 games).
<P>
Health is the biggest concern for the Warriors next season.
<P>
<b>Age 32</B> >> 1. Jimmy Butler, Heat. 2. DeMar DeRozan, Bulls. <BR>
3. James Harden, 76ers.
<P>
Jimmy Butler isn’t a superstar. He’s the anti-superstar.
<P>
He was the 30th pick in the 2011 draft. Averaged 8.5 minutes in his rookie season. In the starting lineup in his third season. Most Improved Player in his fourth.
<P>
At 32, he just finished the best three-season stretch of his career. It’s flagrant that he didn’t make any <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/antetokounmpo-jokic-doncic-2021-22-kia-all-nba-first-team">All-NBA team</A>. A flagrant 2 that Pascal Siakam received more votes.
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B0TlZyEAZPY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
Butler makes as many winning plays as anyone in the league: points, rebounds, assists, steals — but also tip-out offensive rebounds, defensive switches, screens and cuts.
<P>
James Harden, on the other hand, is a superstar — who has played for three teams in two seasons.
<P>
Butler is the better player.
<P>
<b>Age 33</B> >> 1. Stephen Curry, Warriors. 2. Kevin Durant, Nets (55 games).
<P>
Curry burnished a legacy that was already settled science. Most career <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Icsa6yt_DXo">3-pointers</A>. Four championships. NBA Finals MVP. The Warriors were 45-19 with him, 8-10 without him.
<P>
<div class="tenor-gif-embed" data-postid="8900039" data-share-method="host" data-aspect-ratio="1.77" data-width="100%"><a href="https://tenor.com/view/stephen-curry-nba-finals-2017-basketball-gif-8900039">Stephen Curry Nba GIF</a>from <a href="https://tenor.com/search/stephen+curry-gifs">Stephen Curry GIFs</a></div> <script type="text/javascript" async src="https://tenor.com/embed.js"></script>
<P>
Best player of the century? LeBron is No. 1. Curry’s only competition for No. 2 is Tim Duncan and Shaquille O’Neal.
<P>
Durant is often lauded as the game’s best player by television’s professional screamers. Not sure why. His only MVP award was eight seasons ago. Since then, he hasn’t led the league in any traditional or advanced metric. He has missed 64 games over the past two seasons.
<P>
<b>Age 34</B> >> Mike Conley, Jazz
<P>
He will probably be traded by the deadline.
<P>
<b>OLD PLAYERS</B>
<P>
A complete list:
<P>
<b>Age 35</B> >> 1. Al Horford, Celtics. 2. Kyle Lowry, Heat. Also: Jeff Green, George Hill, Rudy Gay, Wesley Matthews, Garrett Temple, Rajon Rondo, Lou Williams, Goran Dragic.
<P>
Horford averaged 12.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and shot 15-for-24 on 3-pointers in his first NBA Finals.
<P>
Pat Riley says Lowry needs to be in <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xqw6Rgn29SM">“world class shape.”</A>
<P>
<b>Age 36</B> >> Chris Paul, Suns. Also: P.J. Tucker, Dwight Howard, LaMarcus Aldridge, Taj Gibson, Paul Millsap, Trevor Ariza.
<P>
Paul’s season was like another 36-year-old Suns point guard who led the league in assists:
<small><B><PRE>
pts reb ast 2pt</B>
Chris Paul, 2022 14.7 4.4 10.8 55.9
Steve Nash, 2011 14.7 3.5 11.4 52.5
</PRE></small>
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FWPGfrdlPGU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>Age 37</B> >> LeBron James, Lakers. Also: Carmelo Anthony.
<P>
LeBron had the best season ever by a 37-year-old: 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists (56 games).
<P>
He has played 52,139 minutes, 11,035 more in the playoffs, in 19 seasons. Missed 53 games over the past two seasons. A full offseason, with no playoffs, should help him stay healthy.
<P>
<b>Age 38</B> >> Andre Iguodala (31 games)
<P>
<b>Age 39</B> >> none
<P>
<b>Age 40</B> >> Joe Johnson (1 game)
<P>
<b>Age 41</B> >> Udonis Haslem, Heat (9 games, 54 in the past six seasons)
<P>
Udonis Haslem has played 19 seasons with one team and more than 150 teammates.
<P>
He has played with a King (LeBron James) and a Barron (Earl), with a Cook (Daequan), Waiters (Dion) and three Butlers (Jimmy, Caron, Rasual).
<P>
He has played with a Herro (Tyler) and Justice (Winslow), with a Person (Wesley) and a Guy (Kyle).
<P>
He has played with a Birdman (Chris Andersen) and a Dedmon (Dewayne), with two Walkers (Antoine, Henry) and a Parker (Smush).
<P>
He has played with a Nunn (Kendrick) and a Bimbo (Coles).
<P>
He has played with a House (Eddie) and a Shaq (O’Neal), with Banks (Marcus) and a Penny (Hardaway).
<P>
He has played with a Head (Luther) and a bust (Greg Oden).
<P>
He has played with all sizes and colors: White (Chocolate), Brown (Shannon) and Green (Gerald).
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HiCik4vRO8U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-34988952280985789702022-08-03T09:09:00.015-04:002022-12-31T19:53:32.077-05:00Vin Scully, 1927-2022<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYmVeA1zroIx4zSYFLxfLXcMkXbitwfupu--2HPqvBKD3HPZYy5qot0qGNQVZ0Xz7D0X8W4DQ6Rs3Bzb8E62eQtQ70jm7OYMZzYzvGpjEATvbS0Tc7acsLFWS0wNugGq3nX2OU7X2j4Xv3W6EVa4AH3_vkQ3h172C_HSvGcrUr47bkO8Tmz0Lpf2lpA/s1600/vin%20scully%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYmVeA1zroIx4zSYFLxfLXcMkXbitwfupu--2HPqvBKD3HPZYy5qot0qGNQVZ0Xz7D0X8W4DQ6Rs3Bzb8E62eQtQ70jm7OYMZzYzvGpjEATvbS0Tc7acsLFWS0wNugGq3nX2OU7X2j4Xv3W6EVa4AH3_vkQ3h172C_HSvGcrUr47bkO8Tmz0Lpf2lpA/s1600/vin%20scully%202.jpg"/></a></div>
<br />
For baseball fans who came of age in the 1980s, Vin Scully was their soundtrack. On Saturday afternoons and October nights, Scully was as reliable as <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jENapQxK6bc">Johnny Carson’s monologue</A>, Dick Clark on New Year’s Eve and Casey Kasem counting backward. He was as familiar as a bedtime story.
<P>
Scully called the balls and strikes, the home runs and strikeouts, the “high fly ball into right field” and “little roller up along first / behind the bag” and every big play in between.
<P>
Vin Scully, the greatest baseball broadcaster of all time — and I don’t mean maybe — died Tuesday. He was 94.
<P>
A master of lyrical storytelling, accented by dulcet tones, Scully was the radio and television play-by-play voice for the Los Angeles Dodges — from 1950, when they were still in Brooklyn, until his retirement in 2016. He came to national prominence as NBC’s lead play-by-play man from 1983 to 1989, calling three World Series and four NLCS series with color analyst Joe Garagiola. He also called the World Series for CBS radio from 1979 to 1982 and again from 1990 to 1997.
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Along the way, Scully narrated Don Larsen’s perfect game in the 1956 World Series, <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WINiz0Bfb-0">Sandy Koufax’s perfect game</A> in 1965 and Hank Aaron’s record-setting 715th home run in 1974.
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“What a marvelous moment for baseball, what a marvelous moment for Atlanta and the state of Georgia, what a marvelous moment for the country and the world,” he said as Aaron hugged his teammates and family after touching home plate. “A black man is getting a standing ovation in the deep South for breaking the record of an all-time baseball idol.”
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Scully also struck the just-right tone as he called Bill Buckner’s error in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, Kirk Gibson’s walk-off home run in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series and <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efFHcfIuCEs">Fernando Valenzuela’s no-hitter</A> in 1990. “If you have a sombrero, throw it to the sky,” he said as the Mexican pitcher was congratulated by his teammates.
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Scully made memorable calls, but as Miles Davis once said: “It’s not the notes you play. It’s the notes you don’t play.”
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As Gibson rounded the bases in 1988, pumping his arm around second base, Scully — whose delivery was always more jazz than pop — showed restraint, going silent for more than a minute, letting the pictures tell the story. Then, after Gibson touched home plate and celebrated, Scully returned: “In a year that has been so improbable, the impossible has happened.”
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Scully worked for CBS from 1975 to 1982, calling NFL games, including <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLsFSsHnoxM">“The Catch,”</A> and contributing to golf and tennis coverage. In 1981, CBS made John Madden its No. 1 color analyst. Throughout the first half of the season, Scully and Pat Summerall competed for the top play-by-play position.
<P>
CBS decided Summerall was a better fit beside Madden. Scully quit, and the rest is baseball (and football) history.
<P>
In the 1980s, Scully and Garagiola called baseball, and Summerall and Madden called football. It seemed like that’s the way it had always been and would forever be.
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
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Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-49162786104524375662022-06-02T01:21:00.010-04:002022-12-31T19:56:01.531-05:00My favorite teams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_7ywj9PhwYFN3MMgCzHevxOuv3armWjNWVDh27bV-8A8Pmu7vAMrLiXYjy_ZIP1BgCX5Og14nkLTup2_g40CUQMD6aIbteh2hUq5qwUPcR22yy4syml702CNfR1E-blB18LgHcXtpCFTMDS8reNFSZUTaG8BureQe5afEPzAqhzFf3k5WJSSLKJpbg/s1600/03%20mavericks%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_7ywj9PhwYFN3MMgCzHevxOuv3armWjNWVDh27bV-8A8Pmu7vAMrLiXYjy_ZIP1BgCX5Og14nkLTup2_g40CUQMD6aIbteh2hUq5qwUPcR22yy4syml702CNfR1E-blB18LgHcXtpCFTMDS8reNFSZUTaG8BureQe5afEPzAqhzFf3k5WJSSLKJpbg/s1600/03%20mavericks%202.jpg"/></a></div><br />
For the Warriors, the Celtics and the entire von Trapp family, here are a few of our favorite teams:
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<I>Nowitzki for three and defenses left shocked<BR>
Nash is for driving and the Mormon to block<BR>
Nellie mismatches that make offense supreme<BR>
These are a few of my favorite teams
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Nights at the Garden and Spike taunting with glee<BR>
LJ’s four-pointer and Houston’s scoring Sprees<BR>
Revenge against Riley became the theme<BR>
These are a few of my favorite teams
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Bird flew at his peak and Walton rose from ashes<BR>
McHale in the block and DJ’s perfect passes<BR>
Beating the Rockets for their sixteenth ring<BR>
These are a few of my favorite teams
<P>
Chapman, Tripucka and Stephen’s dad at play<BR>
Teal and dark purple and projects colored Gray<BR>
Big men who scuffle and Hornets that sting<BR>
These are a few of my favorite teams
<P>
When the Kings reign<BR>
When the Jazz sing<BR>
When I’m feeling sad<BR>
I simply remember my favorite teams<BR>
And then I don’t feel so bad</I>
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
<P>
<B>DALLAS MAVERICKS (2003)</B>
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A young, fun and gun team on the make and ahead of its time: 3-pointers in transition, three-guard lineups, nine different zone defenses — and Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-zK5gmSeWI">before they were MVPs</A>. Nowitzki was the 7-foot shooter with no position, Nash the playmaking guard. Michael Finley and sixth man <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjUUY5GwbjI">Nick Van Exel</A> were the wingmen, 7-6 Shawn Bradley the wingspan. The Mavericks started the season 14-0 and finished 60-22 (tied for the league’s best record). They led the league in margin of victory, offensive rating — and originality. “Nobody’s ever tried it this way before,” Don Nelson said. <span style="float:right;"><i>— K.B.</I></span style><br />
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<B>Record |</B> 60-22 <B>Coach |</B> Don Nelson <B>Playoffs |</B> Lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference finals
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<B>NEW YORK KNICKS (1999)</B>
<P>
Were this series about a different superlative, accounts of defensive efficiency or per-100 ratings might occupy this space. Instead, we’ll note Champion-manufactured NBA jerseys from 1989 to the early aughts. Among the millions of replicas produced: <A HREF="https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/jjIAAOSwiCNicJwz/s-l500.jpg">home</A> and <A HREF="https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/LYQAAOSwi25icJma/s-l500.jpg">away</A> Latrell Spewells, my favorite player on my favorite team. Three of note: Sprewell, absolved by all, except P.J. Carlesimo and those with <A HREF="https://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/os-xpm-2004-11-07-0411070374-story.html">families to feed</A>; Marcus Camby, loved by all, except <A HREF="https://twitter.com/Ballislife/status/1103232917503803393?s=20&t=q9Y5S4MYjuVDLot9gnAwug">Danny Ferry and Jeff Van Gundy</A>; and Larry Johnson, who helped send the Pacers home on <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxqpcG01jcc&t=4s">a shot Mark Jackson still complains about</A>.
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Robert H. Quesenbery</I></span style><br />
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<B>Record |</B> 27-23 <B>Coach |</B> Jeff Van Gundy <B>Playoffs |</B> Lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals
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<B>BOSTON CELTICS (1986)</B>
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Coming off their first NBA Finals loss to the Lakers after eight victories, the Celtics responded with perhaps their best season, rolling to a franchise-best 67 wins and a league-record 40 wins in 41 home games. They then rolled through the playoffs with only three losses, two of those coming against a Houston team that upset the Lakers in the Western Conference finals. With league MVP <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maS9smxRubI">Larry Bird</A> leading the team in points (25.8), rebounds (9.8) and assists (6.8), Boston led the NBA in rebounding, defensive efficiency and 3-point shooting while ranking second in assists and third in offensive efficiency.
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<span style="float:right;"><i>— Jeff Drew</I></span style><br />
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<B>Record |</B> 67-15 <B>Coach |</B> K.C. Jones <B>Playoffs |</B> Beat the Houston Rockets in the NBA Finals
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<B>CHARLOTTE HORNETS (1990)</B>
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The Charlotte Hornets were a nondescript team in the franchise’s sophomore year. But I can quote almost every one of their results back to you from memory. My favorite was the night Stuart Gray battled the entire Los Angeles Lakers entourage. I was there. “He went after everyone in the facility,” Magic Johnson said later. In a few weeks, both Gray and his rabbi, coach Dick Harter, were gone. Allan Bristow brought in Armen Gilliam and Rudy Keys, and the Hornets — before <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZMbUPiKi-8">Grandmama</A>, before Alonzo Mourning — became a force.
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<span style="float:right;"><i>— Owen S. Good</I></span style><br />
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<B>Record |</B> 19-63 <B>Coach |</B> Dick Harter (8-32), Gene Littles (11-31) <B>Playoffs |</B> none
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iwbwIlez6wA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-39427298948213335102022-04-23T22:27:00.036-04:002022-12-31T19:58:53.909-05:002022 NBA Awards: Jokerman<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxWg9Hxw1hVsD6Hb4EPOusfiindErhl3O33IiFsCnYAV7HqaID5gl4fG1MqTYZkJKh2ObLTLCR08Gg4uJFyPC5QHEQI5UQJk-owFboB8O0VdeyWJ46DglfJEDxXKW2EwGIULwOmgx6tQZh_E3UfEvqlJLAGjVwa66hw8ax_8wlGVP6Jhuu4LHbWmwQg/s1600/jokic%202022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxWg9Hxw1hVsD6Hb4EPOusfiindErhl3O33IiFsCnYAV7HqaID5gl4fG1MqTYZkJKh2ObLTLCR08Gg4uJFyPC5QHEQI5UQJk-owFboB8O0VdeyWJ46DglfJEDxXKW2EwGIULwOmgx6tQZh_E3UfEvqlJLAGjVwa66hw8ax_8wlGVP6Jhuu4LHbWmwQg/s1600/jokic%202022.jpg"/></a></div><br />
<I>Standing on the waters casting your bread<BR>
While the eyes of the idol with the iron head are glowing<BR>
Distant ships sailing into the mist<BR>
You were born with a <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XSvsFgvWr0">snake in both of your fists</A> while a hurricane was blowing<BR>
Freedom just around the corner for you<BR>
But with the truth so far off, what good will it do?</I>
<BR>
<span style="float:right;">— Bob Dylan / “Jokerman”</span style><br />
<P>
Much of the NBA’s 75th season was decided off the court. Kyrie Irving was a conscientious objector to the COVID-19 vaccine. He eventually won a staring contest against logic, reason and the mayor of New York City, helping lead the Brooklyn Nets all the way to seventh place in the East.* Ben Simmons missed the season with a herniated disc and mental illness. (I believe him.) Kawhi Leonard missed the season the old-fashioned way — with a knee injury.
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On the court, Nikola Jokic was the league’s best player. He set single-season records for <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/bpm_season.html">box plus/minus</A> (13.7) and <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/per_season.html">player efficiency rating</A> (32.8) and became the first player with 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 500 assists in a season. Trae Young was the second player to lead the league in total points and total assists.
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Stephen Curry passed Ray Allen to become the all-time leader in 3-pointers. Gregg Popovich <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEhwzjTrtUg">passed</A> Don Nelson to become the all-time leader in wins. And <A HREF=" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-7rL8xyo7A">Ol’ Man River</A>, he keeps rolling along. LeBron James, 37, became the first player with 30,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 assists.
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The NBA announced its <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/nba-75th-anniversary-team-announced">75th anniversary team</A>. Anthony Davis and Damian Lillard made the list. Dwight Howard and Tracy McGrady didn’t.
<P>
* The Nets were 14-15 with Irving, 30-23 without him. They were 36-19 with Kevin Durant (MCL), 8-19 without him. The Warriors were 45-19 with Curry (foot), 8-10 without him.
<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
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<b>TEAMS</B>
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<b>Best record |</B> Phoenix Suns, 64-18
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<b>Worst record |</B> Houston Rockets, 20-62
<P>
<b>Had their best season |</B> Phoenix Suns, Memphis Grizzlies
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<b>Tanking |</B> Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder
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<b>Best offense |</B> Utah Jazz, Atlanta Hawks
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<b>Best defense |</B> Boston Celtics, Golden State Warriors
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<b>Fastest pace |</B> Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets
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<b>Slowest pace |</B> Dallas Mavericks
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<b>AWARDS</B>
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<b>Most Valuable Player |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
<P>
2. Joel Embiid, 76ers<br>
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br>
4. Jayson Tatum, Celtics<br>
5. Stephen Curry, Warriors
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<b>Coach of the Year |</B> J.B. Bickerstaff, Cavaliers
<P>
2. Monty Williams, Suns<br>
3. Taylor Jenkins, Grizzlies
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<b>Executive of the Year |</B> Arturas Karnisovas, Bulls
<P>
<b>Offensive Player of the Year |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
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<b>Defensive Player of the Year |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz
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<b>Teammate of the Year |</B> DeMar DeRozan, Bulls
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<b>Worst Teammate |</B> Kyrie Irving, Nets
<P>
<b>Rookie of the Year |</B> Evan Mobley, Cavaliers
<P>
<b>Sixth Man of the Year |</B> Kevin Love, Cavaliers
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<b>Rest of bench |</B> Tyler Herro, Montrezl Harrell, Bogdan Bogdanović, Cameron Johnson, Gary Payton II, Brandon Clarke
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<b>ALL-NBA / First team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br>
>>> 29.9 points, 11.6 rebounds, 61.6 2-point shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Jayson Tatum, Celtics<br>
>>> 26.9 points, 8.0 rebounds, 85.3 free throw shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets<BR>
>>> 27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, 7.9 assists<br />
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Stephen Curry, Warriors<BR>
>>> 25.5 points, 6.3 assists, 92.3 free throw shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Luka Doncic, Mavericks<BR>
>>> 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, 8.7 assists<br />
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Enlqf9UIlog" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<b>ALL-NBA / Second team</B>
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<b>Forward |</B> Kevin Durant, Nets<BR>
>>> 29.9 points, 6.4 assists, 91.0 free throw shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Jimmy Butler, Heat<BR>
>>> 21.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 87.0 free throw shootoing<br />
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Joel Embiid, 76ers<BR>
>>> 30.6 points, 11.7 rebounds, 4.2 assists<br />
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Chris Paul, Suns<BR>
>>> 14.7 points, 10.8 assists, 55.9 2-point shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Devin Booker, Suns<BR>
>>> 26.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 86.8 free throw shooting<br />
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C49PypKJEYM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<b>ALL-NBA / Third team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> LeBron James, Lakers<BR>
>>> 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 60.2 2-point shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> DeMar DeRozan, Bulls<BR>
>>> 27.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 87.7 free throw shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz<BR>
>>> 15.6 points, 14.7 rebounds, 71.8 2-point shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Trae Young, Hawks<BR>
>>> 28.4 points, 9.7 assists, 90.4 free throw shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Ja Morant, Grizzlies<BR>
>>> 27.4 points, 6.7 assists, 53.4 2-point shooting<br />
<P>
<b>Others receiving votes |</B> Fred VanVleet, Karl-Anthony Towns, Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Jrue Holiday
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qSMmUXQOMy0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<b>LEADERS</B>
<P>
<B>Box Plus-Minus |</B> Nikola Jokic, 13.7
<P>
<B>Real Plus-Minus |</B> Nikola Jokic, 11.8
<P>
<B>Estimated Plus-Minus |</B> Nikola Jokic, 9.3
<P>
<B>Total RAPTOR |</B> Nikola Jokic, 14.8
<P>
<b>Scoring |</B> Joel Embiid, 30.6
<P>
<b>Rebounding |</B> Rudy Gobert, 14.7
<P>
<b>Assists |</B> Chris Paul, 10.7
<P>
<b>2-point shooting |</B> Rudy Gobert, 71.8
<P>
<b>3-point percentage |</B> Luke Kennard, 44.9
<P>
<b>Free throw shooting |</B> Jordan Poole, 92.5
<P>
<b>Steals |</B> Dejounte Murray, 2.0
<P>
<b>Blocks |</B> Jaren Jackson Jr., 2.3
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JbJQG0Cadfk" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>SUPERLATIVES</B>
<P>
<b>Best shooters |</B> Kevin Durant and Seth Curry, Nets
<P>
<b>Best mid-range shooter |</B> Chris Paul, Suns
<P>
<b>Best backcourt |</B> Chris Paul and Devin Booker, Suns
<P>
<b>Iron man |</B> Mikal Bridges, Suns
<P>
<b>Tallest player |</B> Tacko Fall, 7-6
<P>
<b>Shortest player |</B> Isaiah Thomas, 5-9
<P>
<b>Best prospect |</B> LaMelo Ball, 20 years old
<P>
<b>Best young players |</B> Jayson Tatum (23), Luka Doncic (22)
<P>
<b>Best old players |</B> LeBron James (37), Chris Paul (36)
<P>
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Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-37966607296549567212021-06-16T23:46:00.004-04:002022-01-24T19:36:05.324-05:00Age [21] All-Star team<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxFzTMXMvDIn7_fPzb9TsapVVcK7sX6-GsEQEFw8_XShkxTnEMaALIzCXRhUhrT0Q-FkN2UQ_2KXdGjErQXvHjwNkvGgdtFXFwzQOSruM8VS1FByvHu6j_JzlH-H9AJw4boHGgLHf9d8A-aWLZwgWeGrfsf8IjyjFNaYz3YuBZ0z9ooNKW5SJcsRMbpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxFzTMXMvDIn7_fPzb9TsapVVcK7sX6-GsEQEFw8_XShkxTnEMaALIzCXRhUhrT0Q-FkN2UQ_2KXdGjErQXvHjwNkvGgdtFXFwzQOSruM8VS1FByvHu6j_JzlH-H9AJw4boHGgLHf9d8A-aWLZwgWeGrfsf8IjyjFNaYz3YuBZ0z9ooNKW5SJcsRMbpg"/></a></div><br />
<br />
His name is Luka Doncic, and he is just the sixth 21-year-old named to the <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/news/nikola-jokic-giannis-antetokounmpo-stephen-curry-lead-2020-21-all-nba-first-team">All-NBA first team</A>, joining LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, Tim Duncan and Rick Barry. Other 21-year-olds who were All-NBA selections: Michael Jordan, Tracy McGrady and Kobe Bryant (second team) and Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard (third team).<br />
<br />
That group (minus Howard) leads my Age 21 All-Star team.<br />
<br />
The Mavericks point guard averaged 27.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 8.6 assists this season. Even better, he averaged 35.7 points, 7.9 rebounds and 10.3 assists in a first-round playoff loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TroeNaq1h0M" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>STARTERS</b><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> LeBron James, Cavaliers [2005-06]<br />
>>> 31.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, 6.6 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Kevin Durant, Thunder [2009-10]<br />
>>> 30.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 90.0 free throw shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</b> Shaquille O’Neal, Magic [1993-94]<br />
>>> 29.3 points, 13.2 rebounds, 2.9 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> Michael Jordan, Bulls [1984-85]<br />
>>> 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> Luka Doncic, Mavericks [2020-21]<br />
>>> 27.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, 8.6 assists<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gc7LW1k6NyA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>BENCH</b><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Anthony Davis, Pelicans [2014-15]<br />
>>> 30.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.9 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> <A HREF="https://www.postmodcast.com/2016/07/tim-duncan-appreciation.html">Tim Duncan</A>, Spurs [1997-98]<br />
>>> 21.1 points, 11.9 rebounds, 2.5 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Rick Barry, Warriors [1965-66]<br />
>>> 25.7 points, 10.6 rebounds, 86.2 free throw shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</b> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets [2016-17]<br />
>>> 16.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.9 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</b> Karl-Anthony Towns, Timberwolves [2016-17]<br />
>>> 25.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, 58.2 2-point shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> Tracy McGrady, Magic [2000-01]<br />
>>> 26.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> Kobe Bryant, Lakers [1999-00]<br />
>>> 22.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 4.9 assists<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IawJFVquFY8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>AWARDS</B><br />
<br />
<b>Rookies of the Year |</B> Rick Barry (1966), Bob McAdoo (1973), Jamaal Wilkes (1975), Alvan Adams (1976), Buck Williams (1982), Terry Cummings (1983), Michael Jordan (1984), Jason Kidd (1995), Allen Iverson (1997), Tim Duncan (1998), Pau Gasol (2002), Blake Griffin (2011), Ben Simmons (2018)Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-30241232246026256832021-06-06T19:34:00.017-04:002022-05-01T01:19:34.924-04:00Age [36] All-Star team<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2y56ZHCVtxibHCafgkP2NY-TFFn5BZ7uokurnbEdl9LRFmdN1o075LTHcW3hbalGgvgOksyA3xicIpz-yBzswbmezWN9O7VRSwspdw7-5D3GcwaOnUWwL9I7eXqzIXOTwm1Z2l_aXQlf/s0/lebron36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2y56ZHCVtxibHCafgkP2NY-TFFn5BZ7uokurnbEdl9LRFmdN1o075LTHcW3hbalGgvgOksyA3xicIpz-yBzswbmezWN9O7VRSwspdw7-5D3GcwaOnUWwL9I7eXqzIXOTwm1Z2l_aXQlf/s0/lebron36.jpg" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="315" /></a></div><br />
<br />
LeBron James lost in the first round of the playoffs for the first time on Thursday night, but he finished possibly the best Age 36 season in history.<br />
<br />
James, who turned 36 years old on Dec. 30, averaged 25.0 points, 7.7 rebounds and 7.8 assists in 45 games for the Lakers. He missed 27 games with an injured right ankle.<br />
<br />
The Lakers were 28-13 when he injured the ankle on March 20 in a loss to the Atlanta Hawks. They finished 30-14 with James in the lineup, 12-16 without him.<br />
<br />
LeBron’s chief competition as the top 36-year-old is Utah Jazz forward Karl Malone, who averaged 25.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 1999-00. He played 82 games.<br />
<br />
James, who has played 18 seasons, is now sixth all-time in minutes played with 50,055. Malone is second with 54,852.<br />
<br />
They lead the Age 36 All-Star team:<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/myeB0vIO2uI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>STARTERS |</b> Stockton to Malone ... and LeBron and Kareem.<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> <A HREF="https://www.postmodcast.com/2005/02/mr-consistency-karl-malone.html">Karl Malone</A>, Jazz [1999-00]<br />
>>> 25.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> LeBron James, Lakers [2020-21]<br />
>>> 25.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.8 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</b> Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Lakers [1983-84]<br />
>>> 21.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 57.9 field goal shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> Steve Nash, Suns [2010-11]<br />
>>> 14.7 points, 11.4 assists, 91.2 free throw shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> John Stockton, Jazz [1998-99]<br />
>>> 11.1 points, 7.5 assists, 81.1 free throw shooting<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/43Yje6-JGbA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>BENCH |</b> Chamberlain, Rodman led the league in rebounding.<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</b> Dennis Rodman, Bulls [1997-98]<br />
>>> 4.7 points, 15.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</b> Vince Carter, Mavericks [2012-13]<br />
>>> 13.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, 40.6 3-point shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</b> Wilt Chamberlain, Lakers [1972-73]<br />
>>> 13.2 points, 18.6 rebounds, 72.7 field goal shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Hakeem Olajuwon, Rockets [1998-99]<br />
>>> 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.5 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> <A HREF="https://www.postmodcast.com/2016/07/tim-duncan-appreciation.html">Tim Duncan</A>, Spurs [2012-13]<br />
>>> 17.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.7 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> Jason Kidd, Mavericks [2009-10]<br />
>>> 10.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 9.1 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</b> <A HREF="https://www.postmodcast.com/2005/04/parting-shots-reggie-miller.html">Reggie Miller</A>, Pacers [2001-02]<br />
>>> 16.5 points, 40.6 3-point / 91.1 free throw shooting<br />Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-24701845659469185292021-05-19T03:12:00.010-04:002021-06-17T06:17:17.630-04:002021 NBA awards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpSYheTyFp1N4dJ1MIlyOq20zzvyqJj9z2RDPjMoY9PPhRqnw79sdjB05esYHkLPKf7CnqQck1GhnUuGD9RarUiabjsXGfD6JavgZkGMddZ8C6K339cuG1YnGqGxgqf3lbXu0FDfBG-G66/s0/nikola+jokic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpSYheTyFp1N4dJ1MIlyOq20zzvyqJj9z2RDPjMoY9PPhRqnw79sdjB05esYHkLPKf7CnqQck1GhnUuGD9RarUiabjsXGfD6JavgZkGMddZ8C6K339cuG1YnGqGxgqf3lbXu0FDfBG-G66/s0/nikola+jokic.jpg" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="315" /></a></div><br />
Nikola Jokic, the second-round draft pick from Sombor, Serbia, is this season’s easy MVP selection. The Denver Nuggets point center averaged 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds and 8.3 assists, shooting 60.6 percent on 2-pointers, 38.8 on 3-pointers and 86.8 from the free throw line. He led the league in <A HREF="https://dunksandthrees.com/epm">Estimated Plus-Minus</A>, <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_2021_advanced.html#advanced_stats::bpm">Box Plus-Minus</A> and 538’s <A HREF="https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/nba-player-ratings/">RAPTOR WAR</A>. In a season with more excused absences than any other, from <A HREF="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30991740/the-ways-nba-players-were-personally-impacted-covid-19">COVID-19 protocols</A> to schedule-induced injuries, Jokic played in every game. When guard Jamal Murray tore his left ACL against the Golden State Warriors on April 12, the Nuggets (47-25) kept rolling, winning 13 of their last 18 games.
<P>
Stephen Curry scored 46 points on the last day of the season to win the scoring title. The Phoenix Suns made the playoffs for the first time in 11 seasons, while the New York Knicks made the playoffs for the first time in eight seasons. Russell Westbrook chased triple-doubles, <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p16BhBlmrQw">catching</A> Oscar Roberson’s all-time record. James Harden joined Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn. They played eight games together. The Toronto Raptors played their games in Tampa, Fla. <A HREF="https://www.postmodcast.com/2016/07/tim-duncan-appreciation.html">Tim Duncan</A>, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett were inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Marv Albert <A HREF="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/17/sports/basketball/marv-albert-retire.html">will retire</A> after the Eastern Conference finals.<BR>
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style><br />
<P>
My 2020-21 season in review, awards and All-NBA teams:<a name='more'></a>
<br />
<b>TEAMS</B>
<P>
<b>Best record |</B> Utah Jazz, 52-20, a 59-win pace
<P>
<b>Worst record |</B> Houston Rockets, 17-55, a 63-loss pace
<P>
<b>Best offense |</B> Brooklyn Nets
<P>
<b>Best defense |</B> Los Angeles Lakers
<P>
<b>Fastest pace |</B> Washington Wizards
<P>
<b>Slowest pace |</B> New York Knicks
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Em0v6uwSvJc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>AWARDS</B>
<P>
<b>Most Valuable Player |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
<P>
<b>Defensive Player of the Year |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz
<P>
<b>Best offensive player |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
<P>
<b>Most clutch player |</B> <A HREF="https://www.nba.com/stats/players/clutch-traditional/?sort=PTS&dir=-1&Season=2020-21&SeasonType=Regular%20Season&PerMode=Totals">Damian Lillard</A>, Trail Blazers
<P>
<b>Coach of the Year |</B> Tom Thibodeau, Knicks
<P>
<b>Teammate of the Year |</B> Chris Paul, Suns
<P>
<b>Rookie of the Year |</B> LaMelo Ball, Hornets
<P>
<b>Sixth Man of the Year |</B> Joe Ingles, Jazz
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iuO1iGP5L7I" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>ALL-NBA</B>
<P>
<b>First team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Jimmy Butler, Heat
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Stephen Curry, Warriors
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Damian Lillard, Trail Blazers
<P>
<b>Second team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Kawhi Leonard, Clippers
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> LeBron James, Lakers
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Joel Embiid, 76ers
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Luka Doncic, Mavericks
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Chris Paul, Suns
<P>
<b>Third team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Paul George, Clippers
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Julius Randle, Knicks
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Mike Conley, Jazz
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Jrue Holiday, Bucks
<P>
<b>Honorable mention</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Zion Williamson, Pelicans
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Bam Adebayo, Heat
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9KcG5IVukVo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<B>ALL-DEFENSE</B>
<P>
<b>First team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Draymond Green, Warriors
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Ben Simmons, 76ers
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Mike Conley, Jazz
<P>
<b>Second team</B>
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Jimmy Butler, Heat
<P>
<b>Forward |</B> Julius Randle, Knicks
<P>
<b>Center |</B> Clint Capela, Hawks
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Matisse Thybulle, 76ers
<P>
<b>Guard |</B> Fred VanVleet, Raptors
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LYyuHmYIlEE" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>LEADERS</B>
<P>
<A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_2021_advanced.html#advanced_stats::bpm">Box Plus-Minus</A> | Nikola Jokic, 11.7
<P>
<A HREF="http://www.espn.com/nba/statistics/rpm">Real Plus-Minus</A> | Stephen Curry, 7.2
<P>
<A HREF="https://dunksandthrees.com/epm">Estimated Plus-Minus</A> | Nikola Jokic, 7.9
<P>
<A HREF="https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/nba-player-ratings/">Total RAPTOR</A> | Nikola Jokic, 9.7
<P>
<b>Scoring |</B> Stephen Curry, 32.0
<P>
<b>Rebounding |</B> Clint Capela, 14.3
<P>
<b>Assists |</B> Russell Westbrook, 11.7
<P>
<b>2-point percentage |</B> Rudy Gobert, .680
<P>
<b>3-point percentage |</B> Joe Harris, .475
<P>
<b>Free throw shooting |</B> Chris Paul, .934
<P>
<b>Steals |</B> Jimmy Butler, 2.1
<P>
<b>Blocks |</B> Rudy Gobert, 2.7
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qhGbTdat1Rg" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<P>
<b>SUPERLATIVES</B>
<P>
<b>Best shooter |</B> Stephen Curry, Warriors
<P>
<b>Best backcourt |</B> Mike Conley and Donovan Mitchell, Jazz
<P>
<b>Iron man |</B> Julius Randle, Knicks
<P>
<b>Tallest player |</B> Tacko Fall, 7-5
<P>
<b>Shortest player |</B> Isaiah Thomas, 5-9
<P>
<b>Best young player |</B> Zion Williamson (20)
<P>
<b>Best old player |</B> Chis Paul (35)
<P>
<b>Debut |</B> LaMelo Ball
<P>
<b>Farewell |</B> LaMarcus Aldridge
<P>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ajjEgkg89ms" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-73614212645424522852020-08-09T15:30:00.005-04:002022-01-25T00:17:01.281-05:00Age [20] All-Star team<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtITt7GM7-zH1yg_HERd5RgxDvE7lYlQmptt8is3KTL_gxYoDC5hcqZ-FyNwx5JJr9To-XYvlvIAwhAtZfUBzMBC47HRX80n_XaNZ7OS0BelY9lvuf5MLs5BKoCaqMen_BbacngNGcP3i/s1600/luka+doncic+age+20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtITt7GM7-zH1yg_HERd5RgxDvE7lYlQmptt8is3KTL_gxYoDC5hcqZ-FyNwx5JJr9To-XYvlvIAwhAtZfUBzMBC47HRX80n_XaNZ7OS0BelY9lvuf5MLs5BKoCaqMen_BbacngNGcP3i/s1600/luka+doncic+age+20.jpg" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="331" /></a></div><br />
As Jon Landau <a HREF="https://www.massmoments.org/moment-details/critic-declares-springsteen-future-of-rock-and-roll.html">might say</A>: I have seen basketball’s future and its name is Luka Doncic. The Mavericks wunderkind had possibly the finest game of his career on Saturday night, putting up 36 points, 14 rebounds and a career-high 19 assists in a victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.<br />
<br />
Doncic is finishing up the best season by a 20-year-old in league history, averaging 29.1 points, 9.5 rebounds and 8.9 assists while leading the <a HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/play-index/tsl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=single&type=team_totals&lg_id=NBA&order_by=off_rtg">most efficient offense of all time</A>. Well, it’s either him or LeBron James. Doncic, LeBron and Magic Johnson — three playmaking polymaths — lead my Age 20 All-Star team:<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_JiN4spAQmw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> LeBron James, Cavaliers [2004-05]<br />
>>> 27.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Zion Williamson, Pelicans [2020-21] <br />
>>> 27.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, 62.2 2-point shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Shaquille O’Neal, Magic [1992-93]<br />
>>> 23.4 points, 13.9 rebounds, 3.5 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Magic Johnson, Lakers [1979-80] <br />
>>> 18.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, 7.3 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Luka Doncic, Mavericks [2019-20] <br />
>>> 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 8.8 assists<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H906s1BZu-Y" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>BENCH</B><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Anthony Davis, Pelicans [2013-14] <br />
>>> 20.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.8 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Chris Webber, Warriors [1993-94] <br />
>>> 17.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 2.2 blocks<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Karl-Anthony Towns, Timberwolves [2015-16]<br />
>>> 18.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, 55.9 2-point shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets [2015-16]<br />
>>> 10.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 54.1 2-point shooting<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Chris Paul, Hornets [2005-06] <br />
>>> 16.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 7.8 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Kobe Bryant, Lakers [1998-99]<br />
>>> 19.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> LaMelo Ball, Hornets [2021-22]<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3DSN1KnAW-Y" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>Rookies of the Year |</B> Adrian Dantley (1977), Shaquille O’Neal (1993), Chris Webber (1994), Elton Brand (2000), Mike Miller (2001), Amare Stoudemire (2003), Chris Paul (2006), Derrick Rose (2009), Tyreke Evans (2010), Karl-Anthony Towns (2016)<br />
<br />
<b>NBA Finals MVP |</B> Magic Johnson (1980)<br />
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-35034677526207936142020-08-02T22:30:00.004-04:002021-06-17T05:32:25.393-04:002020 NBA awards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyOyHaskyu8sC0g4bwpTU5bRnJjWCKSAtxdv4rDizEyGjjmORArn0_HwU7E2Pm1IpQtrN_VdT6Sx_NARGxaR3wVAWfo1CkYA28Gv2SIBtiGpC-O8Iu2V-6mycmuiKiL4nqns21yTFPg9t/s1600/giannis-lebron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyOyHaskyu8sC0g4bwpTU5bRnJjWCKSAtxdv4rDizEyGjjmORArn0_HwU7E2Pm1IpQtrN_VdT6Sx_NARGxaR3wVAWfo1CkYA28Gv2SIBtiGpC-O8Iu2V-6mycmuiKiL4nqns21yTFPg9t/s1600/giannis-lebron.jpg" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="315" /></a></div><br />
Giannis Antetokounmpo was <I>sui generis</I>. LeBron James and Luka Doncic were position-less basketball polymaths. Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Davis moved to Los Angeles — but to different teams. Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook traded teams. Paul won the deal. Jimmy Butler took his talents to South Beach. Zion Williamson made his debut. Vince Carter played his final — and record 22nd — season. Michael Jordan <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ss5Ndz0tn9o">took everything personal</A> in <I>The Last Dance</I>.<br />
<br />
The league also lost David Stern, Kobe Bryant, <A HREF="http://www.postmodcast.com/2020/05/jerry-sloan-1942-2020.html">Jerry Sloan</A> and many games to the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
<br />
My 2019-20 season in review, with awards and All-NBA teams, and all statistics through March 11:<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<b>TEAMS</B><br />
<br />
<b>Best record |</B> Milwaukee Bucks, 53-12, a 67-win pace<br />
<br />
<b>Worst record |</B> Golden State Warriors, 15-50, a 63-loss pace<br />
<br />
<b>Best offense |</B> Dallas Mavericks, the <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/play-index/tsl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=single&type=team_totals&lg_id=NBA&order_by=off_rtg">best offense of all time</A><br />
<br />
<b>Best defense |</B> Milwaukee Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Fastest pace |</B> Milwaukee Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Slowest pace |</B> Charlotte Hornets<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hgOdTLie5BU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>AWARDS</B><br />
<br />
<b>MVP |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Best offensive player |</B> James Harden, Rockets<br />
<br />
<b>Best defensive player |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Most clutch player |</B> <A HREF="https://www.theringer.com/nba/2020/3/10/21172285/chris-paul-clutch-history-oklahoma-city-thunder">Chris Paul</A>, Thunder<br />
<br />
<b>Coach of the Year |</B> Nick Nurse, Raptors<br />
<br />
<b>Rookie of the Year |</B> Ja Morant, Grizzlies<br />
<br />
<b>Sixth Man of the Year |</B> Montrezl Harrell, Clippers<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9t60LvkwxJE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>ALL-NBA</B><br />
<br />
<b>First team</B><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Anthony Davis, Lakers<br />
<br />
<b>Point center |</B> Nikola Jokic, Nuggets<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> LeBron James, Lakers<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> James Harden, Rockets<br />
<br />
<b>Second team</B><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Kawhi Leonard, Clippers<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Jimmy Butler, Heat<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Luka Doncic, Mavericks<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Chris Paul, Thunder<br />
<br />
<b>Third team</B><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Jayson Tatum, Celtics<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Khris Middleton, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Bam Adebayo, Heat<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Damian Lillard, Trail Blazers<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Kyle Lowry, Raptors<br />
<br />
<b>Honorable mention</B><br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Domantas Sabonis, Pacers<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Pascal Siakam, Raptors<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Ben Simmons, 76ers<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x78KIrkzgew" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<B>ALL-DEFENSE</B><br />
<br />
<b>First team</B><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Anthony Davis, Lakers<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Rudy Gobert, Jazz<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Ben Simmons, 76ers<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Kris Dunn, Bulls<br />
<br />
<b>Second team</B><br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> Kawhi Leonard, Clippers<br />
<br />
<b>Forward |</B> LeBron James, Lakers<br />
<br />
<b>Center |</B> Brook Lopez, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> <A HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IWiADg7IiU">Marcus Smart</A>, Celtics<br />
<br />
<b>Guard |</B> Patrick Beverley, Clippers<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LQgnY-ZA9tg" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>LEADERS</B><br />
<br />
<b>Real Plus-Minus |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, 10.5<br />
<br />
<b>Box Plus-Minus |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, 11.7<br />
<br />
<b>Win shares |</B> James Harden, 11.5<br />
<br />
<b>Player efficiency rating |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, 31.8, currently chasing Wilt Chamberlain’s <A HREF="https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/per_season.html">single-season record</A><br />
<br />
<b>Scoring |</B> James Harden, 34.6<br />
<br />
<b>Rebounding |</B> Andre Drummond, 15.2<br />
<br />
<b>Assists |</B> LeBron James, 10.5<br />
<br />
<b>Field goal percentage |</B> Mitchell Robinson, .742, who beat Wilt Chamberlain’s <A HREF="https://clutchpoints.com/knicks-news-mitchell-robinson-has-all-time-single-season-record-locked-barring-orlando-bubble-miracle/">single-season record</A><br />
<br />
<b>3-point percentage |</B> George Hill, .474<br />
<br />
<b>Free throw shooting |</B> Devin Booker, .916<br />
<br />
<b>Steals |</B> Ben Simmons, 2.1<br />
<br />
<b>Blocks |</B> Hassan Whiteside, 3.0<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u6rFzbVwxtk" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<b>SUPERLATIVES</B><br />
<br />
<b>Best shooter |</B> J.J. Redick, Pelicans<br />
<br />
<b>Best backcourt |</B> James Harden and Russell Westbrook, Rockets<br />
<br />
<b>Best frontcourt |</B> Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez, Bucks<br />
<br />
<b>Iron men |</B> James Harden, Devin Booker<br />
<br />
<b>Tallest player |</B> Tacko Fall, 7-5<br />
<br />
<b>Shortest player |</B> Isaiah Thomas, 5-9<br />
<br />
<b>Best young player |</B> Luka Doncic, 20 years old<br />
<br />
<b>Best old player |</B> LeBron James, 35 years old<br />
<br />
<b>Debut |</B> Zion Williamson<br />
<br />
<b>Farewell |</B> Vince Carter<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f8RhyUzW3t0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-41903839594230142020-06-22T04:07:00.003-04:002023-09-24T15:59:03.368-04:00Zen and the Art of Mark Harmon<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zerrtK7sjjI7EctynvKNF7PMtlqvuUcluuu46lY8fktXiWLDatb26jonjA_hCcqd6O7h3rjRt7_FxOYW-ij5KPU8mframywPJGOF14JcoSCDzmR_XxjceUNf2l9dIrid03PKq0AY3Gwg/s1600/mark+harmon+postmodcast.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-zerrtK7sjjI7EctynvKNF7PMtlqvuUcluuu46lY8fktXiWLDatb26jonjA_hCcqd6O7h3rjRt7_FxOYW-ij5KPU8mframywPJGOF14JcoSCDzmR_XxjceUNf2l9dIrid03PKq0AY3Gwg/s640/mark+harmon+postmodcast.jpg" width="560" height="315" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="315" /></a><br />
<br />
If Mark Harmon did not exist, man would have to invent him — out of necessity or desire for someone so good and true that he seems too good to be true.<br />
<br />
Harmon has played many roles on television and in life. Quarterback at UCLA. Dr. Bobby Caldwell on <i>St. Elsewhere</I>. Special agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs on <i>NCIS</I>. And one that is more obscure: the greatest athlete in the history of <i>Battle of the Network Stars</I>.<br />
<br />
But make no mistake. Every part of this story — from the obstacle course to the Tug of War to the time he saved a young man’s life by pulling him from a burning automobile — is true. That’s the way Thomas Mark Harmon would want it.<br />
<br />
Like some sort of half-athlete, half-actor mythological creature, Harmon was born in Burbank, Calif., the son of Heisman Trophy winner <a HREF="http://www.nytimes.com/1990/03/17/obituaries/tom-harmon-heisman-winner-as-michigan-tailback-dies-at-70.html">Tom Harmon</A> and Vogue model and B-movie actress <a HREF="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_RnJXo2I2YxdPjYrOqiPCrh_TMQGYjlEoFj_hqtmqqXlQdXd6iW6tpXPSk4pl_4u6K1i-Zdw_s0XHbqAcTXIneOs8qR-kzVOO9__gzQ77DMheBjcBkL7uzK3X6RhLJI_C9Lk5aVeMgUD/s1600/paul+hesse+and+elyse+knox++9.jpg">Elyse Knox</A>. Which meant he was perfectly cast in <i>Battle of the Network Stars</I> (1976-1985, 1989), a biannual made-for-television special in which stars from the three broadcast networks competed in various sporting events.<br />
<br />
>> <A HREF="https://www.battleofthenetworkstars.com/2020/06/zen-and-art-of-mark-harmon.html">The rest of the story</A>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-4602404761088272722020-06-08T03:26:00.002-04:002023-09-24T15:50:48.920-04:00Battle Q&A / Judy Norton-Taylor<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-92F4EPc9Gpu7djNWxDLlVlXGn6pMqD8-49EMhn6SHdS8utnOgsPBWwGVAKkvYDjTiKShxylH4418GigCqst_Sl6sXGXrr615NEVk_BW7B3rf3Cf5wnch7NuRIlHUH9eYsZ5ka3kMKR6/s1600/JNT+original+Battle1+04.jpeg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-92F4EPc9Gpu7djNWxDLlVlXGn6pMqD8-49EMhn6SHdS8utnOgsPBWwGVAKkvYDjTiKShxylH4418GigCqst_Sl6sXGXrr615NEVk_BW7B3rf3Cf5wnch7NuRIlHUH9eYsZ5ka3kMKR6/s1600/JNT+original+Battle1+04.jpeg" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="503" /></a><br />
<br />
Judy Norton-Taylor will forever be known as Mary Ellen Walton, the oldest daughter to John and Oliva on <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qpmRcP8S7Bo"><i>The Waltons</I></A> (1972-81), the earnest television series about a Depression-era family in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The family drama was watched by more than 20 million viewers a week.<br />
<br />
To millions less, Norton-Taylor is simply the greatest women’s athlete in the history of <a HREF="https://raleighco.com/writing/battle-tested-best-network-stars/"><i>Battle of the Network Stars</I></A> (1976-85), the biannual made-for-television special in which stars from the three broadcast networks competed in various sporting events. “A female superstar,” Howard Cosell said.<br />
<br />
Norton-Taylor could do it all — and play through pain. Her signature events: the obstacle course and 3-on-3 football. She won the women’s obstacle course in each of her three appearances — beating Kristy McNichol (thanks to a 3-second penalty), Susan Richardson and Randi Oakes — and she holds the all-time record for touchdown catches. <a HREF="http://www.postmodcast.com/1980/12/battle-of-network-stars-ix.html">Battle IX</A> was her masterpiece, arguably the best individual performance in the show’s history, helping CBS win six events, three with a broken finger. “It was a good weekend,” she said. <a HREF="http://www.postmodcast.com/1981/05/battle-of-network-stars-x.html">Battle X</A> was nearly as good: five wins, two with a sprained ankle.<br />
<br />
Today, Norton-Taylor is Judy Norton, but she is still a hyphenate — actress-writer-director-producer <i>and</I> singer. <i>Finding Harmony</I> and <i>Another Day in Paradise</I> — two films she wrote and co-starred in — are scheduled for release later this year. Her <a HREF="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0003354/">IMDb page</A> lists five films in pre- and post-production. Still in the development phase: a stage musical based on the life of Olympic gold medalist <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qP20D5vQsmM">Greg Louganis</A>.
<P>
>> <A HREF="https://www.battleofthenetworkstars.com/2020/06/battle-q-judy-norton-taylor.html">The full Q&A</A> / Judy Norton-Taylor
<P>
Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-57026985259148458852020-05-25T01:54:00.001-04:002020-05-27T13:23:01.205-04:00Jerry Sloan, 1942-2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNn5utm2P_b7Un85uV6R7gAS_sfW0XeOMzjv5ic1BiN27BWMsKeIb1FLKwbkWAVDn-6j3Zxg3a5a0EK7UJY-fZAvfBZC-9nYbx7FemsmotHkonxkENHOD4QcpkLyg2U-6WIc4usdYSlCX/s1600/jerrysloan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNn5utm2P_b7Un85uV6R7gAS_sfW0XeOMzjv5ic1BiN27BWMsKeIb1FLKwbkWAVDn-6j3Zxg3a5a0EK7UJY-fZAvfBZC-9nYbx7FemsmotHkonxkENHOD4QcpkLyg2U-6WIc4usdYSlCX/s1600/jerrysloan.jpg" data-original-width="560" data-original-height="319" /></a></div><br />
Jerry Sloan was all those stories told by grandparents everywhere. He grew up on a farm in Gobbler’s Knob, about 16 miles from McLeansboro, Ill., the youngest of 10 children. His father died when he was 4 years old. His elementary school was one room. Basketball practice was before school — and after school. He hitchhiked home every day.<br />
<br />
Sloan fought his way out of that hardscrabble rural town, leading Division II Evansville to consecutive national titles. He became a six-time All-Defensive team guard with the Chicago Bulls and then the longest-tenured coach in professional sports with the Utah Jazz. Sloan, who won 1,221 games and led the Jazz to two NBA Finals, died on Friday. He was 78 and had suffered from Parkinson’s disease and dementia.<br />
<br />
“He was a mentor for me from afar until I got to know him,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “A man who suffered no fools, he possessed a humor, often disguised, and had a heart as big as the prairie.”<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SRKdFiCJn7k" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
After one season with the Baltimore Bullets, Sloan was selected by the Bulls in the 1966 expansion draft. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard made two All-Star teams and averaged 14.7 points and 7.7 rebounds over 10 seasons. Sloan teamed with Chet Walker, Bob Love and Norm Van Lier to lead the Bulls to four 50-win seasons and two Western Conference Finals. He retired as the team’s all-time leader in games played. His No. 4 was the first number retired by the franchise.<br />
<br />
“Jerry Sloan was <a HREF="https://www.nba.com/bulls/news/chicago-bulls-statement-jerry-sloan-0">‘The Original Bull’</A> whose tenacious defense and nightly hustle on the court represented the franchise and epitomized the city of Chicago,” Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf said. “Jerry was the face of the Bulls organization from its inception through the mid-1970s.”<br />
<br />
Sloan and Van Lier are the best defensive backcourt of all time. They were selected to the All-Defensive first or second team in the same season three times — the most of any backcourt. Gary Payton and Nate McMillan (SuperSonics) did it twice, Sidney Moncrief and Quinn Buckner (Bucks) and Tony Allen and Mike Conley (Grizzlies) once each. But Sloan and Van Lier were the toughest and most ready for a fight. Once, when a fan threw an aerosol can into the Bulls huddle, they both entered the stands to “let the guy know we didn’t want him to throw any more of those.”<br />
<br />
“He’d get in your jockstrap and ride you all the way downcourt,” Hall of Fame center Bob Lanier said. “Some people might have called him dirty. I think he took it to the edge. He would do <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q79hZ3v8RiE">whatever it took to win</A> — by any means necessary. If it took hugging you, tripping you, pulling you.”<br />
<br />
Sloan once said of his style of play: “I was fighting for my life and family.”<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VsCbeDjEPew" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
Sloan coached three seasons with Bulls, then became an assistant with the Jazz, eventually replacing Frank Layden during the 1988-89 season. His record in 23 seasons in Utah: 1,127-682, 21 winning seasons, 19 playoff appearances (including 15 straight), 13 50-win seasons, three 60-win seasons and two NBA Finals appearances, losing to Michael Jordan’s Bulls both times. He ranks fourth all-time with 1,221 victories, behind Don Nelson, Lenny Wilkens and Gregg Popovich.<br />
<br />
Sloan won most of those games with pick-and-roll artists John Stockton and Karl Malone, forming the most durable coach-player-player association in league history. In the trio’s 15 seasons together, the Jazz posted the best record in the league. They were efficient on offense, borderline dirty on defense. Stockton and Malone were selected to a combined 23 All-NBA teams and eight All-Defensive teams. They missed 31 total games.<br />
<br />
“You get paid to play,” Sloan said. “You get paid to work.”<br />
<br />
The perception became that the Jazz ran only pick-and-roll sets. There were also <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZwYaYrAmEg">a few UCLA cuts</A>. In fact, <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOUvkV4J2rY">one exhaustive study</A> found the Jazz ran just 10 different plays during the 1990s, although some were probably just different reads of the same play. 10 plays in a decade. What seems like a high number for the Jazz would be a low one for any other franchise.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oOUvkV4J2rY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
Pat Riley said it was the “best offensive system I’ve ever coached against.” Flip Saunders called it “meat and potatoes basketball.” Traditionalists admired the Jazz. Younger fans found them boring. As boring as a precision timepiece, as reliable as the Utah sunrise and as old-fashioned as those antique tractors Sloan worked on in the offseason.<br />
<br />
After Stockton and Malone, Sloan developed other players: Russian wunderkind Andrei Kirilenko, pick-and-roll progeny Deron Williams and Carlos Boozer, Mehmet Okur, Paul Millsap and Ronnie Brewer. Talent, of course, was not a prerequisite. Sloan might have been the only coach to find the gritty charm in players like Greg Ostertag and Adam Keefe.<br />
<br />
“Coach <a HREF="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29210212/jerry-sloan-death-pat-riley-chris-paul-nba-stars-react">allowed me to flourish</A> and take my game to another level,” said Boozer, who made two All-Star teams under Sloan. “As ferocious as he was on the court and sidelines, off the court he was thoughtful and kind.”<br />
<br />
Sloan remained fighting tough into his 60s. The same guy who squared off against Wilt Chamberlain in the 1970s also wanted a piece of Dennis Rodman, <a HREF="https://www.deseret.com/1999/5/24/19447192/off-the-wallace-blazers-thuggery-miffs-sloan-br-roundhouse-from-rasheed-has-jazz-coach-fuming">Rasheed Wallace</A> and <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlUV1hIrr_A">Jerry Stackhouse</A>. He served a seven-game suspension for <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adSBne0RGXs">shoving</A> referee Courtney Kirkland in 2003. He was called for more than <a HREF="https://jazzbasketball.wordpress.com/2013/06/21/how-many-technical-fouls-was-jerry-sloan-assessed/">400 technical fouls</A>.<br />
<br />
“A man’s man,” Doug Collins said.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IDf69Yg2pWg" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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After he retired as a player, Sloan was named coach at Evansville — in their first season in Division I. But he resigned five days later for personal reasons. Later that season, on Dec. 13, 1977, the plane carrying the team and coach Bobby Watson <a HREF="https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/2017/12/13/16770632/university-of-evansville-aces-plane-crash">crashed shortly after takeoff</A>, killing all 29 passengers.<br />
<br />
“That incident made me realize that there are things more important than basketball,” Sloan said in his <a HREF="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHYaKcekOP4">Hall of Fame speech</A> in 2009, “even though I love this game and will always be grateful for what it has given me.”<br />
<span style="float:right;"><i>— Kevin Brewer</I></span style>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-8926035395408699462020-04-13T01:42:00.000-04:002020-04-14T00:04:37.525-04:00Technician Sports / Grudge Bowl<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NhpvvobULYA" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<a HREF="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1TI4-XfJi53mTnaIJNIeJxaxalCFV6R2I">Listen to this episode of postmodcast.</A><br />
<br />
sports editor, 1993-94 | Kevin Brewer<br />
Grudge Bowl founder | Owen Good<br />
<br />
1. Origin story (0:00)<br />
2. Brian Absher (6:30)<br />
3. The Game of His Life (14:45)<br />
4. It’s our way of life against theirs. (20:00)Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-62818653685321172742020-04-06T01:42:00.000-04:002020-04-07T18:16:22.845-04:00Technician Sports / Clay Best<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QSS1ljVxxsE" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
<br />
<a HREF="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1h2-KJE5drDjqjGlyLNqcWkoIasgQZvMx">Listen to this episode of postmodcast.</A> <br />
<br />
sports editor, 1993-94 | Kevin Brewer<br />
senior sportswriter, 1993-94 | Clay Best<br />
<br />
1. Introduction (0:00)<br />
2. Origin story (1:00)<br />
3. A.P. Copy (4:50)<br />
5. D. Clay Best (14:40) <a HREF="https://twitter.com/search?q=technician100&src=typed_query">#Technician100</A><br />
6. Gymnastics beat (18:50)<br />
7. Hall of Fame Bowl (26:00)<br />
8. <b>espn2</B> (33:50)<br />
9. <i>Miami Vice</I> (41:55)<br />
<br />
<I>This interview was recorded in December 2012.</I>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-18293778729916489162020-03-30T00:01:00.000-04:002020-04-22T23:52:22.580-04:00Technician Sports / Ted Newman<a HREF="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1zRQ4cFJVJeimIRnZ2-tL3RG9SU_N1KPE">Listen to this episode of postmodcast.</A><br />
<br />
sports editor, 1993-94 | Kevin Brewer<br />
sports editor, 1995 | Ted Newman<br />
<br />
1. Introduction<br />
2. Origin story (1:00)<br />
2. Women’s basketball practice (7:15) <a HREF="https://twitter.com/search?q=technician100&src=typed_query">#Technician100</A><br />
3. Ball Four (9:25)<br />
4. Dead Bear (17:20)<br />
5. <b>Wanted: Ted Newman</B> (19:00)<br />
6. It was a little scary. (25:50)<br />
7. Laurinburg (29:00)<br />
8. Ted’s wife’s gaming site | <a HREF="http://dojoretro.com/">DojoRetro</A> (36:00)<br />
9. Jennifer Howard (40:40)<br />
10. Tom O’Brien (47:05)<br />
11. The Lake Show (1:02:00)<br />
<br />
<i>This interview was recorded in November 2012.</I>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-46309799828196980652020-03-23T00:00:00.000-04:002020-03-23T00:00:06.259-04:00Technician Sports / Jeff Drew<a HREF="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1_z2Ir6-BPoL8lqO1i1EV_sA0OiDeGV4O">Listen to this episode of postmodcast.</A><br />
<br />
sports editor, 1993-94 | Kevin Brewer<br />
editor at large, 1992-93 | Jeff Drew<br />
<br />
1. Introduction (0:00)<br />
2. Throwing chairs (0:50)<br />
3. Steve Crisp and the Black KKK (6:00)<br />
4. America’s Nightmare (16:10)<br />
5. Origin story (19:20)<br />
6. General Excellence (1:04:00)<br />
7. Technician was my life. (1:10:50) <a HREF="https://twitter.com/search?q=technician100&src=typed_query">#Technician100</A><br />
8. Colette Cunningham (1:22:00)<br />
9. Jeff quits. (1:31:50)<br />
10. Anthony Robinson (1:35:00)<br />
<br />
<i>This interview was recorded in November 2012.</I>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6925931986290058537.post-53572462347061823562020-03-02T22:11:00.000-05:002020-03-02T22:50:15.597-05:00Technician Sports / Owen Good, Part 3<a HREF="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1CCX08m4vlKmc4DtCLUoUx3gYFaNdxRy6">Listen to this episode of postmodcast.</A><br />
<br />
sports editor, 1993-94 | Kevin Brewer<br />
sports editor, 1994-95 | Owen Good<br />
<br />
1. Introduction (0:00)<br />
2. 18 hours (2:45)<br />
3. One of the finest games I’ve ever seen (5:38)<br />
4. Requiem for a Sports Editor (23:05) <a HREF="https://twitter.com/search?q=technician100&src=typed_query">#Technician100</A><br />
5. The 25th graf, Fab Five and Doogie Howser, M.D. (38:05)<br />
6. State, plus the minuses | <a HREF="http://postmodcast.blogspot.com/1995/06/this-is-state-plus-minuses.html">column</A> (43:03)<br />
7. Memo: Fuck you. (45:41)<br />
8. COM 112 (51:35)<br />
9. Conclusion (57:06)<br />
<br />
<i>This interview was recorded in October 2012.</I>Kevin Brewerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15683012690148976861noreply@blogger.com0