Howard stated that there was "no way" he would give up everything he has in Orlando to go to the Lakers and be the third option, a source close to the situation said. Howard certainly wouldn’t mind being a third piece on a star-studded team, similar to the situations in Miami and Boston. However, he was turned off by Bryant's presentation as it suggested something totally different.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Dwight Howard isn’t interested in being the Third Wheel for the Los Angeles Lakers behind Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol.

After all, Howard is the current franchise face and superstar for the Orlando Magic. Being the third amigo, the ‘Tyson Chandler’ of the purple-and-gold, wasn’t a selling point for the NBA‘s best center.

Howard was expecting co-star status when meeting Bryant this summer to discuss joining the Lakers. Instead Bryant told Howard he’d have to wait until he retired, which wasn’t especially appealing.

So Howard has turned his attention elsewhere. His initial wish list -which started with the Nets, Mavericks as well as the Lakers - has expanded to include the Bulls and Celtics.

And if Howard ends up elsewhere, Laker-nation may blame Bryant.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 
 

He also dismissed the circulated rumors of him privately urging management to pursue trading Carlos Boozer for Los Angeles Lakers power forward Pau Gasol. “I heard it after the game [on Monday] and that’s something that I wouldn’t say to anyone,” said Rose. “It was all false and that’s something I’ll never do. I’m good with the teammates that I have. I’ve always been saying that. We’ve been winning games and we’re not in the position to look to trade anyone right now. “I talked to [Boozer] a little bit, but I think he already knew that [the rumor] was false,” continued Rose. “It’s something that I wouldn’t do to anyone. It was all false.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Perception is reality.

And the perception outside the Chicago Bulls’ locker room is that 2011 MVP and franchise face Derrick Rose quietly, or not so quietly, asked management to acquire Los Angeles Lakers power forward Pau Gasol.

Gasol, if acquired, would help. He’d provide scoring and passing down-low -something Carlos Boozer has failed to do since signing with the Bulls.

Here’s the problem: the Bulls would have to give-up Boozer to get Gasol.

Rose and Boozer know this. And these two know they must work together.

So, Rose has to cover himself by publicly denying the rumour to reporters and saying he’s good with his current teammates like Boozer.

Privately, something different could have been said between Rose and Bulls management.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Y! Source: Derrick Rose, Adidas agree on 13 year deal that could pay the NBA's MVP over $200 million.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s not bad work -if you can get it.

Earlier this year, Derrick Rose, the franchise face of the Chicago Bulls and 2011 MVP, signed a multi-year extension for $95 million,

Now reports are surfacing that Adidas will pay Rose $185 million to be their lead spokesperson over the next 13 years. Yes, one company will pay the exciting table-setter $14 million per annum.

Again, not bad work if you can get it.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

The Chicago Bulls are exploring avenues to acquire Los Angeles Lakers forward Pau Gasol before Thursday's trade deadline, according to sources close to the situation.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Years ago, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies and then went on to win consecutive championships.

Perhaps the Spanish post will be the missing piece for the impressive Chicago Bulls. The Bulls reportedly want the skilled Gasol to complement 2011 MVP Derrick Rose.

And they’d be willing to sacrifice Carlos Boozer to get the perennial All-Star. But what’s in this trade for the Lakers?

Well, the Lakers aren’t interested in a straight Gasol for Boozer swap, so the Bulls are calling the league trying to find a third team to involve.

Of course, the clock is ticking. Thursday at noon eastern is the trade deadline.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Fisher is said to be strongly interested in joining the Chicago Bulls or Miami Heat, according to one source close to the situation. The San Antonio Spurs, sources told Stein, have not yet ruled out pursuing Fisher because their planned signing of former Portland Trail Blazers guard Patty Mills has been held up by the fact that Portland has not yet renounced rights to Mills.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Can a 38-year old guard averaging less than six points per game be the difference between winning and losing an NBA championship?

Well, the Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, and Oklahoma City Thunder think so. All are chasing Derek Fisher, an unrestricted free agent after receiving a buy-out courtesy of the Houston Rockets.

Fisher, of course, won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers before getting dealt to Houston at the trade deadline.

Chicago, Miami, and Oklahoma City want Fisher to play limited minutes and serve as a mentor in the locker room.

Miami, perhaps, has a slight edge over Chicago and Oklahoma City. Remember, the Heat nearly signed the veteran two summers ago before he re-upped with the then defending world champion Lakers.

Fisher won’t forget that James, the game’s greatest star, met him at Miami's airport and tried to convince him to migrate east to South Beach.

And perhaps James’ lobbying will pay dividends this time around.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Which suggests that the Bulls, if they're that high on Pau, are bound to try to trade for him again. Nor have they abandoned hope of courting Dwight Howard via trade, sources said, despite Howard's longstanding coolness toward the idea of relocating to Chicago and the extra season he just committed to Orlando by opting in for the 2012-13 season.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick: The Chicago Bulls make the most sense -if Dwight Howard wants a championship.

The Bulls have Derrick Rose, the 2011 regular season MVP and a premier NBA player. And Rose, who is in his early 20s, will get even better.

Bottom line: the athletic point guard is exactly the kind of co-superstar Howard has been searching for.  Yet, he kyboshed any chance of joining the Bulls when he declared he wasn’t interested in a 'Windy City' partnership.

The reason: nobody knows -including Howard, himself.

Initially, there was speculation Adidas, who sponsor Howard and Rose, discouraged a Bulls-Magic trade because they didn’t want their two biggest names in one market. There was also speculation the Bulls couldn’t put together a package that suited the Magic.

However, the most likely scenario is that Howard’s flip-flopping alienated the Bulls and Magic -making a blockbuster deal between these eastern powers impossible.

For a Bulls-Magic trade to occur, Howard has to get past his indecision and decide what he wants.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

The Chicago Tribune, quoting team sources, subsequently reported Friday night on its website that “Thibodeau has raised the topic — his lack of an extension — with Bulls players.” Thibodeau, however, tried to downplay any notion of his discontent after the Bulls’ 83-71 home win over the Pistons. “I don’t know where that’s coming from,” Thibodeau said. “I’m not worried about any of that stuff. I’m under contract. I’m fine with everything here.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: I call it the ‘thou protest too much’ rule, which, of course, was coined by Shakespeare in one of his many fine plays.

The latest example of this has to be Tom Thibodeau’s situation with the Chicago Bulls. The 2011 Coach of the Year insists he’s just fine continuing on the sideline without an extension beyond this year.

Really?

Thibodeau, of course, has to say such things. The team would fall apart if he complained or whined about not having an extension -even if he’s deserving of one.

After all, Thibodeau’s defensive sets have played a major part in the Bulls becoming an Eastern Conference contender. His work rate is second to none -as the former Celtics assistant lives in the Bulls' training facility and watches game film late into the night.

Bottom line: Thibodeau can’t be happy as a lame-duck coach -no matter what he says.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“Coaches and players have been doing this for years, you just happened to see this play out in the public,” Smith said. “To the organization’s credit, Stan Van Gundy is still our coach and Dwight Howard is still our player and we’re still trying to win basketball games.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: What else can Otis Smith say?

In order to salvage the Orlando Magic’s season, Smith must downplay the rift between coach Stan Van Gundy and superstar Dwight Howard.

It may be too little, too late.

Clearly, Howard has owner Rich Devos’ ear. And if the club wants to sign Howard to an extension then Smith and Van Gundy may get pink-slipped.

For most, such a dynamic would be difficult, but Van Gundy is used to getting knifed in the back. Remember, Pat Riley crossed him with the Miami Heat, coming out of the executive suite to ‘take over’ for Van Gundy.

So expect the Magic to keep chugging along. But beating LeBron James’ Heat and Derrick Rose’s Bulls will be tough, if not impossible, with such a cloud hanging over the organization.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“I don’t have a scenario in my head where I wouldn’t,” Van Gundy told the Orlando Sentinel after he was asked whether he wants to return. “They’re going to have to make decisions. But I’m a basketball coach and I know this: I don’t want to go anywhere else. I mean, I love Orlando, and this is where I want to be. And I want to coach.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The superstar is in denial mode. The GM is downplaying everything. And the coach just wants to return next season.

Yes, the Orlando Magic are a mess.

Instead of worrying about the upcoming playoffs, Dwight Howard, Otis Smith, and Stan Van Gundy are pre-occupied with what will happen next.

For Howard, that means changing the Magic for the 2012-13 season. For Smith and Van Gundy, that means keeping their jobs and continuing to blame Howard.

So much is unknown in Central Florida. However, two things are crystal clear.

First, the Magic have no chance at beating the Chicago Bulls and/or Miami Heat in a best of seven series with Howard’s situation hanging over them like an ominous rain cloud.

Second, Howard opting-in for 2013 was supposed to bring closure to the Magic. Clearly, it hasn’t. The reports and rumours continue to flood the internet, while anonymous sources continue to speak out.

Perhaps all involved would have been better off if Howard was traded last March at the deadline.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“I’m definitely sick of taking hard hits,” Griffin said after the Clippers’ shootaround Monday. “…There’s a point, I can’t remember what game it was, in my mind where I thought this is kind of ridiculous. I’m sick of it, but it’s going to keep on happening.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Yesterday it was Derrick Rose. Today it`s Blake Griffin.

Two of the NBA’s greatest stars have recently gone public with their frustration over the hard fouls they’ve sustained from opponents. Rose took a nasty knock from Charlie Villanueva, while Griffin was head-hunted by Jason Smith.

Both should get used to the rough stuff. After all, superstars who embarrass opponents are targets. That’s the way it has been. And that’s the way it always will be.

Fortunately, there’s a simple answer.

Their teammates must dish out what they’ve been receiving. If Rose or Griffin take a shot then the Bulls and Clippers must give it back at the earliest opportunity possible.

The cheap shots only stop when opponents understand there’s a price to pay for taking liberties on Rose and Griffin. 

The earlier this message is sent, the better.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Miami sends a message to Chicago with physical play.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Miami getting tough for the playoffs

James Jones gets ejected with a flagrant-2, Dwade gets a flagrant-1, and LeBron James levels John Lucas with a bone crushing pick as Miami lets Chicago know this is a tougher Miami Heat team than last year.

Not much was really on the line in terms of the standings last night as the Heat and Bulls met for their last regular season game, but plenty was on the line as far as builing momentum for the playoffs. Clearly, Miami had an agenda to play more physical and that's exactly what they did. In the process they also dominated the paint, grabbed more boards, and won the game 83-72 as James went off for 27 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists.

“On that play, I just dunked on Durant and Ibaka, and I got really emotional, really excited. And it was unfortunate that James had to get hit with the unintentional elbow. I hope he’s OK. The Thunder, they’re playing for a championship this year. So I really hope he’s OK, and I apologize to the Thunder and to James Harden. Such a great game, and it was unfortunate so much emotion was going on at that time.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Metta World Peace’s elbow to the dome of James Harden has caught the attention of the suits at NBA head office and will surely result in a forced vacation and/or fine.

But the rapper, philosopher, and part time comedian’s poor judgement should alarm the Staples Center faithful. After all, the old Ron Artest -- the troubled and emotional forward for the Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings, and Houston Rockets -- got flagrant foul twos.

The Lakers supposedly got a mellow, friendlier Artest, albeit a less productive one on-court. For the most part, Metta World Peace has been like Barney when compared to the dude who rushed the stands and started the Malice N’ the Palace at Detroit.

That’s why his elbow was so surprising. It was unprovoked. It was intentional -regardless of what he says. And it could have been the difference between the Lakers winning and losing against the Thunder in what will surely be a playoff preview.

Recent reports indicate that Harden has a concussion. And Metta World Peace, to his credit, apologized.

Bottom line: the purple-and-gold aren’t as deep as the squads that captured back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. They can’t win with Metta World Peace on the sideline for any amount of time, so these sorts of slip-ups can’t happen.

Hopefully, it was a one-off. And Metta World Peace doesn’t turn back the clock again and become the old Ron Artest.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

Blake is 6-10 and what, 240 or something? He’s a big boy. He should know how to defend himself out there,’ Evans said.

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The NBA has an unwritten rule called ‘Know Your Place’.

This rule is simple: a scrub like Reggie Evans can’t publicly call out a superstar like Blake Griffin.

Did Mike Smrek ever bust Magic Johnson’s chops to the L.A. Times? Did Stacey King ever tell the world that Michael Jordan should stand up to Rick Mahorn, Bill Laimbeer, and the Detroit Pistons? Mark Madsen replied ‘yes sir’ to every request from Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. 

Evans should consider precedence before going on the record with his criticism of Blake-Zilla. Of course, the journeyman is right. Griffin should defend himself. Just like Evans and every other Clipper should defend him, too.

Such a conversation should happen behind closed doors in the the locker room. Instead, it’s gone viral, which is the worst scenario for all involved.

Media and fans will be watching every time an opponent raises a hand to Griffin. And the only thing these young Clipper needs to be worrying about is the playoffs.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

“I have to be who I am,” James said. “Last year was the biggest teacher. The greatest teacher in life is experience. And I had that last year. I’m back to being the person who can take over games. I have no problem taking over a game now.”

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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The 2011 LeBron James worried what others thought. The 2012 LeBron James only worries about winning, so leading his Miami Heat comes naturally.

James rightfully took a hit following ‘The Decision’ and The Pre-emptive Championship Declaration. The media hounded him, while the public wanted to see him and the Heat fail.

Their every move was captured and critiqued, much of the attention wasn’t positive. So James’ star power and reputation took a hit, resulting in a confrontational press conference following the Heat’s loss to the Mavericks in the NBA Finals.

The process changed James as a different person. A little time away, a little reflection, a nasty lockout, and The King has returned in 2012.

Yes, there are the same questions about James’ supporting cast. And yes, the Heat are again the second seed in the Eastern Conference behind the Chicago Bulls.

There is, however, no doubt the Heat are James’ team. He’s back to leading. He’s back to taking over games. He’s back to being vocal on-court. And this all started when he let go of the past.

Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
 

Overpaid, underproductive and unmotivated. At points in the 2011-12 season, all three of these words have been used to describe both Pau Gasol and Carlos Boozer.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Who agreed to pay them this much?

The Chicago Bulls are making moves to try and acquire either Steve Nash or Jason Kidd this summer.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Not a bad move since Rose won't be around.

Sources are now reporting that the Chicago Bulls are making inquiries to the Suns and Mavs looking to acquire either Steve Nash or Jason Kidd. This indicates that Rose will almost definitely miss all of next year, but it also indicates the Bulls are confident that if they acquire a solid point guard they can still make a run at a championship in 2013. 

According to reports out of Chicago, the Bulls are dangling Luol Deng in front of teams prior to the draft to gauge his trade value.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: It's hard to imagine the Bulls without Deng, but when you consider he is slated to make $13.3 million dollars next season, it's definitely a possibility.

Remember when, not all that long ago, Brandon Roy's career was considered "over"?

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Apparently, there is still some life left in those kness after all.

Scottie Pippen celebrates his 15 year wedding anniversary. 

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Best NBA Husband EVER!! 

Kobe claims he didn't know who Michael Jordan was until he was 13-years old.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: How do you say b*ll Sh*t in Italian?

HoopsVibe's got the sneak peak at the "Return of D Rose" Documentary.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Derrick Rose will return better than ever.

April 28th, 2012 is a day Derrick Rose and Bulls fans will never forget. With only 1 minute left in Game 1 of the first round of the playoffs against the 76ers and the Bulls leading by 12 points, Rose tore his ACL on a insignificant jumpshot. 

“I remember it. I remember everything,” said Rose. “I remember jumping in the air and coming back down and just that popping sound. I felt it tear when I laid all the way out and it just let go.”

The second his ACL tore, the entire NBA playoffs changed. The Bulls were essentially out of the hunt for a ring and Rose's season was over. 

Now, adidas Basketball is tracking Derrick Rose's return to the NBA with a multi-episode documentary. The documentary will reportedly give fans a behind-the-scenes look at his recovery. Something like this has never been done before, so it will be interesting to see how much access the documentary shows. We've got the trailer below. It looks to be one party documentary, one party humility, and one party inspiration. Definitely keep your eye out for the full series of episodes. 

For more info, updates, and future episodes follow @HoopsVibe.

The first black female Nascar driver sits down with HoopsVibe to discuss racing, hoops, and Danica.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: 

Tia Norfleet is used to racing with the boys and overcoming obstacles. Tia's the first African American female Nascar driver and proud to carry on her family racing tradition. Her father Bobby Norfleet raced for Nascar before Tia came along to carry on the family tradition. 

HV: What got you into racing? We know your father is Bobby Norfleet, so was it just being around the track all the time?

Tia: Yeah, I was just around the track a lot as a kid. My dad raced and pretty soon I wanted to do it too. 

HV: How'd that go?

Tia: Well, he was pretty protective of me at first. Eventually, he became really supportive of the idea when he saw I was serious about it and put his career on the back burner. Today, he's my biggest supporter.

HV: You're the first African American female Nascar drive. Tell us about that.

Tia: Well, I'm abviously black and I'm obviously a female, but really I'm just a driver. I've gotten a lot of support along the way. That's what makes it possible.

HV: There is another women racer that's been making a lot of noise. What are your thoughts on Danica breaking a lot of similar barriers in Nascar?

Tia: Hats off to Danica. She's making women look good in the sport. 

HV: Who would win in a race between you and Danica?

Tia: I have to say me of course.

HV: Of course. Now, HoopsVibe is a basketball site, so who' your team?

Tia: After last yera, I'm liking Oklahoma and Miami.

HV: Wait a second, that was the finals. Have you always liked them or did you just hop on?

Tia: I grew up following the Bulls and Mordan and all those guys, but this playoffs Miami just won me over.

HV: Who's your favorite player?

Tia: Kobe, Rondo, Wade, Garnett. I like a lot of players.

HV: Would you ever date an NBA player.

Tia: Actually, I have a significant other right now.

HV: Do you have any upcoming races or events people can check you out at?

Tia: They can always keep up with me at www.TiaNorfleet34.com.

For more info, updates, and gossip follow @HoopsVibe.

Photo Credits: Tia Norfleet

The Return of DRose Episode 1 "Belief"

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: The road back from an ACL tear isn't easy, but D Rose shows us what it takes to be the best.

Derrick Rose puts his celebrity status to good use. 

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Rose prays for the US as he sides with the kids.

Adidas launches the new D Rose 3s on Derrick's 24th Birthday

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: These kicks look good, feel good, and are possibly the dopest kicks to drop all summer. How do I know? I'm wearing mine right now and loving 'em.

October 4th was a big day for Derrick Rose. He turned 24, celebrated the launch of his latest custom kicks (the D Rose 3s), and he continued to share the journey of his rehab through his documentary "The Return of D Rose" episode 4. First things first, check out the official commercial for the D Rose 3 launch below.

Derrick's new shoe hits stores worldwide Oct 4 and are expected to sell faster than an Urban Outfitters t-shirt of Obama dunking over Romney. Derrick's absence from the court hasn't diminished his popularity or the cool factor of his latest kicks. These aren't just another pair of cool basketball shoes. These things are sweet. Derrick even broke down a little bit during the launch stating, "The D Rose 3 signature collection is special to me because I worked side-by-side with adidas on everything from materials to fit to colors to make it the best we've done yet. I love the new logo that calls out the most important things to me: my family, basketball and the city of Chicago."

The D Rose 3s come in an option of colorways, but my personal favorite is the black ones Derrick's holding in the pic above (also in the title pic at the top).  The speckled sole, rear placement of the adidas logo, and glistening leather give it both a fresh and modern blacktop vibe. Be prepared to catch streetballers and celebs wearing these bad boys asap. The complete set of D Rose 3 gear can be seen below. Everything from socks, caps, shorts, shirts, kicks, and sweatshirts are decked out in Rose's custom logo. This is one box of goodies Santa should definitely get you the hookup on. If you can wait that long.

The whole concept behind the D Rose 3s is "The Return." This is a campaign that's been going on for adidas and Rose since August 15th. This documentary series follows Derrick through his rehabilitation and charts his return to dominance in the NBA. The 4th episode is below. Check it out.

As a basketball fan first, I for one am pulling for D Rose and part of "The Return." Rose is one of the humblest and kindest players both on and off the court. In a league of posers, posturing, and over-hyped egos, he is the exception to the rule. He is a true class act that works hard for his success and appreciates everything that comes his way. We look forward to seeing Rose on the blacktop soon and until he is, we'll enjoy his fashion forward kicks.

For more info, updates, and gossip follow @HoopsVibe.

Photo Credit: adizero

Did you know Michael Jordan once had his own BBQ sauce?

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: I had no idea.

Episode 5 entitled "Drive" of the D Rose documentary talks about roots.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Rose talks about family first and earning everything he's ever gotten. 

Top 10 biggest surprises of the 2013 NBA Season.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Lakers Suck, Chicago's Legit, Who's Gortat, and Harden's unstoppable.

#10 Marcin Gortat blocks a ton of shots. 

I don't think you would have found too many NBA analysts picking Marcin Gortat as the shot block leader, but after one week of games he sits atop the standings with 3.5 blocks per game. He beat out big name guys like Roy Hibbert 3.25 blocks per game and Josh Smith 3.0 blocks per game, but can Gortat keep this up or is he simply on a lucky streak?

#9 Brandon Jennings lights up the league.

After one week of NBA ball, Brandon Jennings leads the league in both assists with 13 per game and steals with 4 per game. This may be the year Jennings fully comes into his own and shows the NBA he is not simply a solid player, but a star in the league. 

#8 Houston Rockets can compete.

Starting off the season 2-1 is encouraging for the Rockets. This is especially true because their new guard combo of James Harden and Jeremy Lyn appears to be clicking on all cylinders. Harden at marched out to an amazing first week and Lyn as put up rock solid numbers too. Lyn's put up 15.8 points per game, 7.3 assists per game, and 5.7 assists per game. More on Harden's numbers below.

#7 Clippers beat Lakers.

With the Lakers grabbing Dwight Howard and Steve Nash this off-season, it appeared Los Angeles was safely in the grips of the Lakers. Yet, when these two teams met for their first inter-city competition this year it was the Clippers that looked faster, strong, and more dominant. They handed the Lakers their 3rd straight loss of the season.

#6 Knicks destroy Miami.

The Knicks put a whooping on the defending NBA champions 104-84 the first week of the season. They also marched out to a 3-0 start in the first week. It looks like New York might have just figured out how to make all these pieces fit together and the answer much just be the great facilitator Jason Kidd.

#5 Milwaukee Bucks got game.

The Bucks are out to a 2-0 start and are showing they are no pushover this year. Lead by feisty point guard Brandon Jennings who leads the NBA in both assists and steals, the Bucks have quickly become a team to watch out for. They might just be the sleeper team of 2013.

#4 Spurs aren't that old.

Everyone always seems to count the Spurs out even though they had the best record in the NBA both of the last two years. They started of this season hot again going 4-0. So much for too old, too slow, and not enough talent. With the Lakers struggling and the Thunder figuring out how to win without Harden, this could the the Spurs year to take the West.

#3 Chicago Bulls are legit without Rose.

Everyone figured this season was a bust with Derek Rose out, but Joakim Noah and Luol Deng are picking up the slack and have Chicago 3-1. This team still maintains a great defense and ability to shutdown opposing teams. If they can keep their offensive production solid, they just might make a run at the East.

#2 James Harden is an animal.

James Harden has singe-handedly taken the NBA by storm this year. Who knew putting Harden in the starting lineup would result in a 35.3 point per game average over the first week of the season. Harden has shown why at 6 foot 5 inches tall and a quick 220 lbs. he is so difficult to guard. Everyone knew he was good, but so far this year his numbers are amazing.

#1 Lakers Suck.

The Lakers were supposed to tear the Western Conference apart this year. They signed the best center in the league and a perennial NBA All Star at point guard to go with already impressive lineup of one of the best shooting guards in the history of the NBA and two other regular NBA All Stars in Gasol and World Peace. This was going to be a Dream Team of sorts. People were predicting a 72-win season and yet they started 0-3! They eventually won a game and now stand embarrassingly tied for last place in the Pacific Western Conference. 

17 years ago today, the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls suffered their second loss in the season's first 12 games, before eventually winning an NBA record 72 games.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: They would go on to win 13 in a row and an amazing 31 of 32.

On November 26th 1995, the Bulls lost 97-92 to their eventual opponent in that year's NBA Finals, the Seattle Supersonics, in Seattle's Key Arena. The loss ran the Bulls mark to 10-2 after 12 games and put them on pace to lose a total of 14 games. It was a great start, one of the best to that point in NBA history, but surpassing the 1971-72 Lakers all-time best 69-13 record seemed improbable.

The Bulls finished the month of November with a 12-2 record but improved in each of the next two months, going 13-1 in December and 14-0 in January, running their record to 39-3 after three months. In February, the Bulls ran their record to 41-3 and became the fastest NBA team to 41 wins, again besting the '71-72 Lakers previous record.

In February, March and April the Bulls stayed just as hot going 11-3, 12-2 and 10-2 respectively, before ending the season with a combined 72-10 record.

Against Seattle on this day, the Bulls were without Dennis Rodman, while Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen combined to go just 13 of 35 from the floor and scored 40 points. By comparison, Gary "The Glove" Payton and Shawn "Reign Man" Kemp went 20 of 29 from the field for a total of 51 points as Seattle out-shot the Bulls .602% to .453%. Even with the loss, the Bulls would set an NBA record that season for road wins going 33-8.

After the incredible regular season, the Bulls didn't cool off, going 15-3 in the playoffs for a combined total record of 87-13. The Supersonics won three of those 13 games, while the Indiana Pacers were the only other team to beat them more than once that season winning two games in the regular season by a total of five points.

Prior to the start of the current NBA season, Metta World Peace proclaimed that this season the Lakers would beat the Bulls single season win record by going 73-9. Currently the Lakers are sporting a 7-7 record. To put that into perspective, the Bulls didn't lose their seventh game until March 10th; isn't that insane?

The 1995-96 NBA season was a great one for the Bulls, but also for the Supersonics; they just picked the wrong year to be good.

On Friday, Joakim Noah anchored a win over the Detroit Pistons with a 30 point, 23 rebound performance.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: No Matter what he does on the floor, he will still be as hated as any player in the league.

It's over Scott; pack your shit and move on with your life.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Who will Milwaukee blame next when they continue to suck after this?

On 1/13/99, Michael Jordan retired from the NBA for a second time.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: He just kept "playing with our emotions", like Smokey from the movie Friday.

MJ's first retirement took place on on 10/6/93 and was a complete shock. No one could believe that Jordan, at the top of his game (leading the NBA the previous season in both scoring and steals), was serious. But after the murder of his father, he decided to make the move to professional baseball. Jordan famously came back a year later and won the NBA title in three straight seasons for the second time.

Jordan's retirement in 1999 was again surprising considering the level his game was at (leading the league in scoring with 28.7 ppg), but not surprising considering the state the Bulls were in at the time. Jerry Krause was hell bent on tearing apart the team and rebuilding. Phil Jackson's contract was up and everyone knew he wouldn't be renewed, as was the same for Dennis Rodman, while Scottie Pippen forced his way out via trade demand.

But perhaps as impactful as any other factor, the NBA was mired in a lockout, which would limit the upcoming season to just 50 games. So MJ would've had to come back and play without Pippen, Rodman, or Phil Jackson, while also missing several other key components of the championship squad who were either dealt or released. In a lot of ways, Jordan's back was against the wall; it was time for him to do something else.

Eventually, Jordan would return to the NBA almost three years later for his final act and what is potentially his most impressive feat; During the 2002-03 season, Michael Jordan turned  40 years old.

It wasn’t like MJ was only playing 20 minutes a game, hanging on even though his physical skills had disappeared. That season he played 37 mpg, second on the team only to Jerry Stackhouse. He was also second in points to Stackhouse (20.0 ppg), second in rebounding (6.1rpg), fourth in assists (3.8 apg) and first in steals (1.5 spg). He was even fourth on the team in blocks, of all things with 0.5 bpg. He was also the only Wizards player to appear in all 82 games, starting 67 of them.

That season he averaged 18.6 shots per game which was the second lowest of his career and a full four shots less per game than his career average of 22.9. Jordan scored 20 or more points 42 times, 30 or more points nine times, and 40 or more points three times. Though it wasn’t rare for us to see MJ score 40+ throughout his career, the three games of 40+ represent the only times in NBA history a player over 40 years old has ever  scored that many points.

Regardless of how you feel about his time as a Wizard, Jordan's second retirement marked the end of an era for the league because it was a symbolic ending to those great Bulls teams of the 90's.

Adidas drops the new D Rose 3.5 signature shoe.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Damn, Rose is a force like 2Pac. He drops more product when he's coming back from injury than 99% of most players do in their prime. DRose's presence is always felt.

"The Return" may be closer than we thought.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Who would've thought the Bulls would've done so well without him?

Once the #2 overall pick in the NBA draft finally comes clean about his suicide attempt and Bulls smoking weed before games.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Just goes to show that no one is immune to hard times, but it is great to see this baller back on his feet and doing great.

Most people had never heard of Reggie Rose prior to Thursday.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: And now that it's Thursday night, hopefully, he can drift back into obscurity- starting tomorrow.

Chicago Bulls fans celebrate as they think LeBron is injured (video).

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Celebrating a player's injury is tacky. Come on Chicago Bulls fans you are some of the best fans in the world. You've got more class than this.

Dennis Rodman has been an ambassador of tattoos, of making high-level defense "cool" and of free thinking.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: A couple weeks after some successful nuke testing, the Worm is hanging out with Kim Jong Un, one one one (or maybe "un on un").

Gotta love that it's Friday!

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  What a better way to kick off the weekend than with three top NBA stories in Hoopsvibe's Workweek Wrap-Up?!

The D Rose ACL saga continues.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: At least this time we are hearing it straight from his mouth and not his brother's.

17 years ago today, MJ became just the tenth player in NBA history to eclipse the 24,000 point plateau.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Another day at the office, another milestone for Michael Jordan at that point in his career.

Who'd have thought at the time, that 17 years later to the day, he'd have a bogus paternity suit against him dropped?

Against the Philadelphia 76ers at the United Center, Jordan poured in 38 points on 15 of 32 shooting as the Bulls won 98-94. The victory pushed the Chicago's record to 58-7. The Jordan led Bulls would ultimately set an NBA precedent for greatness that year, setting the all-time single season mark for victories in a season with 72.

Prior to Jordan, only nine players in the history of the league had scored at least 24,000 points- Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, John Havlicek, Moses Malone, Jerry West, Elvin Hayes, Oscar Robertson, George Gervin and Alex English.

Before it was all said and done, Jordan scored 32,292 points and retired having scored the third most points in NBA history. In 15 professional seasons, he led the NBA in scoring 10 times, including seven years in a row and 10 times in 11 seasons (!). 

Kobe Bean Bryant is just 995 points away from tying MJ and wresting third place from his trophy case- as if Jordan even cares.

Since MJ got his 24,000th point in 1996, the accomplishment has become more commonplace. Currently, a total of 19 players (nine post-Jordan) have scored 24,000+ points, including Allen Iverson, Kobe, Karl Malone, Dirk Nowitzki, Reggie Miller, Patrick Ewing and Kevin Garnett.

Boston's Paul Pierce is just 223 points short, and former Celtic/current Heat guard Ray Allen is right behind him, just 145 points less than Pierce.

While all the other players on this list are great scorers, no one was more electrifying than Michael Jordan.

In the most recent data gathered, Lebron James topped the list of the NBA's most popular jerseys.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Here is the list of the top 5 most popular NBA jerseys.

Bo knows rehab.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: If anyone is qualified to have an opinion on the return of D Rose, It's Bo Jackson.

Top 5 reasons Derrick Rose shouldn't return this season.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Everyone want to see DRose back on the court, but at this point in the season he should probably just sit it out.

#5 Disrupt Chicago's Flow: Chicago is currently 5th in the Eastern Conference with a clinched playoff birth. I'm sure they'd be in the top 2 or 3 if Rose was playing, but Chicago is still a dangerous team and has proven they can beat top teams (ending Miami's 27 game win streak) even without Rose. His return at this point wouldn't help them finish the year strong, it would only disrupt whatever continuity and offensive flow they've taken the year to establish.

#4 Not Game Ready: Rose has been out almost a year. I know he's been practicing and feels great, but the reality is you are only truly in shape to play ball, by playing ball. Rose isn't in the shape he needs to be in to compete at playoff level NBA ball. It would take most player at least a couple weeks of games to get their legs back and with the playoff almost upon us, not isn't the time.

#3 Unrealistic Expectations: People are expecting DRose to swoop in and be the same player he was before his injury. He may never be that player again. If he does regain his former form, it may take time. Throwing him into the NBA playoffs and expecting him to save Chicago's season is unfair. He needs more time to come back gradually. Just let this season go and let him come back full strength next year.

#2 Not Mentally Ready: Rose has told the press he still doesn't "feel" ready. If a player doesn't feel confident with his body he should be on the court. Give, Rose may only ever get ready by getting back in the game, but his mental preparedness is key to his return. If his mind doesn't believe he's ready to be back, his effectiveness and susceptibility to injury should be concerns. 

#1 Risk Injury: Chicago and Rose need to think of the big picture. His return for the last few games of the regular season and a playoff run that will likely be stopped in either the first or second round isn't worth the risk. Let Rose continue to rehab over the spring and summer, coming back completely confident in his ACL next season. Why risk it?

Now Derrick Rose isn't coming back this season, and in another development, Kris Humphries is being sued by a suit shop??

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  The media has been teasing us with the Rose return for months, and Humphries can't seem to stay out of the media all together.

The NBA's "real season" begins soon, as playoff time is finally almost upon us.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Upsets used to be the exception, now they are the rule.

The following five match-ups all feature an eighth seed upsetting a number one seed, a feat that has only happened five times in NBA history. Of the five times, three of those upsets ocurred in the last six years.

Golden State Warriors Upset Dallas Mavericks - 2007

At the time, the Dallas Mavericks were considered one of the biggest favorite one seeds ever, coming off of a 67-15 regular season record which was the only since legitimate claim to challenge the Bulls 72-10 all-time best NBA season. The Mavericks were also coming off of losing in the Finals to the Heat the previous season, a series many people felt like they should’ve won; expectations were high and facing Golden State in the first round they had every reason to be. The Warriors were a franchise at the time, much like now, that was mired in mediocrity with no real reason to be optimistic. After squeaking into the playoffs at 42-40, they were a complete after-thought. The Warriors qualified for the playoffs that year for the first time since 1994 with the 13 year drought between appearances being the second longest in NBA history. The Warriors beat the Mavs in six games, and this Baron Davis dunk over AK-47 (even though it took place in the following playoff series) shows you the level he and the Warriors were playing at:

Denver Nuggets Upset Seattle Supersonics - 1994

The year was 1994. Charles Barkley signature “Air Max” shoes, selling for $150 a pair, were king. The world was shocked by the unexpected death of Kurt Cobain. And Seattle Supersonics fans the world over were reeling from a first round playoff loss to the eighth seed Denver Nuggets. The Sonics had blown through the regular season going 63-19 which was a franchise record for wins and were the number one seed heading into the first round of the Western Conference Playoffs to face a Denver Nuggets team that no one had expected anything from. And with good reason; to that point in NBA history no eighth seed had ever beaten a number one seed. And no one expected a 42-40 Denver team to pose a legitimate threat, especially after losing the first two games in what was at the time a best of five game first round series. Game five was an epic back and forth game where the intensity never waned and every possession felt like the most important in the game. Kendall Gill’s layup with a half second left on the clock sent the game into overtime. But the Nuggets maintained the momentum throughout the extra frame and escaped with a 98-94 victory, winning the series.

New York Knicks Upset Miami Heat - 1999

The Pat Riley led Heat were the number one seed after posting a 33-17 record during the strike shortened season and the Knicks stumbled to 27-23, barely qualifying as the eighth seed. Both teams had dominant big men from Georgetown University; Alonzo Mourning and Patrick Ewing. Both had flashy offensive weapons that could make plays, Tim Hardaway for the Heat and a still dominant Latrell Sprewell. Down by one with 19.9 seconds left in the deciding game five, the Knicks did everything they could to screw up the possession and struggled to get a shot off. Ultimately after an inbound with 4.4 seconds, Allan Houston launched a running floater from the top of the lane that bounced off the rim and backboard before falling through the hoop securing a one point victory and the series for the Knicks.

Philadelphia 76ers Upset Chicago Bulls - 2012

Game one of the series, the Bulls are coasting right along, up by 12 with 81 seconds left. Then, this happens:

Series over, Philly wins four games to two. That's pretty much it.

Memphis Grizzlies Upset San Antonio Spurs - 2011

I remember at the time watching this series, particularly how slow and old the Spurs looked and thinking, "Man they had a great run, but they are definitely over the hill." Wrong again! The Spurs, essentially with the same core of players, will be the #2 seed in the West this year. The Spurs came into the 2011 playoffs as the #1 seed, with the second-best record in basketball and home court advantage against any Western Conference opponent and were dropped in the first round. Zach Randolph played out of his mind and Marc Gasol wore down Tim Duncan on both ends of the floor.

In this year's playoffs, if the Bucks were to beat the Heat, or the Lakers were able to vanquish the Thunder, would either be a bigger upset than any of the previous upsets on this list?

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Image Credit: Creative Commons

It's official.  Kris Humphries has finalized his divorce with Kim Kardashian.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  I am happy and thankful that we never have to hear about this ever again.

The 1995-96 Chicago Bulls were arguably the best team in NBA history, led by arguably the greatest player in NBA history.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: The accomplishments of the 1995-96 Bulls only get more amazing as time passes.

17 years ago tonight, the Bulls defeated the Bullets 103-93 to finish the season with a 72-10 record and .878 winning percentage, which eclipsed the NBA record set by 1972 Lakers, who went 69-13 for an .841 percentage. The victory over Washington earned Chicago their 33rd road victory, the most ever in a season by an NBA team.

Chicago was ridiculously hot all year and consistent throughout. The Bulls finished the month of November with a 12-2 record but improved in each of the next two months, going 13-1 in December and 14-0 in January, running their record to 39-3 after three months. In February, the Bulls ran their record to 41-3 and became the fastest NBA team to 41 wins, again besting the '71-72 Lakers previous record.

After the incredible regular season, CHI didn't cool off, going 15-3 in the playoffs for a combined total record of 87-13. The Supersonics won three of those 13 games, while the Indiana Pacers were the only other team to beat them more than once that season, winning two games in the regular season by a total of five points.

During the same victory over Washington 17 years ago, Michael Jordan set an NBA record by winning his eighth NBA scoring title (breaking Wilt Chamberlain’s record of seven) after accumulating 2,491 points in 82 games for a 30.4 ppg average. The 30+ ppg average was the last time Jordan would score 30+ points per game. And of the eight seasons he did score 30+, 30.4 was the second lowest- how many guys would KILL for a season like that? 

Another interesting piece of statistical information for you about MJ. Entering '95-'96, Jordan had made 303 of 987 attempts from beyond the arc in 10 seasons, hitting them .306% of the time.

In his 11th season, MJ hit 111 of 260, hitting treys at a clip of .427%, tied with Hubert Davis for 10th best percentage in the league.

It goes to show you why Jordan was great- even though he was the best ever, even already at that point, he worked on his weak areas until they were strengths.

With that kind of leadership and talent, it's no wonder why that Bulls had the success they did.

Joakim Noah brings out the haters, even in a state where people should love him.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: The woman in the now famous picture has quite a sordid past.

Drake out partying with the Chicago Bulls.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: It didn't take long for the Chicago Bulls to get over their loss to Miami and start partying away the summer did it?