Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
LeBron on final seconds of All-Star game: "(Kobe) was telling me to shoot it. I seen my teammate open for a split second. I seen him open the first time and I didn't release the ball. When I tried to throw it late, that's what usually happens and it results in a turnover. Definitely wish I could have that one back."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: LeBron James should forget his last second turnover in Sunday's All-Star game and focus on one thing: helping his Miami Heat win a championship.
After all, the mid-season classic is meaningless; it’s an event for Commissioner Stern, ESPN/ABC, and the league’s sponsors to sell the NBA.
The Heat don’t move up or down in the standings. And there’s no impact on home court advantage. So, why is James taking the blame? Why is he worrying?
Instead of dwelling on the outcome, the game’s greatest player should be arrogant enough to shrug off the result, remind everyone the All-Star game is for fans, and then drop forty in his next regular season game.
Michael Jordan wouldn’t have thought twice about ‘blowing’ the All-Star game. Neither would Magic Johnson or Larry Bird. Their confidence - what the kid’s call swagger - was too great.
James is talking about the All-Star game to reporters. It’s becoming a ‘thing’. It’s sticking in his mind. Just like his inability to finish down the stretch.
And the whispers will follow him when the game is close and the Heat have the ball late in the fourth quarter.
--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
"I knew he recorded everything we worked on," Olajuwon said. "I know he's practiced it. I can see that. But the comfort level, when you get into the competition, you start playing to your strengths, which is more of (an) outside (game). I see him post up. But I still see a lot of opportunities there. He's not capitalizing as much as he should. He needs more of a refresher course where he can become more comfortable. I see him (improving his post game), but he needs more time."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The best always get better. That's why they are the best.
After all, Michael Jordan developed an amazing post game; Magic Johnson added his ‘baby hook’ and three-point shot; Kobe Bryant has extended his range over the years.
So, there’s no doubt LeBron James, who will surely win his third MVP award this spring, can get better. According to his tutor Olajuwon, it starts in the post, where the 6-8 man-child has only scratched the surface.
James’ can also take his one-on-one defense, outside range, and conditioning to another level. When he does fans will be watching an all-time great.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Lakers guard Kobe Bryant has always been lauded for his self-motivation and drive to be the best. It's a good thing he has that internal ambition, because according to Bryant, he's gone through his 16-year career without a true rival on the exterior to push him to succeed. "I didn't have one," Bryant said after scoring 38 points in the Lakers' 115-107 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Gee, Kobe Bryant, tell us how you feel?
Bryant has every right to say he measures himself against Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan, and not LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.
Bryant, like Jordan and Johnson, won many championships, while James and Wade combined have one championship.
And Bryant played seven seasons in the NBA before James and Wade were drafted as part of the highly touted 2003 class.
This wasn’t about hoisting the Larry O’Brien championship trophy, though. This was about an edge -as Bryant’s Lakers faced James and Wade’s Heat in a much-hyped nationally televised game.
Fans were especially curious to see how Bryant would respond to Wade’s hard foul during the 2012 All-Star game in Orlando.
Bryant, in typical Black Mamba fashion, took no offense to the foul, which broke his nose and gave him a concussion. He simply proved his point by leading the Lakers to a 93-83 win over the Heat.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
The Lakers and Boston Celtics hate each other, an animosity that extends into the front offices of the two teams. Not really. The teams talked last week about a trade for Celtics guard Rajon Rondo, though nothing was close to accomplished and discussions dried up.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The rumors don’t die. They multiply.
For months, the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers have been testing the trade market for table-setter Rajon Rondo and post Pau Gasol.
The Celtics and Lakers had little luck finding a deal to their liking, so these great rivals recently discussed a Rondo for Gasol swap.
Yes, Rondo for Gasol. Straight.
(For the record, such cooperation would make former Celtics and Lakers like Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parrish, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and James Worthy puke.)
The Celtics shouldn’t make this move -unless the tales of Rondo’s diva behaviour are true. The Kentucky alum’ is young, productive, and, can dominate without taking a single shot. Most importantly, he covers up for an aging Big Three.
Gasol has a world class skill-set. However, the green-and-white would be wise to keep Rondo.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
A group that includes former Lakers star Magic Johnson and longtime baseball executive Stan Kasten agreed Tuesday night to buy the Dodgers from Frank McCourt for a record $2 billion.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: He’s a Hall of Fame point guard. And he’s fast becoming a Hall of Fame businessman.
Reports indicate a group led by Magic Johnson have succeeded in buying the iconic Los Angeles Dodgers for a record $2 billion. The amount is the highest ever paid for a sports franchise.
Look for Johnson to be the frontman for the group -as he's clearly comfortable in front of the camera and using his vast connections in and around the Los Angeles area.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
He viewed the no-call as a continuation of the preferential treatment that Griffin has received from the NBA during his two seasons. ‘He’s babied,’ Cousins said. ‘He’s the poster child of the league. He sells tickets, but he’s babied. Bottom line.’ Babied by whom, Cousins was asked. ‘The refs, the league — period,’ he continued.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s how the NBA does business.
Right or wrong, fair or not, David Stern’s league has always protected their superstars, nudging referees to give the benefit of the doubt to top players.
More often than not, Magic Johnson got the whistle. Same with Michael Jordan during the eighties and nineties. And conspiracy theorists would argue the Los Angeles Lakers often had the zebras on their side.
So Sacramento Kings' post DeMarcus Cousins can’t be shocked, surprised, or upset that Los Angeles Clippers superstar Blake Griffin, the new face of the league, gets protection from the referees. In a way, Cousins benefits from this, too. After all, Griffin playing well improves fan interest, which increases revenues and drives salaries.
Of course, Cousins is competing against Griffin and is understandably frustrated. Sadly, there’s nothing he can do about it -as Blake-Zilla will continue getting favourable treatment from referees.
-Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
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.
20 years ago tonight, the Boston Celtics retired Larry Bird's famous #33 jersey.
HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: "Larry Legend" is arguably the best player in NBA history.
The occasion of retiring Bird's jersey was so special that they dedicated an entire evening to it, even though there wasn't a game, and sold out the Boston Garden.
The two-hour ceremony gave Bird a proper send off as #33 was forever hoisted to the rafters. The most favorite highlight of that night was when Larry's nemesis Magic Johnson showed up with a Boston Celtics t-shirt under his Lakers warm-up gear, which you can see in the video above.
Bird is easily one of the best players in NBA history, if not the absolute best. Just take a quick gander at the career highlights and awards section of his Wikipedia page. Three time champion, two time Finals MVP, three time regular season MVP, 12 time all-star, 1980 Rookie of the Year, 1982 All-Star Game MVP, nine-time All-NBA first team; it just goes on and on.
For as great as he was as a player, he's been equally great in the front office.
Last year, he was named the NBA Executive of the Year. As a coach, with no prior head coaching experience, Bird won NBA Coach of the Year honors in his first season and led the Pacers to back to back Central Division titles, including an NBA Finals birth in 2000. He retired following that season, but was then hired to the Pacers’ front office in 2003, took over for Donnie Walsh in 2008 and ever since has had a huge hand in making the team what it has become.
Bird is the only person to have ever won even the MVP and Coach of the Year award, and the only person to ever add the Executive of the Year award to that stack as well.
Where does Bird stack up in your own personal top five NBA players? Remember if it comes down to him versus Michael Jordan, you'll always have at least one option to settle it.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Written by Matt Formica
The basketball community changed forever Monday with the passing of Los Angeles Lakers owner Jerry Buss.
Hoopsvibe's quick call: Perhaps the greatest NBA owner in history left a lasting legacy behind.
Here are ten interesting facts about a man who was amongst the best the business has ever seen.
1.) Buss bought the Lakers, along the Los Angeles Kings Hockey team, The Forum, and a large ranch in Kern County, from Jack Kent Cooke in 1979 for $67.5 million. The team itself is now worth $1 billion.
2.) The Laker Girls was his idea.
3.) He has six children, who all have roles within the Lakers organization. Their names are Jim, Jeannie, Johnny, Joey, Jesse and Janie. Jim currently runs basketball operations and daughter, Jeannie, runs business operations.
4.) His daughter, Jeannie, is currently engaged to Hall of Fame coach and former player, Phil Jackson. And apparently, Jim Buss hasn't spoken to Jeannie since their engagement.
5.) Buss was an avid poker player, appearing on the shows High Stakes Poker and Poker After Dark. He placed third in the 1991 World Series of Poker seven-card stud event.
6.) Buss is incredibly smart. In high school he was entrusted to teach his chemistry class senior year. He got his Bachelors degree from the University of Wyoming in 2.5 years, reportedly borrowing his friends books at the beginning of the semester because he didn't have enough money to buy his own. He would read the books, and return them halfway through the semester, with enough knowledge to pass the final exams.
7.) He has a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Southern California and worked in aerospace and real estate before becoming Lakers owner.
8.) He was raised in poverty in Wyoming. He first came to LA when he was 9, but moved back to Wyoming after his mother remarried. There he worked as a ditch-digger, a bellhop and a shoe shiner.
9.) Under his ownership the Lakers won 10 Championships; and have seen the likes of Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, and Dwight Howard, to name a few.
10.) There are many other interesting facts about Jerry Buss but my all-time favorite is this: Buss told ESPN in 2010 that he texted each of his six children every month the following question: "Do you have any idea how proud of you I am?"
In the words of Kobe Bryant, "His impact is felt worldwide."
The NBA Finals are where new stars are born and new styles are formed.
HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: An entire year of league history is compressed into and remembered by the outcome of the NBA Finals.
2009-2010 LA Lakers vs. Boston Celtics - 7 Games
The NBA needed this Finals from a business standpoint as much as anything else. Interest in the game was waining and the league was struggling financially. So what was the best recipe to get the league to be relevant and exciting again? A classic match-up between the Lakers and Celtics, which the Lakers won.
1993-1994 Houston Rockets vs. New York Knicks- 7 Games
This was as grueling an NBA Finals in history. Both teams were rugged, relied on tough defense and games were low scoring. Every possession was hotly contested and featured even personnel match-ups across the board, most notably reigning MVP Hakeem Olajuwon versus Patrick Ewing. The Rockets prevailed and won back to back titles, starting with this one.
1987-1988 LA Lakers vs. Detroit Pistons - 7 Games
The Lakers won this series in the ultimate stylistic clash between the finesse "Showtime" Lakers and the physical, brutish Pistons. Between 1980-1989 the Lakers won five titles, including this series versus the Pistons.This series represented a shift in NBA style of play. Even though the Lakers won and continued their dominance in this series, the Pistons swept the Finals the following season against the Lakers and eventually won two and a row, giving birth to the "Bad Boys" and their imposing style, a style that would be picked up and empolyed by NBA teams moving forward.
1979-1980 LA Lakers vs. Philadelphia 76ers - 6 Games
This series was all about the emergence of Magic Johnson. Magic changed the NBA game forever as the Lakers "Showtime" style was born. Instead of plodding half court sets that had been the norm, the Lakers relied on the transition game and became the most dominant team of the era, changing the entire direction of the league.
1973-1974 Boston Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks - 7 Games
This series was littered with several future NBA Hall of Fame players who not only evolved their respective positions, but brought the game to a new level. The Bucks featured Oscar Robertson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, while the Celtics had Dave Cowens and John Havlicek. Abdul-Jabbar was so dominant the Celtics frequently triple teamed him when he got the ball. The strategy paid off as the C's prevailed in seven games.
Recently, I noticed that fans are questioning if Michael Jordan played in a watered down era. The question has been posed time and time again. I do not understand why it gets brought up in the first place. Seriously? WTF? Dude. Stop it. I bet the question came up as a statement when Jordan was dominating the NBA. I would not be surprised if it came from an old timer during Bill Russell’s era. I am shaking my head at this garbage. Today, the question became a meme. Are you trying to discredit Michael with the question?
Magic Johnson was a triple double machine 6-9 point guard. There will not be any one reaching “NEAR” Michael Jordan level anytime soon, but is there anyone who can reach near Magic Johnson? Magic has 138 career triple doubles in the regular season and 30 triple doubles in the playoffs from a career 190 playoff games. His career averages are 19.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 11.2 assists. Those are ridiculous numbers for anyone to obtain. What players today have the skills to do that?
2K Sports has introduced NBA 2K12 to the world. People were questioning if Michael Jordan was going to be back. Have no fear. He’s back bringing along Magic Johnson and Larry Bird. Each one has their own respective covers. It’s great to have the greats of the golden era represent the game, but it’s pathetic to know that the stars of today cannot sell the game. Terrible. Yet, 2K should not use these three figure heads to cover up weaknesses of past incarnations. That would be pathetic, too.
The 2011 NBA Draft is done. Did your team get what they wanted? This particular draft was all about needs. There were many international players from all over the place. A lot of teams did not get what they wanted according to their fan bases. Rumored trades, and other stuff we don’t know, did not go down because of the uncertainty around the new collective bargaining agreement. This is completely understandable unless you are David Kahn. He was free-wheeling all over the draft. Trade away your cow and tractor? He’ll do that, too.
This comes up every playoff time involving great active players such as Kobe Bryant and LeBron James right now in 2011. Whenever one of them goes deep in a playoff run putting up good statistics and highlight plays, the media and former players gas these guys up. The method is definitely a “prisoner of the moment” type thing. Why do you guys do it? There is a lot of front running and some trolling. All good though. I’m ready. We’re ready. My body is ready. Let’s do this. Remember that the standards are extremely high and strict. These legends have great accomplishments. However, further scrutiny causes them not be the ultimate GOAT.
Derrick Rose is officially the youngest NBA MVP for anyone living in a cave kicking it with John Rambo. He earned it at 22 years old. Leading the team to the number one record is a tall order for anyone. The 2010-2011 season is historic mainly because of this. Basketball fans witnessed something amazing that we will not see again from any 22 year old NBA player. It was fun to see all of the games on DirecTV. Chicago’s offense and the opposing team’s defensive game plans truly revolved around the Poohdini of the Hardwood.
The Chicago Bulls becoming the number one team, record wise, reveals a quantum leap this season and ramifications for the future. Not many people are examining the Bulls massive improvements – they practically flew over the Atlantic Ocean without breaking a sweat. Imagine predicting that the Bulls would be the number one team with the best defense before the season started. Imagine that. People laugh, mock, wants some weed that you smoked, and then label you a Bulls homer. That is why some of us should say, “We’ll see.”
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe Gossip
If you haven't heard stories of epic debauchery from NBA locker rooms, you haven't been listening hard enough. The difference between those mythical tales and this one, however, is that here the events are practically confirmed by a very, very reliable source. In Roland Lazenby's new book "Jerry West: The Life and Legend of a Basketball Icon", West practically confirms some of the shenanigans that took place in the locker room of the Los Angeles Lakers of the 1980s.
What’s going on? Derrick Rose is not officially anointed as the 2010-2011 NBA MVP, but people are coming out from the woodwork to get vocal. They banded together to try to prevent him from getting the award. It just seems that way, which is hilarious. I do not know what the huge deal is. What is the problem? A lot of people are up in arms about this. I have to figure this out. Writers and basketball purists are getting emotional over this. I have to explore the reasoning behind the hate.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
“It’s a preseason game,’ Barnes said after Thursday’s practice at the Lakers’ facility in El Segundo. ‘Yeah, they’re catching lobs and dunking. But it’s just a preseason game. Let’s just play basketball. If you make a dunk, act like you’ve done it before. He’s got hundreds of them. There’s no need for the hoorah after every single dunk. It’s unnecessary.’
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Los Angeles’ two NBA teams, the Clippers and Lakers, don’t care for each other. Not one bit.
After all, Los Angeles was always a Laker town. They had The Logo, Wilt the Stilt, Kareem, Magic, Big Game James, Shaq-Fu, Kobe Bean, Andrew Bynum, and others.
While the Clippers could never attract or keep top talent because owner Donald Sterling wouldn’t open his wallet or spend the luxury tax payments he received from league head office.
This age-old dynamic is changing. The (natural) order of Los Angeles’ basketball teams could flip flop in 2012.
The Lakers, who are still talented, are in transition, while the Clippers have Chris Paul at point guard; Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan down low; and veterans like Chauncey Billups, Caron Butler, and Mo Williams.
Here’s the biggest shock: the Clippers are the glamour team. Griffin and Jordan’s aerial antics will receive endless love on ESPN, youtube, and twitter.
And some, like the Lakers' Matt Barnes, don't appreciate the post dunks celebrations.
Too bad.
Barnes better realize times have changed. These are the new Clippers.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
We initially broached this question in yesterday’s article and presented five players with credentials befitting the second best player in NBA history. Here are five more in no particular order;
Can you believe it’s been 19 years since the original Dream Team dominated the 1992 Summer Olympics? Perhaps more amazingly, can you believe that in all that time that I have maintained my collection of Starting Lineup Dream Team figurines in its original box, unopened and untouched by human hands?
Friday, November 11, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
”In a telephone interview with The Associated Press, Johnson said Jeffrey Kessler’s assertions were “ridiculous” while praising Stern as a commissioner who has done plenty to further the success of black players in the league.”This league is more diverse than any other league and has more minoritiesin powerful positions than any other league,” Johnson told AP. “That’s all about David Stern and his vision and what he wanted todo. He make sure minorities had high-ranking positions from the league officeall the way down to coaches and front office people.”
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The NBA lockout has gotten personal. Target number one: NBA Commissioner David Stern.
It’s not surprising that owners and players have traded barbs, insults, and slights through the media. It is surprising how personal things have become.
For instance, NBA Players Union lawyer Jeffrey Kessler and broadcaster Bryant Gumbel both called Stern and the owners racist, comparing their negotiating tactics to that of a ‘plantation overseer’.
I’m not a visible minority. I don’t live in the United States. I’m the wrong person to comment on this.
However, it’s worth noting that Magic Johnson - an African American, Hall of Fame NBA superstar, and a former minority owner of the Los Angeles Lakers - has come to Stern’s defense.
Johnson thinks you can criticize Stern as commissioner, but can’t criticize him as man, citing the NBA’s track record of hiring minorities.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
Kobe stands up and goes face-to-face with me and says, “You always said you’re my big brother, you’d do anything for me, and then this Colorado thing happens and you never even called me.” I did call him. … So here we are now, and we find out he really was hurt that we didn’t stand behind him. That was something new. I didn’t think he gave a rat’s ass about us either way. “Well, I thought you’d publicly support me, at least,” Kobe said. “You’re supposed to be my friend.”
Brian Shaw chimed in with “Kobe, why would you think that? Shaq had all these parties and you never showed up for any of them. We invited you to dinner on the road and you didn’t come. Shaq invited you to his wedding and you weren’t there. Then you got married and didn’t invite any of us. And now you are in the middle of this problem, this sensitive situation, and now you want all of us to step up for you. We don’t even know you.” …
Everyone was starting to calm down when I told Kobe, “If you ever say anything like what you said to Jim Gray ever again, I will kill you.”
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The shocking part is that their World Wars didn’t erupt sooner and destroy the Los Angeles Lakers.
Pundits often debate how many championships Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal could’ve won if they worked together and pushed their egos to the side.
The argument is that Bryant and O’Neal, while capturing three consecutive Larry O’Brien trophies, should‘ve been far more successful.
They should've been Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen (six championships). Or, they should've been Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson (five championships).
Instead they have just three. I, however, have a different view: it‘s a miracle they won anything.
Sure, they were talented. At the time, O’Neal was as dominating a player to ever suit up in the NBA, while Bryant was coming into his own as a superstar.
The excerpts from O’Neal’s upcoming book show just how dysfunctional those Lakers were, especially the highly toxic dynamic between Shaq and Kobe.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
“Everybody’s always asking, ‘Who is better between Kobe (Bryant) and LeBron?’” Johnson said. “I’m like, Are you kidding me? I’m like you’re kidding me … Kobe, five championships; LeBron, zero. I love the young man though. I know he’s going to get better in the fourth quarter this year.”
Magic Johnson isn’t hating on LeBron James by saying that the Miami Heat three-man can’t compare with Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant.
Magic’s reasoning is fair: Bryant has five championships, while James has none.
After all, championships have long been the mark of greatness in the NBA. Superstars, the real elites, measure themselves by the number of times they hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy in June and not individual statistics.
Johnson was simply holding James accountable to this criteria. To be fair, James is currently superior to Bryant, but has yet to enjoy true post-season success.
Until James does, he’s not in the same company as Bryant.
O.Sandor
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Saturday, August 06, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
"When you think about the Olympics and the Dream Team, I have to throw it to you," Johnson said. "Kobe [Bryant] and them won by 22 points. Ehh, 22 points? We won by an average of 44 points. So when they want to step up to that, you tell them we'll be waiting on them."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Michael, Magic, and Larry or Kobe, LeBron, and D-Wade?
It's a tough question, however, most fans assume the 1992 'Dream Team' that cruised to gold in Barcelona, Spain was the greatest team ever.
Magic Johnson, the point guard for the first American side that allowed professionals to participate in the Olympics, has no problem saying so.
Johnson recently said that the ‘92 squad would handle the 2008 squad, known as 'Redeem Team', that captured gold at the Beijing Olympics in China.
Perhaps.
I don’t buy Johnson’s argument about point differential, though. The former Laker believes the 92 squad’s wide margin of victory solidifies their status as the greatest ever.
However, I do believe the ‘92 squad trumps the ‘08 squad because they handled a terrifically talented and inspired Croatian team in the gold medal game.
--Oly Sandor.
Dream Team or Redeem Team? Well, get at HoopsVibe News with thoughts in the comment box below.
‘If the Dodgers ever came up for sale, would I take a look at it with some other people? Of course you would look at it. The brand is so strong. But as we speak today, they do have an owner.’ Johnson’s smile and recollection as a Rams and Raiders season ticket holder when they played in L.A. revealed his outward interest in being part of AEG’s ownership group should an NFL team return to the City of Angels: ‘Yes, because I’m such a big football fan'.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Magic Johnson isn’t standing still during the NBA lockout.
The Hall of Fame point guard with the Lakers, broadcaster, and billionaire entrepreneur is hinting he’d like to be involved with buying the Dodgers and bringing an NFL franchise back to Los Angeles.
The divorce of all divorces and unfortunate beating of a Giants fan has tarnished the Dodgers' historic brand. Magic's skill as a front-person and business acumen can fix this.
The NFL would be profitable in any American market, especially one as large and wealthy as LA. However, a revered sports hero, like Johnson, would help bury any resentment over the Rams and Raiders leaving. --Oly Sandor.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
“I would not characterize it as unfair because like I said, it happened to everyone. It happened to (Michael) Jordan when he went to Atlantic City to get away from the game. It happened to Barkley. It happened to (Dennis) Rodman. It happened to Magic (Johnson). It happens to everybody. If it just started this year I would call it unfair, but I’ve been in the game for 20 years and I’ve seen similar stories.”(Shaquille O'Neal on CNNSI podcast)
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Shaquille O’Neal has offered his first pearl of wisdom while gainfully employed as a TNT analyst.
‘The Big Broadcaster’ weighed-in on the scrutiny LeBron James faced after announcing he was leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers on national television last July.
One the one hand, Shaq is right. Almost every superstar learned to win by losing. And almost every superstar faced a backlash for decisions on-or-off court.
On the other hand, Shaq is underestimating what James went through. Last season, he and the Miami Heat had a bulls-eye on their backs the size of, well, Shaq.
Yes, Michael Jordan, Dennis Rodman, Charles Barkley, and Magic Johnson dealt with criticism. But no, it was nothing compared to the burnt jerseys, backstabbing, and letter from a former owner that were thrown James' way.
Of course, James dug his grave. He empowered friends who had little business being empowered. He isolated himself. And he, or his wrongfully empowered friends, approved The Decision and The Pre-Emptive Championship Party.
Rather than learn, change, and hire a PR firm, he spent the 2010-11 season fighting upstream against the media. And he seems determined to continue putting himself out there, regardless of the consequences.
Shaq’s first take on James is open to interpretation. He did, however, succeed in getting us to talk, debate, and discuss.
And isn’t that the job of a broadcaster?
--Oly Sandor.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Scottie Pippen suggested, on ESPN Radio’s Mike And Mike In the Morning, that LeBron James, and not his former teammate, Michael Jordan, could end up being the greatest all-around player the league has ever seen.
“Michael Jordan is probably the greatest scorer to ever play in the game, but I may go as far to say LeBron James is probably the greatest player to ever play the game,” Pippen said.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Take a deep breath. Now exhale. Repeat.
While you’re meditating please remember Scottie Pippen didn’t totally go there. He didn’t say LeBron James was better than Michael Jordan.
Pippen sure came close, though.
He said James may be a greater all-around player because of athleticism and size. And he said James can a dominate game in more ways than Jordan.
Purists will be offended. After all, Jordan has six championship rings. James has none. Jordan transcended basketball. James gave basketball a bad name with The Decision.
Still, Pippen, in theory, may have a point. James’ rare combination of size, speed, skill, and power gives him a unique advantage over any player to ever grace an NBA floor.
When it’s all said and done, James may eventually be in the same sentence as Jordan. Not now, though.
Here’s the reality: James lacks Jordan’s will and competitiveness. Remember, Jordan overcame the Detroit Pistons’ harsh tactics; upset Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals; handled Clyde the Glyde and Rip City; twice withstood the best John Stockton and Karl Malone, two Hall of Famers, could offer; and defeated Shawn Kemp, Gary Payton, and the Seattle Sonics.
James has done nothing of the sort. Yet.
Let’s be fair: Jordan had help. It’s interesting his ‘help’ (Pippen) is so quick to deflect praise away from his former teammate and supposed friend towards others.
Maybe Pippen’s statement says more about the rivalry between him and Jordan, and less about James’ place in the game.
--Oly Sandor.
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"Dr. Buss has a lot of work to do," said Johnson. "He's probably going to have to blow this team up after the season if the Lakers lose this series because you have to come back with some fresh faces. You have to pick between the two big men with which one you keep and then you trade the other one."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Ah Magic, tell us how you really feel.
One of the greatest Los Angeles Lakers ever believes it’s time to dismantle the two-time defending champions. According to Mr. ‘No Look’, the outcome against the Dallas Mavericks doesn’t matter.
Johnson believes what was once the Lakers’ strength, their size, is now their weakness. And the twin towers of Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol makes them vulnerable against athletic teams that run.
He may be right, too.
Johnson believes management must pick: Bynum or Gasol? Dealing one would allow the purple-and-gold to get back young, quick players.
Such a proposition is risky. For instance, what if the Lakers deal the wrong post?
Keeping Bynum would probably make the most sense because he’s younger and performed brilliantly down the stretch; however, he also has a history of injuries.
Hanging onto Gasol would seem problematic. His confidence is shot and he’s susceptible to mental breakdowns –like game three against the Mavericks when
Zen-Master Phil Jackson made like old school Bobby Knight and beat him.
But Gasol has a world class skill-set. When playing well, he’s easily one of the premier posts in the NBA. Those days, however, seem few and far between.
There are no easy answers in Laker-land. The former face of the franchise is right, though: something must change.
--Oly Sandor.
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Monday, October 11, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
Popular opinion may be decidedly against LeBron James and his decision to hook up with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in some kind of Super Friends situation in Miami. Not Oakley.
“I love it. I think in the old days, you don’t win unless you get some right players to win with. You can say this and that about LeBron but Magic had Kareem, James Worthy, he had three or four hall of famers. Bird had three or four hall of famers. M.J. probably just had him and Scottie but when it was all said and done, you had great players around you to win.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: They don’t make them like Charles Oakley anymore.
He was an original; a one of a kind tough guy at the four-spot, who handled his business on-and-off court.
No modern player would slap their ‘union brother’ to collect a gambling debt or stake out another team’s practice to confront a certain point guard about disrespecting his lady friend. (Isn’t that right Tyrone Hill and Jeff McInnis?)
That’s old school. That’s Oak’.
He also speaks the truth. For instance, LeBron James deserved criticism for how he handled free agency. The Decision was disgusting.
However, King James did not deserve criticism for leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers to sign with Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and the Miami Heat, especially from past greats like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan.
These Hall of Famers conveniently forgot about their supporting casts. Reading their condemnation of James, you’d think Larry-Legend, Magic, and Mike won all fourteen
NBA Titles by themselves.
As Oakley points out, they had help. Lots of it.
Bird played with three Hall of Famers: Denis Johnson, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parrish. He also had Danny Ainge, Cedric Maxwell, and Bill Walton made a one season cameo as sixth-man.
Johnson teamed with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the game’s all-time leading scorer. ‘Big Game’ James Worthy is in the Hall of Fame. Michael Cooper, Kurt Rambis, Byron Scott, and Mychal Thompson didn’t hurt.
This, of course, brings us to Jordan.
Jordan’s partner in crime was only Scottie Pippen, arguably the greatest wing-man in the history of pro basketball and a top fifty player of all time.
Then there was the dude with the bad hair, tattoos, and wedding dress. Dennis Rodman - despite his run on Dr. Drew's Celebrity Rehab - is regarded as the most prolific rebounder to ever put on a pair of high tops.
Throughout his career, ‘His Airness’ also played with useful pieces like BJ Armstrong, Bill Cartwright, Horace Grant, Steve Kerr, and John Paxson.
The Celtics, Lakers, and Bulls weren’t one-man bands. Bird, Magic, and Jordan had stacked supporting cast.
Who did James have in Cleveland?
Well, there was Candace Parker’s brother. Don’t forget Daniel Gibson –better known as Keyshia Cole’s baby daddy. Jamario Moon was once a Harlem Globetrotter.
Veterans Antwan Jamison and Shaquille O’Neal were past their prime, while Mo Williams is undersized, streaky, and 'emo-tional'.
In South Beach, he has a once-in-a-generation talent in Wade. When The King and Flash get bored, they’ll toss the ball inside to CB4.
Credit Oakley for speaking the truth: James made a smart basketball decision by signing with Miami. And he’ll likely get rewarded with championships.
--Oly Sandor.
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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Of course, the Miami Heat should use LeBron James and/or Dwyane Wade at point guard.
After all, James and Wade are two of the NBA’s premier players, meaning the ball will mostly be in their hands to run the offense and make key decisions.
The smart money is on James actually shifting from wing to lead-guard. Now The King can score. In fact, he can score at will. However, James excels when facilitating for teammates.
James has always been more Magic Johnson than Michael Jordan. But his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, needed him to score. So he did.
In South Beach, he’ll involve others. At 6-8 and 260 pounds, he’ll have a size and strength advantage over opposing point guards, creating mismatches on both ends of the floor.
Look for the Heat to use James and Wade at point guard. The results shouldl impress.
-Oly Sandor.
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Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
Kevin Durant, Team USA's scoring leader after three games, is coming off a season in which he led the NBA in scoring -- something Andre Iguodala believes we should get used to seeing. "Kevin Durant will be the NBA's all-time leading scorer when it's all said and done," Iguodala said emphatically. "He loves the game and has a knack for putting the ball in the basket." Through three NBA seasons Durant is 33 points shy of 6,000 for his career. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the league's all-time leader with 38,387 points. Karl Malone is second with 36,928 points, and Michael Jordan is third with 32,292.
Link
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: No doubt about it, Kevin Durant is a straight scorer. Like George Gervin and Bernard King.
While he’s on the verge of becoming, perhaps, the NBA’s best player, KD will be hard pressed to pass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the all-time leading scorer.
First, Kareem was able to preserve his body, in part, because he was a post. The Skyhook’s game was also methodical and efficient. As a perimeter player, Durant uses greater energy to get his numbers.
Second, Kareem’s slighter frame wasn’t an issue because old school players weren’t so muscular. Durant is especially skinny and long, which may become an issue in today's physical NBA.
Finally, Kareem had a superb pass-first point guard in Magic Johnson. ‘Mr. No Look’ and 'The Architect of Showtime’ hooked Kareem up with easy hoops. Durant doesn’t have this luxury because Russell Westbrook, a good table-setter, is still developing as a distributor.
Durant will have a Hall of Fame career, however, he’s unlikely to replace Abdul-Jabbar as the game’s all-time greatest scorer.
--Oly Sandor.
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Thursday, August 26, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
The odometer keeps rolling. Now that Kobe Bryant's turned 32, how much of a decline can we expect in his game over the next few seasons? [When Michael] Jordan returned to the Chicago Bulls late in the 94-95 season -- at 32 -- he'd played only 778 NBA regular season and playoff games. By comparison, Kobe Bryant has already played a whopping 1,219 games, 57% more than Jordan at the same age. Kobe is clearly the NBA version of a Ferrari with high mileage. ... Bryant's stats have also dipped in several categories in the last five seasons: --Scoring per game: 35.4, 31.6, 28.3, 26.8, to 27.0 last season. --Free throw attempts per game: 10.2, 10.0, 9.0, 6.9, 7.4. --Minutes per game: 41.0, 40.8, 38.9, 36.1, 38.8.
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: His numbers don't matter. Their numbers do.
The days of measuring Kobe Bryant's greatness by individual statistics are done. Instead, Black Mamba should be measured by championships he wins with the L.A. Lakers.
Nothing more.
The great ones, the creme de la creme of NBA talent, worry about one thing: the Larry O'Brien trophy.
Like it or not, Bryant's five championships put him on par with Magic Johnson. Another championship means he's in the conversation with Michael Jordan.
And when it's all said and done, total championships - not scoring, free throw attempts, and/or minutes - will be the real indicator of Bryant's greatness.
--Oly Sandor.
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Magic Johnson expressed interest Friday in being part of a group that buys the Pistons or at least in joining his hometown team in a front-office capacity.
Johnson is currently a minority owner of the Lakers.
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: In 1979, Magic Johnson brought life to the struggling Los Angeles Lakers. In 2011, he may do the same for the Detroit Pistons.
Of course, the situations are different. Johnson played for the Lakers; he'd own and run the Pistons.
This would be ideal for Motown. Johnson is from nearby Lansing, played with the Michigan State Spartans, and has the resources/contacts to invest in a poor city that has been hard hit by the recession.
The Pistons also need a new set of eyes in the front office. Executive Joe Dumars has lost his touch, showing too much loyalty to veterans from the 2004 World Champion team and overpaying mediocre free agents.
It's time to blow things up. It's time to start over. Frankly, Dumars isn't up for the job. Hopefully, Magic - if he successfully purchases the Pistons - has the stomach to hire a new architect to rebuild.
--Oly Sandor.
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Thursday, August 12, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
``If Lebron is taking mental notes of everyone who is taking shots at him this summer, put me on top of your list! I thought the one hour decision was a punk move. I thought the dance in Miami was a punk move and I was very disappointed that he left Cleveland to join D.Wade's team." (quote from Mike Greenberg`s ESPN morning show)
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Charles Barkley, how do you really feel?
The TNT broadcaster and Hall of Fame power forward has been rather outspoken in his criticism of LeBron James. Barkley didn’t like that James left the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat. He also didn’t like how he left.
The Round Mound of Rebound’s latest comments came in response to James tweeting that he’s taking ‘mental notes’ on all his enemies, and wants revenge.
Two points are worth noting.
First, Barkley, a former regular season MVP, is wrong to knock James for joining Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in South beach.
James is at his best when facilitating instead of averaging 30 points per night. He’s more Magic Johnson, Scottie Pippen, and Oscar Robertson than, say, Kobe Bryant or Michael Jordan. As a facilitator, he needs great players like Wade and Bosh.
At least, James will sacrifice to win. Years ago, a certain four-man’s ego forced Pippen off Hakeem Olajuwon’s Houston squad, and compromised the Rockets’ chances of winning another NBA Title.
Sound familiar Chuck?
That said, there’s no excuse for how James left Cleveland. There’s no justification for him treating the folks who raised, loved, and supported him so badly.
Second, this again proves that The Decision created The Backlash. The ‘heat’ James is taking is self-induced. His tweet about ‘taking mental notes’ forced Barkley to comment.
Just like The Decision - his hour long ESPN special where he broke up with Cleveland for Miami - prompted the state of Ohio to burn his jerseys, while the rest of America named him public enemy number one.
If The Decision doesn’t happen, The Backlash doesn’t happen.
Perhaps James should take his mental notes silently. Perhaps Barkley should just be silent. Unfortunately, there’s zero chance of either happening.
--Oly Sandor.
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Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Being the President of the United States has perks. Sure, there's a floundering economy, two wars, and an oil spill, but you do cool things for your birthday.
For instance, this weekend President Obama turned 49. He's a hoops fan, so naturally the Commander in Chief invited LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Dwyane Wade, Bill Russell, and others to Washington for a pick-up run to entertain wounded soldiers.
After the game, they had a barbeque at the White House. Pretty cool! Click the link and watch a news report on Obama's hoops for troops.
--Oly Sandor.
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Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
Add Magic Johnson's voice to fellow Hall of Famer Michael Jordan's: Neither ever thought of combining forces the way LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh did earlier this month with the Miami Heat.
"We didn't think about it 'cause that's not what we were about," Johnson said at Baruch College in New York, according to Bloomberg News. "From college, I was trying to figure out how to beat Larry Bird."
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan 'didn't have to think about it' because they had help.
Loads of it.
Frankly, LeBron James doesn't leave Cleveland if he has Dennis Johnson, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parrish, or Horace Grant/Dennis Rodman and Scottie Pippen, or, like Magic, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, A.C. Green, Byron Scott, and James Worthy.
Who did James have with the Cavaliers? Anderson Varejao? Candace Parker's brother? Last year there was the old and overweight Shaquille O'Neal, who may soon be out the NBA.
Worst of all for James, this would never change because no star would come to Cleveland.
The creme de la creme of NBA prefer palm trees to Ohio winters. They prefer Malibu and South Beach to parka jackets and winter boots. They prefer major markets to blue-collar cities.
But James allowed Bird, Johnson, and Jordan to omit, alter, and twist reality with his free agent drama. The Decision' made him a target. And his spectacular failure in the second round of the NBA playoffs against the Boston Celtics didn't help.
Now everyone is taking shots. Only championships will silence James' critics and even that may not be enough.
--Oly Sandor.
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Michael Jordan talked about the decision made by LeBron James to sign with the Heat, joining Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
"There's no way, with hindsight, I would've ever called up Larry (Bird), called up Magic (Johnson) and said, 'Hey, look, let's get together and play on one team,'" Jordan said on Sunday. "But that's ... things are different. I can't say that's a bad thing. It's an opportunity these kids have today. In all honesty, I was trying to beat those guys."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: He has finally said his piece.
Yesterday, Michael Jordan told the world he would never, ever have joined forces with fellow greats like Larry Bird and Magic Johnson because he wanted to beat them.
His feelings are fair, but unrealistic.
Jordan never had the options Chris Bosh, LeBron James, or Dwyane Wade had. After his rookie contract expired, MJ signed an eight year, $25 million contract that negated any chance of partnering with an all-time great.
And when he finally hit unrestricted free agency, Bird and Magic had both retired, so a partnership was impossible.
Jordan was also the game’s undisputed greatest player. There was no parity between superstars like today. In fact, his greatest challenge might have been from teammate, top 50 all time player, and Hall of Fame swing Scottie Pippen.
Then there’s the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The old CBA allowed teams a massive advantage in signing their own free agents. For instance, Chicago inked Jordan to several one-year contracts for upwards of $30 million.
The culture of the NBA was different, too. Teams wanted to win now, and the notion of cutting cap space for three years to sign a trio of superstars was unheard of. In fact, it didn’t happen.
Of course, Jordan has the right to say what he wants and thinks. It’s not necessarily accurate, though.
-- Oly Sandor.
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Ricky Rubio is promising NBA fans they'll get to see his razzle-dazzle, but not before the 2011-12 season -- and not necessarily with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In an interview with the Associated Press, the highly rated prospect said he won't leave Spanish club Barcelona before his NBA opt-out clause comes up after next season. The Timberwolves remain his team of choice, as long as they make improvements following a season where they finished 15-67, the second-worst record in the league.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Something must have been lost in the translation from Spanish to English –like showing modesty or being humble.
This is what the Minnesota Timberwolves must be hoping for, after their Spanish point guard prospect, Ricky Rubio, recently held court with the media in Europe.
In a recent interview, the Barcelona club star spouted off: he basically told the Timberwolves to improve or lose his services; described himself as a ‘colourful, attractive, spectacular basketball player’; and compared himself to being ‘in the mold of Magic Johnson and Steve Nash’.
Under normal circumstances, a team should immediately consider cutting ties with such a prospect.
However, these aren’t normal circumstances in Minnesota. Even with two young point guards and other developing pieces, the club only won 15 games last year and can’t sell tickets, luxury suites, or merchandise.
Frankly, the Timberwolves –since trading Kevin Garnett – have become irrelevant.
Rubio would change this. Instantly. His razzle-dazzle game will put butts in seats. And suddenly, the Timberwolves will have an identity, presence, and following at home and throughout the world.
All of this equals one thing: money.
Rubio, of course, knows this. He also knows he has leverage and will hold it over Minnesota executive David Kahn and the entire franchise.
If the Timberwolves don’t give him everything he wants, he plays in Europe and forces a trade. And even if the Timberwolves do give him everything he wants, the 19 year old could still force a trade to a larger market with a more competitive team.
With such pull, Rubio has little need for modesty or humility.
Got thoughts on Rubio? Got thoughts on the state of the Wolves?
HoopsVibe's Quick Call: Why do we love having the Lakers and Celtics in the NBA Finals?
Well, these two arch rivals have produced many epic moments. For instance, take game 4 of the 1987 NBA Finals. The great Magic Johnson won the match for the purple-and-gold with a last skyhook over Kevin McHale.
In the post game press conference, Hall of Famer Larry Bird conceded 'Magic was the greatest player he'd ever seen'.
Watch Magic's skyhook and let us know your favourite moment between the Lakers and Celtics?
"Rajon Rondo is the best all around point guard in the NBA. Deron Williams is the best point guard, but Rondo is the best all around."
(Magic Johnson, ESPN Halftime show, May 22nd, 2010)
HoopsVibe's Call: Forget point guards. Rondo has been the best player in the playoffs.
When looking at their total body of work, HoopsVibe News isn't quite ready to put him above Chris Paul, Deron Williams, or even Steve Nash. After all, Rondo, who's style resembles Jason Kidd when with the New Jersey Nets, has just started playing like an elite table-setter this playoffs.
Here's the real question: if you were starting a team, who would you want Rondo, Paul, Williams, or Nash?
Nash would get excluded because of age, wear-and-tear, and defensive shortcomings. Even with his fine playoff, most would still take Williams or Paul over Rondo.
However, that could change - and soon - if Rondo leads the Boston Celtics to an NBA Title and wins Most Valuable Player for the playoffs.
Who would you rather have Rondo, Paul, Williams, or Nash?
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