Monday, February 06, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
The Puerto Rican league, which starts its 30-game season in March, pays its stars about $20,000 a month, plus living expenses, sources said. The league’s commissioner is selling Iverson on the chance to work his way back to a possible return to the NBA.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Allen Iverson may soon have a job playing basketball -just not in the league or country he’d like.
Reports indicate a team in the Puerto Rican league is considering offering a contract to the future member of the Hall of Fame.
This is the latest sign the once-mighty Iverson is no longer relevant and/or meaningful. He’s a name, a marketing draw for some second-rate team in a fifth-rate league .
Sadly, Iverson only has himself to blame. He was given several opportunities to accept a role and prolong his career as a second-unit game-changer in the NBA.
Except his pride got in the way -in Detroit and Memphis. Then his personal issues became overwhelming in Philadelphia.
Now Iverson is willing to be a supporting piece, but no NBA team is interested. And his proud career is ending in the worst possible way.
--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
Allen Iverson, who sources indicated the Lakers had some interest in as long as he was willing to go to the NBA Developmental League for a few weeks first, is not the answer. He's simply not a point guard. The Lakers are also said to be interested in former Toronto Raptors point guard Rafer Alsotn, who helped the Orlando Magic reach the NBA Finals in 2009. But who knows if that will materialize into anything?
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: According to the rumor mill, Gilbert Arenas is no longer ‘The Answer’ to the Los Angeles Lakers’ point guard woes.
Reports indicate the purple-and-gold may think Allen Iverson is ‘The Answer’ -if he`ll report to their D-League affiliate for a conditioning stint.
A few things worth noting:
First, Iverson to the Lakers was first reported by ESPN scribe Stephen A. Smith, who has a personal and professional relationship with the former MVP from their time in Philadelphia.
So consider the source, and ask if Stephen A. is tossing Iverson a solid and keeping him relevant by even suggesting the Lakers had interest?
Second, Iverson always refused a bench role. He wouldn’t do it for Detroit. And he wouldn’t do it for Memphis. Worst of all, he wouldn’t do it for a contender.
It’s hard to believe he’d report to the D-League under any circumstances -even if there was the chance of joining the Lakers.
Third, Smith is right. Kobe and company need a pass-first point guard, not a shooting guard in a point guard’s body and big personality like Iverson.
The Answer’ isn’t the answer for the Lakers’ woes.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
Jorge Hernandez was certain Allen Iverson would put basketball on the map in Venezuela—up until this morning. Hernandez, co-owner of Guaros de Lara in the Venezuelan League, was to introduce Iverson today as the team’s new point guard. Playing alongside Smush Parker, Iverson would bring unprecedented attention to Guaros.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Can’t play in the United States; can’t play outside of the United States. What a predicament.
Right now, for a variety of reasons, Allen Iverson isn’t playing basketball. No NBA team will sign the former MVP because he won’t report to the D-League, while legal problems are preventing him from leaving the U.S. to play abroad.
This is sad. However, Iverson only has himself to blame.
Years ago, Iverson should have reinvented himself as a second-unit game-changer. His pride and ego were too great for such a change.
For instance, he sulked in Detroit and Memphis when they asked him to come off the bench. And his return to Philadelphia was a flop, too.
So Iverson is in limbo. Who knows if he ever plays again.
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.
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.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
So the Sixers decided to do something about that and acquired guard/forward Sam Young from the Memphis Grizzlies today, the Daily News has learned. The Sixers have given up the rights to guard Ricky Sanchez, who was acquired in a 2007 trade with Denver. Sanchez was originally drafted in the second round by Portland in 2005. The Sixers acquired Sanchez’s rights from Denver, along with Reggie Evans, in exchange for Steven Hunter and Bobby Jones.
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Bench help comes cheap.
The Philadelphia 76ers bolstered their second unit with today's acquisition of Sam Young. The guard/forward is a decent scorer, who will provide defensive help and size off the bench.
Best of all, the 76ers only had to give the Memphis Grizzlies the rights to a South American club player, Ricky Sanchez.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Californian Larry Ellison, ranked as the third-richest person in the U.S., has inquired about buying the Memphis Grizzlies with apparent hopes of moving the team to San Jose. But team owner Michael Heisley on Saturday downplayed the possibility of a sale — and of a relocation, citing a lease that ties the franchise to Memphis and FedExForum until 2021. “I can’t downplay it enough. If it happens I’ll be surprised,” said Heisley, a Chicago-based billionaire who added that talks had not become serious.
Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley will say one thing and do the opposite -especially if he can make a profit.
Consider his track record.
Years ago, the Chicago businessman promised to keep the Grizzlies in Vancouver, even singing the Canadian national anthem at the season opener as a show of good faith.
Privately, behind closed doors, Heisley was sabotaging things so he could move the franchise as soon as possible.
He stopped selling season tickets so attendance would fall. He cut ties with the community. He alienated sponsors. And he stopped communicating with fans.
The reason? Heisley could justify the move to Memphis if he could kill the Vancouver market.
At the time, Vancouver was an average NBA market. The Canadian dollar was low; the area’s economy was in recession. On-court, the team was an unmitigated disaster because of GM Stu Jackson. Not surprisingly, the team only drew about 15 thousand fans per game.
Ironically, the situation improved once Heisley left. Today, the Canadian dollar sits at par; Vancouver’s economy is strong because of oil, gas, and an influx of Chinese money. Fans would support a decent product -the city’s NHL team has a string of 380 straight sell-outs.
Heisley was too narrow-minded to see the light, though. He took the tax breaks and ran to small, poor Memphis, where he has lost millions of dollars.
And Heisley will show no loyalty to Memphis if Larry Ellison’s offer is high enough. He won’t care if selling the team to the Oracle CEO results in the Grizzles leaving for San Jose.
Once a jerk, always a jerk. Just ask Vancouver.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Haven’t we seen this song-and-dance before with the Memphis Grizzlies?
A few years ago, the club signed shot-happy guard Allen Iverson, who was expected to complement the Grizzlies’ young, developing pieces.
Of course, nobody told Iverson this. He was stuck in a time-wrap, thinking he would get unlimited minutes, shots, and touches circa 1999 in Philadelphia.
The experiment last three games.
Now reports are breaking that the club has signed Gilbert Arenas to a one-year contract for the veteran minimum. Wouldn’t it have been better for the Grizzlies to take a pass and for Arenas to sit the year and sign with a team this summer?
Arenas would then have an entire training camp to prove himself to his new team. Now he has a few short games before playoffs begin.
Sadly, this situation sounds all too familiar in Memphis.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
In addition to being nearly traded, Allen was relegated to the bench by the emergence of Avery Bradley, a move that has made the Celtics more athletic and more effective defensively. Bradley’s offensive development has been one of the more surprising storylines of the NBA season.
So the future member of the Hall of Fame can’t be happy losing his starting position with the Boston Celtics and nearly getting sent to the Memphis Grizzlies at the trade deadline.
Allen, a perennial All-Star and the NBA‘s greatest three-point shooter, helped the green-and-white win a championship in 2008.
He’s also sensitive. Remember, Allen and George Karl clashed several times when the two were together on some competitive Milwaukee teams.
Karl thought Allen was soft. The veteran sideline boss even told the press as much before sending him out west to his former team, the Seattle Super Sonics.
Of course, Allen’s a pro’. He won’t complain publicly. However, revenge could come this summer when the veteran becomes a free agent.
Would he take a massive discount to join the rival Miami Heat and knock down open jump shots when LeBron James and Dwyane Wade get double-teamed? Or, perhaps he’d be open to spending a year or two playing off Derrick Rose and his upstart Chicago Bulls?
Anything is possible. Just don’t expect Allen to retire. He's not done. And he has too much pride.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Written by Matt Formica
The following is a list of the NBA's top five highest salaried teams. (And thanks to Hoopsworld.com for providing the data).
Hoopsvibe's quick call: This list proves that the best team isn't always the one that spends the most money.
1.) The Los Angeles Lakers - $102,256,438
Point and case. The Lakers may have the largest payroll in the league but their current record is the worst on this list. The organization kept busy this offseason and when they acquired both Dwight Howard and Steve Nash, it was looking like the purple and gold were the team to beat. And indeed, they have been the team to beat. Yes, it's still early in the season, but having won only three games with their expensive lineup is pretty embarrassing. Let's hope the recent hiring of Mike D'Antoni turns things around.
2.) The Miami Heat - $87,595,822
It shouldn't come as much of a shock that the Heat are number 2 on this list. They pretty much cleared out their books a few years ago to make sure there was enough cap space for Lebron James, Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade to be on the roster. And as it turns out, that was a good idea. Micky Arison, Pat Riley and company made a good decision in doing so seeing that the Heat are the defending NBA Champions and are currently sitting at the top of their division.
3.) The New York Knicks - $82,010,527
The Knicks could quite possibly be the surprise of the season so far. J.R. Smith is posting career numbers, averaging 18.2 points per game. Raymond Felton is averaging 14 points and 6.2 assists while Carmelo Anthony's 26.8 ppg leads the league in scoring. As a result, they're 5-0; all the while Amare Staudemire has been on the bench with knee injury. Who knows if they'll keep it up, but it will certainly be interesting to see how they play with Amare back in the lineup.
4.) The Brookyln Nets - $83,511,726
The NBA's newest team are 4-2 to start the season. They have a new stadium in the Barclays Center and with Deron Williams, Brooks Lopez, Kris Humphries and Joe Johnson on their payroll, they certainly have a few expenses. But if they continue to win games, those expenses most likely won't be much of an issue.
5.) The Memphis Grizzlies - $77,098,154
I was pretty surprised when Memphis came in at #5 on this list. I would have thought Boston, or San Antonio, or even Oklahoma City would have been ahead of the Grizz. Then again, they do have Rudy Gay, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol on their roster. Those three guys alone take up about $47 million of the payroll. And for good reason; they combine for over 51 points per game.
Saturday, January 05, 2013
Written by Miles Rogers
Memphis Grizzlies are rumored to be exploring options for trading Rudy Gay.
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: I have no idea why the Grizzlies would want to mess with their team's lineup and chemistry in the midst of a solid 20 - 10 season.
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?
Top 5 reasons Marc Gasol won the Defensive Player Of The Year.
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: The NBA chose wisely this year, didn't listen to the hype, and gave it to a truly deserving player.
Marc Gasol becamse the first Grizzlie player ever to win the Defensive Player of the Year honors receiving 212 points and 30 first-place votes.
"I'm the first European ever to accomplish this," Gasol said Wednesday. "It's really an honor. Now I think my kids will believe me when I tell them I played in the NBA."
#5 Defensive Efficiency: The Grizzlies were 2nd in the NBA in terms of defensive efficiency and their numbers were always improved when Gasol was on the court. This shows that his team is strong defensively; but that they are improved by his presence and even surrounded by great defenders he makes the difference.
#4 Defensive Rebounding: Gasol averaged 5.5 defensive rebounds a game and held opponents to 6.8 points per 100 possessions.
#3 Steals Solid: Gasol averaged 1.0 steal per game, which is impressive for a big man.
#2Blocks Impressive. Gasol averaged 1.7 blocks per game, which was 13th in the league.
#1 Getting The Job Done: The Grizzlies take a team approach to defense. They are able to pressure on the wings more because they know they're interior defense is so strong. Gasol in the middle anchors this interior defense. The Grizzlies allowed a league-low 88.7 point per game as a result.
Marc and Pau Gasol’s respective starts to the 2011-2012 season have gone in completely opposite directions so far; but can it last for the duration of the year? Is Marc suddenly the best Gasol in the NBA?
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
The Grizzlies are again discussing whether to deal reserve guard O.J. Mayo. This time, Memphis has explored at least two trade scenarios with the New Jersey Nets over the past couple of weeks, according to two NBA sources.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: This is about appeasement.
The New Jersey Nets are trying to land OJ Mayo from the Memphis Grizzlies to keep franchise face Deron Williams happy.
After all, Williams can opt-out of his contract and leave the Nets and their soon to be built Brooklyn stadium as a free agent in July. Fortunately, club executives can spin a Mayo trade in many ways:
1) They can tell Williams they’ve been active, have upgraded his supporting cast, and are committed to winning now.
2) They can tell Williams they won’t qualify Mayo, and will use the available cap space to sign Dwight Howard -provided the Orlando Magic center opts-out this summer
3) They can tell Williams the Nets won’t wait for the summer for Howard, and that Mayo will be included in sign-and-trade offers for Superman.
There's one certainty: the Nets lose Williams if they do nothing. Expect a move -and soon.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
This can be discussed even during a lockout. Dirk and the Mavs are still riding high from their hard earned 2011 NBA title. They swept Kobe’s Lakers, beat Durant/Westbrook Thunder, and then took out the Miami Heat. The team is battle tested especially with the grand fail against the Golden State Warriors in the 2007 playoffs. The Mavs lost a lot with a solid roster in the past. They overcame all of that in 2011.What’s next? Repeat. Duh.
Wednesday, January 04, 2012
Written by HoopsVibe News
The Memphis Grizzlies will try to get through the loss of Zach Randolph for up to two months by acquiring Philadelphia 76ers big man Marreese Speights. After learning that Randolph with miss six to eight weeks with a torn medial collateral ligament, suffered Sunday in Chicago, the Grizzlies on Wednesday completed a three-team trade with Philadelphia and New Orleans.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s a stop-gap measure, but the Memphis Grizzlies have no choice.
With Darrell Arthur and Zach Randolph out long-term, the Grizzlies acquired Marreese Speights from the Philadelphia 76ers for a pair of second round draft picks.
This, after all, is Memphis’ year. They nearly advanced to the Western Conference Finals last year, and have to build on that momentum to solidify the market.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
All Zach Randolph does is produce. Sure he’s sort of an enigma, but no matter where he goes, and no matter what auspicious circumstances surround him, at the end of the day he puts up numbers. And this year he’s doing more than that; he’s leading an unheralded Memphis team into uncharted waters compared to most of the eighth seeds in NBA history.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
The Grizzlies are expected to match the four-year, $55 million offer sheet that Marc Gasol has agreed to with the Rockets. Gasol is a restricted free agent and Memphis would have three days to match.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: I get the sense new Houston Rockets coach Kevin McHale wants to establish an inside presence.
Yao Ming retired this past summer, so McHale, a Hall of Fame post for the Boston Celtics, is looking for a replacement.
His search started and failed with the Gasol brothers. The Rockets twice attempted to acquire Pau Gasol from the Los Angeles Lakers in a three-team deal for Chris Paul, but was denied by the NBA-owned New Orleans Hornets.
McHale then turned his attention to signing Marc Gasol, Pau’s younger brother. Marc, a highly coveted restricted free agent with the Memphis Grizzlies, received a four-year, $55 million offer sheet from the Rockets.
However, the Grizzlies, not wanting to kill the momentum of last season’s playoff run, will likely match the offer.
So perhaps third times a charm for McHale and the Rockets. The only question is which post they'll go after next.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Wednesday, December 07, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
Hoping to pull off a pair of blockbuster moves that would rock the NBA, the Lakers are willing to trade anyone on their roster outside of Kobe Bryant to bring Howard and Paul to Los Angeles, two sources said.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: These are the Los Angeles Lakers. They go big. Or they don’t go.
It’s no surprise the storied purple-and-gold want to land both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul. These are the Lakers; their arrogance and deep pockets make anything possible.
Remember, fifteen years ago they cleared a mountain of cap space and signed Shaquille O’Neal, while also swapping veteran center Vlade Divac for some kid called Kobe Bryant.
A few years ago they stole Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies and ended up with two consecutive Larry O’Brien trophies.
Of course, this scenario wasn’t supposed to happen anymore.
The lockout was supposedly about, in part, preventing major markets from landing all the league’s premier talent. The owners caved, failing to get franchise tags or a hard cap in the new Collective Bargaining Agreement.
So the Lakers will continue to chase the best talent. After all, there’s no system stopping them.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Monday, December 05, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
Battier has been a primary target in free agency for the Heat, and sources say the pitch of Riley, coach Erik Spoelstra and key Heat players could ultimately confirm Battier’s strong feelings about chasing a championship in Miami.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Talent matters but so does chemistry.
If the Miami Heat subscribe to the above theory then they’ll have to pull out all the stops to sign free agent utility swing Shane Battier.
The former Memphis Grizzly and Houston Rocket does all the little things necessary to win. He defends multiple positions and stretches opposing defenses with his range.
He just hasn’t had superstar talent to complement in the NBA. With LeBron, CB4, and D-Wade, talent won’t be an issue in South Beach.
Of course, Battier’s professionalism and likeability will go a long way in helping heal the Heat‘s tattered reputation. The Eastern Conference champions spent 2011 with a bulls eye on their back, facing the wrath of media and fans alike.
So Battier would get a chance at a championship. The Heat get a quality role player and person. Sounds like a mutually beneficial arrangement.
--Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
With Rajon Rondo locked in as the Celtics point guard and Ray Allen as the shooting guard, Iverson’s role would likely be as a scorer off the bench. In Detroit and Memphis, he created issues because he demanded to start. “I think that is so overplayed,’’ Moore said. “He said it on more than one occasion. And I’ve always known that. I think it was taken out of context. Allen would accept any role. Anything he can do to help a ball team is what he will be able to do.’
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It’s sad. Really, it is.
Allen Iverson should have done this years ago. Instead of swallowing his pride and ego and playing a role for a contender, Iverson had to be ‘The Guy’.
He had to have shots. He had to have touches. He had to be option one. And he ran himself right out the NBA because he acted like 2009 was 1999.
The Philadelphia 76ers traded him. Same with the Denver Nuggets. The Detroit Pistons let him quit. The Memphis Grizzlies released him. And the 76ers allowed him to disappear after re-signing him.
This whirlwind of mediocrity could have been avoided if Iverson did what he’s doing now: re-invent himself as a second-unit game-changer.
Once upon a time, this would have worked. ‘The Greatest Little Man Ever’ coming off the bench for a contender and lighting up reserves.
The San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics, and other contenders would have had interest. Best of all, the end of Iverson’s career would have been spent playing meaningful basketball in May and June.
But he wouldn’t do it. He wouldn’t put the collective before himself. Fair or not, right or wrong, he validated some of the accusations of being a selfish player.
Now Iverson’s people are reduced to begging. And it may be too late to rekindle what may have been.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
Yes. Marc Gasol is a very key player on our team. He’s one of the best centers in the league and will end up being the best center in the NBA in 2-3 years.
Privately, behind closed doors, the Notorious GM (again, hat tip to my editor) would surely go with the rebounding champion.
Would Wallace take Gasol over Andrew Bynum, Al Horford, Nene, and Joakim Noah? How about the next group of fives with Andrew Bogut, Al Jefferson, Brook Lopez, and Emeka Okafor?
Howard and Bynum aside, Vasquez could argue Gasol is equal to or better than any of these players. There'd be a counter argument, though.
Vasquez is stretching the truth to suggest Gasol would ever be superior to Howard. At least his hyperbole is for a good cause: a teammate. --Oly Sandor.
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Wednesday, August 03, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
"I haven't stopped working out really since May," Griffin said. "It's been every day, sneaking it in whenever I can." Griffin says it's frustrating for him to think that the NBA games may be interrupted after his first season playing in the league. Griffin missed all of the 2009-10 season with a broken kneecap after he had been the No. 1 draft pick out of Oklahoma. "Now my first three seasons, I could play 82 games," Griffin said. "So, we'll see what happens."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Last year was overwhelmingly positive for the NBA.
The sporting world was galvanized by Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James joining forces and becoming the ‘Heatles’ in Miami.
Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd’s hard work was rewarded with an NBA championship, guaranteeing both immediate entry into the Hall of Fame when they retire.
Derrick Rose won the MVP award, leading the Chicago Bulls to the league’s best regular season record and a place in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder took another step winning two playoff series before falling to Nowitzki and Kidd’s Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals.
The Memphis Grizzlies made the playoffs and upset the San Antonio Spurs. After years of futility, the Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers were relevant and entertaining.
There are other storylines I’m missing.
For instance, high on this list is the emergence of Blake Griffin, whose aerial antics reminded the world there’s a professional basketball squad in Los Angeles not called the Lakers.
(And this squad, the Clippers, can compete and delight despite being owned by the twisted and incompetent Donald Sterling.)
Suppose there’s a lockout. One that wipes out the entire season. Griffin, who missed 2009 with injury, will have played just eighty-two games in his first three seasons.
Fans would have to wait a year to see Griffin assault the rim. Fans would have to wonder what Griffin would do to defend his crown at the 2012 Slam Dunk Contest. And fans, the purists, would have to wait a year to see Griffin’s above average passing and skill-set develop.
This is tragic. And just another thing Commissioner David Stern, the owners, Union Head Billy Hunter, and the players are risking with their posturing and rhetoric.
I hope they know what they’re doing. Griffin missing another year should be a last resort.
--Oly Sandor.
Got thoughts? Well, get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
“I just want to do whatever an organization wants me to do,” Iverson said. “Everybody made a big thing about me not wanting to come off the bench, but I said that at that point because it never happened to me in my life and it was something new to me, and obviously I didn’t know how to handle it. But to be back on the biggest stage is my whole thing and I feel like I have a couple more years left in my career and I want to play. I sat through and watched the whole season and it was tough for me. Now I just try to do what I have to do to be physically and mentally able to get back on the stage.”
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: It's hard to take Allen Iverson at his word. It's hard to believe he'd play a role.
Iverson refused to come off the bench and play behind Rip Hamilton, a long-time cog for some strong Detroit Pistons teams. Motown quickly became a fiasco.
Iverson, despite missing training camp with leg ailments, threw a fit when Memphis Grizzlies Coach Lionel Hollins didn't start him. The club released him one week into the 2009-10 season.
Iverson had an up-and-down second-stint with the Philadelphia 76ers. His run in Turkey was cut short by injuries. In both stops, there were reports of personal issues that have not been resolved.
So there's little or no evidence to suggest Iverson could handle being a reserve, could handle fluctuating minutes, could handle getting a few shots per night. Then there's his baggage.
Of course, one of the NBA's greatest little men deserved better. Iverson refused to transition gracefully. He refused to sign with a contender, say San Antonio or Boston, and become a second unit game-changer.
Instead, it was all about Iverson –even when his career was fading. His stubbornness, that intangible that once made him great, will likely cost Iverson a chance to show us he has changed.
--Oly Sandor.
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Wells, who spent some time in China before last playing professionally in Puerto Rico, was one of a few reclamation projects the Knicks had at the MSG Training Center late last week for a minicamp to get a look at some possible training camp invitees. With little to no money to spend this offseason (depending on the system in the next collective bargaining agreement), the Knicks have to be creative in finding talent to upgrade the roster.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Are the New York Knicks so desperate they’re considering a player who has been out of the NBA for three years? Or, are the Knicks being thorough by looking at a talented but troubled swing?
The player is Bonzi Wells. He had a cup of coffee with the Detroit Pistons; spent his formative years with the Jail Blazers; got suspended and banned from the arena by the Memphis Grizzlies; turned down $35 million from the Sacramento Kings; then somehow ended up plying his trade in China
Along the way, Wells, fair or not, earned a reputation for being a bad seed. His off-the-court issues and fluctuating weight overshadowed his considerable skill and scoring ability.
Of course, Wells could play.
Former teammate Scottie Pippen once compared his ability to score, especially on the low block, to former star Mark Aguirre.
Word is Wells can still play. Even if he’s in his mid thirties. The former Ball State star has been scrimmaging and doing a little coaching on the side.
Perhaps Wells could help. Perhaps not. But the Knicks have nothing to lose and everything to gain with a workout.
--Oly Sandor.
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"Just give me a training camp," he said. "Maybe I've rubbed people the wrong way as far as saying the things I've said in my life and in my career. But if any team needs me to help try and win a championship in any capacity, I'm waiting."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Allen Iverson is like the boxer who hung on past his prime.
Currently, Iverson is out the NBA and plying his trade in Turkey before injury ended his overseas experiment prematurely. While Europe is good, the NBA is better. And Iverson is positioning himself to get a training camp invite.
Here’s the problem: Iverson, if healthy and focused, won’t play a role.
He won’t come off the bench. He won’t serve as a reserve. And he won’t defer. It’s not in his nature. Instead, he’ll demand minutes. He’ll demand touches. And he’ll demand to start.
Like with the Detroit Pistons. And like with the Memphis Grizzlies.
This is, after all, Iverson. The combo guard is stuck in a time warp, believing he still resembles the player who won the regular season MVP a decade ago. This perception clashes with the reality that Iverson is no longer The Answer.
He deserved a better ending. One of the game’s greatest little men of all time should be celebrated, not hanging on too long.
Iverson has nobody to blame but himself for his current fate, though.
--Oly Sandor.
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Tony Parker says that age has finally caught up with the Spurs. "At the start of the season I said this was our last chance," he said. "Tim and Gino (Manu Ginobili) are getting old. It's going to be tough to regenerate ourselves.
HoopsVibe`s Very Quick Call: Good. Just not great.
This is how Tony Parker sees his San Antonio Spurs, who, according to the lightning-quick table-setter, are now too old to win an NBA championship.
Parker thinks the Spurs are still relevant, though; however, their days of June victory parades along the San Antonio river-walk are no more.
Going forward, the Spurs` greatest challenge is identity -as in they lost theirs.
For years, Gregg Popovich`s crew were known for air-tight defence. Home or away, they were always competitive because they got-stops.
This season, they shifted to an up-tempo system to create easy hoops for the veterans. It worked during the regular season when games are open.
In the playoffs, the tempo slows. Teams get dirty, especially on defense. And the Spurs couldn`t adjust, which resulted in a, somewhat, surprising loss to the upstart Memphis Grizzlies.
So for the Spurs to stay competitive, they must rediscover their defensive chops. Or, The Alamo could continue falling in the Western Conference.
--Oly Sandor.
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Do the Grizzlies have enough money for Randolph, Gasol, Mike Conley's five-year, $45 million extension that begins next season and Gay, too? Perhaps, but they played awfully well during the postseason without him. Gay averaged 19.8 points and 6.2 rebounds in a season that ended in mid-February to a shoulder injury. He is one of the league's most explosive scorers and just entering the prime of his career, so he won't come cheap.
HoopsVibe`s Very Quick Call: Will take big tickets from small markets.
This should be the motto for the Cleveland Cavaliers, who, despite the declining economy and pending lockout, are one of the few teams willing to assume lucrative contracts.
After all, Cavaliers` owner Dan Gilbert hates losing, and will spend on veteran talent –if it provides an identity and helps turn the page on The Decision.
The Cavaliers acquired Baron Davis –even though he`s often injured, overweight, and has two years and $29 million remaining on his contract.
Last year, they chased Gerald Wallace before the Charlotte Bobcats sent the pogo-stick three-man to the Portland Trail Blazers at the trade deadline. Wallace is owed $22 million through 2013.
Now they want Rudy Gay, who the Memphis Grizzlies have made available because he`s scheduled to make $68 million over the next four years. The Grizzlies just extended Zach Randolph and want to re-up with Marc Gasol.
On the one hand, Gay might be a nice asset. He`s relatively young. He`s talented. He`s athletic. And he can score in a variety of ways.
On the other hand, he`s expensive. Some believe his team was better without him –the Grizzlies were a game from the Western Conference Finals, even though Gay was injured.
So acquiring Gay`s big-ticket would be a risk. Perhaps, it`s a risk worth taking.
--Oly Sandor.
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HoopsVibe`s Very Quick Call: Yes, the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Oklahoma City Thunder yesterday to force a do-or-die game seven on Sunday.
The real debate will be this: charge or block?
After all, Memphis reserve Darrell Arthur threw down a facial for the ages on Nick Collison, but the basket was disallowed because the referees called a charge.
Nobody disagreed more than Memphis` Marc Gasol, who, through his facial expressions, either thought it was a block or finally saw the replay of Lakers coach Phil Jackson abusing brother Pau in game three against the Dallas Mavericks.
Charge or block? Watch the video, make the call, and get at us with thoughts in the comment box below.
--Oly Sandor.
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Some league folks have hinted that the Sixers and Memphis Grizzlies could discuss a swap of Iguodala for Memphis' injured star Rudy Gay. The Grizzlies are making an impact in the Western Conference playoffs without Gay, who went down with a shoulder injury late in the season.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It would appear the Philadelphia 76ers are preparing to cut ties with the versatile Andre Iguodala.
This rhetoric is nothing new. Prior to this year, the 76ers underachieved and much of the blame was placed at the feet of their highly paid swing.
And the result was constant trade chatter. There was no market for Iguodala’s long-term contract, though. He earned a superstar wage, while being merely a good player.
In 2011, Iguodala became Collins’ Renaissance man, doing everything well. He rebounded, defended, blocked shots, set up teammates, and scored.
Unfortunately, the 76ers now need a first-option scorer. Not a poor man’s Scottie Pippen. So Iguodala is being dangled as trade bait to land either the Memphis Grizzlies’ Rudy Gay or the Los Angeles Clippers’ Chris Kaman.
Gay and Kaman can play. Both are terrific scorers, but have become expendable due to the dynamics of their club changing. The Grizzlies are building around Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, while the Clippers like the athletic DeAndre Jordan at the five.
Gay’s contract is a match to Iguodala’s on a per year basis. Both are scheduled to earn $13.5 million in 2012, but Gay has a longer term. Meanwhile, Kaman is only on the books for 2012 at $10 million.
Iguodala finally came close to fulfilling expectations in Philadelphia, and, ironically, his reward seems to be a one-way ticket out of town.
--Oly Sandor.
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Never one to shy away from controversy, Memphis guard Tony Allen on Sunday accused Manu Ginobili of faking his well-documented elbow injury. “It’s for the birds,” Allen said. “Everybody is banged up. You don’t see me running to my PR guy telling him about an injury.”
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Tony Allen calls it like he sees it. And he sees Manu Ginobili as a faker.
Allen, a lockdown defender for the Memphis Grizzlies, believes Ginobili, a swing for the San Antonio Spurs, is exaggerating his elbow ailment and instructing his ‘PR guys’ to publicize his injury.
This is about the head. Not the elbow. Allen must stop Ginobili from scoring. Ginobili must ignore Allen and score.
Both sides are looking for an advantage in their game of cat-and-mouse. For instance, tempers momentarily flared between these two in game three when Allen 'landed' on Ginobili.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
"It would have been cool," Mayo said before his Grizzlies took on the Bulls at the United Center. "I stay here in the offseason and work out with Tim Grover. But I'm happy (with the Grizzlies)." The Bulls and Grizzlies could not agree to terms before the Feb. 24 trade deadline so the Bulls kept their roster intact, and Mayo continued in his role with Memphis.
The Memphis Grizzlies are in the midst of a playoff race, so it’s not ideal having O.J. Mayo re-hash old trade rumors involving the Chicago Bulls.
To be fair, Mayo has had a hell of a year -and not in a good way.
The talented swing lost his starting position early in the season, went on the injured list after losing a donnybrook to team mate Tony Allen (the two were fighting over a gambling debt), and then there was the trade gossip.
Not surprisingly, this season hasn’t been Mayo’s best. However, his minutes, shots, and touches will increase with Rudy Gay’s unfortunate season ending injury.
Commenting on joining the Bulls, however harmless the intent, isn’t appropriate. The Grizzlies need Mayo to focus on here and now. Making the playoffs may depend on it.
--Oly Sandor.
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The Griz initiated and held serious contract negotiations with Zach Randolph over the past week, and both sides continue to discuss the framework of a four-year extension that could be finalized soon. Randolph, who leads the Grizzlies with 20.1 points and 12.6 rebounds per game, would become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season if no deal is reached.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Say what you like about The Hoop Posse. Say what you like about Zach Randolph’s past, especially in Portland, New York, and Los Angeles.
This is all fair game: the strippers, the bad press, the questionable behaviour. Randolph has a past. We all know it.
However, he’s been a professional on-and-off court with the Memphis Grizzlies. There have been few, if any, run-ins with the law or the locals.
Of course, Randolph’s play has never suffered. Not one bit. Simply put, he’s a double-double machine, averaging well over 20 points and 10 rebounds per night.
And Randolph’s size and skill-set next to Marc Gasol gives the Grizzlies a formidable inside presence that opponents are hard pressed to match.
The fact that the Grizzlies are negotiating with Randolph before the new Collective Bargaining Agreement is a sign of their faith in the veteran left-hander.
Now the Grizzlies won't meet Randolph's past demand of Pau Gasol money: three-years, $60 million. He does, however, deserve a nice extension. And he’ll get it.
--Oly Sandor.
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Thursday, February 03, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
"I think Ron enjoys being in L.A," Phil Jackson said. "I think he likes the Lakers. I think he likes the action. I think he likes the attention we get as a basketball club. I think that feeds into who he is as a person." Artest was admant that he doesn't want to be traded. "I feel good every day," Artest said. "We've got a chance to win multiple championships here...trying to work towards another banner."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: He’s out. No. He’s in.
In less than 24 hours there have been conflicting reports on Ron Artest’s future with the two-time defending champion Los Angeles Lakers.
Yesterday, Marc Stein reported that Artest had requested a trade. The ESPN reporter quoted an unnamed source who mentioned that the three-man was tired of being blamed for the team’s struggles and wanted a greater role in the offense.
Today, the Lakers were in damage control mode, with player and team both denying the report.
Forget the rumors. All is not well with the purple-and-gold.
Part of this is boredom. The Lakers have had two especially long seasons, playing from October to the end of June. They’ve also been in some epic game sevens, which probably makes it tough to play the Memphis Grizzlies in January.
Part of this is fear. Everybody else is better –much better. The Miami Heat have the Three Kings in Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade; the Boston Celtics are deeper, especially down-low; the San Antonio Spurs’ Big Four dominate both ends of the floor.
The Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Orlando Magic, and Oklahoma City Thunder also have designs on winning a championship.
So ‘three-peating’ won’t be easy. Artest and the Lakers have to focus on the challenge.
--Oly Sandor.
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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Is this his final answer?
Reports indicate Allen ‘The Answer’ Iverson won’t return to his Turkish club team this season because of a leg injury. Of course, next year has to be in doubt, too.
However, the real issue is whether Iverson retires or keeps trudging along, seeking a job overseas as a way to land one final audition with an NBA team.
The last few years have been tough on Iverson. There was his messy divorce with the Philadelphia 76ers; he and Carmelo Anthony never met expectations with the Denver Nuggets; Detroit and Memphis was a disaster; and his reunion with the 76ers was mixed.
Before getting injured, Iverson was having a mediocre season with a somewhat competitive Turkish squad.
Perhaps Iverson is at fault for the way his career is ending. But one of the greatest little men to ever play basketball deserves better than this.
--Oly Sandor.
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Thursday, January 27, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
The NBA announced today that O.J. Mayo of the Memphis Grizzlies has been suspended without pay for 10 games for violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program.
His violation of the program involved a positive test for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Mayo’s suspension will begin with tomorrow night’s game between the Grizzlies and the Philadelphia 76ers.
“I’m extremely disappointed that I’m going to miss the next 10 games, particularly as our team is making a push for the playoffs," said Mayo in a statement. "I had no idea that the over-the-counter supplement that I took was a substance banned by the NBA. It was an honest mistake, but I take full responsibility for my actions. I apologize to my fans, teammates and the Grizzlies organization for regrettably not doing the necessary research about what supplements I can put in my body.”
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Today, OJ Mayo’s nightmare season got worse.
It began when he lost his starting position with the Memphis Grizzlies. Then he lost a fight with teammate Tony Allen over a gambling debt. And today, he was suspended ten games for using a banned substance.
Of course, Mayo’s name has also been bandied about the rumor mill for months now. The thrifty Grizzlies are hesitant to give the young swing a contract extension, and his suspension will only complicate their decision.
Bottom line: Mayo came into the league with much potential and promise. He has yet to fulfill it.
--Oly Sandor.
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Saturday, January 15, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
Allen Iverson: An MRI has revealed a legion that is in my right leg and pressing against the bone. I am coming home for further examinations and possibly surgery. I have never said anything about retirement.
Hoops Vibe’s Very Quick Call: It should not end like this. Allen Iverson, the greatest little man to ever play basketball, deserves better.
Far better, in fact.
Iverson has left the Turkish club he had been playing for to have a legion removed on his leg. He will be in the United States indefinitely.
He insists this is not the end of the line, though. Like a heavyweight boxer holding on for a final payday, he wants to return. After all, there is another year and $2 million dollars waiting for him in Turkey.
However, Iverson’s last few situations have not ended well. He was run out of Detroit; he quit on Memphis after three games; and had to leave Philadelphia for personal reasons.
And now his body gave out on him while playing for a mediocre European squad.
Perhaps Iverson should it call a day and retire. Perhaps he was never meant to have a happy ending.
-Oly Sandor.
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HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Carmelo Anthony saga has again changed.
Just when you thought the small forward was finally on his way to the New Jersey Nets with the help of the Detroit Pistons, the New York Knicks and Memphis Grizzlies weighed in.
Apparently, the Knicks and Grizzlies are hatching out a separate trade for OJ Mayo, who the Knicks would then include in a package to the Denver Nuggets for Anthony.
The Knicks and Grizzlies have entered, or re-entered, the Anthony saga for separate reasons.
The Knicks are back. After years of being the league laughingstock, Madison Square Garden is enjoying a renaissance, and eagerly waiting to return to the playoffs.
However, to challenge the big boys in the Eastern Conference – like the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic – the Knicks will need to add another piece.
Enter Anthony. There’s a belief he’ll team with Amar’e Stoudemire and Ray Felton to take the Knicks to another level.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies are looking to ditch ties with Mayo. The controversial forward has had a poor season and recently scrapped with teammate Tony Allen over an unpaid gambling debt.
Of course, Mayo’s due for a contract extension, so the thrifty Grizzlies are exploring ways to cut ties with him.
Bottom line: the Nets have significant competition for Anthony.
--Oly Sandor.
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Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
Grizzles teammates O.J. Mayo and Tony Allen had to be separated during a physical encounter that stemmed from a card game on the team's charter flight Monday, according to team sources. Mayo owed Allen money from a card game called "Boo-Ray" and he became increasingly belligerent when asked to settle his debt.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Who exactly is to blame for Tony Allen and OJ Mayo scrapping over an unsettled debt on a team plane?
Well, Allen and Mayo have to shoulder a portion of the blame for acting in an unprofessional manner. However, so do the Memphis Grizzlies.
After all, most franchises have banned gambling. This was common sense after Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton drew guns on each other in the Washington Wizards’ locker room in attempt to settle a gambling debt.
Not the Grizzlies. They missed this tsunami sized warning sign. Of course, this wasn’t the first sign.
Years ago, Charles Oakley punched Tyrone Hill because he refused to ‘pay what he owed’ in a card game. ‘Oak’ and Hill were on different teams. They ‘happened’ to meet when their respected teams, the Toronto Raptors and Philadelphia 76ers, crossed path on the practice floor.
In short, players will act unprofessionally –if their team allows it. The Grizzlies allowed it. And now they have a mess on their hands.
--Oly Sandor.
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Monday, January 03, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
On an unrelated note, Bryant expressed not a hint of concern for picking up five technical fouls in last six games: [Expletive] it. Don't care. I can afford it.".
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Forget Kobe Bryant’s choice of words. He has bigger issues than a fine from league head office.
Consider the recent plight of his Los Angeles Lakers: they’ve lost four of their past six games; they haven’t played well for weeks; they, according to Bryant, are ‘skipping steps’; and last night they were booed at home for a terrible effort in a loss to the average Memphis Grizzlies.
Their problems are greater than being bored with the regular season. And their problems are also greater than arrogantly thinking they can hit a switch for the playoffs.
This year, the Lakers have serious competition. In the Western Conference, there’s the San Antonio Spurs and, provided they get past their recent string of injuries, the Dallas Mavericks. Neither team will concede an inch in a best of seven playoff series.
If the Lakers advance to the NBA Finals, they could face the Boston Celtics or Miami Heat, two superb defensive teams. And the Orlando Magic, despite two mid-season trades, is still dangerous.
So the competition is better, while, it appears, the purple-and-gold is worse.
Don’t get it twisted: the Lakers are extremely talented. But something is missing from the two-time defending champions. Perhaps the hunger is gone. Perhaps the motivation is gone.
Or perhaps everything will be fine next June, and Bryant and his teammates will be celebrating a three-peat. Right now, this scenario seems unlikely.
--Oly Sandor.
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Saturday, January 01, 2011
Written by HoopsVibe News
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Good for Tyreke Evans. Good for the beleaguered Sacramento Kings fans.
Late last week, the Kings and Memphis Grizzlies were locked in a close battle. With seconds remaining, the Grizzlies pulled ahead 98-97 on an OJ Mayo floater.
Game over, right? Well, wrong.
Evans alertly grabs the inbound pass, takes one dribble, and converts a miracle heave to win the game. Hopefully, this is the start of a turnaround for Evans, who has been bothered with foot troubles, and the lowly Kings.
The best part of Evans’ game-winning shot: teammate Donte Greene comes off the Kings’ bench and is celebrating on-court before the ball is in. Green, it seems, had faith.
Watch Evans’ game-winning shot and get at us with thoughts on Greene's reaction in the comment box below.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
In a separate matter, Memphis Grizzles guard O.J. Mayo could be on the move soon, and a source close to his family thinks he could end up with the Knicks. “They’re gonna move him next week and I think he’s gonna end up in New York,” the source said.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: He’s too great a risk for these New York Knicks.
Sure, Coach Mike D’Antoni’s squad could use an additional piece; however, O.J. Mayo needs touches, shots, and minutes to be effective.
Mayo’s score-first approach would impact chemistry. For instance, Amar’e Stoudemire and Ray Felton, the Knicks’ newfound pick-and-roll duo, would have to adjust. And Mayo would take minutes from promising rookie Landry Fields and youngster Wilson Chandler.
So the Knicks should proceed with caution. After all, the club has won eight straight and Madison Square Gardens is in the midst of a basketball renaissance.
Instead of considering tinkering, the Knicks may be better of just enjoying their success.
-Oly Sandor.
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Saturday, December 11, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
"That's our man," Mayo said of Hollins. "We've let the owner, we let everyone know this is the guy we want to play for. We've been in a lot of winnable games. We've just got to start winning. Whatever our role is, whatever the dynamic of the team is, we've got to accept it and go hard. We feel like we're a good team. We've just got to stick to the script.
"It's obvious the problem is us. It's blatantly obvious," Rudy Gay said. "We need to play defense. We need to execute and we haven't been doing it. We're getting closer. But getting close doesn't count. We need to get W's and I mean put more than a few of them together."
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: They’re 9-14. They don’t play defense. Their execution is poor. But they still deserve credit.
Instead of blaming each other, instead of turning on Coach Lionel Hollins, instead of playing for individual statistics, the young Memphis Grizzlies are collectively accepting blame for their disappointing start.
This is a sign. The Grizzlies have character on their roster. And management should give this group every opportunity to right the ship.
--Oly Sandor.
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Monday, October 25, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
Stern didn't single out any franchises, but a Celtics team source told the Boston Globe that small-market cities like Charlotte, Memphis and New Orleans may be in danger of losing their teams.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: This is a ploy. The owners and players are currently negotiating a new Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Commissioner David Stern will use this leverage to threaten the Player’s Union. They concede on salary rollbacks or he’ll ‘push’ to contract the Charlotte Bobcats, Memphis Grizzlies, and New Orleans Hornets.
Forget the CBA drama. Would contraction be so bad?
Memphis and New Orleans will always struggle to generate sufficient revenue –even with a new CBA. After all, Grizzly and Hornet owners Michael Heisley and George Shinn have been trying to sell their teams for years.
They can't.
There’s no interest. And there's no market.
However, Stern wouldn’t let Michael Jordan - the most popular NBA player of all time - buy the Bobcats if contraction was a real possibility in Charlotte.
Charlotte may still be angry because of the Hornets’ departure. Attendance may be mediocre. And Jordan may have bought the team for less than the expansion fee that original owner Bob Johnson paid.
North Carolina is a hoops hotbed. Basketball is a religion; years before they left Charlotte, the Hornets led the NBA in attendance.
Jordan used his money to buy the team. He’s too competitive to allow the Bobcats to languish. He’ll change the culture and environment.
Stern knows this.
While contraction may be the best option for Memphis and New Orleans, Charlotte should stay. Let Jordan stick out his trademark tongue, put in work, and fix things.
If number 23 can’t right the ship, nobody can.
--Oly Sandor.
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Monday, October 25, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
Allen Iverson has agreed in principal to sign a two-year, $4 million contract with Besiktas of the Turkish professional league, according to a report by Yahoo! Sports.
The deal is expected to be filled with incentives. Iverson plans to sign the deal this week and will report to Besiktas by Oct. 31.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call:It didn’t have to be this way. It shouldn’t have been this way.
Allen Iverson - perhaps The Greatest Little Man to ever play in the NBA – should not be ending his career as a gimmick in a foreign country.
He should be playing meaningful minutes. He should be thriving as a sixth-man, game-changer for a contender. And he should, at a minimum, be relevant.
However, Iverson refused to play a role. He wouldn’t do it for the Detroit Pistons. He walked on the Memphis Grizzlies after game three. His personal issues with the Philadelphia 76ers didn’t help, either.
No team offered him a contract this summer. He's out of chances and at fault for his current situation.
Hopefully, Iverson remembers this while plying his trade in Turkey.
--Oly Sandor.
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Saturday, October 09, 2010
Written by HoopsVibe News
Former NBA star Steve Francis was arrested Thursday night at Los Angeles International Airport, officials said. Francis was taken into custody about 10 p.m. by airport police for resisting arrest, officials said. He appeared intoxicated and became boisterous at one of the ticket counters, officials said. He was released after posting $10,000 bail early Friday.
HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Oh, how The Franchise has fallen.
Steve Francis, a three-time NBA All-Star, is now out the league and catching flack from the law for sipping a little something, something at the Los Angeles International Airport.
Perhaps this is Karma. After all, Francis was a Prima Donna in Vancouver, Houston, and Orlando. His time in New York and Memphis was laughable.
Hopefully, Francis gets it together. He’s only 33. And has the resources to do anything he wants.
--Oly Sandor.
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