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.

Link

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.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Kobe Bryant notched 28 points to pass former teammate turned rival Shaquille O’Neal for fifth on the NBA’s All-Time scoring list.

Of course, Bryant won’t be happy with the personal accomplishment, as the Philadelphia 76ers beat his Los Angeles Lakers 95-90.

Watch the video, and get at HoopsVibe News with thoughts in the comment box below.

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

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?

Link

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.

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.

Link

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.


 

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.

Link

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. 

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The score didn’t matter. Not one bit.

During tonight’s Celtics-76ers game, Mickael Pietrus drove the lane and fell awkwardly on his back and neck. The green-and-white’s reserve swing lay motionless for several minutes and was throwing up before being removed from the court on a stretcher.

There is good news: Celtics coach Doc Rivers told reporters Pietrus had passed several medical tests and was being kept overnight in hospital.

Watch the fall (it’s a bit of gruesome) and get at HoopsVibe News with thoughts in the comment box below.

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

Andres Nocioni on Tyreke Evans: "I can't really say what I want to say because I'm on TV... Incredible talent, but I think teams sometimes should be tougher on the younger guys. What he brought to Sacramento was trouble in the locker room and that doesn't take you nowhere.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Andres Nocioni, for better or worse, tells it like it is.

The veteran swing -- who is currently out of the NBA after getting released by the Philadelphia 76ers earlier this season -- never pulls punches. (In fact, this could be why Nocioni doesn’t have a job.)

It’s especially telling that Nocioni publicly called out Tyreke Evans, the talented but underachieving swing for the Sacramento Kings. He has nothing to gain by doing so.

According to Nocioni, the Kings are dysfunctional, in part, because team officials never held Evans accountable for his disturbing behaviour.

The implication is this: the Kings are struggling because they tolerated Evans’ poor judgement off-court, shot first mentality on-court, and me-first approach with teammates.

Like so many things, timing is everything. This summer, the Kings will be able to open negotiations on a long-term pact with Evans, who has up to two years remaining on his original rookie contract.

The feeling is that the franchise is satisfied but hardly thrilled with Evans. And the cost-conscious Maloof brothers, who own the team, won’t offer him a max’ money contract.

In today’s NBA, this is a slight. Most stars wants superstar money. Anything less is seen as a lack of respect by the player and his entourage of yes-men.

So this summer’s contract talks this summer between the Kings and Evans could foreshadow whether the team and player stick together or break up.

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

Elton Brand heading to Dallas Mavericks.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Mark Cuban needs to get more than Brand to make a run at the Western Conference.

Dwight Howard has officially been traded to the LA Lakers in a four team deal.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Are we dreaming? Did this deal actually, finally go down? I almost don't believe it.

On Saturday, the 76ers announced Andrew Bynum is out indefinitely.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Is he ever going to be healthy again?

HoopsVibe was fortunate enough to speak with former NBA All-Star Dikembe Mutombo

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: Mutombo is the latest pitch-man for Old Spice's "Champion Scent" line of products.

During his 18 year playing career, "Mt. Mutombo" was one of the most intimidating shot blockers and rebounders of all time, leading the league in blocked shots five times and rebounds four times. Mutombo was an eight time All-Star and appeared in the NBA FInals with the Philadelphia 76ers. 

HoopsVibe: Tell us about the game (which can be found at oldspicesavestheworld.com). According to the site you have 4 ½ weeks to save the world before the end of the Mayan calendar, correct?

Dikembe Mutombo: Yes, Iteam up with Old Spice to promote the computer game and we have to save the world in 4 ½ weeks. Also to promote Champion Scent from Old Spice. It’s a wonderful game for everybody to play.

HV: Let’s talk about Georgetown. You played there with Alonzo Mourning and a lot of other great players; Why couldn’t you and Zo win a national title?

DM: Man, that is a major question that will haunt us for the rest of our lives. We had a chance and ultimately went to NBA to become dominant centers and we had opportunities to win in college. The opportunity was there, and we just didn’t do it.

HV: How did the finger wave come to become your signature move?

DM: It happened after my third year just before we beat the Seattle Supersonics in 1994 NBA playoffs. I was having such a great year and blocking shots and moving up in the league. I used to block the shot and then I would shake my hand and no one said nothing. One day I decided shaking the hand doesn't really mean nothing- maybe the best way to not come into the House of Mutombo it's best to wave my finger, so it worked out very cool. But it ended up getting me a lot of technicals.

HV: How did the NBA come to ban that? Does David Stern call you personally?

DM: It came from the players. You would hear from someone like Phil Jackson or something, that maybe you better stop what you're doing it's costing you a lot of money. It was good for me to do in the players face, but if I could face the fans and wave my finger away from the players face, it would be great. That's why you see in the last five years I started doing it away from the players face. So I don't have to lose a couple of thousand dollars (laughing).

HV: Who was your favorite NBA player to block? 

DM: That's a good question. To me, not just one in particular. But I think playing against Shawn Kemp. He was such a high jumping, athletic player.

HV: How gratifying was it to be the first eight seed to beat a one seed when your Nuggets beat Kemp's Sonics?

DM: One of my proudest successes of my career. But I’m happy to promote the Old Spice game now. I want everyone to go to the website on your computer and play the game to save the world we only have four and a half weeks so we better do it!

To play "Dikembe Mutombo's 4 1/2 Weeks to Save the World", click here.

In typical fashion, Andrew Bynum wasn't spotted recently on a basketball court, but rather, at a strip club.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Bynum is clearly enjoying himself in Philadelphia, doing everything other than basketball.

Despite a 15-15 record, Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant has good reason to be confident going into tonight's game against the 76ers.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  Even in his 17th season, Bryant hasn't lost a step.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sadly, the above quote is not fiction; I witnessed it first hand at a friend’s house yesterday while watching the NCAA tournament.

HoopsVibe Very Quick Call: The younger generations are screwed.

The Philadelphia 76ers haven't gotten anything close to what they hoped out of Andrew Bynum.

Hoopsvibe's quick call:  In fact, they haven't gotten anything at all.

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?

For more news, info and updates, follow us on Twitter @hoopsvibe

Image Credit: Creative Commons

No matter what he does he will always be known as one of Michael Jordan’s first NBA coaches, the man who couldn’t fulfill Jordan’s potential. Even after he left the NBA’s coaching ranks and joined the broadcast booth, he still couldn’t shake the jaundiced eye of the casual NBA fan, thanks to his inability to take Jordan and those young but talented late 80’s Bulls teams to the peak of their ability.

The Quick Hit: Recently, former superstar Tracy McGrady told reporters, despite his lacklustre play and mediocre health, he wouldn’t sign with a team this summer that asked him to serve as sixth-man.

McGrady, of course, believes he’s a still starter. And McGrady also believes he hasn’t ‘fallen off’ to where he's a reserve.  

Forgive me, but didn’t we just see this song and dance? Didn’t we just see first ballot Hall of Fame guard Allen Iverson commit career suicide by refusing a lesser role for the Detroit Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies?

HoopsVibe's Breaking Down The NBA Blog regularly provides a snapshot of the best NBA stories you should be reading from the three dubyas. We call it Best of the Web ...

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Last night, Jrue Holiday welcomed Jan Vesely to the NBA by postering the Washington Wizards rookie, prompting teammate Spencer Hawes to take a mock picture. 

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

The problems are still piling up for Allen Iverson.  After splitting from the Philadelphia 76ers and divorcing wife Tawanna Iverson, you couldn't blame AI for acting a little out of character.  Reports hit the gossip pages suggesting that Iverson had something of a drinking problem and that his gambling behavior had resulted in his being banned from several casinos.  The purchase of a $4.5 million house seemed to confirm the split from Tawanna, and since then we've heard very little from the former NBA MVP.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: These kind of highlights are long overdue thanks to the lockout.

Instead of writing about the collective bargaining agreement, we have a John Wall highlight for your enjoyment.

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

Philly poured a bit over $68 million to field a 2010-2011 team that will not make the playoffs. They will be ranked number eleven among 30 teams in total salary committed for that season. They are ahead of notable playoff teams such as the Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, and Oklahoma City Thunder. In short – that’s terrible.

Joining the Heat "would be fantastic," Dalembert said Sunday night from Haiti in an interview with FOX Sports Florida. Miami is where more than 50 of his relatives live and is about one hour south of his home in Boca Raton. As for the volunteering part, Dalembert likely would require a big pay cut to join the Heat, which will be over the salary cap. Dalembert, who made $13.43 million last season for Sacramento, might have to sign for the $5 million mid-level exception.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: The Miami Heat nearly won a championship in 2011 with an ozone-sized hole at center.

Free agent center Samuel Dalembert wants to sign with the Miami Heat, plug that hole, and help Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade take the final step in 2012.

Dalembert, who spent last year in Sacramento, has a considerable size advantage over Joel Anthony and Udonis Haslem, the posts currently on the Heat’s roster.

On some level, Dalembert could fit. However, it’s worth noting that the lanky five was kicked off the Canadian national team and criticized for his work ethic and attitude in Philadelphia.

So the Heat may look elsewhere for reinforcements down-low.

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

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.’

Link

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.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: NBA Stars want to be rappers. And rappers want to be NBA stars.

So there’s quite a bit of cross over between the two professions, however, few succeed and should leave their day job.

Philadelphia 76ers guard Lou Williams has spent the lockout making music and we’ll let you decide if he’s should continue or stick with hoops.

Click the video below and get at HoopsVibe News with thoughts.  

--Oly Sandor.

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: Are you tired of the lockout? Tired of hearing of millionaire players arguing with billionaire owners? Just want some basketball?

Well, we've got your remedy. Click the video, watch Philadelphia 76ers guard Low Williams drop 51 points in a Pro-Am run in Atlanta, and get at HoopsVibe News in the comment box below.

(Credit to Slamonline for finding the video.)

--Oly Sandor.

I don't know. The Sixers already said they don't want me. And now we're in a lockout. So I'll see what I do. Playing in Europe is a possibility.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Andres Nocioni will be on the move -again.

Reports indicate the Argentine swing will not return to the Philadelphia 76ers when the lockout ends and is open to playing with an NBA or European team.

This is and isn’t a surprise.

On the surface, it would seem a young, developing team like the 76ers would want a veteran presence like Nocioni. Remember, he does the little things and brings an edge.

However, the 76ers didn’t use Nocioni. For a variety of reasons, he played in just 54 regular season games and only got off the bench once for ten minutes in the playoffs against the Miami Heat. 

The only complication is his salary. Nocioni has one year guaranteed at $6.5 million, while his next team will hold an option on 2012-13 at $7.5 million.

Suppose the lockout lasts all year. His 2011-12 salary would then be negated. The 76ers wouldn’t exercise the option on 2012-13, so he`d be a free agent in July of 2012.

Things will change for Nocioni. The one certainty: he won’t return to Philadelphia.

--Oly Sandor.

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

"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."

Link

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.

After interviewing Rick Adelman and Don Nelson over the weekend, the Timberwolves intend to interview Larry Brown and possibly one or two others in this first phase to replace fired coach Kurt Rambis.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It makes some sense -more than hiring Don Nelson, at least.

Larry Brown is best when spreading his ‘Play The Right Way’ mantra amongst a young, impressionable group. After all, Brown considers himself a teacher of the game, and clearly he suffers for his students.

Well, the Minnesota Timberwolves are young and impressionable. They've won just 32 games since 2009, so Brown’s message would, at least initially, hold weight.

The on-court dynamic would be fine -for a while. The off-court end of things sounds dicey.

Yes, Wolves GM David Kahn has known Brown since their days at UCLA. In fact, Kahn considers Brown a mentor, who guided him as a young, impressionable reporter on the west coast.

This is a problem. Brown, to be effective on the sideline, needs a strong counterweight in the front office, who can laugh off his idiosyncrasies, worrying, and perfectionist nature.

There was the legendary Donnie Walsh in Indiana. There was the enthusiastic Pat Croce in Philadelphia. And there was Joe Dumars, who at the time still possessed his magical touch in Detroit.

This trio knew when to listen and when to ignore Brown. Not surprisingly, this formula worked in Indiana, Philadelphia, and Detroit.

Kahn is already a disaster. He would misread, misquote, and mishandle Brown, which, in turn, would have a negative impact on those young, impressionable, and talented players.

The nomad sideline boss isn’t right for the Wolves. But this is about Kahn's inadequacies, not Brown's.

--Oly Sandor.

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

Hall of Fame coach Larry Brown has an interest in joining Doc Rivers’ Boston Celtics staff as an assistant coach, assuming Lawrence Frank accepts the Detroit Pistons' head coaching job, league sources told Yahoo! Sports.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Larry Brown has burned more bridges than a pyromaniac serving a five year bid at Sing, Sing prison in upstate New York.

Brown is the nomad coach. When the going gets tough, he gets going. Or when he thinks the grass is greener on the other side, he goes to the other side.

Just ask the Charlotte Bobcats and Los Angeles Clippers or the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks or the Philadelphia 76ers and those same Pistons.

Of course, this doesn't stop Brown from demanding his players 'Play The Right Way'. It doesn't matter that he's doing the opposite in front of them.

Despite the hypocrisy, Brown can teach youngsters. Unfortunately, the Boston Celtics are a veteran crew. Old heads like Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce won’t want to deal with the overbearing, impatient, and frustrating Brown.

Celtics head coach ‘Doc’ Rivers won’t be particularly enthused with Brown’s idiosyncrasies either -especially if he’s only using the defensive coordinator gig to showcase himself for a head coaching job.

Rivers and the Celtics should avoid Brown. He’ll burn them like he has so many other teams.

--Oly Sandor.

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

“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.”

Link

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.

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

Trade rumors about Iguodala have become common place for the past couple years but he no longer believes that he is going to be moved. “I can’t say I would be surprised, because I wouldn’t be surprised, but I am not expecting it to happen,” he said.

Link

HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: They tried. They failed. Now they move forward. Together.

Once again, the Philadelphia 76ers attempted to again trade Andre Iguodala following the NBA Finals. Once again, they found no takers for their talented and versatile swing.

Iguodala is good, not great. He's at his best as a blending star, who stuffs the stat-sheet each game with fine all-around play.

Here's the problem: Iguodala, with three years and $45 million remaining on his contract, is paid to be great. Like a perennial All-Star; not a complimentary star.

Obviously, the 76ers explored trading Iguodala; however, they soon realized all they'd get back is a problem contract. So, it seems, management will keep Iguodala and will continue overpaying a good-not-great player.

Of course, management didn't have much choice. The 76ers are between owners, which typically limits an organization's ability to make personnel moves.

Then there's the uncertainty regarding the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Currently, the players are locked-out. And teams were reluctant to make trades with the new CBA and financial system up in the air.

For now, the 76ers and Iguodala are together. Who knows for how long, though?

--Oly Sandor.

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

“I don’t know about the talks he had with the front office or where they ended before the lockout, but as of right now, he’s still a Warrior,” Curry said of Ellis. “We want him with our team. He makes us better. And I think with a fresh start and all the new faces with the organization that will help him forget about the past and not really affect what is going on right now.

“I know there has been a lot of turmoil with him and the organization in the past. I can’t speak for him, but I think the new look of our organization will help him make a difference.”

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: It would have been easy for Stephen Curry. Very easy.

Nearly two years ago, Monta Ellis ‘welcomed’ Curry to his first pro' training camp by telling reporters the two couldn’t form a backcourt for the Golden State Warriors.

Today, the Warriors have a new owner and coach. And today, they’re also shopping Ellis around the league.

Ellis has been linked to Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic, Andre Iguodala and the Philadelphia 76ers, and Lamar Odom and the Los Angeles Lakers.

He recently grew tired of the rumors and requested a trade.

Now Curry could have extracted a little revenge and kicked Ellis when he’s down. Or, he could have offered a terse 'no comment' when asked about the situation

Instead, Curry had Ellis’ back. He explained how the Warriors’ core want him to return and are inviting him to training sessions during the lockout.

Such maturity is the difference between Curry and Ellis. And such maturity is the reason the Warriors prefer Curry over Ellis.

--Oly Sandor.

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

I want to sit down and talk to him (Iguodala) and see where his thoughts are," Collins said after Friday's news conference at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine to introduce first-round draft pick Nikola Vucevic and second-round selection Lavoy Allen of Temple and Pennsbury High. "More importantly, I have shared this with his agent Rob Pelinka: Nobody is out there shopping Dre."

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Doug Collins is saying one thing. His team, however, is doing something different.

The Philadelphia 76ers, with Collins’ approval, have explored trades for former franchise face Andre Iguodala. If possible, they’d have dumped ‘Iggy’ and his big-ticket for a scorer and/or cap relief.

In this economy and with the Collective Bargaining Agreement changing, no team wants the 3-years and $45 million on Iguodala’s contract -including the 76ers.

His stat-stuffing game doesn’t matter. His willingness to sacrifice for others doesn’t matter, either.

The 76ers and Iguodala are stuck with each other. For better. Or for worse.

Collins, bless his heart, is maintaining the front that the 76ers want ‘Dre. According to the personable sideline boss, the club never tried to trade him, either.

To be fair, Collins must walk a fine line. He must support management, who wanted to deal Iguodala. He must also maintain a relationship with Iguodala, who could return for 2011-12.

Bottom line: the 76ers failed to trade Iguodala. Now Collins has to save the relationship.

--Oly Sandor.

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

The Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers have discussed a trade that would send the Warriors' leading scorer, Monta Ellis, to the 76ers for Andre Iguodala, according to league sources, including one with direct knowledge of Golden State's thinking.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Will a new coach, Mark Jackson, and owner, Joe Lacob, mean a new backcourt for the Golden State Warriors?

Well, rumors are again surfacing that the Warriors are looking to send combo guard Monta Ellis to the Philadelphia 76ers for the athletic Andre Iguodala.

No doubt about it, Ellis can play. However, there are doubts about whether he can continue playing with point guard Stephen Curry.

Ellis and Curry form one of the league’s smallest starting backcourts. And Jackson may wish to put his imprint on the Warriors by shipping out the prolific scorer for a more active, well rounded player –like Iguodala.

Meanwhile, the 76ers have again made their stat-stuffing swing available in hope of adding a first option on offense. And Ellis fits the bill.

Under normal circumstance, the bean counters in the front office would also like this trade.

Both players have three seasons left on their contracts. Ellis will earn $11 million per season, while Iguodala will earn slightly more at $14 million per season.

Reports indicate that Comcast, the wealthy holding company that owns the 76ers, are in talks to sell the club. All personnel moves may be put on hold.

Where there’s lots of smoke, there’s typically some sort of fire. Perhaps talks between the Warriors and 76ers become reality.

--Oly Sandor.

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

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.

Link

James scored 29 points, Bosh had his second straight double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Miami took a 2-0 series lead with a 94-73 victory over the abysmally shooting 76ers -- who managed their second-lowest playoff scoring total in the last 56 years -- on Monday night.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: All season, we’ve focused on what they aren’t. Perhaps we should focus on what they are: a defensive juggernaut –especially, on the perimeter.

On Monday night, the Miami Heat easily defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in game two of their first round series. They did this by playing airtight, stingy defense.

Consider the numbers:

•    The 76ers made one half-court basket in the opening quarter, and shot just 26% from the floor in the first half.

•    Only one starter reached double-figures, Jrue Holiday had 12 points.

•    Doug Collins’ squad ended up with a paltry 74 points.

The Heat’s ability to get-stops shouldn't surprise. Even when they were struggling with a 9-8 mark early on, the Heat had the makings of a fabulous defensive squad.

There are two keys to their success. First, the Heat is athletic on the perimeter. See LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Both can lock-up their checks, while playing the passing lanes.Second, Coach Erik Spoelstra rewards his players with offensive freedom -if they follow his scheme in their own end.

And this formula will be the key to the Heat advancing deep into the playoffs.

--Oly Sandor.

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

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Never say Thaddeus Young doesn’t have a zest for defense.

In a league were some players treat their own end like a contagious disease, the Philadelphia 76ers forward did an admirable job ‘D-ing’ up with one shoe.

While leading an incredible comeback in game one of the 76ers' playoff series against the Miami Heat, Young’s shoe came off on a fast break.

He carried his shoe the length of the floor and tossed it to the 76ers' bench, thinking he’d put it on during the next stoppage in play.

All that mattered was defence. And Young, with one shoe, even rotated over to help on Chris Bosh.

However, like Charlie Sheen in Major League, his throw missed the target and fell into the lap of a puzzled Heat fan, who, surprisingly, returned it.

Young quietly slipped his shoe on during the first break in play –much to the chagrin of ABC broadcaster and former coach Jeff Van Gundy, who complained that the fan should've helped his hometown Heat by not giving back the shoe.

Watch Young’s unusual shoe saga and get at HoopsVibe News with thought in the comment box below. 

--Oly Sandor.

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Recently, Lou Williams admitted his Philadelphia 76ers struggled in a loss to the Sacramento Kings because they were out the night before at the Lil’ Wayne concert.

Fair or not, the opinions and editorials on professionalism, or the lack thereof, flew.

What we didn’t know then was that Williams has his own mic’ dreams. Watch the video below and give us your thoughts on his musical talents in the comment box below.

--Oly Sandor.

Williams was at a loss for an answer as to why the team didn't play well, although he did mention attending a concert on Saturday night. "It was a combination of things, and it doesn't seem we came out ready to play," he said. "We took a chance last night by going to the Lil Wayne concert." Williams did not say which teammates attended Saturday's concert at the Wells Fargo Center.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Team goes to rap concert. Team stays out late. Team drops a matinee match-up the next day to a weaker opponent.

This isn’t the JV squad at your local high school, but the Philadelphia 76ers, who, in theory, are professionals.

Several 76ers apparently attended the Lil’ Wayne concert on Saturday night and looked sluggish against the lowly Sacramento Kings on Sunday afternoon.

For instance, Lou Williams was at the show and went 1-for-12 against the Kings. To be fair, his sole make was a terrific three-pointer that sent the game into overtime.   

Nobody is saying NBA players can’t have a life. As we know, many love ‘The Life’.

Perhaps the 76ers shouldn’t have gone to a high profile concert the night before a mid afternoon game, especially since they’re battling for playoff seeding in the Eastern Conference.

Another night, it’s nobody’s business. But Williams shouldn’t have commented to reporters. The young guard should have denied, denied, denied or given a terse no comment.

The 76ers are one of the NBA’s best stories. Hopefully, hanging with Lil` Wayne doesn’t overshadow their accomplishments.

--Oly Sandor.

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

Wade is controlling the ball late in games, which lets LeBron James be used in a simple pick-and-roll. James has been accustomed to playing with the ball in his hands in crunch time, but it appears Wade and Erik Spoelstra have convinced him to try something new. “I think he's starting to see that this can open up his overall game, and he's going to want to do it more," Wade said last week.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Talent isn’t enough in the NBA. Teams must also have chemistry.

Chris Bosh, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and the Miami Heat learned this the hard way, with their up-and-down year.

So have the New York Knicks, who broke up a squad with established chemistry to acquire the talented but sometimes difficult Carmelo Anthony from the Denver Nuggets.

Credit the Heat for trying new things, though. Against the Philadelphia 76ers, James acted as a screener and ran several pick-and-rolls with Wade.

This is a welcome change from the Heat’s steady diet of predictable ‘iso’ plays and one-on-one attempts at the basket.

Doug Collins, the coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, is right: this option will work. James as a four-man setting picks will be tough to prevent from rolling to the basket or slipping the screen.

Opposing defenses will be helpless. If defenders try to switch on the screen, James and/or Wade will have a clear mismatch, which should lead to a scoring opportunity.

If defenders try to show and adjust to the screen, James and/or Wade will have an advantage, which should also lead to a scoring opportunity.

The Heat would be wise to run more of these sets. Variety is important in basketball, and a two-man game involving their best players will upgrade their mediocre half-court offense.

After all, chemistry, not talent, is the key to winning in the NBA. It seems James and Wade are learning.

--Oly Sandor.

With a belief the injured Allen Iverson won't return this season, Besiktas of Turkey tried and failed to sign Sundiata Gaines, sources say.

Link

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.

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

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.

Link

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.

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

Charlotte Bobcats Chairman and CEO Michael Jordan announced today that, effective immediately, Larry Brown is stepping down as head coach of the team.

"I met with Coach Brown two weeks ago about the team’s performance and what we could do to improve it,” said Jordan. “We met again this morning after practice. The team has clearly not lived up to either of our expectations and we both agreed that a change was necessary.

“This was a difficult decision for both of us, but one that needed to be made. I want to thank Larry for everything he has done for our team. He has played a key role in this organization’s development, including coaching us to our first playoff appearance last season. Larry will continue to be a valuable advisor to me regarding the team. The search for a successor will begin immediately.”

Link

HoopsVibe’s very Quick Call: Forever the nomad.

Larry Brown is out as coach of the lowly Charlotte Bobcats, who have failed to meet expectations after a fine 2010 season.

Brown's departure hardly comes as a surprise. He has never stayed with an organization for long and, despite being under contract with the Bobcats, had interest in openings with the L.A. Clippers and Philadelphia 76ers last summer.

Team Jordan is also terrible, losing by 30 points last night to the John Wall-less Washington Wizards.

Brown had seen enough. On to the next coaching gig for Mr. 'Play The Right Way' –wherever that may be.

--Oly Sandor.

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

There was talk about the Cavs trading for 76ers guard/forward Andre Iguodala. One source seems to indicate the Sixers might ask teams to take Elton brand off their hands, too, in such a deal.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: From MVP candidate to grenade. This is the plight of power forward Elton Brand.

Not long ago, Brand was the straw that stirred the drink for a promising Los Angeles Clippers squad. Then he injured his Achilles. And, despite missing an entire season, managed to get a maximum contract from the Philadelphia 76ers.

From day one, this was a poor match. The 76ers like to run. Brand prefers a slower, half-court game.

There was little interest in a broken down Brand and his big ticket. So the cellar-dwelling 76ers have resorted to packaging him with the marketable Andrew Iguodala.

Bottom line: if a team wants ‘Iggy’ they have to take Brand.

There are two problems with this strategy. First, few teams have the cap space and resources to assume Brand and Iguodala’s combined salary of $26 million. Those that do aren’t interested.

Second, Brand and Iguodala's hefty price tag means the 76ers would surely have to take back a problem contract in a trade. The rebuilding 76ers need young assets, expiring contracts, and draft picks to pair with Evan Turner. They don’t need a frustrated, overpaid veteran to lead the kids astray.

There's no easy way for the 76ers to free themselves of Brand.

--Oly Sandor.

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

But they might be able to acquire “LeBron Lite.”

League sources indicate the Philadelphia 76ers are attempting to trade guard/forward Andre Iguodala. There is no active dialogue between the Sixers and Cavs right now, but a source said it was one to keep your eye on. Things could heat up toward the trade deadline.

Link

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Something has to give –and soon.

The Philadelphia 76ers are 5-16. They’re disjointed. They’re dysfunctional. And fans are tuning them out for the city’s other sports teams.

It’s time to start over; turn the page. This means one thing: trading former franchise face Andre Iguodala.

While not a superstar, ‘Iggy’ is good enough to command a package of young talent and desirable contracts. The 76ers would be out from his big-ticket. Player and team would be free to start over.

Enter the Cleveland Cavaliers.

They have the resources to afford Iguodala’s contract. They also have the resources to satisfy the 76ers’ trade demands.

The athletic swing would make the Cavaliers more competitive. He’d also give Dan Gilbert’s squad an identity and a leader in the post-LeBron James era.

Expect Iguodala to get a change of scenery. And Cleveland makes the most sense.

--Oly Sandor.

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

HoopsVibe’s Very Quick Call: Last night, the Indiana Pacers’ struggles were temporarily forgotten when they defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 99-86 and made national highlight packages with a pair of fierce facials.

Facial one: newly acquired table-setter Darren Collison stole the ball, sped to the hoop, and powered over fellow little-man Lou Williams.

Facial two: T.J. Ford, freed from Coach Jim O'Brien's bench, tossed an over-the-shoulder pass to Josh McRoberts, who then welcomed Evan Turner to the NBA by giving  the rookie poster job treatment.

Pacer-nation hasn’t had much to cheer for. Not lately, at least. However, Collison and McRoberts gave the former Eastern Conference power some much-needed shine and publicity.

While Indiana fans undoubtedly loved both dunks, HoopsVibe News wants to know which facial you preferred: Collison or McRoberts?

Watch the above videos, form your opinion, and get at us with that opinion in the comment box below.

--Oly Sandor.