To celebrate that a Canadian will likely go in the first round in the draft today and as the first pick next year it is time to start an NBA thread.
Please note that unlike the NHL thread I did not have to specify that the NBA thread was about basketball. Everyone knows what the NBA is. The maker of the NHL thread was obviously concerned that there might be some confusion over what NHL meant and so, to be prudent, added the word hockey.
With those formalities aside. There are a lot of big men coming out in this draft. In years past GM's would be fighting over them. But the game has changed substantially. That will be demonstrated in how low the bigs go in the draft.
But despite that I think Kelly Olynyk is going high. He is a legit 7 footer that can shoot the lights out. He is exactly what a team needs for the style of play in the NBA with high ball screens. If the screener can shoot like Olynyk, they have huge value.
http://www.acronymfinder.com/NBA.html (http://www.acronymfinder.com/NBA.html)
I'd rather talk about the Nevada Brothel Association. :blush:
So, I hear the Pirates are doing well. That's unusual, isn't it? Syt must be pleased, since he's a sucker for all Pittsburgh sports.
Quote from: Neil on June 27, 2013, 10:49:15 AM
So, I hear the Pirates are doing well. That's unusual, isn't it? Syt must be pleased, since he's a sucker for all Pittsburgh sports.
:lol: :bash:
Doc Rivers has left for the Clippers. :(
Who cares about the NBA.
It seems odd we get a thread about the draft while the playoffs and finals went by unnoticed.
Quote from: alfred russel on June 27, 2013, 07:09:33 PM
It seems odd we get a thread about the draft while the playoffs and finals went by unnoticed.
No Canadians in the playoffs.
Quote from: alfred russel on June 27, 2013, 07:09:33 PM
It seems odd we get a thread about the draft while the playoffs and finals went by unnoticed.
Too busy watching great basketball to bother.
I figure I need to bring you cretins along slowly.
Canadians go #1 and #13. Olynyk went high in the draft as I thought he would but didnt see the #1 pick coming.
And the Celtics have done been blown up! It was their time, but it's still sad to see them go. :cry:
Better to make those moves now while they can get something for those players.
Quote from: Neil on June 27, 2013, 10:49:15 AM
So, I hear the Pirates are doing well. That's unusual, isn't it? Syt must be pleased, since he's a sucker for all Pittsburgh sports.
Except hockey. -_-
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 28, 2013, 03:18:26 AM
And the Celtics have done been blown up! It was their time, but it's still sad to see them go. :cry:
It is ok. They beat the Lakers, thus their purpose in life was fulfilled.
I was going to be serious and talk bball but no you had to be an asshole and troll Hockey.
Death to all giants.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 28, 2013, 12:33:30 PM
Quote from: Neil on June 28, 2013, 10:55:06 AM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 28, 2013, 10:27:04 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 28, 2013, 10:02:47 AM
Death to all giants.
Why bring up baseball?
Isn't that what this thread is for?
Do ethnic Albertans play basketball?
I have no idea. I know some children play it in school, if that helps. All the adults I know who are active in team sports play hockey, ball hockey or football.
Chris Paul will re-sign with the Clippers.
http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/9438022/chris-paul-remain-los-angeles-clippers-representatives-tell-teams-sources
Quote from: Neil on June 28, 2013, 01:26:30 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 28, 2013, 12:33:30 PM
Quote from: Neil on June 28, 2013, 10:55:06 AM
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 28, 2013, 10:27:04 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 28, 2013, 10:02:47 AM
Death to all giants.
Why bring up baseball?
Isn't that what this thread is for?
Do ethnic Albertans play basketball?
I have no idea. I know some children play it in school, if that helps. All the adults I know who are active in team sports play hockey, ball hockey or football.
And curling. :scots:
Celtics hire Brad Stevens from Butler!
Stevens was a good/great college coach. Good/great college coaches dont have the best record in the NBA.
I hope this works out for him though. I like his coaching style.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 04, 2013, 12:58:03 PM
Stevens was a good/great college coach. Good/great college coaches dont have the best record in the NBA.
I hope this works out for him though. I like his coaching style.
He will be able to come back and get another great college job any times he wants. Hopefully the Celtics are patient with him through the rebuild and don't expect him to win 50 games with 30 game talent.
He's 36 and looks 19. Two coach types work well in the NBA: demi-gods who command respect from the players because of their stature or jumped up water boys who let the superstar run the team.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on July 04, 2013, 02:07:48 PM
He's 36 and looks 19. Two coach types work well in the NBA: demi-gods who command respect from the players because of their stature or jumped up water boys who let the superstar run the team.
Not sure Spoelstra fits into either of those categories.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 04, 2013, 02:35:03 PM
Not sure Spoelstra fits into either of those categories.
Spoelstra is the only coach who fits the 2nd. He started out as the Heat equipment manager. He's a cheap head coach for a team that thinks it can do without a head coach.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on July 04, 2013, 02:36:45 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 04, 2013, 02:35:03 PM
Not sure Spoelstra fits into either of those categories.
Spoelstra is the only coach who fits the 2nd. He started out as the Heat equipment manager. He's a cheap head coach for a team that thinks it can do without a head coach.
Everything you said is wrong.
Here is a good article about what makes Spoelstra a good coach and why he was hired and kept his job even through the tough first season.
http://fansided.com/2013/07/02/erik-spoelstra-miami-heat-are-a-perfect-match/
Further, the superstars dont run the team. Spoelstra makes good adjustments between and during games. Also, one of the things Spoelstra does very well is managing potential conflicts amongst his superstars.
Butler sucks.
So, does anyone have the slightest idea where Howard will be going for the next season? Rockets?
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 03:43:20 AM
So, does anyone have the slightest idea where Howard will be going for the next season? Rockets?
Who the fuck knows, i don't think he even does.
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 03:43:20 AM
So, does anyone have the slightest idea where Howard will be going for the next season? Rockets?
I'd say they're the favorite, but by a slim margin.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 05, 2013, 04:30:37 AM
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 03:43:20 AM
So, does anyone have the slightest idea where Howard will be going for the next season? Rockets?
I'd say they're the favorite, but by a slim margin.
Apparently he's being courted by the Lakers, Rockets, Mavericks, Hawks and Warriors.
Honestly I wouldn't want him.
Quote from: katmai on July 05, 2013, 06:24:31 AMHonestly I wouldn't want him.
Yeah, unless you build a team around him like in Orlando I think he's not a good fit for many systems in the league, what with small mobile centers being all the rage nowadays. The year with the Lakers must have also damaged his stock, given all the trouble surrounding them.
The NBA is useless without the Zen Master. Lakers made a mistake.
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 07:37:10 AM
The NBA is useless without the Zen Master. Lakers made a mistake.
He retired, there was nothing the Lakers could do about it.
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 09:24:51 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 07:37:10 AM
The NBA is useless without the Zen Master. Lakers made a mistake.
He retired, there was nothing the Lakers could do about it.
They asked him to return this season, then changed their minds.
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 09:59:08 AM
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 09:24:51 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 07:37:10 AM
The NBA is useless without the Zen Master. Lakers made a mistake.
He retired, there was nothing the Lakers could do about it.
They asked him to return this season, then changed their minds.
They asked him to come back and he didn't accept.
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 10:00:43 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 09:59:08 AM
Quote from: The Larch on July 05, 2013, 09:24:51 AM
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 07:37:10 AM
The NBA is useless without the Zen Master. Lakers made a mistake.
He retired, there was nothing the Lakers could do about it.
They asked him to return this season, then changed their minds.
They asked him to come back and he didn't accept.
AND THEN HE CALLED THEM RIGHT BACK AND WHILE HE WAITED FOR THEM TO RETURN HIS CALL THEY CHANGED THEIR MINDS
Woah, I see that you feel strongly about him! :lol:
He's the Zen Master.
I liked him better in Chicago.
Quote from: CountDeMoney on July 05, 2013, 07:37:10 AM
The NBA is useless without the Zen Master. Lakers made a mistake.
Yeah, the Lakers made a mistake. But it wasn't their decision to play silly games with the Zen Master - although that didnt help.
Rather it was putting Howard on a team that wasnt going to run its offence through him; putting Nash on a team that couldnt fast break; and assuming that all these older players would be able to play the whole season without significant bench support.
The Zen Master is probably the best coash the NBA will ever have. But even he would have been in trouble with this group of players.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on July 05, 2013, 10:57:00 AM
I liked him better in Chicago.
Yeah, but in Chicago he had a player that only comes around every few generations.
So, Howard ended up going to the Rockets. Let's see how the Lakers behave next season, given that Kobe will be limping for a while at the beginning.
Spanish guard José Calderón, formerly of the Raptors and Pistons, has agreed to sign with the Mavericks.
Looks like Derrick Rose is going to be ready for the start of the season. It will be interesting to see how Miami defends against him. Wade is getting pretty banged up. He has the ability to defend Rose but over a best of 7 series that is going to be tough.
LeBron shut rose down pretty well 2 years ago in the playoffs. I don't know if he can stay with him for an entire game now though.
Brad Stevens is too good a coach. The Celtics are winning too many games, we need to tank this year! :mad:
Rose out again, basketball season over for me - again.
I like the Atlantic Division standings. :lol:
Apparently the Spurs are pretty good again. They are included in the Powerpoint presentation that gets broadcast all over the floor we're on (except in my fishbowl type office area where it's all LHN all the time heh).
My Trailblazers are rocking it. Best record in the West and a great game against #1 in the East Indiana tonight.
I just hope they can make it until the New Year before they start crapping down their own legs.
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 02, 2013, 06:14:45 PM
I like the Atlantic Division standings. :lol:
:lol: The NBA is just terrible this year.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 03, 2013, 01:11:08 AM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 02, 2013, 06:14:45 PM
I like the Atlantic Division standings. :lol:
:lol: The NBA is just terrible this year.
:lol: You're suck a fucking idiot. Awww, my favowite team isn't pwaying well, da NBA is tewwible. Waaaah.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 03, 2013, 01:11:08 AM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 02, 2013, 06:14:45 PM
I like the Atlantic Division standings. :lol:
:lol: The NBA is just terrible this year.
For you. It's just the Atlantic, which this year is dreary. I mean, Toronto leads it and it's under .500. Blame it on the Knicks and the Nets being massive underachievers so far.
Quote from: sbr on December 03, 2013, 08:03:55 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 03, 2013, 01:11:08 AM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 02, 2013, 06:14:45 PM
I like the Atlantic Division standings. :lol:
:lol: The NBA is just terrible this year.
:lol: You're suck a fucking idiot. Awww, my favowite team isn't pwaying well, da NBA is tewwible. Waaaah.
When only two teams in an entire conference are over .500 the NBA is objectively terrible.
As I said earlier in this thread, my problem with the Celtics is that they're not nearly bad enough. We're never going to get a good draft pick if Stevens keeps coaching this well.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 03, 2013, 09:54:34 AM
Quote from: sbr on December 03, 2013, 08:03:55 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 03, 2013, 01:11:08 AM
Quote from: Ed Anger on December 02, 2013, 06:14:45 PM
I like the Atlantic Division standings. :lol:
:lol: The NBA is just terrible this year.
:lol: You're suck a fucking idiot. Awww, my favowite team isn't pwaying well, da NBA is tewwible. Waaaah.
When only two teams in an entire conference are over .500 the NBA is objectively terrible.
No, it means that conferences are very unbalanced at the moment, the East (except for Miami and Indiana, which are league powerhouses this year) is miserable and their stars are either aging has beens (Garnett, Pierce), injury wrecks (Rose, Stoudemire) or too young yet to make an impact or playing for not very good teams (Irving, Wall). Couple all that with huge underacheving from Knicks and Nets and a promising draft which makes it interesting for not so good teams to tank and you have all the ingredients for a sucktastic conference.
The West is a completely different business.
@ Larch - agreed.
But I am not sure why this has caught the Timmay's of the world by surprise. The only teams that had a shot of being good in the East were Miami and Indiana (obviously) and then the Nets (if the old guys could learn how to play on a new team - not so much) and Chicago (if Rose could light it up every night - not so much).
The West has been the stronger conference for a number of years. Part of the reason Miami has won is that whoever makes it to the finals from the West has a much more difficult road to get there.
I'm not sure about this idea. There are both goods things and bad things about it. I'm leaning slightly in favor of it. :hmm:
http://www.grantland.com/blog/the-triangle/post/_/id/86940/the-nbas-possible-solution-for-tanking-good-bye-to-the-lottery-hello-to-the-wheel
That's stupid.
the nba sucks
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 25, 2013, 06:31:37 PM
Because of...?
Because it's stupid and tries, in a stupid way, to fix a problem that isn't really there. Tanking isn't a big problem in the NBA (it requires teams to be specifically constructed to do so, only retards think that teams who have been annihilated by injuries or age or whatever else are tanking vs. just not very good), and it certainly doesn't guarantee the occasional team that tries it a specific draft pick. What it DOES guarantee is lost revenue from missed playoff appearance and fans not showing up.
If the NBA really wants to make a significant change to improve the product they need to knock about 16 games off of the season.
Maybe more than that.
They need to thin the playoffs.
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 07:05:07 PM
If the NBA really wants to make a significant change to improve the product they need to knock about 16 games off of the season.
Why? The season has been that long since the beginning hasn't it? Stamina is a part of the game.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 25, 2013, 07:29:17 PM
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 07:05:07 PM
If the NBA really wants to make a significant change to improve the product they need to knock about 16 games off of the season.
Why? The season has been that long since the beginning hasn't it? Stamina is a part of the game.
Only since the mid-late 60s, the earlier seasons were around 60 games long, jumping to around 70 by the mid 50s.
They've played at least 80 games (with the exception of strike years) since 1961.
The league began in 1946, so that's 52 out of 67 years or more than 77% of league history.
The strike years had more interesting regular seasons because they were shorter.
Quote from: MadBurgerMaker on December 25, 2013, 07:06:21 PM
Maybe more than that.
Yeah, I think the last strike/lock-out shortened year was 66 games so that is what is stuck in my head. I wouldn't be opposed to even 60 games in the regular season.
:cry:
Quote from: Admiral Yi on December 25, 2013, 07:24:20 PM
They need to thin the playoffs.
I wouldn't complain too much if they thinned the playoffs, but I like 8 per conference. What they need to do is get the first round back to best 3 of 5. Back then there was a realistic chance of an upset in the first round more than once a decade.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 25, 2013, 07:29:17 PM
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 07:05:07 PM
If the NBA really wants to make a significant change to improve the product they need to knock about 16 games off of the season.
Why? The season has been that long since the beginning hasn't it? Stamina is a part of the game.
Why am I not surprised you disagree?
It isn't about what-has-always-been-done or stamina. Playing 66 games all across the country in just over 6 months is a fine test of stamina.
It is about the product on the floor. The 7 weeks of NBA basketball before Xmas is close to a joke; the season is long enough that the games don't matter all that much and it is too much of a grind for the players to real care and play hard every game. Anyone who actually watches early season NBA games knows the type of effort that is typical of most teams. Anyone that actually watches a lot of NBA ball also can notice the very distinct change that happens around Xmas/the first of the year. That is when the teams that are true contenders start to play serious every night and you start to see a serious decline in the silly nights where Milwaukee beats Miami (but they don't stop completely).
There are also way too many 4 games in 5 days stretches (usually on the road) and again, anyone who watches these games knows what the product on the floor looks like on the fourth of these games, even for the best teams. If they even have the physical ability to play that game they are usually so mentally/emotionally burnt out it doesn't matter. The better team my still win, but the games are almost always poorly played and the product suffers.
It will never happen because the owners will never give up the revenue, and there are enough "fans" who can't see past the bridge of their own nose to realize more is not always better.
Quote from: MadBurgerMaker on December 25, 2013, 08:32:11 PM
The strike years had more interesting regular seasons because they were shorter.
Much more interesting. :) Why do you think more people watch the 100m dash than the marathon?
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 09:00:37 PM
There are also way too many 4 games in 5 days stretches (usually on the road)
Hey the Spurs, who are ancient age-wise, got hit with a $250,000 fine for daring to rest their 4 top players for the forth of one of these 4in5 last year. Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, and Danny Green flew to Miami, then hopped straight onto the next flight to SA. The Spurs d-league lineup then nearly beat Miami before finally losing by 5 in the last couple of minutes.
DNP: OLD. :D David Stern is a tool.
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 07:05:07 PM
If the NBA really wants to make a significant change to improve the product they need to knock about 16 games off of the season.
They need to make the game more accessible to normal height people. :)
These t-shirts uniform. It's very weird.
Yeah, I'm not a fan of those either.
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 09:00:37 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on December 25, 2013, 07:29:17 PM
Quote from: sbr on December 25, 2013, 07:05:07 PM
If the NBA really wants to make a significant change to improve the product they need to knock about 16 games off of the season.
Why? The season has been that long since the beginning hasn't it? Stamina is a part of the game.
Why am I not surprised you disagree?
It isn't about what-has-always-been-done or stamina. Playing 66 games all across the country in just over 6 months is a fine test of stamina.
It is about the product on the floor. The 7 weeks of NBA basketball before Xmas is close to a joke; the season is long enough that the games don't matter all that much and it is too much of a grind for the players to real care and play hard every game. Anyone who actually watches early season NBA games knows the type of effort that is typical of most teams. Anyone that actually watches a lot of NBA ball also can notice the very distinct change that happens around Xmas/the first of the year. That is when the teams that are true contenders start to play serious every night and you start to see a serious decline in the silly nights where Milwaukee beats Miami (but they don't stop completely).
There are also way too many 4 games in 5 days stretches (usually on the road) and again, anyone who watches these games knows what the product on the floor looks like on the fourth of these games, even for the best teams. If they even have the physical ability to play that game they are usually so mentally/emotionally burnt out it doesn't matter. The better team my still win, but the games are almost always poorly played and the product suffers.
It will never happen because the owners will never give up the revenue, and there are enough "fans" who can't see past the bridge of their own nose to realize more is not always better.
Agreed. Except for the last part of your last sentence. I dont think it has to do with not seeing past their noses. In markets with good teams fans need to buy full season tickets in order to see the good games. So they put up with the terrible games in the first part of the season to take in the good games later on.
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 25, 2013, 10:17:59 PM
These t-shirts uniform. It's very weird.
And the Knicks wearing those godawful Orange ones. :yucky:
First, the playoffs this year so far have been bananas! I would still prefer to see the first round go back to 3/5 but there does seem to be a chance of an upset or two, what with both #1 seeds and the #2 and #3 in the West going to game 7's.
Second, watching (and caring) about NBA playoffs still drives me insane, the officiating is sooo bad. I came to the realization during the Blazers/Rockets series that is is probably impossible for 99.9% of NBA games to be officiated well (unless they add 7 more refs so 1 ref can watch 1 player the entire game), the best we can hope for is fair and consistent. I still don't think they are meeting that mark either.
Third, Go Blazers!! Damian Lillard amazing game-winner vs Rockets (2014 NBA Playoffs GM6) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2GJ2PwXQ4E#ws)
Quote from: sbr on May 03, 2014, 03:20:13 PM
Second, watching (and caring) about NBA playoffs still drives me insane, the officiating is sooo bad.
Agreed. Watching the Raptors game today was very frustrating. I am a bit surprised Pierce wasnt called for a foul on that last shot. Sure he got the block but he took out the shooters body to get it. But that is a call a ref might not give to you. What drove me insane was when Williams picked up his sixth foul but the refs called it on another player who was merely in the vacinity and didnt even touch the Raptor player.
I see that Refs have an hardtime being consistent in any sport.
Quote from: Grey Fox on May 05, 2014, 08:43:00 AM
I see that Refs have an hardtime being consistent in any sport.
The refs have no difficulty being consistent in the NBA. They consistently gave the benefit to the Nets.
That hurts much more.
Great speech. Very humble, a great tribute to his teammates and his mother.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wac3CtzcLO4
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fgiant.gfycat.com%2FSecondhandUnhealthyDegus.gif&hash=0b3f20730156313d8b1776a5d9763e2ee4589e6e)
Hey the Spurs are back in the Finals. :)
I'll bet you ten internet dollars that they lose again.
I have lots of internet dollars to spend: (https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffi.somethingawful.com%2Fimages%2Fsmilies%2Femot-10bux.gif&hash=9c1f47874f3def628198995bf27c9122bca9fd3b)
E: I wonder how bad Parker's ankle injury is. Missed the whole second half today, it seems (I only watched half the 4th and OT).
Quote from: MadBurgerMaker on May 31, 2014, 11:34:55 PM
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fgiant.gfycat.com%2FSecondhandUnhealthyDegus.gif&hash=0b3f20730156313d8b1776a5d9763e2ee4589e6e)
Hey the Spurs are back in the Finals. :)
That was an amazing play.
And the refs sure dodged a bullet on that game. Some really really bad calls almost cost the Spurs the game. But now we dont have to talk about those botched calls and especially the missed goaltend call.
Birdman plays in Miami?!
I'm on that bandwagon.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 02, 2014, 08:37:47 AM
Birdman plays in Miami?!
I'm on that bandwagon.
Has been there for more than a year already.
Quote from: The Larch on June 02, 2014, 09:20:53 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 02, 2014, 08:37:47 AM
Birdman plays in Miami?!
I'm on that bandwagon.
Has been there for more than a year already.
Yeah, I forgot.
I said the same thing in last years finals.
Crazy to have the AC go out in the first game. Considering how the Heat faded down the stretch, and lost Lebron, I wonder how much of this can be put on coaching and roster management.
I turned on the game with about 7 minutes left in the 4th quarter. I think I might have jinxed the Heat.
Quote from: derspiess on June 06, 2014, 11:06:48 AM
I turned on the game with about 7 minutes left in the 4th quarter. I think I might have jinxed the Heat.
If you could keeping turning the games off with 7 minutes to go that would be swell.
Quote from: derspiess on June 06, 2014, 11:06:48 AM
I turned on the game with about 7 minutes left in the 4th quarter. I think I might have jinxed the Heat.
The AC went out long before then. Also the Spurs were dominating that game long before then. The only thing that kept the Heat in it were the unforced turnovers the Spurs were committing. The Heat are going to have to rethink how they defend because they didnt match up well last night.
Lots of people who never played competitive sports (and a lot who did) unfairly criticizing LeBron's "heart" and "determination to win" because he couldn't "man up" after his "womanly cramps".
I'm a Spurs fan, of course, but my fellow fans are idiots.
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 06, 2014, 11:43:50 AM
Lots of people who never played competitive sports (and a lot who did) unfairly criticizing LeBron's "heart" and "determination to win" because he couldn't "man up" after his "womanly cramps".
I'm a Spurs fan, of course, but my fellow fans are idiots.
Fucking BS. LeBron is a damn pussy.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 11:28:32 AM
The AC went out long before then.
Yup. But obviously my watching the game was the dagger that did the Heat in.
QuoteAlso the Spurs were dominating that game long before then.
They stopped dominating for a while, though. Heat was ahead by 4 when I switched on the game.
QuoteThe only thing that kept the Heat in it were the unforced turnovers the Spurs were committing.
I'll take you word for that.
QuoteThe Heat are going to have to rethink how they defend because they didnt match up well last night.
That, too.
I plan on watching the rest of the series. Will be the first Finals I've paid attention to in ages. I mildly favor the Spurs but it's mainly the match-up & some of the individual players that interest me.
Looking at the stats, Ginobili had an awesome night but there's been an odd lack of noise from my Argie Facebook friends.
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 06, 2014, 11:43:50 AM
Lots of people who never played competitive sports (and a lot who did) unfairly criticizing LeBron's "heart" and "determination to win" because he couldn't "man up" after his "womanly cramps".
I'm a Spurs fan, of course, but my fellow fans are idiots.
Thats is nuts. How the hell does a basketball player (or anyone) play through a cramp like that. I suppose they could have dragged him around the floor...
I had a calf cramp up on landing after a dunk - it was one of the most painful things I have ever experienced. And I sure as hell didnt try to play the rest of that game. As I recall it took me a few days to recover enough to begin light practices again. I wonder how long it will take for him to be ready to play.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 11:45:13 AM
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 06, 2014, 11:43:50 AM
Lots of people who never played competitive sports (and a lot who did) unfairly criticizing LeBron's "heart" and "determination to win" because he couldn't "man up" after his "womanly cramps".
I'm a Spurs fan, of course, but my fellow fans are idiots.
Fucking BS. LeBron is a damn pussy.
No shit. Find a way to stay on the court. Michael Jordan played through the flu. Fuck, Magic Johnson played through HIV.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 11:45:13 AM
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 06, 2014, 11:43:50 AM
Lots of people who never played competitive sports (and a lot who did) unfairly criticizing LeBron's "heart" and "determination to win" because he couldn't "man up" after his "womanly cramps".
I'm a Spurs fan, of course, but my fellow fans are idiots.
Fucking BS. LeBron is a damn pussy.
Maybe he is, but if anyone cramps up that badly then there's no way he's going to be able to continue.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 11:50:53 AM
Thats is nuts. How the hell does a basketball player (or anyone) play through a cramp like that. I suppose they could have dragged him around the floor...
I had a calf cramp up on landing after a dunk - it was one of the most painful things I have ever experienced. And I sure as hell didnt try to play the rest of that game. As I recall it took me a few days to recover enough to begin light practices again. I wonder how long it will take for him to be ready to play.
I think it's because most people have never experienced a cramp like that. We get the occasional charlie horse that hurts like hell for 5 minutes or so and that's what we think of.
LeBron doesn't have a history of cramping up AFAIK so I'd definitely be inclined to cut him some slack. I got impatient with Chad Johnson cramping up all the time. Especially because it was likely due to his poor diet.
I used to love hating Lebron, it was great fun. But now that he has taken the Heat to four straight finals and won two I just cannot anymore. Dude has earned respect. I just cannot help but wish he had never won one, that would have been hilarious. Ah well.
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 06, 2014, 11:55:40 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 11:45:13 AM
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 06, 2014, 11:43:50 AM
Lots of people who never played competitive sports (and a lot who did) unfairly criticizing LeBron's "heart" and "determination to win" because he couldn't "man up" after his "womanly cramps".
I'm a Spurs fan, of course, but my fellow fans are idiots.
Fucking BS. LeBron is a damn pussy.
Maybe he is, but if anyone cramps up that badly then there's no way he's going to be able to continue.
You can always play thru anything.
Players play thru concussions, broken arms, hands, legs, ribs, sports hernia.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 12:06:13 PM
You can always play thru anything.
Players play thru concussions, broken arms, hands, legs, ribs, sports hernia.
Well you certainly cant. :P
In any event you show some ignorance of what a cramped muscle actually is and what it prevents an athlete from doing. Its not just painful. The muscle literally stops contracting and relaxing - ie it stops working. Now if someone can play with muscles that no longer work that would definitely be a sight to see.
I can't criticize someone's ability to fight through pain as it's different for each person. I've had a calf cramp playing soccer before and it felt like my muscle was missing from the bone. If LeBron James cramped up and couldn't continue, I can understand that.
I'm no LeBron fan or anything, and I dislike the Heat, but I am giving the guy the benefit of the doubt.
Yeah, it's not just pain. The muscle literally will not work, like CC said.
Beautiful jam by Ray Allen on the break. Loved his expression afterwards too.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 12:29:06 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 12:06:13 PM
You can always play thru anything.
Players play thru concussions, broken arms, hands, legs, ribs, sports hernia.
Well you certainly cant. :P
In any event you show some ignorance of what a cramped muscle actually is and what it prevents an athlete from doing. Its not just painful. The muscle literally stops contracting and relaxing - ie it stops working. Now if someone can play with muscles that no longer work that would definitely be a sight to see.
I've seen Hockey Player play thru a broken leg to finish his shift.
While I don't want to continue fighting biology, James remains a pussy ever since he had to be carried out for an ankle strain.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 12:48:43 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 12:29:06 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 12:06:13 PM
You can always play thru anything.
Players play thru concussions, broken arms, hands, legs, ribs, sports hernia.
Well you certainly cant. :P
In any event you show some ignorance of what a cramped muscle actually is and what it prevents an athlete from doing. Its not just painful. The muscle literally stops contracting and relaxing - ie it stops working. Now if someone can play with muscles that no longer work that would definitely be a sight to see.
I've seen Hockey Player play thru a broken leg to finish his shift.
While I don't want to continue fighting biology, James remains a pussy ever since he had to be carried out for an ankle strain.
Playing with a broken (actually probably fractured) leg is quite different than playing with a cramp. One is a question of playing through pain. The other is a question of not being able to play at all because the muscles have stopped working.
Now if you can explain to me how one is supposed to run and jump when their leg muscles have stopped working I would be very interested to hear it.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 12:54:21 PM
Now if you can explain to me how one is supposed to run and jump when their leg muscles have stopped working I would be very interested to hear it.
Maybe Chris Bosh could have carried him around on his shoulders?
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 12:54:21 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 12:48:43 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 06, 2014, 12:29:06 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 12:06:13 PM
You can always play thru anything.
Players play thru concussions, broken arms, hands, legs, ribs, sports hernia.
Well you certainly cant. :P
In any event you show some ignorance of what a cramped muscle actually is and what it prevents an athlete from doing. Its not just painful. The muscle literally stops contracting and relaxing - ie it stops working. Now if someone can play with muscles that no longer work that would definitely be a sight to see.
I've seen Hockey Player play thru a broken leg to finish his shift.
While I don't want to continue fighting biology, James remains a pussy ever since he had to be carried out for an ankle strain.
Playing with a broken (actually probably fractured) leg is quite different than playing with a cramp. One is a question of playing through pain. The other is a question of not being able to play at all because the muscles have stopped working.
Now if you can explain to me how one is supposed to run and jump when their leg muscles have stopped working I would be very interested to hear it.
Mental toughness.
You can stop pressing the point that it's impossible to play thru a muscle cramp, I understand. But this is alot more about perception. James didn't look like he tried.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 06, 2014, 01:51:58 PM
James didn't look like he tried.
Now you are just being an idiot. After he cramped up the first time he went back into the game. After he cramped up the second time he couldnt even walk.
Ok now I keep picturing Lebron dunking while riding Chris Bosh.
Quote from: Valmy on June 06, 2014, 01:58:57 PM
Ok now I keep picturing Lebron dunking while riding Chris Bosh.
:lol:
Where is Grallon when we need him
Probably less unsettling than simply picturing Birdman.
Quote from: derspiess on June 06, 2014, 02:11:03 PM
Probably less unsettling than simply picturing Birdman.
Every generation needs its own Rodman
Quote from: derspiess on June 06, 2014, 02:11:03 PM
Probably less unsettling than simply picturing Birdman.
Birdman is god in human form.
That was a great game last night. Four missed foul shots really hurt the Spurs.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 09, 2014, 02:06:40 PM
That was a great game last night. Four missed foul shots really hurt the Spurs.
Yeah you cannot do that as Duncan and Parker and expect to win a NBA finals game.
Now that is some beautiful team basketball
Entertaining half.
Wow, Spurs can't buy a bucket and keep stepping on their own cranks. Surprised they're still up by 13 11 9 7.
Miami fans are the dregs.
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2014, 10:09:16 PM
Wow, Spurs can't buy a bucket and keep stepping on their own cranks. Surprised they're still up they won by 13 11 9 7
19.
FYP
Quote from: Valmy on June 11, 2014, 09:50:46 AM
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2014, 10:09:16 PM
Wow, Spurs can't buy a bucket and keep stepping on their own cranks. Surprised they're still up they won by 13 11 9 7
19.
FYP
Miami totally fell apart halfway through the 4th quarter. They made a good run up til that point, though.
What I have taken away from the first three games is Lebron has to be Superman in order for the Heat to win. Be interesting to see if he can do it three more times.
Quote from: Valmy on June 11, 2014, 09:57:23 AM
What I have taken away from the first three games is Lebron has to be Superman in order for the Heat to win. Be interesting to see if he can do it three more times.
I think that is the wrong lesson. When Miami doesnt move the ball and play great defence they get blown out. When they settle for one or two passes and then a shot they spend most of the game playing defence. The Spurs use a lot of clock and move the ball quickly all of which tires out Miami. When Miami doesnt make the Spurs work hard on defence the Spurs win by a lot. The Spurs lost game 2 because they stopped moving the ball. They got back to that in game 3.
Although you are correct that if Miami continues to play this style of play then Lebron will indeed have to play like Superman.
Watching the past six quarters one could say that the San Antonio Spurs have solved basketball.
Yeah, they're running circles around the Heat, plus Popovich is an awesome coach.
Holy shit.
The Heat have had a pattern the past couple of years of really stepping up when put up against the wall. Down 2-1 with 2 of the last 3 in San Antonio, they really needed this one.
Now that's what you call an empty arena.
Dwayne Wade has become a liability on the floor.
First full half (the 2nd half) of Spurs basketball I've watched all season. Hell, I even got some of the second Q in too.
Man Dwayne Wade sucks now.
The Y comes before the a.
When you suck you don't deserve to have your misspelled name misspelled correctly.
For all the talk that Wade is healthy it has been pretty clear since at least game 2 that he is playing hurt.
But its silly to pin this on Wade. The Spurs are putting on a clinic demonstrating how to play the game as a team on both ends of the floor.
Don't worry no matter how it plays out a Miami loss will be LeBron's fault.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2014, 11:06:43 AM
For all the talk that Wade is healthy it has been pretty clear since at least game 2 that he is playing hurt.
But its silly to pin this on Wade.
They have rested Wade a ton this year hoping he could get right and he hasn't.
Anyway I was not pinning this on Wade just noticing suckage.
I really thought the series would have been a lot closer to this. I saw it going to seven games. This is just embarrassing for Miami. Balled off the court in three of the last four games and only barely scraped by in the second game.
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 13, 2014, 11:46:57 AM
I really thought the series would have been a lot closer to this. I saw it going to seven games. This is just embarrassing for Miami. Balled off the court in three of the last four games and only barely scraped by in the second game.
There were a lot of people picking the Spurs in less than 7. Me included - although I thought it would go 6. Statistically Miami is not as good defensively as they were in years past. Defence wins championships and the Spurs play great team defence. The two things I wondered about going into the series was whether Wade really was as healthy as the Heat were saying and whether Parker could shake off his injury from last round. Turns out Wade isnt healthy but Parker is healthy enough.
One thing I think we can all agree upon is Miami fans suck
I've been a Spurs fan since I was a child so I'm not ruling out an epic collapse from my team :D
Quote from: FunkMonk on June 13, 2014, 12:57:09 PM
I've been a Spurs fan since I was a child so I'm not ruling out an epic collapse from my team :D
Well they have done it twice before. They still won against the Pistons even after epically collapsing though so take heart.
Game 7 of the 1990 Western Conference Finals was my favorite Spurs collapse. I was at the game and my team won. :showoff:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2014, 11:06:43 AM
For all the talk that Wade is healthy it has been pretty clear since at least game 2 that he is playing hurt.
But its silly to pin this on Wade. The Spurs are putting on a clinic demonstrating how to play the game as a team on both ends of the floor.
He played well the game before last too.
:yeah:
So I've been watching Game 5. Last time I watched a Finals game, it was the year that Miami lost to Dallas. I'm open to a payment from the Heat not to watch next year.
Man LeBron sucks. Jordan never would have tolerated all his teammates disappearing like that in an NBA finals.
(excluding Bosh, who seemed to have a pulse but still seemed to forget he isn't larry bird and missed a bunch of 3s later in the game).
Beat down. It's a bummer about their inability to make their free throws in game two, but it's good that they're winning it in SA instead of Miami.
Robinson and AJ there too. :cry:
Haha Peter Holt is hammered
Kawhi Leonard is the MVP. :)
Dang the Spurs have a Kiwi, an Italian, two Frenchmen, an Argentinian, a Canadian, an Australian, and a Brazilian. No Texans of course :P
This does not bode well for our Olympic teams in the future :hmm:
I didn't realize Texas sent its own Olympic team. :hmm:
Leonard is awesome. Popovich is awesome. Spurs are awesome. :showoff:
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 16, 2014, 08:34:28 AM
I didn't realize Texas sent its own Olympic team. :hmm:
We would really suck at the Winter Olympics if we did :P
Obviously not what I was going for there.
Cory Joseph is an honorary Texan. He went to Texas, after all.
E: Huh. Kabongo plays for the Toros now too.
No worries, Duncan is the greatest talent on that team, though he's past his prime now.
Quote from: Valmy on June 16, 2014, 08:47:04 AM
[We would really suck at the Winter Olympics if we did :P
You wouldn't think so, what with all the ski shops in DFW. :P
Another Canadian picked #1 :)
Although this time not a surprise. I was happy to see the #8 pick as well!
Maybe this time one of the Canadians can actually play NBA basketball; that would be a change from last year.
Terrible pick by the Celtics. :bleeding:
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 27, 2014, 09:59:15 PM
Terrible pick by the Celtics. :bleeding:
I hate to ask, but why do you say that?
We already have an all-star point guard. We should have picked Randle.
The Spurs seem to have gotten a Boris Diaw clone, except less French.
Quote from: sbr on June 28, 2014, 12:06:25 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 27, 2014, 09:59:15 PM
Terrible pick by the Celtics. :bleeding:
I hate to ask, but why do you say that?
Great, he's doing that we bullshit again. I blame you for asking.
Quote from: MadBurgerMaker on June 28, 2014, 04:08:46 AM
The Spurs seem to have gotten a Boris Diaw clone, except less French.
So, in other words, vastly inferior.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 27, 2014, 04:55:34 PM
Another Canadian picked #1 :)
Although this time not a surprise. I was happy to see the #8 pick as well!
Stauskas will astound people. But hod, did he get bad advice on what suit to wear!
(https://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/large/858287303.gif?1403828721)
He did better than Wiggins
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailynewsen.com%2Fimages%2Fhaberler%2Fandrew_wiggins_was_picked_number_one_in_the_nba_draft_and_his_suit_looked_incredible_m11.jpg&hash=7f33540a145aa167b1a8da99b7d6a58dba9221ac)
Lebron trolling Cleveland like this is just a little too low. I mean how much can one rub it in?
Quote from: Valmy on July 07, 2014, 11:44:17 AM
Lebron trolling Cleveland like this is just a little too low. I mean how much can one rub it in?
Yeah, if he doesnt actually go there people will have a very low opinion of him.
Oh, wait. :D
Lebron James is headed back to Cleveland.
The Lebron said to the Gilbert, 'Owner, I have sinned against Cleveland and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called a Cav.'
But the Gilbert said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best Cav Uni and put it on him. Put a Kyrie Irving on his team and lay a max contract at his feet. Bring my open letter to Lebron and burn it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this Lebron of mine was dead to me and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.
:lol:
Well done
My coworker is a Cleveland native who has a love/hate relationship with his town. Mostly hate, at least on the surface. He actually supported LeBron and badmouthed Clevelandites four years ago. He's less than enthused about him coming back, but he'll be on the Cavs bandwagon by the beginning of next season.
And the legions of "lifelong" Miami Heat fans suddenly disappear into the ether...
Quote from: FunkMonk on July 11, 2014, 12:40:53 PM
And the legions of "lifelong" Miami Heat fans suddenly disappear into the ether...
As quickly as they leave a game being played in the finals of the NBA championships....
Quote from: Valmy on July 11, 2014, 11:46:41 AM
The Lebron said to the Gilbert, 'Owner, I have sinned against Cleveland and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called a Cav.'
Tough time imagining a scenario where LeBron is no longer worthy to be called a Cav. :P
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 11, 2014, 12:47:27 PM
Quote from: FunkMonk on July 11, 2014, 12:40:53 PM
And the legions of "lifelong" Miami Heat fans suddenly disappear into the ether...
As quickly as they leave a game being played in the finals of the NBA championships....
The Spurs beat the Heat so hard they destroyed it as a franchise. :lol:
Quote from: FunkMonk on July 11, 2014, 01:13:50 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 11, 2014, 12:47:27 PM
Quote from: FunkMonk on July 11, 2014, 12:40:53 PM
And the legions of "lifelong" Miami Heat fans suddenly disappear into the ether...
As quickly as they leave a game being played in the finals of the NBA championships....
The Spurs beat the Heat so hard they destroyed it as a franchise. :lol:
:lol:
Rony Seikaly must still be available for recall.
Lebron going back to Cleveland?
Man, I did not see that one coming.
Quote from: Barrister on July 11, 2014, 01:23:57 PM
Lebron going back to Cleveland?
Man, I did not see that one coming.
It was inevitable, much like Sav going back to Detroit. :ph34r:
Kevin Love says he's willing to sign long term with the Cavs, but so far they haven't offered enough for the Timberwolves. If this deal manages to get done then the Cavs are a lock for the title game given how weak the East is.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on July 11, 2014, 06:19:26 PM
Quote from: Barrister on July 11, 2014, 01:23:57 PM
Lebron going back to Cleveland?
Man, I did not see that one coming.
It was inevitable, much like Sav going back to Detroit. :ph34r:
:(
Quote from: Valmy on July 11, 2014, 11:46:41 AM
Lebron James is headed back to Cleveland.
The Lebron said to the Gilbert, 'Owner, I have sinned against Cleveland and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called a Cav.'
But the Gilbert said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best Cav Uni and put it on him. Put a Kyrie Irving on his team and lay a max contract at his feet. Bring my open letter to Lebron and burn it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this Lebron of mine was dead to me and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.
Ha.
clear heels abandonment issues + beaten wife syndrome + Kermit the Frog's "The Rainbow Connection" = Cleveland sports fans
I know following the Ray Rice Saga has beena full time job for American sports fans, but has anyone been following the Hawks' shenanigans down in the ATL?
First over the summer Hawks GM Danny Ferry was in a conference call with all of the members of the ownership group and other big wigs talking about how they were going to approach free agents. This is what minority owner J Michael Gearon Jr says when Ferry discussed Luol Deng (allegedly reading from a scouting report put together by someone else): (http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/sep/09/atlanta-hawks-luol-deng-race-slur)
QuoteDuring the call, which we recorded so that notes could be made for our partners unable to participate live, our GM Danny Ferry discussed player personnel issues at some length. With respect to one potential free agent, a highly-regarded African American player and humanitarian, Ferry talked about the player's good points, and then on to describe his negatives, stating that "he has a little African in him. Not in a bad way, but he's like a guy who would have a nice store out front but sell you counterfeit stuff out the back." Ferry completed the racial slur by describing the player (and impliedly, all persons of African decent) as a two-faced liar and cheat.
Apparently Ferry was previously disciplined for this and the Hawks won't be punishing him further.
Apparently this Gearon guy hated Danny Ferry and co-owner Bruce Levenson for pushing him to the side in some sort of power struggle, so he started some sort of internal investigation where they found an email Levenson wrote in 2012 where he is lamenting the lack of white fans: (http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2014/09/hawks_owner_bruce_levenson_s_email_reveals_how_atlanta_s_sports_franchises.html)
QuoteLevenson noted that when he looked around Philips Arena, he saw that the crowd is "70 percent black," "the cheerleaders are black," and the "music is hip hop." He also added, as if to assure his fellow execs that he'd thought about this issue comprehensively, "I have even bitched that the kiss cam is too black." In the final analysis, Levenson speculated that the team's ticket sales were lagging not because the Hawks haven't had a star player since Dominique Wilkins, but due to the fact that "the black crowd scared away the whites and there are simply not enough affluent black fans to build a significant season ticket base."
Levenson announced on Sunday that he is selling his stake in the team.
What is up with all the racists in the NBA?
Quote from: Valmy on September 10, 2014, 07:58:28 PM
What is up with all the racists in the NBA?
Team owners are almost all old, rich and white. The demographics skew that way. The NBA, given their hiring practices, seem the least racist of the major sports though.
That sounds more like bizniz than racism to me.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on September 10, 2014, 08:27:38 PM
That sounds more like bizniz than racism to me.
My black co-workers agree on that, actually. They think the Levonson email wasn't particularly racist given the context and are getting tired with everyone manufacturing racist issues out of nothing. "People are just too damn sensitive these days".
Quote from: derspiess on September 11, 2014, 09:28:33 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on September 10, 2014, 08:27:38 PM
That sounds more like bizniz than racism to me.
My black co-workers agree on that, actually. They think the Levonson email wasn't particularly racist given the context and are getting tired with everyone manufacturing racist issues out of nothing. "People are just too damn sensitive these days".
I'm glad you can provide us with a direct connection to how black people feel. :)
(https://38.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m8i1ytiKpl1rthmb0o1_500.jpg)
Quote from: garbon on September 11, 2014, 09:47:52 AM
I'm glad you can provide us with a direct connection to how black people feel. :)
:rolleyes: The way race issues (or false ones) often come up I was expecting to hear the opposite. That's why I mentioned it.
But going forward I'll defer to you.
The tricky thing with black people is they often disagree with each other. Yet almost all of them vote Democrat anyway. It is a conundrum.
Tricky?
Tricky tricky tricky tricky.
Quote from: garbon on September 12, 2014, 07:59:49 AM
Tricky?
It makes it difficult to get a good feel for their opinions just by asking a few black people you might know personally. You would probably have to poll them or something.
Like all other populations.
Quote from: Valmy on September 12, 2014, 10:59:17 AM
Quote from: garbon on September 12, 2014, 07:59:49 AM
Tricky?
It makes it difficult to get a good feel for their opinions just by asking a few black people you might know personally. You would probably have to poll them or something.
Black seems unnecessary in that statement and in the post of yours I queried about.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on September 12, 2014, 11:01:07 AM
Like all other populations.
The joke doesn't work if you explain it.
Quote from: Valmy on September 12, 2014, 11:06:30 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on September 12, 2014, 11:01:07 AM
Like all other populations.
The joke doesn't work if you explain it.
Generally jokes aim to be funny. Well good ones. :)
:P
Quote from: derspiess on September 11, 2014, 09:28:33 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on September 10, 2014, 08:27:38 PM
That sounds more like bizniz than racism to me.
My black co-workers agree on that, actually. They think the Levonson email wasn't particularly racist given the context and are getting tired with everyone manufacturing racist issues out of nothing. "People are just too damn sensitive these days".
RACIST :mad:
Quote from: garbon on September 12, 2014, 11:07:33 AM
Generally jokes aim to be funny. Well good ones. :)
:P
Hey sometimes I hit and sometimes I miss.
The important thing is to keep swinging. :)
The 360 jump shot is really under-utilized in today's game.
http://www.gfycat.com/AcidicMeanArmednylonshrimp
Roy Tarpley died yesterday. Dude was an amazing player, too bad he couldn't keep clean.
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/former-mavs-star--cautionary-tale-roy-tarpley-dies-at-50-014354156.html
QuoteFormer Mavs star, cautionary tale Roy Tarpley dies at 50
One of the most gifted and ultimately tragic talents in NBA history has died. Former Dallas Mavericks big man Roy Tarpley, a terrific scorer and rebounder whose career was derailed by drug and alcohol abuse, died in a Dallas hospital Friday at 50 years old.
Eddie Sefko of the Dallas Morning News has more:
QuoteThe 6-11 Tarpley was the seventh pick in the 1986 draft by the Mavericks out of Michigan. In his second season, he was the NBA's sixth man of the year before drugs and controversy shrouded the rest of his six seasons in the league.
According to a medical examiner's report, Tarpley's death happened at Texas Arlington Health Memorial Hospital. It is a sad ending to one of the most gifted talents ever to play for the franchise. Tarpley had a rare combination of strength and speed that made him one of the best athletes of his era. [...]
He was suspended by the NBA after five games in the 1989-90 season after being arrested for driving while intoxicated and resisting arrest. In 1991, he drew another suspension after a second DWI arrest and months later, he had a third violation and was banned from the league for violating the NBA's drug-use policies.
He returned to the Mavericks briefly in 1994 but then was permanently barred in December, 1995, for violating terms of his aftercare program.
Sefko reports that several members of the Mavericks traveling party, now in Los Angeles for a Saturday game vs. the Clippers at Staples Center, were informed that Tarpley died due to liver failure, but that has not yet been confirmed.
Tarpley's story is one of massive talent lost to addiction and substance abuse. He joined the Mavericks after an excellent collegiate career at Michigan and immediately gave their guard heavy lineup a credible interior threat. His award-winning campaign in 1987-88 included averages of 17.9 ppg and 12.9 rpg during the team's trip to the Western Conference Finals, where they took the eventual champion Lakers to seven games.
Unfortunately, that proved to be the peak of his career. Tarpley began to suffer a string of knee injuries the next season, after which his drug and alcohol problems began to lead to suspensions. Yet it's telling that Tarpley still managed to average double-digit points and rebounds in the midst of his troubles, including 20.4 ppg and 11.0 rpg in his five games of 1990-91. He could have accomplished so much if he had been able to stay on the court.
It is also worth noting that Tarpley later sued the NBA and the Mavericks for violating the American with Disabilities Act in keeping him off the court throughout his struggles with addiction. The case was settled out of court in 2009.
Tarpley will be remembered overwhelmingly as a cautionary tale and disappointment, but his impact on the basketball landscape should not be forgotten. With his combination of strength and speed, he served as a precursor to many do-everything power forwards of the '90s like fellow Michigan product Chris Webber and even Kevin Garnett. His 304 total career regular season and playoff games were meaningful, if also far too few.
Someone Made A Super Sad Shrine To Derrick Rose In Chicago
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/03/09/derrick-rose-shrine-chicago-memorial_n_6833158.html
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.huffpost.com%2Fgen%2F2699876%2Foriginal.jpg&hash=bc145896d9e07529fd79688c10c45e111d3bac87)
The crutches :lol:
:lol: Nice. Are those kneepads too?
Wait....when was the last time Rose played a full season? 3 years ago?
I swear, that candle on the farthest right side of the pic has Michael Jordan on it.
Quote from: MadBurgerMaker on March 10, 2015, 04:37:10 PM
:lol: Nice. Are those kneepads too?
Wait....when was the last time Rose played a full season? 3 years ago?
2010-11, when he was MVP. He went down with his first serious injury in the 2012 playoffs, missed the entire 2012-13 season, came back in the following one and went down again before the end of 2013, missing the rest of it.
Quote from: CountDeMoney on March 10, 2015, 05:18:40 PM
I swear, that candle on the farthest right side of the pic has Michael Jordan on it.
I was right. :lol:
(https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yc_6bzg80ngqKtqodoXngy1FfBs=/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/3486716/11043043_866732236706956_5093641267924670687_n.0.jpg)
http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2015/3/9/8177171/derrick-rose-memorial-chicago-injuries
The Scottie Pippen candle causes migraines.
This has got to be one the most boring playoffs in any sport ever. The quality of basketball has been terrible - particularly in the Eastern final. Too many injuries to too many of the top level players has to be addressed somehow. Either reduce the number of games in the regular season or make the season longer so that players have more rest in between games. It is not much fun to watch the product on the floor right now.
I have been saying they need to reduce the number of games for a while now, I don't see it ever happening though or to extend the season. And next year the league starts testing for HGH, will be interesting what happens with injuries then.
I can't comment much on the quality of play, as I haven't watched much at all but I am happy so far with the results. I will be hard pressed to pick between Golden State and Cleveland, but will likely end up pulling for LeBron.
I even had trouble finding interest watching the Trialblazers play Memphis, though that was a terrible matchup and going 5 games was a better result than I expected. I did watch the 4th quarter of yesterday's Eastern conference game and it was entertaining at least.
I would love to stick my thumb up Sage Steele's butt. :wub:
Quote from: sbr on May 25, 2015, 11:11:11 PM
I would love to stick my thumb up Sage Steele's butt. :wub:
:unsure:
What, you wouldn't?
I'm more of an index finger guy myself.
I can't argue with that
I didn't think Cleveland would win a game in this series. Ironically the injuries to the scorers which forced them to this defensive line-up was the best thing that could have happened to them.
James is finally taking control of the game like the best player in the league should. If he wins this championship, this will be the defining moment of his career that everyone looks back on.
Now he's fucked.
:D
I didn't say he would win, I said if he wins.
You said he is finally taking control of the game. That means he'll totally lose control tomorrow night and it will be your fault. And when Cleveland has lost the series 4-2 I will drive up to Akron and tell him it's all your fault.
Statline will be something like 2-28 with 5 turnovers and 10 points.
Quote from: MadBurgerMaker on June 10, 2015, 07:08:19 PM
Statline will be something like 2-28 with 5 turnovers and 10 points.
:lol:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 10, 2015, 05:59:49 PM
I didn't think Cleveland would win a game in this series. Ironically the injuries to the scorers which forced them to this defensive line-up was the best thing that could have happened to them.
You thought #Believeland would be swept even with a relatively healthy Irving?
I figured Golden State would win but never imagined either team sweeping the series.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 10, 2015, 06:48:01 PM
James is finally taking control of the game like the best player in the league should. If he wins this championship, this will be the defining moment of his career that everyone looks back on.
Nah, they'll be pissed he didn't get a quadruple double in any of the games and wonder why they lost Game 1 in overtime.
The funny thing for me is that, despite all the hero ball played by LeBron, the real difference maker in Cleveland in these finals is Matthew Dellavedova. :lol:
Quote from: The Larch on June 11, 2015, 04:22:45 AM
The funny thing for me is that, despite all the hero ball played by LeBron, the real difference maker in Cleveland in these finals is Matthew Dellavedova. :lol:
The the commentators here went completely crazy when Dellavedova made that falling 2 pointer.
Quote from: Liep on June 11, 2015, 05:20:51 AM
Quote from: The Larch on June 11, 2015, 04:22:45 AM
The funny thing for me is that, despite all the hero ball played by LeBron, the real difference maker in Cleveland in these finals is Matthew Dellavedova. :lol:
The the commentators here went completely crazy when Dellavedova made that falling 2 pointer.
Apparently the Australian media crews covering the finals are going nuts with it, as they thought that he'd be a fringe player for the finals and they'd be covering mostly Bogut, but now they find that they have two key starters to cover, one in each team.
He's good. He's totally taking Curry out.
Quote from: Liep on June 11, 2015, 05:20:51 AM
Quote from: The Larch on June 11, 2015, 04:22:45 AM
The funny thing for me is that, despite all the hero ball played by LeBron, the real difference maker in Cleveland in these finals is Matthew Dellavedova. :lol:
The the commentators here went completely crazy when Dellavedova made that falling 2 pointer.
Were they saying all kinds of funny Danish words?
That's the only kind there is.
Quote from: derspiess on June 11, 2015, 09:36:37 AM
Quote from: Liep on June 11, 2015, 05:20:51 AM
Quote from: The Larch on June 11, 2015, 04:22:45 AM
The funny thing for me is that, despite all the hero ball played by LeBron, the real difference maker in Cleveland in these finals is Matthew Dellavedova. :lol:
The the commentators here went completely crazy when Dellavedova made that falling 2 pointer.
Were they saying all kinds of funny Danish words?
It wasn't specifically Danish, sort of like: "OOOOOOH!!! WAAAAAOOO!???!"
Quote from: sbr on June 10, 2015, 08:45:26 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 10, 2015, 05:59:49 PM
I didn't think Cleveland would win a game in this series. Ironically the injuries to the scorers which forced them to this defensive line-up was the best thing that could have happened to them.
You thought #Believeland would be swept even with a relatively healthy Irving?
I figured Golden State would win but never imagined either team sweeping the series.
Yep, Cleveland wasn't that good of a team with Irving and Love playing. Their defense was terrible, Love didn't get many good looks (he is the kind of shooter that doesn't start warming up until he gets 10+ shots) and Cleveland was a terrible rebounding team. The Warrior would have had the better offence and they play much better defense than that Cleveland team. The Warriors would have easily have outscored that Cleveland team.
The difference now is that the Warriors are having trouble scoring and rebounding against this Cleveland team.
LeBron: tainted. Even busted his head on a camera. Blood is on your hands, Timmay.
Quote from: derspiess on June 12, 2015, 08:25:07 AM
LeBron: tainted. Even busted his head on a camera. Blood is on your hands, Timmay.
And ABC got hold of his junk.
For all you doubters, the Timmay Taint is real!
It is very enjoyable watching Curry play the game of basketball.
Yeah it is. I wish there wasn't so much ridiculous LeBron hate so I could root for the Warriors.
Quote from: sbr on June 15, 2015, 04:10:38 PM
Yeah it is. I wish there wasn't so much ridiculous LeBron hate so I could root for the Warriors.
If one were to remove the ridiculous LeBron hate one would still be left with the justifiable LeBron hate. :P
The amount of travelling and offensive push offs he gets away with make it difficult to truly appreciate his game.
Warriors!!
James should have been named MVP even though he lost, just like West.
Not only was he by far the best player in the series, I think it would be akin to psychological torture for him to be given the award in a loss! :menace:
Woo! My randomly picked favorite team, back in ~1996, has won the NBA championship!
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2015, 07:05:06 PM
You said he is finally taking control of the game. That means he'll totally lose control tomorrow night and it will be your fault. And when Cleveland has lost the series 4-2 I will drive up to Akron and tell him it's all your fault.
Way to go, Tim. I'm telling LeBron.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2015, 08:14:44 AM
Woo! My randomly picked favorite team, back in ~1996, has won the NBA championship!
I thought you said you rooted for the Bulls back then.
And Cleveland loses once again.
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2015, 07:05:06 PM
You said he is finally taking control of the game. That means he'll totally lose control tomorrow night and it will be your fault. And when Cleveland has lost the series 4-2 I will drive up to Akron and tell him it's all your fault.
:rolleyes:
Could he possibly played better? Dude had the best finals performance in at least 30 years.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 17, 2015, 09:16:48 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2015, 08:14:44 AM
Woo! My randomly picked favorite team, back in ~1996, has won the NBA championship!
I thought you said you rooted for the Bulls back then.
It's possible that I picked the Warriors later than 1996. I am not serious in my NBA fandom.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 09:55:18 AM
:rolleyes:
Could he possibly played better? Dude had the best finals performance in at least 30 years.
He had a bad (for LeBron) Game 4, right after you tainted him. He was solid in Game 5 but last night he just looked like he was half-stepping a lot of the game.
You could have just kept quiet until the series was over.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 09:55:18 AM
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2015, 07:05:06 PM
You said he is finally taking control of the game. That means he'll totally lose control tomorrow night and it will be your fault. And when Cleveland has lost the series 4-2 I will drive up to Akron and tell him it's all your fault.
:rolleyes:
Could he possibly played better?
Yes.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:24:21 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 09:55:18 AM
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2015, 07:05:06 PM
You said he is finally taking control of the game. That means he'll totally lose control tomorrow night and it will be your fault. And when Cleveland has lost the series 4-2 I will drive up to Akron and tell him it's all your fault.
:rolleyes:
Could he possibly played better?
Yes.
PPG 35.8 APG 8.8 RPG 13.3
First player in history to lead the Finals in all three stats. No he couldn't have played better, and MJ and Magic couldn't have either.
Without LeBron James on the floor this series.
JR Smith 0/9
Delly 0/7
J. Jones 0/3
Shumpert 0/2
Total 0/21 FG
Highest Pct of Team Points Finals History.
1993 Michael Jordan 38.4%
2015 LeBron James 38.3%
Timmay, When one has as many shot attempt as Lebron one would hope that he would score at least that much. He had a very poor shooting percentage. His rebounds per game are not all that impressive since he was the tallest player on the floor for much of the time (both teams played mainly small ball). His assists per game could have been a lot higher if he had made better decisions on shot selection - ie there is a direct relationship between low shooting percentage and forcing a shot when a pass to an open team mate was available.
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
The Calves made a mistake in not playing that big Russian oaf more. GS had no answer for him in game 1.
FFS Timmy, you're including stuff LeBron did before you tainted him.
I wish this taint affected the Pats.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 17, 2015, 10:56:47 AM
The Calves made a mistake in not playing that big Russian oaf more. GS had no answer for him in game 1.
I agree. He was very effective scoring on the inside. GS's big didn't match up well against him and when GS went small I would have taken the trade off of giving up the odd three scored by his man. It may have forced GS out of their small ball which was really killing Cleveland.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 17, 2015, 11:07:49 AM
I wish this taint affected the Pats.
The taint does not work that way. It has to be something he bandwagons on.
He tainted the shit out of Notre Dame during the Charlie Weis era.
While simultaneously tainting the USC Trojans.
Quote from: derspiess on June 17, 2015, 11:22:19 AM
He tainted the shit out of Notre Dame during the Charlie Weis era.
He ruined that fiesta bowl for them when they played the Buckeyes a while back.
Tim is just awful. He should be banned by executive order by Obama from watching sports.
Can a drone attack be far off?
They'll spot him in a rickshaw convoy one of these days.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:49:37 AM
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals. In 3 games it was higher, in 3 games it was lower. He had more assists than any player for either team.
The performance of the Cavs when he wasn't on the floor was awful.
If your teammates are shooting at a low percentage, you should start taking marginal shots.
How much of Cleveland's cap does The Bron take up, like 80%?
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 17, 2015, 02:18:09 PM
How much of Cleveland's cap does The Bron take up, like 80%?
No, 32% of a 63.065 millions salary cap.
However, the NBA has a softcap. The luxury tax kicked at 71 millions in 2014/15
Quote from: alfred russel on June 17, 2015, 02:15:57 PM
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals.
So you're saying that since he shot about as well as (mostly) bench players he's okay? He's supposed to be much, much better. That said, there is only so much even a LeBron can do all by himself. This team was sunk after they lost both Love and Irving.
Quote from: derspiess on June 17, 2015, 02:59:20 PM
So you're saying that since he shot about as well as (mostly) bench players he's okay? He's supposed to be much, much better.
I'm saying if he has a 25% chance of making a shot, and the other guys on the team have a 24% chance of making a bucket if he passes the ball, he should take the shot.
He was in fact much much better than the guys he was playing with. Had any of those guys had to cope with the workload Lebron did plus had the defense focus on them the way they did on Lebron, the results would have been a joke.
http://www.arizonawildcats.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=30700&ATCLID=210154438
Quote
Four UA Alums Help Warriors Claim NBA Title
CLEVELAND – The Golden State Warriors won their first NBA championship in four decades on Tuesday, and the victory featured a distinct Arizona basketball influence.
With head coach Steve Kerr and assistant coaches Luke Walton and Bruce Fraser orchestrating things from the bench, Andre Iguodala proved to be one of the series' pivotal players with his defensive effort on Cavaliers forward LeBron James and his clutch baskets on the offensive end of the floor.
Iguodala was named the winner of the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award after averaging better than 14 points, five rebounds and three assists per game against Cleveland, helping Kerr, Walton and Fraser lead the franchise to its fourth world championship and third NBA title. Golden State won the Basketball Association of America (the forerunner to the NBA) championship in 1947, and hoisted NBA championship banners in 1956 and 1975.
He is the first Arizona basketball alum to earn NBA Finals MVP honors, and the first player ever to be named MVP of the NBA Finals after not starting every game of the series.
With Iguodala earning his first ring on Tuesday night, Arizona players have now won 14 NBA championships as players since 1996, when Kerr and Jud Buechler were members of the championship-winning Chicago Bulls.
For Kerr, this year's victory represented his sixth total NBA title, adding on to the five he won as a player. He is the first rookie head coach to win the league crown since Pat Riley in 1982.
"They were all in it, just to win. This is an amazing group of guys," Kerr said after the game on ABC while mentioning the impact he felt from legendary former UA coach Lute Olson. "I was blessed with an unbelievable group of guys in my first year. I can't believe how lucky I am."
Walton's ring is his third, as he won back-to-back championships with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010, while the championship is the first for Fraser.
Igoudala denies LeBron. What could be a better story?
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 10:38:41 AM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:24:21 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 09:55:18 AM
Quote from: derspiess on June 10, 2015, 07:05:06 PM
You said he is finally taking control of the game. That means he'll totally lose control tomorrow night and it will be your fault. And when Cleveland has lost the series 4-2 I will drive up to Akron and tell him it's all your fault.
:rolleyes:
Could he possibly played better?
Yes.
PPG 35.8 APG 8.8 RPG 13.3
First player in history to lead the Finals in all three stats. No he couldn't have played better, and MJ and Magic couldn't have either.
Without LeBron James on the floor this series.
JR Smith 0/9
Delly 0/7
J. Jones 0/3
Shumpert 0/2
Total 0/21 FG
Highest Pct of Team Points Finals History.
1993 Michael Jordan 38.4%
2015 LeBron James 38.3%
Tim, if you are going to cut and paste from elsewhere, normally it is considered good form to actually quote your source, rather than imply you came up with the take yourself.
Jordan overall for the NBA finals shot 48% from the field.
LeBron shot less than 40%.
Jordan hit 80% of his free throws in the finals, LeBron hits at 68%.
James is the best player today, but he has a ways to go before he is ready to fill Jordan's shoes when it comes to performance in the NBA Finals.
Jordan had Scottie Pippen on the floor with him in those finals. Who did Lebron have here that the Warriors had to respect? No one.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 05:41:14 PM
Jordan had Scottie Pippen on the floor with him in those finals. Who did Lebron have here that the Warriors had to respect? No one.
So?
That doesn't make him the equal of Jordan, any more than it makes all the other players on the floor without Pippen the equal of Jordan.
James is one of many great NBA players. He is not one of THE great NBA players...not yet.
His style is nothing like Jordan's, he's better compared to Magic.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 05:54:20 PM
His style is nothing like Jordan's, he's better compared to Magic.
Then don't compare him to Jordan.
Quote from: alfred russel on June 17, 2015, 02:15:57 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:49:37 AM
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals. In 3 games it was higher, in 3 games it was lower. He had more assists than any player for either team.
The performance of the Cavs when he wasn't on the floor was awful.
If your teammates are shooting at a low percentage, you should start taking marginal shots.
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because it is an offence build around Lebron. The rest of the team got very few easy shots because the offence wasn't set up to do that. Compare that with an offence like GS which is designed to get open shots for a number of players. So if an offence is built around the concept of getting a good shot for one guy that one guy better score the bulk of the points with a good percentage (which is why the total percentage of points is meaningless in this context) and since he has the ball in his hands so much one would hope that he is able to pass out to an open player for an assist more than anyone else.
I disagree with your last point. It is that mentality that is the reason Lebron has only won 2 out of six trips to the finals. When Jordan started to share the ball he started winning - 6 for 6.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 05:54:20 PM
His style is nothing like Jordan's, he's better compared to Magic.
:huh:
Magic was a true point guard who could also play a true post position. There has never been another magic. Lebron can dribble the ball up the court but he isn't a point guard. Lebron can post up a smaller player or equal sized players but he doesn't post up a rim defender.
Did you ever see Magic play?
Quote from: Berkut on June 17, 2015, 05:58:44 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 17, 2015, 05:54:20 PM
His style is nothing like Jordan's, he's better compared to Magic.
Then don't compare him to Jordan.
Boom.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 10:38:06 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on June 17, 2015, 02:15:57 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:49:37 AM
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals. In 3 games it was higher, in 3 games it was lower. He had more assists than any player for either team.
The performance of the Cavs when he wasn't on the floor was awful.
If your teammates are shooting at a low percentage, you should start taking marginal shots.
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because it is an offence build around Lebron. The rest of the team got very few easy shots because the offence wasn't set up to do that. Compare that with an offence like GS which is designed to get open shots for a number of players. So if an offence is built around the concept of getting a good shot for one guy that one guy better score the bulk of the points with a good percentage (which is why the total percentage of points is meaningless in this context) and since he has the ball in his hands so much one would hope that he is able to pass out to an open player for an assist more than anyone else.
I disagree with your last point. It is that mentality that is the reason Lebron has only won 2 out of six trips to the finals. When Jordan started to share the ball he started winning - 6 for 6.
So if the Cavaliers ran their offense similar to the way GS does, suddenly Tristan Thomas, Iman Shumpert and Delladova improve enough to become, what? Average NBA offensive players? Does it help transform JR Smith from a lazy, idiotic streaky shooter into someone you can rely on?
It doesn't matter what sets you run, if JR Smith is your second most talented offensive player you will never win anything.
The reason 2 of LeBron's NBA Finals teams lost is because they were vastly inferior to the team they played and LeBron dragged them into the finals, almost despite themselves. Or are you one of those who was saying that the 2007 Cavaliers' roster and coaches were comparable to the '90s Bulls teams and LeBron was crazy to leave that?
The reason shitty teams with Lebron get to the Finals is because they are in the current Eastern Conference. It did not take that much dragging. The other teams just suck ass.
I would not call the Golden State Warriors a great team yet, but they has one of the greatest seasons in NBA history. They were given everything they could handle, and could (maybe should) have been down 0-3 after the first three games of the Finals by a team that had Timofey Mozgov, JR Smith, Tristan Thompson, Iman Shupert and Matt Dellavedova as 5 of the 6 contributing players.
Quote from: sbr on June 18, 2015, 01:55:28 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 10:38:06 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on June 17, 2015, 02:15:57 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:49:37 AM
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals. In 3 games it was higher, in 3 games it was lower. He had more assists than any player for either team.
The performance of the Cavs when he wasn't on the floor was awful.
If your teammates are shooting at a low percentage, you should start taking marginal shots.
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because it is an offence build around Lebron. The rest of the team got very few easy shots because the offence wasn't set up to do that. Compare that with an offence like GS which is designed to get open shots for a number of players. So if an offence is built around the concept of getting a good shot for one guy that one guy better score the bulk of the points with a good percentage (which is why the total percentage of points is meaningless in this context) and since he has the ball in his hands so much one would hope that he is able to pass out to an open player for an assist more than anyone else.
I disagree with your last point. It is that mentality that is the reason Lebron has only won 2 out of six trips to the finals. When Jordan started to share the ball he started winning - 6 for 6.
So if the Cavaliers ran their offense similar to the way GS does, suddenly Tristan Thomas, Iman Shumpert and Delladova improve enough to become, what? Average NBA offensive players? Does it help transform JR Smith from a lazy, idiotic streaky shooter into someone you can rely on?
It doesn't matter what sets you run, if JR Smith is your second most talented offensive player you will never win anything.
The reason 2 of LeBron's NBA Finals teams lost is because they were vastly inferior to the team they played and LeBron dragged them into the finals, almost despite themselves. Or are you one of those who was saying that the 2007 Cavaliers' roster and coaches were comparable to the '90s Bulls teams and LeBron was crazy to leave that?
You are missing the point. The Cleveland offence is built to get Lebron as many touches and shots as possible. Therefore it is no surprising that he scores a high percentage of the team's points. It is not surprising that he gets more assists than others. Touching the ball every time down the court tends to do that even for someone who shoots (and misses) as much as Lebron did in this series.
The Heat teams were "vastly inferior" :huh:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 05:54:27 PM
Quote from: sbr on June 18, 2015, 01:55:28 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 10:38:06 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on June 17, 2015, 02:15:57 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:49:37 AM
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals. In 3 games it was higher, in 3 games it was lower. He had more assists than any player for either team.
The performance of the Cavs when he wasn't on the floor was awful.
If your teammates are shooting at a low percentage, you should start taking marginal shots.
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because it is an offence build around Lebron. The rest of the team got very few easy shots because the offence wasn't set up to do that. Compare that with an offence like GS which is designed to get open shots for a number of players. So if an offence is built around the concept of getting a good shot for one guy that one guy better score the bulk of the points with a good percentage (which is why the total percentage of points is meaningless in this context) and since he has the ball in his hands so much one would hope that he is able to pass out to an open player for an assist more than anyone else.
I disagree with your last point. It is that mentality that is the reason Lebron has only won 2 out of six trips to the finals. When Jordan started to share the ball he started winning - 6 for 6.
So if the Cavaliers ran their offense similar to the way GS does, suddenly Tristan Thomas, Iman Shumpert and Delladova improve enough to become, what? Average NBA offensive players? Does it help transform JR Smith from a lazy, idiotic streaky shooter into someone you can rely on?
It doesn't matter what sets you run, if JR Smith is your second most talented offensive player you will never win anything.
The reason 2 of LeBron's NBA Finals teams lost is because they were vastly inferior to the team they played and LeBron dragged them into the finals, almost despite themselves. Or are you one of those who was saying that the 2007 Cavaliers' roster and coaches were comparable to the '90s Bulls teams and LeBron was crazy to leave that?
You are missing the point. The Cleveland offence is built to get Lebron as many touches and shots as possible. Therefore it is no surprising that he scores a high percentage of the team's points. It is not surprising that he gets more assists than others. Touching the ball every time down the court tends to do that even for someone who shoots (and misses) as much as Lebron did in this series.
The Heat teams were "vastly inferior" :huh:
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because with the injuries it is a roster full of medicare (at best) players. I don't care what plays you run or how the offense is designed those guys are sub-par shooters and scorers. Could you do something else and get a better result? Maybe but I doubt it would be enough to beat the Warriors.
Maybe I worded it poorly, but the inferior teams were the 2 Cavs teams. The Heat team that lost to Dallas was probably a better team, the Heat team that lost to the Spurs was close but San Antonio was the better team. The Spurs team that lost to Miami was probably the better team as well.
What does the rest of the team have to do with Lebron shooting such a poor percentage. Are you suggesting that in past finals Jordan wasn't closely guarded?
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 06:25:07 PM
What does the rest of the team have to do with Lebron shooting such a poor percentage. Are you suggesting that in past finals Jordan wasn't closely guarded?
He was usually double teamed. That's why Paxton, Armstrong, Kerr, etc. had such good 3 point fg%.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 06:25:07 PM
What does the rest of the team have to do with Lebron shooting such a poor percentage. Are you suggesting that in past finals Jordan wasn't closely guarded?
I thought the fact that I kept quoting the passage would make it clear, but here it is again.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 10:38:06 AM
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because it is an offence build around Lebron. The rest of the team got very few easy shots because the offence wasn't set up to do that. Compare that with an offence like GS which is designed to get open shots for a number of players. So if an offence is built around the concept of getting a good shot for one guy that one guy better score the bulk of the points with a good percentage (which is why the total percentage of points is meaningless in this context) and since he has the ball in his hands so much one would hope that he is able to pass out to an open player for an assist more than anyone else.
I disagree with your last point. It is that mentality that is the reason Lebron has only won 2 out of six trips to the finals. When Jordan started to share the ball he started winning - 6 for 6.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 10:38:06 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on June 17, 2015, 02:15:57 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 17, 2015, 10:49:37 AM
The highest percentage of team points isn't a meaningful stat until you put it into context. If he is missing a lot of shots and not effectively distributing the ball another name for that is ballhog.
At the risk of defending Timmay, his shot percentage was in line with the rest of his team's during the finals. In 3 games it was higher, in 3 games it was lower. He had more assists than any player for either team.
The performance of the Cavs when he wasn't on the floor was awful.
If your teammates are shooting at a low percentage, you should start taking marginal shots.
The reason the rest of Cleveland shot a low percentage is because it is an offence build around Lebron. The rest of the team got very few easy shots because the offence wasn't set up to do that. Compare that with an offence like GS which is designed to get open shots for a number of players. So if an offence is built around the concept of getting a good shot for one guy that one guy better score the bulk of the points with a good percentage (which is why the total percentage of points is meaningless in this context) and since he has the ball in his hands so much one would hope that he is able to pass out to an open player for an assist more than anyone else.
I disagree with your last point. It is that mentality that is the reason Lebron has only won 2 out of six trips to the finals. When Jordan started to share the ball he started winning - 6 for 6.
This analysis is fucking lunancy. The offence was built around him in this series because the other two allstars went down with injuries. He has averaged 7.1 assists per game for his career and from the beginning he has been relentlesly criticized for sharing too much and not taking the game into his own hands.
Quote from: Peter Wiggin on June 18, 2015, 06:37:04 PM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 06:25:07 PM
What does the rest of the team have to do with Lebron shooting such a poor percentage. Are you suggesting that in past finals Jordan wasn't closely guarded?
He was usually double teamed. That's why Paxton, Armstrong, Kerr, etc. had such good 3 point fg%.
And Jordan shot a much better percentage then Lebron even though Jordan was always double teamed. So again, I don't think the apologist stance for Lebron shooting a low percentage holds.
@ Timmay, could Lebron have played better is the question you asked. Yes, he could have played as well as Jordan did. But you made sure that wasn't going to happen :P
Quote from: sbr on June 18, 2015, 06:37:50 PM
I thought the fact that I kept quoting the passage would make it clear, but here it is again.
That is an explanation for why Cleveland shot a low percentage. Not why Lebron shot a poor percentage. Also, consider that Jordan shot a much better percentage in an era when defenders were permitted much more contact.
I'm one of the few NOT comparing lebron to Jordan.
You said the Cavs crappy players played crappy because they ran the wrong offense. I say they played crappy because they are crappy
I just cannot believe that Tristan Thompson was ever a factor in a NBA finals. I mean Hook'em Horns and all that but wow.
LOL, any of you guys followed the DeAndre Jordan fiasco these days? :lol:
If the Clippers are healthy they should make it to the conference finals at least.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 09, 2015, 06:20:19 AM
If the Clippers are healthy they should make it to the conference finals at least.
Ah yeah. Making to the finals in the Western Conference is easy, so little competition.
Quote from: Valmy on July 09, 2015, 07:26:21 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 09, 2015, 06:20:19 AM
If the Clippers are healthy they should make it to the conference finals at least.
Ah yeah. Making to the finals in the Western Conference is easy, so little competition.
They just missed it by one game last year, they're a team on the rise.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 09, 2015, 05:53:14 PM
They just missed it by one game last year, they're a team on the rise.
Lots of teams on the rise in the West. They might make it to the conference finals but should? No that is no easy task.
Yep, I would put the Clippers as #3 in the West but that makes them #4 in the entire league. They could make the WC Finals and a run to the NBA Finals wouldn't be shocking, but two of the very best teams are in their conference as well.
Quote from: sbr on July 09, 2015, 07:10:58 PM
Yep, I would put the Clippers as #3 in the West but that makes them #4 in the entire league. They could make the WC Finals and a run to the NBA Finals wouldn't be shocking, but two of the very best teams are in their conference as well.
The West is going to be a bloodbath again next year. Not only do you have the Warriors, the current champions, but you also have the Spurs with LaMarcus Aldridge, which might be a juggernaut, a hopefully healthy Oklahoma, Houston basically intact, the ascendant Pelicans with Anthony Davis who is a fucking beast and Memphis ready to inflict pain on any frountcourt that sets in front of them, without even starting to take the Clippers into account. Expecting to reach the conference finals by default is a very tall order.
Quote from: The Larch on July 10, 2015, 03:28:00 AM
Quote from: sbr on July 09, 2015, 07:10:58 PM
Yep, I would put the Clippers as #3 in the West but that makes them #4 in the entire league. They could make the WC Finals and a run to the NBA Finals wouldn't be shocking, but two of the very best teams are in their conference as well.
The West is going to be a bloodbath again next year. Not only do you have the Warriors, the current champions, but you also have the Spurs with LaMarcus Aldridge, which might be a juggernaut, a hopefully healthy Oklahoma, Houston basically intact, the ascendant Pelicans with Anthony Davis who is a fucking beast and Memphis ready to inflict pain on any frountcourt that sets in front of them, without even starting to take the Clippers into account. Expecting to reach the conference finals by default is a very tall order.
Yep. The Clippers had a good run this year but they may end up fighting for the last playoff spot next year.
The father of a good friend of mine passed away this week. His name was Bob MacKinnon and he coached Canisius from 1959 to 1972. He's probably best known for his ABA & NBA coaching-- he coached the ABA Spirits of St. Louis in 1975 when they upset Julius Erving's Nets in the playoffs, then went on to coach the Buffalo Braves and had a couple stints coaching the Nets in the 80s.
Dude lived a pretty full life. Here's a short NBA tribute video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DIc2jR4nnE
They should've disabled comments :rolleyes:
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 18, 2015, 06:25:07 PM
What does the rest of the team have to do with Lebron shooting such a poor percentage. Are you suggesting that in past finals Jordan wasn't closely guarded?
Maybe LeBron shot poorly because he was embarrassed about the video of his penis getting out. The rest of the team shot poorly because of demoralization about the size of their leader's member.
Anyone else see 52 year old Hakeem with one last Dream Shake?
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/hakeem-olajuwon--playing-in-africa--gives-us-one-more-dream-shake--video-114149447.html
Moses Malone has died at 60 years old :(
The first to go straight from high school to the NBA.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/14/sports/basketball/moses-malone-76ers-star-and-a-ferocious-rebounder-dies-at-60.html
QuoteMoses Malone, 76ers Star and a Ferocious Rebounder, Dies at 60
Moses Malone, the Hall of Fame basketball player who helped carry the Philadelphia 76ers to a championship in 1983, and whose dominance in the paint earned him the nickname "Chairman of the Boards," has died. He was 60.
His death was announced by the Philadelphia 76ers. A cause was not given.
Malone was one of the first players to go straight from high school to professional basketball, where he played for 10 teams over a 21-year career before retiring in 1995. He played 19 seasons in the N.B.A., won the league most valuable player award three times and was a 12-time All-Star.
Tall and slender, he was known for his ferocious defense under the backboard. In his first season with the 76ers, the team swept the Los Angeles Lakers for the 1983 championships and he was named the most valuable player of the finals.
"It is with a deep sense of sadness that the Sixers family mourns the sudden loss of Moses Malone," the 76ers said in a statement. "Moses holds a special place in our hearts and will forever be remembered as a genuine icon and pillar of the most storied era in the history of Philadelphia 76ers basketball."
He was born Moses Eugene Malone on March 23, 1955 in Petersburg, Va. After graduating high school in 1974, he became one of the first players to go straight to the pros after signing with the American Basketball Association's Utah Stars. He retired in 1995, after a single season with the San Antonio Spurs.
How about that first Canadian ever drafted #1!
QuoteAnthony Bennett, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft, passed through waivers without a claim on Friday and will become an unrestricted free agent, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
The Toronto Raptors are a strong frontrunner to sign Bennett, a native of the city, to a deal, league sources said.
Bennett's reps pushed for a buyout with Minnesota and tried to dissuade teams from claiming him on waivers, league sources said. His agents had a destination in mind for Bennett, league sources said.
All passed, allowing Bennett to become a free agent.
Minnesota acquired Bennett as part of the Kevin Love deal that brought the Wolves 2014 No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins.
Bennett, 22, has struggled with weight and health as an NBA player, but did show progress playing for the Canadian National team this summer in international competitions. A 6-foot-8 forward, he was an unlikely No. 1 overall pick who had almost no chance to live up to that burden. In two seasons, Bennett has averaged 4.7 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.
There's a team called the Pelicans? :huh:
Quote from: Admiral Yi on September 25, 2015, 08:40:25 PM
There's a team called the Pelicans? :huh:
Yes formally New Orleans Hornets (because team was moved from Charlotte)
They have a surprisingly good angry basketball bird logo.
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.cdn.turner.com%2Fnba%2Fnba%2F.element%2Fmedia%2F2.0%2Fteamsites%2Fhornets%2F012513_landing_main_logo.png&hash=b9cb996c8b0805f2097af82755fb878e42e883af)
That is indeed a pretty good logo - not necessarily what comes to mind when you hear "Pelicans."
Quote from: katmai on September 25, 2015, 08:45:36 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on September 25, 2015, 08:40:25 PM
There's a team called the Pelicans? :huh:
Yes formally New Orleans Hornets (because team was moved from Charlotte)
And then the Charlotte Bobcats were created, and changed their name back to Charlotte Hornets when the previous Hornets became the Pelicans. :P
Too bad Jazz wasn't available for the New Orleans team name.
Bennett played very well at the FIBA tournament. Hopefully he gets another chance.
Bennet was a rather puzzling #1 draft pick in the first place, and the pressure it entailed certainly didn't help him. He was not going to play much in Minnesotta, so this is actually a good move for him, now he needs to get to a team that will give him significant playing time, otherwise he won't be able to to develop and improve as a player.
Derrick Rose is injured again. :face: (orbital fracture)
I watched the Steph Curry interview with Colbert from a few days ago. Granted Colbert is a very good interviewer and can make people look good. But Curry seems to be a very likeable guy.
Odom, No! :o
http://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/nba-reality-tv-star-lamar-odom-found-unconscious-nevada-brothel-n444041
Doesn't look like he'll pull through. :(
http://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/lamar-odom-had-drugs-system-suffered-brain-damage-sources-n444651
:(
Steph! :worthy:
So many awesome charts and graphs here
http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/stephen-curry-is-the-revolution/
Quote
Basketball 10:05 AM Dec 3, 2015
Stephen Curry Is The Revolution
By Benjamin Morris
Ezra Shaw / Getty Images
Before this year's NBA season started, I had a conversation with a Golden State Warriors fan. He was excited about his team and was keen to explain its success: It was perfectly balanced, with perfect chemistry, role players, coaching and management. That Stephen Curry is pretty amazing also helped.
His point that the Warriors are some kind of Zen basketball masterpiece is hardly controversial. Yet a few minutes into our conversation I found myself arguing strenuously that this diehard Curry fan didn't really understand how great — and how important — Curry is.
Other than Daryl Morey, Curry is perhaps the figurehead in the NBA's Three-Point Revolution™. It's easy to get swept up in the narrative that 3-point shooting has been long-undervalued and that smart sharpshooters are finally taking over the NBA. Teams that shot the most and the best from beyond the arc last year dominated like never before. The correlation between a team's rate of attempting threes and its winning percentage was the highest it has ever been (.47). In the playoffs, the top 3-point-shooting teams made up the entirety of the conference finals:
morris-stephcurry-1
Despite this, I've been a tiny bit skeptical of the notion that the 3-point shot is inherently superior. I'm not anti-three the way Byron Scott is, but I've suggested that the midrange game — which has historically been a strong indicator of success in the NBA — might still be important once defenses adjust to the new offensive math and a new equilibrium is reached.
But Curry kills all that. Curry isn't a product of the math; he's so good that he has his own math. Indeed, the math is so far in Curry's favor that the Warriors — and even basketball in general — may not fully understand what they have yet.
While arguing with that Warriors fan, I may have said some things I shouldn't have. Like that Curry has an outside shot at breaking Wilt Chamberlain's season record of 50 points per game. Even as MVP, Curry scored only 24 points per game last year, so obviously I was exaggerating for effect ... right?
Through November, Curry is scoring nearly 32 points per game this season (despite having the luxury of sitting out several fourth quarters as the Warriors roll). As ESPN's Director of Analytics Ben Alamar wrote, Curry "seems to have figured out that he truly cannot take too many 3-point shots."
And that's the heart of the matter. The deeper you dive into the data, the more you realize that Curry isn't just a deadly efficient shooter, but he's also virtually immune to burden. As he has been asked to produce more and more, he hasn't gotten any less efficient. (Economists would say Curry has nearly constant1 returns to scale.) The question is: How much additional shooting volume could Curry handle while still remaining the Warriors' best option?
I could rattle off a couple of stats and make a guess, but as my sanity depends on this, I didn't want to take it casually. So I've examined the issue from a number of angles, including a foray into the NBA's latest tracking data.2
There's good news and bad news. The bad news is that the results really don't give us a clear indication of how much burden Curry may be able to handle. The good news is the data doesn't show even the tiniest hint that Curry is anywhere near his limits yet.
So how good is Curry's shooting?
Although Curry does a lot of things well, his main skill is chucking the ball into the basket, so let's start with that. To look at Curry's shooting, I used NBA shot-tracking data from the start of the 2014-15 season through Saturday's games3 (courtesy of Nylon Calculus). The data set contains not only shot distance, but also the distance of the nearest defender and the time left on the shot clock (usually). From this, I created a quick regression to find an expected value of each shot taken,4 which I then compared to the results. This plot shows how much value each player has added since the start of last season versus how many shots he took (with the size of each bubble corresponding to the number of shots taken per game):
morris-stephcurry-2
Among players with more than 200 shots, Curry was only the fourth-most-efficient shooter on a shot-by-shot basis (behind Kyle Korver, DeAndre Jordan and Kevin Durant).5 Yet Curry has more than 1,600 shots in that span, while none of the other three players has even half that. He has 371 total points added from shooting efficiency alone, with Korver in second place with 247. Note that this doesn't include additional value from free throws earned — which would probably make Curry's advantage even greater (Curry has 416 made free throws in the period, compared to Kyle Korver's 118).
This year, Curry is making his 2014-15 MVP season seem practically pedestrian. Curry is playing better in a number of ways — among other things, he is on pace to set career highs in stealing and rebounding, and he has his best defensive rating to date. He is also hitting a career high in shot attempts per 100 possessions (29.0 this year vs. 25.1 last year) and 3-point attempts per 100 possessions (15.5 this year vs. 12.1 last year). Most importantly, even though he's taking all these extra shots, his shooting efficiency has gone up! As a reminder, here's Kirk Goldsberry's shot chart for Curry this season (as of last week):
goldsberry-warriors-3
But perhaps my favorite stat in all of this: Curry's assists per 100 possessions has plummeted (11.6 last year, 8.5 so far this year, his lowest since 7.8 his rookie year). It's probably fair to infer that Curry is taking more shots that he used to set up for teammates.
As well he should! Curry should only be setting up others' shots if he is unable to take or get a better shot himself, which is not that often.
Curry's bad shots are better than others' good shots
I like to joke that Curry should just take "all the shots" — which is an exaggeration (I think). But there's strong evidence that the Warriors could be asking Curry to take even more of them.
Let's get very basic for a second: Some shots are better than others. Sometimes a defense breaks down and leaves a player an open look, and sometimes the clock runs down and a player has to heave up a prayer despite being tightly defended. A good offensive scheme is one that generates a lot of good shots. But of course this is relative to who takes them: An open three is useless if it's taken by a poor shooter like Shaq, while a pretty well-guarded three can be valuable if it's taken by a good shooter like Curry.
If the Warriors were to assign Curry even more shots, they would have to come from somewhere. If Curry can steal shots that are as good as or better than those his teammates would have taken, that's pure gravy. But if we assume that the Warriors are already distributing their shots wisely, giving Curry more shots likely comes with a trade-off: To give Curry more shots would mean taking "better" shots away from his teammates. Moreover, Curry's new shots are likely to be worse, on average, than the ones he is taking already (if they were better, he would probably already be taking them).
So if our hypothesis — that Curry should be taking more shots — is true, it would suggest that sometimes the Warriors should pass up a good shot for Curry to take a bad shot. So how good is Curry at bad shots?
Very, very good.
One way to measure his skill at bad shots is to look at how he shoots when he's well-defended. In the shot data, the simplest proxy for this is the distance of the nearest defender. For example, NBA players on the whole made 35 percent of all 3-point attempts last season, but they made 44 percent with the closest defender at least 12 feet away.
Here's Curry's 3-point shooting over the past two seasons, broken down by distance to closest defender:
morris-stephcurry-4
Leave aside the sharp drop on the right of the chart for a moment: Curry has hit 45 percent with a defender between 2 and 4 feet away, 44 percent with a defender between 4 and 6 feet away, and 47 percent with the closest defender more than 6 feet away. Yes, that's right, Curry shoots threes about as well with a defender 2 to 4 feet away (classified as "tight" by NBA.com) as an average NBA shooter does with the nearest defender 12 feet away.
Sure, Curry has shot poorly when "smothered" with defenders less than 2 feet from him. This is perhaps unsurprising considering that Curry is only 6-foot-3, and this includes blocks by definition. But note that these types of shots are pretty rare: They accounted for only 25 shots in the data, about 3 percent of his 3-point attempts. In any case, Curry seems to be all right at getting himself good looks:
So aside from the rare smothering, Curry seems fairly immune to defense.6 He hits about 42 percent of the hardest quartile(ish) of his shots (specifically, the 28 percent with the closest defender less than 4 feet away),7 or about 126 points per 100 attempts. In other words, if Golden State could replace its entire offense with just the bottom quartile of Stephen Curry's 3-point attempts — without him ever being fouled and with them never collecting an offensive rebound — they would have the best offense in NBA history by a wide margin.
But it gets crazier.
Another proxy for a shot being pressured is how much time is left on the shot clock. As the clock winds down, the expected value of a possession drops as well, since players may be compromising shot quality to get a shot off. With Curry, not so much:
morris-stephcurry-5
Curry takes a huge portion of his shots early in the shot clock (more than 50 percent) and is deadly on these. His worst time frame is with around 12 to 16 seconds left — where he has still made 42 percent. Then, he somehow shoots better and better as the clock runs down! In addition to being another example of how the traditional ideas of "good" and "bad" shots don't really apply to Curry, this also has the very practical implication that Curry's teammates should be willing to pass up reasonably good shots even if it means Curry will have less time to set up his own.
Curry vs. the Warriors
Of course, the Warriors aren't an average team. So perhaps it's impractical to think that their great shooters should be passing up good looks. For this, let's first look at how well and how often the entire Warriors squad shoots. I've plotted each Warrior's true shooting percentage8 against his field-goal attempts per 36 minutes this season.
We normally expect a flat to negative relationship between these two variables: Players with a small burden are more selective and tend to be "sharpshooters" taking wide-open threes and such, while high-volume shooters have to do the dirty work of taking shots that aren't open and aren't easy but are better than nothing. Incidentally, this is one reason why some great players with heavy shooting burdens may appear less valuable than they are: If they're forced to take all the bad shots, they could be doing better on those than average but still have low efficiency.
With Curry, we have no such problem:
morris-stephcurry-6
Curry demolishes the trend by taking an absurd number of shots efficiently. Here's Curry's true shooting percentage over the past four years compared with that of the other Warriors:
morris-stephcurry-7
This already has a big impact on the Warriors' bottom line. But the huge gap between him and the rest of the club — his "perfectly balanced" supporting cast — again makes it likely that a subpar shot for him may be well above average for his team.
The Curry stratagem
One way to get Curry more shots is to have players pass up shots so that Curry can take them. But another angle is for the offense to set up and have Curry take certain shots as quickly as possible. A shot like the pull-up 3-point jumper, say.
The pull-up three is not normally a great shot in the NBA. The league on the whole converts about 28 percent on average (corresponding to 84 points per 100 possessions) — well below the 35 percent that players convert on all 3-pointers. But since the start of last season, Curry has converted 42 percent of his. Here's a plot of every player with at least 100 pull-up 3-point attempts in the same period:
morris-stephcurry-8
So say Curry was instructed to take significantly more pull-up 3-point attempts than the large number he already takes. Even assuming that these shots were a little bit worse than the ones the Warriors would be able to get otherwise (highly questionable), getting efficient shots off early in a possession has other ancillary benefits. For one, it allows the Warriors to pack more possessions into a game, which is good because they are gaining ground on their opponents for every possession exchanged (unless they play a better opponent, which these days they don't). But second, being able to play a very fast-paced offense when necessary (such as Curry taking quick threes early in the clock) allows them to extend the game as much as possible when they're behind, just as being able to play a slow-paced offense (such as holding the ball unless you have a clear shot and then letting Curry shoot under pressure) is valuable for shortening the game when they're ahead.
In other words, building your offensive strategy around "Curry as options 1, 2, and 3" has win-maximizing benefits beyond Curry's shooting efficiency.
No, seriously, Curry is getting better
Every article about every great young athlete ever seems to end with "And he's just getting better and better" — even though this often isn't true. So let me end this one with, "No, seriously, he really is getting better and better."
And, other than the fact that Curry is so good right now that he can't possibly get better, there's no evidence of him slowing down. To illustrate, here's every NBA season during Curry's seven-year career:
morris-stephcurry-9
Curry has taken on additional shot-making responsibilities throughout his career, yet his true shooting percentage has been getting better and BETTER.
As I mentioned earlier, for most players, this is a trade-off: The larger the burden placed on them, the less efficient they are. I've added a trend line through all of the players other than Curry9 to show how it's normally flat. This is because better players tend to get more shots, which counteracts the fact that a given player taking more shots tends to be less efficient. I've also colored in LeBron James and Durant, so you can see that the standard relationship basically holds even for MVPs. But Curry has set career highs in both attempts and efficiency — in the same year — four times, including each of the past three seasons. That is, Curry comes only in shades of good, better and best (in that order). Curry is truly the Dennis Rodman of shooting!
Indeed, when considering Curry's potential, I think Rodman is perhaps an even more important precedent than Chamberlain or Michael Jordan. Rodman came into the league as a reasonably well-rounded player but had an incredible talent for rebounding. As years went by, his teams leaned on this skill more and more. He took on fewer and fewer offensive responsibilities, and he started gathering larger and larger shares of his team's rebounds. In the 1993-94 season, he gathered nearly 29.7 percent of all available rebounds — at the time, the highest by any other player was Moses Malone, with 23.4 percent in 1976-77. Despite being one of the most one-dimensional players ever, this made Rodman one of the most valuable players in NBA history.10
While exceeding 50 points per game sounds crazy — it would require Curry to take on the order of half of his team's shots — as evidenced by Rodman, fully exploiting a game-breaking skill can lead to unthinkable results.
Do I really think that the Warriors will adopt an all-Curry-all-the-time strategy and knock Wilt out of the record books?
I don't know. But Curry himself is a microcosm of the revolution that we've already seen. Just as the math suggests that good midrange jump shots should often be exchanged for worse 3-pointers if possible, so the math suggests that good non-Curry shots should be exchanged for worse Curry shots. I'm confident in saying that we aren't there yet. And if that revolution happens as well, look out.
CORRECTION (Dec. 3, 11:30 a.m.): An earlier version of a chart in this story incorrectly gave the source of the data on shooting percentage by time remaining on the shot clock; it was Nylon Calculus, not Basketball-Reference.com.
CORRECTION (Dec. 3, 12:02 p.m.): An earlier version of this article misstated the rate of Curry's 3-point attempts this year and last year. They were per 100 possessions, not per possession.
Footnotes
1.Possibly even accelerating. ^
2.Starting with the 2013-14 season, the NBA has been tracking the location of every player and the ball at every moment of virtually every game, substantially opening up avenues of investigation. Most of the shot data I've used was provided for this article by our friends at Nylon Calculus. ^
3.For various technical reasons, the tracking data is not always as complete as standard stats. For example, I've been told that the entire Nov. 12 Warriors vs. Timberwolves game — in which Curry made 8 of 13 3-pointers — is currently missing from the shot logs. ^
4.Code for those interested: glm(made ~ SHOT_CLOCK + SHOT_DIST + CLOSE_DEF_DIST,family=binomial,data=filter(shots,!is.na(SHOT_CLOCK))) ^
5.Last season, Durant also edged Curry in value added per game, but he played in only 27 games. ^
6.Other great shooters such as Korver and Durant are still strong across the board but show more traditional declines. ^
7.Roughly, he hits about 42 percent of his bottom third, 44 percent of his middle third and 46 percent of his top third. ^
8.Shooting percentage adjusted for value of made 3-pointers and additional free throws. ^
9.Including him actually makes the trend slope upward. ^
10.He also may have helped set up the era of rebounding specialists, but we'll save that discussion for another day. ^
40 points on 18 shots for Curry, that's really all you need to know.
Durant on the Warriors? Are you fucking kidding me!?
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/sources--warriors-serious-threat-to-sign-kevin-durant-182559375.html
Remember when everybody said that Oklahoma City was going to be back to the Finals multiple times after their loss to the Heat? Yeah I suspect that will be their only appearance for a good while. Welcome to the status of the Timberwolves and company.
Quote from: Valmy on February 02, 2016, 11:56:43 PM
Remember when everybody said that Oklahoma City was going to be back to the Finals multiple times after their loss to the Heat? Yeah I suspect that will be their only appearance for a good while. Welcome to the status of the Timberwolves and company.
They did have the team for it, but they've been plagued by injuries, a stingy ownership that didn't want to spend too much (the Harden trade will haunt them forever) and a rather unimaginative coaching style that failed them when they had to play against strong rivals. If Durant bolts, which is not yet etched in stone, I really have to wonder if Westbrook will want to leave as well or stay.
lol, Sting.
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.dailymail.co.uk%2Fi%2Fpix%2F2016%2F02%2F04%2F23%2F30E47AA700000578-3432655-image-a-1_1454628614561.jpg&hash=5ff2c88246081cdcabf4855231cd088b34fcc6bc)
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3432655/Manu-Ginobili-sidelined-indefinitely-suffering-horrific-knee-groin.html
http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/14716349/manu-ginobili-san-antonio-spurs-testicular-surgery-least-month
Ow.
Celtics beat the Cavs! :showoff:
Basketball is the worst...no skill game.
Went to the Celtics game with my Old Man, Celtics won. :)
Possible Knicks/Cavs/Celtics trade that moves Carmello to the Cavs and Love to the Cletics? :hmm:
http://nba.nbcsports.com/2016/02/12/report-celtics-cavaliers-talking-kevin-love-trade-could-include-knicks-melo/
Quote from: jimmy olsen on February 07, 2016, 04:46:18 PM
Went to the Celtics game with my Old Man, Celtics won. :)
That's always a good time. :)
(no NBA games with dad for me though. He's a Mavs fan lolz, but we go to Ranger games occasionally when I'm up there.)
Man has the All Star game turned into a joke...
Quote from: The Larch on February 15, 2016, 07:14:09 AM
Man has the All Star game turned into a joke...
So Yi was wrong! I knew it.
Quote from: The Larch on February 15, 2016, 07:14:09 AM
Man has the All Star game turned into a joke...
turned into? :P
Quote from: crazy canuck on February 15, 2016, 03:11:40 PM
Quote from: The Larch on February 15, 2016, 07:14:09 AM
Man has the All Star game turned into a joke...
turned into? :P
A few years ago they still put up a semblance of defence during some parts of the game, but the last three years have been ridiculous all-offense shootfests.
https://twitter.com/cjzero/status/728045606355271681
I only wish Sunday's game was taking place in Cleveland.
Wow, that was a great game to watch.
Yep. It wasn't a very well played game but it was bananas to watch.
So happy with the outcome too!!
I suppose even a championship is a championship, even if it's an NBA championship. Bless little Cleveland's heart.
Believeland! AHL, NBA, next up: MLB!
My bet is still alive. :yeah:
Well Lebron pretty much solidified his all-time great status in that series. That was something else.
He has done the impossible and turned Cleveland into a city of champions.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 09, 2015, 06:20:19 AM
If the Clippers are healthy they should make it to the conference finals at least.
LOLZ
Happy for Cleveland. It was a hell of a game-- not in terms of shooting obviously, but there was <gasp> defense being played in an NBA game.
Yeah the Warriors were pretty shut down in the 4th Quarter.
Durant will sign with the warriors! :o
http://nba.nbcsports.com/2016/07/04/kevin-durant-to-sign-with-warriors/?cid=eref:nbcnews:text
If they stay healthy I don't see how they can be stopped.
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/06/sports/basketball/filling-warriors-bench-should-not-be-a-problem.html
Quote
Filling Warriors' Bench Should Not Be a Problem
By BENJAMIN HOFFMANJULY 5, 2016
In the wake of Monday's announcement that Kevin Durant intended to sign with the Golden State Warriors, fans on social media briefly began to question if the team would have to sacrifice its notable depth to acquire yet another star. With multiple media outlets reporting that the veterans David West and Zaza Pachulia had agreed to join the team, Golden State's "Strength in Numbers" slogan should safely be in play for 2016-17.
The cause for concern among Warriors fans, and glee among those hoping the Big Four experiment would fail, was that to accommodate Durant's contract — $54.3 million over two years according to a person with knowledge of the negotiations — the Warriors would have to find a trade partner for Andrew Bogut, their starting center, and give up any hope of bringing back the restricted free agents Harrison Barnes and Festus Ezeli. There is no doubt that Durant outshines all three players, but giving up both of the team's centers, and its starting small forward, seemed like a step back in terms of the deep rotations that Coach Steve Kerr has been known to employ.
Photo
David West, right, has also agreed to join the Warriors, according to media reports. Credit Alonzo Adams/Associated Press
However, many veteran players should be willing to take bargain-basement deals to play for a team fresh off a record 73-win season and whose starting lineup features the winners of the last three Most Valuable Player Awards and four of the 15 members of last season's All-N.B.A. team.
Such moves are common among great teams, a recent example being the LeBron James-led Miami Heat teams that were able to add veterans like Ray Allen, Shane Battier, Mike Miller and Chris Andersen at bargain rates to complement the team's stars. It was a strategy that backfired for Gary Payton and Karl Malone when they joined the Los Angeles Lakers led by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant in 2003-04, although Payton finally won his first title a few seasons later when he joined O'Neal and Dwyane Wade on the Heat.
The first veteran to bite on the opportunity to chase a ring with Golden State was Pachulia, a 32-year-old veteran of 13 seasons, who most likely slots in as the team's starting center, reportedly for $2.9 million for one season. After averaging 8.6 points and a career-high 9.4 rebounds for the Dallas Mavericks last season, the 6-foot-11 Pachulia probably could have garnered a far larger deal — Timofey Mozgov, the 29-year-old backup center of last season's Cleveland Cavaliers, agreed to a four-year, $64 million contract with the Lakers — but having never advanced out of the second round of the playoffs, he is exactly the type of veteran a team like the Warriors attracts.
West's case is similar. A 13-year veteran and a 6-9 power forward, West turns 36 in August and is seeking his first title after a career that has included two All-Star appearances. He left more than $11 million on the table last season in a terminated player option with the Indiana Pacers to seek a title with San Antonio. His deal has been reported to be one year at the veteran minimum. He may no longer be the player who averaged 21 points and 8.5 rebounds a game for the 2008-09 New Orleans Hornets, but he proved more than capable of a bench role for the Spurs, averaging 7.1 points and 4 rebounds in just 18 minutes a game while still playing effectively on both ends of the court and staying healthy enough to appear in 78 games.
Provided both deals come to fruition, most of Golden State's roster is set. The starters are expected to be Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Durant and Pachulia. The bench should include Andre Iguodala, Shaun Livingston, West and Kevon Looney, the team's first-round draft pick in 2015. That group will most likely be joined by this year's first-round draft pick, Damian Jones, and Patrick McCaw, the No. 38 pick, whom the team acquired in a draft-day trade. The undrafted rookies Robert Carter and A. J. English are also trying to play their way onto the Warriors after signing with them for the summer league.
There may be more veterans to come — perhaps even a few of the team's own veteran free agents could return — and there is no telling how quickly this roster can mesh together in Kerr's complicated system. But anyone concerned about the team's depth can apparently rest easy.
Tim Duncan is retiring. Greatest player since Jordan-excluding LeBron who is still rolling.
Quote from: sbr on July 11, 2016, 09:41:50 AM
Tim Duncan is retiring. Greatest player since Jordan-excluding LeBron who is still rolling.
I guess this day had to come. Dude has been about to retire for five years now.
Welp.
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nba-pulls-2017-all-star-game-from-charlotte-focuses-on-new-orleans-190148437.html
QuoteNBA pulls 2017 All-Star Game from Charlotte, focuses on New Orleans
Without any movement by state legislators in North Carolina to change newly enacted laws targeted at the LGBT community, the NBA on Thursday decided to pull the 2017 All-Star Game out of Charlotte.
"Our week-long schedule of All-Star events and activities is intended to be a global celebration of basketball, our league, and the values for which we stand, and to bring together all members of the NBA community – current and former players, league and team officials, business partners, and fans," the league said in a released statement.
The NBA is focused on the New Orleans' Smoothie King Center as the host for All-Star Weekend and the All-Star Game on Feb. 19, league sources told The Vertical.
For now, there are still other cities trying to lure the All-Star Game, sources said.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver had threatened to move All-Star Weekend out of Charlotte unless a discriminatory North Carolina law aimed at the state's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community was changed – and time to do so ran out because of the logistics and planning the NBA needs to run its marquee midseason event, league sources said.
The issue is centered on North Carolina's House Bill 2, a law that mandates transgender people use public restrooms corresponding to the sex listed on their birth certificates. The law also omits LGBT people from North Carolina's anti-discrimination protections, forbids local governments from widening LGBT protections and excludes all forms of workplace discrimination lawsuits from North Carolina state courts.
"While we recognize that the NBA cannot choose the law in every city, state, and country in which we do business, we do not believe we can successfully host our All-Star festivities in Charlotte in the climate created by HB2," the league said. "... We look forward to re-starting plans for our All-Star festivities in Charlotte for 2019 provided there is an appropriate resolution to this matter."
Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan had been counting on All-Star Weekend as a signature event for his franchise, and the economic impact of losing the All-Star Game for the franchise and region promises to be dramatic.
The NBA had discussed moving the All-Star Game to the new T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, sources said, but scheduling conflicts at the facility became part of the reason the idea never advanced past high-level league conversations during the Las Vegas summer league this month, sources said.
New Orleans hosted the All-Star Game in 2008 and 2014.
Gay people ruin everything <_< :P
Was NC not already ruined?
Quote from: garbon on July 22, 2016, 02:48:22 PM
Was NC not already ruined?
I am going to be there in a few days. I will let you know :hmm:
I will not use the bathroom in protest.
Westbrook averaging a triple double 19 games in. Only Oscar Robertson has done better.
http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/18160983/russell-westbrook-oklahoma-city-thunder-averaging-triple-double
22 games in, 11 triple doubles, averaging 31.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, 11.3 assists per game.
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/westbrooks-triple-double-leads-thunder-past-hawks-102-031240053--nba.html
Craig Sager has lost his battle with cancer at 65. :(
http://sports.yahoo.com/news/longtime-nba-broadcaster-craig-sager-dies-at-65-after-battle-with-cancer-202559560.html
I like Crowder, but come on, the Celtics would be stupid not to make this trade.
http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2017/2/22/14697060/jimmy-butler-trade-rumors-celtics-jae-crowder
Quote
Jimmy Butler trade to Celtics hinges on Jae Crowder, according to report
Crowder — and not the Nets' picks — is the sticking point in the deal, according to one report.
by Kristian Winfield@Krisplashed Feb 22, 2017, 10:26am EST
The Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls are hung up on a potential trade for All-Star swingman Jimmy Butler, according to NBA.com's David Aldridge. The snag in the deal stems not from the draft picks, but from Boston's unwillingness to move starting forward Jae Crowder, Aldridge reports.
"I think, the main sticking point there is that (Ainge) just does not want to give up Jae Crowder in a deal, and that's the guy that Chicago's insisting on right now in any package for Jimmy Butler," Aldridge said on NBA TV. "Chicago, I think rightly, are saying 'You want our best player, we're not just going to do it for picks. We're not just going to take guys that you're not gonna keep on your roster. we want a guy that's going to be able to grow with us along with high picks."
The Bulls want a valuable rotation player along with high draft picks in any trade package for their All-Star swingman, and Celtics general manager Danny Ainge has been unwilling to part with Crowder, who is a core piece to their successful season to date.
It was long believed the Bulls' desire to trade Butler hinged on Boston's willingness to move the Brooklyn Nets' first-round pick in the upcoming draft. But Aldridge said he believes "the picks will work themselves out."
Boston holds a host of first-round picks in upcoming drafts, including Brooklyn's 2018 first-round selection outright, Memphis' first-round pick in 2019, and each of their own first-rounders after this year's draft.
Most importantly, Boston can swap first-round picks this year with the Nets (9-47), who are on pace to have the highest odds at landing the top pick in 2017's deep draft.
But a high draft pick and young, unproven prospects, according to Aldridge, isn't enough for Chicago to part ways with their two-way wing.
Why it makes sense for the Celtics to hold the line
Crowder is averaging 13.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game and has significantly improved his shot from distance, hitting the three-pointer at a 41 percent clip. Moreover, he is Boston's most physical defender at the forward position, something the team values for its potential playoff battles against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
A midseason trade for a core piece like Crowder could disrupt a Celtics' chemistry that has landed them at the East's second seed behind just Cleveland.
Boston's All-Star guard Isaiah Thomas said he's ready to go to war with the team's current roster makeup.
"Danny would like to go in the playoffs with Smart, Bradley (and) Crowder defensively, along with Butler, (Al Horford and Isaiah Thomas) offensively," Aldridge said. "He feels like that's the only way they're ever able to compete with Cleveland."
Why it makes sense for the Bulls to push for Crowder
Chicago has attempted to move Butler several times in the past, including twice over the summer. The 27-year-old forward is averaging a career-best 24.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. Butler was also named an All-Star starter this season for the first time in his career.
The Bulls, however, have declined to name him their franchise player and the organization has been split on whether to build around Butler or trade him to facilitate a rebuild.
Crowder is also on one of the NBA's most friendly contracts after signing a five-year, $35 million deal in 2013. He will earn a total of $22 million through the 2019-20 season.
Chicago would likely receive one of either Amir Johnson or Tyler Zeller's expiring contracts, as well as one of either Smart or Brown in return for Butler. Add a high draft pick, and the return is ideal, given Crowder's inclusion in the trade.
Probability a deal gets done
The Bulls want to move Butler and the Celtics are interested in acquiring him. The stars are aligned for a deal to get done. For that reason, there's a 50 percent chance a trade goes down by the Feb. 23 trade deadline.
Ainge won't pull the trigger on a trade, though, if he doesn't feel it makes the team better. And while acquiring an All-Star player has its benefits, it could inhibit the Celtics' future flexibility while costing them the valuable Brooklyn pick.
Regardless, the two sides want to get something done. And if Chicago truly wants to move on from the Butler era before the end of the season, they'll find a suitor, Boston or not.
Probability: 5/10
Ugh...so disappointed.
The Cavs are vulnerable this year due to injuries and the Celtics can't use all those assets to load up and take a shot at them? Ainge should be shot into the sun.
Shut up, Meg.
Jaylen Brown has really improved with the increase in playing time due to Bradley's injury. Looks like he has a lot of potential. :)
Just watched last night's Celtics game. Nice win, but holy shit Devin Booker looked like a hall of famer! Dropped 70 on the Celtics! Most by an opponent ever. Wow. :o
He's done it!
Russel Westbrook has broken Oscar Robertson's mark for triple doubles in a season! :o :worthy:
http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/19120414/oklahoma-city-thunder-russell-westbrook-sets-nba-record-42nd-triple-double-season
QuoteDENVER -- Oklahoma City Thunder star Russell Westbrook has racked up more triple-doubles in a season than anyone in NBA history, breaking a record Oscar Robertson held for 55 years.
Westbrook set the record in spectacular fashion, finishing with 50 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists. His 40-footer at the buzzer sealed the Thunder's 106-105 victory and eliminated the Denver Nuggets from the playoffs.
...
Some 20 year old kid just dropped 70 on the Celtics. :blink:
Quote from: Admiral Yi on April 15, 2017, 09:51:30 PM
Some 20 year old kid just dropped 70 on the Celtics. :blink:
:unsure: That was last month.
Ah.
Wonder why Sports Center was showing that tonight.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on April 15, 2017, 11:36:32 PM
Ah.
Wonder why Sports Center was showing that tonight.
Probably part of a season wrap up since the playoffs begin tonight.
As for the Celtics, Isiah Thomas younger sister was just killed in a car crash at the age of 22. :(
For me, that's news about the Pistons. :sleep:
A shame about the young woman.
Nice play by Joe Johnson just now to win game 1 at the buzzer. He even got a nice, time consuming bounce before it dropped in.
The Spurs had a pretty good game 1 too.
Best basketball photo ever? :hmm:
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbbsimg.ngfiles.com%2F1%2F23450000%2Fngbbs4eb4067de694b.jpg&hash=3e0d61d9dfa6724a34035fa347a25150cfab81e6)
Everybody was kung fu fighting!
The Sonics eh? Why taunt Katmai like that?
The legend of little Isaiah Thomas grows as he plays lights out despite losing tooth.
It's Bruce Bowen delivering the flying ninja kick and Gary Payton looking at the ball in wonder. Who's that taking the kick to the dome?
:hmm:
Based on my extensive research over the last 10 minutes I'm not sure.
The only 2 seasons that Bowen was on the heat were 1996-1997 and 1999-2000; he only played one game for the Heat in 1997 and it was not a home game against Seattle so it has to be the 1999-2000 season.
In that season Bowen played 6 minutes in a 20 point win against Seattle in Miami.
The only 2 white dudes who played for the Sonics in that game (http://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/200003020MIA.html)are Brent Barry and Greg Foster.
Based on the heights of those players compared to Gary Payton (6'4") the only one that would make sense is Barry (6'6") but he wore #31 and that doesn't look like a 31 on his jersey.
Greg Foster was 6'11" and wore 44 so that doesn't look right either.
:hmm: #45 Ruben Wolkowyski?
Hair looks right. 6'10.
My extensive research points to MBM being right. That's Ruben Wolkowyski.
DAHH! I must have been too drunk last night during my extensive research. I missed that Bowen was still on the Heat in 2000-2001; Wolkowyski and Bowen both played in the Miami/Seattle game that season, so I was off a year.
Nice work MBM!
IT drops 53 on the Wizards, willing the Celtics to victory over the Wizards in OT!
I would like to see both you and toothless joe kicked in the face by Bruce Bowen.
Quote from: sbr on May 02, 2017, 10:22:39 PM
I would like to see both you and toothless joe kicked in the face by Bruce Bowen.
You a Wizard's fan? :huh:
IT flew back from his sister's funeral and dropped 33 on Washington in a game he got a tooth knocked out. Then he underwent 10 hours of dental surgery in the next two days and dropped 53 on the Wizards on his late sister's 23rd birthday. That's praiseworthy no matter what team you root for.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 04, 2017, 06:16:12 AM
Quote from: sbr on May 02, 2017, 10:22:39 PM
I would like to see both you and toothless joe kicked in the face by Bruce Bowen.
You a Wizard's fan? :huh:
IT flew back from his sister's funeral and dropped 33 on Washington in a game he got a tooth knocked out. Then he underwent 10 hours of dental surgery in the next two days and dropped 53 on the Wizards on his late sister's 23rd birthday. That's praiseworthy no matter what team you root for.
It is amazing. Unfortunately, he won't join the pantheon of beloved Boston sports stars such as Bobby Orr, Ted Williams, Larry Bird, or Tom Brady, because Thomas is a black guy, and Boston fans are racist assholes.
Quote from: alfred russel on May 04, 2017, 08:49:02 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 04, 2017, 06:16:12 AM
Quote from: sbr on May 02, 2017, 10:22:39 PM
I would like to see both you and toothless joe kicked in the face by Bruce Bowen.
You a Wizard's fan? :huh:
IT flew back from his sister's funeral and dropped 33 on Washington in a game he got a tooth knocked out. Then he underwent 10 hours of dental surgery in the next two days and dropped 53 on the Wizards on his late sister's 23rd birthday. That's praiseworthy no matter what team you root for.
It is amazing. Unfortunately, he won't join the pantheon of beloved Boston sports stars such as Bobby Orr, Ted Williams, Larry Bird, or Tom Brady, because Thomas is a black guy, and Boston fans are racist assholes.
David Ortiz, Pedro Martinez and Paul Peirce are in that pantheon. :contract:
I always thought Gary Payton was bald. :hmm:
Celtics got the number 1 pick! :yeah:
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-draft-celtics-grab-no-1-overall-pick-and-oh-what-a-summer-it-could-be-in-boston/
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 16, 2017, 10:37:05 PM
Celtics got the number 1 pick! :yeah:
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-draft-celtics-grab-no-1-overall-pick-and-oh-what-a-summer-it-could-be-in-boston/
Good management developing through the draft vs. long term pain for very short term gain for the Nets.
Quote from: crazy canuck on May 17, 2017, 07:56:50 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 16, 2017, 10:37:05 PM
Celtics got the number 1 pick! :yeah:
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-draft-celtics-grab-no-1-overall-pick-and-oh-what-a-summer-it-could-be-in-boston/
Good management developing through the draft vs. long term pain for very short term gain for the Nets.
Yup. Celtics are making slow and steady progress.
Didn't have any chance against the Cavs this year, but next year is looking like a real possibilty if we get a difference maker in the draft and manage to sign Hayward in the offseason.
https://www.si.com/nba/2017/05/18/rumors-boston-celtics-gordon-hayward-free-agency
QuoteJEREMY WOO
Thursday May 18th, 2017
The Celtics are looking hard at signing Jazz forward Gordon Hayward in the off-season, The Vertical's Adrian Wojnarowski reports.
Boston is "really focused" on courting Hayward, who will be an unrestricted free agent July 1.
The Jazz own Hayward's bird rights and can offer him more money than any other team this summer. Hayward did not make an All-NBA team this year and will not be eligible for a designated player extension (a "supermax" contract), which has led to some speculation that he may look around at other teams.
Celtics head coach Brad Stevens coached Hayward in college at Butler, where both made their names during a run to the NCAA title game in 2010.
Hayward, 27, averaged 21.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists this season and led Utah to the conference semifinals.
I wonder what it is about Heyward that Boston likes so much :hmm:
Quote from: sbr on May 18, 2017, 07:04:02 PM
I wonder what it is about Heyward that Boston likes so much :hmm:
I know what you're insinuating, but Boston is a big market team, that just got to the Conference Finals and most importantly has a personal connection with him given that Brad Stevens was his college coach. Those things, as well as their cap space, make them the most likely contender for his services. The only one I can see beating us is Miami if he picks based on the weather and night life.
This is what the they like.
QuoteHayward, 27, averaged 21.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists this season and led Utah to the conference semifinals.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 18, 2017, 08:44:14 PM
Quote from: sbr on May 18, 2017, 07:04:02 PM
I wonder what it is about Heyward that Boston likes so much :hmm:
I know what you're insinuating
And what is he insinuating? :huh:
The rumours of Hayward to Boston have been going on for a bit already.
Quote from: The Larch on May 19, 2017, 04:48:25 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 18, 2017, 08:44:14 PM
Quote from: sbr on May 18, 2017, 07:04:02 PM
I wonder what it is about Heyward that Boston likes so much :hmm:
I know what you're insinuating
And what is he insinuating? :huh:
The rumours of Hayward to Boston have been going on for a bit already.
That Boston just wants a white star to gin up enthusiasm among a racist fanbase.
Ok, I knew Boston fans had a bad reputation but wasn't aware it was that bad. :lol:
:lmfao:
EDIT: This is about the worst #1 seed ever, not Larch's comment.
Summary of tonight's game
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimgur.com%2FcLILZ7Q.gif&hash=52c68e94fbb421c7c60c6986b5a9692e84f79cb2)
Though that little bastard is putting up a better fight than the Celtics are
(https://languish.org/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimgur.com%2F7dqyrJJ.gif&hash=2e1d852d40c56d8c8fb3667da426647ec40c9750)
The Spurs didn't much up much of a fight in game 2 either. Welp.
Quote from: The Larch on May 19, 2017, 05:21:58 AM
Ok, I knew Boston fans had a bad reputation but wasn't aware it was that bad. :lol:
At least they won two playoff series. Other number one seeds have been upset earlier.
More welp: Leonard out again for game 3. Just shut him down for the remaining games, and try again next year. No sense in risking further injury.
E: Dejounte Murray is going to be really good.
I know it's not really fair to hold Lonzo Ball responsible for his father being a complete tool, but at this point, I hope he gets drafted by a really terrible team and bombs completely.
Lol, Chamberlain dominated a pro league at 16 under a false name
https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/6cbgx1/wilt_chamberlain_secretly_dominated_professional/
Man, if the Warriors remain healthy and and they keep their core together they should win another 2 or 3 championships for sure. LeBron was absolute beast in this series and he barely managed to win one game. Hard to see another team on the horizon that can compete with them.
Maybe Russell Westbrook can join a contender after next year and push them close to the edge?
Heard Chris Paul was thinking of joining the Spurs...would that be enough? Maybe, but I doubt it.
Incoherent shrieking and tears of anguish
Don't worry Tim. I hear Michael Jordan was picked at 3.
I like Taytum, but the Bulls got robbed in that Butler trade. Ainge couldn't do better than that?
Unless he thinks Towns or Davis or Westbrook are going to be on the trading block in a year or two, what is he waiting for?
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 23, 2017, 01:03:22 AM
I like Taytum, but the Bulls got robbed in that Butler trade. Ainge couldn't do better than that?
Unless he thinks Towns or Davis or Westbrook are going to be on the trading block in a year or two, what is he waiting for?
Heard that possibly they didn't want Butler to go to a team in the East.
Rumor going around that if the Celtics sign Hayward, then Paul George will agree to a trade to Boston and sign a three year extension. Sounds too good to be true.
We didn't get George, but we did get Hayward. :)
Fuck yeah!
If we stay healthy and the Cavs don't we're a lock to get whipped by Golden State in the final! :yeah:
"We" :rolleyes:
Part owner?
Pretty good piece by Lamar Odom today in the Player's Tribune
https://theplayerstribune.com/lamar-odom-done-in-the-dark/
What a trade. I'm sad to see Thomas go. I do think Kyrie is a more valuable player given his age and contract, however I think the Celtics paid a bit too much. We could have given one of our later 1st round picks and still beaten any other offers.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on August 23, 2017, 12:25:24 AM
What a trade. I'm sad to see Thomas go. I do think Kyrie is a more valuable player given his age and contract, however I think the Celtics paid a bit too much. We could have given one of our later 1st round picks and still beaten any other offers.
Tough call. I think Irving is probably a better all-around player than Thomas, but when LeBron was still in Miami and Kyrie was "the guy" in Cleveland, the Cavs weren't all that good, and things that have been reported recently suggest that Irving isn't a particularly good teammate, to say the least.
Quote from: dps on August 23, 2017, 04:06:46 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on August 23, 2017, 12:25:24 AM
What a trade. I'm sad to see Thomas go. I do think Kyrie is a more valuable player given his age and contract, however I think the Celtics paid a bit too much. We could have given one of our later 1st round picks and still beaten any other offers.
Tough call. I think Irving is probably a better all-around player than Thomas, but when LeBron was still in Miami and Kyrie was "the guy" in Cleveland, the Cavs weren't all that good, and things that have been reported recently suggest that Irving isn't a particularly good teammate, to say the least.
He was in his early 20s then and inexperienced. He's just turned 25, got a lot of playoff experience seeing how successful teams work.
I think everything will depend on how Brown and Taytum pan out. With Crowder gone they can get a lot of development. If they're as good as many project the team will be great. If they bust, so will the team.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on August 23, 2017, 12:25:24 AM
What a trade. I'm sad to see Thomas go. I do think Kyrie is a more valuable player given his age and contract, however I think the Celtics paid a bit too much. We could have given one of our later 1st round picks and still beaten any other offers.
"WE"
Yeah, I'd love to see Tim out on the court.
Why is Tim cryin'?
'CUZ HE JUST GOT DUNKED ON
Just watched the season opener.
Damn, I'd heard that Hayward had been injured, but I didn't think it would be that gruesome. :(
Maybe he'll be back by the playoffs. Then we can make some noise as a 6 or 7th seed.
WE
What a fag.
They're not even in the same state. :rolleyes:
Tim is the Greg Kite of the forum.
Quote from: Ed Anger on October 18, 2017, 07:48:34 PM
Tim is the Greg Kite of the forum.
Kite could say "We"
I'm not going to stop saying We. It's the natural thing to do, almost all sports fans do it when referring to their team in casual conversation.
Fag
Quote from: Ed Anger on October 18, 2017, 10:25:10 PM
Fag
See, nothing wrong with supporting your team Ed. :hug:
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 18, 2017, 09:00:00 PM
I'm not going to stop saying We. It's the natural thing to do, almost all sports fans do it when referring to their team in casual conversation.
Incorrect
Quote from: sbr on October 18, 2017, 11:09:35 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 18, 2017, 09:00:00 PM
I'm not going to stop saying We. It's the natural thing to do, almost all sports fans do it when referring to their team in casual conversation.
Incorrect
Must be a New England thing.
You want to sound like a dumbass, that's your prerogative. Just be prepared for abuse.
Quote from: Eddie Teach on October 18, 2017, 11:14:06 PM
You want to sound like a dumbass, that's your prerogative. Just be prepared for abuse.
What makes you think that he merely sounds like one?
Quote from: Eddie Teach on October 18, 2017, 11:14:06 PM
You want to sound like a dumbass, that's your prerogative. Just be prepared for abuse.
He's actually been. It's one of the only time where he addressed that situation and he takes shit every time.
I like giving Tim shit.
Well, considering his way of "addressing the situation" was to declare "yeah, whatever, I'll do what I want" it's warranted.
and good on him.
Bunch of anti-sports bullies.
Brown and Taytum are looking great so far.
Probably going to end up a slightly above .500 team this year, but the Celtics long term future is really starting to look up. :)
Of course, next year LeBron is leaving the conference.
Quote from: Grey Fox on October 26, 2017, 08:25:25 AM
Of course, next year LeBron is leaving the conference.
Not neccessarily.
I definitely don't think he's going to te Lakers.
Could certainly see him setting up a super team with a couple of star free agents by dropping into an Eastern conference team and making sure they get to the finals.
Tony Kornheiser thinks he's going to the Lakers.
Everything I know about the NBA is from PTI, it's good enough for me.
Quote from: Grey Fox on October 27, 2017, 07:20:03 AM
Tony Kornheiser thinks he's going to the Lakers.
Everything I know about the NBA is from PTI, it's good enough for me.
As Wilbon says, Kornheiser is overly enamored with big name big market teams. LeBron isn't going to go to the Lakers just because they're the Lakers. He'll go somewhere he can win.
Welp, the Spurs lost their first game. Doomed.
LeBron can come to San Antonio. The starting lineup would be Gasol, Aldridge, Leonard, James, and probably Dejounte Murray at that point, since Parker is old. Lolz. Shortest dude out there would be the 6'5 point guard.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 27, 2017, 08:51:14 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on October 27, 2017, 07:20:03 AM
Tony Kornheiser thinks he's going to the Lakers.
Everything I know about the NBA is from PTI, it's good enough for me.
As Wilbon says, Kornheiser is overly enamored with big name big market teams. LeBron isn't going to go to the Lakers just because they're the Lakers. He'll go somewhere he can win.
LeBron makes any team a winner. You know the argument as much as I do. James has a home in Los Angeles and produces movies.
LeBron makes any team a contender, but he's not going to win titles unless he takes a pay cut so they can buy other players to put around him.
Half the players in the league have homes in LA. Who'd want to live in Salt Lake City, Oklahoma or Milwaukee?
White people into Anal, Russell Westbrook & Deers.
Is that some Mormon thing, anal sex isn't real sex so it's ok?
Quote from: jimmy olsen on October 26, 2017, 12:01:40 AM
Brown and Taytum are looking great so far.
Probably going to end up a slightly above .500 team this year, but the Celtics long term future is really starting to look up. :)
So...it's a small sample size so far, but the Celtics are exceeding my expectations to put it mildly! :w00t:
Holy moly! What a game that was!
I think we can make it to the Finals! Don't think we can win, but we can get there. Next year we will win if healthy.
Sigh.
Tim stop trying to take credit.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on November 17, 2017, 10:36:25 PM
Holy moly! What a game that was!
I think we can make it to the Finals! Don't think we can win, but we can get there. Next year we will win if healthy.
I don't think their success will depend on your health. I do agree that you cannot win this year but disagree that you have any chance of making it to the Finals or ever playing in the NBA.
Quote from: crazy canuck on November 20, 2017, 11:14:03 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on November 17, 2017, 10:36:25 PM
Holy moly! What a game that was!
I think we can make it to the Finals! Don't think we can win, but we can get there. Next year we will win if healthy.
I don't think their success will depend on your health.
The success of the Celtics depends on the health of every, single, one of their fans. Tim included.
Hey, if I make a Tim voodoo doll do you think we can keep Boston teams from winning any championships for the next 50 years? :hmm:
Quote from: derspiess on August 23, 2017, 09:37:26 AM
Yeah, I'd love to see Tim out on the court.
Why is Tim cryin'?
'CUZ HE JUST GOT DUNKED ON
You talk about we and our too, when it comes to "your" teams:
Quote from: derspiess on November 20, 2017, 10:08:57 AM
SHUT UP MEG
I'm happy for Zimmer that the Vikings are doing so well. He should be our coach :(
Looking at LeBron's stats
https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jamesle01.html
Currently has 29,759 points, 7,993 rebounds and 7,786 assists. He's already 7th in scoring and 12th in assists.
If he's healthy for another 4 years he should challenge the 10k mark in the later two stats. Would probably pass Karl Malone for second in points.
He's 33 though, and though he's been a rock physically you never know when someone is going to fall off that cliff. He'll need another 5-6 good years to pass Kareem. interesting to see if he can hang on and do it.
Quote from: Jacob on November 20, 2017, 07:39:35 PM
Quote from: derspiess on August 23, 2017, 09:37:26 AM
Yeah, I'd love to see Tim out on the court.
Why is Tim cryin'?
'CUZ HE JUST GOT DUNKED ON
You talk about we and our too, when it comes to "your" teams:
Quote from: derspiess on November 20, 2017, 10:08:57 AM
SHUT UP MEG
I'm happy for Zimmer that the Vikings are doing so well. He should be our coach :(
Jacob--I don't think he is still doing so, but at a certain point derspiess was on the support staff of the Bengals and worked on the sidelines during games and practices to get the coaches pictures of their opponents alignments or something. It isn't exactly the equivalent of Tim.
He still does home games for the Bungles
I bet he wishes he'd been more specific when he met that genie.
Agreed.
Also, Celtics are 34-10! :punk:
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/jan/09/jaylen-brown-boston-celtics-nba-interview
Quote
Jaylen Brown: 'Sport is a mechanism of control in America'
As the Boston Celtics star prepares to play in London, he talks to Donald McRae about race, the NBA and the death of his best friend
Donald McRae
Tue 9 Jan '18 12.00 GMT Last modified on Wed 10 Jan '18 18.05 GMT
Jaylen Brown is one the most intelligent and interesting young athletes I've met in years and it seems fitting that, midway through our interview in Boston, he should retell a parable that brings together Martin Luther King and the great American writer David Foster Wallace.
"We've got two young fish swimming one way and an older fish swimming the other way," the 21-year-old star of the Boston Celtics says as he considers the enduring backdrop of race in the United States. "They cross paths and the older fish says: 'What's up guys, how's the water?' The two younger fish turn around and look back at the wiser fish and ask: 'What's water?' They've never recognised that this is what they actually live in. So it takes somebody special like Martin Luther King to see past what you've been embedded in your whole life."
Three years before his death, Foster Wallace included the parable in one of his most widely-read pieces of writing. Yet it carries fresh resonance when said with quiet force by a young basketball player who stands apart from many of his contemporaries – to the extent that there have been numerous articles in which an unnamed NBA executive apparently suggested that Brown might be "too smart" for the league or "his own good".
Brown was the No3 pick in the 2016 NBA draft and now, in his second season with Boston, he is a key figure as the Celtics arrive in London this week as the leading team in the Eastern Conference. We've already spoken about Brown's desire to learn new languages and his interest in books and chess – while he loves playing the piano and listening to grime artists from east London. Even more intimately he has relived the death of his closest friend Trevin Steede in November. In the two games after that devastating loss Brown produced inspirational performances, which he dedicated to Steede.
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He has also looked forward to playing in London on Thursday, against the Philadelphia 76ers, and answered a question as to whether his young Celtics team may become NBA champions in the next few seasons: "Why not this year? People say maybe we'll be good in two years – but I think we're good now. Right now we've got one of the best records in the league. I think we could be as good as we want to be. But the more we let people construct our mindset, and start saying two years from now, is the moment we lose."
Last week the Celtics beat LeBron James' Cleveland Cavaliers 102-88. Excitement and anticipation surrounds the Celtics but race still stalks our conversation – and it has echoed hauntingly through Brown's life. "Racism definitely still exists in the South," he says, remembering his youth in Marietta, Georgia. "I've experienced it through basketball. I've had people call me the n-word. I've had people come to basketball games dressed in monkey suits with a jersey on. I've had people paint their face black at my games. I've had people throw bananas in the stands.
"Racism definitely exists across America today. Of course it's changed a lot – and my opportunities are far greater than they would have been 50 years ago. So some people think racism has dissipated or no longer exists. But it's hidden in more strategic places. You have less people coming to your face and telling you certain things. But [Donald] Trump has made it a lot more acceptable for racists to speak their minds."
Brown admits that, when he was 14, "It wounds you. But when I got older and went to the University of California [Berkeley] I learnt about a more subtle racism and how it filters across our education system through tracking, hidden curriculums, social stratification and things I had no idea of before. I was really emotional – because one of the most subtle but aggressive ways racism exists is through our education system."
In his year at college, before pausing his degree to play in the NBA, Brown wrote a thesis about how institutionalised sport impacts on education. "I was super emotional reading about it," he says of his chosen subject. "There's this idea of America that some people have to win and some have to lose so certain things are in place to make this happen. Some people have to be the next legislators and political elites and some have to fill the prisons and work in McDonald's. That's how America works. It's a machine which needs people up top, and people down low.
"Even though I've ended up in a great place, who is to say where I would've been without basketball? It makes me feel for my friends. And my little brothers or cousins have no idea how their social mobility is being shaped. I wish more and more that I can explain it to them. Just because I'm the outlier in my neighbourhood who managed to avoid the barriers set up to keep the privileged in privilege, and the poor still poor, why should I forget about the people who didn't have the same chance as me?"
What did he think of Colin Kaepernick's protest against police brutality and racism – which the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback began even before Trump's election to the White House? "It was peaceful and successful. It made people think. It made people angry. It made people want to talk. Often everybody is comfortable with their role in life and they forget about the people who are uncomfortable. So for Colin to put his career on the line, and sacrifice himself, was amazing. But Colin was fed up with the police brutality and pure racism. He speaks for many people in this country – including me."
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Did Brown understand from the outset that Kaepernick's career was in jeopardy? "Absolutely. I wasn't shocked how it turned out. Colin was trying to get back into the NFL and find another team and he's more than capable. But I knew it was over. I knew they weren't going to let him back. Nobody wanted the media attention or to take the risk. They probably just wanted to blackball him out of the league.
"That's the reality because sports is a mechanism of control. If people didn't have sports they would be a lot more disappointed with their role in society. There would be a lot more anger or stress about the injustice of poverty and hunger. Sports is a way to channel our energy into something positive. Without sports who knows what half of these kids would be doing?
"We're having some of the same problems we had 50 years ago. Some things have changed a lot but other factors are deeply embedded in our society. It takes protests like Kaepernick's to make people uncomfortable and aware of these hidden injustices. People are now a lot more aware, engaged and united in our culture. It takes a special person like Kaepernick to force these changes – because often reporters and fans say: 'If you're an athlete I don't want you to say anything. You should be happy you're making x amount of money playing sport. You should be saluting America instead of critiquing it.' That's our society."
Has his anger been amplified during Trump's presidency? "Not really. I just think Trump's character and some of his values makes him unfit to lead. For someone like him to be president, and in charge of our troops? It's scary to be honest."
Trump's Twitter war in November with LaVar Ball tipped the scales, for Brown, beyond credulity. The President accused Ball of being "ungrateful" – following the release from China of his son, LiAngelo, and two other UCLA basketball players after they were caught shoplifting. "He demanded a thank you," Brown says of Trump. "It's ridiculous. What happened to people doing things out of the generosity of their heart or because it was the right thing to do? There have been multiple situations where it's been ridiculous but that one was like: 'OK I'm done. I'm done listening to anything you have to say.' A 19-year-old kid makes a mistake overseas and [Trump] demands an apology from his dad? I think Trump's unfit to lead."
Brown's readiness to talk about politics and culture might account for the surreal suggestion in 2016 that he was "too smart" for the NBA. From the outside, 'smart' seemed a euphemism for 'troublesome'. What did Brown think when, as a teenager, he heard words unlikely to be used in conjunction with a white athlete? "It was hinting at something very problematic within society. It bothered me but I was so focused on getting to where I was going I never dissected it or pointed it out to anybody.
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"But I disagree that an athlete can't be intelligent. Some people think that, in basketball, we have a bunch of masculine adults who don't know how to control themselves. They're feeble-minded and can't engage or articulate ideas. That's a narrative they keep trying to paint. We're trying to change it because that statement definitely has a racist undertone."
Brown chose Berkeley because he knew he would be stretched academically. Has he missed the intellectual stimulus since swapping college for professional basketball? "Absolutely. I've missed it so much. I'm in a good environment here but at Cal I was learning something new every day. I'm now trying to keep well-balanced instead of single-minded. I take piano lessons after I spent the last year teaching myself piano. If I'm frustrated or had a bad day, but need to keep engaged, practicing the piano does that for me. Same with the YouTube [vlogs which he makes]. I use the camera so I can show something of this life to the everyday person who is interested in seeing what it's like for an athlete on a day-to-day basis. Everybody puts you on a pedestal especially when you're playing well and they make it seem like you're not human. But I'm just a regular guy."
During his first year at Berkeley, in his spare time, Brown learned Spanish from scratch and became fluent. "I'm not as good now," he says. "I started again because there're so many conjugations that slip your mind if you don't practice. But I also just learned the Arabic alphabet. I'm proud of myself because the pronunciation is hard."
Brown starts to say the Arabic alphabet out loud and, to an untutored ear, he sounds impressive. "Yeah," he says with a grin, "I'm trying."
He describes himself as an introvert – and it must be hard being quiet and reflective in a boisterous sporting environment? "Absolutely. It's not just the locker room. In life if you stay quiet you'll get left behind. So I had to learn to be more vocal and outgoing. I just try to be respectful of everybody. But the closer you get with guys the more you talk to them. It becomes like a family – especially when you're winning. Last year I was much quieter but this year my opinion is valued more. We have a good locker room."
The value of that locker room was felt by Brown after the tragic suicide of his friend Trevin Steede. Brown found the will to play against the NBA champions, the Golden State Warriors, the night after Steede's death – and he inspired the Celtics to a memorable victory by scoring the most points [22] while producing tenacious defence. After the game Kyrie Irving, the Celtics's superstar, gave Brown the ball and said: 'This one's for Trevin.'
Before they played again, in Atlanta, where Steede's family live, Brown visited his friend's mother and other grieving relatives. He then went out and shot a career-high 27 points. "I'm so thankful for the people around me. They lifted me up. I don't know what my mental state would be right now without them.
"I met Trevin when I moved to Wheeler – which is a big basketball school in Marietta, Georgia. Trevin was a year older so he was a sophomore and I was a freshman. They brought me in and there was only one spot left on the team and it was between me and him. They gave it to me.
"I didn't know anybody when I first got there so at lunch in the first week I'd eat by myself – acting like I'm on my phone. Trevin came up to me after the third day. I'd seen him in workouts but I didn't really know him. He said, 'Man, come sit over here with us.' Ever since then, we were best friends."
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How did he hear about Trevin's death? "His mom called me. I'm thinking she's just checking on me or saying hi. But she called to tell me he's passed."
Brown looks down and his hurt is obvious. He also admits he needed the support of Steede's mother to face Golden State. "I probably wouldn't have played unless she called me. Brad Stevens [the Celtics coach] asked how I was doing. I told him, 'I don't think I'm able to come in today. He said: 'That's fine. Take your time.' Three seconds after I hung up, Trevin's mom called. I told her I wasn't doing well and I probably wasn't going to play that night. She said: 'You know that's not what I want and that's not what Trevin would have wanted. So if you can find it in your heart to go out and play for him, do it.'"
Did he play in a daze, or was he inspired by Trevin to help Celtics win? "I didn't feel anything. It was like I was out there by myself."
The chance to play in London lifts his mood. "I visited London for the first time last summer. It was great. I went to see Big Ben because one of my idols is Benjamin Banneker [the African American scientist who, among other achievements, worked with striking clocks in the 18th century]."
This week Brown would like to hear more grime and to see Arsenal. "I like Barcelona because of the players they've had traditionally – from Ronaldinho to Messi. I really like Arsenal too. I like their tradition, and their diehard fans. I hope to see them in London. I think Thierry Henry is going to be there so I'll just hit him up and see if I can get some access to the [stadium] tour, get some shots on the field. Last summer I became really close with Thierry. I got to talk to him and we keep up with each other and he gives me advice – about sports and life. He's one of the all-time greats."
At the Celtics' training facility, on the outskirts of Boston, Brown rises to his full 6ft 7in. He looks around the empty court before turning back with a smile when I say we've covered a lot of ground – from the mysteries of water for two young fish and the enduring problems of race in America to the impact of learning and the pleasure of following sport around the world. "Yeah," Brown says softly, stretching out his hand, "that's the way I like it".
Celtics advance to face the 76ers in round 2.
LeBron carries the Cavs on his back to face Toronto.
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3f/1d/00/3f1d00bd7dbea40bcf1977591a07d4ed.jpg)
Does anybody really think Lebron is not going to win the Eastern Conference again?
He's getting a bit long in the tooth ain't he?
It may seem like he has been around forever but he is still in his early 30s
I expect King James to make it to the Final once again.
Quote from: Grey Fox on April 30, 2018, 08:02:01 AM
I expect King James to make it to the Final once again.
I just thought it was funny during the Pacers series that people were seriously thinking there was a chance the Cavs would lose. They could be down 3-0 with a twenty point deficit in the fourth quarter and I still would not have believed the Pacers would beat them.
A lot of the first round series looked competitive, but in the end, only 1 5 seed and 1 6 seed advanced---all others were 1-4 seeds.
2/8 isn't that bad for the underdogs.
Quote from: Eddie Teach on April 30, 2018, 09:23:25 AM
2/8 isn't that bad for the underdogs.
A 4-5 isn't really an upset if the 5 wins, and in the case of the 3-6, it wasn't really this year either.
Records of the western conference 3 through 6 seeds:
3 seed: 49-33
4 seed: 48-34
5 seed: 48-34
6 seed: 48-34
Quote from: Valmy on April 29, 2018, 09:12:20 PM
Does anybody really think Lebron is not going to win the Eastern Conference again?
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
Quote from: Valmy on April 29, 2018, 09:21:55 PM
It may seem like he has been around forever but he is still in his early 30s
He's 33 and will turn 34 at the end of the year, with humongous milleage. He's a specimen, but one day the wheels will come off. Maybe not this season, but soon.
Maybe this year but it won't be against the Raptors.
Quote from: The Larch on May 02, 2018, 12:50:15 PM
Quote from: Valmy on April 29, 2018, 09:21:55 PM
It may seem like he has been around forever but he is still in his early 30s
He's 33 and will turn 34 at the end of the year, with humongous milleage. He's a specimen, but one day the wheels will come off. Maybe not this season, but soon.
Karl Malone played well until he was 40.
So far James has seemed to be as durable. Maybe he won't last as long, but maybe he will.
Make up your mind, Tim. You're arguing that LeBron has still got it, yet he'll be crushed by a team from Canada. :hmm:
Quote from: Eddie Teach on May 02, 2018, 04:56:24 PM
Make up your mind, Tim. You're arguing that LeBron has still got it, yet he'll be crushed by a team from Canada. :hmm:
He's still got it and Toronto is not as good as I thought.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on April 30, 2018, 06:53:35 PM
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
I think you are an idiot.
Quote from: alfred russel on May 07, 2018, 09:54:23 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on April 30, 2018, 06:53:35 PM
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
I think you are an idiot.
LeBron was great all year, but the Cavs still were mediocre.
How was I to know that the rest of the team would snap into form?
How many consecutive years of Lebron winning do you need to be informed of the likely outcome of the Eastern Conference playoffs?
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 08, 2018, 01:58:38 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on May 07, 2018, 09:54:23 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on April 30, 2018, 06:53:35 PM
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
I think you are an idiot.
LeBron was great all year, but the Cavs still were mediocre.
How was I to know that the rest of the team would snap into form?
That is not what happenned. LeBron totally dominated, once again, the guard oriented team that is the Raptors.
3 years in a row, iirc.
Quote from: Grey Fox on May 08, 2018, 11:25:51 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 08, 2018, 01:58:38 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on May 07, 2018, 09:54:23 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on April 30, 2018, 06:53:35 PM
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
I think you are an idiot.
LeBron was great all year, but the Cavs still were mediocre.
How was I to know that the rest of the team would snap into form?
That is not what happenned. LeBron totally dominated, once again, the guard oriented team that is the Raptors.
3 years in a row, iirc.
So basically Tim not only made a stupid prediction about the future, he also failed to understand what just happened in the present, and either ignored the past of the teams in the payoffs or was unaware of it?
I think Tim has reached his quota for bad prediction in Raptors series.
Quote from: alfred russel on May 08, 2018, 02:52:47 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on May 08, 2018, 11:25:51 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 08, 2018, 01:58:38 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on May 07, 2018, 09:54:23 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on April 30, 2018, 06:53:35 PM
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
I think you are an idiot.
LeBron was great all year, but the Cavs still were mediocre.
How was I to know that the rest of the team would snap into form?
That is not what happenned. LeBron totally dominated, once again, the guard oriented team that is the Raptors.
3 years in a row, iirc.
So basically Tim not only made a stupid prediction about the future, he also failed to understand what just happened in the present, and either ignored the past of the teams in the payoffs or was unaware of it?
In other words :
Celtic fan.
I can't believe the Celtics are playing so well, with such a young line up! :w00t:
Can't believe that LeBron managed to will this trash fire of a team to the finals. This is probably his 2nd best playoff performance ever, behind only his comeback in the finals against he Warriors.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 28, 2018, 06:17:36 AM
Can't believe that LeBron managed to will this trash fire of a team to the finals. This is probably his 2nd best playoff performance ever, behind only his comeback in the finals against he Warriors.
He played well but the rest of the team also played well. Love's replacement made a big difference in the outcome. If you want to talk about a trash fire of a team, let's talk about Boston's inability to score on uncontested shots.
LeBron's team mates are trash
https://deadspin.com/that-was-a-fucked-up-way-for-lebron-to-lose-1826473500
Quote
That Was A Fucked Up Way For LeBron To Lose
Lauren Theisen
15 minutes ago
In a neck-and-neck Game 1, it looked multiple times like the Cavs were going to steal a win on the road against the Warriors. After heading into the half all tied at 56, then weathering the Warriors' trademark third-quarter onslaught, LeBron James gave his team the lead with under a minute to play on a sheer force-of-will and-one drive to the basket. It was possibly his final moment of happiness for the rest of the series.
With the Cavs up 104-102, LeBron appeared to make an equally huge play on the other end of the floor by drawing a charge on Kevin Durant. But after a lengthy review by the officials, the charge was reversed into a block. If this call had held up, Cleveland would have had the ball with 36 seconds to go, up two. Instead, because we live in an advanced technological age that apparently allows us to determine that this is definitely, indisputably a block and not a charge, Durant made both free throws and tied it.
And yet somehow, squinting at slow-mo video of LeBron's feet wasn't the most soul-crushing Cavalier moment of the final minute. After another LeBron two, and a Steph Curry three point play, George Hill found himself at the line down by one with 4.7 seconds to play, shooting two shots with a chance for the win. He made the first, missed the second, then J.R. Smith forgot the game was tied. He held the ball, didn't call time, and let the game go to OT while expecting a victory.
Medieval catholic hell couldn't torture LeBron James more than these five seconds:
The Warriors opened overtime with nine unanswered points, then won 124-114. LeBron scored 51, the most of his playoff career.
Mister James
GM of the Cavaliers,
I am willing & able to atleast have game awareness & attempt shots at the end of games for what ever the league minimum salary is.
Yours in LeBron, GF.
You wouldn't have gotten the rebound.
No, I would have.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 01, 2018, 07:49:44 AMI am willing & able to atleast have game awareness & attempt shots at the end of games for what ever the league minimum salary is.
Minimum salary depends on your tenure in the league. For players without previous NBA experience, it sits currently at 815.615 $/year.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 31, 2018, 11:09:48 PM
LeBron's team mates are trash
While I'll grant you that LeBron played almost the entire game, his teammates outscored Golden State while James was on the bench but lost while he was on the floor.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on April 30, 2018, 06:53:35 PM
Quote from: Valmy on April 29, 2018, 09:12:20 PM
Does anybody really think Lebron is not going to win the Eastern Conference again?
I think the Raptors are going to crush the Cavs. Aside from LeBron andd Love they have nobody good.
The best and the very worst of James was on display in that game.
A great offensive weapon, a great rim protector and a terrible team mate. More predictable then him having a good stat line is him bringing his team mates down when something goes wrong. The Cavs should have Nash as their consultant - but the Warriors already understand the importance of that sort of thing.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 28, 2018, 06:17:36 AM
Can't believe that LeBron managed to will this trash fire of a team to the finals.
Yeah what a fucking miracle. LeBron James' team win the East? I mean you just don't see that every year.
Quote from: Valmy on June 01, 2018, 10:27:55 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 28, 2018, 06:17:36 AM
Can't believe that LeBron managed to will this trash fire of a team to the finals.
Yeah what a fucking miracle. LeBron James' team win the East? I mean you just don't see that every year.
LeBron had Kyrie last year. He had no one but the concused corpse of Kevin Love this year. It's not comparable.
Quote from: alfred russel on June 01, 2018, 09:06:34 AM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on May 31, 2018, 11:09:48 PM
LeBron's team mates are trash
While I'll grant you that LeBron played almost the entire game, his teammates outscored Golden State while James was on the bench but lost while he was on the floor.
Tim, are you still sticking to that opinion?
So far in the series, while Lebron has been on the court the Cavs have been outscored by 39. When he has been off the court, the Cavs have outscored the Warriors by 2.
He has only been off the court for 11 minutes, but that doesn't support the idea the teammates are "trash".
Anyone who watches the Cavs play and thinks that Lebron's teammates aside from Love aren't trash doesn't know anything about basketball.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 07, 2018, 06:13:36 PM
Anyone who watches the Cavs play and thinks that Lebron's teammates aside from Love aren't trash doesn't know anything about basketball.
You should watch the playoffs this year.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 07, 2018, 06:13:36 PM
Anyone who watches the Cavs play and thinks that Lebron's teammates aside from Love aren't trash doesn't know anything about basketball.
It seems like he has some good talent to me. He's got Korver who's a great shooter, J.R. Smith who has always been a solid player — we focus on his one mistake and that tends to overshadow all the things he's done to help them win a championship before — you've got Kevin Love, who was an All-Star and an Olympian; Rodney Hood, who was a 17-point scorer in the Western Conference; you've got Tristan who is back to playing like he played a few years ago. He's got some workable pieces there. I don't understand how, in order to talk about how great LeBron is we need to shit on everybody else. That's not O.K. Those guys have talent. I don't buy this whole thing that he's playing with a bunch of garbage.
So... LeBron to the Lakers, apparently. And not a 1 year deal, but a full blown 4 year contract.
Tired of losing in NBA championship, decides to lose in conference finals instead :)
Quote from: The Larch on July 01, 2018, 07:35:10 PM
So... LeBron to the Lakers, apparently. And not a 1 year deal, but a full blown 4 year contract.
Yeah that sucks. But I guess at least that makes the Eastern Conference playoffs interesting again.
Quote from: katmai on July 01, 2018, 08:02:14 PM
Tired of losing in NBA championship, decides to lose in conference finals instead :)
Don't think he's going to make the conference finals unless they pick up Paul George or someone else of that calibur.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2018, 11:01:59 PM
Don't think he's going to make the conference finals unless they pick up Paul George or someone else of that calibur.
Lebron will take them however far they need to go to face Golden State.
Quote from: Valmy on July 01, 2018, 11:05:42 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2018, 11:01:59 PM
Don't think he's going to make the conference finals unless they pick up Paul George or someone else of that calibur.
Lebron will take them however far they need to go to face Golden State.
He should have gone to the 76ers, or the Rockets if they could make the money work.
I would have preferred he had gone basically anywhere except to the fucking Lakers.
Quote from: Valmy on July 01, 2018, 11:05:42 PM
Quote from: jimmy olsen on July 01, 2018, 11:01:59 PM
Don't think he's going to make the conference finals unless they pick up Paul George or someone else of that calibur.
Lebron will take them however far they need to go to face Golden State.
It will be an accomplishment for the Lakers to make the playoffs.
Cousins signs with Golden State. Not a bad starting lineup :D
Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green and Cousins.
Quote from: crazy canuck on July 03, 2018, 12:44:40 PM
Cousins signs with Golden State. Not a bad starting lineup :D
Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green and Cousins.
What the fuck! :o
EDIT: Forgot he tore his achilies last year. Still, he should be back some time in spring. If he's 70% of what he was last year the Warriors will be unbeatable.
Toronto looks pretty good. Still early obviously, but a lot to be hopeful about.
No love for the Trailblazers, eh?
Quote from: crazy canuck on October 19, 2018, 11:04:55 PM
Toronto looks pretty good. Still early obviously, but a lot to be hopeful about.
They looked damn good.
Still have hope for the Celtics of course, but the Raptors will be a formidable opponent.
Is there a more recent NBA thread? I tried looking.
I really don't watch or follow the NBA, but that Kawhi Leonard's four-bounce buzzer beater in game 7 was something you'd call hokey and unrealistic if you saw it in a movie. Amazing.
Great play, but i don't think anyone in the East is stopping the Bucks this year.
Yeah, the Bucks are going to give the Warriors a good series. I look forward to watching that.
Quote from: crazy canuck on May 13, 2019, 06:27:42 PM
Yeah, the Bucks are going to give the Warriors a good series. I look forward to watching that.
I'm bumping this thread to try and keep NBA talk out of the NHL thread, but this prediction has not aged well. :D
Warriors are just too injured this year.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 11, 2019, 07:46:22 PM
Warriors are just too injured this year.
Justice. They have been struck down for their sins.
If karma plays a role in the outcome the Toronto fans did some serious damage with their disgraceful behaviour when KD was injured.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 11, 2019, 08:39:13 PM
If karma plays a role in the outcome the Toronto fans did some serious damage with their disgraceful behaviour when KD was injured.
You are overstating it a little there. Basketball players, especially KD, are such cry babies.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 07:17:37 AM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 11, 2019, 08:39:13 PM
If karma plays a role in the outcome the Toronto fans did some serious damage with their disgraceful behaviour when KD was injured.
You are overstating it a little there. Basketball players, especially KD, are such cry babies.
Cry baby? He just suffered a career threatening injury and you call him a cry baby?
Quote from: The Larch on June 12, 2019, 07:32:29 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 07:17:37 AM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 11, 2019, 08:39:13 PM
If karma plays a role in the outcome the Toronto fans did some serious damage with their disgraceful behaviour when KD was injured.
You are overstating it a little there. Basketball players, especially KD, are such cry babies.
Cry baby? He just suffered a career threatening injury and you call him a cry baby?
No, he was a cry baby before the injury, for years now. Altho to be fair to KD, he took the first moments of the injury will perfect stoicism.
Hope Toronto can finish the job, but that was a huge win for GSW despite losing KD for good. Would really love that both Gasol brothers ended their NBA careers winning at least one ring each.
Patrick McCaw a 23 year old borderline bench players has the chance to win his 3rd straight NBA title.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 09:13:18 AM
Patrick McCaw a 23 year old borderline bench players has the chance to win his 3rd straight NBA title.
And with a different team each year!
The Knicks will trade for him.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 07:17:37 AM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 11, 2019, 08:39:13 PM
If karma plays a role in the outcome the Toronto fans did some serious damage with their disgraceful behaviour when KD was injured.
You are overstating it a little there. Basketball players, especially KD, are such cry babies.
Some fans have been cheering injuries to rivals for as long as I've been alive. Classy? No, but not shocking, and in some sports it is the entire point (boxing, MMA).
Also, players aren't race horses. They don't get put down after an injury. If Durant never plays again, he will leave basketball probably making over 9 figures and his departure will open the door for someone else.
Quote from: celedhring on June 12, 2019, 09:20:24 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 09:13:18 AM
Patrick McCaw a 23 year old borderline bench players has the chance to win his 3rd straight NBA title.
And with a different team each year!
The Knicks will trade for him.
Nope, he won it with Golden State the last couple of seasons.
Quote from: The Larch on June 12, 2019, 09:24:58 AM
Quote from: celedhring on June 12, 2019, 09:20:24 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 09:13:18 AM
Patrick McCaw a 23 year old borderline bench players has the chance to win his 3rd straight NBA title.
And with a different team each year!
The Knicks will trade for him.
Nope, he won it with Golden State the last couple of seasons.
You're right, I had it in my brain that he'd won it with Cleveland, too.
The Knicks will still trade for him.
Quote from: jimmy olsen on June 11, 2019, 07:46:22 PM
Warriors are just too injured this year.
They're getting old. I'm not sorry to see them fall.
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
Gladiatorial games.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
You have obviously never attended a game in Philadelphia
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zL0Sqk4St3k
Stephen Curry's parents heckled outside their Toronto hotel.
Quote from: alfred russel on June 12, 2019, 09:23:47 AM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 07:17:37 AM
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 11, 2019, 08:39:13 PM
If karma plays a role in the outcome the Toronto fans did some serious damage with their disgraceful behaviour when KD was injured.
You are overstating it a little there. Basketball players, especially KD, are such cry babies.
Some fans have been cheering injuries to rivals for as long as I've been alive. Classy? No, but not shocking, and in some sports it is the entire point (boxing, MMA).
Also, players aren't race horses. They don't get put down after an injury. If Durant never plays again, he will leave basketball probably making over 9 figures and his departure will open the door for someone else.
It is shockingly poor behaviour and it should not be normalized in this way.
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
Someone didn't grow up with season tickets to Miami Hurricanes football. :hmm:
Quote from: alfred russel on June 13, 2019, 09:06:50 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
Someone didn't grow up with season tickets to Miami Hurricanes football. :hmm:
Do all people who did hold views similar to you?
Quote from: Valmy on June 12, 2019, 09:19:37 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
You have obviously never attended a game in Philadelphia
Heck, in Philly, they'll cheer for injuries to the hometown players. ;)
Seriously, it's distasteful and classless, but let's not pretend it's never happened before.
Quote from: dps on June 13, 2019, 10:02:28 AM
Quote from: Valmy on June 12, 2019, 09:19:37 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
You have obviously never attended a game in Philadelphia
Heck, in Philly, they'll cheer for injuries to the hometown players. ;)
Seriously, it's distasteful and classless, but let's not pretend it's never happened before.
Nobody is pretending it does not happen. My point is it should not be excused or normalized.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2019, 10:05:01 AM
Quote from: dps on June 13, 2019, 10:02:28 AM
Quote from: Valmy on June 12, 2019, 09:19:37 PM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
You have obviously never attended a game in Philadelphia
Heck, in Philly, they'll cheer for injuries to the hometown players. ;)
Seriously, it's distasteful and classless, but let's not pretend it's never happened before.
Nobody is pretending it does not happen. My point is it should not be excused or normalized.
Yi said he couldn't remember seeing it happening before, though I wouldn't exactly accuse him of pretending.
I don't think that anyone is excusing it just because it isn't unique.
Clicked on this thread and it took me to Page One. Ha, never opened it before.
Quote from: crazy canuck on June 13, 2019, 09:29:18 AM
Quote from: alfred russel on June 13, 2019, 09:06:50 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on June 12, 2019, 05:12:43 PM
I can't remember a game in any sport I've watched or been at where people cheered an injury.
Someone didn't grow up with season tickets to Miami Hurricanes football. :hmm:
Do all people who did hold views similar to you?
They would all be aware that for decades there is a subset of sports fans that will cheer injuries to rivals.
There is probably less unanimity on topics such as religion and politics.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 12, 2019, 09:13:18 AM
Patrick McCaw a 23 year old borderline bench players has the chance to win his 3rd straight NBA title.
And he has his 3rd ring now! He's won it in every season he has been in the league, the definitive good luck charm. Congrats to the Raptors.
The Warriors were truly jinxed in the playoffs, Thompson torn his ACL last night...
Quote from: Josephus on June 13, 2019, 01:50:13 PM
Clicked on this thread and it took me to Page One. Ha, never opened it before.
Enjoy it. I'm still upset about the Falcons choking in the Super Bowl a couple years ago.
Happy for Gasol! The warriors were indeed jinxed and it's a weird way to end a dinasty, but injuries are also part of sport.
Those kind of injuries means you got old & played a lot of Basketball.
I'm happy!
Great week for pro sports championships :)
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 14, 2019, 06:11:50 AM
Those kind of injuries means you got old & played a lot of Basketball.
I'm happy!
Thompson is amazingly fit and durable. He is also not that old. It is very difficult to land properly after colliding in mid air at full extension (Although I think that was a clean block). Because of the contact he came down in an awkward angle. That kind of injury can happen to anyone.
You are right about Durant though. At his age the Achilles is vulnerable and especially when trying to come back to a playoff game after a month off. I am sad to see great players go out that way.
As an aside I am surrounded by Timmay's - people at the gym were talking about how "we" won
:lol:
I wonder if the Raptors will be received at the White House, Trump notwithstanding. Or should Trudeau receive them instead?
The 1992 Blue Jays visited the White House
The 1993 Blue Jays did not
The 1993 Habs did not
The 2017 MLS champion Toronto FC did not.
So...probably not?
There is also the chance that Trudeau will not be PM when they do visit, we're having federal elections in October.
My bet is Trudeau's staff is arranging the visit asap. Why would he pass on all this good will?
Toronto Mayor John Tory has gotten a lot of good play on being a Raptors' supporter. So Trudeau, who needs the votes, has to make a significant gesture.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 14, 2019, 11:58:32 AM
There is also the chance that Trudeau will not be PM when they do visit, we're having federal elections in October.
Why do they have to wait until October? I figured they would do all that victory celebration stuff now.
Quote from: Valmy on June 14, 2019, 06:02:03 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 14, 2019, 11:58:32 AM
There is also the chance that Trudeau will not be PM when they do visit, we're having federal elections in October.
Why do they have to wait until October? I figured they would do all that victory celebration stuff now.
They might still opt to go to Disneyland first.
DT is getting packed. does no one work!
Quote from: HVC on June 17, 2019, 09:49:05 AM
DT is getting packed. does no one work!
Nope, not anymore.
On Friday morning, my 1 hr 15 commute to work was under 45 minutes as most people slept in after the Thursday night win.
This morning, my 1 hr 15 commute to work was under 45 minutes as most people took the day off to go to or watch the parade.
Fuck, I need the Raptors to win something every week.
:D
Damn, this parade is huge. Never saw such crowds before. I can see from my office window that University Ave. is packed! :lol:
Well it is the first major sports championship Toronto has won since 1993...I mean unless you think MLS is a major sports championship. I mean I like the MLS and all but it is not exactly the Premier League.
Yeah, it's pretty crazy .
those of you who need an inkling of what it's about go here
https://www.cp24.com/now (https://www.cp24.com/now)
Malthus' commute is NOT going to be fun.
Quote from: Grey Fox on June 17, 2019, 02:14:21 PM
Malthus' commute is NOT going to be fun.
It will be okay if I just don't leave the office. :lol:
... but yeah, it will be hellish. :(
Trudeau's taking over, I love that man.
friend was sending me pics. like a zombie movie
slowest parade in Human History. around 1 Km an hour.
I was at work, a few hundred metres away.
Ford got booed, Trudeau was cheered.
I bought my first ever piece of NBA fan gear.
Go Schrempf!
(https://az1.hatstoremedia.com/hatstore/images/5056247806245_1/652/522/0/seattle-supersonics-decon-grey-adjustable-mitchell-ness.jpg)
How are the Sonics doing these days? :)
:(
49-33 last year, that's respectable.
THERE ARE NO SONICS ANYMORE
They are forever Sonics.
Go Scout!
I've seen a few stories about how Raptors players would refuse a White House visit.
Why on earth would they be invited to the White House? Toronto is in Canada, and they've already been invited to Parliament.
It's the National Basketball Association and most of the players are American?