As of late, the Cleveland Cavailers are slipping back a bit in the Eastern Conference (32-25 season). They lost two games to the Pistons in 2 days. The 84-72 loss on Monday was tough since Lebron had a good game, scoring 26 points while Zydrunas Ilgauskas contributed 18 points and 15 rebounds. Sunday in Cleveland's 90-78 loss at home Ilgauskas got elbowed by Rasheed Wallace for a flagrant foul. This costed Wallace a $5,000 fine handed out by the league.
Since acquiring former Seattle Supersonics' guard, Ronald Murray things haven't faired real well for the Cavs. With offensive output down by Ilgauskas and forward, Drew Gooden no else is helping Lebron. He's leading the way for the team, averaging 30.8 and 6.6 assist a game. With a sidelined Larry Hughes, who's looks to be out for the season, Cleveland still searches for another reliable scoring option. Eric Snow is doing a decent job at the point and 2-guard position, but he's most effective on defense.
Coach Mike Brown needs to experiment more with his bench. G Luke Jackson can fill valuable minutes and provide a boost. He's shown his ability to score and contribute. Also the 7'0 Verajo should be utilized from his strength and weight in the inside. I look for veteran, Donyell Marshall to step up off the bench. If he lowers his three-point attempts and takes more inside shots at the basket the Cavs will be a greater scoring threat. After all, James can't do it all despite his enormous talent, to get this team into the playoffs.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Bobby Knight's hellish tryouts
Recently, the Texas Tech men's basketball team held tryouts to recruit an extra walk-on player to join the team. The tryouts were shown as a segment on ESPN. Coach Bobby Knight didn't go easy on any of the guys who came out. He shouted and exhibited constructive criticism. I'm sure the most graphic material and language was edited from the show. Knight and his coaching staff seemed to disagree on each player's performance and ability. The guys trying to clinch a spot as a walk-in went through some sort of boot camp. They all shared living space, bunking in an campus apartment for the duration of the tryouts.
I thought for sure Bobby Knight would get so mad at a player that he'd toss a chair onto the court or throw a punch. Due to school regulations and policies he though otherwise and refrained from such violent behavior. Coach Knight looks to be a changed man and has control of his team, aiming to create a successful future at Texas Tech. Careful consideration and evaluation was needed in selecting the right walk-in from a group of about ten college kids. There was animosity and tension between them. One skinny guy, who played guard was showing off too much and ran his mouth to the others. He got on everyone's nerves. He was expected to be cut.
Bobby Knight and his coaching staff not only examined the prospects by their scoring ability, but from an all-around standpoint. They looked at endurance, defensive prowess, leadership, passing, hustle, desire to win, willingness to sacrifice points for teammates, and other significant criteria. I don't know who was chosen as the walk-in, but it had to be someone who demonstrated great fundamentals of basketball and would serve as a spark off the bench for Texas Tech.
I thought for sure Bobby Knight would get so mad at a player that he'd toss a chair onto the court or throw a punch. Due to school regulations and policies he though otherwise and refrained from such violent behavior. Coach Knight looks to be a changed man and has control of his team, aiming to create a successful future at Texas Tech. Careful consideration and evaluation was needed in selecting the right walk-in from a group of about ten college kids. There was animosity and tension between them. One skinny guy, who played guard was showing off too much and ran his mouth to the others. He got on everyone's nerves. He was expected to be cut.
Bobby Knight and his coaching staff not only examined the prospects by their scoring ability, but from an all-around standpoint. They looked at endurance, defensive prowess, leadership, passing, hustle, desire to win, willingness to sacrifice points for teammates, and other significant criteria. I don't know who was chosen as the walk-in, but it had to be someone who demonstrated great fundamentals of basketball and would serve as a spark off the bench for Texas Tech.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Desperate Knicks acquire Francis
This season will not be one to cherish for the New York Knicks. They'd rather put it behind them. Being the laughing stock of the Atlantic division in the Eastern conference the organization knew they had to pull some quick strings. Anfernee Hardaway and rookie, Trevor Ariza were traded to the Magic for Steve Francis. The move may give the Knicks a scoring lift, but won't help them escape their 15-38 record. GM Isaiah Thomas made a smart decision in retrieving another top caliber player. At this point in the season there weren't many alternatives available.
A dilemma is posed in playing time and positions for the two stars. How will Marbury and Francis function the best on the court? If they're both in the starting lineup it may cause a clash of egos. One may take a volume of shots compared to the other. Putting Steve Francis at shooting guard would be best since Marbury is a natural play maker and creator for teammates. Larry Brown will have plenty of set plays, utlizing both players' strengths. The question for the Knicks will be defense. They've got the scoring options, over time I believe they can execute well as a team. The young guys like Nate Robinson and Channing Frye need time to grow and develop.
No rewards await the Knicks at the end of the season except for improvement. They should at least be able to slide past the Raptors and finish without their head between their knees. I expect Isaiah Thomas will help turn this team around by recruiting the right mixture of talent and veteran experience. It may be a slow process, though bringing back a tough image since the hay days of Patrick Ewing could have a huge impact. Finding this key ingredient will push them over the hump.
A dilemma is posed in playing time and positions for the two stars. How will Marbury and Francis function the best on the court? If they're both in the starting lineup it may cause a clash of egos. One may take a volume of shots compared to the other. Putting Steve Francis at shooting guard would be best since Marbury is a natural play maker and creator for teammates. Larry Brown will have plenty of set plays, utlizing both players' strengths. The question for the Knicks will be defense. They've got the scoring options, over time I believe they can execute well as a team. The young guys like Nate Robinson and Channing Frye need time to grow and develop.
No rewards await the Knicks at the end of the season except for improvement. They should at least be able to slide past the Raptors and finish without their head between their knees. I expect Isaiah Thomas will help turn this team around by recruiting the right mixture of talent and veteran experience. It may be a slow process, though bringing back a tough image since the hay days of Patrick Ewing could have a huge impact. Finding this key ingredient will push them over the hump.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Trading guns for tickets in Philly
You know crime has got out of control when a sports team joins a city in a violence prevention program. The Philadephia 76ers are working with the local police to scrounge up semi-automatic guns, handguns, or other related weapons in exchange for basketball tickets to home games. The controversy here is they're encouraging people to turn in legal and illegal weapons. Why would anyone in possession of an illegal firearm go to the police? Also, why is the Philly police department expecting citizens to do this and not confiscating these guns when first discovered.
It sounds like the Philly police are just plain lazy. Do they actually believe this will stop murders, homicides, and robberies? Criminals and gangsters from the inner-city won't be giving up their supplies or ammunition. Since January 1st, 44 homicides have been reported in the city. That's close to an average of 1 person a day. Philly's motto never has seemed befitting. The city should change it's motto from, "The city of brotherly love", to "Staying alive by dodging bullets."
The Violence Prevention Program is a good community effort, but won't have much effect on the crime rate in Philadephia. Encouraging thugs and youngsters to get off the streets and turn their life around is commendable, it's shows others care; consequently those who kill and physically harm victims don't as they continue to roam the streets with vengenance and malice in their heart. To help this crime program 76ers players could speak out against violence by signing a petition or doing public service announcements. These efforts may have a stronger impact.
It sounds like the Philly police are just plain lazy. Do they actually believe this will stop murders, homicides, and robberies? Criminals and gangsters from the inner-city won't be giving up their supplies or ammunition. Since January 1st, 44 homicides have been reported in the city. That's close to an average of 1 person a day. Philly's motto never has seemed befitting. The city should change it's motto from, "The city of brotherly love", to "Staying alive by dodging bullets."
The Violence Prevention Program is a good community effort, but won't have much effect on the crime rate in Philadephia. Encouraging thugs and youngsters to get off the streets and turn their life around is commendable, it's shows others care; consequently those who kill and physically harm victims don't as they continue to roam the streets with vengenance and malice in their heart. To help this crime program 76ers players could speak out against violence by signing a petition or doing public service announcements. These efforts may have a stronger impact.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
NBA dunk classic in Houston
The festivals for All-Star weekend were crammed packed with fun and excitement. Featuring stars, Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, Ray Allen, Chauncey Billups, and Dirk Nowitzki among others would've been enough to put on a show, but the Houston crowd really came to watch the Slam Dunk contest. It came down to the wire too, going into an overtime period (the first ever) between the 76er's Andre Iguodala and the Knick's Nate Robinson.
To everyone's surprise, the 5'9 Robinson had a wildcard up his sleeve. He brought out former 1986 Slam Dunk Champion, Spud Webb. With anyone rooting on, Nate jumped over Spud for a thunderous one-handed jam. This ignited the crowd and everyone stood on their feet. A controversial scoring was made by one of the judges after Iguodala's final dunk of the night, thus allowing Robinson to win by a one point edge. Many people felt Iguodala should have been crowned champion since he executed a behind-the-back and behind-the-basket dunk, which were both incredible and created a high degree of difficulty.
The night, though, belonged to little Nate, who basked in the glory of victory and soaked up all the attention (Probably that's all he will get since the Knicks are playing so poorly this year, but that's not his fault). Adding a old school element to the equation, Robinson became the first player under 6-foot in 20 years to win the Slam Dunk competition. This guy has got a serious vertical leap and will be an asset to any team.
To everyone's surprise, the 5'9 Robinson had a wildcard up his sleeve. He brought out former 1986 Slam Dunk Champion, Spud Webb. With anyone rooting on, Nate jumped over Spud for a thunderous one-handed jam. This ignited the crowd and everyone stood on their feet. A controversial scoring was made by one of the judges after Iguodala's final dunk of the night, thus allowing Robinson to win by a one point edge. Many people felt Iguodala should have been crowned champion since he executed a behind-the-back and behind-the-basket dunk, which were both incredible and created a high degree of difficulty.
The night, though, belonged to little Nate, who basked in the glory of victory and soaked up all the attention (Probably that's all he will get since the Knicks are playing so poorly this year, but that's not his fault). Adding a old school element to the equation, Robinson became the first player under 6-foot in 20 years to win the Slam Dunk competition. This guy has got a serious vertical leap and will be an asset to any team.
Thursday, February 16, 2006
The Sosa Chronicle: Ending a career on a sour note
Since his days as a once beloved Chicago Cub, sprinting into the field with glee and blasting homeruns in Wrigleyville; Sammy Sosa now wants to calls it quits. After playing one season with the Baltimore Orioles, Sosa hasn't be able to reach an agreement the Washington Nationals for the 2006 season. Apparently they feel his performance has been sub-par in the last 2 or 3 years and wanted to sign him to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. He'd have to work for a starting position which probably made him mad. The proposal for the Major League deal by Washington didn't suit Sosa either, he wanted more money.
The real issue behind this poor decision is obviously steroids. After the congressional hearings last year Sosa hurt his reputation and career. Suspicions grew, therefore effecting Sammy's performance in games and appeal as a prominent baseball figure. Seeing this ugly chain of events unravel with this conclusive nail in the coffin is disheartening for Sosa fans. I've been a long-time, devout Cubs fan and hate to see such a pitiful outcome. This is not to say I feel sympathetic towards Sammy, but to signify what a real lousy way to end a career. He owes a debt of gratitude to fans who've supported him for years and should care less about money at this point in his life. Such selfishness and lack of consideration reflects a negative image on his character while further damaging his baseball status.
The old Sammy Sosa appears to be long gone, refusing to be open about his history with performance-enhancing drugs, thus tarnishing all creditable records held. Everyone is concerned about him destroying his chances of advancing up the ladder on the all-time homerun list by hitting at least 12 more to reach 600. Well, personally I don't think that matters if he cheated to reach this feat. The same goes for any other player. Mark McGwire alienated himself for refusing to comment on steroids or tell his story. The only way Sosa could finish his career with dignity is continuing to play the game (a few more years or longer) clean and performed to his best ability. That's all fans want and expect. They'll at least respect him and still show support.
Any player in the Major Leagues knows better than to cheat the system. Few can get away it. Sooner or later lying and gambling with careers catches up to people. Superstars become too big for their own good sometimes and let the paychecks go to their head. Playing baseball should never be about money, though it will never change because of closed-minded individuals. Players today are more concerned about salary rather than their team sucking or ever making a run as a serious contender. What a great shame!
If a new rule was appointed by MLB with a favored vote by owners requiring that no longer active player can make more than $4 million per year. Also, to prevent arbitration and strike-outs a clause stating that any player who refuses to adhere to these legal conditions will have placed on waivers, deemed a free agent until September while being docked 50% of their annual pay and losing incentives (bonus, paid car rental, hotel, etc.) A policy like this of course will cause quarreling, but leave no room for negotiating, being a small sacrifice to play baseball. Then money won't be so much of an obstacle for teams to work around. It will be good for the game.
Again, it's depressing to hear the foreboding announcement about Sammy Sosa's retirement. If anything good comes out of this, maybe it will teach younger players to make smart decisions. If they want to hang around in the majors to serve a honorable career they'll learn from Sosa's mistakes. Shame and abandonment lead down lonely roads. Every player wishes to be well-liked and valued by a team and fans. In order for this to happen players must stick to morally sound principles and follow the rules no matter what. Sammy let other things cloud his judgment, maybe costing him the ultimate price. I wish it weren't so...
The real issue behind this poor decision is obviously steroids. After the congressional hearings last year Sosa hurt his reputation and career. Suspicions grew, therefore effecting Sammy's performance in games and appeal as a prominent baseball figure. Seeing this ugly chain of events unravel with this conclusive nail in the coffin is disheartening for Sosa fans. I've been a long-time, devout Cubs fan and hate to see such a pitiful outcome. This is not to say I feel sympathetic towards Sammy, but to signify what a real lousy way to end a career. He owes a debt of gratitude to fans who've supported him for years and should care less about money at this point in his life. Such selfishness and lack of consideration reflects a negative image on his character while further damaging his baseball status.
The old Sammy Sosa appears to be long gone, refusing to be open about his history with performance-enhancing drugs, thus tarnishing all creditable records held. Everyone is concerned about him destroying his chances of advancing up the ladder on the all-time homerun list by hitting at least 12 more to reach 600. Well, personally I don't think that matters if he cheated to reach this feat. The same goes for any other player. Mark McGwire alienated himself for refusing to comment on steroids or tell his story. The only way Sosa could finish his career with dignity is continuing to play the game (a few more years or longer) clean and performed to his best ability. That's all fans want and expect. They'll at least respect him and still show support.
Any player in the Major Leagues knows better than to cheat the system. Few can get away it. Sooner or later lying and gambling with careers catches up to people. Superstars become too big for their own good sometimes and let the paychecks go to their head. Playing baseball should never be about money, though it will never change because of closed-minded individuals. Players today are more concerned about salary rather than their team sucking or ever making a run as a serious contender. What a great shame!
If a new rule was appointed by MLB with a favored vote by owners requiring that no longer active player can make more than $4 million per year. Also, to prevent arbitration and strike-outs a clause stating that any player who refuses to adhere to these legal conditions will have placed on waivers, deemed a free agent until September while being docked 50% of their annual pay and losing incentives (bonus, paid car rental, hotel, etc.) A policy like this of course will cause quarreling, but leave no room for negotiating, being a small sacrifice to play baseball. Then money won't be so much of an obstacle for teams to work around. It will be good for the game.
Again, it's depressing to hear the foreboding announcement about Sammy Sosa's retirement. If anything good comes out of this, maybe it will teach younger players to make smart decisions. If they want to hang around in the majors to serve a honorable career they'll learn from Sosa's mistakes. Shame and abandonment lead down lonely roads. Every player wishes to be well-liked and valued by a team and fans. In order for this to happen players must stick to morally sound principles and follow the rules no matter what. Sammy let other things cloud his judgment, maybe costing him the ultimate price. I wish it weren't so...
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
The sorrows of an injured athlete
When one thinks about how injuries reoccur, leading to a pummet in an athlete's career the name Grant Hill comes to mind. Since starting out in the NBA as a member of the Detroit Pistons he's been plaqued with injuries. This must be one of the most depressing aspects in any pro athlete's life. Why can't they stay healthy? Being a player who receives hard contact all the time during games effects their bone structure depending on it's strength.
Being sidelined and not participating in the sport you love has to eat at guys. Since dealing with frequent injuries throughout his career, Hill is considering retiring from basketball. It would be a shame to see him go because he's never be able to reach near his full potential and be the player everyone knew he could be after college (Duke). Athletes today rely too much on their talent and fail to drawbacks or freak accidents which could occur later. Instead of having issues with injuries damaging careers, young guys in the game now destroy their future by breaking the rules (comitting assault/battery, murder, smoking weed/drug possession, kidnapping, arena brawling, illegal possession of firearm, and make verbal threats to fans, coaches, etc.)
The misfortunes of athletes from a uncontrollable element are different. This why young athletes should stride to be the best they can, avoiding unintelligent misconduct and repeat offenses. Causing your career to take a sharp downfall means you take your privilege to play sports for granted; therefore it doesn't seem important anymore. Injuries can be tragic, especially for good-hearted, nice, extremely talented guys everyone likes. That's why as a basketball fan you hate to see the struggle of a player like Grant Hill. He worked hard to make it to the pro level, to accomplish his dream then have it cut short in an instant.
I think in the modern era athletes should have long careers since they're knowledgable about proper exercising and dieting and have various equipment to use whenever needed. Other than factors out of their control (heredity orfreak accidents) they can stay healthy. It will also depend on their lifestyle, whether they inject needles in their body or stay fit, both during the season and off-season. The NBA will be a sad place if players started retiring at the age of 30 because they have a ruptured disc in the back, broken spleen, or ruptured pelvis. No one would then care much about the sport.
Being sidelined and not participating in the sport you love has to eat at guys. Since dealing with frequent injuries throughout his career, Hill is considering retiring from basketball. It would be a shame to see him go because he's never be able to reach near his full potential and be the player everyone knew he could be after college (Duke). Athletes today rely too much on their talent and fail to drawbacks or freak accidents which could occur later. Instead of having issues with injuries damaging careers, young guys in the game now destroy their future by breaking the rules (comitting assault/battery, murder, smoking weed/drug possession, kidnapping, arena brawling, illegal possession of firearm, and make verbal threats to fans, coaches, etc.)
The misfortunes of athletes from a uncontrollable element are different. This why young athletes should stride to be the best they can, avoiding unintelligent misconduct and repeat offenses. Causing your career to take a sharp downfall means you take your privilege to play sports for granted; therefore it doesn't seem important anymore. Injuries can be tragic, especially for good-hearted, nice, extremely talented guys everyone likes. That's why as a basketball fan you hate to see the struggle of a player like Grant Hill. He worked hard to make it to the pro level, to accomplish his dream then have it cut short in an instant.
I think in the modern era athletes should have long careers since they're knowledgable about proper exercising and dieting and have various equipment to use whenever needed. Other than factors out of their control (heredity orfreak accidents) they can stay healthy. It will also depend on their lifestyle, whether they inject needles in their body or stay fit, both during the season and off-season. The NBA will be a sad place if players started retiring at the age of 30 because they have a ruptured disc in the back, broken spleen, or ruptured pelvis. No one would then care much about the sport.
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Duke still undefeated in the ACC
Today was a test for the Maryland Terrapins who fought hard against a rival conference opponent, though fell short against the elite Duke Blue Devils. Several teams have come extra close to knocking off Duke (besides Georgetown). Shelden Williams and J.J. Redick continue impress and expand their game. They're the heart and soul of the team. Without them Duke wouldn't be ranked at the top in the country.
Duke hands Maryland their 8th loss of the season while improving to 23-1. Duke is 18-0 in conference play. The positive highlight for Maryland was Nick Caner-Medley, who scored 22 points on 8-of-17 shooting and grabbed 8 boards. On the flip side, Williams contributed 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 blocks and Redick added 35 points (4-10 3P-A). Maryland's top performers had an off-game. That happens sometimes when least expected. However, when you're facing Duke it really hurts a team, even at home.
Moving closer to March there has got to be an ACC team that can beat Duke. If teams can penetrate a weakness: foul trouble on Williams, inconsistent free-throw shooting from bench players, put tremendous pressure on the ball in the front court and force turnovers they stand a good chance. Otherwise, if they fail to stay in Redick's face, smothering him on defense or allow him too many picks for open threes they're doomed. I'd like to see either Georgia Tech, Boston College, or UNC pull of a victory against the Blue Devils. It's only a matter of time before a determined group does.
Duke hands Maryland their 8th loss of the season while improving to 23-1. Duke is 18-0 in conference play. The positive highlight for Maryland was Nick Caner-Medley, who scored 22 points on 8-of-17 shooting and grabbed 8 boards. On the flip side, Williams contributed 25 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 blocks and Redick added 35 points (4-10 3P-A). Maryland's top performers had an off-game. That happens sometimes when least expected. However, when you're facing Duke it really hurts a team, even at home.
Moving closer to March there has got to be an ACC team that can beat Duke. If teams can penetrate a weakness: foul trouble on Williams, inconsistent free-throw shooting from bench players, put tremendous pressure on the ball in the front court and force turnovers they stand a good chance. Otherwise, if they fail to stay in Redick's face, smothering him on defense or allow him too many picks for open threes they're doomed. I'd like to see either Georgia Tech, Boston College, or UNC pull of a victory against the Blue Devils. It's only a matter of time before a determined group does.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Dwayne Wade carries the load for Miami
With a prolific star like Shaq not fully healthy for the year and his declining scoring output, the Miami Heat turn to Dwayne Wade to be the leader. After the All-Star break teams start to get serious about making a push for the postseason. The Pistons, Spurs, Cavailers, and Mavericks will give the rest of the competition a run for their money. They're all able to contend against Miami too.
Coach Pat Riley may know the team superstar who gets paid the most, but also who is the central point of the Heat's overall success. The Heat are loaded with talent, but without Wade in the lineup they're losing an extra 27 ppg. Besides a great scoring option, D-Wade is becoming a good assist man, averaging 6.9 a game. He's capable even of recording a triple-double on any given night. Other players such as Antoine Walker, Gary Payton, and Adonis Haslem perform better as a unit, feeding off Wayne's energy and intensity.
At 30-19, Miami goes toe-to-toe with Dallas tonight, a team that could be a thorn in their side later come playoff time. They'll contend with Dirk, Stack, Howard, and the rest of the gang in this regular season matchup. I look for Dwayne Wade to have another big game...maybe obtaining a quadruple-double, who knows? Take 'em to the rack D-Wade and teach big 'ole Shaq.
Coach Pat Riley may know the team superstar who gets paid the most, but also who is the central point of the Heat's overall success. The Heat are loaded with talent, but without Wade in the lineup they're losing an extra 27 ppg. Besides a great scoring option, D-Wade is becoming a good assist man, averaging 6.9 a game. He's capable even of recording a triple-double on any given night. Other players such as Antoine Walker, Gary Payton, and Adonis Haslem perform better as a unit, feeding off Wayne's energy and intensity.
At 30-19, Miami goes toe-to-toe with Dallas tonight, a team that could be a thorn in their side later come playoff time. They'll contend with Dirk, Stack, Howard, and the rest of the gang in this regular season matchup. I look for Dwayne Wade to have another big game...maybe obtaining a quadruple-double, who knows? Take 'em to the rack D-Wade and teach big 'ole Shaq.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
J.J. Redick with a rare off-game performance
Being one of the top college basketball teams in the country allows star players to contribute in other areas besides scoring. Though, if you play for the Duke Blue Devils and your name is J.J. Redick having an off-game is not acceptable. That's what happened according to sports gurus Saturday against Florida State. Redick prides himself on exceptional sharp-shooting. That's the main weapon in his game. What I don't understand is why people think he should score 40 points a game. Averaging between 25.0 and 28.5 ppg, I say that's pretty damn productive.
When did scoring 30 or more points become mediocre? For these sports announcers, anaylsts, and wacky sports nuts this isn't good enough anymore. Well, sorry fellas players today can't match the output of legends like Wilt Chamberlain. Hell, even Michael Jordan wasn't a major offensive threat at UNC. Theres way too much focus on records and numbers now. Then there are people like Dick Vitale who go crazy during games and start calling everybody that's anybody a P-T-Per (Prime Time Player). Redick is a great player and will be even better at the next level, but no one can live up to the outlandish expectations people have for him. (Start taking that medication Dicky V. and stop with the crazy antics and ranting)
If Redick won't be pressured and badgered to death about breaking scoring records and asked whether he thinks his team will go undefeated in the ACC then maybe he can put on a real show for the rest of the season. Actually whether he's dropping 30-40 a game hasn't effected his team from winning. As a senior, he's become a better passer and improved defensive player. Those factors may have the strongest impact against the competition. Will Redick go on a scoring tangent against North Carolina on Tuesday or will he get his teammates more involved?
When did scoring 30 or more points become mediocre? For these sports announcers, anaylsts, and wacky sports nuts this isn't good enough anymore. Well, sorry fellas players today can't match the output of legends like Wilt Chamberlain. Hell, even Michael Jordan wasn't a major offensive threat at UNC. Theres way too much focus on records and numbers now. Then there are people like Dick Vitale who go crazy during games and start calling everybody that's anybody a P-T-Per (Prime Time Player). Redick is a great player and will be even better at the next level, but no one can live up to the outlandish expectations people have for him. (Start taking that medication Dicky V. and stop with the crazy antics and ranting)
If Redick won't be pressured and badgered to death about breaking scoring records and asked whether he thinks his team will go undefeated in the ACC then maybe he can put on a real show for the rest of the season. Actually whether he's dropping 30-40 a game hasn't effected his team from winning. As a senior, he's become a better passer and improved defensive player. Those factors may have the strongest impact against the competition. Will Redick go on a scoring tangent against North Carolina on Tuesday or will he get his teammates more involved?
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Another ACC matchup: UNC vs. Maryland
The Tarheels can credit much of their first-half good fortune to freshman, Tyler Hansbrough. He's leads the team in scoring and rebounding, averaging 18.2 points and 7.6 rpg. He's become the central focal point on offense. His inside presence and high field goal percentage(.612) make him a threat to teams. North Carolina though shouldn't rely on the freshman so much. More production needs to come from seniors, David Noel and Reyshaun Terry. They can pick up most of the slack on scoring. Also, Junior guard, Wes Miller has been a good addition off the bench while providing consistent shooting from beyound the arc.
Tonight it's going to be a test for Carolina as they take on a talented Maryland team. The Terrapins are 14-5 on the season and 4-2 in the ACC. Their top players, McGray and Strawberry must be kept in check for UNC to gain another win in the ACC. So far North Carolina is 12-5 on the season while 3-3 in conference play. I look for Bryon Sanders to fill in some quality minutes as well as freshman point guard, Bobby Frasor for the Heels. Since the game is being played at the Comcast Center in Maryland, I'm sure UNC will have their hands full especially dealing with the raucous home crowd. Tonight's matchup is going to be entertaining, no doubt about it.
Tonight it's going to be a test for Carolina as they take on a talented Maryland team. The Terrapins are 14-5 on the season and 4-2 in the ACC. Their top players, McGray and Strawberry must be kept in check for UNC to gain another win in the ACC. So far North Carolina is 12-5 on the season while 3-3 in conference play. I look for Bryon Sanders to fill in some quality minutes as well as freshman point guard, Bobby Frasor for the Heels. Since the game is being played at the Comcast Center in Maryland, I'm sure UNC will have their hands full especially dealing with the raucous home crowd. Tonight's matchup is going to be entertaining, no doubt about it.
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