Can't we all just get along?

Right when you think all is well in the NBA another ugly incident breaks out. It's safe to say this one was minor compared to those in past year. During the Bulls, Knicks game Thursday in Chicago the Knicks' Antonio Davis went into the stands to check on his wife. He claims that he saw her near a fan, "falling back." He thought this fan was harrassing her. His actions were reasoned that he was trying to protect her. That was true, but the NBA didn't agree with the decision, slapping Davis with a 5 game suspension.

Witnesses at the game claim that Kendra Davis, Antonio's wife was seen hitting a male fan for protesting a call and booing the Knicks. No defense or retailation ensued from the fan. There was no altercation between Davis and the man who was struck. Security guards escorted the parties involved out of the building. Davis was of course ejected. The fan, however was later released and allowed to return to the game in the United Center in time to see the end of the game. The Bulls' Ben Gordon sunk the game-winning shot.

The league understood the situation involved with Davis and therefore softened the penalty for player misconduct. The Vice President and Commissioner still felt it's absolutely unnecessary for players to charge into the stands and interfere with any fans for whatever reason. Such actions won't be tolerated and adequate punishment is in order. As a decent human being and fan though you can't blame Antonio Davis for his decision. Anybody who cares about a family member would have done the same thing. Players, players' wives, and fans need to co-exist in a fun, lively environment without taking gestures or comments too personal. Doing so would make the pro basketball experience much more enjoyable for everyone.

The evolution of skinny, extra tall centers in basketball

Before there was Yao Ming and Shawn Bradley other big men roamed the court in the NBA with a notable sense of overwhelming nature. Their height was too much for others to handle at first. These players weren't accustomed to being presented with fat checks or finding the right sizes for clothes. All they wanted was to be part of the game and win. I'm talking about the giants of yesterday like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Manute Bol, George Murasean,and some Russian dude.

The aforementioned players were known for being larger than the game itself and having a difficult time finding a comfortable seat anywhere. They graced the game with a jolliness only the Green Giant displayed. Their active participation resolutinized basketball. Because of their presence the goals had to raised 2 feet and prevented many teams from executing low-post offensive attacks. Their heads just got in the way too much. Alright...the baskets were probably raised for another reason, but the 7 plus footers blocked the view of the rim and succeeded in shutting down inside scoring opportunities.

One thing can be said about all these extra tall centers, they didn't even need to jump to dunk a basketball. Besides that when these athletes played defense it's as if they resembled Godzilla by always swatting at the ball with their long arms. Players like Yao Ming better enjoy their career in the pros and relish the greatest moments because let's face it they're not cut out to do much else. A glass window cleaner maybe, but a FBI Agent or Air Pilot is out of the question. The extra tall big men of today maybe can start a new legacy or era that will be talked about for generations.

UVA outduels VT in ACC play

Sunday afternoon it was a cold, breezy day outside the confines of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA. Inside the gym the temperature got scorching hot in a hurry. It was a battle of two state rival teams that wanted to knock off each other by any means necessary. A few technical fouls came into play during the course of the action. Despite a low scoring affair from both sides the tension and hungry for victory was relentless.

The Cavs took to their style of play, shooting from the perimeter and the outside. Guards Sean Singletary (16 points, 6 assists) and J.R. Reynolds (16 points) finished with a good performance. They lead UVA to 54-49 win and help UVA improve to 8-6 overall. Virginia Tech dropped to 10-7. The fans really got into this game, yelling and screaming at the refs for making a slew of bad calls, in their view. The moment of intensity came when VT's Coleman Collins went up for a dunk, hung on the rim, and popped the ball up and out of the net. The officials reversed the call, waving off the basket. This didn't go over well with the Hokie crowd at all. They began throwing trash on the court and booing.

VT's Coach, Seth Greenberg was running wild with emotions all day: he was frustrated, excited, content, incensed, and apalled. Then his moment came like a fury of heat after the PA announcer warned the fans not to throw any more trash on the court. Greenberg then hastily grabbed the microphone and yelled throughout the packed auditorium,"I'm sick of this f--king non-officating crap. Damn it! We're here to win a basketball game. Who's ass do I have to kick around here to get some fair calls our way for God sakes?!!"

Okay, he really didn't say those words, but what a way to have ended a college basketball game. If that did happen he would have been ejected and probably arrested. What he did shout was that his team was going to play as hard as they could to win. Less dramatic yes, but still effective as a motivator. This was the first time I've ever known a Coach to get on a live microphone during a game. So kudos to Seth Greenberg. He's got more than just heart. Tough loss for the resurgent Hokies, but they'll rebound. The two Virginia teams will meet again later in the season at University Hall in Charlottesville.

Ray Allen and Kenyon Dooling get too physical. 

Rough housing on the court

Ray Allen and Kenyon Dooling had several heated physical exchanges on the court Wednesday night. The two players were ejected from the game in the first quarter for fighting. After a cheat shot from the Orlando Magic's Dooling there was swift retaliation from Allen. The combatants pushed and struck one another while running down the court. Eventually they both hit the deck after Dooling shoved down Allen. Then in an outburst of self-defense and anger the Seattle shooting guard tackled his counterpart, both landing into the first row of seats.

It was quite an ugly scene, but what happened could have been so much worse. It wasn't close to a replay of the Pacers-Pistons brawl last year which was a positive. The players will serve suspensions to be determined later. Supersonics Coach Bob Hill stated his case to the refs after Allen's ejection, claiming he was just defending himself and was provoked. Fighting will always result in more than 1 person being penalized, no matter who started it. Afterwards both players regreted their actions that lead to the incident.

Why can't professional athletes get along anymore? There is always an argument or descrepancy over minor things. There are big egos that get in the way and pride that is one line. The scuffles can be avoided if players were level-headed and respect one another. Letting their emotions get the best of them leads to defeat and embarrassment. Keyon Dooling and Ray Allen are usually good-natured players who are solid contributors to their teams. One or the another may of just been having a bad night to start with. If there are no other major altercations in the NBA this year it will be a good sign. However, don't hold your breath!

Lebron James, the future of the NBA

The years of Bird, Magic, and Jordan are distant memories, though cherished ones. Taking flight into a new generation of basketball is Cleveland Cavailers superstar Lebron James. He's the hottest player in the league, positioning his team in second place in the Central division of the Eastern conference. With a backup of swing-shooting guards like Larry Huges and Damon Jones plus a reliable scoring big man in Zydrunas Ilgauskas, James has enough help to do more than keep the Cavs afloat.

His numbers are impressive, 30.6 ppg, 5.8 apg, and 1.8 spg. With a 20-11 record King James will continue pursuit for the Cavs to rise from their miniscule previous seasons and lackluster performances. It's a sure bet he will insure a playoff spot for his team. The caliber of players he collaborates efforts with seems to make things click. This means Lebron doesn't have to score 30 points or more every night for his team to win. If anything he has ample opportunities to set up his teammates and collect more assists per game.

As one of the most popular and best all-around players today, James has become the poster child for the NBA. His world-wide appeal, performance and demeanor on the court also make him a good role model. Kids are in awe of his talents. They want to be like him. Oh my, could he be better than guess who...Jordan? That will be discovered later on down the road. What's important now for Lebron is to caltpult Cleveland to the top. Give him time, he's working on it. King James will rule in 2006.

Tarheels sparkle in first ACC conference game

Saturday afternoon the confines of Chapel Hill were ripping and roaring as usual. Fans had an extra incentive to cheer for the home team. With their opening ACC matchup against rivals NC state the Heels were ready for action. As a underrated team, ranked 25th in the country they proved to be potent and hang with the Wolfpack (#13th), winning 82-69. This should give UNC a head of steam moving into conference play.

The freshmen had a big day. F Tyler Hansborough scored 20 points (14-14 FT) while G Bobby Frasor chipped in with 17 points. On a 13-0 run within the final 2:30 to go the Tarheels seized command from NC State's missed scoring opportunities. Senior David Noel looks to be stepping up as a team leader. His influence will be a great motivator for the rest of the team this season. He's got great athletic ability, a good all-around player and knows how to get others involved.

UNC improves to 9-2 overall and 1-0 in the ACC. They have started off well, but they've got their battles ahead as they face Boston College, Virginia, and Duke. On Tuesday they'll meet Virginia Tech on the road. Coach Roy Williams will try to continue his instrumental role of motivation and discipline. His active participation in games is essential for UNC's future success. Go Heels!

P.S. More news and updates on UNC at: http://northcarolina.scout.com/index.html

A look back at 2005

2005 had it's moments from start to finish. Controversy and surprise swept the sports world. The following events were more than enough to digest: the U.S. Senate steriods debate, the Rafael Palmerio steriods scandal, the infamous Pacers-Pistons brawl, Ryno-Boggs Hall of Fame induction, UNC winning the NCAA championship, the collaspe of the Evil Empire(George Steinbreiner was on the verge of shitting himself due to his Yankees mediocre performance early in the season), a fan leaping from the upper deck at Yankee Stadium to grab a foul ball, and the whole Barry Bonds w/injury excuse lashing out at the media(More like whining and worrying about the public finding out he's used steroids).

What a year it was throughout the low and high points. The best highlight for Chicago fans was the WhiteSox winning the World Series. The franchise ended over a 70 year drought, many witnessing a miracle season and a day they thought they'd never live to see. (Not for this Chicago fan...that's right another miserable season for the Cubs. What does this prolonged losing spell make 90 YEARS IN A ROW?!! Got to think positive though, if I live to be 95-100 I might get to witness a historical gem of a World Series OR the Cubs losing again).

The worst part of '05 for baseball was Rafael Palmerio lying to a grand jury and shaming himself. This was once a well respected top notch 3,000 hit member who claimed not to have known he digested illegal substances (I guess the same goes for him not remembering being stuck in the butt with a syringe. Come on Palmerio, how dumb do you think the public is?). Also to hurt the sport of baseball other idiots joined in the steroids parade such less popular players like Alex Cora and Ryan Anderson. I think Dodger and Royals fans, however were kinda wishing that guys on their teams would take steroids so they'd have a chance in hell of winning.

There were many memorable moments. Whether your favorite team failed or succeeded whenever feeling down in the dumps you could always find a misfit jock to poke fun of with everyone else. People can rest assure now that 2005 is over that Shaq still hates Kobe, player salaries will continue to rise, and that the bird flu didn't kill off the best sports stars. Bidding farewell to 2005 and crossing my fingers that 2006 won't be a total disaster.

Are young pro athletes overpaid?

The question tends to linger in sports and is overlooked. Young sports stars typically in their 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years are earning way over the average compared to athletes within the last decade. I think no one is worth $5-10 million a year to play basketball, baseball, or football. The biggest increase in player salaries are in the NBA. Rookies and other young players expect high salaries when they enter the league or after playing a few seasons. They've been spoiled by team owners, who have given them whatever demanded or declared by an agent.

Recently Michael Jordan made a statement on television about young players in the NBA being overcompensated early in their career and not earning their salaries. He believes it takes years to garner the accomplishments and privilege to be rewarded with higher salaries. He feels that players today haven't proven themselves and some lack work ethic. Over time they can obtain big goals and meet the criteria as a veteran of the game. That's easy for Jordan to say still being filthy rich, but he makes a valid point. Seeing as more and more high school athletes are entering the pros today they seem to be less motivated to excel or truly prove themselves.

One factor that will change everything to do with salaries are the fans. If they stop paying for overpriced tickets to games revenue is lost and players will be forced to quit or accept lower salaries. The stipulations in contracts are aiding players too. Those may need to be reversed or not listed anymore. Playing sports should be an honor. Sports athletes get paid to have fun. Trying to be a winner is serious business, but insisting more money because previous offers are unsuitable takes away from the purpose of the game. Believing that if certain players are paid what they want then a team can finally succeed in winning a championship is dumb logic. That's not how it works. Players have to be committed, focused, and thrive as a unit to reach full potential. Obssessing over money will never be the answer.

UNC basketball

The North Carolina Tarheels may have a completely different look, depleted of their all-star unit last year, but they are confident in finishing strong in the ACC. This young team has plenty of talent left. The two main seniors, David Noel and Reyshawn Terry are developing into breakthrough prime players while serving as leaders and motivators. UNC is ranked 23rd in the country. With the recent loss to USC they're 6-2 overall. Coach Roy Williams will be a great influence the whole year. He knows how to still make his team winners.

With a fresh cast of players UNC will have a greater chance against opponents than the last couple years. Freshman, Tyler Hansbrough is putting up impressive numbers so far with 17.1 ppg and 7.8 rpg. He's a natural low post player with strong arms and quick moves close to the basket. This kid may be the most pleasant surprise and best assest for the Tarheels this year. With new additions to the ACC like Miami and Boston College the competition will be tough for the Heels. Even without dominant players from previous year they'll still be up any challenge.

Duke may be picked to finish at the top, however if a team like Virginia Tech can give them a run for their money they're not as good as the hype. UNC on the right night can beat the Blue Devils. Duke's potency on offense and defense is overwhelming at times, but they can be stopped. Up next on the schedule for North Carolina is UNC-Asheville. This should be a good warmup game and test of competency until they face Clemson, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest, and Duke.

Orignial rules of basketball on sale for the holidays

Wouldn't you know it, a family is trying to take advantage of a sports icon's legacy at a perfect time. In this case it happens to revolve around the orginator of basketball, James Naismith. The Naismith family has decided to sell the orginial written rules of basketball for $1 million! First of all I think they're planning a big Christmas this year. That or they have become greedy all of a sudden and don't care about keeping the monumental piece of history in the family.

Now since the Naismiths have made it public that they've got hot property up for sale on the market who is going to pay a $1 million for it? I thought Ted Williams had it rough being frozen after his death (especially icy this time of year...one of the greatest hitters of all-time remains a frozen statue. How inconsiderate and dishearting). James Naismith must be furious and disappointed and probably rolling over in his grave. As the inventer of the game he couldn't have wanted this to happen. Besides, did Naismith ever make a million dollars? That will be one for the all the fact checkers out there. He deserves better treatment than this.

Even with the Naismith's family sudden obsession for cold-hard cash the very creator's name will live on in the memories offans and supporters of basketball. Without him basketball wouldn't of been discovered until later in mid- 1900's and probably not at a YMCA either, thus without making it the recreation facility it is today. So before the family sell the rights to the orignial rules they need to think about the significance of the very history as well as the tireless efforts and time put into planning. There was so much dedication there. The best alternatives to take for the Naismith family is storing the first hand record of the game in a secret location or donating it to a museum. At least then everyone will appreciate the sentiment.

Rookie Chris Paul debates a call by a ref. 

Hornets "home" rotation doesn't affect their sensational rookie's play,

The first half of the season has been inconvenient for the New Orleans Hornets. Since Hurricane Katrina they're moved to new locations for home games. Oklahoma City and Baton Rouge are the current venues. Despite the lack of hometown identity the Hornets are playing decent basketball. Last season they won only 18. So far they're 11-13 and look to break their losing mark within 2 weeks.

If the Hornets can credit one person for their recent turnaround it's got to be rookie G Chris Paul. In Sunday's contest in a win against the Spurs Paul just fell short of a triple-double, needing only one assist. He collected 12 rebounds in the game. Forget about the other numbers. That's a tall order to fill for any guard. How many other short players in the league can collect that many boards? Averaging close to 17.0 ppg and 7.8 assists he's already developed into a team leader and is top candidate for rookie of the year honors.

Whether the Hornets find a permanent home in Louisiana this season or not they're got an x-factor in Chris Paul. He's a good fit in a lineup which includes other emerging young stars like Desmond Mason, J.R. Smith, David West, and the quality veteran P.J. Brown. This team shouldn't be overlooked or took for granted. There is enough punch and talent on the squad to fret and challenge opponents. In due time hopefully this team can return to New Orleans and regenerate a fan base.

Shaq back with new Miami coach

The Miami Heat's recent restructure pushes them in the right direction. With the resignation of Coach Stan Van Gudy, the organization looked to an wise familar veteran to serve as a replacement. Pat Riley has returned, taking over for the remainder of the season. With a healthy Shaq back in the lineup and an amazing cast things are starting to work out okay. Dwayne Wade has kept the Heat afloat, picking up the slack on offense averaging 26.7 ppg. Alonzo Mourning has served as a formal substitute for Shaq, putting up solid numbers (8.0 rpg, 3.7 bpg).

Since the hiring of Pat Riley the Heat are 2-0 while posting a 13-10 record. The slick-haired Riley is what this team needed. He boasts an impressive career record (1172-589 regular season)and is a well respected veteran of the game. He's also a great motivator. His principles and style of teaching will have a psychological effect on the team by instilling absolute confidence in his players. With all-star lineup Riley will get the most of each player, using their individual talents and abilities in a routine plan to win.

Now the eastern conference has got a lot more interesting. Coach Riley, styling with his 50's greaser look(there is nothing with the hair style)wearing his custom made professional suits, will again be seen pacing back and forth along the sidelines shouting instructions and barking at refs. His suave manner and savvy nature are pivotal to the overall game plan. His leadership and disclipline could be very likely lead the Miami Heat to the promise land. For more news and updates check out the Miami Heat clubhouse report at http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/clubhouse?team=mia

Los Angeles: Refusing to suck this season

Finally the city of Los Angeles has another team they can have faith in and enjoy watching. Fans have waited so long for the the Clippers to break out of their humiliating losing slump, which accounted for a good...oh 30 years or so. Since an awesome team has been assembled(Not the Lakers, this team has hit an all-time low and Kobe Bryant isn't the solution now)in L.A. fans can go to games with optimism. They have the reassurance of not being encouraged by the PA announcer to bring an extra pair of tennis shoes to the game because they might just get to play. This would only be in effect in blow outs or when the fans couldn't take it anymore, demanding to march on the court and take control. Those ugly days of disappointment and despair are over.

Lead by former Duke Blue Devil, Elton Brand, the Los Angeles Clippers are making noise in the Mid-West conference. At 14-4 they're turning around their level of play big time. Brand is averaging 22.1 points and 11.0 rebounds a game. Sure this team doesn't have a bunch of big-name players, but with the likes of athletes like Sam Cassell, Corey Maggette, Cuttino Mobley, and Chris Wilcox they can deliver. They're out to prove that if any team takes them lightly, they're going to beat them. That's a far cry from years past when the Clippers used to beg for mercy. Starting forward, Corey Maggette is making his presence felt too. He's averaging 22.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.

Other teams in the west and east will have to be weary of this Clippers team. Forget about them rolling over and dying. Remember they have dignity now. Can the Clippers make the playoffs? That will be made clear later...no need to jinx them(oops!) Nothing will stand in their way if they continue their superb play. Well, look who doesn't suck anymore! O'Clippers, what a way to bring in the new year!

A running floater is put up by Antawn Jamison. 

This magnificent Wizard

Since his days as a unmolded prospect at UNC Antawn Jamison is moving his career in the right direction. He's come a long way. After starting his pro career at Golden State in 1998 then being traded to the Mavericks, Jamison has found a home in Washington. Alongside Wizards teammate Gilbert Arenas he strives to help the Wizards make the playoffs for the second year in a row.

So far in the season Antawn is averaging 21.1 points, 11.5 rpg, and 2.0 apg. His veteran leadership on the Wizards is influential. The sterling performances and contribution he brings to the table serves as motivation for the entire team. He never quits out there on the floor even when he's not feeling 100%. By making a dazzling plays on offense and defense, Jamison sparks a rejuvenated energy amongst his teammates. They look up to him. The opposition has to look out for the lanky 6'8 small forward when he get in a groove or is on fire.

Along with inside scoring and consistent rebounding Jamison is becoming a much improved outside shooter. He's a 37% shooter from behind the arch. With the season drifting into the second half that number is likely to increase. What makes the former UNC Tarheel such an valued asset to the Wizards is the minutes he gives on the floor each game and his commanding ability. That and also his teammates respect him. His crafted skills shows how well he works and performs with guys like Gilbert Arenas, Caron Bulter,and Brendan Haywood. Jamison makes them better players as they feed off his energy and strengths. The Wizards will succeed in the Eastern Conference, finishing within third place and capturing another playoff slot. Go Wiz!

VT came oh so close in Camden

The Hokies basketball team is suprising the ACC with their flashy style of play. They came moments away from upsetting #1 ranked Duke in Camden Indoor Stadium on Sunday. The evening concluded for them, however with a shocking, unbelievable twist. After VT's Coleman Collins made a terrific tip in with less than 2 seconds to go the game appeared to be over. Then a lengthy delay ensued with the officials trying to find out how much time was left on the game clock. 1.6 seconds was put on the clock. (If you ask me the Hokies got cheated a bit. Home court favorism)

Duke guard Sean Dockery received a half court pass and heaved a shot just a couple feet from the half court line that sank through the net for the game winner! The Hokies defense was reluctant to get too close in light of drawing a foul to send Duke to the free-throw line. Instead Virginia Tech watched in astonishment with broken hearts. They gave the Blue Devils one heck of a fight though, staying close for most of the game. They trailed by 12 points with 3:30 to go and then took the lead with under 2 seconds. Despite the loss, VT is 5-3 and an explosive, talented group that will have a serious presence in the ACC this year. They'll seek revenge against Duke next time around and the finale maybe completely different.

Baron Davis drives to the hole against Portland. Photo A/P Greg-Wahl Stephens 

Davis revamping Warriors' offense

The Golden State Warriors have a miracle in the form of a 6'5 stocky point guard who brings life and energy to a long struggling team. Baron Davis was a great addition to the Warriors during the second half of last season. Despite his short comings with nagging injuries he's propelled them to a new level. He's averaging 16.0 points, 8.8 assists, and 2.3 steals a game, though is not 100% healthy. As of today the team's record is 11-6. A decent start, but a far improvement from previous years. They also had a good stretch towards the end of last season, winning 12 of their last 19 games.

The offensive attack for the Warriors caters to Davis' strengths. He gets to create shots for his teammates, providing increased scoring opportunities and driving in the paint for points himself. The versatile former UCLA Bruins and New Orleans Hornets star knows how to draw the defense to him, opening up these scoring opportunities for teammates. He's a vocal leader who takes charge on court. With guys like Troy Murphy, Adonal Foyle, and Mike Dunleavy keeping up with his style of play he keeps them on notice during games and dictates motivation and encouragement when they make mistakes or fall off the same page.

With 9 straight years eluding the playoffs some feel this is the year for Golden State. It's too early to start thinking about postseason predictions and this team must overcome the rising competition in the Mid-West and Pacific. The Clippers of all teams remain in first place in their division right now. With other teams just warming up expect Phoenix, Seattle, and San Antonio to climb to the on top. The Warriors have their work cut for them in search of a fifth or sixth seed to enter the playoffs. Best of luck to this resurgent team, led by the amazing Baron Davis.