NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (8 New Articles Added 10/17/06)

Hache Man · Aug 8, 2006

Updated: Aug. 8, 2006, 9:55 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 8

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
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Previous Reports:

July 31 | Aug. 1 | Aug. 2 | Aug. 3 | Aug. 4 | Aug. 7

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Hawks Make The Wright Move
Many of you have weighed in on this prior to my return from a weekend family reunion/theme park trip (that turned out to be 10 times more fun than planned) that was interrupted by the news of the Hawks agreeing to contract terms with Lorenzen Wright, but I'd love to explain why I love this move. Wright is the type of energetic and active big that this roster lacked last season. He's also the kind of impact big that wasn't available in the draft (so stop all the moaning about the ridiculousness of nabbing him after drafting Shelden Williams) and he's a guy who's played on a playoff team the past few years, so he's yet another guy (Joe Johnson, Tyronn Lue, etc.) who has experience in a winning environment, which is crucial for a team with so many inexperienced players. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Boston Celtics | All Celtics sitelines

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Charlotte Bobcats | All Bobcats sitelines

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Chicago Bulls | All Bulls sitelines

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Cleveland Cavaliers | All Cavs sitelines

Basketballs Not All Cavs Might Spin
If those dead spots in the game aren't immediately identified and criticized as a stagnant lull but instead considered "supportive teammates subjugating their skill sets in the presence of a player sent from heaven." That just might be more positive spin than you were used to hearing from classy Michael Reghi. If on the occasion that Jones makes a 3 and is shown holding up a corresponding number of fingers as he backpedals down court, it is explained as a Three Musketeers signal -- all for one and one for all. That just might be an edict sent from above. Gilbert. Not heaven. The Cavaliers seem intent on replicating everything Pistons, the latest example of which was making an on-air change and bringing McLeod in from Detroit. The arena itself already had undergone the Motor City makeover. The Pistons have pyrotechnics that could melt a glacier. So The Q has pyrotechnics that could melt a glacier and turn everyone within 50 yards momentarily menopausal. Be on the lookout for the surest indication that this has all gone too far: Gilbert wanting to change the name of Lake Erie to "Lake Michigan, Too." -- Cleveland Plain Dealer

LeBron Says Team Is Priority
Team USA's star players will have to value teamwork if they are to return to their dominant heydays, according to LeBron James. "Each of us carry the flags of our respective NBA franchises but things are very different when playing for the national side," James said. "The priority of every Team USA member is to fit into a big picture and make personal sacrifices if needed." The Cleveland Cavaliers star has a seven-year US$90-million endorsement deal with Nike -- second only to golfer Tiger Woods, whose five-year deal is valued at US$100 million. In Guangzhou, the footwear giant enlisted James' services to unveil a local public basketball theme park. Despite his celebrity status, James said: "I wouldn't complain if the coach decides to bench me in any particular game." -- Shanghai Daily

Dismissed Duncan Fires Back At Cavs
First it was Michael Reghi. Now Ronnie Duncan. Who's next to get the ax from Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert? Duncan's contract wasn't renewed Monday by the Cavaliers for his position as public-address announcer. It came days after the team fired popular play-by-play television broadcaster Reghi. "Me, I can understand," Duncan said. "But for the life of me, I can't understand (firing) Reghi. He was unique. He was different. He was hip enough for the hip-hop generation. He had a solid command of the English language." Duncan, who also is a morning host on radio station WERE-AM 1300, lasted just one year as the team's PA announcer. He was controversial, and fans either loved him or hated him. He took some criticism this past season for calling Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson "Robinson," and he once referred to LeBron James' high school as St. Vincent-St. "Michael." -- Willoughby News-Herald

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Detroit Pistons | All Pistons sitelines

Porter Could Become Pistons Assistant Soon
Terry Porter, whose involvement in the pursuit of buying the Portland Trail Blazers ended last week, is expected to be named a Detroit Pistons assistant coach as early as today. Porter, who played three seasons (1995-1998) in Minnesota for current Pistons head coach Flip Saunders, was part of a group of investors interested in purchasing the Trail Blazers. That was before Portland owner Paul Allen announced last week that he was no longer trying to sell the team. Porter would fill the void left by the departure of Sidney Lowe, the former assistant who became the head coach at his alma mater, North Carolina State University after last season. -- Booth Newspapers

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Indiana Pacers | All Pacers sitelines

Pacers Have Had Share Of Players Who Were MIA
Some players, like Reggie Miller, make a career playing for one franchise, imbedding themselves in the community and becoming a fixture in the collective fan psyche. Others pass through like a midnight breeze, if they pass through at all, gone before they're noticed. It takes all kinds to make a professional sports franchise run, and the Indiana Pacers have had their share of "players" who were missing in action. They were non-Pacers, really, guys who were acquired by the franchise, perhaps drew a paycheck, and maybe put on a uniform, but never played in a game. The Pacers' trade of Peja Stojakovic and cash to the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets for a trade exception and Andrew Betts provided the latest example. -- Indianapolis Star

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Miami Heat | All Heat sitelines

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Milwaukee Bucks | All Bucks sitelines

Skinner Glad To Be Back
Brian Skinner took a winding and sometimes torturous road from Milwaukee to Philadelphia to Sacramento to Portland during the past three seasons. Now the veteran 6-foot-9 forward is back with the Bucks, playing in the final guaranteed year of a contract he signed with the 76ers in 2004. As the 30-year-old Skinner knows so well, such is life in the National Basketball Association. "I'm comfortable here," said Skinner, obtained along with Steve Blake and Ha Seung-Jin in the trade that sent center Jamaal Magloire to the Trail Blazers last week. "I don't have any expectations. Expectations tend to lead to failure and disappointments. I just go in and do what my job is, help this ballclub win games." The Bucks will pay Skinner $5.4 million this season under terms of his contract, which includes a team option for the 2007-'08 season. -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

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New Jersey Nets | All Nets sitelines

Settlement Reached With Planinic
The Nets have reached a settlement on Zoran Planinic's contract. He will be bought out and waived later this week, pending his physical with Tau Ceramica. Planinic already has signed a multiyear contract with the Spanish power. The Nets then will work toward bringing over 7-2 Mile Ilic, who has to be bought out of his contract in Serbia. Ilic will get a multiyear deal, starting at $800,000 for this season. The Nets will have to dip into their midlevel exception to pay him. -- Bergen Record

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New York Knicks | All Knicks sitelines

Jeffries Adds Youth, Size And More Salary Cap Woes
The Knicks got bigger. They got younger. They got better defensively. And naturally, they made their payroll even more ridiculously bloated. The Washington Wizards chose not to match the five-year, $30 million offer sheet the Knicks gave 6-foot-11 forward Jared Jeffries. But Jeffries, a good defensive player who has averaged just 6.1 points in his four seasons, costs the Knicks twice that much. Because the Knicks, with roughly a $121 million payroll, are beyond the $65.42 million luxury tax trigger, they must pay a dollar-for-dollar tax. So Jeffries, who gets the full mid-level exception starting at $5.2 million, costs the Knicks $60 million total. They could, of course, get under the luxury tax during the course of Jeffries' deal. Pigs also could start flying tomorrow. The Knicks are one of five teams over the luxury tax threshold, joining the Nets, Mavericks, 76ers and Spurs. -- New York Post

Knicks Add Adept Pillar to Budding Frontcourt
Jared Jeffries officially joined the Knicks yesterday when his former team, the Washington Wizards, declined to match a five-year, $30 million offer sheet. Because Jeffries was a restricted free agent, the Wizards had the right to match any offer. Knicks officials declined to comment yesterday. Isiah Thomas, the coach and team president, will present Jeffries to the news media today at Madison Square Garden. That the Knicks are introducing a significant new player at all is something of a surprise. Thomas had said he did not expect to make a major roster move or use the team's midlevel salary-cap exception. Thomas ended up giving Jeffries the entire exception (a starting salary of $5.2 million). -- New York Times

Houston's Camp Focuses On Family
A hug and pat on the butt later, the duo headed back into the scrum of fathers and sons shooting baskets, diving on the floor and sweating profusely as part of the "Father Knows Best" basketball retreat sponsored by former New York Knicks star Allan Houston. Here, professional players and coaches share the court with weekend warriors and their sons, teaching them the proper jump-shooting technique, strategies for playing defense and the importance of eating right and staying fit. But at this three-day retreat, basketball is only the lure. Equal parts church revival, basketball camp and therapy session, the event is all about relationships: fathers with sons, mentors with mentees, individuals with Jesus Christ. -- Washington Post

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Orlando Magic | All Magic sitelines

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Philadelphia 76ers | All 76ers sitelines

Sale Would Be Admission Of Failure
The most pressing question in Philadelphia sports right now doesn't concern the Eagles' wide receivers or Pat Gillick's next move. It goes: Would you buy a used basketball team from these men? There have been some strange goings-on behind the moat and battlements around the Comcast Spectacor offices over the last few months. People disappear over there. Jobs go away. For a division of one of the most prodigious profit machines in American business, mighty Comcast, the company that owns the Flyers, Sixers, the arenas and Comcast SportsNet (among other holdings) has seemed awfully concerned about each nickel and dime. So when the news broke that the Sixers were probably, sorta, kinda, almost certainly for sale, things seemed both more cloudy and more clear all at once. Consider Allen Iverson's status. He was on the trade market and then he was suddenly and emphatically off the trade market. There was something odd about the whole thing. When you learn that the team is in play, the Iverson thing makes more sense. Or does it? -- Philadelphia Inquirer

Busy Croce Keeping Options Open
Pat Croce says he is not involved with any of the groups interested in buying the 76ers, but that does not mean he wouldn't listen if someone wanted to talk. Croce, who was president of the Sixers from April 1996 to July 2001, said yesterday in an e-mail response that he was not involved with any party inquiring into the possible sale of the team, nor did he plan to contact anyone. "I'm pretty busy with my projects," he said, "and so, no, I wouldn't contact any of the potential ownership groups. "But, on the flip side, you know that I always return all of my phone calls." Croce, nationally renowned as a motivational speaker, has enough to keep him busy. He is a part of Keystone Redevelopment Partners LLC, one of the local investors joining Donald Trump in attempting to secure a state license to open a slot-machine parlor in Philadelphia. -- Philadelphia Inquirer

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Toronto Raptors | All Raptors sitelines

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Washington Wizards | All Wizards sitelines

Wizards Decline To Match Knicks Offer
Jeffries was considered the Wizards' best defender last season and started 77 games, helping the team to a second straight playoff berth. The Wizards' decision not to match the offer was first reported by The Washington Times in yesterday's editions. Jeffries will receive an up-front payment of 80 percent of the more than $5.2million he will get in the first year of his contract. The Wizards now regard themselves as a team that, as front office executives of other teams have said, is building to reach the conference finals and the NBA Finals. The team made only one offer to Jeffries, a six-year contract worth $33 million. Had they signed him, the Wizards would have spent precious money they now say they might use instead for a big free agent signing in seasons to come. The team won't have much maneuverability under the salary cap next summer. However, the Wizards should have more money available to spend on free agents in the summer of 2008. The thinking now is to build rapidly around the team's cornerstone player, star guard Gilbert Arenas. -- Washington Times

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Dallas Mavericks | All Mavericks sitelines

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Denver Nuggets | All Nuggets sitelines

Kleiza Ready For Matchup With Anthony
The Nuggets forward admits to feeling some pressure representing the Baltic nation that is a basketball hotbed. Kleiza officially was chosen Monday to the Lithuanian team that will compete in the World Championship, Aug. 19 to Sept. 3 in Japan. The announcement was no surprise. Kleiza has been starting for the team in exhibition games and figures to do so again when Lithuania plays Team USA in an exhibition Sunday in Seoul, South Korea. "We'll both be going against each other at small forward," Kleiza said of facing Nuggets teammate Carmelo Anthony, a likely Team USA starter. "It's going to be a lot of fun. We've talked a lot of trash. I let him know that they lost to Lithuania in the Olympics (in the 2004 opening round). But he lets me know they got us (in the bronze medal game)." -- Rocky Mountain News

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Golden State Warriors | All Warriors sitelines

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Houston Rockets | All Rockets sitelines

China Coach Pines For Bench-Warming Yao
China coach Jonas Kazlauskas bemoaned Yao Ming's absence from the national team after the U.S. thrashed China by 46 points in a world championship warm-up match in Guangzhou, a the China Daily newspaper reported on Tuesday. "Yao is definitely what we need right now. We had some really tough games in Europe and back home. Without Yao, the team lost its confidence and leadership," Kazlauskas was quoted as saying. The 7ft-5in NBA All Star broke his left foot playing for the Houston Rockets in April, an injury that has clouded Team China's preparations for the world championships starting in Japan on August 19. -- China Daily

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Los Angeles Clippers | All Clippers sitelines

Clippers Owner Accused of Housing Bias
The Justice Department on Monday filed a discrimination suit against Los Angeles Clippers owner and real estate mogul Donald Sterling, accusing him of favoring Korean tenants while seeking to exclude African Americans and families with children from his apartment buildings in Los Angeles County. The suit, which was filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, charged Sterling with violating the Fair Housing Act, a part of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, by engaging in "discrimination on the basis of race, national origin and familial status." It also named Sterling's wife, Rochelle, and three Sterling companies and trusts. Sterling owns about 100 apartment buildings with thousands of rental units in the county. In a prepared statement, Sterling's lawyer, Greg Garbacz, called the charges baseless. -- Los Angeles Times

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Los Angeles Lakers | All Lakers sitelines

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Memphis Grizzlies | All Grizzlies sitelines

Wright's 5-Year Hometown Stint Ends
Lorenzen Wright is expected to rejoin the Atlanta Hawks this offseason. But the former Grizzly apparently is looking for an assist from someone who won't even be a teammate. Wright has agreed to sign a free-agent contract with the Hawks, whose first priority is to complete a sign-and-trade deal with forward Al Harrington. The Hawks want to remove Harrington's enormous salary-cap hold from their payroll, according to a source close to the deal. ... Wright, who is represented by Miller, plans to sign a two-year, $6 million pact with Atlanta once the Harrington business is resolved. It is believed that San Antonio, Minnesota and Cleveland were once options for Wright. Minnesota could still be in play for Wright's services should the Atlanta agreement fall apart. -- Memphis Commercial-Appeal

Burks Weighing His Options
Former Grizzly Antonio Burks sits, waits and counts. Burks, a Memphis native, says four NBA teams have expressed interest in him. He acknowledges that the NBA's development league and Europe are among three options. Yet the 6-foot point guard sounds convinced that he'll get a second chance to prove that his first NBA suitor was wrong. The Grizzlies chose not to re-sign Burks after two seasons. "But I know where I'm supposed to be," Burks said Monday. "I'll get back. I'm just waiting on those (other) teams to decide." -- Memphis Commercial-Appeal

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Minnesota Timberwolves | All Wolves sitelines

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New Orleans Hornets | All Hornets sitelines

Hornets' N.O. Fans Homing In On 2007-08
It will be, in fact, pretty special that when the wrapping is peeled off and the box is ripped open for the first time in front of friendly faces and Chris Paul jerseys on Nov. 5, it'll be done at home. "As far as me being pleased, I'm really tickled," said team owner George Shinn, who made the proposal to the NBA. "It was my son (and team special assistant to the owner) Chad's idea, and (Shinn's New Orleans-based attorney) Bill Hines'. "I know why Bill Hines wanted to do it -- he's the Hornets' biggest fan in New Orleans. But when my son suggested it, it just makes all the sense in the world. It was just the right thing to do." Now, a look at the entire portrait might suggest the need for restraint. The home opener is just one of six home dates in New Orleans, joining a couple of December games (San Antonio and Dallas) and one in January (Sacramento), February (Seattle) and March (the Lakers). -- New Orleans Times-Picayune

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Phoenix Suns | All Suns sitelines

Banks: I'm Faster Than Barbosa
The controversy may not end until the middle of Suns training camp in October. Amar? Stoudemire's comeback? No. Boris Diaw's contract extension negotiations? No. Steve Nash's hair length? No. No, everyone is waiting to see whether newcomer Marcus Banks really is as fast or, gulp, faster with a basketball than Leandro Barbosa. Nash's new backup didn't back down when he arrived last month to sign his five-year, $21 million deal, saying, "I'm a competitor, so I'm going to say myself." When Barbosa rolled through town last week to sign his five-year extension worth at least $33 million, Republic NBA writer Paul Coro informed him Banks had laid down the gauntlet. Barbosa smiled and his eyes widened with that "We'll see about that" look. -- Arizona Republic

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Portland Trail Blazers | All Blazers sitelines

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Sacramento Kings | All Kings sitelines

Wells Takes Hits Now That He's Gone
He missed layups, turned the ball over too much, and the Kings will be all right without him. That's what you hear about Bonzi Wells now that the Kings basically have said they will not re-sign him. If money was his singular criterion during this free-agency summer, then unless he gets a better offer than the Kings', he and agent William Phillips misread the market. But last I checked, Wells still clearly was Sacramento's best player against San Antonio in the playoffs. And unless avoiding the luxury tax is more important than giving their all in an attempt to win the NBA title, the Kings also did a bit of misreading the market. -- Sacramento Bee

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

Manu Confident He Will Be Ready For Japan
Manu Ginobili has shrugged off his "weak" performance in Argentina's 79-67 defeat to Spain in the final of the Madrid Tournament. The talismanic guard contributed just a solitary point to his side's total on Sunday but insists his displays in friendly competitions are of no concern as long as he is at the top of his game in Japan when the FIBA World Championship tips off in less than two weeks` time. "My performance in this game has been very weak, but I am not panicking too much," the 29-year-old said after the game. "A dangerous situation would be if I were to have these negative statistics in Japan at the World Championship." -- FIBA.com

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

Sonics Set Meeting With Wilcox
The fate of Chris Wilcox's long-term future in Seattle could be determined by a critical Thursday meeting between the power forward, his agent and Sonics general manager Rick Sund. It will be just the second time the sides have met face-to-face this summer and perhaps the final time they negotiate before Wilcox decides to accept the team's one-year, $3.7 million qualifying offer. Wilcox will meet with Sund for the first time since April. It could be one final effort to secure a three-year contract. The sides appear firm on their stance and are about $5 million apart, NBA sources said. -- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Wagner Preparing For Return To Pro Basketball
Dajuan Wagner is aware that his agent Leon Rose is talking to some teams, including Maccabi Tel Aviv, based in Tel Aviv, Israel. Scouts from Maccabi as well as the NBA's Golden State Warriors have been to Cherry Hill to watch Wagner play, but he doesn't really care where he winds up. "We're just really happy that he's been really healthy and gotten back to where he wants to be," said Rose, who confirmed that Maccabi and Golden State have been to Cherry Hill. Back on track. Based on how he's done in summer league play at Drexel, where he recently scored 67 points, and the health and racquet club, Wagner is back on target. The player who once scored 100 points in a game, and set a state record with 3,462 career points, playing for Camden High School, hasn't lost his offensive touch. -- Cherry Hill Courier-Post

After Surviving Crash, Cooke's Story Takes Right Turn
In New York basketball parlance, the name Lenny Cooke has for years been a byword for flameout, a two-word cautionary tale. But on the courts of the Uptown League in Englewood, N.J., they know him by a different name these days. "They call me 'The Comeback Kid,'" a beaming Cooke told the Daily News. And for once, the people around Lenny Cooke aren't just blowing smoke. Cooke scored a game-high 35 points to lead his team, Uptown Haircutters, to a 101-91 win over Up The Hill on Sunday -- but his mere participation is the more remarkable part of the story. -- New York Daily News

Smith Has His Suitors Abroad, But Seeks NBA
The agent for former La Salle forward Steven Smith denied an Internet report yesterday that his client was close to signing with a team in Croatia. However, Steve Mountain added that a number of teams in Europe and Asia have made his client "magnificent offers," including organizations in Russia, Greece, Italy, Turkey and Korea. ... Still, the wish of the 6-foot-9 Smith, a Philadelphia native, is to play in the NBA, and Mountain is trying to fulfill that wish. "He doesn't want to go" overseas, Mountain said. "He wants to be in the NBA. These offers [from international teams] mean more money, but he wants to play in the NBA. That could change, but we hope this gets resolved." Mountain said he is trying to get as much guaranteed money as possible for his client with an NBA team. He said the 76ers remain one of several candidates for Smith's services. -- Philadelphia Inquirer
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Hache Man · Aug 8, 2006

USA survives Brazil scare

posted: Tuesday, August 8, 2006 | Print Entry
filed under: NBA, Olympics

Let's call this one the 10 a.m. wakeup call.

That's the time it was on the East Coast of the United States when Team USA got it's first major scare of its pre-World Championship tour, defeating Brazil 90-86 in a game that should hammer home the notion that winning this tournament isn't going to be the cakewalk too many folks in the States expect it to be.

I've been trying to hit that point hard in my coverage of this team thus far, to such a degree that truehoop.com has started calling me "The Doubter" and one e-mailer has gone so far as to call me a traitor for daring to suggest that Coach K, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony should be prepared to run into a speed bump or two between now and Sept. 3.

But speed bump No. 1 was hit Tuesday, and the U.S. looked pretty vulnerable after losing Carmelo Anthony to a hyperextended knee (he was injured diving for a loose ball. "It's a little bit sore right now, but a couple of days of rest and I'll be back," Anthony said) and Dwyane Wade to his fifth and final foul early in the third quarter. Wade's fourth foul was an offensive foul, and when he argued, he got a technical, which under international rules counted as his fifth. And since you only get five fouls (in the NBA it's six), Wade was done.

With two of Team USA's best players suddenly sidelined, the game was back and forth throughout the fourth quarter before the Americans were on the receiving end of one of those hugely beneficial and highly controversial whistles that international refs specialize in. This also backs up one of my main tenets: When it comes to international basketball, expect the unexpected, and expect it to such a degree that you might see something you've never even dreamed of seeing before.

With the Americans down by one, Elton Brand absorbed a hard foul under the basket, and the referees whistled a technical foul for reasons that were not made clear by the NBA-TV broadcasters. Kirk Hinrich hit both technicals, Brand made one of two from the line, and the Americans got the ball back, too. Had they made all their free throws and a 3-pointer, it would have been a seven-point possession.

Ever see a seven-point possession opportunity in the NBA?

"You have to give a lot of credit to Brazil. They are an experienced team," coach Mike Krzyzewski said of the a team widely seen as the third best in the Western Hemisphere behind the U.S. and Argentina. "Welcome to international basketball. That's the way it is.

"I'm not sure you are going to blow out people. That's the thing we have to understand," Coach K said. "I think playing in a game like that helps us immensely.

Joe Johnson's late steal against Marcelo Machado kept Brazil from getting off a tying 3-point attempt, but for the most part Brazil had the speed and ballhandling skills to withstand the Americans' defensive pressure better than Puerto Rico and China had in the first two exhibition games. Brazil also had some size that kept them in the game on the boards, and the Americans still had trouble shooting over a zone.

They'll see more zone in their next tune-up Sunday in Seoul against Lithuania, an exceptionally well-drilled team that is big and can hit the 3. Lithuania is coming off a fourth-place finish in Athens after going bronze, bronze, bronze in their previous three tournaments, so they're after some redemption, too. It'll be a good tune-up for the Americans, a chance to test Anthony's knee and test themselves collectively against a team they'll see in Sapporo in the opening round.

This near-miss against Brazil, this should break them out of any slumber they developed by handling Puerto Rico and China so easily, and I think today's result will make a few more people in America realize this isn't going to be easy. The players are now realizing as much.
"We're not going to just blow every team out even though we want to," James said.

Hache Man · Aug 8, 2006

Updated: Aug. 8, 2006, 12:18 PM ET

Next summer's free-agent crop has difference makers

By John Hollinger
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>If you're looking for a silver lining to the most moribund NBA offseason in memory, try this: Next year ought to be better in the sense that, while the free-agent class of '06 was a relative dud, several top talents figure to be on the market.
As many as six players worthy of max or near-max contracts could be available, while several others could add to that list with strong 2006-07 campaigns. The most notable ones all have one-year player options for 2007-08 that they would be unlikely to exercise, including Detroit's Chauncey Billups, Seattle's Rashard Lewis, Sacramento's Mike Bibby, Washington's Antawn Jamison and Charlotte's Gerald Wallace.
Alas, that list doesn't include a few players who technically will be free agents in 2007 but are likely to sign extensions later this fall. Dallas' Dirk Nowitzki is the prominent case, but he's virtually certain to ink the same three-year extension that Paul Pierce signed with Boston.
Additionally, several players on rookie contracts are likely to be locked up by this fall, including Dallas' Josh Howard, Chicago's Kirk Hinrich, New Orleans/Oklahoma City's David West, Phoenix's Boris Diaw, Boston's Kendrick Perkins, Toronto's T.J. Ford, and Seattle's Luke Ridnour and Nick Collison. And of course, the big names from the great 2003 draft already have extended their deals.
On the other hand, players such as Chris Wilcox and Drew Gooden could end up being part of the free-agent class if they settle for one-year tenders from their current clubs. That possibility looks increasingly likely as the summer drags on.
Because of the player options and extensions, we have to do a bit of reading tea leaves at this point to determine next summer's free-agent crop. Nonetheless, using a little bit of common sense we already can see the outlines of a very strong class. Here's how the market's top 25 players stand at the moment: <OFFER>
(p) -- Has player option for 2007-08
(r) -- Has rookie contract that could be extended before season
(t) -- Would have to sign one-year tender to be free agent next summer

1. Chauncey Billups (p)
The Pistons inked Billups with their midlevel exception three years ago in one of the all-time great free-agent heists, but next summer it will be time to pay the piper. And yes, he's ahead of Carter in the pecking order right now. He's more durable, plays harder and was better in 2005-06.
2. Vince Carter (p)
The Nets could give him a three-year extension for the maximum this summer, but neither side seems to be in any hurry to get it done. The delay is stoking fears that Carter will hit the market a year from now and return to North Carolina to play for the Bobcats, who will be flush with cap space.
3. Rashard Lewis (p)
Joke of the week is that Lewis will ditch the Sonics next summer and sign with the Hornets -- that way maybe he won't have to leave Seattle. In all seriousness, the Sonics' financial position means that it's likely Lewis' last go-round in the Northwest, and he could be an intriguing piece of trade bait come February.

4. Gerald Wallace (p)
The league's most underrated player, Wallace virtually was ignored as a free agent a year ago. Don't count on NBA GMs to repeat that mistake. With a strong 2006-07, the scandalously underpaid forward should finally get his due.
5. Darko Milicic (r)
Because he's played so little, the Magic and Milicic already have more or less agreed to let him play out this season to determine his market value. Milicic is seven-feet tall and still only 21 years old, so if he plays as well as he did at the end of last season, he'll make himself a very wealthy man.
6. Drew Gooden (t)
With negotiations with the Cavs at a standstill and the sign-and-trade market already saturated (just ask Al Harrington and Bonzi Wells), it seems like Gooden will have to settle for the one-year tender and try again next summer.

7. Mike Bibby (p)
Bibby is a 50-50 proposition to opt out if he plays as well as he did last year. On the one hand, he probably won't make quite as much annually as he does on his current seven-year, $81 million deal. On the other hand, if he plays out the final two years and then tries to hit the free-agent market, he risks missing out on a big payday if his game declines. My guess is he takes the bird in hand and opts out.
8. Antawn Jamison (p)
Jamison is in a position similar to Bibby's, except with only one year between his opt-out and the end of the contract. He's due to make the maximum in 2007-08, and without a strong campaign this year will fall far short of that in free agency. On the other hand, he could see next summer as his last shot for a big long-term deal and opt out anyway.
9. Chris Kaman (r)
He's on a rookie contract and could get extended this fall, but word on the street is that the two sides are miles apart on what Kaman's market value is. My guess is that the $60 million deal Nene signed with Denver probably isn't helping to close the gap any, so Kaman might need to ink an offer sheet to get paid.

10. Anderson Varejao
As a second-round pick, Varejao's contract doesn't come with the extension options that first-rounders have. Thus, the big-haired Brazilian will be a restricted free agent next summer and should attract plenty of attention.
11. Chris Wilcox (t)
Much like Gooden, Wilcox probably will have to settle for the one-year tender. In his case, however, it might prove more costly. Wilcox was trying to cash in on the first sustained stretch of excellence in his four-year career and might not be able to give an encore performance.
12. Maurice Williams
Now that the starting point guard job in Milwaukee is all his, Williams' price tag is likely to shoot northward. This is especially true since the Bucks should be better this year and Williams has improved every year in the league.

13. Grant Hill
Anything involving Hill is always a major "if" because he's so injury-prone, but if he can stay healthy and play to his usual standard, he should be a very attractive commodity.
14. Andres Nocioni
Thanks to his tenacity and ability to play multiple positions, the Wild Bull of the Pampas' next deal should double the $3.03 million per annum he's making now.
15. Antonio McDyess (p)
Health problems used to be the biggest concerns with the Dice man, but he's gone two years without so much as a hangnail. If he has one more of those, he'll opt out of his deal and get what's likely to be his last long-term contract.

16. Primoz Brezec (p)
Another foreign import on a bargain contract, the 7-2 Brezec had to look approvingly at the deals Joel Przybilla and Nazr Mohammed got this summer. And unlike those two, Brezec can score.
17. Chris Mihm
Both Mihm and Brezec have to be hoping like crazy that Chris Kaman signs an extension, because it would leave those two as the only true centers available on the market, increasing the likelihood that at least one gets a completely insane contract.
18. Morris Peterson
One of the few Raptors who can be bothered to play defense, Peterson's toughness and shooting would make him a great glue guy on a contending team. However, it's also possible Toronto will extend his deal before the season starts.

19. Jerry Stackhouse
Stackhouse's name recognition and scoring ability might get him a big contract, especially for a team that's in need of bench scoring. On the other hand, he'll be 32, he shoots a low percentage, and he misses 25 games every year with bad hammies.
20. Earl Boykins (p)
Another player who might as well opt out because his current contract pays so little, Boykins got shot-happy last year and will have to rein in his shoot-first tendencies a bit if he really wants to make an impression on his future employers.
21. Joe Smith
A forgotten man after missing much of last season with an elbow injury, Smith could be changing addresses long before his contract expires. But he remains a solid player and should get some attention next summer.

22. Michael Sweetney
Realistically, a year from now Sweetney will either be 20 pounds lighter and one of the top 12 players on this list, or 20 pounds heavier and off the list entirely. For now, we'll split the difference.
23. Theodoros Papaloukas
The 6-7 Greek native won Euroleague MVP honors after leading CSKA Moscow to the title. I haven't heard his name come up much in NBA circles, possibly due to a poor 2004 Olympics, but he's a heck of a player. He's a big point guard with a great feel for the game -- reminiscent of how Marko Jaric would be if he (a) had a pulse and (b) looked a little bit like Cookie Monster.
24. Jamaal Magloire
His performance has fallen a long, long way the past two years, which kind of goes without saying when a former All-Star is traded for Steve Blake and Brian Skinner. Fortunately for him, centers never go out of style.

25. Eddie Jones
I'm not sure how much Jones has left in the tank, but if he has a strong year in Memphis he could get some attention next summer. Because he defends and can make outside shots, a lot of teams will see him as a missing piece to their puzzle.
Best of the rest: Steve Blake, Ruben Patterson, Desmond Mason, Travis Outlaw (r), Matt Bonner, James Posey, Mickael Pietrus (r), Matt Carroll, Austin Croshere
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Hache Man · Aug 8, 2006

Bleak outlook for '07 free agents

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Wait until next year! That's the mantra of a number of poor NBA teams that struck out in the free-agent market this summer. As loyal fans howl about the lack of improvement from their teams this offseason, promises of cap room and a much improved free-agent class are intermingled with a call for patience.

After yawning our way through this year's lackluster free-agency period, the big question is: Will things be much better next year?

The answer isn't going to be a popular one.

The bottom line is that very few teams will have the cash to make major upgrades to their rosters via free agency next summer.

As John Hollinger has laid out, the free-agent class of 2007 is better than this year's weak crop. There will be some solid unrestricted free agents (assuming they opt out of their current deals) such as Rashard Lewis, Mike Bibby and Vince Carter who may decide to try to finish their careers elsewhere.

The group of restricted free agents will be headlined by Boris Diaw, Josh Howard, Kirk Hinrich and, believe it or not, Darko Milicic. But as we've seen in almost every free-agent period, there aren't many decent restricted free agents you can wrest from the grasp of the teams that hold their rights.

That leads to a decent group of players such as Gerald Wallace, Desmond Mason, Jamaal Magloire, Mo Williams, Morris Peterson and Primoz Brezec who will be unrestricted and will look to go to the highest bidder.

But the question you really have to ask about members of any free-agent class is: Who's going to pay them?

If current cap positions hold true next summer, only one team, the Charlotte Bobcats, will have max cap room. As it stands right now, assuming a modest $2 million increase in the salary cap next season, the Bobcats could be staring at a whopping $27 million in cap room. The nice thing for Charlotte (assuming owner Bob Johnson, who's getting a rep for being cheap, spends it) is that it will have virtually no competition for the top talent in the class.

Several other teams will have some room, but not enough to lure the top free agents.

Of the other teams with cap room, the Grizzlies appear to be in the best shape. Eddie Jones' big contract comes off the books next summer, giving them some real cap flexibility for the first time in Jerry West's tenure. They could have roughly $10 million to $11 million in cap room. That's not enough for the Grizzlies to sign a player to a max contract, but it can get them close. Then again, Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley has been pushing West to cut payroll, so there's no guarantee he's going to hand out another huge contract next summer.

The Bulls, believe it or not, could be a whopping $20 million under the cap again next year despite the fact they inked Ben Wallace to a huge $60 million deal this summer. However, don't throw a big party just yet Bulls fans. Add in a high draft pick (the Bulls have the ability to swap their first-round pick with the Knicks next year) and new contracts for Kirk Hinrich and Andres Nocioni and the Bulls probably will have a little under $5 million in actual room.

The Sonics could also have around $20 million in cap room if they let all of their free agents walk away. But that seems pretty unlikely. Rashard Lewis is likely to opt out of his contract and Nick Collison and Luke Ridnour are both restricted free agents next summer. And none of that takes into account the status of Chris Wilcox.

If he signs a long-term deal this summer, Seattle will have to subtract his salary from the cap room. If Wilcox takes the Sonics' one-year tender, he's an unrestricted free agent next summer. If the Sonics sign all of their free agents, their cap room is totally gone.

The key will be Lewis. There are already rumblings out of Seattle that he's looking for a new home. As we've documented, there aren't many teams that have the room to get him without working out some sort of sign-and-trade with the Sonics. Still, I'd watch this one closely. He could be trade bait in February if the Sonics think they'll lose him for nothing.

The Magic could have up to $15 million in room next summer once Grant Hill's huge contract finally comes off the books. That could make them a major player in the free-agent market with one pretty large caveat -- Darko Milicic becomes a restricted free agent next summer.

It's just too early to predict what Milicic's asking price will be next year. If he has only moderate improvement he's still likely to garner an offer of at least the mid-level exception in the open market. Seven-footers have a way of doing that. If he shows rapid improvement, he could cost the Magic a lot of money. Nene Hilario got a $60 million deal for waving a towel last year. You can imagine what a 21-year-old, 7-foot-2 big guy could get if he has a big season.

All of that means it's still too early to tell whether the Magic will be big players in the open market. Two top free agents, Vince Carter and Rashard Lewis, have both expressed interest in playing there. But will the Magic have the cash to pay them? Right now it looks doubtful unless the Magic will be willing to let Darko walk away.

The Hornets have roughly $12 million to $13 million in cap room next year, but they too have several significant free agents to re-sign. Starting power forward David West will be a restricted free agent but could command a deal starting at $6 million to $7 million on the open market. Desmond Mason will be an unrestricted free agent, though he probably has mid-level value in next year's market.

The Bucks will also have between $12 million to $13 million in cap room, but they also have a significant free agent to re-sign -- Mo Williams. However, Williams is unlikely to command a starting salary of much more than $5 million to $6 million, giving the Bucks enough cap room to offer a free agent more than the mid-level exception.

The Hawks are looking at around $8 million to $10 million in cap room next summer. That's not enough money to lure a top free agent, let alone the elite point guard and center the team still lacks.

The Raptors are also eyeing around $8 million to $10 million next year, but they'll likely use much of it to re-sign unrestricted free agent Morris Peterson and restricted free agent T.J. Ford.

The bottom line is that for top free agents like Chauncey Billups, Bibby, Lewis and Carter to cash in, they have to get a team to offer them a huge chunk of cash the way the Bulls did to Ben Wallace and the Hornets did to Peja Stojakovic this summer. When you examine the situation of each NBA team, however, the Bobcats and possibly the Grizzlies are the only two teams that will have the flexibility to do this without some sort of sign-and-trade.

Given the budget-conscious philosophy of the Bobcats and where they are in the developmental cycle, it's hard to see them throwing $12 million to $14 million a year at Billups or Carter. The Grizzlies may be more willing to pull the trigger on a veteran big name, but they'll have money for only one guy.

The news isn't much better for the mid-level players. One thing that hasn't received much mention is the precarious cap situation of most teams in the league next year.

A stunning 21 teams will have payrolls exceeding $60 million next season. That means a full mid-level offer to a player would likely put those teams above the luxury tax threshold. A few teams, such as the Knicks, 76ers, Mavericks and Blazers, have shown a willingness to pay the tax. But most avoid it like the plague.

That could lead to very stagnant market of mid-level players in next year's free-agent market.
I don't want to be the one to rain on next year's free-agent parade, but unless some teams make major moves this summer to clear some cap space, it could be another blue, blue summer for teams looking to make a major jump in the standings next season.

Hache Man · Aug 8, 2006

Updated: Aug. 8, 2006, 12:18 PM ET
No family and friends on trip -- except for one 'Uncle'?

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>LAS VEGAS -- Team USA went wheels up at 7 a.m. this morning, flying commercial instead of charter with friends and family left behind.
Under a rule imposed by team czar Jerry Colangelo, wives, girlfriends, children and peeps were not welcome on this trip.
Even the enigmatic "Worldwide Wes" -- whose job description might best be described as professional friend to most of America's top athletes -- was told his days of red-carpet treatment were being curtailed.<OFFER>
It's a big change from two years ago, when the Team USA traveling party was swelled to a point where something had to be done. Back then, Wes was on the charter and on the boat -- the Queen Mary 2, which served as the U.S. team's Olympic housing in Athens -- an allowance that some felt was bending a little far to placate the wishes of Team USA's youngest players.
"There was too much, in the past, from all the research I did; there were too many people around, entourages, etc. So when I did my interviews I made it clear we were on a mission, we have work to do, and families were welcome at training camp, but once we got on that plane, we were on our own personal mission," Colangelo told Insider. "We wanted this to be all of us in the foxhole together, and the way you try to control that is to eliminate people who like to hang around."
The no-entourage rule did not sit all that well with a few of the players, though Colangelo said it was not driven by any one person. And in the case of Wes, whose full name is William Wesley and whose presence at every major U.S. sporting event has made him the Zelig of his time, it would be unfair to portray him as a hindrance or a troublemaker. Quite the contrary, in fact, according to Colangelo.
"I didn't even know Wes til this year," Colangelo said. "We met in Phoenix and spoke, and I did some checking because I wanted to do my own due diligence, and I felt comfortable that he was welcome to be around.
"He was actually someone who helped (in Athens), from what I was told. There were issues among the coaching staff and players, but he didn't separate, he brought things together."
A Wikipedia entry on Wesley reads: "William "Wes" Wesley (Born August 14, 1964 in Camden, New Jersey) is a mysterious figure around the National Basketball Association. He is associated with many of the league's most prominent players, including Allen Iverson, Michael Jordan and LeBron James, though the substance of these relationships is murky. Wesley, who is also known as 'Worldwide Wes' or simply 'Wes' (no last name), is a longtime client of Iverson and James's agent, the Philadelphia attorney Leon Rose."

The Detroit News spent six weeks investigating Wes in 2005 and failed to dig up much dirt, and ESPN.com's Scoop Jackson is among those who have called him "the most powerful man in sports."
He was seated courtside next to Scottie Pippen on Thursday night as Team USA trounced Puerto Rico by 45 points in an exhibition game, and he's certain to reappear with Team USA once they get to Japan on Aug. 17 -- unless he somehow shows up ahead of that date.
Wes is sort of always around, and there's really nothing stopping him from flying to Asia on his own. (Wesley, who has never given an on-the-record interview, declined to be quoted for this article.)
"Uncle Wes is a guy who's very respected worldwide, and that's why that's his name," Dwyane Wade said. "He's a guy who gives support, but also a guy who's going to push you. It's always good to have someone who isn't scared to tell you you're doing wrong but also someone who will pat you on the back and say you're doing good, but you can do better."
Said James: "The guy is support. He's been a great role model for myself, he helps me make decisions and things like that, and the support that he had for me (in Athens) when I was out there having those tough times was great."
Whether or not Wes joins them, the Americans will play their next exhibition games Monday against China and Tuesday against Brazil in the southern China port city of Guangzhou. After that it's off to Hong Kong for three days of rest and relaxation (and practice) before making one more pre-Japan stop in Seoul, South Korea for exhibitions Aug. 13 against Lithuania and Aug. 15 against Korea. The serious stuff begins Aug. 19 in Sapporo, Japan, with the Americans' first-round opener at the World Championship against Puerto Rico, and they'll play four more times over the next five nights against China, Slovenia, Italy and Senegal.
After that, the team travels to Tokyo for the medal round, and families and friends will once again be welcome.
Wes officially loses his persona non grata status at that point, too, but that doesn't mean he might not show up earlier. After all, anybody with a passport can buy a plane ticket to Asia and reserve a hotel room. Knowing Wes, he's probably friends with the president of Gulfstream and could hook up a non-stop from Las Vegas to Guangzhou with one phone call.
So he might not have been welcome on the flight overseas, but they don't call him Worldwide Wes for nothing. And when it's all said and done, I have a sneaky suspicion the no-friends no-family rule is going to have a William Wesley exception.
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Hache Man · Aug 9, 2006

Updated: Aug. 9, 2006, 5:43 PM ET
Top 10 small moves that matter most

By Antonio Williams
Scouts Inc.





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Most of the offseason headlines are made when players like Ben Wallace and Peja Stojakovic switch uniforms, of course.
But when it comes to wins and losses, small, smart moves can make a big difference, too.
Here are the 10 moves that should have the largest impact at the lowest cost.
1. Mavericks sign Devean George
Dallas, fresh off its first appearance in the NBA Finals, bolstered its roster by adding the former Laker. The Mavericks had to spend only $4.2 million over two seasons to sign George.
George, who won three NBA championships with Los Angeles, will provide the Mavericks with another playoff-tested perimeter defender to complement Dallas' potent offensive weapons: Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry. George has the ability to slide into the starting lineup, if needed, and defend at the shooting guard and small forward positions.
George can make 3-pointers and stretch the opposing defense, though the Mavericks do not need a lot of scoring from him. George's energy and enthusiasm should also come in handy for the Mavericks.

2. Nuggets acquire J.R. Smith

Smith

Denver picked up Smith from Chicago and had to part only with a player it did not intend to keep in Howard Eisley and two second-round picks. Smith proved early last season that when given playing time he can score in the NBA. He played 26.5 minutes per game for the New Orleans Hornets in November and December last season, scoring 11.5 points. Smith has the athleticism and scoring ability the Nuggets have lacked from the shooting guard position for the last two seasons. Smith also wants to prove that the Hornets made a mistake by not playing him. After the strong start last season, he played in just 30 games the rest of the season and averaged just 11 minutes per game. He was traded to Chicago in July, then promptly shipped to Denver.
Smith has the potential to develop into one of the better young scorers in the NBA. If coach George Karl can find a way to channel Smith's energies on defense, the Nuggets might have found, at a cheap price, the shooting-guard that will help take some of the burden off Carmelo Anthony. Smith still plays on his rookie contract.
3. Pacers acquire Marquis Daniels
In their efforts to gain more youth and athleticism, the Pacers traded for the multitalented Daniels, while giving up only a player who did not fit into their plans: Austin Croshere.
Injuries and decreased playing time have hindered Daniels the last two seasons. The Pacers will give Daniels the chance to return to his form of the 2003-04 season, when he displayed his versatility on both sides of the ball.
Daniels has the ability to penetrate and score, and he can give the Pacers significant minutes at both guard positions as well as small forward.
4. Pistons sign Ronald Murray
After losing to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals and losing Wallace to Chicago in free agency, the Pistons had to make some changes to both their roster and team philosophy.
Flip Murray will fit right into the more up-tempo offensive game that head coach Flip Saunders will employ this year. Acquiring Murray at the relatively cheap price of a two-year, $3.6 million contract will provide Detroit with the scoring combo guard it needs off the bench. Murray has the ability to score in bunches and will provide much-needed relief for both Chauncey Billups and Richard Hamilton.
5. Mavericks acquire Anthony Johnson

Johnson

In trading Darrell Armstrong, Rawle Marshall and Josh Powell to the Indiana Pacers for Johnson, Dallas picked up a very solid point guard and had to part only with Armstrong's leadership and two young players who were buried on the bench.
Johnson plays as a true point guard, which will complement the scoring skills of Jason Terry and Devin Harris on the Mavericks' roster. Johnson's extensive playoff experience with New Jersey and Indiana can only help a Dallas team with championship aspirations. As the starter in place of the injured Jamaal Tinsley in last spring's playoffs, Johnson averaged 20 points and 5.2 assists per game for Indiana. Johnson also will help Dallas defensively.
6. Wizards sign DeShawn Stevenson
For the second consecutive season, the Wizards had to replace a player who got a significant offer from another team. Last offseason, the Wizards did not enter into a bidding war with Cleveland for Larry Hughes and rebounded nicely by adding Caron Butler. This offseason, instead of matching the five-year, $30 million offer Jared Jeffries received from the Knicks, Washington signed Stevenson at a fraction of the cost.
Stevenson has great athleticism and penetrating ability -- he should fit right into the Washington's up-tempo motion attack. He will provide the Wizards with a defender off the bench at the shooting guard position, allowing Antonio Daniels to play more minutes as the backup point guard.
7. Raptors sign Fred Jones

Jones

After John Salmons backed out of an agreement with the team, the Raptors recovered nicely by adding Jones. At three years and $11 million, Jones comes cheaper than the deal Salmons nearly signed.
The former slam-dunk champion has the explosiveness and athleticism that could enable him to flourish in the up-tempo system GM Bryan Colangelo wants to incorporate in Toronto. Like a great number of players, Jones has shown he can produce in the NBA when given significant minutes. Jones had a good stretch for the Pacers during the 2004-05 season, when he played extensively due to the suspensions related to the infamous brawl in Detroit. In Jones, the Raptors could have an electrifying scorer to pair with new point guard T.J. Ford in the backcourt.
8. Spurs sign Jackie Butler and Francisco Elson
After trading the unwanted contract of Rasho Nesterovic and not re-signing Nazr Mohammed, the Spurs needed to replenish the center position behind Tim Duncan. They did so by signing restricted free agents Butler from the Knicks and Elson from the Nuggets. At a combined $13 million, San Antonio will not pay nearly as much for Butler and Elson as they would have for Nesterovic and Mohammed.
Both players are younger and more athletic than Nesterovic and Mohammed, and both will work the boards with aggression and do a decent job as shot blockers while Duncan handles the heavy lifting in the post. When given the minutes, Butler and Elson have shown they can play as serviceable centers in the NBA.
9. Lakers acquire Maurice Evans
The Lakers, in need of more perimeter scoring after their playoff implosion, acquired shooting guard Evans from the Detroit Pistons for the draft rights to 2006 second-round pick Cheick Samb. Though Samb has the potential to develop, he probably will not help the Pistons in the near future, while Evans should pay immediate dividends for the Lakers.
Evans did not play much in Detroit this past season, after having a very solid 2004-05 campaign with the Sacramento Kings. Los Angeles will give Evans every chance to provide the Lakers with a viable scoring option off the bench, which the Lakers sorely lacked last season. The physical Evans also plays decent defense, as the Lakers will look to lessen the load on Kobe Bryant next season.
10. Magic re-sign Trevor Ariza

Ariza

Ariza, acquired from the New York Knicks in the Steve Francis trade-deadline deal last February, plays with great energy, particularly on the defensive end. He has the potential to develop into a defensive stopper in the league.
Ariza also has the athleticism that teams love to see in small forwards. He still needs to develop his jump shot and ballhandling as he continues to mature, but Ariza has the chance to develop as part of the young core in Orlando that includes Dwight Howard, Jameer Nelson and Darko Milicic.
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Hache Man · Aug 11, 2006

Busting a 12-year-old

posted: Friday, August 11, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry

I read an excellent, sobering and somewhat disturbing story in the July 31 edition of ESPN The Magazine by my colleague, Tom Farrey. It was called "The Man," and it centered around 13-year-old hoop prodigy, J-Mychal Reese.

Reese, or J-Mike as he's known, is ranked as the best sixth-grader in America.

That statement in itself should stun us.

Number one, how in the world could you ever know who the best sixth-grader in the country is? And, really, does it matter? I played with cats who were studs in the sixth grade, bench warmers by ninth grade and watching the real ballers from the stands by 11th grade.

Honestly, in my experience, some of the best college athletes I grew up with were goofy and uncoordinated when we were little boys. I had a friend who got a full football scholarship to Louisville as a tailback who never even played football -- organized or otherwise -- until high school. I had a friend who got a full ride as a DB to Boston College who couldn't walk and chew gum at the same time when we were kids (sorry Brian, but you know it's true).

Some guys are full-grown men in ninth grade, so of course, they're ripping through those who are still growing. When I played freshman football at 5-2, 105 pounds, we had fullbacks and lineman that I thought were huge. Yet when we graduated, I was the same size as many of them.

That leads me to a sad sidebar that accompanied Farrey's story. It told the tale of 16-year-old has-been, Demetrius Walker. A has-been at 16? At least in some people's eyes.

Walker, who was featured in Sports Illustrated as a burly eighth grader who threw down 360 dunks over his scrawny foes, has dropped from America's top player in his age group to No. 29.

First of all, No. 29 ain't bad. But secondly, Demetrius seems to feel like a loser because of his fall.

Seemingly stuck at 6-3, he's hoping to grow a few more inches -- as if 6-3 is too small to play pro. My advice, Demetrius? Work on your J, your handle, your passing, and do the best you can to develop some court vision, and 6-3 will be plenty tall enough.

Number two, why is a 13-year-old in the sixth grade? I started high school at 13. Granted, I started school early, but still, sixth grade?

No wonder dude -- who was held back a year to exploit his hoop skills (apparently, that's the new trend) -- looks like Michael Jordan.

In all seriousness, I'm sure J-Mike's got game, but my problem with the whole scenario is that he could be set up to fail. His whole life seems to center around making the NBA, which is a long shot for even the most talented teen. So if he's just "all-state" as a high school senior, where's his self-esteem going to be?

Beyond that, these kids are getting way too much pub way too early. How can they be coached properly when everyone's telling them they're already NBA-material by age 12 or 13?

A coach, whether AAU or high school, can't bench such a prospect for failing to share the ball, failing to "get after it" on defense, for taking bad shots, or for having a bad attitude. The prospect will leave and go elsewhere, or have the coach fired.

When you're 13 and getting that type of hype, you don't get coached; you allow people to coach you. There's a big difference.

I say all kids need to be coached. Yelled at on occasion, benched on occasion, humbled on occasion.

I experienced the arrogance of some of our young stars just last month. My family and I attended a cookout at a friend's house, and he had a hoop court in the backyard.

There was a 12-year-old kid there that I'd heard about but never met. He knew of me from TV and this blog, and I knew of him because a friend of the family told me he's a basketball star; so I looked forward to meeting him.

Solidly built at 5-9, he looked like he was in high school. He could have even passed for a college freshman. He was a nice guy, and I'm pulling very much for him to accomplish his hoop dreams.

But I could also tell that he's been called "The Man" a little too much, as he had a case of the big head. Every time I asked him what position he played, he said, "All of them."

Twelve-year-olds should respect their elders and defer to them as authorities. I didn't see that attitude in him.

We shot around a bit, and then I watched him take his dad and another grown man to the hoop time and time again. With everyone at the party watching, the kid -- and the crowd -- thought he was LeBron.

As I watched, I was torn. "Should I go out there and play with him or just chill? After all, he's only 12. And if I do play, should I go easy on him and just have fun, or really play hard?"

I decided to go play.

As I stepped on the court, I was still not sure how hard I would play against him. Even though he was only an inch shorter than me, I was sure I could demolish him because I had peeped that he had no left hand whatsoever. He went right every single time.

When I tossed him the ball and began D-ing him up, he made my decision for me.

"Ohhh, Mr. Sportswriter," he said, as if he were talking to one of his boys in junior high. "You gonna write about this -- getting busted by a 12-year-old?"

Now I had uncles growing up. I played ball with my dad. And I used to talk junk to them too, but it was always in fun and never serious.

But this kid actually meant what he said. He actually thought he was going to have his way with me.

"Where's the respect?" I thought. "That's it. I don't care if the adults get mad, I'm about to smash this dude."

(Actually, the adults, none of whom had seen me play other than my wife, thought he was going to bust me, too).

"How you gonna bust me when you can't go left?" I told him. "I been watching you, and you can't even pat the ball with your left hand."

So, of course, his first move was to go left.

I blocked his shot easily.

Then, I scored on him about seven straight times, picked his dribble a few times, and put up about 14 points before he hit his lone desperation jumper (and if I hadn't been sucking wind like the 37-year-old I am, he wouldn't have even gotten that point).

At first, the crowd was cheering me because they actually thought this was going to be competitive. But near the end, one lady yelled, "Take it easy on him, he's only 12."

I said, "This is good for him. He needs to be humbled."

He was devastated, and so was his dad. They thought he was awesome, and for 12, he's actually very good. But he's still got a long way to go.

"This was good for you," I told him when we were done. "Work hard on your left hand and your mid-range jumper. All I did was force you to go left and I took you out of your whole game."

I'm sure he'll try to destroy me when he's 16, and hopefully, by then, he'll be able to (after all, I'll be 41).

If he can "bust" me by then, it won't be just because he worked on his left hand, either. That fat serving of humility I fed him will have helped him, too.
Hopefully, J-Mike is eating some of that every now and then as well.

Hache Man · Aug 15, 2006

Updated: Aug. 15, 2006, 2:06 PM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 15

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
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Previous Reports:

Aug. 7 | Aug. 8 | Aug. 9 | Aug. 10 | Aug. 11 | Aug. 14

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Pacers Examine Harrington Deal
Al Harrington's immediate NBA future remains a mystery for at least another day. By the end of business Monday, the Hawks and the Indiana Pacers still had not come to an agreement on a proposed sign-and-trade deal that has been in the works for weeks. The Hawks have agreed to sign Harrington to a six-year, $57 million deal and then send him and third-year center John Edwards to the Pacers for a future first-round draft pick. After a week of vacation, Pacers officials were back in the office Monday with plans to sort through the details of the proposed deal and come to a decision this week, perhaps today. "I'm hopeful that we can find resolution to it one way or another," Hawks general manager Billy Knight said by phone Monday night. "We're just waiting for them to tell us what they want to do." -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Getting Something Better Than Nothing
Everyone from Martha Stewart to the Easter Bunny has had their say about the Hawks' sign-and-trade deal for Al Harrington, how lopsided it is (not in the Hawks' favor) and how they could have done this, that or the other to maximize their return. But unless I missed something about how sign-and-trades work for unrestricted free agents, the Hawks are doing something that the Detroit Pistons did not when they lost Ben Wallace to Chicago last month; they're actually getting SOMETHING instead of nothing. I don't know about you, but I'd rather get something in exchange for losing one of my best players as opposed to getting absolutely nothing. If we want to play the what-they-should-have-done game (one that's a staple on this blog) we could do that forever, and some would argue that we have. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Boston Celtics | All Celtics sitelines

Allen's Trial Gets Delayed
Any hope Tony Allen had of quickly resolving his legal troubles hit a wall yesterday. The Celtics guard, facing a charge of aggravated battery for his role in a fight last August in a Chicago restaurant, was informed that his trial date was being pushed back due to an illness to the judge. An Aug. 30 status hearing was scheduled, at which time a new trial date is expected to be set, virtually guaranteeing that Allen will be shuttling between Chicago and the Celtics as the 2006-07 season wears on. A spokesperson in the Cook County State's Attorney office yesterday confirmed that judge James Linn, who is expected to hear the case, has fallen ill, delaying the case indefinitely. -- Boston Herald

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Chicago Bulls | All Bulls sitelines

Arenas Injury All But Assures Hinrich Spot On Roster
USA Basketball announced Monday that Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas will be sidelined because of a groin strain. The news essentially guarantees that Bulls guard Kirk Hinrich will be on the official U.S. roster for the FIBA World Championships, which begin Saturday in Japan. Team USA still needs to trim one player to get the roster to 12, but it would be a shock if the last cut is anyone besides San Antonio defensive specialist Bruce Bowen. In four exhibitions games, Hinrich has averaged 7.8 points and 1.5 assists in 15.5 minutes. He was in the starting lineup for the first time when the U.S. beat Lithuania 111-88 on Sunday in Seoul, South Korea. -- Arlington Heights Daily Herald

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Cleveland Cavaliers | All Cavs sitelines

Cavs' Gettin' Is Gooden
Unlike some contract squabbles, the six-week standoff between Drew Gooden and the Cavaliers never got petty or outwardly ugly. As a result, the two parties compromised Monday. After talks intensified over the weekend, Gooden and the Cavs agreed on a three-year, $23 million package. Details need to be finalized, which prevented a formal announcement by the team. The deal is believed to be shorter than Gooden and his agent, Calvin Andrews, were seeking. At about $7.7 million per year in value, it is believed to be a little richer than the Cavs wanted to pay. They seem to have met in the middle. "We've said all along that keeping Drew was a priority,'' Cavs General Manager Danny Ferry said. "We've continued working to make that happen, and ultimately I think we can get something that is a win-win for everyone.'' -- Akron Beacon-Journal

Net Gain For Cavs, Gooden
Drew Gooden has agreed to a three-year, $23 million contract with the Cavaliers that will make his salary one of the top four on the team, Gooden's agent, Calvin Andrews, confirmed Monday. Andrews said the details of the contract still had to be worked out, including Gooden's salary for next season. But Gooden's starting salary will be no less than Eric Snow's $6 million. Larry Hughes will make $11.1 million next season, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas will make $9.4 million. LeBron James will make $5.9 million. Gooden, a 6-10, 242-pound power forward, averaged 10.7 points and 8.4 rebounds last season, and he averaged 8.2 points and 7.5 rebounds in the playoffs. -- Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Indiana Pacers | All Pacers sitelines

Pacers Anticipate Movement In Harrington Talks
Add a day to the saga surrounding the Indiana Pacers' attempt to acquire forward Al Harrington from the Atlanta Hawks. Pacers CEO Donnie Walsh said Monday he expects some type of "breakthrough" this week in negotiations for a sign-and-trade deal for Harrington, who spent his first six seasons in Indiana. "It's at that point where it has to get done or it doesn't get done," Walsh said. Walsh talked Monday with team owners Mel and Herb Simon, and they'll talk again today. ... The Pacers have been the front-runner to acquire Harrington, but talks slowed because he switched agents. "We're back and dealing with it now," Walsh said. "We expect some type of breakthrough this week -- at least that's what I'm hoping." -- Indianapolis Star

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Miami Heat | All Heat sitelines

Shaq Inks Shoe Contract With Chinese Firm
Seeking to expand its worldwide image, the ambitious Li-Ning shoe company of China has decided it needs to fill some big shoes -- so it's adding Shaquille O'Neal and his 21EEEs to its sports line. At a press conference in Beijing on Monday, Li-Ning and the Heat superstar announced a five-year deal for a Shaq Dunkman line of basketball products, including shoes, that will feature his image in a Heat jersey and his signature. The goods will be sold in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau. Li-Ning, little known in the United States, is attempting to move aggressively into the worldwide shoe market. Earlier this year, it entered the American market for the first time by signing Shaq's former Heat teammate, Damon Jones, to a deal. Jones agreed to wear the company's shoes when he plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers. -- Miami Herald

Now Isn't The Time For Riley To Walk Away
So, where is Pat Riley's announcement that he'll return to the bench this season to direct the Heat in defense of the NBA title won under his stewardship those eight weeks ago tonight? Here's what Riley said in Dallas amid the aftermath of that triumph while walking down an American Airlines Center hallway still soaked in champagne: "Don't ask me. Please don't ask me. I know what the question is, and I don't want to answer it. I need time. I need time." The reply was understandable. Then. But now, it's beginning to rot. Riley might well be torn between a personal desire to walk away from coaching with redemptive trophy in hand (no more obliquely insulting references to glory days with the Los Angeles Lakers) and a professional commitment to fighting another fight alongside familiar and proud men. -- Palm Beach Post

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New York Knicks | All Knicks sitelines

Critics Don't Concern Balkman
No fault of his own, Renaldo Balkman will now join the Knicks as one of the team's most closely watched players. Fans and reporters will be curious to see if he lives up to the comparisons Thomas made of him to Dennis Rodman and Ron Artest -- for their intensity and defensive skills, presumably not their antics -- or whether Thomas, who takes over as Knicks coach this season, was indeed out of his gourd, as they initially suspected. But Balkman, who was born on Staten Island and lived there until he was 2, says he refuses to let the scrutiny get to him. He says he'll focus solely on taking care of business on the court. "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me," he said. "I don't have to go out there and prove to nobody that I'm a player. I know I can play." -- Newsday

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Groin Injury Leaves Arenas Out Of Worlds
Gilbert Arenas went to Asia hoping to help the United States claim gold at the world championship. The Washington Wizards guard, however, strained his groin at practice in South Korea yesterday and will not compete in the tournament, which starts this week. "We know Gilbert is really disappointed," team managing director Jerry Colangelo said. "He's done a great job. It's an unfortunate situation, but he is not going to be able to continue on. We're concerned because he has had a history regarding groin pulls. "This is a precautionary move, but it is important that he return home and get treatment." -- Washington Times

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Barry Out At KNBR; Split Is Friendly
Rick Barry's five-year run as a talk show host with KNBR came to an abrupt end when the sports radio station announced that Monday's show would be his last. The move no doubt came as a shock to Bay Area listeners, but the Basketball Hall of Famer insisted in a phone interview Monday that the split was amicable. "It was really a mutual-type of thing," Barry said. "I was always concerned that when you get new ownership, you never know what's going to happen. I was told they were thinking of doing something with my contract. I was looking for some other things to do. We said it was time to say goodbye." -- Contra Costa Times

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Houston Rockets | All Rockets sitelines

Mutombo Helps Congo Take A Big Step
Dikembe Mutombo's most daunting undertaking has been construction of the 300-bed Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital near Kinshasa, where the ceremonial opening is Sept. 2. The hospital hopes to receive patients a few weeks later, pending the last shipment of equipment and arrival of a sterilizer. He has given $15 million of the $29 million cost. The "air of expectation" at the neighborhood or ward level is incredible, says Joyce Hightower, a Kinshasa-based physician who is a consultant to Mutombo's project. "This is what they are calling 'a jewel,' an institution of this quality," she says. "It is giving priority to the people who are the poorest," what Mutombo desires most. Mutombo is $7 million shy of the building's cost and must still raise money to cover operating expenses, which he estimates will be $2 million-$2.3 million a year. -- USA Today

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Minnesota Timberwolves | All Wolves sitelines

Thomas, Wright May Join Wolves
Even though Atlanta agreed to a free-agent deal with center Lorenzen Wright, the Timberwolves could still end up with Wright if the Hawks can't complete a sign-and-trade deal with the Indiana Pacers for Al Harrington. If the Harrington deal goes through, the Wolves' only free-agent option for a center would be Reggie Evans. If the Wolves don't end up with either Wright or Evans, John Thomas, a former Timberwolf and Gopher who has been playing with several Wolves in pick-up workouts daily at Target Center, could become a legitimate option. -- St. Paul Pioneer Press

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New Orleans Hornets | All Hornets sitelines

Shinn Helps Ease Sting Of Team's Absence
Give George Shinn, the Hornets owner, this much: He's working fast, furious and overtime to repair an image that has taken a beating in New Orleans for the past seven or eight months. And his effort has been above-average evidence that Shinn can be as civic-minded and proactive as the best of them when motivated. First, he lobbied for and received approval from the NBA office to have the Hornets play their regular-season home opener in New Orleans. That's significant because the Hornets will play only six games at New Orleans Arena this season, and the locals will receive the first home look at the product, which is a major show of goodwill. Second, the franchise is doing what it can to hold at least a week of training camp in New Orleans, another healing gesture considering the team just as easily could have had camp in Oklahoma City without much dissent from New Orleans. -- New Orleans Times-Picayune

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Portland Trail Blazers | All Blazers sitelines

McMillan Chooses Arizona State
No school went after Jamelle McMillan more aggressively than Arizona State. No school saw more of his AAU games this summer. No school text messaged, e-mailed, stayed in touch with him more. And the hard work of the Sun Devils' coaching staff paid off Monday when McMillan, who will be a senior at Seattle's O'Dea High School this school year, announced he will accept a scholarship to play basketball at Arizona State. "They were by far the hardest-working coaching staff," said McMillan, the son of Nate McMillan, coach of the Portland Trail Blazers and former Sonics point guard and coach. "They were in constant contact with me. They would text message me before school, after school, before games, after games. Text message me until I went to bed at night." -- Seattle Times

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

Sonics On Verge Of Signing Wilcox
The Seattle SuperSonics and free-agent power forward Chris Wilcox are on the verge of agreeing to a three-year contract, according to his agent, Jeff Fried, as well as a league source. After a month and a half of protracted negotiations, Fried and Sonics general manager Rick Sund met Thursday, Friday and again Monday to finalize the remaining details of a deal that will keep Wilcox in a Sonics uniform for the foreseeable future. "If things continue to progress as they have, I hope to have a contract in hand by tonight or tomorrow," Fried, in Washington D.C., said Monday evening. ... Though Fried would not provide details, the contract is believed to be worth $24 million. It is unclear if the money is fully guaranteed or if part of the amount is to be paid only through incentives. -- Tacoma News Tribune

Renton Likely Out As Sonics' New Home
The long-shot likelihood that the Sonics will move to Renton has slipped to a fat chance. The developer controlling the lakeside land considered Renton's best shot for winning over the team says it is no longer interested. "They just looked at the site and the potential uses and realized that it was going to be the best use for that site to have additional retail tenants on there," said Natalie Quick, a spokeswoman for Harvest Partners of Dallas. New team owner Clay Bennett of Oklahoma insists that he will keep the Sonics and the WNBA Storm in the Seattle region if someone builds an appropriate arena here. -- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

Jazz, Brown Close To Contract
By late this week, it looks like No. 46 overall draft pick Dee Brown will officially be a Jazzman. "We haven't done anything yet, but we'll get something done this week is my guess," said Jazz senior VP of basketball operations Kevin O'Connor Monday, echoing statements made by Brown's agent last week that he thought a contract agreement would likely be reached by sometime this week. Agent Henry Thomas said he plans on Brown being in Utah's training camp when it opens Oct. 2. O'Connor added that he expects to have Brown's deal sealed by late this week. -- Deseret Morning News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

U.S. Basketball Team Deserves Our Support
Even now, with the U.S. having one of its most-exciting, most-prepared teams, some people already are criticizing the Americans because of last week's close victory over a strong Brazilian team. Stop it, already. USA Basketball deserves a lot of credit for revamping how Team USA is selected. There was a training camp and a far deeper commitment from NBA players than we've seen in years. Jerry Colangelo, USA Basketball's managing director, has taken a whole new approach, enlisting three-year commitments from players and using American pride to foster team unity. -- Orlando Sentinel
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Hache Man · Aug 15, 2006

Updated: Aug. 15, 2006, 3:16 PM ET
Making the last cut will be a tough call for Coach K

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>All the evidence from five exhibition games points to Bruce Bowen being the player most likely to be left off Team USA's final 12-man roster, yet I'm far from 100 percent certain he'll be the odd man out. The more I think about it, in fact, the more I'm convinced that it'll be Shane Battier wearing street clothes when the World Championship begins Saturday.
Here's why:<OFFER>
Bowen was brought along for one overriding reason: To defend the best offensive player on the opposing team when the competition starts to get tougher. And when the Americans make it to the medal round at the World Championship, the need for a lockdown, man-to-man defender will become even more urgent. Who's going to guard Manu Ginobili of Argentina? Or Pau Gasol of Spain? Or Leandro Barbosa of Brazil? Or Boris Diaw and Tony Parker of France? Or Dirk Nowitzki of Germany?
The player who can defend each and every one of them is Bowen, which is why team director Jerry Colangelo and coach Mike Krzyzewski will have to think long and hard about whether to include him on the 12-man active roster that must be submitted Friday, the eve of the opening round in Japan. (Gilbert Arenas is already out of the mix after straining a groin muscle at practice Monday, leaving 13 healthy bodies.)
"Well, No. 1, we're healthy," Coach K said after the U.S. improved to 5-0 in exhibitions by trouncing Korea 116-63 in Seoul. "We're still going to have to make a difficult selection to get our roster to 12 players, but our guys have really grown together as a team. They're a good group of guys, and no ego is bigger than the team."
Bowen didn't do much against Korea to help his cause, scoring four points and committing two turnovers in 14 minutes. He averaged a team-low 1.0 points per game and shot a cumulative 2-for-7 in the warm-up games, going 0-for-4 from 3-point range after he had spent the early part of the summer working on his outside shooting.
Still, Bowen isn't going to help the U.S. against the inferior foes they faced in exhibitions and will see in the opening round. He's a guy who will help you when the format turns to single elimination in the Round of 16 and one loss knocks you out of gold-medal contention.

Nobody has focused on it much yet, but the Americans are going to have a very tough opponent in their first game of the knockout round. Assuming they win Group D, the Americans will face the fourth-place team from Group C in the Round of 16. And the fourth-place team in that group will not be a slouch. Aside from Qatar, each of the remaining five teams (Lithuania, Greece, Brazil, Turkey and Australia) in Group C is capable of finishing anywhere from first to fifth.
Assuming the Americans make it to the quarterfinals, there's a good chance they'll meet Germany in that game, as the pairing calls for the winner of the D1-C4 game to face the winner of the B2-A3 game. B2 is likely to be Germany, which figures to finish behind Spain (which went 9-0 in exhibitions, including 2-0 against Argentina) in Group B. And if Germany is the quarterfinal opponent, who will guard Nowitzki? I'd trust Bowen with the task before I'd trust Elton Brand, Chris Bosh, Dwight Howard or Brad Miller.
Bowen's primary competition for the 12th spot would seem to come from Battier, who made his second straight start Tuesday but scored just two points in 13 minutes. His averages of 3.0 points and 3.4 rebounds in the five exhibitions give him better numbers than Bowen, but that doesn't mean he'd be a better choice for the 12th spot. Colangelo will want to have an ace in the hole when he reaches the medal round, and Bowen can provide something that Battier can not -- intimate knowledge, gleaned from years of practicing together and competing in the same division, of how to go up against Ginobili, Parker and Nowitzki.
That's why I have a funny feeling that when USA Basketball submits its official roster Friday night at the technical meeting on the eve of the tournament, Bowen's name will be on it.

Here are a few items from the cumulative stat sheet after five exhibitions:

? The Americans shot 41 percent from 3-point range, which should make opponents think twice about playing 40 minutes of zone defense as they often did at the Athens Olympics when the U.S. team shot just 31 percent from behind the shorter international arc. Brad Miller was by far the Americans' best 3-point shooter, percentage-wise, going 6-for-7. And a pair of forwards -- Antawn Jamison and Carmelo Anthony -- were the most prolific 3-point shooters with eight apiece. Dwight Howard was the only player that did not attempt a 3.
? Dwyane Wade (17-for-18) and LeBron James (10-for-11) were the team's best free-throw shooters, while Howard (5-for-14) and Chris Paul (7-for-13) were the worst.
? Anthony (16.8), James (15.8) and Wade (12.2) were the only players to average double figures in points. Howard led the team in rebounding (5.8), Wade had the most steals (13) and the Americans forced a total of 124 turnovers -- almost 25 per game.
? Miller and Bowen were the only players who did not start any games. No player started all five exhibitions.
? Team USA surrendered an average of 75.9 points and scored an average of 110.0. In Athens, the Americans allowed 83.5 points and scored 88.1.
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Hache Man · Aug 16, 2006

Updated: Aug. 16, 2006, 10:00 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 16

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
<OFFER>

Previous Reports:

Aug. 8 | Aug. 9 | Aug. 10 | Aug. 11 | Aug. 14 | Aug. 15

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Charlotte Bobcats | All Bobcats sitelines

Voskuhl Officially Signs New Contract
Two weeks after ESPN.com first reported Jake Voskuhl would be re-signing with the Charlotte Bobcats, it became official Tuesday. While the team didn't announce terms of Voskuhl's contract, his agent told The Gazette last week the deal was for two years at $4 million with Voskuhl holding the option for the second year. ... "Bringing Jake back to our team provides experienced depth at the center position," Bobcats general manager and head coach Bernie Bickerstaff said Tuesday. -- Gaston Gazette

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Chicago Bulls | All Bulls sitelines

Working Class Hero
The City of Broad Shoulders has a new favorite son. But, if you think the pressure that comes with being the Chicago Bulls' highest-paid player will wear on Ben Wallace, well, you need to think again because he's faced much tougher challenges throughout his life. Relentless defensive determination makes Ben Wallace one of the most menacing figures in the NBA. The Detroit Pistons often hitched themselves to his broad shoulders, using his strength in the middle to surge to four of the last five Central Division titles, two NBA Finals appearances, and the 2004 NBA World Championship. These days, those same shoulders are expected to support the Chicago Bulls' next title run. The shine of the Windy City and the United Center spotlight, as bright as they burn, aren't likely to ever make Ben Wallace wilt. No, it's going to take much more than that. -- Bulls.com

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Cleveland Cavaliers | All Cavs sitelines

Cavs' Varejao Hurt, But Not Seriously
Relax, Cavaliers fans. Anderson Varejao is not seriously hurt.The Associated Press reported that Brazil lost Varejao with a foot injury during its 86-74 loss to France today in the Stankovic Cup in Kunshan, China. But Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry said he understood the injury was not serious. "He is doing fine, just resting,'' Ferry said today. ... Asked if he wasn't worried about injuries to Varejao or LeBron James, who is playing for Team USA, Ferry said. "Injuries are a part of the game. Guys work out all summer. There is always concern.'' Ferry and Cavaliers coach Mike Brown will be going to Japan next week to watch the World Championships. -- Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Baby Al Will Be Old When 'Imminent' Deal Is Done
I'm angry at Donnie Walsh, Larry Bird, Al Harrington, John Edwards, Billy Knight, Arn Tellem, both Simon brothers and several current and former Atlanta Hawks, most notably Jon Koncak. They are ruining what's left of my summer. All I do now is sit in my office. Waiting. Wondering. Praying to a higher power (no, David Stern, not you). I am held hostage. The Imminent Harrington Trade Watch, Day 106. It doesn't take this long for Colts radio analyst Ted Marchibroda to make a point. If I'm not mistaken, the Harrington trade started becoming imminent between the end of Prohibition and Branch McCracken's first day as Indiana University's basketball coach. When will the phone ring? And when it does, will I see "Pacers Sports & Entertainment" on caller ID? Will this torment ever end? -- Indianapolis Star

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Patterson's Prepared To Clamp Down
Ruben Patterson arrived at the Bucks' Cousins Center training facility on Tuesday and proclaimed himself to be willing and able to fill that role. "When they see me working hard, it's going to get them (teammates) motivated to do the same thing," said Patterson, acquired last week in the trade with Denver that sent power forward Joe Smith to the Nuggets. "I can tell you there are guys in the East who don't like playing against me. Richard Hamilton (Detroit Pistons guard) is one of them. He just don't like it when I guard him. Guys like that who can score, you've got to play physical and don't let them touch the basketball." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Bucks Unveil New Court
In an off-season that has already featured new colors and a handful of new players, the Milwaukee Bucks have introduced another new item to Bucks fans ... their new court design! After four weeks of sanding, staining and painting, the court is finally ready for its first public appearance! The aspect of the court that fans will notice immediately is the two-tone look. The lighter part of the court, located inside the three-point arc, is pure, unstained maple. It is contrasted by a darker shade of wood outside of the three-point arc that has been stained to give the appearance of a more aged maple floor. -- Bucks.com

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Knick Undercuts Pricey Jordans
Move over, Air Jordans. Knicks star Stephon Marbury is putting his name behind a pair of $15 basketball shoes that he's hoping will give underprivileged kids the chance to wear sneaks fit for the pros. The black high tops drew rave reviews yesterday from the critics who matter most -- young hoopsters. "They're comfortable," said Mylique Owens, 13, a seventh-grader from midtown, after he tried on a pair of the sleek kicks at the famed basketball court on W. Fourth St. yesterday. Owens couldn't believe his ears when told the price of the lightweight sneakers. -- New York Daily News

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Raptors Tickets In Demand
With less than two months until the opening of training camp, Raptors season ticket renewals and new sales are amongst the strongest in team history. The Raptors are renewing season tickets at a rate of 91%, well above last year's pace. New season seat sales already have reached 85% of the final 2005-06 season total, and team officials expect to surpass the 10,000 season seat mark overall. -- Toronto Sun

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Trip To Africa Impacts Johnson
Avery Johnson is leaving today for his Houston home. His children, Christianne and Avery Jr., start school Friday. The family returned from a two-week vacation to Africa last week. The journey had an impact on Johnson that he didn't expect. He spent three days in Dakar, Senegal, with DeSagana Diop and his family, helping at the player's basketball camp. Johnson, his children and his wife, Cassandra, visited Goree Island, the place less than two miles from Dakar where slaves were held before being shipped to the Americas. -- Dallas Morning News

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Ex-Nugget Wolf Will Lead 14ers
Former Nuggets player Joe Wolf officially will be appointed coach of the fledgling Colorado 14ers during a news conference Thursday, an NBA source confirmed Tuesday. The 14ers will begin play as a member of the NBA Development League at the Broomfield Event Center this fall. Wolf's arrival in Colorado will continue his path as a prot?g? to Nuggets coach George Karl. Wolf, who had two stints in Denver (1990-92 and 1997-98), spent the past two seasons as coach of the Idaho Stampede of the Continental Basketball Association. -- Rocky Mountain News

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Hospital Fulfills Mutombo's Dream
Dikembe Mutombo came to the United States in 1987 and enrolled at Georgetown on an academic scholarship with plans to become a doctor. He said helping to fund the 300-bed hospital named for his late mother in his Congo homeland, where he will attend the Sept. 2 ribbon-cutting, will serve the same purpose. "I wanted to serve the people, to save lives," the former 76ers center, now with the Houston Rockets, said in a telephone interview. "That is what the hospital will do - serve the people, save lives, give people hope." Mutombo, a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, has donated more than $15 million of his own funds to the project, which will culminate in the opening of the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital. -- Philadelphia Daily News

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Garnett Knows Time Is Running Out
Kevin Garnett, in a recent interview with SLAM Magazine, said he would want to leave the Timberwolves if they don't make progress toward a championship. "I got to," he said. He also ripped the Timberwolves' front office and lauded himself for his consistency, making you wish he could see himself as clearly as he sees his bosses. It is a persistently human flaw to emphasize others' faults while ignoring your own. In Garnett's case, it is a flaw that, combined with the persistent ineptitude of the Wolves' braintrust, has turned the Target Center tenant into the worst-run pro sports franchise in town. -- Minneapolis Star Tribune

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'Good Eddie' Gets A Bad Rap
Anyone who has met former NBA sharpshooter Eddie Johnson wouldn't have believed it. A story in the Chicago Tribune last week said the former University of Illinois player had been charged with sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl in Florida. Too bad the story identified the wrong Eddie Johnson. The Eddie Johnson I interviewed several times played in Seattle, Phoenix and five other cities. He was polite, good-natured and a fine citizen. He now does TV commentary for the Suns, runs shooting clinics for teens and speaks to groups about avoiding drugs, gangs and weapons. So it was a shock for him to find he had been confused with another Eddie Johnson, a troubled former NBA guard who played 10 seasons. The Good Eddie played 17 seasons in the league, terrorizing opponents with his deadly perimeter jumper. The Bad Eddie -- sometimes called "Fast Eddie" -- had a rap sheet the length of the free-throw lane. -- Deseret Morning News

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Woods Wants To Stick Around
Loren Woods, 28, is hoping for some financial security, with the Kings representing his fourth team, and he's not exactly conceding to a vagabond career. He signed a one-year, $950,000 deal, though it is not known how much of that is guaranteed. What Woods can say for certain is that he's ready to stick around for a bit. "It's my fourth team," he said. "I don't know how many more chances I'll get. I'm like a cat with nine lives." He's more of a Caterpillar-brand bulldozer -- wide-bodied and sturdy. Though Woods hasn't been compared to Shaquille O'Neal since entering the league as a second-round pick of the Minnesota Timberwolves out of Arizona in 2001, he has proven to be a solid player when he gets minutes. -- Sacramento Bee

Artest Starts Community Service
The aftershocks of the brawl at the Palace of Auburn Hills in November 2004 continue to be felt. Ron Artest, who helped ignite the fury by going into the stands to confront a fan while a member of the Pacers, begins five days of community service today as part of his court-ordered punishment. Artest, now with the Sacramento Kings, will spend five days working with youths at the Mathis Community Center in Detroit. He'll also be a guest speaker Saturday at the Judge Mathis Youth and Education Expo at Wayne County Community College's downtown campus. -- Indianapolis Star

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

Parker May Miss Argentina Game
Tony Parker sprained a finger on his shooting hand in France's final exhibition game Tuesday, leaving his availability for the opening game of the World Championships in doubt. Parker injured the finger on his right hand while grabbing a player's jersey in France's 86-74 victory over Brazil. France's coach, Claude Bergeaud, said he wasn't sure if Parker would be able to play Saturday against Manu Ginobili and Argentina. Spurs officials were trying to gather information on Parker's injury and hoped to know more today. France flew from China to Japan this morning to begin its final preparations. The Spurs also are waiting to learn whether Bruce Bowen will make the 12-man active roster for the United States. -- San Antonio Express-News

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

The Next Shawn Kemp?
As Seattle SuperSonics coach Bob Hill descended the staircase at the team's practice facility on Tuesday afternoon, he turned to Chris Wilcox, who had just signed his new three-year contract, and told him: "I guess I can expect 15 points and 10 rebounds every night now." Such are the expectations for the team's 23-year-old power forward, whose combination of leaping ability, speed and athleticism could allow him to become the franchise's best power forward since Shawn Kemp roamed KeyArena as the Reign Man. ... The deal is worth $19.5 million guaranteed, and could be worth as much as $24 million with incentives. The incentives are tied to Wilcox making the All-Star team and all-NBA team, as well as averaging at least 10 rebounds a game. -- Tacoma News Tribune

Wilcox Signing A Mixed Blessing For Fans
As they were walking down the stairs at the Sonics offices before the news conference, Hill told Wilcox he expected an average of 15 points and 12 rebounds. "You never know when you give a guy a contract," Hill said. "The Sonics hit a grand slam with Ray Allen, and I would think this guy is going to respond similarly. I will be on his backside about consistency. That is what separates players and teams. This will be his fifth season, and I think he'll feel a sense of giving back for the belief that we've had in him." A sense of giving back, in return for a belief that already has been shown. Isn't that what all Sonics fans are asking from the new ownership? -- Seattle Times

Sonics Looking Good, If You Care
Here's a question for local politicians, business leaders, citizens' groups, potential luxury suite buyers and fence-sitters who are attempting to calibrate the fate of pro basketball in the Northwest: Will it make a difference if in eight months the Sonics have won 50 games and have home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs? You read it here first: The Sonics will be, barring major injuries, a good team. Not necessarily championship quality, but a decent choice for a division title and a first-round win. The observation is made not to pump ticket sales for a potential lame-duck season (although anyone could do better than the club's current round of print ads), but to prepare the civic mind for confusion. -- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

Jazz Have Work To Do Before Start Of Season
The Rocky Mountain Revue is long past and training camp is more than a month away. If there is ever a lull for the Utah Jazz, then this is it. "I'm not sitting in my office every day until now from October," said Kevin O'Connor, the senior vice president of basketball operations. "But you do get a little down time now." O'Connor has had a busy offseason, signing Matt Harpring to a four-year, $25 million contract, Jarron Collins to a three-year, $7 million deal and crafting a trade for point guard Derek Fisher. So are the Jazz done? Not quite. Teams can carry 15 players, which leaves the Jazz with three open spots. "We're still trying to improve our team," O'Connor said. -- Salt Lake Tribune
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Hache Man · Aug 17, 2006

Updated: Aug. 17, 2006, 9:48 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 17

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
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Previous Reports:

Aug. 9 | Aug. 10 | Aug. 11 | Aug. 14 | Aug. 15 | Aug. 16

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Powe Takes Care Of Business
Leon Powe is already out blowing his NBA money. He's taking care of back-to-school expenses for his six siblings, ages 6 to 20. He's traveling to basketball camps to prepare himself for his rookie season with the Boston Celtics. He's kicking in the dough for a free kids basketball camp he'll hold next month at Merritt College. He's jet-setting. He flew to Colorado to personally thank Dr. Richard Steadman for doing such a great job rebuilding his knee. Powe and mentor/friend Bernard Ward are founding an agency to place foster children and group-home children in top-flight schools. -- San Francisco Chronicle

Checking In With Danny Ainge
The calendar says it's the NBA offseason, but things haven't slowed down much in the Celtics' executive offices, as the team made several moves at the NBA Draft and then had a strong showing in the Toshiba Vegas Summer League showcasing plenty of young talent. And now, with veteran players on the mend and the schedule released, Executive Director of Basketball Operations Danny Ainge checked in with Celtics.com for an exclusive interview on Monday afternoon. Ainge gave us an update on some of the injured Celtics, as well as his thoughts on the team's offseason moves and the road ahead to training camp and the upcoming season. -- Celtics.com

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Charlotte Bobcats | All Bobcats sitelines

Bobcats Unveil Alternate Road Uniform
The Bobcats will have a new look in 2006-07, as they unveiled their new alternate team uniform on Wednesday, with blue as the predominant color and accented by the team's other official colors of Bobcats Orange, black and silver. This uniform serves as the second road uniform, to be worn in addition to the orange away uniform the team debuted before the inaugural 2004-05 season. "Alternate uniforms have proven to be very popular with fans across sports and we are proud to introduce our third uniform to Charlotte Bobcats fans," Bobcats President and Chief Operating Officer Fred Whitfield said. "Bobcats Blue is one of our team colors and the new blue uniform will look sharp on our players and complement our orange and white uniforms very well." -- Bobcatsbasketball.com

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James Seeks Redemption
LeBron James is hoping to "redeem" himself when the FIBA World Championship tips off on Saturday. There was no surprise when the Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star was confirmed in the final 12-man squad to go forward to Japan, and James responded to the news by vowing to make up for the disappointment of the USA's 2004 Olympic campaign. "It is very exciting to get an opportunity to represent your country," James said. "I personally get an opportunity to try to redeem myself, along with Dwyane (Wade) and Carmelo (Anthony) who were also on the 2004 Olympic team. -- FIBA.com

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Bucks, Bradley Center Agree On New Lease
After months of negotiations, the Bradley Center and the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday reached agreement on a lease that will keep the team at the facility through at least 2008, but leaves unanswered what the future holds for the center and the franchise. The lease covers last season and the upcoming season. The lease also gives the Bradley Center the option of a third year, a move Bradley Center officials said they intended to exercise. The agreement should open the way to long-term agreements for the Marquette Golden Eagles and the Milwaukee Admirals, but the short-term nature of the lease is certain to fuel speculation about what Herb Kohl intends to do with the team he has owned since March 1985. -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

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New York Knicks | All Knicks sitelines

Steph: Isiah Will Thrive Amid Heat
Stephon Marbury said yesterday it was a blessing that Knick owner James Dolan put the heat on Isiah Thomas by giving the new coach a one-year ultimatum. After a Manhattan Mall news conference two blocks from the Garden, at which Marbury announced a new line of sneakers and apparel, the Knick point guard said Dolan's pronouncement is motivation for the whole team. "That's a good thing he said that," Marbury said in a private meeting with two writers. "It makes us better. That's the best time to perform, when there's pressure. You're either going to do it or you're not. We're used to doing it." -- New York Post

Marbury Unveils Personal Line Of Basketball Gear
That smile Stephon Marbury said earlier this summer couldn't be taken off his face is still there, beaming brightly and broadly yesterday as his new sneaker and clothing line were unveiled at the Manhattan Steve & Barry's store. "It's been the best summer of my life," he said. This was Marbury, warm and engaging and miles away from the frustrated, often petulant personality that runs the point for the embattled Knicks. In this form, he is a multimillionaire athlete with a genuine concern for the very people the Coney Island native came from: poor, which is why his sneaker will retail for $14.98 - not a typo - instead of more than $100 like most other player-endorsed kicks. The Starbury line, which includes sweatsuits, shorts, T-shirts and hoodies, are available exclusively at Steve & Barry's starting today. -- Newsday

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Orlando Magic | All Magic sitelines

Howard Survives Final Cut
Power forward/center Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic will be the youngest member of a very young but very athletic USA Basketball team that opens play at the World Championship in Sapporo, Japan, on Saturday. Howard, 20, survived the final roster cutdown to 12 players Wednesday -- which left the average age of the 12-man roster at 24.5 years, but with an average of 4.25 seasons in the NBA. ... "Dwight gives us something nobody else can give us [inside],'' Krzyzewski said. "I thought for a five-minute stretch [against South Korea], he played as well as a center could play.'' -- Orlando Sentinel

Bo's Back With The Magic
Bo Outlaw re-signed with the Orlando Magic Wednesday, inking a one-year deal worth $1.1 million. While that deal won't necessarily put the Magic in the playoffs next season, the return of Outlaw will make the Magic a better team. General manager Otis Smith says that when compiling a team the 12th, 13th and 14th guys on the roster need to be high character guys, but they are ultimately the ones who can doom a team. If they are playing limited minutes and unhappy about it, they could become cancerous forces in the locker room. No such worries with the smiling Outlaw. He doesn't need a lot of playing time to do what he does. He plays with a lot of energy, rebounds and defends. And if he happens to score a few points with that painfully awkward shot of his, all the more better. -- Florida Today

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Washington Wizards | All Wizards sitelines

Jamison Makes U.S. National Team
When the U.S. national team gathered in Las Vegas on July 19 for its first workout, Washington Wizards forward Antawn Jamison figured to be a long shot to make the roster for the FIBA World Championship team. However, a handful of injuries -- including a groin strain suffered by Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas -- combined with Jamison's showing in pre-tournament games helped him make the team yesterday when Coach Mike Krzyzewski and national team director Jerry Colangelo announced the 12-man squad. -- Washington Post

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Dallas Mavericks | All Mavericks sitelines

Johnson Visits Saints
Dallas Mavericks head coach and New Orleans native Avery Johnson addressed the Saints before a team meeting in Jackson, Miss., on Wednesday night at the invitation of Coach Sean Payton. Payton said he hoped his club would be inspired by Johnson's unlikely NBA odyssey: an undrafted underdog who becomes a champion as a player (San Antonio Spurs), then head coach of a team (Mavericks) whose defensive deficiencies had kept it from being a title contender, transforming it into a team that used defense to help reach the NBA Finals for the first time. -- New Orleans Times-Picayune

Cuban Is Bringing His Mavericks Here
Mark Cuban, the billionaire Mt. Lebanon native who wants to buy the Pirates, is making a business trip to Pittsburgh shortly after the conclusion of the baseball season. For Pirates fans, who would like for him to own the team, the business won't be baseball, however. Cuban will bring the Dallas Mavericks, the team he owns, to Mellon Arena, Oct. 25, for an NBA exhibition game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Bringing his team -- and Cuban is more involved than any owner in professional sports -- to his hometown is something Cuban lobbied for, although it is a Cleveland home game. -- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

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Denver Nuggets | All Nuggets sitelines

Smith Views Season As 'Make Or Break'
When his time with the Nuggets ends, will he be viewed as a quality veteran on the rise or a former No. 1 overall pick limping toward the downside of his career? (Joe) Smith does his best not to think too far ahead, lest it distract from the goal of winning games, but he also appreciates the importance of his 11th NBA season. "I try to approach every year the same, but you do have to realize that this is it - this can make or break you," he said during a visit to the Pepsi Center on Wednesday. "I'm not 19 anymore. I've got to realize that I have to go out there and play some good basketball in order to keep it going." The Nuggets certainly saw plenty of present-day value in Smith when they acquired him from the Milwaukee Bucks last week for swingman Ruben Patterson. -- Rocky Mountain News

Fort Lewis New Site For Training Camp
The Nuggets will hold training camp in Durango at Fort Lewis College on Oct. 3-7, the team announced Wednesday. "It's a beautiful setting, and being away from home will give our team an opportunity to bond," Nuggets coach George Karl said. It's the first time the Nuggets will train outside of Denver since 1998-99, when the team held camp in Colorado Springs. -- Denver Post

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Battier Makes Team USA's Final Roster
During his journey through Asia with Team USA, Rockets forward Shane Battier has visited a Buddhist Monastery and Yongsan Army Base in South Korea. He won't be cutting his trip short. After two weeks of playing with 15 other NBA stars in tune-ups for the approaching FIBA World Championships, Battier was named one of 12 players Wednesday to help the United States regain world surpemacy on the hardwood. The U.S. national team, which hasn't won an international tournament in six years, will begin competing for a gold medal at the 2006 FIBA World Championships in Sapparo, Japan Saturday against Puerto Rico. Battier is looking forward to competing in a Team USA uniform for the first time in his career. -- Rockets.com

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Los Angeles Lakers | All Lakers sitelines

Panaggio To Lead D-League Squad
The Lakers intend to hire Marquette assistant coach Dan Panaggio as head coach of their new NBA Development League team. Panaggio has experience in basketball's minor leagues, having coached the Quad City Thunder for nine seasons in the Continental Basketball Association. In addition, Panaggio spent four seasons as a Portland Trail Blazers assistant coach and one season as an assistant at Indiana University. Panaggio's connection with the Trail Blazers came through head coach Maurice Cheeks, who once was an assistant at Quad City. -- Los Angeles Daily News

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Memphis Grizzlies | All Grizzlies sitelines

Griz Aide Bowls For Kids
Lionel Hollins is preparing to host the Fourth Annual Bowling for Backpacks fund-raiser Saturday at the Cordova Bowling Center. His goal is to provide backpacks, school supplies and uniforms for under-served youth. And bowling is one of those recreational activities for people from all walks of life. "It touches all levels," Hollins said. "You don't have to be wealthy to bowl. Everybody can bowl. I just think that we've been given so much and we were in the same boat as a lot of these kids needing some hope." Hollins is one of two Grizzly coaches giving back to the community. He recently returned to Memphis from Peoria, Ill., where assistant coach Mitchell Anderson just completed his eighth basketball camp. Last month, Mitchell 'JJ' Anderson's Basketball Camp unpacked in FedExForum for the first time and benefited 500 local youth. -- Memphis Commercial-Appeal

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New Orleans Hornets | All Hornets sitelines

Hornets' Sponsorship Beginning To Pick Up
Under direct orders from NBA commissioner David Stern to help the Hornets find potential corporate sponsors in New Orleans, Scott O'Neil, the league's top marketing and business executive, said the reaction from local businesses has been stronger than expected. "We're happy with the progress made so far, and the one theme that keeps jumping out at these meetings is these business leaders are committed to this community," said O'Neil, the league's senior vice president for marketing and business operations. "Getting partners that are committed to the team is important for the well-being of the franchise. Again, we're getting a strong reaction, everybody understands in a market this size that key business leaders need to be a big part of the rebirth of the city and their franchise." -- New Orleans Times-Picayune

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Artest Defends Brawl Role In Talk
Ron Artest, a man known to wear his emotions on his sleeve in a sleeveless sport, spoke to 50 children Wednesday in Detroit as part of a community-service sentence. According to accounts of the scene, he was passionate in a general theme of goodwill and persevering, though the Kings forward acquired in a trade last season from the Indiana Pacers did defend his actions regarding his role in the Nov. 19, 2004, incident against the Detroit Pistons that incited one of the nastiest brawls in U.S. sports history. "Someone started trouble and I ended it," Artest told the children at a panel on black empowerment at the Judge Mathis Community Center. "I would always encourage you to protect yourself. But in certain situations, if you can avoid them, avoid them." -- Sacramento Bee

Artest Tells Kids There's No Regrets
He needed no introduction. But he gave himself one anyway. "I'm Ron Artest from New York City," he told the children from Detroit. "Feel free to ask me questions -- outside sports." Outside of sports. This is why Artest was here, at the Mathis Community Center on Detroit's northwest side: to talk about issues outside of sports. These were Artest's first public comments in the state of Michigan since the infamous brawl at the Palace of Auburn Hills in November, 2004 -- that, too, was outside of sports, and it ultimately landed him five days of community service for his role. -- Detroit Free Press

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

U.S. Team Makes Bowen Its Final Cut
Bruce Bowen, whose invitation to USA Basketball's training camp was trumpeted as a sign the program was willing to sacrifice star power for role players, was left off the national team's roster for the World Championships. USA Basketball officials pared the roster to 12 players Wednesday by making Bowen the final cut. Washington's Gilbert Arenas left the team Monday because of a groin injury but wasn't expected to make the roster anyway. ... Bowen, 35, was the oldest player among the 18 who participated in the Las Vegas tryouts. Though he can stay in the USA Basketball program the next two years, this was probably his best opportunity to play for the national team. He will be 37 during the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. -- San Antonio Express-News

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

Petro Ready To Take On Julian Mantle
Johan Petro admitted feeling awkward displaying his delight at making the 12-man France squad for the FIBA World Championship. The 20-year-old center was selected ahead of Cyril Julian, which has all but ended the veteran's international career after 10 years and 135 caps. "I am happy, of course, but it's difficult to express my joy as I know I earned my place over another player," said Petro in L'Equipe. "Everyone is a little bit frustrated. I did not want to go back home and I know Cyril didn't either." Coach Claude Bergeaud conceded his choice was "painful" to make, then went on to warn Petro and his fellow young team-mates they would have to live up to expectations in Japan. -- FIBA.com

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Authorities Seek Arrest Of Ex-NBA Star
A Marin judge issued two arrest warrants for former NBA star Isaiah "J.R." Rider after he failed to show up for sentencing Wednesday. Marin Superior Court Judge Verna Adams waited until after 10 a.m. to call the case, which was scheduled at 9:06 a.m. Bail was set at $10,000 for each of the warrants in two separate misdemeanor cases against the basketball player, who retired in 2002. Rider pleaded guilty to six misdemeanors and three infractions in the two cases in Marin. One involves false imprisonment and battery and the second is for driving with a suspended license and related charges. -- Marin Independent Journal
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Hache Man · Aug 18, 2006

No more excuses

posted: Friday, August 18, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry

With all due respect to my man Chris Sheridan, I've got one thing to say about the upcoming World Championship:

We better win!
Chris made some great points in his column about why we won't win, but I don't want to hear them. I don't want to hear them because basketball is basketball, and if we've got the best basketball players in the world -- like we and everybody else say we do -- then we should win.
Period.
Enough about the opponents not fearing us anymore; enough about other teams playing together since they were 13 years old (last I checked Manu's been in SA for the past four years, not in Argentina playing with Pepe Sanchez, so save it); enough about us not taking these games seriously; enough about mismatched rosters.
And enough about the zone defense (in international play, a standard zone is allowed whereas in the NBA, it isn't because of the three-second defensive rule). Yes, I'd love to see the rules standardized around the world, but enough already.
I'm sick of all the excuses.
Breaking a zone is not that hard. People talk about it now like it's rocket science. Here's how you do it:
Penetrate the gaps for mid-range Js; penetrate gaps and kick it outside for longer jumpers; penetrate gaps, draw defenders from the back of the zone, and dish it to our big men for dunks and layups; or beat the zone down the floor by running.
It's as simple as that. Now tell me, what international defender can stop Dwyane Wade from penetrating the gaps? Plus, it's easier to grab offensive rebounds against a zone, so even when we miss, we should be dominating the glass.
No more excuses.
If we don't win this World Championship, then let's just take our medicine like men. Let's give the team that beats us its props, admit that our big men are soft, admit that our stars aren't as good as they think, admit that our coaches have been getting out-coached by their foreign counterparts, admit that our beloved NBA has become 30 one- or two-man teams, and go back to the drawing board.

I mean the big drawing board. The one that includes how we teach the game from elementary school on up. The one that includes the hype machine I talked about in my "Busting a 12-year-old" article. The one that includes the silly NCAA limits on the amount of time a player can be coached. The one that has the NBA marketing individuals over teams.
It all has to be revamped if we don't win this World Championship. I loved David Stern's comments in the Aug. 7 issue of The New York Times. He talked about building a basketball academy for youngsters. If we don't win this thing, I say open Stern's academy the day after the Worlds end.

Hache Man · Aug 21, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Coach K, Yi and the food

posted: Monday, August 21, 2006 | Print Entry
filed under: NBA, Olympics

Greetings from Sapporo, Japan, where I and the other four American reporters (yep, there are only five of us) here covering Team USA went to the squad's hotel for a sitdown with coach Mike Krzyzewski.

The Americans did not play Monday, and Coach K said the key to Tuesday's game against Slovenia will be which team dictates the pace. Slovenia is led by NBA players Primoz Brezec, Rasho Nesterovic, Beno Udrih and Bostjan Nachbar and will be the toughest opponent the Americans (2-0) have faced.

"They're a veteran team. You have to get them out of their style of play, because if you play their style, they can beat you," he said. "They're not going to run it up and down the court like we would like to. If they run their plays, they'll have a better chance of beating us than if they are forced to make plays.

"They can really shoot. It's amazing how well everyone can shoot. Even in warm-ups, a lot of these guys just don't miss shots."

After facing Slovenia, the Americans will face Italy, probably the best 3-point shooting team in Group D. The Italians are one of seven teams yet to lose, along with Argentina, Angola and Spain, who are all 3-0, and Greece and Turkey, both 2-0.

After speaking with Coach K, I was about to leave the hotel when I caught wind of a Nike press conference being held in LeBron James' room for Chinese and Japanese journalists. So, of course, I crashed it.

Nike had decked out the room with gold drapes, two vertical basketball racks, a black leather couch with throw pillows that had LeBron's image on them and 13 gold-framed pictures on the wall ? eight of which featured James and five of which featured Yi Jianlian of China, who Coach K had been raving about a few minutes earlier, calling him a surefire lottery pick. (Coach K estimated Yi's much-disputed true age as 22. He's listed at only 18).

LeBron said he had met Yi a year earlier on a Nike trip to Asia, and now greets him with a "happy to see you type of thing." James wouldn't take a guess at Yi's true age, and he chuckled at how the two are sort of kindred spirits. "People say I'm really 28 or 29, and I heard my birth certificate was up on the Internet, which is a little ridiculous. It comes down to being a basketball player, and it doesn't matter how old you are. [Yi] will be in the NBA."

I also got a reaction from team director Jerry Colangelo regarding critical remarks made by [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/players/profile?statsId=3411"]Etan Thomas[/URL] of the Washington Wizards questioning Colangelo's decision to engage with the U.S. military as a way to inspire the team.

"I respect his opinion. You know, when it gets down to that whole discussion of politics and war and things of that nature, people are all over the place in terms of what their personal opinions and thoughts are," Colangelo said. "The NBA has an existing program called hoops for troops. It's been a very successful program, it's been well received by the armed forces, because they feel people in uniform look for people to lift their spirits. And in conversations with people at the Pentagon they made it very clear that they were very excited about us being involved. We wanted to have certain speakers who we felt would have an impact in educating our players to what they were going into and what really was at stake here ? it was more than just a basketball tournament.

"People can take issue with it if they have different thoughts or beliefs or whatever, but having been an eyewitness to it, I didn't have a problem with it at all. And then bringing [U.S. Senator] John McCain in, who was a prisoner of war, we just felt this whole thing about patriotism, representing your country and taking pride in your country was a very important part of what we are doing because we've been criticized for not doing it in the past. So I stand by what we did."

Colangelo also mildly scolded me for mentioning that the food the Americans are eating could become a factor in their performance. The team has a full-time chef on duty, and the players are being fed American-style food. As for me, I've sampled raw octopus, raw squid, Korean barbecue and a mushroom puree concoction that may be the foulest, most vile-smelling thing ever created. But the only thing that turned my stomach was raw shrimp, served with the head still attached. Tonight we media members are headed to the Sapporo brewery for some mutton glutton. For one price, they give you 90 minutes to consume all the lamb and beer you can handle. The AP's Andy Bagnato says it is not lamb season, which he claims to know from having lived in Scotland. If anyone can shed any light on whether there actually is a lamb season, and why, please e-mail me.
Sayonara, for now.

Hache Man · Aug 21, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Updated: Aug. 20, 2006, 9:27 AM ET
Ten reasons Team USA won't win the gold

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>SAPPORO, Japan -- Here we are on the eve of Day 1 of the World Championship, and my heart tells me to go ahead and pick Team USA to win the gold. The U.S. players have developed a great camaraderie, they finally have a head coach who knows which buttons to push, and their confidence is not compromised by any misplaced cockiness.
The problem, however, resides a few inches south of my heart.
Down there, in my gut, I can't bring myself to pick them. Not when my gut keeps telling me to listen to my brain, and not when my brain keeps seizing upon what I perceive to be their shortcomings -- size and shooting, to name two -- and flashing back to images from 2002 in Indianapolis and 2004 in Athens, and even from competitions that preceded those two debacles.

Guang Niu/Getty Images
Can D-Wade and LeBron overcome Sheridan's 10 reasons they won't win?

The talent is there, but the experience is not. The will is there, but the wisdom is not. And while the camaraderie may be great, the on-court chemistry is still a work in progress.
I look at a roster headlined by tri-captains Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, I rehash everything I've heard them say about making good after their third-place showing in Athens, and I'm tempted to buy into the rah-rah dynamic, dub these guys The Redeem Team and tell y'all how great they're going to do down south in Saitama when the medal round comes along.

But I just can't do it. Here are 10 reasons why:
<OFFER>
1. The experience factor. Most of the better teams in this tournament have been playing together for years and years, not just a few weeks. The players from Argentina have been together since they were on their national junior squad, giving them almost a decade of tournament experience together. The international game is more of a team game than the NBA game, and nothing builds a team quite like growing up together as a unit. Team USA can't compete in this category.
2. The 3-point factor. The international 3-point line is nearly three feet closer to the basket than the NBA line, putting a huge premium on the outside shot. This U.S. team has more shooters than the 2004 Athens team, but there's still no Ray Allen or Michael Redd. And if Joe Johnson pulls a Richard Jefferson and suddenly can't hit the broad side of a barn, trouble lurks.
3. The officiating factor. Squirreled away in a tiny hotel room somewhere here is a referee who can't wait to see LeBron James alone on a breakaway -- not to see him dunk, mind you, but to whistle him for traveling. FIBA referees seem to take a perverse pleasure in seeing the U.S. lose, and if you don't believe me, go ask Tim "FIBA Sucks" Duncan.
4. The familiarity factor. Everyone around the world watches NBA basketball, but try to find a single U.S. player who watches Euroleague games. The opponents know the Americans' tendencies inside and out, but most of the international players are mysteries to Team USA.
5. The physicality factor. FIBA referees will call hand-checking fouls like they're going out of style, but they'll let players get away with armed combat underneath the basket without calling a foul. That doesn't bode well for skinny Chris Bosh, and it'll be an eye-opener for young Dwight Howard.
6. The overconfidence factor. The U.S. will cruise through the opening round, but the quality of the opponents it will see in the single-elimination medal round will be a whole different matter. If Team USA's confidence gets artificially high after the first week, it won't enter the medal round with the healthy respect for its opponents that it needs.
7. The rock-hard, slippery ball factor. The U.S. team been practicing since day one with the slightly smaller Molten ball used in FIBA tournaments, but those balls are broken in. It'll be a different story down the road when some tournament lackey breaks out a brand-new ball for a U.S. game. Happens every time.
8. The food factor. If you don't like Japanese food, you can subsist over here on American fast food. But try eating that stuff for three weeks, and watch your energy level plummet in inverse proportion to your climbing cholesterol count.
9. The smell factor. This is a little disgusting, but it's true: Some of these teams stink, literally. Players on international teams travel to and from the arenas in their uniforms, and many players forsake showers as a result. I got a really close look at Argentina during the Worlds in Indianapolis, and I do not believe Fabricio Oberto, Luis Scola or Andres Nocioni bathed during the entire tournament. BO may be repulsive, but it also keeps defenders a few extra inches away.
10. The fear factor. International teams are no longer afraid of U.S. teams, and since they always go into games against Team USA as underdogs, they play with a looseness that often works in their favor.
We didn't even list the fatigue factor, and that'll be a big deal too. It always is.
I've been covering U.S. national teams since the 1996 Olympics, each tournament leaving a snapshot in my mind not of dominance, but of deterioration. Team USA always shows up with the most talent, but always leaves looking the most exhausted.
In Atlanta 10 years ago, Karl Malone was at the airport and on a plane back home just a couple of hours after the U.S. team used a strong surge at the start of the second half to break open a close game and defeat Yugoslavia for the gold. The bombing in Olympic Park, the substandard accommodations at the Omni Hotel and the unyielding heat and humidity had drained all the enthusiasm out of Team USA, and Malone's determination to put it all behind him as quickly as possible ended up being a precursor for what I'd see from U.S. national teams over the next decade. It was always the same in the end: Exhaustion sapped their spirit, and when all was said and done, the U.S. players just wanted to go home.
Four years ago in Indianapolis, the limousines were lined up outside the Westin Hotel on what we journalists were calling "The Darkest Night." It was the Saturday before the gold medal game between Argentina and Yugoslavia, and Team USA had just been thumped by Spain in the fifth-place game to finish 6-3 in the tournament.
Most of the U.S. players dashed back to their rooms, hastily packed their bags and jumped into their limos for the drive to Chicago and flights to points beyond. The coaching staff and officials from USA Basketball convened in the hotel bar late that evening and tried to find a bright side, reasoning that the sixth-place finish might somehow be good for USA Basketball because there would never again be a fear among players of being on the first U.S. team of the Dream Team era to lose.
Team USA came back the next year with a loaded team that romped through the Tournament of the Americas qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico, putting a thorough beating on Argentina in the gold medal game. But a year later, with apathy and terrorism fears peaking, more than two-thirds of that team had jumped ship heading into the Athens Olympics.
It was there that we saw the beginning of Larry Brown's fall from grace. His stubborn refusal to play James, Wade and Anthony contributed to Team USA's putrid performance in the opening round when it lost to Puerto Rico and Lithuania and had trouble defeating the host country, Greece. The U.S. then moved on to the medal round and was back-picked and backdoored to death by Argentina in the semifinals.

I still remember it like it was yesterday -- the USA defeated Lithuania for the bronze, and then I sat in the press tribune and watched the medal ceremony after Argentina defeated Italy for the gold. U.S. forward Richard Jefferson stood farthest to the right on the medal podium, his eyes repeatedly shifting to his right as he stole a glance at the gold medals draped around the necks of Ginobili, Pepe Sanchez, Ruben Wolkowyski and the rest of the Argentines, whose flag-waving, shirt-throwing celebration seemed to last almost an hour after the gold medal game ended. I still recall how mystifying and absurd it was to be gazing down on Allen Iverson wearing a flowery wreath on his head (don't ask me why the IOC makes athletes wear those things; I wish I knew the answer) and a bronze medal around his neck. I have never seen any player looking as uncomfortable as he did at that moment.
Some might say all that history should mean nothing, but I can't buy into that argument. To me, it means a lot. The cycle keeps repeating, and I believe it could repeat itself three Sundays from now.

AP Photo/Wong Maye-E
Spain, featuring Grizzlies star Pau Gasol, enters the tourney on a roll.

I expect the U.S. team to roar through the opening round, tested by no one other than Slovenia, and I expect complacency to set in prior to its Round of 16 single-elimination game on Sunday, Aug. 27. Team USA will win that one in a game that ends up being closer than it should have been, and will be so awakened and rejuvenated for the quarterfinal match that it will be considered a shoo-in for the gold.
But then the semifinals will arrive, and Team USA will run into that Basque-etball buzzsaw, Spain.
That's the one I'm picking Team USA to lose, and I see Pau Gasol's team going on to defeat Argentina in the gold medal game.
Team USA will win third place over Greece, and Wade, Anthony and James will have another bronze entry for their sock drawers.
In two years, maybe I'll be ready to pick them to win the gold medal in Beijing. For now, I believe Espa?a es N?mero Uno, y Argentina es N?mero Dos.

We'll eventually see a true Redeem Team in 2008, but for now, in my opinion, Team USA is working its way up the learning curve. As an American, I hope I'm wrong. But as a seasoned and trained objective observer, that's the way I see this thing unfolding. We'll know by Labor Day whether I am right
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Hache Man · Aug 21, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Updated: Aug. 21, 2006, 10:07 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 21

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
<OFFER>

Previous Reports:

Aug. 11 | Aug. 14 | Aug. 15 | Aug. 16 | Aug. 17 | Aug. 18

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Allen Caught Between Courts
According to Tony Allen's attorney, Michael Zaslavsky, trials of this nature typically last three to four days. But that does not include the time Allen must spend in Chicago awaiting a verdict. At the very least, the veteran guard, who is still coming back from right knee surgery, will miss September workouts. "Regardless of fines and team sanctions, there will be consequences for missing practices and missing time, and that will come in competing for a job," said Celtics executive director of basketball operations Danny Ainge. "But I know that's minuscule compared to the peace Tony will feel once it's all resolved." Healthy and unburdened by legal problems, Allen should be a key part of the Boston rotation. But for now, he is not even part of the team's long-term plans, as Ainge did not exercise Allen's fourth-year option in July with the other players in his draft class (Sebastian Telfair, Al Jefferson, Delonte West). The Celtics have until Oct. 31 to pick up the option. By then, they hope, the trial will be long over. -- Boston Globe

Ainge Finds Little To Buy
Though characters including Bonzi Wells, Keith Van Horn and Reggie Evans are still available, Danny Ainge may be taking a cue from the summer's quiet tone. The Celtics you see now, with four players (Paul Pierce, Wally Szczerbiak, Al Jefferson, Kendrick Perkins) recovering from various minor surgeries, are the Celtics you are likely going to see in October. Though Ainge -- buoyed by the wishes of Pierce -- went into the summer looking to secure additional veteran help for his freshly extended star, a familiar problem hasn't changed. Though Ratliff would fit in as a sound defensive presence and influence behind Perkins and Jefferson, this team is still far too young to match the hopes of its antsy public. Young talent, the substance of Ainge's pitch for a veteran, is now also the source of a puzzling numbers game. -- Boston Herald

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Brezec Could Use A Break
Primoz Brezec has been a faithful and productive player on Slovenia's national basketball team, a key component in the country's first appearance in the FIBA World Basketball Championship. But ... Brezec could be facing the beginning of the end of his international career. Brezec, Slovenia's 7-foot-1 center, has played basketball virtually nonstop since he joined the Charlotte Bobcats in 2004. A regular for Slovenia's junior and senior national teams since he was 15, he came to the Bobcats from the Indiana Pacers, for whom he was a little-used substitute for three seasons. ... "It kind of wears you down," said Brezec. ... "It's a big deal to represent your country, but I think I'm going to have to make some serious decisions next spring." -- Charlotte Observer

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With Gooden, Pollard It's Time To Trim
With the impending signing of free agent Drew Gooden, the Cavaliers will have a full roster of 16 players. After adding center Scot Pollard on Friday, there's still some tinkering to be done with the roster. Plus, the Cavaliers still plan on inviting veteran combo guard David Wesley to training camp if a deal can be worked out. ''We have some things we can do,'' Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry said. ''From there, we'll sit back and see what happens.'' If Wesley is added, that would give them 17 players. Eventually, two players will have to go. As the roster improves every year, trimming it becomes more difficult. But there are ways to do it. -- Lorain Morning Journal

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World Games Serve As Tune-Up For Delfino
The World Championship began Saturday in Japan, and Pistons forward Carlos Delfino is there with Argentina getting a good tune-up for the upcoming NBA season. Team scouting director Tony Ronzone was expected to travel to Japan to watch Delfino, but the early reports from the exhibition schedule pleased the front office. Team president Joe Dumars and coach Flip Saunders have said Delfino will get minutes next season and be in the playing rotation, subbing for shooting guard Richard Hamilton and small forward Tayshaun Prince. -- Detroit Free Press

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Redick Cleared For Court Duty
J.J. Redick, the first-round draft pick of the Orlando Magic, was cleared late Friday to resume playing basketball this week, more than two months after being diagnosed and temporarily benched with a herniated disk in his back. He started shooting again Saturday. "I guess any time something you love so much is taken away from you, it makes you appreciate it even more," he said. "It made me realize what an all-important part of my life it is." Redick, who became the all-time leading scorer in the Atlantic Coast Conference during his four years at Duke, was forced to miss the Magic's rookie league and a chance to play for the USA Basketball team that began play Saturday in the World Championship. -- Orlando Sentinel

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Dallas Mavericks | All Mavericks sitelines

Howard Could Draw A Prince-Ly Contract
Mark Cuban's policy is not to comment on ongoing negotiations. Five players from Josh Howard's draft class -- Cleveland's LeBron James, Miami's Dwyane Wade, Denver's Carmelo Anthony and Toronto's Chris Bosh -- signed extensions earlier this summer. Howard won't command the money those players received. Tayshaun Prince would be a good starting point. The Detroit small forward signed a five-year, $47.5 million contract on the eve of opening night last season. Howard averaged more points, rebounds, steals and shot for a higher percentage than Prince did last season. "No disrespect to him," Howard said, "but he doesn't do the same thing for Detroit that I do for Dallas." -- Dallas Morning News

Howard Devoted To Kids In Old Neighborhood
Some athletes distance themselves from this sort of past. Josh Howard embraces it. He knows the hardships and temptations that face the kids in this neighborhood. More important, he knows the faces in this neighborhood. The cycle won't be broken until more people take an interest. "If I can let these kids know anything, it's to think before you act," Howard says. "I was one of those kids who didn't think. I would just go out there and do." Howard has done pretty well for himself since leaving Winston-Salem. The former Wake Forest star helped push the Mavericks to The Finals in only his third season and is on his way to becoming one of the NBA's top small forwards. Has any of this success gone to his head? "Nope," Helen Howard says. "He's still my Joshua." And still remembers where he's from. -- Dallas Morning News

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Metro State's Dunlap Joining Nuggets
Suitors from a variety of NCAA Division I schools, from Wisconsin-Milwaukee to Portland to Loyola Marymount, had expressed interest in Metro State coach Mike Dunlap in recent years. But the next move in Dunlap's coaching career will be across the street to the Pepsi Center, where he'll become an assistant to Nuggets coach George Karl, according to an NBA source. Dunlap, 49, replaces Scott Brooks, who left to take an assistant's position with the Sacramento Kings. Dunlap said Saturday that he is not at liberty to discuss the new position, but he will be happy to talk about it Monday. -- Denver Post

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Richardson Facing Surgery, Trade Talk Revived
Guard Jason Richardson is scheduled to undergo surgery on his left knee Tuesday in Los Angeles, according to a source familiar with the situation. The clean-up procedure is not considered to be a major one, and Richardson is expected to be back in time for training camp in October. ... According to two league sources, the Warriors have revived discussions with three teams on a multiple-player swap, with the principal parts involving Mike Dunleavy Jr. going to the Clippers, Corey Maggette to Denver and Joe Smith to Atlanta, with the Warriors getting Al Harrington. -- San Francisco Chronicle

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Battier Gets Better Of Collision With Yao
Shane Battier finished with three fouls, all against Yao. "Last chance to get in my licks," Battier said. "I had to take advantage. I told him I'm not gonna do that to him again, not even in practice. "I thought he played real well tonight, considering he really hasn't been playing basketball for the past four months. He's not in great shape, but he'll get in shape soon." A smirking Yao walked up from behind and stuck his head into the conversation. "Jeff (Van Gundy) doesn't like players who talk a lot," he needled. "I think you talk too much." Battier threw up his arms and laughed. Teammates already. -- Houston Chronicle

Yao Sees Improvement From Huge Loss
NBA All-star center Yao Ming thought the China has made considerable improvement at the World Men's Basketball Championship although the Asian champions lost to the United States by 31 points here on Sunday. This was China's second defeat at the championships following their 84-69 loss to Italy one day before. "Our performance in this match is totally out of my expectation," said Yao Ming, who contributed 21 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and two blocks for China before fouled out halfway in the fourth quarter. "I think we played very well today." -- Xinhua News Agency

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Bryant Stays Busy With Rehab, Charity
Kobe Bryant has followed Team USA in its preparation for the World Championships, which started with a 111-100 win over Puerto Rico yesterday in Sapporo, Japan. The shooting guard watched workouts in Las Vegas and plans to join the squad for competition next summer. "I'm dying; I want to get out and compete," said Bryant. "I want to hound the opposition with the fellas. It's definitely tough. I just want to go out there and help us win." Looking to make contributions abroad in other ways, Bryant provided a unique opportunity to eight minority college students this summer by funding travel scholarships with his new VIVO Foundation. After spending eight days touring Italy -- with stops in Rome, Florence, and Venice -- the students returned to California last Wednesday. "It just shows them that there's more out there than just your city or neighboring states," said Bryant. -- Boston Globe

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Mason Takes His Best Shot At Turnaround
He's in a contract year, and players historically have played some of the best ball of their lives when millions of dollars are at stake. It's no coincidence that Speedy Claxton engineered a Sixth Man Award runner-up season last year then cashed in on a new $25-million deal with the Atlanta Hawks this offseason. Be it pride or riches, Desmond Mason has plenty of incentives to return to the player we knew only a short time ago. And rest assured the Hornets are that much closer to playoff land if Mason reincarnates his game to the four-year stretch from 2001-05 that saw his scoring average increase each year from 12.4 to his career peak of 17.2. Bank on the Mason of old resurfacing in November. Chalk up last season's struggles to a nasty one-year hitch in his career. -- The Oklahoman

Bennett In Win-Win Situation; City In Win-Lose Situation
Clay Bennett is in a win-win situation. Soon, Bennett will either run an NBA franchise in a cosmo city with a state-of-the-art arena or he will bring a permanent NBA franchise to his hometown. Financial home run or local hero. Anyone interested in ducking either scenario? Oklahoma City is in a win-lose situation. Home to a permanent NBA franchise or back to minor-league status. Cheering Ray Allen or reminiscing about the days when Chris Paul played the Ford Center. Does OKC's anxiety temper Bennett's bonanza? Good question, and no easy answer. Bennett chooses his speech carefully when he orders a burrito supreme, much less when the basketball fans of two, maybe three, cities teeter on his every word. -- The Oklahoman

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Bibby Adds Spring To Step
Mike Bibby didn't just walk into the place and greet a throng of youth basketball campers at Basketball Town on Friday. He glided. He -- dare we say -- zipped from spot to spot. Yes, the 6-foot-2 Bibby darting in any form, even in sweats, bears notice. The new-look Kings guard hopes his sleek physique produces lasting results. Bibby is 18 pounds lighter than he was in the postseason. He is down to 188 pounds, the lightest he has been since his college days at Arizona nine years ago. ... "I feel better," Bibby said. "I'm eating different things, better things. It happened fast. Lost 12 pounds in a few weeks. I feel like I'm moving better laterally already. I can really tell. We'll see how it goes." -- Sacramento Bee

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Bowen Disappointed At Missing U.S. Cut
The United States opened the World Championships early Saturday morning with a victory over Puerto Rico. Bruce Bowen wasn't among those watching. The TV was off at Bowen's home in Miami. But not out of protest. "I'm having a hard enough time," Bowen said, "just getting my regular sleep patterns back." Cut from the U.S. roster last week, Bowen will get more time to rest than he would like. "I'm not bitter or mad at anyone," he said. "I just wish I would have gotten a better opportunity to show I could be on the team." -- San Antonio Express-News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

U.S. Prepares For First Real Test
After opening the World Championships with two convincing victories this weekend, the U.S. basketball team has established itself as the favorite at this year's event in Japan. The American side ran past Puerto Rico 111100 on Saturday and then manhandled China 12190 yesterday. But the heavy lifting is yet to come. After a day off today, the U.S. faces the two best teams in its group -- Slovenia and Italy -- on Tuesday and Wednesday. And following an expected rout of Senegal in its final preliminary game, the U.S. faces the real test: the singleelimination round, where one bad day can undo all the good done in pool play. Just ask Spain: They went unbeaten in the first round of the Olympics a year ago, but went home without a medal when the U.S.beat them in the quarterfinals. -- The New York Sun

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Draft Talk[/FONT]

Look Out For Yi
There is always something to see and in the modern world of basketball it is always prudent to keep an eye out for international talent. Not that I've ever pretended to be a scout, but if you are a serious fan do yourself a favor and remember the name Yi Jianlian. Or, to make it easier, just Yi. He certainly appears to be the next major Chinese export to the NBA, though it is hard to tell exactly when he'll make it. He's 6-foot-11 and athletic and already has some good muscle though it needs development. He scored 13 points againt the US and had seven rebounds. And, most importantly, he's just 17. Or so I think or at least am told. His age has been a mystery for some time, the Chinese used to list him as being in his twenties and now they say he's 18. Some US players asked to get the straight answer and he told everyone he's still 17. The belief is the Chinese are trying to protect him from leaving for anywhere before the Beijing Olympics. The running joke is that by 2008, he'll be listed as being 15. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Rollerson Holds On To NBA Dream
Ron Rollerson has traveled around the world as a member of the Harlem Globetrotters. He's played professionally for teams in such places as Spain and Uruguay. But, none of that has deterred him from his dream of playing NBA basketball. The Pennsauken native and Faith Christian Academy graduate, who was a four-year player at Temple University, flirted with getting a spot in the NBA back in 2002 when he was part of training camp with the Seattle SuperSonics and the 76ers, but was cut from the Sixers' preseason roster a few weeks before the start of the season. ... "I'm 25 now, I still have about two or three more years to try to get a spot in the NBA, if possible. I'm almost forgotten about in that realm, but I plan on being back there. Believe me, if I get a shot next year, I'm going to make it. I know I'll make it." -- Cherry Hill Courier-Post
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Hache Man · Aug 21, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (1 New Article Added 8/18/06)

<TABLE width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>NBA Rumor Central: Four-Team Trade In The Works?
</TD><TD align=right>Other Rumors: MLB | NFL
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle>You are signed into Insider

and have access to this premium feature.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD colSpan=3>Monday, August 21</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD width=65>WHO</TD><TD>INTERESTED</TD><TD>THE SKINNY</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD noWrap align=middle>

Al Harrington
Hawks
</TD><TD>Nuggets?
Pacers?
Warriors?
Lakers?
</TD><TD>Four-Team Trade In The Works?
Aug 21 - Two league sources have informed the San Francisco Chronicle that the Warriors have revived discussions with three teams to acquire Al Harrington. According to the newspaper, the principal parts involve Mike Dunleavy Jr. going to the Clippers, Corey Maggette to Denver and Joe Smith to Atlanta, with the Warriors getting Harrington.
</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD width=65>WHO</TD><TD>INTERESTED</TD><TD>THE SKINNY</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow vAlign=top><TD noWrap align=middle>

Keyon Dooling
Magic
</TD><TD>Heat?
</TD><TD>Dooling On The Block?
Aug 21 - The Palm Beach Post reported over the weekend that the Orlando Magic might want to trade Keyon Dooling. A source told the newspaper that the Miami Heat might be interested in reacquiring Dooling.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Aug 22, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/21/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/21/06)

Updated: Aug. 22, 2006, 11:35 AM ET
USA finding its form at Worlds

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

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SAPPORO, Japan -- Much has been made both here in the Far East and back home in the United Sates about Team USA's lax halfcourt defense, and those criticisms were looking increasingly valid in the early moments of Tuesday's game against Slovenia.

Layup after layup came easily to the players from the small nation of two million before Team USA's coaching staff figured out a way to do something about it.

"Mainly, we didn't trap, we went to a different way of defending the ball screen, and also with the dribble-handoff, we let the guard go through," coach Mike Krzyzewski told Insider, "and that seemed to not give them momentum into the lane. We did that well until the fourth quarter when we let up defensively."

"I don't think there will ever be dominance. The world is too good at basketball. For us to think we're going to dominate is very arrogant, and it's not what we believe." USA coach Mike Krzyzewski

By then, however, this one was well in hand ... even after an 11-0 run by Slovenia cut the deficit down to 11 points with just over two minutes left. On Team USA's next possession, Dwyane Wade made a key decision, opting to go right back up with an offensive rebound rather than bringing the ball back outside to run off some clock. Wade hit the shot and was fouled, and Slovenia's last-ditch run was over. The 114-95 victory improved the American's record to 3-0 heading into Wednesday's game against Italy, which sports an identical record.

Take away the first quarter and about a five-minute stretch of the fourth quarter, and this was the absolute best the U.S. team had played since first getting together more than a month ago in Las Vegas.

Teams that win these tournaments are the teams that continually get better as the tournament rolls on, and Tuesday's game was an indication the Americans are heading in the right direction at the right time. We've yet to see any fatigue, either mental or physical, and we've seen Coach K figure out that the best way to have this team playing its best is to essentially divide it into two teams ? a first unit of LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, Shane Battier and Chris Paul, and a second unit of Wade, Kirk Hinrich, Joe Johnson, Elton Brand and Antawn Jamison.

When he made his first substitutions midway through the first quarter Tuesday night, Krzyzewski sent in the entire second unit.

"We don't have to do it that way, that's just the way we've done it thus far," Coach K said. "As we continue to learn about them we may make some more changes."

Another big defensive change Tuesday was a de-emphasis on full-court pressure out of respect for the ballhandling abilities of Slovenian guards Beno Udrih, Jaka Lakovic and Sani Bacirovic. The Americans applied token man pressure in the backcourt to take an extra second or two off the shot clock, but there was a noticeable difference in the number of risks they took on defense to try to create transition baskets. This time, many of the 25 turnovers they forced were a result of a second defender helping out in halfcourt sets.

There also was improvement in the 3-point shooting, with Battier going 3-for-3 from behind the arc to lead a 10-for-20 showing. The Americans shot 56 percent overall to help overcome a fairly sizeable deficiency on the boards, where they were outrebounded 40-29 including 14-8 on the offensive glass.

"They were executing real well, but once we stepped up our intensity and adjusted, we played much better," Brand said.

Wednesday's game against Italy will pit the Americans against the best 3-point shooting team they will have seen to date. But they're not going into this match blindly as they did two years ago against Italy. In a tuneup match in Cologne, Germany, prior to the Athens Olympics, Italy's shooters drained 17 3s and embarrassed the Americans in a precursor of what was to come.
Italy has a younger squad than it had two years ago and returns only four players from the 2004 team that won the silver medal in Athens, one of whom, shooting guard Gianluca Basile, is 5-for-12 on 3-pointers in this tournament.

FIBA, the sport's international governing body, ranks Italy just sixth in the world after a disappointing ninth-place finish at last summer's Eurobasket tournament that expedited the national federation's transition to a younger roster, although it does not include forward Andrea Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in this year's NBA draft.

Against Italy, defending the 3-point shot will be a primary focus. Italy is averaging 10 3s per game thus far, while attempting a little over 27 per game. Also, since Italy does not have the caliber of guards that Slovenia has, we might see a return to more of the fullcourt trapping and gambling for steals that we saw against Puerto Rico and China.

This tournament will become more and more about making the right adjustments from game to game and quarter to quarter. Everyone on Team USA realizes that now, and we're not hearing any of the misplaced bravado we heard back on Day One in Vegas.

"I don't think there will ever be dominance. The world is too good at basketball. For us to think we're going to dominate is very arrogant, and it's not what we believe," Coach K said. "That's not even our goal. Our goal is to be the best we can be, and hopefully be good enough to compete for the World Championship."
Just goes to show that adjustments, both in strategy and mentality, are turning this team into a unit that might just bring back the gold. There's still a lot of basketball left, however, so let's not get too carried away after this one.
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Hache Man · Aug 22, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/21/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/21/06)

Updated: Aug. 22, 2006, 10:19 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 22

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
<OFFER>

Previous Reports:

Aug. 14 | Aug. 15 | Aug. 16 | Aug. 17 | Aug. 18 | Aug. 21

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Harrington Trade Might Be On Again
The Hawks' sign-and-trade deal that would send forward Al Harrington to the Indiana Pacers is back on again, Hawks general manager Billy Knight said Monday. "We're working on a deal, but until you have a deal signed, there's nothing to talk about publicly," Knight said. "I'm not saying we have a deal. Everybody likes to jump the gun on these situations. But until we have a deal signed, we don't have a deal." According to a person familiar with the negotiation, however, all sides are hopeful that the details can be worked out over the next 48 hours, thus completing a weeks-long process that began with rumors of Harrington's former team -- he played his first six NBA seasons in Indiana -- wanting him back. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Boston Celtics | All Celtics sitelines

Powe To Host Free Camp
Leon Powe didn't attend his first basketball camp until he was 15 or 16 years old. Before that, there was nothing available to the former Oakland Tech High and Cal star. "I couldn't go anyway ... I didn't have any money," Powe said. "That would have been huge for me." Money won't be an issue for youngsters on Saturday, when Powe, about to begin his rookie season with the Boston Celtics, hosts the first Team Powe Basketball Camp. Open to boys and girls ages 7 through 18, the camp will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Merritt College. Admission is free. "I'm going to be there all day," Powe said. "I'll tell these kids the same thing I say to all the kids. You've just got to work hard, and when it seems like it's impossible, you've got to keep pushing until you've given everything." -- Oakland Tribune

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Charlotte Bobcats | All Bobcats sitelines

Adam's Settling In Fine
Adam Morrison says he learned more than just how to play basketball from Team USA players like Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, Dwight Howard and former Wake Forest standout Chris Paul. "I just kinda learned from all the guys about off-the-court stuff and a little about how to handle the regular season," Morrison said. "Just little stuff here and there. But the biggest lesson I learned was how hard those guys play and what level they play at." For now, Morrison's settling in to his new hometown. "It's a great city and it's quiet," Morrison said of Charlotte. "I've only been here a little bit, but everybody's been nice and friendly." -- Gaston Gazette

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Cleveland Cavaliers | All Cavs sitelines

LeBron Seriously Means Business
Athletic shoe and apparel retailers are growing in China. The two major shoe companies, Nike and the newly merged adidas-Reebok, are battling in the massive market, and LeBron James smells opportunity. "I say all the time, and I tell my friends and teammates, that you have to go global,'' James said. "In basketball and business.'' It is more than just talk. James and his new company, LRMR Marketing, have made China and Japan huge targets. As they outlined at a seminar last month in Akron, James has a strategy to increase his exposure in Asia by Aug. 8, 2008, the opening of the Beijing Olympics. That's why it was a lock that he would be playing for Team USA this summer in the world championship. Additionally, the Cavaliers are in talks to open the NBA season next year playing in China, and he's planning on being back in 2008 for the Olympics. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

Not Just Another Pretty Face
When the Cavaliers season tips off on November 1, Cavalier fans will see a new-look squad at The Q. And this season, they might see a new-look reserve forward/center every night thereafter. That's because this past Friday afternoon, the Cavaliers inked free agent big man, Scot Pollard -- a player whose low-post prowess over his productive career has been overshadowed by his change of hairstyles from any given game to the next. From the Elvis Presley mutton-chops to the skinny samurai, Pollard has been known to de- and re-coiffe more frequently than Cher. He is euphemistically known in the professional basketball world as a "free spirit." But that reputation -- although probably well-earned -- belies the fact that Pollard can, and will, bang with the bigs all night in the low post. -- Cavs.com

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Indiana Pacers | All Pacers sitelines

Pacers Closing In On Deal For Harrington
The Indiana Pacers are on the verge of bringing Al Harrington back to the franchise via a trade with the Atlanta Hawks. Harrington's agent, Arn Tellem, confirmed the apparent end to the ongoing negotiating saga Monday evening. "It's very close to getting done with Indiana," Tellem stated to The Star through a spokesperson. Pacers CEO Donnie Walsh maintained his policy of not commenting on transactions until they are signed and approved by the NBA office, but he did not dispute the statement. "I hope so," Walsh said. ... Atlanta will sign Harrington to a four-year contract for a reported $36 million before completing the trade. He will be paid $7.6 million by the Pacers next season, making him the second-highest-paid team member behind Jermaine O'Neal. -- Indianapolis Star

In Pacers' Case, Owners May Be Right
A familiar scenario has played out in Indianapolis this summer. Veteran personnel executives Donnie Walsh and Larry Bird created an off-season game plan to fortify the team's weaknesses and just as they were about to cement the final piece, ownership stepped in and voided the plan. Conflicts between the folks who know the game and the folks who hold the purse strings are pretty common in sports, but what makes this latest episode remarkable is that the moneyman for once is right. As they say, there's a first time for everything. -- The New York Sun

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Miami Heat | All Heat sitelines

Fun Time Is Par For Shaq's Course
Lining up his first official tee shot of the afternoon, Shaquille O'Neal waggled the club like a matchstick. He was dressed in a black polo, jean shorts, a backward black baseball hat and sneakers the size of pontoons, the ensemble of a man with no illusions about his golf game. "Just pretend it's a free throw," muttered the 7-footer to his right. Then a grin. "No pressure." O'Neal glared, yet apparently heeded Alonzo Mourning's advice anyway. He missed badly. No worries. Shaq smiled that big Shaq smile around his cigar, which he hadn't bothered to take out of his mouth, and all was happy again. Not everyone could laugh off a dribbler into the water while surrounded by people paying thousands of dollars just to tee off next to him. -- Westchester Journal News

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Philadelphia 76ers | All 76ers sitelines

Sixers Give Wagner A Workout
Former Camden High School star Dajuan Wagner had a workout with the 76ers recently at their practice facility at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound Wagner is trying to work his way back into the NBA after battling knee injuries and colitis over his three-year career with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Sixers president Billy King confirmed Wagner's workout and said he "looked good." ... The Golden State Warriors have been to Cherry Hill to watch Wagner play. Also, his agent, Leon Rose, said several European teams have shown interest, including Maccabi Tel Aviv. -- Cherry Hill Courier-Post

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Dallas Mavericks | All Mavericks sitelines

Battle Of NBA Stars A Big Draw
Pau Gasol and Dirk Nowitzki provide the headline attraction for Monday afternoon's 4 p.m. game here. Both are NBA All-Star forwards. Gasol collects a lofty paycheck from the Memphis Grizzlies. Nowitzki's millions come from eccentric Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban's bank account. Both giants provide their respective teams, Spain and Germany, incredible exposure on the national and international levels. And both players do the little things exceptionally well. -- The Japan Times

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Denver Nuggets | All Nuggets sitelines

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Golden State Warriors | All Warriors sitelines

Richardson To Have Knee Surgery
On the front page of the Warriors' Web site, the team has prominently placed a picture of veteran guard Jason Richardson, suspended in mid-air and about to complete a one-handed slam dunk, in order to help sell partial season-ticket packages. The team is hopeful that's not false advertising. The Warriors' leading scorer for the past three seasons is scheduled to have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee today in Los Angeles, team officials confirmed Monday, but they anticipate it to be a minor procedure with a short recovery time. Even though the surgery was not originally scheduled at the end of the season, the work is meant only to clean out debris from typical wear and tear from five seasons in the NBA. One team source said that Richardson, who has averaged 77 games per season since entering the league in 2001, is expected to be back on the court weeks before the Warriors open training camp on Oct.3. -- Oakland Tribune

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Houston Rockets | All Rockets sitelines

Rockets Are Hoping To Say 'We Told You So'
For now, the Rockets have to be loving what they are seeing. When Battier took a charge from Yao Ming on Sunday, he showcased typical Battier, doing whatever is necessary to win the moment. In his first minute of Team USA's first exhibition game, Battier dove to a loose ball, punched it ahead to a teammate and saw the play end with a Dwyane Wade dunk. Battier was not credited for anything, but those are plays that win. Watch him closely in Japan the next few weeks, and it will be clear he does more than provide "intangibles" or the "little things," those clich?s for contributions not measured in agate type. His contributions are tangible, and they are not "little things." They are the things that win games. That's why Battier is playing for the national team. -- Houston Chronicle

Badiane Ready To Leap Into Action
The Rockets aren't saying Malick Badiane will ever be ready. But when you watch him come off the bench for Senegal and virtually throw himself into the action, it is not difficult to see what intrigues them. His energy. "I bring athleticism and defense into a game," Badiane said. "I know that I am never going to be a big scorer in the league. I can get my points by hustling and being active. But I think that I can make a contribution by being very aggressive on defense, getting blocked shots and going after every rebound." -- Houston Chronicle

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Los Angeles Lakers | All Lakers sitelines

His Feats Stood Above the Rest
He was arguably the dominant sports figure of his time, and Los Angeles can be grateful that some of that was spent here. If Wilton Norman Chamberlain had lived, he would have been 70 Monday. To the sports public, he was Wilt the Stilt, or the Big Dipper. He hated both nicknames and wished, at least on the latter, that they'd call him Aurora Borealis, something a bit more sophisticated. Whenever they pick any all-time basketball team, Wilt has to be on it. If he isn't, the team is a fraud. He died Oct. 12, 1999. In his playing days, he was listed at 7 feet 1 1/16 inches. He was probably closer to 7-4 and weighed between 270 and 320 most of his career. He never challenged the height listing, knowing that, in his case, bigger would not make things better. -- Los Angeles Times

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Portland Trail Blazers | All Blazers sitelines

Complaint Involving Randolph Investigated
The Portland Police Bureau acknowledged Monday that it is investigating a sexual assault complaint that was made on Aug. 14 involving Trail Blazers forward Zach Randolph. "It's possible he's a witness; it's possible he's a suspect," said Sgt. Brian Schmautz, Portland police spokesman. "We're still working through the information in the complaint and investigating." A detective in the bureau's sex assault detail has been assigned to the case and interviews still are being conducted, Schmautz said. The investigation apparently stems from a complaint by one of two women who were with Randolph and another man in a hotel room in downtown Portland. The room at the Hotel Vintage Plaza was rented by Randolph. -- The Oregonian

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Sacramento Kings | All Kings sitelines

Maloofs, Mutombo Team Up For Good Cause
Dikembe Mutombo, even at 40 years old, would be of great use to the Kings and the Maloof family ownership as a shot-blocking, defensive-rebounding center. However, Mutombo is under contract with the Houston Rockets and unavailable to play for the Kings. That has not stopped Mutombo and the Maloofs from combining on another project. On Sept. 2, Mutombo will return to his native Zaire (now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in Kinshasa to open the new Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital and Research Center. It's a $29 million facility named after Mutombo's late mother. Mutombo, through his Foundation, played a huge role in the facility's creation from vision to construction to unveiling. Fund-raising was one of his initial obstacles, and that's where the Maloofs came in with a $250,000 donation. -- Sacramento Bee

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

Parker Won't Have Surgery
Spurs doctors put a splint on Tony Parker's broken right index finger Monday after determining he doesn't need surgery. Parker will wear the splint at least four weeks. The team's medical staff will re-evaluate Parker in a month. The Spurs open training camp in France in just less than six weeks. Until then, Parker won't be able to work to improve his jump shot, but team officials remain hopeful he won't have to miss much, if any, of camp. "Any time there's an injury, the initial concern is worse-case," Spurs general manager R.C. Buford said. "If this is it, this is about as good as we could have anticipated." -- San Antonio Express-News

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

Jazz Pick To Receive Cousy Award
Dee Brown hasn't even been to a Utah Jazz training camp yet, but the No. 46 pick in the 2006 NBA Draft is in the Naismith Hall of Fame today. Brown is in Hartford, Conn., to be one of the featured personalities along with NBA great Bob Cousy as they help announce a new exhibit in the Naismith Hall that pays tribute to Cousy. Brown was the recipient of the 2006 Cousy Award that honors the nation's top men's collegiate point guard. As the newest Cousy recipient, Brown was to speak to guests along with Cousy. -- Deseret Morning News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

NBA Team Still On S.J. Agenda
Any talk of an NBA franchise for San Jose usually begins and ends with the fact that the Golden State Warriors play in a refurbished Oakland Arena only 36 miles from HP Pavilion. A majority of the league's 30 owners would have to approve a move to the South Bay, and strong opposition from the Warriors is a given. "I am not in the business of telling cities how to do their business,'' Warriors President Robert Rowell said Monday. "However, I am sure there are better ways they can spend the taxpayers' dollar than on this project.'' Jamison says he isn't dissuaded by the naysayers. "Everybody has a different opinion what the viability of this is,'' he said. "At this point in time, I believe very strongly that it's a good thing for us to do this.'' -- San Jose Mercury News
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Hache Man · Aug 23, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Updated: Aug. 23, 2006, 3:36 PM ET
FIBA, NBA not playing by the same rules

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

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SAPPORO, Japan -- Everyone is playing small ball over here at the World Championship. They have no choice.
The ball used in international basketball tournaments is slightly smaller than the standard NBA ball, measuring 29 inches (roughly a half-inch less) in circumference. It's one of many small differences between FIBA basketball and NBA or NCAA basketball. The following are 10 other changes U.S. players must adjust to:
10. Fouls: In international ball, you only get five fouls -- and technical fouls count as personal fouls -- instead of the six allowed in the NBA.

9. Court dimensions: A regulation FIBA court is 91 feet, 10 inches by 49 feet, 2.5 inches. An NBA court is 94 feet by 50 feet.

8. Game duration: Under FIBA rules, quarters are 10 minutes long, instead of the 12-minute periods played in the NBA. As a result, games are often finished in less than two hours.

7. Clock stoppages: Instead of stopping the clock after made baskets as the NBA does, the game clock keeps running in the final minute of the first, second and third quarters.

6. Uniform numbers: Nobody wears a number lower than four or higher than 15. When a referee signals a foul on No. 11, he'll make a fist with one hand (representing a 10) and hold up one finger on the other hand.

5. The five-second closely guarded rule: They don't have one in the NBA, and unlike the NCAA rule, in FIBA play it's called only when a player holds the ball for five seconds. In college, it's holding or dribbling while closely guarded for five seconds.

4. Timeouts: Players cannot call timeouts under FIBA rules; only coaches can. And those timeouts are granted only on a dead ball or after the opposition scores a basket. A timeout official sits near each bench, and the coach must signal a timeout to that person.

3. The lane: FIBA uses a trapezoid-shaped lane that prevents players from posting up as close to the basket as they would in the NBA.

2. Touching the ball on the rim: Under FIBA rules, the ball is fair game once it hits the rim. And if it bounces around up there for a while, a defender will usually knock it off.
1. The 3-point line: The arc is only 20? feet away, compared to 23 feet, 9 inches (22 feet in the corners) in the NBA and 19 feet, 9 inches in the NCAA.
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Hache Man · Aug 23, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Updated: Aug. 23, 2006, 2:19 PM ET
U.S. gets a dose of what to expect in medal round

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>SAPPORO, Japan -- Team USA now knows what it's up against. Deep down, many of them had never really believed it before, no matter how many times they tried to sound sincere.
Now, it's different. Now they know how tough the competition really is. They've experienced the true wake-up call.
Team USA trailed Italy 45-36 at halftime on Wednesday when Carmelo Anthony walked into the locker room and took a look around.
"I looked in everybody's eyes and saw nobody's head was down," he said.

And when they came out in the third quarter, Anthony was holding his head the highest. 
The clearest sign that the Italians were not intimidated at all came when one player told Wade: "There is only one MJ."
Rising to the occasion like no Team USA player had done since Stephon Marbury in the 2004 Olympic quarterfinals against unbeaten Spain, Anthony poured in 19 of his 35 points in the third quarter to put the Americans back in front, then tag-teamed with Dwyane Wade to finish the job in the fourth quarter as the Americans rallied for a 94-85 win over Italy -- a team with zero NBA players -- to lock up first place in Group D.
"We came out and we didn't think they were going to be that good. We took them a little lightly," said Joe Johnson, one of several players and coaches who described this one as a "gut check."
"When you're used to beating teams by 20 or 25 points, we came in thinking we'd beat them by 25, too. But they were up for us," Anthony said.
The clearest sign that the Italians were not intimidated at all came when one player told Wade: "There is only one MJ."
"Dwyane told him, 'We never said [anyone was Michael Jordan], but thanks,'" Anthony said. "There was definitely some trash talking going on there. It was competitive."
It was physical and chippy, too, and the Americans were taken by surprise when Italy came at them in a man-to-man defense, a strategy coach Carlo Recalcati probably stuck with a little too long. No one on his team was capable of matching up in isolation situations with either Anthony or Wade, and both players made Italy pay when the game turned Team USA's way in the second half and the Americans shot 72 percent, with Anthony providing four big 3-pointers.
"I hope to meet them another time in Saitama. Maybe then we'll play zone," Recalcati said.
"You shouldn't divulge your game plan," coach Mike Krzyzewski said as he turned to Recalcati at the postgame interview podium.
The size of the bullet the Americans dodged by winning this game can not be understated. Had they lost, they would have finished in second place in Group D and would've been on track for a quarterfinal matchup against Spain, which has already won Group B, and then (if they defeated Pau Gasol's team) a semifinal matchup against Olympic champion Argentina.
Now, they won't have to face either of those unbeaten teams until the gold medal game, if they're fortunate enough to get that far. And this game proved to them that it will be no waltz the rest of the way.
"This wasn't a game that anybody lost. This was a game that somebody won," Krzyzewski said. "Everyone should be proud to have been a part of that game."
It took only a little more than one quarter for Coach K to go away from his previous strategy of using two separate five-man units. By the end of the second quarter, he had Wade, Anthony and LeBron James out on the court together, and he went with that same threesome -- along with Chris Paul and Elton Brand -- to start the second half. Chris Bosh and Brad Miller never even took their warm-ups off, and Dwight Howard was pretty much a nonfactor for the first time in this tournament after a hard fall on his back in the first half knocked the wind out of him and left him with a sore hip.
Johnson, Shane Battier and Antawn Jamison also had their roles greatly reduced, and Kirk Hinrich emerged as probably Coach K's most trusted sub when he went with an extra-small lineup to counter the players Italy was using, most notably 20-year-old Marco Belinelli (25 points, five 3-pointers), who was all but offered a Duke scholarship by Krzyzewski during his postgame press conference.
If there was one lingering mystery for the U.S. team after this game, it was James' offensive slide after the first quarter. He scored the Americans' first six points and ended the opening period with eight, but never scored again. Wade supported Anthony with 26 points on 10-for-13 shooting, and Brand scored 16. After those four, the rest of Team USA combined for only nine points (five by Paul; four by Hinrich).
"It was definitely surprising to be down by nine at the half. If you had told me we'd be down nine, and then 12, I'd have said no way," Brand said. "But we showed a lot of heart, a lot of courage."
Brand even conceded that this was much more of a wake-up call than their tune-up match against Brazil two weeks ago in Seoul, South Korea, because in that game the Americans were ahead by 16 but let Brazil climb back into it. That one was more like hitting the snooze button when the alarm goes off.
This one got their blood pumping, and they're more prepared now than they were 24 hours ago for what awaits them in the medal round. Team USA finishes preliminary-round play Thursday against winless Senegal.
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Hache Man · Aug 23, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Updated: Aug. 23, 2006, 2:59 PM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 23

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
<OFFER>

Previous Reports:

Aug. 15 | Aug. 16 | Aug. 17 | Aug. 18 | Aug. 21 | Aug. 22

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Harrington To Indiana Finally Done
The Pacers, armed with a $7.5 million trade exception, positioned themselves as the ideal trade partner for a Hawks franchise looking to maintain their salary-cap flexibility. That trade exception allowed the Pacers to execute the deal without sending the Hawks anything more than a draft pick in return. "It depends on how you look at it," Hawks general manager Billy Knight said of the perception that the Hawks got the short end of yet another deal. "There were a lot of good and interesting players involved in the conversations we had. But with our team the way it is currently constructed, none of them made sense for us right now. Obviously, we didn't think that any of those deals would be good for us, and that's why we didn't do a deal that brought us back contracts we didn't want." -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Hawks Make Another Serious Mistake
The Hawks took Williams with the No. 5 pick when almost nobody else in the world regarded him so highly. They drafted Solomon Jones, another shot-blocker, in Round 2. (What, one wasn't enough?) They spent big on Claxton, who backed up Chris Paul, whom the Hawks should have taken instead of Marvin Williams in 2005. Then, after weeks of confusion, they finally jettisoned Al Harrington, whom they should have traded at the February deadline. An object lesson in the sign-and-trade: When the Hawks worked one with Phoenix for Johnson, the Suns held out for Boris Diaw, who would become the NBA's most improved player overnight. When the Pacers worked one with the Hawks for Harrington and John Edwards, Indiana didn't have to part with a warm body. Amazing. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Boston Celtics | All Celtics sitelines

Celtics' Cousy Holds Court
The Hall of Fame did that yesterday, unveiling an exhibit paying tribute to the Bob Cousy Award, given annually to the best college point guard in the nation. The exhibit is sponsored by The Hartford, a financial services company. The display includes photos of Cousy and past winners Dee Brown of Illinois (2006), Raymond Felton of North Carolina (2005) and inaugural winner Jameer Nelson of St. Joseph's (2004), as well as the jerseys and shoes of some of the aforementioned players. "Hopefully (the exhibit) will re-focus the attention of the kids in the schoolyards of the world on the fact that using their creative skills and their vision to set up teammates is every bit as rewarding and satisfying as the slam dunk," Cousy said. -- The Republican

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Charlotte Bobcats | All Bobcats sitelines

Reserve Hermann Impresses Bobcats
A day after leading Argentina in scoring for the second straight game in Group A at the FIBA World Championship, reserve forward Walter Hermann revealed Tuesday that he has agreed to a contract with the Charlotte Bobcats of the NBA. Hermann, who impressed observers here with his smooth moves and soft touch while scoring 23 points in a win over Lebanon on Sunday and 25 in Monday's victory over Venezuela, is poised to join the team for which Jordan became the Managing Member of Basketball Operations for in June. ... "My dream is to play in the NBA. I will officially sign with Charlotte during this championship," he said. "They will give me a physical sometime soon, and then the agreement will be formalized." -- The Japan Times

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Finally, A Done Deal
What excites Al Harrington most, however, is the opportunity to escape the deluge of defeats that sapped his spirit the past two seasons and reacquaint himself with happy postgame locker rooms. "Money is good and all the stuff that comes along with it is fine, but I want to be back in the playoffs and back on national TV and back with a franchise that wins basketball games," Harrington said Tuesday after learning his trade from Atlanta to the Indiana Pacers had become official. "I missed that the last two years, and now I'm going back to what I know." -- Indianapolis Star

Denari Becomes TV Voice For Pacers
Al Albert, the Indiana Pacers television play-by-play announcer the past eight seasons, resigned to pursue independent opportunities and will be replaced by Chris Denari. Denari, a Westfield High School and Wabash College graduate, will relinquish his duties as play-by-play announcer for Butler University and the Indiana Fever, as well as sports anchor for WXIN-59. Albert will continue to live in Indianapolis while working with companies in New York and Denver that are involved in television programming, DVDs and sports marketing. -- Indianapolis Star

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Shaq To Marbury: Let Your Play Talk
Shaquille O'Neal said Stephon Marbury should let his play speak for itself and speculated that the Knicks' point guard would have been better off playing another season for Larry Brown. "If you say you're the best point guard in the world, now you have to come out and show that every night," O'Neal said on SportsNet New York. "The only time when I really say that is when I have a real big game. You never really heard me say I'm the best center to ever play the game. When you say that, you have to come out and show that every night, especially here in New York." -- Newsday

Garden Chief Slams Sex Suit
Madison Square Garden boss James Dolan says he's the one being harassed -- not the fired Knicks exec who charges coach Isiah Thomas asked her for sex and cursed her. "This suit is being pursued in bad faith for vexatious reasons for the purpose of harassing defendants," Dolan's attorneys wrote in court papers filed yesterday in Manhattan Federal Court. It was Dolan's first legal reply to the sensational sex-harassment lawsuit filed by Anucha Browne Sanders, which she revised last month to add the MSG chairman's name as a defendant. -- New York Daily News

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Wagner Waiting To Hear Back From Sixers
Former Camden High star Dajuan Wagner said he tried out with the Sixers last Thursday but hasn't heard from the team yet. "I'm waiting to hear from them," Wagner said last night after playing in the championship game of the John Rankin-Michael Anderson League at Drexel. "I don't know if my agent [Leon Rose] has heard from them or not. He told me a couple of other [NBA] teams are interested but he didn't say who." -- Philadelphia Daily News

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Toronto Raptors | All Raptors sitelines

Spanish Team Honors Garbajosa
Spain coach Pepu Hernandez called his team together after practice yesterday, its only day off during the first round of the FIBA world championships. Instead of some final words of preparation, it was time for a presentation. New Raptors forward Jorge Garbajosa and guard Juan Carlos Navarro were given red jerseys with their names and "100" on the back, symbolizing how many games they had played with the national team. Garbajosa's 100th game was Monday's 92-71 victory over Germany in a matchup of unbeaten teams, while Navarro will hit the century mark today when Spain meets Angola, also 3-0, with the winner setting itself up to finish on top of the six-team group. -- Toronto Sun

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Denver Nuggets | All Nuggets sitelines

Dunlap Resigns To Join Nuggets
Mike Dunlap has made his first step in the long journey across the street, where the lure of the NBA awaits and the legacy of one of the most dominant programs in NCAA Division II basketball during the past decade will be left behind. In a move expected for days, Dunlap resigned as the basketball coach at Metro State College on Tuesday, paving the way for his pending hiring by the Nuggets as an assistant on George Karl's staff. -- Rocky Mountain News

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Yao's Teammates Finally Show Up
Yao Ming, the leading scorer in the tournament so far, once more led the way in the China attack. The difference was 19 points from Wang Zhi Zhi, 17 from Wang Shipeng, 16 from Liu Wei and a dozen from Du Feng. "For me, it's like having my first cup of water after 10 thirsty days," said Yao, who had grown increasingly frustrated with his team's performance and the officiating. He is the one who is playing his way back into shape after missing four months following surgery to repair a broken bone in his left foot. Yet there had been so many times when he'd been left to carry all of the load, especially down the stretch in close losses to Italy and Puerto Rico. -- Houston Chronicle

Battier Back With Brand, Coach K
One big difference between this Team USA compared to American teams in previous FIBA tournaments is that it has players who are devoted to dirty work, the thankless jobs that don't light up the scoreboard. Forward Shane Battier is one such player for the team. Although he doesn't get as much applause as stars like LeBron James or Dwyane Wade, he fills a vital role. "I love playing with Shane because he does all the little things, like taking charges, chasing the ball, playing great defense," U.S. post player Elton Brand said of Battier after Sunday's game against China. "When you look at this guy, he may be scoring seven, but he's responsible for numerous points as well as good defense. I really appreciate what he does." -- The Japan Times

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Bryant Takes Steps To Polish Image
Since he had his case dismissed in September 2004, Kobe Bryant slowly has been rebuilding his image. Part of that rebuilding has included participating in clinics such as the one Tuesday at Durango High School, where 85 high school-age players got a special basketball tutoring session from the NBA's leading scorer last season. "What I'm trying to do is pass on my knowledge to the kids," Bryant said at the Nike-sponsored event. Bryant participated in similar events this summer in Los Angeles and his hometown of Philadelphia. Bryant said he didn't think what he was doing in Las Vegas on Tuesday was designed to boost his image, but he admitted it can't hurt. -- Las Vegas Review-Journal

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Memphis Grizzlies | All Grizzlies sitelines

Griz Trainer Is Set To Join Raptors
Another chapter of the Vancouver/Memphis Grizzlies has ended. Scott McCullough, a trainer with the franchise over the past 10 seasons, is returning to his native Canada to join the Toronto Raptors. Last season, McCullough was one of just two employees -- on the basketball side -- that worked for the Grizzlies in Vancouver. "We are sad to have lost such a valuable part of our organization with the departure of Scott," team president Jerry West said in a statement. "His desire to return home and be near his family was his reason for leaving, and we are happy for him." -- Memphis Commercial-Appeal

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Suns Still Searching As Exception Expires
The remainder of the trade exception acquired in last August's Joe Johnson deal expired Monday, but the Suns' interest in adding another experienced player has not. Phoenix intends to sign another free agent to a guaranteed deal, the roster's 13th, in the next two weeks. The Suns are open to adding a player at any position. "It will be a veteran who can shoot the ball a bit and someone who athletically fits our system," Suns Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin said. ... The candidate of late appeared to be Charlotte power forward Melvin Ely, but it was of little interest to the Bobcats. It became less appealing to Phoenix with Ely, a restricted free agent, seeking more years in a sign-and-trade deal. -- Arizona Republic

Sarver Makes Valley Home
Robert Sarver just became more of a Suns fan, and more like the rest of you. As of this week, Sarver is a full-time Valley resident. After making about 80 trips to Phoenix from his home in San Diego last season, the Suns managing partner and his wife, Penny, decided to move to Paradise Valley so that they could be closer to the franchise. They are downsizing to one home while building another that won't be ready until 2008. ... Sarver will split time between his US Airways Center office for the Suns and a Biltmore-area office for Alliance Bank of Arizona, which is held by the Western Alliance Bancorporation for which he serves as chairman and CEO. "I go to the bank office to make the money and I go to the arena office to spend the money," Sarver joked. -- Arizona Republic

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Portland Trail Blazers | All Blazers sitelines

Can Blazers And Police Coexist?
That the Blazers have assumed an adversarial position with the men and women who are here to serve and protect is disappointing. It's weeks like this one that we wish the seminar had been on civil behavior and not civil rights. The players needed a talk on good, sound judgment, not on damage control. What we really have is a case study in relationships. The Blazers. The police. You. Me. Us. The best advice left is simple: There is no better substitute for ethical, responsible behavior combined with good relationships. Mixed into all of this is a trade that was considered in the last two weeks that would have sent Randolph to Denver for Kenyon Martin. A Nuggets source said the deal died in its infancy, perhaps when the team thought hard about drag racing and gun permits and worried about what kind of incident Randolph might end up surfacing in next. -- The Oregonian

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Sacramento Kings | All Kings sitelines

Artest: I Feel Knicks' Pain, Too
Ron Artest said yesterday that he would finish his career with the Sacramento Kings, ending any possibility that the Queensbridge product would suit up for the Knicks. But Artest joked that he knew how to fix the Knicks and could help Isiah Thomas -- his former coach with the Indiana Pacers -- run the team after his retirement. "I think (the Knicks) can turn it around, but they need some rest and less partying in New York City," Artest said with a smile at a press conference at a midtown restaurant to announce that the All-Star Classic for Wheelchair Charities will be held at the Garden on Saturday, Sept.9. "That's my bid to be a general manager." -- New York Daily News

Maloofs Care About Community
As the city/county leaders and the Maloofs strategize for their upcoming campaign, the focus groups and informal inquiries in fact are confirming what has become increasingly apparent, namely, that a segment of the population is skeptical of the Kings/Monarchs' owners, with the fears both fiscal and emotional. In selective bars and back rooms, the brothers are perceived as carpetbaggers eager for the ballot measure to fail so they can return to their poker games and their Playboy bunnies in Anaheim, San Jose, Las Vegas. Or, in the alternative, the deal passes, the taxpayers get duped, and the guys still get the girls. Well, folks, here comes the news flash. Paupers don't own franchises. The brothers are getting a bum rap. -- Sacramento Bee

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

Parker One Hit From Surgery
After breaking his right index finger in France's final tuneup game before the world championships, Tony Parker dropped out of the tournament to return to San Antonio and have the injury examined by the Spurs' medical staff. The decision, he said Tuesday, wasn't much of a decision. "It was a no-brainer," Parker said. "Even if I tried to play, I couldn't do nothing. I can't pass. I can't shoot. I can't dribble. "It's not that I don't want to play. I can't play." Parker said X-rays taken Monday during an examination by Spurs doctors revealed that the bone had shifted some since his finger was initially X-rayed in Japan late last week. Parker will have to wear a splint on the finger for at least four weeks to keep it immobilized. -- San Antonio Express-News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

U.S. Might Be Finished Wasting Hoop Riches
Basketball fans in Maryland and elsewhere love to hate Mike Krzyzewski, but he has done a superb job of gently laying down a new order while massaging the various egos. It helps that Wade, Anthony and James have bought in. Of course, we'll see how this relatively new team of mostly younger players fares against older, tougher international teams. Talent alone wasn't enough before. But win or lose, it's pleasing to see the United States making an effort to re-establish its rightful place at the top of the heap, as opposed to casually squandering its vast potential. -- Baltimore Sun

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Plea May Be In Works For Baxter
A plea deal could be in the works for Lonny Baxter, the former University of Maryland basketball star charged last week with carrying a gun a few blocks from the White House. Baxter, who has been in jail since his arrest, was scheduled to have a hearing today before a D.C. Superior Court magistrate judge, but the hearing was shifted yesterday to a trial judge. Typically, only trial judges can take pleas in Superior Court, and the rescheduling suggests that prosecutors and defense lawyers might be close to an agreement that could resolve the gun charge. -- Washington Post
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Hache Man · Aug 23, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/22/06)

Updated: Aug. 23, 2006

Pacers show brains in Harrington deal

By Chad Ford
ESPN Insider
Archive

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It's not shocking to hear the words "great trade" when the team attached to the other end of the deal is the Atlanta Hawks.
The Pistons heard it when they stole Rasheed Wallace from the Hawks at the trade deadline in 2004 -- a move that gave them the NBA title. The Suns heard it (albeit belatedly) when they got two first-round draft picks and Boris Diaw for Joe Johnson last summer.

Al Harrington will be back in blue and gold this season.

But in the case of the recently consummated Al Harrington trade, I'm letting Hawks GM Billy Knight off the hook. It wasn't Knight's incompetence that made this a great deal for the Pacers. It was the brilliant maneuvering of the Pacers' front office that made this deal, in my book, the best move of the summer.
While the Bulls and Hornets made splashier signings in July with the acquisitions of Ben Wallace and Peja Stojakovic, respectively, those transactions had their share of thorns.
For the Pacers, this one came up all aces. Here's why:
1. Harrington pushes the Pacers to the next level.
There were a lot of interesting signings and trades this summer, but how many of them clearly pushed a team into a different level of playoff contention?
Wallace's addition to Chicago may have that effect. However, the Bulls still have enough question marks that it's unclear exactly how big a push they'll get. To make Wallace's contract worth the expenditure, the Bulls will have to reach the Eastern Conference finals. He might get them there (and beyond), but I'm not sold.
Stojakovic will add a few W's to the Hornets' win column, but how many? The best-case scenario is that they are a seventh or eighth seed in the West (not sure that's worth $62 million).
But Harrington puts the Pacers back in contention in the East, in part because the Pacers didn't have to give up much to get him. You can argue that they ended up giving up Stojakovic (or, by extension, Ron Artest) to acquire the trade exception that landed Harrington, but given Artest's bad behavior and Stojakovic's injury history, I'd take Harrington (and his cheaper deal) any day.
What makes Harrington work in Indiana is twofold. One is his familiarity with the team. He'll be able to step right in and fit in with his teammates and head coach Rick Carlisle's schemes. Two, his versatility gives the Pacers a number of options on the front line. They can play Jermaine O'Neal at the five, Harrington at the four and a combo of Danny Granger and Marquis Daniels at the three. Or they can play Jeff Foster in the middle, move O'Neal to the four and put Harrington at the three depending on matchups.
He also gives the Pacers something else they desperately need, a reliable second scoring option that doesn't need the spotlight. Harrington will be cast perfectly in a supporting role in Indiana alongside O'Neal.
When you factor in the Pacers' other additions this summer -- Daniels, Darrell Armstrong, Maceo Baston, Shawne Williams and James White -- the Pacers are more athletic, more versatile and deeper than they've been the past few years.
In my mind, the Pacers not only made the best move of the summer, they had the best summer, overall, of any team in the NBA.
2. They didn't overpay.
The Pacers got a relative steal, nailing down Harrington on a four-year, $35 million deal. By the market's ridiculous standards, that's a huge bargain.
Coming into the offseason Harrington was ranked as the third- or fourth-best free agent available. Wallace got $60 million over four years. Stojakovic got $62 million over five. Nene, coming off a year on the DL, got $60 million over six years. Jason Terry walked away with a six-year, $50-million deal. Even guys such as Mike James, Nazr Mohammed and Vladimir Radmanovic pulled down $30 million.
To get Harrington at roughly $25 million less than everyone thought he'd get goes down as the coup of the summer. Given owners' increasing unwillingness to pay the luxury tax, cap flexibility is king. Landing a talent such as Harrington on the cheap (as opposed to overpaying like almost every other team in the league did with free agents this summer) is a rarity these days.
As it stands, even after signing Harrington, the Pacers are still millions under the luxury tax threshold and will be for the next three years. After that, they'll get significant cap flexibility again. A three-year run -- that's what every team dreams of -- and the Pacers could have it without making a significant signing to their team.
3. They outsmarted the competition.
Every step along the way, the Pacers' front office of Larry Bird, Donnie Walsh and David Morway was a little smarter than everyone else it was negotiating against.
The Pacers started this summer by wisely declining to go overboard to re-sign Stojakovic. They knew that criticism would be harsh. "They lost Ron Artest for nothing!" was the cry throughout much of the national and local media.
But the Pacers had a plan. They just didn't clue us in until the deal finally happened.
Stojakovic was 29-years old. The Hornets were willing to pay him for five years to the tune of $62 million. That would've been a millstone around the Pacers' neck that they would've never recovered from.
So, the team went back to the Hornets and asked for a sign-and-trade to get a whopping $7.5 million exception. To my knowledge it's the largest trade exception in the history of the NBA. The cost to the Pacers? Roughly 200 grand.
The result? The Pacers, who were way over the cap, suddenly had the equivalent of $7.5 million in cap room. The Bulls and Hornets, two teams that had significant room, had already spent theirs. The Bobcats and Hawks, the other two teams that had lots of cap space, weren't going to spend theirs.

That left the Pacers as the only team in the league that could facilitate one more big signing. By then, they already knew who their target would be -- Harrington.
Atlanta didn't want to pay him and Harrington was loyal to Indiana after it had granted his trade demand two summers ago. Harrington learned that being the "go-to guy" on a bad team was overrated and wanted to win again. His relationship with everyone in Indiana was strong, in part, because the Pacers treated him so well the first time.
It was a deal that was going to happen, one way or the other. We wrung our hands over the on-again, off-again deal for the past month but the truth was always the same. As long as the Hawks were refusing to take back players in a trade and Harrington wanted more than a mid-level exception, there was only one team in the league that could make a deal happen -- the Pacers.
While the Hawks demanded an extra $3 million in cash, the Pacers stuck to their guns. When Harrington demanded a six-year, $57-million deal, the Pacers held firm at four years, $35 million.
All along they knew something that no one else in the league seemed to understand -- no one was going to come close to giving the Hawks or Harrington a better deal.
This type of smart management and negotiation may be commonplace in the business world, but in the NBA it's rare to find a front office that understands the intricacies of the system and the market the way Walsh, Bird and Morway did.
So when I see the Pacers' front office called "class clowns" in the Indianapolis Star I have to vehemently disagree. It's the exact opposite. They were the proverbial "smartest guys" in the room.
For a team everyone was writing off at the start of the summer, the Pacers are now in the same class as the Pistons, Bulls and Nets -- scratching at the door of the Heat for the Eastern Conference title.
There are still questions, certainly. But there are a lot fewer than there were six weeks ago. If the old Jermaine O'Neal shows up ... if Jamaal Tinsley can stay healthy ... if Rick Carlisle will submerge his worst instincts and let this very athletic team run ... the Pacers have as good a shot as any team to play in the Eastern Conference Finals.
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Hache Man · Aug 24, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/23/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/23/06)

Updated: Aug. 24, 2006
Bosh gets to play, but playing time is a touchy subject

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>SAPPORO, Japan -- If Chris Bosh knew several months ago what he knows now -- that he'd be buried along with Brad Miller on the end of the bench -- would he still have been willing to join Team USA?

"That's a good question. I'm not sure," Bosh told Insider on Thursday night after the U.S. wrapped up preliminary-round play with a 103-58 rout of Senegal. "I can't say that I would, but I don't think anyone would have told me that."

Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images
Chris Bosh didn't expect to be starving for minutes.

Bosh led all U.S. scorers with 20 points, getting nearly 21 minutes of playing time after sitting out the entire 40 minutes of the Americans' hard-fought victory over Italy the previous night.
He had scored only eight points the entire tournament before Thursday, getting five in the opener against Puerto Rico and three in Game 2 against China before going scoreless with four fouls in 13 minutes against Slovenia.
Then came the DNP-CD against Italy, Bosh's first since he was a freshman playing varsity ball at Lincoln High School in Dallas coming off the bench behind three seniors. "If you're used to playing, it's always tough," said Dwyane Wade, one of the team's tri-captains. "But he's kept a positive mind-set. He hasn't brought it to no one on the team. But when you're used to playing and you're not playing -- especially when you're the man on your team -- yeah, it's tough.
"There's 12 guys on this team, and like Coach told everybody coming in, he doesn't know who he's going to play on any given night, so everyone has to continue to be ready, and hopefully Chris understands that. It takes nothing away from him as a basketball player, him as an All-Star in our league, but it's just the right matchups at the right time."
Bosh brought the biggest rise out of the crowd Thursday night -- in fact it was one of the biggest cheers from the crowd in any of the five games -- when he slammed in a miss midway through the fourth quarter to put the Americans ahead 87-45 in a game that stayed competitive for about five minutes. The crowd loosened up considerably the rest of the way, even chanting for Wade as the final minutes ticked off. Wade acknowledged the fans by standing and raising his hands to them, but he never entered the game as coach Mike Krzyzewski opted to rest him in preparation for the medal round, which begins Sunday for Team USA with a round-of-16 match against Australia.
Bosh left the arena thinking he might get a little more burn in that game than he got in this northern city of Japan as the Americans faced opponents that threw small lineups at them. He did not get a chance to see any of the games from the other three groups because they were not shown on television here, and he heeded his teammates' warnings and never even flipped on the TV, opting instead for watching DVDs and browsing the Internet during his downtime.
"We're going to practice for two days, and I'm going to put myself in a position where I'm going to do good and it's going to be hard not to play me. I just have to play as hard as I can at practice and prove my worth," Bosh said.
Still, this was clearly not what Bosh was expecting when he became one of the first American players -- and one of the most enthusiastic -- to accept team director Jerry Colangelo's invitation to become a part of the national team.
But Elton Brand's international basketball experience and Dwight Howard's ferocious rebounding and low-post play have relegated Bosh to 11th-man status, ahead of only Miller on the depth chart. Miller got the start against winless Senegal, but Bosh had the better game in shooting 7-for-8 from 2-point range and grabbing 10 rebounds, including six on the offensive end. He even knocked down all three free throws after getting fouled while attempting a 3-pointer.
"I've just been kind of itching to play for two or three games now, and at least today I had a chance to show what they've been missing and show a reason why I should be playing a little bit more," Bosh said. "It's not over. I'm sure in the long run I will contribute; that's what I believe. We still have four more games left."
The Americans fell into the easiest part of the medal-round bracket, getting Australia as their next opponent and a quarterfinal matchup against the winner of Germany versus Nigeria. Their semifinal opponent would be whoever emerges from the Greece-China and Angola-France games, and they wouldn't have to face either of the two toughest teams in the tournament, Spain and Argentina, until the gold medal game.
Perhaps by then Bosh will be a factor again. That's what he signed up for, and that's what he's still hoping to be.
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Hache Man · Aug 24, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/23/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/23/06)

Updated: Aug. 24, 2006, 10:28 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 24

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
<OFFER>

Previous Reports:

Aug. 16 | Aug. 17 | Aug. 18 | Aug. 21 | Aug. 22 | Aug. 23

[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]EASTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Red Ink Didn't Tie Hawks' Hands
The Harrington deal and the impending signing of free agent Lorenzen Wright will leave the Hawks about $7 million under the NBA salary cap. "We don't want to lose that flexibility by taking a bad contract now," Gearon said. "I think the key for us is to maintain the flexibility so that as this team evolves, we can make moves." Because of NBA rules, he would not discuss specific players that were offered for Harrington. One player publicly linked to trade discussions -- one with the type of contract the Hawks apparently did not want -- was Golden State power forward Troy Murphy, whose $9 million salary the Warriors wanted to unload to make room under the cap for Harrington. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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LeBron, Tiger First Names Of Success In Sports
Tiger Woods and LeBron James share more than a birthday, the keys to the Nike kingdom and the ability to make a million dollars over a weekend in Akron. They are two sports icons who can do almost anything -- except the unexpected. That was never an option for either. Greatness was anticipated. Dominance was foretold. The element of surprise was removed as a weapon as far back as their teenage years. Name two other athletes who have entered the pro sports arena to greater expectations? Woods, 30, has exceeded them. James, 21, appears capable of doing the same. Akron has had a front-row seat for each. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

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Detroit Pistons | All Pistons sitelines

Pistons Name Porter Assistant Coach
The Pistons added Terry Porter to their coaching staff Wednesday, filling the spot vacated by Sidney Lowe. Porter reunites with coach Flip Saunders, this time as an assistant. Porter played for Saunders on the Timberwolves from 1995-98. "Terry was a fierce competitor during his playing days and he excelled as both a head coach and assistant in this league," Pistons president Joe Dumars said in a statement. "We feel his experience is a good fit for our team." -- Detroit News

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Indiana Pacers | All Pacers sitelines

Summer Of Change Not Done
Promising change to a disgruntled fan base after last season's 41-41 record and first-round playoff elimination, CEO Donnie Walsh and president Larry Bird have spun their roster through an unprecedented flurry of comings and goings. "You might disagree with what we've done, but you can't say we haven't followed through," Walsh said, allowing himself a laugh over all the atypical activity. Al Harrington, who will be re-introduced at a Fieldhouse news conference today, is one of 11 acquisitions. Seven players, including the retired Jonathan Bender, have been traded or dropped from last season's payroll. Seven others return. The Pacers have 18 players under contract, three more than allowed during the season. With a couple of needs to fill and nearly six weeks to go before training camp, more changes appear inevitable. -- Indianapolis Star

O'Neal Excited About Next Season
Jermaine O'Neal watched patiently from afar this summer as Indiana Pacers officials made moves to improve a team that underachieved and had chemistry problems last season. O'Neal, the team's centerpiece, believes the franchise has moved toward becoming a contender again. The Pacers, whose 41-41 record was their worst in a regular season since 2000-01, have added 11 players during the offseason. "You can't only look at the move to get Al (Harrington) back here. You have to look at everything they've done so far," O'Neal said Wednesday in a phone interview. "What they've done so far should answer a lot of questions on what direction this franchise is headed in." -- Indianapolis Star

Smits Rekindles Passion By Racing Cycles
Rik Smits rode small motorcycles as a kid in his native Holland, and got his first motocross bike when he was 12. He never raced, but some of his friends did. "I was always wishing that I could, too," he said. "That's where a lot of this comes from. There's just something about being out on the bike. I'm still competitive, and this is a good way to stay competitive. It's a heck of a workout. I think motocrossing is tougher than basketball in a lot of ways. There's no break, and you've constantly got to be on your feet. It's tough. It's a challenge." -- Indianapolis Star

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Observers Back Riley's Comeback
Pat Riley broke his public silence Wednesday by announcing he would return to coach the Miami Heat for one more season, and those simple words brought back talk of another NBA title. ''That's going to provide a golden opportunity,'' ESPN analyst Greg Anthony said of Riley's decision via phone. "They're the odds-on-favorite to win the championship. I don't think they could win it if he didn't come back.'' Riley remained mum about whether he planned to coach the Heat again after the franchise's first championship in June, but his decision to come back hardly came as a surprise. -- Miami Herald

For Now, Coach Must Let Up A Bit
This time Pat Riley arrives for the start of training camp, too, and so has an even longer not-to-do list: Don't practice long. Don't fret over January. Don't yell until March. Maybe he could even say something after the Heat loses another hyped regular-season game like, "Hey, whatever. I've got to remember to get milk on the way home." You don't have to tell Riley that 82 games is too many. He once sent a proposed schedule to commissioner David Stern that would have limited the regular season to 60 games. As things stand, you know Riley's theme last spring of "15 Strong?" Even from August, this one looks like, "82 S-o-o-o Long." -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Players Instrumental In Riley's Return
Everything Pat Riley could want, and just as importantly, nothing that his ample ego is willing to pass on to another Miami coach. "Winning the championship," Riley said in a Wednesday statement," showed me that I am definitely in the right place, at the right time, with the right people." There will be times in the months to come when the timing may be suspect, but never the people. Never Shaq or Dwyane or Udonis Haslem or James Posey or Zo or, heavens to Betsy, even Antoine Walker. The ultimate trustworthiness of every man in Miami uniform, the ability to turn tight the bolts of teamwork, is proven by the gaudy championship ring on his finger. -- Palm Beach Post

A Great Day For The Heat
Pat Riley showed his characteristic sense of history, and sense of self, in explaining Wednesday why he had decided to return as the Heat's coach. ''After winning the championship, I realized there's always something meaningful that happens in your life that becomes the primary point of your destiny,'' said Riley, who is so doggone well spoken that even his sneezes are eloquent. "Winning the championship showed me that I am definitely in the right place, at the right time, and with the right people.'' There was a small addendum to the brief Riley statement released by the team. Perfunctory, sort of. Almost like an afterthought. But it was those six other little words that should rev a Heat fan's engine: ''I can't wait to get started,'' the coach said. The message is that Riley is eager, excited, still hungry. -- Miami Herald

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Williams Invited To Camp By Nets
Jay Williams' manager, Kevin Bradbury, told The Star-Ledger yesterday the Nets have invited the Plainfield native to take part in their training camp in six weeks. The point guard is "seriously considering" their invitation despite the lack of job security, Bradbury said. "He's been working out every day with the Nets' coaches for a couple of weeks at their practice facility," Bradbury said yesterday. "But he hasn't accepted the invitation yet. That might not happen for a few more weeks, because he is considering other offers." The offer Williams wants most, of course, would be one that includes guaranteed money -- which the Nets cannot give him because they will soon have 15 players under contract, the maximum allowed by the NBA. -- Newark Star-Ledger

Vince Hopes For Brooklyn Bridge
Vince Carter's contract doesn't say he will be around for the Nets' planned move to Brooklyn. Yesterday, however, Carter said he wants to be. "I hope they keep me here," Carter said at an appearance in support of the Atlantic Yards project. "We'll see." Carter and Jason Kidd were in Brooklyn as Bruce Ratner brought out the heavy artillery in advance of the project's public hearing yesterday. Carter can opt out of his contract after this season. He said he hasn't had any extension talks with Rod Thorn. -- New York Daily News

Nets Arena Backers, Foes Clash
The controversial real estate project that would include a new basketball arena in Brooklyn for the New Jersey Nets drew nearly 1,000 participants to an often raucous, four-hour public hearing at the New York Technical College auditorium in the borough on Wednesday. ... Nets' principal owner Bruce Ratner, the would-be developer of the entire Brooklyn project, invited Nets stars Jason Kidd and Vince Carter and singer Roberta Flack to a pre-hearing rally across the street. Kidd said he hoped New Jersey would someday get another team but added that Ratner "is doing the right thing, not just for the Nets, but for the community. Hopefully, I'm not too old to participate." -- Bergen Record

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Howard 'Sore' After A Hard Fall
The Orlando Magic let out a collective sigh of relief Wednesday when they received confirmation from USA Basketball that Dwight Howard wasn't injured seriously when he crashed to the court against Italy in the FIBA World Championship. Howard went up to block a shot in the first half of Wednesday's victory in Japan, then went over his opponent's back and smacked his hip and back on the floor. He limped off the court and later returned to the game, but he hardly played in the second half. ... Magic General Manager Otis Smith admitted he initially was concerned when he saw the play on TV but was relieved to know it was nothing serious. -- Orlando Sentinel

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Bosh Buried On Deep U.S. Bench
Playing the role of 11th man behind the likes of LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh seems frustrated at times, averaging about 12 minutes of playing time a game. But Bosh says he's gaining a lot from his inactivity, especially watching Raptor teammates like Nesterovic and Jose Calderon and Jorge Garbajosa, the latter duo playing key roles for unbeaten Spain. "It's a good learning thing," said Bosh, "just to see how much pride they have playing for their country. It's giving me a better concept of team play. I want to take that back with me." -- Toronto Star

Bosh Takes A Back Seat
Raptors general manager Bryan Colangelo, however, is not worried about his star player's lack of minutes, nor his psyche at this point. Colangelo, who has five players taking part in the tournament in Japan, believes Bosh's minutes will come as the worlds progress and believes that, no matter his playing time, the tournament will be beneficial for Bosh, and all the Raptors taking part. The other Raptors playing at the worlds are forward Jorge Garbajosa and point guard Jose Calderon for Spain, and centre Rasho Nesterovic and forward Uros Slokar for Slovenia. "I'm sure it's frustrating for Chris not to be playing, but he knows that he is there for a bigger purpose," Colangelo said. "This is part of a three-year plan, not a one year thing." -- Toronto Sun

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Anthony Finally Gets A Chance To Go Solo
With every performance by USA Basketball's not-so-senior men's team -- especially the last one -- Carmelo Anthony shifts the onus of his NBA potential to the Nuggets organization. While Anthony's participation as a bench ornament on the 2004 Olympic team confirmed he was not ready for prime time and excused the Nuggets for modest achievement, his transformation into a star for Mike Krzyzewski in the '06 World Championship rightfully raises expectations for the Nuggets. ... Anthony is in the process of establishing, for all the world to see, that he is ready for prime time. Whether the Nuggets can say the same is not so clear. -- Rocky Mountain News

Dunlap, Melo Enter New Roles
First, Dunlap is a big boy who knew what he was getting into when he signed on for Denver's dysfunctional NBA family. "I think anybody who's healthy through their ears would have trepidation on this one," Dunlap said Wednesday of his new gig. "But if there's apprehension about anything, I should be open about it, because these people are really smart." While that may be the best indication that someone can literally be right next door and yet a thousand miles away at the same time, the hoops IQ of everyone on the premises will go up to Mensa levels if Carmelo Anthony can carry his stunning summer into the 2006-07 season. -- Denver Post

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Can Blazers Cut A Player For Conduct?
The Blazers are within their rights to cut Zach Randolph or any other player at any time, except the contracts in the NBA are guaranteed so they'd be on the hook for the remainder of his $84 million contract. Same goes for Darius Miles. There is a moral turpitude clause in every NBA contract that would allow the team to void it, but even as it's written loosely, historically that clause has been reserved for felony offenses. We're taking about Rae Carruth stuff. The Warriors tried this with Latrell Sprewell after he choked PJ Carlesimo, but it fell flat. So I don't think Miles dressing at halftime is necessarily going to hold up. -- The Oregonian

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Popovich To Produce His Own Private Label
San Antonio's newest winemaker: noted oenophile Gregg Popovich. The Sept. 30 issue of Wine Spectator includes an item that Popovich has signed on as a partner in A to Z Wineworks, a winemaker in Oregon that specializes in Pinot Noir priced under $20. As part of the deal, the winery will bottle a limited-release 2004 Pinot Noir called Rock & Hammer -- exclusive to the Spurs coach. The magazine said he plans to share his private label wine with basketball friends and donate some bottles to charity. -- San Antonio Express-News

International Play Has Risks, Rewards
Tony Parker's index finger, now immobilized, points to a question the Spurs face again. Is it fair for NBA teams to pay millions to their players, only to have them risk injury while playing for others during the summer? Mark Cuban asked that several years ago. As a result, someone other than NBA teams often pick up the insurance premiums. But there's a flip side to this, and the Spurs have benefited. When Manu Ginobili led Argentina to the gold medal in Athens, he seemed to add yet another level of confidence to his game, Gregg Popovich said that the next season. -- San Antonio Express-News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

Nice To See Good, Old Work Ethic
I loved when Shane Battier, the ultimate example of USA Basketball's new approach to develop a complete team rather than a collection of stars, took a charge as an Italian player tried a dunk that could have have ended the Americans' momentum. More than anything, though, I was excited to see the return of lost elements that I considered most responsible for the USA's loss of stature as the superpower of global hoops -- national pride, respect for opponents and the passion and desire to fight for your country. It's never been about talent. Player for player, the United States always fields the best team in the tournament. But after the incomparable dominance of the Dream Team at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Team USA/NBA began assuming it could win by simply showing up. -- Philadelphia Daily News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Baxter Sentenced To Jail In Gun Incident
Lonny Baxter, the former University of Maryland basketball star caught last week with a gun a few blocks from the White House, was sentenced yesterday to spend the next two months behind bars after a judge rejected the prosecutor's recommendation for probation. Baxter, who recently signed a pro contract to play in Europe, agreed to plead guilty yesterday, just a week after he was charged, in hopes that he would be released from jail so he could join his team in Italy for training camp. Shackled at his wrists and ankles and clad in an orange jail jumpsuit, the 6-foot-8 Baxter said that a .40-caliber Glock found in his white Range Rover was his and that he had fired it into the air in the early hours of Aug. 16 in downtown Washington. -- Washington Post
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Aug 25, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

Updated: Aug. 25, 2006
Team USA braces for medal round

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

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SAITAMA, Japan -- Team USA touched down at Tokyo's Narita Airport late Friday morning. Its next flight isn't scheduled until a week from Monday, and by then we'll know whether the Americans have fulfilled their quest to reclaim their spot as the best team on the planet.

In the meantime, they have four games left to play, beginning with Sunday afternoon's Round of 16 match against Australia (midnight EDT in the United States; ESPN2, tape delay, Sunday 1 a.m.).

They made it through the preliminary round unscathed, learning a lesson to take no one lightly after having a much tougher time than any of them had expected in defeating Italy -- a team with no NBA players -- during opening round play in Sapporo.

The chances are extremely remote that they'll see another opponent without an NBA player on its roster, and for their first challenge they'll go up against a former overall No. 1 NBA draft pick in Andrew Bogut, a guy who had plenty to say a while back about the state of the U.S. national team.

After that, assuming they win, the most likely quarterfinal opponent is Dirk Nowitzki and Germany, and they won't have Bruce Bowen to defend him after team director Jerry Colangelo and coach Mike Krzyzewski opted to keep Brad Miller on the roster when they cut down from 13 players to 12 on the eve of their trip to Japan.

Whoever survives the Angola-France, Greece-China bracket would be the Americans' semifinal opponent, with the defending European champion Greeks having looked the strongest while also going undefeated through preliminary round play. Greece, however, will be without shooting guard Nikos Zisis, whose jaw was broken by Anderson Varejao of Brazil in this nasty encounter.

"These guys play a lot differently in international play than in the NBA," Elton Brand said. "Rasho Nesterovic would never hit a 3 in the NBA but against me, he was knocking down 3s in the international game. You have to remember, it's a different game."

Should the Americans make it to the gold medal game, their most likely opponent will be Spain or Argentina, both of whom also got through pool round play with unbeaten records. But there can't be any slip-ups along the way, as the format now switches to single-elimination -- one loss, and you're out of contention for the gold.

"I'm going to have to explain that to all of our players. It's 'one and done' and this is not a seven-game NBA series. We have to be ready for each ballgame," Coach K said.

There's still a lot of basketball to be played before the gold medal match a week from Sunday, so today we'll break down the eight Round of 16 matches:

UNITED STATES vs. AUSTRALIA

The Boomers, as they're known Down Under, made it out of the preliminary pool despite winning only two games (over Qatar and Brazil). They were blown out by Lithuania, and they lost close ones against Turkey (after leading by 14 at halftime) and Greece (on a last-second shot by Zisis). Bogut is their only NBA player, but point guard C.J. Bruton has years of experience guiding the national team, and forward Sam Mackinnon might have made it to the NBA after a stellar showing at the Sydney Olympics if a devastating knee injury hadn't derailed him. One Aussie strength is 3-point shooting (41 percent in the tournament), but they are prone to turnovers (100 in five games) and should not be much trouble for Team USA.

GERMANY vs. NIGERIA

Nowitzki had the highest scoring game of any player in the tournament when he poured in 47 in a triple-overtime victory over Angola on Thursday, forcing the third extra session with a clutch 3-pointer and then scoring 11 of his team's 13 points in the third overtime. Nowitzki last faced Team USA in an exhibition match in Cologne two years ago that ended with a walk-off 3-pointer by Allen Iverson, the first time in AI's life he had ever hit a game-winning shot at the buzzer. Nowitzki is currently second in scoring in the Worlds, averaging 24.8, and second in rebounding with 10.6 per game. Nigeria's leading scorer is Ime Udoka, who finished last season with the New York Knicks.

FRANCE vs. ANGOLA

France's championship aspirations went out the window when Tony Parker broke his finger in the final tuneup game, and Les Bleus had a rocky first round that included an upset loss to Lebanon. But they do have a stockpile of athletic NBA players in Boris Diaw, Mickael Pietrus, Mikael Gelabale (a 2005 SuperSonics' second-round draft pick), Ronny Turiaf and Johan Petro; and center Frederic Weis, whose name makes Knicks fans cringe, averaged double figures in points and rebounds last season in Spain. France's biggest weakness is outside shooting, and if it advances to play Team USA we might even see Coach K throw in a zone defense for the first time. But don't discount Angola, perennially the best team in Africa. It might win this one with its 3-point prowess.

CHINA vs. GREECE

Yao Ming's team made it into the medal round on a last-second 3-pointer by Shipeng Wang, and although Yao led all scorers with 36 points, he was dog-tired at the end of this one and was sucking wind running up and down the court. He clearly still is not close to 100 percent after breaking his foot late last season. China, which opened 0-3 before beating Senegal and Slovenia, will be a heavy underdog against the defending European champions, whose physical brand of play will provide a test for Team USA should the teams meet up in the semifinals. Greece is arguably the most balanced team left in the tournament aside from Argentina.

SPAIN vs. SERBIA & MONTENEGRO

Spain has a long history of looking great in warm-ups and preliminary round play and then spitting the bit in the big one, but there's no arguing with the Spaniards' talent level and their penchant for playing 40 solid minutes. They've also defeated Argentina nine straight times, which should be remembered should those two teams meet in the semifinals. Jose Calderon and Jorge Garbajosa of the EuroRaptors and Juan Navarro (whose draft rights are owned by Washington) are the supporting cast for Pau Gasol, whose NBA playoff history (zero wins) is often cited back in the United States as his most defining characteristic. Spain has not yet been tested, defeating New Zealand by 16, Panama by 44, Germany by 21, Angola by 10 and Japan by 49. The Spaniards' experience should carry them past Serbia (2-3), although Darko Milicic's team has been looking better as the tourney has progressed. Guard Igor Rakocevic is Serbia's leading scorer (19.8) and is shooting 56 percent.

TURKEY vs. SLOVENIA

NBA players Mehmet Okur and Hedo Turkoglu were kept off the team by hyper-excitable coach Bogdan Tanjevic, which was just fine with the rest of the Turkish squad, which openly feuded at the Worlds four years ago. Ibrahim Kutluay is one of the best clutch shooters left in this tournament, and like the Greeks, who handed them their only opening round loss, the Turks have a lot of balance and size. Slovenia outnumbers them in NBA-level talent, but the Slovenes were a disappointment in the opening round and got into the medal round only by virtue of Puerto Rico's one-point loss to Italy. Insider has been very impressed with Turkish power forward Kerem Gonlum, his country's Ben Wallace -- but with a better touch around the basket.

ITALY vs. LITHUANIA

You should have seen how giddy Coach K got after watching 20-year-old Italian shooting guard Marco Belinelli following the Americans' game against Italy, all but offering him a scholarship to Duke and half-joking (we think) that he'd be willing to set up one of his daughters with him if both hadn't already married Italian-Americans. He's next year's Andrea Bargnani, if you ask me. Still, this should be a competitive match between two of the top four teams from Athens, and Lithuania has a long recent history of playing its best in medal rounds. True hoops afficionados will want to find a way to watch this one.

ARGENTINA vs. NEW ZEALAND

The defending Olympics champions are looking superb, especially Andres Nocioni, Walter Herrmann, Manu Ginobili and Luis Scola. They are averaging nearly 93 points (third behind Team USA's 108.6 and Spain's 95.2), shooting 56 percent (also third behind Spain's 59.9 and USA's 59.1) and have knocked down more 3-pointers (55) than anyone except Angola (56). Their eight-man rotation of Scola, Ginobili, Herrmann, Nocioni, Ruben Wolkowyski, Pepe Sanchez, Carlos Delfino and Fabricio Oberto is rock-solid, and they have more experience playing together -- most have been teammates for a decade, starting on the country's junior national team -- than any other team in the tournament. They should have little trouble with New Zealand, which advanced by defeating a pair of lightweights, Japan and Panama, in close games. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Aug 25, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

The Tale of Zippy

posted: Friday, August 25, 2006 | Print Entry
filed under: NBA, Olympics

Greetings from Tokyo, just down the train line from Saitama, where Team USA will take on Australia on Sunday afternoon (midnight on the East Coast, 9 p.m. Saturday on the West Coast) in the Round of 16 at the World Championship.

The Americans and Australians have a pretty colorful history over the past decade, and luckily for you I was there each time they played, and I have a couple of good stories to tell. With one of them, U.S. scouting director Rudy Tomjanovich actually broke into a belly laugh Thursday night when we were recalling it together.

The first U.S.-Aussie dustup I covered was in 1996, when Australian guard Shane Heal, who played briefly for the Minnesota Timberwolves, started knocking down 3-pointers from all over the place during a pre-Olympic exhibition game in Salt Lake City. After he made his fifth or sixth in a row, Charles Barkley knocked him on his rear end, nearly sparking a brawl.

But that story is nothing compared to this one:

Tomjanovich was the head coach of the 2000 U.S. Olympic team that won the gold medal in Sydney, and that team traveled to Saitama, Japan and Melbourne, Australia on its pre-Olympic tour before being forced to make a furtive pre-dawn exit from their hotel in Melbourne. But before they made it out of the hotel compound, they had to pass muster with a young fellow they nicknamed "Zippy," who looked like a cross between Wendy O. Williams and Billy Idol.

But before we get to Zippy, I'll back up a couple of days and tell you about the night the Americans played the Australians in a tuneup match in Melbourne, the night Vince Carter was so shaken up by the treatment he got from the crowd he turned into a shell of himself.

Early in the first quarter, Carter was running upcourt with his head turned when he collided head-on into one of the referees, knocking the man to the floor and breaking his elbow. There was a long delay while the official was treated and taken away, and someone had to go and find one of the female referees who had worked the opener of the doubleheader between the U.S. women's team and the Australian women.

She was enlisted to take over as the second referee, and the fans were merciless on Carter when the game resumed, chanting a sing-songy "Carter is a wanker" in unison. He had been the unquestioned star of the team up to that point, but the treatment got to him so thoroughly that he went scoreless in the first half, missing every field goal and free throw he attempted. Veteran Australian player Andrew Gaze had a good chuckle about it at the post-game news conference, saying something from the podium that has stuck with me: "Strange things happen in international basketball."

After the game, the Americans were set to settle in for five days of R&R before making the trip to Sydney, but there was one slight -- or make that major -- problem. They were booked at the same resort that was about to play host to the World Economic Forum, and within 48 hours after that exhibition game, seemingly every left-wing anti-globalization opponent from the entire Southern Hemisphere had descended upon Melbourne to wreak as much havoc as possible.

The protesters surrounded the hotel complex and blockaded all the entrances, and the Melbourne police pretty much did nothing to stop them. The Americans suddenly found themselves stuck inside their hotel, though the women's team ventured out by boat, motoring along the Yarra River (which ran through the hotel complex) to get to their practice arena. The men's team wanted no part of any boat, so they stayed inside with nothing to do as bedlam raged outside.

The protesters were incredibly organized, using walkie-talkies to communicate and floating huge balloons high above the hotel to keep the economic summit participants from coming in by helicopter. Unable to get in or out, and unable to bide their time at the casino or restaurants since the employees couldn't get in or out either, Team USA eventually decided to cut the Melbourne trip short and make a pre-dawn exit.

However, a few dozen protesters were up at 5 a.m. to block their bus as it tried to get through the gate, and a security official eventually exited the bus and told the protesters that it was merely the U.S. Olympic basketball teams attempting to make their way to Sydney.

The protesters eventually decided to step aside, but not before Zippy entered the picture.

It seemed the protesters were not entirely convinced that Bill Gates was not aboard one of the buses, so they elected Zippy to climb aboard the vehicles and have a look for himself.

The players were aghast that their fate was suddenly in the hands of some kid with a Mohawk haircut, and Tomjanovich recalled Thursday night how it might have been the craziest thing he had ever seen. But they made it out safely and landed in Sydney later that day, eventually going on to win the gold medal.
That, by the way, was the last time a U.S. men's team won a gold at an international competition. This year's team might run into a speed bump in Saitama, but it's safe to say they won't run into anything quite like Zippy.

Hache Man · Aug 25, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

Updated: Aug. 25, 2006, 10:52 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 25

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
<OFFER>

Previous Reports:

Aug. 17 | Aug. 18 | Aug. 21 | Aug. 22 | Aug. 23 | Aug. 24

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Varejao Controversy At Worlds, Gooden Deal Nearing
According to reports from Brazilian media, Anderson Varejao has been complaining of fatigue in his legs that has been causing him to lose strength. It wasn't clear whether team doctors believed the symptoms were due to a physical problem or something else. After playing well early in the tournament, Varejao's production fell off. He scored nine points in Brazil's loss to Lithuania on Thursday, a defeat that knocked the Brazilians from the tournament. He also was involved in a violent collision with Greek guard Nikolaos Zisis on Wednesday. ... Drew Gooden flew to Cleveland to undergo a physical on Wednesday, one of the final steps in finishing off his three-year, $23 million contract. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

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Al: I'm Happy To Be Back
Al Harrington's 100-watt smile spoke volumes Thursday as he took part in his second introductory news conference with the Indiana Pacers. Returning from a two-year sabbatical in Atlanta, where he experienced the tough love of getting as many minutes as he ever wanted but more losses than he could stomach, he can't wait to replant roots in Indianapolis. "I guess at the end of the day I should have never left," he said. "This is my home and I'm happy to be back." ... "I learned a lot as a basketball player and about myself," he said. "These last two years have been very trying, but at the end of the day I feel God put me there for a reason. I feel I'll be able to handle my career from this point forward much better. It was rough, but I learned a lot. -- Indianapolis Star

Being Smart And Lucky Never Hurts
Maybe the Indiana Pacers were smarter than everybody else, smarter and more patient. Or maybe they were a little bit fortunate, getting the kinds of breaks this summer they haven't been getting in recent years. Probably -- and CEO Donnie Walsh would acknowledge this readily -- it was a little bit of both. The bottom line is, the Pacers got their man, Al Harrington, and immediately became a better, more likable, more entertaining team in the process. A championship team? No. But a better team? Absolutely. Especially given the price they paid, which wasn't much. If you want to extrapolate back, this was essentially Ron Artest for Harrington. Follow the bouncing ball: Artest for Peja Stojakovic for a trade exception for Harrington. All the Pacers lost was a lottery-protected first-round choice, a small price to pay for a potential double-double guy. -- Indianapolis Star

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Bucks Broadcasts Remain Unchanged
The Milwaukee Bucks' local television schedule for the 2006-'07 season is the same as it has been the last three seasons. A total of 75 of the team's 82 regular-season games will be carried on Fox Sports Net cable or WCGV-TV (Channel 24) in the same proportion they have been since the 2003-'04 season, when the Bucks started to put more of their games on cable than on over-the-air. Jim Paschke returns as the television voice of the Bucks for his 21st season with the club. Jon McGlocklin returns as the analyst for his 31st season as a Bucks broadcaster. -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

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New Jersey Nets | All Nets sitelines

Nets Open Way For Jay
It looks like Jay Williams' comeback will begin with the Nets -- even though they can't guarantee him much beyond a tryout. The Nets have extended a training camp invitation to Williams, the former Duke star and Plainfield, N.J., product whose NBA career was interrupted by a near-fatal motorcycle crash three years ago. As of yesterday, Williams had not officially accepted the invitation, but indications are that he will. "He's a wonderful person, and it's a heck of a story -- from maybe not being able to walk again to possibly returning to the NBA," Nets general manager Ed Stefanski said. But the Nets already have 15 guaranteed contracts allotted for next season, the maximum allowed. By being in the Nets' camp, however, Williams can start trying to prove he belongs in the league -- although he has apparently lost the explosive quickness he once had. -- New York Daily News

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New York Knicks | All Knicks sitelines

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Orlando Magic | All Magic sitelines

Dooling Rumor Nixed
Magic General Manager Otis Smith put aside rumors that guard Keyon Dooling might be returning to the Heat in a trade. Speculation centered on Orlando's glut at point guard (Jameer Nelson, Carlos Arroyo, Travis Diener, Dooling) and its lack of big bodies, which raised question of interest in Heat third-string center Michael Doleac. "It doesn't take a genius to see we're loaded," Smith said Thursday of Orlando's backcourt. "There's nothing to it. [Dooling] is not going anywhere. We like him. We haven't talked to [the Heat]. After the injuries we had there last year, I'd rather be safe than sorry at that spot." -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

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Philadelphia 76ers | All 76ers sitelines

Wagner's Road Back To The NBA
The 76ers are among the curious. Dajuan Wagner, a 6-foot-2 guard, worked out for the team Aug. 17 at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and impressed president and general manager Billy King. "He looked good," King said in an e-mail. King declined to comment on his level of interest in Wagner, an unrestricted free agent, but NBA sources say as many as five teams are considering whether to sign him. And that number could go higher. Wagner said Wednesday night that he thought his workout for the Sixers went "all right." He was waiting to hear from his agent, Leon Rose, on what's next. -- Philadelphia Inquirer

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Toronto Raptors | All Raptors sitelines

Does Killing Raptors Boost Leafs?
The teams operate as two separate businesses and the selling of the Raptors would not affect the financial viability of the Leafs in any way. As it is private operation, MLSEL does not release specifics on how much, if any, money the Raps lose. But consider this -- the NBA signed a $4.6 billion US TV deal in 2002, worth approximately $765 million annually. The Raps receive a lot more money from TV than the Leafs ever will. What does each NHL team receive from that OLN package? A box of Sudafed and $37? Or has it reached the point where the NHL has to pay TV to televise their games? Another reason Al believes it's a good idea to get rid of the Raptors is that the ice is poor because they have to put in the floor for at least 41 basketball games a year at the ACC. True, I suppose. -- Toronto Sun

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Washington Wizards | All Wizards sitelines

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Dallas Mavericks | All Mavericks sitelines

Mavs Release TV Schedule
FSN Southwest will broadcast 42 Mavericks games this season and Channel 21 will air 30 more, the team announced Thursday. The local broadcast team of Mark Followill, Bob Ortegel and Laura Green returns intact. Ortegel will begin his 19th season as the Mavericks' TV analyst. ... Some Mavericks games will be seen on HDNet this season. That schedule will be finalized and released later. -- Dallas Morning News

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Denver Nuggets | All Nuggets sitelines

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Golden State Warriors | All Warriors sitelines

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Houston Rockets | All Rockets sitelines

Opening Of Mutombo's Hospital Postponed
Houston Rockets center Dikembe Mutombo Thursday announced that due to security concerns the opening of the hospital he is building in his native Congo has been indefinitely postponed. The Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital and Research Center was scheduled to open for Sept. 2 in Kinshasa, the capital city of Democratic Republic of Congo. ... "I was concerned about the people who were going for the ceremony," Mutombo said. "It's a concern because they are coming to your homeland. You want to make sure that (they are safe). -- USA Today

China Finds Its Own Clutch City
You felt time running out and just figured Robert Horry would magically pop up. Here came Wang Shipeng, carrying the weight of 1.3 billion countrymen on his back as he dribbled across midcourt and ran desperately toward an opening. His 3-point rainbow from the left wing as the horn sounded gave China a gripping 78-77 win over Slovenia on Thursday, propelled his team into the next round of the World Championship and lifted 7-6 Yao Ming's head even higher. "Man, that's a really clutch shot," Yao said. "It was just the kind of shot that we see in the NBA. But it is hard for me to imagine that it would ever be coming from us. "I tell you, I would pay anything I can pay to buy his jersey and let him sign it for me. Name the price." But Yao again was the money man for China. He never left the court and played all 40 minutes, finishing with 36 points, 10 rebounds and four blocked shots. -- Houston Chronicle

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Los Angeles Clippers | All Clippers sitelines

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Los Angeles Lakers | All Lakers sitelines

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Memphis Grizzlies | All Grizzlies sitelines

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Minnesota Timberwolves | All Wolves sitelines

Hudson Reluctant To Join Teammates
A little birdie says Timberwolves point guard Troy Hudson is reluctant to join teammates in informal workouts at Target Center this month because he wants to continue rehabilitating his ankle at his pace, not a Wolves pace he fears could be too demanding and cause another injury. Hudson plans to report on time for official training camp workouts that begin Oct. 1. Hudson is guaranteed nearly $17 million for the next three years. Don't think the Wolves aren't trying to trade him. -- St. Paul Pioneer Press

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New Orleans Hornets | All Hornets sitelines

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Phoenix Suns | All Suns sitelines

Catching Up With Steve Nash
It's been quite a summer for the NBA's stars. KG went to China and India. T-Mac's on his way over to Asia soon. Shaq went to China too, then returned to the States to hit the links with Zo, who of course, held his annual Summer Groove. And of course, you have the 48 NBA players striving for a World Championship in Japan. Then we have the league's reigning two-time MVP. "I've really been enjoying my summer," said Steve Nash from a dressing room at NBAE Studios. Nash was here to appear on Basketball International, with Andre Aldridge and Simone Sandri, NBA TV's weekly, half-hour look at basketball on a world stage. So, what has Nash been doing with his summer vacation? He has hosted a charity game, had his locks shorn (yes, this was news), watched the World Cup, kicked around the pelota with the New York Red Bulls and hung out with FC Barcelona and the reigning FIFA Player of the Year, Ronaldinho. -- NBA.com

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Portland Trail Blazers | All Blazers sitelines

Miles Not Talking This Summer
Have been trying to get in touch with Darius Miles this summer, but was informed Wednesday by his agent that Miles will not be conducting any interviews this summer. "He plans to do his talking on the basketball court,'' said his agent, Jeff Wechsler. Wechsler said Miles' knees are fine and that he has been working out, but at an undisclosed place that only he and the Blazers know of. There was some other dialogue -- ranging from Darius' immediate future with the club, to who is running the show at One Center Court, and about the position Miles finds himself entering training camp -- but all that was sworn to off-the-record status. -- The Oregonian

Blazers' Antics Are Ultimate Turnoff
Certain people -- and certain athletes -- just can't help it. They can't keep themselves out of situations where they're at risk. Stupid risk. They keep hanging out in the wrong places doing the wrong things. Then they hire the expensive lawyer and buy themselves out of trouble. Again, I'm not even going to go down the list of Randolph's previous transgressions. You know them by now. I'm not going to attempt to guess what he was up to on the night in question. All I'm going to say is this: It doesn't matter. And the reason it doesn't matter is that people in Portland are so sick to death of hearing about Trail Blazer players getting into trouble that they stopped caring before I did. It really doesn't matter what the misdeed was -- it's just another big zit on the already heavily scarred face of a franchise. -- Portland Tribune

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Sacramento Kings | All Kings sitelines

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

Spurs Work Out Miles
Former KU point guard Aaron Miles spent the past several days working out with the NBA's San Antonio Spurs. ... Seattle is also in the mix for Miles, meaning the 2005 KU graduate could join Kirk Hinrich and Nick Collison in the Chicago-Seattle NBA exhibition on Oct. 15 at Allen Fieldhouse. "Aaron is close now," his agent, Chris Emens, said of making an NBA roster. "In addition to being a good player, he brings so many intangibles that help a team. He turned down a ridiculous amount of money (overseas). There have been a lot overseas signings this year, but if you are close, go for it," Emens added. -- Lawrence Journal-World

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

Sonics Hire Team To Study Arena Sites
Lead owner Clay Bennett this week made his fourth visit to Seattle since the sale of the professional basketball franchise was announced, exchanging ideas over breakfast with King County Executive Ron Sims, sitting down with Bellevue developer Kemper Freeman and comparing notes with Seahawks CEO Tod Leiweke. Bennett's conversations with local leaders have been conceptual so far, with no preferred site or financing details chosen, Kneeland said. "Clayton has just been receiving ideas from people at this point," Kneeland said. Once announced, the new team of consultants "is going to go out and aggressively search for options." -- Seattle Times

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

Jazz Waiting To Hook Up With Brown
The expected signing of guard Dee Brown is now going to probably take until sometime next week, said Utah Jazz senior vice president of basketball operations Kevin O'Connor on Thursday. O'Connor again said there's no worry about getting it done. "It's just a matter of tracking him down. It's not going to be an issue," he said. Brown was in Connecticut earlier this week to help open the Bob Cousy exhibit at the Naismith Hall of Fame (Brown is the third recipient of the Cousy Award) for the best collegiate point guard). -- Deseret Morning News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

USA Has Easy Path To Finals
Not only did they make it through group play unscathed at the World Basketball Championships, finishing at the top of Group D after yesterday's 10358 jog past an overmatched Senegal team, but the pairings for the elimination round could not have lined up more in their favor. Virtually every dangerous team ended up on the other side of the bracket, giving the U.S.an extremely easy path to the finals. The two best teams in the tournament besides the Americans, Argentina and Spain, are slated to meet in the semifinals, while sleeping giants like Lithuania, Italy, Turkey, and Serbia-Montenegro also ended up in the opposite half of the elimination bracket. Meanwhile, the U.S. faces a relatively easy slate. -- The New York Sun

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Draft Talk[/FONT]

Gainesville Is Noah's Kind Of Town
Joakim Noah is back living with 2004 classmates Al Horford, Corey Brewer and Taurean Green in a four-bedroom, on-campus apartment that's a bit more spacious than last year's dwelling. Green now has a car, a 2003 Chevy Impala, to drive the group around, though Noah said he prefers walking ("I'm a nomad," he quipped). The bond with his teammates was a big reason Noah said he decided to return for his junior year. "I feel like I'm in a special situation to defend a national championship," Noah said. "I feel like I'm in a situation where I'm playing with some of my best friends, and I'm in a situation where I'm enjoying playing." -- Gainesville Sun

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Baxter's Career In Italy Is In Doubt
Former NBA forward Lonny Baxter 's plans for a playing career in Italy are uncertain after he was sentenced to two months in jail for firing a gun into the air a few blocks from the White House. "We haven't reached a decision on Baxter, but to tell the truth we weren't expecting there to be such a serious sentence," Montepaschi Siena General Manager Ferdinando Minucci said yesterday. "We will be speaking with him to reach a solution." ... The forward was originally scheduled to join Siena on Monday for training camp before the Italian league season starts Oct. 8. Minucci said before the sentencing that if Baxter were unable to join his new team for a month or two, it would compromise his transfer to Siena. -- Washington Post
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Hache Man · Aug 25, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/24/06)

<TABLE width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>NBA Rumor Central: Davis Returning To Indy?
</TD><TD align=right>Other Rumors: MLB | NFL
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle>You are signed into Insider

and have access to this premium feature.
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<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD colSpan=3>Friday, August 25</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD width=65>WHO</TD><TD>INTERESTED</TD><TD>THE SKINNY</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD noWrap align=middle>

Antonio Davis
Raptors
</TD><TD>Bulls?
Pacers?
</TD><TD>Davis Returning To Indy?
Aug 25 - According to the Indianapolis Star, Antonio Davis is said to have interest in playing for the Indiana Pacers and the team has interest in him.
"He's still interested," Al Harrington told the newspaper Thursday. "He mentioned Chicago and the Pacers, but said he'd rather play here." When asked if he wanted to play another season, Davis replied, "I doubt it very seriously."

</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD width=65>WHO</TD><TD>INTERESTED</TD><TD>THE SKINNY</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow vAlign=top><TD noWrap align=middle>

Keyon Dooling
Magic
</TD><TD>Heat?
</TD><TD>Dooling Rumor Nixed
Aug 25 - The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports Magic GM Otis Smith denied rumors that the team had talked to the Heat about a deal that would have sent Keyon Dooling to Miami for Michael Doleac. "It doesn't take a genius to see we're loaded," Smith told the newspaper Thursday. "There's nothing to it. Dooling is not going anywhere. We like him. We haven't talked to the Heat. After the injuries we had there last year, I'd rather be safe than sorry at that spot."

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Btwizzy · Aug 27, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

I especially like the first article, the section on the Cavs P.A. announcer getting fired. Oscar "Robinson" that is good.

Hache Man · Aug 28, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Updated: Aug. 28, 2006, 8:33 AM ET
Worldwide media watches U.S. and says 'Wow'

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

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SAITAMA, Japan -- Media from all over the globe are covering the World Championship, and many of them got their initial first-hand look Sunday at the team in red, white and blue.

With only a few exceptions, they're expecting Team USA to win the gold medal. Yes, even the Spaniards and Argentines.

Following the Americans' 113-73 thrashing of Australia on Sunday, I talked to folks from all corners of the earth to get their impressions and predictions of what's in store over the next several days as this tournament winds down.

Everyone was asked the same question: Do you think Team USA will win the gold medal, and why?

Here are their answers (many respondents apologized for their broken English):

Dennis Huang, NBA Inside Stuff, China: "There are only three teams that can give the USA a real challenge: Spain, Argentina and Italy, though they're retired. Unfortunately, Spain and Argentina will meet before the finals."

Achileas Karalis, Athletici Macedoneas newspaper, northern Greece: "We know everything about the U.S. team. We know that there are too many good players from the NBA, they are famous all over the world. In Greece, our team is the European champion, and we are waiting to see the Greek team against the U.S. It will be good game. All over the world, they want to see the U.S. in first place because in Indianapolis the Serbian team won the gold medal."

Mourelis Staninatis, MetroSport newspaper, Thessolaniki, Greece: "I think USA is one of the best in the World Championship. They have a great coach who knows how to play defense and this is most important for the USA right now. Until now the games were easy for them. If they play good defense against the other teams like Spain or Argentina or Greece, they have the most possibility to win the gold medal. "

Boyc Ziga, Slovenian Press Agency, Slovenia: "I am not so much expert, but I think they are playing very nice. I saw the U.S. team playing in Athens, and there were too many big stars on that team. I think it was the same with our team, because we had five NBA players on our team. Basketball is played five guys on each side, so it's not so individual. Comparing this to the Athens Games, I think this team can go much further."

Pedro Monteiro, Angola News Agency, Angola: "The USA team are the best of the tournament and will win this championship. They have a level that is better than the last U.S. team in Indianapolis in 2002. They are a team, a real team, not individuals. They play together, better than before. But Argentina and Spain are also good teams."

Zoran Radovic, FIBA.com, Serbia: "I think they are the favorites, but I think it will be quite different in the semifinal against Greece and the final possibly against Argentina or Spain, It will be a big challenge for the U.S., but I still think they are the favorites."

Robert Manthei, TV New Zealand Ltd: "Well, if they play like that again, they could win. But the big matchup will be with Argentina. But this is the best USA team I've seen. I saw them in Indianapolis and they were embarrassing. I saw them in the Olympics and they couldn't shoot. But they've selected the team that can win this tournament. They're young, they're keying, they're playing well together, and from what I've just seen here they're probably the most talented and best team here. But don't look past Argentina. They've been together for many years, they play the international game comprehensively, almost as well as it can be played, and they emphasize the strength maybe to knock some of the United States players around. And maybe down the stretch when USA players are used to getting timeout after timeout, sometimes they don't know what to do with the ball when the clock keeps running, and the Argentinians do. So it will be a fantastic matchup, but I like the look of this USA team. They are the real deal, and selecting Coach [Mike] Krzyzewski was a brilliant move."

Luca Chiabotti, Gazetto Dello Sport, Milan, Italy: "I think yes, but I think the team has had a lot of easy games. The only tough game was Italy up to now, and the next one [against Germany] will be easy probably. So I'd like to see what they do when the opponent will be very tough, like the semifinal and the final, if the team is ready to play and step up mentally. I think Argentina and Greece will be ready to play. If USA plays with the right mentality and focus, they'll win. But I think they were not tested yet in this championship."

Pietro Guerrini, Tuttosport, Turin, Italy: "I think they will win, but I think the most important games will be against Argentina, Greece and Spain, teams that can play better defense than the opponents the U.S. has faced up to now. I think they are a lot better than the last two or three USA teams. They have a better approach, a better defense, they know better the opponents, they prepare the game. So they have the right way to face this kind of competition, and they have five players that are the best in the world. Dwyane Wade is fantastic, I think Carmelo Anthony may be better in FIBA competition than in NBA competition. The only problem I think is interpretation of the rules in traveling. It depends on FIBA, will they play with NBA or FIBA rules? Because we see the U.S. players, when they start dribbling, they move one foot more than European or Australian players."

Olivier Pheulpin, L'Equipe, France (based in San Antonio): "I think they will win, but I was saying that before that [Australia] game, because they finally seem to get it. You know, defensively, offensively, you have a team there, and team is the key word. You have the best athletes, the best players. Suddenly you have a team. I used to believe Bowen was good, but Shane [Battier] is as good as he is, and he's shooting the ball so nicely. But again, you haven't played any of the good teams. You only have to win two games to win the championship. That's the only thing that bothers me about the whole championship: The U.S. will only be tested twice. If you win those two, you're the world champion. But that's the way it is."

Alain Moire, Ouest France newspaper: "It is the most physical team around, and all around it has great players. It's terrible to play against a U.S. team, they explode after 20 minutes, and I think the Americans are the favorites of the world championship."

Djordje Matic, DSL Sport newspaper, Belgrade, Serbia: "I don't think so. It's real tough, the Spanish and the Greeks. They play a different kind of basketball. They think only of themselves."

Lucy Nicholson, photographer, Reuters news agency, London, England (based in Los Angeles): "I think they'll win just because their attitude is way better than it's ever been, and they're taking it way more seriously, playing as a team and fighting hard for four quarters. They just seem significantly better than every team they've played."

Dave Hueston, Kyodo News, Tokyo: "Yeah, I think they'll win, mainly because their defense is so dominant. No one plays as physically hard as them for 40 minutes, and for that reason they'll take the title."

Takashi Aoki, Hoop Japan magazine (based in Detroit): "They'll win. They have enough shooters. They can break a zone defense, and they have better chemistry. Coach K gave them freedom, and that's a good thing. If they struggle, they play one-on-one and they can score or get fouled and make free throws."

Aleksander Chernykh, basketball.ru, Russia: "I think Team USA is not such a great favorite as it seems when we looked at the rosters before the tournament. The game against Italy showed the team has flaws. Whoever it plays in the final, to prognosticate that game is like playing paper, rock and scissors because Argentina and Spain look solid, but they also have their flaws. Spain didn't look so confident playing against the tough Serbian defense, and the Serbs played really rough. Pau Gasol looked disgruntled at halftime. I would say it's 50-50 they win or lose."
Mhamed Rewan, Al Araya newspaper, Qatar: "I think it is very strong team. Yes, I think they win. Argentina is good team. Maybe Argentina will win."

Demitrios Chrysanthis, SportDay newspaper, Athens, Greece: "I think they have strong chances to win tournament, but I'm not sure. It's not like 10 years before when Dream Team was unbeatable. I think there are some teams that can beat the U.S. team, but I think still they are the strongest contender. I saw this team for the first time today, and I saw they like to play in one-on-one situations. I saw they didn't face [any] traps, no zone defense, nothing like that. Greeks play more complicated basketball. This is a strong weapon for Greece. If the United States cannot find some solutions against this defense, they will have some problems. But still, the United States is the better team and the favorite team for winning a game like that. It's a matter of how quick will they find solutions against the Greek team "

Roberto Alvarez, Paes newspaper, Spain: "I think the USA team is the team that has the most chance to win. The Spanish team, I think it's possible arrives at the final, or Argentinian team also, and [either can] make it very, very difficult for U.S. team, because the play in FIBA basket is a little bit different than NBA. And I think most styles of NBA players have problems [playing FIBA rules]. But I think that finally the US team is the favorite."

Pablo Borsutzky, FIBA,com and Rock and Pop FM Radio, Argentina: "It's the strongest team here at the World Cup, it has very nice players, and they are hungry to win this medal. They have the strength to win the championship. It will be a battle, and I am from Argentina, but I think they have to win because they have a great team. They will face nice matches against Spain and Argentina, so it will be hard for USA, but I think they will win."
Ruben Campaniello, Agiencia Telem news agency, Buenos Aires, Argentina: "The US team will win it because they have the players, a great coach. They demonstrated today against Australia they have a very nice team to win the gold medal."
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Hache Man · Aug 28, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Updated: Aug. 28, 2006

New structure is reaping immediate on-court benefits

By Jay Bilas
Special to ESPN.com
Archive

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I have written several articles over the years about USA Basketball and its place in the international game, often pointing out its deficiencies and offering my suggestions on how to make things better. Now, with USA Basketball having a great showing at the World Championship in Japan, the most important overall point should not be lost.
These are not victories owing to just players, just coaching style, or just adjustments made to international play. The manner in which the U.S. national team is conducting itself on and off the floor is a first step in a process -- and a very impressive one. It is a preview of things to come and signals a new day for USA Basketball.
Remember, this U.S. team has had no more time to prepare than other teams in the past. This team is operating on the same number of days of practice, preparation and playing, and with the same pool of players that have limited international experience. The immediate results, though, are due to the structure of the enterprise and the collective attitudes and commitment of the participants.
Over the next few years, we should see dividends from the additional time players have devoted to the enterprise and from the continuity that comes from players and coaches being together and playing together for a period of years. USA Basketball has not just fielded a team, as in years past. It has built a team. With the new focus being the team rather than the individual, players have shown greater commitment.
This U.S. team is not just a collection of NBA stars behaving as if they are doing everyone a favor by accepting an invitation to play with USA on their chests. This is a group of players that committed to trying out for the team and to playing for a period of years. Not all of these players are true NBA superstars, and they are open to accepting and playing specific roles.
The results we are seeing, and should continue to see, are a byproduct of the organizational structure and of the cooperation among all the different levels involved. It is a great lesson for any college, business or family.
Unwavering commitment of administration and coaching staff
With the vision and management of Jerry Colangelo, who works cooperatively with his coaching staff, USA Basketball has set a new standard. By providing his coaches and players with the resources they need, and by fully backing his coaches in their decisions, Colangelo has created an atmosphere of commitment. Players now want to be a part of this enterprise and have shown a great willingness to be a contributing member of a successful team.

Terrence Vaccaro/NBAE/Getty Images
Coach K is setting expectations for underlying effort with the U.S. team.

The structure of USA Basketball has given the enterprise great credibility with the players. By putting the team first and making being a "team player" a requirement of being a member of the U.S. national team, Colangelo has provided great incentive to be a part of this team.
Perhaps the most important component of this new structure, though, is having Colangelo and Mike Krzyzewski wedded at the hip and dependent upon each other for success. The players know that Krzyzewski is in charge and that he has Colangelo's complete support. Similarly, Colangelo knows that Krzyzewski shares his vision and that they are working together, not at cross-purposes. There is no "selection committee" that picks the team for a coach, who gets stuck with it. This team belongs to Colangelo and Krzyzewski, together with the players that commit to it.
How many critics have said that a college coach could not handle NBA players? I have long said that I thought such a claim was pure nonsense and was just an excuse for players to quit on a coach or not believe in him for their own selfish reasons. When properly motivated to do so, players will commit to playing hard for a good, competent coach from any level. These players are playing a college style, for a college coach, and they are giving it the ol' college try. Without the backing of Colangelo and the new structure and organization of USA Basketball, however, this would not work well with any coach.
An important distinction in my mind is that Colangelo and Krzyzewski are committed to working with the players in this enterprise, not to have the players simply work for them. While not every player will be treated the same, all are accorded the same respect and all give the same level of commitment.
From my discussions with Krzyzewski, it is clear that he has been impressed by the level of commitment on the part of the players and their willingness to work hard and work together. Krzyzewski has been ultra-impressed with the level of the players' professionalism, and it shows. During the trials in Las Vegas, each staff member brought members of his own staff to run and supervise drills. It made things seamless and ordered. Instead of Coach K, Jim Boeheim and Nate McMillan trying to get up to speed on the intricacies of Mike D'Antoni's offensive schemes and drills, D'Antoni had his staff there to do it. Similarly, Coach K brought his staff and Jim Boeheim brought one of his assistants -- overall, a great management decision.
Team attitude
If you have been watching the games in Japan, you have seen some extraordinary things from this team, on and off the floor. This is a team of NBA players that has committed to playing team defense, using ball pressure and the closing down of passing lanes. This can be a difficult way to play, especially for players that have never really had to play that style. For the most part, though, the players have committed themselves fully to playing that style with enthusiasm and vigor.
Clearly, playing this brand of defense will take some time to learn and perfect. There have been times when players have mistaken gambling for steals for solid pressure defense and players are often out of position, but they are able to recover at times because of their great athleticism. There has been a willingness and commitment to play this way, though, and that is extraordinary.

Garrett W. Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images
Unselfish players like LeBron James are helping USA Basketball prosper at the World Championships.

Watch how the players all support each other during play, from the bench and on the floor. Players are up cheering and showing great enthusiasm that is often missing during NBA games. Players are not griping about playing time or roles, instead throwing themselves into the success of the team and taking pride in the team. Looking at the players after the win against Italy, there was genuine pride shown in winning and winning together as well as in overcoming adversity together. After making great plays, U.S. players often have been seen saluting in tribute to the troops they have visited. The players clearly have been affected by these visits and have been impressed by the troops' selfless service, commitment and teamwork under far more extreme circumstances.
Commitment to team defense
The importance of this team's commitment to playing a different and more focused brand of defense cannot be overstated. In the past, U.S. teams would try to outscore opponents with superior firepower without committing to collectively stopping people. This team, while very good offensively, is committed to pressuring teams and limiting their offensive options, which is wearing down opponents and generating more scoring off the defense.
The problems that have been encountered by USA Basketball in the past have never been about the ability to score. They have been about the willingness to defend. International basketball teams are skilled and have very good shooters who need to be guarded. Forcing teams inside the 3-point line, even when giving up some drives, is preferable to allowing open shots.
This U.S. team does not allow open shots. While this team might be better-served at times by moving the ball more and making more passes, as long as it defends this way, taking some quick shots and having more possessions is not such a bad thing. A collective and sustained defensive intensity is the key.
The game against Italy was a great example. This game has been called a wake-up call by many, as if a U.S. program that won bronze to Italy's silver at the last Olympics and finished so poorly at the past two World Championships needed a reminder that it has to play well to win.
The U.S. found itself down by as many as 12 points in the first half and trailed by nine at halftime. Some opined that it was the defense that was lacking and needed adjustment at halftime. While the U.S. needed to pay more attention to loose balls and long rebounds, the defense was not as much to blame as was the offense; so there was an enormous amount of pressure on the defense to get stops.

AP Photo/Itsuo Inouye
Players like Dwight Howard inside definitely are helping the U.S. on both ends.

The U.S. team was guilty of taking too many quick shots, hitting just 39 percent in the first half and missing a ton of free throws. With better offense, including better free-throw shooting, Italy would have been trounced by 20 or more.
As an aside, expecting the U.S. team to win every game without ever being challenged is kind of silly. The international competition this team is facing is very good. To expect the U.S. to win without having the games close early and through the middle of games is like expecting the best American sprinters to be 20 meters ahead of the competition in the first half of every 100-meter dash.
The United States still has the best players in the world, just not all of them. Given the open style of the international game, it is condescending to believe that these other countries cannot play and compete at the highest level.
The international game is one of passing, moving the ball from side to side, and playing big men out on the perimeter. The NBA game is still a low-post, isolation and pick-and-roll game, which does not always transition well into international play. Just as it is an adjustment for international players to make it in the NBA, it is an adjustment for NBA players to understand the intricacies of the international game, which has its own unique style and flavor. U.S. big men have to play and defend out on the floor far more than they would in the NBA and are taken out of their comfort zone. The U.S. can adapt by going smaller, playing guys like Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James at the power forward positions rather than a traditional low-post big man at that spot.
International teams also are no longer afraid of the United States and believe they can compete with NBA players. Many of these foreign players have been drafted or play in the NBA already, so it is foolish to believe they are intimidated.
Make no mistake, though. The United States still gets the best shot of every team it suits up against, and a win against a U.S. team is cause for major celebration for any nation. To find an analogy in another sport, look at the Ryder Cup in golf. What used to be a decided U.S. romp every two years is now a fistfight that the United States team routinely loses. The United States still has the best golfers in the world overall, but not all of them, and there are complexities to match play and team play in golf that the United States team seems to have a difficult time adjusting to. Is it so hard to imagine that something similar would be the case in basketball?
Long-haul vision
This new way of doing things for USA Basketball is not just about the performance of the team at the World Championship in Japan. It is about setting a new standard and being the world's standard-bearer for the game, to elevate the game.
If the U.S. team wins gold in Japan, it would be a mistake to assume that all is now right with the world and we can go back to business as usual. This is just the first step in a process, the process of making a real commitment to being the best. I applaud Colangelo, his coaching staff and the players that have provided that commitment.
It is one thing for a coherent structure to be initiated. It is another for players to commit to it and believe in it. Whether USA Basketball wins or loses in the latter stages of the medal round, we can again be proud of USA Basketball and the collective effort being put forth.

Enough about "free speech" rights

I am a basketball guy and rarely, if ever, venture into the realm of football, but I am also an attorney, and if you have followed the Bryant Gumbel saga, you have heard a lot about Gumbel's "right" to speak his mind.
Gumbel, on his truly outstanding HBO show "Real Sports," provided a commentary at the close of a recent show calling NFLPA head Gene Upshaw the "personal pet" on the "leash" of former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue. This drew the ire of the outgoing Tagliabue, who called Gumbel's comments uninformed, and hinted that Gumbel could lose his new NFL Network job over it.
Of course, this drew the quick attention of every media member on the planet, many of whom opined that Gumbel has the absolute right to speak his mind, and that if the NFL Network were to fire or otherwise punish Gumbel for such comments it would be tantamount to censorship. It has been said that if Tagliabue or NFL Network head Steve Bornstein thought Gumbel would hold his tongue and not speak his mind, they were similarly uninformed.
First, Bryant Gumbel is a broadcast legend who is one of the best at his job who has ever lived. Whether Gumbel were a legend or loser, though, he has every legal right to say what he said. That said, the NFL Network has every legal right to fire him over what he said. The right to free speech guaranteed in the Constitution of the United States does not extend to protect Gumbel's words from being scrutinized and acted upon by the NFL Network. The only thing Gumbel's incendiary words are protected from in the Constitution is government action. The government cannot fire or punish Gumbel, but the NFL Network certainly can.
So, instead of talking about everyone's rights, let's talk about what is right and what is reasonable. Gumbel may indeed be correct in his opinion that Upshaw is not the strongest head of a players' union. He may be correct in suggesting, not so subtly, that the NFL has gotten the upper hand in negotiations with Upshaw. But the way he stated it was, without reasonable argument, over the top and intentionally provocative.
Gumbel is far too intelligent and talented to lose sight of the fact that his commentary would draw a strong negative reaction, and that his pet-and-leash imagery toward a prominent African-American would be considered offensive. While it might be true that the NFL should have expected Gumbel to say something stirring, Gumbel clearly should have expected that the NFL would react this way to such comments. The truth is, there is no such thing as free speech. It has a price. Gumbel gets to say what he wants, and the NFL Network gets to have who they want calling its games. Decide which side you think is right or wrong, but to discuss whether either side has a legal right to do what they are doing misses the point.
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Hache Man · Aug 28, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Updated: Aug. 28, 2006, 11:33 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 28

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
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Previous Reports:

Aug. 18 | Aug. 21 | Aug. 22 | Aug. 23 | Aug. 24 | Aug. 25

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Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Hawks Trade Reviewed
Aside from the reality that the Hawks' ownership feud affects everything done by the franchise in some form, there is no simple answer to this question. Even Hawks general manager Billy Knight admitted as much. "It was long process, too long a process," he said of this summer's Harrington-athon. "It certainly went on longer than you'd like. But every deal is unique and different unto itself. This one had its own unique twists and turns. But it is what it is. Sometimes you have to resign yourself to some realities about the process. If it took that long, it took that long. Some deals get done quicker and some don't. So yeah, it did take awhile. I'll admit that. But you never get to a point where you're sick of it and get so fed up that you let the process keep you from doing the business that needs to be done." -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Boston Celtics | All Celtics sitelines

Rondo Enjoys Strong Backing
Of all the players selected in the first round of June's NBA draft, few drew more differing opinions than Rajon Rondo. Depending on where you had most often seen him play, he was either an athletic freak with an ability to distribute offensively and dominate defensively, or he was a one-dimensional stopper who would never be able to shoot or play in a halfcourt set well enough to impact at the next level. When Celtics executive director of basketball operations Danny Ainge made a surprise move back into the first round -- after trading the seventh overall pick to Portland in the Sebastian Telfair deal -- to snag Rondo at No.21, he was clearly putting more stock into the former description than the latter. -- Daily News Tribune

Tricks Of The Trades
While calls continue to go out from the Celtics to NBA executives, the same cannot be said of intriguing trade offers coming the other way. Chances are, the opening night roster will be some combination of the 17 players already under fully or partially guaranteed contracts. Training camp officially starts Oct. 3, giving Danny Ainge about six weeks to make a significant move if the team is to develop enough chemistry to make the most of its favorable early-season schedule. But he will not rush into a deal because some real or perceived deadline looms. "I've been active and trying to get things done," said Ainge. "I'm not going to do a deal just to do a deal. I'm only going to do good deals." -- Boston Globe

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Chicago Bulls | All Bulls sitelines

Hinrich Proud To Be American
The U.S. team (6-0) advances to a medal-round quarterfinal Wednesday against Germany (5-1). ''Playing against Germany, we obviously have to face the big fella, Dirk [Nowitzki],'' Kirk Hinrich said after Sunday's game. ''He's an amazing player. He poses unbelievable matchup problems for any team, either in the NBA or here. He is used to playing internationally and with his German teammates. He poses a real challenge. We are going to have to do a great job on him and his team as a whole. ''We are not looking past anyone. We know they are a team to be reckoned with.'' -- Chicago Sun-Times

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Cleveland Cavaliers | All Cavs sitelines

James, Team USA Still Cruising Without True Test
After a 113-73 whipping of Australia on Sunday, the Americans have cruised into the 2006 FIBA World Championship quarterfinals without seriously being tested. Except for a poor quarter against Italy, Team USA has been as dominant as the good old days. Of course, those days have become old because of overconfidence and disrespect for the opposition in major international competitions. After taking apart the Aussies with their most complete offensive and defensive game of the tournament, it appears those dangerous states of mind might be the only serious threat keeping Team USA from a date in next Sunday's world title game. The Americans shot 54 percent and hit 14-of-27 3-pointers, their Achilles heel until now, to turn it into a rout quickly. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

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Miami Heat | All Heat sitelines

O'Neal's Take On Season? 'We'll Be Fine'
With a crowd in the thousands on hand at Saturday's opening of 24 Hour Fitness Shaq Sport on Pines Boulevard, Shaquille O'Neal took time privately to discuss the team's offseason and future. Like many within the franchise, the 34-year-old center said he was uncertain of Pat Riley's plans until last week's coaching comeback was announced. He said he was heartened that almost the entire 2006 championship roster returns intact. And he cautioned about expecting much more than last season's 52 regular-season victories, the lowest winning percentage by an NBA title team since the 47-35 Rockets in 1995. -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

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Milwaukee Bucks | All Bucks sitelines

Does This City Need The Bucks?
How important is a big-league franchise to a city? Good for its self-image? Good for business? Good for its ability to provide one more high-profile entertainment option in a town already blessed with a world-class symphony and art museum, as well as baseball, opera, ballet and theater? Or have the economics of the National Basketball Association grown so insane -- the Bucks' $60 million payroll for 15 players, for example, ranks 15th among the 30 teams - that pro basketball no longer has a place in a city like Milwaukee? These are the kinds of questions we need to be asking ourselves right now, because before you know it this thing is going to be right up in our grill, kind of like Gary Payton when he was still Gary Payton. -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

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New Jersey Nets | All Nets sitelines

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New York Knicks | All Knicks sitelines

Robinson Expecting Knicks To Be Better
Nate Robinson is eager to learn first-hand from Thomas, who has a wealth of knowledge about the point guard position. The former all-star helped lead the Detroit Pistons to back-to-back NBA titles. "He's a Hall of Fame player as a point guard," said Robinson, who averaged 9.3 points and 2.0 assists last season. "I'm motivated to learn from him. I hope he can show me a few new things." Heading into the season, Robinson will battle Stephon Marbury, Steve Francis and Jamal Crawford for playing time. While the competition for minutes is stiff, Robinson remains confident he'll play a key role this season. -- Newsday

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Orlando Magic | All Magic sitelines

World Experience Assists Magic
No team in the NBA will benefit more than the Magic from the basketball being played in the past two weeks. What happens in Japan isn't all going to stay in Japan. Dwight Howard (USA), Carlos Arroyo (Puerto Rico) and Darko Milicic (Serbia and Montenegro) -- three key components to the Magic's future -- have used the World Championship either to polish or expand their games on three different teams. "I can't say I'm surprised by what's happened, but I am very pleased, very excited about the experience,'' Smith said. "I think it's been phenomenal for the young guys. There is no downside. It's going to help them. It's going to help us.'' -- Orlando Sentinel

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Golden State Warriors | All Warriors sitelines

Pietrus: "It Feels Great To Reach The Quarter-Finals"
Everyone thought France's chances of going far in this tournament were solely dependant on Tony Parker's play. And yet here is Claude Bergeaud's side, heading to the quarter-finals -- a better result than their 13th place in 1986 -- without their star playmaker, who ironically said he would return to Japan to support his team if they got this far in the competition. In Parker's absence, every player on the team has had to step up his role on and off the court. Mickael Pietrus is one player who has taken on more of a leadership role in the point guard's absence. -- FIBA.com

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Houston Rockets | All Rockets sitelines

Yao, China Eliminated At Worlds
When Yao Ming finally met his newest teammate, it was like running into a Greek version of one of those teppanyaki chefs wielding the large, sharp knives. Vasilis Spanoulis and his partners used full-court pressure to chop and slice the Chinese guards, then did everything but tuck them into a pita pocket and serve them up as a gyro in a 95-64 romp Sunday in the round of 16 at the World Basketball Championship. "I cannot say it was a great success for our team," Yao said. "All we did was to make our lowest goal. We made it out of the first round and reached the elimination game. Then we were eliminated." -- Houston Chronicle

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Los Angeles Clippers | All Clippers sitelines

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Minnesota Timberwolves | All Wolves sitelines

Wolves Owner Denies Rumors
Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor said that, contrary to rumors, he is not selling any of his interest in the team. He said that he had a friend who might be interested in buying out some of the limited partners, and if the friend doesn't do it, Taylor will. But Taylor is still going to run the show. About adding any new players to the team, Taylor said the hope is that some of the available free agents will learn that they can't get the big contracts they anticipate. In the case of Reggie Evans, Taylor expects him to wind up staying with Denver. -- Minneapolis Star Tribune

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New Orleans Hornets | All Hornets sitelines

Paul's Team USA Experience Will Help Hornets
Chris Paul is keeping LeBron James happy over in Japan this summer. Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony, too. Paul is distributing the basketball effectively and efficiently enough that we haven't heard so much as one peep about touches from any of the superstars on the USA Basketball roster. And the Hornets will be the main beneficiary next season from Paul's participation in this summer's World Championships. If Paul can keep King James, D. Wade and Melo satisfied, think he'll have any problems pleasing Peja Stojakovic, Bobby Jackson or Tyson Chandler next season? Not a chance. -- The Oklahoman

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Phoenix Suns | All Suns sitelines

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Portland Trail Blazers | All Blazers sitelines

The Answer Is To Get Rid Of Randolph
The Blazers shouldn't publicly criticize Zach Randolph, but in their most private thoughts, they must know the ticking sound they hear threatens to blow up the entire rebuilding project. The good guys the team has added recently end up as window dressing as long as you're building around Randolph. Every NBA contract includes a moral turpitude clause that allows a team to cut a player for serious detrimental behavior. The Warriors tried unsuccessfully to use it when Latrell Sprewell choked his coach. League executives will tell you it's difficult, if not impossible, to utilize the clause until a player has committed a felony offense. The Blazers don't need to think in those terms yet. But they need to read the police report, and they need to close the door, and have a long, healthy discussion about where this could all end up. Because if they don't listen to the advice buried in that report, I fear they'll never learn. -- The Oregonian

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Sacramento Kings | All Kings sitelines

Goodrich: Kings Will Be Solid, But Not Great
The Kings will be formidable this coming NBA season, but they might not even make the playoffs. That's the opinion of Gail Goodrich, the Hall of Famer who works as a color analyst for NBA TV and whose job is to break down and study teams in and out of season. In the Kings, Goodrich sees a good coach replacing a very good, proven one -- Eric Musselman in for Rick Adelman -- and he said there's a clear defensive foundation with Ron Artest. Other than that, don't expect 50 wins this season. "They got a lot of work cut out for them," Goodrich said from his cell phone while plodding through New York traffic. "Ron is a tremendous basketball player, one of the top 10 players in the world. But losing Bonzi Wells really hurts. That's a big loss. He really stepped up for them and gave them what they needed inside and with rebounding." -- Sacramento Bee

Arena Name Game Is A Gamble
For 21 years it has been the corporate equivalent of marital bliss, a joining of company name and a basketball team's home court so seamless that it has become nearly impossible to think of the Sacramento Kings without thinking of Arco Arena. That's how naming rights are supposed to work. But things are different now than when Arco extended its arena sponsorship in 1999 for $750,000 a year. The arena is seven years older. Maloof Sports, which owns the Kings and Arco Arena, has made it clear it wants a new venue -- quick. Meanwhile, Arco's contract expires next year and it is not clear whether London-based oil giant BP Plc, which bought Arco in 2000, is committed to staying in a marriage that it didn't arrange. -- Sacramento Bee

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

For Ginobili, The Challenge Has Grown Up
Manu Ginobili will be pressed to beat the Americans as he did in Athens. For one, he may never play the United States. Spain is one team that stands in Argentina's way at the world championships, and Spain has beaten Argentina nine-straight times. For another, what Ginobili did in Athens wasn't easy. He needed to win one game with a bank shot at the buzzer, and the Americans then, as fractured as they were, were still powerful at times. They were the ones who eliminated Spain. But Ginobili also will be pressed because of how the Americans have changed. Tim Duncan is gone, but in his place are three of his former Olympic teammates. -- San Antonio Express-News

Scola Cleared For Turkey Match
Argentina centre Luis Scola has been given the all-clear to face Turkey in Monday's FIBA World Championship quarter-final after suffering a blow to the mouth against New Zealand. Scola clashed with Tall Blacks Pero Cameron in the last 16 tie and broke two teeth but national team doctor Diego Grippo confirmed he will be available to face Turkey. "He will not have any problems to continue in the tournament," Grippo told the Argentinian Basketball Confederation's official website. "However he will have to undergo some other repairs when the championship finishes." -- FIBA.com

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

S.L. Motivational Event To Include Stockton
Matthew Sederberg was already intrigued enough by the lineup for the upcoming "Get Motivated" seminar -- Rudolph Giuliani, Zig Ziglar, Steve Forbes and others --hat he figured he'd buy some tickets. But another name got the Provo man really jazzed. John Stockton. The former Utah Jazz basketball great -- whose reputation for speaking to the public and press is virtually non-existent -- will discuss "How to Lead Your Team to Victory" at the Tuesday seminar at the Delta Center. -- Deseret Morning News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

With Another Rout, USA Looking Better And Better
If the U.S. was looking to restore its intimidation factor in international basketball, yesterday went a long way toward accomplishing that goal. With all the teams assembled in one location for the first time -- the Saitama Super Arena just outside of Tokyo -- the U.S. served notice that it's the team to beat with a 11373 thrashing of Australia. The impressive win marked another step in the U.S. team's progression. Since the American side has the least international experience and had the least time playing together before the tournament started, one thing it had to count on was being able to improve as the tournament went on. This result is strong evidence the team has done just that, playing what was easily its most impressive game to date. -- The New York Sun

Colangelo: "The Team Was Primed, They Were Ready"
Jerry Colangelo admitted Team USA's second-quarter mauling of Australia which led to a 113-73 American triumph was the stuff of dreams. Looking to reach the summit of international basketball again, Team USA took a big step in that endeavour when they outscored the Boomers 32-6 in that 10-minute stretch for a 59-29 lead at half-time. The three-point shooting, the passing, the defense -- it was all working for the United States as they all but secured victory with 20 minutes still to play. -- FIBA.com

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

NFL, NBA To Make Coast Appearances
Eight former and current athletes from the NBA and NFL plan to visit and talk with students at five schools in South Mississippi this week. The players will join the local staff of Northwest Medical Teams Inc. and members of the Harvey Family Foundation at schools in Moss Point, Pascagoula, Gautier, Biloxi and Gulfport. The professional athletes will coach students on how to become winners while facing adversity. ... Northwest volunteers also include Trail Blazers Travis Outlaw, Dan Dickau and possibly LaMarcus Aldridge, the team's first round draft pick and No. 2 overall; former NBA player and Moss Point native Litterial Green and former NFL players Aubrey Matthews and Alcender Jackson. -- The Sun Herald

? Check out your team's news at ESPNLocal
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Hache Man · Aug 28, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Marbury shows heart with shoes

posted: Monday, August 28, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry

I've always thought there is more to Stephon Marbury than the public perceives. I know he doesn't always come off well because he's not articulate and he says some crazy stuff, but while covering him as a beat writer when he played for the Nets, I came away thinking he was very intelligent. He may not be highly-educated or diplomatic, but he's intelligent.

On the court, his reputation for being a selfish chemistry-killer is not completely undeserved. Sadly, he just doesn't seem to get it in between the lines.

But off the floor, while he's no saint, I think Steph has a good heart. How many people -- athletes or otherwise -- that weren't directly affected by Hurricane Katrina cried crocodile tears over the disaster?

And regardless of how much money he makes, the $500,000-$1 million he donated to Katrina relief efforts is impressive.

Now, Marbury's showing more heart by releasing a $15 sneaker called "The Starbury One.''

This has been known for a while, but William C. Rhoden wrote a nice article in Friday's New York Times about Marbury and his shoe. The shoe is selling at Steve & Barry's, and according to the article, it's been flying off the shelves.

I applaud Marbury for putting out a shoe that parents can easily afford and kids can wear without being teased. With kids, you don't have to wear Jordans or LeBrons to be cool, but you do have to wear a legitimate brand (it may not be right, but it's reality).

And because Marbury will be wearing the shoes in NBA games, posting about 20 and 8 nightly, the Starbury Ones will be legitimate -- regardless of how the Knicks do.

If the Knicks make an inspiring run to the playoffs, the sneakers will really take off. But I'm dreaming now.

Back to reality ...

The article also mentioned that Marbury got the idea for his sneaker, which is the lead item of an entire low-priced shoe and clothing brand he's created, from Knicks boss Isiah Thomas. Thomas educated Marbury on the Civil Rights movement, and Marbury started thinking of ways to make his own positive impact on society.

Props to Isiah for that, because if more of our young athletes and entertainers were up to speed on the sacrifices that were made and the courage that was displayed to ensure that they receive the opportunities they have today, more would probably be joining Marbury in trying to do something innovative, long-lasting and beneficial for the next generation.
? On another note, the response to my "Busting a 12-year-old'' story was overwhelming. In what was a first -- and hopefully not a last -- out of the hundred or so people that emailed me, only one person disagreed. You know, I'm used to wearing a helmet and armor when I read my email responses because some of ya'll just destroy a brotha' (ha, ha). But I touched a nerve (in a good way) with this one. So I say to all of you, go out, find a cocky 12-year-old, and bust him on the court for the good of society!

Hache Man · Aug 28, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (4 New Articles Added 8/25/06)

Draft night scene at the Garden

by: Matt Wong
posted: Wednesday, June 28, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry

Thanks be to free nights and weekends. Because when Rudy Gay checked his phone, he already had 17 messages and 21 missed calls.

Not that he or any of his draft counterparts can't afford a hefty phone bill nowadays. But still, the number and frequency of the calls and text messages they were receiving was, well, off the hook. Catch one of the draftees during a free moment and he was flipping open his phone or typing like mad on his keypad, even during off-camera interviews.

Randy Foye, who didn't even want to think about how many times he'd been interrupted by a call, still dialed his buddy and former 'Nova teammate Kyle Lowry to congratulate him on being selected by Jerry West and the Memphis Grizzlies. The Warriors' Patrick O'Bryant, too, was getting calls from many of his former Bradley teammates, not to mention a few ladies, he joked. And so on.

Soon after being ushered off the big stage, each prospect was taken to an area backstage for more media interviews and internet chats. The young stars and their entourages were led through a maze of black curtains, each one separating a different media outlet, furnished with lights, cameras and director's chairs for the league's newest stars.

And after answering many of the same questions over and over again, many found solace in their handy gadgets which allowed them to hear or read the familiar voices of friends and family.
Oftentimes, though, stations would get backed up and the players would congregate and catch some of the draft on TV together. Gay and J.J. Redick happened to be in the same room when New York was selecting at No. 20, and much like those that bleed blue and orange, even they couldn't believe Renaldo Balkman was gonna be a Knick. More surprising for both was that UConn's Marcus Williams was still on the board at the time.
Others, like Foye and Ronnie Brewer, now of the Utah Jazz, traded stories about their predraft workout experiences.

The No. 1 pick in the draft, Italy's Andrea Bargnani, looked anything but your typical top pick -- he was genuinely excited, especially when it came time to chat with fans online. Talk about a grip, he almost yanked me over the table with his handshake.

Meanwhile, the Adam Morrisons and Redicks of the hoops world just moved from station to station without much fuss, used to the circus-like atmosphere. Morrison, his mustache looking quite Jordan-esque, answered questions in his usual low-key manner. Redick, who endured chants of D-U-I from the rowdy Garden crowd, was just glad the process was over, tired of the criticism he was receiving for a recent mistake in judgment.

The Garden as usual, and particulary on this day, was unforgiving, thanks to Knicks fans who were there to send a message of their own with "Dolan Sucks!" chants and "Fire Isiah" signs aplenty.

However, there was one sign that was a little more positive, and perhaps a lot more insightful. One that might have critics laying off Billy Knight, another GM on the hot seat, for a bit. It actually happened a few years back.

"Funny thing is," said Shelden Williams, the controversial No. 5 pick, "in junior high school I was at the NBA Players Association camp and they gave out draft hats. I reached in and I pulled out a hat. It was Atlanta Hawks.

"Here I am drafted by Atlanta."
Meant to be? Perhaps. But judging by the night's events ... it may just have been another missed call.

Hache Man · Aug 29, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (5 New Articles Added 8/28/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (5 New Articles Added 8/28/06)

Team USA will win silver

posted: Tuesday, August 29, 2006 | Print Entry
filed under: NBA, Olympics

With the way the brackets turned out, I need to amend my pick for who will win the gold medal at the World Championship.

No, I'm not jumping on the U.S. bandwagon. I'm still picking Spain. I originally projected that the Spaniards would defeat the U.S. in the semis, and now have them beating the Americans in the title game. I'm watching Spain absolutely steamroll Lithuania in the quarterfinals as I write this, and I still think the Spaniards will get past Argentina in the semifinals. They've defeated the Argentinians nine straight times, and with the way they've looked throughout this tournament, I expect that streak to go to 10.

But if Argentina manages to get past them, I'll even pick the Argentinians to defeat the Americans for the same reasons I cited in an earlier column, especially their advantage in chemistry and cohesion built over so many years of playing together as a unit.

Yes, the Americans have looked great in three of their past four games while defeating Slovenia, Senegal and Australia, but those teams are just not good enough to be a good measure by which to judge the U.S. team. I still see a big weakness in the Americans' half-court defense in the way they defend the pick-and-roll, and I've seen them beaten too many times on backdoor cuts -- the exact type of plays Spain and Argentina execute to perfection -- to believe we won't see that be their demise in the title game.

The Americans also have had to abandon the full-court and half-court traps because it was leaving them too exposed when that defense was broken. Coach Mike Krzyzewski himself was saying today how defense will be the determining factor in his team's success, and when the Americans finally go up against a team that can compete with them, their defensive deficiencies will prove to be their demise.
Quite a few e-mailers have asked me to be a little more supportive of the guys in red, white and blue, but I'll respond by saying I don't see that as my job. When it comes to covering them, I strive to be as neutral as the Swiss. That's how I had to be before I came over to ESPN, and I'm sticking with what has worked for me through the years.

I also cited the fatigue factor as something that will work against the Americans when this thing gets to the finish line, and an encounter I had with Dwyane Wade at practice today bolstered my line of thinking.

Approaching Wade to ask him about fatigue, I began my question: "You've been over here in Asia now for more than three weeks ...

Wade interrupted me and said "Three months," which is as good an indication as any that all this time away from home is taking a little something out of at least some of the Americans.

Sitting with his knees and right wrist wrapped in ice, Wade said he's feeling more exhausted on this trip than he did two years ago in Athens, though his spirits have been lifted -- like those of his teammates -- by the arrival of his family a few days ago. He also revealed he aggravated his injured wrist when he took a nasty spill against Italy a week ago.

"I'm not the Dwyane Wade that was in the [NBA] Finals, I'm not 100 percent physically healthy or in shape the way I want to be, but I'm good enough where I can help my team win, go out there and play 20-25 minutes, then go back after this and get some rest," Wade said. "I was good three weeks into Athens. It was after my rookie year when the season didn't last as long. I wasn't playing many minutes, so I went out there and gave help wherever I could."

Coach K said the team was itching to get back on the court after playing five times in six days during the opening round and then having just one game over the next five days. He said he was most concerned that the team doesn't expend itself too much at the wrong time.

"We just have to be careful in practices not to put them in a position where they can be injured. Keep 'em sharp and don't play your best game in practice," Krzyzewski said.

Coach K also said the players' spirits had been lifted by the arrival of their families, who had been asked to stay back in the States until the team traveled to Tokyo for the medal round.

"We're not anxious to go home. We're anxious to play, and that's a key difference," Coach K said.

? Something I wrote in a tournament preview column two weeks ago has caused a bit of a stir over here, and I want to address it. In listing 10 reasons why I was picking against Team USA, I listed the BO factor and wrote that some of the Argentina players appeared to not have bathed (though they weren't the only ones) during the entire 2002 World Championship in Indianapolis. That line was not intended to be taken literally, but some people took it that way, and feelings have been hurt. For that, I apologize.
I've been covering Team Argentina since the 1999 Tournament of the Americas in Puerto Rico when Andres Nocioni threw down one of the most vicious dunks ever over Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan, and I've been hugely impressed in the years since by Nocioni and his teammates' development into NBA players, their success in international tournaments and their professional and gentlemanly ways off the court.

I still contend they had more oil in their hair than a Venezuelan petroleum field by the end of the 2002 Worlds (don't take that line too literally either), but publicly knocking them for it was going overboard. My intention was to amuse, not to offend, but sometimes I go over the top (New Yorkers tend to do that). I'm man enough to acknowledge I was wrong and publicly express my regret.

Having now aggravated a majority of American and Argentine basketball fans, I'm off to find ways to infuriate the Greeks and the French. Good thing I didn't choose a career at the State Department.
Sayonara, for now.

Hache Man · Aug 29, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (5 New Articles Added 8/28/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (5 New Articles Added 8/28/06)

Updated: Aug. 29, 2006, 1:36 PM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 29

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
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Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Young, Versatile Talents Ink Deals Through 2007-08
The Atlanta Hawks have exercised the contract options for the 2007-08 season on the trio of Josh Smith, Josh Childress and Marvin Williams, it was announced today by Executive Vice President/General Manager Billy Knight. "This move is reflective of the tremendous progress all three of these young men have made in their brief NBA careers," Knight said. "Individually and collectively, they have established themselves as important parts of our nucleus, they are great fan favorites, and we feel they will continue to elevate their games moving forward." -- Hawks.com

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Bulls' Nucleus Has Changed
Even after his team extended the eventual NBA champion Miami Heat to six games in the first round of the 2006 playoffs, Bulls general manager John Paxson said there could be wholesale changes in store during the summer. Sure enough, five weeks before the start of preseason camp, the Bulls have the look of a team with a nucleus more settled than any since the glory days in the 1990s. At the same time, the Bulls figure to have eight new faces this season. ... "Every offseason, you have an idea of what you want to accomplish, but not everything goes as planned," said Paxson, who plans no major moves from now until the start of camp in early October. "We still have areas that need to be addressed, but for the most part, we've achieved what we set out to do after last season." -- Daily Southtown

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Unselfish Team USA Follows LeBron's Lead
Kobe Bryant isn't in Japan with his fellow national team members. Knee surgery last month knocked him out, and he has been recovering and doing charitable work this summer in Los Angeles, though Nike will bring him to Asia soon for promotional work. With the Americans butchering opponents and rebranding the tarnished image of USA Basketball, is it possible Kobe's absence advanced the team's cause? The ownership of this edition of the Dream Team quickly ended up in the hands of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony. The overall attitude is really a product of James and Wade, who have founded an unselfish style that is shocking the international basketball world that long ago tagged American stars as snobbish and self-centered. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

LeBron Has America's Young Guns Shooting
LeBron James, 21, is the brightest young star in the NBA. His squad, the Cleveland Cavaliers, is now a threat to be a perennial title contender, as evidenced by its breakout performance in the playoffs this past season. And James, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2003 draft out of an Akron, Ohio high school, is leading the future wave of Team USA basketball. In Japan, James and Co. are 6-0 heading into Tuesday's quarterfinal against Germany at the FIBA World Championship at Saitama Super Arena. The Americans are coming off a 40-point win against Australia. Team USA has shown that it is capable of shredding the old label of me-first players, the one that caused many to dislike recent U.S. squads. This squad is different. This squad is likable. -- The Japan Times

Why Did LeBron Come To Asia?
LeBron James is not only a talented basketball player but also a very shrewd businessman. He has set the goal of becoming the world's first athlete billionaire. U.S. market has been saturated for the last past years. In order to make his billionaire dream come true, he has to go beyond the U.S. market, to go globe. Asia takes up a big proportion of the world's sportswear market and athletic shoe and apparel retailers are growing in China. Millions of teenagers there are awakening to basketball in an exploding rate. James smells the opportunity. -- People's Daily

One-On-One with Daniel Gibson
On the eve of the 2006 NBA Draft, pundits and prognosticators predicted that the Cavaliers would select either Michigan State shooting guard Shannon Brown or Texas point, Daniel Gibson. Cavaliers GM Danny Ferry helped the forecasters hedge their bet: Cleveland drafted them both. ... Unlike Brown, his soft-spoken draft-mate, Daniel Gibson seems as comfortable talking about his game as he is playing it. Cavs.com caught up with the personable point man in-between workouts in Houston as he prepares for Training Camp. -- Cavs.com

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Pressure Mounts To Curb Size Of Atlantic Yards
The developer of the $4.2 billion Atlantic Yards project is coming under pressure to downsize, The New York Sun has learned. State officials have discussed with the developer, Forest City Ratner, a reduction in the size of the project, a source said. The officials have said the downsizing should come in the next few weeks, before September 22, the end of the public comment period regarding the draft environmental impact statement, the source said. As proposed, Atlantic Yards would be the largest development project in Brooklyn's history and create the densest census tract in America. -- The New York Sun

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New York Knicks | All Knicks sitelines

Knicks With A Knack
Jamal Crawford leaned against the fence at Rucker Park on Wednesday, shaking hands with players and fans and tugging at his oversized T-shirt. A fan walked past him, cautioning him not to play too hard. "Don't forget, Jamal," the man said. "You play for the New York Knicks." Not in Rucker Park he doesn't. As Crawford and fellow Knick and streetball mate Nate Robinson know, Rucker ball is a different brand of basketball. "This is where you work on your game," Crawford said. "You get better, break out some new stuff." That's what Crawford and Robinson did while playing for their Seattle team in Rucker's EBC America Classic. After a trying NBA season, both were happy to play Rucker's looser game. -- New York Daily News

Knicks Made Good Decisions This Summer
The Knicks had an extraordinarily successful off-season and the best part of it wasn't what they did, but rather what they didn't do. What they did was notable. The Knicks started their summer with a roar, dumping coach Larry Brown after letting him twist in the wind for a couple of weeks (clearly an Isiah Thomas tradition given his handling of Don Chaney and Lenny Wilkens). The move was necessary as Brown had sabotaged the season, going 23-59 using 42 different starting lineups, failing to set a rotation, and devoting more energy to warring with his players in the newspapers than setting clear roles for them. -- The New Yokr Sun

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It's A Philly Thing!
The Philadelphia 76ers new 2006-07 marketing campaign, "It's a Philly Thing!," aims to link the Sixers to the City of Brotherly Love based on the rich history of both the city and the franchise. The campaign is consistent with the idea that all Philadelphia-area residents are Sixers fans. The Sixers 2006-07 print campaign maintains the retro feel of last season's look with one notable difference -- the use of the color red. Red was chosen as the primary color this season to coincide with the unveiling of the 76ers new red alternate uniforms. In keeping with the retro feel, this season's word mark was inspired by the typography used on the 76ers 1975-76 uniforms. -- Sixers.com

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

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Yao Upbeat Over Olympic Medal
Yao Ming thinks China's young team can still win a medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games despite being knocked out of the world championships in the second round. The Asian champion led by 12 points before collapsing to a 64-95 defeat by Greece in Saitama, Japan, on Sunday having scraped out of the group stage on the back of a last-second three-point shot. "I'll go back to the NBA," the 2.28-meter Houston Rockets center told the Basketball Pioneers newspaper. "I can promise I'll be better in two years but I need my teammates to become better. I only made five attempts (on Sunday) and we can't win if I only get five attempts." -- Shanghai Daily

Yao: China Must Wise Up To International Game
Yao Ming has called on Chinese sports authorities to let his national team-mates play overseas to get the experience they need to make China a force in international basketball. "We cannot make enough progress by the national league alone: it's like trying to build a cart without knowing how," said Yao after their second round 95-64 rout by Greece. "Chinese players have to go overseas to play. I mean, they should go there alone and fight for their positions on the teams. This is the only way to lift the overall level of Chinese basketball." -- China Daily

T-Mac Tours Asia
It's day three and we had a full day. We are starting off with more local media interviews. These guys do their research, they always seem to suprise me with some of the random things they find to ask questions about. Then it was back to my room for lunch and some rest before heading to the adidas Streetball Finals. The adidas Streetball event brings 3-on-3 teams from seven countries in Asia. There is also a dunk contest and a 3-point contest. At the adidas Streetball we started off launching my Asia only T-MAC 1. I took some questions from the crowd and then we started the dunk contest. Each kid got three dunks and the one with the highest three score totals was the winner. -- NBA.com

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Gasol Pleased With Spain Defense
Pau Gasol collected a team-high 25 points and nine rebounds. But more importantly, the 7-footer had three of Spain's four blocks and was one of nine Spaniards who had at least one steal in the quarter-final showdown. At one point, Gasol and Juan Carlos Navarro combined to score 27 straight points for the Iberians. "We have a lot of good players on this team. Juan Carlos and myself are two of those. But I think we have to be happy with our defense mainly," Gasol said. -- FIBA.com

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Spurs Still Obey Direct, Verbal Order
Robert McDermott's legacy runs laughably deeper than this, and Popovich knows better than anyone. He was a cadet when McDermott was the dean at the Air Force Academy, and, though the two never met then, Popovich saw firsthand how McDermott impacted people's lives. Such as Popovich's. McDermott changed the academy's curriculum, and Annapolis and West Point later followed his lead. Both added a more liberal-arts slant to what had always been heavy on engineering. This is just one reason Popovich remained in awe of his former dean and boss. "He lived every minute," Popovich said, "and he lived in service of his community." -- San Antonio Express-News

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

Sonics Offer Halperin Contract
Yotam Halperin is closer then ever to fulfilling his dream of becoming the first Israeli to play in the NBA after being offered a contract by the Seattle SuperSonics on Monday. The 22-year-old Israeli, who was the 53rd player picked in this year's NBA Draft, has reportedly been offered a one-year minimum salary contract. "I'm only a signature away from the NBA," Halperin said before beginning a training session with Israel's national team. "Seattle has offered me a contract, but I still don't know the exact details. If I sign, Maccabi [Tel Aviv] should be proud of me." -- The Jerusalem Post

Halperin Close To Supersonics Contract
Yotam Halperin is currently under contract to Maccabi Tel Aviv, and if Seattle does make a move for the player, Maccabi will demand a buy-out fee, which could come to $500,000. The problem for Halperin is that players often pay the buy-out fee from their own pocket, and with the minimum wage for a rookie standing at a similar figure, even if he does get an assured contract, he could end the season out of pocket. While Halperin's father was non-commital yesterday about the chances of his son joining Seattle, the player's Israeli agent, Arik Krein, said the deal was all but done. "We are in shock. I still can't believe that Yotam will be the first Israeli to play in the NBA," Krein said. "Yotam will make around $500,000 at Seattle -- a tidy sum, but less than he would get in Europe." -- Haaretz

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

U.S. Finally Brings 'A Game' To The World
No. 8 Greece opens Wednesday's second day of quarterfinal games against No. 10 France at 4:30 p.m., while U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski and his squad take the floor at 7:30 against Dirk Nowitzki and No. 13 Germany. Krzyzewski preaches "respect" for all opponents, and his hard-sell campaign to the U.S. collection of NBA stars has carried over to the media. But the world has its own set of expectations for the Americans. "Playing against them in Athens [at the 2004 Olympics] and playing against them now, they approach the game much differently than they did in Athens defensively," said Australia coach Brian Goorjian after the Americans destroyed the Aussies 113-73 on Sunday in Saitama. "They're much more accepting of their roles. They play much better together as a team." -- The Daily Yomiuri

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous News[/FONT]

NCAA, NBA Could Team On Amateur Reform
NCAA President Myles Brand left open the possibility yesterday that college sports' governing body for the first time is willing to work with both the NBA and shoe companies to improve amateur basketball, which has come under increasing criticism this year. In remarks made at Hampton University, Brand said, "Maybe working together with the NBA and lots of others -- USA Basketball, the [Amateur Athletic Union], the National Federation of High Schools -- and including key elements such as the shoe companies working all together, is there something we can do to help improve that pre-collegiate environment?" -- Washington Post

Mayo Says He's Finished At NCH
O.J. Mayo attended his last classes at North College Hill on Monday. When the bell rings today, he'll be in a whole new school. Mayo told USA Today on Monday he'll transfer to Huntington (W. Va.) High and be in class there today. "It's exciting to go home, but it's sad leaving North College Hill," Mayo told the paper. "I consider Cincinnati a second home." Mayo, originally from the Huntington area, did not elaborate as to his reasons for the move. His mother, Alisha Mayo, lives in South Point, Ohio, near Huntington. O.J. Mayo has lived in Cincinnati with Dwaine Barnes, his AAU coach and legal guardian. -- Cincinnati Enquirer

Africa Is On Basketball Map Now
Dirk Nowitzki no longer needs help locating Africa on the basketball map. It seems the entire continent is breathing down his neck. There was the horse who pulls the Dallas Mavericks' wagon straining with all that he had to score 47 points and get Germany past Angola 108-103 in triple overtime in the first round of the World Basketball Championship. There was Nowitzki on Sunday, making just enough shots, just enough plays down the stretch and still having to watch a last-second drive roll off the rim to survive Nigeria 78-77 in the first elimination game. "Those teams have always had some players," Nowitzki said. "But now the Africans are learning what it takes to be a team." -- Houston Chronicle
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Hache Man · Aug 30, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Updated: Aug. 30, 2006, 2:59 PM ET
A few things to dislike in Team USA's 20-point win

By Chris Sheridan
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>SAITAMA, Japan -- In wondering whether folks back home are happy with Team USA's 20-point victory over Germany, I'm guessing they're divided into two categories.
Those who merely checked the final score are probably satisfied. Those who watched the game on TV, however, have to have a few doubts creeping into their heads.

Not surprisingly for those of you who have been following my coverage of this team closely, I found plenty to dislike about this victory. But I'll get to that later.

Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE/Getty Images
LeBron James helped keep Dirk in check.

First, let me dispense some praise to LeBron James for his second-half defense (3-for-12) on Dirk Nowitzki, who still seemed to be playing Games 4-7 of the NBA Finals, and to Kirk Hinrich for the tone he set with his defensive intensity when the Americans took control of the game early in the third quarter. This one could have been a debacle if the Americans had played as poorly in the second half as they did in the first, but they never got shaken and they got the job done.
OK, enough with the flowery stuff.
Allow me to focus on the negatives, and understand that I'm not the only guy doing so. The Greek coaching staff had to be positively giddy with what it saw Wednesday night, and Spain or Argentina will be taking a good, long look at this game tape once those two get finished with each other in the other semifinal and one of them gets the U.S. in the gold or bronze medal game.
I'm going to give you five reasons this victory did not impress me, which is what I imagine you've come to expect after six weeks in which I've been the one constant voice of restraint when it comes to predicting great things for this team. Team USA's goal is now within reach, but the tournament really hasn't started yet, if you ask me. It really starts Friday when the going gets a whole lot tougher. We're about to see what Team USA has left in the tank, and whether that'll be good enough to restore the old world order.

Reason No. 1: Team USA's unimaginative half-court offense against the zone
There are many ways to defeat a zone defense, and hoisting 3-point shots with 14 to 16 seconds left on the shot clock is far, far down on that list. Yet that is what the Americans did time after time against Germany's tightly packed 2-3 defense, and they weren't very good at it (10-for-40 from behind the arc). Team USA was a little more creative in the second half, when it put the ball in Dwyane Wade's hands and he used his slashing skills to create better shot opportunities for his teammates, but Chris Paul had his worst playmaking game of the tournament with just two assists, and Paul's 1-for-5 shooting from 3-point range is not going to scare the Greeks, Spaniards or Argentines.

Garrett W. Ellwood/NBAE/Getty Images
Chris Paul didn't have his best game against Germany.

Reason No. 2: Paul's 3-point shooting was only the tip of the iceberg
With the exception of Joe Johnson's shooting 3-for-7 from behind the arc, none of the Americans did anything to dissuade their upcoming opponents from challenging the U.S. to beat them from the outside. Wade was 0-for-5 on 3s (and 1-for-11 overall), Shane Battier was 0-for-3, Kirk Hinrich was 1-for-5, Carmelo Anthony was 3-for-9 and LeBron James was 1-for-3. If one of coach Mike Krzyzewski's Duke teams shot that poorly on 3s, he'd have the players in the gym at 6 the next morning shooting jumpers 'til lunchtime. Also, one of these days, an opposing coach is going to mix in some man-to-man along with a zone, making the Americans adjust their half-court offense on the fly. No opposing coach has tried that yet.
Reason No. 3: The quality of the opponent
Look, folks, Germany isn't very good. Neither is Italy, which gave the Americans a bit of a scare in the first round but never switched out of a man-to-man defense after going ahead by 12 points early in the third quarter. It has been cupcake city, as Dickie V might say, up to this point, but that part of this tournament is over. Greece is extremely good at dictating a slow tempo and uglifying the game, which is why the Greeks are the reigning European champs and will enter Friday's semifinal against the U.S. with a 7-0 record. They're also much stronger than Germany in two key areas where the Americans capitalized Wednesday night -- the ability to get the ball upcourt against pressure man-to-man defense and the ability to rebound the ball. The U.S. had a 22-6 edge in offensive rebounds, and it had more second-chance points (16) than fast-break points (12).
Reason No. 4: The two pieces of paper sitting in front of me
I charted every offensive possession against Germany, and the breakdown shows that even against a mediocre opponent, the Americans had trouble executing their half-court offense. If you discard possessions on which they immediately scored or missed on tip-ins and put-backs, you're left with 87 separate offensive possessions, only 17 of which were the type of fast-break opportunities the U.S. thrives on (and five of those came in the first couple of minutes of the third quarter. Of the 70 possessions when the Americans had to execute in the half court, they shot 17-for-62 (27 percent) with eight turnovers. That shows how much offensive rebounding saved them in this game, but Greece is a heck of a lot bigger and tougher on the boards than Germany is. As is Argentina ?
Reason No. 5: The unexplored territory
Here we are two weeks into this tournament, and we still haven't seen whether the Americans can keep their cool and execute down the stretch of a tight game. Remember, players may not call timeouts in international basketball when the clock keeps running down the stretch, which is unlike what the American players are used to in the NBA when the endgame is interrupted by timeout after timeout. The next time the Americans get into a running clock endgame will be the first time they've been through such a situation, and there's no telling how they'll do. Greece, Argentina and Spain, on the other hand, have been in those situations countless times.
Just think, I got through all those negatives without even mentioning LeBron's seven turnovers. See, they don't call me Gloomy Gus and The Doubter for nothing.
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Hache Man · Aug 30, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Updated: Aug. 30, 2006, 10:35 AM ET
ESPN.com's Intelligence Report: August 30

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Editor's note: ESPN.com is waking up early in the morning and aggregating news from papers around the country to bring you the latest NBA talk.
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Previous Reports:

Aug. 22 | Aug. 23 | Aug. 24 | Aug. 25 | Aug. 28 | Aug. 29

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Atlanta Hawks | All Hawks sitelines

Backup Wright Will Sign Today
The final piece to the Hawks' free-agent summer will be put in place today when former Hawks center Lorenzen Wright puts his signature on a two-year contract that will pay him more than $3 million per season. Wright agreed to contract terms with the Hawks nearly a month ago but had to wait until the team completed Al Harrington's sign-and-trade deal last week to consummate the agreement. ... He joins the Hawks as a backup to fourth-year center Zaza Pachulia, helping a deficiency from a year ago when Pachulia was backed up by rookie Esteban Batista and untested second-year pro John Edwards. -- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Boston Celtics | All Celtics sitelines

Bird Knows The Feeling
While he was playing for the Celtics, Larry Bird said, he experienced a few incidents as a result of his condition. He was unaware at the time it was atrial fibrillation, but, he said, after long runs during the offseason, he often would feel dizzy and lightheaded, and he would lie down and sleep for hours before he'd feel better. Bird said he is required to take medication for the rest of his life. "I take a few things, I don't even know their names," he said. "One, obviously, Coumadin, a blood thinner, because when your heart doesn't pump efficiently, you can develop blood clots, which can lead to a stroke." He said his doctors have encouraged him to avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, but he cautioned that no two cases of atrial fibrillation are the same, and what Ortiz experienced could be "completely different symptoms than what I had." -- Boston Globe

Lewis Comes Scarily To Mind
Less than 24 hours after being scratched from the starting lineup against the Oakland A's, David Ortiz flew back to Boston yesterday in hopes of determining the cause of his ills. At least three times in 10 days, Ortiz experienced an accelerated or irregular heartbeat. And so now the Red Sox go on, without the incomparable and seemingly indestructible Big Papi, and we are all left to relive one of the most tragic stories in our recent history. Until yesterday, mentioning David Ortiz and Reggie Lewis in the same breath might never have occurred to us. Now, we cannot keep them apart. -- Boston Herald

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Charlotte Bobcats | All Bobcats sitelines

New VP To Boost Bobcats
As a Charlotte Bobcats season ticket holder, Greg Economou thinks he understands what it will take for the city's sports fans to more fully accept the team. Now it's his job to help make that happen. "We've got to give the people some meaning for the Bobcats," said Economou, who was named the team's executive vice president and chief marketing officer Tuesday. "It's not just an awareness, but an affinity for their team. It happens in other towns. It takes time and patience." Charlotte is a one-time NBA hotbed, still hung over from the acrimonious departure in 2002 of the Hornets to New Orleans. In their two seasons, the Bobcats haven't approached the 1990s' popularity of their predecessors. -- Charlotte Observer

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Chicago Bulls | All Bulls sitelines

Nocioni A Bull For Argentina
Andres Nocioni's 21 points Tuesday in Argentina's 83-58 victory over Turkey in the quarterfinals of the World Championships bring to mind his larger-than-life play for the Bulls last spring in the playoffs. Once again, Nocioni is reminding Bulls fans he can be as potent on offense as any Bull on the 2006-07 roster. In seven games at the World Championships in Japan, Nocioni is shooting 51.7 percent from the field and 46.2 percent on three-pointers. He's averaging 12.6 points per game on a team whose leading scorer, Manu Ginobili of the San Antonio Spurs, averages a modest 15. Argentina "is well balanced and Andres seems to be doing what he always does and that is to contribute in whatever way he needs to," Bulls general manager John Paxson said via e-mail. -- Chicago Tribune

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Cleveland Cavaliers | All Cavs sitelines

Brown Intends To Stick To Plan
Despite some offensive woes, the raw nerve being the 79-61 Game 7 loss to the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference semifinals, Mike Brown is sticking to his system. He didn't make any changes to his coaching staff in the offseason, and no major strategy changes appear to be in store for training camp, which starts in about six weeks. "In this business, there is a lot of change, and change isn't always the answer,'' Brown said. "We want to get better at what we do. We have a foundation, and we want to build on that.'' Some fans might not receive that well. The Cavs' offense faltered under pressure last season, often leaving James to try to score by himself. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

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Indiana Pacers | All Pacers sitelines

Pacers Add Assistant Coach
The Indiana Pacers added defensive specialist Leonard Perry to their coaching staff. Perry was the coach at Idaho State for the past five seasons, compiling a 48-97 record. He previously worked as an assistant at Iowa State, where he coached Jamaal Tinsley, and Utah State. Perry was recommended to the Pacers by former Iowa State coach Larry Eustachy. Perry met with Pacers coach Rick Carlisle and team president Larry Bird during summer league play in Orlando. -- Indianapolis Star

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Magic Are A Budding Force
Building on a strong finish to the NBA season, Darko Milicic looked great here in Japan. We all know he can shoot from the outside but here he showed off a pretty impressive left-handed hook shot. He was also aggressive going to the glass. In getting eliminated by powerful Spain, he banged with Pau Gasol all night and looked like he wanted to and got 15 rebounds. Meanwhile, Dwight Howard's athleticism continues to blow me away. Watching him outplay Yao Ming last week in Sapporo by constantly getting in better position for rebounds re-enforced my belief he'll be the NBA's best rebounder for the next decade. Then again Carlos Arroyo looked great for Puerto Rico. Obviously the guy has angered a few coaches, but his talent is unquestioned. -- Akron Beacon-Journal

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Philadelphia 76ers | All 76ers sitelines

Grateful Barkley Has Big Hall Plans
In between the golf and the elliptical machines is this small matter of the Basketball Hall of Fame, which will induct Barkley, Dominique Wilkins, Joe Dumars, University of Connecticut coach Geno Auriemma, former Big East commissioner and Celtics president Dave Gavitt, and Italian coach Sandro Gamba on Sept. 9 in Springfield, Mass. For someone who always professed that he could live without a championship, this is the next-best thing. And the enormity of it is starting to seep in. "For me, it's just an opportunity to tell a lot of people how much I appreciate them helping me get to the Hall of Fame," Barkley said. "That's the way I'm looking at it. It ain't like, 'Oh, I'm great, oh, I'm great.' Getting a chance to call all of these people that I've been doing -- like three of my high school teachers, some players I played with -- that's the best thing about it to me." -- Philadelphia Inquirer

Iverson, Others Sued In Hampton '05 Assaults
Four people have filed lawsuits seeking a combined $2.4 million from NBA star Allen Iverson, his promotional company, his business manager and security team members in connection with assaults at a Hampton nightclub last year. The suits stem from a July 9, 2005, event at Crabbers Restaurant and Sports Lounge. In papers filed late Monday in Hampton Circuit Court, the plaintiffs alleged that they were assaulted that night by members of a security team known as "The Horsemen." The group was hired by Iverson, Gary D. Moore and Crossover Promotions Inc. to provide security for the gathering at Crabbers, the complaints show. -- The Daily Press

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Toronto Raptors | All Raptors sitelines

Can Bosh Adjust To New Offense
Chris Bosh, of course, has made his strides in the NBA on prototypical big man play, pick-and-roll, back-to-the-basket stuff that plays to his strength. Watching him in limited action with the Americans early in the tournament, it was taking him a long time, a long unsuccessful time, getting acclimated to that kind of game. It came as no surprise to many that he and Brad Miller were the odd men out in the first five games of the tournament, given their skills and the style D'Antoni has the Americans playing. If that's what the Raptors are going to do -- and that's what they've said they are going to do ever since Bryan Colangelo got here in February -- they can only hope Bosh adjusts quickly because he's the guy who's going to have the most to learn. -- Toronto Star

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Washington Wizards | All Wizards sitelines

Navarro Another Star For Loaded Spanish
Pau Gasol is the star on the Spanish team, but he's not the only reason unbeaten Spain has golden aspirations at the FIBA World Championship. Juan Carlos Navarro has been spectacular along with Gasol. The 26-year-old shooting guard has scored 14.6 points per game through seven games, including Tuesday's 89-67 win over Lithuania in the quarterfinals of the FIBA World Championship, second to Gasol's at 21.6 ppg. Navarro's consistent but conspicuous game is giving the Spanish side a great complement to Gasol, who has become one of the best inside players in the world. -- The Japan Times

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]WESTERN CONFERENCE[/FONT]

Dallas Mavericks | All Mavericks sitelines

Was Nellie A Fox Or A Pox For Mavs?
There was no middle ground with Nellie. Either you thought Don Nelson was as sly as a fox, or you thought he was the craziest rooster in the barn. He was an NBA innovator. Or maybe just a mad scientist. Nellie was the best thing that ever happened to the Mavericks. Or one of the worst. The Golden State Warriors are expected to announce tonight that Nelson, 66, is replacing Mike Montgomery as head coach. So what do you wish Nellie? Good riddance ... or Godspeed? -- Fort Worth Star-Telegram

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Golden State Warriors | All Warriors Sitelines

Warriors Back To Uncertain Future
What in blazes is going on here, or should we say there, meaning Confusion Central down in Warriors land? "Something's not right," Mike Dunleavy told us in springtime about the Little Franchise That Hasn't. "We'll see what happens this summer." We've seen. Kaboom. The great teacher, Mr. Montgomery, hired to instruct the young Warriors how to pass and play defense. Instead was taught the basic lesson of all pro sports, NBA ball included: We don't need you when Baron Davis is running the team, even if he can't run the court. It is certainly bizarre and weird to disinter Don Nelson, but this is the bizarre and weird Bay Area. -- Oakland Tribune

Nostalgia Alone Won't Make This Team Matter
Pick your own personal highlight: Was it when Tom Tolbert became a point forward? Chris Webber went behind his back and dunked against Phoenix? Manute Bol cast off from 28 feet and banged it home? When five or six Warriors looked more playoff-ready than Karl Malone? There's no question that over the 31 seasons this franchise has gone without a championship, the Don Nelson years were the most fun. That, in essence, is what the Warriors have accomplished in bringing the 66-year-old coach back into the fold: The team will be more fun. You can almost see the catchy slogans now, all about memories and nostalgia and wow, weren't those nutty times. Isn't it just a little bit sad, though? -- San Francisco Chronicle

It's Sink Or Swim For Mullin
There are lots of ways to understand the Don Nelson thing ("re-hiring" seems so tepid a term, given the circumstances), and few of them are complimentary to him, Chris Mullin or the Warriors. It smacks, frankly, of "Been there, done WHAT!?" But after a quick Ritalin and tonic, a reasonable sense of the truth begins to emerge, and this is it: Mullin has run out of other ideas. And if this doesn't work, then a convincing case can be made that Mullin never will. -- San Francisco Chronicle

Warriors Glad Nelson's Not Retiring Type
Gregg Popovich knew. Even as he was finishing his toast last fall, he knew. "I look forward to seeing all of you in four or five years," he said, "when we have the next Nellie retirement party in another town." Oakland, to be exact. The Warriors will hold a news conference today to announce that Don Nelson is back at 66. You could call it an easy decision, and not just for the $18 million with incentives he could earn over the next three years. He's still a hero in the Bay area. His 1993-94 club was the last Golden State team to make the playoffs. No Warriors coach since has done anything to diminish the memory. -- Dallas Morning News

Montgomery Wasn't Right For NBA
Contrary to popular belief, the Warriors' experiment with Mike Montgomery was not doomed from the very start. It was doomed very shortly after the very start. Specifically, it was doomed the day of Montgomery's first practice session with the team, when he realized: Good gravy, I just agreed to coach a team with Adonal Foyle as my top inside threat. What was I, drunk? In other words, Montgomery can be blamed for accepting an impossible mission. But he cannot be blamed entirely for his lack of success as an NBA head coach after leaving Stanford in May 2004. -- San Jose Mercury News

Nellie: A Coach Who Can Coach
Mike Montgomery is out as Warriors coach. Don Nelson is reportedly in again, some 11 years after being axed. So when do Warriors playoff tickets go on sale? Right, right. Let's not jump the gun. It's still too early for Warriors fans to make postseason plans, but it's not too early for party hats, champagne and high-fives. Nelson's impending return and Montgomery's exit are two good reasons for Warriors fans to celebrate. It was 12 years ago that Nelson led the Warriors to a 50-32 regular-season record and a trip to the playoffs. And, yes, that just happens to be the last time the Warriors had a winning record or made the playoffs. -- Contra Costa Times

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Houston Rockets | All Rockets sitelines

Yao Finds Harsh Language At Home
"There's nothing strange about Asian champions losing to European champions," declared Titan Sports. "But the Chinese team should have picked this 'suicidal' way to lose." Beijing News, a tabloid, said excessive worship of Yao Ming was a reason for the team's eventual failure, exhausting Yao to the point where he could no longer play a key role. The News pointed to Yao's taking just five shots in the last game. The News did not point to the utter collapse of the Chinese backcourt, which was unable to get the ball to Yao, who is scheduled to return to Houston on Sept. 6. -- Houston Chronicle

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Phoenix Suns | All Suns sitelines

Jones Expected To Sign With Suns
Veteran swingman Jumaine Jones, an unrestricted free agent, is expected to arrive in Phoenix today and have a guaranteed one-year contract with the Suns completed by Thursday. ... The Suns had Jones on their radar since the free-agent-contact window opened July 1. Now, with Jones unexpectedly still available, Phoenix can have him for a price that keeps the team under the luxury-tax threshold. -- Arizona Republic

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Sacramento Kings | All Kings sitelines

Pretty Price For Arena Advice
Arena opponents question if the money is well spent. Linda Roberts, an Oak Park activist volunteering to defeat two arena proposals going before voters Nov. 7, said the money for consultant fees could have gone for additional police officers in her neighborhood. "Consultants or police? I vote for police," Roberts said. Of the funds already spent by the city and county, nearly $150,000 has gone to Dan Barrett, a Manhattan Beach sports consultant who, at $350 an hour, has led negotiations between the municipalities and the Maloofs, the owners of the Sacramento Kings. Sacramento Vice Mayor Rob Fong said Barrett is a veteran negotiator who brings expertise and knowledge of previous NBA deals as well as tough negotiating skills. -- Sacramento Bee

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San Antonio Spurs | All Spurs sitelines

Oberto: "Dance To The Pressure"
Turkey were terrific in Hamamatsu, and they fought bravely against Slovenia in Saitama to reach the last eight, but Argentina were at a higher level in their meeting. After the game, center Fabricio Oberto and his Argentina teammates ran across the court and danced in front of their ecstatic fans. When asked about the celebration, Fabricio Oberto told FIBA it was a way to relieve the pressure that has been on this team since the start of preparations earlier this summer. -- FIBA.com

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Seattle SuperSonics | All Sonics sitelines

Ridnour, Collison Unlikely To Get Deals, Lewis Waits For Sale
Luke Ridnour and Nick Collison have been a package deal since the Sonics selected them 12th and 14th in the 2003 draft. Keeping them together beyond the 2006-07 season, however, might be extremely difficult. General manager Rick Sund has had preliminary discussions with each about a contract extension and he will likely make them long-term offers in a few weeks, but the chances of both of them re-signing are slim. ... The NBA Board of Governors is scheduled to meet in late October and is expected to approve the sale of the Sonics to a group fronted by Oklahoma businessman Clay Bennett. It's highly unlikely that Sund would complete Lewis' deal before the new ownership group officially takes over. -- Seattle Times

Halperin Won't Join Sonics Any Time Soon
Yotam Halperin who wants to join Seattle next season is not interested in a long-term commitment and is trying to improve his terms at Maccabi via pressure on the club's management. This is where Halperin's agent came in with a "contract offer from Seattle." But it seems that the only ones to buy the story were the media. "I am in striking distance of an NBA contract," Halperin announced Monday, earning him front-page spreads in the sports sections of Israel's two mass circulation dailys. But has Halperin come any closer to becoming the first Israeli to break the NBA barrier? The answer is obviously no. The contract Seattle has offered Halperin is standard practice for players picked in the second round of the Draft. -- Haaretz

Sonics & Storm: Worth A Shot
The idea of a new basketball arena at the Seattle Center could hold some promise. As the Seattle P-I reported last week, there have been at least some discussions of the possibility of putting a new arena for the Seattle Sonics and Storm on the site of Memorial Stadium. That gives some form to talk about keeping pro basketball in the city. There are good reasons for the NBA franchise's new owners to keep the teams in the Seattle area. The main advantage is the larger size of the market here over Oklahoma City, where much of the new ownership is based. -- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

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Utah Jazz | All Jazz sitelines

Jazz Sign Brown To Contract
Rookie guard Dee Brown's contract was finally wrapped up on Tuesday, and he planned to quickly head to Salt Lake City to spend much of the next month working out in the town where he hopes his future lies. A less-than-spectacular showing at July's Rocky Mountain Revue apparently cost the second-round draft pick, No. 46 overall. Brown signed what is essentially a make-good contract that goes beyond October's training camp but includes no guarantees. The Jazz do not disclose contract terms, but senior vice president of basketball operations Kevin O'Connor acknowledged Brown's contract isn't the same as that signed Aug. 1 by No. 47 overall pick Paul Millsap, who had a strong Revue and said he got a partially guaranteed one-year deal with a team option for a second year. Sources in Illinois, Brown's home state, said his contract includes no guarantees. -- Deseret Morning News

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Team USA[/FONT]

'98 Team Lacked Pedigree Of '06 But Won Anyway
In 1998, it was a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants operation led by Rudy Tomjanovich that just hoped to show up at the right gym at the right time and then scrap for a measure of respect at the World Championship in Athens, Greece. Americans such as Michael Hawkins, Jimmy Olivery and Jason Sasser toted their own luggage and would have laundered their own uniforms just for the opportunity to be on the court. "Different worlds? Yeah, you better believe it," said Brad Miller, who was a 22-year-old center fresh out of Purdue in 1998 and is now 30, an eight-year NBA veteran and the only player to be on both teams. "You know what it's like to watch those old reruns of the Beverly Hillbillies walking around their mansion? That was us." -- Houston Chronicle

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[FONT=Arial,Hevetica,sans-serif]Miscellaneous[/FONT]

Miles Honing Game For NBA Tryouts
Aaron Miles, who practiced with the NBA's San Antonio Spurs last week, is spending this week running the floor with some of the best college players in the country -- at his alma mater, Kansas University. "I'm happy to be back, working out, getting ready," said Miles, who after playing point guard for both the Golden State Warriors and the NBADL's Fort Worth Flyers his first year out of KU, is fine-tuning his game for NBA veterans camp. Chicago, Seattle, Portland, San Antonio and other teams have spoken with the 6-foot-1 point guard about possibly signing on for the preseason at least. "I am trying to get to the NBA. I feel I am close to obtaining that goal and will keep working hard so I can reach that," said Miles. -- Lawrence Journal-World
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Hache Man · Aug 30, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Updated: Aug. 30, 2006, 12:41 PM ET

Small forwards among Nellie's biggest challenges

By John Hollinger
ESPN Insider
Archive

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Can it be? Is Nellie really going back to the Warriors?
I've pinched myself three times and haven't woken up in a puddle of drool yet, so apparently it's really happening. Certainly, the Golden State Warriors had nothing to lose by bringing Don Nelson back. His former team has fallen on hard times since he left, missing the playoffs 12 straight times since they whacked him in 1995.

Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images
Don Nelson will now lay his hands on an ailing franchise.

But bringing the 66-year-old Nelson out of quasi-retirement isn't going to be a panacea. His departure over a decade ago left some hurt feelings, and the first question on everyone's mind (OK, technically it's the second one, right after, "Couldn't they have done this four months ago?") is whether Nelson and owner Chris Cohan have really buried the hatchet. Cohan sued Nelson after he left and the case took years to resolve. Of course, Cohan has sued so many other people since then -- including another former coach, Rick Adelman -- that he probably forgot about the Nelson suit a long time ago.
If he can deal with the ownership, Nelson has shown he can handle the locker room. Although he's never taken a team to the Finals, he's had extended runs of success with three different franchises: 10 years in Milwaukee, six years in Golden State and seven years in Dallas.
Moreover, he's been at the forefront of several of the game's best innovations -- think of his using Paul Pressey as a "point forward" in Milwaukee, or his smallball lineups in Golden State, or his taking a chance on an unknown German named Dirk Nowitzki in Dallas. Not all of his tricks caught on -- as far as I know, Manute Bol is still the only 7-6 center to be employed as a 3-point specialist -- but his experiments produce many more successes than failures.
The hope in Golden State is that Nellie's creative genius can end the Warriors' lottery run, but his road to success is littered with obstacles. Here are some of the most important questions Nellie must answer if his second tour of duty by the Bay will be as successful as his first:
<OFFER>1) Can he get Baron Davis on board?
Of all Nelson's challenges, this is the most important. Last season Davis was at the epicenter of a near-mutiny in the Golden State locker room. Spies in the Bay Area say he was perfectly content to do his own thing and ignore whatever suggestions Mike Montgomery had -- like play calls, for instance, or whether or not to practice.
More importantly, Davis' love affair with the 3-pointer continues to handcuff the offense. Davis is a mediocre shooter, but this doesn't stop him from launching 3s off the dribble with 20 on the shot clock if he's in the mood, and that attitude quickly rubbed off on his teammates. Last season the Warriors were second in the NBA in 3-point attempts -- and 22nd in accuracy.
Davis is a good player even playing the way he did last year, but he'd be as good as any point guard in the game if a coach came along who could convince him to play smarter. I'm not sure if Nelson is that guy -- he's tended to give his players a lot of freedom, and if he tries that with Davis he might as well hand him a box of matches and some gasoline, too. But with Davis' six-year, $85 million deal tying up the Warriors' cap space for three more years, Golden State won't turn the corner unless his production matches his salary.
2) How much control over personnel will he have?
Regardless of how well he coaches, it's going to be tough for Nellie to succeed if general manager Chris Mullin keeps handing out $50 million extensions like they're Halloween candy. In the last three years he's signed several players to big-dollar contracts who weren't even any good -- most notably by inking Adonal Foyle for $51 million and Mike Dunleavy for $45 million.
Thanks to those misdeeds the Warriors are operating with their hands tied behind their backs, as they are pinned against the luxury tax line and won't get much cap relief for at least three years with the present roster. It also makes it harder to trade and patch the team's biggest weakness, small forward, because of the $45 million that's been committed to Dunleavy.
That should make the interactions between Nelson and his former star player, Mullin, very interesting. Nelson had almost total control in his last stop in Dallas, so it's not going to be easy for him to bite his tongue when Mullin calls saying, "Hey, great news, we just gave Mickael Pietrus a $54 million extension. Um, you're cool with that, right?"
However, Mullin was the one pushing for Nelson to come back, and from all appearances he's still the one in control. Thus, Nelson may have to choose his battles carefully ... either that, or risk a turf war breaking out.
3) Will he get something from his small forwards?

Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images
Baron Davis hoisted some shots a little too quickly last year.

Golden State had a lot of weaknesses last year, but a huge one was the small forward spot. Two recent lottery picks, Dunleavy and Pietrus, were supposed to be rising stars last season. Instead, Dunleavy was dumbfounded and Pietrus was putrid. They shot 40.6 percent and 40.4 percent, respectively, and both took major steps backward statistically from the previous season.
With no potential successors on the horizon, Nelson is looking at another year of these two splitting the position. It's a glaring weakness. The Warriors are strong in the backcourt and half-decent in the frontcourt, but you'd be hard-pressed to name more than a couple of teams in worse shape at small forward. It's tough to imagine Golden State making the postseason with one of the five spots being such an enormous liability, so Nellie either has to get more out of them or concoct one of his crazy lineups to keep them off the floor entirely.
4) Can he develop the kids?
To win now, Nelson needs Davis to get his act together and the small forwards to deliver. But to win in the future, he needs the Warriors' stable of young talent to come together. Golden State has several kids oozing with potential, with centers Andris Biedrins and Patrick O'Bryant, forwards Ike Diogu and Chris Taft, and guard Monta Ellis all being solid prospects in their very early 20s.
For those players, they've unquestionably found the right coach. Nelson's tendency to experiment leads him to give youngsters far more rope than most coaches, and that in turn has pushed their development along much more quickly. Even as he was trying to win a title in Dallas, Nelson made rotation players out of several players with lesser reputations -- undrafted rookies like Marquis Daniels and Wang Zhizhi and free-agent drifters like Raja Bell and Adrian Griffin.
So while Davis and Dunleavy are Nelson's short-term tests, this is his long-term challenge. If he can turn a couple of the current batch of young Warriors into stars, he'll go a long way toward jump-starting a new era of playoff-quality basketball by the Bay ... one that's long overdue.
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Hache Man · Aug 30, 2006

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

Re: NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (2 New Articles Added 8/29/06)

<TABLE width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD>NBA Rumor Central: Suns To Sign Jones
</TD><TD align=right>Other Rumors: MLB | NFL
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and have access to this premium feature.
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<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD colSpan=3>Wednesday, August 30</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD width=65>WHO</TD><TD>INTERESTED</TD><TD>THE SKINNY</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD noWrap align=middle>

Jumaine Jones
Bobcats
</TD><TD>Suns?
</TD><TD>Suns To Sign Jones
Aug 30 - The Arizona Republic reports Charlotte free agent Jumaine Jones is expected to arrive in Phoenix
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NBA - ESPN Insider Writeups/Etc. (8 New Articles Added 10/17/06)

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

EOG Addicted

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"