“I watch all the teams and what they did for LeBron, and [the Heat] still have to go through the Lakers with Kobe Bryant out there, who’s been my favorite player for a long time,’’ said Pacers president Larry Bird. “And I don’t think whatever they do in the East is really going to concern him that much.’’
Oh, and Fish is back. Thank you, Kobe Bryant:
"I have decided to continue with Kobe, continue with our teammates and the fans of Los Angeles," Fisher said in a statement. "While this may not be the most lucrative contract I've been offered this offseason, it is the most valuable. I am confident I will continue to lead this team on and off the court. Let the hunt for six begin."
"I took time to consider all my options, many not reported in the media," Fisher said. "I listened to every coach, every general manager, even potential teammates in order to make the right decision and I thank every one of them. At the end of the day, there's one person I could not turn away from.
"Kobe Bryant asked me to stay but supported whatever decision I made. He and I have played together for 11 seasons, came into the league together as kids, and has been loyal to me even when others had doubts. We have won five championships together."
Monday, July 12, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
A Look Back at the 09-10 NBA Season
Wow, just wow. I had a feeling that the 09-10 NBA season was going to be something special, but I never would've guessed it would come down to the fourth quarter of GAME 7 in the Finals. I did predict Lakers over Celtics in 6 back in October, but that was just a shot in the dark. What really happened was a far more dramatic series than anybody saw coming. That being said, let's take a look back at my predictions for this year and see how I did on the other stuff:
10)Yup, the Big Fundamental was called a Power Forward by the Spurs again. No big surprise here. Of note though, was my email conversation with Brian Kamenetzky of ESPN LA who agreed with me on the point and had this to say:
Certain battles are bigger than all of us. Haha.
I kid. I know I've talked about the absurdity of the PF designation for Duncan before, but it is, as they say, what it is. For TD, he's been slotted there for so long, nothing will change it now.
Oh well. Thanks for the note, and of course, for listening to the show/reading the site. We appreciate it.
Brian
Speaking of ESPN LA, how great is it that in its inaugural year, it gets to cover a Boston/LA Finals? The Lakers seem to have a knack for the historical, what with this also being the 50th year in Los Angeles.
9)Did Rambis really regret taking the T-Wolves job? Well, let's see: 15-67 regular season, Ricky Rubio choosing Europe over the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and yeah—it's really cold there during the NBA season. Maybe he's a “glass is half-full” guy.
8)On the other hand, the Clippers and Hornets jobs did open up—as did Cleveland, Atlanta, Philadelphia and New Jersey. In my opinion, each of those are at least as attractive as Minnesota. And of course, the Lakers job might open up, but more on that later.
7)No, Shaq didn't gloss himself the “Big ____.” In fact, I'm not sure what Shaq did this year—other than get hurt again. At 37, he's just not an impact player anymore. I for one, am hoping he realizes it soon. I'd prefer he just retire and get his jersey hung up at Staples. What else does he have to prove? By the way, if you didn't see this great article on Shaq's true Laker legacy, here's your chance.
6)No feud for Carter and Howard either. I guess I should've seen this coming—especially from a notoriously soft player known for disappearing during crunch time and a guy seemingly more interested in having a good time than actually winning. By the way, if that's not true of Howard, then why isn't he training in the offseason with Hakeem instead of Kobe? Kobe wins the Finals and sets out to improve, Dwight loses and stands pat regarding his offensive repertoire. Speaks volumes about both of them.
5)Yup, Wallace got a lot of T's—almost was disqualified from a Finals game because of them. AND he coasted through the regular season. Bill Simmons, noted Boston homer, even went so far as to call him his “least favorite Celtic ever.” But there he was in Game 7 with that unstoppable turnaround J and smothering D getting his team THIS CLOSE to #18. But alas, it wasn't meant to be.
4)Nope, Bynum didn't make the All-Star team. He did increase his scoring to 15 PPG and pulled down 8.3 Rebounds (both up from last year), but although he had impressive stretches, he also had some lulls which ultimately cost him the All-Star nod. But dude stepped up against Boston and was a huge factor when he played despite having the bum knee. This will be an interesting offseason for him as LA must decide whether or not to trade the 22 year old with huge upside and injury questions for a 26 year old Bosh who might not fit in (if we can even believe the rumors). I'm not making the decision, but if I was, it would come to down to this question—who makes me better for the next 3 years? The Lakers are a veteran team, and although it would be nice to possibly have a secure future with a guy who won't hit his tradition center prime for another 8 years, you've got to win now while Kobe is still in his prime. It should never come down to "win now" or "win later." You're the Los Angeles Lakers. Free agents will always want to come play for you.
3)I won't say that Ron Artest was an unqualified success, but the Lakers don't win the title this year without him. I loved Trevor Ariza, and was sad to see him go, but no way he plays Pierce as well as Ron just did. But the most ridiculous part has got to be a tie between Ron being the best player on the floor in Game 7 and thanking his psychiatrist in his post-game interview. (Speaking of postgame...)
The script couldn't have gone any better for Ron and the Lakers this year.
2)LeBron won regular season MVP, but his team flamed out again in the playoffs. More and more we seem to be seeing a schism (how's that for a 50-cent word) forming between teams built for the regular season (Cavs, Mavs, Suns, etc.) and those built for the playoffs (Lakers, Celtics, Spurs). Then again, it could just be the veteran talent's just that much better with teams that play into June.
1)And yes, the Lakers beat Boston—not in 6, but in 7 games to claim their 16th title.
Many people have stated that repeating is much harder than the first one, and the Lakers were certainly no exception to this. What I found most interesting was how this year's team resembles the '01 Champs. Both teams struggled with injury all year. Both teams added a potential combustible teammate (Isaiah Rider and Ron Artest) and both had something to prove for having not beat the previous year's champ who had been unlucky with injury (San Antonio lost in the first round in '00 because of Duncan being hurt, while Boston lost last year with Garnett out.) And somehow, the repeat validates the previous year's accomplishment. Yes, you were good last year too. Hey, you can only play who's in front of you anyway, right?
So, now it's officially the offseason, but of course there'll be intrigue: Will Phil go or will he stay? If he goes, Byron or B. Shaw? (Experience and new system vs. inexperience, but keeping the system intact) What will we get in the draft? Where do the free agents land? What trades will go down? But for now, I'll just kick back and enjoy the spoils of an incredibly entertaining and satisfying season and try to enjoy the journey a little more next year. Seriously. Kobe's been in the League for 14 years already. We've got to appreciate this dude while he's still doing stuff like this. Out.
10)Yup, the Big Fundamental was called a Power Forward by the Spurs again. No big surprise here. Of note though, was my email conversation with Brian Kamenetzky of ESPN LA who agreed with me on the point and had this to say:
Certain battles are bigger than all of us. Haha.
I kid. I know I've talked about the absurdity of the PF designation for Duncan before, but it is, as they say, what it is. For TD, he's been slotted there for so long, nothing will change it now.
Oh well. Thanks for the note, and of course, for listening to the show/reading the site. We appreciate it.
Brian
Speaking of ESPN LA, how great is it that in its inaugural year, it gets to cover a Boston/LA Finals? The Lakers seem to have a knack for the historical, what with this also being the 50th year in Los Angeles.
9)Did Rambis really regret taking the T-Wolves job? Well, let's see: 15-67 regular season, Ricky Rubio choosing Europe over the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and yeah—it's really cold there during the NBA season. Maybe he's a “glass is half-full” guy.
8)On the other hand, the Clippers and Hornets jobs did open up—as did Cleveland, Atlanta, Philadelphia and New Jersey. In my opinion, each of those are at least as attractive as Minnesota. And of course, the Lakers job might open up, but more on that later.
7)No, Shaq didn't gloss himself the “Big ____.” In fact, I'm not sure what Shaq did this year—other than get hurt again. At 37, he's just not an impact player anymore. I for one, am hoping he realizes it soon. I'd prefer he just retire and get his jersey hung up at Staples. What else does he have to prove? By the way, if you didn't see this great article on Shaq's true Laker legacy, here's your chance.
6)No feud for Carter and Howard either. I guess I should've seen this coming—especially from a notoriously soft player known for disappearing during crunch time and a guy seemingly more interested in having a good time than actually winning. By the way, if that's not true of Howard, then why isn't he training in the offseason with Hakeem instead of Kobe? Kobe wins the Finals and sets out to improve, Dwight loses and stands pat regarding his offensive repertoire. Speaks volumes about both of them.
5)Yup, Wallace got a lot of T's—almost was disqualified from a Finals game because of them. AND he coasted through the regular season. Bill Simmons, noted Boston homer, even went so far as to call him his “least favorite Celtic ever.” But there he was in Game 7 with that unstoppable turnaround J and smothering D getting his team THIS CLOSE to #18. But alas, it wasn't meant to be.
4)Nope, Bynum didn't make the All-Star team. He did increase his scoring to 15 PPG and pulled down 8.3 Rebounds (both up from last year), but although he had impressive stretches, he also had some lulls which ultimately cost him the All-Star nod. But dude stepped up against Boston and was a huge factor when he played despite having the bum knee. This will be an interesting offseason for him as LA must decide whether or not to trade the 22 year old with huge upside and injury questions for a 26 year old Bosh who might not fit in (if we can even believe the rumors). I'm not making the decision, but if I was, it would come to down to this question—who makes me better for the next 3 years? The Lakers are a veteran team, and although it would be nice to possibly have a secure future with a guy who won't hit his tradition center prime for another 8 years, you've got to win now while Kobe is still in his prime. It should never come down to "win now" or "win later." You're the Los Angeles Lakers. Free agents will always want to come play for you.
3)I won't say that Ron Artest was an unqualified success, but the Lakers don't win the title this year without him. I loved Trevor Ariza, and was sad to see him go, but no way he plays Pierce as well as Ron just did. But the most ridiculous part has got to be a tie between Ron being the best player on the floor in Game 7 and thanking his psychiatrist in his post-game interview. (Speaking of postgame...)
The script couldn't have gone any better for Ron and the Lakers this year.
2)LeBron won regular season MVP, but his team flamed out again in the playoffs. More and more we seem to be seeing a schism (how's that for a 50-cent word) forming between teams built for the regular season (Cavs, Mavs, Suns, etc.) and those built for the playoffs (Lakers, Celtics, Spurs). Then again, it could just be the veteran talent's just that much better with teams that play into June.
1)And yes, the Lakers beat Boston—not in 6, but in 7 games to claim their 16th title.
Many people have stated that repeating is much harder than the first one, and the Lakers were certainly no exception to this. What I found most interesting was how this year's team resembles the '01 Champs. Both teams struggled with injury all year. Both teams added a potential combustible teammate (Isaiah Rider and Ron Artest) and both had something to prove for having not beat the previous year's champ who had been unlucky with injury (San Antonio lost in the first round in '00 because of Duncan being hurt, while Boston lost last year with Garnett out.) And somehow, the repeat validates the previous year's accomplishment. Yes, you were good last year too. Hey, you can only play who's in front of you anyway, right?
So, now it's officially the offseason, but of course there'll be intrigue: Will Phil go or will he stay? If he goes, Byron or B. Shaw? (Experience and new system vs. inexperience, but keeping the system intact) What will we get in the draft? Where do the free agents land? What trades will go down? But for now, I'll just kick back and enjoy the spoils of an incredibly entertaining and satisfying season and try to enjoy the journey a little more next year. Seriously. Kobe's been in the League for 14 years already. We've got to appreciate this dude while he's still doing stuff like this. Out.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Wheww. I feel a little better now...
Considering the defending champs have at least started to once again resemble what might turn into a championship-caliber team. How about those qualifiers, huh? Some have said--and I agree with them--that OKC just might be the toughest opponent LA would have to face in the West, especially if Phoenix actually does get over on the un-dead, will-need-a-stake-through-the-heart Spurs. In any case, Kobe's looking healthier and the Jazz are simply overmatched in this series.
The weirdest thing is that I'm now finding myself rooting for the Celtics--well at least as long as they're playing the Cavs. Of course there's the Shaq angle. Regardless of his "glorified roll player" status, you know the dude will think he has one over on Kobe if the LeBrons win it all this year. Yes, Shaq, that means just as much as Robert Horry having more rings than MJ. You and Playoff Bob must logically be the better player...ERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR..gravy-trainer.
But LeBron just bugs me. Sure a little bit of it is the fact that he legitimately has surpassed the Mamba as the best in the game right now, but I'll still take my chances with 2005 Kobe (you know, the one who went for 81). And there are other things, like the entitlement issues dude seems to have--as granted to him by the press. He's not guaranteed to win a single championship, let alone multiple titles, so can we please stop calling him The King? It is after all a biblical reference pretty far removed from a basketball player who won't shake hands with a victorious opponent who just ended his season and chose not to be at the birth of his second child because he'd been there for the first one?!? (I'm glad I'm not his 2nd kid).
And what's with the injury thing? He keeps saying he's not going to use it as an excuse. Great, then stop bringing it up every five minutes!
But probably my favorite thing is the number change for next year. He says he's changing from 23 out of respect and no one else should wear the number either. Then why did you wear it to begin with? Is this new-found respect? Did you just learn about MJ's career? That sounds a little far-fetched until you realize that he's switching to 6--a number made most famous by Bill Russell and Dr. J. What, have you not heard about them or do those guys not deserve the same respect as philandering gambling addict? It's mind-bottling...
The weirdest thing is that I'm now finding myself rooting for the Celtics--well at least as long as they're playing the Cavs. Of course there's the Shaq angle. Regardless of his "glorified roll player" status, you know the dude will think he has one over on Kobe if the LeBrons win it all this year. Yes, Shaq, that means just as much as Robert Horry having more rings than MJ. You and Playoff Bob must logically be the better player...ERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR..gravy-trainer.
But LeBron just bugs me. Sure a little bit of it is the fact that he legitimately has surpassed the Mamba as the best in the game right now, but I'll still take my chances with 2005 Kobe (you know, the one who went for 81). And there are other things, like the entitlement issues dude seems to have--as granted to him by the press. He's not guaranteed to win a single championship, let alone multiple titles, so can we please stop calling him The King? It is after all a biblical reference pretty far removed from a basketball player who won't shake hands with a victorious opponent who just ended his season and chose not to be at the birth of his second child because he'd been there for the first one?!? (I'm glad I'm not his 2nd kid).
And what's with the injury thing? He keeps saying he's not going to use it as an excuse. Great, then stop bringing it up every five minutes!
But probably my favorite thing is the number change for next year. He says he's changing from 23 out of respect and no one else should wear the number either. Then why did you wear it to begin with? Is this new-found respect? Did you just learn about MJ's career? That sounds a little far-fetched until you realize that he's switching to 6--a number made most famous by Bill Russell and Dr. J. What, have you not heard about them or do those guys not deserve the same respect as philandering gambling addict? It's mind-bottling...
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Thank goodness for the NFL draft
At least with all the football news lately, some of the attention has been diverted from the debacle we're calling the Lakers' 2010 playoff run. The K-Bros predicted a repeat of last year's Rocket series for the entire playoffs, but unless the Lakers show on Monday night that they can win when they have to (something we really haven't seen this year at all), there might only be one round.
Seriously, I'm already trying to picture who's coming in next year to replace some of the non-producing slugs on the current roster. And yes, things might have been different with a healthy Kobe and even a shred of continuity for this year, but this certainly doesn't feel like a 1-8 matchup. Of course, that might have something to do with OKC having the same record as Boston and that they would've been a 4 seed in the East. Any ideas? Somebody talk me down...
New Giants or Same Giants? Lincecum has been ridiculous, Zito's actually starting to earn his salary, and we've seen flashes of hope from the offense. But we still don't score for Cain and I think I'd do a better job in the rotation's 5 spot. Madison Bumgarner anyone?
Seahawks are making some noise Wasn't sure about the Whitehurst deal, but McCoy and Clausen dropping like millstones makes me think Carroll might know a little about NFL QB's. Liked the draft picks--especially Golden Tate. (See below) and loved the pick up of LenDale White. Only about 4 more months until we know if any of this worked!
Out.
Seriously, I'm already trying to picture who's coming in next year to replace some of the non-producing slugs on the current roster. And yes, things might have been different with a healthy Kobe and even a shred of continuity for this year, but this certainly doesn't feel like a 1-8 matchup. Of course, that might have something to do with OKC having the same record as Boston and that they would've been a 4 seed in the East. Any ideas? Somebody talk me down...
New Giants or Same Giants? Lincecum has been ridiculous, Zito's actually starting to earn his salary, and we've seen flashes of hope from the offense. But we still don't score for Cain and I think I'd do a better job in the rotation's 5 spot. Madison Bumgarner anyone?
Seahawks are making some noise Wasn't sure about the Whitehurst deal, but McCoy and Clausen dropping like millstones makes me think Carroll might know a little about NFL QB's. Liked the draft picks--especially Golden Tate. (See below) and loved the pick up of LenDale White. Only about 4 more months until we know if any of this worked!
Out.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
SI Profile: Pau Gasol
Been a lot going on and I haven't had much time to blog, so I'll just pass on this great bit on The Spaniard:
A philanthropic, opera-loving, multilingual former medical - 03.29.10 - SI Vault
A philanthropic, opera-loving, multilingual former medical - 03.29.10 - SI Vault
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Quick Thoughts
Just a couple of things during this 5-day break between Laker games.
For nostalgia's sake, check out this Derek Fisher-themed post.
Speaking of the Kamenetzkys, these guys just got a billion times cooler by responding to one of my recent email queries. Check out the text below:
Hey guys, love the blog and the podcast. But I have one gripe, as insightful as you two often are, why have you not called out the Spurs on their continually ridiculous classification of Tim Duncan as their "Power Forward?" Despite the fact that the dude is the biggest guy on his team, guards the other team's center, spends the majority of his time on the low block--with his back to the basket, and played CENTER in college, San Antonio calls him a PF so he can start in the All-Star game over a healthy Yao. Phoenix did it with Amare, but you wouldn't let them have it. Give San Antonio the business please. Thanks.
Hey Craig-
Certain battles are bigger than all of us. Haha.
I kid. I know I've talked about the absurdity of the PF designation for Duncan before, but it is, as they say, what it is. For TD, he's been slotted there for so long, nothing will change it now.
Oh well. Thanks for the note, and of course, for listening to the show/reading the site. We appreciate it.
Brian
For their regular blog address, click here. For their podcast, click here. I highly recommend both for the serious sports (i.e. Lakers) fan.
Last, but not least--enjoy the following video montage:
For nostalgia's sake, check out this Derek Fisher-themed post.
Speaking of the Kamenetzkys, these guys just got a billion times cooler by responding to one of my recent email queries. Check out the text below:
Hey guys, love the blog and the podcast. But I have one gripe, as insightful as you two often are, why have you not called out the Spurs on their continually ridiculous classification of Tim Duncan as their "Power Forward?" Despite the fact that the dude is the biggest guy on his team, guards the other team's center, spends the majority of his time on the low block--with his back to the basket, and played CENTER in college, San Antonio calls him a PF so he can start in the All-Star game over a healthy Yao. Phoenix did it with Amare, but you wouldn't let them have it. Give San Antonio the business please. Thanks.
Hey Craig-
Certain battles are bigger than all of us. Haha.
I kid. I know I've talked about the absurdity of the PF designation for Duncan before, but it is, as they say, what it is. For TD, he's been slotted there for so long, nothing will change it now.
Oh well. Thanks for the note, and of course, for listening to the show/reading the site. We appreciate it.
Brian
For their regular blog address, click here. For their podcast, click here. I highly recommend both for the serious sports (i.e. Lakers) fan.
Last, but not least--enjoy the following video montage:
Monday, February 1, 2010
Lakers vs. Celtics: The Day After
One of the few perks of being a fan rather than a player is that when a game like yesterday's happens, you can honestly say that you would have been entertained regardless of the final outcome. If you played in the game and lost, it could affect your livelihood, but as a fan, you'd be sad to lose, but it shouldn't ruin your day.
That being said, I was fully entertained AND frickin' happy because my team won. But not just because they won-- but mainly the way they won. I think we can honestly say that the ghosts of the '08 Finals have finally and irrevocably vanished. In fact, the C's have not beaten the Lakers at all since then, and watching this game, I marveled at the growth of one of the missing pieces from that run: Andrew Bynum. The kid is 22 for crying out loud, but is held to a ridiculously high standard--partly of where he plays (LA), and certainly partly because of the position he plays there. I mean, who else in the league has a more impressive legacy to live up to: Mikan, Wilt, Kareem, Shaq--four of the greatest players the league has ever seen and they all played your position on your team before you. Deal with that pressure.
I remember vividly the NBA draft when we picked him 10th. I was hoping for Sean Mays; I guess I should've set my sights higher:
The greatness of this play cannot be fully appreciated of course if taken out of context. Knowing that Garnett (who looked OLD yesterday) had just hit a jumper over 'Drew and barked the whole way down the floor sets this up as a very emphatic "Shut the BLEEP Up!" moment. But the kid let his game do his talking for him and the C's had no real answer for him. Finally, Phil had to play him in crunch time--another milestone. As Trent would say, "My boy's all growns up!" (The following clip is rated R, so keep little ones away)
Other things of note, Artest is finally starting to be Artest. From before the opening tip, Ron-Ron was the metaphorical (to quote John McClane) "fly-in-the-ointment, monkey-in-the-wrench, etc" in Pierce's game. Easily the biggest mismatch in the '08 Finals, Pierce's contributions were a virtual wash with Artest's--not something that figures to be in Boston's favor as Pierce should be their go-to-guy and Artest is the Laker's 3rd option at best. Artest frustrated Pierce throughout, a fact most apparent on the push-off that probably cost the Celtics the game.
Yes, Kobe does that too, Doc. In fact, he was called for it in this same game, but you probably didn't notice it because of the lack of complaining on Mamba's part. And that might have been the most surprising thing to me about yesterday's game--how much the Celtics whine.
Pierce--on every call that could've gone either way, Perkins, Wallace, you KNOW KG never shuts up. Clearly, the Lakers have some whiners too (Kobe and Pau come to mind immediately), but yesterday they shut their yaps and went to work. There were calls that hurt them too (the out-of-bounds play late in the fourth, KG falling down near Artest to limit Ron's first half minutes), but ultimately they pressed on, refused to bullied and played lights-out D when they had to. That's why the won and that's why every Laker fan today feels pretty good about their team's chances when the games really matter. That and The Mamba.
That being said, I was fully entertained AND frickin' happy because my team won. But not just because they won-- but mainly the way they won. I think we can honestly say that the ghosts of the '08 Finals have finally and irrevocably vanished. In fact, the C's have not beaten the Lakers at all since then, and watching this game, I marveled at the growth of one of the missing pieces from that run: Andrew Bynum. The kid is 22 for crying out loud, but is held to a ridiculously high standard--partly of where he plays (LA), and certainly partly because of the position he plays there. I mean, who else in the league has a more impressive legacy to live up to: Mikan, Wilt, Kareem, Shaq--four of the greatest players the league has ever seen and they all played your position on your team before you. Deal with that pressure.
I remember vividly the NBA draft when we picked him 10th. I was hoping for Sean Mays; I guess I should've set my sights higher:
The greatness of this play cannot be fully appreciated of course if taken out of context. Knowing that Garnett (who looked OLD yesterday) had just hit a jumper over 'Drew and barked the whole way down the floor sets this up as a very emphatic "Shut the BLEEP Up!" moment. But the kid let his game do his talking for him and the C's had no real answer for him. Finally, Phil had to play him in crunch time--another milestone. As Trent would say, "My boy's all growns up!" (The following clip is rated R, so keep little ones away)
Other things of note, Artest is finally starting to be Artest. From before the opening tip, Ron-Ron was the metaphorical (to quote John McClane) "fly-in-the-ointment, monkey-in-the-wrench, etc" in Pierce's game. Easily the biggest mismatch in the '08 Finals, Pierce's contributions were a virtual wash with Artest's--not something that figures to be in Boston's favor as Pierce should be their go-to-guy and Artest is the Laker's 3rd option at best. Artest frustrated Pierce throughout, a fact most apparent on the push-off that probably cost the Celtics the game.
Yes, Kobe does that too, Doc. In fact, he was called for it in this same game, but you probably didn't notice it because of the lack of complaining on Mamba's part. And that might have been the most surprising thing to me about yesterday's game--how much the Celtics whine.
Pierce--on every call that could've gone either way, Perkins, Wallace, you KNOW KG never shuts up. Clearly, the Lakers have some whiners too (Kobe and Pau come to mind immediately), but yesterday they shut their yaps and went to work. There were calls that hurt them too (the out-of-bounds play late in the fourth, KG falling down near Artest to limit Ron's first half minutes), but ultimately they pressed on, refused to bullied and played lights-out D when they had to. That's why the won and that's why every Laker fan today feels pretty good about their team's chances when the games really matter. That and The Mamba.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Monday, January 18, 2010
Shannon Will Dunk!
Some great news for Laker fans--really any fans of ridiculous hops and stupid athletic ability--Shannon Brown will in fact be in this year's Dunk Contest. For the uninitiated--or even the experienced--please enjoy a small sampling below:
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Finally, My Team Is Interesting Again!
Unless you've been living under a rock the past 36 hours, you've already heard a plethora of reports that USC uber-coach Pete Carroll will soon be introduced as the next coach of the Seattle Seahawks. It seems like a done deal, but apparently the Seahawks still have to abide by the so-called "Rooney Rule" which requires NFL teams to at least interview minority candidates when hiring a head coach or GM.
Basically, it amounts to this: the Seahawks have their ideal hire all but inked, but have to convince a minority (in this case Minnesota's defensive coordinator, Leslie Frazier) to go through the motions--ERR come in for a legitimate interview because he stands just as much of a chance of getting the job as Carroll. The whole thing is ridiculous. The bleeding hearts will tell you this is the only way to ensure that minority candidates get a fair shake, but isn't it more racist to say, "Hey, we really want to hire this guy over here, but we still need a black guy to interview for our job. Wait. You're black, aren't you? Yeah, you'll do just fine."
Look, if Tony Dungy if Mike Tomlin were interested in the job, they'd be pushed to the front of the line. BECAUSE THEY'RE GOOD COACHES WITH A SUPERBOWL WIN ON THEIR RESUMES. Yes, maybe those two men (and others like Chicago's Lovie Smith) benefited from the Rooney Rule somewhere along the line, but they also worked their way up the chain of command before taking on head coaching gigs. If the point is to hire on merit and not race, then just do it. Someone just said that you can't legislate morality, and they were right. Yes, racism still exists in the NFL (and the world in general), but the owners care most about only two things: winning and making money. If you're from Venus, but can help them do that, you won't have any problem landing a gig somewhere.
Basically, it amounts to this: the Seahawks have their ideal hire all but inked, but have to convince a minority (in this case Minnesota's defensive coordinator, Leslie Frazier) to go through the motions--ERR come in for a legitimate interview because he stands just as much of a chance of getting the job as Carroll. The whole thing is ridiculous. The bleeding hearts will tell you this is the only way to ensure that minority candidates get a fair shake, but isn't it more racist to say, "Hey, we really want to hire this guy over here, but we still need a black guy to interview for our job. Wait. You're black, aren't you? Yeah, you'll do just fine."
Look, if Tony Dungy if Mike Tomlin were interested in the job, they'd be pushed to the front of the line. BECAUSE THEY'RE GOOD COACHES WITH A SUPERBOWL WIN ON THEIR RESUMES. Yes, maybe those two men (and others like Chicago's Lovie Smith) benefited from the Rooney Rule somewhere along the line, but they also worked their way up the chain of command before taking on head coaching gigs. If the point is to hire on merit and not race, then just do it. Someone just said that you can't legislate morality, and they were right. Yes, racism still exists in the NFL (and the world in general), but the owners care most about only two things: winning and making money. If you're from Venus, but can help them do that, you won't have any problem landing a gig somewhere.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Nuts--Absolutely Nuts
The Lakers had NO business winning this game, but sometimes Kobe is just that good:
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