It appears that my trash talking antics struck a nerve with the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday. Some anonymous Spurs fan sent the team a copy of my blog and they didn't take to kindly to my opinion of them. Danny Green pulled out the New Jack City soundtrack and listened to Christopher Williams (I'm Dreamin) before the shoot around, Manu Ginobili put on the lucky socks he wore in the 2004 Gold Medal game, and Tony Parker had a late night sexting session with Erin Barry to get motivated. The results speak for themselves as the Spurs came out with guns blazing to take a 3-2 lead in the series. They have the heart of a champion, but they will have to win a game in the 305 to hoist the Larry O'Brien trophy. The Heat thrive in dramatic situations so I don't see it happening. As you might expect my position hasn't changed and I still can't seem to find the panic button like everyone else. When it's all said and done the Heat will be crowned back to back champs. Here are some observations over the weekend.
Tiger Woods hasn't won a major in 5 years and Phil Michelson still has that acid reflux problem when it comes to winning the US Open. I don't think the other golfers fear these guys nearly as much as they used to. The intimidation factor is all but gone.
Tim Lincecum needs to grow his hair back. He's not been the same pitcher since he started sporting the clean cut look. There's no velocity on his pitches and hitters are starting to light him up like a Christmas tree. He's a UW guy so I won't turn on him just yet, but he needs to pick it up before people start talking about him the way they talk about Barry Zito.
Doc Rivers is a good coach, but not a great coach. All this talk of trading marquee players for his services is ludicrous. Doc doesn't shoot jumpers, set picks, or possess a low post move. In this day and age coaches are hired to manage personalities more than they are hired for their basketball expertise. You don't give away players for that.
Believe it or not I'm starting to think about my fantasy football strategy already. This usually happens after OTA's. I can't decide if I'm being proactive or pathetic in my obsession with the impending draft. TWO MONTHS FROM NOW!
Monday, June 17, 2013
Sunday, June 16, 2013
MoHeato B3TZ
Miami vs. San Antonio
The Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs have alternated wins so far in this series, but with the momentum shifting towards Miami I don't think that trend will continue. The Heat were finally able to put it all together in game 4 and the Big 3 showed why they predicted multiple championships when they joined forces 3 years ago. Chris Bosh came through like a champ, D Wade looked like he was in 2006 form, and LeBron simply played like an MVP. There's no reason to assume game 5 won't be more of the same. The Spurs are tired and relying too much on fringe players (Danny Green, Gary Neal) to do the heavy lifting, Manu Ginobili isn't shooting consistently, and Tony Parker isn't healthy. That's a recipe for disaster when you're facing the best team in the NBA. The Spurs will give it all they have, but on their return trip to Miami they will be down 3-2. Miami wins a close one.
The Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs have alternated wins so far in this series, but with the momentum shifting towards Miami I don't think that trend will continue. The Heat were finally able to put it all together in game 4 and the Big 3 showed why they predicted multiple championships when they joined forces 3 years ago. Chris Bosh came through like a champ, D Wade looked like he was in 2006 form, and LeBron simply played like an MVP. There's no reason to assume game 5 won't be more of the same. The Spurs are tired and relying too much on fringe players (Danny Green, Gary Neal) to do the heavy lifting, Manu Ginobili isn't shooting consistently, and Tony Parker isn't healthy. That's a recipe for disaster when you're facing the best team in the NBA. The Spurs will give it all they have, but on their return trip to Miami they will be down 3-2. Miami wins a close one.
Friday, June 14, 2013
Jason Kidd Isn't Ready To Be A Head Coach
For the record I'm a big fan of Jason Kidd. I've watched him over the years display unbelievable court vision, leadership, and develop a consistent jump shot that prolonged his career. Hell, I even took his side when he and Jimmy Jackson were fighting over Toni Braxton back in the Dallas days (first tour of duty). Still and yet I don't know who told him becoming a head coach weeks after announcing his retirement from playing in the NBA was a good idea.
Jason Kidd has never coached at any level. His basketball knowledge isn't in question, but I wonder how he will relate to players now that he is the disciplinarian. Lots of people struggle with that transition and professional athletes have a tendency to hold grudges when they don't get what they want. I think his ability to relate to players will be compromised once he starts telling them what to do and demands perfection on every play.
In addition, superstars typically don't make good NBA coaches. With the exception of Larry Bird and Lenny Wilkens most Hall of Fame players (Magic Johnson, Isaiah Thomas, Clyde Drexler) find it difficult to coach players that don't have extraordinary gifts and a tireless work ethic. They quickly realize their level of expectation is unrealistic.
The good news is ownership is behind him 100% and he's coaching a team he has a history with. The bad news is the Brooklyn Nets are not in a rebuilding mode and the fans want to see a winner. They may not have the patience for Kidd to make a smooth transition. No more parties, hanging out with the fellas, and signing autographs, just film study and ulcers await the future Hall of Famer. If I had to handicap this one I'd say Jason will last half a season. He'd be better off as an assistant for a year or two than jumping right into the fire as the head guy. Can't wait to see how he reacts when Deron Williams quits on him or Joe Johnson starts to pout because he's not getting enough shots. Your thoughts?
Jason Kidd has never coached at any level. His basketball knowledge isn't in question, but I wonder how he will relate to players now that he is the disciplinarian. Lots of people struggle with that transition and professional athletes have a tendency to hold grudges when they don't get what they want. I think his ability to relate to players will be compromised once he starts telling them what to do and demands perfection on every play.
In addition, superstars typically don't make good NBA coaches. With the exception of Larry Bird and Lenny Wilkens most Hall of Fame players (Magic Johnson, Isaiah Thomas, Clyde Drexler) find it difficult to coach players that don't have extraordinary gifts and a tireless work ethic. They quickly realize their level of expectation is unrealistic.
The good news is ownership is behind him 100% and he's coaching a team he has a history with. The bad news is the Brooklyn Nets are not in a rebuilding mode and the fans want to see a winner. They may not have the patience for Kidd to make a smooth transition. No more parties, hanging out with the fellas, and signing autographs, just film study and ulcers await the future Hall of Famer. If I had to handicap this one I'd say Jason will last half a season. He'd be better off as an assistant for a year or two than jumping right into the fire as the head guy. Can't wait to see how he reacts when Deron Williams quits on him or Joe Johnson starts to pout because he's not getting enough shots. Your thoughts?
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Why The NFL IS Condoning Racism?
Sometimes money, power, and popularity makes you arrogant, clueless, and insensitive. Such is the case with the NFL's stance on the Washington Redskins name change proposition. In an attempt to bring political correctness to the subject and atone for years of blatant disrespect congress asked Washington's football team to change their name.
In a dismissive fashion only a Caucasian billionaire could pull off owner Dan Snyder told congress he will never change the teams nickname. That response was unfortunate, but somewhat expected. Billionaires are used to getting their own way and rarely do they consider the feelings of a minority demographic that has no ability to affect them financially. The more disturbing part of the story is Commissioner Roger Goodell's misguided support of the Redskins owner.
In an open letter to congress Goodell went so far as to say the name Redskins has no negative connotation whatsoever and in fact was a source of strength courage, pride and respect. Goodell followed up his ridiculous claim by saying "An associated Press survey conducted just two months ago found that only 11% of Americans felt the name should be changed."
Is the fact that a high percentage of the population is insensitive about the feelings of Native Americans justification to continue a racist tradition? Isn't the fact Native Americans are offended by the name a good enough reason to take action? Is there any other demographic that would have this much difficulty removing a racial slur from mainstream society? You can't say midget or retarded without the whole country jumping down your throat but Redskin is ok? Even when it's not ok with the people being called Redskin?
In 2013 it's hard to believe you have to convince people how offensive and disrespectful this subject really is. I can't tell if it's a racial component or an egalitarian position that has the NFL so blinded to the truth. If there were more minority owners I'm sure the NFL's position would be different. I don't know any people of color that can't sympathize with the perspective of Native Americans on this subject. I hope this gets resolved amicably but I predict things will get worse before they get better. Stay tuned.
In a dismissive fashion only a Caucasian billionaire could pull off owner Dan Snyder told congress he will never change the teams nickname. That response was unfortunate, but somewhat expected. Billionaires are used to getting their own way and rarely do they consider the feelings of a minority demographic that has no ability to affect them financially. The more disturbing part of the story is Commissioner Roger Goodell's misguided support of the Redskins owner.
In an open letter to congress Goodell went so far as to say the name Redskins has no negative connotation whatsoever and in fact was a source of strength courage, pride and respect. Goodell followed up his ridiculous claim by saying "An associated Press survey conducted just two months ago found that only 11% of Americans felt the name should be changed."
Is the fact that a high percentage of the population is insensitive about the feelings of Native Americans justification to continue a racist tradition? Isn't the fact Native Americans are offended by the name a good enough reason to take action? Is there any other demographic that would have this much difficulty removing a racial slur from mainstream society? You can't say midget or retarded without the whole country jumping down your throat but Redskin is ok? Even when it's not ok with the people being called Redskin?
In 2013 it's hard to believe you have to convince people how offensive and disrespectful this subject really is. I can't tell if it's a racial component or an egalitarian position that has the NFL so blinded to the truth. If there were more minority owners I'm sure the NFL's position would be different. I don't know any people of color that can't sympathize with the perspective of Native Americans on this subject. I hope this gets resolved amicably but I predict things will get worse before they get better. Stay tuned.
LeBron B3TZ
Miami vs San Antonio
LeBron James has gone on record saying he has to do whatever it takes for his team to win. When the Miami Heat take on the San Antonio Spurs tonight it will be the perfect opportunity for LBJ to make good on his claim. The Spurs took advantage of a hot shooting Danny Green and a lethargic Heat team in game 3 and now they are in the drivers seat. Of course one win can change all that and I predict Miami will even the series. Tony Parker is questionable and Danny Green has to wake up out of his dream at some point. Although the Spurs execute better in the half court the Miami Heat have the better players. Ultimately talent wins championships. Miami has the best player on the planet and tonight he'll show you why. The Heat will win a close one.
LeBron James has gone on record saying he has to do whatever it takes for his team to win. When the Miami Heat take on the San Antonio Spurs tonight it will be the perfect opportunity for LBJ to make good on his claim. The Spurs took advantage of a hot shooting Danny Green and a lethargic Heat team in game 3 and now they are in the drivers seat. Of course one win can change all that and I predict Miami will even the series. Tony Parker is questionable and Danny Green has to wake up out of his dream at some point. Although the Spurs execute better in the half court the Miami Heat have the better players. Ultimately talent wins championships. Miami has the best player on the planet and tonight he'll show you why. The Heat will win a close one.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Is Chad Johnson A Victim Of Athlete Profiling?
Has anyone noticed authority figures have become increasingly sensitive these days? Whether it's law enforcement, referees, or commissioners everyone has a point to prove. The latest example is Kathleen McHugh, the judge that presided over Chad Johnson's appeal hearing.
When the judge asked Chad if he was satisfied with his lawyer Adam Swickle, Chad gave the attorney a light pat on the butt as football players routinely do to each other on the field. The courtroom erupted in laughter, but Kathleen was not amused. Instead of granting Johnson his plea deal the judge decided to throw his a$$ in jail for 30 days. A harmless gesture turned into a prison sentence.
Perhaps the judge was unpopular in high school. Perhaps she was dissed in the past by a flamboyant athlete with no regard for her feelings. Perhaps the judge just wanted to send a message to athletes all over the country that childish antics a court of law won't be tolerated. Whatever the case may be it is clear the punishment doesn't fit the crime. Chad Johnson isn't a choir boy, but he doesn't deserve jail time for his behavior either. In my opinion the judge invoked her personal feelings when making this decision.
With so much trouble in the world it seems petty to take away a man's freedom because other people find him amusing. It's not like Ocho Cinco was sticking his tongue out at her or anything. Kathleen McHugh simply wanted to prove a point and in doing so unfairly used her position and power. If it were up to me she would be suspended from her position and forced to take an administrative leave of absence. Class clowns get sent to the Principal's office, not to San Quentin. Your thoughts?
When the judge asked Chad if he was satisfied with his lawyer Adam Swickle, Chad gave the attorney a light pat on the butt as football players routinely do to each other on the field. The courtroom erupted in laughter, but Kathleen was not amused. Instead of granting Johnson his plea deal the judge decided to throw his a$$ in jail for 30 days. A harmless gesture turned into a prison sentence.
Perhaps the judge was unpopular in high school. Perhaps she was dissed in the past by a flamboyant athlete with no regard for her feelings. Perhaps the judge just wanted to send a message to athletes all over the country that childish antics a court of law won't be tolerated. Whatever the case may be it is clear the punishment doesn't fit the crime. Chad Johnson isn't a choir boy, but he doesn't deserve jail time for his behavior either. In my opinion the judge invoked her personal feelings when making this decision.
With so much trouble in the world it seems petty to take away a man's freedom because other people find him amusing. It's not like Ocho Cinco was sticking his tongue out at her or anything. Kathleen McHugh simply wanted to prove a point and in doing so unfairly used her position and power. If it were up to me she would be suspended from her position and forced to take an administrative leave of absence. Class clowns get sent to the Principal's office, not to San Quentin. Your thoughts?
San Antonio B3TZ
Miami vs. San Antonio
The San Antonio Spurs got the Miami Heat's attention in game 1 and Miami responded with a mamoth beat down in game 2. Now the series shifts to Texas for a 3 game stretch giving the Spurs a chance to re-group. Greg Popovich has made a living making adjustments in clutch moments, but the challenge of holding LeBron James in check is a difficult one. Although the series is all tied up at one a piece LeBron has yet to have a break out game. That will happen tonight as the Heat ride the wave of emotion from game 2. I expect Manu Ginobili to have a big game at home and Tony Parker will probbably have a nice performance, but the Heat will regain command of the series and LeBron will get one stepo closer to starting on his three peat. Miami in a close one.
The San Antonio Spurs got the Miami Heat's attention in game 1 and Miami responded with a mamoth beat down in game 2. Now the series shifts to Texas for a 3 game stretch giving the Spurs a chance to re-group. Greg Popovich has made a living making adjustments in clutch moments, but the challenge of holding LeBron James in check is a difficult one. Although the series is all tied up at one a piece LeBron has yet to have a break out game. That will happen tonight as the Heat ride the wave of emotion from game 2. I expect Manu Ginobili to have a big game at home and Tony Parker will probbably have a nice performance, but the Heat will regain command of the series and LeBron will get one stepo closer to starting on his three peat. Miami in a close one.
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