Yeah baby! Boston (finally!) advances to play the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals. LeBron & Pierce went at it, too bad I missed most of it because I was at the movies with the fam watching Speed Racer (Really cool movie). KG was right, that better be on ESPN Classic this week. Hopefully I still get that channel. I want to right more, but I'm just so tired...
The Pistons are the hometown team that I grew up loving, and the Celtics have 2 of my favorite players on their team (Hint: Neither is Ray Allen). I'm really torn on this series, I'll be no matter the outcome. Given Boston's recent struggles, I'm not so sure they have a better chance than Detroit to beat the winner of the Western Conference (likely LA). It'd be nice to see another championship in the D, because that window is gonna close eventually. On the other hand, I'd love to see KG get a ring and get out of that Charles Barkley class of superstar. This should be a great series, too bad I won't get to catch a game because they scheduled Game 3 for Monday. Just great, Stern wants the playoffs on until July. I'm convinced.
Speaking of Cleveland, I will soon be residing there doing an internship. Thankfully I won't have to deal with that "Witness" non-sense, and can brag about the Pistons since they are still playing.
Random Note: It is no longer the Big 3. Ray Allen is not a superstar or border-line All Star. He's a glorified role player until proven otherwise. A spot-up jump shooting has-been. I don't say that because I don't like him, but he really disappeared this series. Boston kind of needs you.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Last Day of Work
Finally done working at the Palace, on to bigger and better things. I enjoyed it, but I can safely say I am never looking to work in the restaurant field ever again. Just doesn't move me. I'll miss the food, and some other things, but mainly the food.
In other completely unrelated news, I hate the Cleveland Cavaliers. Considering where I will be going in a few weeks, that creates sort of a quagmire, but let's hope they'll be out of the playoffs by then.
In other completely unrelated news, I hate the Cleveland Cavaliers. Considering where I will be going in a few weeks, that creates sort of a quagmire, but let's hope they'll be out of the playoffs by then.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
NBA: Where The Playoffs Happen
I'm a little late, but I'm going to do my little first round run down. Might even get a little insight into my early championship favorite.
#1 Boston Celtics V. #8 Atlanta Hawks
America finally gets a chance to watch the Hawks, a team that has been mediocre since the Mookie/Mutumbo days. Josh Smith is definitely a guy to watch, he's electric. Joe Johnson may be one of the most overlooked SGs in the league, and you can see why Al Horford will be a starter in the league for years and got some serious consideration for Rookie of the Year.
Now that I got that out the way, this isn't really a series. Boston isn't Detroit, they are too hungry to let Atlanta even think they have a chance to win this series. This will be quick and painless. Garnett is on a war path, and Atlanta is just a prelude.
Celtics in 4
#2 Detroit Pistons V. #7 Philadelphia 76ers
Match-up a surprising young, athletic team against a bunch of complacent underachievers, and you have trouble. The Detroit Pistons don't think the 76ers can beat them, and the 76ers don't care. Game 1 confirmed that. I didn't believe Philly had a chance in hell, until Sunday. This series will likely help serve as evidence why I don't have Detroit representing the Eastern Conference in the Finals. It's so frustrating because they play down to the level of their opponents, and they do it consistently. They've been complacent since 2005, and what have they done since? Listen to the post-game comments, do they sound concerned? Do they sound hungry? "We've been here before. We know what it takes to win in the playoffs." Really Chauncey? So when you got overconfident last year, and LeBron padded his resume on you, you didn't take notice. You come out and display that same attitude? The Pistons have been to the Eastern Conference Finals 5 times, been to the Finals twice, and only won once. In that span, they've swept a grand total of 1 team. But ask them, and I bet they think they are a dynasty. Their window of opporitunity closes this off-season, so championship or not, don't expect to see the same team back next year. Unfortunately this one isn't going to do much. Ever since they made the All Star team, it's been downhill from there.
So much credit to Philadelphia, for coming out and playing to win. They actually have some advantages (mainly effort and athleticism) and an underrated PG in Andre Miller. The worst thing you can let an underdog do is believe. The Pistons on the other hand, will probably escape this series rather than cruise through it. I'm starting to doubt whether they'll even beat Orlando.
Pistons in 6
#3 Orlando Magic V. #6 Toronto Raptors
I don't really have much to say about this series. Chris Bosh is good, but Dwight Howard is better. Jose Calderon and T.J. Ford are better than any of the Magic's guards, but Turkoglu and Lewis are a lot better than any of Toronto's non-Bosh players. The Raptors are another team that doesn't get any national TV love during the season, and they can be entertaining, but they just aren't that great of a team. They've been slumping lately and their former #1 Andrea Bargnani hasn't done much of anything this year. Talk about disappointing.
It is good to see Dwight Howard turn into this generation's Shaq. You have to fear anyone that can easily give you 20/20. He'll probably end up as one of the best rebounders in league history. All the while Rashard Lewis makes $117 million to get outplayed by Turkoglu. Then again, without Rashard, Turkoglu wouldn't get the same looks.
Orlando in 5
#4 Cleveland Cavaliers V. # 5 Washington Wizards
I don't like the Cavaliers. At all. I try to keep things as objective as possible, but I rarely say anything positive about this team. There really isn't anything to like. But that's not going to make me pick against them, because I saw the first 2 games and LeBron James IS just that good. Imagine how many points he'd score if he could hit some free throws. He is just killing that team, but I don't think this series is over just yet. There is something about the Cavaliers that doesn't sit right with me, in terms of their team. When LeBron isn't he-man out there, they just don't look good. I remember hearing people asking who won the Chicago/Cleveland/Seattle trade, asking who it helped the most. Funny thing is, it probably is Seattle. Ben Wallace without his Detroit supporting cast, is just a guy who can block shots and grab a couple rebounds. No one fears the fro anymore. Delonte West and Szczerbiak live off of the looks LeBron can get them, they seem to struggle creating their own offense. What I'm trying to say is, Cleveland just gives off an aura of being beatable. Role players don't play well on the road typically, and this is where Washington can get back into this series. Caron Butler has been unimpressive, as well as Gilbert. Haywood has also been pretty solid, but needs to avoid foul trouble as really their only post threat. They just need to play better, as simple as that sounds.
It seems you can't mention this series without mentioning Soulja Boy, thanks to Deshawn Stevenson and LeBron James. Soulja Boy's label should send them a check for all the free publicity he's getting. For some reason, analysts feel the need to bring it up every game, on every show, at every halftime. The song was annoying enough, so please stop! I must admit though, that and the disdain these teams share for one another, makes this the most intriguing match-up in the East.
Cavaliers in 6
#1 Los Angeles Lakers V. #8 Denver Nuggets
The only reason Denver won't get swept is Allen Iverson. It's an unwritten rule that no matter how bad a team he may be on, they won't get swept. But they will surely get close, because they need JR Smith to play like a superstar to have a chance. Giving up 120 points doesn't win many games, and I wouldn't want to get into a shoot-out with a team with Kobe on it. That's usually not a smart idea. Even Pau Gasol is going crazy. I'm not a fan, but I wouldn't be surprised if they made it to the Finals.
A name I haven't mentioned, mainly because he may not matter, is Carmelo Anthony. I'm not saying he's not good, but is he relevant? I always defended Carmelo as being more than just another Glenn Robinson, and he is, but is he more than just a smooth scorer? Granted, he did improve his rebounding this season but he still lacks it on the defensive end. You'd love to see him become that complete player, someone with success. It just seems like he's doing more to hurt himself than help himself. More frustrating is how bad that team is structured. The Nuggets 20 years ago didn't win with all offense, why would it be different for these Nuggets? Hell, better teammates would help Carmelo's "legacy". I mean, look at Kobe. Over the last 3 years, he's had the same Kobe type seasons. The difference this year, his teammates have actually improved and they got Pau Gasol for a Big Mac combo with large fries. I guess that makes you the MVP somehow.
Lakers in 5
#2 New Orleans Hornets V. #7 Dallas Mavericks
Analysts were picking the Mavericks, trying to say the Hornets were too inexperienced and the Mavericks will finally step it up. Well honestly, I don't see that happening. I'm officially on the Chris Paul bandwagon, and I just don't think Dallas is that good. Dwyane Wade scarred that team, then Golden State poured salt on the wound. It's just not their year. I don't know what else to say about this series, so let's talk about the Chris Paul to Tyson Chandler pick-and-role. It's easily one of the nicest plays you'll see this post season, surpassing the Steve Nash/Amare Stoudemire pick-and-roll. Paul will see Chandler from anywhere on the court, and it's a mutual understanding what he needs to do. Chandler, knowing he only scores on this play and offensive rebounds, soon will be dunking down an alley-oop placed perfectly over the rim. If somehow Chandler can't get open, then Peja is there standing on the wing ready to drop the trey. The pick and pop with David West is equally as efficient and truly awe-inspiring. That's why Chris Paul averages 11-plus assists a game, those 3 plays.
The window for the Mavericks to win looks to be closed. Kidd is getting older, actually everyone on that team is getting older, they really could use some injection of youth. They also shouldn't still have to rely on Erick Dampier for post play.
Hornets in 6
#3 San Antonio Spurs V. #6 Phoenix Suns
When that game went into overtime, I saw the writing on the wall for the Suns. Then Tim Duncan hit a three, and the game was basically over. When Duncan hits a game tying three, the Spurs are probably going to win the game. And then trying to cover Ginobili with no one at the basket to stop a shot? Come on now. He's going left, and he's likely going to score. I never was a big Ginobili fan, but he's good. Game 1 was amazing. It was everything this series should be, I just hope there are no let downs for the rest of the series. This is the one series that NEEDS to go the inexplicable 7 games of the 1st round that makes it last 2 weeks. Tim Duncan was absolutely bananas. He always destroys Amare, because Amare cannot stay out of foul trouble. I thought thats what Shaq was supposed to help with, but he can't stay out of foul trouble. Thats what happens when your back-up big man is Boris Diaw, who he's not playing the undersized center in a fast paced offense role.
This is the best series of the first round, I just hope it isn't the best series of the playoffs again. Steve Nash and Tony Parker. Shaq and Duncan. Amare and Ginobili. The star power is there, the intensity is there, the history is there. I look forward to seeing some great games out of this series, with either team capable of winning the championship. To be honest, I don't see either doing it this year though. San Antonio just hasn't looked like the same championship team of a year ago, and I don't trust Phoenix's lack of depth. Play D.J. Strawberry, and only good things will happen. I hope I'm wrong, but........
Spurs in 7
#4 Utah Jazz V. #5 Houston Rockets
The Rockets need to beat the Jazz twice at home to win this series. There is no chance in hell of that happening. It's unfortunate, because they would actually have a chance to get out of the 1st round if they didn't have major injuries. Utah is just too good for them, especially since we are seeing an inspired Andrei Kirilenko for the first time in a while. If he can keep it up, the Jazz have a real shot at making it out the West. The light-skinned duo of Deron and Boozer is deadly, and matches up well with any other in the West. The LA/Utah 2nd round series is going to be epic, I honestly think Utah can take them. Kirilenko is going to have to do his thing on Kobe, but the same goes for Fisher on Deron. Both teams dig into their benches too, so it'll definitely be a fun series. I hate to just disregard the Rockets like that, but it is what it is.
Tracy McGrady is going to go 0-7 in terms of making it out of the first round for his career. That's sad, but it's a combination of things. He needs to take over games down the stretch as opposed to the first 3 quarters. 1 point in the 4th quarter is inexcusable, even if the defense is keying on him. He needs to show that he is THE man, but maybe he just isn't? At least not this post-season. A big problem is, he can't get easy shots. I can't believe it, but they need Rafer Alston to hit some 3's. I really hope he makes it out some time, I thought this was his "year". I give up on him, and the only reaction he can probably give is:
Jazz in 5 (...and that's being nice)
#1 Boston Celtics V. #8 Atlanta Hawks
America finally gets a chance to watch the Hawks, a team that has been mediocre since the Mookie/Mutumbo days. Josh Smith is definitely a guy to watch, he's electric. Joe Johnson may be one of the most overlooked SGs in the league, and you can see why Al Horford will be a starter in the league for years and got some serious consideration for Rookie of the Year.
Now that I got that out the way, this isn't really a series. Boston isn't Detroit, they are too hungry to let Atlanta even think they have a chance to win this series. This will be quick and painless. Garnett is on a war path, and Atlanta is just a prelude.
Celtics in 4
#2 Detroit Pistons V. #7 Philadelphia 76ers
Match-up a surprising young, athletic team against a bunch of complacent underachievers, and you have trouble. The Detroit Pistons don't think the 76ers can beat them, and the 76ers don't care. Game 1 confirmed that. I didn't believe Philly had a chance in hell, until Sunday. This series will likely help serve as evidence why I don't have Detroit representing the Eastern Conference in the Finals. It's so frustrating because they play down to the level of their opponents, and they do it consistently. They've been complacent since 2005, and what have they done since? Listen to the post-game comments, do they sound concerned? Do they sound hungry? "We've been here before. We know what it takes to win in the playoffs." Really Chauncey? So when you got overconfident last year, and LeBron padded his resume on you, you didn't take notice. You come out and display that same attitude? The Pistons have been to the Eastern Conference Finals 5 times, been to the Finals twice, and only won once. In that span, they've swept a grand total of 1 team. But ask them, and I bet they think they are a dynasty. Their window of opporitunity closes this off-season, so championship or not, don't expect to see the same team back next year. Unfortunately this one isn't going to do much. Ever since they made the All Star team, it's been downhill from there.
So much credit to Philadelphia, for coming out and playing to win. They actually have some advantages (mainly effort and athleticism) and an underrated PG in Andre Miller. The worst thing you can let an underdog do is believe. The Pistons on the other hand, will probably escape this series rather than cruise through it. I'm starting to doubt whether they'll even beat Orlando.
Pistons in 6
#3 Orlando Magic V. #6 Toronto Raptors
I don't really have much to say about this series. Chris Bosh is good, but Dwight Howard is better. Jose Calderon and T.J. Ford are better than any of the Magic's guards, but Turkoglu and Lewis are a lot better than any of Toronto's non-Bosh players. The Raptors are another team that doesn't get any national TV love during the season, and they can be entertaining, but they just aren't that great of a team. They've been slumping lately and their former #1 Andrea Bargnani hasn't done much of anything this year. Talk about disappointing.
It is good to see Dwight Howard turn into this generation's Shaq. You have to fear anyone that can easily give you 20/20. He'll probably end up as one of the best rebounders in league history. All the while Rashard Lewis makes $117 million to get outplayed by Turkoglu. Then again, without Rashard, Turkoglu wouldn't get the same looks.
Orlando in 5
#4 Cleveland Cavaliers V. # 5 Washington Wizards
I don't like the Cavaliers. At all. I try to keep things as objective as possible, but I rarely say anything positive about this team. There really isn't anything to like. But that's not going to make me pick against them, because I saw the first 2 games and LeBron James IS just that good. Imagine how many points he'd score if he could hit some free throws. He is just killing that team, but I don't think this series is over just yet. There is something about the Cavaliers that doesn't sit right with me, in terms of their team. When LeBron isn't he-man out there, they just don't look good. I remember hearing people asking who won the Chicago/Cleveland/Seattle trade, asking who it helped the most. Funny thing is, it probably is Seattle. Ben Wallace without his Detroit supporting cast, is just a guy who can block shots and grab a couple rebounds. No one fears the fro anymore. Delonte West and Szczerbiak live off of the looks LeBron can get them, they seem to struggle creating their own offense. What I'm trying to say is, Cleveland just gives off an aura of being beatable. Role players don't play well on the road typically, and this is where Washington can get back into this series. Caron Butler has been unimpressive, as well as Gilbert. Haywood has also been pretty solid, but needs to avoid foul trouble as really their only post threat. They just need to play better, as simple as that sounds.
It seems you can't mention this series without mentioning Soulja Boy, thanks to Deshawn Stevenson and LeBron James. Soulja Boy's label should send them a check for all the free publicity he's getting. For some reason, analysts feel the need to bring it up every game, on every show, at every halftime. The song was annoying enough, so please stop! I must admit though, that and the disdain these teams share for one another, makes this the most intriguing match-up in the East.
Cavaliers in 6
#1 Los Angeles Lakers V. #8 Denver Nuggets
The only reason Denver won't get swept is Allen Iverson. It's an unwritten rule that no matter how bad a team he may be on, they won't get swept. But they will surely get close, because they need JR Smith to play like a superstar to have a chance. Giving up 120 points doesn't win many games, and I wouldn't want to get into a shoot-out with a team with Kobe on it. That's usually not a smart idea. Even Pau Gasol is going crazy. I'm not a fan, but I wouldn't be surprised if they made it to the Finals.
A name I haven't mentioned, mainly because he may not matter, is Carmelo Anthony. I'm not saying he's not good, but is he relevant? I always defended Carmelo as being more than just another Glenn Robinson, and he is, but is he more than just a smooth scorer? Granted, he did improve his rebounding this season but he still lacks it on the defensive end. You'd love to see him become that complete player, someone with success. It just seems like he's doing more to hurt himself than help himself. More frustrating is how bad that team is structured. The Nuggets 20 years ago didn't win with all offense, why would it be different for these Nuggets? Hell, better teammates would help Carmelo's "legacy". I mean, look at Kobe. Over the last 3 years, he's had the same Kobe type seasons. The difference this year, his teammates have actually improved and they got Pau Gasol for a Big Mac combo with large fries. I guess that makes you the MVP somehow.
Lakers in 5
#2 New Orleans Hornets V. #7 Dallas Mavericks
Analysts were picking the Mavericks, trying to say the Hornets were too inexperienced and the Mavericks will finally step it up. Well honestly, I don't see that happening. I'm officially on the Chris Paul bandwagon, and I just don't think Dallas is that good. Dwyane Wade scarred that team, then Golden State poured salt on the wound. It's just not their year. I don't know what else to say about this series, so let's talk about the Chris Paul to Tyson Chandler pick-and-role. It's easily one of the nicest plays you'll see this post season, surpassing the Steve Nash/Amare Stoudemire pick-and-roll. Paul will see Chandler from anywhere on the court, and it's a mutual understanding what he needs to do. Chandler, knowing he only scores on this play and offensive rebounds, soon will be dunking down an alley-oop placed perfectly over the rim. If somehow Chandler can't get open, then Peja is there standing on the wing ready to drop the trey. The pick and pop with David West is equally as efficient and truly awe-inspiring. That's why Chris Paul averages 11-plus assists a game, those 3 plays.
The window for the Mavericks to win looks to be closed. Kidd is getting older, actually everyone on that team is getting older, they really could use some injection of youth. They also shouldn't still have to rely on Erick Dampier for post play.
Hornets in 6
#3 San Antonio Spurs V. #6 Phoenix Suns
When that game went into overtime, I saw the writing on the wall for the Suns. Then Tim Duncan hit a three, and the game was basically over. When Duncan hits a game tying three, the Spurs are probably going to win the game. And then trying to cover Ginobili with no one at the basket to stop a shot? Come on now. He's going left, and he's likely going to score. I never was a big Ginobili fan, but he's good. Game 1 was amazing. It was everything this series should be, I just hope there are no let downs for the rest of the series. This is the one series that NEEDS to go the inexplicable 7 games of the 1st round that makes it last 2 weeks. Tim Duncan was absolutely bananas. He always destroys Amare, because Amare cannot stay out of foul trouble. I thought thats what Shaq was supposed to help with, but he can't stay out of foul trouble. Thats what happens when your back-up big man is Boris Diaw, who he's not playing the undersized center in a fast paced offense role.
This is the best series of the first round, I just hope it isn't the best series of the playoffs again. Steve Nash and Tony Parker. Shaq and Duncan. Amare and Ginobili. The star power is there, the intensity is there, the history is there. I look forward to seeing some great games out of this series, with either team capable of winning the championship. To be honest, I don't see either doing it this year though. San Antonio just hasn't looked like the same championship team of a year ago, and I don't trust Phoenix's lack of depth. Play D.J. Strawberry, and only good things will happen. I hope I'm wrong, but........
Spurs in 7
#4 Utah Jazz V. #5 Houston Rockets
The Rockets need to beat the Jazz twice at home to win this series. There is no chance in hell of that happening. It's unfortunate, because they would actually have a chance to get out of the 1st round if they didn't have major injuries. Utah is just too good for them, especially since we are seeing an inspired Andrei Kirilenko for the first time in a while. If he can keep it up, the Jazz have a real shot at making it out the West. The light-skinned duo of Deron and Boozer is deadly, and matches up well with any other in the West. The LA/Utah 2nd round series is going to be epic, I honestly think Utah can take them. Kirilenko is going to have to do his thing on Kobe, but the same goes for Fisher on Deron. Both teams dig into their benches too, so it'll definitely be a fun series. I hate to just disregard the Rockets like that, but it is what it is.
Tracy McGrady is going to go 0-7 in terms of making it out of the first round for his career. That's sad, but it's a combination of things. He needs to take over games down the stretch as opposed to the first 3 quarters. 1 point in the 4th quarter is inexcusable, even if the defense is keying on him. He needs to show that he is THE man, but maybe he just isn't? At least not this post-season. A big problem is, he can't get easy shots. I can't believe it, but they need Rafer Alston to hit some 3's. I really hope he makes it out some time, I thought this was his "year". I give up on him, and the only reaction he can probably give is:
Jazz in 5 (...and that's being nice)
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Update
Haven't written anything in a while, so I'm gonna try to get back into this. Free time + End of the college regular season + League Pass should equal some kind of posts.
An update on Darius Washington, he got cut by the Spurs and ended up in Greece. Funny how things work out.
An update on Darius Washington, he got cut by the Spurs and ended up in Greece. Funny how things work out.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Crossing Paths
This is the story of two of my favorite college players of the past few years. One is from Florida, the other went to Florida. One is currently in the league, the other is overseas. This is the brief story of James "Flight" White and Darius Washington Jr.
My first memory of the very self-assured Washington came from an Adidas DVD profiling 3 basketball players (Washington, Dwight Howard, and Josh Smith). If I remember correctly, he was getting on Smith for "whining" about something. It was interesting profile, his father seemed very intent that he would do big things with his basketball career. Maybe even to the point where it seemed like he was trying to live through him.
Flight's first appearance on my television came during the 2001 McDonald's All American Dunk Contest. Heralded as the best dunker in the contest and the favorite, White went on to put on one of the best dunk contest performances I've ever seen. The way his slender frame soared through the air would put Clyde Drexler to shame. It almost appeared as if it was too easy. His final dunk, a 2 handed double clutch from the free throw line, sent me out of my seat. Somehow he lost the contest to future college teammate and current New York Knick, David Lee.
Washington emerged the next year as the starting point guard for John Calipari's Memphis Tigers. While not exactly the pure point guard, Washington got the job done. Assisted by teammates Sean Banks and Rodney Carney, Memphis got into the Conference USA tournament with a chance to win an automatic bid to the NCAA tourney. They faced a very talented Louisville team that was one of the best in the country. Washington had his breakout party, keeping Memphis in the game with his 23 points and 6 assists, but it was the points that he didn't get that left a lasting memory. Down 2 with 6.5 seconds left, Washington drove the length of the court and launched a desperation 3 as time expired. While the shot was off, he baited Francisco Garcia into a foul. A freshman steps to the line for the biggest moment of his career. Three shots win it, two shots tie it. The first drops and Washington turns to his coach in typical Washington fashion, as if to say, "I got this." The second one bounces off the rim, and Washington looks visibly shaken. The final shot to send the game into overtime falls just short, and almost simultaneously Washington falls lifelessly to the ground.
James White's career got off to a solid start at Florida. He averaged 6.2ppg coming off the bench. After the season, White decided to transfer to Cincinnati to play for Bob Huggins. Throughout his career, according to many, White never quite lived up to his potential. DraftExpress called him, "One of the biggest enigmas in college basketball over the past five years." Despite the criticism, White did average 16.3ppg, 5.1rpg, and 2.0apg his senior season, leading Cincinnati to the NIT.
Although Washington claimed the events of the past season didn't hurt his confidence, his sophomore campaign showed little improvement. His scoring, rebounding, assists, steals, and FG% all took a hit. Despite his struggles, Memphis amassed a 30-3 record (thanks to the emergence of Rodney Carney and rookie Shawne Williams) on their way to an elite 8 loss to eventual champions UCLA. With Carney and Williams both deciding to bolt for the NBA, Washington followed.
It was the 2006 NBA draft when their paths finally crossed. Washington was coming off a less than impressive season and was projected as a mid-late 2nd rounder. James White was regarded as an older player who still had potential and was projected as a late 1st-early 2nd type of player. The first round came and went, with neither of their names being mentioned. But with the 1st pick of the 2nd round, the Indiana Pacers selected James White. 28 more picks went by, yet no mention of Washington. The Detroit, holding the final pick in the draft, ended up taking another PG (Will Blalock) undoubtedly leaving Washington disappointed once again.
The story could end right here. White had made it, Washington didn't; but nothing in life is that simple. Despite a solid performance during Summer League, the Pacers decided to part ways with White on the eve of the season due to a plethora of guards. Washington's NBA dreams weren't over just yet. Dallas picked him up during training camp, and played a few pre-season games for them. Unfortunately for him, they decided to let him go. Washington ended up being a top pick in the NDBL draft, but decided to go overseas and make more money playing for PAOK Greece. White eventually landed on the Spurs roster, and was sent down to the D-League, to the same team Washington was supposed to play on.
At this point, I had forgotten about Washington. I thought he was done in terms of NBA opportunities. I thought White was a steal for the Spurs, with White being trained to be another defensive stopper. Turns out, I wasn't so accurate. White did eventually get called up and showed promise for the Spurs. They even started him on the last game of the season, a game in which he scored a career high 17 points. The next summer came around, but there were no ravings about White's potential. Instead, there was criticism that White still hadn't improved his game. He ended up a free agent shortly after the NBA draft. Washington on the other hand, used took his experience from overseas and came back to make another run at making an NBA roster. Coincidentally, the one team that took a chance on Washington was White's former employer, the San Antonio Spurs. Washington had a very solid pre-season performance, including an 18 point, 9 rebound, 8 assist explosion against the Golden State Warriors. The final cuts came down, and Washington was not on the list. In fact, Washington made the active roster.
James White is now playing EuroLeague basketball for a Turkish team. Darius Washington is now the 3rd PG on the Spurs roster. With the injury to Jacque Vaughn early in the season, Washington saw extended minutes as a back-up. David Thorpe of ESPN.com even rated him as the 8th best rookie 2 weeks into the season.
As a fan of both players, I want for them to succeed and play in the NBA. They could both be completely unknown in a year, but they both got the opportunity. It just seems as only one of them capitalized on it, for now...
My first memory of the very self-assured Washington came from an Adidas DVD profiling 3 basketball players (Washington, Dwight Howard, and Josh Smith). If I remember correctly, he was getting on Smith for "whining" about something. It was interesting profile, his father seemed very intent that he would do big things with his basketball career. Maybe even to the point where it seemed like he was trying to live through him.
Flight's first appearance on my television came during the 2001 McDonald's All American Dunk Contest. Heralded as the best dunker in the contest and the favorite, White went on to put on one of the best dunk contest performances I've ever seen. The way his slender frame soared through the air would put Clyde Drexler to shame. It almost appeared as if it was too easy. His final dunk, a 2 handed double clutch from the free throw line, sent me out of my seat. Somehow he lost the contest to future college teammate and current New York Knick, David Lee.
Washington emerged the next year as the starting point guard for John Calipari's Memphis Tigers. While not exactly the pure point guard, Washington got the job done. Assisted by teammates Sean Banks and Rodney Carney, Memphis got into the Conference USA tournament with a chance to win an automatic bid to the NCAA tourney. They faced a very talented Louisville team that was one of the best in the country. Washington had his breakout party, keeping Memphis in the game with his 23 points and 6 assists, but it was the points that he didn't get that left a lasting memory. Down 2 with 6.5 seconds left, Washington drove the length of the court and launched a desperation 3 as time expired. While the shot was off, he baited Francisco Garcia into a foul. A freshman steps to the line for the biggest moment of his career. Three shots win it, two shots tie it. The first drops and Washington turns to his coach in typical Washington fashion, as if to say, "I got this." The second one bounces off the rim, and Washington looks visibly shaken. The final shot to send the game into overtime falls just short, and almost simultaneously Washington falls lifelessly to the ground.
James White's career got off to a solid start at Florida. He averaged 6.2ppg coming off the bench. After the season, White decided to transfer to Cincinnati to play for Bob Huggins. Throughout his career, according to many, White never quite lived up to his potential. DraftExpress called him, "One of the biggest enigmas in college basketball over the past five years." Despite the criticism, White did average 16.3ppg, 5.1rpg, and 2.0apg his senior season, leading Cincinnati to the NIT.
Although Washington claimed the events of the past season didn't hurt his confidence, his sophomore campaign showed little improvement. His scoring, rebounding, assists, steals, and FG% all took a hit. Despite his struggles, Memphis amassed a 30-3 record (thanks to the emergence of Rodney Carney and rookie Shawne Williams) on their way to an elite 8 loss to eventual champions UCLA. With Carney and Williams both deciding to bolt for the NBA, Washington followed.
It was the 2006 NBA draft when their paths finally crossed. Washington was coming off a less than impressive season and was projected as a mid-late 2nd rounder. James White was regarded as an older player who still had potential and was projected as a late 1st-early 2nd type of player. The first round came and went, with neither of their names being mentioned. But with the 1st pick of the 2nd round, the Indiana Pacers selected James White. 28 more picks went by, yet no mention of Washington. The Detroit, holding the final pick in the draft, ended up taking another PG (Will Blalock) undoubtedly leaving Washington disappointed once again.
The story could end right here. White had made it, Washington didn't; but nothing in life is that simple. Despite a solid performance during Summer League, the Pacers decided to part ways with White on the eve of the season due to a plethora of guards. Washington's NBA dreams weren't over just yet. Dallas picked him up during training camp, and played a few pre-season games for them. Unfortunately for him, they decided to let him go. Washington ended up being a top pick in the NDBL draft, but decided to go overseas and make more money playing for PAOK Greece. White eventually landed on the Spurs roster, and was sent down to the D-League, to the same team Washington was supposed to play on.
At this point, I had forgotten about Washington. I thought he was done in terms of NBA opportunities. I thought White was a steal for the Spurs, with White being trained to be another defensive stopper. Turns out, I wasn't so accurate. White did eventually get called up and showed promise for the Spurs. They even started him on the last game of the season, a game in which he scored a career high 17 points. The next summer came around, but there were no ravings about White's potential. Instead, there was criticism that White still hadn't improved his game. He ended up a free agent shortly after the NBA draft. Washington on the other hand, used took his experience from overseas and came back to make another run at making an NBA roster. Coincidentally, the one team that took a chance on Washington was White's former employer, the San Antonio Spurs. Washington had a very solid pre-season performance, including an 18 point, 9 rebound, 8 assist explosion against the Golden State Warriors. The final cuts came down, and Washington was not on the list. In fact, Washington made the active roster.
James White is now playing EuroLeague basketball for a Turkish team. Darius Washington is now the 3rd PG on the Spurs roster. With the injury to Jacque Vaughn early in the season, Washington saw extended minutes as a back-up. David Thorpe of ESPN.com even rated him as the 8th best rookie 2 weeks into the season.
As a fan of both players, I want for them to succeed and play in the NBA. They could both be completely unknown in a year, but they both got the opportunity. It just seems as only one of them capitalized on it, for now...
Friday, November 9, 2007
It's Basketball SEASON!
This is easily the best time of the year. Baseball is over, Football is getting more exciting, and the basketball seasons have begun. Prep, college, or pros, I love it all. The transition from the baseball season (which makes ESPN hard to watch) to basketball has been made much smoother due to the fact that football is again relevant in Detroit. It hasn't been since Barry left town. Seeing this team 6-2 this year is something I would have never predicted, not after what I've seen from them. I find myself watching the games waiting for them to blow it, and they haven't. They either get baptized by a random NFC East team (outscored 100-24 against Philadelphia and Washington) or pull out the victory. It's amazing. The Denver game was one of my happiest moments as a Detroit sports fan. For once I was embarrassed for the other team. It's a great feeling. Boston most be loving it right now.
Back to my point, this is the greatest time of the year. While the NBA has gotten off to a better than normal start to the season, my focus will be on college ball for the next couple of months. There are so many questions that I need answered. Will Kansas finally stop underachieving? Will Michigan finally do better than annual trips to the NIT? (While they probably won't this year, Beilein is a much better coach than Amaker) Can Oakland make it back to the NCAA's? Who is the better freshman: Derrick Rose, O.J. Mayo, Kyle Singler, Kevin Love, Michael Beasley, Eric Gordon, etc.? Is Kyle Singler the next really good Duke player people love to hate? What random team few people have ever heard of will win 20 games? How badly will my NCAA bracket look at the end of the year? There is more where that came from, and I'll be sure to write about it during the upcoming season.
College ball may be more engaging, but the NBA has it's own appeal also. I'll tell you right now, I don't think the Wizards will make the playoffs. Toronto, New Jersey, Boston, Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago, Orlando, and Miami are all better teams in my opinion. That's my "surprise" pick of the year. Gilbert Arenas is talented, but his shot selection is reminiscent of Antoine Walker. A team I hope makes the playoffs in the West would be the Hornets. If they can stay healthy, they could make a little noise this year. Chris Paul is something special, and the team around him can ball. Tyson Chandler got out of Chicago and finally started playing, or started playing with a distributor instead of a scorer. Whatever the reason, I like his game now. A 6th or 7th seed for this team isn't out of the question at all.
My prediction for the championship this year is........The Detroit Pistons. Yup! (Okay, that's a lie. But as long as I receive a check every week, they won't get bashed excessively.) If I'm not lazy, I'll write my little preview for the season. It'd be nice if I got League Pass so I could give a better opinion, but this'll have to do. Only about 2 people read this blog anyway.
That's all for now. Enjoy the season, this is a beautiful time of year. My journalistic prime. If I can't blog now, I can't blog. Hopefully those 2 people come back and enjoy this thing I'm trying to do right here. Until next time....
Back to my point, this is the greatest time of the year. While the NBA has gotten off to a better than normal start to the season, my focus will be on college ball for the next couple of months. There are so many questions that I need answered. Will Kansas finally stop underachieving? Will Michigan finally do better than annual trips to the NIT? (While they probably won't this year, Beilein is a much better coach than Amaker) Can Oakland make it back to the NCAA's? Who is the better freshman: Derrick Rose, O.J. Mayo, Kyle Singler, Kevin Love, Michael Beasley, Eric Gordon, etc.? Is Kyle Singler the next really good Duke player people love to hate? What random team few people have ever heard of will win 20 games? How badly will my NCAA bracket look at the end of the year? There is more where that came from, and I'll be sure to write about it during the upcoming season.
College ball may be more engaging, but the NBA has it's own appeal also. I'll tell you right now, I don't think the Wizards will make the playoffs. Toronto, New Jersey, Boston, Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago, Orlando, and Miami are all better teams in my opinion. That's my "surprise" pick of the year. Gilbert Arenas is talented, but his shot selection is reminiscent of Antoine Walker. A team I hope makes the playoffs in the West would be the Hornets. If they can stay healthy, they could make a little noise this year. Chris Paul is something special, and the team around him can ball. Tyson Chandler got out of Chicago and finally started playing, or started playing with a distributor instead of a scorer. Whatever the reason, I like his game now. A 6th or 7th seed for this team isn't out of the question at all.
My prediction for the championship this year is........The Detroit Pistons. Yup! (Okay, that's a lie. But as long as I receive a check every week, they won't get bashed excessively.) If I'm not lazy, I'll write my little preview for the season. It'd be nice if I got League Pass so I could give a better opinion, but this'll have to do. Only about 2 people read this blog anyway.
That's all for now. Enjoy the season, this is a beautiful time of year. My journalistic prime. If I can't blog now, I can't blog. Hopefully those 2 people come back and enjoy this thing I'm trying to do right here. Until next time....
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Okay
-At the end of my last blog I said I was starting a plyometrics program. I lied. I just ended up doing this basic weight lifting program, but it's worked. I'm starting to discover this thing called athleticism, and they only time that I successfully completed a dunk, 2 of my friends were there. It's documented!
I also said I would start blogging regularly, hah.
-Antoine Walker is out of shape and school is hard again. I swear this is just like my junior year of HS.
-The Lions may not win 10 games, but I have to say that it's a refreshing change to actually turn on a Lions game and think they have a chance of winning. It got to a point in the last few years where I wouldn't even watch the Lions, because I knew they'd lose. It killed my love for football.
-I probably should be getting ready for class now. I have homework to do. Maybe later.
-I think KG has been my favorite NBA player for the past 6 years. Seriously, no one else can come along and replace him? Melo challenged, but he's just not KG. What am I going to do when KG retires? What am I going to do when Shaq, KG, and Duncan are all gone? That's going to be a very weird time for the league.
-If you lower your head, drive to the hole constantly, and can't score 20ppg, you aren't talented. It's what everyone else does. As Mitch Albom once said, fouls used to be called when the defensive player was using an illegal advantage over the offensive player, now they are just called when the offensive player gets touched.
-Who is more shielded by their leagues? QB's or NBA superstars (guards/forwards)?
-Will the Wizards ever add a PF, or is Andray Blatche suddenly the answer? By the way, what professional athlete solicits a prostitute? YOUR IN THE NBA! It can't be that hard man.
-I'm really behind schedule now.
-I'm starting to get tired of rap. There is only so much I can take. That reminds me, I need to charge my IPod.
I gotta go to class now. Thanks for all the people that read this (no one), but someone might if I actually start using it.
If your 18-24, and you don't vote in the upcoming presidential election, I will personally beat you down. Vote or catch a beat down. Take that, take that Diddy.
I also said I would start blogging regularly, hah.
-Antoine Walker is out of shape and school is hard again. I swear this is just like my junior year of HS.
-The Lions may not win 10 games, but I have to say that it's a refreshing change to actually turn on a Lions game and think they have a chance of winning. It got to a point in the last few years where I wouldn't even watch the Lions, because I knew they'd lose. It killed my love for football.
-I probably should be getting ready for class now. I have homework to do. Maybe later.
-I think KG has been my favorite NBA player for the past 6 years. Seriously, no one else can come along and replace him? Melo challenged, but he's just not KG. What am I going to do when KG retires? What am I going to do when Shaq, KG, and Duncan are all gone? That's going to be a very weird time for the league.
-If you lower your head, drive to the hole constantly, and can't score 20ppg, you aren't talented. It's what everyone else does. As Mitch Albom once said, fouls used to be called when the defensive player was using an illegal advantage over the offensive player, now they are just called when the offensive player gets touched.
-Who is more shielded by their leagues? QB's or NBA superstars (guards/forwards)?
-Will the Wizards ever add a PF, or is Andray Blatche suddenly the answer? By the way, what professional athlete solicits a prostitute? YOUR IN THE NBA! It can't be that hard man.
-I'm really behind schedule now.
-I'm starting to get tired of rap. There is only so much I can take. That reminds me, I need to charge my IPod.
I gotta go to class now. Thanks for all the people that read this (no one), but someone might if I actually start using it.
If your 18-24, and you don't vote in the upcoming presidential election, I will personally beat you down. Vote or catch a beat down. Take that, take that Diddy.
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