AJC > Sports > Hawks > Blog > Archives > 2006 > August > 28 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USThe joys of normalcy
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Just when you thought it was safe …
I wake up Sunday morning, the first in about two months without worrying about how much longer it would take for the Al Harrington affair to be in our past, and hear about the plane crash in Kentucky.
We don’t have enough fingers and toes to count how many times I’ve been on one of those planes - I’ve been on flights from Lexington to Atlanta before many times. So instead of waking up and enjoying our Sunday paper without worry, I spent much of Sunday Monday morning calming the fears of family members who are worried about all the flying I do for work.
That part of the job is something I made peace with years ago. I know all the statistics and I understand it remains the safest way to travel and all that. But I can’t say that my gut wasn’t in knots all day Sunday thinking about what so many people have lost.
As if the day wasn’t long enough already, I make my way to the movies to see Idlewild (much better than even I expected and I’m a longtime ATLien, so I was feeling good going in) thinking this is the one thing that will allow me to clear my head and try and enjoy this day somehow, and on my way home a seemingly kind old lady ended that dream.
While cutting through the Kroger parking lot I slow down and allow one car to go ahead of me to the exit, a common courtesy extended in parking lots everywhere, before proceeding to the exit myself. But the kind old lady showed her true colors by repeatedly calling me a word that rhymes with bigger but starts with the letter N. Of course, this made a long day seem that much longer, because I wasn’t sure how to respond to the insult.
Don’t worry, I didn’t let my militant side take over and put the car in park, get out and cause a disturbance. But for a split second I wanted to. And for the rest of the night I was fuming about the way she let me have it for something as inconsequential as having to wait two extra seconds to leave the Kroger. It was a sad scene, but true.
Luckily, Jack Bauer won an Emmy Sunday night and the Entourage finale was worth watching. Otherwise, my entire weekend might have been shot.
Truth be told, it was kind of good to get back to the day-to-day drama of our gloriously diverse city. For weeks now all I was doing was making calls and waiting on calls in regards to Al Harrington. I know all the people I was calling are glad they don’t have to take any more of my calls. And I’m more than happy not to be making them, at least most of them, anymore. While that was going on I had basically tuned out everything else. And I apologize for subjecting you all to so much back-and-forth.
Now we can all move on, though. And that includes the Hawks - who picked up the options on the rookie contracts of youngsters Josh Smith, Josh Childress and Marvin Williams during their sponsor trip last week and will finalize their signing of Lorenzen Wright sometime in the next week. And we can all watch as Joe Johnson continues his quest, along with the rest of the members of the national team, for gold at the World Championships.
Who knows, maybe we’ll just spend the next few weeks examining this roster as is, and offering our own predictions about what’s in store for this Hawks team come October, like normal, obsessed fans and observers of any sports team. Maybe.
Comments
By ILL-logical
August 28, 2006 04:19 PM | Link to this
Sekou, Thanks for the headsup on Idewild,will catch it this weekend. As for the Hawks, I am glad and sad: Glad that the long nightmare is over but sad because there is still so much to do as far as the franchise in the nineth largest media market is concerned.
The bloggers here have some passion about the team/ management but the puplic at large has not warmed up to the team,yet. Would be interested to hear more from you on the subject.
Hope you and your family have a safe holiday weekend.
By Andy
August 28, 2006 04:22 PM | Link to this
You are a better man than I with the woman in the parking lot thing. I’ll try to remember it.
By yoyo mama
August 28, 2006 04:26 PM | Link to this
godspeed sekou! you do good work. i hope you wont die before your time buddy.
By clyde
August 28, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this
I think on paper the Hawks have one of the weakest rosters in the league. One proven scorer, 2 young giys that have to prove they can score, and a bunch of role players. These ingredients might lead to 30 wins hopefully. But hey what’s another year of getting our hopes up.
Another thing I’m tired of this hope thing. When will we have a solid NBA roster that can compete? I know yall keep saying be patient but will yall keep saying it 2 or 3 years from now any we still ain’t made the playoffs? Stop the madness………….
FIRE BILLY AND WOODY
By mountain_jim
August 28, 2006 04:42 PM | Link to this
Sekou - I also have taken that flight to/from Lexington a few times, and I fly on similar equipment to/from Asheville at times,so from that standpoint I was glad to hear it was likely due to runway choice error, not equipment failure.
I enjoy your writing and coverage of the Hawks, Sekou. Appreciate hearing what’s going on with Lo - was wondering.
Don’t let other’s classless behavior get you down. That hate they broadcast will eat them up inside over time anyways. As (My Name Is) Earl has learned, karma evens the score soon enough.
By Samuel I AM
August 28, 2006 04:43 PM | Link to this
I am glad things are back to normal. As a white person it upset me everytime I hear that word use by anyone. I really wished people would quit using that word and just let it die already. Keep up the great work Sekou. All of the Hawks True Fans really respect your work and hope you continue the great work for the Hawks. No matter what race we are. I have friends across the board from Asian,European,Latin, and Arab that respect your work. Keep the faith and keep up the hard work.
By Astro Joe
August 28, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this
Jigga What? Jigga Who? You musta had someone looking like Beyonce in the car. MY MAN! I heard that the Entourage finale was VERY good. I was torn between that and the train wreck that is Flava of Love. I’ll have to do the On Demand thing and check out Entourage tonight.
Seems like some of the players have been doing a lot of “NBA Ambassador” type stuff. Any insight into what they are working on in terms of developing their skills? You know, we fans would prefer that they do nothing other than work on their games, bodies and study film. No fun. No vacation. No life. Just devote themselves to bringing us sheer enjoyment. Each and everyday during the off-season. Damn the global outreach stuff, can they nail an 18-footer off the dribble?
By honest_abe
August 28, 2006 05:15 PM | Link to this
aj entourage was ok…..it’s starting to get a little repetitive don’t ya think… ahhh what am i talking about? beautiful women, nice cars, the party scene… ya final episode was nice other than the fact that we’ll have to wait for next season :)
By G-Money
August 28, 2006 05:18 PM | Link to this
Sekou, it is amazing that race is still so top of mind and deep seated in some. Sorry. The good thing is that, believe it or not things are getting better (to some extent).
As for the Hawks, we do have a lull. Is there any way to find out the players are doing to improve for this upcoming season, like interviewing JChill for example and finding out what his summer has been like and what his approach to getting prepped for the season has included??? Maybe it is all the guys who didn’t play in the summer league but who seem to be the most blogged about: JChill, Smoove, MW, SS. An intro to the world of Speedy would be interesting as well. Just something to think about. The “what did you do for summer vacation” piece is just to make those of us who think 35+ games is possible feel better about our predictions or at least start back peddaling now. Knowing about how Speedy ticks helps us to see inside the mind of the guy who will make the Hawks go this year. Just a thought or two.
By newkid
August 28, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this
Happy to hear you - and she - survived the parking lot caper. Be careful out there my man. Thanks for keeping us in the info loop (as much as you can).
You guys get a load of Starbury’s $14.98 gym shoes? Picked up this quote from an article the other day, and wondered if the vast amount of ‘new and cheap’ labor the Fed chairman has reference to might result in others (e.g., Jordan and the folks at Nike) following Starbury’s lead.
“The emergence of China, India and the former Communist bloc countries implies that the greater part of the Earth’s population is now engaged, at least potentially, in the global economy,” Bernanke said. “There are no historical antecedents for this development.”
Wonder what the kids are saying about these shoes.
By newkid
August 28, 2006 06:04 PM | Link to this
Oops. Sorry, I forgot to pass along an article on the kid who could very well be the virtual reincarnation of Dwight Howard (ONLY BETTER). Fortunately he’s gonna be a Tarheel this season. Watch this kid (Alex Stepheson) shine this year.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/highschool/04/17/profile.stepheson/index.html
By doc
August 28, 2006 06:45 PM | Link to this
well sekou you are learning grasshopper, as you seemed to handle this one better than the chicago airline counter. no police needed for this encounter. it is sad that we are so hung up on fear and that folks are still there but it was a belief that someone presented to the old lady long ago and she hasnt expunged after a long life. sekou, you did the right thing to just accept her for where she is and not make it a reflection of who you are. at times like that it isnt about you but it is her sad story, we all have these moments in our lives where we have to accept others and that is what you got out of it, it really isnt about being black, tall or perceived rude, etc. it is usually about where they are not you. you did well sekou, so be proud, not offended.
By TonyG
August 28, 2006 08:30 PM | Link to this
the team looks good, and so does idlewild. hopefully they will both live up to those expectations. i think the hawks really will be in the playoff hunt this year, but it is going to require everyone to step up in a big way. but i think this team blends well together, and will cause tremendous matchup problems for other teams, again. some of these pessimistic bloggers forget how many close games the hawks lost last year because of not having guys like speedy and lorenzen, or zaza in top shape with the help of another big guy in there now. marvin will be contributing this year too, and josh and jj have only gotten better. i cant wait for the season to start!
By mykhalc
August 28, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this
SS, sorry to know you had to deal with the ignorant in the parking lot!! still a lot of those un-enlightened souls out there. many next lifetime for some, huh??!!! or as WARREN BEATTY said in BULWORTH,’everybody’s gotta keep on @%#$#% everybody else until everyone is the same color’!!!! LOL don’t know if you saw the movie but the line and scene are CLASSIC!!! but you handled it in the HIGHEST of ways my friend!!
ok now…the hawks pickin’ up the rookie contracts on the young guns!!! NOW THAT’S GOOD NEWS!!! so could you give us specifics as to how long that locks each one up??? a good and proactive move by BK to do it now, i feel!!!
By ray
August 28, 2006 11:54 PM | Link to this
Heh…some people never learn. And that will be their own undoing. Imagine that ol’ lady on the side of the road with a flat tire and no cell phone…in the rain. And you pull up, stop, open the door…and change her tire. Much to her inner chagrin. Kill ‘em with kindness, bro. You handled it right, just like everyone else is saying. Don’t hold onto it, or you will truly become what they fear and hate. The only time I respond in any real way is when threatened. And that is exceedingly RARE…my appearance masks my true personality, so it helps stop a lot of things before they start, LOL! Much love, Sekou…lot’s of people like what you do and how you do it. Don’t let one or two boneheads ruin ya. Lot’s of healthy diversity on this blog, and like a Mcdonald’s commercial, “I’m lovin’ it”
By ray
August 29, 2006 12:01 AM | Link to this
Mykhalc, you are KILLIN’ me, man. That was soo funny. Also, I caught your post on the last blog. So true. I think many of us will move on to taking a closer look at the roster, but even then there’s only so much speculation that we can do (or haven’t already done) before we actually get to see them play. I wanna see some preseason ball, baby! Or something. As far as I’m concerned, the season can’t start soon enough. I wanna see just how much Smith has bulked up, what new moves Chill has cooked up (I know that jumper is still kinda ugly, I just know it) or if he’s improved his range. I didn’t get to see much from Anthony Grundy, is he on the roster still? I definitely can’t wait to see how Speedy runs this team. And then there’s JJ: ascent to assassin level, where only those like Lebron, Kobe, Wade, Anthony, etc reside. Those feared night in and night out. On defense and on offense. Where opponents know they’ll be locked down on one end and blown up on the other. OH yeahhh…I better quit getting excited, the Harbingers of Doom might hear me and retort loudly…they’re everywhere you know…everywhere…
By mykhalc
August 29, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this
RAY, don’t start with the harbingers again! my side can’t take it, man!!!LOL
you know people really don’t give SPEEDY enough props!! ‘cause he really was a contributing factor in the SPURS early titles!! ‘cause i was pullin’ for the east team, i remember gettin’ PO’ed everytime SPEEDY came in and did his thing. he definitely has that upper gear that we can use!! so like you RAY, i can’t wait to see him and JJ in the backcourt together!!! you know what…i wish i could see some of the US team practices. i betcha JJ is earning a lotta respect with his game these days!!! GO HAWKS!!!
By mykhalc
August 29, 2006 01:19 AM | Link to this
man, my proof-reading needs proof-reading…
shoulda read…maybe next lifetime for some, huh??!!!
shoulda read… the hawks pickin’ up the rookie contracts extensions
i’ll do my best to slow down a bit!!LOL
By A Thinking Fan
August 29, 2006 05:57 AM | Link to this
LO Wright is asking for more mad loot - u think?
By doc
August 29, 2006 06:44 AM | Link to this
mykhalc. enjoyed your take on another lifetime for the swetheart little ol lady but there is even time for her in this lifetime though she doesnt appear to be much of a seeker. it really can occur at any time. your proof was just perfect the first time as most got it, i’m sure or it could have been interprted as many lifetimes back at the universe school until they get it right. heh heh
look out cool little bro h abe. saw you dressed in black gettin on those unenlightened uga bros of yours, that is one group scheduled back for many lifetimes for sure. okay, before you all jump me, my daughter just started there this semester as a freshman. my grandfather in his grave has been having heartburn ever since, as he played foootball for heisman at tech and for the team that beat cumberland 222-0, maybe that is his enlightenment.
good day all. peace.
By doc
August 29, 2006 07:20 AM | Link to this
interesting tidbit, food for thought, but admittedly a bit random; just read an article about the charlotte panther team that went to the super bowl. it is documented that four of the starting linemen were on testoterone cream and hgh during the season as it had been prescribed to them by the infamous dr. shortt. hgh, since there are no tests for, is the scourge of sports and sadly if a child male or female wants to go into bigtime sports will almost have to get into it though the health detriment is huge.
do you remember how we reacted with shock and derision as a nation to the “experiments” that the communists did on their athletes in the 70’s though we were probably doing it, too. now we just turn our heads and say it is good entertainment and forget it might have even been parents that encouraged it at the start. go figure.
bp, is there a story there in aau basketball? BIG MONEY.
now what was it, the astro first rule?
oh yeah, follow the money.
for the purists, it is in basketball, too. id bet on that one and i am not a betting man. ando, you got a line on that one?
By THL
August 29, 2006 07:38 AM | Link to this
I’m sure the old lady wasn’t racist…she was just having a bad day. That’s the problem with YOU PEOPLE; you’re always the victim.
I guess that’s enough sarcasm for the day. It would have been good if there were no witnesses and you could have choked that b!+<#. Don’t say something to start a fight if you can’t handle the consequences.
By White Guy With Road Rage
August 29, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this
Hi Sekou,
Great Blog. Love the Hawks!
The rule of the road is one car at a time. Keeps things flowing. You were absolutely correct.
I would have got out and beat the hell out of that lady. But that’s just me. A white guy with road rage.
Keep up the good work.
By Astro Joe
August 29, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this
Doc, there is no doubt in my mind that some type of chemical enhancing substance is in the NBA. Its not as if these guys are not equally motivated to do whatever it takes to get an edge. We have become a nation of cheaters. Heck, even weirdos like Karr are cheating to try to get their name in the media (PERVERT). Where is Ralph Reed and his disciples to lead the charge against the immorality the plagues our country? Oh yeah, his mother was in the parking lot with Sekou the other day. Never mind. Back to sports.
I wonder what Mr. Bob Johnson is going to do to get his team up to the minimum salary level. That should be an interesting battle in Charlotte. Johnson’s tight purse strings vs. Jordan’s will to win. The potential for another dysfunctional ownership marriage.
By Samuel
August 29, 2006 12:07 PM | Link to this
Cuz,
Just let it go. I must say that we don’t have them problems down here in South Dekalb. At my Kroger on Memorial Drive, little ole White ladies are extreemly polite and courteous(smile).
Anything Andre is involved in is gonna be “off the chizane”. He’s a genius.
So, I guess this is it(including Lo Wright) for our hometeam for now. Could get “UGLY” again. We won’t sneek up on anybody this year so I look for something in the neighborhood of 25-30 wins, “AGAIN”, which sucks. I hope i’m wrong but I can’t see it.
I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable riding a plane. I know it’s supposed to be safer and all but there’s something about giving up “total control” that make me uneasy everytime I get on one of them bad boys, which is very rare.
By Astro Joe
August 29, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this
I just saw that Montgomery got the boot and will be replaced by Don Nelson. Kind of messed up to wait 3 months after their season ended to fire the head coach. Karma will eventually catch up with Mullin for that one.
Can you guys think of any current college coach who could have even modest success in the NBA? The one who comes to mind for me is Tom Izzo at Michigan State (sorry Sekou).
By mykhalc
August 29, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this
DOC, i hear ya on the karmic level my friend. and like you, (my belief at least from a few of your blog writings) i too, follow a metaphysical/holistic lifestyle. so i hope the lil old lady does not have to repeat karmic lessons on/of the same level!!! BUT THE CLOCK’S TICKIN’!!!!!!!!LOL
ATF, i really hope there are no snags in the verbal agreement with LO WRIGHT. and it seems like SS’s take is that it will happen in the next week. i’ll be glad when at least that much of the roster is set. then whatever additions/trades the team makes will be starting from a stronger base with a more balanced roster,IMHO!!!
By honest_abe
August 29, 2006 02:37 PM | Link to this
doc.. word of advice… make sure your daughter gets nowhere near d-town. heh the close proximity of d-town to north campus really doesn’t help a young kid straight out of high school stay focused. it is convenient however after a strenous finance test.. as you can just take three steps and land in a bar, where you can knock back a couple of shots of johnny and the world is good once again! :)
By Samuel
August 29, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this
Wow,
Oaktown is gettin Nelly. He’s exactly what they need. BDiddy, Monte, JRich. Run and Gun baby. I love it. I couldn’t stand Montgomery. Look for them to make some moves up the Power rankings this year.
By clyde
August 29, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this
Is it me or is everyone getting calls from the Atlanta Hawks begging us to buy tickets? Get rid of the GM and I’ll get season tickets but until then b stop callin’ me cause ain’t gone pick the phone up.
FIRE BILLY AND WOODY
By newkid
August 29, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this
Mary Burns’ (Sports Illustrated) 5-step program for helping the Hawks. Clyde, you might want to cover your eyes as you approach the 4th step.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/marty_burns/08/25/fix.the.hawks/index.html
By Astro Joe
August 29, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this
I COMPLETELY agree with the uniform comment from Marty Burns. I expected a logo change when the new owners took over and I have been surprised that the only cosmetic change was the introduction of those hideous yellow uniforms. But with the lack of money, I guess we should be happy they didn’t have the team wearing some wife-beaters with a bird drawing done in crayon.
By doc
August 29, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this
h. abe, thanks for the advice but i am sure it is way too late, did all i could to sequester her in sewanee, tn at u of south. after one weekend at uga with her cousin she tried to tell me the qi was really good at athens, didnt even try to win that argument.
astro you would freak man if you walked those streets too much. it is quite a show as most of the young ladies there make brittany look like a little boy (better choice of word). i was doing the flash neck exercises for several days after a soccer weekend with my younger daughter two weeks ago.
myc, earth school is quite interesting, just as soon not get my diploma, not ready yet.
By mykhalc
August 29, 2006 09:15 PM | Link to this
DOC, i hear ya on that!!
ATF, looks like tomorrow is the day for LO WRIGHT…
and CLYDE, you know BK is YOUR biggest fan!! so answer that phone my brotha!!LOL
GO HAWKS!!!
By A Thinking Fan
August 29, 2006 10:00 PM | Link to this
That’s GREAT - LW in the house in the paint on the boards starting the break…
By A Thinking Fan
August 30, 2006 12:00 AM | Link to this
DOC I have two in college. The “Yard” (campus)is off limits to me. What they wear today will make a grown man…
By ray
August 30, 2006 03:37 AM | Link to this
Mykhal, I just can’t help it. It’s either laugh about it or get mad and fight with the other bloggers about everything. Path #1 is more fun.
You know, ol’ Marty Burns there seems to be onto something. At least he recognizes that step #1 is truly the first step. Without resolution there, the rest of the process is crippled, hampered, and more or less defunct. ‘Nuff said. As for the rest of his comments, I can’t really argue much except maybe over method or what FA to really make a big push for. I’d love it if we could get a guy like Dwight Howard. He’s more of a hometown guy anyway, coming from this state and if I recall correctly, not far from Atlanta. Can’t seem to remember exactly where he came from. But anyway, that’s a bridge we haven’t even come to yet…
Astro Joe, that was one hell of a funny comment on the uniforms. You got me spittin’ koolaid on that one…wait a minute, this ain’t koolaid, what is this stuff? Oh well, it’s on the carpet now…gotta clean it up before the wife sees…screech alert. Heh, heh, heh!
By A Thinking Fan
August 30, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this
JJ is playing D in the off season…
Leading 40-39 at the break, the U.S. came out of the break with a new lineup — Anthony, James, Joe Johnson, Kirk Hinrich and Dwight Howard — and forced three turnovers in the first 1:01 of the third quarter.
By Jim
August 30, 2006 10:13 AM | Link to this
I know I’m reaching here, but its good news anyway. This is from the quaterfinals of worlds . ” Cenk Aykol had 11 points to lead Turkey, which lost only to unbeaten Greece in the final game of the opening round. Turkey advanced to its first quarterfinal with a 90-84 victory over Slovenia.
“Nobody in Turkey was expecting we would be in the eight and for that we are very proud,” Aykol said. “We never thought this would be a 30-point game. We couldn’t play defense and couldn’t make baskets but we tried our best.” Cenk led Turkey in scoring? Allegedly, he is a fantastic athelete that sometimes plays out of control at the point. Something of a Jason Williams type, though taller. The coverage of Euro leagues tend to call him Turkey’s most promising basketball athelete. Granted being the top Turk isn’t saying too much, but at he’s 19 and talented.
By ILL-logical
August 30, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this
How about marvin,sheldon and a #1 for dwight howard? Why wait and get into a bidding war next tear,if we move now the line up of speedy,jsmooth,dwight,zaza and jj can get the party started now.
By Chris
August 30, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this
While the Hawks are spending money this summer can’t they cough up a few bucks and get Billy Knight an upgrade from the white tee. These three players are his pride and joy and all he can find in the closet to wear to the signing party is a white tee shirt. Come on Spirit at least get the man a mustard yellow tee shirt to match those much loved uniforms.
http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/HawksExerciseOptionsOnSmithChildressWilliams.html
By Astro Joe
August 30, 2006 02:00 PM | Link to this
Looks like the Lo Wright signing is official, as Sekou predicted. Here’s the link: [http://www.nba.com/news/319249.html]
By Ken Strickland
August 30, 2006 02:18 PM | Link to this
ILL-L0GICAL, when I read your post my 1st reaction was, “what, is he crazy”. I started reading the next post, but something prompted me to go back to your post. I started thinking about Zaza being flanked on either side by 2 shot blocking demons. I envisioned a front line that would turn last yrs weakness, rebounding, into a strength. I’m not saying I would agree to this trade, but I wouldn’t complain one bit if it happened. I am flexible when it comes to the makeup on the team, as long as the results are the same. Some people have problems supporting the Hawks if the team isn’t constructed according to their desires with their preferred players, coaches and/or GMs.
By roan st
August 30, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this
Why would Orlando trade the next great center for a couple unproven players? There will be no bidding war since he will be resticted and orlando can match any offer. And even if he ever becomes an unresticted free agent no other team can offer a better contract than orlando. Why does everyone assume that because he’s from atlanta he will want to move back here to play for the hawks? Orlando is not siberia.
By honest_abe
August 30, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this
good point roan. there’s no way orlando trades for two unproven commidities and give up someone who is already a GREAT rebounder, but has the potential to be the best big man for years to come. it’s just not happenin folks.
hey it never hurts to dream.
anyone think it’s plausible to trade speedy at some point this year. i still got my eyes on chauncey next offseason.
By ILL-logical
August 30, 2006 03:14 PM | Link to this
“Why does everyone assume that because he’s from atlanta he will want to move back here to play for the hawks? Orlando is not siberia. “
No it is not BUT Jsmooth and Dwight go back a long way-for 20 somethings-and he can make more endorsment dollars in the nineth largest media market.
Just a thought-no harm intended.
By Samuel
August 30, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this
I guess they don’t call you ILL-LOGICAL for nothing. The only way we get Howard is that he states publically that he wants to come here, thereby putting the pressure on Orlando. Otherwise, they would never trade the best young big man in the league. Especially for two non-starters and a draft pick.
Cuz, I’m gonna give Lo the benefit of the doubt. Since he got strong ties in Mississippi. OK, we’ll win 32 games.
Team USA is looking pretty good right now. I saw the first quarter this mourning. They picked it up the second half. The only way anybody has a chance to beat them right now is get out to a big lead and hold the ball, which also looks doubtful. I saw Spain play and I don’t think they can hang. We’ll see about Argentina. Right now, “Moral Victories”,(10 pts or less) is about all anybody could hope for at this point.
By doc
August 30, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this
after reading the comments from the lo signing; does anyone else get the suggestion that billy knight may be a players general manager? maybe, that he creates an atmosphere that tends to protect the players a bit and maybe the coaches as well. does he bring a bit of a family feel to the game inspite of or despite the big bucks involved?
sekou, what is his appeal? there has been very little turmoil at the player level and almost a sense of the upbeat in spite of the record.
By Sekou K. Smith
August 30, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
Doc,
Good question. Billy’s a totally different dude than he comes off as in the media. I think the players dig him because he’s one of them, or used to be one of them. There is that connection. And even Al had good things to say about Billy on his way out the door.
As for Lorenzen, he’s a breath of fresh air on a team with so many youngsters. He’s 30 and we were talking today about him being the oldest player on the team and this veteran and everything. Then I realized we were talking about a guy that’s 30! He’s a pup in regular society but a Baby Boomer in the NBA. Strange.
I won’t even justify the Dwight Howard conversation by commenting beyond his name. And the Magic watched another promising stud big man leave once before (some kid named Shaq) and haven’t won a playoff series since. So I’m guessing they don’t make that same mistake twice.
By doc
August 30, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this
thanks for the input sekou, not putting words in your mouth. i have screamed a bit at the bk man myself as you know but try to keep it non-personal most of the time, so appreciate the insight.
lo man needs to put on the weight, he looks too much the picture of health as though he could do a gq spread or worse with those two earrings. heh heh. you go lo, or rens as bk calls him, got your back for now in spite of the appearance.
sekou, i laughed and couldnt even summon up the energy for a retort to the calm suggestion that we simply offer little to orlando and get the howard guy. somehow, i was expecting to read one of those blast form the pasts of honest abe. i see it as another one of those, “blame it on billy things” like; “why hasnt he gotten it done yet” potential. if i had responded it would have led with; you dont think they learned by now after letting shaq go? pat williams had it all in his lap and somehow some egos and different rules for franchises got in the way at the time. dwight, doesnt quite seem to have the ego that shaq had back then, needing the hollywood lights. so, for now he will be the garnett for that organization with the hope he gets the rings along with the silly money.
By ray
August 31, 2006 12:37 AM | Link to this
Abe…I’d take Chauncey in a heartbeat.
By Astro Joe
August 31, 2006 09:56 AM | Link to this
Lorenzen as a mentor is a cute idea. Flawed, but cute. Not that he should have ever been a David Robinson type, but Wright has never been the consistent force that his talent suggests he could have been. I would prefer a mentor who has a notoriously high work ethic for these younger players. That’s why I am still upset that we have never brought in player development coaches like Kevin Willis, Mark Price, Rick Mahorn, Terrell Brandon or Antoine Carr to work daily with our players. Why aren’t Marvin Williams and Josh Smith sitting outside Dominique’s door everyday? My greatest fear is that we have drafted some sensationally talented players who will ultimately shine brightly for another franchise because we did not surround them with the right teachers during their formulative years in the league. Imagine Mark Price (or Tim Hardaway) and Salim playing horse from 25 feet away while building a meaningful relationship. Imagine Antoine Carr teaching Shelden, Solomon and Batista how to body big men out of their comfort zone. (Or how to punish little guys who have the nerve to drive the lane). And Nique teaching Marvin and Josh how to use their athleticism on the low block to score at will. How about Steve Smith talking to Childress about leadership and intangibles and D. Scott telling JJ about the importance of leg strength for 3-point shooting. Nope, instead we have Greg Ballard, Larry Drew and Herb Brown. Nice guys and probably quite competent, but somehow I doubt they walk on the floor with the same credibility as more recent players who milked the heck out of their talent.
By Astro Joe
August 31, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this
Flash, if you’re still out there. You nailed this one dead on the head. YOU DA MAN!
Arenas Says He Got A Foul Call Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas is frustrated about not being on the U.S. national team playing in the FIBA World Championship and said he believes he was not given a fair tryout. When Arenas left the squad on Aug. 14, national team managing director Jerry Colangelo said it was because Arenas had an injured groin. But in his first comments since then, Arenas, the Wizards’ leading scorer and a two-time all-star, said he didn’t think he was going to make the 12-man roster and that the injury became an excuse to part ways. … “No joke, I felt like I was the 16th man on a 15-man roster,” Arenas said. “You are there to support your team and support your country and be happy to play but you know, I did everything they wanted me to do; but if I did everything they wanted me to do, why am I on the bubble of getting cut? I sacrificed. You’ve got LeBron being LeBron. You’ve got Carmelo being Carmelo. You’ve got D-Wade being D-Wade. Why can’t I be me? Why do I have to transform? I did that and now you are going to cut me?” — Washington Post
By honest_abe
August 31, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this
wow…i’ll be the first to apologize for ripping flash and his crazy theories…he was on point on the one! ..lol
By ray
August 31, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this
Yep, Flash was right. But based on the way Arenas plays, I thought JJ and Hinrich were going to get the nod over him anyway. For once, I even said as much earlier on. Arenas is supremely talented, but look at the guys he mentioned. What those guys do helps the team win. We’d have a rough time without Melo. Same with Wade and even Lebron. Those guys are on yet another level. Arenas’ particular type of play wasn’t exactly what was needed, is my guess on what the coaching staff was thinking. He’s not a natural passer/ball movement guy, isn’t the set shooter/zone buster, and isn’t the “dominator against all odds” guy either. That’s more or less what the team is made of besides a few low post guys. This happens to be the strength of the team. Wade and Melo in particular, and Lebron perhaps to a ever so slightly lesser degree are the dominating players. They keep on keeping on, they penetrate and score at will possession after possession. Then there’s the guys in the backcourt who will usually hit the outside shots and keep the ball moving, preferably in to Wade, Lebron, or Melo. They also play the tough defense that keeps the other team from getting into their offense. That’s the role of guys like Johnson, Hinrich, Battier(who also plays in the froncourt)and Paul. Arenas, being a guard, didn’t seem to be fitting any of the roles, if you ask me. A defender, but not a consistently tough one. A scorer, not a shooter. Watched him heaving up the outside shot rather than making the extra pass. Watched him drive to the hole and missing the tough shot rather than finishing. Like he said, he was being himself. Works in Washington, not in the Worlds.
By The Flash
August 31, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this
Astroman, there was an article in the Washington Post today about Arenas. Seems I was dead right. He bailed on the basis of a phony injury before he was going to be cut. Score one for the fat bald white guy. Later.
By The Flash
August 31, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this
LOL Astroman. Swear I hadn’t read the posts above mine. Just came across the article and thought of my boyz. Posted without reading. Then checked for responses and read your post. some things are priceless.
Finished that training and then been vacationing a bit. Then I step back in and find out I’m home. Thanks man.
By Astro Joe
August 31, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this
Flash, if a fat bald black guy can’t show some love to a fat bald white guy, then who can? Don’t know if your a Redskin fan, but if TJ Duckett gets to run the counter-trey, then you are going to LOVE that guy.
By mykhalc
August 31, 2006 10:36 PM | Link to this
ARENAS’ statement really shows why he’s not on the team. instead of him leaving it like it was or saying somethin’ like, ‘man, lots of great players and all can contribute to help to try to bring home the gold’. or somethin’ like that!! he talks about how he wasn’t given a fair shake. well, he is who he is as player. and that’s what the coaches saw!! and give him credit for tryin’ to transform but you can bet for all his attempted transformation his real game and style probably always showed itself. personally, i really like him as a player but players that are ‘naturally’ team-first are what was needed and chosen for TEAM USA. and i really am curious to see if KOBE is still chosen for the team as the olympics approach???!!!! AMARE no doubt, if healthy!! KOBE, all the skills in the world, no doubt!!!! but is he really a team player first???? only COACH K knows for sho’!!!LOL just throwin’ the thought out there….
RAY, well said my friend!!!!
By ray
August 31, 2006 11:11 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Mykhalc.
Astro and Flash, y’all are killin’ me. When I grow up can I join the fat bald guy club? Sounds like a cool club, and I ain’t much into clubs, so it must be cool. LOL! I’m going to try and stay up to watch the game (USA vs. Greece) at 3:30 freakin’ a.m. ! Good thing I don’t have to go on duty til 2:15 p.m. Lack of sleep might make me a bit grouchy…
By The Flash
August 31, 2006 11:24 PM | Link to this
Ray, you and mywhateverit is pretty much captured my reasoning for my ESP take. Slight differences though. Arenas can shoot the long ball better than any of the guards but JJ and does work well with perimeter players. He also finishes extremely well with blazing speed to the basket. What he can’t do up to the par with the other guards is defend the ball man up; play inside out passing game and actually get the ball to bigs when they can do something with it (just can’t, when he tries, his entire game goes south); and he obviously can’t rebound with the others. My guess is that what ruled him out was his inability to play with the bigs; otherwise, his offensive skills might have taken him past Henrich. (For you newer guys, I’m from DC and have my issues with Arenas and Jordan’s pandering to him.) Good to be back, fellas. Ral good. Like the new talent. Mywhateverit is, I gottsa think of a nickname for you; I usually just put “man” after the first part, but myman” is a bit personal and possessive, if you know what I mean. Later.
By mykhalc
August 31, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this
LOL, FLASH!!! don’t think too hard tho. save it for puttin’ that new trainin’ to use!!LOL and actually, i’ve been on the blog (on and off) since last summer! OG here!! and i do remember your ESP blog!! GOOD CALL!!! you nailed it with that one!! now your BELKIN take is a whole other thing!!LOL
By doc
September 1, 2006 12:42 AM | Link to this
myc now dont get the white bald guy riled, he is in too good a mood playing the blind squirrel again. gee flash, it seems like you never left. heh heh heh heh
any of this training interesting or was it the legal stuff? the inquiring minds of doc and myc want to know.
really flash, you never left, in our hearts. peace, dude
By Samuel
September 1, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this
So much for them Dream Team comparisons, huh. Bunch of scrubbs.
As a long time Duke and Coach K hater, I can say that I’m not too upset. That’s what you get when you play favoritism. I was all set to weigh in on the G. Arenas deal but didn’t. This team is decient. I can probably pick 4 or 5 teams from the NBA who would scrubb these young cats.
By Melvin
September 1, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this
ok bloggers, i haven’t blog in awhile but i’ve been following on a daily basis. FYI, i stayed up and watch the entire game between USA and Greece. Our defense and missed free throws was the reason why we lose the game. We couldn’t defend the pick and roll and our big three (Lebron, Carmelo, Dwade) was playing one on one b-ball. (Read the Arenas Gilbert comments again). Not to be a hater but as much as we praised C.Paul his jumpshot and defense was very questionable. I’m not putting the loss on him but he didn’t look like that next great pg (ok, i know he’s young and inexperience.)
By Melvin
September 1, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this
that should have read Gilbert Arenas above.
By Astro Joe
September 1, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this
I didn’t see the game, but if you allow the opposing team to shoot 60% from the field and 40% from 3s, there is a GREAT chance you will lose the game. Oh, and you shoot less than 60% from the free throw line in a close game. Our guy, JJ, only took 3 shots the entire game (and hit 1 3-ball).
At least this time, we have a 3-year commitment from these players and none of them are on the downward spiral of their career. Lwt’s hope these guys keep the nasty taste in their mouths when they reconvene for the Olympics.
By Samuel
September 1, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this
Actually, I don’t see this team staying together for the 08 olympics. The travel, the injuries(or possibility of injuries) and other factors will cause many to drop out.
Cuz, I do agree that the talent differential between the US and international players has been closed more than I realized. We can no longer win the Gold with less than our best players. The US still has a great deal more great players than all the other countries, maybe combined, but the top tier is definately closer than in the past.
On coach K,
He obviously is a good coach but he still has a lot to learn. He’s one of those Man to Man no matter what,ego trippin coaches. Our players are handicapped when it comes to playing man to man because of the “no hand checking” rule that has only recently began to be enforced. He(Coach K) had better swollow some pride and go to zone some. Why do you think the outlawed it.
By Ken Strickland
September 1, 2006 05:57 PM | Link to this
Fellas, I watched the game last night, in fact it’s on now on ESPN2. We can’t blame it all on weak DEF, because those guys were sticking it from all over the court with hands in their faces. Despite everything else, we lost the game because our players couldn’t/wouldn’t come to the FT line, relax, take a deep breath and concentrate on making their free throws, period. Most NBA players don’t seem to place enough value on the free throw as a scoring opportunity. Two FT’s have the same value as a dunk, but that bit of wisdom seems to be lost on most younger players today, and it is a shame. It also seems that international competition has exposed CPaul’s weak shooting ability as well as his lack of DEF. He simply couldn’t put enough pressure the ball to prevent the deep entry passes. He also ineffective DEF, and had to be taken out of the game when Greece went strickly to the pick and roll. I believe this will be the area where Speedy’s speed and quickness will benefit the Hawks most.