With the NBA playoffs only a week in and with my wife starting to drink more and more because of it, I thought to myself "Chris, what are some of the best nicknames in the NBA?" And of course immediately I thought to myself "BLOG TOPIC!" (Once again, cue the old opening music to the NBA on NBC theme!) In our world today we see some of the greatest athletes in the world, and we also get to hear some of the greatest nicknames. With that being said, let's delve into my world, muhahahahaha.
BEST
1. Lebron James - "King James"
We quite possibly could be watching the biggest freak of an athlete to play in the NBA right now in LeBron James. Tell me another guy that bites the rim every time he goes up to dunk the ball? It's safe to say LeBron is now the King of the NBA and as much as I like Kobe, he's definitely showing his age. I still think Kobe is the best closer in the NBA but LeBron is who people are paying to watch now. I think Michelle Beadles from Sportsnation had another good nickname for LeBron James, the "Akron Hammer." Let's face it, LeBron is the best dunker in the NBA and when he throws it, sometimes fans leave with excrement running down their leg. The new King of the NBA, LeBron James, or you could call him Mustafa.
2. Dwayne Wade - "Flash"
Do you ever watch one of Wade's games, look up at the stats, and say to yourself "What the hell, he's got 26 pts through 3 quarters?" He scores in flashes, one of the most electric players in the NBA today. People laughed at me when I told them I would rather have Dwayne Wade than LeBron James, but Wade now has the ring to show it. (Cue the, "well he had Shaq on his team and I want to make out with LeBron James" - Rhett Weaver) What people also don't realize is that Shaq also played the lowest minutes of his final career in the 2006 finals against Dallas. John Hollinger of ESPN rated D-Wade's finals performance the best of all-time. Now, I don't know if I agree with that, but I would like to also see what Wade could do with some serious talent around him. Oh wait, we have, he's won a title. LeBron is better at getting to the rim and causes more match up problems for teams where Wade has a better jump shot and mid-range game but is still gets to the rim in a "flash."
3. Tim Duncan - "The Big Fundamental"
Have you ever seen another player so fundamentally sound and yet so boring to watch? Exactly why I love Tim Duncan! This is how the game should be played, fundamentally sound. I'll admit, Duncan is about as fun to watch as listening to a dialogue from "The Hills." (Ok, I'm not going to lie, I can watch The Hills all day long and not shower.) But you get my point. Duncan isn't flashy, he doesn't flash his jersey when he scores, he doesn't talk trash to opposing to players, all he does his quietly win. Probably why all of America doesn't like him, because he never shows emotion and his eyes get bigger than Kirstie Alley's ass when he gets a fouled called on him. All-time best moment from Tim Duncan is when he was laughing at referee Joey Crawford and Crawford ejected him. Walking out of the arena, Duncan called Crawford a piece of hoo hoo. Tim Duncan, how the NBA should be played, and he should run for President after his career is over.
4. Kevin Durant - "The Durantula"
Kevin Durant, the NBA's newest silent killer. I have fallen in love with Kevin Durant's game. Him and sidekick Russel Westbrook have single handily made the Los Angeles Lakers officially wet their pants. How do you stop Durant? You can't be physical with him because he draws contact and gets to the line. You can't play off him because he can shoot it from the executive suites. The 6'9" 125 pound killer has taken the NBA by storm. Sure he looks nice, he says about 3 words a minute, and then when he sees that you have put your guard down, he bites you. The poison runs through your body and you slowly pass away. Much alike what he's doing to the Lakers right now. By the way, why is Ron Artest trying to be like Dennis Rodman? Oh that's right, because Artest is equal to Audrina Patridge in intelligence. (Too many Hills references? Never)
5. Dwight Howard - "Superman"
Move your busted butt over Shaq, the new superman has flown into Orlando Florida. He's got pearly whites, massive shoulders, and throws down dunks like John Candy use to throw down donuts. (RIP in my good man) The most dominating big man on both sides of the floor is quickly becoming one of the funnest players to watch, and maybe it's because he dunks on 7 footers and almost rips the basket down. As far as low post moves, the guy is still raw, but no one commands the paint like he does. Who doesn't like watching the Orlando Magic? 4 guys that bomb three pointers all night long, has one of the best looking rockstars in the NBA (Matt Barnes) and a 7 footer that just embarrasses you in the post. If you don't like watching Dwight Howard you may as well move to the White House and become more clueless about our country.
6. Stephen Jackeson - "Captain Jack"
For some strange reason, I love Stephen Jackson of the Charlotte Bobcats. Maybe it's because he leads the league in Blood Alcohol Count. I really started liking him when his Golden State Warriors dismantled Dirk Diggler and the Dallas Mavericks in 2006. (By the way, Dirk has the best porn star name ever, not that I know what porn star names are popular.................) Anyways, I love the fact that he can play against anyone because he plays so physical, he has a unique way of scoring points. I was hoping Charlotte was matched up against the Boston Celtics because I seriously think the Bobcats could have beaten the Celtics but they won't beat the Eastern conference champs. Nonetheless, Captain Jack is one of my favorite NBA players and party animals.
7. Carmelo Anthony - "Melo"
Look right now we hate Carmelo Anthony becuase he is playing against the Utah Jazz but is there honestly a better scorer in the league? Jazz fans join me in putting down the blow dart gun and saying that the man can score from anywhere on the floor. I like his look now than I did 2 years ago when he had the Syracuse corn rows. I don't think I've seen a player so physical in the low post against anyone plus his post game is one of the best in the league. I don't mind Carmelo Anthony but not right now because he is playing the Jazz. The only way you can stop Melo is by pulling a Tonya Harding and knocking him in the kneecaps. Speaking of that, how psycho is that lady? Reminds me of Kathy Bates in the movie Misery, which of course scared the hell out of every man in America.
8. Paul Pierce - "The Truth"
The NBA's biggest drama queen. You bump him, he flails into the stands and then has teammates carry him off the floor. Then he runs out of the tunnel five minutes later to the theme of Rocky and now Boston fans break out the American flag and start chanting "Paul, Paul, Paul." With that being said, one of the best closers in the game today. His shot against the Miami Heat the other night just further cements his legacy as one of the best Celtic players of all-time. His step back jumped may only be second to Dirk Nowitzki's. He needs to lose the headband though, he's too clean cut to be wearing a head band. When Boston played against the Lakers a few years ago in the finals, I cheered for Pierce. A guy that had endured so many losing seasons, not to mention he had to share a team with Antoine Walker, and I would never wish that upon anyone. He deserved a championship, he had been the only bright spot for the Celtics in the past 10 years, the city of Boston is lucky to have a player of that caliber. Ike Tingey would like to disagree with me due to some hick named Larry Bird.
9. Chris Paul - "CP3"
The most simple nickname in the NBA but one of the most clever because it's sounds sweet. Chris Paul has single handily brought baksetball back to the city of New Orleans, heaven help us with what else goes on in that city. One of the top 3 point guards in the NBA today has become one of the most popular players in the NBA. Him running a fast break is like eating a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, breathtaking. Watching him at Wake Forrest I wasn't sure what to expect from him but now I understand why he was such a good pick. He can play in any system because he has the talent to adapt his skills to any coach.
10. Kobe Bryant - "The Black Mamba"
Ok honestly, what the hell is the black mamaba? Isn't that something you smoke? Not that I would know............. Anyways, the best closer in the NBA has to make my nickname list because well, he's Kobe Bryant. I feel bad for Kobe this year, he's played through about almost every injury this year and yet he doesn't want to sit out any games this year. His Lakers have a good chance of losing to the Thunder in the first round to the Durantula and he will get all the blame. No one can dispute that Bryant is the best closer in the game. This year alone he's hit 4 game winners, one that was off balance off the glass against the Heat that was just unreal. Sure he's getting up their in age, he's lost a step, but we don't know if that's because he's playing through 1,523 injuries. One thing you can't dispute, is that he's the best closer still today.
WORST
1. Kevin Garnett - "The Big Ticket"
That ticket stub has been punched way too many damn times. He drags his leg around like a one legged man in a butt kicking contest. That knee injury has surely derailed the latter part of his career, he is not the same player he was in the 2008 NBA finals against the Lakers. Not to mention he still tosses elbows at players and the man only weights 156 pounds. I was never a huge Garnett fan, especially now that he's like a guy in a bar who keeps mouthing off but the guy is 50. Not that I know what a bar is like.......................
2. Chauncey Billups - "Mr Big Shot"
The man hits one big shot in the 2004 NBA Finals and he develops the name Mr. Big Shot. The man is not Robert Horry!!!!!!!!! Realistically, I do like Chauncey, but he is obviously at the tail end of his career. He hasn't been Mr. Big Shot for about a couple of seasons now that he has deferred to Melo. You can't take away his NBA championship that he won in 2004 but you can sure as hell take away his Mr. Big Shot nickname.
3. Chris Kaman - "The Caveman"
Do I really need to write anything? Google image Chris Kaman and insert your own comment.
4. Ray Allen - "Jesus Shuttlesworth"
Isn't it weird that Ray Allen is probably known more for his role in the movie "He Got Game" than his NBA career. Not really, He Got Game should have won an Academy Award just like my favorite movie Training Day. The best shooter in the NBA probably has the worst nickname because he's known for that more than his NBA playing days.
5. Chris Anderson - "The Birdman"
Once again, Do I really need to write anything here? Google image Chris Anderson and prepare to have a doggy bag to vomit in.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Recap of Game 2 - - The Jazz showed us something tonight
So I have finally calmed down from watching this game tonight, two words strike me about tonight's game, seriously unreal. This game had more up and downs than Paris Hilton's mattress on a Friday night. The Utah Jazz showed us something tonight, they showed they had heart. No Mehmet Okur, No Andrei Kirilenko, Carlos Boozer banged up, and Deron Williams banged up, they somehow managed to steal a game from the Denver Nuggets. This game reminded me of the Buster Douglas vs Mike Tyson fight back in 1990. Nobody on this planet gave Douglas a chance to beat Mike Tyson similar to that of nobody giving the Jazz a chance to beat the Denver Nuggets, me included. As the game wore on and on, you slowly started thinking "Well hell, the Jazz get a stop here and score, it'll get interesting." Then you started saying "We get a bucket here and it might be over." So in comparing this game to the heavyweight bout, let's go through the rounds and quarters.
Rounds 1-4. First quarter
What Buster Douglas did to Mike Tyson that night was beautiful. He'd pop Mike Tyson with a few jabs and then he'd throw an occasional hay maker, Tyson had never been hit like this before. The Jazz were doing the same thing, they moved Deron Williams off the ball and let Wes Matthews handle it to get D-Will more looks. Williams not handling the ball as much means he has more energy to get other guys involved (Boozer and Fesenko). What does this do? Williams hits his first five shots and gets into the rhythm of the game. It would have been quicker for Williams to just say to the Nuggets "Ok, I'm just going to kick everyone's ass now." One thing I also saw that is never done, is Matthews played Carmelo Anthony very physical. When Melo bumped and pushed, Matthews pushed right back and never backed down. They made Melo work for everything they had, instead of Melo bending them over the knee and spanking Matthews and Miles, they grew up a lot tonight.
Rounds 5-7 Second Quarter
By the middle of the bout, Buster Douglas has started the thoughts of "Well, he's nailed Tyson with 4 or 5 jabs, one hay maker could do it." Douglas never left his game plan, pop Tyson with a few jabs and then get inside to the body and heavy hits to the head. The Jazz game plan was very similar, attack the basket and keep attacking Melo with double teams. I love what I saw from Fesenko in the 2nd quarter, he battled with Nene, had a few put backs and dunks but overall just changed a lot of shots. The Jazz finally broke the game wide open. The pick and roll made an appearance (shocking) and totally caught the Nuggets off guard. Here is why, Charles Barkley said it perfect. "With Fesenko not camping outside to bomb threes like Okur does, it gives Boozer a chance to roam in the paint and knock down open jumpers, you have to defend a running 7 footer." They blow it wide open and take a 12 point lead into halftime. I sent numerous text messages because I had no idea what to think. I had thought the Jazz would be down by 15 to 20 by now.
Rounds 6-9 Third Quarter
In round 7, Buster Douglas took Mike Tyson's best punch, and he was still awake. Same thing happened to the Jazz, they took the Nuggets best shot. Mike Tyson tucked his right hand into his stomach and delivered a crushing uppercut to Douglas' jaw. If anyone else took that uppercut, they would have had feces running down their leg. I was a little woozy in the 3rd quarter, Melo was starting to abuse Miles and Matthews like a redheaded stepchild. You knew the Nuggets would make a run but you never thought it would be a 14-0 run to tie the game. Like I stated above, the Jazz took the Nuggets best shot, on the ropes bloody and tired, but they were still awake. Then the Midwestern-hippie-looking-tube-sock-wearing-straight-toothed-Jonas Brother-hair-wearing sharp shooter delivered, Kyle Korver. When the Jazz had four second round draft picks and an NBA D-Leaguer on the floor, Korver stepped up. He banged three straight shots to end the third quarter. You could smell the blood coming from the Nuggets.
Round 9 (Greatest Round in Boxing History) 4th Quarter
Buster Douglas creates the biggest upset in boxing history. Tyson (Nuggets) have the intent to come out and end the fight after knocking down Douglas. Douglas never backs down and delivers three straight hay makers to knock Tyson to the canvas and his mouth piece flying out of his mouth quicker than a Jerry Sloan expletive. The two exchange hay makers, the big one coming from Chauncey Billups pulling up and bombing a three right in D-Will's grill. I then received a text message from Ike "The Slinky" Tingey saying, that is Utah's last lead. I agreed, but boy were we in for a show. In a game where we saw Kyle Korver have a charge called against him for the first time in his career to Paul Millsap taking more shots to the face than a prison inmate, the final knockout blow came from Kyle Korver. Williams set up a beautiful play and Korver caught the ball in the corner and his shot never hit the rim, all net. Which sent the Nuggets to the canvas with Melo crying like a kid that got his first physical and sending the Nuggets to a playoff loss.
Jerry Sloan deserves praise for this victory. Even though he called a timeout in the 3rd quarter two possessions too late, but he showed tonight that he can make adjustments. He threw multiple looks at Melo, he made Chauncey work all night for his shots, and he made the other Nuggets beat the Jazz, which they didn't. I saw a different Jazz team tonight, a Jazz team that was them against the world. No one on earth gave the Jazz a chance to win, but they did. They now have Jazz fans believing that they can beat the Nuggets. Sure it's only one game, but all it took was one punch for Buster Douglas to knockout a bully, and the Jazz knocked the hell out of a bully tonight.
Rounds 1-4. First quarter
What Buster Douglas did to Mike Tyson that night was beautiful. He'd pop Mike Tyson with a few jabs and then he'd throw an occasional hay maker, Tyson had never been hit like this before. The Jazz were doing the same thing, they moved Deron Williams off the ball and let Wes Matthews handle it to get D-Will more looks. Williams not handling the ball as much means he has more energy to get other guys involved (Boozer and Fesenko). What does this do? Williams hits his first five shots and gets into the rhythm of the game. It would have been quicker for Williams to just say to the Nuggets "Ok, I'm just going to kick everyone's ass now." One thing I also saw that is never done, is Matthews played Carmelo Anthony very physical. When Melo bumped and pushed, Matthews pushed right back and never backed down. They made Melo work for everything they had, instead of Melo bending them over the knee and spanking Matthews and Miles, they grew up a lot tonight.
Rounds 5-7 Second Quarter
By the middle of the bout, Buster Douglas has started the thoughts of "Well, he's nailed Tyson with 4 or 5 jabs, one hay maker could do it." Douglas never left his game plan, pop Tyson with a few jabs and then get inside to the body and heavy hits to the head. The Jazz game plan was very similar, attack the basket and keep attacking Melo with double teams. I love what I saw from Fesenko in the 2nd quarter, he battled with Nene, had a few put backs and dunks but overall just changed a lot of shots. The Jazz finally broke the game wide open. The pick and roll made an appearance (shocking) and totally caught the Nuggets off guard. Here is why, Charles Barkley said it perfect. "With Fesenko not camping outside to bomb threes like Okur does, it gives Boozer a chance to roam in the paint and knock down open jumpers, you have to defend a running 7 footer." They blow it wide open and take a 12 point lead into halftime. I sent numerous text messages because I had no idea what to think. I had thought the Jazz would be down by 15 to 20 by now.
Rounds 6-9 Third Quarter
In round 7, Buster Douglas took Mike Tyson's best punch, and he was still awake. Same thing happened to the Jazz, they took the Nuggets best shot. Mike Tyson tucked his right hand into his stomach and delivered a crushing uppercut to Douglas' jaw. If anyone else took that uppercut, they would have had feces running down their leg. I was a little woozy in the 3rd quarter, Melo was starting to abuse Miles and Matthews like a redheaded stepchild. You knew the Nuggets would make a run but you never thought it would be a 14-0 run to tie the game. Like I stated above, the Jazz took the Nuggets best shot, on the ropes bloody and tired, but they were still awake. Then the Midwestern-hippie-looking-tube-sock-wearing-straight-toothed-Jonas Brother-hair-wearing sharp shooter delivered, Kyle Korver. When the Jazz had four second round draft picks and an NBA D-Leaguer on the floor, Korver stepped up. He banged three straight shots to end the third quarter. You could smell the blood coming from the Nuggets.
Round 9 (Greatest Round in Boxing History) 4th Quarter
Buster Douglas creates the biggest upset in boxing history. Tyson (Nuggets) have the intent to come out and end the fight after knocking down Douglas. Douglas never backs down and delivers three straight hay makers to knock Tyson to the canvas and his mouth piece flying out of his mouth quicker than a Jerry Sloan expletive. The two exchange hay makers, the big one coming from Chauncey Billups pulling up and bombing a three right in D-Will's grill. I then received a text message from Ike "The Slinky" Tingey saying, that is Utah's last lead. I agreed, but boy were we in for a show. In a game where we saw Kyle Korver have a charge called against him for the first time in his career to Paul Millsap taking more shots to the face than a prison inmate, the final knockout blow came from Kyle Korver. Williams set up a beautiful play and Korver caught the ball in the corner and his shot never hit the rim, all net. Which sent the Nuggets to the canvas with Melo crying like a kid that got his first physical and sending the Nuggets to a playoff loss.
Jerry Sloan deserves praise for this victory. Even though he called a timeout in the 3rd quarter two possessions too late, but he showed tonight that he can make adjustments. He threw multiple looks at Melo, he made Chauncey work all night for his shots, and he made the other Nuggets beat the Jazz, which they didn't. I saw a different Jazz team tonight, a Jazz team that was them against the world. No one on earth gave the Jazz a chance to win, but they did. They now have Jazz fans believing that they can beat the Nuggets. Sure it's only one game, but all it took was one punch for Buster Douglas to knockout a bully, and the Jazz knocked the hell out of a bully tonight.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Recap of Game 1 - - Why the Utah Jazz are in serious trouble
First let's be frank. The Utah Jazz are decimated by injuries right now. No Mehmet Okur for the rest of Game 1, and no Andrei Kirilenko. With that being said, the Utah Jazz are in serious trouble. It might be a miracle if the Jazz can take this series to six games, and a flat out miracle if they somehow win this series. It seems like we are seeing the record go round and round and it all starts at the top, Jerry Sloan. I had the Jazz losing in six games in this series but a text message from Ike "The Slinky" Tingey saying the Jazz will win one game is looking more realistic.
I talked with co-workers today before the game that I wouldn't be surprised if Carmelo Anthony went off for 40 tonight, there reply? "No way." Well there's a minute left in the game right now and Melo has over 40. The Jazz have no answer for Carmelo Anthony, with respect to the Jazz though, not a lot of teams do. With that being said, Jerry Sloan threw two different looks at Melo, CJ Miles (I cringed writing that) and a zone defense. A guy like Anthony needs multiple looks thrown at him all game long. As much as I hate to say it, Matt Harping used to frustrate the hell out of Melo. Go look at coaches like Popovich and Jackson, they all throw multiple looks at him. Rarely do you see the Spurs or Lakers give up 40 to one guy, for the Jazz it seems like a nightly issue. Do I think Kirilenko could have done a better job tonight? I'm sure of it. Do I still think Melo would have gone off tonight? I am sure of it.
Didn't the Nuggets look more physical tonight? All night Kenyon Martin, Nene, and Birdman crashed the boards. Rarely this season have I seen our bigs play physical with other teams except for Millsap. The only problem is that Millsap can barely go on the rides at Lagoon because of his height. It seem the Nuggets got to every lose ball tonight.
Have I mentioned the Jazz's defense is how Sam Cassel looks, ugly. I don't think I've ever seen a team with such lapses defensively, the Nuggets put on a layup clinic in the 2nd half. Nene had position all night on Boozer, Melo was taking CJ and Wes out to the woodshed, JR Smith, Chauncey Billups, and the guy selling popcorn in the stands had open looks from 3 all night. Sloan has this thing where he likes to double every guy that touches it in the post. One problem, when Birdman, Nene, and Kenyon Martin get the ball in the post YOU DON'T DOUBLE THEM!!!! I swear my hair goes grey when I see our guards come down and double Chris Anderson. I honestly think if Sean Hartley was in the post, Jerry Sloan would double him. It's baffling to be honest. If history serves us right, Sloan will never change his strategy.
I felt bad for the Jazz tonight, they are basically playing with 8 guys on their bench. Kosta Koufous shouldn't even be in the arena, Sundiata Gaines was a one game hero, and Fesenko hasn't played at all because Sloan hates him. I really am cheering for the Jazz, I love the Jazz, but I'm also realistic. If the Jazz win six games this series, it's nothing short of a miracle.
I talked with co-workers today before the game that I wouldn't be surprised if Carmelo Anthony went off for 40 tonight, there reply? "No way." Well there's a minute left in the game right now and Melo has over 40. The Jazz have no answer for Carmelo Anthony, with respect to the Jazz though, not a lot of teams do. With that being said, Jerry Sloan threw two different looks at Melo, CJ Miles (I cringed writing that) and a zone defense. A guy like Anthony needs multiple looks thrown at him all game long. As much as I hate to say it, Matt Harping used to frustrate the hell out of Melo. Go look at coaches like Popovich and Jackson, they all throw multiple looks at him. Rarely do you see the Spurs or Lakers give up 40 to one guy, for the Jazz it seems like a nightly issue. Do I think Kirilenko could have done a better job tonight? I'm sure of it. Do I still think Melo would have gone off tonight? I am sure of it.
Didn't the Nuggets look more physical tonight? All night Kenyon Martin, Nene, and Birdman crashed the boards. Rarely this season have I seen our bigs play physical with other teams except for Millsap. The only problem is that Millsap can barely go on the rides at Lagoon because of his height. It seem the Nuggets got to every lose ball tonight.
Have I mentioned the Jazz's defense is how Sam Cassel looks, ugly. I don't think I've ever seen a team with such lapses defensively, the Nuggets put on a layup clinic in the 2nd half. Nene had position all night on Boozer, Melo was taking CJ and Wes out to the woodshed, JR Smith, Chauncey Billups, and the guy selling popcorn in the stands had open looks from 3 all night. Sloan has this thing where he likes to double every guy that touches it in the post. One problem, when Birdman, Nene, and Kenyon Martin get the ball in the post YOU DON'T DOUBLE THEM!!!! I swear my hair goes grey when I see our guards come down and double Chris Anderson. I honestly think if Sean Hartley was in the post, Jerry Sloan would double him. It's baffling to be honest. If history serves us right, Sloan will never change his strategy.
I felt bad for the Jazz tonight, they are basically playing with 8 guys on their bench. Kosta Koufous shouldn't even be in the arena, Sundiata Gaines was a one game hero, and Fesenko hasn't played at all because Sloan hates him. I really am cheering for the Jazz, I love the Jazz, but I'm also realistic. If the Jazz win six games this series, it's nothing short of a miracle.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
NBA Playoff Previews - LET'S GET IT ON (Mills Lane)
"It's the most wonderful time of the year, ding dong, ding dong." The NBA playoffs are here my friends and I can't remember being more excited for April (Of course Phil winning the Masters made me want to mother his children.) This time of year brings out the best of the best in the NBA, nothing made me more happy than watching LeBron storm off the court last year like a 4 year old girl in a candy shop when the Orlando Magic ended the Cavaliers season last year. So, with the playoff seedings in place as of last night, thank you Utah Jazz for reminding me how you guys fold like Joe Theisman's leg from a Lawrence Taylor hit, we can now look at the first round match ups. (Note that right now if I had music on the blog, the old NBA on NBC theme song would be blaring on my computer speakers)
WESTERN CONFERENCE BRACKET
#1 Los Angeles Lakers vs #8 Oklahoma City Thunder
And the fuel has already been added to the fire with Phil Jackson's recent comments about Kevin Durant getting the beneficial calls from the refs. Talk about hypocrisy, Phil Jackson coaches Kobe Bryant who probably gets more calls than any player in the league. That's like me stealing a TV from Best Buy, getting away with it, and then seeing somebody steal a TV from Best Buy and say "Hey that d-bag is stealing a TV! That's a freaking crime!" Jackson just needs to sit his busted hips down in his cushion chair and chill. Now, with that being said, I'm looking forward to this matchup. The Kevin Durant vs Ron Artest matchup will be a barn burner. I do think Durant will light him up like a Christmas Tree but I'm always down for a Ron Artest moment where he vaults into the stands and starts breaking beer bottles over people's heads. In the end, I think the Lakers will be too much for the Thunder, but Kevin Durant will elevate himself into the Lebron, Wade, Kobe category of players in the league. The Lakers win in 5.
#2 Dallas Mavericks vs #7 San Antonio Spurs
My sleeper upset in the first round (Que the morons that will text me saying you are such a homer Foukas, just because it's the Spurs. Two words : Shut UP)
Here is the reason why I think the Spurs could give the Mavericks a run for their money. Experience, the Spurs have won 3 championships with their core group (Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili), they know how to win games on the road. They have gotten exceedingly better since the first of the year and with Richard Jefferson starting to find his form, it could be deadly. Finally, Manu Ginobili has been on a tear since the all-star break. He's averaging over 23.5 ppg and is the healthiest he's been in three years. However, I do think the Mavericks will win this series but no without a fight. Tim Duncan is dragging his leg and i don't think he can guard Dirk. The Mavericks win in 7 games and I try alcohol for the first time.
#3 Phoenix Suns vs #6 Portland Trailblazers
The Suns may be one of the hottest teams in the league and Portland is now holding open tryouts while pulling guys out of dumpsters to come play since they are decimated by injuries. The latest is Brandon Roy who tore his knee up in the Sunday matchup with the Lakers but vows he will try and play. If I'm the Blazers, I tell him you aren't playing. You aren't winning the championship this year and you are the franchise player, we aren't questioning your toughness Brandon but your IQ we are questioning. Phoenix should have an easy time with Portland with the fact that Portland hasn't had their regular starting lineup since I was rocking the bowl cut in 5th grade. Steve Nash will run circles around Andre Miller and Amare Stoudemire should just punish LaMarcus Aldridge. I would have a different opinion if Brandon Roy was playing and healthy but as of now, the Trailblazers just don't have the horses. The Suns win in 5
#4 Denver Nuggets vs #5 Utah Jazz
Since the Utah Jazz laid an egg in last night's blowout loss to the Suns, they now find themselves backing their way into the playoffs. I don't think I've ever been so disappointed in a team that showed zero heart last night. Utah is such a hard team to figure out. It seems like when they want to beat a good team they can but when New Jersey rolls into town they could very well lose to them. They are kind of like Jennifer Aniston, she'll tap a guy like Brad Pitt and then she'll turn around and tap a guy like Vince Vaughn who's just hideous. Anyways, the Jazz better hope Andrei Kirilenko gets healthy because he may be the only one who can guard Carmelo Anthony. The Nuggets seem to have the Jazz's number this year. Hell, they beat the Jazz with Billups and Anthony sitting on the bench. The Jazz would be legitimate contenders if they had a guy like Chris "Birdman" Anderson, someone patrolling the middle instead of Mushy Man Okur. In the end, the Jazz's defense will break down quicker than a Toyota Camry on the freeway and the Nuggets will put them away.
The Nuggets win in 6.
EASTERN CONFERENCE BRACKET
#1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs #8 Chicago Bulls
Do I really need to write that Chicago has no chance of beating the Cavs? Steven Hawking has a better chance of walking than the Bulls beating the Cavs. (OK I immediately feel bad for writing that.) It's remarkable that Chicago made it into the playoffs, and it's all because of the young legs of Derrick Rose. Rose has been spectacular this year and is going to continue to get better. Unfortunately there's a 265 lb freight train playing for the Cavs named LeBron James. Cleveland wins this one handily, and it won't be close. Cleveland wins in 4
#2 Orlando Magic vs #7 Charlotte Bobcats
The young Bobcats come storming into the playoffs for the first time in their franchise's history. One problem, they get the defending Eastern Conference champs in the Magic. Don't get me wrong, there is talent on the Bobcats. Gerald Wallace may be the best kept secret in the NBA, and Stephen Jackson is capable of putting up bigger numbers than his own breathalyzer test. Orlando has to much firepower and just a freak down low named Dwight Howard. I'm not sold on the Vince Carter trade for Orlando though, I think Hedo Turkoglu was a big part of Orlando's offense. Have I mentioned how much I love Matt Barnes? (Note : If I were to get all inked up like a rockstar, I'd take a picture of Matt Barnes and give it to the tattoo artist) Barnes gives Orlando another defender to throw at LeBron and Kobe because let's face it, it will come down to Orlando and Cleveland in the conference finals. My X Factor for Orlando, Rashard Lewis. Lewis needs to play big for Orlando to make a trip back to the finals, if he's playing well, watch out. Orlando wins in 5
#3 Atlanta Hawks vs #6 Milwaukee Bucks
I feel bad for the Bucks, they were on a roll until Andrew Bogut slipped off the rim and turned his arm into a gordita. (If you haven't seen Bogut's slip off the rim, it's enough to make you throw up your last meal.) Brandon Jennings has been quite the surprise for Milwaukee, let's be honest, I didn't know what to expect from him. With Bogut playing, I'd say they have a puncher's chance, but with Bogut out, no dice. Atlanta has flown under the radar all year, and Joe Johnson has had an incredible year. Josh Smith should have a big series against the smaller Bucks and they don't have an answer for Johnson. Atlanta wins this one quickly and moves on to a showdown with the Orlando Magic. Atlanta wins this in 4 games.
#4 Boston Celtics vs #5 Miami Heat
Boy have I been disappointed by the Boston Celtics this year. Maybe it's me but they just seem to lose a step. Or six steps. Kevin Garnett looks old, Paul Pierce is playing banged up, and Ray Allen just hasn't played as well this year. With that being said, they are still dangerous. They only won the title two years ago, and if they catch fire, they could make a run deep. Miami hit a stretch where they were won of the best teams in the East, the only problem is they don't have a lot of talent surrounding Dwayne Wade. I'm a big Wade fan, but he just doesn't have a ton of support. When you are kicking the ball out to Udonis Haslem and Mario Chalmers for jumpers, you may as well book that trip to Cancun. If anyone can carry a team through the playoffs though, it's Wade. Boston wins this series but I think they have a few let down games but ultimately get it done. Boston wins this series in 6.
WESTERN CONFERENCE BRACKET
#1 Los Angeles Lakers vs #8 Oklahoma City Thunder
And the fuel has already been added to the fire with Phil Jackson's recent comments about Kevin Durant getting the beneficial calls from the refs. Talk about hypocrisy, Phil Jackson coaches Kobe Bryant who probably gets more calls than any player in the league. That's like me stealing a TV from Best Buy, getting away with it, and then seeing somebody steal a TV from Best Buy and say "Hey that d-bag is stealing a TV! That's a freaking crime!" Jackson just needs to sit his busted hips down in his cushion chair and chill. Now, with that being said, I'm looking forward to this matchup. The Kevin Durant vs Ron Artest matchup will be a barn burner. I do think Durant will light him up like a Christmas Tree but I'm always down for a Ron Artest moment where he vaults into the stands and starts breaking beer bottles over people's heads. In the end, I think the Lakers will be too much for the Thunder, but Kevin Durant will elevate himself into the Lebron, Wade, Kobe category of players in the league. The Lakers win in 5.
#2 Dallas Mavericks vs #7 San Antonio Spurs
My sleeper upset in the first round (Que the morons that will text me saying you are such a homer Foukas, just because it's the Spurs. Two words : Shut UP)
Here is the reason why I think the Spurs could give the Mavericks a run for their money. Experience, the Spurs have won 3 championships with their core group (Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili), they know how to win games on the road. They have gotten exceedingly better since the first of the year and with Richard Jefferson starting to find his form, it could be deadly. Finally, Manu Ginobili has been on a tear since the all-star break. He's averaging over 23.5 ppg and is the healthiest he's been in three years. However, I do think the Mavericks will win this series but no without a fight. Tim Duncan is dragging his leg and i don't think he can guard Dirk. The Mavericks win in 7 games and I try alcohol for the first time.
#3 Phoenix Suns vs #6 Portland Trailblazers
The Suns may be one of the hottest teams in the league and Portland is now holding open tryouts while pulling guys out of dumpsters to come play since they are decimated by injuries. The latest is Brandon Roy who tore his knee up in the Sunday matchup with the Lakers but vows he will try and play. If I'm the Blazers, I tell him you aren't playing. You aren't winning the championship this year and you are the franchise player, we aren't questioning your toughness Brandon but your IQ we are questioning. Phoenix should have an easy time with Portland with the fact that Portland hasn't had their regular starting lineup since I was rocking the bowl cut in 5th grade. Steve Nash will run circles around Andre Miller and Amare Stoudemire should just punish LaMarcus Aldridge. I would have a different opinion if Brandon Roy was playing and healthy but as of now, the Trailblazers just don't have the horses. The Suns win in 5
#4 Denver Nuggets vs #5 Utah Jazz
Since the Utah Jazz laid an egg in last night's blowout loss to the Suns, they now find themselves backing their way into the playoffs. I don't think I've ever been so disappointed in a team that showed zero heart last night. Utah is such a hard team to figure out. It seems like when they want to beat a good team they can but when New Jersey rolls into town they could very well lose to them. They are kind of like Jennifer Aniston, she'll tap a guy like Brad Pitt and then she'll turn around and tap a guy like Vince Vaughn who's just hideous. Anyways, the Jazz better hope Andrei Kirilenko gets healthy because he may be the only one who can guard Carmelo Anthony. The Nuggets seem to have the Jazz's number this year. Hell, they beat the Jazz with Billups and Anthony sitting on the bench. The Jazz would be legitimate contenders if they had a guy like Chris "Birdman" Anderson, someone patrolling the middle instead of Mushy Man Okur. In the end, the Jazz's defense will break down quicker than a Toyota Camry on the freeway and the Nuggets will put them away.
The Nuggets win in 6.
EASTERN CONFERENCE BRACKET
#1 Cleveland Cavaliers vs #8 Chicago Bulls
Do I really need to write that Chicago has no chance of beating the Cavs? Steven Hawking has a better chance of walking than the Bulls beating the Cavs. (OK I immediately feel bad for writing that.) It's remarkable that Chicago made it into the playoffs, and it's all because of the young legs of Derrick Rose. Rose has been spectacular this year and is going to continue to get better. Unfortunately there's a 265 lb freight train playing for the Cavs named LeBron James. Cleveland wins this one handily, and it won't be close. Cleveland wins in 4
#2 Orlando Magic vs #7 Charlotte Bobcats
The young Bobcats come storming into the playoffs for the first time in their franchise's history. One problem, they get the defending Eastern Conference champs in the Magic. Don't get me wrong, there is talent on the Bobcats. Gerald Wallace may be the best kept secret in the NBA, and Stephen Jackson is capable of putting up bigger numbers than his own breathalyzer test. Orlando has to much firepower and just a freak down low named Dwight Howard. I'm not sold on the Vince Carter trade for Orlando though, I think Hedo Turkoglu was a big part of Orlando's offense. Have I mentioned how much I love Matt Barnes? (Note : If I were to get all inked up like a rockstar, I'd take a picture of Matt Barnes and give it to the tattoo artist) Barnes gives Orlando another defender to throw at LeBron and Kobe because let's face it, it will come down to Orlando and Cleveland in the conference finals. My X Factor for Orlando, Rashard Lewis. Lewis needs to play big for Orlando to make a trip back to the finals, if he's playing well, watch out. Orlando wins in 5
#3 Atlanta Hawks vs #6 Milwaukee Bucks
I feel bad for the Bucks, they were on a roll until Andrew Bogut slipped off the rim and turned his arm into a gordita. (If you haven't seen Bogut's slip off the rim, it's enough to make you throw up your last meal.) Brandon Jennings has been quite the surprise for Milwaukee, let's be honest, I didn't know what to expect from him. With Bogut playing, I'd say they have a puncher's chance, but with Bogut out, no dice. Atlanta has flown under the radar all year, and Joe Johnson has had an incredible year. Josh Smith should have a big series against the smaller Bucks and they don't have an answer for Johnson. Atlanta wins this one quickly and moves on to a showdown with the Orlando Magic. Atlanta wins this in 4 games.
#4 Boston Celtics vs #5 Miami Heat
Boy have I been disappointed by the Boston Celtics this year. Maybe it's me but they just seem to lose a step. Or six steps. Kevin Garnett looks old, Paul Pierce is playing banged up, and Ray Allen just hasn't played as well this year. With that being said, they are still dangerous. They only won the title two years ago, and if they catch fire, they could make a run deep. Miami hit a stretch where they were won of the best teams in the East, the only problem is they don't have a lot of talent surrounding Dwayne Wade. I'm a big Wade fan, but he just doesn't have a ton of support. When you are kicking the ball out to Udonis Haslem and Mario Chalmers for jumpers, you may as well book that trip to Cancun. If anyone can carry a team through the playoffs though, it's Wade. Boston wins this series but I think they have a few let down games but ultimately get it done. Boston wins this series in 6.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Mickelson's Masters
I posted a week ago about 5 players I thought could win the Masters this week. My picks weren't too bad, two of the five were in contention all week (Thanks Jim Furyk for putting up 80.) In the past, the Masters have lost it's edge with the UGA making Augusta almost too difficult. Zach Johnson coming to mind when he won in 2007 at 1 over par. The UGA got it right this week, players continued to post low scores throughout the weekend.
That's not the reason why this weekend was so special. This weekend was special for a few reasons, but it became apparent that when Phil Mickelson birdied number 18 on Sunday that this weekend was for him. Tiger Woods returned this weekend from a five month sex scandal and he took most of the talk of the tournament the first three days. Mickelson took it from the back nine on Saturday and never looked back. Mickelson single handily took America by storm and it became obvious that America was cheering for the lefty to win.
It couldn't be more perfect for a guy that has gone through hell not only within the last year but since 2006. Going back to the U.S. Open at Wingfoot in 2006 when Mickelson took a two shot lead into #18 and let it slip away by putting his drive off a tent, taking a hooded 3-iron into a tree, and blasting an approach that plugged into the sand. You take it from there, it's the biggest collapse in U.S. Open history. Mickelson answered questions repeatedly if he would ever rebound from a historic collapse. I remember watching that 18th hole and receiving a text message from my good friend Ike Tingey that said "I feel sick to my stomach for him." I couldn't believe what I had witnessed. 2009 rolls around, Mickelson had just come off a top 10 finish at the Masters only to find out that his wife Amy is diagnosed with breast cancer. Just as he's starting to play well, his world again is turned upside down. Amy enters her first week of treatment and then finds out his mother Mary is diagnosed with the same thing.
Mickelson had told his caddie that nothing excites him more than playing in the Masters and being in contention. The world had been focused on Tiger Woods and how he would perform being away from the game so long. Mickelson welcomed the under the radar mentality, going out and shooting 67 the first day to put himself in permanent contention. No one knew what to expect from Mickelson since he had struggled with his game to start the season. Mickelson goes on to shoot 71 in the 2nd round and then takes America by storm on Saturday. In a stretch on the back nine, Mickelson goes 5 under in 3 holes to secure a final round pairing with Lee Westwood. I sent several text messages saying that this was Phil's tournament to lose, but even I was interested to see how he would perform this being his first final pairing in a major since Wingfoot.
Starting slow on the front nine, Mickelson started pulling away with a birdie on 12, and hitting the shot of the tournament on 13. With his ball in the kitty litter, Mickelson pulls a 6-iron and ropes a ball through two trees and sticks it to three feet on the green putting for eagle. I can't remember an Augusta crowd being so loud after one shot (maybe Tiger's chip in on 16 in 2005.) He birdies 13 and 15 to take control of the match.
Walking up to #18, Jim Nantz had announced that Amy Mickelson was in the gallery. You first saw a glimpse of Amy has she was standing at the back of the green. So sick from taking her medication that she had been in bed since they arrived at Augusta. Mickelson buries his putt on the final hole to end four years of talk that "this guy will never win another major." It's pretty simple, this one is for Amy. He wears the pink ribbon on every hat that he wears in every tournament, not only for Amy, but for his mom and all breast cancer fighters out there. He's a crowd favorite, he never leaves the golf course until everyone gets their signature from him. He gives the tip of the cap about 6,000 times every tournament and of course my wife's favorite, the thumbs up to the crowd. He acknowledges the crowd, he thanks the crowd, and the crowd loves him right back.
This was Mickelson's weekend, he earned his third green jacket and fourth overall major win. Most importantly, he gets to go home and share the fourth one with his Amy while the rest of the world cheers for her recovery.
Thank you Phil
That's not the reason why this weekend was so special. This weekend was special for a few reasons, but it became apparent that when Phil Mickelson birdied number 18 on Sunday that this weekend was for him. Tiger Woods returned this weekend from a five month sex scandal and he took most of the talk of the tournament the first three days. Mickelson took it from the back nine on Saturday and never looked back. Mickelson single handily took America by storm and it became obvious that America was cheering for the lefty to win.
It couldn't be more perfect for a guy that has gone through hell not only within the last year but since 2006. Going back to the U.S. Open at Wingfoot in 2006 when Mickelson took a two shot lead into #18 and let it slip away by putting his drive off a tent, taking a hooded 3-iron into a tree, and blasting an approach that plugged into the sand. You take it from there, it's the biggest collapse in U.S. Open history. Mickelson answered questions repeatedly if he would ever rebound from a historic collapse. I remember watching that 18th hole and receiving a text message from my good friend Ike Tingey that said "I feel sick to my stomach for him." I couldn't believe what I had witnessed. 2009 rolls around, Mickelson had just come off a top 10 finish at the Masters only to find out that his wife Amy is diagnosed with breast cancer. Just as he's starting to play well, his world again is turned upside down. Amy enters her first week of treatment and then finds out his mother Mary is diagnosed with the same thing.
Mickelson had told his caddie that nothing excites him more than playing in the Masters and being in contention. The world had been focused on Tiger Woods and how he would perform being away from the game so long. Mickelson welcomed the under the radar mentality, going out and shooting 67 the first day to put himself in permanent contention. No one knew what to expect from Mickelson since he had struggled with his game to start the season. Mickelson goes on to shoot 71 in the 2nd round and then takes America by storm on Saturday. In a stretch on the back nine, Mickelson goes 5 under in 3 holes to secure a final round pairing with Lee Westwood. I sent several text messages saying that this was Phil's tournament to lose, but even I was interested to see how he would perform this being his first final pairing in a major since Wingfoot.
Starting slow on the front nine, Mickelson started pulling away with a birdie on 12, and hitting the shot of the tournament on 13. With his ball in the kitty litter, Mickelson pulls a 6-iron and ropes a ball through two trees and sticks it to three feet on the green putting for eagle. I can't remember an Augusta crowd being so loud after one shot (maybe Tiger's chip in on 16 in 2005.) He birdies 13 and 15 to take control of the match.
Walking up to #18, Jim Nantz had announced that Amy Mickelson was in the gallery. You first saw a glimpse of Amy has she was standing at the back of the green. So sick from taking her medication that she had been in bed since they arrived at Augusta. Mickelson buries his putt on the final hole to end four years of talk that "this guy will never win another major." It's pretty simple, this one is for Amy. He wears the pink ribbon on every hat that he wears in every tournament, not only for Amy, but for his mom and all breast cancer fighters out there. He's a crowd favorite, he never leaves the golf course until everyone gets their signature from him. He gives the tip of the cap about 6,000 times every tournament and of course my wife's favorite, the thumbs up to the crowd. He acknowledges the crowd, he thanks the crowd, and the crowd loves him right back.
This was Mickelson's weekend, he earned his third green jacket and fourth overall major win. Most importantly, he gets to go home and share the fourth one with his Amy while the rest of the world cheers for her recovery.
Thank you Phil
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Boilin Over: Jim Boylen should resign or let go
Marshall Henderson announced yesterday that he will be the 5th player to leave the University of Utah basketball team. A basketball team that came off a 14-17 season and ended the season on skid marks worse than you'd find in a 4 year olds underpants. Carlon Brown, Jordan Cyphers (who?), Matt Read (who?), Chris Hines, and now Marshall Henderson have left the program. This has to raise the questions with the boosters of the program "what the hell is going on up on the hill?" To me the answer is quite simple, Jim Boylen has lost support from players and the fans.
Since Boylen has gotten to Utah, he hasn't brought in one recruit that is worthy to say "Hell I like this guy, let's ride him." Let's take a look at the team Boylen won the MWC Championship with last year.
Luke Nevill (Rick Majerus' last recruit)
Shaun Green (Ray Giacoletti recruit) - Note that Ray Giacoletti is a sack of feces
Tyler Kepkay (Ray Giacoletti recruit)
Carlon Brown (Ray Giacoletti recruit)
Lawerence Bohra (Rac Giacoletti recruit)
Not one of these players have been Jim Boylen's recruits and he's been here going on 4 years. Now, let's look at the players Boylen has recruited.
Marshall Henderson (Gone)
Jordan Cyphers (Gone)
Jay Watkins (Wish he was gone)
Chris Hines (Gone)
Matt Read (Gone)
So his recruiting class from last year has basically gone awol. Does anybody find this odd? I understand that the team went 14-17 last season with little experience and talent, but 5 guys? Even Rick Majerus never had 5 recruits leave a program in one year. The fact that 5 players less than two weeks after the season is over tells Boylen adios is just absurd.
Here's the problems I see with Boylen. Boylen has been here for 3 years and still hasn't managed to bring a recruit in that's worth a damn. All of the players he has brought in have been softies and pansies. With respect to that, Carlon Brown waasn't his recruit and the kid was as worthless as a screen door on a submarine. Adjustments. Boylen has been outcoached in almost every game this year. I had the opporutnity to watch Utah play at Weber State this year and Randy Rahe absolutely outcoached Boylen. Every adjustment Boylen made, Rahe was ready for him. The offense than turned into the Luca Drca show. If any of you had the opporutnity to watch Drca play, you than became an alcoholic. It was that bad. For someone that coached in the NBA and was an assistant under Tom Izzo, you think the man could make in game adjustments, and it's been disappointing. Watching Boylen's team is equal to watch a monkey do a math problem, confusing.
Excuses. I have never heard Jim Boylen take fault for his ineffective coaching. Here's the excuses we hear. "My team is getting better." "We're getting better." "I like my squad." "Ball didn't go in the hoop." "We're not tough enough." "We battled." Ok Boylen we get the picture, how about the excuse "I got my ass handed to me coaching wise," or "I was just outcoached, I didn't have my guys ready." All of the above excuses come back to coaching. Rick Majerus was the best at having his team prepared in all phazes of the game. Coming up with defensive schemes to stilfe opponents. The same Rick Majerus that said "Give me Brad Barton, Ted Hollist, Judd Lyon, and two girls and I'll win the state championship." The man knew how to coach, but his health ran him out of town.
If I'm a recruit and I'm being recruited by Utah, BYU, or any division 1 team in the country and Boylen sits in my living room recruiting me, won't I have questions. "Hey coach, I saw that 5 players left after this season, what's up with that." His answer would be "Well they didn't fit my system, or they didn't like my rules so I asked them to pursue another program." My answer to Boylen is thanks but don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out. How do you expect to recruit kids when 5 players just left your program and you haven't been able to give them a straight answer. This morning on 1280, John Lund asked Boylen straight up "what's the deal with all the players leaving?" His answer was "Didn't you read the press release." Ya Boylen I read the damn press release, your job as a coach is to tell me what the hell is going on with the program I'm paying money to come watch. You want me to come sit at the Huntsman Center to watch a terrible basketball team but when your intergiry or buttoms are pushed you back off like a pansy? No thanks my friend.
Thank you for the conference champhionship last year (with Giacoletti's, and Majerus' recruit) but it's time to take a hike Jim. You have clearly lost your coaching touch (what little you had.) You can't make in game adjustments, your outcoached in every aspect of the game, and you run off your recruits after one year. Thanks but no thanks, pack up the house and head back to East Lansing.
Since Boylen has gotten to Utah, he hasn't brought in one recruit that is worthy to say "Hell I like this guy, let's ride him." Let's take a look at the team Boylen won the MWC Championship with last year.
Luke Nevill (Rick Majerus' last recruit)
Shaun Green (Ray Giacoletti recruit) - Note that Ray Giacoletti is a sack of feces
Tyler Kepkay (Ray Giacoletti recruit)
Carlon Brown (Ray Giacoletti recruit)
Lawerence Bohra (Rac Giacoletti recruit)
Not one of these players have been Jim Boylen's recruits and he's been here going on 4 years. Now, let's look at the players Boylen has recruited.
Marshall Henderson (Gone)
Jordan Cyphers (Gone)
Jay Watkins (Wish he was gone)
Chris Hines (Gone)
Matt Read (Gone)
So his recruiting class from last year has basically gone awol. Does anybody find this odd? I understand that the team went 14-17 last season with little experience and talent, but 5 guys? Even Rick Majerus never had 5 recruits leave a program in one year. The fact that 5 players less than two weeks after the season is over tells Boylen adios is just absurd.
Here's the problems I see with Boylen. Boylen has been here for 3 years and still hasn't managed to bring a recruit in that's worth a damn. All of the players he has brought in have been softies and pansies. With respect to that, Carlon Brown waasn't his recruit and the kid was as worthless as a screen door on a submarine. Adjustments. Boylen has been outcoached in almost every game this year. I had the opporutnity to watch Utah play at Weber State this year and Randy Rahe absolutely outcoached Boylen. Every adjustment Boylen made, Rahe was ready for him. The offense than turned into the Luca Drca show. If any of you had the opporutnity to watch Drca play, you than became an alcoholic. It was that bad. For someone that coached in the NBA and was an assistant under Tom Izzo, you think the man could make in game adjustments, and it's been disappointing. Watching Boylen's team is equal to watch a monkey do a math problem, confusing.
Excuses. I have never heard Jim Boylen take fault for his ineffective coaching. Here's the excuses we hear. "My team is getting better." "We're getting better." "I like my squad." "Ball didn't go in the hoop." "We're not tough enough." "We battled." Ok Boylen we get the picture, how about the excuse "I got my ass handed to me coaching wise," or "I was just outcoached, I didn't have my guys ready." All of the above excuses come back to coaching. Rick Majerus was the best at having his team prepared in all phazes of the game. Coming up with defensive schemes to stilfe opponents. The same Rick Majerus that said "Give me Brad Barton, Ted Hollist, Judd Lyon, and two girls and I'll win the state championship." The man knew how to coach, but his health ran him out of town.
If I'm a recruit and I'm being recruited by Utah, BYU, or any division 1 team in the country and Boylen sits in my living room recruiting me, won't I have questions. "Hey coach, I saw that 5 players left after this season, what's up with that." His answer would be "Well they didn't fit my system, or they didn't like my rules so I asked them to pursue another program." My answer to Boylen is thanks but don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out. How do you expect to recruit kids when 5 players just left your program and you haven't been able to give them a straight answer. This morning on 1280, John Lund asked Boylen straight up "what's the deal with all the players leaving?" His answer was "Didn't you read the press release." Ya Boylen I read the damn press release, your job as a coach is to tell me what the hell is going on with the program I'm paying money to come watch. You want me to come sit at the Huntsman Center to watch a terrible basketball team but when your intergiry or buttoms are pushed you back off like a pansy? No thanks my friend.
Thank you for the conference champhionship last year (with Giacoletti's, and Majerus' recruit) but it's time to take a hike Jim. You have clearly lost your coaching touch (what little you had.) You can't make in game adjustments, your outcoached in every aspect of the game, and you run off your recruits after one year. Thanks but no thanks, pack up the house and head back to East Lansing.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
My Top 5 Picks to Win The Masters
This could be my favorite week anytime of they year. Check that, anytime the week leading up to a golf major makes me one of the happiest men on earth. Except of course when I sit down for a meal at Tepanyaki's but that's not the point of this topic. Master's week has a special meaning this week, it's the return of the chosen one, Eldrick "Tiger" Woods. After a 5 month absent from taking a savage beating with a nike 3-Iron and crashing his black on black Escadlade into a tree, Tiger makes his return. I'm not going to lie, I'm cheering for Tiger, I hope Tiger rebuilds his life, and I hope he gets his family back. I'm not sure if I like Tiger to win this week. However, Tiger had a 144 day layoff before coming back to win the 2008 U.S. Open over fan favorite poolman Rocco Mediate (Watching Tiger's 18th hole putt to send it into a playoff still gives me chills.) The following players below are my favorites to win it this week and I will tell you why.
5. Phil Mickelson
Phil The Thrill finished his 2009 season with winning the Tour Championship and the HSBC Championship. A devestating year for Mickelson who's wife was diagnosed with breast cancer along with his mother as well. Mickelson hooked up with long time putting phenom Dick Stockton to work on his putting stroke that propelled him to two victories late in the season. Starting 2010, Mickelson has sturggled, he's sturggled to find that putting storke. The problem with Mickelson is that he takes way too many chances. Phil is like a date that you get denied at the doorstep but you think it's going great. You think the girl is into you, she laughs at your jokes, she touches your arm, and then at the doorstep you get the dreaded hug and you say to yourself "WTF?" (Let it be noted I've never experienced that.) Phil plays his round well and then boom the last 2 holes come around and he denies you with bogeying or doubling the final holes. Here's why I like him: 1. He's the best in the world with a wedge and around the greens. 2. He's long off the tee. 3. He's won at Augusta twice. Although I'd say I'd be surprised if Phil won, I'd also wouldn't be surprised to see him miss the cut.
4. Jim Furyk
Furyk is one of my favorite golfers on tour besides Mickelson. I like him because he's a perfectionist. Even when he hits bad shots in his practice rounds, he'll stand in that same spot and still visualize what happened in his swing. Furyk ended almost a two year drought when he won the Transitions Championship a few weeks back. Furyk doesn't crush the ball off the tee, and he doesn't wow you with iron play but he's consistent. He doesn't make mistakes often, he plays the course and not anyone else. Furyk usually plays well in majors, obviously he knows how to win since he won the 2003 U.S. Open at Olympia Fields in Illinois. The reasons I like Furyk are as follows: 1. He's extremely consistent. 2. If he putts well, he will shoot low scores. 3. He doesn't shoot himself in the foot with stupid shots, he'll always play smart. The only thing that concern's me with Furyk is his distance. Augusta will play long, and will hold an advantage for players longer off the tee.
3. Ernie Els
Easy Sleezy Ernie is officially back. Back to back wins on tour for the first time since I was a fetus. If you are teaching a young golfer the perfect swing, go ahead and buy Ernie Els' dvd's, he has one of the best swings on tour. Els has the luxury of winning majors, but he hasn't won any since the 90's. Regardless, he still knows how to close out victories at majors. Something about Ernie though tells me that he could struggle this week. Not many golfers have won three tournaments all year, let alone three in a row. With that being said here is why I like him : 1. He's the hottest golfer on tour (I just thought to myself, that Hansel is so hot right now - Zoolander.) 2. He, like Mickelson, has the length to shoot low scores at Augusta. 3. He finally found his putter again, and did I mention that he's won the last two tournaments he has started? I will say I will be shocked if Ernie wins his third tournament in a row, but if he does, couldn't happen to a better guy.
2. John Daly - - Just Kidding, That would be my dream. Steve Stricker
Stricker reminds me of the nerdy guy at the grocery store that should be bagging for you. The damn guy knows how to play golf though, he had the best stretch of his career in 2009 that vaulted him up to the world ranking #2. He hasn't played the best starting 2010 but that just means he's due to make a run at the title. He almost seems boring to watch because he doesn't show emotion and he plays to his strength. Why can't he be like John Daly and tee off of a tall boy every once in awhile? Stricker reminds me a lot of Furyk, very consistent, stays with in himself, and from 10- 15 feet is just almost automatic putting wise. Stricker will have a legitmate chance to win the Masters if he : 1. Plays within himself and tries not to hit shots out of his league. 2. If he's putting well, watch the hell out. 3. If he gives an occasional fist pump or actually smiles, and of course from if he's on from tee to fairway, he'd be a solid choice.
1. Tiger Woods
Well here we are. 5 months removed from the biggest sex scandal since Bill Clinton was having midnight passion with Monica Lewisnksy in the oval office. Probably the most work a Democrat has ever done in that office (que the drums and symbol.) Tiger has a great chance of winning the Masters because well he's Tiger Woods. The best golfer of any generation makes his anticipated return to Augusta. Right now you can hear some golfers like Luke Donald and Paul Casey urinating on themselves. I don't need to go into detail on why I think Tiger will win The Masters other than the fact he's just happy to be out on the course. The media will be a big distraction. "Hey Tiger, how many women did you sleep with?" Who the hell cares, that's in the past, and it's time to tee it up. I may not agree with how Tiger was living his personal life but deep down I'm hoping he wins The Masters. I can't imagine the public humility the man has gone through, and I wouldn't wish it upon anyone. Now hold on ladies, before you throw a brick through my back window of my 1997 Civic LX with a note attached saying "IT'S HIS OWN DAMN FAULT YOU(EXPLETIVE)." It is Tiger fault's for putting himself in that situation, that doesn't mean I don't feel bad for him. The best golfer in the world is back, the game of golf can now get back to normal, and it would be normal if Tiger Woods wins The Masters.
Please subject hate mail regarding my support for Tiger Woods to EatMe@hotmail.com
5. Phil Mickelson
Phil The Thrill finished his 2009 season with winning the Tour Championship and the HSBC Championship. A devestating year for Mickelson who's wife was diagnosed with breast cancer along with his mother as well. Mickelson hooked up with long time putting phenom Dick Stockton to work on his putting stroke that propelled him to two victories late in the season. Starting 2010, Mickelson has sturggled, he's sturggled to find that putting storke. The problem with Mickelson is that he takes way too many chances. Phil is like a date that you get denied at the doorstep but you think it's going great. You think the girl is into you, she laughs at your jokes, she touches your arm, and then at the doorstep you get the dreaded hug and you say to yourself "WTF?" (Let it be noted I've never experienced that.) Phil plays his round well and then boom the last 2 holes come around and he denies you with bogeying or doubling the final holes. Here's why I like him: 1. He's the best in the world with a wedge and around the greens. 2. He's long off the tee. 3. He's won at Augusta twice. Although I'd say I'd be surprised if Phil won, I'd also wouldn't be surprised to see him miss the cut.
4. Jim Furyk
Furyk is one of my favorite golfers on tour besides Mickelson. I like him because he's a perfectionist. Even when he hits bad shots in his practice rounds, he'll stand in that same spot and still visualize what happened in his swing. Furyk ended almost a two year drought when he won the Transitions Championship a few weeks back. Furyk doesn't crush the ball off the tee, and he doesn't wow you with iron play but he's consistent. He doesn't make mistakes often, he plays the course and not anyone else. Furyk usually plays well in majors, obviously he knows how to win since he won the 2003 U.S. Open at Olympia Fields in Illinois. The reasons I like Furyk are as follows: 1. He's extremely consistent. 2. If he putts well, he will shoot low scores. 3. He doesn't shoot himself in the foot with stupid shots, he'll always play smart. The only thing that concern's me with Furyk is his distance. Augusta will play long, and will hold an advantage for players longer off the tee.
3. Ernie Els
Easy Sleezy Ernie is officially back. Back to back wins on tour for the first time since I was a fetus. If you are teaching a young golfer the perfect swing, go ahead and buy Ernie Els' dvd's, he has one of the best swings on tour. Els has the luxury of winning majors, but he hasn't won any since the 90's. Regardless, he still knows how to close out victories at majors. Something about Ernie though tells me that he could struggle this week. Not many golfers have won three tournaments all year, let alone three in a row. With that being said here is why I like him : 1. He's the hottest golfer on tour (I just thought to myself, that Hansel is so hot right now - Zoolander.) 2. He, like Mickelson, has the length to shoot low scores at Augusta. 3. He finally found his putter again, and did I mention that he's won the last two tournaments he has started? I will say I will be shocked if Ernie wins his third tournament in a row, but if he does, couldn't happen to a better guy.
2. John Daly - - Just Kidding, That would be my dream. Steve Stricker
Stricker reminds me of the nerdy guy at the grocery store that should be bagging for you. The damn guy knows how to play golf though, he had the best stretch of his career in 2009 that vaulted him up to the world ranking #2. He hasn't played the best starting 2010 but that just means he's due to make a run at the title. He almost seems boring to watch because he doesn't show emotion and he plays to his strength. Why can't he be like John Daly and tee off of a tall boy every once in awhile? Stricker reminds me a lot of Furyk, very consistent, stays with in himself, and from 10- 15 feet is just almost automatic putting wise. Stricker will have a legitmate chance to win the Masters if he : 1. Plays within himself and tries not to hit shots out of his league. 2. If he's putting well, watch the hell out. 3. If he gives an occasional fist pump or actually smiles, and of course from if he's on from tee to fairway, he'd be a solid choice.
1. Tiger Woods
Well here we are. 5 months removed from the biggest sex scandal since Bill Clinton was having midnight passion with Monica Lewisnksy in the oval office. Probably the most work a Democrat has ever done in that office (que the drums and symbol.) Tiger has a great chance of winning the Masters because well he's Tiger Woods. The best golfer of any generation makes his anticipated return to Augusta. Right now you can hear some golfers like Luke Donald and Paul Casey urinating on themselves. I don't need to go into detail on why I think Tiger will win The Masters other than the fact he's just happy to be out on the course. The media will be a big distraction. "Hey Tiger, how many women did you sleep with?" Who the hell cares, that's in the past, and it's time to tee it up. I may not agree with how Tiger was living his personal life but deep down I'm hoping he wins The Masters. I can't imagine the public humility the man has gone through, and I wouldn't wish it upon anyone. Now hold on ladies, before you throw a brick through my back window of my 1997 Civic LX with a note attached saying "IT'S HIS OWN DAMN FAULT YOU(EXPLETIVE)." It is Tiger fault's for putting himself in that situation, that doesn't mean I don't feel bad for him. The best golfer in the world is back, the game of golf can now get back to normal, and it would be normal if Tiger Woods wins The Masters.
Please subject hate mail regarding my support for Tiger Woods to EatMe@hotmail.com
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Top 5 Sports Movies in My Book
With seeing The Blindside and watching Remember the Titans on the way home from St.George, I thought to myself "I smell another blog topic coming on." You bet, I was thinking to myself, "what are the top 5 sports movies I've seen?" Obviously this topic is based off a matter of personal opinion and will cause some debate, but it's still a fun topic to discuss. I'm not going to lie, some of the movies on this list might be rated R. Judge me if you like, but I know a damn good movie when I see one. So without further delay, let's dive into the wonderful world of Chris' mind.
Also, I'd like to point out, take my advice and watch these flicks. Rated R or not, I'm sure I'll get a text message or phone call thanking me.
5. The Program - 1993
Nothing brings out American athletics like steroids, a drunk driving arrest, and kids that aren't able to spell their names right on their SAT's. Still, in my opinion, one of the best football movies of our generation. I hate to say it, but there is programs out there just in shambles as the one portrayed in this flick. (See USC, and see why Pete Carrol bolted to the NFL. What a shocker he left..........). I'm not sure what the best scene in the movie is, the part where Guns N' Roses is playing during training camp where they are lighting each other up or when Lattimer smashes his face through a car window upon finding out he's on the starting defense? You have to feel for some of the characters, a Heisman hopeful quarterback who's dad would rather sail away with Captain Morgan on the couch than watch one of his games. An all-American linebacker, who reads on a 3rd grade level and banking on the NFL, blows his knee out against Iowa and never plays again. Realistic or not, you get an idea of what kind of crap college coaches have to sweep under the rug on a daily basis.
4. Blue Chips - 1992
Nick Nolte's finest flick, and we are talking pre-him setting the record for most coke done in a year. A story of a storied basketball program that's on tougher times (Gee where have I seen this? Take a look 20 minutes south on the rocky mountains and you'll see the same thing). The director couldn't have picked a better guy for the job than Nick Nolte. The man cusses like a sailor, drinks a chilled glass of scotch after get blown out, and punts basketball's into the stands. Who in the world wouldn't want to play for this guy? Plus, Penny Hardaway and Shaquille O'Neal make an appearance in the movie. Trust me, Shaq isn't as bad in this as he was in his movie Kazam. Watch two minutes of Kazam and you will literally start burning yourself with lit cigarettes. Basically, Nolte has to resort to dishing out cash, tractors, and Mercedes to get these kids to come to his program. Sit down and watch this flick. Even in the first 5 minutes, the intro will give you absolute chills.
3. Major League - 1989
One of the first movies I watched when I was little, on television when it was edited of course.......... Anyhow, an all-star cast. Tom Berenger, Wesley Snipes (pre-tax fraud), the voodoo dude from the All-State commercials, and Charlie Sheen, who was able to step away from picking up prostitutes to make an appearance. Now I don't remember much from the 80's besides watching Def Leppard's music video Pour Some Sugar On Me but I hear the Cleveland Indians were just awful. Couldn't have picked a better franchise to give a miracle run to the pennant. Besides, is there a better part in a movie than where Charlie Sheen rolls out to Wild Thing to close a game out? Agreed he looks like he should be working on his science project with those classes but that scene fires you up. I remember I got the same entrance in little league(Nicholls Field)when I needed to close out a team with Rand Sargent at the plate. Only problem is I was the size of John Kruk. So obviously, I can relate to this movie. That and Bob Uecker downing a bottle of Jack Daniels Hot Rod Hundley style during his broadcast.
2. Rudy - 1993
Not going to lie, one of the first movies I've ever cried to, not counting Fox and the Hound. The story of a kid with zero athletic ability, who was always told No, and walks on at one of the most storied college football programs in the country. The amazing part of it, the movie is a true story. Rudy actually lived in the janitor break room, sunk all his money he had going to Holy Cross to bring his grades up, and took a savage beating on the scout team for 2 years. Here's the part where you tear up. First, when he leads the team out of the tunnel onto the field with his parents there is when you start getting gushy. You go overboard when he gets the sack at the end of the game and the team carries him off the field. The ultimate "no one said I could do it" story. Rudy is a true American hero if you ask me.
1. Rocky IV
I used to watch this movie over and over when I was little. This was a toss up with Rudy. It boiled down to Rocky IV is the ultimate underdog wins movie. A movie where in real life where no one would give Rocky a chance in hell to beat Drago. The only thing I could really relate it to was Buster Douglas knocking out Mike Tyson when everyone in the world thought Tyson was the baddest man on the planet. Everything from the training scenes, which I might add have all been grueling in every Rocky movie, to him beating Drago at the end. Sorry if I ruined the movie, but if you haven't seen Rocky IV than you should flat out be ashamed of yourself. It should be a jail able offense if you haven't seen it. In a world where we are still fighting with the Russians, Rocky goes into Communist country and smokes the roided up Ivan Drago. Now to be realistic, any fighter would be dead after taking a beating like Rocky did against Drago. However, that's what makes the upset so spectacular. Drago is the ultimate killing machine, he's indestructible. This little 202 lb Italian Tank runs over Drago and wins the hearts of Russia, and in the end makes you have goosebumps all over your body.
Honorable Mentions:
We Are Marshall, Friday Night Lights, Varsity Blues, Hoosiers, Bloodsport, Rocky 1-Balboa, Above the Rim, and Hoop Dreams.
Also, I'd like to point out, take my advice and watch these flicks. Rated R or not, I'm sure I'll get a text message or phone call thanking me.
5. The Program - 1993
Nothing brings out American athletics like steroids, a drunk driving arrest, and kids that aren't able to spell their names right on their SAT's. Still, in my opinion, one of the best football movies of our generation. I hate to say it, but there is programs out there just in shambles as the one portrayed in this flick. (See USC, and see why Pete Carrol bolted to the NFL. What a shocker he left..........). I'm not sure what the best scene in the movie is, the part where Guns N' Roses is playing during training camp where they are lighting each other up or when Lattimer smashes his face through a car window upon finding out he's on the starting defense? You have to feel for some of the characters, a Heisman hopeful quarterback who's dad would rather sail away with Captain Morgan on the couch than watch one of his games. An all-American linebacker, who reads on a 3rd grade level and banking on the NFL, blows his knee out against Iowa and never plays again. Realistic or not, you get an idea of what kind of crap college coaches have to sweep under the rug on a daily basis.
4. Blue Chips - 1992
Nick Nolte's finest flick, and we are talking pre-him setting the record for most coke done in a year. A story of a storied basketball program that's on tougher times (Gee where have I seen this? Take a look 20 minutes south on the rocky mountains and you'll see the same thing). The director couldn't have picked a better guy for the job than Nick Nolte. The man cusses like a sailor, drinks a chilled glass of scotch after get blown out, and punts basketball's into the stands. Who in the world wouldn't want to play for this guy? Plus, Penny Hardaway and Shaquille O'Neal make an appearance in the movie. Trust me, Shaq isn't as bad in this as he was in his movie Kazam. Watch two minutes of Kazam and you will literally start burning yourself with lit cigarettes. Basically, Nolte has to resort to dishing out cash, tractors, and Mercedes to get these kids to come to his program. Sit down and watch this flick. Even in the first 5 minutes, the intro will give you absolute chills.
3. Major League - 1989
One of the first movies I watched when I was little, on television when it was edited of course.......... Anyhow, an all-star cast. Tom Berenger, Wesley Snipes (pre-tax fraud), the voodoo dude from the All-State commercials, and Charlie Sheen, who was able to step away from picking up prostitutes to make an appearance. Now I don't remember much from the 80's besides watching Def Leppard's music video Pour Some Sugar On Me but I hear the Cleveland Indians were just awful. Couldn't have picked a better franchise to give a miracle run to the pennant. Besides, is there a better part in a movie than where Charlie Sheen rolls out to Wild Thing to close a game out? Agreed he looks like he should be working on his science project with those classes but that scene fires you up. I remember I got the same entrance in little league(Nicholls Field)when I needed to close out a team with Rand Sargent at the plate. Only problem is I was the size of John Kruk. So obviously, I can relate to this movie. That and Bob Uecker downing a bottle of Jack Daniels Hot Rod Hundley style during his broadcast.
2. Rudy - 1993
Not going to lie, one of the first movies I've ever cried to, not counting Fox and the Hound. The story of a kid with zero athletic ability, who was always told No, and walks on at one of the most storied college football programs in the country. The amazing part of it, the movie is a true story. Rudy actually lived in the janitor break room, sunk all his money he had going to Holy Cross to bring his grades up, and took a savage beating on the scout team for 2 years. Here's the part where you tear up. First, when he leads the team out of the tunnel onto the field with his parents there is when you start getting gushy. You go overboard when he gets the sack at the end of the game and the team carries him off the field. The ultimate "no one said I could do it" story. Rudy is a true American hero if you ask me.
1. Rocky IV
I used to watch this movie over and over when I was little. This was a toss up with Rudy. It boiled down to Rocky IV is the ultimate underdog wins movie. A movie where in real life where no one would give Rocky a chance in hell to beat Drago. The only thing I could really relate it to was Buster Douglas knocking out Mike Tyson when everyone in the world thought Tyson was the baddest man on the planet. Everything from the training scenes, which I might add have all been grueling in every Rocky movie, to him beating Drago at the end. Sorry if I ruined the movie, but if you haven't seen Rocky IV than you should flat out be ashamed of yourself. It should be a jail able offense if you haven't seen it. In a world where we are still fighting with the Russians, Rocky goes into Communist country and smokes the roided up Ivan Drago. Now to be realistic, any fighter would be dead after taking a beating like Rocky did against Drago. However, that's what makes the upset so spectacular. Drago is the ultimate killing machine, he's indestructible. This little 202 lb Italian Tank runs over Drago and wins the hearts of Russia, and in the end makes you have goosebumps all over your body.
Honorable Mentions:
We Are Marshall, Friday Night Lights, Varsity Blues, Hoosiers, Bloodsport, Rocky 1-Balboa, Above the Rim, and Hoop Dreams.
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