He's No Kazaam
I like Luke Walton. Very nice guy. Improved a lot in the second half of last season. High hoops IQ. And absolutely zero threat whatsoever to the throne of Jack, Denzel, Leo and the rest of Hollywood that shows up regularly to watch him play. You could make a serious argument he wasn't very convincing playing himself. Of course, you could also make a serious argument he may just have been phoning this puppy in. But either way, as long as he had fun.
And on the positive side, at least we know Luke hasn't forgone off-season workouts in favor of intensive theatrical training. He should be in excellent shape come October.
By the way, did anybody happen to catch the entire episode? Was there even a shred of context established or does Luke Walton just happen to show up while pretty boy is shooting hoops by himself? Kind of reminds me of when celebrities pop by Springfield on "The Simpsons."
(Thanks to "Eric" for the link. BK and I had planned on reviewing his performance in live blog format, but forgot the date. As it turns out, with the 1 minute, 37 seconds running time, we simply spared everyone the most anti-climactic real time gathering ever).
AK
greek dude,
I just got through watching that game again. Damn Greece is a fun team to watch!
Whats the story on Diamantidis? NBA on the horizon?
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 01:03 AM
BTW Melo wasn't the only one out there after the game, D. Howard was paying his respects too.
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 01:21 AM
Sonny,
HA! Your blown-backs got handled tonight!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 02:23 AM
Uh oh girl scouts,
It's sounding like the Brokebacker litmus test has reared its ugly head again.
You see, I think Saint Kobe is fun to watch. He can do spectacular things on the basketball court. I also think that he is a detriment to your squad, or perhaps any squad that would hold him above reproach, as virtually all of you seem to do. This surely doesn't help him in any way.
Now, as a Sacramento Kings fan, you might expect to hear something like that coming from me. Fair enough. In fact, I've just given him a new name; "Kobe The Clown". Fits well doesn't it? I digress.
What do you do about Laker fans who want him out? Don't kid yourself. There are many. Some of these Laker fans have pedigrees which match or exceed those of anyone on this blog, including you Laker Tom, Mr. Tienente or most anyone else. Are you going to throw them out of your tree house? Oh I see. They should come on this blog and "reveal themselves", right? Sure thing. We see what happens when that happens right here, everyday. Even the narrators are not immune to the onslaught of girly hysteria.
Nothing approaching a majority of course, but many strong Laker fans would like to send Kobe on his way (while he is still worth something) so that your storied franchise can properly rebuild to reclaim its rightful place among the NBA elites.
What are you going to do? They are Laker fans through and through, yet the sentiments they hold couldn't be more diametrically opposed to most of yours if they shoved a King cow pattie down your gullet.
Actually, what you would do is shun them. They clearly fail the test! Don't they. The man is a Saint afterall. So much for the clown name.
In the meantime, let's get back to "As The World Turns" Walton mountain. I believe Luke was about to piss on this post.
Posted by: sonnybelfast | September 02, 2006 at 02:40 AM
HOW BOUT THOSE NINERS!!!
I think Keith Lewis said it best when he COMPLETELY LEVELED Ryan Krause- THE NINERS ARE BACK BABY!!
And Michael Robinson? ARE YOU KIDDING ME! Did somebody grease him up before the game??
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 02:50 AM
Whew, this is a novel, hope I don’t bore too many of you to death. Like the blog isn't long enough already.
Looks like Greek Dude should be on a pink cloud for a while! We have to give credit where credit is due. The USA team was embarrassed and once again the world games show us a different style of basketball that somehow looks more fundamentally sound than the game played in our beloved NBA. It just sucks to say but the (John) Wooden rules still apply and players like BWalton and Kareeem who learned this style of play are today laughed at and the butt of many jokes when they explain that the game we used to play has become a shell of what it was.
Carmelo had a ton of heart and truly has the makings of an all time great player in the NBA, but the holes in his game and his co-stars are truly evident mainly because these players do not even cling to the Wooden rules or identify them. The world league is a clinic on game strategy and change ups that are catered towards throwing a new look at the opposition, just do something new that works and work it until it doesn't work any more. Pick and Roll is going to live on basketball courts for years and will always be taught at every level of play. I just can’t believe that players at that level - our NBA players cannot learn to defend it! Team Defense and quick switches along with sliding under/behind or fighting through loose picks are the keys and every team needs these drills just like they need to learn how to take away the baseline or drive a guy away or push a player from his dominant hand - perfect example is Lamar Odom. No right hand. Make him go right, wait for help if he takes it. The youth movement on team USA hurt them because of their lack of knowledge in the game, too many players go to college and play 1-2 years and know nothing about fundamentals unless they get lucky enough to have a Coach K, Dean Smith, a Bobby Knight or of course Wooden. The skills that have diminished sure are a pain in the butt to watch because in the course of an NBA season, all of these rules and tools are what win games. Example rebound in game 6 - any one who watched that replay knows our beloved LO didn't screen out and wasn't aware of where the ball was! Hurts still to think that basic stuff cost us a next level in the playoffs. Know where your man is, know where the ball is, and keep yourself between the basket and the ball and your man. Pretty simple, pretty much gets lost all the time in the NBA. Long arms and guys jumping out of the gym relying on ability have us screaming WOW and WOAHHHH but simply mean nothing because it is lazy mans way to overcome fighting for position.
You have to wonder sometime if we might be better once again to putting the ego-less players out of college who have played in fundamentally sound programs and are in their 4th year might be better suited for the World Championships. The teams will have more time to practice together than the pros and will be much more coach-able.
No big attitudes and guys that are humble enough to continue working on fundamentals. Free Throws, Free Throws, man are we talking about free throws. - just mocking AIverson. The Greeks were found practicing free throws before the game as the USA squad was throwing down big dunks and thinking more of the same is coming our way, ouch, overconfident and paying for it today. I am disgusted and have a hard time digesting the whole thing. The Greeks offer handshakes and the USA walks off, Coach K, what is that about?!!! Didn’t these guys remember they are representing our country, the good guys, the peacemakers, the good ol’USA- daddy to all the nations and the world that run away scared to fight terrorism. Damn now that is embarrassing!
You see, I love the game and know that players as talented as Magic, Kobe and AI are on a level that just cannot be measured by many others in the NBA and definitely not in the World Leagues. The team we have on the floor was not put together with a sense of leadership and quality to commitment, too many young players, and too many guys just playing the game on talent alone, but not using the basics of skills of defense and offense. We began to try the one on one philosophy and forgot about running screens off the ball and having guys running the Greeks silly all over the court. We forgot to yell help and switch on D and we forgot how to make free throws. DID WE FORGET or did we ever know this stuff.
The game as it ends up being played has to favor AI, Ray Allen and Kobe because today’s NBA players are in favor of the one man highlight film above the team feeling great about denying the opposition a good shot, getting back on fast breaks, picking up someone else’s man or a screening out for position to prevent a rebound. They are also sometimes waiting for their teammates to make it all happen, not working like a mule to get around a guy and free for a shot or to get position on a rebound. A few players like Tayshaun Prince and Chauncey Billups would have been great additions to this team, proven winners, good free throw shooters, great passers, they can hit 3’s and are solid defenders too..
Sad to think we have such poor examples of character such as Ron Artest, Reggie Evans, Allen Iverson, Bonzi Wells, Danny Fortson, Rasheed Wallace, Zach Randolph, Steve Francis and Starbury around the league that they are not on this team due to past history, and the way they have developed their own character by refusing to respect others. These players and more should be out there wanting to be proclaimed the best, but their everyday life, attitudes and habits are poor examples of real sportsmen. Their actions have them dismissed from being a part of history. All of them could use a tongue lashing from old man Wooden about the responsibility they have to themselves and their team as well as their families and all of their fans back home and on the road. It is a privilege to represent your country, just act our military. The absence of KG, Shaq, Tim Duncan, Vince Carter, and a few others I have mentioned makes me think maybe Coangelo just didn’t think this thing out. Just win damn it!
I do think we have the talent to win and win convincingly. Watching that game I thought we had more talent and could have beaten the greeks. I think the coaching staff has the tools to turn these players around and I hope that if a game like this one ever happens again the coach looks down the bench and uses a few more players while others are struggling.
I have to think this team will get better and Coach K will want more control of how these guys develop after researching the tapes of these games. That can only mean better basketball for the next two years on the USA team. I sure hope it doesn't take Kobe bailing out the team with heroics he seems to deliver at crunch times better than most, in my opinion contrary to facts, he is my go to guy before Carmelo or Wade. The Amare addition along with an improved Arenas and maybe the emerging all-star Lamar will make a difference on next summer’s team
The Dream team was lead by possibly the best two point guards ever. We need that kind of leadership, and as long as AI is in the NBA and playing with the energy he does every night, he gets my vote to play on any team I put together. I mean Chris Paul, Heinrich above AI, Bibby, JKidd, Arenas, and heck even Baron Davis is better than those two. Well its over and the Argentina game might be another bad dream – have to see if we adjust and at least win the bronze. Maybe next year guys. Good Luck and God Bless you Team USA!
Posted by: Peter Maguire | September 02, 2006 at 03:47 AM
Ak/BK
In al this congrats back-and-forth we all forgot to answer one issue:
Greece did not have a single NBA player on their team. What does it say about our scouting? we get (no disrespect) Sasha?
Baywood
Posted by: Baywood | September 02, 2006 at 06:19 AM
Well, the US beat Argentina for the bronze medal.
http://sports.espn.go.com/oly/wbc2006/news/story?id=2569890
Somewhat of a consolation prize since Argentina was the team that beat the U.S in the 2004 Olympics. I guess everyone can now refer to King James as "LeBronze" now.
Posted by: Steven Lim | September 02, 2006 at 07:58 AM
Great Post R.G. Gaznabi!!!!! You hit the nail right on the head. I think once Kobe, and Wallace, and Billups get there the rest of the world will fear us. Let's be honest this was our B-squad, and we still were the most dominate team there. Once we add those guys the rest of the world won't know what hit them.
I would love to see Artest on the US team, but I doubt it will happen. I think Colangelo will be too scared of his reputation, and what he might do to have him on the team. But if these guys could get past the Detroit incident they will see that Ron is exactly what we need on this team. His defensive intensity alone would put soooo much fear into the oppossing team it would be crazy.
I'm bothered by the loss, but the way I see it the rest of the world just got a taste of what they'll see in 08.
Posted by: Weave-Man | September 02, 2006 at 07:59 AM
Edwin,
I'm not saying he didn't have the right to do what he did (god knows after the bumps and bruises he took that series he had the right to react just about any way he felt), but what I'm saying is that doesn't make it right. Like I said in my first post im speaking in hindsight because at the time I was so upset I didn't care, but when you look back at it he could have shaken everyone but Bell's hand.
Yes, it hurt that we lost that series, and AK bringing it back up doesn't feel good, but he's not attacking Kobe by asking a very simple question. I just think a lot of people overreacted to what AK said, because we are soooo used to the media dogging Kobe everytime they say something about him. I feel y'alls pain but in this circumstance the media (AK) was just honestly asking a question.
Posted by: Weave-Man | September 02, 2006 at 08:10 AM
UNITED STATES has lost it's swagger!!! In order to bring it back I have put together my own team. The question is can we get them to join.
Mcgrady
V. Carter
Kobe
Artest
Bowen
Billups
Kidd
Shaq
Garnett
Ben Wallace
Rashed Wallace
Ray Allen
Now this is a team that would dominate any team that anybody puts on the floor. I have this team winning by 25 or more every single game. See back when Michael Jordan played he had tough guys on his team. Ewing, Barkley, Robinson, Malone. See if you look at the team that I have put together you will see defense, shooting,toughness, confidence, and domination in the paint. We controlled the paint back in the day and now we are relying on our guards way to much. We need to go back to basic basketball and pound the ball into our biggs.
NOT ELTON BRAND SORRY BUT EITHER!!!!!!FOR ALL THE CLIPPER FANS!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Zakee | September 02, 2006 at 09:11 AM
If T-Mac is hurt then I have to put Lebron in.
Posted by: Zakee | September 02, 2006 at 09:23 AM
Lakersgirl,
I've said before, I completely understand if Kobe didn't want to shake Raja Bell's hand. And I have no problem with that. Bell clearly has it out for Kobe (and I thought that was the case for the last couple seasons, much less before that ugly takedown) and could have seriously hurt Kobe with that nonsense. So shining Raja is acceptable, in my mind.
The rest of the Suns? Not to much. They didn't do anything worthy of sparking that reaction. As far as them "complaining," that was simply something every team (including the Lakers) does all the time throughout every playoffs. Phil Jackson has made a high art form of using the media as a means of questioning the refs. I don't hear any Laker fans complaining about that. I also heard Nash (and other Suns) talk after games. They had respect for the Lakers. They just didn't feel the refs were giving them much love. Which makes them like EVERY other team, including the Lakers. Nobody ever thinks they're getting love from the refs. That's just the NBA and nothing unique to Phoenix.
Bottom line, if the Lakers had won, and the Suns walked off the court without shaking hands, I'm pretty sure everyone on this blog would have been going on and on about the Suns being classless. You can't have it both ways.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 02, 2006 at 09:35 AM
Dwyane Wade says he can already anticipate the reaction that Team USA's loss to Greece is going to draw back in the States.
"I don't care," said the NBA Finals MVP with the Miami Heat. "I don't think people understand how good these teams are. But we're not worried about that.
"When you signed up to be on USA Basketball, there was a chance this could happen. When we win by 20, there's stuff said back home. So now that we didn't win, of course there's gonna be negative things said. For me personally, it's not gonna make me or break me. We just got to come back."
I think Dwyane is a bit confused with his line:
"I don't think people understand how good these teams are."
After team USA's showing over the last 10 years...We understand that the international community has caught up. It the NBA players who don't understand. I mean check that statement out. It's like he's trying to make a revelation to us when in fact it's his eyes that have been opened. The line should read: "We, team USA, didn't understand how good these teams are."
What Dwyane doesn't understand is that we do know. It he and his teammates that didn't understand and got their butts handed to them because of it.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 09:43 AM
AK
"Bottom line, if the Lakers had won, and the Suns walked off the court without shaking hands, I'm prBBottom line, if the Lakers had won, and the Suns walked off the court without shaking hands, I'm pretty sure everyone on this blog would have been going on and on about the Suns being classless, I'm pretty sure everyone on this blog would have been going on and on about the Suns being classless."
Actually all that shaking hands stuff is overrated. I really don't care. The people who care about stuff like that would say something. I know you're one of those folks who puts value in sportsmanship. I can understand that but the more you write about it in this conversation the more you twist it, the responsibility goes from LeBron James, Dwyane Wade to Kobe and now to the bloggers in a way out scenario of: If the Lakers had won (It didn't happen, it's not reality) and if this or that had happened. The shore of this conversation is team USA but you have drifted way out to sea with everything else you're putting into it. I can hear you calling out from way out there: KOBE DID IT FIRST! KOBE DID IT FIRST! IF THE LAKERS HAD WON WHAT WOULD YOU THINK IF THE SUNS DID SHAKE HANDS! KOBE DID IT FIRST!
I feel like throwing you a lifeline but I'm afraid the float would have LeBron James and Dwyane Wade names on it and you wouldn't touch it. KOBE DID IT FIRST!
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 09:54 AM
AK,
One more thing:
"You can't have it both ways."
You create a scenario where there seems to be 2 options. The Lakers lost and it's over with. The Lakers and Kobe Bryant are not part of this. They don't come into play. This is about team USA and nothing else. Captains LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 09:57 AM
Mike T,
I haven't twisted a thing. I've put an equal onus on LeBron and Wade to have shaken hands as well. I've said many times throughout the conversation that they were wrong not to do so. Point blank.
And this isn't a case of who did what first, Kobe or Team USA. That's irrelevant. It would be exactly the same scenario if the handshake-free FIBA match had come before Lakers-Suns, with Lakers fans ripping LeBron and Wade, but excusing Wade. The order of sequence means nothing in my mind. It's about actions, not chronological order.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 02, 2006 at 10:12 AM
AK,
I don't remmember hearing your top five favorite and hated players. Would you like to shed some light?
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 10:20 AM
Weave-man,
That's why I said that incident was already fogotten and it was wrong timing to mention it and correlate it with some players in Team USA unsportmanship conduct.
However, we really don't know if it was really "unsportsmanship" or just plain hurt and embarrassment for Melo. Perhaps, when the TV cameras were no longer around, he may have approached their worthy opponents along the corregidors or else, there would be another media backlash on the intentional snub by the losing party, so far no report on that matter. Melo would really feel very disappointed because his dream and efforts throughout the series were wasted. He was not really addressing his anger at the greeks but he was ashamed of himself - thinking of that LAST shot! But if you watched all the games, he was the best player in the team.
Anyway, glad to report they won against Argentina so they placed 3rd in FIBA, not bad, just one lost and only six points margin. If the games were set like the NBA playoffs of best of four or best of three, I believe USA will come out winner.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | September 02, 2006 at 10:21 AM
BK,
In my response to the post you made to us (Baywood and I)...that's OK, I was kidding you in helping your bro. Very soon these conversations will soon pass just like water under the bridge.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | September 02, 2006 at 10:38 AM
Edwin-
No worries. I thought you might be, but I figured I'd put it out there anyway. Andy and I often agree on a lot of hoops issues, but when we don't neither one of us is afraid to point it out.
BK
Posted by: Brian Kamenetzky | September 02, 2006 at 10:41 AM
BK,
Do you care to post you top 5 and bottom 5?
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 10:52 AM
Dan the Man,
Well, "favorite" would take some thought (LOTTA players I like), so let me do "hated" first. There are fewer players that rub me wrong.
In no particular order:
1) Antoine Walker - Between his stats-obsessed nature and the bombing of 3's like they were a form of crack, He'd bug the crap out of me even if he didn't do the wiggle. However, he does do said wiggle, which kicks everything up a notch or seven.
2) Jason Williams - Anyone who tattoos "White boy" on their knuckles (Thanks for the clarification, Jason. I had no idea you were caucasian until I read your hand.) is pretty much a douche in my book. I also think he's overrated.
3) The Kandi Man - I've already written about this cat's worthless nature.
http://lakersblog.latimes.com/lakersblog/2006/04/lvp.html#comments
4) Greg Ostertag - I'm pretty sure Osterfat just retired, so technically, he's no longer in the league. But since the new Osterfat-free NBA season has yet to begin, I'm allowing myself to include this annoying bastard in the conversation. I used to love watching Osterfat freak out and throw hissies every time Shaq abused him.
5) Mike Bibby - I don't really hate Bibby, truth be told. The guy doesn't say three words, much less talk annoying smack, and I actually like his game. He's also got serious balls. I just hate watching him play the Lakers. He has a tendancy to... um... shred them.
AK
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 02, 2006 at 10:52 AM
AK,
Thanks. J. Will has "whiteboy" across his knuckles?...lol. Didn't know that. Hilarious! Although he would of been more accurate with "whitetrash"!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 10:59 AM
R.G. Gaznabi definitely a great post.
Long too, good quality and content.
You will fit in fine around here! I love the information here and almost all of the opinions.
The respect issue is what we need gain in many forms, but mostly by outplaying the opponent and that means fundamentally and straight up mentally. Not to mention physically. I am a huge believer in sending a message early on that the other team knows you are not going to take any sh** so guys like Shaq and even Artest are awesome in this regard. I also believe Chauncey and Kobe will help. A glaring weakness is not having Tim Duncan and KG, suit up for this thing. I am not sure Shaq would commit especially noting his summer commitment to staying in shape.
Zakee posted a team that is truly superior to the one we put out there and I know in 2 years we are going to have to hope the older players are still in shape and playing the game but I hate to lose so I would have to agree with that post. A few players like Carmelo, LeBron and Wade still make the team though. To totally dominate and do it convincingly you have to put the best players on the floor. The amount of bad passes and players losing the ball under pressure and gambling on highlight dunks were just too much, because it happened too often.
Free throws, free throws, free throws! Oh to see the missed free throws - that hurts.
Mike T is right about a lot of stuff but hearing things from the sea - now that was funny! Pointing out Wades misquote of not being ready was pretty good, he and all the players have no one to blame but themselves.
Hooray we beat Argentina! Thank God, We didn't suffer a loss to Argentina and were very much the better team. I am sad for the Argentineans getting a third foul called on Ginobli before the half that wasn't on him at all, that hurt them a lot. He didn't play the whole 3rd quarter. This team was a little more subtle and not as well coached as Greece. Greece took advantage of every thing we gave them and changed tempo and offensive and defensive strategies quickly. Our scouts weren't on top of it, we hadn't practiced enough and more than that the players didn't know how to react.
The great thing about this tournament is the fact that many players shine from other countries against our best NBA players and it just goes to show you that a well-disciplined team at the NBA level may be able to add 5-10 wins a year developing that same discipline and unity of team ball. I do think there may be a few players that caught the eyes of NBA scouts and could be receiving phone calls soon.
Posted by: Peter Maguire | September 02, 2006 at 11:26 AM
You know yesterday I saw a photo of LeBron James sitting on the Team USA's bench looking like he was stunned by the loss to Greece. It was on Yahoo sports: NBA. That photo spoke volumes to me. It showed his disappointment...his pride was shaken. I actually felt for him as an American.
Today's photo on Yahoo sports: NBA there's a photo of James saluting the flag in receiving the Bronze metal. His demeanor in that photo makes me proud of him. The guy is young and is learning. But that photo speaks to me about him. I like it.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 11:42 AM
What shocks me about the situation and at the same time explains why the U.S. lost is LBJ's riff at the start of the tournament about wanting to become sport's first billionaire and participating in the games because that gave him the necessary exposure in the humungous Chinese market. There's a clear difference between him and Kobe: Kobe's priorities still seem to be sport, though unsaintlike he is clearly not indifferent to marketing and merchandising.
As jazz musicians used to say, "you gotta pay your dues". Kobe did that coming off the bench under Del Harris and slowly building his reputation, which he was intent on doing from the beginning. Lebron was Mister Money from the start, with a bigger Nike contract than Kobe (just before the Colorado scandal) and he now thinks of himself as Mister Biggest Money Ever. What could he know about paying his dues when everyone was lining up to pay him as a future at the ripe old age of 16 or 17? But the rest of us now know what the price of that cockiness is.
But it isn't all his fault: everyone -- media, the NBA, the coaches -- bought into the marketing hype of the 2003 promotion. The dazzle and flash is there, but when guys have never learned about paying their dues, they all end up living in fantasy land (with a healthy income, nevertheless). Curiously, Carmelo may have paid his dues in the Olympics by being humiliated by Larry Brown and the press. That seems to have given him a little more stature than the others.
What I see in Lebron's and Wade's reaction is bitterness and confusion about not receiving the triumph and gold that was "due" to them after everyone convinced them that they were collectively the Second Coming.
Posted by: Tsphere | September 02, 2006 at 12:15 PM
I am sort of lost on what really happened after the loss to Greece the commentators had nothing but positive reports on the class and sportmanlike attitudes of all the American players. They seemed to be still on and around the the court when the game was over. Did they really walk away? or is this just more bad info running into jive gossip and a whole big mess.
James and Wade were pretty upset, and I think it was a good dose of reality for them to continue to improve their games. Those 3 guys are surely the future of the NBA. I still feel sad for Kobe not being able to play and get a feel for being a team player in an environment that might have scored him some respect and admiration. Of course, with the underlying goal of bringing one of those guys to the Lakers!
Posted by: Peter Maguire | September 02, 2006 at 12:24 PM
Tsphere,
"What I see in Lebron's and Wade's reaction is bitterness and confusion about not receiving the triumph and gold that was "due" to them after everyone convinced them that they were collectively the Second Coming."
Excellent point.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 12:24 PM
Mike,
They have been beaten and blamed for the loss as if it was the end of NBA reign in the world of basketball. It was just one silly game but there was too much pressure and expectations from uninterested critics. The way I see it, they did their best for their country, played a clean game and represented US of A. something that we can be proud of. Without the USA team, the crowds in China, Korea and Japan would not be as big, enthusiastic and interested in the FIBA games. Anywhere they go, the USA team were mobbed, they're the glamour boys that you only see on billboards, commercials and cable TV, but now, they were there in person. It captivated the crowd and the media that they immediately gained the stature as the team to beat, eventhough they were only 3rd in the last Olympics. This loss could be a blessing in disguise being humbled by the greeks but in return, these young men made new friends and earned respect in the world stage.
Posted by: Edwin Gueco | September 02, 2006 at 12:36 PM
Thanks for the words Tsphere...I've always felt exactly the same way, so thank you.
Posted by: Faith | September 02, 2006 at 12:39 PM
Lysander:
“Laker Tom tends to almost always agree with Mike and Faith.”
I do respect Mike’s understanding of the game and his usually intelligent posts but in no way do I agree with him all the time, especially when it comes to Chris Mihm and Darius Miles.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 12:40 PM
AK:
While I do agree with most of your posts, I guess this will be one of those times that we agree to disagree. I will say again that the format that you guys have created for this blog and the intelligence of your threads and posts is a key reason why the blog rocks. So I really have no complaints, just occasional disagreements from time to time. Got to give you credit for sticking to your guns, Andy. And I agree that BK doesn’t really ever need to come to his bro’s aid, even if it may sometimes look like it. You must be the younger brother, I’ll bet.
So when do we get a chance to start talking about our real competition in the West?
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 12:41 PM
Tsphere,
Nice piece!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 12:43 PM
USA Basketball managing director Jerry Colangelo asked players for a three-year commitment in an effort to develop a national program, as opposed to the previous practice of assembling an all-star team for each competition.
"These players have put in a lot of time and effort and they've built equity in terms of being part of this team going forward," Colangelo said. "No question about that. But we also have some players who were on the national team who were not with us. But we're not throwing the baby out with the bathwater because we love all our guys."
I think Jerry has the right idea. But we need flexibility. This is my propsal:
The 12 players who made this years team have an automatic ivitation for next year, I mean to try out for the team. The players who got cut don't. That doesn't mean that the players who got cut can't get an invite but it helps in weeding out the bad apples. For example: Gilbert Arenas mouthing off about not making the team because of this and of that. He's a guy I wouldn't give an invatation. Amare I would because of his injury. If he comes all the way back from his injury, why not? But if his injury makes him a shell of the Amare we know...then for the good of the team we would pass, with all due respect. The rest of the squad can be choosen from those NBA players who are making strong stride in their game.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 12:47 PM
THE USA SQUAD:
In order for the USA Olympic Squad to Win the GOLD they need a proven leader and winner from the NBA. A player who is Head and Shoulders above the rest of the players in the World. A player who has won NBA Titles with two different NBA Squads. A player who is so DOMINANT that only Father Time can slow him down in the paint. A player who's credentials for winning illustrate a respect generated by basketball aficinados throughout the World.
The USA Squad NEEDS Shaquille O'Neal. To have ANY hopes of retaining Dominance on a World level the USA Squad needs a proven Winner. The Greece team that defeated the USA Squad featured a pseudo 'Baby' Shaq. This player, Baby Shaq by name alone was probably just enough in itself to strike a sense of fear in the players for the USA Olympic Squad.
The Olympic Committee should lobby and make accommodations for the Most DOMINANT USA NBA player of our Generation. He is not as young as he used to be, however in order to bring back glory days and winning tradition of GOLD MEDALS for the USA Basketball Squad we NEED Shaq. With Shaq anchoring the squad, there could come a needed confidence in the sense of winning and Domination for the good ole U.S. of A.
OUT!!!
the Truth
'...heard it here First'
Posted by: Steven. | September 02, 2006 at 12:48 PM
Laker Tom,
That's fine. There's no rule that says we always have to agree. Debate is what keeps things lively and interesting. The blog would be incredibly boring if everyone was on exactly the same page. Not that BK or I present contrary opinions for the sake of starting arguments. That would be lame (and completely transparent). We just aren't worried if our honest opinions run opposite of the "blog majority," so to speak. In the end, they're just opinions.
AK
Oh, and I'm older than BK.
Posted by: Andrew Kamenetzky | September 02, 2006 at 12:51 PM
Thanks for all your generous comments guys. I really find this blog one of the most well thought out, sophisticated and yet humorous and entertaining spots for hoops discussion in the net. Keep 'em coming.
Thanks AK and BK for posting my lengthy pieces. I appreciate it.
Go Bloggers!
R.G. Gaznabi
Posted by: R.G. Gaznabi | September 02, 2006 at 12:53 PM
SONNY
our NINERS are back deffensively. I like NOLAN. he is a BACK to BASICS coach and I thnk makes us better and better. you know what I think is the KEY to them getting back to the TOP? getting a GREAT QB in the draft, like the CARDS have. BRO, I want to, not that I don't, but I can't ACCEPT that ALEX can become a FRENCHISE QB.
MICHAEL TENIENTE
DWADE:"I don't think people understand how good these teams are. But we're not worried about that."
Hey Mike, I think DWADE is trying to say:"I don't think people understand that WORLD REFS don't give you games by handing you 85 FREE THROWS. But I can't cry cause everybody will know NBA didn't want GERMAN DIRK and CUBAN get the RING, yet." C'MON read between the lines BRO. The man is trying to give you a MESSAGE "WORLD GAMES ARE NO FRAUD and you need real talent (KOBE) to win". hehe...
Posted by: rayray | September 02, 2006 at 12:54 PM
Oh, and I'm older than BK.
LOL! Now I know who to pick on.
mike
Posted by: Michael Teniente | September 02, 2006 at 12:55 PM
Tom, rayray,
Did you guys see the niners/chargers game? I feel like we are really starting to turn the corner.
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 01:01 PM
I thought we might all be hungry for something Laker related for a change lol (jk) so here's Hoopsworld take on the Lakers:
Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers made some quality moves, but nothing that makes them a lock to be improved – two things coming into camp that are positives is the additional of Jordan Farmar, he may not pay dividends as a rookie, but there is someone to go to other than Smush Parker. Kobe supposedly has pushed Smush hard this off-season, urging him to stay in the gym and work on his shooting. The other is Kobe’s knee surgery, he had nagging knee soreness last year and despite one of the best performances in NBA history, he was limited at times because of the soreness, especially late in the season. Andrew Bynum may actually see playing time this year, and he’s got to show his progress and a full season with Ronny Turiaf will be good for everyone. The addition of Vladimir Radmanovic is supposed to spread the floor a little more, and give another outside weapon, the real question with Vlade is not how good he is as a player, but how quickly he’ll grasp the very complicated offense the Lakers run.
http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_18599.shtml
Posted by: Faith | September 02, 2006 at 01:07 PM
Faith,
Thanks for the article, I hope for his sake that Smush heeds Kobe's advice. He better be in that gym every day!
Trip on that! Kobe had one of the most remarkable seasons and he wasn't even close to 100%. Scary!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 01:20 PM
Peter Maguire:
As a long-time UCLA fan and an “old school” basketballer, I loved your reference to John Wooden and the “right” way to play the game. The lack of fundamentals, such as blocking out on rebounds or staying in front of your man on defense are truly being replaced by the ability to jump over the backboard and the quickness to steal the ball from behind when beaten. And free throws! Don’t even get me going on the horrible free-throw shooting running rampant in the today’s game.
Your post also brought to mind the role of the fans in this dilution of “pure” basketball that has taken over this country. Do you realize that this may be the first time that some of the posters on this blog are actually hearing about some of the fundamental skills issues you raised? The current generation of fans wants slam dunks, home runs, and more end zone celebrations than it wants fundamentally sound play from guys working in a structured team environment.
In the end, we probably don’t have to worry about the lack of fundamentals and team play. Give the international players a couple of decades more of Nike ads and video games and they will be playing the same type of “Sports Center” ball that Team USA played during the FIBA games.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 01:28 PM
Taliq:
LeBronze lives.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 01:29 PM
Tsphere:
As usual, your take on LeBronze’s pretourney comments and comparison to Kobe’s “basketball” oriented motivation and dues paid orientation was brilliant. You need to share your insights with us more often. Bravo, elder. Au revoir.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 01:29 PM
Peter Maguire:
“Of course, with the underlying goal of bringing one of those guys to the Lakers!”
Only a crafty old fox like you would have thought of that angle. But it is a great point, especially in this age of free agency and shorter contracts. Only problem is that you have to be under the salary cap to take advantage of those relationships.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 01:30 PM
dan:
That second TD run by Michael Robinson was sick. Do you notice that nobody seems to be able to stop this ex-Penn State QB from getting an extra 2 or 3 yards after being hit? With Frank Gore and Michael Robinson, it was easy to see why Nolan couldn’t wait to get rid of Kevan Barlow.
Too bad that Hicks’ fumble and Vernon’s drop kept Alex from having a good game. But Dilfer was gold. And no way did Manny Lawson get touched by any Charger on his int-return for a touchdown. Too bad all of this was just against the San Diego second and third string, but a win is a win for the Niners at this stage of the game.
Can’t wait for the “real” games to begin a week from Sunday. Thanks for your post, dan the man.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 01:36 PM
Tom,
ex Penn State Quarterback? WoW! Keith Lewis also proved to be the man!
>_<
Posted by: dan the man >_< aka smushcalade | September 02, 2006 at 01:52 PM
R.G.
Awesome post. Kobe and Ron Ron would definitely put some fear into the hearts of the other team. My real question, though, is why not just send the NBA Champs out there. Unless you create a dream team, these all-star teams we send out there are always vulnerable to be upset by real teams that have played together for years. Sending the NBA Champs also would reduce the amount of time that NBA players have to commit. It would also take the politics away about who to put on the team, who to play, who to appoint as captains, etc. So we put together Dream Team 2 or 3 for Beijing in 2008. What happens in 2012 or 2016? The desire to redeem a lost rep is far greater than the desire to defend a previous ‘ship. If there is no rule against it, I say lets just send whoever is the NBA champion and stop this all-star team oxymoron business.
Tom
Posted by: LakerTom | September 02, 2006 at 01:52 PM