Miami has now won 5 of 6, climbing back to a respectable 24-26 overall mark.
It says in this corner, they are just about ready to become the best team in the Eastern Conference, once again. When they get Jason Williams back from his abdominal strain injury, as D-Wade's permanent side-kick, expect them to put an impressive stretch together over the remaining 32 games (e.g. 25-7). With J-Will's speed, size, passing and perimeter shooting (at the PG spot) back in the line-up ... with the way that others have stepped up during Shaq's long absence and brief injuries to Wade & Williams (e.g. Kapono, Mourning & Doleac), plus the re-addition of Eddie Jones, etc., ... the Heat is the best team in the league right now.
If Pat Riley returns, sometime after the All-Star Game, look out ... the hand-writing will be on the wall. The Heat are going for two straight ... loaded with a full complete of Lethal Weapons, including the most Deadly Force in the game today (i.e. Dwyane Wade).
Currently at 12-1 odds to win it all, they are a huge overlay.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Friday, February 09, 2007
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
No Software Needed?
Butterfly Marketing proves to be just as powerful in strategies than in the software itself. Below you will find a student and customer of the course.
http://enkhata.bfmscript.hop.clickbank.net
Michael Cheney of "Adsense Videos" applied the the pre-launch strategies and affiliate tools and JV strategies outlined in Mike Filsaime's ButterflyMarketing Manuscript to the his launch.
Here is what Michael Cheney had to say about what he learned in the Manuscript:
------------------------------------------------------
"Mike - first off I just want to say thank you so much!The techniques I learned from Butterfly Marketing played a BIG part in helping me make $63,249 in sales in 24 hours!!
As I write this I'm still finding it hard to believe. It seems a lifetime ago that the BFM package landed on my doorstep and I started poring over it with my smile getting larger and wider with each new insight as I realized that as long as I APPLIED what I was learning the principles were going to make something BIG happen!
Little did I know just HOW BIG it would be when I launched AdSense Videos...
AdSense Videos - 33 Hours After Launch..
The site went live. My life changed forever - seriously the results have been incredible Mike - we've grossed over $200,000 in 7 days!! The site got an Alexa ranking on Launch Day of 351!
AdSense Videos was ranked Number 1 on the ClickBank Marketplace in the Marketing category just 4 days afterthe Launch!
I've also been getting, on average, one new subscriber every minute of every hour for the past SIX AND A HALF DAYS!!!
So - What did I learn from you Mike and from ButterflyMarketing? Where to start! I think one of the biggest things was the step-by-step approach. Everything I created for Affiliates, Joint Venture partners and for people going through the videos themselves has been step-by-step. I made everything as easy as I could and 'muppet-proof' as I like to call it!
I also realized that it's paying attention to the smallerdetails BEFORE launch that really pay dividends AFTER theLaunch. And BOY am I seeing that!
You gave some absolute gems of advice in Butterfly Marketing which have, without a shadow of a doubt, contributed in a big way to the overall success of AdSense Videos.
Thanks again!
Michael Cheney"
----------------------------------------------------------
You too can have the same results as Michael Cheney byimplementing the tactics and strategies outlined in MikeFilsaime's Butterfly Marketing Manuscript.
Learn why people are saying that this report changed theway marketing is done on the internet for good!
http://enkhata.bfmscript.hop.clickbank.net
To your success,
enkhata
http://enkhata.bfmscript.hop.clickbank.net
Michael Cheney of "Adsense Videos" applied the the pre-launch strategies and affiliate tools and JV strategies outlined in Mike Filsaime's ButterflyMarketing Manuscript to the his launch.
Here is what Michael Cheney had to say about what he learned in the Manuscript:
------------------------------------------------------
"Mike - first off I just want to say thank you so much!The techniques I learned from Butterfly Marketing played a BIG part in helping me make $63,249 in sales in 24 hours!!
As I write this I'm still finding it hard to believe. It seems a lifetime ago that the BFM package landed on my doorstep and I started poring over it with my smile getting larger and wider with each new insight as I realized that as long as I APPLIED what I was learning the principles were going to make something BIG happen!
Little did I know just HOW BIG it would be when I launched AdSense Videos...
AdSense Videos - 33 Hours After Launch..
The site went live. My life changed forever - seriously the results have been incredible Mike - we've grossed over $200,000 in 7 days!! The site got an Alexa ranking on Launch Day of 351!
AdSense Videos was ranked Number 1 on the ClickBank Marketplace in the Marketing category just 4 days afterthe Launch!
I've also been getting, on average, one new subscriber every minute of every hour for the past SIX AND A HALF DAYS!!!
So - What did I learn from you Mike and from ButterflyMarketing? Where to start! I think one of the biggest things was the step-by-step approach. Everything I created for Affiliates, Joint Venture partners and for people going through the videos themselves has been step-by-step. I made everything as easy as I could and 'muppet-proof' as I like to call it!
I also realized that it's paying attention to the smallerdetails BEFORE launch that really pay dividends AFTER theLaunch. And BOY am I seeing that!
You gave some absolute gems of advice in Butterfly Marketing which have, without a shadow of a doubt, contributed in a big way to the overall success of AdSense Videos.
Thanks again!
Michael Cheney"
----------------------------------------------------------
You too can have the same results as Michael Cheney byimplementing the tactics and strategies outlined in MikeFilsaime's Butterfly Marketing Manuscript.
Learn why people are saying that this report changed theway marketing is done on the internet for good!
http://enkhata.bfmscript.hop.clickbank.net
To your success,
enkhata
Monday, February 05, 2007
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Pod/4th
LAC +9.5 (In-running event) over TOR (NBA)
DET +2.0 over CLE (NBA)
IND -7.0 over CHI (NFL)
[NBA record: 22-27]
[NFL record: 2-6]
DET +2.0 over CLE (NBA)
IND -7.0 over CHI (NFL)
[NBA record: 22-27]
[NFL record: 2-6]
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Crystal Ball Gazing (NBA '06-07)
[Part 1]
This year's NBA championship will not be won by either of the current front-runners, Dallas or Phoenix.
Go ahead and write that one down.
[to be cont'd ...]
This year's NBA championship will not be won by either of the current front-runners, Dallas or Phoenix.
Go ahead and write that one down.
[to be cont'd ...]
Friday, February 02, 2007
Thursday, February 01, 2007
The best PG in Raptorland
This was the statline for Jose Calderon (2nd-yr, PG) last night against the Washington Wizards (current leaders in the Eastern Conference):
Name, Min, FG, 3Pt, FT, Off, Reb, Ast, TO, Stl, Blk, PF, Pts
J Calderon, 39, 10-13, 0-1, 4-4, 1, 3, 11, 1, 0, 0, 3, 24
TOR vs WAS (Jan 31, 2007)
Since former starter TJ Ford was sidelined with an assortment of lower leg injuries (ankle & calf) on January 20, 2007, this has been Toronto's record with Senor Calderon at the lead PG spot for their team:
Date, Opponent, Result, Top Scorer/Rebounder/Assists (TO)
Jan 22, vs CHA, W 105-84, Bosh 20/Graham 9/Calderon 11 (TO 1)
Jan 24, vs NOK, W 90-88, Bosh 35/Parker 9/Calderon 8 (TO 0)
Jan 26, vs BOS, W 96-90, Bosh 26/Garbajosa 8/Calderon 8 (TO 2)
Jan 27, at IND, L 84-102, Bosh 26/Bosh 12/Calderon 10 (TO 6)
Jan 31, vs WAS, W 119-109, Bosh 34/Bosh 8/Calderon 11 (TO 1)
which has allowed the Raptors to climb into 1st place in the "Titantic" division and, once again, reach the .500 mark on the season.
Even with Ford's return to the line-up last evening, as a reserve, it is becoming increasingly clear that the best PG in Toronto ... isn't the one new GM Bryan Colangelo acquired from the Milwaukee Bucks in return for Charlie Villanueva (PF) during the off-season but the one who led his home country (Spain) to the No. 1 spot overall at the 2006 World Championships.
The reasons for this are numerous:
* Calderon, with his size, is a better defensive match-up against the other quality PG's in the NBA
* Calderon, with his size, is a better passer, able to create and take advantage of different angles to deliver the ball to his teammates creating easy shots for them
* Calderon, because of his patience with the ball, is able to create a slew of easy layups and open jumpers for his teammates, within the flow of the offense, which are never forced, allowing them to shoot a high percentage
* Calderon has a tremendous "change-of-pace" handle which creates a slew of easy layups for himself within the flow of the offense, which are never forced and he is capable of finishing with either hand at the rim (at a high percentage)
* Calderon, because of his mature understanding of how to play the game, at the PG position, is always focused exclusively on taking what the defense is giving him
* Calderon is improving his perimeter shooting dramatically the more he plays this season (his 2nd in the NBA)
* Calderon, as a vocal, enthusiastic, positive body language person, has tremendous leadership qualities about his game
* Calderon, at the helm, allows the Raptors, as a team, to play less erratically for long stretches within any given game ... and to bring TJ Ford off the bench, as a high-octane "change-the-pace-to-a-full-throttle" dynamo, capable of busting open games by himself, in short bursts, when the situation calls for it (in a sense, ala Vinnie "the Microwave" Johnson of yesteryear)
Once the Raptors' braintrust decides to make this move permanent (by biting the bullet on Ford's contract extension, given earlier this season, as a highly paid "back-up" on their team for the foreseeable future), Toronto will then be poised to take a quantum leap up the ladder in the Eastern Conference standings and become perennial title contendas ... with their new Big 3 - Bosh, Bargnani & Calderon - intact for the next decade.
As it stands this season, there is no reason whatsoever, if they use the following line-up:
Main Players:
1 - Jose Calderon (pass first in control PG)
2 - Anthony Parker (shooter, scorer, defender)
3 - Joey Graham (defender, rebounder)
4 - Jorge Garbajosa (Euro version of Charles Oakley)
5 - Chris Bosh (rock solid Centre, 20 & 10)
Key Bench Players:
1 - TJ Ford (explosive passer, scorer)
2/3 - Morris Peterson (defender, 3-pt shooter)
3/4 - Andrea Bargnani (shooter/scorer, passer)
4/5 - Rasho Nesterovic (rebounder, defender)
... Toronto should not be expected to play in the Eastern Conference semi-finals (at least) later this spring.
Name, Min, FG, 3Pt, FT, Off, Reb, Ast, TO, Stl, Blk, PF, Pts
J Calderon, 39, 10-13, 0-1, 4-4, 1, 3, 11, 1, 0, 0, 3, 24
TOR vs WAS (Jan 31, 2007)
Since former starter TJ Ford was sidelined with an assortment of lower leg injuries (ankle & calf) on January 20, 2007, this has been Toronto's record with Senor Calderon at the lead PG spot for their team:
Date, Opponent, Result, Top Scorer/Rebounder/Assists (TO)
Jan 22, vs CHA, W 105-84, Bosh 20/Graham 9/Calderon 11 (TO 1)
Jan 24, vs NOK, W 90-88, Bosh 35/Parker 9/Calderon 8 (TO 0)
Jan 26, vs BOS, W 96-90, Bosh 26/Garbajosa 8/Calderon 8 (TO 2)
Jan 27, at IND, L 84-102, Bosh 26/Bosh 12/Calderon 10 (TO 6)
Jan 31, vs WAS, W 119-109, Bosh 34/Bosh 8/Calderon 11 (TO 1)
which has allowed the Raptors to climb into 1st place in the "Titantic" division and, once again, reach the .500 mark on the season.
Even with Ford's return to the line-up last evening, as a reserve, it is becoming increasingly clear that the best PG in Toronto ... isn't the one new GM Bryan Colangelo acquired from the Milwaukee Bucks in return for Charlie Villanueva (PF) during the off-season but the one who led his home country (Spain) to the No. 1 spot overall at the 2006 World Championships.
The reasons for this are numerous:
* Calderon, with his size, is a better defensive match-up against the other quality PG's in the NBA
* Calderon, with his size, is a better passer, able to create and take advantage of different angles to deliver the ball to his teammates creating easy shots for them
* Calderon, because of his patience with the ball, is able to create a slew of easy layups and open jumpers for his teammates, within the flow of the offense, which are never forced, allowing them to shoot a high percentage
* Calderon has a tremendous "change-of-pace" handle which creates a slew of easy layups for himself within the flow of the offense, which are never forced and he is capable of finishing with either hand at the rim (at a high percentage)
* Calderon, because of his mature understanding of how to play the game, at the PG position, is always focused exclusively on taking what the defense is giving him
* Calderon is improving his perimeter shooting dramatically the more he plays this season (his 2nd in the NBA)
* Calderon, as a vocal, enthusiastic, positive body language person, has tremendous leadership qualities about his game
* Calderon, at the helm, allows the Raptors, as a team, to play less erratically for long stretches within any given game ... and to bring TJ Ford off the bench, as a high-octane "change-the-pace-to-a-full-throttle" dynamo, capable of busting open games by himself, in short bursts, when the situation calls for it (in a sense, ala Vinnie "the Microwave" Johnson of yesteryear)
Once the Raptors' braintrust decides to make this move permanent (by biting the bullet on Ford's contract extension, given earlier this season, as a highly paid "back-up" on their team for the foreseeable future), Toronto will then be poised to take a quantum leap up the ladder in the Eastern Conference standings and become perennial title contendas ... with their new Big 3 - Bosh, Bargnani & Calderon - intact for the next decade.
As it stands this season, there is no reason whatsoever, if they use the following line-up:
Main Players:
1 - Jose Calderon (pass first in control PG)
2 - Anthony Parker (shooter, scorer, defender)
3 - Joey Graham (defender, rebounder)
4 - Jorge Garbajosa (Euro version of Charles Oakley)
5 - Chris Bosh (rock solid Centre, 20 & 10)
Key Bench Players:
1 - TJ Ford (explosive passer, scorer)
2/3 - Morris Peterson (defender, 3-pt shooter)
3/4 - Andrea Bargnani (shooter/scorer, passer)
4/5 - Rasho Nesterovic (rebounder, defender)
... Toronto should not be expected to play in the Eastern Conference semi-finals (at least) later this spring.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
The Lil' Engine That Can
What Lawrence Frank is doing at the moment deserves major props from this corner.
Playing without two of his starters, Nenad Krystic (C) and Richard Jefferson (SF), for significant stretches of this season - due to major surgery - Lil' Frank has still managed to keep the Nets afloat and in the thick of the race for a play-off spot in the Eastern Conference. After finding themselves well below the .500 mark, NJ (22-23) has now battled back to the point where they are poised to re-take the lead, outright, in the Atlantic Division (they are currently tied for 1st with Toronto) with a hodge-podge line-up of veteran castaways (Mikki Moore and Eddie House), NBA neophytes (Antoine Wright, Marcus Williams, Josh Boone and Hassan Adams). serviceable role players (Jason Collins, Cliff Robinson and Bostjan Nachbar) and two firmly established NBA studs (Jason Kidd and Vince Carter). No easy feat by any means!
Making this an even more amazing achievement is the fact that, at the same time, J-Kidd is also in the midst of a well-publicized and very messy divorce proceeding; and Vinsanity, in the final year of his long term contract, is being shopped around the league (by GM Rod Thorn), in an effort to avoid getting nothing in return for him should the Immature One decide to skip town and follow the sun (to either Orlando or Charlotte) at season's end, as an unrestricted FA.
If Frank can somehow continue to maintain this current pace, which has seen the Nets win 9 of their last 14 games (.643) - including (i) 9 match-ups against teams at or better than .500 and (ii) 10 games on the road - he gets my vote right now for the Eastern Conference's Coach-Of-The-Year. The Lil' General knows how to keep his stars happy, his role players motivated, his troops in every ball game, and ... most important of all ... his nose to the grindstone!
It's a pleasure to watch him work.
Playing without two of his starters, Nenad Krystic (C) and Richard Jefferson (SF), for significant stretches of this season - due to major surgery - Lil' Frank has still managed to keep the Nets afloat and in the thick of the race for a play-off spot in the Eastern Conference. After finding themselves well below the .500 mark, NJ (22-23) has now battled back to the point where they are poised to re-take the lead, outright, in the Atlantic Division (they are currently tied for 1st with Toronto) with a hodge-podge line-up of veteran castaways (Mikki Moore and Eddie House), NBA neophytes (Antoine Wright, Marcus Williams, Josh Boone and Hassan Adams). serviceable role players (Jason Collins, Cliff Robinson and Bostjan Nachbar) and two firmly established NBA studs (Jason Kidd and Vince Carter). No easy feat by any means!
Making this an even more amazing achievement is the fact that, at the same time, J-Kidd is also in the midst of a well-publicized and very messy divorce proceeding; and Vinsanity, in the final year of his long term contract, is being shopped around the league (by GM Rod Thorn), in an effort to avoid getting nothing in return for him should the Immature One decide to skip town and follow the sun (to either Orlando or Charlotte) at season's end, as an unrestricted FA.
If Frank can somehow continue to maintain this current pace, which has seen the Nets win 9 of their last 14 games (.643) - including (i) 9 match-ups against teams at or better than .500 and (ii) 10 games on the road - he gets my vote right now for the Eastern Conference's Coach-Of-The-Year. The Lil' General knows how to keep his stars happy, his role players motivated, his troops in every ball game, and ... most important of all ... his nose to the grindstone!
It's a pleasure to watch him work.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Auditory Overload
Took in an NBA game this past week, live and in-person, as a average spectator; and, was left with a distinct impression.
Why bother?
An "old school" sports guy, I was disappointed to see and hear for myself just how much times have changed when it comes to watching (and listening to) an NBA game in an arena today.
The biggest change?
By far, sitting some 20 rows up from floor level, it was impossible to hear anything related to the action on the court below ... except, of course, for the work of the PA Announcer.
To wit, despite what my eyes were seeing, the familiar sounds of:
Sneakers squeaking
Balls bouncing
Teammate-to-teammate verbal communication
Player-to-referee verbal communication
Referee-to-player verbal communication
Player-to-coach verbal communication
Coach-to-player verbal communication
Coach-to-referee verbal communication
Referee-to-coach verbal communication
Players straining, physically, working against one another
Plays being called from the bench, and
Plays being called on the floor
were completely inaudible to the vast majority of spectators in attendance that evening.
What we got, instead, was a constant barrage of the senses, beginning with the pyrotechnical display, video montage, and ear-splitting musical accompaniment in the pre-game introductions, and continued, incessantly, throughout the game, by:
* an in-house DJ, doing his thing ... "Let's Get This Party Started!" ... from the opening tip and throughout the play
* a slew of lame on-court contests and promos, during time-outs, or a series of bump & grind routines by the team's Dance Pack
* unabashed 'cheerleading' from the PA Announcer, during the play of the game ... exhorting the home team's fans to Make Some Noise, Get Up On Your Feet, and Help 'Em Take It To The Next Level ... in an attempt to influence the outcome on the court
* A sure Sign Of The Apocalypse: rim microphones, designed to 'artificially enhance' the sound of the ball hitting iron and the 'twinkling of the twine' on made shots from the floor
Is this what NBA exec's think today's fans want to hear in an arena, as entertainment?
If so, count me out.
Unless I'm comped ... I will not be going to another NBA game in-person, as an average spectator.
What's the point? Yelling at the top of lungs, just to be heard by the person sitting next to me, isn't my idea of a fun way to spend two and half hours of my time.
Why bother?
An "old school" sports guy, I was disappointed to see and hear for myself just how much times have changed when it comes to watching (and listening to) an NBA game in an arena today.
The biggest change?
By far, sitting some 20 rows up from floor level, it was impossible to hear anything related to the action on the court below ... except, of course, for the work of the PA Announcer.
To wit, despite what my eyes were seeing, the familiar sounds of:
Sneakers squeaking
Balls bouncing
Teammate-to-teammate verbal communication
Player-to-referee verbal communication
Referee-to-player verbal communication
Player-to-coach verbal communication
Coach-to-player verbal communication
Coach-to-referee verbal communication
Referee-to-coach verbal communication
Players straining, physically, working against one another
Plays being called from the bench, and
Plays being called on the floor
were completely inaudible to the vast majority of spectators in attendance that evening.
What we got, instead, was a constant barrage of the senses, beginning with the pyrotechnical display, video montage, and ear-splitting musical accompaniment in the pre-game introductions, and continued, incessantly, throughout the game, by:
* an in-house DJ, doing his thing ... "Let's Get This Party Started!" ... from the opening tip and throughout the play
* a slew of lame on-court contests and promos, during time-outs, or a series of bump & grind routines by the team's Dance Pack
* unabashed 'cheerleading' from the PA Announcer, during the play of the game ... exhorting the home team's fans to Make Some Noise, Get Up On Your Feet, and Help 'Em Take It To The Next Level ... in an attempt to influence the outcome on the court
* A sure Sign Of The Apocalypse: rim microphones, designed to 'artificially enhance' the sound of the ball hitting iron and the 'twinkling of the twine' on made shots from the floor
Is this what NBA exec's think today's fans want to hear in an arena, as entertainment?
If so, count me out.
Unless I'm comped ... I will not be going to another NBA game in-person, as an average spectator.
What's the point? Yelling at the top of lungs, just to be heard by the person sitting next to me, isn't my idea of a fun way to spend two and half hours of my time.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Monday, January 22, 2007
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Pod/20th
NYK +7.0 over IND (NBA)*
NJN -3.5 over ORL (NBA)*
(NBA record: 12-18)
(NFL record: 2-4)
* Server problems determined that these two games could only be released at this time.
NJN -3.5 over ORL (NBA)*
(NBA record: 12-18)
(NFL record: 2-4)
* Server problems determined that these two games could only be released at this time.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Pod/19th
MIA -3.0 over PHI (NBA)
UTA +1.5 over TOR (NBA)
ORL -3.5 over WAS (NBA)
DEN -1.5 over CLE (NBA)
(NBA record: 10-16)
(NFL record: 2-4)
UTA +1.5 over TOR (NBA)
ORL -3.5 over WAS (NBA)
DEN -1.5 over CLE (NBA)
(NBA record: 10-16)
(NFL record: 2-4)
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Courses for horses
Contrary to just about everything I've read so far today concerning the multi-player trade between the Pacers and the Warriors (which, by a wide margin, has viewed this transaction as a clear-cut W for Golden State), I'm in agreement, again, with Charley Rosen ... Trade signals new direction for Pacers. The Pacers actually win this one in my book.
Long term, Dunleavy, Murphy, Diogu and McLeod are a much better fit for what Indiana needs to do to be successful in the Eastern Conference, under the direction of Rick Carlisle, Larry Bird and Donnie Walsh, than the motley crew heading to the West Coast (Harrington, Jackson, Jasikevicius and Powell).
Expect the younger players on their roster to show dramatic improvement, now that the loose cannons have been shipped out, and the new arrivals to flourish in a more traditional and highly structured system.
Frequently, things are not as clear-cut as they appear to be at first glance.
Long term, Dunleavy, Murphy, Diogu and McLeod are a much better fit for what Indiana needs to do to be successful in the Eastern Conference, under the direction of Rick Carlisle, Larry Bird and Donnie Walsh, than the motley crew heading to the West Coast (Harrington, Jackson, Jasikevicius and Powell).
Expect the younger players on their roster to show dramatic improvement, now that the loose cannons have been shipped out, and the new arrivals to flourish in a more traditional and highly structured system.
Frequently, things are not as clear-cut as they appear to be at first glance.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Webber and the Pistons are headed in the wrong direction
Charley Rosen's Mailbag (Jan 16/07) had this to say on Chris Webber's signing with the Pistons ...
This is another disaster in the making. In truth, the Pistons are on the verge of rebellion. They've lost six of their last eight games — including a pair to Charlotte and Atlanta — and the strain is showing (and not just in Chauncey Billups' calf). Just the other day, both Rasheed Wallace and Dale Davis were AWOL for a practice session.
Adding an arrogant, defenseless, habitual malcontent like Webber can only raise everybody's temperature.
Where should Webber go? San Antonio, a veteran team that could maximize his passing skills, minimize his defensive failings and keep the ball out of his hands in the waning minutes of close ball games.
Seems like Charley and I share a similar perception, once again ... re: Mr. Webber's best fit destination (Jan 12/07/10:08 am) ... see my "comment" on TrueHoop.com.
It says in this corner, by the end of this season, the Pistons', Webber and the Spurs will all regret this acquisition by Detroit.
In a search for a new identity, the Pistons seem to have abandoned some of their core principles (i.e. unselfish offense, rebounding and defense), adding a native son who doesn't fit their M.O., by yet another Agent Zero buzzer-beater. If they're not careful, come play-off time, Detroit will find itself in an unfamiliar position, since the arrival of Joe D, as no longer one of the top 2 teams in the Eastern Conference.
This is another disaster in the making. In truth, the Pistons are on the verge of rebellion. They've lost six of their last eight games — including a pair to Charlotte and Atlanta — and the strain is showing (and not just in Chauncey Billups' calf). Just the other day, both Rasheed Wallace and Dale Davis were AWOL for a practice session.
Adding an arrogant, defenseless, habitual malcontent like Webber can only raise everybody's temperature.
Where should Webber go? San Antonio, a veteran team that could maximize his passing skills, minimize his defensive failings and keep the ball out of his hands in the waning minutes of close ball games.
Seems like Charley and I share a similar perception, once again ... re: Mr. Webber's best fit destination (Jan 12/07/10:08 am) ... see my "comment" on TrueHoop.com.
It says in this corner, by the end of this season, the Pistons', Webber and the Spurs will all regret this acquisition by Detroit.
In a search for a new identity, the Pistons seem to have abandoned some of their core principles (i.e. unselfish offense, rebounding and defense), adding a native son who doesn't fit their M.O., by yet another Agent Zero buzzer-beater. If they're not careful, come play-off time, Detroit will find itself in an unfamiliar position, since the arrival of Joe D, as no longer one of the top 2 teams in the Eastern Conference.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Friday, January 12, 2007
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Convergence ... hoops' style
Henry Abbott's unparalleled basketball blog, TrueHoop, has a nice intro piece yesterday on the place of passing in today's hoops' culture ... All aboard the Andrea Bargnani Bandwagon ... here's my
2 cents worth:
re: Sabonis, and the ability to “see” the pass
Those who may not have had the benefit of seeing the younger,
pre-NBA Sabonis play ... and, in general, move in a lithe, super athletic way for a man of his size ... do not know what they missed out on seeing first-hand from this extraordinary titan of the game, who was, in fact, good enough to have three distinct phases to his basketball career, i.e. Phase 1/early Euro: Larry Bird & Dirk Nowitzki; Phase 2/late Euro: Bill Walton & Bob Cousy; Phase 3/NBA: Shaq 'lite', 'tippy-toe' Laimbeer & 'Magic' at 55, sans wheels.
The man was simply amazing.
In his terrific book, "Russell Rules: 11 Lessons on Leadership From the Twentieth Century's Greatest Winner", Mr. Bill includes a specific chapter on the important role of curiosity in the development of an elite competitor.
In my opinion, this … more than any other single element … is most responsible for the creative impulse at the heart of passing the ball well, regardless of the game. This essential skill, which is at the core of both soccer and basketball, is rooted in one's own willingness and ability to look, see and be infinitely interested in what's going on in the world beyond the reach of one's own limited field of reference, by engaging with The Other.
Seeing where the space is ... having that space filled by a teammate, who shares a similar vision ... and, then, experiencing the convergence which occurs there ... where player1, ball, space, pass and player2 literally come together ... at that specific point in time & space ... is truly sublime.
What the mind can conceive, the body can achieve … in concert with The Other … if the soul can first perceive It.
2 cents worth:
re: Sabonis, and the ability to “see” the pass
Those who may not have had the benefit of seeing the younger,
pre-NBA Sabonis play ... and, in general, move in a lithe, super athletic way for a man of his size ... do not know what they missed out on seeing first-hand from this extraordinary titan of the game, who was, in fact, good enough to have three distinct phases to his basketball career, i.e. Phase 1/early Euro: Larry Bird & Dirk Nowitzki; Phase 2/late Euro: Bill Walton & Bob Cousy; Phase 3/NBA: Shaq 'lite', 'tippy-toe' Laimbeer & 'Magic' at 55, sans wheels.
The man was simply amazing.
In his terrific book, "Russell Rules: 11 Lessons on Leadership From the Twentieth Century's Greatest Winner", Mr. Bill includes a specific chapter on the important role of curiosity in the development of an elite competitor.
In my opinion, this … more than any other single element … is most responsible for the creative impulse at the heart of passing the ball well, regardless of the game. This essential skill, which is at the core of both soccer and basketball, is rooted in one's own willingness and ability to look, see and be infinitely interested in what's going on in the world beyond the reach of one's own limited field of reference, by engaging with The Other.
Seeing where the space is ... having that space filled by a teammate, who shares a similar vision ... and, then, experiencing the convergence which occurs there ... where player1, ball, space, pass and player2 literally come together ... at that specific point in time & space ... is truly sublime.
What the mind can conceive, the body can achieve … in concert with The Other … if the soul can first perceive It.
Monday, January 08, 2007
What is truth?
(John 18:33-38, King James Version)
Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?
Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me?
Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?
Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.
Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.
For those who believe they have an exclusive right to this most rare and precious gift ... know, instead, that We are All in This together, sharing but One point of Origin, inexorably indivisible from one another.
(not an answer to the question ... but, hopefully, food for thought)
Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?
Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me?
Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?
Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.
Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.
For those who believe they have an exclusive right to this most rare and precious gift ... know, instead, that We are All in This together, sharing but One point of Origin, inexorably indivisible from one another.
(not an answer to the question ... but, hopefully, food for thought)
Sunday, January 07, 2007
NBA Trivia (A)
Answer:
The only NBA MVP who has ever been traded by a team prior to capturing this prestigious award is ... Steve Nash ... the reigning back-to-back recipient who, ironically, was traded from the Phoenix Suns (his current team) to the Dallas Mavericks on Draft Day, June 25, 1998, in exchange for Martin Muursepp, Bubba Wells, the draft rights to Pat Garrity, and a first-round draft pick which was later used to select Shawn Marion.
The only NBA MVP who has ever been traded by a team prior to capturing this prestigious award is ... Steve Nash ... the reigning back-to-back recipient who, ironically, was traded from the Phoenix Suns (his current team) to the Dallas Mavericks on Draft Day, June 25, 1998, in exchange for Martin Muursepp, Bubba Wells, the draft rights to Pat Garrity, and a first-round draft pick which was later used to select Shawn Marion.
NBA Hoops 101
Charley Rosen strikes again with an accurate assessment of Friday's battle between two of the league's titans ... Mavs appear to have surpassed Spurs. Rarely do I come across a piece of basketball writing on the net with which I agree completely. This is one of those occasions. Enjoy!
Saturday, January 06, 2007
NBA Trivia (Q)
Question:
In the history of the league, how many MVP's (i.e. all-time great players) have ever been traded by a team (without a player's ultimatum) before capturing this prestigious award?
(helpful hint - NBA MVP Award Winners)
[submit your answer via "comments"]
In the history of the league, how many MVP's (i.e. all-time great players) have ever been traded by a team (without a player's ultimatum) before capturing this prestigious award?
(helpful hint - NBA MVP Award Winners)
[submit your answer via "comments"]
Friday, January 05, 2007
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Monday, January 01, 2007
Happy New Year's Day!
Pick Of The Day 2006 Summary
Overall Records:
MLB/0-1 (-1.0)
NFL/1-5 (-4.5)
NBA/32-30 (-1.0)
A stellar year? ... not by any means.
An atrocious debacle? ... not quite that either.
Ahead in the new year? ... onward and upward we go!
Best wishes to all.
Overall Records:
MLB/0-1 (-1.0)
NFL/1-5 (-4.5)
NBA/32-30 (-1.0)
A stellar year? ... not by any means.
An atrocious debacle? ... not quite that either.
Ahead in the new year? ... onward and upward we go!
Best wishes to all.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 29, 2006
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Monday, December 25, 2006
The Day That Christmas Stood Still
The year was 1971 ... and it was, and still is to this day, the best football game I have ever seen.A shout out to the Victors and the Vanquished ... for the impression both sides left with me that day ... regarding what's important in this world.
Picks Of The Day:
MIA +1.0 over LAL (NBA)
DAL -7.0 over PHI (NFL)
MIA -2.5 over NYJ (NFL)
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Friday, December 22, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Friday, December 15, 2006
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Monday, December 11, 2006
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Friday, December 08, 2006
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Friday, December 01, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Friday, November 24, 2006
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Monday, November 20, 2006
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Friday, November 17, 2006
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
They Don't Come Any Better Than This
Would like to throw a simple shout out to a woman named MaryAnn Johanson for her short review of a 'close to perfect little (motion) picture' sandwiched in time between my two all-time favourites. The years were '72, '73 & '74, the A's were in their heyday; the Dolphins ruled the world; the Knicks were captioned aptly and forever by Marv, "and here comes Willis"; the Greatest of All Time was on the comeback trail; the "Original Six" were still clearly visible in the rear view mirror; MSG was the epicentre of the known universe; and, classic Hollywood films were being made every year. What a time to be young and a fan in North America.
Pick Of The Day:
GSW -5.5 over TOR (NBA)
Pick Of The Day:
GSW -5.5 over TOR (NBA)
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Discipline
My favourite definition for this word is one I have yet to see published in a dictionary. First explained to me years 25 years ago my Bob Knight, it best encapsulates the values I associate with the word in a positive light. Modified slightly over the years, today my version reads as follows:
Discipline - n. Doing what you have to do, The way it needs to be done, Every time.
Pick Of The Day:
SAC -7.0 over TOR (NBA)
Discipline - n. Doing what you have to do, The way it needs to be done, Every time.
Pick Of The Day:
SAC -7.0 over TOR (NBA)
Friday, November 10, 2006
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Where the heart is ...
Dabbling in different projects from time to time is an interesting way to occupy oneself, particularly during a slow period, so-to-speak. But, nothing quite matches the feel of returning to what you know you're comfortable with already; like wearing an old pair of slippers around the house after experimenting with a new pair of kicks.
While different can be new and exciting, familiar is where the bread gets buttered day to day.
Picks of the Day:
NYK +3.5 over IND (NBA)
LAC -4.0 over PHO (NBA)
While different can be new and exciting, familiar is where the bread gets buttered day to day.
Picks of the Day:
NYK +3.5 over IND (NBA)
LAC -4.0 over PHO (NBA)
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