Hooptainers in Brazil Posted J. Boogie: Dec. 19 7:56 p.m. ET

The Hooptainers brought their “A Game” to Sao Paulo, Brazil. We invited by Liga Urbana de Basquete (LUB, for short) to play in their streetball tournament - Streetfest. The tournament consisted of several streetball teams from Brazil. We were scheduled to play against the LUB All Stars towards the end of the event. By the time we took the court, the crowd was already excited. Not just to see American basketball but from all of the great games prior to ours. Yes, Brazilians can ball. The Hooptainers won the tap and jumped to a quick 2-0 lead, by way of K-Ups dunking it on a fast break. LUB were no pushovers, they inbounded the ball and brought it down the court and one of their big men, Carlinhos Soul, attempted to tear the rim off with a thunderous dunk but ended up shattering the backboard. The crowd went wild, probably the world’s fastest streetball game ever! In less than two minutes the game was over. I am sure the LUB film crew has it on tape. We will post that footage when it is passed along to us. We’re not ones to dissapoint, so we agreed to play a half court game of 3-on-3.

The 3-on-3 game was full of highlights provided by both teams. LUB really got the crowd excited with some really creative and acrobatic moves. When it was all over the Hooptainers maintained their undefeated record but most importantly the crowd was the true winners that night. Despite the broken rim we were still able to put on a great show and if the crowd is happy, then so are we.

Unlike some “streetball” teams, we do not limit ourselves to just the blacktop. We use basketball as a tool to reach out to the fans ,their respective communities. It also allows us to bridge the gap between cultures, Brazil is a perfect example of this. During our time in Brazil we visited two youth facilities and spoke with children about the importance of an education and a desire to bring about positive change in their lives and in their surroundings. To speak with the residents of Sao Paulo and to see the joy our words, our mere presence brings to them is more rewarding than anything I can imagine.

The world is one large court and we’ve got next.


Rasheed Does the Carlton Posted by ElevationMag: Dec. 12 12:28 p.m. ET

This video from Need4Sheed.com is hilarious.


Choose Newest WNBA Team's Name and Colors Posted by ElevationMag: Dec. 4 3:43 p.m. ET

The new Atlanta WNBA team is looking for an identity. The fans have a chance to vote on four team names and five color schemes. Click here to vote on the names and colors.

Names:
- Dream
- Sizzle
- Surge
- Flight

Colors:
- Navy blue and gold
- Green and gold
- Sky blue and red
- Hot pink, silver and black
- Mint green, silver and black

If they want male fans, I'd suggest staying away from the hot pink. As far as the finalists for names, why do they all have to be singular. What happened to the good old names like the Bears or the Birds or something like that?


D-League Observations Posted by Mike Slane: Nov. 23 3:25 p.m. ET

The D-League's regular season tips off tonight at 7:30 ET when basketball returns to Fort Wayne, Indiana with a matchup between the Tulsa 66ers and the Mad Ants. With not much going on the day after Thanksgiving, I decided to look into the D-League and see what we can expect from the 2007-08 season. Here are my observations:

The Mad Ants?
Yes, people, there is actually a team called the Mad Ants. Fans were allowed to choose from four names -- Coyotes, Fire, Lightning and Mad Ants -- and I can honestly say that I was one of the voters for Mad Ants. I feel like D-league team names are kind of like the fake names in NBA 2K video games when you create a streetball team. Something like, the Ballers or the Rockers.

The Other New Teams:
The Iowa Energy, Rio Grande Valley Vipers and Utah Flash join the Fort Wayne Mad Ants as the league's newest teams. There are currently 14 teams. Expect the number of teams to increase each year until there is one for every NBA franchise.

Is Harlem Next?
The New York Times reported earlier this month that David Stern is interested in bringing the D-League to Harlem, NYC. Basketball fans in New York will attend games and buy team merchandise without a doubt. I could just see it now, Puffy rocking a Harlem D-League jersey at the MTV Music Awards.

A record number of assignees to begin the season:
There are currently nine NBA assigned players in the D-League. Last season there weren't nine assigned players until December 29, 2006 . Ian Mahinmi (San Antonio, Austin), Ramon Sessions (Milwaukee/Tulsa), Kyrylo Fesenko (Utah Jazz/Utah Flash), Steve Novak (Houston/Rio Grande Valley), Brandon Wallace (Boston/Utah Flash), JamesOn Curry (Chicago/Iowa) Kosta Perovic (Golden State/Bakersfield), Nick Fazekas (Dallas/Tulsa) and Marcin Gortat (Orlando/Anaheim) are on opening night rosters.

Two names I was surprised to see on opening night rosters:
1. Darvin Ham -- Has been out of basketball for two years after spending eight season in the NBA with six different teams.

2. Keith Closs -- The 31-year-old center, who is possibly the skinniest man to ever play the game, played four seasons with the Clippers before spending two years in the CBA.


"Big Threes" Taking Over Posted by ElevationMag: Nov. 11 10:19 p.m. ET

I love how every team now has a "Big Three." I even read a quote in the Charlotte Observer from Charlotte coach Sam Vincent about the Bobcats' "Big Four." The Nets, Wizards and Spurs have had "Big Threes" for years now, but no team has started a new trend quite like the Boston Celtics. Since acquiring Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett over the summer to play alongside Paul Pierce, every team is now looking to hype up their three best players in hopes of fans catching on to next great trio.

Here is a list of the best "Big Threes" currently in the league. Click here to see the best trios of all-time.

Boston Celtics
Kevin Garnett - 22.6 ppg, 15.8 rpg, 6.0 apg
Ray Allen - 22.6 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 51.5 3p%
Paul Pierce - 23.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 4.6 apg

San Antonio Spurs
Tony Parker - 20.3 ppg, 5.7 apg, 1.2 spg
Tim Duncan - 17.7 ppg, 10.3 rpg, 2.2 bpg
Manu Ginobili - 19.7 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 5.2 apg

Dallas Mavericks
Josh Howard: 23.0 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 3.0 apg
Jason Terry - 21.8 ppg, 4.5 apg, 2.5 rpg
Dirk Nowitzki - 19.8 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 4.7 apg

New Jersey Nets
Richard Jefferson - 26.0 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 2.2 apg
Vince Carter - 17.0 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.5 apg
Jason Kidd - 9.5 ppg, 10.5 apg, 8.0 rpg

Detroit Pistons
Richard Hamilton - 20.3 ppg, 6.5 apg, 4.5 rpg
Chauncey Billups - 17.5 ppg, 6.7 apg, 1.8 spg
Rasheed Wallace - 15.3 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 2.0 apg

Washington Wizards
Gilbert Arenas - 20.8 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 4.4 apg
Caron Butler - 20.4, 7.8 rpg, 2.2 spg
Antawn Jamison - 19.6 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 1.2 apg

Phoenix Suns
Steve Nash - 22.9 ppg, 8.9 apg, 4.1 rpg
Shawn Marion - 16.4 ppg, 12.9 rpg, 1.0 bpg
Amare Stoudemire - 13.0 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 1.3 bpg


Money is Affecting Deng, Gordon and the Bulls Posted by Mike Slane: Nov. 8 2:59 p.m. ET

It's difficult to work at a job that doesn't want to commit to a long-term contract. Especially when the company says you're important and they want to keep you on board. Judging from the Bulls' 0-4 start and the less-than-stellar play from their two key pieces, Ben Gordon and Luol Deng, things are no different for players in the NBA.

No matter how much money a person makes a year, people want to be appreciated and treated as equals to their co-workers. After watching teammates Kirk Hinrich and Andres Nocioni agree on extensions with the Bulls, Gordon and Deng saw the re-signing deadline pass without new deals, leaving their futures up in the air for now. They will both become restricted free agents next summer.

NBA careers are short and almost half of all players have to make their money for the rest of their lives in their early to mid-20's. They want to have the security of a multi=year deal backing them before the season begins so they can just focus on the game. Through the first four games of the season, the Bulls are winless, Deng scoring average dropped 3.3 ppg from last season and Gordon is shooting a miserable 34.7 percent from the field.

If it's not the money affecting them, then what could it be? Kobe talk? GM Jim Paxson deaded that over a week ago.


Barea Belongs in the NBA Not the NBADL Posted by Mike Slane: Nov. 4 11:10 p.m. ET

J.J.B. is the real deal.

Oh, sorry, you probably don't know who I'm talking about -- yet. I'm talking about the one and only Jose Juan Barea, the Mavericks' future sixth man and current third-string point guard.

Barea, who was unstoppable as a scorer in the D-League last year as an assignee from Dallas, registered a career-best 25 points as the Mavs cruised to a 123-102 win over the Kings on Saturday. He went 9-for-11 from the field and helped the Mavs finish just shy of their franchise record with a 65.7 field-goal percentage.

I spent a lot of time watching the D-League last year and knew Barea didn't belong there, despite what many thought when he entered the league as an undrafted rookie. But it only took two weeks and a 27.3-point average in Fort Worth before he was back in Dallas, where his role unfortunately remained nothing more than a practice player who occasionally came off the bench during blowouts last season. You might remember him as the really short guy who only entered the game when Dirk Nowitzki's night was over.

This year is a different year and Barea already took advantage of his first opportunity to start as Devin Harris sat with a bruised left thigh. Barea likely earned extended minutes and is the type of player who will give you big scoring games every so often.

Don't expect to see J.J.B. back in the D-League ever again.


Durant Will Average Over 22 Points Posted by Mike Slane: Oct. 31 2:09 a.m. ET

Seattle's Kevin Durant will average somewhere between 22 and 25 points this season. After watching his NBA debut Thursday against the Nuggets, it's difficult not to think so.

Durant, battling a sprained ankle, had a slow start to the game, scoring just three points in the first quarter, but managed to finish with 18 in a 120-103 loss in Denver.

The Sonics clearly want Durant to be their go-to guy. They sent their two superstars to the Eastern Conference during the offseason and decided that Durant would be the man in Seattle before his name was even called on draft day. The shots are Durant's to take and he doesn't have a problem with his role. After tossing up an airball early in the first quarter, Durant didn't hestitate from the field as he took a total of 22 shots in the opener, eight more than any of his teammates and one more than leading-scorer Carmelo Anthony.

When looking at Durant's night from a historic view, you have to point out the fact that Michael Jordan only scored 16 in his first NBA game. I'm not going to compare Durant to Jordan just yet, but I will say he has a bright future ahead of him.


You Gotta Feel Bad for Cassell Posted by Mike Slane: Oct. 30 5:51 p.m. ET

First Charles Barkley calls Sam Cassell an alien on the Conan O’Brien Show last night and now the Pistons post this on their site (Watch the entire intro).


Possible destinations for Kobe Posted by Mike Slane: Oct. 18 2:20 a.m. ET

The J.C. Show discusses the latest news on Kobe

Kobe Bryant returned to practice Wednesday and is expected to play later today in the Lakers' exhibition game against Seattle. It's probably safe to say his locker isn't packed just yet.

According to ESPN, the Lakers aren't looking to initiate any trade discussions, but that doesn't mean they're not listening to offers.

Here is a list of possible destinations for the unhappy superstar:

Chicago Bulls - The Bulls have enough pieces to make a deal happen but would have to break up their core of young talented players, including Luol Deng, Kirk Hinrich, Tyrus Thomas and Ben Gordon, to acquire the superstar guard. If these two teams can work something out, it would feel like the Lakers and Bulls did nothing more than switch situations. The Bulls would be a decent team with a great player while the Lakers would feature a promising young squad.

Phoenix Suns - We all know that Shawn Marion isn't very happy right now in Phoenix, but I can assure you that the Lakers would want Amare Stoudemire included in any deal with the Suns. Both teams could benefit from an Amare-for-Kobe swap. Amare would give the Lakers a solid big man to play alongside Andrew Bynum, and Kobe would be thrilled to share a backcourt with Steve Nash.

Dallas Mavericks - Mark Cuban is interested in Kobe and Kobe is interested in Cuban's Mavs. But the only problem is Dirk isn't going anywhere. Are Josh Howard and Jason Terry/Devin Harris enough to make something happen? Doubt it.

Washington Wizards - Because Gilbert Arenas is expected to opt out of his contract next summer, the Wizards would be dumb not make a run at Kobe. However, other than Arenas, Washington doesn't have much to offer. First round picks wouldn't be too valuable considering Kobe would instantly push Washington to the top of the East.

Atlanta Hawks - The Hawks would be willing to send their entire roster to Los Angeles. Unfortunately it won't work under the cap. A package including Joe Johnson and Josh Smith sounds decent, but it's never going to happen. Do you think Kobe would really want to go to the worst franchise in the NBA?


Are Kobe's Days as a Laker Officially Over? Posted by ElevationMag: Oct. 16 9:29 p.m. ET

Kobe Bryant, who requested a trade earlier this offseason, is still a member of the Lakers. But the question now appears to be for how much longer.

Less than a week after owner Jerry Buss told reporters that he would listen to trade offers for Bryant, the Associated Press reported Tuesday that the superstar guard missed his third straight practice to "rest his legs," leaving many to believe that his days with the Lakers are over.

Kobe denied several local news outlets reports that his locker is already packed up and coach Phil Jackson dodged the issue completely.

"He's in the training room,'' Jackson told the AP. "I think that's about all I'll say. He asked me about resting his legs, but I think he's OK.''

No reported deals are on the table.


Knicks Sign Allan Houston Posted by ElevationMag: Oct. 10 6:00 p.m. ET

Allan Houston is officially back in the league. And for all the money he 'took' from the Knicks in the past and the fact that he continued to use their training facility while talking about a comeback, it only makes sense that the 36-year-old guard chose New York.

"After much thought and prayer, I have decided to return to the NBA as a member of the New York Knicks. I have worked extremely hard in the last year and a half to accomplish my dream of playing in the NBA again," said Houston, who averaged 17.3 points during his 12-year career.

Houston may not be the most athletic player in the league this upcoming season, but players don't forget how to shoot. If he can continue to be one of the best from long range in the league, he'll be worth a roster spot.

Houston in The NBA Minute


Stephen Jackson a Team Captain? Posted by ElevationMag: Oct. 5 4:27 p.m. ET

Are you kidding me? Stephen Jackson's a team captain? The same Stephen Jackson who beat up a bunch of fans in Auburn Hills? The same guy who fired a gun in the air to break up a late-night fight in Indianapolis only a year ago?

Jackson, who is on probation and spent the summer doing community service, was named a captain for the Warriors earlier this week. But he'll have to be a leader off the court for the first three weeks of the season while he serves a seven-game suspension.

A captain is supposed to be a role model, a player the youngsters can look up to. Don Nelson better pray his players don't follow in Jackson's footsteps. He was tossed in two important games in last season's playoffs and is one of the league-leaders in technical fouls.

Not one of the better decisions made by the Warriors.


Snow Out 4-6 Weeks Posted by ElevationMag: Oct. 1 2:17 p.m. ET

An MRI of Guard Eric Snow’s left knee has revealed a torn medial meniscus. Snow suffered the injury while working out in Cleveland last week. He is currently scheduled for surgery Tuesday at The Cleveland Clinic to repair the injured knee. The surgery will be performed by Cavaliers Head Team Physician Dr. Richard Parker. He is currently projected to be out from four to six weeks. An update will be provided when appropriate.


Going International Posted: Oct. 1 1:39 p.m. ET

It appears that more and more players are considering passing up NBA contracts for big money in Europe. During the offseason, several free agents threatened to take their skills overseas while negotiating deals in the NBA. Take Charlie Bell for example. The Bucks guard, who started a majority of their games last year, announced that he may be headed to Greece to join Euroleague powerhouse Olympiacos before receiving an offer from Miami. Milwaukee eventually matched the Heat's offer to maintain the restricted free agents rights.

Cleveland's restricted free agents Sasha Pavlovic and Anderson Varejao might want to follow Bell's approach in obtaining the contracts they seek. The Plain Dealer reported today that Pavlovic is considering playing overseas after passing up a $2.8 million qualifying offer from Cleveland. Once the Cavs see that he is serious about leaving the NBA, they will likely agree with his demands. Until then, Pavlovic will be practicing at home and exploring huge contracts in Europe.

Another player who might want to see what he can get overseas is Chris Webber. The NBA vet won't be making much this year in the NBA, probably around the league minimum, but would be paid like a superstar in Europe. He doesn't have much left in the tank, so it would be wise to take the money.



Report: Jordan Traded to Knicks Posted by B. Marcus: Sept. 30 2:39 p.m. ET

The Knicks are set to acquire Jared Jordan from the Clippers for cash. An announcement is expected later today.


Are Dolan, Thomas and Marbury out of their minds? Posted by B. Marcus: Sept. 19 8:30 a.m. ET

Answer: "Absolutely"... Look, at it this way, you work for IBM, you are an executive, you say the things they said, you do the things they say you did (or at least some of them) - do you really think you'd have a job? Absolutely not.

In most fortune 500 companies, harassment is taken extremely seriously even if the CEO doesn't really care. Real companies care about their reputations, their employee morale and yes, even the law. In most companies, a case like this would have been settled pdq on the dl long before it got picked up by the AP.

What's wrong with the Knicks, the NBA, the Garden management? Has the organization taken on the persona of some of its more infamous and misbehaving players? Answer: "Absolutely"

What's the Real Deal with Oden? Posted by B. Marcus: Sept. 13 5:15 p.m. ET

Greg Oden's offseason knee injury just begs the question if his knee was hurt between the Orlando predraft camp and private workouts and signing contracts with the Blazers and sponsors. Could this also explain why he opted out of playing for the U.S. Team over the summer? Would he have passed the team physical?

Oden struggled in a pair of summer league games in Vegas before he had a tonsillectomy in July. But when it came to joining the U.S. in Vegas a few weeks later Oden said he wanted to prepare for his rookie season instead, which apparently meant spending a lot of time on the couch.

"On my vacation earlier this summer i got up off the couch and remember my knee having a sharp pain in it," Oden said in his blog on Tuesday. "That was about a month ago. I didn't tell anyone because i didn't want to seem like i was complaining or making excuses for anything. Plus i wasn't doing anything at the time i realized it hurt, so i figured it couldn't be anything big."

Would several sponsors, including Nike, have signed the oft-injured center to mega-buck endorsement deals if they knew he was going to miss his much-anticipated rookie season? Doubt it. Would the Blazers have taken him first overall ahead of Kevin Durant knowing he had more than just a wrist injury? Probably not.

Oden seems like a good guy surrounded by good people, but I still gotta ask...


What a nice guy Isiah Thomas is... Posted: Sept. 12 1:15 p.m. ET

Check out some quotes from the workplace, according to Anucha Browne Sanders, the former Knicks exec who filed a $10 million sexual harassment lawsuit against the Knicks' coach:

Isiah on the community:
"Bitch, I don't want the players in the community. I'm here to win. I don't give a s--- about sponsors. I don't give a s--- about the community."

Isiah on season ticket holders:
"Bitch, I don't give a (expletive) about these white people."

Isiah while sweet talking Browne Sanders:
"I figured out why we have problems. It's because we're so alike. I'm in love with you."

Isiah on not receiving a kiss on the cheek from Brown Sanders:
"No love today?"


Nuggets Will be a Different Team Posted: Sept. 11 12:15 a.m. ET

Even though they haven't been a major player in free agency and stood still during the draft, the Denver Nuggets will be a different team next season than they were in 2006-07.

While several Western Conference teams made significant changes, including Northwest Division rivals Seattle and Portland, the Nuggets' only offseason moves were the signing of Chucky Atkins and acquiring Steven Hunter from Philly. Not quite the offseason you'd expect from a team that can't get past the first round.

But when looking at Denver's roster there are two things you must consider:

1) Kenyon Martin will be back.

2) Von Wafer is the equivalent of a 2007 first round pick.

Despite battling injuries throughout his career, K-Mart is still a solid power forward when he's on the floor. He provides energy on the defensive end and can run in a fast-paced offense. If he is forced to come off the bench, he will be an upgrade from last season's frontcourt reserves, even if he is the most overpaid sixth man in the league. Best case scenario K-Mart stays healthy and plays like he did in Jersey. Worst case scenario he's injured for the year. Worst case scenario (if healthy) he plays at the level of a decent rookie.

Von Wafer, selected by the Lakers in the second round of the 2005 Draft, is often considered the Nuggets' 2007 first round selection. Wafer was selected to the All-NBA Development League First Team last season after averaging 21 points and could be the shooter Denver's been searching for. He shot 45 percent from beyond the arc in 42 games last year.


How the Vick Case Affects the NBA Posted: Aug. 27 1:30 p.m. ET

Michael Vick's arrest for dogfighting is still the only topic on sports talk radio and ESPN. Some of the sick things he did to dogs have been released and the focus of the upcoming NFL season isn't on the new-look Patriots or the defending-champion Colts anymore. It's on Michael Vick's character and stupid, inhumane behavior towards animals.

I think it's safe to say the NBA lucked out. Let me explain.

To start, the sports world's obsession with NBA ref Tim Donaghy and gambling went away the second it appeared Vick could actually do some time for his actions. ESPN.com's top story is usually Vick, while the Donaghy story became only a bullet.

Next, the Vick situation could have very well happened to the NBA instead of the NFL. Fortunately for David Stern and Co., former Blazers forward Qyntel Woods never lived up to the hype of being the next Tracy McGrady. The NBA dodged a bullet in 2005 and, as a result, Vick's career was ruined.

Woods faced possible charges of dogfighting before pleading guilty to animal abuse in 2005. Imagine if he was a superstar like Vick. I'm sure he wouldn't have gotten off with just an animal abuse charge, and without a doubt there would have been a more indepth investigation. The only evidence held against Woods was that he abandoned a pit bull because it didn't fight.

If Woods was an athlete of Vick's status, he would have saved future athletes from making the same mistakes. Every current athlete with a dogfighting ring is probably quietly shutting everything down before they're the next making headlines, which is something Vick would've likely done.


Close Your Eyes If You Get Grossed Out Easily Posted: Aug. 15 7:52 p.m. ET




Throwback Guards Thinking About Comebacks Posted: Aug. 12 4:23 p.m. ET

Over the past week it wasn't the usual 19-year-old first rounders or mid-20-year-old superstars making headlines. It was three old-timer shooting guards who we all thought had already played their last professional game.

Who ever said the NBA keeps getting younger?

Reggie Miller, Allan Houston and Penny Hardaway are looking to get back in the league and nobody will stop them. Penny has already been signed and the other two will without a doubt find a home despite their age and lack of athleticsm. They will each get 10-15 minutes of playing time per game based on their talent and leadership skills.

Cleary these three veteran's decisions to come back and play reserve roles has nothing to do with their individual success. They want rings and want them now. You don't see Reggie talking about playing for the Hawks, do you? He's having discussions with the Celtics only because many consider them the team to beat in the East.

Houston said the Knicks have a chance of re-signing him, but didn't he have to say that? He pretty much robbed New York for about $100 million and ruined the team's salary cap for years. But when it's all said and done, he will not be playing home games at MSG. He'll be coming off the bench for a contender such as the Dallas Mavericks or Cleveland Cavs.

Penny inked with the Heat on Thursday. Maybe he felt left out because he wanted to join the rest of the members from the All-90's team. Or most likely he wants a championship. The current Heat roster has one more chance to win and Penny does too. So it's a perfect match.


Celts and Wolves New Depth Charts Posted: Aug. 2 3:33 p.m. ET

The Wolves now have way too many players after making a league-most 5-for-1 player trade, while the Celtics are in desperate need of some cheap players.

Check out Minnesota's projected depth chart.

Check out Boston's projected depth chart.


The Deal That Saved the NBA -- For Now Posted: Aug. 1 6:33 p.m. ET

Tuesday's blockbuster trade which sent 10-time All-Star Kevin Garnett to the Boston Celtics was the best thing that could have happened to the NBA this summer.

Just a week after Commissioner David Stern held a press conference in New York to address the media in response to stories that the FBI is investigating an NBA referee who bet on games, the focus of the league has already been shifted back to basketball. The storyline for the upcoming season is now KG's impact on the weak Eastern Conference instead of how the refs will call the games.

During the slowest time of the year between the beginning of free agency and training camp, the media finally has something positive to discuss about the league. Rumors of who will fill holes around the Celtics' All-Star trio of Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce will lead headlines and people will begin making Finals predictions months before the season tips off.

The NBA should keep pushing this story as long as possible. The schedule won't be released until tomorrow, but the Celtics need play the first game of the season to help take the focus off the refs. Boston, the NBA's greatest franchise, needs to be the storyline of the season until Kobe gets traded or Donaghy snitches on some refs.


A Couple Questions About the Possible KG Deal Posted: July 30 2:17 p.m. ET

Reports resurfaced late Sunday that Kevin Garnett could be headed to Boston in less than 48 hours.

According to several sources, including Fox Sports and ESPN, the Celtics and Timberwolves have come to terms on a deal that would send KG to Boston for a package including Al Jefferson, Gerald Green, Theo Ratliff and Sebastian Telfair. Other players and draft picks may be included.

When I first heard this breaking news I thought of two things: 1) What made KG change his mind on going to Beantown? 2) Why are the Celtics risking their future on a 31 year old?

The prospect of teaming with Paul Pierce and newly acquired guard Ray Allen is a step up from the youngsters on the Wolves' current roster. And the fact that the Celtics play in the Eastern Conference doesn't hurt either. Boston is not quite the warm city KG dreams of playing in, but a chance at a championship could sway anyone to play for the Celtics. Plus, Phoenix and the L.A. Lakers have backed off on the idea of trading for him.

Garnett has been with the Wolves for 12 seasons, and while he might be loyal to the franchise, how loyal is Minnesota's owner Glen Taylor and GM Kevin McHale to him? One minute they're looking to trade the 2004 MVP, the next they're saying he's off the market. It's time for Garnett to realize the Wolves are looking towards the future without him in the plans, and it's time for the Wolves to pull the trigger on a deal while KG is still one of the most valuable players in the league. Garnett needs to allow the deal to happen and promise the Celtics he's there to stay.

Meanwhile, the Celtics have a plan and Garnett is a big part of it. They're looking to move the core of their future and one of their biggest assets, Ratliff's contract, for a veteran with 12 years of NBA wear and tear on his body. And not to mention the salary that comes along with Garnett's well-rounded game. The Celtics will now be required to pay three All-Stars max deals. Basically, they're putting themselves in a now-or-never position, which might not be too much of a risk afterall when you look at who they're competing with in the East right now. But when Jefferson is a superstar five years from now and KG is posting Shaq-type numbers, we'll see who the real winner is.


Donaghy: The Man Who Ruined Basketball Posted: July 23 4:15 9.m. ET

Could you imagine getting yourself in as much trouble as NBA referee Tim Donaghy? The man has ruined the integrity of basketball, embarrassed himself and his family, and has placed himself in a life-threatening position. And for what? A few bucks?

What the hell was this knuckle head thinking?

I'm not a betting man, but I would throw down some cash and say we'll never see or hear from Donaghy again after a few months. I don't see him making license plates in the federal pen or reffing prison ball games, I picture him more in East Bumblef*ck, Kansas eating egg noodles with ketchup alongside Henry Hill during his lunch break from the farm.

Donaghy will drop some dimes and I'm not talking about the ones Steve Nash does on a daily basis. He will snitch on everybody and their mom to get out of this mess. At least that seems to be the popular opinion on ESPN here, here and here,

The man could've prevented the Suns from becoming champs. He likely destroyed the credibility of good, honest refs at the both the pro and college ranks (Even though no referee would be dumb enough to gamble on a game now). And he probably damaged any chance of Las Vegas getting an NBA franchise (This man and this man are probably very upset, if that's possible.)

Donaghy, who now beats out Dick Bavetta as the most recognizable NBA ref, joins former baseball star and would've-been-a-MLB-hall-of-famer Pete Rose in the sports gambling Hall-of-Shame. But what makes Donaghy's situation much worse than Rose's is the fact that he helped decide the outcome of games in a negative way for the teams involved while Rose only placed bets on his own team to win.

Donaghy is a weak man. He obviously has a gambling problem and will pay for his mistakes. I look forward to oneday reading his book or watching a movie based on his pathetic story.


Yao in hot water Posted: July 19 9:25 a.m. ET

Yao got in a bit of press trouble as he skips team events to spend more time with the miss's to be....


Steph in Italy? Posted: July 19 12:00 a.m. ET

Stephon Marbury said something interesting and very shocking in the New York Post on Tuesday. And if he sticks to his word, he'll boost international hoops the same way David Beckham is putting Major League Soccer on the map.

Marbury is not only considering playing in Italy after his contract with the Knicks expires in two years, he's already made a vow to take his game overseas.

"I'm not just thinking of doing it, I'm going to do it," Marbury told the Post on Monday. "My wife loved it there. It's like a [David] Beckham thing."

Steph could just be talking out of his ass right now because let's face it, who wouldn't want to live in Italy after taking a vacation there? Shoot, every time I visit Jamaica I dream about living on an island. But would I give up my career covering the NBA and bringing basketball news to you everyday on EMag? Probably not.

However, if Marbury does keep his promise, Euro basketball will find a spot on ESPN, NBA.com, ElevationMag, etc. on a weekly, if not daily, basis. Wouldn't you love to see how a veteran NBA superstar (he's a superstar, right?) does in an international league?

Maybe he'll even find a way to make a playoff run for once in his career.


Robert Swift, Are You kidding Me? Posted: July 17 12:29 p.m. ET




Portland: The Most Improved Team Posted: July 16 3:19 p.m. ET

Even if they don't win 40 or even 35 games next season, the Portland Blazers are this year's most improved team.

It won't happen during the 2007-08 season or possibly the one after but before you know it, the Trail Blazers - formerly known as the "Jail Blazers" - will be a contender. Just remember Greg Oden said he wants 15 championships.

Since lucking out and winning the Oden Sweepstakes, the Blazers have built a classy, talented team around the league's next great center and 2006-07 Rookie of the Year Brandon Roy. They traded for the next Manu Ginobili in Rudy Fernandez (will likely play in Europe next year), cleared out some cap space by trading Zach Randolph and letting Jamaal Magloire bounce via free agency, and added "veterans" Channing Frye and Steve Blake. And keep in mind that Roy is only one year into his career, Martell Webster is only 21 years old and LaMarcus Aldridge was the second overall pick in the 2006 draft.

Now if only Darius Miles can find his way onto the floor we'll really have something to get excited about.

Other quick thoughts...

-The Knicks' summer league team played better than their regular season team.

-Von Wafer is better than any pick the Nuggets would have taken if they had the 21st overall selection.

-Yi sucks (read below). So does Nick Fazekas, the self-proclaimed best shooter in the draft. He shot 40 percent from the floor and finished 0-for-4 from beynd the arc.


TskitishvilYI... TskitishvillYI... TskitishvilYI Posted: July 3 1:32 p.m. ET



I've seen the highlights, but never watched him play a full game. But from what I've been reading and hearing, Yi has the potential to be better than Yao. So, basically I guess some people think he'll be the best center in the world.

I highly doubt that.

Despite not knowing much about him (besides that he struggled in the World Championships without Yao), I can honestly say I do not like Yi. I don't like the fact that he can't be happy just to be where he's at. I don't like his facial expression. And I don't like the fact that his "camp" thinks they can choose where he plays. If they want to control a league, keep him in the CBA.

Yi better be the man next year. Do I think he will be, though? No way. TskitishvilYI... TskitishvillYI... TskitishvilYI



NBA.com Mock Draft Posted: June 27 12:50 p.m. ET

Yours truly selected for the Phoenix Suns in NBA.com's mock draft. Check it out and let me know what you think about my pick and if you think there will be any surprises tomorrow night.

Also, make sure you check out our mock draft.


Bruce Willis Drunk at Nets Game Posted: June 21 1:00 a.m. ET

I love this video. You have to watch it until the very end.




Kobe's Video Posted: June 20 1:15 p.m. ET
By now, I'm sure everyone's heard about the infamous "Kobe video" where he bashes Lakers management and Andrew Bynum. He was pissed about not bringing in Jason Kidd and apparently told the "Kobe Video Guys" to buy a Bulls uniform.

The owners of the tape will charge $1.99 to watch the 24-second video online at TheKobeVideo.com. That is only if they are gauranteed 50,000 viewers. If not, some clown wants to buy the video for $100,000 to keep Kobe's comments from going public. The videographers already showed several journalists the tape and we already know what Kobe says, so what would be the point of buying it? I really don't know.

"Andrew Bynum? What the f---? Are you kidding me? Andrew Bynum? F---ing ship his ass out. Are you kidding me? We're talking about Jason Kidd. But they didn't even want to do that. Now we're here in this f---ed up position."

Check out what the ESPN guys had to say on Pardon the Interruption.


Sophomore Girl in H.S. Dunks Posted: June 14 2:19 a.m. ET




Funny, Pointless Video Posted: June 13 11:06 p.m. ET

Check out this video from Sonics.com of Seattle's mascot Squatch attempt a world record by jumping 30 feet in the air on inline skates. Maybe he should have attempted the jump on a nice day -- if there are any in Seattle.


Denver Post Columnist Writes Terrible Story Posted: June 13 2:47 p.m. ET

I was reading through some of our headlines today and noticed an interesting story by Mark Kiszla of the Denver Post titled J.R. a fool in danger of losing it all. The piece basically rips on the Nuggets' J.R. Smith, who is already dealing with a loss of a close friend in an automobile accident, calling him a hip-hop culture "poseur" and a "gangsta wannabe."

Here's what bothers me about Kiszla's comments.

First, it's the wrong time to make someone feel any worse than I'm sure J.R.'s already feeling after driving the car that killed his boy. He's devastated. Who wouldnt be? Just because Kiszla's a columnist looking for a story during a dead time of the year (Denver doesn't have a draft pick) doesn't mean he has to take a dig at someones personality and connect it to his driving skills. Last I checked, a stereotype of "gangsters" isn't bad driving skills.

Second, I highly doubt Kiszla has hung out with J.R. outside of NBA arenas and media press conferences. He's judging a book by its cover, and has no right making fun of someone he probably hasn't known for more than a year.

Finally, I would put money down that this writer from Denver has never spent time in J.R.'s hometown or even knows exactly where it is. J.R.'s friend who died was from East Orange, a city that's much worse than Newark. I bet Kiszla didn't know J.R.'s friends were really from the hood. But I guess he can spend his time writing an article about them next.

The Best Power Forward Ever? Posted: June 8 5:45 p.m. ET

As much as most of the basketball population doesn't like watching his fundamental basketball, Tim Duncan is arguably the best power forward to ever play the game.

While Karl Malone and Charles Barkley will always have their mark in history as outstanding power forwards, they retired without any rings. Duncan, on the other hand, is going for his fourth since 1999.

Below is a list of accomplishments from the former No. 1 pick:

-Since Duncan arrived in San Antonio in 1998, the Spurs have won a major sports-leading .709 percentage (559-229) of their games.

-Duncan is the third all-time leader in blocks in the NBA Finals behind Shaquille O'Neal and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

-Duncan (U.S. Virgin Islands) is the only internationally-born player to appear in four NBA Finals.

-Duncan has played in 135 career playoff games.


Durant is Weak, Literally Posted: June 5 4:45 p.m. ET

The NBA combine results were released yesterday, and let's just say basketball players are much weaker than athletes in the NFL. Or at least Kevin Durant is.

Can somebody please tell me why Durant, a projected top 2 pick, couldn't bench 185 lbs one time? How could a player who I presume trains about two or three times a day with professional strength and conditioning coaches not be able to put up 185 lbs at the very least one time?

Dude is 6-foot-10, 215 lbs.

Let's put this into perspective real quick. I'm 6-feet, 170 and can put up 185 three times in a row easily. I play pickup ball about once a week and haven't lifted seriously in about a year. I sit in an office all day writing, reading and watching basketball, not playing it. College and NBA players are forced to hit the weights.

However, there was one future superstar who impressed me at the combine. Greg Oden is a freak of nature. The 245-pound Oden sprinted 3/4 of the court .18 seconds faster than Durant despite looking about 30 years older. He didn't participate in the lifting part of the day due to his injured right wrist.


NBA Look-a-Likes Posted: June 4 12:04 a.m. ET



Detroit vs. LeBron Posted: June 1 12:40 a.m. ET

M.J. had Pippen.

Kobe had Shaq.

LeBron has... a bunch of average role players.

It's King James vs. the Pistons, people, and the one-man show is on top.

The Pistons are one of the most experienced teams in the league, and I must say that I'm shocked at how poorly they're playing in the Eastern Conference Finals. They've had opportunities to close out games in the fourth, but allowed the Cavs to have the final possession in three of the five meetings with the game still in reach.

After the first two games of the series it appeared as though Detroit would win the series as long as it kept each game close. Let's face it, LeBron was considered one of the worst superstar closers in the league. It's amazing how much LeBron has matured in just five games -- without much help.

Game 1 Loss
LeBron dished the rock to an open Donyell Marshall for the game-winning 3-point attempt. If Marshall hits it, LeBron would be considered the "unselfish superstar." If he misses, LeBron goes down as "the superstar who chokes in the fouth quarter." Marshall missed.

Game 2 Loss
Down by two, LeBron attacks the rim and missing a spinning hook shot against the much smaller Rip Hamilton. Larry Hughes grabbed the rebound and missed a 10-footer. Varejao missed the tip in on the rebound.

Game 3 Win
LeBron scores 12 in the fourth quarter, and Daniel Gibson finally provides some help.

Game 4 Win
James goes 4-for-6 from the field and 5-for-5 from the charity stripe in the fourth. Once again Gibson provides some help, pouring in a career-high 21 points.

Game 5 Win
LeBron doesn't need to rely on Gibson or anyone as he scores Cleveland's final 25 points, including a dunk to force the first overtime with 9.5 seconds left and the game-winning layup with 2 seconds remaining in the second OT.


A Mess in Lakerland Posted: May 31 2:40 p.m. ET

Kobe, the Lakers really are a mess. Let's look at the past few days in Lakerland...

Last week - Kobe is upset with the direction of the team and gets the idea that Jerry West might be coming to town.

Early Tuesday morning - Owner Jerry Buss, 74, is arrested on suspicion of drunk driving with a 23-year-old woman in the car. (Player?)

Tuesday morning - Bryant read in a report from the L.A. Times that "as a Lakers insider notes, it was Bryant's insistence on getting away from Shaquille O'Neal that got them in this mess."

Wednesday afternoon - On the Stephen A. Smith Show on NYC's 1050 ESPN Radio, Kobe is fed up with the organization and demands a trade. "I would like to be traded, yeah," Bryant said. "Tough as it is to come to that conclusion there's no other alternative, you know?"

Later Wednesday afternoon - Kobe backtracks on his trade demand on the Dan Patrick Show, also on 1050. "I'm so tired of talking," said Bryant, who should've just signed with the Clippers. "It's tough. I always dreamed about retiring as a Laker. I just hope and hope that something can be resolved. Something can be figured out. Just something so I can stay here and be in this city and be with the team I love."

Buss responds to reports: "We are aware of the media reports. However, Kobe has not told us directly that he wants to be traded," said the Lakers owner. "We have made it very clear that we are building our team around Kobe and that we intend for him to be a Laker his entire career.

Later We