Two Teams Trapped in Time: Time Out!!! Time Travel!! Choke Time for Mavs. Game 4

The uncertainty of time has calmed itself. We're almost positive now that the parallel between the 2003 Dallas Portland playoff series and the 2011 Dallas Portland playoff series isn't as blurred as earlier thought, and in fact, sits quite perpendicular. With a respect and admiration for the NBA past and present, we reflect on two Game 4s, each won by Portland, each resulting in different vibes in two different series' in two different years of the Dallas and Portland first round playoff rivalry.

If there was one form of time altering during the Trailblazer's 84-82 Game 4 win, it was Brandon Roy playing like a healthy superstar again (maybe for the last time?). Roy's 4th quarter play should go down in first round history as one of the most heroic of all time. Hardly getting off the bench in game 3, Brandon was entirely unstoppable on Saturday evening, scoring a point per minute on the floor (24 in 24). His hesitation moves put scared thoughts in Dallas's defense, as Shawn Marion, Jason Kidd, and Jason Terry each found themselves eating Roy's bad-knee dust. The home-team Blazers outscored Dallas by 20 in the final frame, taking hard control of the series with back to back wins.

Perhaps 2003 injuries to Scottie Pippen, Derek Anderson, and Arvydas Sabonis were blessings in street clothes, as it gave new chances to both future and former NBA stars. Zach Randolph, inserted into the starting unit, played 41 minutes, finishing with 25 points and 15 rebounds. Damon Stoudamire, a troubled young man for years and years, was able to put it all behind him for one special night, starting and dishing it out 11 times to go with 17 points. It was a valiant effort by the whole squad, both healthy and hurt. Pippen was out, but he used his knowledge to assist suspect coach Mo Cheeks, and during the crucial 3rd quarter run, Pippen handed out pep talks as a motivational prince. Portland destroyed the Mavericks in Game 4 of the 2003 first round series.

Perhaps Bonzi Wells' 45 point explosion in Game 2 of the 2003 series was a poison in disguise, as he stunk up the joints in games 3 and 4. In Game 4, one that Dallas was trying to win to sweep the series, Wells shot just 6 of 21. His volume shooting hurt our eyes, but playoff basketball is a team oriented theology that takes place on two ends, and Bonzi's defense helped seal the first win of the series for old Portland. Wells recorded 5 steals in the game, and Portland as a unit forced 15 Dallas turnovers, a very uncharacteristic total for the 2003 Mavs.

As for 2011 Dallas, they played with the stuff of horrible choke artists, something they've become pretty accustomed to over the Dirk Nowitzki years. Being up by 24 points late in the 3rd quarter, Dallas stopped playing aggressive basketball. The blame can't be pointed to any one player, however, as Dallas's star, we expect more from Germany's favorite son. As the game clock ticked, Dirk found himself with the ball numerous times in the 4th quarter, only to pass it out of single coverage like a hot potato. Twice, with point guard Andre Miller guarding him in transition, Nowitzki was, for some strange reason, reluctant to do work with the mismatch. Jason Terry is always capable of hitting shots in bunches down the stretch, and he made good on a few important jumpers, but Dallas lacked any and all predatory instincts. Without the spark of toughness, Dallas flailed to one of their worst collapses of all time (actually, if this were another team it would be easier to call it one of the worst collapses, but as it is Dallas, it's hard to fit this example in with the large mass of Maverick playoff failures).

Perhaps the 2011 Game 4 loss can be chalked up to old age, or bad coaching, or both. With Jason Kidd obviously approaching menopause, his decision making down the stretch resembled that of a paunchy, drunk frat girl. He bobbled, overshot, slipped, and spilled. As a result, Dallas lost the game in sad sad fashion, giving the poor Dallas faithful a taste of the awful medicine that they've grown to hate over the years. Where can Coach Carlisle look to fix things? Portland has the momentum, yet Dallas has the home-court advantage. Misery is a powerful emotion, and the NBA brings buckets of it. For once though, Mavs fans wish it were headed to the other city.

Steve Nash was absolutely invisible in Game 4 of the 2003 series. It very well could have been this game that single-handedly gave Mark Cuban the insight to let Nash mosey off into the sunset (and into an MVP role with high flying Phoenix). Steve was scoreless for the game, and had as many turnovers as he had combined rebounds and assists (4, 1, and 3). Michael "Fin-Dawg" Finley couldn't find his touch either, as he finished with just 7 points. Nick "The Quick" Van Exel had a strong first half, and Dallas actually led at halftime with a slight 3 point advantage, but in the 3rd quarter everything fell apart. With Portland scoring 21 straight, and outscoring Dallas by 23 for the period, every hip Portland fan finally felt a tiny tinge of happiness, watching the Blazers win in the playoffs for the first time in 11 tries. But surely the Mavericks, up 3-1, will be able to take care of business back in Big D, right?...

With Game 5 approaching fast, both then and now, Dallas is in two very different scenarios. Although it's dangerous, 2003 Dallas doesn't feel the sense of urgency, and as a result, they're bound to find themselves back in Portland for a Game 6. 2011 Dallas limps home losers of a game they should have won. In the past, the Mavericks have been unable to overcome mental defeats such as Game 4's collapse. Kidd needs to stop this junk and play basketball. Stop playing the clock, Kidd, and play ball. If only the time portal could somehow affect Kidd, but he was too busy playing MVP level point guard for the Eastern Conference Nets back in 2003, and the history between Dallas and Portland just a mystery to what the Kidd did .

As for the Blazers, they'll ride into Dallas all knotted up and loving it. They still have a first team caliber superstar in LaMarcus Aldridge, and if the glue guys can play like they normally do, it's not looking so hot for Dallas's boys in blue. As time moves forward, games become finalized, and as of today, we sit and think, "will we find ourselves at the American Airlines Center for Game 7?" It happened in 2003, and it sure looks like it could happen again in 2011. Two games need to be split to finalize the time parallelogram. It begins Monday night in Texas.

Time Wrinkle Expanding! Mavs Blazers, Game 3, 2003 vs. 2011

Something has happened. The fabric of time, as we know it, can only be a one-direction constant. Or so we thought. Last night, while watching Game 3 of the 2011 and 2003 first round series' featuring the Dallas Mavericks and the Portland Trailblazers, my VCR started playing on its own terms.

 

Then, it was all about coming home and getting everyone on the same page.  Although two leaders from the regular season in Scottie Pippen and Derek Anderson were now sitting on the bench in a fancy fancy suits, this Blazers team was a savvy and deep group.  Another leading scorer emerged off the bench in the form of the “Kobe Stopper Kobe Stopper Kobe Stopper”… Ruben Patterson.  His aggressive play yielded 9 trips to stripe, ending with a team high 19 pts and even grabbed 9 rbs (5 offensive at that).

Although Bonzi did not carry over his career shooting performance from the previous game, he managed to turn the extra defensive attention into 6 asts and still dropped in a respectable 15 pts. Damon Stoudamire continued his solid play going 3-4 from behind the arch and finishing with 16 pts. Sentimental Blazer favorite, Arvydas Sabonis came off the bench to abuse the Mavs for 14 bone bruising minutes to contribute 16 pts 4 rbs and 3 fouls! Overall, the Blazers had a balanced scoring attack with five players scoring in double figures, but just didn’t have enough to pull away from the Mavs.

 

Just as then, now in 2011 the Blazer’s home court advantage obviously still means something for the confidence and spirit of the team.  The most notable character to be carried by the gales of cheering was second year player Wes Mathews.  After Brandon Roy went down at the beginning of the year, Mathews emerged to fill the offensive vacuum. He finished the year averaging a hair under 16 ppg and scored 20 pts or more in 25 games this season. On Thursday night, Mathews felt the fire of the crowd and came out shooting red-hot.   LA LaMarcus Aldridge continued his unstoppable offensive barrage posting, spinning, juking, shimmy shimmy ya-ing, and dropping hoop after hoop.  LA finished with a cool 20 pts 1 blk 1 stl and 4 rbs.

Andre Miller also continued his solid play, controlling tempo, making crafty moves in the post, and playing with intensity.  Nothing says, “I’m the man” like taking the chewing gum out of your mouth and fist pumping the crowd. BRANDON ROY ladies and gentlemen! Injury has robbed this guy of elite play, but hasn’t taken his heart and passion for the game.  After venting to the media about a lack of playing time, Roy let his on-court play do the talking by shooting with confidence and determination.  His buckets were a huge emotional lift that let his teammates know… it was time to take the game and get a win. 

For the Ole Mavericks, it was all about Nick & Nash setting the table.  The Dallas trade for Nick Van Exel and Raef Lafrentz allowed Nelly to run his super duper reckless abandon offense, often playing two pgs at the same time and letting his center and forwards slide out to hit 3 pointers.  Nelly’s mad scientist offense worked perfectly on this night.  Nick & Nash penetrated with ease then kicked the ball out for open shots. Nick & Nash finished with a combined 23 pts and 17 asts! Not to down play Dirk’s amazing night as he shot a sick 5-6 from behind the arch and finished the game with 42 pts and 10 rbs. Even Raef dropped 20 pts by connecting on 4-6 three pointers. In the end, Dallas won by connecting on 13 three point shots and going hard on the offensive end… Nelly-Ball.

The 2011 performance was nowhere near as smooth as the 2003. Basically the Mavs looked terrible for almost the whole first half with the notable exception of Jason Terry.  Kidd was being defensively pressured by Gerald Wallace and Wes-Wes Mathews as soon as he crossed half court.  Dirk was getting good looks, but everything was simply rimming out.  Tyson Chandler was having trouble setting screens and not getting called for fouls. Haywood continued his odyssey at the line. Yet somehow, the Mavericks were hanging on.

Jet Terry was feeling it! Shooting whenever and wherever he wanted. Whether in the lane, from three, or on the elbow the Jet was flying all over place. Jet eventually finished the game with a modest 29 pts and 7 ats (5-7 from 3-pt). As for Dirk, he was struggling but wisely decided to take it hard to the hoop and look for fouls.  After finding a stroke from the line, Dirk regained his late game form and managed to hit some big 4th quarter buckets. Although some will point to the controversial 2pt/3pt shot by J-Kidd. The real questionable call had to be Rick Carlisle leaving JJ Barea on the floor for an extended stretch in the 4th.  We love JJ and recognize his talents, but overexposure is a real problem for many role players.  If you leave them on the floor too long, their returns eventually diminish.  JJ had been playing great, but Carlisle probably needed to go back to Peja or Marion mid-way through the 4th, instead of the tiny three guard rotation. In the end, the Mavs just didn't have enough to claw their way to the victory.

All in all, the Rose garden gave Blazers the boost they were looking for and helped to slightly close the tear in the time continuum. Time differential is important for us all. If we feel too intertwined with the 2003 series, insanity could ensue. Thankfully, the Portland victory has given this series a voice all of its own. Game 4 should give us an even fresher and more entertaining time than previous games, however, if old Dallas finds a way to win, we'll be right back where we were in 2003, with the Mavs up 3-1.

Underdog 76ers bite back?! Featuring Jon Eaton of the Spinto Band

After our extensive 76ers underdog preview, Jon Eaton of the Spinto Band drops back by with his thoughts on an 0-2 deficit by the pups.

Dear Readers,

Dang the Heat look good right now.  The Sixers are missing tons of layups, Lebron James is getting all the calls, and a lot of the Sixers players look like sheep. The Heat are playing some intense defense, but I am curious to see how that D looks in the second round of a 7 gamer (if they make it).  I thought for sure Doug Collins would have a better offensive plan after the zone shut them down in game 1. 

A fun debate I am having right now is: Who would you rather have be your franchise’s small forward- Iguodala or Thad Young? 

It's rough when your two best players are best at the same position. I am really scared of Thad Young leaving in the offseason.  I think he wants to be a starting small forward somewhere and is a restricted free agent at season’s end and should be expecting some good offers (depending on the lockout).

 The Sixers may be overmatched, but playoff basketball is so much more fun than tanking and getting pumped up for the draft lottery.  I really think it is important for NBA fans to quit routing for either A) an NBA championship OR B) a lottery draft pick.  I hate the draft lottery, it is boring and the opposite of everything I love about sports.  Memphis fans and Hornets fans are in it to win it.  Pacers fans must be gutted, but they are in it to win it, and I believe Philly fans should be too.  The Heat are beatable.  All they have done so far is hold on to home court.

I am still happy to watch the Sixers in the playoffs and will never be the type of person that routes for a high lottery pick over playoff BBall in April.  We got a high lotto pick last year and he 'aint all that (yet).  Plus I needed a kicker to truly get me hating the Heat.  I disliked Lebron and thought Bosh was kind of a turkey (neck) but I love DWade and Ilgauskus.  Now, with me loathing Mike Miller and some of the other role players whose name's I forget but I always see them raising their arms from the bench when Wade shoots a 3-- I can truly route against this team the same way I route against the Lakers.

Tonight will be all about the 76er fans and whether they can will our young guys to a victory. I know I'll be cheering like a mutha!  Hope the rest of Phila feels the same.

-Jon Eaton

Once again… gotta agree with the Good Jon.

We’ll be rooting for the 76ers tonight at 8pm eastern on TNT.

GO SIXERS!

- Coyote-SL

 

Two Teams Trapped in Time: Dallas v. Portland, Game 2

In 2003, the first round of the playoffs was extended from best of 5 to best of 7. That year the No. 3 seed Dallas played No. 6 Portland in a series that rocked the sports world. Dallas got off to the 2-0 lead after winning the first two games at home, and the rest, as they say, is stuff for the history books. The two teams haven't met in the playoffs since... until now... With each team seeded in the same spot, we're reminded that time plays funny tricks on us all. With so much the same, yet almost everything different, the two teams resume their playoff rivalry in 2011! Our historian, Tremaine Mentapaul, video taped the entire Portland Dallas series back in '03, and we're going through them one at a time. On Tuesday, we watched game 2, then and now.

Bonzi, freaking, Wells! What do you say about a true warrior like Bonzi? He looks like the neighbor kid, all doughy and full of smiles, but beware of his nasty side. He's been a strong scorer for years, and in 2003, versus the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs, Bonzi took it to another level. After a game 1 loss in which only Rasheed Wallace played with the necessary goods, and the rest of the Blazer roster fell flat, Bonzi Wells stepped up in Game 2 and couldn't be stopped, putting in 45 points on 16 of 24 shooting, including 4 of 5 from triple point distance. It wasn't enough though, as the 2003 Blazer team lacks the team depth needed to succeed in the top-notch 2003 Western Conference. This time Bonzi played the role of team leader, but follow his example, his teammates did not. The non-Bonzi Trailer Blaze Boys shot only 38%, which is just not getting it done against Dirk's Mavs. Not in 2003, not in 2011, not ever.

The 2011 Portland Trailblazers shot 48.5% in Game 2, and they did so with a balance and teamwork that usually results in red and black confetti. They shot 50% from the arch, and turned the ball over a conservative 12 times. Gerry Wallace and Wesley Matthews returned to prominence after their Game 1 disappearing acts. With aggressive minds, the two T-Blazers shot 12 of 22. Gerry did an impressive job finding teammates, as he totaled 6 assists. Aldridge continued to fill his role as team scoring leader, and Andre Miller played about the same as he always does, filling the stat sheet with 18 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds. Somehow, with all of the things that Portland did well in Game 2, it added up to another road loss, and a disappointing 0-2 hole in what many touted as the most evenly matched first round series of recent history.

Dirk Nowitzki played the entire 48 minutes in Game 2 of the 2003 first round series vs Portland. Unlike the unstoppable effort Dirk displayed in the previous game, Portland had him missing shots throughout, as Dirk finished with a high point total of 25, yet shot only 32% from the field, and managed only 6 free throw attempts. It was Maverick depth and friendship that gave Dallas the Game 2 victory against Blazer beast Bonzi Wells. Steve Nash upped the scoring from Game 1, just as we post-predicted some 8 years later. He led the Mavs with 28 points and 8 assists, and his beautiful moves kept Portland guessing all night. Michael Finley, the former Mavericks' best player, kept in line with the good ways, scoring 17 of his own. Dallas proved that when your best player is having an off night, a true contender can always rely on Plan B, Plan C, and if you're the Spurs or the Lakers, Plans D through J.

Dirk shot a hair under 41% in Game 2, version 2011. Although he had a better night than that of 2003's Game 2 versus Portland, he took a step backwards in efficiency from the field. He more than made up for it at the free throw stripe, though, shooting 17 free throws and making 15. One look at the box score and one notices that the two teams finished with similar stats across the board. The big difference was Jason Kidd's quarterbacking. He set the tone and took care of the ball, continuing his minor renaissance that Mavs fans are psyched for. Dallas only turned the ball over 6 times, compared to 12 for the Blazers. Dallas hit one more 3 pointer than Portland, and they hit a slightly better percentage of free throws. All in all, the stats describe a close game, one that was actually less tense than the numbers might suggest. Dallas took control late. There was no last ditch for Portland.

The 2003 battle at center presented a strange scenario. Shawn Bradley and Raef LaFrentz each fouled out of the game. I know somebody had to guard Rasheed Wallace, but was Dale Davis being super aggressive as well? Why so many fouls? Speaking of Dale Davis, he finished with a great old-guy line of 7 points, 15 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals. Another quality game for one of the NBA's best under-appreciated big men, an all-star in 1999. In Dale's 15 year career, he missed the playoffs only twice. Winning doesn't get much more consistent than that, and although the title never found its way to Dale Davis, no matter what year it is, 2003, 1995, or 2011, Dale's a competitor and a teammate. And a great one to boot.

Just as in 2003, the 2011 series is now 2-0 in favor of the Mavericks.  If the tear in the time continuum keeps channeling the past, we may be looking at a 3-0 hole.  Now it is up to the Rip City Faithful to go... "Back to the Future," like Marty McFly and Doc Brown, and change the course of history!

If I were Lionel Hollins... by Memphis 7th grader Kelly Cook, inspirational writing contest winner

If I were Lionel Hollins, I'd be the preparation king. Because Wednesday's game day, and the city is as excited as it's ever been.

Today's practice is anything but routine. Focus is key in the Tuesday Texas afternoon.

Hollins has to emphasize the importance of Game 2. He has to make it clear to his players that Game 2 is the biggest game any of them have ever played.

Coach Hollins has to grab each player's attention individually.

He has to tell Marc Gasol about the importance of playing with graceful offensive moves, and making sure to focus with the ultra-authentic Spanish embankment on D.

Hollins has to make it clear to Zach Randolph that its time for the same force that a chink in the armor hates!

Lionel needs to find a private moment to gather his super-defensive-minded wing rotation. He's gotta dictate the faith that he, and those who know, have in the mysterious Griz perimeter. Old-timer Battier needs to play with a sense of offensive urgency. He's capable of finding a rhythm in the offense, and without Rudy Gay, Shane will need to think like he did as a smooth-sailing Rocket.

Lionel, it's time to coach. So what's up?

Coach Hollins has to give that confidence to everyone! Shoot when you're open! Defend like a rubber band!

History rarely breaths significance in the first round of the playoffs. It has happened three times. You need to play as smart as a coach!

Yep... If I were Lionel Hollins... I'd be the luckiest kid in town.

Then and Now, Past vs. Present / Portland and Dallas: Two Teams Trapped in Time

In 2003, the first round of the playoffs was extended from best of 5 to best of 7. That year the No. 3 seed Dallas played No. 6 Portland in a series that rocked the sports world. Dallas got off to the 1-0 lead after winning the first game at home, and the rest, as they say, is stuff for the history books. The two teams haven't met in the playoffs since... until now... With each team seeded in the same spot, we're reminded that time plays funny tricks sometimes. With so much the same, yet almost everything different, the two teams resume their playoff rivalry in 2011!

Our historian, Tremaine Mentapaul, video taped the entire series back in '03, and we're going through them one at a time. On Saturday, we watched game 1, then and now.

Whether short or tall, you know Dirk Nowitzki back in 2003 was going to get his shot over most anyone, and it's probably going in. If you overplay his fade-away, he'll spin off you, finding room to maneuver toward the goal. Portland tried to man-up with Nowitzki, using Rasheed Wallace, Bonzi Wells, and even a little Scottie Pippen on Dirk, but the German power forward was unstoppable, going off for 46 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 threes.

One thing hasn't changed in the playoff history between the Trailblazers and the Mavericks. Dirk Nowitzki is still the driving force behind Dallas's success. In their 2011 game 1 victory, Dirk exploded in the 4th quarter, hooping in 18 of his 28 points in the final frame, slicing buckets like swords through the dense, tension-filled American Airlines Center. Folks in Dallas were scared to lose, fearing more of the awful medicine.

Portland's Rasheed Wallace did his part. Knocking down jump shots and flexing his inside strength, Sheed buried 26 of his own, including 3 of 7 from behind the arch. His teammates weren't much help though. Scottie Pippen was looking old all night long, scoring only 5 points while coughing it up for 4 turnovers. Damon Stoudamire gave Portland a boost off the pine, but other than he and Sheed, the players were forgetable (Arvydas Sabonis had 3 points in 9 minutes, Zach Randolph had a slight impact in 20 support minutes). Only Randolph remains in the NBA from that 2003 Portland team.

LaMarcus Aldridge continued to rule the court, going off for 27 points. Portland did a great job of moving the ball, collecting 22 assists for the game. But the scoring came from only 3 guys (Aldridge, Nic "Euro-Flier" Batum (14 points), and Andre Miller (19 points)). Wes Matthews was pulled in favor of Brandon Roy, who probably shouldn't be on the court (McMillan's poor decision). As a result, the Blazers were without the consistent double figure scoring that Matthews normally gives them. Gerry Wallace was equally ineffective, scoring 9 points in the loss. His passes looked awkward, and perhaps he was feeling the big stage jitters of playing in Texas.

None of the other Mavericks could find a roll. Michael Finley and Steve Nash scored a combined 23 points, and Raef LaFrentz looked like a clown in sheeps' high heels. Raef baby-armed his jumpers, and at center, Shawn Bradley fell down a lot. They did manage 14 rebounds and 7 blocks between them, doing an admirable job on the defensive glass. Mavs' 6th man, Nick Van Exel, was unable to provide the spark, managing just 8 points on poor shooting. Dallas didn't need any of it though, as the 24-year-old Nowitzki officially threw himself onto the MVP pedestal in this coming-out party. Nobody would question Dirk's ability to score ever again.

Portland will need to get something from Scottie Pippen and Wesley Matthews for game 2, Pippen has proven himself as one of the greatest players in history, but he's looking old in 2003. Matthews, on the other hand, in 2011, is still very young, and he hasn't proven anything for Portland in the post season. In 10 playoff games for Utah, Wes shot poorly from the field (.386), so it'll be important to keep an eye on his production in game 2. Portland is going to pay greater attention to Dirk, so off the bench they'll need more from Nick Van Exel and Jason Terry. Expect for changes in scoring from the Dallas PGs, Jason Kidd and Steve Nash. Kidd points should drop and Nash's should rise, with each coming closer to their season averages. After a great couple game 1's, the 2003 and 2011 Portland vs. Dallas first round playoff showdowns are off to exciting starts!

Spurs and Grizzlies: How-boutchya! A Playoff Preview!

#1 San Antonio Spurs
vs.
#8 Memphis Grizzlies

Every five to ten years, you'll find an 8th seed in the NBA that belongs in a feel-good sports film. The Denver Nuggets of 1994 shocked the Seattle team that no longer exists. Dikembe Mutumbo clutched a basketball and the credits rolled. The cool-era Knicks won an epic series against hated Miami in 1999, forever snatching our hearts. The 2007 Golden State Warriors made sports fans everywhere drop to their knees and shout out loud, "We believe!" Sure, there have been other 8 seeds who have come close, but in the end they lost, and their spots in history are miniature and irrelevant with the hoards of other 8th seed 1st round losers (8th seeds lose the 1st round series 96% of the time, with only the 3 winners named above, and 54 others who have lost).

This year, we have potential for the fourth-ever 8th seed to win a series. Memphis (sorry Pacer fans) is not your typical 8th seed. Like 2007's Golden State team, Memphis's bulk of winning has come in the second half of the season, and it's come consistently. The Spurs, on the other hand, haven't been tasting the victory bread as often lately. They had a losing stretch of 6 straight a few weeks ago, and their giant lightning winning times came more so in the first half of the season. We all know old guys break down (speaking of old guys), and the Spurs are about as old as a grandfather clock.

Zach Randolph and Manu Ginobili are both prolific scorers. Tim Duncan is certainly still a defensive force, but in Memphis, the Griz have a 6-shooter of defensive minded wing players they can throw at Manu (who happens to enter the series with a sudden elbow injury). Tony Parker can out-score Mike Conley, but Conley can usually out-defend Tony Parker. Some slashing, some planting for 3, the Memphis glue guys are always ready to finish when counted upon. This year the Spurs will be relying more on their young role players, and these guys have yet to prove themselves on the big stage. With a hobbled Argentinian here and one grey whisker too many there, the Spurs aren't the rocky coastline of the Byzantine Empire like they once were, and with even slight uncertainty comes vulnerability.

San Antonio has the moxie to best the Grizzlies, but we all expect Memphis to make it one helluva series, and one that most will hope to go the distance. Coach Poppy Seed knows how to lead the Spurs to success, but the athleticism and depth of Memphis is hard to overlook. Last year in the West it took 50 wins minimum to find yourself in the playoffs. Memphis was good last season, but they fell short in the ultra-competitive West. Hungry like a real grizzly bear in the late summer months, Memphis clicks with poise. I'm not saying it's going to be easy, and surely the Spurs have to be brainy favorites in many aspects of the game, but if Memphis finds a way to taste some victory early, and move along to force a game 7, I think they'll be the next great 8 spot. The Griz got the chops, and brother, they know it. They expect to join the super exclusive 8th Seed Winner Club, joining the '94 Nuggets, the '99 NYK, and the '07 Bay Area Warriors, and I'm thinking they might be right-on.

Win One for the Sixer! featuring guest Jon Eaton of the Spinto Band

Just after the All-star break, Jim and I made some playoff predictions. In the Western Conference, we correctly predicted the top seeds of Oklahoma City, Dallas, LA, and San Antonio and correspondingly wrote our thoughts about how it might play out.  We did the exact same for the Eastern Conference by correctly predicting the top seeds and then wrote of their future playoff battles.  Unfortunately, some very cool and good friends from the Spinto Band did not like our dismissive tone directed towards their pro hoop team, the Philadelphia 76ers.

 “Tell that gosh darn Coyote that I'm gonna dog him when his prediction sinks and the Sixers go to the second round. That smelly mutt needs to check out the 76ers record since the start of 2011. Sixers don’t have the best record... but its not a bubble-squad record.” – Jon Eaton, March 9, 2011.

Although I understand the initial reaction to our seeming indifference of the 76ers playoff odds, I thought I would defend our Bad Jim & Coyote opinions with additional thoughts on the team:

It’s true y’all have gone a respectable 20-10 in the new year, but 13-20 to start the season. You have the highest scoring bench in the NBA, led by Sweet Lou Williams, Thaddeus Young, & Mo Speights.  However that's because your starting group lacks a true superstar and is mostly composed of young players who are still developing.

Coach Doug Collins was just coaxed out of retirement, last seen coaching Michael Jordan in DC more than half a decade ago. Second year point guard from UCLA, Jrue Holliday is still really learning on the job. Iggy is the man, but is a typical talented small forward who could improve his jump shot. Elton Brand is hanging on by a thread, meaning not even close an Allstar, but is still good.

We know a bit about the club, which is solid, but not even close to a contender. It's not intended as a diss. Just no east finals or NBA championship.
-SL, March 9, 2011.

After realizing that the Bad Jim and Coyote were not the prototypical sports block heads or worse… haters, Jon backed off a bit from his “Mangy Mutt” talk and made a couple of Sports Promises :

I think there are a few bets here.  I believe the Sixers will at least be a tough out for whatever higher seed they meet in the playoffs.  I would even go on the TD3Q blog and put it on the record. Sixers are going to turn some heads and take it to a 7 game series! 

– Jon, March 9, 2011.

After that exchange, the Bad Jim and I started paying a little more attention to the Sixers, and frankly we liked what we saw.  Jrue Holiday was maturing, Jodie Meeks was shooting the hell out the 3 pointer, Brand and Iggy were steady, and the young bench was playing with heart and conviction led by coach Doug “Do the Dougie” Collins.  I’m not saying we were totally off about 76ers basketball, but we caught the fever of watching a young team playing with excitement.

Recently Jon went to a 76ers game against the Nets and I asked him to give us a feel for the Phila scene.

Dear readers,

I am reporting in as the rookie sports blogger at this site.  I know little compared to the fine men who ink these pages, but I do know that Dan Majerle deserved his nickname and that if there were still a team in Seattle (as there should be), they would be my second favorite team.  But enough about me, what I am getting paid to write about is the Philadelphia 76ers and why they are never mentioned in the running for the next America's Team.

In Philadelphia at this time of year right now, I can think of 3 major sports franchises suiting up on a regular basis.  There may be a futbol or a frisbee being tossed around, but lets leave those in the fringe.  We are talking about baseball, hockey and hoop.  Of the 3, the Sixers are currently the most exciting to watch.

My friend says, "dude- what the jawn?  The Flyers are in first, the Phillies are starting a historic season and you think the barely-.500 Sixers are the best? You kooky bro!"  I say all of that is true, but let me take a few seconds to write down some of the things that make my Iverson bobble head bounce these days:

First of all you've got the high-flying Andre Iguodala and Thaddeus Young. Between these two, you are going to see some crazy dunks.  This is a great reason to tune in.  To see two men whose arms swing and flail towards the hoop with such graceful force is rare.  I mean, there are Nike commercials where puppets do it, but in real life it is even cooler.  It puts a smile on your face, which is all you can really ask for.  It puts an even bigger smile on your face when they do it to Brian Cardinal.

Even Elton Brand is dunking.  It may not be often, and it may not be elegant, but the EB is rising above the rim and throwing down.  I don't really think he has done this since joining the Sixers.  He loves to fade away, he is known to layup and shoot over, but a good solid dunk means that his legs are strong and he wants the world to know it.

Then there’s the rest, with this squad there are usually seven or six or several players regularly scoring in double digits.  While I am not much of a believer in statistics, this stat tells me something, that this is a lovable team.  When Spencer Hawes, the 23 year old white seven foot center, is popping up on the score sheet now and again with 12 or 13 points, it's even better.  Between Iguodala, Brand, Sweet Lou Williams, Thad Young, Jodi Meeks, and Jrue Holliday (and of course Evan T.) the scoring column of the stat sheet looks like a good handful of Runts.  You know- the candy Runts... you never want too many bananas or oranges or especially limes.

Some friends and I spent last Friday at the Sixers game and they put a hurting on the Nets.  It was a Friday night, the Sixers were on the verge of clinching a playoff birth, and Spring was in the air.  Getting to watch this young up and comer was special because it won't be flying under the radar for much longer. 

Pretty soon Andre Iguodala is going to be slamming Mountain Dews and Thaddeus Young is going to sign a huge contract somewhere else and then maybe the players will get in a fight over a card game.  These are always risks for developing teams, and so I figure watch them while they are learning how to play with the elite.

I grew up without any championship teams, and I find joy in simply beating the Celtics or Lakers once or twice a season. A first round playoff win is what I want.  I want to see some tanned guy with a ton of hair gel on ESPN break down a Sixers victory without ever mentioning the passion.  I want to see him use a ton of buzz words, but not really ever get to the point. 

A wise man once told me the truth about sports.  He said it lies in the drama, but it is a real drama.  No story is scripted and no outcome is predetermined.  If your team is the underdog, they still have a chance and as long as they are shooting their free throws with the right arm, they may pull an upset. It is a beautiful thing and something worth rooting for. 

-Jon Eaton

Gotta agree with Jon, when the 76ers take the floor at 3:30pm on Saturday afternoon down in Miami, I’ll be cheering for the underdogs with heart. GO SIXERS!
- Coyote-SL

Also be sure to cheer on Jon Eaton and the rest of the Spinto Band.

GO JON! GO SPINTO!

Playoff Preview: Eastern Conference Kookamunga!!!

#4 Orlando Magic

vs.

#5 Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta has won the last 3 match-ups with Orlando, but the Magic have the edge in experience going deep in the playoffs the last three seasons (losing in the second round, the Finals, and the Conference Finals). Atlanta's always on most peoples' radar, but they haven't been able to beat a first round opponent in recent years.

Orlando closed out the year winning big games while polishing their playoff rotation. If they can keep Gilbert Arenas out of trouble, there won't be any Stan Van Gundy Worry-A-Thons against Atlanta, who in contrast, has lost six straight games to end the reg.

Atlanta's main issue is their lack of bigs. Throw that into the equation with Orlando and their many quality shooters, and you've got yourself an equation that sums up Magic easy victory. Doc Howard and Jason Richardson lead Orlando with an inside/outside barrage. Joe Johnson and his fake super-stardom can't answer Orlando's offense. The Hawks will have immense trouble winning 2 games in the series, simply because they're so mediocre. In fact, Atlanta is a lot worse than most people think. In the weak-easy speak-cheesy Eastern Conference, the Hawks beat up on some really terrible ball-clubs. Yet their -0.8 point differential is the second worst among all playoff teams, only ahead of the epically playoff bad Pacers (who we unfortunately had to write about below. We did our best)

HOPE FOR SUCCESS SITS WITH:

• Jason Richardson and Dwight Howard - both big game players vs. mediocre teams, and both able to get it done.
• Al Horford - he needs to shoot the ball every time he touches it, but Joe Johnson and Josh Smith won't allow him to get off enough shots to win.

#2 Miami Heat

vs.

#7 Philadelphia 76ers

Our readers from Philly have often let us know that the Sixers have what it takes to upset in the playoffs. Sorry Philly faithful, but it seems obvious that the Heat will beat the Sixers and move on to play Boston in a true playoff battle. That being said, Sixers fans should still be proud of what their club has accomplished this year. Doug Collins will be high on the Coach of the Year list, which in actuality is an award for "Coach of the Most Improved Team of the Year".

Miami has the superstar super-core, and with it comes first round victory... plain and simple. The games might appear close on paper, but two and a half closers in Miami against just under one closer in Philadelphia (Jrue Holiday is .3 of a closer, Iguodala is .4, and Lou "Sweet Lou" Williams is .2). This gives Miami the edge to win in no more than six games. If the 76ers can steal one of the first two games in Miami, a bunch of silly noise should follow, with a lot of the yard barkers suggesting a Philly upset special. Sadly, there will be no upset for the 76ers, and Miami should eventually devastate any who love the Sixer team.

FIRE SHOOTING NEEDED BY:

• Mike Bibby, James Jones, and Mike Miller - somebody has to knock down shots to help the superstar super-core win games (sometimes it's not needed).
• Thad Young, Jodie Meeks, and Spencer Hawes - all will need to shoot well to win against the star power of pompous Miami. Young Meeks, it's time to shine.
  

INJURY SPOTLIGHT:

• Lou Williams - can he return to being the crafty 6th man he was before getting hurt?

#1 Chicago Bulls

vs.

#8 Indian Pacers

Formerly making it to the Conference Finals 7 times in 12 years, in 2011, the Indiana Pacers will be in the playoffs for the first time in 5 seasons. The chances they see the Conference Finals this season are slim to none. With their sub-.500 record and flippy floppy roster, the Pacers earn the pleasure of warming up Chicago for their eventual playoff battles in the coming weeks. Chicago should have zero trouble taking care of Indiana, either sweeping or winning in 5.

This is the least interesting of the 8 playoff series's. Indiana is pretty stinky, and I think everybody agrees, this series would be a lot sweeter if it were the Houston Rockets giving it a shot against the Bulls. At least Houston tries hard to win. The Pacers seem sloppy and disinterested. They play very little defense, and they have the worst point differential of all playoff teams at -1.1. Mike Dunleavy is too slow, Darren Collison is way too streaky, and Chicago is simply too great.

"You gotta have teams like Indiana though," states Central Texas business owner, Wayne Castillo. "Without them, who would you ignore?"

WHO CARES?

• Brandon Rush - cares a little.
• C.J. Watson - looking forward to playoff garbage minutes.

AT THE CENTER POSITION:

• Joakim Noah vs. Roy Hibbert - gives Noah some light practice for Dwight Howard.

#3 Boston Celtics

vs.

#6 New York Knicks

Four months ago, this playoff series would have been wildfire pizazz, with us and our peers of the computer age pumping the story up for audiences everywhere. It would have been a lot fun too, watching the pre-trade Knicks lose to the strong elders of pre-trade Boston. But two team shattering trades later, and neither team resembles the fun times with Kendrick Perkins and without Carmelo Anthony.

Boston's sub-500 record since March 9th has shaken the infrastructure of the Eastern Conference powerhouses. As for the Knicks, they're still in the learning stages of building a great team (they need depth!). Kevin Garnett can force Amar'e Stoudemire to work for his looks, and the Knicks are invisible at the center position, so until Boston has to play Chicago or Orlando, they won't need to rely on the complete unknown that is Shaquille O'Neal. Where the heck is Shaq been at??

New York has one chance at Boston, but it's a small one, and I made it up. If the Knicks want to win, they'll have to play a concentrated batch of fireball, and they'll need big minutes from their top six players. Just like the Heat, the Knicks have awful depth after going all-in on Amar'e Stoudamire, a child-like superstar, and (more temporarily) Chauncey "Soup Dreams" Billups. Miami's superstar super-core, however, is far superior to that of the NYK, which should paint a good picture of how good New York's chances are. It's not impossible. If Melo can hoop in 25 on good percentages while moving the basketball around, helping find open shooters, which he can't, then the Knicks will also need 30 and 15 from Stoudamire and some 35-foot daggers from Billups to force a game 7 against the struggling Celtics. And that's the Eastern Conference for ya, ladies and gentlemen.

NEEDS TO STEP UP:

• Ray Allen - Has been a step slow of late.
• Toney Douglas - Not much help coming in after you, buddy.

KEY MATCH UP:

• Paul Pierce vs. Carmelo Anthony - should be worth the price of admission... wait... how much are tickets at the Garden?

2011 Most Valuable Old Guy Award

It's the traditional kick-off to award season in the NBA, the Most Valuable Old Guy Award (or as it's called west of the Mississippi, the John Stockton Award). Before the better known accolades such as MVP, Rookie of the Year, Coach of the Year, and 6th Man are awarded, we begin it all with what has become a fan favorite, the MVOG. Quick shout-out to last year's winner, Marcus Camby. Here's hoping he gets things in good health for Portland's potentially epic playoff run. We hope he enjoyed his prize coupons.

Second Runner-Up:
Grant Hill, Phoenix Suns, 38 year old
Phoenix disappointed everybody this year. They'd won without Amare Stoudamire before, back in 2006 when Amare tore his knee up. But after a run to the Western Conference Finals last season, Phoenix is going to miss the 2011 playoffs. Steve Nash, an old guy in his own right (but not quite old enough to qualify for this award), played about as well as anyone could have asked of him. Alongside Nash, through thick and thin, has been Grant Hill, who answers "Yes" when Nash has asked for him to be the anchor of the suddenly not-so-sturdy Suns boat (with Nash as the captain). Hill is having a solid-stone season, marking a career high in 3-pointers with 44 and counting, and if he finishes out the year, which he should, he'll have played in at least 80 games for three straight seasons. Grant Hill has become the model of old guy consistency. His career numbers as a Sun look eerily similar from year to year. If the Suns had put together a stronger season, perhaps we'd be congratulating old Grant "G-Money" Hill with a bounty of prize coupons and a trophy the size of your arm.

First Runner-Up:
Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks, 38 years old
If you switch Kidd's first half with his second half, and he finished with the exact same stat totals, we'd probably be handing the trophy to him on Sunday night, in this, his first year of eligibility. But as it is with all old guys in the NBA, the season drags long, and unlike the high fliers of the younger generations, all of the twists and bumps heal much slower. For Kidd, it's resulted in the vanishing of his jump shot. Kidd was one of the top long distance specialists in the league, shooting .404 on 3s before March 6th. Because of his impressive abilities to stretch the defense with his 3s and also find teammates for open looks, Dallas was one of the best teams in the league. After March 6th though, it's a different story. Kidd is shooting just .223 from downtown in the stretch, and as a result Dallas has slopped their way down from the pedestal of contention into the swamp of underdogs.

2011 Most Valuable Old Guy:
Kurt Thomas, Chicago Bulls, 39 years old
It's long overdue ladies and gentlemen. It's a proud moment for everyone as we announce the winner of the 2011 Most Valuable Old Guy Award, #40 for the Chicago Bulls, Misterrrrrrr Kurt "Dock O' The Bay" Thomas! Thomas signed in the off season as a deep bench emergency center and found himself smack dab in the middle of numerous Chicago Bull emergencies throughout the year. After having averaged 17 minutes over the previous 3 seasons (remember, he was a Spur for two years? Yeah, me neither), KT has played over 23 minutes per in this, his first campaign with Chicago. With Joakim Noah and Carlos Boozer missing 34 and 23 games due to injury, respectively, Kurt Thomas has had to fill in unlike anybody else in the league. On what has become the hottest team, and one of the favorites to make it the Finals, Kurt Thomas has filled in and D'd up against all of the superior low post players in the league. Playing with a crazy spark of unclassified genius, Kurt Thomas doesn't budge. He's old as hell, and the Bulls wouldn't be in first place in the Eastern Conference without him. Congratulations Kurt. Enjoy your prize coupons, Sir.

Honorable Mentions:
Derek Fisher, Antonio McDyess, Marcus Camby

Least valuable old guy:
Juwan Howard, Miami Heat, 38 years old

Fake Post-Game Quotes - BOS vs CHI and POR vs UTH

"Devin Harris loses again!" -Ruben Patterson, 5th row

"Man I hope we can avoid the Bulls in the playoffs." -Ray Allen

"Being Devin Harris ain't easy folks." -Devin Harris

"When I was talkin' 'bout army stuff, I was trying to make a joke, but I forgot to deliver the punchline. The punchline is, "In his sleevies." Do you get it? It's funny. It's not mine. I wish I could take credit, but that's a Sprewell." -KG

"Devin Harris, ever since Dallas sent him packing, wherever he goes, his team loses. It's kind of unbelievable. Like a modern day Marbury. Hopefully he's gone soon." -Gordon Hayward

TD3Q's Thursday NBA Free-4-All

Sometimes, we glance at the calendar to see what day it is, we put that day of the week into the headline, and we talk NBA shop in short, sweet thoughts. Today, Thursday April 7th, we do just that.

- After another loss, this time to the Denver Nuggets, the Dallas Mavericks locker room has a stench of tanking coming from the linoleum floor tiles to the DVD players. If Dallas loses enough in their final four games, they can fall into 4th place, avoiding the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the playoffs. We're not saying that the Mavs are indeed losing on purpose, but resting Jason Kidd, Tyson Chandler, and perhaps other rotation guys in these final games definitely omits some sort of smell that reminds us of both fish and armored war-mobiles.

- The Lakers, meanwhile, have lost 3 straight games after winning 18 of 19. Their scoring has dropped from the low 100s to the low 90s in the three losses, and after everyone was ready to hand LA the West crown, their recent toe-stubbing against Denver, Utah, and Golden State is causing some second guesses. Everyone knows the Lakers have the size to beat smaller teams, and giving the ball to Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum in the first three quarters, then letting Kobe take over in the 4th, has become the blueprint of Laker winning. One has to wonder though, with none of the three losses this week coming against teams with stellar bigs (something we all thought a team needed to beat LA (Golden State doesn't even have quality big, singular)), maybe the dynamic duo down low aren't as formidable as we thought? Then again, the Lakers don't seem too worried, so the best bet for their fan-base is to share in that confidence as we all prepare for playoff basketball.

- The Miami Heat (minus a sidelined DWade) lost to the Milwaukee Bucks last night. Obviously, no Wade makes the Heat a mere glimmer of what they truly are, but with the loss to the nonplayoff team Bucks, Miami has added yet another chip in the axle that differentiates them from new Eastern Conference favorite Chicago. With Boston playing .500 ball in their last 16 games, and with the rest of the East in a separate category altogether, gotta hand it to the Bulls. Their home-court in the East should be the difference, but if it isn't, the difference will be the simple fact that they're better than the rest.

-This year, the Spirit Award goes to the Houston Rockets, who will probably miss the playoffs with a winning record. H-Town competes every night, and their season shouldn't be mocked. They're a fast paced offensive team again, and Kyle Lowry is this year's most improved player. They don't necessarily have the building blocks for an uplift in future potential, but their pieces have the talent and grit to find themselves in another race for a lower playoff seed next season. I love teams that resemble my favorite fictitious team, the Bad News Bears (the 1976 one), and this year in the Association, Houston fits the bill. I can picture it now, on the final day of the season, Rick Adelman standing on the sidelines watching the Grizzlies celebrate their playoff clinch. "Hey Grizzlies! You can take your playoff appearance and your trophy and stick it straight up your ass!" Then a drunken bath of beer for the 9th place Rockets.

- Samuel Dalembert recently admitted to eating dried apricots as a source of energy. His quote: "Dried apricots are golden nuggets from a nutritional goldmine."

Music Break!! featuring KObE bRyANt & K.O.B.E.

When I first saw that Kobe was featured in a rap video, I wondered if he was back to his old ways?  It was not too long ago that he was working with high profile production duo the Trackmasters and helping to launch the singing career of Tyra Banks.  I was pleasantly surprised that like his maturation and growth on the hardwood, he backed off a bit and let Jay Chou do his thing.
Kobe: Do you know how to play basketball Jay Chou?
JC: Of course!
Kobe: My man?
JC: I am not your man! (joking)
Kobe: Ha ha ha, you got spark!

 

"What I live for? Basketball Beats and Broads, From Italy to the US, yes it's RAW!"

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Delaware Hates Neighborhood Basketball

What is wrong with people in Delaware? A statewide code, which rules that no trees, shrubs, basketball hoops, or other suburban crap can be within seven feet of the street, resulted in the loss of a family landmark last week. A single basketball goal, with its pole hand-painted blue, sitting in one Delaware family's front yard for the last 60 years, has been uprooted and taken to the dump where no soul will ever swish a jumpshot into its cylinder ever again.

The source of this travesty is a nosy neighbor. There's one on every block, and save for maybe the slim chance they spot a burglary or house fire, nosy neighbors are bad for everybody and everything. Why in the world would somebody call the city and have them enforce a meaningless code to remove somebody's source of fun, exercise, family togetherness, imagination, fondness, memories, good-natured competition, etc, etc? Here at TD3Q, we stand for one thing, and that is the power of hoops. We believe in the driveway court, and we believe that in a perfect world, there would be a basketball goal on every residential property in town. We all know that some driveways are too hilly, or too cramped, so sometimes a hoop needs to face the street. It's simple geography, and it's always worked. In the same vain as Wayne and Garth's street hockey game, people respect sports in the street, and street athletes respect their surroundings. It's a beautiful harmony that exists for good, and only good can come of it.

One nosy neighbor phone-call and the city was on their way, bulldozer in tow, ready to remove something sacred. The other neighbors protested, sending letters left and right, and everyone involved thought the situation was under review, when suddenly one day, the demolition crew arrived unannounced. In a desperation attempt to save her hoop, the local woman climbed the pole and sat atop in protest (pictured above). But The Man, like he always does, proved too much for the noble family, as a few days later, the city ambushed them in the morning hours and took the hoop. First though, the city employee lied to the family, saying they can keep the hoop and it will be placed in the driveway. Please watch the video and join us in our mindset, that the state of Delaware, its employees, and all nosy neighbors everywhere, are ruining this flailing country. I hope they sleep well at night, because outrage is contagious, and it's coming for them.

5'10" AROUND THE RIM!

These Dunks are amazing! Definitely a highlight of the tournament. 5'10" Guard, Jacob Tucker, Wins the NCAA Slam Dunk Contest

Unfortunately, the commentary is not... "That ain't no problem... there's take off, there's landing... Was it good enough?!"

The NCAA's Basketball Final Four: The Cultural Phenomenon

The men's NCAA tournament sneaks up on me every year. Even its name reminds us that March is set aside as the insanity month, but I always feel unprepared for the coming bonanza of premier competition. Perhaps I don't watch enough college basketball before March because of my enthusiasm for the NBA, and with the NCAA and NBA seasons running simultaneously, it's hard to find time to begin learning the huge field of teams. With so many lopsided games in the college season, it's also difficult to find the good match-ups, and instead of being overwhelmed by all of the unknowns in college, I watch the NBA with all its familiar faces.

Then, suddenly, after the first few weeks of March hit, everything changes. The scraps are removed from the field and are set aside for the NIT, whatever that stands for. I throw together an uneducated bracket, and I start watching and learning, figuring out which offenses share the ball, which star players have the mindset to lead their teams to victory, and which players find the big stage all too daunting, collapsing in failure that they'll never forget. It's a once in a lifetime chance for some to show their abilities in relation to the next level, making names for themselves and, as a result, finding big paydays in the pros. The beautiful thing about the college tournament stage though, is its demand for teamwork.

As the 2011 NCAA tournament gets ready for tomorrow night's championship game between Butler and the University of Connecticut, I fondly consider this year's March Madness to be one for the ages. Early upsets grabbed my attention, number one seeds started falling one by one, until we're left with the highest sum of team seeds a final has ever known. Following the NBA all season, I've heard over and over that this summer's draft will be about as weak as any, but with players like Kemba Walker, Matt Howard, and a handful of others who are now at home watching the tournament on TV, the incoming class of NBA rookies might not fill the stat sheets like some recent draft picks, but they'll definitely be worth following into the next level of basketball. And as the tournament's finale concludes on Monday evening, the odds are that I'll be telling my friends that this was the best tournament I've ever watched, which seems to be my sentiment every year.