Play Of The Week

Rajon Rondo with a little trickery in Philadelphia on November 3, 2009. The Celtics went on to beat the 76ers 105 - 74. Paul Pierce led the Celics with 21 points and 8 rebounds.
 

Flying High In Denver

Welcome to Flight 15 Air Denver! Your pilot tonight is Captain Carmelo Anthony and he promises a flight that will elevate a particular passenger out of his seat. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.


(Anthony led his Nuggets with 30 points as they cruised to a 114 - 105 victory against the Utah Jazz)

Changing Places

Make sure that your cell phone is charged, your laptop has an Internet connection and you ate a hearty breakfast because the NBA Free Agency Period is here. During this time you will see NBA organizations scrambling to build their teams with a newcomer who will take them over the top. So roll out the red carpet and prepare to kiss some serious you know what!

Now everyone knows about Shaquille O'Neal leaving the desert of Phoenix to join LeBron James in Cleveland, but there have been other shakeups around the NBA that will have a huge impact on the 2009-2010 NBA season.

WELCOME HOME CARTER

After seeing the Los Angeles Lakers win their 15th NBA Championship this past June, organizations realized that inorder to compete with the guys from Hollywood, they need to beef up their rosters. That's why the Orlando Magic (NBA Finals underachievers) headed north to New Jersey to snag on again-off again star Vince Carter. Carter hails from Daytona Beach, FL and will look to aid the Magic in their quest to avenge an embarrassing showing on national television. Carter will begin his 12th NBA career with his third team since leaving the Carolina Blue back in Chapel Hill.

Carter led the Toronto Raptors against the Allen Iverson led Sixers in the Eastern Conference Finals back in 2001, but came up short. In his career, Vinsanity averages 23.5 ppg and brings an ego that needs to be fed.

With the signing of Carter, the Michael Jordan of Turkey (Hedo Turkoglu) may be looking to purchase a new home in another U.S. city, most likely Portland. Turkoglu is a free agent this summer and Orlando does not have the cash to support Carter's huge contract and Hedo's at the same time. But does acquiring Vince Carter take Orlando a step forward or a step backwards? Turkoglu enjoyed a great 07-08 season where he captured the league's Most Improved Player, but just had a decent 08-09 season. During the 2009 NBA Playoffs, he emerged as one of the driving forces for the Orlando Magic.

So to answer that question I raised a few lines up, the Orlando Magic took a STEP BACKWARDS. Carter will not re-emerge as the player that once flew high in Toronto and people wonder if he can accept being the second, maybe even third option. The Magic also gave up solid rookie Courtney Lee and veteran point guard Rafer Alston.

Backup center Marcin Gortat may be on the move as well. The Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks are looking to woo the 6'10 Poland away from Disney World.

To simply put it, Orlando general manager Otis Smith has his hands full.

A HUSKIE REUNION

Former University of Connecticut teammates Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva roads have met once again. The former Huskies agreed to join the Detroit Pistons and try to bring prominence back to Motown. Gordon played a magical first-round series against the Boston Celtics last year. Even though Chicago lost Game 7 to the Celtics, Gordon showcased his shooting arsenal and toughness after partially tearing his hamstring in Game 6. That shooting arsenal is something NBA teams have been accustomed to seeing when facing Gordon, though at times he can be a gunslinger, Gordon elevated his stock since entering the league back in 2004.

Bulls GM Gar Forman expressed interest in re-signing the 6'2 guard after the Bulls first round loss to Boston. Forman sweet talked the city of Chicago into thinking that Gordon would return. During an interview on ESPN 1000's "Waddle & Silvy" show, the former Chicago Bulls spoke about the contract negotiations with the Bulls front office. Gordon said "They didn't even make an offer, so it was pretty much a one-man race".

The history of contract negotiations between Gordon and the Bulls front office aren't pleasant. Gordon turned down a $50 million contract offer by the Bulls the past two off-seasons.

The Pistons will give Gordon between $55 and $60 million for five years. Gorodon will move to a familiar sixth-man position for Detroit since the Pistons Richard Hamilton holds the starting shooting guard spot. Joe Dumars feels that Gordon will have an impact like his former teammate Vinny "The Microwave Johnson". Johnson was the Pistons sixth-man and earned his nickname from his instantly hot shooting.

The former Milwaukee Buck forward Charlie Villanueva agreed to a five year $40 million dollar deal. Villanueva was made an unrestricted free agent by the Bucks front office and considered joining the Cleveland Cavaliers before speaking with the Pistons. If free agent Rasheed Wallace returns to Detroit, Villanueva could bring stability to the power forward and small forward position in a backup role for the Pistons. The Milwaukee Bucks refused to match any offer by another NBA team due to the NBA luxury tax.

ZACH ATTACK MOVING SOUTH

8 year NBA veteran Zach Randolph is packing his bags once again. The Los Angeles Clippers shipped the southpaw to Memphis inorder to make room for number 1 overall pick Blake Griffin. Randolph was brought to Los Angeles to help fill the hole that Elton Brand left when he went to Philadelphia. Randolph had a forgettable NBA season in which injury shortened his play. Randolph averaged 20.9 ppg and 9.4 rpg in 39 games for the Clippers, but never looked comfortable with his teammates.

In exchange for Randolph, the Clippers brought back familiar face Quentin Richardson. Richardson began his career with the Clippers back in 2000 when L.A. chose him in the first round of the 2000 NBA draft. Richardson's play and shooting has dropped off since his days of teaming with Steve Nash, but the Chicago native looks to revive a 9 year career in L.A.

On the surface, it seems that the Clippers got the better end of the deal by trading away Zach Randolph, but something tells me that Memphis will emerge as the winner. Randolph joins an already talented Grizzles squad that features highlight film Rudy Gay.

Low post scoring has been a problem for Memphis, but with the addition of Randolph, the Grizzles will boast a more stronger front line. Add in 2nd overall pick Hasheem Thabeet and Memphis gets tougher inside the paint.

The summer is starting to sizzle already as NBA teams look to better the roster before Halloween night. Be on the lookout for other surprising free agency moves.

Here's a list of some of the top free agents in no particular order (as of 7/2/2009):

• Hedo Turkoglu
• Rasheed Wallace
• Trevor Ariza
• Mike Bibby
• Jason Kidd
• Lamar Odom
• David Lee

**Two hours after the story "Changing Places" was posted on "The Smith Report", Ron Artest verbally agreed to a 3 year $18 million deal to join the Los Angeles Lakers. ESPN.com writer Marc Stein reported that Artest, who's known for his tough defensive skills, sent a text message to ESPN.com saying "I am happy to say I am goin' to LA." Since Artest will join the Lakers next season, L.A. forward Trevor Ariza will probably be joining another NBA team.

Be Peaceful,

The Time Is Now

Tonight dreams will turn into reality as a new crop of basketball talent enters the NBA. The 2009 NBA Draft will take place in New York City in the WAMU Theater in Madison Square Garden. The draft starts at 7:30 p.m. ET and it will be shown on ESPN and ESPN360.com.

The Los Angeles Clippers won the NBA Lottery and will select the first draft prospect. Most people think the Clippers will choose All American power forward Blake Griffin. During his sophomore season season at the University at Oklahoma, Griffin averaged 22.7 ppg, 14.4 rpg and 1.2 bpg. Griffin has impressed many scouts with his powerful post skills and athletic ability in his workout with the Clippers.

After the Clippers select their first pick, which will be Blake Griffin, the draft will be unpredictable because many NBA teams have been involved in trade rumors. Some teams will look to trade away their top picks for better seasoned NBA players. Memphis holds the second overall pick while the Oklahoma City Thunder have the third overall pick.

Some of the top players in the 2009 NBA Draft (in no particular order):

• Blake Griffin
• Ricky Rubio
• Hasheem Thabeet
• Stephen Curry
• James Harden
• Tyreke Evans
• Jordan Hill
• Jonny Flynn
• Jrue Holiday
• DeMar DeRozan

A few players that are sleepers in the 2009 NBA Draft:

• James Johnson
• Terrence Williams
• Earl Clark

Be Peaceful,

Taking No BULL-Crap

One of the better playoff series in the NBA this year has to be the Boston Celtics versus the Chicago Bulls. But who would have thought it! An inexperienced Bulls team left the city of Boston on Monday tied one game a piece against the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics.

When I flash back to April 15, 2009, a bit of disgust runs through my mind and out of my mouth. If you can remember, The Bulls just finished losing a crucial final regular season game against the over-hyped Toronto Raptors, placing them as the 7th seed in the upcoming NBA playoffs. I've probably never heard the city of Chicago so quiet and seen so many worried looks by Chicago fans. The Bulls shot themselves in the foot because they would face the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics instead of the defense-less Orlando Magic in the first round of the 2009 NBA playoffs.

But this wasn't the same Celtic team that was on pace to challenge the 72-10 record of the 1995-1996 Chicago Bulls. The Celtics were without leader Kevin Garnett because of a knee ligament injury, Stephon Marbury was still trying to find his rhythm on the basketball court and Doc Rivers worried about his team's defensive intensity with the loss of Garnett. The Celtics also had an embarrassing 107-76 loss against King James and his Cleveland Cavaliers in the Quicken Loans Arena. With all of these setbacks for Boston, in the back of my mind, I still thought that these "Baby Bulls" didn't stand a chance against the battered Celtics.

Over the past two NBA seasons, the Bulls are 1-6 against the Boston Celtics. In those games, Chicago lost by an average of 17.8 points per game. Also in those games, Kevin Garnett was running up and down the court making his presence felt on the offensive and defensive end.

With Garnett in street clothes and on the bench, these "Baby Bulls" saw a rise in their own confidence and it was very evident in the first two games in the TD Banknorth Garden. To many people's surprise the Bulls came out and defeated the Celtics on their home court, proving that youth has nothing to do with putting the ball in the hole. The Bulls had stellar performances from Ben Gordon, who never turns down a chance to shoot, and Joakim Noah.

But it was the youngest Bull to lead these windy city party spoilers. Derrick Rose displayed one of his best performances so far in his early NBA career. The rookie, yes I said rookie, scored on almost every Celtic player, fan, child, hot dog vendor and ticket collector in the Boston.

Rose poured in 36 points and added 11 surgical assists in his first playoff debut. Rose's point total also tied Hall of Fame center Kareem Abdul Jabaar's 36 point effort in his playoff debut as a rookie in 1970. Magical and tremendous are two words that enter my brain as Rose put himself in elite company for playoff debuts. The rookie played like a 10 year veteran, running the ball down the Celtics throat with ease.

Before the series started, I could count on my two hands the number of people that believed the Bulls could beat the Celtics in Boston. To my disbelief, the Bulls beat the Celtics, giving the "Baby Bulls" a lead in this first round playoff series. This was the Celtics first home playoff loss since May 22nd, 2008 against the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics almost loss Game 2 as well, but Ray Allen showed why he is one of the best shooters in the NBA.

But the fact that Chicago has held it's own against a proven champion, simply shows that their confidence is at an all time high. The Bulls have challenged Boston on every defensive possession and Vinny Del Negro has his team focused on taking advantage of the loss of Celtic forward Kevin Garnett. Just a year ago the Bulls were sitting at home watching the NBA playoffs. This year, in Game 1, Chicago shot an impressive 43 % from the field, beat out the Celtics in rebounding (53-45) and gave birth to a star in rookie Derrick Rose. What a difference a year makes huh.

The passion and enthusiasm of Chicago will be awaiting the "Baby Bulls" when they play in front of their home crowd on Thursday night. It will be important to see who steps up for the Bulls in Game 3. The first two games had different Bulls players leading the charge, while the others laid back in the distance. But has the question been answered for Chicago.

Can the Chicago Bulls defeat the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2009 NBA Playoffs?



Be Peaceful,

• Congratulations to Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Mike Brown! Brown won the NBA's Coach Of The Year award on Monday. Brown coached his Cavalier's to 66 wins, a Central Division title, best home record in the NBA (39-2) and the number 1 overall playoff seed in the 2009 NBA Playoffs.
• Dwight Howard showed all season why he is one of the best defenders in the NBA. Howard was awarded the NBA's Defensive Player Of The Year award after averaging 14 rebounds and 3 blocks a game! Howard's presence inside the paint creates problems for opposing teams.

The Cavs Are Mo' Better

To understand why Mo Williams is laughing now, you have to go back to draft day in 2003. The former University of Alabama guard was selected in the dreadful second round as the 47th pick by the Utah Jazz. Williams has always been a standout on the basketball court, whether it was in high school or college, Mo Williams was the leader and the main attraction on his team. But his new role as a 13 minute a night rookie backup point guard placed a huge chip on the shoulders of a guy that has never came off the bench.

Though his stay in Utah only lasted one year, Williams wanted more responsibilities and exposure as a player in the NBA.

Mo's next destination was the Midwest. The Milwaukee Bucks were in desperate search of a point guard due to a spinal cord injury of starter T.J. Ford. Williams signed with the Bucks before the start of the 2004-2005 NBA season, giving him a chance to show why being drafted in the second round was a mistake. In his first season in Milwaukee, Williams averaged 10.2 points, 6 assists and 3 rebounds per game. This wasn't bad for a guy that could have been receiving less exposure and limited minutes in Utah.

Williams relished his role in Milwaukee for the next three years, averaging 17 points and 6 assists as a starting point guard during the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 NBA seasons. Mo's reputation as a tough scoring point guard made him a hot commodity throughout the NBA. One team in particular took notice on Williams growth in the league and decided to make a push for the rising point guard during the summer of 2008.

The Cleveland Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry needed a player that could take some pressure off their young phenom in LeBron James. James created so much offense for Cleveland that no one really paid attention to his Cavalier teammates. After his Cavaliers lost to the Boston Celtics in game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals, James cried out for assistance. Ferry acquired Williams in a three team deal with the the Oklahoma City Thunder and Milwaukee Bucks. The deal included six players, but Cleveland got the prize in Mo Williams.

The Cavalier organization sat on cloud 9 because they knew what Mo Williams could bring to their team. In an article by ESPN NBA writer Chris Broussard on Aug. 14th, 2008, general manager Danny Ferry said "Acquiring Mo strengthens our nucleus of players for both the short and long term. He is entering his prime NBA years and will be the foundation of our future success".

At the start of the 2008-2009 NBA season, it was evident that bringing Mo Williams to Cleveland made the Cavaliers a team to be reckoned with in the NBA. Some people say that when you play with greatness, it rubs off on others. This was the case for Cleveland's new point guard, Williams increased his scoring average from 17. 2 to 17.9 points per game. His three point shooting also increased from 38% to 43%, making him a constant threat.

Not to take anything away from King James, but Mo Williams plays a huge role into why LeBron is having one of his greatest seasons in the NBA. Teams can't focus their entire attention on LeBron's superhero like talents anymore because creeping in the shadows is the deadly assassin known as Mo Williams. The Cavaliers are now equipped with a one-two punch that is the key ingredient for championship teams in the NBA. The Bulls had it with Michael and Scottie, the Lakers had it with Kareem and Magic and the Spurs have it with Parker and Duncan.

The elevation of the Cavalier's play has made their home court a terror dome for opposing teams. The Cavaliers are 37-1 when playing in the comfortable walls of Quicken Loans arena and they boast one of the better records in the NBA at 62-15. The stellar point guard play by Williams made the chemistry of the Cavaliers flow throughout the season. For the first time in his career, Mo Williams was selected as an Eastern Conference All-Star, joining his teammate LeBron James. The honor was well deserved because of Mo's emergence as one of the best point guards in the Eastern Conference and his averages of 17. 9 points and 4 assists per game.

Cavalier fans dreamed of an NBA championship when LeBron James came to the Cavaliers, but Mo Williams can be the key to turning that dream into a reality.


Be Peaceful

• Congratulations to future Hall of fame guard Jason Kidd! Kidd passed up NBA legend and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson this past weekend for the number 3 spot on the NBA's all-time assist list. Kidd now has 10,142 career assist.
• Allen Iverson's days are numbered in Detroit. The 12 year veteran decided to sit out the rest of the season because of his sore back. But more importantly Iverson was quoted as saying that he would rather retire than come off of the bench for the Detroit Pistons. Detroit fans, don't expect to see A.I. in a Pistons uniform next year.
• A standing ovation should be given to "His Airness" Michael Jordan. The greatest player to ever live (in my opinion) was elected into the Baskebtall Hall Of Fame today in Detroit. Jordan finished his royal 15 year NBA career as the third leading scorer in NBA history (32,292 points), six NBA championships and a host of other awards and achievements. Thanks for the memories Mike!!
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Now Leaving New York. Next Stop..Boston

The last time Stephon Marbury graced an NBA court it was Janurary 11th, 2008. During that time Marbury was a starting point guard for the New York Knicks and they once again were having a forgettable season.

Since those days, a few things have changed. Isaiah Thomas was out as Knicks head coach, Mike D'Antoni took over head coaching duties and Marbury became a target for the Knicks organization. Marbury, Knick teammates, Mike D'Antoni and team president Donnie Walsh raised the curtains for a back and forth circus within Madison Square Garden.

Recently, Marbury and the New York Knicks finally agreed to part ways after months of stalled negotiations. December 1st was the last meeting between Marbury and the Knicks concerning his contract and what was to become of it. In that initial meeting, Marbury stormed out after just 20 minutes because he was unhappy with Walsh's terms. Since that time Marbury has made appearances at NBA games not as a player, but as a fan. In December, the Lakers took on the New York Knicks at the Staples Center and there was Marbury sitting courtside talking on his cell phone.

Tuesday afternoon the Knicks agreed to buyout Marbury's contract and place him on waivers that would make him available to all other interested NBA teams. In that buyout, Marbury forfeited $2 million from his $20.8 million salary from this NBA season. Losing money hurt Marbury, but breaking the shackles from the Knicks would prove to be priceless for the Coney Island legend.

At 10 a.m. ET on Friday, Marbury will be eligible to sign with any team that seeks interests in the former Knick guard. Many sources around the NBA sees Boston as the team that will sign the now 32 year old Marbury. Boston has kept a close eye on Marbury's situation with the Knicks. ESPN.com reported on January 1st that the Celtics were interested in signing Marbury, if he can extricate himself from his contract with the Knicks.

Celtics head coach Doc Rivers understands that his team is in desperate need of bench production since the loses of veterans James Posey and P.J. Brown. Add in a thumb injury to guard Tony Allen and the release of Sam Cassell and Patrick O'Bryant, Boston needed to fill empty spaces on their bench. The Celtics signed well traveled center Mikki Moore from the Sacramento Kings due to an injury to All-Star forward Kevin Garnett. The Kings waived the 10 year veteran right before the NBA trading deadline.

If the Celtics sign Marbury, it would bolster their bench and provide stability to the backup point guard position. Marbury would move Eddie House to a shooting guard role, which House is more comfortable with. Marbury would also bring instant offense that would ease Celtic fans minds when the starters are out of the game. Remember for his career, Stephon Marbury is averaging 19.7 points and 7.8 assists per game.

Celtic players are welcoming Marbury into their locker with open arms. Players like Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen expressed their thoughts on the possibility of Marbury becoming a Celtic. Ray Allen told ESPN.com that they would have little trouble integrating Marbury into their locker room inspite of Marbury's reputation of causing problems. Kevin Garnett also expressed his willingness to play with his old friend again. Many thought that the relationship between Garnett and Marbury would spoil Boston's chances of signing the troubled guard. During the NBA lock-out season in 1999, Marbury demanded to be traded away from Kevin Garnett and Minnesota after leading the T-Wolves to consecutive playoff appearances in 1997 and 1998.

Taking a page from Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, Marbury and Garnett have put their Minnesota days behind them to see the bigger picture. That bigger picture is another NBA title for the city of Boston.

With LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers hitting their stride in the Eastern Conference, the Celtics need a jolt of energy to maintain the Larry O'Brien trophy. Stephon Marbury might be the energy that the Boston Celtics need.


Be Peaceful

• On Thursday a cloud hung over the city of Chicago as two Bulls legends past away. Norm Van Lier and Johnny "Red" Kerr were two faces of the Chicago Bulls organization before the dynasty days of Michael Jordan. Nicknamed "Stormin Normin", Van Lier was a three time NBA All-Star that led the league in assists during the 1971 season. Johnny Kerr was a 12 year NBA veteran that was awarded NBA Coach Of The Year during the 1966-1967 season as he coached the Chicago Bulls. Both Van Lier and Kerr were broadcasters for the Bulls during the franchises 6 championships in the 1990s. My condolences go out to the Van Lier and Kerr families.

All -Star Memories

Friday night the stars will illuminate the desert as the 2009 NBA All-Star weekend will take center stage in Phoenix, Arizona. When All-Star weekend comes around, there is something that brings out the inner child in fans.

Don't believe me? Well just make sure you watch the events that will take place this weekend. If you view these events, you will see men, women and children jumping out of their seats as if they won the lottery or showing a smile that would make Vice-President Joe Biden jealous. If high-fives were a stock, I would buy as many as I could because they will be in strong demand inside of U.S. Airways Center.

NBA All-Star weekend has a rich tradition that leaves lasting impressions within the minds of fans young and old. The weekend is a showcase for the die-hard NBA fans that follow the league from pre-season practice all the way to the crowning of an NBA champion. My hat goes off to NBA commissioner David Stern. Stern pulls out every bell and whistle in his pockets because people from all over the world turn their attention to NBA All-Star weekend.

Throw me into that section of the screaming adults because when Vince Carter took off for his first dunk in Oakland for the Sprite Slam Dunk contest, I lost my mind! Keep in mind that before Carter, the last time fans saw a dunk contest, a baby faced Kobe Bryant excited a Cleveland crowd and took home the trophy in 1997. For three years the NBA Slam Dunk contest was extinct and fans were a bit frustrated and wanted to see some above the rim creativity. Well in 2000, the dunk contest came back with authority. Vince Carter turned the city of Oakland upside down with a 360 degree windmill dunk that sent a shockwave throughout the NBA and solidified his name within slam dunk history. The dunk was so electrifying, I immediately called my older brother and ask him one question "Did you see that?!!"

From that point on Carter captured everyone's attention and held it for the remainder of the dunk contest. Fellow competitor Steve Francis knew it was going to be a long night because Carter made on-lookers not care about other dunkers

If the memory of Vince Carter's dunk exhibition doesn't excite you, then rewind your mind back to the 1988 showdown between Michael Jordan and Dominique Wilkins. Or how about 5 foot 7 inch Spudd Webb representing for all vertically challenged men across the world in 1986?

Still not excited huh? Ok, well allow Larry Bird's greatness cause a rumble within your body . In 1988 Larry Bird looked to defend his three-point crown from the previous year (1987). Bird was so cocky, he told the other three-point competitors that he was going to win the contest again. When the final round came, the energy grew as Bird faced sharpshooter Dale Ellis from the Seattle SuperSonics. Ellis went first, desperately trying to knock Bird off of his thrown, Ellis ended his round with 15 made three-point shots. Ellis's final total left the door open for Bird and Bird's chance to cement himself within NBA All-Star history.

As Bird started his quest for back-to-back shooting titles, there was something wrong, Bird was missing his shots. Coming into his fourth rack, Bird only made 7 three-point shots and he only had 25 seconds top Dale Ellis's score of 15. But in true Larry Bird fashion, the shots that bounced off the rim started to fall through the rim. Bird closed the gap between himself and Dale Ellis, leaving one rack to decide who will hoist the three-point trophy.

It came down to the final three shots and Bird swished the first two. The last ball in all NBA three-point contests is known as the "money ball". This was Bird's last chance to win the contest. Cool and calm like he always is, Larry Bird grabbed the money ball, squared his shoulders to the rim and let it fly. As the ball sailed through the air, Bird started to walk off with one finger in the air signaling victory. It was like Babe Ruth raising his bat and telling everyone in the stadium that he's going to hit a home-run. As you watched Bird walk off, you notice the ball falling through the rim and fans raising their arms. Bird nailed his final shot and defeated Dale Ellis, securing Bird's repeat as a NBA All-Star three-point champion.

That Bird performance has to bring you out of your seat right?.. You said no! Man your a tough judge.

Well listen to this final memory. The year was 2003 and Atlanta hosted the 52nd NBA All-Star game. The game's greatest player, Michael Jordan, suited up for his final NBA All-Star game and his final NBA season. Jordan came out of his second retirement to join the Washington Wizards for two seasons and scratch his competitive itch. Like many NBA All-Star games, the pace was fast and there were a abundance of oohs and ahhs. The game was so competitive and free, it went into overtime where fans enjoyed some extra action on the court.

In the final seconds of a tied basketball game, a familiar scene took place. The scene included Michael Jordan with a basketball in his hands, a game clock winding down, Marv Albert's voice and thousands of screaming fans on their feet. Jordan dribbled left, spun right and started fading away towards the baseline releasing the ball from his hands. Everyone in Phillips Arena watched as the ball glided through the air carrying the anticipation of another Michael Jordan game winning shot. The shot went straight through the rim and pandemonium ensued throughout Phillips arena. Every NBA player instantly became a kid again as they watched their idol connect on a clutch jumpshot in the final seconds of a game. Even though the East lost the game in double overtime, Michael Jordan left fans and players with another great memory to cherish.

These memories and a handful of others makes the NBA All-Star weekend a must see event. Witnessing the genuine smiles and interaction from players and fans strengthens the NBA experience. The thrills within this weekend cannot be duplicated because seeing the human side to your favorite NBA player is priceless for fans. So hold onto your seats when All-Star weekend raises up it's curtain because you do not want to miss the action.


Be Peaceful

• A well deserved applause is due for Cleveland Cavalier Mo Williams and Boston Celtic Ray Allen. Both Williams and Allen have been added the East teams roster for the 58th NBA All-Star game. They will replace injured guard Jameer Nelson of the Orlando Magic and injured forward Chris Bosh of the Toronto Raptors.
• The NBA will hold it's first H-O-R-S-E competition during All-Star Saturday night. The participants will include O.J. Mayo, Joe Johnson and Kevin Durant. Hopeful this event will bring a new look to All-Star weekend. It will be interesting!
• J.R. Smith will replace Rudy Gay in the Sprite Slam Dunk contest on All-Star Saturday night. Gay is unable to participate due to injury.

Maturation Of The Point Guard

Is it the respect he commands on the basketball court? Or is it his ability to raise the level of his teammates play? Whatever it is, New Orleans Hornet point guard Chris Paul is solidifying himself as one of the greatest point guards in the NBA.

Don't be alarmed when the word "great" and Chris Paul are mentioned in the same sentence. The North Carolina native, who is only in his fourth year of the NBA, smashes the idea of what a point guard can bring to a team. Paul's presence on the basketball floor is enormous. From his pinpoint passes to his dissection of NBA defenses, Paul has mastered his point guard position.

In years past, the NBA point guard's sole duty was to initiate their team's offensive sets and occasionally knock down an open jump shot. But things started to change when a guy named Oscar Robertson opened the blind eyes of coaches around the NBA. The "Big O" took it upon himself to bring more to his team. He did that by distributing the basketball, assisting, rebounding, defending and leading his 1971 Milwaukee Bucks team to the NBA championship.

Chris Paul is equipped with all the tools the "Big O" embodied. Paul has the ability to score, pass and defend. But the intangibles are the things that sets him apart from other NBA point guards. Paul's competitive nature and desire to win are things that were instilled into his game as a young child. Constant one-on-one battles in his backyard with his older brother C.J. allowed Chris to develop his feisty edge.

After the completion of his first NBA season, Paul was selected Rookie of the Year, NBA All Rookie First Team and he ran away with the Western Conference Rookie of the Month award in every month for the entire 2005-2006 season. Did I mention he led the Hornets to 20 more wins averaging 16.1 points, 7.8 assists and 5.1 rebounds a game as a rookie. With those eye popping numbers you have to shake your head because Chris Paul was flat out amazing.

The next season Paul elevated his scoring and assists, but people were still skeptical because in his two NBA seasons, Paul never reached the NBA playoffs.

Entering his third year, the Hornets were able to return home to New Orleans for a full NBA season. Since the tragic events of Hurricane Katrina, the city of New Orleans looked for a savior to lift their spirits. Paul delivered right on time as he led New Orleans to an astounding 56-26 regular season record. It was the best record in the franchise history and more importantly New Orleans reached the NBA playoffs.

Some players have jitters when the playoffs come around, the intense environment causes frustration and doubt. But when your name is Chris Paul, you rise to the occasion. Paul set a record for an NBA playoff debut against the San Antonio Spurs scoring 35 points, dishing out 10 assists and picking the Spurs pocket four times. New Orleans ended San Antonio's season, winning 4 games to 1. In the series clinching game, Chris Paul finished with 24 points, 11 rebounds and 15 assists.

The level of play that was orchestrated by Paul in the 2007-2008 NBA season opened everyone's eyes just like Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson was able to. Paul finished second to Kobe Bryant in MVP voting and broke Alvin Roberston's 22 year-old NBA record by stealing the ball at least once in 106 consecutive games

Paul's maturation at the point guard position came quicker than anyone thought. His consistent elite play continues to heighten his already decorated NBA career. The floor general has improved the play of his teammates as well. Forward David West and center Tyson Chandler are playing their best basketball in their NBA careers. Paul and Chandler have been the most successful tandem off the pick and roll since the days of John Stockton and Karl Malone. David West's hard nosed play in the paint made him an all-star during the 2007-2008 season. West fed off Chris Paul's playmaking ability as he averaged 20 points and 8.9 rebounds during his all-star season.

With the addition of James Posey, the Hornets hold a 28-17 record and their regarded as one of the best teams in the Western Conference this season. Paul is averaging 21.5 points, 10.9 assists and 2.8 steals per game, while shooting 49% from the field. CP3 still has his eyes set on winning an NBA title or two with his Hornet teammates and the city of New Orleans is patiently waiting.


Be Peaceful

• Tough luck for Jameer Nelson. The Orlando Magic point guard stellar play allowed him to be selected for his first NBA All-Star game. The bad new is that Nelson tore his right labrum in his shoulder and he may need season ending surgery. Stay positive Jameer!
• Move over MJ! Kobe surpassed "His Airness" as he poured in a ridiculous 61 points at Madison Square Garden against the New York Knicks. The fans gave Kobe an overwhelming applause as he displayed his greatness on the big stage. Bryant finished 19-31 from the field, 20-20 from the free throw line and 3-6 from downtown.
• The 2009 NBA All-Star weekend is next week and the Sprite Slam Dunk Contest has been the most talked about event. Participants include last year's champion Dwight Howard, Rudy Gay, Nate Robinson and Rudy Fernandez. I'm just going to put it out there...I have Rudy Gay taking this year's crown!!

Award Winners...So Far

Attention all NBA watchers in the world, the 2009 NBA All-Star game is right around the corner and its time to look at players who are leading the categories for Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, Rookie Of The Year and Sixth Man Of The Year.


Most Valuable Player

1. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers: For those that have doubted the King's inability to have a consistent jump shot, you may need to re-think your comments. Everyone in the world knows that his extraordinary talent of attacking the basket will never leave him, but LeBron has added to his game. LeBron's consistency of his jump shot from mid-range and from three has made him an even stronger force.

The Cavaliers have the second best record in the NBA at 30-6 and continue to dominate at the Quicken Loans Arena where they are 19-0. James is averaging 27.7 ppg, 6.6 apg, 6.6 rpg and the King is shooting 50.8 % from the field. Oh and I almost forgot about LeBron's 38 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 steals and 3 blocks against the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics on Jan. 9th.

The players that follow LeBron in the MVP race are Dwayne Wade, Miami Heat (29.0 ppg, 7.1 apg, 5.1 rpg) and Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers (27.0 ppg, 4.6 apg, 5.3 rpg). Also watch for New Orleans Hornets point guard Chris Paul.


Defensive Player Of The Year

1. Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic: When your nickname is Superman, you should be able to do it all. Offensively Howard is a bully with his 20 points and 13 rebounds a night, but defensively he is the anchor in the paint for the Orlando Magic. Even though the Eastern Conference lacks true big men that can dominate, Howard's imposing presence creates problems for opponents who dare to come in the lane. On the year so far, Howard is averaging 3.22 blocks per game and 9.4 defensive rebounds per game.

The Magic opponents are shooting 42% from the field which isn't too good if you understand the game of basketball. The Magic lead the Southeast Division at 31-8

Players that follow Howard for the Defensive Player Of The Year race are Kevin Garnett, Boston Celtics (9.2 rpg and 1.9 bpg) and Dwayne Wade, Miami Heat (2.3 spg and 1.6 bpg)

Most Improved Player

1.Danny Granger, Indiana Pacers: If I were a coach in the NBA, Danny Granger would be making the All-Star team, no questions asked! Granger has elevated his play since opening night and the NBA is watching. In the 07-08 NBA season Granger averaged 19.6 ppg and 2.1 apg, but this year Granger has increased his scoring (26.4 ppg) and he's dishing the ball out more (3.4 apg). In only his third NBA season, Granger has taken over games with his deadly jump shot frustrating opponents.

Even though the Pacers are in last place of the Central Division (14-25), Granger has solidified himself as an All-Star this season and hopefully seasons to come.

Players that follow behind Granger in the Most Improved Player watch are Devin Harris, New Jersey Nets (22.7 ppg, 6.5 apg) and Jameer Nelson, Orlando Magic (16.6 ppg, 5.3 apg, FG% 50, 3P% 45).

Sixth Man Of The Year

1. Jason Terry, Dallas Mavericks: "The Jet" is still flying high with his 20.5 ppg and 46% shooting from the field. The 9 year NBA veteran has provided a spark from the bench for the Dallas Mavericks this season. Terry, who has been a starter for most of his career, made the transition to the bench for the betterment of the Mavericks. When starter Josh Howard went down with a wrist injury, Mavericks head coach Rick Carlise inserted Terry into the starting line-up. Terry didn't disappoint as he dropped 33 points on the Sacramento Kings on Jan. 11th. Look for Terry to continue his bench production as the season goes on for the Mavericks.

Players that follow behind Jason Terry for Sixth Man Of The Year are Manu Ginobili, San Antonio Spurs (15 ppg, 3.6 apg) and Charlie Villanueva, Milwaukee Bucks (13.1 ppg, 6.1 rpg)

Rookie Of The Year

1. O.J. Mayo, Memphis Grizzlies: Um excuse me..more Mayo Please. O.J. Mayo has been a very solid contributor in his rookie season, helping Rudy Gay with scoring and leadership duties. Mayo is averaging 19.3 ppg, 4.1 rpg, he shots 44% from the field and 38% from three. The kid who was bred for the NBA his whole life is living up to expectations that many have of him. Consistency has allowed Mayo to rise above fellow top picks Derrick Rose and Michael Beasley. The Grizzlies sit at the bottom of the Southwest Division with an 11-27 record.

Players that follow Mayo in the Rookie race are Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls (16.9 ppg, 6.3 apg) and Russell Westbrook, Oklahoma City Thunder (14.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 4.9 apg)

As the NBA season continues, players may elevate their games and their teams. Look for spots to change in these categories because there are many games to be played.

Be Peaceful