The reeling Lakers have lost four straight after being dispatched by the Rockets in Houston on Wednesday night. L.A. was beaten 109-99 at Toyota Center as the pesky Rockets held off Kobe Bryant’s 27 and a season high 22 points from Lamor Odom. The Lakers haven’t lost four consecutive games since April 2007. The struggling defending champions are now owners of a 5-4 road record and 13-6 overall. Houston improved their dismal season start to 6-12. Kevin Martin led the Rockets in points and Shane Battiers knocked down back-to-back three pointers to carry them to victory with less than three minutes in regulation.
Martin finished with 22 points and was a flawless 10-10 at the charity stripe. Luis Scola added 14 points for Houston, who shot just over 50% from the field. Odom bucketed 25 points and had 11 boards in the loss as L.A. snapped a three game winning streak over Houston. The Lakers outscored the Rockets in the first quarter and maintained a three point advantage into the break. Martin had 20 points, and Battier 11, in the second half to lift the Rockets. Houston trimmed their deficit to two points by the end of the third stanza. Kyle Lowry, the former Villanova point guard, contributed with a game high 10 assists.
The Lakers missed their last seven shots and were overpowered 33-21 in the final quarter. Lowry’s pass to Battier with 2:05 remaining resulted in a tie ball game. Battier sunk the downtown shot for a 97-97 score, and struck again on the next Rockets’ possession to pull Houston ahead by three. Battier was fouled inside a minute to play and drilled three free throws for a six point home advantage. The Lakers shot just 33% in the second half. They failed to score again after Bryant drained a pair of free throws in L.A.’s 22% shooting fourth quarter. Pau Gasol, the fluid power player, came down with a left hamstring pull and was limited to just eight points for the Lakers. Houston’s bench outscored L.A.’s in the first half, and the Rockets’ defense clamped down to taunt Gasol and Bryant the remainder of the contest to earn the win. For the ailing home team, Wednesday was finally a happy highlight.
Parting Points: Duke looks dominant with their flamboyant freshman, Kyrie Irving.
I like this athletic kid, Jordan Hill for the Rockets. For starters, he shares his name with a terrific singer.
Song of the day- “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Showing posts with label Houston Rockets. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Houston Rockets. Show all posts
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Wall Works Wizardry in Win
The Houston Rockets are still winless away from home after losing 98-91 to the John Wall and the Wizards at the Verizon Center. The Washington rookie helped his team top the Rockets by picking up his first career triple-double in his 42 minutes on the hardwood. The former Kentucky Wildcat finished with 19 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds as the Wizards improved to 2-5. The veteran-like 6’4” Wall looked polished for a phenom. The Rockets just looked awful. Houston is just 1-6 on the season despite leading midway through the fourth quarter in Wednesday’s loss. The oft-injured Yao Ming was sidelined with an ankle ailment and departed the game in the first quarter without scoring a point. The Rockets have lost six of their last seven contests.
Kevin Martin scored 31 points for Houston to lead all scorers. He also knocked down 13-of-15 from the charity stripe as the Rockets hit 89% from the line. Houston’s Luis Scola contributed 24 points before fouling out. The Wizards capitalized on Houston’s inferior interior defense in the first half. Andray Blatche grabbed 11 rebounds to go along with 20 points for the Wizards. Gilbert Arenas did not start for Washington, but played 23 minutes to add score five. Al Thornton chipped in 20 points for Washington, while the athletic Wall stole the show as the Wizards pulled ahead 53-46 at the half. Wall committed just one turnover and snagged five steals in an all-round veteran-like performance. Houston outscored the home team 26-20 in the third quarter behind Martin and Scola. The Rockets raced out to an 85-84 lead in the fourth before rupturing and surrendering a 10-0 Wizards’ run.The Wizards wrenched back their advantage after blowing an 11-point lead. Houston collapsed and crumbled down the stretch, committing five turnovers. The Wizards were the only team sinking buckets and the Rockets’ couldn’t keep them out of the paint late in the game. The number one draft picked secured his triple-double with five minutes to go in the final quarter.
Parting Points: Sad passing- Mariners’ announcer Dave Niehaus
Happy Veteran’s Day!
Kevin Martin scored 31 points for Houston to lead all scorers. He also knocked down 13-of-15 from the charity stripe as the Rockets hit 89% from the line. Houston’s Luis Scola contributed 24 points before fouling out. The Wizards capitalized on Houston’s inferior interior defense in the first half. Andray Blatche grabbed 11 rebounds to go along with 20 points for the Wizards. Gilbert Arenas did not start for Washington, but played 23 minutes to add score five. Al Thornton chipped in 20 points for Washington, while the athletic Wall stole the show as the Wizards pulled ahead 53-46 at the half. Wall committed just one turnover and snagged five steals in an all-round veteran-like performance. Houston outscored the home team 26-20 in the third quarter behind Martin and Scola. The Rockets raced out to an 85-84 lead in the fourth before rupturing and surrendering a 10-0 Wizards’ run.The Wizards wrenched back their advantage after blowing an 11-point lead. Houston collapsed and crumbled down the stretch, committing five turnovers. The Wizards were the only team sinking buckets and the Rockets’ couldn’t keep them out of the paint late in the game. The number one draft picked secured his triple-double with five minutes to go in the final quarter.
Parting Points: Sad passing- Mariners’ announcer Dave Niehaus
Happy Veteran’s Day!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Houston Hangs at Home
It’s never a good sign when you trail the Washington Wizards at halftime and with less than a minute left. Fortunately for the Houston Rockets, rookie Chase Budinger forced the go-ahead bucket with 28 seconds remaining in Tuesday’s Toyota Center meeting with the Eastern conference opponents. Budinger banked a jump shot and converted a pair of free throws to help Houston escape with a 98-94 victory over struggling Washington. The Wizards lost for a franchise record 16th straight time and remain winless in the month of March. They say April is the cruelest month, but March has been very cruel to the Wizards. Neither team has much to play for at this point in the Spring. The Rockets are all but eliminated from the playoffs, but continue to ride out a season of disappointment under Coach Rick Andelman. There’s no need to make excuses for why Houston won’t be partaking in any post-season parities. The Rockets simply faded down the stretch and couldn’t compensate or counter the critical injury cracks on the roster.
Budinger blossomed brilliantly for Houston. The Rockets entered Tuesday’s contest in the mires of a four game losing streak. Budinger infused the offense, dropping in 24 points. The first year player out of Arizona collected six rebounds and was 5-of-6 from the free throw stripe. Former Villanova stud, Kyle Lowry, bucketed 17 and Luis Scola added 16 for the Rockets. Aaron Brooks and Scola dominated the boards with eight rebounds each, but the Wizards still outrebounded Houston by six. Mike Miller was massive for Washington. Miller’s 12 rebounds and four assists led all Wizards. The nine year veteran was only outscored by Andray Blatche’s 31 points. The 37-36 Rockets, trying to finish the season on the winning side, exchanged leads with the visitors several times during the first half. James Singleton starred on defense for the Wizards, with three blocked shots. Washington finished with nine team blocks. The Wizards held a 30-27 lead after 12 minutes and upped it to five points at halftime.
Houston knotted the game at 80-80 with 8:30 left but the Wizards drained six straight points. Washington’s largest advantage reached six with just under seven minutes on the clock as JaVale McGee pulled up a jumper for a 86¬-80 Wizards edge. With Kevin Martin out of the lineup with a sore shoulder for Houston, the Rockets looked to other role players. The absence of Shane Battier and Jared Jefferies off the bench has hampered Houston. It was refreshing to see Budinger step up. Brooks helped carry Houston with 11 assists. Jermaine Taylor also made his presence felt with 14 points in the win. Houston trailed by five points at the four minute mark, but Scola notched to quick baskets to cut the lead to one point. After Budinger tied it up at 88-88, Washington’s Earl Boykins was fouled. Boykins sank two free throws and missed a 3-point chance with two minutes remaining. Lowry tied the game at 92 with a jump shot runner from the lane. The Rockets point guard was whistled for palming the ball, but Washington couldn’t take advantage. Blatche missed a fade-away attempt with 33.5 seconds. Houston followed a timeout with the go-ahead shot by Budinger from the top of the key. The rookie planted two from the line into the net and Lowry sealed the win with two more foul shots. The Rockets are a formidable squad. It’s a shame they will miss basketball’s second season this year, but there’s always next year. Budinger and Martin show promise in the backcourt, and the development of Jordan Hill should boost next year’s Rockets rotation. The return of Yao Ming is sure to spark something in this Houston team.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain
Budinger blossomed brilliantly for Houston. The Rockets entered Tuesday’s contest in the mires of a four game losing streak. Budinger infused the offense, dropping in 24 points. The first year player out of Arizona collected six rebounds and was 5-of-6 from the free throw stripe. Former Villanova stud, Kyle Lowry, bucketed 17 and Luis Scola added 16 for the Rockets. Aaron Brooks and Scola dominated the boards with eight rebounds each, but the Wizards still outrebounded Houston by six. Mike Miller was massive for Washington. Miller’s 12 rebounds and four assists led all Wizards. The nine year veteran was only outscored by Andray Blatche’s 31 points. The 37-36 Rockets, trying to finish the season on the winning side, exchanged leads with the visitors several times during the first half. James Singleton starred on defense for the Wizards, with three blocked shots. Washington finished with nine team blocks. The Wizards held a 30-27 lead after 12 minutes and upped it to five points at halftime.
Houston knotted the game at 80-80 with 8:30 left but the Wizards drained six straight points. Washington’s largest advantage reached six with just under seven minutes on the clock as JaVale McGee pulled up a jumper for a 86¬-80 Wizards edge. With Kevin Martin out of the lineup with a sore shoulder for Houston, the Rockets looked to other role players. The absence of Shane Battier and Jared Jefferies off the bench has hampered Houston. It was refreshing to see Budinger step up. Brooks helped carry Houston with 11 assists. Jermaine Taylor also made his presence felt with 14 points in the win. Houston trailed by five points at the four minute mark, but Scola notched to quick baskets to cut the lead to one point. After Budinger tied it up at 88-88, Washington’s Earl Boykins was fouled. Boykins sank two free throws and missed a 3-point chance with two minutes remaining. Lowry tied the game at 92 with a jump shot runner from the lane. The Rockets point guard was whistled for palming the ball, but Washington couldn’t take advantage. Blatche missed a fade-away attempt with 33.5 seconds. Houston followed a timeout with the go-ahead shot by Budinger from the top of the key. The rookie planted two from the line into the net and Lowry sealed the win with two more foul shots. The Rockets are a formidable squad. It’s a shame they will miss basketball’s second season this year, but there’s always next year. Budinger and Martin show promise in the backcourt, and the development of Jordan Hill should boost next year’s Rockets rotation. The return of Yao Ming is sure to spark something in this Houston team.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Depleted Denver’s Defense Defeated
The Houston Cougars are in the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1992. Amidst the madness o March, the Houston Rockets are trying to make the NBA playoffs. In the Mile High city, perhaps they are more concerned with Brady Quinn’s arrival than basketball. Monday night, the Rockets rallied to complete their largest fourth quarter comeback of the season in defeating the Denver Nuggets 125-123 at Toyota Center. Houston fans watched the home team overcome an eleven point deficit. The crowd of 16,000 witness Aaron Brooks delivering the game winning basket with 2.9 seconds left. The Rockets pulled off the NBA version of a clutch performance and snapped the Nuggets’ six game winning streak in the process.
Brooks, the savior of the game, compiled 31 points and nine assists in propelling hopeful Houston Monday night. The Rockets’ second year point guard was outshined by only Carmelo Anthony. The All-Star Nugget scored 45 points in the loss to snag his seventh 40-plus point game of the season. Anthony was 6-of-7 from the line and got fat on three 3-pointers and 10 rebounds. He missed a 3-point try at the buzzer, however. The Rockets’ best offensive first half was on display last night. The Rockets shot 59% in the first half. Houston led by 11 points at the half but the advantage vanished quickly after the break. Chauncey Billups sank consecutive 3-pointers early in the third quarter to get Denver’s offense moving. Billups finished with 17 points. Denver trailed by just two points heading into the fourth quarter.
Kevin Martin tallied 29 points for Houston. Martin surged in the second half, scoring seven points during a 16-6 spurt that put Houston up 58-42 with just over nine minutes remaining. Denver rode a 104-93 lead into the final quarter, with Anthony in the driver’s seat. Melo converted 11 points in the third quarter. Houston pulled back to within four behind Luis Scola’s inside scoring and Shane Battier’s sinkers from the rainbow. The high-scoring Nuggets slowed down the stretch, but rallied to grab a five point lead in the final minute. Trevor Ariza knocked down his first 3-pointer of the night with 1:21 remaining and Scola notched a layup on a fast-break rebound. Scola charged the lane with the tying layup and swished the ensuing free throw to put the Rockets on top by one point. Number four took a pass from midcourt after getting up from the floor on the opposite side of the court, and glided blissfully to the rim. Scola secured his sixth straight double-double with a superb 23 point, 11 rebound contest. Anthony knotted the game at 123 after Brooks split two free throws. The Rockets’ guard made up for the miss by going to work and lifting his team in the final six seconds. Houston spread the floor and allowed Brooks to make a sharp, one-dribble move to his right before nailing the deciding jumper. He looked like he was going to make a hard break to the basket, but instead pulled off the fake and plopped it in the net. Houston is now five games behind Portland in the Western Conference playoff race.
Denver came into Monday averaging 116 points per game and running opponents off the court. The defense was exposed by Houston at Toyota Center. Their inability to stop Brooks coupled with the Rocket’s knack for denying Denver the ball resulted in the Nuggets’ first road loss in four tries. Houston’s big three (Scola, Brooks and Martin) combined for 83 points and 19 boards. Kyle Lowry’s fourth quarter defense was excellent and his slick drives to the basket past Denver’s defense exhilarating. The Rockets just passed the ball really well in the last frame. The high octane Denver offense finally caught up to a stalwart defense. As long as Houston’s defense gives them a chance to win games, the Rockets will have success on the hardwood.
Parting Points: “If you love me, won’t you let me know”- Coldplay
The Cards and Phils are in trade talks—Pujols for Howard?
Agassi apologizes for his jab against Sampras...hmm.
I personally love it when the Rockets don’t fold!
Brooks, the savior of the game, compiled 31 points and nine assists in propelling hopeful Houston Monday night. The Rockets’ second year point guard was outshined by only Carmelo Anthony. The All-Star Nugget scored 45 points in the loss to snag his seventh 40-plus point game of the season. Anthony was 6-of-7 from the line and got fat on three 3-pointers and 10 rebounds. He missed a 3-point try at the buzzer, however. The Rockets’ best offensive first half was on display last night. The Rockets shot 59% in the first half. Houston led by 11 points at the half but the advantage vanished quickly after the break. Chauncey Billups sank consecutive 3-pointers early in the third quarter to get Denver’s offense moving. Billups finished with 17 points. Denver trailed by just two points heading into the fourth quarter.
Kevin Martin tallied 29 points for Houston. Martin surged in the second half, scoring seven points during a 16-6 spurt that put Houston up 58-42 with just over nine minutes remaining. Denver rode a 104-93 lead into the final quarter, with Anthony in the driver’s seat. Melo converted 11 points in the third quarter. Houston pulled back to within four behind Luis Scola’s inside scoring and Shane Battier’s sinkers from the rainbow. The high-scoring Nuggets slowed down the stretch, but rallied to grab a five point lead in the final minute. Trevor Ariza knocked down his first 3-pointer of the night with 1:21 remaining and Scola notched a layup on a fast-break rebound. Scola charged the lane with the tying layup and swished the ensuing free throw to put the Rockets on top by one point. Number four took a pass from midcourt after getting up from the floor on the opposite side of the court, and glided blissfully to the rim. Scola secured his sixth straight double-double with a superb 23 point, 11 rebound contest. Anthony knotted the game at 123 after Brooks split two free throws. The Rockets’ guard made up for the miss by going to work and lifting his team in the final six seconds. Houston spread the floor and allowed Brooks to make a sharp, one-dribble move to his right before nailing the deciding jumper. He looked like he was going to make a hard break to the basket, but instead pulled off the fake and plopped it in the net. Houston is now five games behind Portland in the Western Conference playoff race.
Denver came into Monday averaging 116 points per game and running opponents off the court. The defense was exposed by Houston at Toyota Center. Their inability to stop Brooks coupled with the Rocket’s knack for denying Denver the ball resulted in the Nuggets’ first road loss in four tries. Houston’s big three (Scola, Brooks and Martin) combined for 83 points and 19 boards. Kyle Lowry’s fourth quarter defense was excellent and his slick drives to the basket past Denver’s defense exhilarating. The Rockets just passed the ball really well in the last frame. The high octane Denver offense finally caught up to a stalwart defense. As long as Houston’s defense gives them a chance to win games, the Rockets will have success on the hardwood.
Parting Points: “If you love me, won’t you let me know”- Coldplay
The Cards and Phils are in trade talks—Pujols for Howard?
Agassi apologizes for his jab against Sampras...hmm.
I personally love it when the Rockets don’t fold!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Third Try Tops Timberwolves
Aaron Brooks got game, and the Houston Rockets finally showed some of their game last night. The Rockets coasted to a seventeen point first quarter lead before allowing the lowly Minnesota Timberwolves back in the game. Houston built a 30-13 advantage at home behind 12 assists and 14 baskets in the first quarter. The Rockets employed a pressing offense to surge to a 19 point lead only to see it erased by the second quarter buzzer. Minnesota, propelled by Al Jefferson’s career high 26 points and 26 rebounds cut the halftime deficit to nine. The Wolves went on an 11-3 run to open the third quarter and were helped by the Rockets missing nine of their first ten shots. Houston hammered in their next five shots but Minnesota still hung around to end the third quarter. The Timberwolves rallied from ten down in the fourth to close within a point of tying the game. Brooks’ three-pointer gave the Rockets extra padding before Damien Wilkins sunk a trey for the Wolves. Jefferson flipped in a short jumper as the visitors forged a 78-77 lead late in the final quarter. But Chuck Hayes, who snagged 17 rebounds in the win, scored and Brooks nailed another three to put Houston on top again. When the Rockets finally left the floor, Hayes landed a career-high four steals to go along with his rebounds. Brooks’ reverse layup with 46 seconds left seemingly put the game away for the Rockets. Carl Landry and Brooks missed free throws in the final 10 seconds, allowing the Timberwolves an opportunity to tie the score. Then, guard Corey Brewer intercepted an inbound pass from teammate Kevin Love and heaved a mid-court shot at the buzzer to send the game into overtime. Brewer finished with 14 for Minnesota and Wayne Ellington added 17.
Minnesota continually prolonged this basketball game. They also repeated their inability to hold leads throughout the overtime minutes. Ellington hit a 3-pointer in the first extra session to put the Wolves ahead 98-96. Brooks answered for Houston by going two-for-two from the line with 1:25 left. Neither team was successful on winning shot attempts to close it out, and the game headed to a second overtime. Jefferson’s hook shot and pair from the charity stripe meant an early Minnesota lead in the second extra session. Houston’s Trevor Ariza blanked Minnesota with a jumper and 3-pointer. Ariza finished with 19 points. After an Ellington turnover with 16 seconds remaining, Brooks increased the Hoston lead to three points on two free throws. Ellington recovered from the miscue to again tie the game at 105 with eight seconds to put the game into a third overtime. Add to the Rockets’ lament the fact that Landry missed two free throws in the third overtime. Brooks clocked 59 minutes and 25 seconds to match Cuttino Mobley for most ever in franchise history. He swished a three pointer in the third overtime, and Landry gave the Rockets a 110-107 advantage before Jefferson came through again. Jefferson was limited to six points through the first three quarters, but finished with enough to frustrate the Rockets. Minnesota’s leading scorer Wednesday night, Ryan Gomes, was called for an offensive foul in overtime number three. Shane Battier sank one from deep with just under two minutes left to provide the Rockets a six point cushion. Battier finished with a season high 12 rebounds and five blocked shots in the epic affair. Houston escaped with their eighth straight home victory by holding on 120-114. Every time it seemed as if the Rockets were in control of the game, the Twolves had a snazzy counterpunch. Finally, after three hours and three overtimes, Houston walked to the exit signs winners.
Parting Points: Pete Sampras is sticking up for himself. Tennis rival, Andre Agassi, knocked Pete for being dull and lacking inspiration in his recent biography. Well, good for Sampras for requesting a sit-down and showing disappointment.
My early football divisional round picks: All C’s (Cowboys, Cardinals, Chargers, Colts)
Song of the day- Howie Day’s “You and I Collide”
Minnesota continually prolonged this basketball game. They also repeated their inability to hold leads throughout the overtime minutes. Ellington hit a 3-pointer in the first extra session to put the Wolves ahead 98-96. Brooks answered for Houston by going two-for-two from the line with 1:25 left. Neither team was successful on winning shot attempts to close it out, and the game headed to a second overtime. Jefferson’s hook shot and pair from the charity stripe meant an early Minnesota lead in the second extra session. Houston’s Trevor Ariza blanked Minnesota with a jumper and 3-pointer. Ariza finished with 19 points. After an Ellington turnover with 16 seconds remaining, Brooks increased the Hoston lead to three points on two free throws. Ellington recovered from the miscue to again tie the game at 105 with eight seconds to put the game into a third overtime. Add to the Rockets’ lament the fact that Landry missed two free throws in the third overtime. Brooks clocked 59 minutes and 25 seconds to match Cuttino Mobley for most ever in franchise history. He swished a three pointer in the third overtime, and Landry gave the Rockets a 110-107 advantage before Jefferson came through again. Jefferson was limited to six points through the first three quarters, but finished with enough to frustrate the Rockets. Minnesota’s leading scorer Wednesday night, Ryan Gomes, was called for an offensive foul in overtime number three. Shane Battier sank one from deep with just under two minutes left to provide the Rockets a six point cushion. Battier finished with a season high 12 rebounds and five blocked shots in the epic affair. Houston escaped with their eighth straight home victory by holding on 120-114. Every time it seemed as if the Rockets were in control of the game, the Twolves had a snazzy counterpunch. Finally, after three hours and three overtimes, Houston walked to the exit signs winners.
Parting Points: Pete Sampras is sticking up for himself. Tennis rival, Andre Agassi, knocked Pete for being dull and lacking inspiration in his recent biography. Well, good for Sampras for requesting a sit-down and showing disappointment.
My early football divisional round picks: All C’s (Cowboys, Cardinals, Chargers, Colts)
Song of the day- Howie Day’s “You and I Collide”
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Rocket Redemption
The Houston Rockets slowed the Los Angeles Lakers down at Staples Center in 2009. The 2010 Rockets weren’t so lucky in their second trip to Hollywood last night. Houston topped the Lakers by ten points last November, but fell to a banged-up Los Angeles 88-79 Tuesday. The Lakers picked up their fourth straight win without Pau Gasol. Los Angeles’ Kobe Bryant was playing with an injured finger, yet still managed to break a tie with Patrick Ewing for 15th best all-time on the NBA scoring list. Forward, Lamar Odom, came up one assist shy of his 13th career triple double a day after battling flu-like symptoms. Ron Artest returned from a five-day sideline stint and contributed seven points for the 28-6 Lakers. The Rockets shot a dismal 40% and hit a dreary 11 of their first 36 shots on the night. The undersized Rockets were without Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady, and were no match for the defending champions.
Los Angeles massacred the Dallas Mavericks with a season high 131 points two nights ago. Tuesday, they defeated Houston by scoring their fewest points in a victory this season. Houston handed Los Angeles one of their three home losses so far this year. The visiting Rockets never lead in the contest last night. Phil Jackson’s team zipped to a 12 point first quarter lead. Bryant took a breather in the second quarter as the Rockets closed to within four, but returned to extend Los Angeles’ lead with nine points. The Lakers coasted to a 41-33 halftime lead but neither team put together excellent offensive showings. The 20-15 Rockets actually outscored the Lakers in the third quarter. Luis Scola scored seven points in Houston’s run. Houston trimmed the lead to 59-55 by the end of the third before things continued to click for the Lakers. Andrew Bynum took more feeds and found the open lane to finish with a game high 24 points. Without Gasol, the lane was less clogged. Bynum stepped up with a solid shooting effort in place of the big man. Odom deposited 17 points and 19 rebounds in an uncharacteristic poor shooting night the Los Angeles. Still, the NBA’s best squashed the Rockets’ comeback attempt to preserve another Staples Center win.
The Rockets twice got within two points of taking the lead in the fourth quarter. Reserve Carl Landry carried Houston with 19 points. The gritty Rocket personifies the physical toughness of the Rockets. Houston didn’t look very gritty hitting 36% in the first half, however. Former Laker, Trevor Ariza, doled out 12 buckets, but was just five-of-fourteen on shooting. Aaron Brooks and Scola snagged 18 and 15 points, respectively. It was a basket by Scola and two 3-pointers by Shane Battier that drew the Rockets close in the fourth quarter. The Lakers led 73-71 when Odom responded with a three pointer and Bynum drilled a soft hook with 2:11 remaining in the game. Bryant mixed in a fadeaway jumper to cap the 15-8 game-ending run for the Lakers. Brooks hit a runner with 66 seconds to give the Houston one final chance. Battier even slapped the ball, stripping Bryant. But, Bryant recovered the loose ball and tacked on a jumper for a six point Lakers lead. The former MVP added a free throw with 35 seconds left but missed his second attempt. Odom recovered the rebound and was perfect on his two from the charity stripe for a game-sealing nine point lead.
Battier scored just seven points in 39 minutes. Former Villanova Wildcat, Kyle Lowry, grabbed nine rebounds. The Rockets were 4-for-23 from the arc in the loss. The Rockets have a talented team and have been a bit surprising this season. They are among the league leaders in points in the paint and can launch second-chance baskets with the top teams. They remain the games and keep the score within reasonable limits. Tuesday, they couldn’t put away the Lakers and complete a fourth quarter rally. The Rockets scored their fewest first half points of the season at Staples Center last night. They were successful on four of eleven free throws in the first half. The problem with Houston is they lack a late-game closer. They sometimes hold on during the crucial part of games, but just do not have that playmaker. Tuesday’s game was within their grasp in the fourth when Bryant was called on his fourth foul, and third offensive foul. They did little with their improved second half and overabundant opportunities.
Parting Points: Roberto Alomar is a first-ballot Hall-of-Famer. The voters got that one wrong. Congrats to “The Hawk”, Andre Dawson, on getting in.
Listening to the entire “Murmur” album by R.E.M….again, of course.
Los Angeles massacred the Dallas Mavericks with a season high 131 points two nights ago. Tuesday, they defeated Houston by scoring their fewest points in a victory this season. Houston handed Los Angeles one of their three home losses so far this year. The visiting Rockets never lead in the contest last night. Phil Jackson’s team zipped to a 12 point first quarter lead. Bryant took a breather in the second quarter as the Rockets closed to within four, but returned to extend Los Angeles’ lead with nine points. The Lakers coasted to a 41-33 halftime lead but neither team put together excellent offensive showings. The 20-15 Rockets actually outscored the Lakers in the third quarter. Luis Scola scored seven points in Houston’s run. Houston trimmed the lead to 59-55 by the end of the third before things continued to click for the Lakers. Andrew Bynum took more feeds and found the open lane to finish with a game high 24 points. Without Gasol, the lane was less clogged. Bynum stepped up with a solid shooting effort in place of the big man. Odom deposited 17 points and 19 rebounds in an uncharacteristic poor shooting night the Los Angeles. Still, the NBA’s best squashed the Rockets’ comeback attempt to preserve another Staples Center win.
The Rockets twice got within two points of taking the lead in the fourth quarter. Reserve Carl Landry carried Houston with 19 points. The gritty Rocket personifies the physical toughness of the Rockets. Houston didn’t look very gritty hitting 36% in the first half, however. Former Laker, Trevor Ariza, doled out 12 buckets, but was just five-of-fourteen on shooting. Aaron Brooks and Scola snagged 18 and 15 points, respectively. It was a basket by Scola and two 3-pointers by Shane Battier that drew the Rockets close in the fourth quarter. The Lakers led 73-71 when Odom responded with a three pointer and Bynum drilled a soft hook with 2:11 remaining in the game. Bryant mixed in a fadeaway jumper to cap the 15-8 game-ending run for the Lakers. Brooks hit a runner with 66 seconds to give the Houston one final chance. Battier even slapped the ball, stripping Bryant. But, Bryant recovered the loose ball and tacked on a jumper for a six point Lakers lead. The former MVP added a free throw with 35 seconds left but missed his second attempt. Odom recovered the rebound and was perfect on his two from the charity stripe for a game-sealing nine point lead.
Battier scored just seven points in 39 minutes. Former Villanova Wildcat, Kyle Lowry, grabbed nine rebounds. The Rockets were 4-for-23 from the arc in the loss. The Rockets have a talented team and have been a bit surprising this season. They are among the league leaders in points in the paint and can launch second-chance baskets with the top teams. They remain the games and keep the score within reasonable limits. Tuesday, they couldn’t put away the Lakers and complete a fourth quarter rally. The Rockets scored their fewest first half points of the season at Staples Center last night. They were successful on four of eleven free throws in the first half. The problem with Houston is they lack a late-game closer. They sometimes hold on during the crucial part of games, but just do not have that playmaker. Tuesday’s game was within their grasp in the fourth when Bryant was called on his fourth foul, and third offensive foul. They did little with their improved second half and overabundant opportunities.
Parting Points: Roberto Alomar is a first-ballot Hall-of-Famer. The voters got that one wrong. Congrats to “The Hawk”, Andre Dawson, on getting in.
Listening to the entire “Murmur” album by R.E.M….again, of course.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
T-Mac's Toyota Tuesday
Houston Rockets’ All-star, Tracy McGrady, saw his first action since last February when he came off the bench to score three points against the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center Tuesday night. McGrady was sidelined last winter because of season-ending microfracture knee surgery. Houston head coach, Rick Adelman, brought his seven time All-Star into the game during the first quarter of the Rockets’ 107-96 victory. McGrady didn’t overwhelm the crowd, but made an encouraging comeback in front of the adoring Houston fans. T-Mac clocked just under eight minutes as his team rolled through one of their best offensive showings of the season. The Rockets shot a season high 54.7 percent and did so without star G/F, Trevor Ariza. Ariza was serving a one game suspension for throwing a forearm at Raptors guard, DeMar De Rozan on Sunday. Luis Scola and Aaron Brooks lead the way for Houston, while snapping the Pistons’ five game winning streak.
Brooks and Scola scored 23 points apiece and got better looks and ball movement throughout the game. Carl Landry hit seven free throws and threw up 19 points in cooking the Pistons. Scola topped his season-high in points while going 10-of-16 and being the most dominant player in the opening quarter. Brooks bucketed 20 or more points for his sixth time in eight games, and picked up 10 assists. McGrady was brought in to help stop one of the league’s best offensive rebounding teams. He snagged three rebounds and hit a line drive three pointer with 1:33 left before his floor time was over. T-Mac missed his first shot attempt, a 20 foot flip. McGrady sat out the remainder of the game following his season debut in the first quarter. Former Arizona shooter, rookie Chase Budinger, sparked the defense with 12 rebounds in 40 minutes. The second round draft pick was sharp in his first career start in place of Ariza.
Houston continued to look smooth on offense after McGrady’s departure. Their ball handling was efficient even after the ten point first quarter advantage where the Rockets shot 67% from the field. The free throw shooting overpowered Detroit and propelled Houston to their high victory margin. The Pistons shot just 43% from the floor in a poor defensive effort. The Rockets capitalized on the lax defense during an 11-0 run to reverse Detroit’s lead into a Houston 22-15 edge in the first half. They stretched the lead to 15 early in the second quarter. The Rockets headed to the locker room on the up side of a 56-47 score. The Pistons got off to a slow start. Rodney Stuckey was especially atrocious early in the contest. Stuckey missed nine of his first ten shots before recovering to total 17 points for the struggling Pistons. The amount was still lower than Stuckey’s average 23 points per game. Richard Hamilton chipped in 21 points, including seven of his first eight of the night. It was Rip’s second game back after an ankle sprain. The Rockets were successful in neutralizing Hamilton in the second half. The Pistons closed the gap to eight at the end of the third quarter. Houston dished out 23 assists during the first three quarters to climb to double-digit leads throughout most of the game. Budinger drained a pair of jumpers to extend the Rockets’ lead in the fourth to 81-68. The rookie drove hard to the hoop and picked up an incredible alley-oop shot. The Pistons showcased one of their own rookies when DaJuan Summers knocked down a three and finished with six points in nine minutes. Detroit’s west woes were highlighted by 44 rebounds to match Houston’s total. The Pistons were playing without two key players. Will Bynum and Ben Gordon were out with injuries for 11-13 Detroit. Charlie Villanueva looked sloppy missing a fourth quarter dunk, but finished with 16 points, including a pair from downtown. Jonas Jerebko, the Swedish-born rookie forward, added 15 points and grabbed six rebounds in the loss. Overall, it was a step in the right direction for Houston. They saw their 12 year veteran player return to the court and competed studiously to cement their 14th win. The Rockets take on Denver this evening looking for win number 15.
Parting Points: The LA Kings are playing some stimulating hockey. They’re in first place out West for the first time since 1992.
Brooks and Scola scored 23 points apiece and got better looks and ball movement throughout the game. Carl Landry hit seven free throws and threw up 19 points in cooking the Pistons. Scola topped his season-high in points while going 10-of-16 and being the most dominant player in the opening quarter. Brooks bucketed 20 or more points for his sixth time in eight games, and picked up 10 assists. McGrady was brought in to help stop one of the league’s best offensive rebounding teams. He snagged three rebounds and hit a line drive three pointer with 1:33 left before his floor time was over. T-Mac missed his first shot attempt, a 20 foot flip. McGrady sat out the remainder of the game following his season debut in the first quarter. Former Arizona shooter, rookie Chase Budinger, sparked the defense with 12 rebounds in 40 minutes. The second round draft pick was sharp in his first career start in place of Ariza.
Houston continued to look smooth on offense after McGrady’s departure. Their ball handling was efficient even after the ten point first quarter advantage where the Rockets shot 67% from the field. The free throw shooting overpowered Detroit and propelled Houston to their high victory margin. The Pistons shot just 43% from the floor in a poor defensive effort. The Rockets capitalized on the lax defense during an 11-0 run to reverse Detroit’s lead into a Houston 22-15 edge in the first half. They stretched the lead to 15 early in the second quarter. The Rockets headed to the locker room on the up side of a 56-47 score. The Pistons got off to a slow start. Rodney Stuckey was especially atrocious early in the contest. Stuckey missed nine of his first ten shots before recovering to total 17 points for the struggling Pistons. The amount was still lower than Stuckey’s average 23 points per game. Richard Hamilton chipped in 21 points, including seven of his first eight of the night. It was Rip’s second game back after an ankle sprain. The Rockets were successful in neutralizing Hamilton in the second half. The Pistons closed the gap to eight at the end of the third quarter. Houston dished out 23 assists during the first three quarters to climb to double-digit leads throughout most of the game. Budinger drained a pair of jumpers to extend the Rockets’ lead in the fourth to 81-68. The rookie drove hard to the hoop and picked up an incredible alley-oop shot. The Pistons showcased one of their own rookies when DaJuan Summers knocked down a three and finished with six points in nine minutes. Detroit’s west woes were highlighted by 44 rebounds to match Houston’s total. The Pistons were playing without two key players. Will Bynum and Ben Gordon were out with injuries for 11-13 Detroit. Charlie Villanueva looked sloppy missing a fourth quarter dunk, but finished with 16 points, including a pair from downtown. Jonas Jerebko, the Swedish-born rookie forward, added 15 points and grabbed six rebounds in the loss. Overall, it was a step in the right direction for Houston. They saw their 12 year veteran player return to the court and competed studiously to cement their 14th win. The Rockets take on Denver this evening looking for win number 15.
Parting Points: The LA Kings are playing some stimulating hockey. They’re in first place out West for the first time since 1992.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Lakers Lambasted
Houston, you have no problem. That is, you do not seem be crumbling courtside without colossal center, Yao Ming. The Rockets manhandled the L.A. Lakers 95-80 on their own terms at the Toyota Center in Thursday night’s Game 6. The series is even at three a piece and I feel like I’ve been tuning in to the NBA’s version of “Men Behaving Badly”. The six games played so far have been closed to fatal with all the physicality. Houston is down their two biggest players with Ming sidelined and Tracy McGrady on the mend for the remainder of the season. Ming’s absence has not caught up to the Rockets yet. They somehow have been able to connect the dots. A suspenseful Game 7 showdown is set up for Sunday in the Staples Center.
The Rockets sizzled in Game 6, scorching the highlight reel while archly accumulating leads they would not relinquish. Houston’s, Luis Scola, got the Rockets off to a flaming start, hitting 14 of his 24 points in the first quarter. Scola has only recently found his swagger and assaulted the Lakers front court in Game 6. The 12 point first quarter lead was increased to 16 by the midway point. The Lakers made a push for the game lead during the third quarter, getting within two points. Carl Landry, Aaron Brooks and Shane Battier passed L.A.’s test though and the Lakers went limping into the final quarter down by nine. Battier came up with a steal and an offensive rebound late in the third and Brooks assisted on Landry’s three-pointer to maintain a comfortable distance.
Kobe Bryant and his teammates never really threatened or dominated like they did on the road in the 118-78 Game 5 victory. Bryant was called for a technical foul by the referees in the second quarter of Game 6. The league has since rescinded the foul. It would have been Kobe’s fifth of the playoffs, bringing him within two of an automatic suspension. Bryant is now back at four technicals and is the best player on the court for both teams. L.A. also has a head coach with nine championship rings.
Kobe endured a slow start in Game 6, but finished scoring 32 points. After bombing for two games in Houston, the Lakers have a chance to put the Rockets away at home. The series was never expected to go the distance. The Rockets have been pensive shooters and fastidious on defense. Houston is a team recharged and energized, relying on underrated players to be difference makers. The Rockets need to pass and shoot with the poise they showed in games one and four. Houston was smothering on defense and decisive and crisp offensively in those games. Ming is an important low-post presence and it was evident in the Game 5 blowout, the Rockets’ big man was missed. Houston was outscored 59-30 in the combined second and third quarters of Game 5. They did not shoot well from the perimeter or pressure L.A. into making mistakes and errant passes. Los Angeles overwhelmed the offense and was resolute in protecting their court. Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol are much stronger and have a sizable advantage, but the Rockets were successful when Brooks and Landry injected life into the defense. Landry, after getting shot in the leg, has been truly remarkable. The athletic Landry can jump through defenders, attack the basket and complete reverse layups with grace. Carl had his best game of the series coming off the bench for Rick Adelmann’s Rockets. He scored 15 points on his way to leaping defenders. Chuck Hayes’ clutch play down the stretch helped keep the Rockets rising.
Scola has struggled against Gasol this entire series and looked nervous against the tall defender. Luis came through with a patient effort at just the right time. Scola plowed through Gasol for layups and three pointers. He and Landry finally played well simultaneously for Houston’s depleted offense. The shallow Rockets front court cannot play inconsistently in Game 7, but must infuriate the Lakers defensively.
Bynum did not have a point or a block in the Game 6 drudging. Houston needs to slow down Bryant, space the floor and make every shot difficult for the Lakers in order to prevail. Brooks’ 26 points in Game 6 were just as essential as Battier and Ron Artest wearing down Kobe. Luke Walton has not stepped up for L.A. He keeps drawing fouls and passing up open shots. Walton doesn’t distribute the ball and the Lakers rely too much on Bryant for open buckets. Jordan Farmar had two big three-pointers in the first quarter, and 13 points on the game. He has performed well as of late and has the ability to stop Brooks from running wild. Los Angeles did not hustle or protect the rim in their three losses this series. They need to show up ready to play Sunday.
There were innumerable accounts of L.A.’s dominance in the playoffs, but the series has been anything but Lakers trademark basketball. This seems like a team simply going through the motions, playing without heart. The team needs a vintage Kobe in Game 7 to pull off the 4-3 series win. The winner faces the upstart Denver Nuggets, who are no easy out.
Parting points: My Saturday play list- “Glycerine” by Bush, “You were meant for me” by Jewel, “Half-truism” by the Offspring, “Knights of Cydonia” by Muse
The Rockets sizzled in Game 6, scorching the highlight reel while archly accumulating leads they would not relinquish. Houston’s, Luis Scola, got the Rockets off to a flaming start, hitting 14 of his 24 points in the first quarter. Scola has only recently found his swagger and assaulted the Lakers front court in Game 6. The 12 point first quarter lead was increased to 16 by the midway point. The Lakers made a push for the game lead during the third quarter, getting within two points. Carl Landry, Aaron Brooks and Shane Battier passed L.A.’s test though and the Lakers went limping into the final quarter down by nine. Battier came up with a steal and an offensive rebound late in the third and Brooks assisted on Landry’s three-pointer to maintain a comfortable distance.
Kobe Bryant and his teammates never really threatened or dominated like they did on the road in the 118-78 Game 5 victory. Bryant was called for a technical foul by the referees in the second quarter of Game 6. The league has since rescinded the foul. It would have been Kobe’s fifth of the playoffs, bringing him within two of an automatic suspension. Bryant is now back at four technicals and is the best player on the court for both teams. L.A. also has a head coach with nine championship rings.
Kobe endured a slow start in Game 6, but finished scoring 32 points. After bombing for two games in Houston, the Lakers have a chance to put the Rockets away at home. The series was never expected to go the distance. The Rockets have been pensive shooters and fastidious on defense. Houston is a team recharged and energized, relying on underrated players to be difference makers. The Rockets need to pass and shoot with the poise they showed in games one and four. Houston was smothering on defense and decisive and crisp offensively in those games. Ming is an important low-post presence and it was evident in the Game 5 blowout, the Rockets’ big man was missed. Houston was outscored 59-30 in the combined second and third quarters of Game 5. They did not shoot well from the perimeter or pressure L.A. into making mistakes and errant passes. Los Angeles overwhelmed the offense and was resolute in protecting their court. Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol are much stronger and have a sizable advantage, but the Rockets were successful when Brooks and Landry injected life into the defense. Landry, after getting shot in the leg, has been truly remarkable. The athletic Landry can jump through defenders, attack the basket and complete reverse layups with grace. Carl had his best game of the series coming off the bench for Rick Adelmann’s Rockets. He scored 15 points on his way to leaping defenders. Chuck Hayes’ clutch play down the stretch helped keep the Rockets rising.
Scola has struggled against Gasol this entire series and looked nervous against the tall defender. Luis came through with a patient effort at just the right time. Scola plowed through Gasol for layups and three pointers. He and Landry finally played well simultaneously for Houston’s depleted offense. The shallow Rockets front court cannot play inconsistently in Game 7, but must infuriate the Lakers defensively.
Bynum did not have a point or a block in the Game 6 drudging. Houston needs to slow down Bryant, space the floor and make every shot difficult for the Lakers in order to prevail. Brooks’ 26 points in Game 6 were just as essential as Battier and Ron Artest wearing down Kobe. Luke Walton has not stepped up for L.A. He keeps drawing fouls and passing up open shots. Walton doesn’t distribute the ball and the Lakers rely too much on Bryant for open buckets. Jordan Farmar had two big three-pointers in the first quarter, and 13 points on the game. He has performed well as of late and has the ability to stop Brooks from running wild. Los Angeles did not hustle or protect the rim in their three losses this series. They need to show up ready to play Sunday.
There were innumerable accounts of L.A.’s dominance in the playoffs, but the series has been anything but Lakers trademark basketball. This seems like a team simply going through the motions, playing without heart. The team needs a vintage Kobe in Game 7 to pull off the 4-3 series win. The winner faces the upstart Denver Nuggets, who are no easy out.
Parting points: My Saturday play list- “Glycerine” by Bush, “You were meant for me” by Jewel, “Half-truism” by the Offspring, “Knights of Cydonia” by Muse
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Ming Man on Mission
Yao Ming collected 28 points and 10 rebounds as Houston bested the Lakers in Los Angeles in Game 1 of the Western Conference semi-finals. Kobe Bryant had 32 points in defeat. Ron Artest added 21 points for the Rockets, who lead the best of seven series against the top seeded Lakers. Houston hit all their foul shots and got the stops down the stretch to pull out the upset road victory. The Rockets scored 30 fourth quarter points, even with Ming being knocked to the floor. The tall center fell when he and Bryant crashed and bashed knees with each other. The seasoned and elite Ming remained in the game, and the Rockets remained unstoppable through the final six minutes to win 100-92.
The scoring starting early for Houston. They held a three point halftime lead and were sharp offensively in the first half. Houston scored more points in each quarter to pace themselves throughout the night against a harsh opponent. L.A. only had 18 buckets in the first quarter and fell behind early. The Lakers never got into a rhythm, missing 7 of 19 free throws. L.A. shot 8 for 24 over the first 12 minutes. They were ineffective from the 3-point line and couldn’t execute on offense. Houston committed turnovers in the second half and L.A. came within one point of snatching the lead. That’s when Yao and the Houston defense attacked the Lakers’ passers and played more consistent basketball. The Rockets scored on nine consecutive possessions. Ming had two blocked shots on the night and Los Angeles had no answer for him or point guard, Aaron Brooks. Brooks was more aggressive and played much more consistently than he did in the series with Portland. He and Artest corroborated the rugged Rocket’s defensive.
The Rockets coasted to an 8 point lead when Yao’s knee buckled and went berserk. Lakers forward, Pau Gasol, cut the Rockets lead to six with a definable dunk and Lamar Odom rebounded on the next possession to reduce the lead with a basket of his own. Odom replaced Andrew Bynum of the Lakers after the center committed two fouls in the first three minutes of the game. Artest and Ming mugged the Lakers with under three minutes left in the game. Yao hit a 20 foot jumper and nailed four free throws and Artest sealed a shot to keep Houston on top. With an 11 point lead and only 1:30 remaining after Shane Battier hit a pair of free throws, the Lakers attempted a Staples Center comeback. Yao’s two free passes finished L.A. for good when time expired. Ming’s 28 points are a personal playoff high for the Chinese all-star. Artest had an equally gigantic night, dishing out 7 assists in the effort.
The Rockets got a scare late in the fourth quarter that reminded fans of the four regular season meetings between the teams. In all four games, the Lakers outscored Houston by an average of 12 points in the fourth quarter. L.A. swept the season series in one-sided games. This time, the Rockets responded late with the help of Ming, Artest and Brooks. The team did not fold. The Rockets cannot win games without Yao. Ming left the game with 4.54 on the clock but returned to rejuvenate the Rockets. He scored 8 points after his return to the game and did not miss any of his six free throws. He had ten free throws all together.
Artest and Battier did a great job in guarding Bryant. Battier and Kyle Lowry were terrific and relentless. They smothered the Lakers on defense and gave their best effort the entire game. They forced the Lakers to rush points and shunned and shrugged off their defense. Battier needed stitches to his left eye in the first quarter after a hard hit from Sasha Vujacic. Shane returned just before halftime. Gasol sat earlier in the quarter with a left eye injury too. He came back to finish with 14 points and 13 rebounds for L.A.. Kobe made three shots in two minutes during the second half to narrow the gap, but Bryant kept missing his points down the stretch. Defensively, the Rockets forced Kobe to take outside shots and Yao and Brooks helped Houston keep the lead by driving the baseline for baskets.
Steady veteran, Derek Fisher, didn’t factor much in the loss for L.A. who has the better frontcourt team. He scored 8 points Monday night. Fisher is not the same player he once was and could not guard second year man, Brooks. Jordan Farmar’s shooting went cold this year as he regressed offensively. Perhaps this is the series he will step up in place of Fisher. He isn’t playing with confidence right now but a playoff performance might snap him out of it. For Houston, Luis Scola led in scoring during the Portland series ,but also did not play a major role last night.
The heavily favored Lakers have a formidable trio with Trevor Ariza, Gasol and Bynum. All play secondary roles to Kobe, but may be the most important players if L.A. is to win the series. We all know Kobe is going to get his points. But Artest and Battier are going to make him work. Houston’s defense ranks among the league’s best and they know the game plan against L.A. They held Kobe last night harassing him into missing 17 shots and giving only five chances at the line.
Gasol is low-post presence and keeps the offense moving. Ariza muscles his way on defense and is a hustling player. Bynum hasn’t performed well this season and the 21 year old struggled in the first round of the playoffs against Utah. It will be increasingly difficult for Andrew to defend Yao. If Bynum can handle the coverage without the Lakers having to double team Ming, L.A. will be able to play a stronger perimeter defense. The Rockets several three point threats but Bynum can mitigate their shooting success if he can contribute his unbelievable skills. He is the L.A. x-factor and many feel the Lakers would have beaten the Celtics with a healthy Bynum last year. Andrew has height, size and quickness for a traditional center.
Guard, Vujacic carved out a niche with his hot shooting during the final week of the season. He’s a promising player who could shake things up when backing up Bryant. Gasol is a tough match for Houston’s Scola. The two are familiar with each other because they played international ball together. Chuck Hayes and Carl Landry may have to be present on the court more often if Scola gets into foul trouble or can’t fend off Gasol. Luckily, the Rockets have that depth at the forward position. They have a suitable crew to be a industrious scoring team.
The Lakers certainly have more weapons offensively and arguably the best clutch player in Bryant. Last night they didn’t show their supremacy. L.A. only shot 44.3% and made only 2 of 18 three point attempts. The Rockets shot 47.9%. The Lakers were being stripped of the ball and shot poorly throughout the Rocket romping. Now it’s in the Lakers’ psyche whether or not they can win an NBA championship. They have to move the ball more and exhibit more patience on offense. Reserve players need to come off the bench for Phil Jackson. L.A. must have quicker passes and execute their prolific pick and roll. When the Lakers took quicker passes, Houston’s defense could not react in the second half last night. L.A. thrived on getting better looks inside and freeing up the circle instead of relying primarily on perimeter shooting.
The Rockets only won 53 games this year but the team is hungry and energetic. Houston already got the monkey off their back by winning a first round playoff series for the first time in forever. They stole a game in Los Angeles and even if they lose Wednesday, can take care of business at the Toyota Center to make it a very attainable series. Let the plot thicken.
Parting points: Posada + Hamstring = trip to the DL; not a good sign for the Yankees
The scoring starting early for Houston. They held a three point halftime lead and were sharp offensively in the first half. Houston scored more points in each quarter to pace themselves throughout the night against a harsh opponent. L.A. only had 18 buckets in the first quarter and fell behind early. The Lakers never got into a rhythm, missing 7 of 19 free throws. L.A. shot 8 for 24 over the first 12 minutes. They were ineffective from the 3-point line and couldn’t execute on offense. Houston committed turnovers in the second half and L.A. came within one point of snatching the lead. That’s when Yao and the Houston defense attacked the Lakers’ passers and played more consistent basketball. The Rockets scored on nine consecutive possessions. Ming had two blocked shots on the night and Los Angeles had no answer for him or point guard, Aaron Brooks. Brooks was more aggressive and played much more consistently than he did in the series with Portland. He and Artest corroborated the rugged Rocket’s defensive.
The Rockets coasted to an 8 point lead when Yao’s knee buckled and went berserk. Lakers forward, Pau Gasol, cut the Rockets lead to six with a definable dunk and Lamar Odom rebounded on the next possession to reduce the lead with a basket of his own. Odom replaced Andrew Bynum of the Lakers after the center committed two fouls in the first three minutes of the game. Artest and Ming mugged the Lakers with under three minutes left in the game. Yao hit a 20 foot jumper and nailed four free throws and Artest sealed a shot to keep Houston on top. With an 11 point lead and only 1:30 remaining after Shane Battier hit a pair of free throws, the Lakers attempted a Staples Center comeback. Yao’s two free passes finished L.A. for good when time expired. Ming’s 28 points are a personal playoff high for the Chinese all-star. Artest had an equally gigantic night, dishing out 7 assists in the effort.
The Rockets got a scare late in the fourth quarter that reminded fans of the four regular season meetings between the teams. In all four games, the Lakers outscored Houston by an average of 12 points in the fourth quarter. L.A. swept the season series in one-sided games. This time, the Rockets responded late with the help of Ming, Artest and Brooks. The team did not fold. The Rockets cannot win games without Yao. Ming left the game with 4.54 on the clock but returned to rejuvenate the Rockets. He scored 8 points after his return to the game and did not miss any of his six free throws. He had ten free throws all together.
Artest and Battier did a great job in guarding Bryant. Battier and Kyle Lowry were terrific and relentless. They smothered the Lakers on defense and gave their best effort the entire game. They forced the Lakers to rush points and shunned and shrugged off their defense. Battier needed stitches to his left eye in the first quarter after a hard hit from Sasha Vujacic. Shane returned just before halftime. Gasol sat earlier in the quarter with a left eye injury too. He came back to finish with 14 points and 13 rebounds for L.A.. Kobe made three shots in two minutes during the second half to narrow the gap, but Bryant kept missing his points down the stretch. Defensively, the Rockets forced Kobe to take outside shots and Yao and Brooks helped Houston keep the lead by driving the baseline for baskets.
Steady veteran, Derek Fisher, didn’t factor much in the loss for L.A. who has the better frontcourt team. He scored 8 points Monday night. Fisher is not the same player he once was and could not guard second year man, Brooks. Jordan Farmar’s shooting went cold this year as he regressed offensively. Perhaps this is the series he will step up in place of Fisher. He isn’t playing with confidence right now but a playoff performance might snap him out of it. For Houston, Luis Scola led in scoring during the Portland series ,but also did not play a major role last night.
The heavily favored Lakers have a formidable trio with Trevor Ariza, Gasol and Bynum. All play secondary roles to Kobe, but may be the most important players if L.A. is to win the series. We all know Kobe is going to get his points. But Artest and Battier are going to make him work. Houston’s defense ranks among the league’s best and they know the game plan against L.A. They held Kobe last night harassing him into missing 17 shots and giving only five chances at the line.
Gasol is low-post presence and keeps the offense moving. Ariza muscles his way on defense and is a hustling player. Bynum hasn’t performed well this season and the 21 year old struggled in the first round of the playoffs against Utah. It will be increasingly difficult for Andrew to defend Yao. If Bynum can handle the coverage without the Lakers having to double team Ming, L.A. will be able to play a stronger perimeter defense. The Rockets several three point threats but Bynum can mitigate their shooting success if he can contribute his unbelievable skills. He is the L.A. x-factor and many feel the Lakers would have beaten the Celtics with a healthy Bynum last year. Andrew has height, size and quickness for a traditional center.
Guard, Vujacic carved out a niche with his hot shooting during the final week of the season. He’s a promising player who could shake things up when backing up Bryant. Gasol is a tough match for Houston’s Scola. The two are familiar with each other because they played international ball together. Chuck Hayes and Carl Landry may have to be present on the court more often if Scola gets into foul trouble or can’t fend off Gasol. Luckily, the Rockets have that depth at the forward position. They have a suitable crew to be a industrious scoring team.
The Lakers certainly have more weapons offensively and arguably the best clutch player in Bryant. Last night they didn’t show their supremacy. L.A. only shot 44.3% and made only 2 of 18 three point attempts. The Rockets shot 47.9%. The Lakers were being stripped of the ball and shot poorly throughout the Rocket romping. Now it’s in the Lakers’ psyche whether or not they can win an NBA championship. They have to move the ball more and exhibit more patience on offense. Reserve players need to come off the bench for Phil Jackson. L.A. must have quicker passes and execute their prolific pick and roll. When the Lakers took quicker passes, Houston’s defense could not react in the second half last night. L.A. thrived on getting better looks inside and freeing up the circle instead of relying primarily on perimeter shooting.
The Rockets only won 53 games this year but the team is hungry and energetic. Houston already got the monkey off their back by winning a first round playoff series for the first time in forever. They stole a game in Los Angeles and even if they lose Wednesday, can take care of business at the Toyota Center to make it a very attainable series. Let the plot thicken.
Parting points: Posada + Hamstring = trip to the DL; not a good sign for the Yankees
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Battle-tested & Blazer-bound
I just want to preface this blog entry by saying what a beautiful sight it was to drive by my local high school ballpark and see the team taking BP at 9 in the morning. I might go down and watch them play later because the weather is supposed to be stellar again. It’s the only live baseball I will likely see this year.
The Portland Trailblazers and Houston Rockets blast off in the first round of the NBA Western conference playoffs. Even as a devoted Rockets fan relishing in my team, I admirably enjoy the proceedings in Portland. The high flying Trailblazers are a fine-tuned and fun team to follow. The sharp-shooters from Portland are coached by Nate McMillan. They are a talented and prepared team of exuberant energy. Portland plowed proudly through the West, picking up prime wins on punctual points. The Blazers, however, are the most inexperienced of all playoff contenders. They face a respected, more battle-tested Rockets team. Portland has a propensity for winning big games during the regular season, but hasn’t tasted the post-season as a unit yet. The playoffs are a new challenge a fourth seeded Portland team pitted against the fifth seed, Rockets.
Yao Ming is one of the league’s top ten players but Houston has yet to reach the second round of the playoffs with the big man. Unpretentious Ming makes a living on rebounds and clogging the middle on defense. If Ming is able to control the paint, Portland won’t be able to put up much of a fight. Greg Oden and Joel Przybilla are big enough to put up a fight against Ming by double-teaming the Chinese superstar. Przybilla is a pillar in the post and Oden overwhelms offensives with no obliqueness whatsoever. Both bulky bodies will be responsible for roughing up Yao and forcing Ming to turn the ball over. Oden especially is acknowledged for grilling the opposition. He is a well-established low-post player and shot blocker. Ming should thrive against their conventional post defense and slowness though. A silent Yao means the Blazers have their finest chance to flog the Rockets. The referees will determine how often Ming sees the foul line. Przybilla is good at acting out but if the refs do not buy into it, it won’t amount to a hill of beans. Portland will have to put a second defender on Yao.
It is initially imperative for Houston’s defense to be an albatross against Oden, Brandon Roy and forward, LaMarcus Aldridge. Oden has excellent range for his size but is not a consummate scorer. There are flaws in Oden’s game many defenders have exposed throughout the year. Roy gets to the basket in a hurry, and has a well-rounded attacking game. The third year pro already an elite shooter in the league and has my all-star vote. Brandon glides as smoothly on the hardwood as a mallard through a stream. Roy is effective from three point range and makes defenses pay at the foul line. He is enlightening and elegant with knees bent, in shooting position. Roy and Aldridge, have had success butchering defenses and can outlast the Rockets’ on offense. Luis Scola has his hands full against the incredible speed of Aldridge, but Luis is a gritty defender who is a proven winner in big spots. Scola is a good scorer and when he shoots at will, is capable of 30 points.
The Rockets’ weapons on offense outside Yao include Ron Artest, Carl Landry and Shane Battier. Artest and Battier are a dynamic duo as a one-two punch on defense as well. They will need to bring their A games against a tough player to defend in Roy. Battier is a jolt of adrenaline as a stop blocker. Any scoring contributions from Battier make the Rockets more dangerous. Artest can be a difference maker when he is a consistent shooter. The ten year veteran is the Rocket go-to man, but if his recent freelancing lapses continue to plague Houston, they will unravel. Ron plays both ends of the court well and has to maintain his control. Hopefully Artest will have more than enough aha moments where he realizes he is part of a team.
Carl is a cognitive and cautious player for the rampant Rockets. Landry hits key shots off the bench for Houston but the Rockets second unit is not as good as the Trailblazers. Portland has Rudy Fernandez and Travis Outlaw as substitutes capable of high-step scoring. Outlaw is a clutch shooter Fernandez warrants plenty of attention on defense. Steve Blake is offensively solid, shooting 42.7 percent from the three point line. His steady ball handling and court vision give Portland an added advantage against Aaron Brooks and Kyle Lowry. Von Wafer is still developing as a pro but his disruptive demeanor and durability should not be downplayed. His importance off the bench is one of the more surprising Rockets storylines this year.
Houston’s young point guards need to be focused, especially without the home court advantage. Brooks is too inconsistent on the dribble and lacks confidence in himself. Brooks and Lowry are quicker than Portland’s guards and that should be accentuated. Houston sometimes settles for bad shots instead of passing the ball for chances on open jumpers. Aggression in the lane is key against the Trailblazers today. What they cannot do is come out looking flat with the basketball.
The Rockets can protect the ball as well as any team in the NBA. Portland’s style of basketball will keep them in the game against a good blocking and rebounding Rockets team. Rick Adelman could use Chuck Hayes if Aldridge proves too much for the other defenders. Hayes has exceptional success in the past against LaMarcus. Lowry should be able to match feet with point guard, Jerryd Bayless. Still, the efficient Portland offense should fashion a super showdown.
The relevant Rockets are far from a dark horse team and could advance in seven games. They have a history of choking in the playoffs but this first round match up favors Houston. Portland has only a single win in 11 tries at the Toyota Center during the regular season. Since Roy’s rookie season, Houston is 8-3 against the Trailblazers. The Blazers are the best offensive rebounding team in the NBA, but young teams do not often win championships. This will be Portland’s first trip back to the playoffs in six years. They are coming off nine wins in their last ten games. Portland is also 34-7 at the Rose Garden this year. They will put together a solid, inspired effort and interrupt Houston’s offensive flow. But the Rockets have the upper-hand in a series that will go the distance. Even without all-time great, Tracy McGrady, Houston’s poise throughout the season put them in the post-season. That in itself was an achievement. Ming has a quality team around him. The Rockets have to hold Roy and Aldrige at bay all day. That is tonight’s criteria for success. They are not the best to beat in the 2009 NBA, but the team has the talent to be a round-two contestant. Saturday night’s meeting between Houston and Portland should be one of the more intriguing of the afternoon.
Parting points:
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/MLB-restrictions-prevent-sale-of-Nick-Adenhart-j?urn=mlb,157245
What do you think about restricting the sale of Nick Adenhart jerseys?
Love this song- “Better In Time” by Leona Lewis
My study is the heart of the people- from “All The Kings Men” by Robert Penn Warren
The Portland Trailblazers and Houston Rockets blast off in the first round of the NBA Western conference playoffs. Even as a devoted Rockets fan relishing in my team, I admirably enjoy the proceedings in Portland. The high flying Trailblazers are a fine-tuned and fun team to follow. The sharp-shooters from Portland are coached by Nate McMillan. They are a talented and prepared team of exuberant energy. Portland plowed proudly through the West, picking up prime wins on punctual points. The Blazers, however, are the most inexperienced of all playoff contenders. They face a respected, more battle-tested Rockets team. Portland has a propensity for winning big games during the regular season, but hasn’t tasted the post-season as a unit yet. The playoffs are a new challenge a fourth seeded Portland team pitted against the fifth seed, Rockets.
Yao Ming is one of the league’s top ten players but Houston has yet to reach the second round of the playoffs with the big man. Unpretentious Ming makes a living on rebounds and clogging the middle on defense. If Ming is able to control the paint, Portland won’t be able to put up much of a fight. Greg Oden and Joel Przybilla are big enough to put up a fight against Ming by double-teaming the Chinese superstar. Przybilla is a pillar in the post and Oden overwhelms offensives with no obliqueness whatsoever. Both bulky bodies will be responsible for roughing up Yao and forcing Ming to turn the ball over. Oden especially is acknowledged for grilling the opposition. He is a well-established low-post player and shot blocker. Ming should thrive against their conventional post defense and slowness though. A silent Yao means the Blazers have their finest chance to flog the Rockets. The referees will determine how often Ming sees the foul line. Przybilla is good at acting out but if the refs do not buy into it, it won’t amount to a hill of beans. Portland will have to put a second defender on Yao.
It is initially imperative for Houston’s defense to be an albatross against Oden, Brandon Roy and forward, LaMarcus Aldridge. Oden has excellent range for his size but is not a consummate scorer. There are flaws in Oden’s game many defenders have exposed throughout the year. Roy gets to the basket in a hurry, and has a well-rounded attacking game. The third year pro already an elite shooter in the league and has my all-star vote. Brandon glides as smoothly on the hardwood as a mallard through a stream. Roy is effective from three point range and makes defenses pay at the foul line. He is enlightening and elegant with knees bent, in shooting position. Roy and Aldridge, have had success butchering defenses and can outlast the Rockets’ on offense. Luis Scola has his hands full against the incredible speed of Aldridge, but Luis is a gritty defender who is a proven winner in big spots. Scola is a good scorer and when he shoots at will, is capable of 30 points.
The Rockets’ weapons on offense outside Yao include Ron Artest, Carl Landry and Shane Battier. Artest and Battier are a dynamic duo as a one-two punch on defense as well. They will need to bring their A games against a tough player to defend in Roy. Battier is a jolt of adrenaline as a stop blocker. Any scoring contributions from Battier make the Rockets more dangerous. Artest can be a difference maker when he is a consistent shooter. The ten year veteran is the Rocket go-to man, but if his recent freelancing lapses continue to plague Houston, they will unravel. Ron plays both ends of the court well and has to maintain his control. Hopefully Artest will have more than enough aha moments where he realizes he is part of a team.
Carl is a cognitive and cautious player for the rampant Rockets. Landry hits key shots off the bench for Houston but the Rockets second unit is not as good as the Trailblazers. Portland has Rudy Fernandez and Travis Outlaw as substitutes capable of high-step scoring. Outlaw is a clutch shooter Fernandez warrants plenty of attention on defense. Steve Blake is offensively solid, shooting 42.7 percent from the three point line. His steady ball handling and court vision give Portland an added advantage against Aaron Brooks and Kyle Lowry. Von Wafer is still developing as a pro but his disruptive demeanor and durability should not be downplayed. His importance off the bench is one of the more surprising Rockets storylines this year.
Houston’s young point guards need to be focused, especially without the home court advantage. Brooks is too inconsistent on the dribble and lacks confidence in himself. Brooks and Lowry are quicker than Portland’s guards and that should be accentuated. Houston sometimes settles for bad shots instead of passing the ball for chances on open jumpers. Aggression in the lane is key against the Trailblazers today. What they cannot do is come out looking flat with the basketball.
The Rockets can protect the ball as well as any team in the NBA. Portland’s style of basketball will keep them in the game against a good blocking and rebounding Rockets team. Rick Adelman could use Chuck Hayes if Aldridge proves too much for the other defenders. Hayes has exceptional success in the past against LaMarcus. Lowry should be able to match feet with point guard, Jerryd Bayless. Still, the efficient Portland offense should fashion a super showdown.
The relevant Rockets are far from a dark horse team and could advance in seven games. They have a history of choking in the playoffs but this first round match up favors Houston. Portland has only a single win in 11 tries at the Toyota Center during the regular season. Since Roy’s rookie season, Houston is 8-3 against the Trailblazers. The Blazers are the best offensive rebounding team in the NBA, but young teams do not often win championships. This will be Portland’s first trip back to the playoffs in six years. They are coming off nine wins in their last ten games. Portland is also 34-7 at the Rose Garden this year. They will put together a solid, inspired effort and interrupt Houston’s offensive flow. But the Rockets have the upper-hand in a series that will go the distance. Even without all-time great, Tracy McGrady, Houston’s poise throughout the season put them in the post-season. That in itself was an achievement. Ming has a quality team around him. The Rockets have to hold Roy and Aldrige at bay all day. That is tonight’s criteria for success. They are not the best to beat in the 2009 NBA, but the team has the talent to be a round-two contestant. Saturday night’s meeting between Houston and Portland should be one of the more intriguing of the afternoon.
Parting points:
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/MLB-restrictions-prevent-sale-of-Nick-Adenhart-j?urn=mlb,157245
What do you think about restricting the sale of Nick Adenhart jerseys?
Love this song- “Better In Time” by Leona Lewis
My study is the heart of the people- from “All The Kings Men” by Robert Penn Warren
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Cohesion, Consistency & Closing-out
I haven’t had much to cheer about this year as a sports fan. The Yankees went down in flames quietly, the Cowboys have been disappointing the past two months, and Ohio State still hasn’t proven they can win the games that count. The New York Giants Superbowl win seems like light years ago for some reason. The Superbowl surprise was definitely delirious but as a true Cowboys fan, I didn’t celebrate the win with heartfelt conviction. So, I turn my attention to the upstart Houston Rockets of 2008. I am looking forward to seeing how much this team can attain.
The Rockets resound with talent all around. The contending team from Houston is arguably the best assembled in the Lone Star State in recent years. Expectations of winning a post-season series and more are imminent. The stars are aligned for Houston to deliver a deep drive into the NBA playoffs. 2008 is a win-now year for the Rockets. After a busy off-season, which featured trading two first-round picks to acquire Ron Artest, the Rockets are poised to dominate the league. Brent Barry was signed and will flash the red jersey in style. Rick Adelman, in his second season as head coach, has the players to potentially pounce to an NBA final. This is a squad, if healthy, capable of another 55-plus win season. With any luck, Rick’s Rockets will achieve exactly what they set out to this off season.
Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming have the added offensive pleasure of a consistent scorer in Artest. Artest is big, powerful and physical. He can do things other players can’t on the court and brings a sharp attitude along with it. Barry is also an ardent shooter and distinguished passer with a veteran’s veneer. Luis Scola and Carl Landry are entering their second seasons as professional players. Landry’s attacking ability and athleticism are notable, and Scola’s competitive drive divine. Both will grow even stronger at their positions and be positive contributors against elusive Western foes. Rafer Alston at point guard provides a good defensive presence. His backup, Aaron Brooks, is not a great defender, but is quicker. Brooks worked hard this off season to earn a spot as a top reserve. On the bench at the forward position, the Rockets have depth in Chuck Hayes and Shane Battier. Hayes is a well-rounded rebounder and good one-on-one defensively. Battier is a solid team player and excellent defender as well.
The Rockets are loaded with multi-positional players like Battier, Landry and Hayes. They went 5-2 this preseason and should only get better as the season progresses. Houston was turnover-prone in the preseason and they still need to converge as a unit. Once they establish cohesiveness and become more offensively consistent throughout the game, they will be the force many foresee. I already liked what I saw in the first two wins in as many games. The Ming-Artest combination worked wonderfully.
Parting points: I’m listening to “Good Vibrations”, the Beach Boys classic tune.
The Rockets resound with talent all around. The contending team from Houston is arguably the best assembled in the Lone Star State in recent years. Expectations of winning a post-season series and more are imminent. The stars are aligned for Houston to deliver a deep drive into the NBA playoffs. 2008 is a win-now year for the Rockets. After a busy off-season, which featured trading two first-round picks to acquire Ron Artest, the Rockets are poised to dominate the league. Brent Barry was signed and will flash the red jersey in style. Rick Adelman, in his second season as head coach, has the players to potentially pounce to an NBA final. This is a squad, if healthy, capable of another 55-plus win season. With any luck, Rick’s Rockets will achieve exactly what they set out to this off season.
Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming have the added offensive pleasure of a consistent scorer in Artest. Artest is big, powerful and physical. He can do things other players can’t on the court and brings a sharp attitude along with it. Barry is also an ardent shooter and distinguished passer with a veteran’s veneer. Luis Scola and Carl Landry are entering their second seasons as professional players. Landry’s attacking ability and athleticism are notable, and Scola’s competitive drive divine. Both will grow even stronger at their positions and be positive contributors against elusive Western foes. Rafer Alston at point guard provides a good defensive presence. His backup, Aaron Brooks, is not a great defender, but is quicker. Brooks worked hard this off season to earn a spot as a top reserve. On the bench at the forward position, the Rockets have depth in Chuck Hayes and Shane Battier. Hayes is a well-rounded rebounder and good one-on-one defensively. Battier is a solid team player and excellent defender as well.
The Rockets are loaded with multi-positional players like Battier, Landry and Hayes. They went 5-2 this preseason and should only get better as the season progresses. Houston was turnover-prone in the preseason and they still need to converge as a unit. Once they establish cohesiveness and become more offensively consistent throughout the game, they will be the force many foresee. I already liked what I saw in the first two wins in as many games. The Ming-Artest combination worked wonderfully.
Parting points: I’m listening to “Good Vibrations”, the Beach Boys classic tune.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Riveting Rockets Remembered
Classy Champs
The 2008 Yankees will miss the baseball playoffs. It’s the first time since 1994 the franchise will go home after the last regular season ballgame. Reflecting back, I’m reminiscing about the year 1994 and the Houston Rockets of the NBA. The Rockets had a championship season that year behind the great Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon. Hakeem hailed from the University of Houston. The celebrated center helped lead his team to a 4-3 series win against the New York Knicks. The Rocket rebounder represented resolute, resolved, and recognized ability. Number 34 was drafted number one overall in 1984 and ten years later, I recall watching Hakeem and the Rockets win two games at home to capture the NBA crown. New York’s John Starks missed a crucial potential game winning point in Game 6 as “The Dream” blatantly batted down his shot. This key clutch play if often talked about most when basketball fans remember the Rockets. I recall other outstanding moments and players who stepped up to patiently preserve the championship for Houston. Otis Thorpe, Robert Horry, Sam Cassell, Carl Herrera and Vernon Maxwell were stellar stars. Houston averaged about 100 points per game that season and cemented a legacy in my heart. The year after winning the championship in ’94, Clyde Drexler joined his former college teammate Hakeem. The two were like bookends on defense and offense for the Rockets. I couldn’t get enough of their teamwork.
Today’s Rockets feature ferocious figures also. Tracy McGrady and his famed Adidas sneakers somehow cheapen the legacy. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my team and root for them. The NBA atmosphere isn’t the same with enormous endorsement deals and entourages overshadowing the game itself. I long for the player who portrays class and considers the game precious. The pretentious and pompous players today are too proud and petty. Most of them are detrimental to the sport. I am now more inclined to tune my tube into a college basketball game. However much I complain about the NBA today though, I am looking forward to the 2008-09 Rockets. From Alston to Artest, Brooks to Battier, McGrady to Mutumbo and Scola to Strawberry, the Rockets will be contenders in the west. And you cannot forget the contribution of Yao Ming. He’s an immense presence in the league and has an affable appearance. The dominant defender Ming is as close to this era’s version of Hakeem and I can think. But, the style is still light years away.
Sad note from New York Giants radio: Long time player and announcer, Dick Lynch, passed away from Leukemia. I am a big radio listener and I loved hearing him do play by play every Sunday.
Not so noble note from Giants camp: Plaxico Burress was suspended for not showing up for practice Monday. Shame on him.
Parting points: College football should be interesting this Saturday. Big Ten conference play kicks off, featuring some cool games. I want to see the outcome of the Georgia-Alabama game. I do not like either team but want to see the Bulldogs go down for once.
Song of the day: “Let it die” by Foo Fighters
Link of the day: http://pauloneill21.com/news/2008/stadium_farewell.html Some great Paul O’Neill pics from Sunday
The 2008 Yankees will miss the baseball playoffs. It’s the first time since 1994 the franchise will go home after the last regular season ballgame. Reflecting back, I’m reminiscing about the year 1994 and the Houston Rockets of the NBA. The Rockets had a championship season that year behind the great Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon. Hakeem hailed from the University of Houston. The celebrated center helped lead his team to a 4-3 series win against the New York Knicks. The Rocket rebounder represented resolute, resolved, and recognized ability. Number 34 was drafted number one overall in 1984 and ten years later, I recall watching Hakeem and the Rockets win two games at home to capture the NBA crown. New York’s John Starks missed a crucial potential game winning point in Game 6 as “The Dream” blatantly batted down his shot. This key clutch play if often talked about most when basketball fans remember the Rockets. I recall other outstanding moments and players who stepped up to patiently preserve the championship for Houston. Otis Thorpe, Robert Horry, Sam Cassell, Carl Herrera and Vernon Maxwell were stellar stars. Houston averaged about 100 points per game that season and cemented a legacy in my heart. The year after winning the championship in ’94, Clyde Drexler joined his former college teammate Hakeem. The two were like bookends on defense and offense for the Rockets. I couldn’t get enough of their teamwork.
Today’s Rockets feature ferocious figures also. Tracy McGrady and his famed Adidas sneakers somehow cheapen the legacy. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my team and root for them. The NBA atmosphere isn’t the same with enormous endorsement deals and entourages overshadowing the game itself. I long for the player who portrays class and considers the game precious. The pretentious and pompous players today are too proud and petty. Most of them are detrimental to the sport. I am now more inclined to tune my tube into a college basketball game. However much I complain about the NBA today though, I am looking forward to the 2008-09 Rockets. From Alston to Artest, Brooks to Battier, McGrady to Mutumbo and Scola to Strawberry, the Rockets will be contenders in the west. And you cannot forget the contribution of Yao Ming. He’s an immense presence in the league and has an affable appearance. The dominant defender Ming is as close to this era’s version of Hakeem and I can think. But, the style is still light years away.
Sad note from New York Giants radio: Long time player and announcer, Dick Lynch, passed away from Leukemia. I am a big radio listener and I loved hearing him do play by play every Sunday.
Not so noble note from Giants camp: Plaxico Burress was suspended for not showing up for practice Monday. Shame on him.
Parting points: College football should be interesting this Saturday. Big Ten conference play kicks off, featuring some cool games. I want to see the outcome of the Georgia-Alabama game. I do not like either team but want to see the Bulldogs go down for once.
Song of the day: “Let it die” by Foo Fighters
Link of the day: http://pauloneill21.com/news/2008/stadium_farewell.html Some great Paul O’Neill pics from Sunday
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