Wednesday, December 28, 2005

NBA Season 25% percent finshed. Holiday Analysis!

Santa has a NBA list and he is only checking it twice!

The NBA season is in full swing. 25% percent of the regular season has come and gone.
Let’s look at each respective division and make a Basketball Supreme assessment.
In the Eastern Conference the Atlantic Division is straight nonsense. Nobody wants to take charge of the division. If Toronto is playing so miserable and is still 8 games out of first that shows how the rest of the teams are playing. Philly is leading the division by 1 game playing enthusiast ball as of late. It all comes down to Chris Webber straight up. Can he hold up? He said he is not dead the other day. But if it was not for his Basketball IQ some nights he would not post his usually numbers. New Jersey is in trouble. They have excellent perimeter play but no post. Vince Carter will have to carry them into the all-star break. Boston is .500-ball club. Doc Rivers cannot coach and quite frankly Ricky Davis has bailed him out of unemployment. Pierce is always strong but that is a given.
New York is trash but you have to give respect to egomaniac Larry Brown for playing the rooks, Robinson and especially Fyre. Frye is going to be a real solid pro. He is not timid at all.

Central Division
I keep telling people that Joe Dumars is a genius. Nobody wants to listen. He bleeds piston blood. Flip Saunders was perfect for this bunch. Chauncey is playing insane and Rip is scoring more. Let hope Ben Wallace can hold up with his health. Indiana’s team chemistry is being compromised at the mentality of Ron Artests IQ. Jermaine does not want him back and other do. They got to put it together quick, If they have any contention of staying with the upper echelon. Milwaukee is a pleasant surprise. Nice off-season moves that are gelling really quickly. Cavs are starting to get some production from Hughes. Damon Jones has been a disappointment. King James can only carry them so far. How many guards do the Bulls have? Hinrich, Duhon, Ben Gordan, Noiconi, Deng. Nice depth but they need to establish a go-to guy.
In the southeast, Hawks are trash! I cannot stand Childress’s shot release. A complete eyesore, his mechanics are awful. The shot is similar to the famous Bill Cartwright shot.
Bernie Bickerstaff is a solid coach. He gets the most out of the Bobcats every night. They are actually fun to watch because they try hard nightly. In Orlando, Grant Hill has turned into the savoir. Dwight is rock solid and Stevie Franchise is bruised up. Wizards are ok for one reason and one reason only. GIL ARENAS. Jamieson chips in but I like to call it default points due to minutes played.
Out west let the gun slinging begin. Let’s start with those Phoenix Suns. Nash is rock solid. The Suns have not loss a beat. Can you imagine when they get AMARE back for the playoffs? Los Angeles Clippers are finally respectable. With the additions of SAM I AM DOUBLE S DOUBLE L CASSELL and the CAT Cutino Mobley. The Clips have leadership and the savvy to get YES I SAID IT, “ THE MVP OF THE LEAGUE” is- Elton Brand. Brand is a MONSTER that is finally getting his just due. Lakers are the KOBE show. Lamar Odom reminds me of that kid that always follows the gang around waiting for approval before he is let inside of the circle. Kobe needs to let him in. Golden State is fun to watch nice dunks and passes from Richardson and B-Diddy but they lack Defense. They need to play Digou more. Kings are soft and injuried. The Moloof brothers must realize that this group cannot get it down. Basketball is not a Casino. There are core fundamentals that always need to be addressed. I would be searching hard for Ron Artest agents’ number. In the Southwest, Dallas is fun to watch but like Barkley and Kenny the “Jet” Smith says they lack defensive organization. Cuban has not addressed this issue for years nothing has changed.
Houston Rockets is and will be one simple attraction TRACY McGrady. T-MAC is the master and has all the answers to their complex questions. YAO is OVERATED! Memphis Griz are a sweet surprise, Jerry West has his way of making decent teams from one rock solid draft pick. Pau Gasol.
New Orleans Hornets are the recipients of the Rookie of the YEAR. ROY. The winner is CHRIS PAUL with his 6 rebs a game. PAUL is nasty and a treat to watch.
Lastly, the West is won by two words SAN ANTONIO SPURS. Tim Duncan is a silent assassin with his Master and Guru Greg POP. They are fine-tuned and ready to defend their crown. MANU!, MANU! MANU! For president.
Lastly. the final division for the Basketball Supreme to analyze is the Northwest. Denver Nuggets are banged up. The immediate loss of draft day dancing NENE Hilario was huge. Alongside Camby and infrequent sightings of Kenyon. A Kenyon sighting is as frequent as seeing those Reese peanut butter cup engraved into a farm field. This team is based strictly on health. Carmelo needs to finally put up night in and night out! Street Cred is not enough in the NBA. Timberwolves are playing well. The addition of Marko Jaric has helped. But finally KG is starting to respect his peer Wally World for his efforts during rough stretches. KG is the truth. Portland Trail Blazers have turned a new leaf is regards to discipline and off court antics. McMillan is finally trying to implement a system. He is finished evaluating his players and ready to tweak his roster. Nice young talent at guard positions but they need Zach to be the force of the past.
Seatle Supersonics is all offense mainly between Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis but no Defense. When they play defense they foul a lot. Just ask Danny Fortson. Utah Jazz needs full health from their ACE in the hole Kirlenko and they also need an excellent return of Larry Miller’s boy Carlos Boozer. Sloan is getting tired of his mediocrity and probably will retire if this continues.

To summarize everything above the Detroit Pistons will win the Crown and rings in six games over the Spurs in the June. So Santa will have to convince his reindeers to make a stop in Detroit. They will be escorted to sit courtside to sit between icons Eminem and Kid Rock with Joe Dumars smiling quietly as always with his hands crossed upstairs and sweating profusely from his body with 88 Pistons blood sweat and tears.

Friday, October 21, 2005

On the Dribble......



The latest on the dribble is Michael Jordan now after a decade admits to gambling. Everyone knew that he would gamble his shirt off if he could. The problem with his addiction, is he totally turned himself into one of the most fierce competitors of all-time in sports. New book on the horizon brinks the revelation.


Courtesy: Andrew P Bernstein (NBA/Getty Images)
A few players in preseason are ready banged up prior to the season. Can you imagine losing AMARE on any team? Big injury many are worried that he might not return to full strength. Kidd returned fine with plenty of caution and care. Penny has never been the same since the lil' penny commercials. We will have to wait and see. Amare was smart, he signed his contract and than got the surgery smart move. Colangeos are crossing their fingers and praying before they go to bed. There sadness turned to happiness when they signed Coach K to a three year contract to coach USA basketball. Gail Goodrich called Coach K the modern day Coach John Wooden. I think that is a fair assessment!


Courtesy of Glenn James (NBA/Getty Images)
The preseason battles are under way and to be honest most have been already decided with 12 days left in the schedule. The battles were a tremendous flop with all hype. I watched Odom bring up the ball in the new triangle for Phil/Kobe and company. Odom is not Pippen ! Excellent ball handler and I see what they are trying to do. But, Odom needs to be closer to the basket. Mistake. Odom's natural position is at three and he played four for two years . This year he will be a point forward. This shows his versatile, but he needs to be kept at three done. David Lee has been sighted in New York. Larry might play the gator. He putting up decent numbers in preseason per minute.
End note
Magloire for Mason straight up! Bucks get big and Hornets get quicker!! Bucks won the trade
Magloire is a nice addition to saugage town. Bucks have a tough division with Pistons, Pacers and Cavs but they should be respectable!

Hit me back with your thoughts as we continue to dribble......

LiptonSupreme

Monday, September 26, 2005

2005-06 NBA PreSeason Player Preview - All Starters

Atlanta
T. Lue
Solid contributor on offense, but liabliltiy on D
J. Johnson
The Man, well rounded baller, now the true franchise player. Atl should let him play 2 rather than 1 so they receive his full skill. So he can roam.
M. Williams
Wait and see! Childress and Smith are licking their chops
A. Harrington
Underachiever high turnovers. Injury prone. Needs to step up Bird gave him his chance
Z. Pachulia
Very scrapy and lots of energy .Has a chance to step up but Collier still lurks behind him.

Boston
D. West
Nice in college but this is a grown man thinking game now! Competition fierce
R. Davis
Working out hard in the off-season will he finally shine and mature! Doc still wants him off the bench
P. Pierce
Simply the truth but if Celts lose he will probably demand a trade
A. Jefferson
The reason Walker was moved! The kid is strong but has to perform every night
R. LaFrentz
Solid vet still needs to master the post. Jump shooter

Charlotte
B. Knight
Lots of pride will not just relinquish his starting pos.
K. Bogans
Defensive player but Kareem Rush is lurking
G. Wallace
Underachieving No jay but can play when focus
E. Okafor
Worked out with the Dream in off season. Solid NBA b-baller for years to come- Double double
P. Brezec
Consistency is needed every night good post presence if he focuses.

Chicago
K. Hinrich
Solid very good IQ; needs to take over games to get more respect
B. Gordon
Streaky but pretty consistently plays hard and very clutch in the fourth.
A. Nocioni
Rugged international but needs to polish his game
T. Chandler
Solid rebounder and blocks shots runs the floor well but potential talk is done
He needs to rep.
E. Curry
Lots of potential his heart has brought his value down but Bulls brash cannot fool around.

Cleveland
D. Jones
Sharp shooter no handles miniature Sam Cassell
L. Hughes
Multi stat cat dangerous defender
L. James
Hall famer already
D. Gooden
Looking for stability; Contract year
Z. Ilgauskas
Sturdy veteran when healthy

Dallas
J. Terry
#2 options now with all the off season movements
J. Stackhouse
Solid Vets with nagging injuries can score when he wants
J. Howard
Simply one of the most underrated bright spots in the league
D. Nowitzki
All world player needs to chill with teammates expectations change when your nucleus changes
E. Dampier
Shaq’s wooping boy but can contribute when focused

Denver
A. Miller
Unorthodox style but productive might get traded with Watson in town.
V. Lenard
Solid vet nice stroke and intelligent a true scorer
C. Anthony
Will return to excellence, was not focused last year but ready this year Karl should have him ready
K. Martin
Coming off injury he still will enforce the toughness; no jay
M. Camby
Rock solid when he plays but inj prone solid vet now.

Detroit
C. Billups
A baller back with Flip to cause havoc.
R. Hamilton
Improving every year in other stats than scoring
T. Prince
Multi-stat cat Does everything! Joe D better pay up
R. Wallace
This guy should be amongst the elite but takes nights off to quarrel with refs.
B. Wallace
The heart and soul of the franchise a little older but looking for his last contract.

Golden State
B. Davis
The most electrifying player when healthy going for MVP!
J. Richardson
More than dunk champion can play 2 properly nasty combo with B-Diddy
M. Dunleavy
Bulked up in off-season looking for a long term contract
T. Murphy
Rock solid Ike is coming!
A. Foyle
Trash needs to act like a Man and hold the postion for the franchise

Houston
B. Sura
Knee injury but a crafty veteran and savvy
D. Wesley
Good shooter and strong for size but barely a starter.
T. McGrady
All world Did you see him clamp Dirk last year in the playoffs. Nasty!
S. Swift
This is his chance to finally shine no more excuses. Nestled between T-mac and Yao! Ok it is time!
Y. Ming
Very soft but still productive and nice touch but he is not mentally sound yet.

Indiana
J. Tinsley
Injury prone but a nice set up man pouring in the assist
S. Jackson
All around guard.
Brings the streets to the league.
R. Artest
Ron Ron is back and the league better watch out! Multi stat cat
J. O'Neal
The go too man but injury prone at times and will need to play more in the post for
Them to win it all.
J. Foster
Rebounding machine nothing else but plays hard considering size.

LA Clippers
S. Livingston
Sam Cassell is not a mentor, he is a baller but Livingston will have to be patient
C. Mobley
Shooting guard to the foremost will shoot shoot and shoot
C. Maggette
Nice player gets to the line alot but high turnovers but one more push and can be a star
E. Brand
ROCK SOLID year in and year out the Beast of the west! Needs to play winning ball in the clutch
C. Kaman
A strong big man that should get better as the years move on

LA Lakers
S. Vujacic
Lakers like him we will see
K. Bryant
Hall of Famer Best player in the league at guard.
L. Odom
The protype three guard of the era similar to Grant hill in the mid to late nineties
K. Brown
I like him he is not as crappy as many thinks but this is his final chance
C. Mihm
Contributor in minutes alone

Memphis
D. Stoudamire
Crafty veteran Can play for his size. Smart
E. Jones
Solid veteran losing a step But he is smooth
M. Miller
Overrated needs to fully step up
P. Gasol
Put on muscle in off-season the franchise rest on his shoulders
L. Wright
Contract year looking for a change but smart for his size

Miami
J. Williams
Vision and passing is his trademark now he has to lead silently.
D. Wade
All world might have to stop driving to preserve the body for the playoffs.
A. Walker
Multi functional smart basketball player needs to understand role
U. Haslem
Scrappy young player that does the little things!
S. O'Neal
Hall of Famer but did you notice that people wanted to play with Duncan
Instead.

Milwaukee
T. Ford
Wish him the best. Nice vision needs to play D
M. Redd
Very smooth, But will need to step up in other categories than scoring to be elite
B. Simmons
Solid player willing to sacrifice but coming into his own identity.
J. Smith
Just a solid vet, Looking for cash
A. Bogut
Too many expectations on the kid. Wait and see

Minnesota
M. Jaric
Put up or shut up!
T. Hassell
Out: Wally will take over or McCants
W. Szczerbiak
No more trade talk it is time to finally play night in and night out! No more spree! It is his time
K. Garnett
Hall of Famer : The most passion in the league. Is it too much for him to handle?
M. Olowokandi
A bum looking for cash

New Jersey
J. Kidd
All world kids try to copy and but cannot be duplicated
V. Carter
When focused he is the truth needs to play hard for the rest of his career to get street respect
R. Jefferson
Prior to Vince reaching he was coming into his own he should not take a back seat and continue to thrive
J. Collins
BUM with wrapped knees like Ewing
N. Krstic
Rock solid will be a solid NBA player with more experience.

New Orleans
C. Paul
Pure point guard. No pressure in the big easy should produce
J. Smith
Very athletic, Nice jay needs to focus mentally but this kid is going to erupt soon!
G. Lynch
Solid vet. West should take minutes away
P. Brown
Solid Vet with a lot of pride
J. Magloire
Needs to excel to previous all-star level no excuse with this roster.

New York
S. Marbury
All world guard, But needs to make others better to create wining basketball
J. Crawford
Streaky but passionate needs to mentally beat his opponents to become special
Q. Richardson
Rock solid rebounder Should do well in NY But has to play D for Larry
M. Sweetney
Slow and strong Isiah likes him but always in trade rumors good at Georgetown but this is the pros much faster game.
J. James
A BUM

Orlando
K. Dooling
Played well last year for the heat! This is his chance to be his own man
S. Francis
All world but needs to chill off his street crew and realize he can be great
G. Hill
Respect is the only word to describe him. Let's hope he can stay healthy
D. Howard
The next big thing. A superstar in the making!
K. Cato
A BUM

Philadelphia
A. Iverson
Hall of Famer Street cred is enormous simply one of the best! Now must teach the youngster the game can you imagine
K. Korver
Sharp shooter who plays to his abilities
A. Iguodala
People were right this guy could end up like Pippen Multi stat cat
C. Webber
Inj prone but when healthy can play with anyone but has a huge ego. Still can put up numbers
S. Dalembert
I compare him to a volcano ready to erupt. Cheeks has something special!

Phoenix
S. Nash
Reigning MVP The showstopper
R. Bell
Defense
S. Marion
The most underrated player at the all-star level. Does it all
A. Stoudemire
ALL WORLD unstoppable if he develops a jump shot! KG watch out
K. Thomas
Rock Solid vet bring toughness to the phoenix run and gun stlye.

Portland
S. Telfair
Vision Vision Vision Assists all night long
J. Dixon
Big heart nice jay when open needs to create more off the dribble
D. Miles
A BUM any man who disrespects cheeks needs to chill!
Z. Randolph
Working hard in the off-season the truth when healthy this kid is nice!
J. Przybilla
Boxing in the off season definitely wants to solidify his position for years to come

Sacramento
M. Bibby
Plays hard every night he has become the heart and soul of the team.
B. Wells
Needs to put or shut up like when he was nice in Portland
P. Stojakovic
Good shooter but very Overrated. He will play well he is looking for cash this season contract year. S. Abdur-Rahim
Solid player with a lot of pride; shown in off-season negotiation a quite solid all-star type player when healthy.
B. Miller
The most efficient player in the league! Rock solid center.

San Antonio
T. Parker
Finally got Pop off his back. Needs to be a better shooter but he has produced.
M. Ginobili
The most annoying player in the league but highly effective a perfect fit to the spurs system. Manu!
B. Bowen
Best defender in the league. Artest a very close second. The Bowen factor should be a term adopted by commentators
T. Duncan
Hall of Famer: The constant all world Power Forward. The most competitive player in a long time. Starting to lose a slight step very slighty.
N. Mohammed
When he goes to bed, he knees down and prays & thanks Isiah Thomas with his decision to trade him!

Seattle
L. Ridnour
Played solid last year nice vision with a nice stroke. Very fast
R. Allen
Jesus Shuttle worth took his game to the next level to me last year with a public competitive fire that his teammate needed to see. The best shooter in the league.
R. Lewis
Has reached his plateau but the sonics brash love him. Too soft. Needs to have more fire
N. Collison
Solid minutes off the bench. Can turn himself into a workhorse but Reggie Evans beat him to it!
V. Potapenko
Finally a starter we will see how he copes.

Toronto
R. Alston
The best handles in the league needs to stay grounded and run the O.
M. Peterson
Put up or shut up nice perimeter defender but needs to drive more
J. Rose
Overrated will never get back to Indiana days of glory but can be a nice addition to a high level team.
C. Bosh
The Kid is the truth has not captured the down the stretch mentality to take over yet due to Mitchell but will very soon with support.
L. Woods
BUM

Utah
D. Williams
Utah Management moved up for this big and strong point guard out of fighting Illini
Jerry Sloan has low tolerance for Foolishness at point.
G. Giricek
European player nice shooter but soft
A. Kirilenko
THE TRUTH All-World the best all rounder in the game in terms of stats without scoring
C. Boozer
Very strong tenacious on the boards. Good Duke product. Plays hard every-night. Upper brash is watching him closely
M. Okur
Solid big men that will start at center this season.

Washington
G. Arenas
All world Defining moment of his career the big shot in Chicago to win the game. This kid is for real
C. Butler
Solid player that needs one more push Kobe was a good teammate to learn off now his expecations go up in DC to replace Hughes.
J. Jeffries
Long and lanky small forward who lacks strength but has a little skill but needs to fine his niche.
A. Jamison
Good mid range shooter perfected tear drop shot. He is very soft. Does not like contact but has found his niche to put up deceptive numbers due to minutes
B. Haywood
No stamina, But can block shots and board needs to develop more of a post game to survive needs to solidify the minutes with no splits with others.

Saturday, August 27, 2005

Children Children are the future!- Class 2007- OJ Mayo....

OJ Mayo:(Left) Bill Walker:(Right)

Photo taken by: Scott Kurtz

OJ Mayo has to wait a year before he gets his introduction into the association. The new bargaining argreement that was just signed by Stern, Billy Hunter and company has ensured this fact. We will have to wait to see the heralded OJ Mayo out of Cleveland. OJ is good friends with Lebron. They talk on a regular basis. (2) Bill Walker scouts say has skills as well. Greg Oden (Big Men-Pro Body) is also coming soon to a living room or NBA TV near you. He claims he wants to play college for the full four years.College coaches are licking their chops ( Coach K, Lute Olsen, Roy Willams, Calhoun, Gary Williams, Boeheim, Brey) and of course Dickie V cannot wait for these diaper dandies to showcase their talent at the next level. With the resignations of Huggins. This hurts the chances of U of Cincy Bearcats getting the prodigy. Who will land Mayo?

OJ Mayo is the future of the association & Head of the Class 2007.

Tale of the tape:
(2005 Ohio Mr. Basketball)
6-foot-5, sophomore.
Averaged
28.9 points,
7.8 rebounds,
7.7 assists &
3.4 steals
Becomes only second sophomore to win the award, behind... guess who
LeBron James.

The best of the rest....

3) Greg Oden (7-0, 240, C) - Indianapolis, Indiana (Lawrence North HS)
4) Kevin Durant (6-9, 205, F) - Maryland (Montrose Christian)
5) Brandan Wright (6-9, 200, F) - Tennessee (Brentwood Academy)
6) Paul Harris (6-4, 215, G) - Niagara Falls, New York (Niagara Falls)
7) Thaddeus Young (6-8, 205, F) - Memphis, Tennessee (Mitchell Road)
8) Vernon Macklin (6-10, 190, F) - Portsmouth, Virginia (I.C. Norcom)
9) Tywon Lawson (6-0, 180, G) - Forestville, Maryland (Oak Hill Academy)
10) Derrick Caracter (6-8, 275, F) - Elizabeth, New Jersey (St. Patrick's)
11) Spencer Hawes (6-10, 220, C) - Seattle, Washington (Seattle Prep)
12) Brook Lopez (6-10, 230, F) - Fresno, California (San Joaquin Memorial)
13) Chase Budinger (6-7, 190, F) - Carlsbad, California (La Costa Canyon)
14) Wayne Ellington (6-4, 185, G) - Merion Station, Pennsylvania (Episcopal Academy)
15) Javaris Crittenton (6-4, 190, G) - Atlanta, Georgia (Southwest Atlanta Christian)
16) Darrell Arthur (6-9, 220, F) - Dallas, Texas (South Oak Cliff)
17) Damion James (6-8, 220, F) - Nacogdoches, Texas (Nacogdoches HS)
18 Daequan Cook (6-4, 185, G) - Dayton, Ohio (Dunbar High School)
19) Earl Clark
(6-8, 200, F) - Rahway, New Jersey (Rahway)

If you love ball like I do! Get to your local gym and see first hand the up and coming talent..

Which baller is the real deal? Who's got game!
Let the Supreme know who got the goods!
Post your comments!

Holla back with your views & opinions on the future of ball!

Lipton Supreme








The NBA All-time greats in 3 point FG% - AIM, FIRE & SHOOT!!!


“ There is guys who take threes and there is guys who make threes. I want the guys who can make them” - Pat Riley

Below is a list of the all- time greats in 3 point fg% in history! Efficiency is the key!

A few guys jump out at you right away. One is Kyle Korver who is already on the list, I like his quickness of release and range of shot. Steve Kerr was obviously nasty in the clutch with Bulls and Spurs. The late Drazen Petrovic was the first international modern shooter of his day. My all- time favorite is Dell Curry. One of the quicks release ever. I had the privilege to see him in a shoot around prior to a Raptor game nothing but twine. Allan Houston has a sweet release deadly from many spots on the floor. Reggie was the most clutch in league history. The most taken and the most made. A first ballot Hall Famer to come! Ray Allen has the most complete game. Never forget Craig Hodges defending his title with a
t-shirt with no team in the NBA 3- Point contest many years ago. Hornacek was nice . Glen Rice and Dale Ellis loved the baseline threes. Trent Tucker and his legendary beard. I was also amazed to look at the list and find a notable missing sharpshooter in Larry Legend. He is not in the top 30.


(Also take into account the more attempts would also reduce a player field-goal percentage. The players at the bottom of the list seemed to be players that played longer obviously and where also at times first options in their teams offense. While the ones on the top are pure specialists.)
* some of the most profilic shooters are on the bottom*

All time Leaders in Three field goal percentage
(source: nba.com/history)

3FGM 3FGA 3FG Percentage

1. Steve Kerr
726 1,599 .454

2. Hubert Davis
728 1,651 .441

3. Drazen Petrovic
255 583 .437

4. Tim Legler
260 603 .431

5. B.J. Armstrong
436 1,026 .425

6. Steve Nash
767 1,836 .418

6. Wesley Person
1,150 2,754 .418

8. Dana Barros
1,090 2,652 .411

9. Trent Tucker
575 1,410 .408

10. Pat Garrity
562 1,389 .405

11. Wally Szczerbiak
285 706 .404

12. Dale Ellis
1,719 4,266 .403

12. Jeff Hornacek
828 2,055 .403

14. Brent Barry
1,090 2,710 .402

14. Mark Price
976 2,428 .402

14. Allan Houston
1,305 3,247 .402

14. Dell Curry
1,245 3,098 .402

14. Michael Dickerson
288 717 .402

19. Kyle Korver
307 765 .401

19. Eric Piatkowski
838 2,091 .401

21. Glen Rice
1,559 3,896 .400

21. Craig Hodges
563 1,408 .400

23. Kenny Smith
664 1,665 .399

24. Peja Stojakovic
999 2,508 .398

25. Ray Allen
1,486 3,743 .397

25. Dennis Scott
1,214 3,060 .397

27. Fred Hoiberg
373 941 .396

28. Reggie Miller
2,560 6,486 .395

29. Hersey Hawkins
1,226 3,108 .394

29. Mike Miller
593 1,505 .394

Thursday, August 18, 2005

Slow down! Slown down! Chemistry is Key- Miami Heat

Chemistry:

Everyone is just handing the title to Miami since their recent acquisitions. I feel this is way too premature. Chemistry & D is what builds champions in this league. Miami has improved immensely in certain key position. I still think Detroit, Indiana and San Antonio when fully healthy can give Miami a run.

Miami coasted to the Eastern Conference final with a solid 1-2 punch in Shaq and Wade. It was very similar and dynamic to the Shaq and Kobe combination that won 3 in a row. Now, Miami has added Walker and Williams to the team. The best addition to me is James Posey. Posey will provide hopefully that intangible that is not covered by stats and accolades in media. My book on Walker is that he is very intelligent baller with mutiple skills but for some reason another he has turned into a high-price over hyped journeymen. Walker has finally found his home. Miami needs defense. Everyone is hoping Shaq will be able to control his troops. Of course he will. The Big Daddy gets his respect. Jay-Will should adjust. Walker has not won at the high level. I know he will be inspired. This is most certainly there chance. Riley is really tring to push it together. They have 82 games to gel plus crunch-time playoffs is a long time.

Cohesiveness is the key in Basketball.

Everyone has to know their roles completely. Everyone can pretty much score in the association but can they defend consistently.

Indiana, Detroit and San Antonio defend with passion.

Miami was one game from the final last year. Simply, because they had the 1-2 punch no egos and chemistry. They had their scorer Wade. They had the Big Daddy down low. They had 3’s from Damon Jones. A nice contribution from Haslem . Eddie and Zo provided leadership and veteran play. Van Gundy coached hard & passionately. Wade was injured with the ribs and they lost as a result.

"Chemistry"

According to Merriam Webster Dictionary.

1 : a science that deals with the composition, structure, and properties of substances and with the transformations that they undergo

2 a : the composition and chemical properties of a substance b : chemical processes and phenomena (as of an organism)

3 : a strong mutual attraction, attachment, or sympathy

Miami must obtain chemistry before they are crowned champions

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

Gomelsky- USSR Legend passed away 77yrs old...

I have to give props to Mr. Alexander Gomelsky a legend of basketball in Russia. He was known for his greatness in tactics and psychology. He passed away Tuesday 77 yrs old.

Alexander Gomelsky (Bio Below):

Gomelsky, born on Jan. 18, 1928, in the Russian naval town of Kronstadt
He led the Soviet Union basketbal team to victory against the USA. They ended the 21-game winning streak of the United States at the 1988 Olympics. Gomelsky won four Olympic medals as Soviet coach, including one gold in Seoul, South Korea. He also won silver in 1964, and bronze in 1968 and 1980. He also led the Soviet team to two world championships and eight European championships. Known as the father of Soviet basketball and "Alexander the Great," Gomelsky was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995. He served three stints as the national team coach, from 1958-60, 1962-70 and 1976-88.



He began his coaching LGS Spartak team in 1949 in Leningrad. Than, later coached SKA Riga and CSKA Moscow. In the Soviet league, his teams won 15 league titles.

Gomelsky, who more recently served as president of CSKA Moscow.

He also had stints in Spain, France and the United States.

The utmost respect to the basketball legend and his family. One of the masters of the game.

Holla back
LiptonSupreme

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

Mid-Summer Player Rankings.

Basketball Supreme - Mid-Summer Player rankings.

Top Guards

1. Kobe Bryant- Still the cream of the crop. Starts his Workouts every morning @ 6AM.
2.Lebron James- The Jerry West logo on every jersey might have to change to him.
3.Tracey McGrady- Physically can do anything he wants. 1st round jinks needs to break.
4.Allen Iverson- Scoring machine who improved his assist; can he co-exist with Webber?
5. Dwayne Wade- Flash the new Kobe. Wade is a force to reckon with. Pretty complete.
5. Baron Davis-Injury prone but when healthy this man can ball with anyone.

Top Forwards

1.Tim Duncan- The best player in the association. (PERIOD)
2.Kevin Garnett- Any man who cries on national TV about losing! = PASSION
3.Amare Stoudemire- MANCHILD? If he gets a jay. The league is dead
4.Jermaine O’Neal- He is tough as nails. A treat to watch. Looking for glory.
5. AK47- Kilrenko is the true international product. the rest are pretenders accept Dirk.


Top Centers

1.Shaq- The Big Daddy. Not in his prime, but 1 game away from the finals. Unstoppable
2.Brad Miller- One of the most efficient players in the league. (Underrated)
3. YAO- Very good at setting picks but must stay focus and healthy (Overrated in big games)
4.Jamal Magloire- The Big Kat needs to live up to All- Star expectations consistently.
5.Sammy Dalembert- This man is about to erupt if Cheeks uses him right.

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

Larry Brown is starting a Garden Party

Larry Brown is reported to become the head coach of the New York Knick. A contract has been offered to follow in his idol footstep. Larry Brown loves Red Holzman. He will fullfill his dream of becoming the coach of the New York Knicks. A childhood dream for the legendary coach. It is speculated that Herb Williams will be his top assistant. Most likely he will try to bring across some of his braintrust from his previous stop. Larry Brown is know for his work with guards and his ablity to coach the fundementals of the game. As a decent point guard himself under MaGuire and the Dean. He will have his hands full with his shoot first low field- goal percentage guards that love to shoot the rock. The tools and students at his disposal this time around will be as follows:

Stephon Marbury- Point- ready to bring glory back to New York
Jamal Crawford- Shooting Guard- Shoot first very inconsistent but is passionate.
Quentin Richardson, Tim Thomas- Small -Richardson took plenty of 3- goal attempt last year.
Mike Sweetney- Power- Strong, plenty of upside but slow needs starter minutes to fully develop
Jerome James- Center - Was he just playing for money this year?

With Trevor Azria (solid) and the new kid Channing Fyre to mold coming off the bench potential.

Will Larry be able to handle the New York Press and ultimately will his health hold up? Brown and Spike will be chilling trying to bring back the party and glory to the big apple.

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

THE FREE AGENT CAROUSEL BEGINS......

Free Agency Report

The modern day carousel started at the beginning of the month. July 1,2005 signified the wheeling and dealing could begin amongst execs in the association. The big catch for this year is and was Ray Allen, Michael Redd, Joe Johnson, Larry Hughes, Antonie Walker, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Sammy Dalembert, Antonio Daniels, Stromile Swift, Donyell Marshall, Kwame Brown, Earl Watson, Latrell Sprewell Marko Jaric, Earl Watson, Latrell Sprewell Tyson Chandler ®, Eddy Curry ® and Vladimir Radmanovic (R) leads the list of the top free agents.
R notes - restricted free agents.


Let's start with Jesus Shuttleworth


Ray Allen - signed back with Seattle. The silkly smooth two guard, torn up the 05 playoffs. This year he destroyed the Kings. To be honest, I was little disappointed to see sign back with Seattle. Lon Babby had been negotiation with the Sonics for nearly a year on and off. I felt that Baby Ray should have looked elsewhere to reach his goal. In Seattle, Rashard Lewis and there assortment of youthful centers are not going to make it to the promise land. They better keep McMillian.


Michael Redd- Nasty off the screens nice release point and a solid scorer, very one-dimensional. They will improve with the addition of B. Simmons, Bogut and hopefully let’s pray TJ FORD has a good return. He is a hardworking kid. But in terms of Redd. Lebron & Redd would have been sweet for the CAVS' faithful.



Larry Hughes- Uncle Larry loves to patron the legendary 1223 club in DC. While he loves to party. His game has definitely evolved into a multi-stat player. One of the league leaders in steals behind Kilirenko this man definitely put the wizards on the map. Uncle Larry has terrible handles but moves well without the ball to create his own shot. Long arms. Nice middle game. He will be a strong addition with Lebron. Wizards treated him poorly in negotiations. I truly believe if Abe did not have Bypass surgery he would have been treated better. Antonio Daniels signing will only make Hughes better and cover up his deficiency, which are minimal.



Joe Johnson- is simply theTRUTH. I love his game very versatile guard. Some scouts in the Western Conference say Joey Crack can play 4 positions. I think he can play three. I know the Celtics wish they did not give up this guy a couple of years ago. He just wants to ball period. Stack could not even keep out of the playoffs. Suns will keep him. They should not have signed Raja Bell first. Joey Crack is the intrigual piece to their offence. Phoenix losing Joe Johnson would be comparable when the Bronx and Fat Joe lost Big Pun.



Stromile Swift- Wow this guy could become the GEM of this free agent period. Swift is a solid big man coming from LSU. Quite frankly, he has not played up to his potential since LSU days. But I cannot put my finger on it. But there is something about this guy. He could develop into a solid player or be another athletic bust. Personally, I think he could thrive in a nice environment. Instead of Crowning YAO. He now might be slayed to protect the Chinese Emperor of the playground. T-Mac wants Swift bad and vows to turn him into an All-Star. Stay tuned and we will soon find out!

LiptonSupreme

Please leave comments & feedback below!!

Thursday, June 16, 2005

The Zen Master is back... The TRIANGLE OFFENSE

In honour of Phil Jackson and his return to the league.

Let's take a brief look at one of his and Mr. Tex Winters' theory & principles...

Offensive Basketball Play #1: TRIANGLE PRINCIPLES


In the triangle offense 4 and 5 are the only players to play the post position. 1,2 and 3 are interchangeable at the various perimeter positions (point guard, strong-side wing, weak-side wing and corner position).
The shape of a triangle is formed on the ball side by the post player, the wing player and the corner man. The triangle can be formed on either the right or left side; it can be initiated by either a pass from the point guard to one of the wing men or by the point guard dribbling over to one of the wing positions.
Whichever player ends up with the ball in the strong-side wing position becomes the "trigger man" - what he does with the ball determines the offensive movement.
The offense begins with 4 and 5 located at the elbows and the two wing players on the lower blocks, as shown. When the point guard reaches the bottom of the mid-circle, 4 and 5 then downpick for 2 and 3 to get them open in the wing areas for a pass from 1,

Another way to begin the triangle is to have 1 dribble to either wing position with the wing player then v-cutting down to the corner position and the strong-side post player moving to the high-post elbow position, as shown here.

Either of these two ways to begin the offense will result in the triangle being set up. In this example, where 1 has passed to 3 on the wing then cut through to the corner, the triangle is set on the right side with 3 on the wing as the trigger man, 1 in the corner and 5 in the ball-side high post area.
2 moves up to the point area for defensive protection and 4 moves out to the weak side wing area.

Friday, June 10, 2005

Spurs vs Pistons

The Spurs the constant team machine versus the pride of Motown Detroit Pistons. The two organizations are very similar in style and poise. They both play defense and they are well coached. The top brass is outstanding, Dumars is nasty and his counterparts RC Buford equally so. Who is going to win? Everyone in basketball land is yelling for a Game 7. Both teams are evenly matched, they both enjoy depth. To think Larry Brown has caused so much commotion with his uncertainty next year. Look over the last few years, I have finally realized that coaches have egos too. Look at Phil Jackson and Larry Brown constantly in the media. They say to mind your business and butt out but they love the hype and gossip too. Pop is a constant professional mirror of his star Duncan. His mentor is Coach Brown but he carries himself differently with a stern iron fist. Pop is focused on his squad and nothing else. He reminds me of Larry Brown last year. This should be a battle of the ages. The first time in 35 years that the number one and two teams in the league in defense will match their wit against each other. Personally, I do not care who wins. I just cannot wait to watch the execution and desire from both foes. Anyone who loves ball will love this series. The league deep down is vex that they did not get the Shaq vs Duncan marketing hype multi-million dollar machine. They would have hyped the matchup as the best big men of our ages. Now, its just simply straight execution and defensive. How do you sell that to the masses? To be honest this series is going to be quite refreshing regardless of outcome.

LiptonSupreme

Friday, May 13, 2005

T-Mac was spectacular but failed again....



Shawn Bradley needs to retire! T-Mac did it again! I respect his game. But they loss the series again!
KARMA.... Toronto & Orlando. It will be not easy for Tracy ; Until YAO plays like a MAN! plus McGrady cannot make comments like "that even though he lost, he was glad to be a part of a game like that "
(post- conference game #4). Up 2-0 going home to Houston. He will understand MAY & JUNE is for the mentally tested!!
He must remain hungary & starving. T-Mac will need to outwit his first round demons.

Friday, May 06, 2005

NASH is MVP!!


"Nasty at point like NASH"- B.Seigal

PLAYOFFS TIMES AGAIN

Playoffs Times Again!
Approximately, two weeks of the NBA playoffs have embarked the Sport landscape.

Some of the games have been thrillers!

I am going to start with the Detroit Philly overtime Game 4. The execution from Larry Brown and company was impetuous, as Mike Tyson would say. Chauncey & Rip in the regulation and Rasheed in overtime delivered in the clutch. AI is the most respected baller, I have seen in quite some time. Iverson has the biggest heart in the league. Webber at times looked sluggish and out of shape. He still delivered with his immense talent and B-ball IQ. Watch out next year for Samuel Dalembert and Igoudala. The offense and defensive execution from the Pistons thus far has been excellent. They are very intent in defending their crowns. They walk around with those championship belts around their waist with so much pride. I smell a repeat!!

D-Wade and Shaq disposed of New Jersey like a stale dirty dishrag. D-Wade became the six player in history to have 25 points, 7 boards, 7 assist and 50% shooting in a playoff series. Wade is starting to lay the foundation of his young legacy. He is amongst hardwood legends already chilling with the likes of Bird, Jordan, Magic, Chamberlain and Jabbar. This is great company. The question remains, Is Shaq healthy enough as the competition increases? I totally agree that the six days of rest will help the Diesel. WILL JASON KIDD STAY OR GO? Nenad Kristic showed flashes of being a solid pro in the future. The hype in Soprano land, is recent rumblings that they are trying to put a package together to wrench Garnett from Minnesota.

The most compelling match up thus far has been the battle of TEXAS. Van (100K fine) Gundy vs Mark (Sitting right beside Avery on the bench) Cuban. Houston vs. Dallas. Game 7 will be on Saturday. McGrady was devastating in the first two games in Dallas. But, Jason Terry and the Dirk Diggler came back with avenges in Game 3 and 4.
Game 5 was a coaching masterpiece between Van Gundy and Avery Johnson. With Avery coming out on top with a nice thriller. Stackhouse stepped up!! In Game 6, MUTUMBO (OLD SCHOOL) proved that you don’t make them like they use too!! While YAO was frustrated, MUTUMBO smoothly stepped into the series to clamp down nearly 12 possessions down the stretch creating balance. He rebounded, blocked shots and WAVED his legendary “DO NOT COME IN HERE “ finger to send the series to the limit!

BOSTON vs. INDIANA! BIRD vs. AINGE; J’O Neal vs Paul Pierce. Two very proud organizations battle to maintain their pride and respect. Let me start off by saying I am fully impressed with Indiana's character and patchwork job all season. They have gone through supsensions and injuries and are still in the pack. I picked them to win this series.
Paul Pierce (P-Squared) and company will not go down without a fight. Game 6 was full of drama. Did you see Paul Pierce plead for his life in the post game press conference? Pierce had a bandage around his head! Pierce is a seasoned veteran, for him to dash Tinsley (flop) to the ground. He was so lucky Walker and Jefferson balled him out in the overtime! Reggie took some unquestionable shots in the OT. I truly believe he is not done with his career yet. My colleagues told me that Doc Rivers has withstood the coaching techniques of Carslie and company. This has been a great series for the ages. The last note, the joke of the series
K-Perkins you had to feel for him at the end of the game. He was so nervous at the free–thrown line. It was hilarious!

RAY ALLEN IS NASTY. The 45 Point assault on BIBBY and Cupcake city (PEJA) was real smooth. He got game! WILL THE REAL JEROME JAMES please STAND UP! His numbers have been gross in the post season. Is he looking for that off-season cash?

GONE FISHING is MEMPHIS and DENVER!! BONZI WELLS has ruined his rep again. Carmelo will have to adjust. In DC, Gil Arenas is a MAN and KWAME BROWN is a child!! I am sorry to take sides, I have not heard or read KWAME Brown’s statement. But, as a Wizards season ticket holder this year. I feel and I reserve the right to tell the Basketball Supreme nation that KWAME sucks and is not a PRO. Jordan made a terrible mistake with that pick!

I am very sorry to admit that I thought Kwame would succeed!.

GET the popcorn and drinks out because this weekend and week is going to be Basketball heaven for many !

Peace
Lipton Supreme