[ D
A R K O . M I L IC I C] On the comeback (to Europe) trail? by Jorge Sierra / March 21,
2010
After seven mostly frustrating years in the NBA, Serbian center Darko Milicic is likely heading back to Europe. •Read
more
[
FR
E E . A G E N C Y
] LeBron
a Laker? by
Roland Lazenby / February 28,
2010
The intrigue grows in Los Angeles as Lakers owner Jerry Buss
and anointed son Jim engage Phil Jackson in parlor games.
•Read
more
[
B
U L L S] Rebounding
from difficult start by
Marc Narducci / February 6, 2010
After a difficult start that created rumor’s about the
coach's job security, Chicago Bulls are making a run at a
playoff spot. •Read
more
[
R
I C K Y . R U B I O ] Unselfish
to a fault? by
Jorge Sierra / February 1, 2010
Ricky Rubio's first post-draft season has been filled with
big wins and disappointing scoring. •Read
more
[
C
H I N A ] What
awaits Marbury? by
Jorge Sierra / January 20, 2010
Stephon Marbury is up for an eye-opening experience if he
finally goes to play in the the Chinese League. •Read
more
[
C
O N F E
R E N
C
E S] West
is best once again by
Peter May / January 19, 2010
After a summer of great moves on paper, the Eastern Conference
teams are still struggling against the West. •Read
more
[
M
I C H
A E L
. D
I C K E R
S O N] New
role: Small town hero? by
Jorge Sierra / January 14, 2010
Former Grizzlies guard Michael Dickerson has returned to basketball
activity in, of all places, a small town in Northern Spain.
•Read
more
[
G U N S ] Where
have you gone, Reggie Harding? by
Roland Lazenby / January 11,
2010
The Gilbert Arenas case is not the first one involving guns
and basketball. There has been much, much worse.
•Read
more
[
D E R
EK
. F ISHER] The
pro's pro by
Gery Woelfel / December 19, 2009
He has no flash, but Derek Fisher does have the respect of
players and coaches alike around the NBA. •Read
more
[
P ISTONS] Jerebko
another Dumars' steal by
Peter May / December 17, 2009
What looked like just another obscure second-round draft pick
has become one of the shining spots this season for the Pistons.
•Read
more
[
S O C I A L . M E D I A ] Most
Valuable Tweeters by
Jorge Sierra / December 6, 2009
Shaquille O'Neal made it trendy and Charlie Villanueva made
it a must-have. But who are the best NBA players on Twitter
these days? •Read
more
[
B U L L S ] Rose's
game does the talking by
Gery Woelfel / December 3, 2009
In the usually flamboyant world of NBA stars, Derrick Rose
is a rarity with his quiet demeanor. The Bulls guard just
lets his game speak for himself. •Read
more
[
S U N S
] Nash
still defying age by
Peter May / November 14, 2009
Steve Nash is showing no signs of slowing down, making the
Suns become one of the feel-good stories in the NBA early
in the season. •Read
more
[
C E LT
I C S
] Rondo
key with or without extension by
Peter May / October 28, 2009
Rajon Rondo says he's not distracted by the contract extension
talk. Either way, he's vital to the Celtics' championship
hopes. •Read
more
[
W I Z A
R D S ] Year
of the rebound? by
Sam Amico / October 17, 2009
Last season's 19-win debacle is giving the Wizards all the
inspiration they need to prove themselves this year. •Read
more
[
F R E E . A G E N C Y ] Stack
not ready to retire by
Jorge Sierra / October 5, 2009
Two-time All-Star Jerry Stackhouse is hoping a contending
team gives him one final shot at the title. •Read
more
[
7 6 E R S ] Brand
looking for a comeback by
Marc Narducci / September 24,
2009
After being limited to 37 games over the past two years, Sixers
forward Elton Brand appears intent on reviving his career.
•Read
more
[
E U R O B A S K E T ] The
hidden gems by
David Sardinero / September
22, 2009
Lakers forward Pau Gasol was the big star at the European
Championship in Poland, but there were lesser-known players
that you should probably keep an eye on. •Read
more
[
N U G G E T S ] Billups
giving Smith an assist by
Chris Tomasson / August 8, 2009
Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups will spend time in Las Vegas
with JR Smith trying to knock some sense into his head.
•Read
more
[
O F F S E ASON] Spurs
are summer champions by
Chris Tomasson / July 21, 2009
The general consensus around the league is that San Antonio
is having the best offseason of any NBA team. •Read
more
[
S U M
M E
R .
L E AGUES] McGee
comes up big by
Yannis Koutroupis / July 20,
2009
The Wizards' issues at center may not be that important if
Javale McGee continues to show progress. •Read
more
[ S U M M E R . L E AGUES] Thabeet dud of the week? by Bill Ingram / July 19, 2009
Among the big names in Vegas, Grizzlies center Hasheem Thabeet has probably been the biggest disappointment. •Read
more
[ S U M M E R . L E AGUES] Lawson finally delivers by Travis Heath / July 18, 2009
Nuggets guard Ty Lawson had his first impressive game in Vegas after two underwhelming performances. •Read
more
[ S U M M E R . L E AGUES] Morrow explodes for 47 by Joel Brigham / July 17, 2009
Warriors guard Anthony Morrow couldn't miss a shot Thursday. No surprise he ended up beating the Vegas Summer League scoring record. •Read
more
[ S U M M E R . L E A G U
E S ] Jennings a true playmaker by Joel Brigham / July 16, 2009
In a summer league where selfish play is the rule, Brandon Jennings is one of the exceptions. •Read
more
[ S U M M E R . L E A G U
E S ] Randolph is next by Joel Brigham / July 15, 2009
Anthony Randolph, who tied the record for most points scored in a game at the Vegas Summer League, looks primed for a breakout season with the Warriors. •Read
more
[ S U M M E R . L E A G U
E S ] Flynn shines, Dragic bombs by Bill Ingram / July 14, 2009
Timberwolves guard Jonny Flynn is already proving he belongs. One year later, Goran Dragic still has not. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] The
Griffin show by
Chris Tomasson / July 14, 2009
Clippers forward Blake Griffin looked every bit like a No.
1 pick in his pro debut at the Vegas Summer League. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] Blair
another Spur steal? by
Dave McMenamin / July 13, 2009
The Spurs have a great track record of landing good players
with low picks. DeJuan Blair may be their latest get.
•Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] All
Daye by
Dave McMenamin / July 12, 2009
Pistons forward Austin Daye was amonth the most impressive
players in Day 2 at the Vegas Summer League. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] Rough
start for Curry by
Yannis Koutroupis / July 11,
2009
Warriors guard Stephen Curry had a ho-hum pro debut in the
Vegas Summer League. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] Harden
impresses by
John Denton / July 10, 2009
Although not the most athletic player, James Harden started
to show in Orlando why the Thunder took a gamble on him. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] Kruger
upsets Ewing by
John Denton / July 10, 2009
You can have a 21-point lead in the fourth quarter and still
lose the game. Patrick Ewing's Orlando Magic proved that Thursday.
•Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] OKC
has a gem in Westbrook by
John Denton / July 9, 2009
Thunder guard Russell Westbrook has been the most impressive
player so far in Orlando. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] Anderson
the star of the day by
John Denton / July 8, 2009
Newly acquired Magic forward Ryan Anderson may end up proving
he was more than just a throw-in in the Vince Carter trade.
•Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E S ] Hansbrough's
debut a hit by
John Denton / July 7, 2009
Former Tar Heel Tyler Hansbrough excelled in his first game
with the Pacers at the Orlando Pro Summer League. Plus, he
didn't have to hear the boos. •Read
more
[
D R A F T
] Divided
opinion on Rubio's impact by
Marc Narducci / June 23, 2009
Ricky Rubio won’t lack hype entering the NBA, but does
he have the game to live up to his advanced billing? •Read
more
[
P H I L . J A C K S O N
] Shooting
for 10 by
Chris Tomasson / June 2, 2009
While not in the best shape of his life, Phil Jackson is back
in the Finals with a chance of surpassing Red Auerbach as
the winningest NBA coach ever. •Read
more
[
N U G G ETS
] Martin-Cuban
feud continues by
Chris Tomasson / May 17, 2009
The Nuggets-Mavericks series is over, but Keyon Martin and
Mark Cuban keep taking shots at each other. •Read
more
[
C H R I S . A N D E R S E N
] Flying
high by
Chris Tomasson / May 3, 2009
A song turned the switch on for Chris Andersen, now back excelling
with the successful Nuggets. •Read
more
[
N
U G G E T S ] Melo
getting it by
Chris Tomasson / April 14, 2009
Finally, there's been more talk of on-court success than controversies
when discussing Carmelo Anthony this season. •Read
more
[
M
O N E Y ] The
power of 'no' by
Peter May /
April
6, 2009
It's hard for NBA players, especially the young ones, to deny
help to friends and relatives when they ask for it. Soon enough
they will realize that's the best choice.
•Read
more
[
N
A T E . R O B I N S O N ] The
little man that could by
Chris Tomasson / April 3, 2009
Diminutive Knicks guard Nate Robinson has jumped his way to
borderline stardom this NBA season. •Read
more
[
C
O A C H E S ] The
season of the interim coach by
Chris Tomasson / March 21, 2009
Interim coaches are usually in the tough position of trying
to make bad teams look good. But that sometimes leads to nice
head coaching careers. •Read
more
[
A
L L -. S T A R ] Kobe
is great, but get me LeBron by
Jorge Sierra / February 14,
2009
Kobe Bryant is just as good as LeBron James, according to
several players. But when the question comes to who would
you rather have as a teammate, it's a landslide win for for
the Cavs forward. •Read
more
[
C
E L T I C S ] Return
of the Scal by
Peter May /
January
29, 2009
Fan favorite Brian Scalabrine was an afterthought in the Celtics'
championship run last year, but he's back playing a decent
role this season. •Read
more
[
L
A K E R S ] Kobe,
team approach the crossroads by
Roland Lazenby /
December
23, 2008
The Lakers have struggled of late, which has some longtime
observers wondering if Kobe Bryant's career, as well as the
team's hopes, aren't at a crossroads. •Read
more
[
C E L T
I C S ] How
much is too much? by
Peter May /
December
15, 2008
Have the Celtics gone too far with their on-the-court antics or
are people just paying too much attention?
•Read
more
[
C E L T I C S
] Top
of the world by
Peter May /
November
7, 2008
Peter May chronicles the Celtics' remarkable 2008 championship run
in his new book, Top of the World.
•
Read
more
[
J E R R Y .
K R A U S E
] Big
Nuts by
Roland Lazenby /
October
9, 2008
It’s been a decade since the Bulls won their last title. Don’t
expect a reunion. •
Read more
[ E C O N O M Y ] League not immune to crisis by Sam Smith / September
29, 2008
With national economy a shambles, how long till the crisis really hits the NBA? •Read
more
[ K O B E . B R Y A N T ] In sickness and in health by Roland Lazenby / September
17, 2008
Some people don’t understand why Kobe Bryant would bypass surgery on his finger, but that’s what alpha males do. •Read
more
[
F
R E E
.
A G E N C
Y
] Slim
pickings left by
Marc Narducci /
September
12, 2008
Most of the elite free agents have been signed, but for the most
part, some potential role players still exist for interested teams. •Read
more
[
T R A IL.
B
L A Z E R S
]
An up and coming team by
Marc Narducci /
September
2, 2008
With
some of the best young talent in the NBA, Portland should make a
serious playoff push in the Western Conference. •Read
more
[
O L Y M P I C S
]
U.S. regain gold by
Marc Narducci /
August
24, 2008
The United States has assumed its accustomed position on top of
the basketball world. The U.S. finished 8-0 after defeating Spain
118-107 in the gold medal game. •Read
more
[
O L Y M P I C S
]
A strong opening act for the United States by
Marc Narducci /
August
10, 2008
While far from flawless, the U.S. was impressive in many areas during
its opening Olympic win over China. •Read
more
[
F R E E .
A G E N C Y
]
A whole new ball game? by
Jorge
Sierra / July
25, 2008
Josh Childress' decision to sign with a Greek team may change the
future of free agency. How do agents evaluate the new situation?
•Read
more
[
L A K E R S
]
Kwame back? by
Roland Lazenby / July 24, 2008
The Lakers could have used Kwame Brown in the Finals against Boston.
Is that why they are thinking of bringing him back?
•Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Good news for Hickson by
Bill Ingram / July 21, 2008
The Cavaliers didn't win a game but JJ Hickson finished with averages
of 19.4 points and 53% shooting. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
He did it again by
Bill Ingram / July 20, 2008
Jerryd Bayless almost single-handedly took out the Suns, scoring
17 points in the fourth quarter in Portland’s 74-73 win. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Fighting for a spot by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 19, 2008
NBA journeyman Dahntay Jones is proving he belongs in the league.
Friday, he led the Nuggets with 29 points against the Rockets. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
The best so far by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 18, 2008
Jerryd Bayless is the best player in Vegas. He was impressive again
Thursday scoring 29 points in a loss to the Wolves. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Learning quickly by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 17, 2008
Kevin Love had a great game with 18 points and 17 rebounds but the
Timberwolves came up short against the Lakers.
•Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Big shot Bayless by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 16, 2008
Jerryd Bayless is not afraid of taking the winning shot. He tied
the game with 9 seconds to go and missed the buzzer beater. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Finishing strong by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 15, 2008
Danilo Gallinari started slow in his summer league debut, but turned
it around at the end. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Jordan, Wright looking very solid by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 14, 2008
On
Day 3, Brandan Wright did his thing scoring 15 points and DeAndre
Jordan notched a double-double. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Mayo still money by
Preetom Bhattacharya / July 13, 2008
Grizzlies guard OJ Mayo was once again brilliant on the second day
of the Vegas Summer League. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Randolph show by Preetom Bhattacharya / July 12, 2008
Warriors' rookie Anthony Randolph was the man of the day in Vegas. •Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Brook looking much better by
Steve Kyler / July 9, 2008
Heat
forward Michael Beasley had a bad day and Nets center Brook Lopez
looked much better in Game 2, but the Heat still won. Is Mario Chalmers
their PG of the future?
•Read
more
[
S U M M E R .
L E A G U E
]
Beasley rocks by
Steve Kyler / July 7, 2008
Heat forward Michael Beasley looked every bit like the best player
in the draft in his first summer league against Derrick Rose and
the Bulls. •Read
more
[
G R I Z Z L I E S ] Navarro's strange trip back by Jorge
Sierra / June 19, 2008
One of the finest rookies in the NBA last season, Juan Carlos Navarro has decided to return to Europe. Why would he do such thing? Navarro's agent tries to explain his point view. •Read
more
[
D.R A F T ] Big guns show up by Matthew Kamalsky / May 31, 2008
NBA executives finally got the chance to see Derrick Rose, Michael Beasley and the rest of the projected lottery picks in action. •Read
more
[
D.R A F T ] Boosting the stock by Matthew Kamalsky / May 30, 2008
Gary Forbes, Wayne Ellington and Richard Hendrix, among others, helped themselves a lot on the third day of the Orlando camp. •Read
more
[
D.R
A F T
] Day Two in Orlando by
Matthew Kamalsky / May 29, 2008
Ty Lawson, DeVon Hardin and Joey Dorsey are looking to solidify
their status late in the first round.
•Read
more
[
D.R
A F T
] NBA
pre-Draft camp review: day one by
Matthew Kamalsky / May 28, 2008
Though there aren’t any lottery picks in attendance, the pre-Draft
camp always provides some intrigue, like Lester Hudson's buzzer-beater.
•Read
more
[
P L A Y O F F S
] Billups,
Iguodala finally join series by
Marc Narducci / May 1, 2008
Philadelphia’s Andre Iguodala and Detroit’s Chauncey
Billups had disappeared for long stretches of their playoff series
until Game 5. •Read
more
[
D E L L . C U R R Y ] Stephen's dad was a great
sharpshooter too by David
Friedman / April 22, 2008
Better known now as Stephen’s father, Dell Curry was a great sharpshooter in his own right, first at Virginia Tech and then during a 16-year NBA career. •Read more
[
J E F F . B O W E R ] The best unknown GM by Sam Smith / April 16, 2008
Jeff Bower's moves have been key to the Hornets' recent success, yet he doesn't get much credit for it. •Read more
[ R I C K Y . R U B I O ] A sure shot... in 2011? by Raul Barrigon / April 7, 2008
Spanish prodigy Ricky Rubio could have a long way to go before playing his first NBA game because of his current contract buyout. •Read more
[ M A G I C ] My 30-minute Dwight Howard free-throw fix by Dennis Hans / April 5, 2008
Superman can immediately leap from a 60-percent free-throw shooter to a 70 percenter, simply by re-learning his rookie rhythm and form. •Read more
[ D E N N I S. J O H N S O N ] 'Airplane' flew to three NBA titles by David Friedman / March 18, 2008
Dennis Johnson, perhaps the best defensive guard of his era, played on three NBA championship teams. Larry Bird called him the best teammate he ever had. •Read more
[ M A N U . G I N O B I L I ] Reaching a new level by Marc
Narducci / March 16, 2008
Despite earning three NBA titles in his first five seasons, Manu Ginobili may be having his best year for San Antonio.
•Read more
[ S U N S ] Shaq, Phoenix looking to find common ground by Marc
Narducci / March 2, 2008
The early results haven’t been encouraging, but it’s too early to suggest the Shaq experiment in Phoenix is headed toward failure. •Read more
[ B U Y O U T S ] Worth the fuss? by Jorge
Sierra / March 1, 2008
Several veterans got buyouts and made headlines this week for the interest they are drawing among playoff squads. But are these in-season additions paying off for contending teams? •Read more
[ J A C K . S I K M A ] Dependable and durable by David Friedman / February 26, 2008 Some great players never make it to the NBA Finals, but Jack Sikma played a key role on two finalists (including one champion) in his first two NBA seasons. •Read more
[ A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] James' jam punctuates East's win by David Friedman / February 19, 2008 LeBron James punctuated his All-Star MVP performance with a nasty slam dunk that drew raves from fans, players and coaches alike.
•Read more
[ A
L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Superman takes over New Orleans by David Friedman / February 17, 2008
Dwight Howard revealed his powerful alter ego in the Slam Dunk Contest and stole the show on All-Star Saturday night.•Read
more
[
T
R A D E S
] State
of the West by
Jorge Sierra / February 16, 2008 So
how do the NBA players feel about the recent player movement in
the Western Conference? •Read
more
[
A
L L - S T A R . D I A R Y
] Gibson
shoots down rookies by
David Friedman / February 16, 2008 Cavaliers
Daniel Gibson stole the show in the Rookie-Sophomore Game by draining
11 three-pointers. •Read
more
[
A
L L - S T A R . D I A R Y
] Learning
about the French Quarter by
David Friedman / February 15, 2008 Those
who are willing to go a bit off of the beaten path can discover
some of the things that give New Orleans its unique charm. •Read
more
[ L A K E R S ] Kobe still the king by Todd Dybas / January 22, 2008 If there was lingering doubt, shove it aside. Kobe Bryant is the best player in the NBA.•Read more
[ LE GE NDS ] Paul Westhead: Never slowing down by David Friedman / January 15, 2008
Paul Westhead is the only person to coach championship teams in the NBA (1980 L.A. Lakers) and WNBA (2007 Phoenix Mercury). •Read more
[ J A I L.B A SK E T B A L L ] Lorton Ball by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / January 8, 2007 Playing basketball at FCI Lorton can be really tough. But it also has some perks. •Read more
[ C E L T I C S ] Gang green by Todd Dybas / January 3, 2008
The Celtics used the offseason to assemble players known for their offense, but it has been defense and togetherness that has led to the league's best record. •Read more
[ P A C E R S ] A surprise only to outsiders by Marc
Narducci / December 25, 2007
The Indiana Pacers are among the most improved NBA teams. Just don’t tell the coaches and players that they are a surprise.•Read more
[ D A N . M AJERLE ] Evolving to survive by David
Friedman / December 17, 2007
Dan Majerle evolved from the high-flying “Thunder Dan” to a great three point shooter during his 14 year NBA career. •Read more
[ D W I G H T .H O W A R D ] Magic in the middle by Todd Dybas / December 6, 2007
Orlando center Dwight Howard is an early-season MVP candidate, shoving around everyone else in the league. But if you ask him, there's still a lot of work to be done on his game. •Read more
[ J A I L .B A S K E T B A L L ] Harlem raised by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / September 23, 2007
Jermaine White has been one of the top players at FCI Loretto for a while. Seth Ferranti tells his story. •Read more
[ B U C K S ] New expectations for Milwaukee by Marc
Narducci / November 28, 2007
Injuries contributed to a disappointing 2006-07 season for the Milwaukee Bucks, but now they appear to be an Eastern Conference playoff contender. •Read more
[ P A U L . W E S T P H A L ] Celtic sub shined brightly as a Sun by David
Friedman / November 20, 2007
Paul Westphal spent three seasons as a bench player in Boston but after being traded to Phoenix he emerged as one of the top guards in the NBA. •Read more
[ H O R N E T S ] Chandler looking to make that next step by Marc
Narducci / November 16, 2007
After a difficult beginning to his NBA career in Chicago, center Tyson Chandler has seen his career revived with the Hornets. Read more. •Read more
[ L A K E R S ] Tex praise by Roland Lazenby / November 12, 2007
All trouble aside, triangle guru Tex Winter is commending Kobe Bryant for his play early in the season. •Read more
[ O L L I E . T A Y L O R ] Battling giants at 6-2 by David
Friedman / October 9, 2007
Ollie Taylor rode the bench in high school before jumping center against Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in college and playing against Julius Erving and Rick Barry in the ABA. •Read more
[ T I M B E R W O L V E S ] Davis is an assist leader off the court by Marc
Narducci / October 3, 2007
Contrary to his flamboyant reputation, guard Ricky Davis is always ready to lend a helping hand. •Read more
[ J A I L .B A S K E T B A L L ] Baronestic by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / September 23, 2007
The best player at FCI Loretto might remind you of a certain Western Conference point guard. •Read more
[ M I K E .G A L E ] A journey from Elizabeth City State to the ABA Finals by David
Friedman / September 16, 2007
An excellent defender and a solid playmaker, Mike Gale enjoyed an 11 season ABA/NBA career playing alongside the likes of Artis Gilmore, Julius Erving and George Gervin. •Read more
[ H A L L . O F .F A M E ] Called for traveling by Marc
Narducci / September 8, 2007
The Basketball Hall of Fame goes on the road for the first time in its history, beginning the 30-city tour November 2 in Knoxville, Tennessee. •Read more
[ J O E .C A L D W E L L ] Banned from basketball by David
Friedman / August 15, 2007
Joe Caldwell earned recognition as an All-Star in the NBA and the ABA before his pro career abruptly ended. Three decades later, he still seeks the money and respect that he believes he is owed. •Read more
[ R O L E . P L A Y E R S ] Difference makers by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / August 14, 2007
Who are the best supporting cast players in the NBA nowadays? Seth Ferranti puts down a list. •Read more
[ J . .B O O G I E ] All-around game by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 24, 2007
J. Boogie is known as the King of Cali streetball. But his impact goes well beyond basketball. •Read
more
[ C E L T I C S ] Gomes dedicated to charitable endeavor by Marc
Narducci / July 19, 2007
Boston’s Ryan Gomes is lending much more than his name to spread the word about Sudden Cardiac Arrest. •Read
more
[ J O H N . M A C L E O D ] The man behind Suns rise by David
Friedman / July 18, 2007
John MacLeod had the Suns running and gunning three decades ago and his 1976 squad made an improbable run to the NBA Finals. •Read
more
[ J A I L .B A S K E T B A L L ] Slam dunk machine by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 11, 2007
Ali Tatum is definitely no angel, but that doesn’t stop him from soaring like one on the court. •Read
more
[ P I S T O N S ] Webber playing waiting game by Marc
Narducci / June 27, 2007
Chris Webber isn’t ready to commit to another season, although the game, just like his charitable endeavors, still tugs at his heart. •Read more
[ L E G E N D S ] Cowens helped restore Celtics pride by David
Friedman / June 21, 2007
Following in Bill Russell’s footsteps was a daunting task, but Dave Cowens led the Celtics to two championships and earned recognition as one of the NBA’s 50 Greatest Players. •Read more
[ O R L A N D O . C A M P ] Jordan passes the test by Marc
Narducci / June 2, 2007
Marist PG Jared Jordan made a point while playing the point at the pre-draft camp. •Read more
[ O R L A N D O . C A M P ] Dudley out to disprove skeptics by Marc
Narducci / June 1, 2007
Boston College forward Jared Dudley has received many accolades, but he’s still looking to win over NBA scouts. Read more. •Read more
[ O R L A N D O . C A M P ] Karl enjoys impressive debut by Marc
Narducci / May 31, 2007
Boise State guard Coby Karl was among the many players who enjoyed great debuts at the NBA pre-draft camp. Nobody was more inspiring. •Read more
[ O R L A N D O . C A M P ] Despite no-shows, pre-draft camp still beneficial by Marc
Narducci / May 30, 2007
It seems an even larger number of players have bypassed the NBA's pre-draft camp this year, but some draft prospects such as Florida's Taurean Green could see their stock rise. •Read more
[ P A U L . S H I R L E Y ] Can I keep my jersey? by Paul Shirley / May
18, 2007
Paul Shirley achieved Internet stardom thanks to his writing on NBA.com and ESPN.com. Now his work is on paper too. •Read more
[ S T E V E . K E R R ] "I just got by with what I had" by David
Friedman / May 14, 2007
Most of Steve Kerr’s opponents were quicker and stronger than he was, but Kerr carved out a 15-year NBA career based on intelligence, determination and the ability to consistently make outside shots. •Read more
[ B I L L Y . K N I G H T ] The quiet assassin by David
Friedman / April 9, 2007
Atlanta Hawks GM Billy Knight does not like to boast about his playing skills, but his game spoke volumes during an 11-year ABA-NBA career. •Read more
[ S T E V E . B L A K E ] Golden as Nugget by Sam Amico / March 26, 2007
Steve Blake has always been known as a distributor, a point guard who is at his best when setting up teammates to score. That is why he has been such a good fit alongside Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony in Denver. •Read more
[ K N I C K S ] Franchise's roller-coaster ride continues by Brad Gagnon / March 18, 2007
It seems Jamal Crawford’s season-ending ankle injury produced a minor-miracle for Steve Francis’s knee. Now, only days after talking retirement, The Franchise is back in a starter’s role, and leading the Knicks in a fight for the playoffs. •Read
more
[ K E N N Y . S M I T H ] Always ahead
of the game by David
Friedman / March 16, 2007
Kenny Smith has made a smooth transition from playing basketball to talking about the game on TNT. His next move may involve coaching or running an NBA franchise. •Read
more
[ A W A R D S ] Nash
should three-peat as NBA MVP by Marc Narducci / March 9, 2007
Phoenix’s point guard Steve Nash has won the previous two MVP awards
and now is playing even better this season. •Read more
[ A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Kobe
show by David Friedman / February 19, 2007
Kobe Bryant capped off a busy weekend by winning his second All-Star Game
MVP. Unlike the last time he won, this time his triumph was greeted with
cheers. •Read
more
[ A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Veteran Shaq
still the class clown by David
Friedman / February 18, 2007
Shaq breakdanced, DWade showed off his skills, Jason Kapono nearly broke the Three-Point Shootout record, Gerald Green dunked over Nate Robinson and Bill Laimbeer still loves being hated. •Read more
[ A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Potential Pip comeback creates extra buzz by David
Friedman / February 17, 2007
Scottie Pippen ponders a comeback, the Hall of Fame announces its 15 Finalists and the rookies are MIA from the Rookie-Sophomore Challenge. •Read more
[ A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] No time to sleep by David
Friedman / February 16, 2007
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman promised to “dwarf” the efforts of previous All-Star Weekend host cities and Vegas is off to a good start toward doing just that. •Read more
[ M A R K . A G U I R R E ] Dropping knowledge by David
Friedman / February 14, 2007
Mark Aguirre was unstoppable on the block despite standing just 6-6. Now he is teaching the tricks of the trade to a young corps of Knicks’ post players. •Read more
[ M I K E . H E L M ] Scoring machine by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / January 29, 2007
Seth Ferranti met a new guy when moving to his new prison – and he's one of the finest jail basketball players he's seen so far. And he's seen a few. •Read more
[ B R A D . D A U G H E R T Y ] From the court to the race track by David
Friedman / January 26, 2007
Brad Daugherty made his name playing basketball, but he never lost interest in another fast-paced sport: NASCAR. •Read more
[ C H A R L I E . H U R T ] Repping B-More by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / January 6, 2007
Locked down for over a decade now, former Dunbar HS player Charlie Hurt has kept showcasing his basketball skills away from the spotlight. •Read more
[ L A K E R S ] Fisher has always understood the simple truths by Roland Lazenby / December 28, 2006
If Kobe Bryant needs some advice in guiding the Lakers through a rough stretch of the season, he can always turn to an old friend. •Read more
[ R I C A R D O . E L E Y ] The legend speaks by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / December 25, 2006
Ricardo Eley, aka Purple, is considered one of the best prison basketball players ever. HoopsHype's Seth Ferranti got a chance to speak with him. •Read more
[ W O R L D . B . . F R E E ] From Rucker Park to the NBA Finals by David Friedman / December 23, 2006
World B. Free never met a shot he didn’t like or couldn’t make, whether he was playing in the streets or on an NBA court. •Read more
[ L A K E R S ] Where the dinosaurs roam by Roland Lazenby / December 14, 2006
Phil Jackson knows how to lead Kwame Brown away from ridicule because he's been there himself. •Read more
[ P E T E . M A R A V I C H ] The Pistol by Wayne Federman and Marshall Terrill, in collaboration with Jackie Maravich / November 12, 2006
A little known fact about Pete Maravich is that he and Julius Erving were once teammates. But the magnificent duo was not to last long. •Read more
[ P H I L . H U B B A R D ] Playing within limits by David Friedman / November 8, 2006
Phil Hubbard might have become an NBA star if not for a serious knee injury. Instead, he persevered, accepted his limitations and had a solid 10-year NBA career. •Read more
[ R U L E S ] The death
of defense? by Roland Lazenby / October 20, 2006
The NBA’s new interpretation of its rules has souped up the game offensively, but it radically limits defenders. •Read more
[ D E R R I C K . B A D Y ] Lil D by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / October 18, 2006
Small in size but big in heart, Derrick Bady has been dominating competition at FCI Memphis and FCC Forrest City for the last five years. •Read more
[ C E L T I C S ] The liberation
of Gerald Green by Alex Labidou / October 13, 2006
With each trial thrown his way, Celtics swingman Gerald Green continues to prove why he is one of the NBA's most driven young players. •Read more
[ S A T C H . S A N D E R S ] Unsung Celtic hero by David Friedman / October 12, 2006
Tom “Satch” Sanders entered the NBA nearly a decade before the league began selecting All-Defensive Teams, but he deserves to be considered one of the premier defensive forwards of his time. •Read more
[ T R A I N I N G . C A M P ] The battles by Sam Amico / October 1, 2006
There's a lot at stake for many NBA players in training camp. Which of them have more to win or lose this month? •Read more
[ C E L T I C S ] The revolution
wasn't televised by Roland Lazenby / September 18, 2006
The upcoming NBA season marks the 50th anniversary of the Boston Celtics’ first title, won by an amazing mix of rookies and grizzled veterans. A look back reveals how times have changed.•Read more
[ G R E G . O D E N ] Uncaged by David Krider, JR Shelt and Scott Freeman / September 14, 2006
Greg Oden could have been the No. 1 pick in the 2006 NBA Draft if high school players were still allowed to go straight into the league. Uncaged tells the inside story of his high school team, which garnered almost unprecedented attention on a national level. •Read more
[ E R V I N . M I T C H E L L ] The Gift by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / September 10, 2006
Ervin Mitchell, aka The Gift, claims he would be playing in minor leagues now if he wasn't in jail. When he gets out, Mitchell will try to use basketball to stay out of trouble. •Read more
[ P H I L .C H E N I E R ] A straight shooter by David Friedman / September 4, 2006
Phil Chenier was one of the best guards in the NBA in the mid-1970s before beginning a 20-plus year career as a color commentator for the Washington Wizards. • Read more
[ W I L T .C H A M B E R L A I N ] Big Norman by Roland Lazenby / August 24, 2006
In honor of Wilt Chamberlain's 70th birthday this month, the following excerpt is from Roland Lazenby's book The Show. It talks about Chamberlain's upbringing and his rocking introduction to the Lakers. • Read more
[ L E N . E L M O R E ] Athlete, attorney and advocate for social change by David Friedman / August 2, 2006
Len Elmore had a solid 10-year ABA/NBA career, but he never lost sight of his goal of becoming an attorney and urging athletes to develop self-reliance and community responsibility. • Read more
[ H I S T O R Y ] Why don't we see the skyhook? by Eric Stitt / July 29 2006
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s skyhook is the most incredible shot in basketball history, but it's no longer used today. Will it ever comeback, and how? • Read more
[ P H I L .J A C K S O N ] Where the
bodies are buried by Roland Lazenby / July 22, 2006
Caught up in their worship of Phil Jackson, Laker fans have a hard time accepting that he has a dark side.
• Read more
[ G R A Y S O N .B O U C H E R ] The Professor by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 20, 2006
Grayson Boucher, aka The Professor, does things we hadn't seen since the Skip to My Lou days. No wonder why he has become the face of the And1 Tour. • Read more
[ L A K E R S ] Tex's to-do list by Roland Lazenby / July 10, 2006
Tex Winter has some thoughts on what the Lakers will need to make the playoffs in the new and very improved Western Conference. • Read more
[ J O H N . H A V L I C E K ] The ultimate complete player by David Friedman / July 3, 2006
John Havlicek won eight championships as a Boston Celtic. He inherited the sixth man role from Frank Ramsey before becoming a perennial member of the All-NBA Team. • Read more
[ P R I S O N . B A S K E T B A L L ] Wild Bamma by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 1, 2006
Raymond Dukes, aka Wild Bamma, plays real hard in prison basketball games. And he takes a lot of pride in that. • Read more
[ T E X . W I N T E R ] Triangle basketball by Ann Parr / June 23, 2006
At the age of 10, Tex Winter experienced the death of his father. What resulted was an awakening of a belief in the coordinated efforts of family members to work together as a team. • Read more
[ D R A F T ] NBA camping trip worthwhile by Gery Woelfel / June 11, 2006
This year's NBA pre-draft camp may have lacked the luster of previous camps, but there were nevertheless some intriguing prospects who enhanced their draft status. • Read more
[ A L E X . E N G L I S H ] A true
basketball artist by David Friedman / June 9, 2006
When Alex English played, he considered basketball his art and the court was his canvas. • Read more
[ J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] Blacktop Bob by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / May 27, 2006
Imagine a criminally-minded Charles Barkley. That's how DC native Warren Cunningham, aka Blacktop Bob, plays the game of basketball in prison. • Read more
[ L A K E R S ] Tex on Kobe: He's not why we lost by Roland Lazenby / May 13, 2006
If you want to look for the reason why the Lakers lost to the Phoenix Suns in the playoffs, Tex Winter says you need to look beyond Kobe Bryant’s offense. • Read more
[ O F F . T H E . C O U R T ] The sixth man by Chris Palmer / May 3, 2006
Have you ever wondered what NBA players talk about in the locker room? What they say to their rivals on the court? Where they spend all that money? • Read more
[ D A V I D . L E E ] Hope for the future by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / April 15, 2006
The play of 6-foot-9 rookie forward David Lee has been one of the few bright spots in another terrible season for the New York Knicks. • Read more
[ P A T R I C K . E W I N G ] From "Hoya Destroya" to Yao's mentor by David Friedman / April 3, 2006
Patrick Ewing, once a devastating center in the NBA, is now a teacher for Yao Ming, who may very well be the game’s next dominant five. • Read more
[ R A Y M O N D . L E W I S ] L.A.'s ultimate
basketball player by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / March 29, 2006
Whenever people discuss the best players to never make it to the NBA, Raymond Lewis' name is brought up. And with good reason. • Read more
[ J E R O M E . W I L L I A M S ] A Dog's tale by Brad Gagnon / March 20, 2006
Despite interest from several teams, former NBA defensive-hound Jerome Williams packed up his gym shorts and sneakers after the 2004-05 season. After nine years in the league, JYD had a higher calling. • Read more
[ C H R I S . K A M A N ] Country boy by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / March 16, 2006
Sam Cassell and Elton Brand have received much of the credit for the Clippers' success this season. But what about third-year center Chris Kaman? • Read more
[ L E G E N D S ] Carr's records stand test of time by David Friedman / March 7, 2006
Austin Carr drove his way to March Madness immortality with a 61-point game in 1970 and a record 41.3 ppg career NCAA Tournament scoring average. His records remain unbeaten. • Read more
[ R A F E R . A L S T O N ] From the playground
to the pros by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / February 21, 2006
Success on streetball courts has not usually translated into success in the NBA. Rockets guard Rafer Alston is one of the few exceptions. • Read more
[ A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] King James
reigns in Houston by David Friedman / February 20, 2006
The final day of All-Star Weekend began with words of wisdom from Marques Haynes and ended with the crowning of LeBron James as the youngest All-Star MVP ever. • Read more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Spud
helps Nate steal the show by David Friedman / February 19, 2006
Kobe faces the media horde again, Spud Webb returns to the Slam Dunk Contest
and Ollie Taylor reminds us about the 20-year-old superstar who paved
the way for Bryant and many other underclassmen to join the NBA.
• Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R .D
I A R Y ] Honoring
the Past, Anticipating the Future by David Friedman / February 18, 2006
Friday’s activities included a Hall of Fame press conference honoring
basketball’s past and a Rookie Challenge Game offering a glimpse
of basketball’s future – plus a host of parties. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Observations
from Barkley and Naismith by David Friedman / February 17, 2006
Charles Barkley and Ian Naismith, Dr. James Naismith’s grandson,
offer their thoughts in the first of David Friedman’s daily behind-the-scenes
reports from All-Star Weekend in Houston. • Read
more
[ B O B . M C A D O O ] The numbers don't lie by David Friedman / February 6, 2006
The NBA’s 50 Greatest Players List from 1996 included every regular season NBA MVP except one – Bob McAdoo, who Bill Russell once called “the greatest shooter of all time, period.” • Read more
[ T H E . G A M E ] Rap and basketball by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / February 5, 2006
Jayceon Taylor, aka The Game, would rather make a living playing basketball than rapping. It's probably not going to happen anytime soon, but the guy can really can play. • Read more
[ J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] The rivalry by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / February 4, 2006
Darryl “DJ” Hairston and Antonio “Monkee” Rogers are the two top players at FCI Gilmer. But who's the best? Not an easy question to answer. • Read more
[ S U N S ] Stoudemire hopeful, but cautious in comeback by Marc Narducci / February 1, 2006
Suns forward Amare Stoudemire is moving along on schedule in his rehabilitation from knee surgery, but it's too early to be pinned down on a definitive return date. • Read more
[ S U P E R S O N I C S ] Not yet booming by Marc Narducci / January 11, 2006
The Seattle SuperSonics are looking to adjust on the fly to a coaching change, while attempting not to fall out of playoff contention in the Western Conference. • Read more
[ L A K E R S ] The Show by Roland Lazenby / January 8, 2006
The Los Angeles Lakers have long been one of the NBA's most exciting teams. In The Show, sportswriter Roland Lazenby brings the story of this charismatic team to life. • Read more
[ L E G E N D S ] Lanier's impact felt on
and off the court by David Friedman / January 4, 2006
Bob Lanier’s basketball accomplishments earned him the induction in the Hall of Fame, but he does not measure his success in life merely by tallying his points, rebounds and blocked shots. • Read more
[ M A R Q U E S . J O H N S O N ] Original point forward by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / December 9, 2005
Before Scottie Pippen, Anfernee Hardaway, Grant Hill or Antoine Walker, there was Marques Johnson.
• Read more
[ S U P E R S O N I C S ] Slick Watts's tales by Slick Watts and Frank Hughes / December 4, 2005
Slick Watts arrived in Seattle with nothing but his name, shiny head, headband, and his personality. He remains there to this day – one of the most memorable and likable icons of Seattle sports history. • Read more
[ D A R K O . M I L I C I C ] Turning point by Nikola Olic / November 22, 2005
Life is much better for Pistons forward Darko Milicic with Larry Brown no longer in Detroit. Ant it should keep getting better. • Read more
[ K I N G S ] Reynolds remembers by Jerry Reynolds and Don Drysdale / November 15, 2005
Jerry Reynolds has been part of the Sacramento Kings for two decades. On Reynolds Remembers, he has put on paper some of the memories of his time with the franchise. • Read more
[ W I L T . C H A M B E R L A I N ] Larger than life by Robert Allen Cherry / November 11, 2005
Everyone knows Wilt Chamberlain was a physical marvel who was proud of his body and his athletic (and sexual) feats. Few athletes could command the stage with a more dominating presence. But Wilt: Larger Than Life pulls the curtain back on the private Chamberlain, revealing new details. • Read more
[ B U C K S ] Big step forward by Gery Woelfel / October 28, 2005
With the Bucks' backcourt in good hands, GM Larry Harris solidified the team's shaky front line by acquiring Jamaal Magloire. The deal, Bucks and NBA officials concur, should catapult Milwaukee into a viable playoff participant in the East. • Read more
[ D E N N I S . R O D M A N ] I should
be dead now by Dennis Rodman and Jack Isenhour / October 26, 2005
Five-time NBA champion Dennis Rodman has had an eventful life on and off the basketball court. He talks about all that in his new book. • Read more
[ A N T H O N Y . G R A H A M ] Pro dreams by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / October 23, 2005
Anthony Allen Graham believes he could have played in the NBA like his former teammate Latrell Sprewell given the right circumstances. It was not meant to happen. • Read more
[ B O B B Y . J O N E S ] The ultimate team player by David Friedman / October 19, 2005
Bobby Jones filled whatever role his team needed without regard to his statistics. He earned eight consecutive selections to the NBA All-Defensive 1st Team, cementing his legacy as a legendary team player. • Read more
[ J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] The myth
of Purple by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / September 18, 2005
Prison basketball star Purple may no longer be alive, but his legend certainly is. • Read more
[ S K I P . W I S E ] The greatest who
never made it by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / September 3, 2005
Not Carmelo Anthony. Not even Sam Cassell. According to many, the best player to come out of Baltimore is one that never played a game in the NBA. • Read more
[ L E G E N D S ] Warren Jabali in
his own words by David Friedman / August 31, 2005
You may have never heard of four-time ABA All-Star Warren Jabali. And you almost certainly have never heard from him in his own words. He let his game do his talking. • Read more
[ K E V I N . D R E W ] Pure Vanilla by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / August 12, 2005
Flashy shooting guard Kevin Drew could very well make a living off his basketball skills once he leaves prison next year. Just watch out. • Read more
[ R O N . P A U L ] The streets
are watching by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / August 1, 2005
Jail basketball legend Ron Paul will soon be released from prison. Will he be able to live up to the hype he generated behind bars? • Read more
[ R O C K Y . M O U N T A I N . R E V U E ] Here to stay by Gerald Narciso / July 23, 2005
The Vegas Summer League may have taken some of the teams, but it didn't take any of the fan support. Thanks to players like Deron Williams or Sean May, the Rocky Mountain Revue was once again a success.
• Read more
[ L A R R Y . W A L K E R ] The truth by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 19, 2005
Larry Walker Jr. played against some of the best ballers in Michigan and dreamed of making it in the NBA one day. That was before the streets got in his way. • Read more
[ A R T I S . G I L M O R E ] Still waiting for
Hall of Fame call by David Friedman / July 5, 2005
Artis Gilmore is one of the leading scorers, rebounders and shot blockers in pro basketball history. Why has the A-Train not arrived at the Basketball Hall of Fame? • Read more
[ D R A F T ] Winners and losers become evident by George Rodecker / June 30, 2005
The 2005 NBA Draft is in the books now and it may always be regarded as one of the most bizarre in history.
• Read more
[ D R A F T ] NBA draftees
dressed for success by Marc Narducci / June 29, 2005
Draft night provided a glimpse of potential future stars of the NBA and these youngsters certainly proved that they could dress for success. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] Bogut
looks like the man by Gery
Woelfel / June 20, 2005
Andrew Bogut was determined to prove to the Bucks that he was a better
athlete than most people perceived. Mission accomplished. • Read more
[
R O B E R T . R O T H B A R T ] A
difficult journey by Amir
Bogen / June 18, 2005
NBA hopeful Robert Rothbart could write a book about his life. From the
horrors of war in Bosnia to the death of his brother, the 7-foot-1 center
has certainly been through a lot. • Read more
[
P R E D R A G . S T O J A K O V I C ] King
for life? by Nebojsa
Petrovacki / June 16, 2005
Remember Predrag Stojakovic asking for a trade and saying he was no longer
happy playing with the Sacramento Kings? Well, forget about the whole
thing. • Read more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] Pistons
not media friendly by David
Carro / June 15, 2005
If you thought it was hard to face Ben and Rasheed Wallace on a basketball
court, try asking them questions in the locker room. • Read more
[
P R E - D R A F T . C A M P ] The
final recap by George
Rodecker / June 13, 2005
A few select players really helped their cause in the Chicago camp while
another group may have dashed their draft hopes. Most simply performed
as expected and did little to change any minds. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] Andriuskevicius
seized the moment by Gery
Woelfel / June 12, 2005
Lithuanian center Martynas Andriuskevicius drew mixed reviews from scouts
after his workout Thursday afternoon in Chicago. • Read more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] The
Manu by David
Carro / June 10, 2005
Spurs guard Emanuel Ginobili played his heart out and dropped 26 points
on the Pistons in Game 1 of the Finals. No wonder why he has become the
favorite player of San Antonio's fans. • Read more
[
P L A Y O F F S ] The
view from the inside by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / May 16, 2005
Inmates at FCI Gilmer are following the NBA playoffs closely and putting
their money of the Miami Heat to win it all this year. • Read more
[
L A B O R . T A L K S ] What
agents think by Jorge
Sierra / May 12, 2005
We asked several NBA agents about their thoughts on the labor talks and
the possibility of another lockout. Pessimism is the prevailing feeling
at this point. • Read more
[
W I L T . C H A M B E R L A I N ] The
Dipper in Harlem by Gary
M. Pomerantz / April 28, 2005
March 2, 1962, presented the awesome sight of Wilt Chamberlain imposing
himself on a world that would diminish him. Wilt, 1962 is not only
the story of a basketball game but a meditation on small towns, midcentury
America, and one of the most intriguing figures in the pantheon of sports
heroes. • Read more
[
J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] White
Chocolate by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / April 12, 2005
When the expectations are great and the bar gets raised too high, it's
hard to handle all the pressure. Just ask Rhode Island's White Chocolate. • Read more
[
P O R T S M O U T H ] Few
true draft prospects by George
Rodecker / April 11, 2005
The 53rd edition of the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament offered few
NBA prospects and no first-rounders. But more than a few of those in camp
did indeed distinguish themselves. • Read more
[
C E L T I C S ] Jefferson
exceeding early expectations by Marc
Narducci / April 4, 2005
Boston's Al Jefferson entered the league with a relatively low profile,
but has made a smoother than expected transition from high school to the
NBA. • Read more
[
J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] The
Ohio mob by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / March 12, 2005
FCI Gilmer has many talented basketball players from the East Coast – from New York to Baltimore to Washington. But Ohio is also well represented
with Demetrius Parker, Keylan Martin and Clavin Moore.
• Read
more
[
A B A . R E U N I O N ] We
are family by David
Friedman / March 2, 2005
Sister Sledge's "We Are Family" was released a few years after
the NBA-ABA merger, but it is the perfect theme song to represent how
ABA players feel about each other. • Read
more
[
7 6 E R S ] Chris
Webber: The game I'll never forget by Chris
Webber, as told to Brett Ballantini / February 26, 2005
Chris Webber shared his Game I’ll Never Forget one week before
being traded from a Sacramento Kings team he raised from also-ran to almost-champ.
Not surprisingly, his most memorable moments come in a Sacto uni.
• Read
more
[
C H R I S . M U L L I N ] The
underdog by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / February 23, 2005
The Chris Mullin of FCI Fairton has nothing in common with the Chris Mullin
of the Golden State Warriors. Except some really outstanding basketball
skills, that is. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Stars
show admiration for one another by Marc Narducci / February 21, 2005
A greeting between two of the game's top superstars was just one of many
memorable moments behind the scenes at the All-Star Game. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] No
sophomore jinx for second-year players by Marc Narducci / February 19, 2005
The Sophomores had a dominating performance during the Rookie game and
LeBron James was just as impressive on the court as he was off. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Party
about to start in Denver by Marc Narducci / February 18, 2005
Denver is gearing up for the All-Star Weekend, where both the city and
the NBA will be in the national and international spotlight. • Read
more
[
C A R M E L O . A N T H O N Y ] Keeping
it real by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / January 24, 2005
Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony has taken a lot of heat for his cameo
appearance in an underground DVD filmed in his native city of Baltimore.
Maybe just too much. • Read
more
[
C A V A L I E R S ] Protecting
the Gund by Bruce Meyer / January 14, 2005
For the Cavaliers to become a championship team, they first must take
some baby steps. In the second year of the LeBron James era, that means
taking care of business at home. • Read
more
[
B L A Z E R S ] Woods
dealing with an uncertain future by Andy Jasner / January 11, 2005
Blazers forward Qyntel Woods remains sidelined while under investigation
for alleged dogfighting, but he has not been forgotten by his teammates. • Read
more
[
T A I W A N . A U S T I N ] Harlem
World by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / January 9, 2005
Taiwan Austin has the flash and dash of an And1 baller. Too bad nobody
can't see that outside the walls of his prison in West Virginia. • Read
more
[
Z A Z A . P A C H U L I A ] Family
man by Gery
Woelfel / January 3, 2005
Bucks power forward Zaza Pachulia had his share of drama before arriving
in the NBA. Luckily, his mother was with him all along the way. • Read
more
[
R O G E R . B R O W N ] Ankle
breaker and shot maker by David
Friedman / December 27, 2004
Roger Brown overcame unjust banishments from the NCAA and the NBA to lead
the Indiana Pacers to three ABA titles. His peerless skills and amazing
ability to deliver in the clutch inspired basketball legends like Julius
Erving and George Gervin. • Read
more
[
D A R Y L . C A R P E N T E R ] A
true BOP legend by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / December 18, 2004
There might have not been a better player in prison basketball than Daryl
Carpenter, aka Silk, in the last two decades. This is his story. • Read
more
[
N U G G E T S ] Anthony
rebounding well by Andy
Jasner / December 15, 2004
Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony says he feels at peace when the games
start. After a tough summer and fall, he appears to be back on track. • Read
more
[
S U P E R S O N I C S ] Sonics
off to super start by Chris
Ekstrand / December 12, 2004
How does a Seattle team featuring the same head coach and virtually the
same cast of players who went 37-45 a year ago combine to produce the
second-best record in the NBA over the first quarter of the regular season?
• Read
more
[
M A G I C ] Jameer's
story by Floyd
"Pete" Nelson and Elaine Whelan / December 4, 2004
Jameer Nelson made a tough journey from the ghetto of Chester, Pennsylvania
to the NBA. His father, Floyd Nelson, was there with him all along and
now tells the whole story in the new book Jameer. • Read
more
[
W I Z A R D S ] Jamison
adds life to Washington by Marc
Narducci / November 29, 2004
After one season coming off the bench for the Dallas Mavericks, 6-foot-9
forward Antawn Jamison is back in his accustomed starting spot and sparking
a resurgence in Washington. • Read
more
[
B R A W L ] No
love for Ron by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / November 27, 2004
The incidents in the game between Pacers and Pistons stirred a debate
among basketball fans across the country. The "basketbrawl"
was a subject of discussion at FCI Gilmer too. And surprisingly, most
inmates didn't support Ron Artest's actions. • Read
more
[
W A R R I O R S ] Andris
the Giant by AJ
Hayes / November 26, 2004
The Golden State Warriors believe they have a future starter in 6-foot-11
forward Andris Biedrins, the team's first-round pick in the last NBA Draft. • Read
more
[
K N I C K S ] Many still doubting Thomas by Marc
Narducci / November 14, 2004
After the worst start of his career, New York Knicks forward Tim Thomas
hopes that better days lie ahead following an encouraging performance. • Read
more
[
B A L T I M O R E ] The Dome by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti and Darryl
Hairston / November 4, 2004
Baltimore's Dome has garnered a reputation only second to New York's Rucker
Park in the streetball world. And the legend keeps growing. • Read
more
[
B U L L S ] Tales from the hardwood by Bill
Wennington and Kent McDill / October
31, 2004
In the late '90s, the Bulls had the greatest team in NBA history. Bill
Wennington’s Tales from the Bulls Hardwood tells some of the
inside stories from that team, the one that won three NBA titles from
1996 through 1998.
• Read
more
[
E L E C T I O N S ] Presidential race intrigues foreign players by Gery
Woelfel / October 29, 2004
The presidential election is set for Tuesday and seemingly everybody has
an opinion on which candidate should be elected. American citizens aren't
the only ones who have a keen interest in the presidential race, though.
So do many foreign NBA players. • Read
more
[
J A Z Z ] Boozer excited for a fresh start by Andy
Jasner / October 27, 2004
After two seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers and a very tumultuous summer,
third-year forward Carlos Boozer is anxious to help lead the Utah Jazz
back to the playoffs. • Read
more
[
P O L O ] Little big man by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / October 18, 2004
Jade Best, aka Polo, may be much smaller than the average basketball player,
but he's got enough skills and heart to dominate on the courts of FCI
Fairton. • Read
more
[
H E A T ] A
shot at the title by Marc
Narducci / October 7, 2004
They are talking title in Miami with the addition of Shaquille O'Neal.
But do the Heat have the outside shooting to challenge the elite of the
NBA? • Read
more
[
S T E P H I N E . S T O K E S ] The
Matrix by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / October 1, 2004
Suns forward Shawn Marion is called The Matrix in the NBA. FCI Gilmer
has its own version of Matrix in prison basketball star Stephine Stokes. • Read
more
[
S E R G I O . R O D R I G U E Z ] Spanish
Chocolate by Enrique Peinado / September 24, 2004
Sergio Rodriguez admires Jason Williams and has modeled his game after
him. If nothing strange happens, the 18-year-old Spanish point guard will
soon join his idol in the NBA. • Read
more
[
C L Y D E . D R E X L E R ] Honoring
the Glide by Andy
Jasner / September 10, 2004
After 15 NBA seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers and Houston Rockets,
Clyde Drexler received the ultimate honor Friday night by being inducted
into the Basketball Hall of Fame. • Read
more
[
Y O U N G . P A U L ] The
white shadow by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / September
6, 2004
Getting respect behind the walls can be a difficult task – especially
if you are a white basketball player from Maine with a soft reputation. • Read
more
[
D R A F T ] An
early look by George
Rodecker / August 30, 2004
While November and the first NCAA Division I contests seem light years
away, it’s never too early to begin to look at college players who
excel at their game enough to get very serious attention from NBA scouts.
• Read
more
[
O L Y M P I C . G A M E S ] Athens
stars by Jorge
Sierra / August 29, 2004
San Antonio Spurs guard Emanuel Ginobili was the official MVP of the Olympic
basketball tournament, but several other players deserved the honor nearly
as much as Manu. • Read
more
[
J O H N . S T A R K S ] Life of a Knick by John Starks and Dan
Markowitz / August 18, 2004
Former NBA player John Starks went through a lot before becoming a star
in the league with the New York Knicks in the '90s. He talks about those
experiences in John Starks: My Life. • Read more
[
C L Y D E . D R E X L E R ] Clyde the Glide by Clyde Drexler and Kerry
Eggers / August 12, 2004
Five years beyond his retirement as a player, Clyde Drexler is ready to
talk. For the first time, the former Rocket and Blazer sounds
off on a variety of subjects in the new book, Clyde the Glide. • Read
more
[
J O E . B L A C K ] A Bronx tale by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / August 9, 2004
Back in the day, Joe Black was known to many as Air Black, the kid from
the Bronx that had crazy hops, hangtime and would fiercely penetrate to
the rack like MO. That was in 1994. Now Joe Black is still in the system
doing his thing. • Read more
[
S U M M E R . P R O . L E A G U E ] Igniting some careers, ending others by Morris O'Kelly / July 26, 2004
The 35th annual Summer Pro League is now history. After the flurry of
dunks and unbelievably spirited play, all that remains are the memories
of those who helped themselves. • Read more
[
S P U R S ] A summer in San Antonio by Aleksandar Dzikic / July 22, 2004
Europeans are still a rarity on NBA coaching staffs, but some get a chance
to learn during summer league action. One of them is Partizan Belgrade
assistant Aleksander Dzikic. He tells us about his experience with the
Spurs. • Read more
[
V E G A S . S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Good week for Ainge by Jordi Vila / July 20, 2004
With pretty impressive performances in the Vegas Summer League, Celtics'
first-round picks Al Jefferson, Tony Allen, Delonte West and Marcus Banks
made Boston GM Danny Ainge looked good last week. • Read more
[
B U C K S ] Harris' work never finished by Gery Woelfel / July 19, 2004
Larry Harris has a reputation of being one of the hardest workers in the
NBA. During this month's all important free-agency period, he has done
nothing to tarnish that reputation. • Read more
[
J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] Always balling by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 18, 2004
From the dangerous streets of Washington to the infamous Lorton prison
to FCI Gilmer in West Virginia, Laruan, Big Sid and Tone have never stopped
balling. • Read
more
[
L A K E R S ] Talking trade by Morris O'Kelly / July 16, 2004
Mitch Kupchak, Chris Mullin, Mike Montgomery, Geoff Petrie and Pete Carril
were all in attendance for the Summer Pro League in Long Beach. We ask
them about their opinion on the Shaquille O'Neal trade.
• Read more
[
A B C D . C A M P ] Underclassmen capture attention by Jordi Vila / July 13, 2004
The seniors-to-be were better than advertised, but it was underclassmen
like Greg Oden, Derrick Caracter and OJ Mayo who made the biggest impression
at the ABCD Camp. • Read more
[
O R L A N D O . S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Howard a defensive star by Mike Tuck / July 12, 2004
It was a very hot and sunny week in Central Florida as a number of rookies
and second-year NBA players tried to shine while older players just tried
to keep the fire lit. • Read more
[
M I N N E S O T A . S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Bobcats' first success by Marc Narducci / July 11, 2004
The Charlotte Bobcats got off on the right foot in the Minnesota Summer
League. Sixers guard Willie Green showed he could be among the most improved
NBA players. Others in the league caught scouts' eyes.
• Read more
[
V I N C E . C A R T E R ] Choose your course by Vince Carter / June 5, 2004
From a music-filled childhood to winning an Olympic gold medal, Raptors
superstar Vince Carter emphasizes the importance of knowing where you
are going and working to get there. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] Draft night in prison by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / July 3, 2004
"Who are you?" was the theme of the NBA Draft on Thursday night,
June 24. Just like the spectators, players and family members at Madison
Square Garden, dudes at FCI Gilmer were glued to the proceedings. In the
prison's TV room, that is. • Read more
[
J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] Homeboyz by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / June 29, 2004
When he was a free man, DJ played against the likes of Carmelo Anthony,
Ron Artest, Lamar Odom, Elton Brand and Baron Davis. Now in jail, he plays
with his homeboy T-Y. • Read
more
[
D R A F T ] The backstage by Marc Narducci / June 26, 2004
Connecticut's Emeka Okafor was most dressed for success at the NBA Draft,
while former Hornet and new Charlotte Bobcats executive Dell Curry remained
calm amidst the chaos. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] A night of surprises by George
Rodecker / June 25, 2004
After months of speculation, early entry candidates in and out, pre-draft
camps, individual and team workouts – not to mention trade rumors galore – it all finally came down to one night in The Big
Apple. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] The final countdown by George Rodecker / June 23, 2004
With the draft finally coming this Thursday, the final hours leading up
to it will be anything but calm.
• Read
more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] Not much hodown in Motown by Michael Eaves / June 16, 2004
Having spurned such smooth steppers as The Temptations and The Jackson
Five, you would think Detroit would have better cheerleaders. • Read more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] Birmingham is bringing it and then some by Michael Eaves / June 14, 2004
Whether you are looking for an NBA jersey or an NBA player, Birmingham,
Michigan is your spot this week.
• Read
more
[
P R E - D R A F T . C A M P ] Grading the campers by George Rodecker / June 13, 2004
The common thought is that no one fully clinched a first-round spot with
his play in Chicago. But last year no one expected Troy Bell or Dahntay
Jones to go as high as they did after the pre-draft camp. • Read
more
[
P R E - D R A F T. C A M P ] Splitter bombs by George Rodecker / June 12, 2004
While Jackie Butler, Luis Flores and Damien Wilkins excelled on the last
day of camp, highly touted Brazilian forward Tiago Splitter greatly disappointed
in an individual workout. • Read
more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] Pistons fans bring the thunder(sticks) by Michael Eaves / June 11, 2004
Just when the Lakers thought the Wallace connection was their biggest
obstacle in the NBA Finals, Pistons fans send them a loud reminder otherwise. • Read
more
[
P R E - D R A F T . C A M P ] Two possible first-rounders emerge by George Rodecker / June 11, 2004
The third day saw a series of games that finally offered up two players
who have likely played themselves into the first round. Meanwhile, the
workout craze lost steam. • Read
more
[
P R E - D R A F T . C A M P ] Workouts steal the show by George Rodecker / June 10, 2004
Day Two featured three games at the NBA Pre-Draft Camp, but all the attention
had been shifted to the individual workouts being held at Hoops the Gym
and the MetroFlex. • Read
more
[
P R E - D R A F T . C A M P ] Individual workouts, then the draft camp by George Rodecker / June 9, 2004
30 NBA teams gathered in Chicago for the pre-draft camp while individual
workouts already were in motion across the city. • Read
more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] Oh, the things you see at a Lakers game! by Michael Eaves / June 7, 2004
Staples Center is by far the most star-studded arena in the NBA, and maybe
that is why you can expect to see just about anything. • Read more
[
B L A C K . B A S K E T B A L L ] Hot Potato by Bob Kuska / June 3, 2004
Most people assume that the rise of black basketball was a fortuitous
accident of inner-city playgrounds. But it was in fact a consciously organized
movement with very specific goals. • Read more
[
A N T O N I O . R O G E R S ] The Monkee Show by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / May 27, 2004
With his aggressive and entertaining style, Antonio Rogers, aka Monkey,
has become one of the biggest basketball legends in American penitentiaries
in the last decade. • Read
more
[
A L L - P R I S O N . T E A M ] Who got game? by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / May 18, 2004
Certain players from the League get big props on the inside for how they
play and how they carry themselves. Like they say, real recognizes real. • Read
more
[
P L A Y O F F S ] Predictions from the cell by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / May 13, 2004
The inmates at FCI Gilmer in West Virginia are following the NBA playoffs
closely and picking either the Sacramento Kings or the Los Angeles Lakers
to win it all this year. • Read
more
[
W A Y N E . E M B R Y ] The inside game by Wayne Embry and Mary
Schmitt Boyer / May 10, 2004
Wayne Embry went from being an All-Star player at Miami University to
an NBA Executive of the Year. In his autobiography, The Inside Game,
Embry chronicles his 40 years in the NBA and discusses the problems threatening
to undermine it. • Read
more
[
R O C K E T S ] The Tao of Yao by Oliver Chin / May 9, 2004
Basketball has known great, versatile centers. But Yao Ming, selfless
and fundamentally sound, has the potential to write a whole new chapter. • Read
more
[
B L A C K . P L A Y E R S ] They cleared the lane by Ron Thomas / May 4, 2004
Today, black players compose more than 80 percent of the NBA’s rosters.
In the first half of the 20th century, however, pro basketball was tainted
by racism, as gifted African Americans were denied the opportunity to
display their talents. • Read
more
[
R O N . H A M M O N D ] All he does is win by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / April 19, 2004
They call him Catch-me-if-you-can. Ron Hammond. Register number 32189-037.
Federal prisoner in the War on Drugs. He's no regular inmate, though.
He's a baIler. • Read
more
[
A L L E N . I V E R S O N ] Fairton's favorite by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / April 13, 2004
No one can beat Allen Iverson when it comes to street credibility. But
respect for AI goes well beyond the streets. At the Fairton Federal Prison
in New Jersey, he is by far the most respected NBA player among inmates. • Read
more
[
P O R T S M O U T H ] Final games tell a tale by George Rodecker / April 11, 2004
The worth and skills of the players become clearer as the Portsmouth Invitational
Tournament concludes.
• Read
more
[
P O R T S M O U T H ] Budding stars revealed by George Rodecker / April 10, 2004
Two semifinals matchups and a consolation qualifier set the tone with
many players shining in the third day of competition at the Portsmouth
Invitational Tournament. • Read
more
[
P O R T S M O U T H ] Second day delivers good play by George Rodecker / April 9, 2004
Three games were completed and six doubles-doubles were recorded as the
quality of play took a quantum leap forward. • Read more
[
P O R T S M O U T H ] Camp kicks off by George Rodecker / April 8, 2004
64 college seniors arrive for first audition before 30 NBA teams and several
international leagues in Virginia’s Port City. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] Tourney also provides individual opportunities by George Rodecker / April 6, 2004
Legend has always had it that the NCAA Tourney always brings out the best
in guard play. This 2004 edition was no exception. • Read
more
[
O S C A R . R O B E R T S O N ] The Big O by Oscar Robertson / April 5, 2004
Basketball legend Oscar Robertson attracted as much attention for his
on-court magic as he did for his controversial stances and uncompromising
personality. In "The Big O," Robertson speaks out for the first
time.
• Read
more
[
J A I L . B A S K E T B A L L ] Championship dreams by Seth "Soul Man" Ferranti / March 31, 2004
Seth M Ferranti is the inmate number 18205-083 at the Fairton prison.
He is also a talented basketball writer whose articles have been published
in Slam and other magazines. From now on, his work will see the light
here too. • Read
more
[
P I S T O N S ] Wallace a hit in D-Town by Bruce Meyer / March 23, 2004
While Rasheed Wallace had his problems in Portland, so far he's been more
than welcomed in Detroit, where the Pistons are the hottest team in the
NBA. And his coach and teammates say he's a big reason why.
• Read
more
[
D R A F T . P R O S P E C T S ] Waiting for Rudy by David Carro / March 19, 2004
If they want Rudy Fernandez in the draft this year, the NBA scouts should
start rooting for his club. The Spanish version of Emanuel Ginobili –
already considered a potential lottery pick next June – will only
declare himself eligible if his team wins the title. • Read more
[
W A R R I O R S ] Cardinal takes flight by AJ Hayes / March 18, 2004
Warriors forward Brian Cardinal – twice rejected by other NBA teams
– has climbed from end-of-the-bench status to earn minutes and the
love of the Golden State fans. • Read
more
[
H A W K S ] Not playing like losers by Gery Woelfel / March 11, 2004
The Atlanta Hawks are currently residing in the low-rent district of the
Eastern Conference and have about as much of a chance of making the playoffs
as Al Sharpton has of being the Democrats' presidential nominee. But they
haven't thrown in the towel yet. • Read
more
[
H E A T ] Butler puts work ethic on overtime by Gery Woelfel / March 1, 2004
Heat forward Caron Butler has been plagued by knee and back issues this
season, but that hasn't altered his positive outlook. Butler is healthy
now and firmly believes there's plenty of time for him to help the Heat
reach the playoffs. • Read
more
[
D R A F T ] What the scouts think by Jose Ajero / February 28, 2004
The Spanish Cup has become one of the biggest basketball events in Europe.
NBA scouts always pack the stands and this year is no exception. We asked
five of them – Gary Brokaw, Danny Ferry, Masai Ujiri, Jason Filippi and
Steve Young – about their thoughts on the draft. • Read more
[
C H E R O K E E . P A R K S ] In the paint by Andrew Gottlieb / February 27, 2004
Former Clipper Cherokee Parks may not have become the star some people
expected him to be, but that doesn't mean he is not admired around the
league. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R ] Stars answer by Juan Pipkin / February 15, 2004
We asked Jason Kidd, Tracy McGrady, Andrei Kirilenko, Dirk Nowitzki and
Ben Wallace about their thoughts on the All-Star Weekend. This is what
the five NBA stars said. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] LeBron's show by Juan Pipkin / February 14, 2004
Suns sophomore Amare Stoudemire was named MVP of the Rookie Challenge,
but from the very first moment it was clear who the real star was. • Read more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Fashion victims by Enrique Peinado / February 13, 2004
Other than the Jam Session, there was not much All-Star related activity
going on in L.A. on Thursday. And what could you do in the Jam Session?
You could either watch Frankie Muniz play or buy clothes. Most chose the
latter. • Read
more
[
L E B R O N . J A M E S ] The rise of a star by David Lee Morgan, Jr. / February 10, 2004
The odds were against LeBron. Born in poverty to a 16-year-old single
mom, without a father, raised only with the help of various family and
neighbors ... he could have become just one more scarred product of a
rough childhood in the projects. Instead, he's the darling of the sports
world – and he plays the part well. • Read more
[
L A M A R . O D O M ] What, me worry? by Jason McIntyre / February 5, 2004
Miami Heat forward Lamar Odom was left off the All-Star team. Possible
reasons: The Heat don't have the wins, and he hasn't shed his checkered
past. Odom didn't complain. He'll let his game do the talking. • Read more
[
D A V I D . T H O M P S O N ] Skywalker by David Thompson / February 3, 2004
Basketball legend David Thompson had a career full of high and low points.
Same can be said with his life off the court. He recently recounted all
his experiences in his autobiography, "Skywalker." This is an
excerpt of the book. • Read
more
[
W A R R I O R S ] Dampier whets All-Star appetite by AJ Hayes / January 13, 2004
The Warriors lost Monday, but Erick Dampier had yet another big game –
which only adds fuel to the fire that the 6-11 center is a legitimate
All-Star candidate. • Read
more
[
L A D È . M A J I C ] A woman in a men's world by Enrique Peinado / January 10, 2004
She is the first woman to play, coach and run the basketball operations
for a men's team. From the playgrounds to the world tours with the Harlem
Ambassadors, Ladè Majic has overcome all the prejudices. • Read more
[
J O S H . H O W A R D ] Worth the wait by Gery Woelfel / January 3, 2004
While the Dallas Mavericks had the last pick in the first round of the
2003 NBA Draft, they still got the player they coveted: Josh Howard. The
6-foot-7 swingman from Wake Forest hasn't disappointed. After starting
the season as a backup, he has stepped into the starting lineup and provided
the Mavs with some much-needed defense. • Read more
[
P A C E R S ] O'Neal doubles his pleasure by Gery Woelfel / December 28, 2003
The Indiana Pacers have a new coach and several new players, but they
still have Jermaine O'Neal, one of the biggest stars in the NBA. O'Neal
is enjoying another banner season and has helped guide his team to the
top in the Eastern Conference standings. • Read more
[
G R I Z Z L I E S ] The new J-Will by Jason McIntyre / December 5, 2003
Jason Williams has vaulted himself into the elite class of point guards
in the NBA. Credit an old school coach and Williams' young son for taming
the loose cannon. • Read
more
[
B U C K S ] Hard-working Redd rises in the ranks by Gery Woelfel / November 25, 2003
If the Bucks are one of the surprise teams in the NBA this season, that
is greatly thanks to Michael Redd. Through hard work, this former second-round
pick has continually improved his play and is now striving to become one
of the premier guards in the league. • Read
more
[
A R V Y D A S . S A B O N I S ] No way back by Linas Kunigelis / November 24, 2003
At 38 and in decent basketball shape, Arvydas Sabonis is still one of
the most coveted centers in the game. Several NBA teams (namely the Blazers)
are interested in him. But the interest is no longer reciprocal.
• Read
more
[
B A R O N . D A V I S ] The best PG? by Jason McIntyre / November 20, 2003
Now in his fifth NBA season, Baron Davis of the New Orleans Hornets may
be ready to emerge as the best point guard in the league. How did this
tiny kid from South Central, L.A. do it? • Read
more
[
L E B R O N . J A M E S ] Fitting in nicely by Bruce Meyer / November 12, 2003
Thus far, LeBron James has brought the Cavaliers points, rebounds, assists
and thousands more fans. But as a rookie, he has to bring one more thing:
the doughnuts. • Read
more
[
A A R O N . W I L L I A M S ] Not a star, just a winner by Jason McIntyre / November 10, 2003
Nets forward Aaron Williams got a late start to his basketball career,
hardly was recruited, and spent time in the CBA and overseas. Now he's
looking at a third trip to the NBA Finals. • Read
more
[
J A S O N . R I C H A R D S O N ] "I want to take it up another notch this year" by AJ Hayes / November 6, 2003
After serving a sobering three-game suspension for domestic violence,
high-flying Jason Richardson shook off some rust and returned to action
this week with a renewed enthusiasm for the game and a fully forged plan
to win the NBA's Slam Dunk contest for a record third time in a row. • Read
more
[
S T E V E . F R A N C I S ] Bouncing
around, never giving up by Jason McIntyre / November 5, 2003
Steve Francis is in a pivotal year with the Rockets. He's got a new coach
(Jeff Van Gundy) who favors a slow-down, pound-it-inside game (to Yao
Ming). Just another obstacle Francis will have to overcome. • Read
more
[
B R Y A N T . C A S E ] Facing the media storm by Michael Eaves / October 11, 2003
When it comes to sports and entertainment, few cities in the world can
amass a media frenzy quite like Hollywood. Kobe Bryant can definitely
attest to that reality as he faces a felony sexual assault charge on the
eve of his 8th season on the NBA’s most popular team. • Read more
[
D E R M A R R . J O H N S O N ] "I never doubted I would play again" by DerMarr Johnson (as told to
Jeff Sinomada) / October 7, 2003
On September 13, 2002, Atlanta Hawks guard DerMarr Johnson fell asleep
at the wheel and drove his car into a tree on his way home from a night
out with two friends. Just over a year later, he is completely healed
from the broken neck suffered in the accident and recently signed a free
agent make-good contract with the Phoenix Suns. • Read more
[
A M A R E . S T O U D E M I R E ] One for the ages by Steven Koek / September 10, 2003
Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Amare Stoudemire is nearly ready to take
to the court for five-on-five full-court action after offseason toe surgery
and has his sites set on making the Phoenix Suns a perennial contender.
• Read
more
[
N E M A N J A . A L E K S A N D R O V ] The next Milicic? by Enrique Peinado / August 12, 2003
When the search for the next LeBron James has just begun, the quest for
the new Darko Milicic might already be over. His name is Nemanja Aleksandrov
and some think he will be the No. 1 pick in the 2005 NBA Draft.
• Read
more
[
R O N . P A U L ] "Jail" Jordan by Enrique Peinado / July 30, 2003
He has never played organized ball. He has never been interviewed. He
has never received public recognition. But if you ask for the best basketball
player in prison, they'll tell you about Ron "The Abuser" Paul.
A legend behind bars. • Read
more
[
B R Y A N T . C A S E ] The players' point of view by Morris O'Kelly / July 23, 2003
A number of players expressed shock and disbelief at the sexual assault
charge levied against Kobe. There was a feeling that he was above the
situations that get many athletes into trouble. And there were those who
weren't sure what to think. Ultimately, it rang a bell whose message was
loud and clear for all to hear. • Read
more
[
S U M M E R . P R O . L E A G U E ] Where history and future come together by Morris O'Kelly / July 21, 2003
The SPL just concluded its 34th season and whereas you had your usual
parade of NBA stars, Hall of Famers and dignitaries, it had its usual
fair share of players whose careers had gone awry or not happened at all.
• Read
more
[
L A K E R S ] "Kobe will get through this" by Morris O'Kelly / July 15, 2003
The Lakers’ assistant coaches are responsible for the team at the
Summer Pro League. HoopsHype caught up with them after one of the games
to get their thoughts on the Kobe Bryant incident. • Read more
[
O R L A N D O . P R O . S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Things got better by Mike Tuck / July 14, 2003
Even without LeBron James for the last three days, this year's Orlando
Pro Summer League was much improved from last season's version. The play
was much better and the stars were more abundant. • Read more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] King James hits the big time by Mike Tuck / July 9, 2003
It felt as though he had been playing professionally for many seasons
now, but it was only his first game, and a summer league game at that.
LeBron James made his pro debut for the Cleveland Cavaliers in Orlando
Tuesday night in front of over 15,000 extremely loud and supportive fans.
And he looked every bit like a No. 1 pick.
• Read
more
[
R U C K E R . T O U R N A M E N T ] Asphalt gods by Vincent M. Mallozzi / June 29, 2003
On the fabled courts of Harlem, the legendary Rucker Tournament has influenced
everything from NBA-style playing to urban hip-hop culture. Now, a new
book looks at the pros and playground legends who helped turn basketball
into an art form. • Read
more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] A vision in white by Bruce Meyer / June 28, 2003
LeBron James wore a custom-tailored all-white suit to set himself apart
as he walked across the stage for the anti-climactic handshake with Commissioner
David Stern. Now that much of the pomp and circumstance is over, LeBron
can get back to what he likes most: playing basketball. • Read more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] Maximum concentration by David Carro / June 14, 2003
Conscious of the importance of Game 5, the Spurs and Nets players were
so concentrated on what was to come that they were not on the mood of
talking with the reporters. In the end, all that concentration only paid
off for San Antonio. Put part of the blame on Steve Kerr. • Read more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] New York believes by David Carro / June 13, 2003
The Lakers were too much. The Spurs are within reach. That's why, unlike
last season, those in New York and around have hope the Nets can win it
all. • Read
more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] The Nets are scary by Jesus Carro / June 7, 2003
Jason Kidd and Kenyon Martin are two to be scared of while they are on
the court. Ditto for K-Mart off the court.
• Read
more
[
F I N A L S . D I A R Y ] From another perspective by Jesus Carro / June 5, 2003
Kobe Bryant and many other swingmen that have to play against him on a
regular basis don't like Bruce Bowen. After what happened before Game
1, we have to jump on the bandwagon. • Read more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] Cavs get their savior by Bruce Meyer / May 23, 2003
If ever an NBA team needed one particular player to save the franchise,
that team is the Cavaliers and that player is LeBron James. Now that the
Cavs' prayers were answered at Thursday night's draft lottery, the team
has the one thing it needed most: hope. • Read more
[
D R A F T ] Under the microscope by Jorge Sierra / May 12, 2003
A couple of 2002 second-round picks, three potential first-round candidates
in this year's draft and a teenager that could go in the lottery in the
future played in front of a bunch of NBA scouts during the Final Four
of the Euroleague. How did they look? • Read
more
[
D R A F T ] Euroskeptics (kind of) by Jorge Sierra / May 10, 2003
Overseas players are good and getting better, but there is more hype than
substance in many cases. That's the opinion of some of the NBA scouts
whom we talked to during the Final Four of the Euroleague. • Read
more
[
A V E R Y . J O H N S O N ] "I was born to coach" by Ken Turetzky / April 30, 2003
Avery Johnson is already a candidate for at least one NBA head coaching
position, and with good reason. Denied a post-season roster spot, Johnson
quickly found a new outlet for his considerable energy – pushing his
Dallas Mavericks teammates to excel during the playoffs. • Read more
[
P L A Y O F F ] Lakers confident as postseason begins by Ken Turetzky / April 19, 2003
The Lakers never owned a winning record this season until two days before
the All-Star break, leading some opponents to suspect that the three-time
defending NBA champions were finished. Now the playoffs begin, and opponents
fear that the Lakers are just getting started. • Read more
[
W I Z A R D S ] The Great One bids adieu by Bruce Meyer / April 12, 2003
As Michael Jordan played nearly every minute of every game trying desperately
to keep his Washington Wizards alive in the Eastern Conference playoff
race, some began to speculate that the game's greatest player may not
be through. Not so, according to Wizards coach Doug Collins and Jordan's
teammates. • Read
more
[
L E O N . S M I T H ] Focusing on the future by Daniel Walsh / April 10, 2003
At age 18, former Chicago basketball star and Dallas Mavericks first-round
pick Leon Smith was the next Kevin Garnett, but the dream quickly ended
and a bizarre journey began. • Read
more
[
H I G H . S C H O O L E R S ] Not
just LeBron by Bruce Meyer / March 28, 2003
Though LeBron James clearly was the star of this week's McDonald's All
American High School Basketball Game, a number of other players also were
trying to catch the NBA's eye. Here's a look at some of the others on
the court the other night. • Read
more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] Bringin'
down the house by Bruce Meyer / March 27, 2003
Steve Martin and Queen Latifah may be starring in the hit movie, but it
clearly was LeBron James who brought down the house as he took MVP honors
at the McDonald's All American High School Basketball Game in Cleveland. • Read
more
[
M A R K . C U B A N ] The
"Maverick" owner by Dan Wilson / March 24, 2003
Who is Mark Cuban? He used to be a fan who came into some money and decided
to buy a team. He still acts like a fan. But now, as an owner, he has
made some big changes. And the result is his players believe they are
going to win the championship. • Read
more
[
W A R . I N . I R A Q ] What
players think by HoopsHype / March 20, 2003
Mavericks guard Steve Nash has been one of few players clearly speaking
his mind about the events on Iraq. But what does the rest of the league
think? Here is what a handful of NBA players have to say about this delicate
issue... • Read
more
[
P H I L . J A C K S O N ] On
a scale of 10 by Dan Wilson / March 13, 2003
In the current record books, only the legendary Red Auerbach of the Boston
Celtics matches Phil Jackson. What does he do differently from the other
28 coaches that results in so many championships? • Read more
[
R A F E R . A L S T O N ] Skipping
along in T.O. by Dean Serravalle / February 17, 2003
Throughout his NBA career, Rafer Alston has been the streetball superhero
trying to find his niche as Clark Kent, the professional. With tumultuous
stints in Milwaukee and Golden State, “Skip to my Lou” is ready
to let his pro skills take root in one place. And so far, the silky smooth
ballhandler, with a reputation for “breaking ankles” on the
playground, has turned heads in Toronto. • Read
more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Retro
rules by David Carro / February 9, 2003
For all the young superstars and Asian sensations that show up in Atlanta
during the All-Star Weekend, the man here is still the best player there
was and the best there will ever be. • Read more
[
A L L - S T A R . D I A R Y ] Yao
King by David Carro / February 8, 2003
Friday was a hectic day in Atlanta for all those involved in the basketball
business – especially for Rockets center Yao Ming. Michael Jordan was
a no-show, so most of the attention was centered on the 7-6 Chinese center.
Our man in the All-Star, David Carro, gives us his insight. • Read more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] Deep
in controversy by Bruce Meyer / February 6, 2003
High school basketball sensation LeBron James has hip deep in controversy
over the last weeks. In the end, though, all that matters to the NBA is
his game. Here's what five Cavs players who have played with him or seen
him play, have to say about LeBron. • Read more
[
M A G I C ] Facing
another up-Hill battle by Mike Tuck / January 31, 2003
It’s not Groundhog Day, but Orlando certainly feels like it is living
a recurring nightmare. The Magic will probably be forced to play the rest
of the season without former All-Star Grant Hill… again. • Read more
[
A L L - S T A R ] Snubbed by HoopsHype / January 29, 2003
Several big egos were bruised Tuesday when the NBA announced the list
of reserves for the All-Star Game. Ray Allen, Jerry Stackhouse, Jalen
Rose, Michael Finley, Karl Malone and some other big names were left out.
This is how they handled it... • Read
more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] Still riding high by Bruce Meyer / January 8, 2003
The Scholastic Fantastic Hoops Tour featuring LeBron James moves on, as
the phenom and his teammates now can boast of playing on the No. 1 high
school team in the nation. Though not every game has been full of highlight
reel plays, each contest has featured what's most important to LeBron
– a win. • Read
more
[
S O F O K L I S . S C H O R T S A N I T I
S ] Don't call him Baby Shaq by Enrique Peinado / January 2, 2003
Sofoklis Schortsanitis is not a typical player. Typical players are not
projected as lottery picks at the age of 17. Typical 17-year-old kids
are not usually as physically dominant as he is. And, unlike typical players
his size, Sofoklis doesn't want to be the next Shaquille O'Neal. • Read
more
[
Y U G O . P R O S P E C T S ] Generation next by Aleksandar Dzikic / December 31, 2002
Three Yugoslav players were selected in the Draft last June. Many more
are on the way to enter the league in upcoming years. Aleksandar Dzikic,
who coaches soon-to-be NBA players Nenad Krstic and Milos Vujanic in Partizan
Belgrade, introduces the new generation of Yugoslav talents that could
make it in the league in a very near future. • Read
more
[
S U N S ] Gaining confidence by Steven Koek / December 17, 2002
After a disappointing 1-7 start on the road, the Suns headed out for their
toughest trip of the season hoping for mere survival. Instead, they returned
to Phoenix with confidence and a winning attitude after victories over
some of the best teams in the East. • Read more
[
L E B R O N . U P D A T E ] King James brings his game by Bruce Meyer / December 14, 2002
LeBron James, the 17-year-old high school sensation from Akron, Ohio,
got his first dance on a national stage Thursday, and he came out a clear
winner. The game also was the first chance for many fans to see for themselves
if LeBron has the game to match all the hype. • Read more
[
C L I P P E R S ] 10-year anniversary, but there is no celebration by Morris O'Kelly / December 12, 2002
It's been 10 years since the Clippers last finished at .500 or better.
10 straight years that the franchise has made Secaucus, NJ and the NBA
Lottery their annual vacation spot. They have to win, and win now. • Read more
[
W I Z A R D S ] Scrambling for solutions by Gary Starikoff / December 2, 2002
Michael Jordan is retiring after this season. Really, he means it this
time. Of course that hasn’t stopped him from stepping into the starting
lineup, as the Washington Wizards look for something to stop their losing
streak.
• Read
more
[
R O C K E T S ] Rockets wing more than Ming by Steven Koek / November 29, 2002
Though the basketball world is focusing on the progress of Yao Ming, the
backcourt duo of Steve Francis and Cuttino Mobley are still the driving
forces in Houston. When Mobley returns from an ankle injury, he hopes
they will take their “seriously sick intuition-type thing” and
end the longest playoff drought in Rocket’s history.
• Read
more
[
D E R E K . F I S H E R ] No way to start a season by Jason Levin / November 19, 2002
This was supposed to be Derek Fisher’s
year, the first time the veteran point guard had been completely healthy
in three seasons. After a rigorous offseason workout regimen, Fisher claimed
he was better than ever. The timing seemed perfect, as his team needed
him more than ever thanks to the toe injury sidelining Shaq.
Not only didn’t Fisher pick up the slack, he played the worst ball
of his pro career, making him the most disappointing player so far this
season. • Read
more
[
C E L T I C S ] O'Brien making his point by Peter F. Stringer / November 6, 2002
It's starting to get on Jim O'Brien's nerves. It seems he can't meet the
press without hearing the question, even if it is somewhat guised from
time to time. The gist of it is, "how does the offense run without
a legitimate point guard?". • Read
more
[
W I Z A R D S ] Kwame Brown busts out by Gary Starikoff / November 4, 2002
The biggest surprise for the Washington Wizards’ season thus far
has been Kwame Brown. That’s right. For all the preseason talk about
Jerry Stackhouse, Larry Hughes, and of course, Michael Jordan, it’s
been the performance of the 6-11, 250-pound, 19-year-old, heretofore 2001
draft bust that has dominated so far.
• Read
more
[
S H A M M O N D . W I L L I A M S ] A point to prove by Peter F. Stringer / October 28, 2002
Vin Baker made all of the headlines in Boston this offseason when he was
traded from the Sonics to the Celtics. But the "other guy" in
the deal, sharp-shooting point guard Shammond Williams, looks ready to
make an immediate impact. • Read
more
[
K N I C K S ] Should we nix the Knicks already? by Jon Finkel / October 4, 2002
The New York Knicks opened preseason camp missing two starters and anybody
resembling a good point guard. With only two starting positions left,
will they have any hope come opening day? • Read more
[ C
L I P P E R S ] The
doom of McAdoo by Tim O'Sullivan / September 25, 2002
You've heard of the Curse of the Bambino, but do you know about the NBA
version? It is the calamitous fate of the Los Angeles Clippers, the Doom
of McAdoo. • Read
more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] Indianapolis stars by Jorge Sierra / September 9, 2002
The U.S. team may no longer rule, but NBA players still do. Dirk Nowitzki,
Predrag Stojakovic, Pau Gasol... Those who made the biggest impact in
the World Basketball Championship are already established players in the
league. Others, like Emanuel Ginobili or Yao Ming, are about to join it.
We rank them according to their merits in Indianapolis. • Read more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] "It's an embarrassment" by HoopsHype / September 5, 2002
Led by Emanuel Ginobili, Luis Scola and Andres Nocioni, Argentina dominated
the game offensively and defensively. The U.S. team never had a lead and
finally suffered a defeat not to be forgotten. How is everybody handling
it? • Read
more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] How are they doing? by Jorge Sierra / September 1, 2002
Yao Ming, Jay Williams, Mehmet Okur, Marko Jaric, Emanuel Ginobili, Juan
Carlos Navarro... Several drafted players that are yet to make their debut
in the NBA are currently taking part in the World Basketball Championship
in Indianapolis. We take a look at their performances in the tournament
so far. • Read
more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] The
biggest threat by Jorge Sierra / August 27, 2002
With eight players who are either in the NBA or have been drafted by an
NBA club, the Yugoslavs, current World and European Champions, have comprised
the best ever non-American basketball squad in order to put the U.S. team
to the test. For the very first time, there is a big chance that what
once looked impossible finally happens.
• Read
more
[
S U N S ] Hoping
past is indication of future by Steven Koek / August 26, 2002
While the Phoenix Suns work toward a return to the NBA playoffs, a glimpse
at the year that started their 13-season playoff appearance streak should
give some comfort. • Read
more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] Do
it again by Jorge Sierra / August 24, 2002
Heavily supported by refs and fans, the Turkish National Team reached
the final of the European Championship last summer only to lose against
a Yugoslavian team led by Predrag Stojakovic. In Indianapolis, they'll
have to prove they can also perform well in a more hostile atmosphere.
With such an amount of talent, they should.
• Read
more
[
J A Z Z ] Utah’s
summer ending on a sour note by Robbie McKay / August 22, 2002
The outlook was hopeful. Utah was to improve through the draft, pull the
heavily touted Raul Lopez from the clutches of his contract overseas,
and ink some quality free agents in hopes of revamping a disappointing
supporting cast. Unfortunately, those hopes have been left unfulfilled. • Read
more
[
T H E . O T H E R . F R E E . A G E N T S ] Here
today, gone tomorrow by Stephen Siegel / August 21, 2002
Remember the good old days, when special people like Isaiah Rider were
still able to make a living in the NBA? With the turnover rate on NBA
rosters, names come and go about as often as a Trail Blazers drug bust.
Remember Keith Closs? Well, neither does the league. • Read more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] The
good old times are gone by Jorge Sierra / August 20, 2002
Many people in Russia tend to believe things went better before the Soviet
Union imploded. That is certainly true when talking about basketball.
With the significant exception of Andrei Kirilenko, no new talents have
appeared over the past few years and the National Team can no longer claim
to be a contender in major tournaments now. • Read more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] You
again? by Jorge Sierra / August 13, 2002
Three years ago, a Spanish team led by Pau Gasol, Raul Lopez and Juan
Carlos Navarro humiliated an American squad that featured the likes of
Casey Jacobsen, Keyon Dooling and Steve Logan in the final of the World
Junior Championship. Some people think the Spaniards have a chance to
do that again on the highest level. We don't. But they'll be funny to
watch. • Read
more
[
G R I Z Z L I E S ] Questions?
Gooden has answers by Chad Rader / August 12, 2002
Former Jayhawk Drew Gooden is accustomed to questions during his career.
All one has to do is just ask him.
• Read
more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] Army of one (kind of) by Jorge Sierra / August 9, 2002
The German team will bring probably the best player of the World Championship
to Indianapolis: Dirk Nowitzki. The question is, do they have anything
else? Well, most players in the German roster wouldn't even make a summer
league team. But there are also some guys worth watching... • Read
more
[
W O R L D . C H A M P I O N S H I P ] Breaking down Argentina by Jorge Sierra / August 6, 2002
While not many people may have noticed it, the World Championship is due
to start in three weeks. After being nearly beaten in Sydney, the United
States will attend the tournament with a TEAM and not just with a bunch
of stars. Who will they have to face there? This is the first of a series
of articles breaking down their opponents. We start with Argentina. • Read
more
[
S U M M E R . A C T I O N ] Wrapping
up the Summer Pro League at Long Beach by Jon Finkel / July 24, 2002
The Summer Pro League in Long Beach, California is NBA teams’ first
chance to see if their gambles on draft day paid off. Here’s how
the players and teams fared. • Read
more
[
S H A W ' S . P R O . S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Hoops
heat up Boston summer by Billy Hart / July 23, 2002
Put away the suncreen and beach towel, because when it comes to success
on the NBA level, there is no vacation. Already in its fourth year, the
Shaw's Pro Summer League in Boston provided a stage for unsigned free
agents and rookies to showcase their talents. • Read more
[
W I Z A R D S ] Capital
renaissance leads to a reformation by Joe Whalen / July 21, 2002
A renaissance took place in the nation’s capital last season when
Michael Jordan ended his three-year retirement and donned a Wizards’
uniform. This year, however, with the Air Apparent’s bubble deflated
and his role in doubt, Washington enters a new phase. Call it a reformation. • Read
more
[
O R L A N D O . P R O . S U M M E R . L E A G U E ] Few
highlights in sloppy exhibitions by Mike Tuck / July 15, 2002
The Orlando Pro Summer League is over, and the results are in: It was
ugly. Some players stepped up and showed that they were NBA material,
but most of the guys can make other plans for the fall. The play was ragged,
the fouls were many and the execution seemed more like an option than
a necessity. • Read
more
[
S P U R S ] Feeling
the need for speed by Johnnie Clay / July 13, 2002
An era coming to an
end, a new one arriving via Europe, a successful draft, old faces re-signed.
The San Antonio Spurs have spent the summer retooling and streamlining
their team. But will that be enough? • Read more
[
I N T E R N A T I O N A L . D R A F T E E
S ] Ready
to go by Jorge
Sierra / July 6, 2002
Following the steps of Toni Kukoc, Predrag Stojakovic or Andrei Kirilenko,
some international talents stay in Europe after being drafted until they
are ready to go and play in the NBA. The time to do it so has come for
some of them. Who are they? And, more important, what are their chances
of making an impact in the league?
• Read
more
[
J A Y . W I L L I A M S ] Missing
link by Brian C. Hedger / July 3, 2002
Duke's Jay Williams is used to winning basketball games. He's won in high
school. He's won in college. Now, he's faced with winning as a Chicago
Bull post MJ style. With two young giants already in place and a load
of young talent on the roster, Williams is seen as a key piece to the
Bulls' puzzle. • Read
more
[
L O T T E R Y . P I C K S ] Stoudemire's
background checks out for Suns by Steven Koek / July 1, 2002
As the Phoenix Suns’ first ever draft pick out of high school, 19-year
old man-child Amare Stoudemire has risen above the negative influences
which surrounded him and is ready to fulfill his dream of playing in the
NBA.
• Read
more
[
G I A N T S ] A
retrospective of other tall titans by Faraji
Whalen / June 29, 2002
Sure, Yao Ming’s amazing height and skills have wowed the Houston
Rockets into selecting the 7-5 foreign phenom as their first pick in the
draft. But Yao’s not the first super-size center to burst into the
league amid high expectations. • Read
more
[
D R A F T ] What
they said by HoopsHype / June 27, 2002
Whatever happens in draft day, everybody is happy. All the teams seem
to have selected exactly the guys they wanted and most players go to squads
they love. You can believe them or not, but here is what they got to say
... • Read
more
[
D R A F T ] Searching
the shadows for centers by Tim
O'Sullivan / June 25, 2002
Like a high school senior looking for a prom date, NBA scouts are searching
above every rim and bamboo tree from here to China for a decent center.
Where have all the big men gone? • Read
more
[
J A Z Z ] Return
to sender: The Mailman isn't happy by Robbie
McKay / June 15, 2002
Karl Malone is unhappy, and Larry Miller’s standing his ground. Malone
wants a commitment, and Miller wants to what's best for the Jazz. The
annual war of words has begun, but this offseason may prove to be more
volatile than ever. Will the Mailman continue to deliver in Utah or oversee
an entirely new postal route? • Read
more
[
T I M B E R W O L V E S ] Draft
day blunders continue to cost by Matt
Krumrie / June 7, 2002
Kevin Garnett apart, the Minnesota Timberwolves have been equally unlucky
on draft day as in their playoff appearances. Probably one thing has a
lot to do with the other. • Read
more
[
C O N F E R E N C E . F I N A L S ] Back
to back to Sacto back breakers by Jon
Finkel / June 3, 2002
Two years ago the Kings were beaten by a Laker team on its way to the
first championship. Last year the Kings were swept by the defending World
Champion Lakers. This year, the Kings were ready - just not able.
• Read
more
[
E U R O P E A N . P L A Y E R S ] The
next wave by Jorge
Sierra / June 2, 2002
Pau Gasol, Andrei Kirilenko and Tony Parker established themselves as
important players in the league this season. They were the main exponents
of the latest generation of European talents arriving to the NBA. But
the influx of players coming from the other side of the Atlantic Ocean
doesn't stop. More of them are coming – and coming soon. • Read more
[
J A R E D . J E F F R I E S ] A
diamond in the rough? by David
Bane / May 24, 2002
With the current expansion of NBA prospects on the international level
and the ever-increasing list of early entry candidates, selecting a diamond
in the rough requires even more evaluation and knowledge – along with
a lucky roll of the dice. Could Indiana's sophomore forward Jared Jeffries
be that diamond everybody is looking for in the league? • Read more
[
D R A F T ] The
Three Wise Men
by Pete
Johnson / May 22, 2002
Point guard Jay Williams, small forward Mike Dunleavy and power forward
Carlos Boozer are all leaving Duke en masse. Which player has the best
chance of surviving the rigors of professional basketball? And who ought
to concentrate on their homework? • Read more
[
J A Z Z ] Utah's
offseason of uncertainty
by Robbie
McKay / May 19, 2002
With trade talks, unattainable Spanish draft picks and dizzying free agent
market, the Utah Jazz are facing their most complicated offseason in franchise
history. And after back-to-back first-round exits, it may be time to start
making some precarious decisions. • Read more
[
M O V I N G . T E A M S ] It
happened in Vancouver before
by Ed
Willes / May 16, 2002
Wednesday night, the Hornets played for the last time representing Charlotte.
The final game against the Nets was played 12 months and 27 days after
the Vancouver Grizzlies stopped existing as a team on a basketball court.
One year later, what is the feeling in the first city to lose an NBA franchise
in two decades? • Read
more
[
L A K E R S ] Winning
is a little different this year
by Jon
Finkel / May 15, 2002
The playoff race car that is the Los Angeles Lakers is on the same pace
as last year, going after the same goal. But if you check under the hood,
you'll notice the engine is a little different from that of the last two
championship runs. • Read
more
[
T I M B E R W O L V E S ] Answers
are not encouraging in Minneapolis
by Matt
Krumrie / May 8, 2002
The big question in Minnesota remains, will the Timberwolves ever win
a playoff series? Given the current situation in the club, the likeliest
response should be "not anytime soon." • Read more
[
P A C E R S ] Major
change, slight improvement
by Les
Morris / May 6, 2002
For the second consecutive year, Indiana turned over its roster. And for
the second consecutive year, Indiana played .500 ball during the regular
season and exited the playoffs in the first round. Next year, the expectations
will be greater for a team poised to take the next step. • Read more
[
M A V E R I C K S ] No
doggin' Dallas as favorites
by Gary
Clemente / May 4, 2002
The Dallas Mavericks may be the faves with a better head to head record
over the Kings, but why is Sacramento the underdog considering their league
best overall record? • Read
more
[
H O R N E T S ] It's
a pride thing in Charlotte
by Pete
Johnson / April 29, 2002
Their top scorers are quite banged up, most of their fans don’t care
and many people in the league have counted them out in the battle for
the Eastern Conference championship. So why is it that these Charlotte
Hornets still have their sting? • Read
more
[
R A P T O R S ] The
in-Vince-able ones again?
by Dean
Serravalle / April 26, 2002
After having come so close to earning a split in Game 2 at the Palace
of Auburn Hills, the Raptors cue talk of a comeback. But is it possible?
Can we expect another late round rally similar to the season ending push
that vaulted a Vince-less Raptor team into the playoffs? • Read
more
[
S U N S ] Sunset
for "Thunder" Dan
by Steven
Koek / April 19, 2002
The Thunder has been silenced and the sun has set on a most improbable
and remarkable 14-year NBA career for shooting guard Dan Majerle. • Read more
[
S U P E R S O N I C S ] They
go marching on
by Jeremy
Storey / April 17, 2002
No one gave the Sonics a chance for the 2002 season. Apparently their
star players were past their prime, the rest of the team was too inexperienced
and first year coach Nate McMillan was still raw. Now the question is,
how did they make the playoffs? • Read
more
[
N U G G E T S ] The
team of the future, eight years later
by Eric
Peterson / April 17, 2002
The fans of the Denver Nuggets - the few that are left, that is - are
itching for the team to make some progress. Unfortunately, the organization
has demonstrated nothing but ineptitude for nearly 10 years running.
• Read
more
[
L A K E R S ] Still
favorites?
by James
Escarcega / April 16, 2002
Now that the Sacramento Kings have clinched the Western Conference and
Shaq's toe keeps on hurting bad, can the Lakers claim to be the top contenders
for the NBA title again? • Read
more
[
R I C K Y . D A V I S ] Jordan's
most unlikely heir
by Brian
Lester / April 13, 2002
Having spent most of your life in the NBA sitting on the bench, it must
be kind of strange to hear your coach say you can be the next MJ. That's
exactly what John Lucas said of swingman Ricky Davis, likely to be a star
some day – but not MJ yet. • Read
more
[
T I M B E R W O L V E S ] Familiar
spot heading into the playoffs
by Matt
Krumrie / April 12, 2002
The once mighty Timberwolves no longer look like a squad to be afraid
of. Kevin Garnett is not really an MVP contender now, the team seems to
lack chemistry some nights, everybody misses Terrell Brandon and the atmosphere
could certainly be better. Will they ever see the second round? • Read more
[
H A W K S ] Are
the Hawks an endangered species?
by Faraji
Whalen / April 6, 2002
After their usual dismal start, the Hawks have made a roaring comeback
following the All-Star break. Despite a 15-11 record since mid-February,
the Hawks are once again out of the playoffs. Does the team still even
matter? • Read
more
[
N U G G E T S ] Bateer
getting a good look in Denver
by Eric
Peterson / April 5, 2002
In the midst of another humdrum finale to a Nuggets season, the team is
taking a long look at Mengke Bateer's game. The raw Chinese center has
an intriguing upside - if Nuggets brass has the patience. • Read more
