Am I the only one that wonders at times if the San Antonio Spurs are more committed to winning a championship in Austin than San Antonio?
Perhaps it only seems that way because of the way the Spurs effectively use their NBA Development League affiliate.
They developed point guard Curtis Jerrells all year and signed him for the rest of the season to keep him in the family, but sent him right back down to Austin.
They developed Alonzo Gee all year and the Washington Wizards discovered that he's actually NBA ready during a 10-day contract. Then they decided not to sign him for the rest of the year as Flip Saunders announced, and, what do you know? The Spurs got their guy back, signing Gee for the rest of the year today. Haven't heard if the monster power forward will be assigned back to Austin yet, but you know that thought has crept into my head and that of others as well.
Truthfully, I think Gee can help the Spurs make noise in the NBA playoffs, where they'll be dangerous, sure, but probably too old, too slow, and not good enough to go all the way. Can Gee change that? I doubt it, but I think it could help them a little bit.
If the Spurs assign Gee to Austin, you'll have a hard time convincing me it's for more seasoning or because he needs playing time. Not at this point of the season. You could argue it'd be because Gee deserves the chance to win a championship with the Toros after helping them to get to where they are. If that's the case, I'll say, fair point, good move, and move on. But they could also simply do it to help Austin.
I think the telling thing will be how many guys get assigned to Austin for the playoffs. The Spurs can assign up-to four guys at a time. Jerrells is one. Gee could be two. Malik Hairston, who's spent time dominating the NBA D-League and riding the pine in the NBA over the last two years, could be three, and then there's former-Viper Garrett Temple who could be four.
I can't imagine the Spurs would assign all four at once and play with an 11-man roster in the playoffs. I could see three, though, since you can only have 12 active players in a playoff game anyway.
The Vipers went 5-2 against the Toros this season, but managed to avoid Hairston all season and didn't see Gee for their final two meetings (after Gee took Mike Harris' spot in Washington). If the Vipers and Toros should face each other (perhaps in the semi-finals), it promises to be a very interesting series...
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
The Path to #1
Just the other day I looked at the standings and schedules and figured the Vipers didn't have a chance to catch Iowa for the #1 overall seed. Not because I didn't think the Vipers could win out... I do think they can... but because I didn't think Iowa was going to lose the two games necessary to make it possible.
Then Iowa lost to Dakota in Des Moines today. Iowa closes the season over the weekend with two games at Tulsa. Hard to imagine that the team that has already tied the single-season wins mark has a chance to not have the #1 seed.
Tulsa's half a game ahead of Reno for the final playoff spot and just got Mustafa Shakur back (that could end their recent tailspin). I wouldn't be surprised if they got some extra NBA-assignee help too. But even if they don't, I think Tulsa can at least split with Iowa. If they do, the Energy finish 37-13... best record in NBA Development League history.
The Vipers are 33-13. They're at Utah on Tuesday. The Vipers are the better team, but like Tulsa vs. Iowa, Utah is trying to lockdown the seventh/eighth seed (only one half game ahead of Tulsa and one game ahead of Reno). Then at Idaho (just fell out of the race) Wednesday before closing the season at home with two against Dakota (currently the fifth seed). If the Vipers win out, they finish 37-13.
The Vipers were 2-0 against Iowa this year and win the tiebreaker should it come up.
It can be done.
First the Vipers have to worry about clinching the Western Conference. Austin swept Bakersfield this weekend, so no help there. if the Vipers win on Tuesday, they'll take care of it themselves.
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A Zeisend Pesach!
Then Iowa lost to Dakota in Des Moines today. Iowa closes the season over the weekend with two games at Tulsa. Hard to imagine that the team that has already tied the single-season wins mark has a chance to not have the #1 seed.
Tulsa's half a game ahead of Reno for the final playoff spot and just got Mustafa Shakur back (that could end their recent tailspin). I wouldn't be surprised if they got some extra NBA-assignee help too. But even if they don't, I think Tulsa can at least split with Iowa. If they do, the Energy finish 37-13... best record in NBA Development League history.
The Vipers are 33-13. They're at Utah on Tuesday. The Vipers are the better team, but like Tulsa vs. Iowa, Utah is trying to lockdown the seventh/eighth seed (only one half game ahead of Tulsa and one game ahead of Reno). Then at Idaho (just fell out of the race) Wednesday before closing the season at home with two against Dakota (currently the fifth seed). If the Vipers win out, they finish 37-13.
The Vipers were 2-0 against Iowa this year and win the tiebreaker should it come up.
It can be done.
First the Vipers have to worry about clinching the Western Conference. Austin swept Bakersfield this weekend, so no help there. if the Vipers win on Tuesday, they'll take care of it themselves.
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A Zeisend Pesach!
Jai Ho
As the incomparable Jim Bob Sides and Alex Del Barrio just pointed out that, like out of a scene from Bring It On, the Snake Charmers and the Venom Dancers of the Boys and Girls Club both danced to Jai Ho today. Rather than comment on who was better (after all, the Snake Charmers are professionals while the Venom Dancers are kids... and, let's be honest, they were both entertaining and who was better is not important), let's instead explain the significance or Jai Ho.
If you've never met Vipers Director of Business Development Shu Muthyala, you're about to get to know him better than you ever imagined possible...
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The Vipers just completed a clean sweep of the Los Angeles D-Fenders (4-0). It blows my mind to see the D-Fenders be such a bad team. Maybe it's the wrong personnel for the triangle offense, but if that's the case, shouldn't they change personnel? Or change strategies? The D-Fenders have some good players that could easily succeed on other teams. So either use those parts to get what you need to be successful in Phil Jackson's offense, or stop trying to emulate the Lakers. I can't imagine the Lakers would allow the D-Fenders to not run their schemes, so how about making them use players that could be useful to the Lakers? I don't think there's a single player on the D-Fenders that fits in with the Lakers. Wasn't last year either. Hasn't been since the 2007-08 season. If you're going to own and operate an NBA Development League team, take advantage of it! See what the Houston Rockets are doing with the Vipers, what the San Antonio Spurs are doing with the Austin Toros and what the Oklahoma City Thunder are doing with the Tulsa 66ers.
Though, I guess the Lakers aren't as concerned as those three teams with NBA D-League players since they haven't needed them. But if/when they do, where will they turn?
It's an interesting juxtaposition to see the D-Fenders play the Vipers since the Rockets have really maximized this affiliation. A lot of it has to do with Rockets Vice President of Player Personnel/Vipers GM Gersson Rosas, who is going to be an NBA GM some day. He really gets it.
I think the NBA Development League is going to evolve a lot over the next few years, and I really think Gersson is going to be at the forefront of the changes.
I don't know all of the things that could change or that he wants to change, but Gersson did tell me during the Farmers Insurance Halftime Report on Saturday that while he's happy for the players like Garrett Temple and Kenny Hasbrouck who have made the NBA with other teams, he really wants to be able to control the right of all the players on the Vipers, similar to the baseball system. It's a Collective Bargaining Agreement Issue, and what do you know? We're not far from negotiations for the next one...
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Huge night for Jermaine Taylor. He STARTED for the first time for the Rockets against the Lakers, scored 10 of his career-high 15 points in the first quarter, hit 3-of-4 three-pointers, pulled down five rebounds (three offensive), dished out three assists and had a steal.
Aaron Brooks had 26 points and 7 assists.
Mike Harris did not play. Jordan Hill was back in the lineup. Gersson said that could really affect Harris' playing time, but also mentioned they're happy to have the ability to assign Harris to the Vipers at some point.
If you've never met Vipers Director of Business Development Shu Muthyala, you're about to get to know him better than you ever imagined possible...
--
The Vipers just completed a clean sweep of the Los Angeles D-Fenders (4-0). It blows my mind to see the D-Fenders be such a bad team. Maybe it's the wrong personnel for the triangle offense, but if that's the case, shouldn't they change personnel? Or change strategies? The D-Fenders have some good players that could easily succeed on other teams. So either use those parts to get what you need to be successful in Phil Jackson's offense, or stop trying to emulate the Lakers. I can't imagine the Lakers would allow the D-Fenders to not run their schemes, so how about making them use players that could be useful to the Lakers? I don't think there's a single player on the D-Fenders that fits in with the Lakers. Wasn't last year either. Hasn't been since the 2007-08 season. If you're going to own and operate an NBA Development League team, take advantage of it! See what the Houston Rockets are doing with the Vipers, what the San Antonio Spurs are doing with the Austin Toros and what the Oklahoma City Thunder are doing with the Tulsa 66ers.
Though, I guess the Lakers aren't as concerned as those three teams with NBA D-League players since they haven't needed them. But if/when they do, where will they turn?
It's an interesting juxtaposition to see the D-Fenders play the Vipers since the Rockets have really maximized this affiliation. A lot of it has to do with Rockets Vice President of Player Personnel/Vipers GM Gersson Rosas, who is going to be an NBA GM some day. He really gets it.
I think the NBA Development League is going to evolve a lot over the next few years, and I really think Gersson is going to be at the forefront of the changes.
I don't know all of the things that could change or that he wants to change, but Gersson did tell me during the Farmers Insurance Halftime Report on Saturday that while he's happy for the players like Garrett Temple and Kenny Hasbrouck who have made the NBA with other teams, he really wants to be able to control the right of all the players on the Vipers, similar to the baseball system. It's a Collective Bargaining Agreement Issue, and what do you know? We're not far from negotiations for the next one...
--
Huge night for Jermaine Taylor. He STARTED for the first time for the Rockets against the Lakers, scored 10 of his career-high 15 points in the first quarter, hit 3-of-4 three-pointers, pulled down five rebounds (three offensive), dished out three assists and had a steal.
Aaron Brooks had 26 points and 7 assists.
Mike Harris did not play. Jordan Hill was back in the lineup. Gersson said that could really affect Harris' playing time, but also mentioned they're happy to have the ability to assign Harris to the Vipers at some point.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
#3? Really?
The new NBA Development League Power Rankings are out. I never take much stock in these things. To accurately do power rankings or a poll, you really need to closely watch every game that every team plays, which is virtually impossible.
Still, it irks me that the Vipers have only been ranked #1 for two weeks this season, and now, after Iowa just beat the snot out of Sioux Falls, the Vipers still don't pass the Skyforce.
Am I the only once that noticed the Vipers go 4-0 against Iowa and Sioux Falls? Look, I won't complain about Iowa being #1. They're doing historic things this year in terms of total wins, Leastern Conference or not. But, in my opinion, the two best team reside in the Bestern Conference, the Vipers and the Austin Toros, but they're #3 and #4 respectively.
I understand the Vipers just lost Mike Harris and Jermaine Taylor to the Rockets, but losing top-notch players has never negatively affected the Vipers. They ALWAYS bounce back. I understand the Toros just went 3-1 against bottom feeders Bakersfield and Springfield, and almost lost to Springfield in Austin... but at the end of the day, the Toros didn't lose to Springfield and Bakersfield is no longer a bad team. This Jam team could make some noise in the playoffs if they had any chance of making it. Trey Johnson and Alade Aminu have been incredible. Those games were in Bakersfield. So don't discredit the Texas teams.
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Another reason not to underestimate the Vipers? As The Monitor's David Hinojosa points out, Antonio Anderson is getting back into shape, the Vipers have a couple of new players, and Craig Winder is healing quickly.
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And besides, the Vipers are the greatest team in the history of Western Civilization.
Still, it irks me that the Vipers have only been ranked #1 for two weeks this season, and now, after Iowa just beat the snot out of Sioux Falls, the Vipers still don't pass the Skyforce.
Am I the only once that noticed the Vipers go 4-0 against Iowa and Sioux Falls? Look, I won't complain about Iowa being #1. They're doing historic things this year in terms of total wins, Leastern Conference or not. But, in my opinion, the two best team reside in the Bestern Conference, the Vipers and the Austin Toros, but they're #3 and #4 respectively.
I understand the Vipers just lost Mike Harris and Jermaine Taylor to the Rockets, but losing top-notch players has never negatively affected the Vipers. They ALWAYS bounce back. I understand the Toros just went 3-1 against bottom feeders Bakersfield and Springfield, and almost lost to Springfield in Austin... but at the end of the day, the Toros didn't lose to Springfield and Bakersfield is no longer a bad team. This Jam team could make some noise in the playoffs if they had any chance of making it. Trey Johnson and Alade Aminu have been incredible. Those games were in Bakersfield. So don't discredit the Texas teams.
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Another reason not to underestimate the Vipers? As The Monitor's David Hinojosa points out, Antonio Anderson is getting back into shape, the Vipers have a couple of new players, and Craig Winder is healing quickly.
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And besides, the Vipers are the greatest team in the history of Western Civilization.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Live Blog: Rockets @ Thunder
In honor of Mike Harris and Jermaine Taylor going back to the Rockets today, and considering the likelihood that they'll both play big minutes since the Rockets only have 10 healthy players right now, I've decided to watch the game and blog my thoughts throughout.
7:09 p.m. – Just about to start - Is Kevin Durant tying his shoe on the scorer's table really a pre-game ritual worthy of the league's leading scorer? I mean, c'mon, toss some resin in the air or something! Well, I guess when you're #1 you can do whatever you want.
7:11 – Former-Viper Aaron Brooks opening the game with a three-point miss. Not bad shot selection simply because Brooks is having an incredible season and hitting threes left and right, but what does it say about the Rockets right now that they can't try to establish an inside game first? Not as much as you think. Actually, it says more about the height of Oklahoma City. I think it was Matt Bullard who just pointed out that everyone on the court for OKC is taller than Houston starting center Chuck Hayes. So the Rockets need to establish the outside game early to force the Thunder to go small and commit more to the perimeter, allowing the Rockets post players to have a chance inside.
7:15 – Anyone else remember when teams were wary of Durant because he reportedly couldn't lift and was lacking upper body strength? Um... yeah, about that...
7:21 – Rockets used the three ball to erase OKC's early 10-2 lead and now Scola just had an open look inside. Just like I was saying before...
7:23 – If the Rockets defense doesn't improve (OKC is 11-for-13), this is going to be a very high scoring game. 23-17 Thunder in the middle of the first.
7:25 – It might help if Mr. Defense himself, Shane Battier, wasn't hurt, but you can't worry about the guys you don't have, only those who are dressed and able to play.
7:29 – Kyle Lowry in the game, good to see him playing hurt.
7:30 – Bill Worrell just mentioned that the Thunder are shooting 80% in the first quarter and might set a record for a Rockets opponent in a single quarter.
7:33 – The Thunder hit 17-of-21 shots (81%) in the first quarter. 39-25 OKC.
7:36 – MIKE HARRIS IS IN THE GAME!!!
7:38 – "Rick Adelman has to call Daryl Morey every night to find out who's coming up from Rio Grande." – Bill Worrell on the Rockets roster flux. The Thunder have used the same starters 50-straight games.
7:40 – They're talking about Harris. Apparently he's on his third number of the season. 17, 19 and 33 (first Rockets stint, Washington Wizards stint, Vipers and current Rockets stint). Good to see him wearing his number now.
7:42 – Harris rebound followed by a Brooks three-pointer. B-E-A-UUUUU-TI-FUL
7:48 – Rockets are 4-for-6 from behind the arc, but OKC is 25-for-30 from the field, so the Rockets are going to need keep hitting everything from downtown to have a chance to comeback. 61-41 Thunder, 6:53 to go in the second.
7:50 – Harris just had to try to stop Durant in Houston's zone. Foul.
7:57 – Harris with the bucket!
8:03 – Brooks just hit a three-pointer with about a minute left before halftime forcing an OKC timeout. Don't look now but the Rockets are only down 13 (70-57). 7-for-11 from behind the arc. The Thunder are only shooting a little over 70% now, so they appear to be starting to cool off somewhat.
8:05 – Thunder get back-to-back baskets to go up 74-57 at halftime. That's a lot of points.
8:07 – Brooks has 8 points, 5 assists and 2 rebounds. He's 2-for-6 from the field, 2-for-3 from deep and 2-for-3 from the line. Harris has 2 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal while playing the entire second quarter. He's 1-for-2 from the field. Taylor hasn't played yet.
8:25 – I am really liking Kevin Martin's game tonight. He's playing so well, despite the left shoulder injury. Jack Falla's #1 rule in life - "You gotta play hurt."
8:29 – I wonder how many people are laughing at the fact that Matt Bullard didn't recognize #12 as Kevin Martin on that technical foul right away. I'm certainly not. I can't always translate numbers into names very fast either. For the opposing team I can, not for the team I work for. Why? I know who our guys are, I don't need to know their numbers. The only way to know who the opposing players are the first time I see them? By number. Think about it.
8:39 – Brooks just rushed a three to try to respond to a Durant three. I think the Rockets are starting to press down by 21 late in the third.
8:44 – Harris is back in the game.
8:50 – Start of the fourth quarter... Jermaine Taylor is in the game for the first time. Harris is still in.
8:51 – Great shot of Harris smiling. He's ALWAYS smiling. I think that's why everyone likes him.
8:53 – Nice pick and roll by Harris and Kyle Lowry to get the Rockets back within 21.
8:54 – Taylor just misfired on a long three... Went wide left.
8:55 – Taylor just committed a turnover. Spun into a double-team. Bullard suggesting Taylor has too much adrenaline. Said Taylor should've shot it. Probably right, had room for a baseline jumper. Probably could've passed too. It's always interesting to see a player excel in the minors and then struggle is his first few minutes back in the bigs. A lot of people think if you play well in one place it should translate. From time to time I'm one of them. It's not physical, folks. It's mental.
8:58 – I'm going to go send a fruit basket to Worrell and Bullard. They're talking about the Vipers, how they're in first place and the record number of GATORADE Call-Ups. They briefly forgot Coach Finch's name, which forced me to reconsider the fruit basket, but they quickly remembered and talked about how he's the head coach of the British National Team too. They can have the basket, but I'm going to ask them to share it with Rockets Media Relations Director Nelson Luis, who is likely sitting next to them.
9:02 – Taylor tried a dunk, got blocked, but Scola was there to clean it up.
9:08 – Harris at the line, too strong on the first free throw, second one rolled in. Now has three points. Has only hit 1-of-5 shots.
9:09 – Harris just hit his trademark jumper from just beyond the free throw line.
9:10 – Serge Ibaka just accidentally elbowed Taylor in the nose. Man, Ibaka is a beast. That had to hurt. Thankfully, Taylor able to remain in the game... the Rockets can't afford another injury.
9:12 – Bullard pointing out the clear chemistry between Harris and Taylor thanks to their time together with the Vipers. Taylor jumped into the lane and fed Harris underneath for a layup. Worrell just termed it "the Vipers connection." Did I say fruit basket? I meant steak dinner.
9:14 – Looks like the Oklahoma City crowd visible from the center court camera has decided to beat the traffic. Corners are still full, though. I could never imagine leaving a sporting event early. Traffic is part of the allure! Time to listen to the post-game show on the radio, chat with your family and friends about the game... It's worth it. What's the rush to get home?
9:15 – Taylor just hit a pair from the line. Looks like he's starting to settle in.
9:16 – Taylor just drove to the bucket for a layup and got fouled in mid-air.
9:17 – Taylor just hit two more from the line.
9:19 – Driving layup for Taylor after a Harris rebound.
9:20 – Rockets fall 122-104. First time the Thunder beat the Rockets in a long-time. Rockets had won 13-straight against OKC.
Here's how the Vipers alumni finished:
Brooks – 11 points, 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals... 3-12 FG, 3-7 3 PT, 2-3 FT... 31:51
Harris – 7 points, 8 rebounds (4 offensive), 1 assist, 2 steals, 1 block... 3-9 FG, 1-2 FT... 26:12
Taylor – 7 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block... 1-5 FG, 0-1 3 PT, 5-6 FT... 12:00
7:09 p.m. – Just about to start - Is Kevin Durant tying his shoe on the scorer's table really a pre-game ritual worthy of the league's leading scorer? I mean, c'mon, toss some resin in the air or something! Well, I guess when you're #1 you can do whatever you want.
7:11 – Former-Viper Aaron Brooks opening the game with a three-point miss. Not bad shot selection simply because Brooks is having an incredible season and hitting threes left and right, but what does it say about the Rockets right now that they can't try to establish an inside game first? Not as much as you think. Actually, it says more about the height of Oklahoma City. I think it was Matt Bullard who just pointed out that everyone on the court for OKC is taller than Houston starting center Chuck Hayes. So the Rockets need to establish the outside game early to force the Thunder to go small and commit more to the perimeter, allowing the Rockets post players to have a chance inside.
7:15 – Anyone else remember when teams were wary of Durant because he reportedly couldn't lift and was lacking upper body strength? Um... yeah, about that...
7:21 – Rockets used the three ball to erase OKC's early 10-2 lead and now Scola just had an open look inside. Just like I was saying before...
7:23 – If the Rockets defense doesn't improve (OKC is 11-for-13), this is going to be a very high scoring game. 23-17 Thunder in the middle of the first.
7:25 – It might help if Mr. Defense himself, Shane Battier, wasn't hurt, but you can't worry about the guys you don't have, only those who are dressed and able to play.
7:29 – Kyle Lowry in the game, good to see him playing hurt.
7:30 – Bill Worrell just mentioned that the Thunder are shooting 80% in the first quarter and might set a record for a Rockets opponent in a single quarter.
7:33 – The Thunder hit 17-of-21 shots (81%) in the first quarter. 39-25 OKC.
7:36 – MIKE HARRIS IS IN THE GAME!!!
7:38 – "Rick Adelman has to call Daryl Morey every night to find out who's coming up from Rio Grande." – Bill Worrell on the Rockets roster flux. The Thunder have used the same starters 50-straight games.
7:40 – They're talking about Harris. Apparently he's on his third number of the season. 17, 19 and 33 (first Rockets stint, Washington Wizards stint, Vipers and current Rockets stint). Good to see him wearing his number now.
7:42 – Harris rebound followed by a Brooks three-pointer. B-E-A-UUUUU-TI-FUL
7:48 – Rockets are 4-for-6 from behind the arc, but OKC is 25-for-30 from the field, so the Rockets are going to need keep hitting everything from downtown to have a chance to comeback. 61-41 Thunder, 6:53 to go in the second.
7:50 – Harris just had to try to stop Durant in Houston's zone. Foul.
7:57 – Harris with the bucket!
8:03 – Brooks just hit a three-pointer with about a minute left before halftime forcing an OKC timeout. Don't look now but the Rockets are only down 13 (70-57). 7-for-11 from behind the arc. The Thunder are only shooting a little over 70% now, so they appear to be starting to cool off somewhat.
8:05 – Thunder get back-to-back baskets to go up 74-57 at halftime. That's a lot of points.
8:07 – Brooks has 8 points, 5 assists and 2 rebounds. He's 2-for-6 from the field, 2-for-3 from deep and 2-for-3 from the line. Harris has 2 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal while playing the entire second quarter. He's 1-for-2 from the field. Taylor hasn't played yet.
8:25 – I am really liking Kevin Martin's game tonight. He's playing so well, despite the left shoulder injury. Jack Falla's #1 rule in life - "You gotta play hurt."
8:29 – I wonder how many people are laughing at the fact that Matt Bullard didn't recognize #12 as Kevin Martin on that technical foul right away. I'm certainly not. I can't always translate numbers into names very fast either. For the opposing team I can, not for the team I work for. Why? I know who our guys are, I don't need to know their numbers. The only way to know who the opposing players are the first time I see them? By number. Think about it.
8:39 – Brooks just rushed a three to try to respond to a Durant three. I think the Rockets are starting to press down by 21 late in the third.
8:44 – Harris is back in the game.
8:50 – Start of the fourth quarter... Jermaine Taylor is in the game for the first time. Harris is still in.
8:51 – Great shot of Harris smiling. He's ALWAYS smiling. I think that's why everyone likes him.
8:53 – Nice pick and roll by Harris and Kyle Lowry to get the Rockets back within 21.
8:54 – Taylor just misfired on a long three... Went wide left.
8:55 – Taylor just committed a turnover. Spun into a double-team. Bullard suggesting Taylor has too much adrenaline. Said Taylor should've shot it. Probably right, had room for a baseline jumper. Probably could've passed too. It's always interesting to see a player excel in the minors and then struggle is his first few minutes back in the bigs. A lot of people think if you play well in one place it should translate. From time to time I'm one of them. It's not physical, folks. It's mental.
8:58 – I'm going to go send a fruit basket to Worrell and Bullard. They're talking about the Vipers, how they're in first place and the record number of GATORADE Call-Ups. They briefly forgot Coach Finch's name, which forced me to reconsider the fruit basket, but they quickly remembered and talked about how he's the head coach of the British National Team too. They can have the basket, but I'm going to ask them to share it with Rockets Media Relations Director Nelson Luis, who is likely sitting next to them.
9:02 – Taylor tried a dunk, got blocked, but Scola was there to clean it up.
9:08 – Harris at the line, too strong on the first free throw, second one rolled in. Now has three points. Has only hit 1-of-5 shots.
9:09 – Harris just hit his trademark jumper from just beyond the free throw line.
9:10 – Serge Ibaka just accidentally elbowed Taylor in the nose. Man, Ibaka is a beast. That had to hurt. Thankfully, Taylor able to remain in the game... the Rockets can't afford another injury.
9:12 – Bullard pointing out the clear chemistry between Harris and Taylor thanks to their time together with the Vipers. Taylor jumped into the lane and fed Harris underneath for a layup. Worrell just termed it "the Vipers connection." Did I say fruit basket? I meant steak dinner.
9:14 – Looks like the Oklahoma City crowd visible from the center court camera has decided to beat the traffic. Corners are still full, though. I could never imagine leaving a sporting event early. Traffic is part of the allure! Time to listen to the post-game show on the radio, chat with your family and friends about the game... It's worth it. What's the rush to get home?
9:15 – Taylor just hit a pair from the line. Looks like he's starting to settle in.
9:16 – Taylor just drove to the bucket for a layup and got fouled in mid-air.
9:17 – Taylor just hit two more from the line.
9:19 – Driving layup for Taylor after a Harris rebound.
9:20 – Rockets fall 122-104. First time the Thunder beat the Rockets in a long-time. Rockets had won 13-straight against OKC.
Here's how the Vipers alumni finished:
Brooks – 11 points, 2 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals... 3-12 FG, 3-7 3 PT, 2-3 FT... 31:51
Harris – 7 points, 8 rebounds (4 offensive), 1 assist, 2 steals, 1 block... 3-9 FG, 1-2 FT... 26:12
Taylor – 7 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block... 1-5 FG, 0-1 3 PT, 5-6 FT... 12:00
Viper Launch
A couple of Vipers just blasted off to Houston again. Mike Harris and Jermaine Taylor are again members of the Rockets, and this time, they might get a serious chance to play, especially Harris.
The Rockets are dealing with four injuries to their front court and they love Harris, so I'm not sure he'll ever get a better opportunity to prove himself than this one.
The no-doubt about it NBA D-League MVP (I'm calling it an upset if he doesn't get every vote), can play small forward and power forward pretty easily, and honestly, in the Rockets scheme, he can play center too. Harris successfully played some center for the Vipers earlier this season, and he's the same height as Chuck Hayes, so it's not as ridiculous as it may sound.
Either way, it sounds like he's going to get what he needs - a chance.
"Mike deserves the opportunity and we wish him the best and would like to see him excel at the next level with the Rockets," said Vipers General Manager Gersson Rosas, who is also the Vice President of Player Personnel for the Rockets.
Pretty strong, and in my opinion, telling words from a guy who has a lot of decision-making power at both the major and minor league level. He's seen Harris extensively and I think he knows what he can do at the NBA level. Remember was Gersson said to me during a Farmers Insurance Halftime Report a few weeks ago when I asked him why Harris was still in the NBA D-League? He said he didn't know and that he was surprised Harris hadn't been called up. Since then, Harris has had a GATORADE Call-Up to the Washington Wizards, but for whatever reason, did not get a chance to play. It's not the Wizards were going anywhere, and they have since called up Alonzo Gee from Austin and given him a chance to play. Gee has excelled. It's not like Gee is that much better than Harris. Honestly, I'm not sure that he's better at all, maybe more flashy. They're both really good... of similar talent... so why did one get to play and not the other?
I categorically reject the notion that NBA Teams aren't giving Harris his well deserved chance because he is undersized. As Coach Finch said on Inside the Vipers Nest the other week, he'll take speed and talent over size any day. Some NBA GMs say they're in the size business. Well, Finch has a bunch of Championships and Coach of the Year Awards. Finch almost always goes to the playoffs and has never had a bad season. He'll be in the NBA before too long. So I trust his judgement.
And I trust my eyes. My eyes tell me Harris is an NBA player. Hopefully we'll find out for sure in the next few weeks.
It starts tonight. Rockets @ Oklahoma City, 7:00 p.m. You can listen locally to Craig Ackerman and Joel Blank on ESPN 1240 AM or check it out on FSN Plus.
The Rockets are dealing with four injuries to their front court and they love Harris, so I'm not sure he'll ever get a better opportunity to prove himself than this one.
The no-doubt about it NBA D-League MVP (I'm calling it an upset if he doesn't get every vote), can play small forward and power forward pretty easily, and honestly, in the Rockets scheme, he can play center too. Harris successfully played some center for the Vipers earlier this season, and he's the same height as Chuck Hayes, so it's not as ridiculous as it may sound.
Either way, it sounds like he's going to get what he needs - a chance.
"Mike deserves the opportunity and we wish him the best and would like to see him excel at the next level with the Rockets," said Vipers General Manager Gersson Rosas, who is also the Vice President of Player Personnel for the Rockets.
Pretty strong, and in my opinion, telling words from a guy who has a lot of decision-making power at both the major and minor league level. He's seen Harris extensively and I think he knows what he can do at the NBA level. Remember was Gersson said to me during a Farmers Insurance Halftime Report a few weeks ago when I asked him why Harris was still in the NBA D-League? He said he didn't know and that he was surprised Harris hadn't been called up. Since then, Harris has had a GATORADE Call-Up to the Washington Wizards, but for whatever reason, did not get a chance to play. It's not the Wizards were going anywhere, and they have since called up Alonzo Gee from Austin and given him a chance to play. Gee has excelled. It's not like Gee is that much better than Harris. Honestly, I'm not sure that he's better at all, maybe more flashy. They're both really good... of similar talent... so why did one get to play and not the other?
I categorically reject the notion that NBA Teams aren't giving Harris his well deserved chance because he is undersized. As Coach Finch said on Inside the Vipers Nest the other week, he'll take speed and talent over size any day. Some NBA GMs say they're in the size business. Well, Finch has a bunch of Championships and Coach of the Year Awards. Finch almost always goes to the playoffs and has never had a bad season. He'll be in the NBA before too long. So I trust his judgement.
And I trust my eyes. My eyes tell me Harris is an NBA player. Hopefully we'll find out for sure in the next few weeks.
It starts tonight. Rockets @ Oklahoma City, 7:00 p.m. You can listen locally to Craig Ackerman and Joel Blank on ESPN 1240 AM or check it out on FSN Plus.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
I Don't Think He's Coming Back
I wanted to start this off with a Simpsons clip from the X-Files episode with Leonard Nimoy (before he sold out and decided to be a part of the I can't call it Star Trek because it's not movie), but I couldn't find it for some reason.
I'm talking about Garrett Temple. I've said it before and I'll say it again. He's on his way to a long NBA career. Temple earned a contract with the Spurs for the rest of the season today. Every time one of his 10-day contracts this season, everyone wondered if he'd be coming back. He almost came back after the second one with the Rockets. Depending on which story you believe, he was either about to leave for the airport, on his way to the airport, in the airport, about to board the plane, or physically on the plane, when he got the call to turn around and go back to the hotel since the Kings were coming to town. The rest is history.
There's something exciting about seeing one of our guys not only in the NBA and not only experiencing success, but getting rewarded for all of his hard work. When you're young, all you can do is work hard and hope someone notices so you can get what you deserve. And if you were wondering if anyone was taking notice of Temple... well, I can name at least three NBA teams off the bat, and I have a feeling there were more.
I mean, think about it, the Spurs signed Temple over their own Curtis Jerrells in Austin! What does that tell you?
--
Speaking of Austin, they almost did something no one else ever has... Lose to Springfield in something considered a road game in the standings for the Armor. It took overtime and a little comeback, but the Toros did avoid that.
It is scoreboard watching time just because the Vipers have a magic number of three to clinch the Western Conference Championship. Any combination of Vipers wins and Toros losses that adds up to three will take care of that. It could happen as soon as Friday. I'm thinking Saturday, though. I figure Austin beats Springfield on Wednesday but splits with Bakersfield this weekend. If the Vipers sweep LA... then Saturday you can pop the preliminary round of Martinelli's Gold Medal Sparkling Cider (which, by the way, is Kosher for Passover... important to note in case Austin sweeps Bakersfield and the Vipers don't clinch until next week). Any day now...
--
Of course, we all know the most important game on Wednesday doesn't take place in Austin, but rather Richmond, Virginia, where Boston University faces Virginia Commonwealth University in the CBI semifinals. Winner goes to the Championship Series. Oh, it's so close I can almost taste it!
--
Also of note on Wednesday, make sure you watch Action 4 News at 6 to find out who will win our second-ever Jr. Broadcaster Competition. We had three incredible candidates. Two 17-year old girls and one 11-year old girl, and they were all well-prepared and pretty calm. Action 4 Sports reporter Darren Haynes not only ran the contest, but taught the kids. It was quite impressive. He could be a teacher some day if he chooses. Darren is getting married on Saturday. Is it too early to say I think he's going to be a good father? Or is that putting too much pressure on the guy too soon? Well, how about congratulations and good luck? Yeah, that'll work.
I'm talking about Garrett Temple. I've said it before and I'll say it again. He's on his way to a long NBA career. Temple earned a contract with the Spurs for the rest of the season today. Every time one of his 10-day contracts this season, everyone wondered if he'd be coming back. He almost came back after the second one with the Rockets. Depending on which story you believe, he was either about to leave for the airport, on his way to the airport, in the airport, about to board the plane, or physically on the plane, when he got the call to turn around and go back to the hotel since the Kings were coming to town. The rest is history.
There's something exciting about seeing one of our guys not only in the NBA and not only experiencing success, but getting rewarded for all of his hard work. When you're young, all you can do is work hard and hope someone notices so you can get what you deserve. And if you were wondering if anyone was taking notice of Temple... well, I can name at least three NBA teams off the bat, and I have a feeling there were more.
I mean, think about it, the Spurs signed Temple over their own Curtis Jerrells in Austin! What does that tell you?
--
Speaking of Austin, they almost did something no one else ever has... Lose to Springfield in something considered a road game in the standings for the Armor. It took overtime and a little comeback, but the Toros did avoid that.
It is scoreboard watching time just because the Vipers have a magic number of three to clinch the Western Conference Championship. Any combination of Vipers wins and Toros losses that adds up to three will take care of that. It could happen as soon as Friday. I'm thinking Saturday, though. I figure Austin beats Springfield on Wednesday but splits with Bakersfield this weekend. If the Vipers sweep LA... then Saturday you can pop the preliminary round of Martinelli's Gold Medal Sparkling Cider (which, by the way, is Kosher for Passover... important to note in case Austin sweeps Bakersfield and the Vipers don't clinch until next week). Any day now...
--
Of course, we all know the most important game on Wednesday doesn't take place in Austin, but rather Richmond, Virginia, where Boston University faces Virginia Commonwealth University in the CBI semifinals. Winner goes to the Championship Series. Oh, it's so close I can almost taste it!
--
Also of note on Wednesday, make sure you watch Action 4 News at 6 to find out who will win our second-ever Jr. Broadcaster Competition. We had three incredible candidates. Two 17-year old girls and one 11-year old girl, and they were all well-prepared and pretty calm. Action 4 Sports reporter Darren Haynes not only ran the contest, but taught the kids. It was quite impressive. He could be a teacher some day if he chooses. Darren is getting married on Saturday. Is it too early to say I think he's going to be a good father? Or is that putting too much pressure on the guy too soon? Well, how about congratulations and good luck? Yeah, that'll work.
Monday, March 22, 2010
The Team-Oriented Approach
I think the one thing that has consistently amazed me about the Vipers this season is the team-oriented approach. Remember when the NBA was about individuals. Perhaps it still is. From Michael Jordan to LeBron James. I'm not necessarily saying the players are selfish, but if you asked me who I was a fan of when I was little, my first answer would have been Michael Jordan, not the Chicago Bulls (or my hometown New York Knicks, for that matter).
How do teams build up games against the Cavs? LeBron's coming to town! The Lakers? Kobe's coming to town!
That's why it's so refreshing to see what the Vipers are doing.
From day one you knew this was going to be a team-oriented squad. They share the load and it's never any one player who gives the Vipers a win. Maybe one player scores more point or has a triple-double or something, but at the end of the day, everyone comes together to win.
Think about the starting lineup the Vipers rolled out in a sweep of Iowa in early January. Will Conroy-Garrett Temple-Antonio Anderson-Mike Harris-Joey Dorsey. Who's the superstar in that lineup? All of them? Who's the one guy you're focused on? All of them?
Think about the starting lineup the Vipers used this weekend. Conroy-Jermaine Taylor-Anderson-Harris-Julian Sensley. Same questions.
It's not like last year's Albuquerque Thunderbirds, you know, the Will Conroy experience starring Will Conroy? He's not the only attraction, he's a supporting star, like everyone on this team.
It would have been been easy for Coach Finch to decide Mike Harris is the guy and everything should run through him. Harris could easily be averaging 40 points per night, and probably would be on a different team. But I'm not so sure that would help him and I'm quite sure that wouldn't help the team.
By getting everyone involved, you don't allow teams to double-team the go-to guy, especially since everyone can be a go-to guy.
Antonio Anderson in late December against Austin, Craig Winder in early March at Bakersfield... Mike Harris at all times... Good luck with that.
That makes everyone more ready and able to score... and it makes everyone happier too.
What Coach Finch understands is that it's about the sum of the parts, not the individual parts.
Perhaps that's why Matt Moore writes the Vipers may be having the best NBA D-League season ever.
--
Are you as sick as I am about hearing the announcers of every college game this weekend remind us to fill out the Census? Or the constant stream of ads? Shoot, when I got the Census in the mail, I filled it out and mailed it in. They're lying in the ads, it doesn't take 10 minutes... It takes two. I mean, seriously, it shouldn't be that big of a deal for everyone to fill it out and send it back. If anyone reading this blog hasn't done so already, just fill out the Census and drop it in a mailbox so we can stop getting over the head with it. PLEASE.
The way I see it is, you don't have to be reminded to pay your taxes, do you? Well, rather than complaining about how much the Federal Government is taking from you and worrying about how to get it back every April 15, here's the easiest way to get it back... make sure that money is spent on projects in your community. Think about it.
And it's not like you have to deal with someone knocking on your door like Christopher Walken did...
How do teams build up games against the Cavs? LeBron's coming to town! The Lakers? Kobe's coming to town!
That's why it's so refreshing to see what the Vipers are doing.
From day one you knew this was going to be a team-oriented squad. They share the load and it's never any one player who gives the Vipers a win. Maybe one player scores more point or has a triple-double or something, but at the end of the day, everyone comes together to win.
Think about the starting lineup the Vipers rolled out in a sweep of Iowa in early January. Will Conroy-Garrett Temple-Antonio Anderson-Mike Harris-Joey Dorsey. Who's the superstar in that lineup? All of them? Who's the one guy you're focused on? All of them?
Think about the starting lineup the Vipers used this weekend. Conroy-Jermaine Taylor-Anderson-Harris-Julian Sensley. Same questions.
It's not like last year's Albuquerque Thunderbirds, you know, the Will Conroy experience starring Will Conroy? He's not the only attraction, he's a supporting star, like everyone on this team.
It would have been been easy for Coach Finch to decide Mike Harris is the guy and everything should run through him. Harris could easily be averaging 40 points per night, and probably would be on a different team. But I'm not so sure that would help him and I'm quite sure that wouldn't help the team.
By getting everyone involved, you don't allow teams to double-team the go-to guy, especially since everyone can be a go-to guy.
Antonio Anderson in late December against Austin, Craig Winder in early March at Bakersfield... Mike Harris at all times... Good luck with that.
That makes everyone more ready and able to score... and it makes everyone happier too.
What Coach Finch understands is that it's about the sum of the parts, not the individual parts.
Perhaps that's why Matt Moore writes the Vipers may be having the best NBA D-League season ever.
--
Are you as sick as I am about hearing the announcers of every college game this weekend remind us to fill out the Census? Or the constant stream of ads? Shoot, when I got the Census in the mail, I filled it out and mailed it in. They're lying in the ads, it doesn't take 10 minutes... It takes two. I mean, seriously, it shouldn't be that big of a deal for everyone to fill it out and send it back. If anyone reading this blog hasn't done so already, just fill out the Census and drop it in a mailbox so we can stop getting over the head with it. PLEASE.
The way I see it is, you don't have to be reminded to pay your taxes, do you? Well, rather than complaining about how much the Federal Government is taking from you and worrying about how to get it back every April 15, here's the easiest way to get it back... make sure that money is spent on projects in your community. Think about it.
And it's not like you have to deal with someone knocking on your door like Christopher Walken did...
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Probable Starters
My friend TJ in Reno asked for our roster and rotation probable starters yesterday. I had to wait until today when I was sure the roster was set for the trip before responding.
All teams want rosters, but he was the first to ask me for probables. So, I responded the only way I know how:
Friday – RHP Reymond Cruz
Saturday – LHP Jesus Sanchez
TJ's a fellow baseball person, so he laughed.
Then I thought about it, who will the Vipers start Friday?
Here's what we probably know:
PG – Will Conroy
PF – Mike Harris
C – Julian Sensley
That leaves shooting guard and small forward. The candidates? Jonathan Wallace, Stanley Asumnu, Jermaine Taylor and Antonio Anderson.
On first glance, the answer is easy – Taylor and Anderson, right? Not so fast. Asumnu has started five-straight games. The Vipers are 3-2 in that span and Asumnu has played extremely well, averaging 12.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. He hasn't exactly played himself out of the starting lineup.
Wallace has been known to start at SG when the Vipers have been short on SGs, though that's really not the case right now.
At least one of Taylor or Anderson seems likely to provide that scoring punch off the bench the Vipers are missing with Craig Winder injured. My guess would be Taylor.
So perhaps Anderson and Asumnu the final two starters with Taylor, Wallace and Ernest Scott providing sparks off the bench?
Remember, Coach Finch thinks starting is overrated, and I've come around to agree with him. It's about minutes, after all. Coming off the bench to provide a spark is a very valuable skill, and, honestly, starting Anderson and Asumnu is a pretty dangerous combo right now, and probably the best defensive option.
--
So far so good in the CBI. BU wrecked defending CBI Champion Oregon State at Oregon State. You know what that means? They get to HOST Morehead State in the Elite 8 on Monday.
Speaking of college basketball, I was at the grand opening of Kidiatric Therapy Services in La Joya with some of the players on Wednesday, and I was chatting with Jonathan Wallace about Georgetown. Really, we were talking about the area and all that. My brother is a grad student there, working towards a masters in public policy. Ernest Scott joined the conversation and asked me how come all the attention is on guys like Jonathan because he went to Georgetown. After all, Valdosta State is in the Elite 8! That led to some bracket/smack talk, including Ernest saying Georgetown would be one and done. Jonathan said there's no way Georgetown would lose to Ohio. You know, that Ohio team that was a 9th seed in the MAC and had to win four-straight games to win the MAC for their only shot at post-season ball? You know, that Ohio team that probably should've been a 16 seed? You know, that Ohio team that beat Georgetown 97-83? Oops.
Ohio will now face Stanley Asumnu's Tennessee squad.
Craig Winder's Texas is out, but Will Conroy's Washington looked good in a win tonight.
Oh, and of course Scott's Valdosta State faces Indiana (PA) on Wednesday in Springfield.
All teams want rosters, but he was the first to ask me for probables. So, I responded the only way I know how:
Friday – RHP Reymond Cruz
Saturday – LHP Jesus Sanchez
TJ's a fellow baseball person, so he laughed.
Then I thought about it, who will the Vipers start Friday?
Here's what we probably know:
PG – Will Conroy
PF – Mike Harris
C – Julian Sensley
That leaves shooting guard and small forward. The candidates? Jonathan Wallace, Stanley Asumnu, Jermaine Taylor and Antonio Anderson.
On first glance, the answer is easy – Taylor and Anderson, right? Not so fast. Asumnu has started five-straight games. The Vipers are 3-2 in that span and Asumnu has played extremely well, averaging 12.2 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. He hasn't exactly played himself out of the starting lineup.
Wallace has been known to start at SG when the Vipers have been short on SGs, though that's really not the case right now.
At least one of Taylor or Anderson seems likely to provide that scoring punch off the bench the Vipers are missing with Craig Winder injured. My guess would be Taylor.
So perhaps Anderson and Asumnu the final two starters with Taylor, Wallace and Ernest Scott providing sparks off the bench?
Remember, Coach Finch thinks starting is overrated, and I've come around to agree with him. It's about minutes, after all. Coming off the bench to provide a spark is a very valuable skill, and, honestly, starting Anderson and Asumnu is a pretty dangerous combo right now, and probably the best defensive option.
--
So far so good in the CBI. BU wrecked defending CBI Champion Oregon State at Oregon State. You know what that means? They get to HOST Morehead State in the Elite 8 on Monday.
Speaking of college basketball, I was at the grand opening of Kidiatric Therapy Services in La Joya with some of the players on Wednesday, and I was chatting with Jonathan Wallace about Georgetown. Really, we were talking about the area and all that. My brother is a grad student there, working towards a masters in public policy. Ernest Scott joined the conversation and asked me how come all the attention is on guys like Jonathan because he went to Georgetown. After all, Valdosta State is in the Elite 8! That led to some bracket/smack talk, including Ernest saying Georgetown would be one and done. Jonathan said there's no way Georgetown would lose to Ohio. You know, that Ohio team that was a 9th seed in the MAC and had to win four-straight games to win the MAC for their only shot at post-season ball? You know, that Ohio team that probably should've been a 16 seed? You know, that Ohio team that beat Georgetown 97-83? Oops.
Ohio will now face Stanley Asumnu's Tennessee squad.
Craig Winder's Texas is out, but Will Conroy's Washington looked good in a win tonight.
Oh, and of course Scott's Valdosta State faces Indiana (PA) on Wednesday in Springfield.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
We're Talking About PLAYOFFS!!!!
That's right. Sioux Falls beat Idaho tonight. Meaning the Vipers just clinched their first-ever playoff spot!
It's been such a magical season, it really comes as no surprise, but I have to admit I got really into the game tonight while watching on Futurecast. And yes, I did scream when the game ended.
Now, the Vipers just need to take care of the conference. The magic number is five over Austin. Sorry Peter, we're all out of room in this blog post too. =)
It's been such a magical season, it really comes as no surprise, but I have to admit I got really into the game tonight while watching on Futurecast. And yes, I did scream when the game ended.
Now, the Vipers just need to take care of the conference. The magic number is five over Austin. Sorry Peter, we're all out of room in this blog post too. =)
The Poster Child for the NBA Development League
Kenny Hasbrouck's headed to the Miami Heat. GATORADE Call-Up #9 as the Vipers continue to extend their single-season record.
But it gets better than that.
Hasbrouck is the fifth Viper to earn an NBA roster spot this season. Three teams have previously had four, but no one's ever had five. It's another feather in a Vipers cap that is starting to look like a bird instead of a snake.
To put this in perspective, the Vipers have 9 of the league's 25 call-ups this season, or 36%. Since there are 16 teams, a standard deviation would suggest each team should have had one or two call-ups right now, or 6.25%. The Vipers are doing 576% better than average. No, there's no missing decimal there. Five hundred seventy-six percent. Read that again.
Mind-blowing, isn't it?
The Vipers are located in a place that isn't always shown on the Weather Channel's national radar, but they've certainly put the NBA Development League on the map.
The poster children for the league should not be Jose Juan Barrea or Ramon Sessions or Sundiata Gaines or C.J. Watson or Aaron Brooks... but Garrett Temple and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
Temple is on his fourth 10-day contract and seems to have no end to the list of suitors, yet no one wanted him on NBA Draft day and he couldn't even sniff a Rockets roster spot in training camp. Boy has that changed.
It's proof positive that players can come here, develop further and prove themselves in the NBA game. Going to player overseas may get a guy more money, but it's a different game so I'm not convinced that it helps to get to the NBA. Brandon Jennings is a fluke (remember, he was terrible in Italy, so it's kind of shocking that he's got a chance to be Rookie of the Year). And remember, he was still in the NBA Draft. Guys who are no longer draft eligible need to play in the NBA Development League to get into the NBA. That's just a fact.
I think a lot of teams are taking notice of what the Rockets and Vipers have done together. I am willing to guess there will be at least four more single-affiliation teams next year.
--
The WNIT bracket is out and Boston University earned America East's auto-bid by being the highest ranking team left out of the NCAA Tournament. I'll pick my full bracket later tonight, but I'm going to tell you right now BU is going to win it all. They're hosting Providence on Thursday. BU won their first round WNIT game last year at home before falling in a tough one at BC. The WNIT is concerned a little more about geography than straight-seeding, which always makes things interesting since you can get loaded regions and weaker regions. Haven't had time to analyze the entire field yet, but BU's going to win it all. Mark it down.
Fearless Women's NCAA Tournament Predictions:
#10 Hartford was severely under-seeded They should have been a #5 or #6 seed, but, as always, there's a bias against America East. I'm not sure what more Hartford could have really done... Still, I'll take them going to the Elite 8, where they'll either lose to #4 Baylor or #1 Tennessee. Normally I'd never consider taking a #4 to the Final Four in the women's NCAA Tournament, since the sport is so shallow and generally picking the top 8 teams to go the Elite 8 is quite safe, and it's almost stupid not to. But something seems different this year... Especially with Baylor. Brittney Griner is really really good.
#10 Vermont may have been under-seeded as well, but not as badly as Hartford. They'll go to the Elite 8 as well, where they'll lose to #1 Nebraska. Courtney Pilapytis and Amy Kotsopolous are the two best players you've never heard of. They can lead Vermont on a magical run.
I wish I could pick both of them to go the Final Four, I really do...
Not that it matters, since we all know the final outcome... UConn will win it all. I wonder if there's anyone who thinks otherwise...
But it gets better than that.
Hasbrouck is the fifth Viper to earn an NBA roster spot this season. Three teams have previously had four, but no one's ever had five. It's another feather in a Vipers cap that is starting to look like a bird instead of a snake.
To put this in perspective, the Vipers have 9 of the league's 25 call-ups this season, or 36%. Since there are 16 teams, a standard deviation would suggest each team should have had one or two call-ups right now, or 6.25%. The Vipers are doing 576% better than average. No, there's no missing decimal there. Five hundred seventy-six percent. Read that again.
Mind-blowing, isn't it?
The Vipers are located in a place that isn't always shown on the Weather Channel's national radar, but they've certainly put the NBA Development League on the map.
The poster children for the league should not be Jose Juan Barrea or Ramon Sessions or Sundiata Gaines or C.J. Watson or Aaron Brooks... but Garrett Temple and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
Temple is on his fourth 10-day contract and seems to have no end to the list of suitors, yet no one wanted him on NBA Draft day and he couldn't even sniff a Rockets roster spot in training camp. Boy has that changed.
It's proof positive that players can come here, develop further and prove themselves in the NBA game. Going to player overseas may get a guy more money, but it's a different game so I'm not convinced that it helps to get to the NBA. Brandon Jennings is a fluke (remember, he was terrible in Italy, so it's kind of shocking that he's got a chance to be Rookie of the Year). And remember, he was still in the NBA Draft. Guys who are no longer draft eligible need to play in the NBA Development League to get into the NBA. That's just a fact.
I think a lot of teams are taking notice of what the Rockets and Vipers have done together. I am willing to guess there will be at least four more single-affiliation teams next year.
--
The WNIT bracket is out and Boston University earned America East's auto-bid by being the highest ranking team left out of the NCAA Tournament. I'll pick my full bracket later tonight, but I'm going to tell you right now BU is going to win it all. They're hosting Providence on Thursday. BU won their first round WNIT game last year at home before falling in a tough one at BC. The WNIT is concerned a little more about geography than straight-seeding, which always makes things interesting since you can get loaded regions and weaker regions. Haven't had time to analyze the entire field yet, but BU's going to win it all. Mark it down.
Fearless Women's NCAA Tournament Predictions:
#10 Hartford was severely under-seeded They should have been a #5 or #6 seed, but, as always, there's a bias against America East. I'm not sure what more Hartford could have really done... Still, I'll take them going to the Elite 8, where they'll either lose to #4 Baylor or #1 Tennessee. Normally I'd never consider taking a #4 to the Final Four in the women's NCAA Tournament, since the sport is so shallow and generally picking the top 8 teams to go the Elite 8 is quite safe, and it's almost stupid not to. But something seems different this year... Especially with Baylor. Brittney Griner is really really good.
#10 Vermont may have been under-seeded as well, but not as badly as Hartford. They'll go to the Elite 8 as well, where they'll lose to #1 Nebraska. Courtney Pilapytis and Amy Kotsopolous are the two best players you've never heard of. They can lead Vermont on a magical run.
I wish I could pick both of them to go the Final Four, I really do...
Not that it matters, since we all know the final outcome... UConn will win it all. I wonder if there's anyone who thinks otherwise...
Monday, March 15, 2010
On the Brink
The Vipers can clinch a playoff spot as soon as Tuesday if Idaho loses at Sioux Falls. If not, it could happened Wednesday. Or Friday when the Vipers are at Reno.
Let me put it this way, it's going to happen.
The Vipers' magic number to clinch the Western Conference Championship is officially six (five to guarantee at least a tie with Austin, but since head-to-head record is the first tie breaker, and the Vipers won the season-series with the Toros 5-2, the magic number is technically five).
But wait, there's more. Don't look now, but Iowa's been stumbling lately and the Vipers are suddenly within 1.5 games of having the best record in the league. Iowa has five-straight home games against Dakota (three) and Sioux Falls (two) before closing out the season with two at Tulsa. The way Sioux Falls and Tulsa have been playing recently, that's no easy schedule. The Vipers have two at Reno (currently on the outside looking in, but with a legitimate shot at the final spot in the playoffs) this weekend, two at home against struggling-Los Angeles next weekend, games at potential eighth-seeds Utah and Idaho the following week followed by two at home against Dakota to close out the season. Tough to say for sure who has the more favorable schedule, but when you're talking about the top two teams, does/should schedule matter?
The Vipers are getting their guys back at the right time for that final push. Mike Harris and Will Conroy are back and doing what they do best - dominating the league. Antonio Anderson's second 10-day contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder is done, meaning if no other NBA team picks him up, he could be in uniform for the Vipers on Friday.
I don't think the Vipers will get Garrett Temple back at any point. The fact that he's on his fourth 10-day contract and third NBA team tells you how much interest there is in Temple. I have a feeling this is the start of a solid NBA career. The NBA Development League really worked for Temple. Basically did what it's supposed to do.
--
Fearless NCAA Tournament Prediction - Boston University will go undefeated. *sigh*
EDIT
Boston University will win the third-annual College Basketball Invitational.
1st Round:
BU over Oregon State
Morehead State over Colorado State
Hofstra over IUPUI
Duquesne over Princeton
Saint Louis over Indiana State
Akron over Green Bay
George Washington over Virginia Commonwealth University
Charleston over Eastern Kentucky
2nd Round:
BU over Morehead State
Hofstra over Duquesne
Akron over Saint Louis
GW over Charleston
Final Four:
BU over Hofstra
GW over Akron
Championship:
BU over GW in three games
End Edit
As for the NCAA Tournament...
#16 Vermont will BEAT #1 Syracuse.
Let me put it this way, it's going to happen.
The Vipers' magic number to clinch the Western Conference Championship is officially six (five to guarantee at least a tie with Austin, but since head-to-head record is the first tie breaker, and the Vipers won the season-series with the Toros 5-2, the magic number is technically five).
But wait, there's more. Don't look now, but Iowa's been stumbling lately and the Vipers are suddenly within 1.5 games of having the best record in the league. Iowa has five-straight home games against Dakota (three) and Sioux Falls (two) before closing out the season with two at Tulsa. The way Sioux Falls and Tulsa have been playing recently, that's no easy schedule. The Vipers have two at Reno (currently on the outside looking in, but with a legitimate shot at the final spot in the playoffs) this weekend, two at home against struggling-Los Angeles next weekend, games at potential eighth-seeds Utah and Idaho the following week followed by two at home against Dakota to close out the season. Tough to say for sure who has the more favorable schedule, but when you're talking about the top two teams, does/should schedule matter?
The Vipers are getting their guys back at the right time for that final push. Mike Harris and Will Conroy are back and doing what they do best - dominating the league. Antonio Anderson's second 10-day contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder is done, meaning if no other NBA team picks him up, he could be in uniform for the Vipers on Friday.
I don't think the Vipers will get Garrett Temple back at any point. The fact that he's on his fourth 10-day contract and third NBA team tells you how much interest there is in Temple. I have a feeling this is the start of a solid NBA career. The NBA Development League really worked for Temple. Basically did what it's supposed to do.
--
Fearless NCAA Tournament Prediction - Boston University will go undefeated. *sigh*
EDIT
Boston University will win the third-annual College Basketball Invitational.
1st Round:
BU over Oregon State
Morehead State over Colorado State
Hofstra over IUPUI
Duquesne over Princeton
Saint Louis over Indiana State
Akron over Green Bay
George Washington over Virginia Commonwealth University
Charleston over Eastern Kentucky
2nd Round:
BU over Morehead State
Hofstra over Duquesne
Akron over Saint Louis
GW over Charleston
Final Four:
BU over Hofstra
GW over Akron
Championship:
BU over GW in three games
End Edit
As for the NCAA Tournament...
#16 Vermont will BEAT #1 Syracuse.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Magic Number - 2
The Vipers are two wins or two Idaho losses or one win and one Idaho loss from clinching their first ever playoff berth!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Did you know a Viper it a type of Rocket?
How appropriate.
Courtesy of Wikipedia:
Courtesy of Wikipedia:
Rockets
- FGR-17 Viper, an antitank rocket, subject of a government spending controversy
- Giant Viper, a rocket-launched mine-clearance system
- Viper Dart, an American sounding rocket
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Yao Ming Is Really Really Big
"Obviously."
Well, yeah, he's 7'6. What'd I expect? But, you really don't have any grasp for quite how big 7'6 is until you're standing near the guy. I was almost in awe of the sheer magnitude of this man. Almost. Professional to the end instead.
I do have a bone to pick with Yao, though. His presence coupled with the Rockets announcement of their exhibition game against the Magic on October 5 and Training Camp in the RGV starting October 3 made me really busy and effectively torpedoed my chance to be on the air tonight. I simply had too many other things to do. Man, the nerve of that guy. He think just because he's a six-time All-Star and the straw that stirs the Rockets' drink he can do whatever he wants. Oh, wait, yes he can. He's Yao Ming (and this is the Catalina Wine Mixer!).
In all seriousness, though, it was a fun visit. I think the coolest moment was during the pre-game when Mike Harris walked in during Yao's NBA TV interview. Yao got up and "ran" (moved quickly for a guy in his condition) over to Mike to share a hug and a have a shot conversation. It was kind of awkward only because they were surrounded by media and staff, so although they kept their voices low, they were standing in the middle of the room with all eyes on them. Ah, the life of a celebrity. No such thing as a private conversation. Perhaps fame and fortune aren't all they're cracked up to be?
I'll say this for that moment, though. It'd made them both human. It's easy sometimes to look at athletes and think of them as statistics or simply as players and not people. When you think Yao, you think All-Star. When you think Harris you think League MVP candidate. You don't think, human being, or, friend. Well, maybe you should.
---
Finally got my chance to meet Toros team President and fellow Boston University alum Peter Lubell today. Ironically, it was fairly brief. I just didn't have time to talk to him. Hopefully, though, I'll be able to squeeze him in next time. Who would've thought all of the Jimmy Kimmell-Matt Damon references would've actually come true?
Well, to make up for it, I asked Peter to write a guest blog to go at the bottom of this entry.
But I'm all out of room. We'll try to squeeze him in next time.
---
P.S. I pick any bracket that a BU team is in, so here is how I think the NCAA Tournament will unfold for women's ice hockey:
Quarterfinals:
#8 BU over #1 Mercyhurst (wouldn't be the first 8 over 1 upset)
#4 Harvard over #5 Cornell
#2 Minnesota-Duluth over #7 New Hampshire
#3 Minnesota over over #6 Clarkson
Semifinals:
#8 BU over #4 Harvard (wouldn't be the first 8-seed in the Championship game)
#2 Minnesota-Duluth over #3 Minnesota
Championship
#8 BU over #2 Minnesota-Duluth (did you honestly expect me to pick against BU? But, I can justify this. It's a bit of poetic justice after Duluth won the 2007 Championship as an 8-seed, beating Boston College in the championship game)
Well, yeah, he's 7'6. What'd I expect? But, you really don't have any grasp for quite how big 7'6 is until you're standing near the guy. I was almost in awe of the sheer magnitude of this man. Almost. Professional to the end instead.
I do have a bone to pick with Yao, though. His presence coupled with the Rockets announcement of their exhibition game against the Magic on October 5 and Training Camp in the RGV starting October 3 made me really busy and effectively torpedoed my chance to be on the air tonight. I simply had too many other things to do. Man, the nerve of that guy. He think just because he's a six-time All-Star and the straw that stirs the Rockets' drink he can do whatever he wants. Oh, wait, yes he can. He's Yao Ming (and this is the Catalina Wine Mixer!).
In all seriousness, though, it was a fun visit. I think the coolest moment was during the pre-game when Mike Harris walked in during Yao's NBA TV interview. Yao got up and "ran" (moved quickly for a guy in his condition) over to Mike to share a hug and a have a shot conversation. It was kind of awkward only because they were surrounded by media and staff, so although they kept their voices low, they were standing in the middle of the room with all eyes on them. Ah, the life of a celebrity. No such thing as a private conversation. Perhaps fame and fortune aren't all they're cracked up to be?
I'll say this for that moment, though. It'd made them both human. It's easy sometimes to look at athletes and think of them as statistics or simply as players and not people. When you think Yao, you think All-Star. When you think Harris you think League MVP candidate. You don't think, human being, or, friend. Well, maybe you should.
---
Finally got my chance to meet Toros team President and fellow Boston University alum Peter Lubell today. Ironically, it was fairly brief. I just didn't have time to talk to him. Hopefully, though, I'll be able to squeeze him in next time. Who would've thought all of the Jimmy Kimmell-Matt Damon references would've actually come true?
Well, to make up for it, I asked Peter to write a guest blog to go at the bottom of this entry.
But I'm all out of room. We'll try to squeeze him in next time.
---
P.S. I pick any bracket that a BU team is in, so here is how I think the NCAA Tournament will unfold for women's ice hockey:
Quarterfinals:
#8 BU over #1 Mercyhurst (wouldn't be the first 8 over 1 upset)
#4 Harvard over #5 Cornell
#2 Minnesota-Duluth over #7 New Hampshire
#3 Minnesota over over #6 Clarkson
Semifinals:
#8 BU over #4 Harvard (wouldn't be the first 8-seed in the Championship game)
#2 Minnesota-Duluth over #3 Minnesota
Championship
#8 BU over #2 Minnesota-Duluth (did you honestly expect me to pick against BU? But, I can justify this. It's a bit of poetic justice after Duluth won the 2007 Championship as an 8-seed, beating Boston College in the championship game)
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Why I'm in Bakersfield
The way I feel after Labor Day makes me sorry for some of the summer people going home to boring jobs and to lives they feel trapped in. Or that they trapped themselves in because at some point they gave in to fear and did what they knew they could do – play it safe – instead of taking a chance on doing what they truly wanted to do. They call that "being realistic." Hockey scares me, but I'd rather be scared than bored.
-Page 10 of Saved by Jack Falla (which I am currently re-reading... I never re-read a book... but it's my favorite of all time)
My parents gave me the best advice when I was little - find what you love and do it. Sounds so simple and obvious, but how many people actually follow that advice?
I discovered a passion for broadcasting sports, so that's what I do.
For the Vipers that usually means providing color commentary at home and being in the studio on the road. Not this weekend. This weekend is my chance to shine. I'm filling-in on play-by-play. Hopefully some of you reading this already know that from listening to Friday's win. Props go out to Vipers VP of Administration Jennifer Stool for letting me know during the pre-game show that she was listening. I know there are people listening at all times. It's the nature of radio. But there's a special feeling when someone you know is listening.
This is my GATORADE Call-Up. This is my 10-day contract. This is my chance to show what I can do. Minor league sports are really the same for everyone. Most people think in terms of players, but almost everyone working in minor league sports is looking to move up in the world. I'm no exception.
Friday was a lot of fun. There's a powerful and just happy feeling about putting on a headset. I think I did a pretty solid job. I plan to keep that up on Saturday.
For the record, the Vipers are now 3-0 when I do play-by-play for the entire game. However, Saturday is the first time I will ever done play-by-play for a Vipers game after a win (I personally ended two six-game losing streaks last season... yeah... I phrased it that way. As I always say, if I can control what's going on on the court, I'm not getting paid enough. So, uh, can I have a raise? =) haha. Just kidding! But no, seriously...).
All joking aside, I am here to follow my dreams. 703 career broadcasts now in the books, but still a ton of work left to do.
So join the celebration and wish upon a star and stop to remember the magic! There's always a dream coming true. Remember the magic!
-Page 10 of Saved by Jack Falla (which I am currently re-reading... I never re-read a book... but it's my favorite of all time)
My parents gave me the best advice when I was little - find what you love and do it. Sounds so simple and obvious, but how many people actually follow that advice?
I discovered a passion for broadcasting sports, so that's what I do.
For the Vipers that usually means providing color commentary at home and being in the studio on the road. Not this weekend. This weekend is my chance to shine. I'm filling-in on play-by-play. Hopefully some of you reading this already know that from listening to Friday's win. Props go out to Vipers VP of Administration Jennifer Stool for letting me know during the pre-game show that she was listening. I know there are people listening at all times. It's the nature of radio. But there's a special feeling when someone you know is listening.
This is my GATORADE Call-Up. This is my 10-day contract. This is my chance to show what I can do. Minor league sports are really the same for everyone. Most people think in terms of players, but almost everyone working in minor league sports is looking to move up in the world. I'm no exception.
Friday was a lot of fun. There's a powerful and just happy feeling about putting on a headset. I think I did a pretty solid job. I plan to keep that up on Saturday.
For the record, the Vipers are now 3-0 when I do play-by-play for the entire game. However, Saturday is the first time I will ever done play-by-play for a Vipers game after a win (I personally ended two six-game losing streaks last season... yeah... I phrased it that way. As I always say, if I can control what's going on on the court, I'm not getting paid enough. So, uh, can I have a raise? =) haha. Just kidding! But no, seriously...).
All joking aside, I am here to follow my dreams. 703 career broadcasts now in the books, but still a ton of work left to do.
So join the celebration and wish upon a star and stop to remember the magic! There's always a dream coming true. Remember the magic!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
7-11
This blog post is brought to you by the number 7 - aka the number of GATORADE Call-Ups the Vipers have had this season - a new NBA D-League record.
It is also brought to you by the number 11 - the number of Vipers alumni in the NBA right now.
Can someone please get me a Slurpee so we can celebrate?
I can't decide what word to use to describe this. Milestone? Watershed moment? Defining moment? Historic moment?
Well, no matter how you slice it, it's kind of a big deal.
The Vipers are living proof of what kind of impact the NBA Development League is having on the NBA, but, the question is... does the system work?
From a players standpoint, it certainly does. Garrett Temple is the best example. After two 10-day contracts with the Rockets, he was getting ready to head back to the Rio Grande Valley. Remember, it's two 10-day contracts per player per team. In-order for the Rockets to retain Temple, they would have had to sign him for the rest of the season. However, another NBA team, such as the Sacramento Kings, could swoop in and sign Temple to up-to two 10-day contracts. So it's good that the opportunity is there.
At the same time, how do you think the Rockets feel about losing Temple like that? The Rockets own the Vipers' basketball operations, but not the players, with the exception of NBA-assignees). So rather than being able to hide Temple with the Vipers until they need/want him again... and rather than being able to retain Temple's rights for another call-up or for summer league or training camp... The Rockets, who spent so much time developing Temple, lose out while the Kings get an NBA player without having to do any work.
My solution is simple – Single-affiliaton teams (RGV, Tulsa, Austin, LA) get to control the rights of ALL of their players, not just D-League players. Under that arrangement, those players could still go elsewhere if traded. Before you say that means the NBA would have to push back the trade deadline... they wouldn't, they'd just have to change the rules to not include these kinds of trades.
Still, that's not a perfect solution either. How would that be fair to guy a like Temple, who then might not get that next contract with the Kings?
In short, I don't know what to do. Do you? If so, comment below.
--
Happy Birthday Dad!
It is also brought to you by the number 11 - the number of Vipers alumni in the NBA right now.
Can someone please get me a Slurpee so we can celebrate?
I can't decide what word to use to describe this. Milestone? Watershed moment? Defining moment? Historic moment?
Well, no matter how you slice it, it's kind of a big deal.
The Vipers are living proof of what kind of impact the NBA Development League is having on the NBA, but, the question is... does the system work?
From a players standpoint, it certainly does. Garrett Temple is the best example. After two 10-day contracts with the Rockets, he was getting ready to head back to the Rio Grande Valley. Remember, it's two 10-day contracts per player per team. In-order for the Rockets to retain Temple, they would have had to sign him for the rest of the season. However, another NBA team, such as the Sacramento Kings, could swoop in and sign Temple to up-to two 10-day contracts. So it's good that the opportunity is there.
At the same time, how do you think the Rockets feel about losing Temple like that? The Rockets own the Vipers' basketball operations, but not the players, with the exception of NBA-assignees). So rather than being able to hide Temple with the Vipers until they need/want him again... and rather than being able to retain Temple's rights for another call-up or for summer league or training camp... The Rockets, who spent so much time developing Temple, lose out while the Kings get an NBA player without having to do any work.
My solution is simple – Single-affiliaton teams (RGV, Tulsa, Austin, LA) get to control the rights of ALL of their players, not just D-League players. Under that arrangement, those players could still go elsewhere if traded. Before you say that means the NBA would have to push back the trade deadline... they wouldn't, they'd just have to change the rules to not include these kinds of trades.
Still, that's not a perfect solution either. How would that be fair to guy a like Temple, who then might not get that next contract with the Kings?
In short, I don't know what to do. Do you? If so, comment below.
--
Happy Birthday Dad!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
There He Goes
There he goes again.
Will Conroy back in the NBA. No surprise here considering Conroy absolutely ripped the league apart in six game after returning from his first 10-day contract with the Rockets.
Surprised that Garrett Temple was let go? Somewhat. His two 10-days were up, and let's be honest, with Ariza back soon, the Rockets are Kyle Lowry away from getting rid of all playing time for that spot, so why sign him for the rest of the season to not play when you can give Conroy the GATORADE Call-Up he deserves and send Temple back to the Vipers to continue to play.
Seemed like a good idea at the time, but Temple showed plenty during his time with the Rockets, and several teams took notice, including the Sacramento Kings. Perhaps Joey Dorsey put in a good word for him. I don't know. Either way, the Kings made a good move.
#1, they get a guy who has clear NBA talent.
#2, they get a guy who's been playing backup point guard for the last couple of weeks and knows the Rockets systems as well as anyone. And what do you know? The Kings visit Houston today.
Whether the Kings are making this move because they recognize Temple's talent or because they want some extra info on their next opponent, it's a good move on both sides. My guess is it's for the former, but if it's the latter, Temple still gets the chance to take advantage and show his ability to adjust to a new system on the fly to a new set of eyes.
Certainly the affect on the Vipers is huge. At this moment the Vipers roster stands at eight. Jonathan Wallace is the starting point guard again (he played well in this role at the start of the season, so I'm not overly concerned about that). I'm not sure who the third starting guard is now. I think it's too soon to worry about it.
Let's wait to see if the Vipers acquire anyone before Friday's game at Bakersfield. Then we'll worry about starters.
Will Conroy back in the NBA. No surprise here considering Conroy absolutely ripped the league apart in six game after returning from his first 10-day contract with the Rockets.
Surprised that Garrett Temple was let go? Somewhat. His two 10-days were up, and let's be honest, with Ariza back soon, the Rockets are Kyle Lowry away from getting rid of all playing time for that spot, so why sign him for the rest of the season to not play when you can give Conroy the GATORADE Call-Up he deserves and send Temple back to the Vipers to continue to play.
Seemed like a good idea at the time, but Temple showed plenty during his time with the Rockets, and several teams took notice, including the Sacramento Kings. Perhaps Joey Dorsey put in a good word for him. I don't know. Either way, the Kings made a good move.
#1, they get a guy who has clear NBA talent.
#2, they get a guy who's been playing backup point guard for the last couple of weeks and knows the Rockets systems as well as anyone. And what do you know? The Kings visit Houston today.
Whether the Kings are making this move because they recognize Temple's talent or because they want some extra info on their next opponent, it's a good move on both sides. My guess is it's for the former, but if it's the latter, Temple still gets the chance to take advantage and show his ability to adjust to a new system on the fly to a new set of eyes.
Certainly the affect on the Vipers is huge. At this moment the Vipers roster stands at eight. Jonathan Wallace is the starting point guard again (he played well in this role at the start of the season, so I'm not overly concerned about that). I'm not sure who the third starting guard is now. I think it's too soon to worry about it.
Let's wait to see if the Vipers acquire anyone before Friday's game at Bakersfield. Then we'll worry about starters.
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