I was driving around town the other day listening to Colin Cowherd’s show on ESPN when I heard something that, in the words of the old Pace picante commercial, really chapped my hide. Colin and his cronies were talking about their turn-offs when it comes to women, which I found somewhat interesting in the beginning. Jokingly, Cowherd listed fourteen cold sores and an eye patch as his deal breakers. Then one of the other guys piped up and said, “Uber Sports Fan Chick!” and Cowherd readily agreed.
Being an Uber Sports Fan Chick, especially when it comes to my Mavericks, I took instant offense. And the more I listened, the angrier I became. The men justified their annoyance with Uber Sports Fan Chick by stating that: 1) she overcompensates for being female by trying to act like she knows more than men do about sports (speaking from experience, sometimes she does); 2) the guys like women because they have curves and smell good and therefore should do more girly feminine things, not just be one of the guys; 3) and that, being men, their masculinity was, of course, not threatened in any way by a woman who knows her sports. (If you buy that, I have some ocean front property in Arizona I’d like to sell you!)
Colin went on to explain that he and his wife had “both settled” on her being an NFL and NBA fan, and that when she watched games with him, she would still “ask questions” rather than act like she knew everything that was going. He said she was a passionate Bulls fan, having grown up in Chicago, and a casual football fan, and they were both ok with that.
By the time I pulled into the parking lot at work, my blood was boiling, and if I had a little more time, I would have called the show and given Cowherd an earful. (This particular radio bit reminded me why I quit listening to his show awhile back; if I’m on “sports talk radio,” I wanna hear sports talk, not “Why I Hate Uber Sports Fan Chick” from a middle aged white dude!) But since I couldn’t, I decided to vent my frustrations here, in my own forum.
That being said, there are several things that I, Uber Sports Fan Chick, take issue with:
1. Why does Colin Cowherd have any say in what sports his wife likes? Why is it ok for her to be an NBA and NFL fan? What if she liked soccer and lacrosse too, would that be an issue?
2. Why, if a woman is watching sports alongside men, should she have to “ask questions” and feign ignorance, even if she is a fountain of knowledge on the sport?
3. If a man is truly not insecure, and his masculinity not threatened, why would he be annoyed by a woman who was educated about and took a passionate interest in one or more sports?
4. If a man can get a manicure or pedicure and still be considered manly, why can’t a woman paint her face, wear team colors, and scream at the refs from the sidelines? (They make pink jerseys for women nowadays, you know!)
5. It is possible for a woman to both be feminine and be Uber Sports Fan Chick. Just because she wears team colors on game days doesn’t mean she doesn’t dress up the other 200+ days a year. (I’ll be the first to admit, I am not a prime example of a feminine Uber Sports Fan Chick – I’m much more of a tomboy; I prefer jerseys and sneakers to skirts and heels any day of the week!)
Listening to Cowherd and cronies’ comments did get the little hamster wheel in my head spinning though, as I wondered if most men really feel the same way, but just don’t voice their opinions. Are men really threatened by Uber Sports Fan Chicks like me? In my mind, I always figured guys would think it cool and appreciate a woman who was into sports every bit as much as they were. Having always been “one of the guys,” that has pretty much been my experience. But perhaps when a man is looking for a woman to spend the rest of his life with, he doesn’t want one with the same interests. Maybe he just wants to keep the sports side of his life to himself; I am not a man, nor do I claim to be able to think like one.
But I am curious, guys: does it bother you when a woman is an Uber Sports Fan Chick? Does that assign her the “cool friend” tag and prevent her from ever being seen as anything more than that?
What do YOU think?
Friday, February 25, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Trade Talk: What Were They Thinking in Utah??
First, the Jazz lost their leader when Jerry Sloan resigned after 23 plus years as Head Coach. Now, they’ve lost their on-the-court leader, All-Star point guard Deron Williams, who is rumored to have run Jerry Sloan off the bench and out of town.
In a deal no one saw coming, Utah sent Williams to the New Jersey Nets in exchange for former Dallas Maverick Devin Harris, Derrick Favors, and first round draft picks for the next two years.
If the allegations against Williams are true and he is a “coach killer,” then Karma has kicked him in the butt by shipping him to the veritable basketball wasteland known as New Jersey. (This is my personal theory, especially since I adored Jerry Sloan – I find it much easier to make Deron out to be the bad guy!) If Williams thought he had it rough and was too reined in under Sloan, just wait ‘til he gets to Jersey and works under Avery Johnson. Devin Harris could teach Williams a thing or two about playing for “The Little General”, seeing as how he was forced to do it not once, but twice. Harris was drafted by the Mavericks, playing for Johnson until he was traded to the Nets in exchange for Jason Kidd. Poor Devin must have thought he had served his time; imagine his shock (and likely dismay) when Avery Johnson was named as the Nets’ new head coach this past offseason! Devin Harris is the biggest winner in this deal, if for no other reason than he has once again been released from Avery Johnson’s grasp.
While I am happy for Harris, and the impish side of me is thrilled that Williams was banished to Jersey, I have to wonder what on God’s green Earth the ownership and management team in Salt Lake City is thinking. They let Sloan leave, conceivably siding with Williams and choosing the ‘future of the organization’ over its ‘storied history’, only to cut Williams loose a week later? Maybe if Utah is really lucky, Sloan will return to the bench now that Williams is gone but if I were him, I sure wouldn’t.
One thing is certain: the balance of power in the NBA is shifting itself from the Western conference to the East coast, and it should make for a fun, fascinating, and fantastic final few months of the season.
And until the 3pm trade deadline tomorrow, the plot can still continue to thicken.
Stay tuned…
In a deal no one saw coming, Utah sent Williams to the New Jersey Nets in exchange for former Dallas Maverick Devin Harris, Derrick Favors, and first round draft picks for the next two years.
If the allegations against Williams are true and he is a “coach killer,” then Karma has kicked him in the butt by shipping him to the veritable basketball wasteland known as New Jersey. (This is my personal theory, especially since I adored Jerry Sloan – I find it much easier to make Deron out to be the bad guy!) If Williams thought he had it rough and was too reined in under Sloan, just wait ‘til he gets to Jersey and works under Avery Johnson. Devin Harris could teach Williams a thing or two about playing for “The Little General”, seeing as how he was forced to do it not once, but twice. Harris was drafted by the Mavericks, playing for Johnson until he was traded to the Nets in exchange for Jason Kidd. Poor Devin must have thought he had served his time; imagine his shock (and likely dismay) when Avery Johnson was named as the Nets’ new head coach this past offseason! Devin Harris is the biggest winner in this deal, if for no other reason than he has once again been released from Avery Johnson’s grasp.
While I am happy for Harris, and the impish side of me is thrilled that Williams was banished to Jersey, I have to wonder what on God’s green Earth the ownership and management team in Salt Lake City is thinking. They let Sloan leave, conceivably siding with Williams and choosing the ‘future of the organization’ over its ‘storied history’, only to cut Williams loose a week later? Maybe if Utah is really lucky, Sloan will return to the bench now that Williams is gone but if I were him, I sure wouldn’t.
One thing is certain: the balance of power in the NBA is shifting itself from the Western conference to the East coast, and it should make for a fun, fascinating, and fantastic final few months of the season.
And until the 3pm trade deadline tomorrow, the plot can still continue to thicken.
Stay tuned…
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Trade Talk: 'Melo Moves East
Carmelo Anthony finally got his way. After months of whining, wheeling and dealing, and much ado, 'Melo landed himself in a Knicks uniform late Monday night.
In a blockbuster deal, the Nuggets sent 'Melo, Chauncey Billups, Antony Carter, Renaldo Balkman, and Shelden Williams to the Knicks. In return, New York gave up Raymond Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Timofey Mozgov, a 2014 first round draft pick, two second round picks in 2012 and 2013 (via the Knicks' prior trade with the Warriors), plus $3 million cold hard cash.
Will this trade make New York better? Undoubtedly. As for Denver? Well....not so much, especially in the beginning. I feel for the Nuggets because they lost a proven commodity, a classy leader. No, I'm not talking about 'Melo...I'm talking about Chauncey Billups. Even George Karl, the Nuggets' head coach, lamented having to lose a veteran leader like Billups just to alleviate the team of the Carmelo cancer.
Thank God we finally got that thug-punk-coward 'Melo out of the Western conference. Now we only have to see him twice a year.
Mama always said, if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all. So in the words of Forrest Gump, "That's all I have to say about that."
In a blockbuster deal, the Nuggets sent 'Melo, Chauncey Billups, Antony Carter, Renaldo Balkman, and Shelden Williams to the Knicks. In return, New York gave up Raymond Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, Timofey Mozgov, a 2014 first round draft pick, two second round picks in 2012 and 2013 (via the Knicks' prior trade with the Warriors), plus $3 million cold hard cash.
Will this trade make New York better? Undoubtedly. As for Denver? Well....not so much, especially in the beginning. I feel for the Nuggets because they lost a proven commodity, a classy leader. No, I'm not talking about 'Melo...I'm talking about Chauncey Billups. Even George Karl, the Nuggets' head coach, lamented having to lose a veteran leader like Billups just to alleviate the team of the Carmelo cancer.
Thank God we finally got that thug-punk-coward 'Melo out of the Western conference. Now we only have to see him twice a year.
Mama always said, if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all. So in the words of Forrest Gump, "That's all I have to say about that."
All About All-Stars, Part Three: They Got Game
Overall, NBA All-Star 2011 was fan-freaking-tastic! The Rookie-Sophomore game on Friday night was a high scoring affair, as always, with the Rookies besting the Sophomores, 148-140. One thing that made the game more exciting was the unbelievable play of Washington’s John Wall, who finished the game with a record-setting 22 assists. Perhaps not all young players have the “all about me” mindset so common among the Kobe’s and LeBron’s of this league. And some of the passes that Wall, the game’s MVP, made were beyond incredible…and had showed up on YouTube before the game was even over!
Saturday, even before the All-Star events got started, TNT presented a fascinating hour long program, The Lost Dunks, which chronicled some of the most remarkable slam dunks ever made, going all the way back to Dr. J in old ABA dunk contests. It was fun to revisit the glory days of the dunk contest, when Dominique Wilkins and Michael Jordan went head to head. I also enjoyed some of the more forgettable dunks, those which were wildly missed or took multiple tries to get right. After watching that, I couldn’t wait for the Slam Dunk contest to begin to see what new and inventive ideas the participants had developed.
Once again, the players didn’t disappoint. From tiny tots with teddy bears to choirs with Kias, this was one of the most fun-to-watch contests in several seasons. Although the Clippers’ Blake Griffin won the title (thanks in large part to the fan vote) for his dunk over the hood of a shiny new Kia, I was more impressed with the Washington Wizards’ Javale McGee, who first dunked two balls simultaneously in side by side goals and later dunked THREE balls at one time – two he had in hand as he leaped off the floor, plus a third passed to him by teammate John Wall. Now that, to me, was truly amazing!
Sunday night, the game itself was a little boring in the beginning, as the West seemed to be taking the game seriously (while still enjoying themselves) and the East seemed more concerned with flashiness and showmanship than playing basketball. The West actually played defense throughout the game, and I’m crediting their coach, Gregg Popovich, for that. In all the years that Pop has led the Spurs, they have been known for their defense, and in a game where traditionally little to no defense is played, it was nice to see steals and blocks coming at the hands of Western Conference All-Stars!
Even though I never have been (and never will be) a Kobe Bryant fan, I was quite impressed with what the old man was able to accomplish in this All-star game: 37 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. I, too, texted in my vote for Kobe as MVP, as much as it pained me to do so. And I got a kick out of seeing Kobe school LeBron – and then smack him on the butt! I think that was my favorite part of the whole game – seeing LeBron put in his place and reminded that, talented as he may be, he is still not the best player on the court. If he was, he wouldn’t have waited until the fourth quarter to take the game seriously and actually focus on winning, rather than showboating.
LeBron finished with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, marking only the second triple-double in NBA All-Star game history. The first, of course, came at the hands of Michael Jordan, the man who LeBron claims he wants to be like. Kobe Bryant is no Michael Jordan, and on this night, LeBron James was reminded that he is not even a Kobe Bryant.
As for Dirk, who played a mere 14 minutes and change, his stats aren’t nearly as impressive in the box score. Nowitzki’s line included six points, five rebounds, an assist, a steal, and no turnovers. But again, to Dirk, it’s never been about the numbers, nor personal glory and recognition, but all about the game. Just one more reason I love me some Dirk…
Saturday, even before the All-Star events got started, TNT presented a fascinating hour long program, The Lost Dunks, which chronicled some of the most remarkable slam dunks ever made, going all the way back to Dr. J in old ABA dunk contests. It was fun to revisit the glory days of the dunk contest, when Dominique Wilkins and Michael Jordan went head to head. I also enjoyed some of the more forgettable dunks, those which were wildly missed or took multiple tries to get right. After watching that, I couldn’t wait for the Slam Dunk contest to begin to see what new and inventive ideas the participants had developed.
Once again, the players didn’t disappoint. From tiny tots with teddy bears to choirs with Kias, this was one of the most fun-to-watch contests in several seasons. Although the Clippers’ Blake Griffin won the title (thanks in large part to the fan vote) for his dunk over the hood of a shiny new Kia, I was more impressed with the Washington Wizards’ Javale McGee, who first dunked two balls simultaneously in side by side goals and later dunked THREE balls at one time – two he had in hand as he leaped off the floor, plus a third passed to him by teammate John Wall. Now that, to me, was truly amazing!
Sunday night, the game itself was a little boring in the beginning, as the West seemed to be taking the game seriously (while still enjoying themselves) and the East seemed more concerned with flashiness and showmanship than playing basketball. The West actually played defense throughout the game, and I’m crediting their coach, Gregg Popovich, for that. In all the years that Pop has led the Spurs, they have been known for their defense, and in a game where traditionally little to no defense is played, it was nice to see steals and blocks coming at the hands of Western Conference All-Stars!
Even though I never have been (and never will be) a Kobe Bryant fan, I was quite impressed with what the old man was able to accomplish in this All-star game: 37 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. I, too, texted in my vote for Kobe as MVP, as much as it pained me to do so. And I got a kick out of seeing Kobe school LeBron – and then smack him on the butt! I think that was my favorite part of the whole game – seeing LeBron put in his place and reminded that, talented as he may be, he is still not the best player on the court. If he was, he wouldn’t have waited until the fourth quarter to take the game seriously and actually focus on winning, rather than showboating.
LeBron finished with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, marking only the second triple-double in NBA All-Star game history. The first, of course, came at the hands of Michael Jordan, the man who LeBron claims he wants to be like. Kobe Bryant is no Michael Jordan, and on this night, LeBron James was reminded that he is not even a Kobe Bryant.
As for Dirk, who played a mere 14 minutes and change, his stats aren’t nearly as impressive in the box score. Nowitzki’s line included six points, five rebounds, an assist, a steal, and no turnovers. But again, to Dirk, it’s never been about the numbers, nor personal glory and recognition, but all about the game. Just one more reason I love me some Dirk…
All About All-Stars, Part Two: Dirk Deserves Better
Speaking of class acts, perennial All-Stars, and my beloved Mavericks, I was thrilled when Dirk was named to his 10th straight All-Star team. I love seeing Dirk get honored not only because he is a phenomenal basketball talent, but because he is a good guy off the court as well. But the one thing that eats at me is how Dirk is always named as a reserve, never a starter (aside from the one year he was substituted in for an injured starter). That simple fact tells me that while the coaches around the league recognize Dirk’s talent and realize how truly amazing he is, aside from a small throng of crazed Mavericks/Nowitzki fans such as myself, the average NBA fan doesn’t appreciate Dirk; they never have, and most likely never will.
Maybe being a lifelong Mavs fan and watching Dirk on a regular basis over the past decade, I’m not the most objective person when it comes to Nowitzki. But even the casual NBA fan should be able to recognize what Dirk has done for not just the Mavericks, but the NBA. He was one of the first European players to really make his mark in this league. Before Dirk, (and not counting Larry Bird) how many seven footers can anyone remember sitting outside the three point line, knocking down daggers? Who else in this league provides as much of a defensive challenge, not for individuals but for entire teams, as does Dirk? In 2007, when Dirk became the first ever European born MVP, he virtually cemented his place in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Yet, because his style of play is nontraditional, because he is not flashy and egotistical and because he puts the team ahead of himself, NBA fandom (outside of Dallas) is reluctant to embrace the big German.
And the fact of the matter is, Dirk doesn’t really care. He doesn’t play for fame or notoriety, fortune or endorsement deals. Unlike LeBron James and Kobe Bryant (who spent the better part of the All-star game trying to one up each other) Dirk Nowitzki plays purely for the love of the game. Truth be told, he would rather avoid the crowds and the spotlight than be in the center of it all. Which only makes those of us who appreciate and respect Dirk adore him that much more. He may never be voted an All-Star by the NBA fandom, but Dirk Nowitzki will always be an All-Star – both on and off the court.
Maybe being a lifelong Mavs fan and watching Dirk on a regular basis over the past decade, I’m not the most objective person when it comes to Nowitzki. But even the casual NBA fan should be able to recognize what Dirk has done for not just the Mavericks, but the NBA. He was one of the first European players to really make his mark in this league. Before Dirk, (and not counting Larry Bird) how many seven footers can anyone remember sitting outside the three point line, knocking down daggers? Who else in this league provides as much of a defensive challenge, not for individuals but for entire teams, as does Dirk? In 2007, when Dirk became the first ever European born MVP, he virtually cemented his place in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Yet, because his style of play is nontraditional, because he is not flashy and egotistical and because he puts the team ahead of himself, NBA fandom (outside of Dallas) is reluctant to embrace the big German.
And the fact of the matter is, Dirk doesn’t really care. He doesn’t play for fame or notoriety, fortune or endorsement deals. Unlike LeBron James and Kobe Bryant (who spent the better part of the All-star game trying to one up each other) Dirk Nowitzki plays purely for the love of the game. Truth be told, he would rather avoid the crowds and the spotlight than be in the center of it all. Which only makes those of us who appreciate and respect Dirk adore him that much more. He may never be voted an All-Star by the NBA fandom, but Dirk Nowitzki will always be an All-Star – both on and off the court.
All About All-Stars, Part One: Kobe Gets a Star
Every year, I look forward to the month of February, not only because it brings with it the “unofficial” halfway mark of the NBA season, but because it marks another year that I get to enjoy the All-Star festivities. Of course, being here in Dallas, last year was the best so far, but the 2011 All-Star weekend certainly didn’t disappoint, with one exception: How in the world did Kobe Bryant receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
Seriously, Kobe “I swear it was consensual” Bryant is the first professional athlete to get a star on the Walk of Fame? Once again, bad behavior is rewarded. What’s wrong with you, California?
Granted, Kobe is an unbelievable basketball player, one of the best to ever set foot on the court. But there are hundreds of other athletes who would have actually been deserving of such an honor. Why not an actor turned athlete, such as football star Fred Dryer (who played the title role on Hunter) or Merlin Olson (who starred in Little House on the Prairie and Father Murphy) or former wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who has had a fairly lucrative film career?
Heck, even keeping it in the pro basketball/Los Angeles Lakers realm, why not Magic Johnson, who had his own talk show, or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who was a legendary player, has been in multiple movies, and been involved with countless charities? Why, Los Angeles, did you choose to honor Kobe Bryant, an alleged rapist and infamously arrogant a-hole?
Because in your crazy mixed up world, character doesn’t matter anymore. All that matters is winning.
Call me old-fashioned (so what if I am?) or call me a loser, but that, my friends, is why I can never be a Lakers fan. Because in my world, in the real world, character means something. My beloved Mavericks may not be the reigning world champs, but they have something that the Lakers, particularly Kobe, will never have: integrity and dignity, both of which are priceless. Take dat wit chuuuuu!
Seriously, Kobe “I swear it was consensual” Bryant is the first professional athlete to get a star on the Walk of Fame? Once again, bad behavior is rewarded. What’s wrong with you, California?
Granted, Kobe is an unbelievable basketball player, one of the best to ever set foot on the court. But there are hundreds of other athletes who would have actually been deserving of such an honor. Why not an actor turned athlete, such as football star Fred Dryer (who played the title role on Hunter) or Merlin Olson (who starred in Little House on the Prairie and Father Murphy) or former wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who has had a fairly lucrative film career?
Heck, even keeping it in the pro basketball/Los Angeles Lakers realm, why not Magic Johnson, who had his own talk show, or Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who was a legendary player, has been in multiple movies, and been involved with countless charities? Why, Los Angeles, did you choose to honor Kobe Bryant, an alleged rapist and infamously arrogant a-hole?
Because in your crazy mixed up world, character doesn’t matter anymore. All that matters is winning.
Call me old-fashioned (so what if I am?) or call me a loser, but that, my friends, is why I can never be a Lakers fan. Because in my world, in the real world, character means something. My beloved Mavericks may not be the reigning world champs, but they have something that the Lakers, particularly Kobe, will never have: integrity and dignity, both of which are priceless. Take dat wit chuuuuu!
Injustice for All: Jerry Sloan Calls It Quits
Plain and simple, it was a bad week to be a beloved basketball figure with 23 years of devoted and dedicated service to a single NBA team. First, Dallas Mavericks’ TV analyst Bob Ortegel was cast aside in favor of a “younger fresher feel” on the broadcasts, and then, just two days later, Jerry Sloan, who at the time was the longest tenured coach in professional sports, resigned as Head Coach of the Utah Jazz. Which left this lifelong basketball fan wondering, What in the hell is happening in the NBA?
Sadly, I’m scared I already have the answer – I just don’t want to accept it. To this out-of-the-official-loop-yet-still-searching-for-information Mavs chick, it seems that, from top to bottom, the NBA (as a whole) is doing everything in its power to promote its young talented athletes to a younger hipper crowd; however, in the process, not only has the league managed to alienate its true class acts (such as Sloan and Ortegel), but loyal lifelong fans such as myself.
Last Monday, the Jazz announced that Jerry Sloan had signed a one-year extension on his current contract, and all seemed right with the world, at least in the public perspective. But after an alleged heated halftime exchange between Sloan and budding All-Star point guard Deron Williams and an extended discussion between Sloan and Jazz General Manager Kevin O’Connor after the game, Sloan’s future suddenly became murky. As old school as Jerry Sloan can be at times, he is nothing if not a man of his word. So something drastic had to take place for him to sign a contract extension on Monday and be speaking at a press conference announcing his resignation 72 short but chaotic hours later. A gentleman and class act, Sloan chose to take the high road, and rather than going into detail of what happened or laying blame on anyone in particular, simply say it was time for him – and the Jazz – to move on. Remember, Sloan is the man who returned to coaching (when many thought he would quit) after his wife passed away. Jerry Sloan wasn’t just the coach of the Utah Jazz; he was the Utah Jazz.
What I find so disappointing – and disturbing – is the unfortunate trend that seems to be taking place in the league over the last several years. As a new crop of “superstars” emerges in the NBA, coaches and veteran players are cast aside, rules are bent (or even broken), and everyone is expected to cater to these “elite” players, i.e. LeBron James, Deron Williams, etc. More and more, the veteran leadership, wisdom, and experience of the older generation is being overlooked or forgotten, while the self-proclaimed reigning royalty of the NBA (Wade, Kobe, LeBron and friends) are hailed as heroes and their highlights shown nightly on SportsCenter. The league has become one of flash and show, all about me and less about team, where men of substance and character are becoming harder and harder to find. Frankly, I’m tired of it.
Whether or not Sloan and Williams butting heads was the final straw in Utah, we may never really know. But the one thing I’m certain of is that the people of Utah – players and fans alike – have lost not only an amazing coach who has always managed to do something with nothing, but one of the few good guys who remained in the NBA. Jerry Sloan, you have always been a class act, and even in your unfortunate resignation, that is one thing that didn’t change. You will surely be missed, not only by the team and the people behind it who had become your family over the past two plus decades, but by anyone who is truly a fan of the game of basketball.
Sadly, I’m scared I already have the answer – I just don’t want to accept it. To this out-of-the-official-loop-yet-still-searching-for-information Mavs chick, it seems that, from top to bottom, the NBA (as a whole) is doing everything in its power to promote its young talented athletes to a younger hipper crowd; however, in the process, not only has the league managed to alienate its true class acts (such as Sloan and Ortegel), but loyal lifelong fans such as myself.
Last Monday, the Jazz announced that Jerry Sloan had signed a one-year extension on his current contract, and all seemed right with the world, at least in the public perspective. But after an alleged heated halftime exchange between Sloan and budding All-Star point guard Deron Williams and an extended discussion between Sloan and Jazz General Manager Kevin O’Connor after the game, Sloan’s future suddenly became murky. As old school as Jerry Sloan can be at times, he is nothing if not a man of his word. So something drastic had to take place for him to sign a contract extension on Monday and be speaking at a press conference announcing his resignation 72 short but chaotic hours later. A gentleman and class act, Sloan chose to take the high road, and rather than going into detail of what happened or laying blame on anyone in particular, simply say it was time for him – and the Jazz – to move on. Remember, Sloan is the man who returned to coaching (when many thought he would quit) after his wife passed away. Jerry Sloan wasn’t just the coach of the Utah Jazz; he was the Utah Jazz.
What I find so disappointing – and disturbing – is the unfortunate trend that seems to be taking place in the league over the last several years. As a new crop of “superstars” emerges in the NBA, coaches and veteran players are cast aside, rules are bent (or even broken), and everyone is expected to cater to these “elite” players, i.e. LeBron James, Deron Williams, etc. More and more, the veteran leadership, wisdom, and experience of the older generation is being overlooked or forgotten, while the self-proclaimed reigning royalty of the NBA (Wade, Kobe, LeBron and friends) are hailed as heroes and their highlights shown nightly on SportsCenter. The league has become one of flash and show, all about me and less about team, where men of substance and character are becoming harder and harder to find. Frankly, I’m tired of it.
Whether or not Sloan and Williams butting heads was the final straw in Utah, we may never really know. But the one thing I’m certain of is that the people of Utah – players and fans alike – have lost not only an amazing coach who has always managed to do something with nothing, but one of the few good guys who remained in the NBA. Jerry Sloan, you have always been a class act, and even in your unfortunate resignation, that is one thing that didn’t change. You will surely be missed, not only by the team and the people behind it who had become your family over the past two plus decades, but by anyone who is truly a fan of the game of basketball.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Bye Bye, Bob O!
For the past ten days, Dad and I have exchanged text messages throughout the Mavs' TV broadcasts that all went something like this:
Where is Bob Ortegel?
Did Harp (Derek Harper) take his place?
Have you heard anything more about Bob?
Wonder why he isn't on the broadcast?
Yesterday, I finally got some answers, and as a Mavs fan, I was extremely unhappy with the news I received: Bob Ortegel's last official broadcast as the Mavericks' TV color analyst was on January 27th, when Dallas defeated the Houston Rockets. Apparently, according to news reports, Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban felt the TV broadcast needed a newer look and a fresher voice. Ever heard that old saying, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"? I've got news for you, Mark: It wasn't broke!
For the past 23 season, I have watched, learned, and listened as Bob Ortegel explained any and every facet of the game of basketball. Rules that I previously could not comprehend became clear to me under Coach Bob's television tutelage. Every time I turned on the tube and saw his familiar face, I felt like I was sitting next to my all-knowing grandfather, who would eagerly answer my basketball questions, sometimes before I could even voice them aloud. Other announcers came and went (Jim Durham, Allen Stone, Matt Pinto) but Coach Bob and his sweet smiling face were always there, like a comfortable pair of shoes. Losing Bob on the broadcast feels like I’ve lost an old friend. As Dad said, “It’s a crying shame.” He must be right, because I literally feel like crying.
Cuban is said to have offered Ortegel the opportunity to continue working with the Mavericks in the capacity of color commentator on the radio broadcasts, but Ortegel politely declined, at least for the time being. When asked about the situation, Ortegel simply said, “I'm grateful and I'm thankful for the 23 years that I've had with the Dallas Mavericks' organization.'' Now that’s a true class act.
Last year, as part of my experience as the HP Insider, I was fortunate enough to meet Bob Ortegel in person. Although he was seriously ill with a nasty cold/flu, he was still just as polite and friendly as could be. And on the bus ride back from the arena to the airport in San Antonio, I actually sat next to Bob. Again, even though he clearly wasn't feeling well, he talked to me the entire trip. It breaks my heart to think that Iwill no longer be able to turn on a Mavs game and see that old familiar face smiling back at me, or listen to the analysis of the man who knows more about the game of basketball than anyone I have ever known.
Although I am usually a big supporter of Mark Cuban and the decisions he has made as owner of the Dallas Mavericks (let’s face it, he put basketball back on the map in north Texas), this time, he couldn’t be any more wrong. Mavs’ fans don’t want a fresher voice or a newer face; what we want is someone who knows the team, knows the game, and brings years of insight, wisdom, and experience along with him. Mavs’ fans want the man we have come to admire, respect, and even adore over the past two plus decades; we want Coach Bob, back on the broadcast, where he belongs.
Former Mavericks Brad Davis (road games) and Derek Harper (home games) will sit in for Bob for the remainder of the season. But as much as I love Brad and Derek (two of my all-time favorite players, both genuine down-to-earth guys, whom I have met on numerous occasions), they still aren’t Bob. And although they may be able to fill his seat, no one will ever fill Bob Ortegel’s shoes…
Where is Bob Ortegel?
Did Harp (Derek Harper) take his place?
Have you heard anything more about Bob?
Wonder why he isn't on the broadcast?
Yesterday, I finally got some answers, and as a Mavs fan, I was extremely unhappy with the news I received: Bob Ortegel's last official broadcast as the Mavericks' TV color analyst was on January 27th, when Dallas defeated the Houston Rockets. Apparently, according to news reports, Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban felt the TV broadcast needed a newer look and a fresher voice. Ever heard that old saying, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"? I've got news for you, Mark: It wasn't broke!
For the past 23 season, I have watched, learned, and listened as Bob Ortegel explained any and every facet of the game of basketball. Rules that I previously could not comprehend became clear to me under Coach Bob's television tutelage. Every time I turned on the tube and saw his familiar face, I felt like I was sitting next to my all-knowing grandfather, who would eagerly answer my basketball questions, sometimes before I could even voice them aloud. Other announcers came and went (Jim Durham, Allen Stone, Matt Pinto) but Coach Bob and his sweet smiling face were always there, like a comfortable pair of shoes. Losing Bob on the broadcast feels like I’ve lost an old friend. As Dad said, “It’s a crying shame.” He must be right, because I literally feel like crying.
Cuban is said to have offered Ortegel the opportunity to continue working with the Mavericks in the capacity of color commentator on the radio broadcasts, but Ortegel politely declined, at least for the time being. When asked about the situation, Ortegel simply said, “I'm grateful and I'm thankful for the 23 years that I've had with the Dallas Mavericks' organization.'' Now that’s a true class act.
Last year, as part of my experience as the HP Insider, I was fortunate enough to meet Bob Ortegel in person. Although he was seriously ill with a nasty cold/flu, he was still just as polite and friendly as could be. And on the bus ride back from the arena to the airport in San Antonio, I actually sat next to Bob. Again, even though he clearly wasn't feeling well, he talked to me the entire trip. It breaks my heart to think that Iwill no longer be able to turn on a Mavs game and see that old familiar face smiling back at me, or listen to the analysis of the man who knows more about the game of basketball than anyone I have ever known.
Although I am usually a big supporter of Mark Cuban and the decisions he has made as owner of the Dallas Mavericks (let’s face it, he put basketball back on the map in north Texas), this time, he couldn’t be any more wrong. Mavs’ fans don’t want a fresher voice or a newer face; what we want is someone who knows the team, knows the game, and brings years of insight, wisdom, and experience along with him. Mavs’ fans want the man we have come to admire, respect, and even adore over the past two plus decades; we want Coach Bob, back on the broadcast, where he belongs.
Former Mavericks Brad Davis (road games) and Derek Harper (home games) will sit in for Bob for the remainder of the season. But as much as I love Brad and Derek (two of my all-time favorite players, both genuine down-to-earth guys, whom I have met on numerous occasions), they still aren’t Bob. And although they may be able to fill his seat, no one will ever fill Bob Ortegel’s shoes…
Who's Bad? Almost Dallas...
Mavericks 99, Cavaliers 96
As good as the Mavericks have been this season (aside from Dirk’s and Caron’s injuries), they have not been without their ugly moments, and Monday night was definitely one of them, as Dallas eked out a meager 99-96 victory over the cellar dwelling Cleveland Cavaliers. Cleveland, who came in riding a league worst 24 game losing streak, should have been an easy matchup for the Mavericks, who entered Monday’s game on an eight game win streak of their own. But as they have done so many times this season, Dallas played not to the best of their abilities, but to the level of their opponent – which in this case, was definitely a step backwards.
One thing that has puzzled me about this team virtually all season long is how they can play so well against the best teams in this league and so poorly against the mediocre or even (sorry, Cleveland) straight up bad teams. For instance, the Mavs have beaten virtually every championship contender at least once (Lakers, Spurs, and Thunder) and swept the season series from both the Celtics and the Heat. Heck, they even blew the Jazz out in Utah, something the Mavericks had been unable to do in quite awhile. But if you look at some of their losses (again, not counting during the time they were without Nowitzki and/or Caron Butler), you can’t help but come away scratching your head. How on Earth has Dallas lost twice apiece to the likes of Memphis, Milwaukee, and Chicago, not to mention barely squeaking out victories against the Kings and the King-less Cavaliers? The only answer I have been able to come up with is that the Mavericks are playing to the level of their competition, and that is a dangerous trap to fall into, especially when playing a team like Cleveland, who is simply hungry for any victory it can get to end its record-breaking 25 game losing streak.
To me, the story of the game was told in the final three seconds, as Cleveland had a chance to tie the game and force overtime, but blew it. The camera flashed to Cavaliers’ Coach Byron Scott, standing on the sideline looking smug as always, appearing as if he couldn’t have a care in the world. And then the shot panned to the face of former Maverick Antawn Jamison, hands clasped over his head in sadness, shock, and awe, clearly feeling the pain of setting the record for the NBA’s all-time longest losing streak, at 25. As much as I can’t stand Byron Scott (and as hilarious as I find it that LeBron didn’t re-sign with the Cavs after Scott accepted the head coaching position), I sincerely feel for Jamison, who was nothing but a class act during his tenure in Dallas.
The Mavericks, in the end, proved they were the better team on Monday night, but not by much. If Dallas wants to be taken seriously as a championship contender, the team is going to have to play like it, regardless of what jersey their opponent is wearing on any given night.
As good as the Mavericks have been this season (aside from Dirk’s and Caron’s injuries), they have not been without their ugly moments, and Monday night was definitely one of them, as Dallas eked out a meager 99-96 victory over the cellar dwelling Cleveland Cavaliers. Cleveland, who came in riding a league worst 24 game losing streak, should have been an easy matchup for the Mavericks, who entered Monday’s game on an eight game win streak of their own. But as they have done so many times this season, Dallas played not to the best of their abilities, but to the level of their opponent – which in this case, was definitely a step backwards.
One thing that has puzzled me about this team virtually all season long is how they can play so well against the best teams in this league and so poorly against the mediocre or even (sorry, Cleveland) straight up bad teams. For instance, the Mavs have beaten virtually every championship contender at least once (Lakers, Spurs, and Thunder) and swept the season series from both the Celtics and the Heat. Heck, they even blew the Jazz out in Utah, something the Mavericks had been unable to do in quite awhile. But if you look at some of their losses (again, not counting during the time they were without Nowitzki and/or Caron Butler), you can’t help but come away scratching your head. How on Earth has Dallas lost twice apiece to the likes of Memphis, Milwaukee, and Chicago, not to mention barely squeaking out victories against the Kings and the King-less Cavaliers? The only answer I have been able to come up with is that the Mavericks are playing to the level of their competition, and that is a dangerous trap to fall into, especially when playing a team like Cleveland, who is simply hungry for any victory it can get to end its record-breaking 25 game losing streak.
To me, the story of the game was told in the final three seconds, as Cleveland had a chance to tie the game and force overtime, but blew it. The camera flashed to Cavaliers’ Coach Byron Scott, standing on the sideline looking smug as always, appearing as if he couldn’t have a care in the world. And then the shot panned to the face of former Maverick Antawn Jamison, hands clasped over his head in sadness, shock, and awe, clearly feeling the pain of setting the record for the NBA’s all-time longest losing streak, at 25. As much as I can’t stand Byron Scott (and as hilarious as I find it that LeBron didn’t re-sign with the Cavs after Scott accepted the head coaching position), I sincerely feel for Jamison, who was nothing but a class act during his tenure in Dallas.
The Mavericks, in the end, proved they were the better team on Monday night, but not by much. If Dallas wants to be taken seriously as a championship contender, the team is going to have to play like it, regardless of what jersey their opponent is wearing on any given night.
Check Out the HP Insider's Award-Winning Video!
Like I said before, being the HP Insider was the gift that just kept on giving. Last year, I got to be a part of the team that worked on a video campaign which summed up the HP Insider experience. The video was fantastic, and not only did it include pictures from the whole week 9including one I took myself) but it was also narrated by yours truly. I received a copy of the DVD in the mail after all was said and done, but had never been able to figure out a way to post it online for all my friends, family, and followers to see.
However, yesterday, as I was mindlessly surfing the Internet, I came across a copy of the video online, where anyone and everyone can check it out. As it turns out, the video actually won an award! It was a Bronze Award winner, but it is amazing to think that I was able to be part of that as well!
For those of you who would like to finally see the video, here it is, in living color. Scroll down to the Bronze Winner on the lower left hand side of the page and enjoy! http://adage.com/hispanicawards2010/article?article_id=146294
However, yesterday, as I was mindlessly surfing the Internet, I came across a copy of the video online, where anyone and everyone can check it out. As it turns out, the video actually won an award! It was a Bronze Award winner, but it is amazing to think that I was able to be part of that as well!
For those of you who would like to finally see the video, here it is, in living color. Scroll down to the Bronze Winner on the lower left hand side of the page and enjoy! http://adage.com/hispanicawards2010/article?article_id=146294
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Forget the Face of the Franchise:Chandler is the Heart and Soul
Speaking of all things All-Star, Dirk Nowitzki was just named to his 10th straight All-Star team as a reserve. While I am beyond thrilled for my beloved Dirk, there was never a doubt in my mind that he would once again be selected. However, I feel that both the coaches and the Commissioner made a critical error by not including Dallas' Tyson Chandler on this year's All-Star team. While Dirk may be the face of the franchise, Chandler is most definitely its heart and soul. There is no better center in the Western conference (sorry, Kevin Love), statistically speaking nor otherwise. And no one on this roster can get this team fired up the way Chandler does. Chandler brings toughness and emotion to the game, and makes the players around him better just by being on the court with them, similar to future Hall of Famer Jason Kidd, albeit in a different manner.
Tyson Chandler is the vocal leader the Mavericks have needed for so long. Sure, Jason Kidd is a leader on the court, and Dirk sets the example by practicing long hours and playing through the pain, and Jason Terry can bring the crowd to its feet, but not since the exit of Nick van Exel has there been a single voice in the locker room that had the ability not only to unite but to motivate this team the way that Chandler does. Tyson Chandler is the fire under the Mavericks' proverbial behinds, the spark of passion that gets this team going when things get tough. The man played through the flu, returning for the second half after losing his lunch during the opening half of a game, for crying out loud! Tyson Chandler is the tough as nails, heart on his sleeve, show his emotion kind of leader the Mavericks have needed for so long now. Chandler is the antithesis of Erick Dampier, who, although he was a genuinely nice guy, was essentially a stoic when it came time to play.
While I wasn't the biggest fan of Chandler before the season began, I freely admit I was wrong, wrong, wrong about Tyson; he isn't just another silly off-season move to make fans think the team would actually go somewhere in the playoffs this year. Tyson Chandler is the missing piece of the championship puzzle, the man in the middle the Mavericks have never had in the Dirk Nowitzki era. Until now.
I, for one, can’t wait to see where he will lead these Mavericks…but I have a sneaking suspicion this ride is far from being over!
Tyson Chandler is the vocal leader the Mavericks have needed for so long. Sure, Jason Kidd is a leader on the court, and Dirk sets the example by practicing long hours and playing through the pain, and Jason Terry can bring the crowd to its feet, but not since the exit of Nick van Exel has there been a single voice in the locker room that had the ability not only to unite but to motivate this team the way that Chandler does. Tyson Chandler is the fire under the Mavericks' proverbial behinds, the spark of passion that gets this team going when things get tough. The man played through the flu, returning for the second half after losing his lunch during the opening half of a game, for crying out loud! Tyson Chandler is the tough as nails, heart on his sleeve, show his emotion kind of leader the Mavericks have needed for so long now. Chandler is the antithesis of Erick Dampier, who, although he was a genuinely nice guy, was essentially a stoic when it came time to play.
While I wasn't the biggest fan of Chandler before the season began, I freely admit I was wrong, wrong, wrong about Tyson; he isn't just another silly off-season move to make fans think the team would actually go somewhere in the playoffs this year. Tyson Chandler is the missing piece of the championship puzzle, the man in the middle the Mavericks have never had in the Dirk Nowitzki era. Until now.
I, for one, can’t wait to see where he will lead these Mavericks…but I have a sneaking suspicion this ride is far from being over!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Mavs are Movin' on Up....
"Who's the most dangerous team in the NBA right now?" Dad asked as I dunked another overcooked French fry into a bowl of gravy in a futile effort to improve its flavor.
My gut instinct, of course, was to say the Mavs. (Not that I'm a homer or anything). But my gut instinct had also order the French fries, so I simply played along with Dad.
"I don't know, who?" I asked, trying to drown the taste in my mouth by chugging my root beer.
"The Mavs!" Dad said excitedly, looking at me as if a green horn had suddenly sprouted from the center of my forehead. "Nobody wants to play the Mavs right now," he added, and I nodded in agreement.
Unlike the days leading from late December to mid-January, the two week span bridging the months of January and February has been nothing but good for my Mavericks. Not only are they owners of the league's longest win streak with eight straight victories, including their recent sweep of a three game road trip through the Eastern conference, but they have actually pulled ahead of the Lakers by a half game to reclaim the #2 spot in the West. And while they still sit seven games behind the Spurs (who have yet to have even ONE of their starters suffer any real injury), the Mavs have many other reasons to celebrate and look forward to the home stretch of the season after the All-Star break.
For starters, Jason Terry recently eclipsed the 15,000 point mark, becoming only the 124th player in league history to do so. Dirk Nowitzki reached the 22,000 point plateau, moving him into 24th place among the all-time NBA leading scorers, which I find even more amazing, given the fact that just over a year ago, I was there in person at the AAC as he scored his 20,000th point against the Lakers. In just over a calendar year, Nowitzki has racked up 2,000 more points! Assuming he hadn't been injured and missed nine consecutive games between the end of December and mid-January, there's a good chance he would have reached that milestone in less than twelve months. Now that's what I call an All-Star!
My gut instinct, of course, was to say the Mavs. (Not that I'm a homer or anything). But my gut instinct had also order the French fries, so I simply played along with Dad.
"I don't know, who?" I asked, trying to drown the taste in my mouth by chugging my root beer.
"The Mavs!" Dad said excitedly, looking at me as if a green horn had suddenly sprouted from the center of my forehead. "Nobody wants to play the Mavs right now," he added, and I nodded in agreement.
Unlike the days leading from late December to mid-January, the two week span bridging the months of January and February has been nothing but good for my Mavericks. Not only are they owners of the league's longest win streak with eight straight victories, including their recent sweep of a three game road trip through the Eastern conference, but they have actually pulled ahead of the Lakers by a half game to reclaim the #2 spot in the West. And while they still sit seven games behind the Spurs (who have yet to have even ONE of their starters suffer any real injury), the Mavs have many other reasons to celebrate and look forward to the home stretch of the season after the All-Star break.
For starters, Jason Terry recently eclipsed the 15,000 point mark, becoming only the 124th player in league history to do so. Dirk Nowitzki reached the 22,000 point plateau, moving him into 24th place among the all-time NBA leading scorers, which I find even more amazing, given the fact that just over a year ago, I was there in person at the AAC as he scored his 20,000th point against the Lakers. In just over a calendar year, Nowitzki has racked up 2,000 more points! Assuming he hadn't been injured and missed nine consecutive games between the end of December and mid-January, there's a good chance he would have reached that milestone in less than twelve months. Now that's what I call an All-Star!
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