Random Thoughts

[King Glorious]

Couple of random thoughts that came into my head this evening.

First, watching the UCLA/Pitt game, I wanted to scratch my eyes out. I understand that UCLA made it to the final game last year and is one win away from making the Final Four again so the success they are having is undeniable. But I can't help but wonder if the style of play is going to hurt them in the long run. Will top athletes want to go there and play like that? I wouldn't. Athletes want to get out and play the game. Ben Howland's style stiffles them so much that I can't imagine that it's too much fun to play. The best athletes want to go to places like UNC, Kansas, Texas, etc., where coaches let them play their games. I think it's going to hurt them in the long run.

Second, while watching the UNC/USC game, I was struck by how athletic and fun the Trojans are to watch. They were eventually worn down by the superior talent of the Heels but they played a very good game and didn't surprise me one bit. U could see those guys having fun on the court. Next year, they have one of the most hyped high schoolers in recent yeard in OJ Mayo coming in. If he's as good as advertised, and if their two juniors come back next year, they could be a really good team. They would be my choice to win the Pac 10 and be a serious threat for the national title. Think about it. If u are a good high school player, could there be many better situations than USC? They are an up and coming team, play in a major conference, are located in the nations number two media market, have a new arena, and have a coach with NBA experience that could help u get there.

Third, I've always wondered why some schools don't field powerhouse sports teams year after year in every sport. The following schools should be really good every year: Arizona St., UCLA, USC, Miami, Georgia Tech, St. John's. They play in big cities (major media markets), have great weather, accept for St. John's, and play in major conferences. No excuses to why some years they aren't top notch.

Fourth, while watching Kobe Bryant go for 50+ for the fourth straight game, I couldn't help but notice a couple of things. Kobe's scoring is masking some real problems for this team. Yeah, they've been able to win the four game but they have not been playing well at all. They've needed every one of his points in all four games to barely beat some of the worst teams in the league. None of the four they've beaten are currently in playoff position yet the Lakers are struggling to barely beat them. The real issues aren't being addressed because of everyone being clouded by his greatness. Make no mistake about it, he's a great, great player. But look at a couple of things from the team during this run. They have given up 109.3 per game to Portland, Memphis, Minnesota, and New Orleans. That's unacceptable. Kobe's taken 140 shots and has 11 assists. He's taken 33 3pt shots in the four games, far too many for a player that can get to the basket at will. The team has taken 21.5 3pt shots per game. Too many. They can get away with this junk versus the teams they have played. But the good teams are going to take them apart.