The Josh Smith Shrine

Smith dunk at buzzer leads Hawks past Magic

2010-03-24T19:39:00.000-07:00

ATLANTA (AP)—Josh Smith (notes) swooped in to slam through Joe Johnson’s (notes) missed shot just ahead of the buzzer and the Atlanta Hawks finally beat the Orlando Magic, clinching a third straight trip to the playoffs with an 86-84 victory Wednesday night.

The Hawks bounced back from an early 15-2 deficit and overcame going 8:45 in the fourth quarter without a field goal against a division rival that had routed them three times this season. For Atlanta, it came down to the final shot of regulation for the fifth straight game.

After Vince Carter (notes) hit a long 3-pointer with 9.9 seconds left to tie it at 84, the Hawks rushed down the court to set up Johnson for the potential winning shot. He drove the baseline and put up a one-hander, which bounced off the far side of the rim.

But the Magic failed to block out Smith, who soared through the air for a slam just before the red light went on. The officials checked the replay just to be sure—it showed Smith dunking it with 0.01 seconds remaining.

The teams combined for only nine baskets in the final period, with Atlanta enduring a drought that didn’t end until Smith hit a baseline jumper with 1:38 remaining and the shot clock running down. Orlando, after hitting six of its first 10 shots, finished 27 of 72 for a dismal 38 percent.

continue

The Great All-Star Snub

2010-02-02T19:30:00.000-08:00

From. nba.fanhouse.com

In late twenties, Russian theorist Vladimir Propp boldly proclaimed that there were only seven kinds of stories. Actually, it wasn't that bold a proclamation; Propp was only talking about folktales, and if you try to use his constructs anywhere else, they fall apart quick fast. Still, the basic idea is a meaty one, the kind of thing that makes you want to take another at Gilgamesh, Beowulf ... or the 2010 NBA All-Stars.

For starters, you've got the perennials, folks like LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitzki, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade, and Carmelo Anthony. These are also on each year's MVP shortlist, possible Hall of Famers, and the players synonymous with the NBA at this moment. Steve Nash, Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett and Allen Iverson are legends on their way off into the sunset. Kevin Durant and Brandon Roy will be taking their place.

Paul Pierce and Pau Gasol are excellent players who benefit from being on powerhouse teams; Deron Williams and Joe Johnson are underrated stars who will finish their careers with a decent number of appearances, denied top billing in part because their teams aren't usually contending. Derrick Rose and Rajon Rondo are young and exciting but with futures cloudy in the magic eight ball. Zach Randolph and Gerald Wallace have come knockin' before, and this time finally earned entry. The East needed another center, and Al Horford's been crucial to the Hawks.That's actually eight types, but you get the point.

Then there's Josh Smith, the spring-loaded Hawks forward who was conspicuously absent from yesterday's reserves. It's not just that Smith is deserving of a spot on the East squad -- he would have been a new kind of All-Star.

As has been discussed previously around these parts, Smith might be enjoying a better season than his high-scoring teammate Joe Johnson. Not to take anything away from Horford, but Smith is certainly outplaying the third-year big. He's a legitimate two-way threat who, while still as scintillating a finisher and shot-blocker as ever, has streamlined his game and improved his decision-making. No more passes to nowhere, three-pointers on a whim, or contorted attempts at orthodox post play. Atlanta's record isn't much better than it was at this point a year ago, when Smith seemed to have regressed (in all fairness, he was also nursing an ankle injury). But the Hawks are a team to be taken seriously this season, and a lot of that has to do with the presence of Smith.

What's so exceptional about a young player fulfilling his All-Star potential? For one, Smith isn't exactly young. He's been in the league since 2004, when the Hawks drafted him out of high school with the seventeenth pick. By then, teenage picks were given every opportunity to get minutes; long gone was the philosophy of bringing them along slowly. So while Smith is only 24 years old, his five and a half seasons make him a vet.

And Smith's 2009-10 isn't just a case of a breakout season in which a promising talent gets praised for "putting it all together" or "turning a corner." There's a reason he's only making a little over $10 million this season: When Smith hit the market as a restricted free agent in 2008, too many teams saw a player whose upside was counterbalanced by bad habits and rumors of petulance. What's more, Smith didn't just hit the pros merely in need of fine-tuning. He was a raw athlete whose game consisted mostly of raising hell, so indicative of the trend to draft with potential in mind, that Jay Bilas swore to all manner of gods that Smith would be the biggest bust of the whole class.

High school picks panned out more frequently than their college-seasoned peers. But they tended to be boom-or-bust propositions. The unusual cases have been those like Smith, or J.R. Smith, taken one pick later by New Orleans: Egregiously gifted players, who although they made big plays and had memorable nights, remained inconsistent, incomplete, and frequently immature. Travis Outlaw (especially today) and sometimes Andray Blatche are other poster children for this group.

Then this season, Josh Smith – previously known mostly as the 2005 dunk contest champ and a shot-blocking terror – inaugurated a new cliché. After six seasons of fumbling around, showing flashes, and frequently serving as his own worst enemy, Smith finally got himself together. While J.R. continues to pout and fume in Denver, and Outlaw remains as baffling as ever, J-Smoov proved that preps-to-pros stars don't have to be either overnight successes or pampered projects; that it's possible to grow up in public and learn adulthood on the fly even if it takes a while; and that a player who came into the NBA with few discernible skills aside from leaping (and timing swats) can refine himself into a potential Defensive Player of the Year. Maybe that should read "can be refined," since Smith has also learned to accept coaching, worked out his relationship with Mike Woodson, and has no right to the "Loose Nukes" I tried to bestow upon him last season.

Call Smith the prodigal son, the long road to the Promised Land, or proof that sometimes, that proverbial light bulb can chase away some especially thick dusk. It's exactly the kind of transformation that should be rewarded with a trip to the All-Star Game, and evidence of hard work that flies in the face of Smith's reputation as a gifted athlete who got by on physical ability. He's surpassed Iguodala, every bit the athlete as Smith but supposedly blessed with superior basketball IQ and the soul of a golden fossil -- and the fatter paycheck to show for it. We just don't see many All-Stars who fit the Josh Smith Paradigm; it's a change of direction, or resolution of opposites, that's rare among athletes. Hell, the league should also want Smith in the ASG for making it look good at player development.

Smith doesn't need an All-Star trip to make his season worthwhile, or his career arc significant. But not only does it seem like the next scene in the screenplay. If we're serious about recognizing players willing to apply themselves and serve the forces of good, putting Josh Smith in the All-Star Game is the right thing to do.

Kludgets

2009-05-19T23:53:00.000-07:00

Kludgets

Kludget Engine beta has been released. It's an open source project that can run MacOSX Dashboard widgets on windows.

See some screenshots
Download it for free here

Hawks Even the Series with Celtics

2008-04-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone, including the Celtics themselves had thought Round 1 in the Playoffs would be a breeze for the Boston. But the Hawks have other plans.

They aren't backing down. And have played in the last two games with more passion and energy than any other playoff team.

Josh Smith has stepped up his game. He led the team offensively in Game 3. And led them with his defense in Game 4.

Al Horhord is playing like a veteran. He got into Pierce's face jawing, like he's not a rookie.

Joe Johnson has finally taken over a game, carrying the Hawks in the 4th quarter.

Bibby has finally played like a playoff veteran, steadying the Hawks on offense.

Boston is still the team to beat in the series. But the Hawks have are dangerous and could come up with the biggest upset in NBA history. Everyone's noticing them now.

... Is Josh Smith finally going to the All-Stars?

A Letter to Kenny Smith

2008-03-18T01:36:00.000-07:00

This is a letter to Kenny Smith of Yahoo Sports. Kenny Smith of the Houston Rockets Championship era. I doubt he would read it as he probably receives thousands of mail. So I'm posting it here:

A Case for T-Mac (MVP candidacy)

Dear Kenny,

Several "analysts" are already dismissing the chants from fans that T-Mac is MVP. I disagree. And I think you would disagree too. Because for and analyst to say that the streak happened because Houston has "several MVPs" is to be an analyst who over analyzed. The simplest explanation for the streak is the superstar, the supporting cast, and the coach.

Guys are stepping up in Houston - true. But as a player you would know that everything always starts with the super star. This group of role players could not string a streak of even 5 wins without their leader, without someone telling
them before every game "we can win this one", without someone making them believe in themselves, and without someone taking and making the big time shots.

Adelman has done a great job. The team is playing well together. But talking about MVP, the super star of the hottest team should be on top of the list.

A couple of years ago we gave Steve Nash the MVP because he led, Amare and Marion, both All-Stars, to winning seasons. He won MVP twice because without his leadership the Suns couldn't rise. Why should we deny, T-Mac now, who is leading Alston, Battier, Deke, and some rookies to 22 wins, and the top spot in the West - ahead of all the other the teams, the title of MVP even before the voting has started.

Lebron and his Cavs are 7 games behind 4th place Orlando. And 3 just games ahead of the Bosh-less Raptors. In the East. Lebron might be exponentially better than T-Mac. But MVP doesn't have to mean best player on the planet. The Rocket's W's make McGrady a more valuable player right now.

Kobe and his Lakers have lost two straight with Pau Gasol out. But everyone would probably still readily give him the MVP trophy. It seems everyone has forgotten that Kobe can't win either until his supporting cast improved. Battier's consistent play, Dike's defense, Alston's great play of late shouldn't count against T-Mac.

Of course it is too early to declare T-Mac MVP. There are 16 games to go. T-Mac could falter in the coming days and so could his team. But at this very moment, at win #22, the votes should be on him.

Best Regards,
- M

P.S.
What was Jordan's Bulls' longest winning streak? Even the greatest player ever could not carry his team to more than 12 straight wins (I think).

Tracy McGrady Is MVP

2008-03-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

The Houston Rocket's winning streak is still alive. They've downed the Lakers to capture the top spot of the Western Conference and more historically their 22nd win. Since win number 20, chants of MVP for Tracy McGrady are becoming louder with each celebration.

Most analysts attribute the winning streak to team play. Rightly so, Alston, Battier, Scola, and even aging Dikembe and rookies Landry and Harris are stepping up. Defense has been the key for most of the wins. And defense is definitely team effort.

But even so, with all of the Rockets stepping up, the streak wouldn't have been possible without their superstar Tracy McGrady. He is the MVP of the streak. Not only for his upped stats, and his crunch time plays, but more importantly for his polarizing leadership.

MVP is the Most Valuable Player of the team. If you take away the MVP of the team, they would struggle. If LeBron and Kobe sit out games, their teams will lose. In the case of Houston Rockets. It's a little different. If TMac wasn't playing, the role players of Houston, no matter how high they raise the level of their game, could never string up a streak of 5 wins. Everything starts with McGrady. The attention of the defense is always with him now, the ball is in his hands when crunch time comes. If TMac sits, the team could never streak because he is the reason everyone is playing better.

One analyst say that TMac's stats, efficiency rating is only good to rank 30th best player on the NBA. What he failed to mention though is that TMac's scoring is up to 25ppg even when opposing teams now double team him instead of Yao.

The Rockets are also currently sitting at the top of the Western Conference from 6th when Yao was around. Other clear MVP candidates, LeBron's Cavs are 4th in the East, just ahead of the Bosh-less Raptors. Kobe's Lakers were surging - but has lost two straight now with Pau Gasol out with injury.

These analysts says TMac isn't MVP:
Johnny Ludden's Yahoo column
Henry Abbott's Espn column

After a long silence...

2008-03-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Josh Smith grabbed a career-high of 22 boards.

After two years of silence. I've resolved to pick up Josh Smith / Atlanta Hawks blogging pen.

He still hasn't made it to All-Star this year. But so did Joe Johnson. And unless the Hawks start winning, it probably won't happen.

What Smoove needs to do to crack the All-Star elite club:

Average 20 ppg. He's still at 17+ .. But with a better point guard in Mike Bibby now on board, he has a chance to do it next year.
Maintain his 5 cat stats stuffing play. 20 ppg - 8 reb -4 ast -1.5 stls -3 blks would sure be an eye catcher.
Improve his FT% ... He'll crack 20 ppg easily when he does improve from the line.
Hawks need to win a playoff series... Gilbert Arenas finally made the All-Star when the Wizards made splash during the playoffs. (or was it when he started blogging)

Current Hawks standing as of March 17, 2008:

... tied at 9 with New Jersey. The Hawks are a better talent right now they should be able to make it to the playoffs. Josh Smith usually tears it up in the second half of the season so they have a better chance.

Happy New Year

2007-01-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

10lbs heavier :(

Injury Plague

2006-12-26T03:44:00.000-08:00

Injured key players:

Chris Bosh, Raptors
Lamar Odom, Lakers
Tracy McGrady, Rockets (I sold him low for Rip Hamilton this week)
Yao Ming, Rockets
Ron Artest, Kings
Paul Pierce, Celtics
Rashard Lewis, Sonics
Shaquille O'Neal, Heat
Peja Stojakovic, Hornets
David West, Hornets
Josh Smith, Hawks (So much for the consecutive wins)
Nenad Krstic, Nets
Marcus Camby, Nuggets (As expected from Mr. Glass)
Kenyon Martin, Nuggets
Troy Murphy, Warriors
Etan Thomas, Wizards
Bobby Simmons, Bucks

Atlanta - Chicago, December 16

2006-12-17T05:17:00.000-08:00

The Hawk's magic five, Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Speedy Claxton, Marvin Williams, and Zaza Pachulia finally started a game together. They lost to the Bulls at overtime 104-106. But the team finally looks healthy. I expect a few consecutive W's from here on.

Nuggets - Knicks Brawl

2006-12-17T04:46:00.000-08:00

People are talking about Melo's "sucker punch" and his being a wuz for running afterwards. To many, he was running away from Mardy Collins, Jared Jefferies, and from stupid little Nate. And many people, including Melo's own fans have lost respect for him.

I on the other hand, respect him more. He stood up for him teammate. Unsportsmanlike, but certainly not a wuz. To me, he could have been running from further penalties. Knowing full well that he has now lost the MVP race, the scoring title, and probably his first All-Star appearance.

... Iggy lost the Slam Dunk trophy just because his was competing with a midget.

Waiver Wire Gold: Andris Beidrins

2006-11-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Andris Beidrins, FC
Golden State Warriors

11.2 pts, 10.1 rebs, 2.9 blks, 65.7% fgp
Ranked #2 on Yahoo, November 28

I picked up Andris Beidrins three weeks ago. He blocked 6 shots the next day, reminding me of how I stumbled upon a rookie Josh Smith who blocked 10 shots the day after I grabbed him off the Waivers.

AB looks to be the real deal. His defensive play has gained him Nellie's confidence. In their win against Toronto, he completely shut down Chris Bosh at the second half with his defense. He went on to average double digits in rebounds and around 3 blocks in the succeeding games.

He also showed that he's no Ben Wallace when dominated Denver scoring a career high 31 points while grabbing 10 rebounds and blocking 7 shots. He also passed the Tim Duncan test by netting 18 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and 6 blocks, in a win against the Spurs.

With his 6-11, athletic frame, soft hands, and sound footwork, Beidrins has a lot of potential. And with their team winning, he could be this year's most improved player. (Deron Williams is his rival for this award)

AB he has helped my Fantasy Team giving me #1 rank in blocks. And keeping me a float in rebounds at #6. When Gasol returns, I'd be #1 in rebounds as well. I'm currently at 5th, only 5 points behind 3rd. I still have around 10-15 points to gain in points, rebounds, and steals column. Hopefully Beidrins, Gasol, and Claxton will do it for me.

Kimi Raikonen Joins Ferrari

2006-11-27T21:33:00.001-08:00

I too have left Mclaren to become a Tifosi. I think I should celebrate my defection by buying myself an Ipod Nano Red engraved with Scuderia Ferrari.

Defense

2006-11-09T15:50:00.000-08:00

One word: defense. The Hawks are playing hard at the defensive end and have enough athletes to continually pressure their opponents.

Atlanta was among the NBA's worst defensive clubs a year ago, giving up 102 points per game and allowing opponents to shoot 47 percent. After four games – and three wins – the Hawks are giving up only 91 points per game and holding opponents to 41 percent shooting.

Because they are defending well, the Hawks are staying close and have been able to eke out wins. It also helps when Joe Johnson is making as many plays as he is. In Wednesday's win over the Cavaliers in Cleveland, Johnson scored six straight points in overtime to help the Hawks pull away.

Steve Kerr
Yahoo Sports

Atlanta Tops the Southeast Division

2006-11-07T21:40:00.000-08:00

The Atlanta Hawks beat the Cleveland Cavaliers in an overtime game, 104 to 95. The win, their third straight, brings them to a 3-1 record. This is their best start in many years.

A Yahoo Sports analyst predicted that Atlanta will finish with the worst record in the league. Many are discounting the Hawks. But this win against Lebron James is certainly turning a lot of heads.

Speedy is off to a slow start. Marvin Williams is still recovering from injury. When these two starters come back, the Hawks will be assured to surpass last year's 26 wins. The Hawks reaching the playoffs this year is very possible.

Josh Smith's Numbers as of Nov. 8:
9.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.7 threes, 1.3 steals, 2.0 blks
Watch this stat line steadily rise as the season progresses.

Josh Smith: Early Second Round Pick

2006-10-30T18:21:00.000-08:00

Steve Alexander has confirmed in his rotoworld.com
article that Josh Smith is no longer a secret.

The best thing about drafting J-Smoove this year, regardless of how high you take him, is as soon as you make the pick, everyone in the draft room groans. The typical comments are "I was taking him with my next pick" or "I thought I could get him in the next round," which is also followed closely by "Great pick." If he hits the threes like he did late last year and continues to block shots, he has second- or third-round value, simple as that. And he's going to play power forward, so the blocks could even go up, which is scary.

Drafting J-Smoove is now expensive. In my NBA fantasy group, he was taken in the second round. And my immediate comment was "Great pick. Let's trade."

He had this statline a few days ago against the Wizards: 14 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 3 blocks, 2 threes. His free throw percentage looks improved too. His downside right now though is his high turnover.

If he plays power forward, his rebounds should go up, so should the blocks. He'd also be guarded by slower fowards which could mean more half-court points. This would be really good for his development. He is quickly developing an all around game. As he matures, the turnovers should come down. And in a couple of years he should be an All-Star.

Update: Marvin Williams is out for a few weeks on an injury. JSmoove will be at SF for the time being.

J.R. Smith hits 8 Three Pointers

2006-10-24T22:35:00.000-07:00

Around the League: October 24, 2006

Rotoworld.com:
J.R. Smith exploded for 26 points on 9-of-14 shooting on Tuesday night.
He got hot and knocked down eight 3-pointers on the night, but had zero assists, steals and blocks to go with his one rebound and one turnover. He's already seriously flirting with George Karl's doghouse, but this game may have pulled him out of his funk. We have cooled on him recently, but it's possible he gets it turned around and starts the season as Denver's shooting guard.

fantasysports.aol.com:
Shooting guard J.R. Smith scored 26 points on Tuesday and hit eight of 13 three-pointers in the Nuggets' preseason loss to the Jazz.
The eight threes were certainly impressive, but the fact that Smith's stat-line was all zeros outside the points category (except for one rebound) shows his fantasy value is limited to scoring only. He will still need to improve his defense in order to get more than 20-25 minutes per game.

Brathun Cup: Draft Results

2006-10-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

Team Sleeper Season 2006-2007 draft lineup:

S. Marion
T. McGrady
Z. Ilgauskas
K. Hinrich
J. Nelson
P. Gasol
S. Claxton
P. Brown
J. Tinsley
J. Childress
J. Smith
E. Griffin

With Lebron, Kobe, and KG out, I had no choice but to pick Marion. I was torn between him and Dirk. But my friend Yabbit was picking next and he badly wanted Dirk. Yahoo's analyst Matt Buser says "The Matrix" should be number 1. Taking him at 4th overall isn't bad.

McGrady was still available at #28. People were passing up on T-Mac because of recent injuries. But he's still 29 years old, appears healthy, and could make a monster come back after last year's dismal outing.

I was planning to take Josh Smith in this round with the 35th pick. But Yokozuna took him already in the second round. Boozer was already taken as well. I needed a center and took Z.

Raymond Felton was on my radar for the fourth round. He was taken two picks before me. So I took Kirk Hinrich. And then I took Jameer Nelson for a back to back point guard picks.

Round 6. This was my make or break decision. I took the injured Pau Gasol who was still on the board. My info was that he was returning from injury this December. Obviously my info was wrong, he's returning January. But if I could hang around while Gasol heals, my team could be really strong come February.

I took a couple more point guards, stock piling on the position so I could have one to trade for need.

My sleeper picks were JR Smith who blew up with 8 3-pointers today. And Eddie Griffin who could breakout if Casey finally gives him his minutes.

I'm not sure if I made the right choice on drafting the injury prone Tinsley. I realized I couldn't afford another injured player on my bench. Childress was a panic pick and I'd probably trade or drop him by November if he doesn't help my team.

I didn't get any player from my wish list: Josh Smith, obviously. Last year I traded for him at a high price. I don't think I could do the same this year. Boozer, damn MUDAFUKAZ took him early. Raymond Felton and Deron Williams, I have a feeling both these guys are breaking out in a big way this season.

Overall I'm happy with my team. I'm probably assured of a top 8 finish. But I doubt the lineup could bring me to the top. But with a couple of good trade, who knows, what the season brings. Sleepers could never be discounted.

Altanta's First Five

2006-10-13T01:24:00.000-07:00

The Hawk's starting five according to NBA Live 2007

C Shelden Williams
F Marvin Williams
F Josh Childress
G Joe Johnson
G Speedy Claxton

Obviously they've got it wrong. Josh Smith will start over J-Chill. And Pachulia would probably continue to start, at least until the rookie center-forward proves himself coming off the bench.

In the game NBA Live, Steve Kerr praises Smith after every dunk: "Josh Smith is one of the highest leapers this league has ever seen"; "We know Josh Smith can dunk the ball and score down low. If he develops his outside shooting, he'd be unstoppable". But this is what he has to say whenever JSmoove is sent to the foul line: "It's probably a good foul Marv. This guy's free throw troubles is well documented" :(

The good about being in between jobs is that you have all the time to play games. NBA Live 2007. Need For Speed Underground. Freecell. Spider. Whoaa!

Brathun Cup

2006-10-02T03:24:00.001-07:00

The NBA Fantasy 2006 Season is on. And it started with the draft lottery held at the Vienna Cafe on September 30. And these are the results:

Jonas - 8.5.12.8.15.10.1.14.12.1.15.8
Jojo - 12.6.5.2.11.6.14.3.7.11.5.15
Calvin - 9.14.1.15.3.15.10.4.16.2.11.9
Marvin - 4.12.3.16.8.13.3.12.6.15.1.14
Jonex - 6.9.11.5.12.4.16.8.5.8.10.2
Gobok - 11.7.10.7.9.7.11.6.8.3.16.1
Kenrick - 3.16.7.11.4.11.6.10.13.7.9.4
Gerard - 7.10.9.14.1.14.2.15.4.10.8.5
Jonjay - 1.15.8.10.6.3.7.11.14.6.7.11
Stanley - 10.8.6.13.5.12.5.5.3.14.14.3
Clement - 2.13.4.9.13.5.8.7.11.13.2.16
Dilbert - 5.11.2.12.2.16.4.16.2.12.6.13
Dicky - 16.1.14.3.16.1.9.13.1.16.4.12
Ting - 13.2.15.6.10.8.15.1.15.4.13.6
J.Lo - 14.3.16.1.14.2.12.9.9.5.3.10
Yuhann - 15.4.13.4.7.9.13.2.10.9.12.7

JJ gets the number one overall pick. Clemy and KenKen gets 2nd and 3rd. But very importantly I get the 4th pick. Last year I used my number 3 pick on Garnett. Who will I get this year? If KG somehow falls to 4th, I'd happily take him to carry my team again. What round should I have to take #5? Will this $9.99 draft kit do me (and Stan) any good? And will this be my breakout year?

Draft day is on October 17 at the Gothong Manor.

Stan, you owe me $5.

ADMU Loses to UST

2006-10-02T03:16:00.000-07:00

The UST Growling Tigers are the Season 69 UAAP Champions. They beat the Blue Eagles in overtime, 76-74.

;(

In more important news, Schumacher wins the Chinese Grand Prix. With Alonso taking the second podium step, the point total of each driver is locked at 72. But Schumacher's 7 race wins to Alonso's 6 gives him the lead in the Championship.

J. Smoove on the Radar

2006-09-25T00:37:00.000-07:00

Josh Smith made Brandon Funston's Big Board

He's ranked at 28, right behind Lamar Odom, Boris Diaw and Joe Johnson. And just above Rashard Lewis, Michael Redd and Dwight Howard. Interestingly, Carmelo Anthony is only at 45.

One guy sent in a comment, bashing Funston for putting Josh Smith above the mentioned guys. Another guy answer him with this comment:

Josh Smith's numbers after the all-star break last season: 15 points, 7.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1 steal and a ridiculous 3.1 blocks per game. Scary

He is also ranked 9th among small fowards in NBA.com's Fantasy Player Rankings

Acquiring him in this year's fantasy drafts would no longer be cheap.

Last-gasp Kramer shot lifts Eagles

2006-09-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

Ateneo snatches Finals’ Game 1 over UST
By Jasmine W. Payo
Inquirer

Published on page A31 of the September 25, 2006 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

THE ATENEO de Manila University Blue Eagles got their escape act down pat.

Pulling off Houdini feats all throughout the season, the top-ranked squad did it again to claim Game 1 of the UAAP Finals.

This time, it was Doug Kramer, who buried an undergoal stab at the buzzer to lead the Eagles to a thrilling 73-72 triumph over the University of Santo Tomas Tigers yesterday at the jampacked Araneta Coliseum.

Left alone at the paint, Kramer received a perfect inbound pass from Macky Escalona to score the game-winning basket.

“It was just fortunate that Macky made a very good pass,” said Ateneo coach Norman Black. “Chris (Tiu) had been scoring the entire game, so the defense went to Chris. They forgot about Kramer underneath the basket. I was hoping that will happen when we diagrammed the play and it did.”

The Eagles, who last won the title in 2002, will be gunning for their fourth senior basketball crown on Thursday.

Apparently, the early celebration proved fatal for the Tigers.

With his head held up high and arms akimbo, Allan Evangelista proudly faced the UST crowd after nailing a jumper with only a second left.

But in that short span of time, the Tigers got a very important lesson on defense.

“There was a mental lapse,” admitted UST coach Pido Jarencio. “We’re charging it to experience.”

Black admitted that it was the first time the Eagles executed the play, but had it ready since his successful coaching stint with San Miguel in the PBA.

“Doug Kramer was the first and only option,” noted Black. “They executed it perfectly. A big play in a big game.”

JC Intal, who shot a game-high 21 points, steadied the scrambling Eagles by pumping in 10 straight points in the fourth quarter for a 67-66 edge.

But it was Kramer who came through for the Eagles at the clutch, drilling in the Eagles’ last six points to finish with 14 points and 13 rebounds.

Jarencio, though, issued a quick warning after the Tigers’ heartbreaking loss: “We’ll be back on Thursday. When we’re beaten, we become more courageous.”

ATENEO 73 -- Intal 21, Kramer 14, Tiu 12, Reyes 10, Escalona 8, Quimson 6, Laterre 2, Salamat 0, Arao 0, Al-Hussaini 0.

UST 72 -- Cruz 20, Evangelista 13, Espiritu 11, Duncil 9, Cuan 9, Taylor 4, Canlas 4, Ababou 2, Gile 0, Cortez 0, Allera 0.

Quarters: 19-15, 35-35, 57-57, 73-72

Joshua Smith

2006-09-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Joshua Smith (born December 5, 1985 in College Park, Georgia) plays guard and forward for the NBA's Atlanta Hawks.

He was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the 17th overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. He played his Senior year of high school basketball at Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia and decided to forgo a college career at Indiana and jumped straight to the pros.

Smith won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest his rookie year during the 2005 NBA All-Star Weekend. He averaged 9.7 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.95 blocks per game for the 2004-2005 season and was selected to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. For the 2005-2006 season, Smith has averaged 2.25 blocks per game, which is seventh in the NBA. Josh Smith is known for his awesome dunks, athleticism, and his shot blocking skills.

In what was hyped to be an electrifying defense of his Slam Dunk title, on February 18th 2006, after a lackluster effort, he came last, scoring just a 41 on his first attempt, where he placed a piece of tape several feet behind the free throw line. It was thought that he would attempt a dunk from that spot, and therefore it was insanely hyped, but Smith caused a stir when he instead took off from the free throw line. Nate Robinson would go on to win the competition in a controversial tie-breaker round with Andre Iguodala.

After NBA All-Star Weekend he would continue his steady development. He finished 2nd in the NBA in total blocks, 4th in bpg and averaged 15.0 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 4.1 apg, 3.1 bpg and 1.0 spg after the All-Star break and his contribution helped the Hawks double their win total of 13 wins from the previous season to finish 26-56.

He is nicknamed J. Smoove.

Source: wikipedia.org

Time to Fly

2006-09-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

Josh Smith's left handed version of The Windmill.

Eight More Days

2006-09-21T23:50:00.000-07:00

eightepisodes.blogspot.com

Eagles are in the Finals

2006-09-19T18:07:00.000-07:00

After three years of waiting, the Blue cagers from Katipunan are back where they belong in the UAAP Finals. They survived a monster game from Ken Bono in their semi-finals match up against AdU. And they are now awaiting the victor of the rubber match game between UE and UST.

With DLSU disqualified from this year's competition and defending champs Far Eastern University failing to reach the final four, ADMU is favorite to take the championship.

A DLSU fan commented that if we go all the way, it would be a hollow victory because we did not compete against the giants. Well, giant or no giant, I'd still be singing the Ateneo hymn when we take this season's crown.

Charity

2006-09-16T17:52:00.001-07:00

eightepisodes.blogspot.com

Words and Numbers

2006-09-14T18:45:00.000-07:00

eightepisodes.blogspot.com

Team Hyundai 69, Team Kenya 65

2006-09-13T07:27:00.000-07:00

Kenya's players are a decade younger than us. They're very quick and agile, active on both ends of the floor. They constantly pressed full court and forced turnovers. And they ran on every chance. They also had a couple of shooters who wouldn't miss from beyond the arc. They have the same make up as Batch 2006 who beat us on outside shooting and fast breaks.

By the end of the just first quarter we were down double digits. And our players were already exhausted. It was clear that we couldn't run with the kids.

At the start of the half, still down by 12, the coach wisely made an adjustment moving our defense forward, putting a plug to their outside shooting. At first they found cracks and were able to score on cuts and drives. But after a few plays, it was obvious that they couldn't play an inside game. The game went into overtime. But we took care of business and took home a win.

As for my own play, I missed a few open layups, fumbled the ball once or twice, missed my two free throws. But I am pleased with my game tonight with several stops, steals, deflections, and a couple crucial baskets on our third quarter run.

I fell to the floor several times. It looked like I was diving for the ball on hussle. But it was just that my legs were failing on me. I am now resigned to the fact that I am getting old :(

Schumi Retires

2006-09-13T05:48:00.000-07:00

Isn't this blog about basketball? Nobody reads this but me anyway. So, what the heck :)

Michael Schumacher is hanging his helmet. He leaves formula 1 as the most successful racing driver. To date, has has taken 7 Drivers' World Championships, raced in 247 Formula 1 Grands Prix and winning 90. He has 68 pole positions, 75 fastest race laps, and has a total of 1354 points. In his 15-year career, he has broken many of the formula one records.

But along with his records comes a list of controveries that tarnish his career. His first title, won by ramming his car on to Damon Hill's in the last race. A Drivers' title was stripped from him when he did the same thing to Jacques Villaneuve. The Ferrari team orders, Rubens Barrichello giving him a win, him giving Rubens a win, the Monaco 2006 incident, etc.

Most of his rivals won't miss him when he leaves. But they all agree that he is the best pilot F1 has ever had. In the words of reigning Champion Fernando Alonso's: "Michael is the most unsporting driver F1 has ever seen. Zidane retires with more glory than Schumacher. But that doesn't mean he hasn't been the best driver, and fighting against him has been an honour and a pleasure."

The 2006 season isn't over yet. Infact it has just started. In the last race at the Italian Grand Prix, Schumacher cut down Alonso's lead from 12 to 2. And with 3 more races to go, the battle is set to become a classic.

Kimi will leave Mclaren to replace Schumi at Ferrari. And Alonso will move to Mclaren to take the vacant seat. I don't about you but I couldn't picture Kimi in red and Alonso in silver.

Hawks #21 Wilkins

2006-09-12T05:38:00.000-07:00

A few days ago Dominque Wilkins and two other NBA Greats, Charles Barkley and Joe Dumars, were inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. It is a fitting honor to the "Human Highlight Film".

Nique is one of my childhood basketball heroes. His classic slam dunk duel with Michael Jordan made me believe as a kid that man could fly. Well Jordan made me believe the flying thing. And Nique - he was just the nemesis ;)

On 2005, All-Star weekend, Slam dunk competition, Josh Smith donning Wilkin's #21 Jersey, threw one of Dominique's signature dunks, The Windmill. The whole arena went crazy and the judges all gave perfect 10's.

And with that I was brought back to the past when Nique's poster, Clyde Drexler, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird filled the walls of my room. Number 21, along with 22, 23, 32, 33 are part of a generation of larger the life basketball legends. They are the past. But there is no doubt that they have greatly influenced the stars of today who have taken their place in the arena.

Welcome to The Josh Smith Shrine

2006-09-11T19:48:00.000-07:00

Josh Smith made his name by winning the 2005 Sprite Rising Stars Slam Dunk Champion. But his coming out party in the NBA was in a game against the Dallas Mavricks on December 18, 2004. In that game, the young rookie, with his freakish leaping ability and athleticism, blocked 10 shots. In his rookie season he also regularly made the weekly highlight reels with his amazing, high-flying slams, wowing the fans like Dominique Wilkins did a decade ago.

This year the Hawks line up, quicker and stronger with the addition of Speedy Claxton and rookie Shelden Williams, the maturation of the young guns Josh Smith, Josh Childress and Marvin Williams, and the leadership of Joe Johnson, are set to climb back in the ranks of the NBA. The excitement is back in Dogwood City.

This site is dedicated to following the Atlanta Hawks and especially Josh Smith, his promising career and his evolution as an NBA superstar.