Dwyane Tyrone Wade, Jr. has sported a number of jersey's from his humble beginnings in Mudville to NBA super stardom with the Miami Heat. Based on his "fall seven times, get up eight" Converse signature shoe commercial, I have seen Wade use the jersey numbers 3, 25, and 43. You can also add 6 (worn during Team USA's bronze medal effort in the 2004 Athens Olympics) and 9 (worn during Team USA's trip to Japan for the 2006 FIBA Basketball World Championship).

Local Philippine columnist and sportscaster Quinito Henson has shed some light on the origin of #3. Henson described Wade as "a deeply religious family man and that he wears No. 3 as a testament to his devotion to the Holy Trinity."
(http://www.philstar.com/philstar/NEWS200606241605.htm)

How can you stop this guy?

Not since watching the awe inspiring Michael Jordan have a seen a player come close to his talent on the basketball floor. That void has now been filled by the remarkable Dwyane Wade. How can you stop this guy? If I was guarding him on the court, my ankles (which are already hurting) would be sore for weeks! To encapsulate his Finals MVP performace, "you can't stick to him because he will blow by you for a dunk or kiss it off the glass; you can't back down from him or else he will burn you with a jumper; you can't double-team him because he doesn't hesitate to find the open man; and if left with no recourse, he has attained the coveted "benefit of the doubt" on calls whenever he draws contact...icing on the cake? He can hit his free-throws consistently! (Hey, he has the NBA Finals record for most takes and makes at the charity stripe) How then can you stop this guy?

From the perspective of card collecting, Beckett Basketball has written an article dated June 21, 2006 entitled, "The Basketball Hobby's Future Is Bright." In the aforementioned article, Wade is described as everything card collectors had hoped he would be "a tough competitor, inspiring, willing to take the team on his back, clean image, great smile�and on and on and on."
(http://www.beckett.com/estore/news/?eskin=beckett&a=7343&s=5)

Shaquille O'Neal was right,

he is not the next Michael Jordan,

he is the first Dwyane Wade.

In 2003, I came across an internet article about former Coach of the Year and Memphis Grizzlies head coach Hubie Brown. The said article spoke of a then 70-year-old Hubie Brown who was described by some observers as a "dinosaur" in today's NBA game.

However, these people didn't realize that Hubie's old work ethic would be just what the young Grizzlies needed as Brown brought "discipline, respect and his wide range of knowledge" to his players, staff, and the Grizzlies organization.

Brown was quoted to be a man that has "few rules." The article even names two of them: "Being on time" and "Knowing when to pass or shoot."

Fast forward to 2007. No disrespect to new Memphis Head Coach Marc Iavaroni (former Phoenix Suns Head Coach), but the Grizzlies need Hubie's influence again.

In this particular "The Pie Hole" internet column of ESPN's Dan Patrick in 2003 (http://espn.go.com/talent/danpatrick/s/2003/0603/1562404.html), he describes former NBA player Steve Kerr and his contribution to the game of basketball by "emphasizing the importance of preparation and attention to details and fundamentals."

The Pie Hole

Role Call

By Dan Patrick

Kerr is the ultimate role player who specializes in coming through in the clutch. He's the NBA's version of the designated hitter. His work ethic remains consistent regardless of how many minutes he's on the floor. And, according to Spurs assistant coach P.J. Carlesimo, the average guy doesn't work as hard as Kerr. His Game 6 performance vs. the Mavs spoke volumes to the younger players in terms of emphasizing the importance of preparation and attention to details and fundamentals.

February 26, 2007 is certainly a day that Los Angeles Clippers point guard Shaun Livingston. In the opening minutes of their home game against the Charlotte Bobcats, Livingston landed awkwardly following a lay-up attempt and tore three of the four ligaments in his left knee.

Clippers team Doctor Steven Shimoyama "popped the (left) knee" back in place which relieved any pain that Livingston felt at that moment. Livingston had an Magnetic Resonance Image exam the next day (Tuesday, February 27, 2007) "which revealed tears in the anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament and lateral meniscus." These are three of the four major ligaments in one's knee.
Livingston was also reported to have "dislocated his patella, besides the previously diagnosed dislocation of his tibia-femoral." Clippers physician Dr. Tony Daly said Tuesday that "it's probably the most serious injury you can have to the knee" and that Livingston may "miss all of next year."

Yahoo.com shares that Shaun Livingston, "a three-year veteran who was drafted by the Clippers out of high school, has been hampered by injuries and has yet to play a full season in the NBA. Prior to his devastating knee injury, Livingston sat out two games in January 2007 with a sprained right ankle. He also missed 39 games during his rookie season (2004) because of a dislocated right knee, and another 12 that season because of torn cartilage in his right shoulder. Last season he sat out the first 21 games with a stress reaction in his lower back." At seasons end, Livingston would have missed an estimated 42% of the total 246 games he could have possibly participated in.

Video of the Clippers point guard (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/players/3821/) had garnered a number of hits in YouTube.com. However, a few days later, this particular video was subsequently removed from the site. I have been able to track down a copy of the video. I should warn you however that this is not for the squeamish. (http://www.gofish.com/player.gfp?gfid=30-1084147)

Some observers have said that (and it is!) far worse than the dislocated shoulder injury suffered by the Miami Heat's Dwyane Tyrone Wade. (http://www.gofish.com/player.gfp?gfid=30-1082720). Lastly, some critiques have also noted that Livingston stands to lose over $40 million dollars in future earnings due to this injury.

The Los Angeles Clippers have been notorious for underpaying their health players. So in the case of Livingston who has about a year and $11 million dollars left in his existing contract, why should the Clippers break the proverbial bank and sign a guard with a bad wheel to a multi-million dollar extension. One blog site even went as far as saying that it would be impractical to sign Livingston since "were not even sure if he is going to walk without a limp."

Many career threatening injuries have happened to numerous players from different sports. But what Livingston doesn't have going for him is a college education, since he bypassed college to become the fourth overall pick in the NBA Draft three years ago.

Here's wishing Shaun Livingston a speedy recovery. And however it turns out, $11 million dollars is still a lot of money. So as early as now, he should invest wisely.

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At McDonald’s outlet sometime ago, I came across an article entitled, "My team has the brain power of slugs or earthworms." I said to myself, "Man! Who said that?"

It turned out to be Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach Phil Jackson. Jackson, irate with his team’s “lack of energy” and seemingly insurmountable 3-1 deficit against the Phoenix Suns in their first round seven-game series, told his team in his “moment of irritation” that they had "the brain power of slugs or earthworms."

Wow! If I was one of Jackson’s players, I’d really be motivated. Lakers’ superstar guard Kobe Bryant seemed to think so when he commented on Jackson’s “slugs and earthworms” comment.

"As irritated as I've ever seen him," Kobe Bryant said after the Lakers practiced in California on Tuesday (May 1, 2007). "He was really upset - frustrated. That was his way of saying, 'You'd better get your butts in the game."'

Couldn’t Jackson have just used the word, “hustle?” The Phoenix Suns were in a similar predicament during their first-round match up last year against these same Lakers. The Suns trailed the Lakers 3-1 then found it in themselves to win three straight to advance.

I didn’t hear any “slugs and earthworms” comments back then by Suns’ coach Mike D'Antoni last year. But then again, www.foxsports.com got it right when they wrote that “these Lakers aren't last year's Suns and that Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson has tried a bit of everything to make his team competitive.” (http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/6764980)

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Long time beat reporter Ira Winderman of Sun-Sentinel wrote:

“Dwyane Wade pushed back his earliest possible return date to the third week of November, saying he would need at least one week on the court after being cleared for contact. That would mean he would miss at least 10 games in his recovery from May knee and shoulder surgeries.”

Personally, I hope that D.Wade comes back stronger than ever. But from a Fantasy Basketball perspective, I wouldn’t draft him over Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant (Knicks anyone?), Shawn Marion, Dirk Nowitzki, LeBron James, Steve Nash, Gilbert Arenas, and Jason Kidd (in that order) just yet, especially in Roto leagues.

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When I first heard that Miami Heat coach Pat Riley was considering giving 36-year old Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway another chance at the big leagues after almost two years of shelf time � I was ecstatic! Ecstatic because I grew up watching the duo of Shaq and Penny strut their stuff for the Orlando Magic in the early 90's. Now, more than a decade later, I'd get to see them again�

But based on the observations of Miami Heat insider Ira Winderman (http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/sports_basketball_heat/), it looks like it may not happen.

Winderman wrote:

"Hardaway, though, is different. He is not assured a spot and still must play his way onto the 15-man regular-season roster. His quadriceps soreness not only opens more playing time for the likes of Jeremy Richardson, Devin Green and even Marcus Slaughter, but makes one wonder how much longer Riley can justify the comeback bid by the 36-year-old who has been out of the league for nearly two years."

And to think I was looking forward to a picture with Shaq, Penny, and D.Wade.

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Fifth of a series of articles on my first ever Dynasty Mode Season. You can read the past articles here:

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_Mode_Part_IV_The_r evelation_of_the_jump_shot/30773

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_Mode_Part_III_Trad e_and_Triple_Double/30345

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_Mode_Part_II/30085

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/My_first_crack_at_NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_ Mode/29959


Game 13: Suns @ Warriors (156-103)

Quarterback by best player Luke Ridnour (14 points, 12 assists, 4 rebounds, and 6 steals) and a 52-point blitz in the second quarter, the Suns never looked back and put the Warriors to bed. Final score: 156-103.

Dwight Howard led all Suns players with 29 points and two blocks. While Dwyane Wade (27 points, 7 assists, 5 steals), Chris Bosh (20 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals), and David Lee (10 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists) also joined the party.

Warriors Joe Johnson finished with 39 points in this losing effort. Rookie Aaron Brooks (21 points, 15 assists, 2 steals), Andrei Kirilenko (15 markers), Troy Murphy (12 points, 11 caroms), and Stromile Swift (4 blocks) also made significant contributions for the Bay Area Warriors.

Game 14: Rockets @ Suns (104-162)

Chris Bosh is judged the best player after the game (and to think I was worried that his performance was "dipping") with a smooth stat line: 38 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals. Dwight Howard complements Bosh with 24 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals, and 4 block shots. While Dwyane Wade finishes with 20 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals.

I guess they are my "Big Three."

As for the Rockets, they were lead again by the duo of Gilbert Arenas (who is as unstoppable as Kobe Bryant�hey, he is after all NBA Live 2008's endorser) (42 big ones and 15 dimes) and rookie Kevin Durant (23 points). Other notables were Shawne Williams (19 points and 11 boards � guess the Pacers are wishing right now that they could get that kind of production out of him in real life!) and the immortal Alonzo Mourning (4 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks) who I believe should have retired when the Heat won their ring in 06'

By the way�three more Adidas pairs and I would have cleaned out the NBA Store. Hey NY! It's time to restock! Hehehe�.

Game 15: Magic @ Suns (126-161)

Did you know that the Florida based Magic and Heat as well as the Jazz are the only three teams whose names don't end with the letter "S"? (e.g., Bulls, Lakers, Clippers, Suns, etc.) But you probably knew that already right?

Now to the game. The Magic's quartet of guards: Manu Ginobili (34 points; 3 of 7 from downtown); Bobby Simmons (29 points; 5 of 8 from beyond the arc); and Kirk Hinrich (23 points, 14 assists, and two three's from the top of the key) kept things interesting until my bench (usually Watson, Redick, Korver, Lee, and Varejao at Center) came in and brought our lead into the twenty's.

Led by the unofficial Western Conference player of the month (November) Chris Bosh (who leads the league in points, FG%, offensive rebounds, rebounds per game, steals per game, and blocks per game�*whew*) finished as the contest's best player with 44 points, 8 caroms, 7 steals, and 2 block shots. Fellow twin tower Dwight Howard came up with 26 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. While D.Wade chipped in 20 points and 6 steals.

Oh yeah, I also finally purchased all the stuff at the NBA Store. Maybe EA should have put in more "unlockables." What am I going to do with the Game Points now? A minimum per game for me is about 250 points (if the entire 12-man roster scores at least a point).

Well, that's it for now. Happy weekend to all and I hope you are enjoying the ride so far.

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The fourth of a series of articles on my first ever Dynasty Mode Season. You can read the past articles here:

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_Mode_Part_III_Trad e_and_Triple_Double/30345

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_Mode_Part_II/30085

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/My_first_crack_at_NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_ Mode/29959

Game play:

The last couple of games have really been frustrating as shooters like J.J. Redick, Jason Kapono, Kyle Korver, and Matt Carroll are unable to hit any three point shots with any regularity (even the "super wide open, how could you have missed that!" variety). However, I did discover that if a shooter (who is in their comfort zone) gets the ball off a pass or steps into a mid-range jumper without within one or two dribbles, they should make the shot.

Another tip. Refrain from playing shooters out of position. If they are a small forward or shooting guard, keep them there. It has something to do with their positions on the court and where they get the basketball.

Every little bit helps towards making a jump shot.

Now where did I put that three point shot�

Game 10: Suns @ Rockets (176-106)

The Suns finish this contest with their highest output in a quarter this season (58 points�Don't ask me how it happened�it just did.) Spearheaded by the game's best player (BP) Chris Bosh (43 markers and 6 swipes) and Dwight Howard (32 points and 5 steals), the Suns made this match "hard on the eyes" of Rockets fans.

Dwyane Wade (6 steals) and Jason Kapono 6 rebounds, 4 steals) each finished with 16 markers. While point guard Luke Ridnour (14 points, 6 steals) orchestrated several highlight slams with 18 assists.

The Rockets were led by HALO 3 Online's (http://www.bungie.net/stats/PlayerStatsHalo3.aspx?player=Agent%20Arenas) own "Agent Arenas" (34 points; 6-10 3 point FG) and 28 points each from Jamal Crawford and rookie Kevin Durant.

Game 11: Kings @ Suns (109-165)

The fallout of the Kings and Suns trade days earlier (Suns gave up Josh Smith, Mike Miller, and Jose Manuel Calderon for the King's Dwyane Wade) turned into a royal bashing at the valley of the Sun!

Despite a slow start (Suns led 36-32 after one), a 52-point second quarter and the efforts of best player Dwyane Wade (36 points, 6 assists, 9 steals) put this one safely away by the half. Chris Bosh also came up another brilliant performance (28 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals, and 3 blocks). While Dwight Howard chipped in 30 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 steals.

The Kings were led by Mike Bibby's 49 points (7 for 14 from long distance) while new Kings Mike Miller (28 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals (4 of 9 from downtown)) and Josh Smith (9 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists) held their own.

Other notables: Chris Kaman finished the game with 5 block shots�Jose Manuel Calderon, the other player involved in the Dwyane Wade trade, did not play in this contest (DNP-CD).

Game 12: Clippers @ Suns (99-173)

The Clippers are only the second team that I have been able to hold below a hundred points in a game (the first one being Game 5 against the Hawks wherein they came up with 90 points). This doesn't speak well for my ability to play defense (well, it can be very (insert a couple of more "very" here!) well as I believe you can't truly shut down anyone in this game.
The Kobe Bryant's, Pau Gasol's, and Gilbert Arenas' of the NBA Live 2008 world will always get their points because: 1) They play the whole game and 2) the dominate the ball.

Teams in Live 2008 have a tendency play to their strengths. Just look at their players. Take the Bulls for example in my Dynasty Mode Season; with Gasol and Yao down low, the AI would literally jump at every opportunity to get those guys the leather in premium (that wonderful yellow star that lights up underneath the player who currently has the basketball) scoring positions. While in the case of Kobe Bryant (slash and drive) and Gilbert Arenas (set up teammates, hit an occasional trifecta at the top of the key, and drive), they too mirror and play similarly (to some degree) to their real life counterparts.

Now to the Clips and Suns match up! Dwyane Wade is adjudged as the game's best player (39 points and 8 steals) in this one. While Chris Bosh (who I believe should have been my best player) finished with 37 points, 4 swipes, and 2 blocks. Dwight Howard and David Lee also dominated down low with 22 points, 11 rebounds, 2 blocks and 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 steals respectively.

The Clippers camp was lead by forward Tayshaun Prince (36 points) and all-star guard Chris E. Paul (31 points, 12 assists, and 4 steals).

Part V is right around the corner...and here it is! (Up there :) )

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This is the third of a series of articles on my first ever Dynasty Mode Season. You can read the past articles here:

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/My_first_crack_at_NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_ Mode/29959

http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_Mode_Part_II/30085

Finally had a chance to sit down and check out the latest NBA Live 2008 Dynasty GM features. Here are some highlights:

- Free agency - Josh Smith, Anderson Varejao, and Jose Manuel Calderon all have one-year pacts. Looking ahead, I'm sure they are expecting big paydays and I just know I can't keep all of them, especially since I am over the salary cap. This early, I foresee Anderson Varejao holding out (the real one has, why not his NBA Live counterpart).

- Team Chemistry - A majority of my players don't think too highly of Anderson Varejao. Is he my team's albatross?

- Free Agents � Charlie Bell and Matt Carroll are available.

Game 7: Suns @ Magic (139-118)

Looking at my schedule so far (6 wins � 1 loss), I've only had two home games to this point but all things being equal, I would most probably have a slew of consecutive home games :) Now down to business.

Best player: Dwight Howard (30 points and 3 steals); Chris Bosh (my team's Shawn Marion) comes up with 23 points and 9 caroms. While Luke Ridnour is a steady force with 11 assists and David Lee has his second straight productive game finishing with 19 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals off the pine.

The Magic were led by point guard Kirk Hinrich (41 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists), Manu Ginobili (29 points), and Haiti-born center Samuel Dalambert (16 points and 15 rebounds).

Game 8: Knicks @ Suns (133-170)

Before I get to the game, I came to the conclusion that I don't want to deal with free agency. I know that it sounds premature but it is still something that needs to be considered. With this in mind, I proposed a trade (Josh Smith, Mike Miller, and Jose Manuel Calderon) to the Sacramento Kings for Dwyane Wade.

It looks promising, but I worry about my team's chemistry as in NBA Live 2008, it seems to have repercussions � I haven't seen it yet but I hope I don't rue the day I pulled the trigger on this one.

Now to the game. Despite Kobe Bryant's Herculean scoring effort (Judged the best player in this contest after finishing with 89 points and little from everyone else) and all-around game of rookie PG Morris Almond (20 points, 5 rebounds, and 12 assists), the Knicks fell to the Suns 170-133.

For the Suns, Chris Bosh topped all Suns scorers with 28 points and 4 blocks. Dwight Howard contributed 18 points (9-9 FG) and 10 caroms in this effort. While guard J.J. Redick broke out of a slump a finished with 20 points (2-11 3-point FG).

Mike Miller (25 points and 5 steals) and Josh Smith (20 points; 10-10 FG) also gave a good account for themselves despite rumors of a blockbuster trade swirling around the two players.

November 14, 2007

- Sacramento Kings approve the deal of Josh Smith, Mike Miller, and Jose Manuel Calderon for Dwyane Wade. The Kings added that they believe that this trade "would benefit both teams."

I hope so.

-Charlie Bell signs with Suns

November 15, 2007

-Matt Carroll joins the Suns.


Game 9: Bulls @ Suns (134-184)

After the Chicago Bulls took one point lead at the end of the first quarter (44-43), the Phoenix Suns never looked back as they scored a blistering 65 points in the next period on their way to their best performance in a half (108 points). Inspired by Luke Ridnour's 1st triple-double of the season (20 points, 18 assists, 12 steals, and 14 TO; Best Player), the Suns survived the dominating post presence of the Bulls Twin Towers: Paul Gasol (70 points and 6 rebounds) and Yao Ming (32 points and 9 rebounds).

When the smoke cleared, all but three of the eleven Suns that suited up for this contest scored in double figures with Wade (37 points), Varejao (25 points, 6 steals), and Bosh (20 points) leading the way.

Team Chemistry: I really don't know�the feel of the team was different. Right now, I have a ton of two-guard shooters who are playing out of position at shooting forward (either Jason Kapono or Kyle Korver). I need a slasher...this is where I really miss Josh Smith.

Oh well...Adjust...adjust...adjust...

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This is the second of a series of articles on my first-ever Dynasty Mode Season. You can read the first article here (http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/My_first_crack_at_NBA_Live_2008s_Dynasty_ Mode/29959).

Given my recent success after my loss to the Seattle Supersonics on opening night, I immediately set my game preferences to "Superstar" level in order to give me more of a challenge. Here is how my next three games went.

Game 4: Suns @ Bobcats (137-135)

Have you every watched a blowout game wherein the winning team already rested its starters, but had to bring them back in because the other opposing team made a game out of it? That's what happened here. If it were not for a Robert Swift missed bank shot as time expired, I think the outcome may have been a lot different.

Best player: Chris Bosh (44 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 steals); Dwight Howard chips in 26 points and 9 rebounds and Josh Smith calls it a night after filling out the stat sheet with 15 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals.

The Bobcats were lead by rookie (what is it with NBA Live 2008 rookies? They all seem to have Superstar Stats!!!) Alando Tucker (41 points), Stevie Franchise (37 points), and Mike James (29 points).

Game 5: Suns @ Hawks (169-90)

Not an error folks, it was simply a drubbing. Despite an early 14 point lead, the Hawks relied too much on the jump shooting trio of Earl Boykins, Larry Hughes, and Ron Artest without deferring to their inside game. Then again, this team simply didn't run down on defense, so I guess they got what they deserved. In hindsight, I think this development may have been caused by NBA Live 2008's "role playing" function. Not sure how that works, but it is the only plausible explanation that I could come up with after they lost by 79.

Bosh, the best player (again) lead the Suns to four forty point quarters with 56 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 steals. Dwight Howard scores 32 and grabs 15. While Luke Ridnour dishes out 30 dimes and Josh Smith goes (14 of 14 FG) and finishes with 28.

As for the Hawks, well, I don't think they would survive the season if Ron Artest (20 points) keeps on jacking up fall away jumpers and three pointers from the corners. Larry Hughes shot selection was also non-existent despite finishing with 20 points as well. Boykins, at 5'5'' was the high man for the Hawks with 37 points. (It does pay to hold the ball in every possession�hehehe)

Game 6: Suns @ Miami (145-123)

Prior to the start of the game, I learned some nifty moves (drive and hop back; drive and step back) using the training segment of NBA Live 2008. Now all I need to learn is how to convert a three pointer with some consistency as I have had players go 1/10, 1/5, and 2/9 -- all in the same game!

Highlights: Dwight Howard gets top honors with 36 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 steals (most, if not all from inbounds passes). David Lee makes a case for more playing time with 20 points and 4 steals. While J-Smooth (23 points) and Chris Bosh (27 points and 3 steals) are their usual silky smooth selves.

As for the Heat, Vincent Lamar Carter drives and twists his way to 49 points; Carlos Boozer provided an inside presence with 18 and 10 caroms. While ROOKIE (these rookies again) Javaris Crittenton (who is this guy!) finishes with 33 points and 13 feeds.

Oh man, I've really got to get back to work now. Hope you guys found this interesting. Have a great week ahead everyone!

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Just got my copy of NBA Live 08' today. And to be honest, the game play is still similar to how it was in past NBA Live editions (So what was Shawn Marion and Co. so excited about?) with the exception of the power hop (which they brought back) and player "hot spots" (which are areas in the basketball court wherein a player shows some proficiency to convert shots).

I also decided to finally play a Dynasty Mode after more than a decade of playing every version of NBA Live. I really haven't gotten around to doing it, so I guess this version is the best time to do it.

Here is what I ended up with after drafting 30th with the Phoenix Suns (I just dig their Orange alternate road jersey). In alphabetical order: Chris Bosh, Jose Manuel Calderon, Dwight Howard, Jason Kapono, Kyle Korver, David Lee, Mike Miller, J.J. Redick , Luke Ridnour, Josh Smith, Anderson Varejao, and Earl Watson.

As for my preferences, I set them at "Superstar" level for the first 10-15 games of the season in order to acclimate myself to the intricacies of Live 08'. 8 minutes quarters (Any more and the final scores would be simply atrocious)

Game 1: Suns @ Sonics (125-157)

What is it with rookies? Sonics' Josh McRoberts lights me up for 75 points, 15 rebounds, and 6 blocks; while his frontcourt partner, Amare Stoudemire finishes with 42 points and 14 rebounds. It was really ugly, as I couldn't stop Damon Stoudamire's penetration (36 assists).

My bright spots were a Chris Bosh triple-double (45 points, 12 steals, and 13 rebounds) and Dwight Howard's 27 points. Despite how it looks, I forced a ton a threes with my designated gunner J.J. Redick shooting a horrendous 22% (5-23) from downtown.

This doesn't look too promising�

Game 2: Lakers @ Suns (100-145)

Redemption! Now that's more like it! I made some lineup changes and started Josh Smith in lieu of J.J. Redick and just kept on pounding the ball inside. J.Smith was the player of the game with a 35 point, 6 rebound, and 4 steals effort. While Bosh was again spectacular with 36 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

Aside from this new appreciation for Chris Bosh, I also played Andy Varejao and to my surprise, he was effective defensively (3 blocks and a steal). As for Redick, I don't even want to go there (2/12 from downtown).

The Lakers were lead by Steve Nash (36 points and 9 assists) and Marcus Camby (21 points and 12 rebounds).

Game 3: Cavaliers @ Suns (115-146)

Home sweet home! Another win! I also discovered that back-to-back games lower the stamina of players. Basically, their stamina is not 100% at the start of new games. I guess, this puts a premium on putting teams away and letting the bench play in lieu of the starters.

Highlights: Bosh gets his second triple-double in three games (50 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 steals); Dwight Howard scores 31 and grabs 9 caroms; Ridnour finishes with 11 assists.

Redick finishes 1-5 from three-point land. I really need to stop taking all these threes, especially in transition, as they never really go in with any decent consistency.

I'm stopping here for today. I've burned enough time in front of the PS2.

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Longtime Minnesota Timberwolves insider Steve Aschburner brings up a very good point in his article (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/steve_aschburner/10/08/garnett.lon don/index.html) on newly acquired power-forward Kevin Garnett.

In the 12-years that KG has been with the T-Wolves, how many teammates has he played with?

"� someone call the Elias Sports Bureau -- that Garnett had more teammates come and go, during his 12 seasons in Minnesota, than any other one-, two- or even three-team star in the NBA in that span. From Terry Porter, Sam Mitchell, Doug West and Stephon Marbury near the start, through Tom Gugliotta, Terrell Brandon, Malik Sealy and Wally Szczerbiak in the middle, to Sam Cassell, Latrell Sprewell, Ricky Davis and Randy Foye near the end, Garnett stayed, giving the franchise its face through three or four Wolves generations. Actually, mutations might be a better word, given the often grisly results."

Now that would be a noteworthy stat or just the work of someone who has too much time on their hands.

But interesting nonetheless�

I wonder if the Elias Sports Bureau does keep such a statistic...Hmmm�

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