Sunday June 14th, 2009
Lakers’ Jackson fined $25,000 for ripping officials.
The National Basketball Association issued Lakers head coach Phil Jackson a $25,000 fine for criticizing game officials during the fourth game of the finals. Along with Jackson, the Lakers were also fined $25,000 for the comments. In between the first and second quarters Jackson said some of the calls were “bogus”, which sent Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum to early foul trouble.
Sunday June 14th, 2009
Howard says series will be heading back to L.A.
Orlando star Dwight Howard said late Saturday that the National Basketball Association finals would be heading back to Los Angeles. Game five of the finals is set for Sunday evening in Orlando. The Magic trail the best of seven series three games to one. Orlando must win game five at home for the series to move back to Los Angeles. Howard, who missed several late free throws that could have sealed the deal for the Magic also said he is “puzzled” by his free throw shooting.
Saturday June 13th, 2009
NBA announces no additional punishment for Pietrus.
The NBA announced there would be no further action taken on Mickael Pietrus after his flagrant foul on Friday in game four of the NBA finals. Pietrus gave a two hand shove into the back of Pau Gasol in the final seconds, as Gasol was finishing a dunk. It was the first flagrant foul of the finals. The NBA did not feel the foul warranted a fine, or suspension.
Saturday June 13th, 2009
Bogut appears to be on track after rehab.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinal reported that Andrew Bogut is about a month away from returning to the court and running again. Bogut had surgery on his injured back, and is expected to be 100% by the time the 2009-2010 season begins. Bogut played in just 36 games in 2008-2009 for the Bucks, averaging 11.7 points per game and 10.3 rebounds per game. Bogut was the first overall pick in the 2005 draft.
Friday June 12th, 2009
Bulls’ Rose says gang sign was mistake.
Chicago Bulls’ rookie guard Derrick Rose said he used “extremely poor judgment” when flashing a gang sign in a photo. Rose said the photo was taken when he was “young and dumb” and still a student at Memphis. Rose was named the 2008-2009 Rookie of the Year after playing one season at Memphis for Coach John Calipari. Rose and Memphis have been under investigations for cheating on admission process and taking a college entry exam.
Thursday June 11th, 2009
Jordan jersey stolen from Parker.
An autograph jersey signed by Michael Jordan was stolen from the residence of Tony Parker on Thursday. It was reported missing by Parker from a gym under construction at Parker’s home. Detectives found a listing on Craigslist from a man that worked with the security company hired to protect Parker’s home.
Thursday June 11th, 2009
Curry hopes for Knicks to select him in NBA draft.
Stephen Curry, formerly a star at Davidson University walked into the New York Knicks workout facility on Tuesday publicly exclaiming his interest to play for the Knicks. As a Junior at Davidson, Curry scored 26.8 points per game, leading all Division I players.
Wednesday June 10th, 2009
Magic knock off Lakers 108-104 to tighten up series.
The Orlando Magic picked up a game three win to push the series to 2-1. Orlando shot 63 percent from the field, and clamped down defensively on Kobe Bryant to pull out a 108-104 win. Rashard Lewis and Dwight Howard both scored 21 points for the Magic. Game four of the NBA finals will take place Thursday night in Orlando.
Wednesday June 10th, 2009
Hansbrough auditions nearby.
University of North Carolina star Tyler Hansbrough auditioned in front of home state fans on Tuesday. Charlotte Bobcats head coach Larry Brown and assistant coach Phil Ford conducted pre-draft workouts with Hansbrough. It is unlikely that the Bobcats would draft Hansbrough as high as their first pick at # 12 overall. Hansbrough has also worked out with Detroit, Chicago, New Orleans and still has plans with Utah and Portland.
Tuesday June 9th, 2009
Sacramento hires Westphal as next head coach.
The Sacramento Kings and Paul Westphal reached an agreement to become the next head coach. Westphal has spent seven seasons as a head coach for both the Phoenix Suns and Seattle Supersonics, going 267-159 during that time. Westphal will replace interim coach Kenny Natt, as the Kings finished 17-65 in 2008-2009 as the worst record in franchise history. Westphal led Phoenix to the finals in 1992-1993.
Monday June 8th, 2009
Lakers head to Orlando with 2-0 series lead.
Orlando had a chance as regulation ended on Sunday night, a chance to tie the series at one game a piece heading to Florida. Magic guard Courtney Lee missed an alley-oop lay-up at the buzzer, sending the game to overtime, which was controlled by the Lakers. Pau Gasol scored 24 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out 3 assists for the Lakers. Rashard Lewis scored 34 points in a losing effort for Orlando. Game one went easily to the Lakers, as Orlando committed 20 turnovers, dishing out just 22 assists in the game.
Monday June 8th, 2009
Los Angeles to host 2011 All Star Game.
The National Basketball Association announced on Monday that the 2011 All Star Game would be in Los Angeles. This will be the fifth time to exhibition event will be held in the Staples Center. The last time Los Angeles hosted the event was 2004. The 2011 event will take place on February 20th. 2009 the event was held in Phoenix, and in 2010 Dallas will get a chance to host. Commissioner David Stern said the economic impact of hosting the event will be near $100 million for Los Angeles.
Sunday June 7th, 2009
Dunleavy has minor hip operation.
Indiana Pacers guard Mike Dunleavy had minor arthroscopic surgery on his left hip Friday. Teams doctors for the Pacers said the procedure was done to clean up a long standing injury. Dunleavy also had surgery in March to remove a bone spur that had damaged the patella tendon in his knee. He missed the final 18 games of the season for Indiana.
Sunday June 7th, 2009
Hornets assistant Gattison leaves.
New Orleans Hornets assistant coach Kenny Gattison is leaving the team after spending six seasons with the Hornets. Gattison’s contract was set to expire at the end of June, and team officials met with Gattison and came to conclusion of “pursing other options”. Coach Byron Scott has been quoted as saying Gattison is an “integral part” of the team’s success. Gattison joined the Hornets in 2003 under head coach Tim Floyd.
Saturday June 6th, 2009
NBA elects to fine James $25,000
The Cleveland Cavaliers MVP LeBron James was fined $25,000 for refusing to shake hands at the conclusion of game six in the Eastern Conference Finals. James left the stadium in a huff after the 103-90 defeat. Commissioner David Stern had initially said he was not going to fine the MVP, but wanted to have a conversation with LeBron. Stern later changed his mind, claiming “It was inappropriate for me to give someone a pass here.”
Monday June 1st, 2009
Ben Wallace considers retirement.
Despite having one more season and $14 million left on his contract, Cavaliers big man Ben Wallace is considering retirement. Wallace says he will sit down with family members and discuss his future. Many experts and coaches claim Wallace is dealing with the frustration of losing in the Eastern Conference Finals, along with an injury plagued season, and expect him to return.
Tuesday June 2nd, 2009
Obama picks the Lakers to win the NBA title.
The president of the United States of American says the Los Angeles Lakers are going to win the 2009 National Basketball Association title. The president was on his way to the Marine One helicopter on the south lawn on Tuesday when a reporter asked the president. Mr. Obama responded with a smile and said “Lakers in six”. During March Madness, the president correctly selected the University of North Carolina to win the championship.
Tuesday June 2nd, 2009
Utah to play Real Madrid in pre-season.
The Utah Jazz will play a pre-season game against Real Madrid as part of the NBA’s Europe Live pre-season. The Jazz will face the team on October 8th at Madrid’s Palacio de Deportes Stadium. Real Madrid played the Toronto Raptors last pre-season, beating them 104-103. Utah will also play the Chicago Bulls in London on October 6th to kick-off the European pre-season tour.
Wednesday June 3rd, 2009
Bulls’ assistant Harris retires.
The Chicago Bulls assistant, and long time NBA coach Del Harris announced his retirement on Tuesday night. Harris spent 33 seasons in the NBA, and won the NBA coach of the year during the 1995 season. Harris, who is 71 years old spent one season with Vinny Del Negro in Chicago. In his career, Harris went to the postseason in 27 seasons.
Wednesday June 3rd, 2009
James has benign growth removed from jaw.
The NBA MVP LeBron James had a benign growth removed from his jaw on Tuesday. The operation was a five hour procedure, and James was kept over night in the hospital. James had the growth for several months, but team doctors elected to wait until the season was complete to do any work. James scored an average of 38.5 points per game in the Eastern Conference Finals, in which Cleveland fell to Orlando in six games.
Saturday May 30th, 2009
Eddie Jordan agrees to become Philadelphia 76ers coach.
The Philadelphia 76ers have found their next coach. On Saturday
Philadelphia agreed to a deal with former Washington head coach Eddie Jordan. Jordan becomes the 22nd coach in franchise history, and third since the start of the 2007-2008 season. Jordan is 230-288 in his head coaching stops, which include Sacramento, along with Washington. Jordan played college basketball at Rutgers, and was an assistant with the New Jersey Nets, during their successful run, which included two trips to the NBA finals.
Saturday May 30th, 2009
Lakers blow out Denver to advance to NBA finals.
The Los Angeles Lakers blew out the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi
Center on Friday night 119-92 to advance to the NBA finals. Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups were a combined 8-24 from the field in the loss for the Nuggets. The Lakers shot 57 percent, led by Kobe Bryant’s 10 assists. The Lakers will now face the winner of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic. Orlando currently leads the series three games to two, with game six set in Orlando for Saturday night. This is the second straight year the Lakers will play in the NBA finals.
Friday May 29th, 2009
Cavaliers’ West expects to play in game six.
The Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West is expected to play in
Saturday’s game six of the Eastern Conference Finals. West was unsure of his status after Thursday’s game five due to an injured hip. West is averaging 13 points per game for the Cavaliers, who trail the series three games to two to the Orlando Magic.
Thursday May 28th, 2009
China’s 7’9 star continues to shine.
The Chinese center Sun Mingming continues to impress in China, with
many scouts comparing him to Houston Rockets center Yao Ming. Mingming is the tallest professional basketball player ever. Mingming has intentions of playing in the National Basketball Association, hoping to garner at least ten years experience.
Wednesday May 27th, 2009
Celtics’ Garnett has bone spurs from knee.
Kevin Garnett of the Boston Celtics underwent successful surgery to have
bone spurs removed from his right knee on Tuesday evening. Kevin, who is 33 years old, missed a good majority of the second half of the 2008-2009 season, including all 14 Boston postseason games. Garnett has played in 1128 career games, winning a MVP award with Minnesota and a NBA title with the Celtics. Garnett is expected to be ready for the start of the 2009-2010 season.
Sunday May 24, 2009
Kobe’s late three sparks Lakers.
Kobe Bryant sank a late three, and Trevor Ariza garnered another clutch steal to seal the deal for the Lakes on Saturday 103-97 at the Pepsi Center in Denver. The win for the Lakers gave them a 2-1 series lead in the best of seven series. Pau Gasol also helped in the cause for Los Angeles, scoring 20 points and ripping down 11 rebounds. The loss for the Nuggets was their first defeat at home in 17 games. Game four of the series will be Monday night in Denver.
Sunday May 24, 2009
Ford interviews with Philadelphia.
Chris Ford, currently a scout with the 76ers has interviewed for the team’s head coaching opening. Ford has coached the Celtics, Bucks and Clippers in the past, and played ten seasons in the NBA with Boston and Detroit. Ford, is one of the finalists for the job, along with Eddie Jordan, Tom Thibodeau, Kurt Rambis, and Dwane Casey. Philadelphia finished 41-41 during the 2008-2009 season.
Saturday May 23, 2009
LeBron hits buzzer beater to tie the series at 1.
LeBron James will be known forever in Cleveland, that is for sure. What he did on Friday could easily make him the mayor for life as well. LeBron James nailed a three pointer at the time expired to lift the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 96-95 win in game two of the best of seven series. The win for Cleveland evened the series up at one game a piece before making the trip to Florida to take on the Magic in games three and four. James led Cleveland in the game with 35 points, while Orlando was paced by Rashard Lewis’s 23. Game three of the best of seven series will be played Sunday at the “O Arena” in Orlando.
Friday May 22, 2009
Howard to have surgery on wrist and ankle.
Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Howard underwent successful surgery on both his left wrist and left ankle on Thursday. Howard missed 22 games during the 2008-2009 season due to an ankle injury, but was a big part of the postseason success Dallas had, in beating San Antonio in round one. Howard averaged just under 16 points per game during the postseason. The procedures were done in a New York City hospital.
Thursday May 21, 2009
Sam Cassell retires; set to join coaching staff in Washington.
Sam Cassell, who won three NBA titles during his tenure has officially retired from playing in the National Basketball Association. Cassell spent 15 seasons in the NBA. After making his retirement announcement, he also announced he would be joining the Washington Wizards coaching staff for the 2009-2010 season. Cassell will be an assistant, along with Randy Wittman will be an assistant with new head coach Flip Saunders.
Wednesday May 20th, 2009
Paxson gives up General Manager duties with the Bulls.
John Paxson stepped down from his position as General Manager of the
Chicago Bulls on Wednesday. Chicago elected to promote Gar Forman from the director of player personnel to General Manager. Paxson expects to retain a major role in personnel moves. Paxson was hired in 2003 as executive vice president of basketball operations. Chicago won 12 of their last 16 games down the stretch and finished with a 41-41 record and garnered the 7 seed. Boston eliminated the Bulls in seven games.
Wednesday May 20th, 2009
Clippers pleased to have right to select Griffin.
The Los Angeles Clippers did not waste much time in announcing who
they intended to select in the 2009 NBA Draft. Los Angeles announced Wednesday they had all intentions of drafting former Oklahoma Star Blake Griffin. The Clippers won the selection of the number one pick on Tuesday night, moving up from the third position. It is the third time the Clippers have had the number one selection.
Tuesday May 19th, 2009
Kyle Korver has surgery on wrist.
Utah Jazz forward and former Creighton star Kyle Korver had successful
surgery on his wrist. The surgery removed scar tissue from his right wrist. Korver averaged nine points in 78 games in 2008-2009 for Utah. Korver has one more year left on his contract, but has the option of opting out June 30th if he chooses.
Monday May 19th, 2009
Boston/Orlando set viewer ship record on cable.
The Game Seven of the second round of the Eastern Conference second
round playoff game between the defending NBA Champion Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic was the most viewed second round series ever. TNT stated over 8.4 million viewers tuned in to the 101-82 Orlando win on the road. The previous record for a second round series was 7.65 in 2004 between the Spurs and Lakers.
Sunday May 18th, 2009
Turkoglu/Orlando eliminate defending champions.
The Orlando Magic used 13 three pointers in rout to a game seven win
over the Boston Celtics. The win for Orlando eliminated the Celtics, one year after winning the NBA finals in 2008. Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 25 points and 12 assists, as superstar Dwight Howard added 12 points and 16 rebounds. Orlando will now play in the Eastern Conference finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Magic and Cavaliers will begin the best of seven series on Wednesday May 20th.
Friday May 15, 2009
Former NBA player Tisdale dies at age of 44.
Former Oklahoma University star Wayman Tisdale passed away Friday at the age of 44. Tisdale was a three time All American at Oklahoma, and spent 12 years in the National Basketball Association, before becoming an accomplished jazz musician. Tisdale spent time in Indiana, Sacramento and Phoenix, and also played for the 1984 Olympic team. Tisdale died in the hospital in his hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Friday May 15, 2009
76ers interview ex Wizards coach Jordan.
The Philadelphia 76ers have interviewed former Washington Wizards head coach Eddie Jordan for their head coaching job. Jordan met with team executives on Friday, in the first interview since interim head coach Tony DiLeo pulled his name out of consideration. Jordan also interviewed with the Sacramento Kings this off-season. Philadelphia finished 41-41 in 2008-2009.
Thursday May 14, 2009
Orlando tops Boston; forces game seven.
Dwight Howard scored 23 points and ripped down 22 rebounds to lead the Orlando Magic to game six win over the Boston Celtics. The 8 point win for Orlando forced a game seven between the Magic and the Celtics. Rashard Lewis scored 20 points and Hedo Turkoglu nailed a late three to seal the deal in the win. Game seven of the series will be played in Boston on Sunday evening.
Wednesday May 13, 2009
Anthony leads Denver to conference finals.
Carmelo Anthony poured in 30 points, and his teammate Chauncey Billups added 28 as the Denver Nuggets defeated the Dallas Mavericks to advance to the Western Conference finales. The win for the Nuggets was their eight in ten games in the postseason. Denver has also won 16 straight home games at the Pepsi Center. When the Nuggets begin game one against either Los Angeles or Houston, it will be their first conference finals game since 1985.
Tuesday May 12, 2009
Cuban apologizes to Martin’s mother.
Mark Cuban, the Dallas Mavericks owner has issued an apology to Denver Nuggets forward Kenyon Martin’s mother. After a recent playoff game Cuban confronted Martin’s mother calling her son a “thug”. Cuban also shoved a cameraman as the game concluded.
Monday May 11th, 2009
Raptors sign head coach for three years.
The Toronto Raptors ink head coach Jay Triano to a three year deal on Monday. Triano was hired as the interim head coach when Sam Mitchell was fired after a 25-40 start. Triano finished the season 9-4 with Toronto. Triano is 50 years old, and has spent time as the Raptors assistant coach, along with leading Canada’s Olympic team to a 5-2 record at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
Monday May 11th, 2009
DiLeo will not return to Philadelphia.
Interim head coach Tony DiLeo has withdrawn his name from consideration as the new head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers. DiLeo has elected to return to his old job as the senior vice president and assistant general manager. DiLeo replaced Maurice Cheeks, who went 9-14 to start the year. DiLeo guided Philadelphia to a 32-27 record and garnered a playoff spot.
Sunday May 10th, 2009
LeBron pours in 47 points in win over Atlanta.
The 2008-2009 National Basketball Association Most Valuable Player LeBron James poured in 47 points in the 97-82 win over the Atlanta Hawks. James also added 12 rebounds and 8 assists in the win. The win for Cleveland was their seventh straight playoff win, and put them up 3-0 in the best of seven series with the Hawks. Atlanta trailed by one point at halftime, and used a 13-0 run in the third quarter to take the lead for the first time in the second half of a game, but Cleveland proved to be too much late.
Saturday May 9th, 2009
Chuck Daly ties at age 78.
The head coach of the Barcelona “Dream Team” in 1992 Chuck Daly was announced dead at the age of 78. Daly won NBA titles in 1989 and 1990 with the Detroit Pistons, and Daly was also inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame. He also won 638 games in his 14 year coaching career. The 1992 Olympic Team featured NBA stars such as Larry Bird, Patrick Ewing, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan. Daly died in his home town of Jupiter Florida.
Friday May 8th, 2009
Jamison has bone spur removed from foot.
The Washington Wizards all star forward Antawn Jamison had surgery to remove bone spurs in his right ankle. Jamison has played in two All Star games in his career. In 2008-2009 Jamison scored 22.2 points per game and 8.9 rebounds per game, both team leading for the Wizards, who finished with the second worst record in the NBA - 19-63.
Thursday May 7, 2009
Alston, Fisher each suspended one game.
Rafer Alston and Derek Fisher were both suspended one game by the National Basketball Association on Thursday. Alston, an Orlando Magic guard slapped Boston’s Eddie House on the head, after House celebrated a made shot. Fisher was called for a flagrant foul, after colliding with Rockets forward Luis Scola, who was setting a screen. Both players will sit out of Friday’s game, in which is a pivotal game three.
Wednesday May 6, 2009
Wade/Heat begin contract talks.
Just days after the Miami Heat were eliminated from the 2009 playoffs, Miami’s Pat Riley announced he has already begun contract negotiations to keep star Dwyane Wade in a Heat uniform. Wade is one of several All-Stars that will become a free agent after the 2009-2010 season.
Tuesday May 5, 2009
James named 2008-2009 MVP.
LeBron James picked up his first career MVP trophy this week. James picked up 109 of 121 possible first place votes to win the award. Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Dwight Howard and Chris Paul rounded out the top five for the award. James is the first ever Cavalier to win the award. On the season, LeBron poured in 28 points per game, and also added 7.6 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game. James is the youngest player since Moses Malone to win the MVP trophy. Malone was 90 days younger, the second youngest ever- to Wes Unseld, who was 23 years old.
Monday May 4, 2009
Orlando and Houston pick up game one upsets.
The third seeded Orlando Magic, and the fifth seeded Houston Rockets picked up game one upsets Monday night. The Magic received 16 points and 22 rebounds from star Dwight Howard en route to a five point win over the defending champion Boston Celtics. The Magic led by 18 at halftime, and 16 at the end of three. The Rockets picked up an eight point upset over the top seed in the Western Conference - Los Angeles Lakers, behind 28 points and 10 rebounds from big man Yao Ming. The Rockets led the Lakers most of the game, and held on, despite Kobe Bryant’s 32 points.
Sunday May 3, 2009
Nuggets pick up game one win.
The Denver Nuggets picked up a game one win over the Dallas Mavericks. Carmelo Anthony led the Nuggets with 23 points, and held off a double-double from Dirk Nowitzki to pick up the win. Dallas got off to a quick start, leading 24-16 after one quarter, but Denver won the next three quarters to take a four point halftime lead, and seven point lead after three quarters. Denver has now won 14 straight games at the Pepsi Center in Denver.
Cleveland wins record 12th straight. LeBron James scored 24 points and dished out 12 assists to lead Cleveland to a franchise high 12th straight win on Sunday. The win was also the 60th of the season for Cleveland. The 102-74 win for the Cavaliers was the largest margin of victory over Dallas in 56 games.
Despite no Garnett, Celtics win. Even without the services of 12 time All Star Kevin Garnett, the Boston Celtics topped the Oklahoma City Thunder 103-84. Glen Davis scored 19 points and ripped down 10 rebounds, and finishing out the triple-double with 10 stitches after getting hit by a Kevin Durant elbow. Russell Westbrook led the Thunder in scoring with 23 points.
Paul, Hornets beat Spurs. Chris Paul scored 26 points and David West added 23 to help aide the New Orleans Hornets to a 90-86 win over the San Antonio Spurs. Tony Parker led the Spurs with 20, while Tim Duncan added 19 and 15 rebounds. The win for the Hornets moved them to within 2.5 games of the Spurs at the top of the Southwest Division.
Detroit gains ground on Philadelphia. The Detroit Pistons moved to within a game and half of the Philadelphia 76ers after knocking them off 101-97. Allen Iverson played 21 minutes in his return for Detroit. The Pistons were led by Tayshaun Prince’s 21 points, while Philadelphia saw Andre Iguodala score 27 in the loss.
Phoenix loses; goes 0-3 on trip. The Phoenix Suns hit rock bottom on their three game road trip, falling to the Sacramento Kings on Sunday. With a chance to gain a game on eighth place Dallas, the Suns were topped 126-118. Jason Thompson scored 21 points for Sacramento in the win. The win for the Kings snapped a four game losing streak at home.
Arenas expects to return Saturday. Gilbert Arenas who has missed the entire 2008-2009 season expects to return on Saturday. The Wizards star had off season surgery on his left knee, which was his third procedure in 18 months. Arenas signed a six-year, $111 million contract last season. Gilbert began practicing with his team last month, but has not seen live action all season.
Cleveland wins ninth straight win, also sets franchise record. The Cleveland Cavaliers picked up their ninth straight win on Sunday, also tying a franchise record for 57 wins. LeBron James scored 30 points and ripped down 11 rebounds in the 96-88 win over New Jersey. The win also pushed the Cavaliers to 32-1 overall at home.
LeBron hints that he would like to play with D-Wade. LeBron James and Dwyane Wade have shared that they would like to play together. James raised the possibility Sunday when asked about his buddy from the US Olympic team.
Durant pours in 30 points; leads Thunder to win over Minnesota. Kevin Durant scored 30 points in a 97-90 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday. Jeff Green also scored 17 points for Oklahoma City, who rebounded from a 42-point throttling put on them a month ago by Minnesota. The win for Oklahoma City matched Minnesota’s 20 wins on the season.
Houston stuns San Antonio; takes over division lead. The Houston Rockets, with 10 games to go in the season have the lead in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Along with that lead, Houston also sits in second place in the entire West. Houston stunned San Antonio on Sunday behind a furious fourth quarter rally. Luis Scola hit the game winning shot with just over 10 seconds to go to lead Houston to their 87-85 win
Orlando wins; creep closer to top spot in Eastern Conference. The Orlando Magic got 18 points and 15 rebounds from Dwight Howard in a 86-79 win over the Boston Celtics. The win moved Orlando to just two games behind Boston and three behind Cleveland in the Eastern Conference. Boston is now 5-3 without Kevin Garnett.
Utah wins 11th straight; tie Denver. Deron Williams poured in 25 points and Mehmet Okur added 19 points and 11 rebounds in a 109-101 win over the Toronto Raptors. The win extended a season high 11 game winning streak for the Jazz. Utah is now tied with Denver in first place in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.
Nets top Knicks in New York battle. Devin Harris scored 35 points and also dished out 10 assists as the New Jersey Nets beat the New York Knicks 106-101. The win for the Nets allowed them to keep pace with the Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks, who they trail for the 8th and final playoff position in the East. Vince Carter also added 25 for New Jersey.
Carlos Boozer expected back Tuesday. Carlos Boozer expects to return to the line-up for the Utah Jazz as early as Tuesday. Boozer has missed the last several games with a sprained ankle. Boozer warmed up for Sunday’s game against Toronto but elected not to play. Utah has won 11 straight despite Boozer’s absence.
Roy scores 31 in Portland win. Brandon Roy continued his assault on the NBA pouring in 31 points in a 95-93 Portland win over Minnesota. Ryan Gomes scored a season high 28 points for Minnesota. Minnesota have not won since February 18th and have lost nine in a row and 17 out of their last 19 overall.
Shaq and Suns overcome Kobe’s 49. Shaquille O’Neal scored 33 points and was aided by Matt Barnes 26 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists in a 118-111 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. The Suns won despite seeing Kobe Bryant pour in 39 points, and Pau Gasol add 30. The loss was the Lakers second straight, which is only the third time this season the Lakers have lost two in a row.
Jason Kidd reaches 10,000 assists/Mavericks win. Jason Kidd dished out 15 assists on Sunday to help the Dallas Mavericks beat the Toronto Raptors 109-98. His 15 assists put him at 10,000 for his career, only the fourth player in NBA history to do so. Kidd only trails John Stockton, Mark Jackson and Magic Johnson on the NBA career list.
Utah wins eighth straight. The Utah Jazz won their eighth straight game Sunday behind 23 points from Mehmet Okur and 20 assists from Deron Williams. Ronnie Brewer also added 21 points for Utah, who has crawled to within two games of the Denver Nuggets at the top of the Northwest Division. Corey Maggette scored 27 points in the loss for Golden State.
Detroit wins second straight. The Detroit Pistons won their second straight game, after losing eight in a row. The Pistons got 25 points for Richard Hamilton and 15 from Tayshaun Prince to upend Boston 105-95 Sunday. Paul Pierce led Boston with a game high 26 points.
Clippers Rookie out with shoulder injury. Los Angeles Clippers rookie Eric Gordon did not play in Saturday night’s game, and his status is listed as day-to-day with a left shoulder injury. The Clippers instead started Ricky Davis at the shooting guard position, and Freddie Jones also replaced Gordon. The rookie from Indiana is averaging 15.1 points in 58 games this season.
Kobe/Shaq named co-MVPs of the All Star Game. Kobe Bryant scored 27 points, while his former teammate Shaquille O’Neal added 17 for the West, in a 27-point blowout win over the Eastern Conference. Kobe and Shaq were named co-MVPs for their third award of their careers. The West also got 19 points from Amare Stouemire. LeBron James’ 20 points led the Eastern Conference.
Nate Robinson wins slam-dunk contest. 5’9 guard from the New York Knicks, Nate Robinson won the 2009 slam-dunk contest over the 2008 winner Dwight Howard Saturday night. Robinson’s winning dunk was a dunk in which he jumped over the 6’11 Howard. Robinson also won the event in 2006.
Durant scores 46 points in rookie/sophomore game. Kevin Durant, who is having an excellent second season in the NBA scored 46 points in a 122-116 win for the Sophomores over the rookie team. Michael Beasley led the rookie team with 29 points in the game. Durant’s 46 points shattered the old record in the game, set by Amare Stoudemire, and his 36 points.
Jordan, Stockton, Robinson among Hall of Fame candidates. Michael Jordan, John Stockton and David Robinson headlined the list of candidates to be inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2009. All three of those seem to be sure first time picks into the Springfield, Massachusetts Hall of Fame. The election announcement will be made April 6th during the NCAA Final Four.
Wizards’ Arenas could return this season. Gilbert Arenas who is recovering from his third knee surgery in two years may return for the final 15 games of the 2008-2009 season. Arenas has missed all season, and the Wizards have fallen to a conference worse 11-42 record. Big man Brendan Haywood also looks to return. Haywood has missed much of the season with a wrist injury
Minnesota’s Jefferson out with a torn ACL. The Timber wolves star center Al Jefferson is out indefinitely with a torn ACL in his right knee. Jefferson will likely have surgery to repair the injury within the next ten days. Jefferson came down awkwardly on his knee in a loss to New Orleans on Sunday. Jefferson is the team’s leading scorer at 23.1 points per, and also rebounder at 11 per game.
Nash dishes out 21 assists in win. The Phoenix Suns’ point guard Steve Nash dished out 21 assists in a 10-point win Sunday afternoon over Detroit. Nash scored 15 points in the win. The Suns are now in eighth place in the Western Conference.
Howard records double double in win over New Jersey. Dwight Howard scored 30 points and ripped down 16 rebounds in a 17 point win over New Jersey on Sunday. Howard played in just over 35 minutes in the game, about seven minutes fewer than he typically plays. Howard has led the Magic to the third best record in the Eastern Conference.
The NBA to look at West’s foul. The National Basketball Association is reviewing a hard foul committed by David West that resulted in his ejection on Sunday. West, an all star, fouled Mike Miller as he was driving towards the hoop in the second quarter. Miller fell to the floor, but was not injured in the incident.
Granger wants to play in All Star Game. Despite having an aching right knee, Danny Granger says he will play in his first ever All Star Game. Granger is scoring 25.5 points per game for the Indiana Paces, and is the fifth leading scorer in the NBA. Granger sat out Saturday’s practice to rest the knee.
Lakers Bynum to miss 8-12 weeks. Lakers center Andrew Bynum will miss 8-12 weeks with a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Bynum hurt his knee after Kobe Bryant crashed into his leg on Saturday’s Lakers win over Memphis.
Boston wins 11th straight; even without Garnett. Kevin Garnett sat out of Sunday’s game against Minnesota with “flu like” symptoms. Even without Garnett the Celtics won their 11th straight game, and continue to sit among the top of the National Basketball Association standings. Paul Pierce scored 36 points in the win.
Howard’s double double leads Orlando. Dwight Howard scored 29 points and grabbed 14 rebounds for the Orlando Magic, in their 113-90 win over Toronto. The Magic held Toronto’s leading scorer Chris Bosh to just 11 points in the game.
T.J. Ford back in lineup for Indiana. Point guard T.J. Ford is back in the starting lineup for the Indiana Pacers. Ford missed a few games with minor injuries. In his first game back, Ford scored 36 points and added 5 assists.
McGrady sits with ankle injury. Houston’s Tracy McGrady missed Saturday’s game with a sprained left ankle. McGrady, who is Houston’s third leading scorer, has sat out 16 games this season with injuries.
Eddy Curry’s ex-girlfriend killed in Chicago apartment. Eddy Curry, former Chicago Bulls player, and current New York Knicks center was informed of his ex-girlfriend, and the mother of his 3-year old child being killed in her Chicago apartment. Curry’s 3-year old son was found unharmed in the incident.
Bucks’ Redd out for the season. Michael Redd, former Ohio State star and current Guard for the Milwaukee Bucks will miss the remainder of the regular season. Redd, who has been sidelined most of the season came down on his ankle, and has torn ligaments. Redd leads the team in scoring with 21.2 points per game.
Memphis hires new coach. The Memphis Grizzles hired a new coach on Sunday Night. Lionel Hollins will take the task of leading a struggling Grizzles team into battle. Hollins, who was a former assistant in Memphis was currently serving as assistant with the Milwaukee Bucks. His first game as the head coach will be Tuesday night against the Denver Nuggets. Hollins served as interm coach twice in years past.
Yao Ming to miss time. Rockets center Yao Ming is expected to miss a couple games with an injury to his right knee. Ming was sidelined for Sunday’s game with Detroit, and the team expects him to sit out Monday’s road game at New York. Ming is scoring 19.6 points per game, and grabbing 9.5 rebounds this season.
Baron Davis looks to return to action. Clippers Guard Baron Davis is hopeful to return to action on Wednesday. The Clippers take on the Chicago Bulls. Davis has been out with an injury to his tailbone and also to his hamstring. Davis has played in 30 games this season, averaging 17.3 points per game and 8.0 assists per game.
Wade’s double double leads Heat over Oklahoma City. Heat star Dwyane Wade scored 32 points and racked up 10 assists in the 104-94 win over Oklahoma City. The road game ended the seven game, twelve day road trip for Miami. The Heat finished 4-3 during the circus road trip. Miami will host Boston on Wednesday night for the first home game since January 5th.
Sloan agrees to one-year deal. Jerry Sloan will return as the head coach of the Utah Jazz during the 2009-2010 season. The Jazz signed Sloan to a one-year contract, which will mark Sloan’s 22nd season in Utah.
Orlando wins seventh straight game. Hedo Turkoglu scored 31 points, and Jameer Nelson and Rashard Lewis both scored 23 each that finished off a perfect West Coast trip for Orlando. The win overall was the seventh straight for the red hot Magic.
Mark Cuban fined again. The Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban was fined $25,000 for “improper interactions” with Denver Nuggets players.
Alonzo Mourning still not sure on return. The Miami Heat center Alonzo Mourning says he is not sure when he can return. There has been question whether Mourning thought he could return to the “vigors” of NBA basketball. Mourning has been out the last 13 months with a leg injury
Also Get Premium NBA Picks from National Sports Advisors |
The average player loses more in a sports season trying to make successful NBA basketball predictions then any other sport. An average sports handicapper can have a solid season picking college football or NFL football then watch their entire bankroll dwindle as the basketball season hits full force and continues to pile up losing streaks. If you do not have the time to spent at least an hour on each game on the schedule then you shouldn't be playing your NBA basketball picks. Stop trying to pick these games yourself or with some other substandard website that tries claim they are a handicapper. In order to be successful in betting NBA hoops, you need picks that are from actual experts that have insider contacts in the industry along with other important (non-public) resources and spend countless hours on end researching games. Climb aboard 
right with the best handicapping syndicate in the world by far. Our team of professional handicappers, lead by Henry Ness & Wade Sterling will guide you to a complete season of winning NBA basketball picks. They have information, resources, handicapping strategies that no other handicapping service or professional bettor has access to in the entire world. Just give us one week to show you what our team can do for you and you will not be disappointed. Try us out for a just a short period time. If you do, you will quickly gain an appreciation their work and talents, and will see sports and NBA basketball handicapping like you have never seen before. Climb aboard right now and start winning today with the best!!.
