The Present
Determination
Prodigy
"What would you do, to get to me...what would you say, to have your way...would you give up...or try again..."
Aaliyah - Try Again
The NBA announced the reserves for the All-Star game yesterday during the game on TNT, and while I was surprised at some of the selections, I also know that there is nothing I can do about it, except write a story.
Winner's Circle
The pictures above tell two different stories...the first is the obvious with Kobe Bryant and LeBron James as they have become mainstays in the annual game, while the other pictures depict two players that I feel should have made their respective teams, but the day is approaching when Andre Iguodala and Al Thornton will play in several of these mid seasonal matches.
Call me biased, but both of these players should no longer be labeled as up and coming, or players on the rise, as they have both become complete players within the NBA. Offensively, and defensively you have to account for them, as they are game changers, while playing and maintaining a high level on defense. Only the good players can do that, so don't be surprised when this comes to fruition.
Their numbers are very solid, with Thornton averaging 17.2 points per game, 5.30 rebounds, and 1.4 assists, while Iguodala brings 17.7 points, 6.20 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per night. Granted, these are my thoughts, but I know a little something about basketball...and I'm very proud of Jameer Nelson, because he has proven his worth to the Orlando Magic, and he's from Chester, Pennsylvania...I can't stand the university he attended, but that's only because I went to Temple...and that's another story.
Is there anyone that you feel should have made the reserve team? Ray Allen, or Carmelo Anthony possibly...I'd like to hear your opinion. In the meantime, the list of reserves are as follows:
NBA All-Star Eastern Conference Reserves:
G - Devin Harris - New Jersey Nets
G - Joe Johnson - Atlanta Hawks
G - Jameer Nelson - Orlando Magic
F - Danny Granger - Indiana Pacers
F - Rashard Lewis - Orlando Magic
F - Paul Pierce - Boston Celtics
C - Chris Bosh - Toronto Raptors
NBA All-Star Western Conference Reserves:
G - Chauncey Billups - Denver Nuggets
G - Tony Parker - San Antonio Spurs
G - Brandon Roy - Portland Trail Blazers
F - Pau Gasol - Los Angeles Lakers
F - Dirk Nowitzki - Dallas Mavericks
F - David West - New Orleans Hornets
C - Shaquille O’Neal - Phoenix Suns
Photos: Webster Riddick - Iguodala and Thornton
Getty Images - Bryant and James
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2 comments:
I was surprised at the selection of Rashard Lewis, David West. Both have talent, don't get me wrong but I felt Ray Allen and Al Jefferson both should have been on the roster, you could also make a case for Vince Carter, Mo Williams and Iggy. I forgot to mention Melo who is always overlooked with all the forwards in the West.
It's going to be tough for Al Thorton to get there if Melo hasn't played in that many, but Thorton is a good player and will continue to improve. And, atleast he will be in action for the Rookie vs Sophomore game.
Iggy is one of a handful of guys that is averaging over 15 5 and 5, which puts him in an elite class. I guess the poor start was a reason he was left off, but he should just use this as fuel and he'll continue to take his game even higher.
Ray should DEF be playing!
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