With basketball season finally in full swing, it's about time that I get into my fantasy basketball review. For those of y'all that know me personally, you know that I can't get enough of fantasy basketball. I live for this stuff, man (pathetic, I know.) So, this year I joined a record high 30 fantasy basketball leagues. Chyea, you read that right.... 30 leagues. I have no life, so what?
I made 6 Yahoo! accounts and also use one ESPN account. So far, I my first week kicked off pretty good. I won 27 of my leagues (four of them which were 8-1 victories) and lost 3 (all three were 5-4). Because I'm in so many leagues, I'll just share with you my favorite teams from a couple of my accounts.
TEAM 1 aka "Team Bron" (12 Teams)
I had first pick in 7 of my 30 leagues and I felt I drafted the best in this league. Built around LeBron's strengths with combo guards. Went LeBron first round (28-7-7) and Baby Bron "AI" in the come around (19-5-5-2stls) then inked Brook in the 3rd round. I had a chance to snag Jason Kidd in the 3rd with the back-to-back picks but decided not to draft any sharpshooters because their high FT% would have been negated by Bron's crappy FT%. Drafted Hedo (16-5-5) in the 5th round and my sleeper pick, Mike Miller (9-6-4) in the 11th.
I feel like I have every category covered. Artest's 2.0 career steal average is a nice compliment to AI's 1.8 and Bron's 1.7. My block game is pretty solid with 2.0+ coming from Brook/Camby and Birdman chillin' on my bench. Also snagged some 1/1/1 players in Sheed/DubC to help my 1 3PM/1 BLK/1 STL game.
My FT% and FG% is average though, which is fine with me because I can always beat out the mediocre teams. I decided not to pay attention to %s this year because of how random the stat is. Last season in my betting league, I had Chris Paul (.506% FG), David Lee (.549% FG), Pau Gasol (.567% FG), Jose Calderon (.497% FG), Ronnie Brewer (.508% FG), Brook Lopez (.531% FG) but even with monster FG%, my team overall only ranked 4th in FG%. It's also the same for FT%.
Anyway, this is a squad I'm most proud of and beat out my opponent 8-1 last week. I'll keep you updated on my domination throughout the season.
TEAM 2: SGV League Roster - my betting league (12 Teams)
My strategy for a lot of my leagues this season was trade my 1st overall pick to add more depth to my squad, and so far...it's looking like a pretty good strategy. In this league, Amare (9) was my first pick (12th overall) and I traded him for Ray Allen (42) and Brook Lopez (29). Amare should finish the season as the top fantasy Center but Brook/Ray fit my team a whole lot better.
This is far from the finished product. I'm still working out a couple trades with Andrea on the block. For this league, I wanted to concentrate on the 3s, boards, steals, blocks. League SGV is probably one of the most competitive leagues when it comes to fantasy. There is no sure shot number #1 team in our league so a lot of the teams are on the same level and there's always a tough competition every week. I feel like my weakpoints on this team are assists and turnovers with the %s being average. I'll keep you guys updated on any roster changes I make during the year.
For those of you that are interested, here's some footage from league SGV's Lottery Draft. Also, next year I'm opening up another league for those who are interested. Think of it like a SGV Development League. The winners in that league will be invited to play in SGV next season for cash prizes. Get at me if you interested.
Finally, basketball season is back up again. I don't think I've ever been so hyped for an opening night. I mean, we have Lakeshow comin' off a solid championship run and the addition of Tru Warrier without trading any of our championship pieces. We have the debut of one of my all-time favorite high school ballers, Mr. AirComp10, DeMar DeRozan. Also, the curse of the Clippers and 'course we can't forget fantasy basketball.
Lookin' to be a pretty eventful season this year with plenty of interesting story lines. We have Shaq-v-Dwight in the East, Bron-v-Kobe gunnin' for that MVP spot. The bum that is KG tryna come back from an injury, Michael Beas and Delonte West with the off court drama, and Khole Kardashian. So, to cap off the season, here are my predictions for 2009-2010:
Flynn put up some nice numbers during the preseason (14 PPG, 6 ASTS) and has the PG spot locked up. With so many injuries early on (Kevin Love, Al Jeff) I expect Flynn to post up solid numbers in his rookie season. Flynn was the only pure point guard in his draft class and was the most NBA ready, behind James Harden. Kid's super athletic and way too talented to not get minutes. I predict: 14.5 PPG to go along with 5 assists and nice all around numbers in his first season.
LA has so many weapons this season, it'll be impossible to defend these guys. I've never been a Bynum fan because of his injury history and his approach to the game. LA is so deep though, with double teams going to Kobe and Pau, Bynum will get plenty of touches and put backs. This should be his breakout year and I'm expecting somewhere between 16-17 PPG with 8.5-9 rebounds and 2 blocks.
Alright, so this one was a toss up for me. It was either Josh Smith of the Atlanta Hawks or Chris Andersen. Reason I chose Andersen over JSmoove was because Andersen's role is to defend. Smith is so talented all around, I don't think he'd get good enough defensive stats to ink DPOY, esp with his personal beef with Coach Woodson. I look at Denver's squad and behind Nene/KMart,, their only backup is Chris Andersen. He should get plenty of burn now that Kleiza is outties. For Birdman, I'm lookin' at... 8 rebounds, 2.7 blocks per game (league leader) and one steal.
With Glen Davis out with an injury, Powe gone and Garnett's health up in the air, Sheed is an easy choice here. If anyone can motivate him to play hard this season, it's KG. We all know Sheed is a bum and his best days are long gone, but he can definitely still produce. He was definitely a steal for the Celts and his contributions will help Boston crack the top 3 in the East this year. I can see somewhere around 14 PPG, 8 boards and the defensive stats.
I'm really not sold with the Shaq trade. Honestly, I don't think Shaq will get passed 50 games without picking up an injury. Phoenix had the best trainers in the game and with them not there to aid Shaq, he'll definitely struggle to stay healthy this year. That also means LeBron time. Even if the Cavs are as deep as they are, that's not stopping Mike Brown from playing Bron 36+ MPG. I think he should repeat his numbers with a slight dip in points. 26 PPG, 7, 7 is a pretty good guess I would say.
Basketball season starts tonight...lets get it crackin
I was flippin' through Complex's blog a couple nights ago and I ran into their list of the Top 100 Shoes of the 2000s. I always thought Complex put out good quality lists but this was a real disappointment. Their top ten is weak. The shitty list did make me wonder what my favorite kicks of all time were. Took a good while to rank the list of my favorites, but here's what I came up with. Not a list of the shoes I have in my collection but my TOP 5 favorite kicks of all time.
5. Kobe Adidas Crazy 8's (white/black)
The Crazy 8 debuted in 1997 and was Kobe Bryant's signature sneaker through his contract with Adidas. The sneaker had "Feet You Wear" technology which was designed to mimic the wearer's feet and feel like a natural extention of the foot.
4. Jordan XI (Retro Cool Grey)
It is said that the these actually started riots in some places in the world, resulting in some property damages. These joints released in March 2001 with a ticket price of $125. Nowadays they can range from $350-$500 depending on the size.
3. Nike Zoom Air Flight 95 "Jason Kidd"
Jason Kidd's signature shoes released in 1995 and were re-retroed in 2008 with the original black/white color way. The two air bubbles and the carbon fiber pattern is just as unique as J-Kidd's game. An all time fave of mine.
2. Nike Dunk SB "Barf"
The Barf's released in late-2003 and weren't very popular with the sneaker collectors, hence the name "Barf." I actually had these shoes two years ago. I bought them off my boy's neighbor for $40. They were my favorite shoe...right until the day I sold them to some kids for $60. Probably the only regret I have in my life
1. Nike Dunk SB "Loden"
Easily one of the best in the second series of SBs and one of the hardest to find. The black suede with the green leather give off a kinda swampy look while the brown laces add to the grimey vibe of the shoe. This is one sneaker I wouldn't mind blowin $400 on.....or maybe, I don't know.
It's that time again. The NBA is one month away from the start of the season and I have compiled a list of my sleeper picks for this fantasy basketball season. Looking back at the list I made during the 08-09 season, I did a pretty good job of choosing my sleepers. 5/10 of my picks ended up being excellent later round picks and outplayed their draft position last season.
This season I took a little bit more time working on my list and doing many, many mock drafts to see where my players would land. So, you're wondering who to pick up with your late round picks (round 12-how ever many rounds you're doing)? I'm here to help.
By the way, the way I set up my list is from 10-1, one being the player who I think will have the best breakout season out of the bunch.
Let's get started.
10. Marresse Speights, Phila 76ers - F/C
This guy, at one point, had the best PER among rookies before he got inconsistent minutes near the end of the season. He is my "Sean Williams" pick.
He should only be on rosters if you're in a deep league (14-20 teams). He is definitely a player to keep on your radar if Sammy D gets traded, which he most likely will. Also, looking at the 76ers roster, which is pretty weak, 'Reese is the only sure shot backup behind "Traitor" Elton Brand and Sam Dalembert.
Marresse is pretty consistent even in limited minutes. In only 13 minutes in February, he averaged 8.0 points, 4 rebounds, 1 block on 56% shooting and 78% FT. Impressive much?
Stat line for 2009-2010: 10.0 PPG / 6.0 RPG / 1.0 BPG / 50% FG
9. Danilo Gallinari, New York Knicks - F
When I look at Danilo's game, I think of what Lamar Odom could've been. At his size (6'10), he's an excellent 3-point shooter with nice handles and a smooth cutting game. "The Rooster" has something to prove playing in NY.
It appears from reports that he is healthy and that there are no long term concerns with his back. It also helps that he was held out of this year's Summer League to rest up for the upcoming season.
Look for him to fill the void left by the Q trade. He's a coaches favorite so the minutes will definitely be there. Expect serviceable numbers from him. Also keep in mind, last season he shot 45% from the field and 44% from 3.
I know for sure that Danilo is not on a lot of peoples radar, so good news is you can snag him with your last draft pick.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 11.0 PPG / 3.5 RBG / 1.5+ 3PM / 1+ SPG
8. Darko Milicic, New York Knicks - F/C
Getting traded to NYK is a good look for Darko. He's a real head case and we've yet to see his breakout season, but I feel this could be his year.
With David Lee's future status in limbo and Donnie Walsh looking for suitors for Eddy Curry/Jeffiries, the Center position is wide open.
Darko's never played in a run-and-gun system before, but I do think his game can benefit from it. He runs the floor very well for his size and if his job is strictly on the defensive end, expect him to produce some solid numbers.
He's a left handed shot blocker who can hit the 15-18 footer easy. Plus, he's European and we all know how much D'Antoni has a hardon for that Euro flavor.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 9.5 PPG / 5.0+ RPG / 1.5 BPG
7. Brandon Rush, Indiana Pacers - G/F
Kareem's better half exploded at the end of last season averaging 16.3 points, 50% FG, 2.1 3PM, 4.6 rebounds, 0.7 blocks and 0.9 TOs in 34 minutes in April.
Obviously, he's not going to get the same amount of tick with Dunleavy back in town, but he's looking like a good 25+ minutes playing behind Dunleavy/Granger.
Also, don't let the Dahntay Jones signing fool you. The only reason duke is still in the L is because of his defense. Bruce Bowen 2.0, don't be scared about how the minutes will be shared. B. Rush is a good last round choice.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 11.0 PPG / 3.0 RPG / 1 SPG / 1.7 3PM
6. Anthony Morrow, GS Warriors - G/F
With Jamal out and Capt. Jack looking for a trade to a contender, Golden State's team is looking to the future.
Nellie loves players that can play "Nellie ball" and Anthony Morrow thrives in that system. In eight games in April, Morrow averaged 17.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.0 steal, 2.0 3PM in 40 minutes.
This kid's game is serious and he's versatile enough to find minutes in Golden State's lineup even if Magg's/Monta return and be healthy this season.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 12.5 PPG / 3.0 RPG / 1.5+ 3PM / 1.0 SPG
5. Mike Miller, Washington Wizards - G/F
Mike fell off last season due to injuries and that took away from him having a good fantasy season, but he still managed to put up solid all around numbers.
The trade to Washington is a clear indicator that the team is looking to win now rather than build for the future. This should be a good motivator for Mike, whose last playoff appearance was in 2005 with Memphis.
Due to Washington's depth at the SG position, do expect his minutes to be cut to only 28-30 minutes of action a night. Playing with so much talent though, I'm looking at Mike to be a spot up shooter while still having some of the offense run through him.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 10.0 PPG / 1.5+ 3PM / 4.0 RPG / 3.5 APG
4. Shane Battier, Houston Rockets - F
Excellent late round steal. Every mock I've done, he's a 12-13th round guy. His fantasy game is shadowed by the Ariza signing. All those people hyped on Ariza, let me tell you something...
Shane Battier's value will jump and he will outplay his draft position. It's interesting because the people who are scised about Ariza this season no nothing about his injury history. He only played ONE full season in his five year career. Ariza is super injury prone and you can tell from the way he plays (reckless).
Don't let Ariza's last season fool you. Shane has been a consistent 1/1/1 player throughout his career and for him to fall in rounds 12-13 is a miracle. Even in limited minutes, Shane will still give you the numbers you like to see. So sit back and enjoy the ride.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 9.5 PPG / 4.5 RPG / 1.5 3PM / 1 BPG / 1 STL
3. Ronnie Brewer, Utah Jazz - G/F
One of the most underrated fantasy players out there. First of all, Ronnie isn't battling anyone for the starting shooting guard spot, so it's all his. Second, who else are you going to get 50%+ FG, 2.0 steals a game from in rounds 12-15 at the SG position?
He had a career year last season and I'm expecting the same numbers from him this year. The only thing you should worry about is if Boozer gets traded. Depending who he gets traded for could affect Ronnie's long term value.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 13.0 PPG / 3.5 RPG / 2.0 SPG / 51% FG
2. Yi Jianlian, New Jersey Nets - F
Have any of y'all seen Yi lately? Duke looks like an absolute animal. He's been working on his body plenty during this off season and has been playing ball year round.
If he's still as quick and ups his confidence with his new build, I see Yi finally having the season fans have been waiting on. There's no competition for the PF spot in Jersey.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 13.0 PPG / 1.0 3PM / 6.0 RPG / 1.0 BLK
1. DJ Augustin, Charlotte Bobcats - G
DJ is the second purest PG in his draft class, in my opinion. Despite being undersized, he has great instincts, an excellent mid range game and he's a good decision maker.
If Larry Brown plays a rookie player 25+ minutes a night and starts him over a four-year vet, that's really saying something.
Even though Felton is still listed on the Bobcats roster, I don't expect that to last. Felton currently has a hot relationship with Brown and the organization, and should be moved before the trade deadline. It also doesn't help that he sucks. Even Jamaal Tinsley is wondering why duke still has a job.
Keep a close eye on DJ. This guy is money.
Stat line for 2009-2010: 13.5 PPG / 2.0 3PM / 3.5 APG / 42% FG
PLAYERS TO KEEP ON YOUR RADAR
Channing Frye (F/C) - PHO ..Head coach Alvin Gentry will start Channing at the PF position for Phoenix this season. Channing is in the right place to showcase his talents and is good enough to hold onto that starting spot for the whole season. The downside is Channing's inconsistency. He's been known to be a player who can light it up and drop 20+ points three nights straight, and just disappear the next few games. He's been the same kind of player since his Arizona days, so don't be surprised if you see a lot of this.
Luke Ridnour (G) - MIL ..If you thought Coach Skiles was going to start a rookie over Ridnour, then you were wrong. Luke is a coach's favorite and should see 30+ minutes at the point. It's hard to find nice PGs late in the draft this late. Expect Luke to repeat his 2005-2006 numbers.
Rodney Carney (G/F) Jason Kapono (F) - PHI ..Willie Green won't be starting this season. Depending on what lineup EJ rolls with, either one of these guys would be solid pick ups in deeper leagues.
Quentin Richardson (G/F) - MIA ..Who else you gon start? Daequan? I laugh.
Thabo Sefalosha (G/F) - OKC ..I'm hoping Harden sits for the first half of the season so I can see this kid play. In his 23 games for OKC, he averaged close to 2 steals a game and averaged 1.7 steals, 1.5 blocks in March.
The Real World: Cancun reunion show is upon us and it's probably the best season in a few years (since Las Vegas). Hollywood resurrected the series and Cancun set it off, making the Real World the best reality show on the tube right today. So let's celebrate good television by sharing my top 10 Real World Hunnies of all time.
10. Robin Hibbard "Real World: San Diego"
Scoop:An ex-Coyote bartender, Robin's was always the life of the party in San Diego. But damn.. with a chesticle game like that, hell she is the party.
9. Trishelle Cannatella "Real World: Las Vegas"
Scoop:Could've been #1 easy but this chick went around so many times with so many different dudes on so many different shows, she bumped her way outta my top 5. She has that pure/innocent look but man...this chick is nuts...course that wouldn't stop me from tryna get mine
8. Janelle Casanave "Real World: Key West"
Scoop:The complete package. This chick is beast. Too bad she got played by that dude that looks like a butch ass version of Mekhi Phifer in "8 Mile."
7. Jamie Chung "Real World: San Diego"
Scoop:Probably one of the most successful out of the Real World Alumni, Jamie is second generation Korean-American and an all around great person with legs for days.
6. Melinda Stolp "Real World: Austin"
Scoop:Despite being married to one of the biggest lamers in Real World history, I still fucks with Mel. Plus, I have her naked pictures.
5. Baya Voce "Real World: Brooklyn"
Scoop:I may be alone in this one but Baya is a personal favorite. She always gave out positive vibes even though Brooklyn was one of the worst seasons I've ever seen. Baya is probably one of the dopest females on the of all Real World though. Dances, DJs and she can definitely get it.
4. Svetlana Shusterman "Real World: Key West"
Scoop:Clearly, she's got the goods.
3. Sarah Ralston "Real World: Hollywood"
Scoop:The "bitch" of the Hollywood season. Despite being an absolute dime, girl lost points for being a little prissy ass, getting engaged to a simp that couldn't even defend himself against powerless Greg and having 0 highlights from her season. Am I mad? Cyeah.
