A LEGEND IS BORN II

[Fresh8]

Surprise Starter Adam Morrison Leads Stealth To Win

Preview | Box Score | Recap

14 Nov, 2008

NEW YORK (AP) – Seattle Head Coach Gary Payton made sure he didn’t break his promise and F Adam Morrison made sure he made the most of the opportunity handed to him. “He (Morrison) was going to start sooner or later. It was just a matter of who he would start in place for and tonight Nick (Collison) had to go to the bench to make some room for Adam,” Payton said. Morrison led the team with 23 points in a tight contest against the home team Knicks.

Seattle’s stifling defence forced the Knicks out of their comfort zone with the team relying on three point shots to stay in the match. New York was unable to get into their running game which led to them hoisting up 29 three pointers as a team. “We started the game strong thanks to Stephon (Marbury) but kudos to Seattle for forcing us into a half court game,” D’Antoni acknowledged, “They forced us into the half court game and we panicked.”

New York PG Stephon Marbury, who is in the midst of trade rumours, started the game on a tear by scoring 12 of his game high 24 points in the first quarter. The Knicks came out of the blocks on fire as Marbury keyed a 17-2 start to the game. However, Morrison would get his team back in the match with 7 straight points and Kevin Durant adding two big dunks to finish the first quarter; teams tied at 23 apiece.

Both teams kept it close in the second quarter with the highlight being a coast to coast basket from Jeff Green. The Stealth then clamped down on the Knicks in the second half, limiting them to just 28 points whilst scoring 41. “That was a really tough defence to break down,” Knicks guard Jamaal Crawford admitted, “We got beaten pretty bad.”

Seattle looked to be on its way to a bigger win with the Knicks finding it hard to score more than 60 points midway through the final quarter. However, lay ups from Marbury and Crawford; and two three pointers from rookie F Danilo Gallinari got the Knicks back in the contest with half a minute left. Unfortunately, the Knicks would not score again due to the Stealth locking down on defence. Kevin Durant would score the last 4 points of the game, courtesy of a jumper from the top of the key with 16 seconds left and two free throws, and Seattle would run out as 7 point winners.

“New York really scared us at the end and we were lucky to stay composed and hold on for the win,” Morrison said after the game.

Notes: Seattle PG Earl Watson will be back for the next game… Payton hinted that Morrison might stick around in the starting five but did not say who would be starting on the bench out of forwards Chris Wilcox and Collison… The Stealth are off to a surprising start to the season… The Seattle Stealth might need better scouts after Gary Payton said, “We didn’t know that Italian guy could shoot threes.” No one told him that the Gallinari is an accomplished outside shooter having won the Italian League Three Point Shootout back in 2007…

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Seattle (Away) 23 – 17 – 22 – 19 – 81
New York (Home) 23 – 23 – 16 – 12 – 74

Jordan Player of the Game

Adam Morrison
23 Points
10-20 FG
2-6 3PT
3 Rebounds
4 Assists
1 Steal
1 Block

Key Performers

Seattle

K Durant: 20 pt, 2 reb, 3 ast, 8-12 FG
J Green: 12 pt, 5 reb, 3 ast, 6-11 FG
R Westbrook: 3 pt, 4 reb, 9 ast, 2 stl, 1-6 FG
N Collison: 9 reb, 4 ast

New York

S Marbury: 24 pt, 3 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 8-13 FG, 5-9 3PT
D Gallinari: 16 pt, 3 reb, 2 ast, 6-16 FG, 3-7 3PT
J Crawford: 15 pt, 3 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl, 6-22 FG, 1-9 3PT
Z Randolph: 8 pt, 10 reb, 4-5 FG

[eisfeld]

Damn 'stache is playing well for you. Seems I have to step up a bit in my Associaton with him. Cudos on the last game, awesome performance.

[Fresh8]

Thanks eisfeld! And yes, Adam is playing really well for our team. I'm surprised with how well the team is doing!

[Mark.]

Tight stuff bro. Good to see Morrison playing well.

Haha yeah I will probably do one when I get the game.

[Fresh8]

Chapter 2

Michael Jordan was playing golf at the time his phone rang. He put his golf club down, sat in the buggy, and answered the phone. With his mobile in his left hand, his right reached for a cigar.
“Hello?”
“Sir, there’s someone coming over to meet you.”
Jordan was puzzled, “How’d he know I was here?”
Jordan had been spending time moving from city to city in order to hide from the media. He was also hiding from his managing duties. The reports were true; Michael Jordan wanted the position with the Charlotte Bobcats but did not want anything to do with it. Furthermore, he wanted nothing to do with the Bobcats while they were losing. As he would tell anyone bothering to listen, get back to me when the team is winning.
As he hung up, Jordan looked behind him to see a golf buggy roll up behind him. There was a tall lanky guy and an Asian guy sitting in it.
“Michael! It was tough to find you!” the Asian guy yelled, hopping out of the buggy and grabbing a putter.
Jordan looked perplexed, “And you are?”
“Will Sit.”
Jordan shrugged and got out of his buggy and shook hands with Sit, “Do I know you?”
Sit ignored the question, “My shot. Watch me make this get onto the green.”
“I don’t think a putter is going to help you do that,” Jordan raised his eyebrows.
Sit laughed, “Don’t worry man, I’m a pro! What’s a putter?”
Sit got set up at the tee and took a swing. Good shot, he thought to himself. Michael Jordan stood near him and shook his head in disapproval.
“If you’re trying to be funny, you’re doing a good job,” Jordan said, “You know you didn’t hit the ball right?”
Sit looked down; the ball was still idle on the tee, “Oh. Yeah.”
Jordan then took a driver out of the back of his buggy and lined up at the tee to show Sit how it was to be done. Sit could tell that his Airness had been practicing. All the time he spends not doing his real job actually pays off!
“That’s how it’s done kid,” Jordan smiled and then he took his cap off, “Let’s get down to business. What are you doing here?”
Sit nodded and threw the putter back to Vince Thompson, “Michael, I’m the new general manager for the Seattle Stealth. Let’s discuss a trade; we want Adam Morrison.”
Jordan pumped his clenched right fist in the air, “My prayers have been answered.”
“We will give you Joe Smith,” Sit continued, “Good big man who will give you a player to shore up the frontcourt. Just what Larry Brown wants.”
Jordan laughed in Sit’s face, “He’s about 40 years old? You can come up with a better offer than that.”
“He’s not exactly 40.”
“Well, he’s not exactly young is he?” Jordan retorted, still puffing on his cigar.
“What else do you want then?”
“What about a 2009 second rounder?”
Sit thought for a while and put his hand out, “A 2010 second rounder and we will call it a deal. Shake on it?”
Jordan grinned, “It’s a deal.”

* * *

The Key Arena was electric.
“And now, please welcome, your Seattle Stealth!” the PA announcer shouted.
The crowd erupted in a roar of approval as everyone jumped out of their seats. Sit was in the locker room watching it one of the TV sets. Perfect, he thought to himself. The crowd looked good on the screen and it was just as he had planned. He had told ushers to move the crowd as close to the court as they could. It was his plan to make the atmosphere look great on TV and hopefully lure more fans to games in future.
“I can’t believe this!” Earl Watson was sitting in the corner of the change room, “Why is a rookie starting in front of me? What has he ever done?”
Sit looked over and shook his head; he had told Payton to tell the veteran earlier about his decision to start the rookie. The rift between the pair of point guards had forged a sour atmosphere at team practices.
“Hey Earl! You got to go out there. The team is warming up already!” one of the team trainers urged him.
Watson grudgingly got up and slowly trudged through the change room door. Sit frowned and was thinking if there was any way he’d be able to fix all of this. Sit also stood up and walked out to join his team behind its bench.

The season opener had not been a tight contest with the visitors, the Milwaukee Bucks, putting in a weak effort on both ends of the court. It felt like the Bucks’ lethargic play had rubbed off on the Stealth. Kevin Durant had the ball in his hands. In a triple threat position, he was eyeing down his defender. He had watched his team surrender a 15 point lead in a matter of minutes. Michael Redd had been on fire in the fourth quarter.
Durant grinned at Richard Jefferson, “Watch this.”
Durant put the ball to the floor to start dribbling before whipping a behind the back pass.
“What am I watching?” Jefferson laughed and ran back down the floor as Durant looked in shock.
His pass had gone down the floor to the other end. He had just given Milwaukee the ball for an inbound in their attacking half. Seattle was only leading by 5 points with less than half a minute left in the game. Durant followed Jefferson back down the floor, quickly glancing at the Stealth bench on the way down. Gary Payton had his head in his hands and Will Sit was yelling at the top of his lungs. Durant got into position to deny Jefferson the ball. He had an elbow on Jefferson while having an eye on Charlie Villanueva inbounding the basketball.
“Now watch this,” Jefferson mocked Durant.
Jefferson pushed off of Durant, creating space between them, faking left and then going right toward the ball. Villanueva recognized Jefferson’s cut and passed the ball into him. Jefferson caught the ball and saw Durant running towards him. He pump faked and Durant was in the air. At that moment, Jefferson dribbled left and attacked the rim. He went up in between the stretched arms of Nick Collison and Chris Wilcox, performing a tricky shot. The ball softly kissed the backboard and dropped through the hoop.
As ‘boos’ rained down from the stands, Jefferson raised his right hand to his ear and then taunted Durant, “That’s how you do it kid.”
The Stealth inbounded the ball and decided to run the clock down. The Bucks seemed to have thought there was more time in the game than there really was as they did not foul straight away. Durant went to the line for two free throws. It was his chance to ice the game with five seconds left. The crowd was silent. A collective gasp was let out as the first shot nicked the front of the rim.
Dang it, he thought to himself, Focus…
Durant then took the second shot and with the flick of the wrist, the ball went through the hoop. Nothing but net on the second free throw; putting the home side up by 3 points. Milwaukee was out of timeouts so they had to make a quick play to try and tie the game. Durant saw Russell Westbrook running up the court to set up in a zone and then saw Luke Ridnour run to collect the ball from Jefferson at the baseline. Instead of running down court to join his team mates, Durant went up to challenge Ridnour.
“What the…” Ridnour was surprised to see the lanky Durant match up on him.
Ridnour was so taken back that he dribbled backwards before trying to blow by Durant. Durant was not going to let the point guard get past him. Ridnour looked at the clock ticking away and with 3 seconds left, he threw the pass up to the next person who was open.
“No!” Bucks coach Porter cried as he threw his arms in the air.
Charlie Villanueva caught the ball and put up and awkward three point attempt. Durant walked off the court first and he was followed by his team mates. It was a season opening victory for the Stealth; 86-83 victors over the visiting Bucks.

Seattle practices were filled with a hint of animosity as the team started to split into two distinct groups; the younger players and the older ones. It was no secret that Earl Watson had something against the rookie in his position, Russell Westbrook. Will Sit and Gary Payton, though, were trying to smooth out Watson’s issues with Westbrook but to no avail. All they could do was keep it secret from media. Watson was a player they intended to keep on board as a mentor to the younger players. It was a bit of a double standard act though as Sit and Payton also mixed like oil and water. Most of their confrontations often ended in bickering; admittedly though it seemed like the majority of the bitching came from The Glove’s end. Seattle continued their winning start to the season with a 2 point win against the Houston Rockets. Then a 4 point loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves and blowout losses to the Boston Celtics and Utah Jazz really brought the team back to reality. They knew it would be a tough season. Earl Watson was injured in the huge loss to the Celtics and it wasn’t any coincidence that his absence coincided with a much lighter mood at training. Their play on the court also seemed to pick up with Watson’s absence as the team scored over 100 twice and got to 98 in the third game; but finishing with two losses in those three games.
“I will start you soon,” Gary Payton had told Adam Morrison before the team dropped back to 4-4 in a 103-98 loss to Orlando, “But tonight is not the night.”
Two nights later, Payton would make good on his promise allowing Morrison to start at the expense of Collison. Morrison, the ‘Stache,’ was no slouch as he led the team in scoring and an 81-74 win over the New York Knicks.

[Fresh8]

Six Game Wrap Up
Durant Struggling To Will Team To Wins, Seattle In Six Game Losing Streak

Current Starting Lineup: F Chris Wilcox, SF Jeff Green, SF Adam Morrison, F/G Kevin Durant, PG Russell Westbrook

Team Record: 5-10

Team Chemistry: 33%

Road To The All-Star Game: The only player who would be considered, Durant, has not made an appearance on the All-Star votes page.

Synopsis: The Seattle Stealth endured a tough six game stretch, not being on the winning end of any of the games below. Of significant note though is that the team is at full strength now with the ailing Earl Watson back in the fold as well as Darius Miles finally making his season debut and NBA return after injury and a NBA-imposed 10 game suspension. Miles made his return against the Houston Rockets.

Adam Morrison, coming off a 23 point effort against the Knicks, did not start in the next game but has started in the five following it with Nick Collison being shifted to the bench. The Stealth’s 5-4 record has dropped to 5-10 after this dismal display and it does not seem like things will be looking up for Seattle as they take on LeBron James and the Cavs in their next game.

The only Seattle player who had been performing well during this six game stretch has been Kevin Durant who is averaging 22.5 ppg; with recent outings of 32, 34, and two 23 point games . He scored a season high 34 points in the team’s first of back-to-back games against the New Orleans Hornets. The rest of the team has been mediocre at best and Gary Payton has hinted that a shakeup of the playing rotation may occur soon.

- - -

Game Recaps On-The-Fly

Durant’s ‘Off-Night’ Hurts Stealth
Durant’s poor shooting doesn’t help Seattle in close game against Sixers

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Date: Nov 15, 2008

Seattle Stealth (Away) 19 – 27 – 19 – 27 – 92
Philadelphia 76ers (Home) 30 – 27 – 23 – 19 – 99

Key Performers

Seattle

K Durant 15 pt, 4 reb, 2 blk, 6-17 FG
D Wilkins 12 pt, 5 ast, 5-7 FG
R Westbrook 11 pt, 3 reb, 6 ast
J Green 11 pt
N Collison 10 pt, 5 reb, 4-5 FG

Philadelphia

A Iguodala 22 pt, 5 ast, 9-16 FG
L Williams 16 pt, 5 ast, 6-8 FG
A Miller 16 pt, 5 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl, 2-2 3PT
E Brand 13 pt, 16 reb, 2 blk
W Green 11 pt

---

Rockets Get Revenge After Earlier Loss To Seattle
Tracy McGrady was hard to stop in this game as Durant was a total non-factor; as were most of his Seattle team mates

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Date: Nov 17, 2008

Houston Rockets (Away) 19 – 27 – 19 – 27 – 92
Seattle Stealth (Home) 30 – 27 – 23 – 19 – 99

Key Performers

Houston

T McGrady 22 pt, 7 reb, 6 ast, 6 TO, 7-16 FG, 7-10 FT
R Artest 16 pt, 3 reb, 2 ast, 3 stl, 7-14 FG
L Scola 14 pt, 10 reb, 6-13 FG
M Yao 11 pt, 11 reb, 2 blk
S Battier 9 pt, 5 reb

Seattle
R Westbrook 14 pt, 3 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl, 4-7 FG
A Morrison 9 pt, 1-4 FG, 5-6 FT
K Durant 8 pt, 3 reb, 3-6 FG, 2-4 3PT
E Watson 7 pt, 7 ast

---

Clippers Hold On For Tight Win
Seattle misses good opportunity to snap losing streak

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Date: Nov 19, 2008

Los Angeles Clippers (Away) 27 – 30 – 24 – 29 – 110
Seattle Stealth (Home) 29 – 27 – 27 – 23 – 106

Key Performers

LA Clippers

B Davis 28 pt, 6 ast, 12-17 FG, 3-4 3PT
R Davis 17 pt, 3 reb, 4 ast, 2 stl, 6-15 FG, 3-6 3PT
C Kaman 15 pt, 5 reb, 3 blk
T Thomas 14 pt, 5 reb, 2 ast

Seattle

K Durant 32 pt, 4 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 13-24 FG, 6-7 FT
E Watson 16 pt, 6 ast, 3-3 3PT
J Green 15 pt, 6 reb, 6-11 FG
A Morrison 12 pt, 4 reb, 2 ast
C Wilcox 11 pt, 7 reb

---

Seattle Scares Sluggish Hornets Squad
Chris Paul and Co poor but put in just enough effort to pull out win

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Date: Nov 21, 2008

New Orleans Hornets (Away) 26 – 19 – 23 – 24 – 92
Seattle Stealth (Home) 19 – 23 – 17 – 29 – 88

Key Performers

New Orleans

C Paul 18 pt, 5 reb, 11 ast, 5-15 FG
D West 17 pt, 7 reb, 8-15 FG
J Posey 15 pt,. 5 reb, 5 ast
M Peterson 15 pt, 8 reb, 4-9 FG, 2-3 3PT, 5-5 FT
T Chandler 10 pt, 6 reb, 7 blk

Seattle

K Durant 34 pt, 10 reb, 1 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk, 15-27 FG
C Wilcox 9 pt
A Morrison 9 pt, 3 reb, 4-11 FG
R Westbrook 7 pt, 2 reb, 4 ast, 3-4 FG

---

Hornets Make Amends For Previous Night Performance By Dominating Seattle
Free throws and three point shooting enable the New Orleans Hornets to sweep the Stealth in their back-to-back games

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Date: Nov 22, 2008

Seattle Stealth (Away) 27 – 11 – 11 – 17 – 66
New Orleans Hornets (Home) 31 –30 – 22 – 34 – 117

Key Performers

Seattle

K Durant 23 pt, 10-13 FG, 3-3 3PT
R Westbrook 8 pt, 3 ast
C Wilcox 7 pt, 8 reb

New Orleans

M Peterson 24 pt, 2 stl, 7-12 FG, 3-5 3PT, 7-8 FT
C Paul 24 pt, 12 ast, 4 stl, 7-12 FG, 3-4 3PT, 7-7 FT
D West 21 pt, 6 reb, 2 ast, 7-11 FG, 7-7 FT
P Stojakovic 16 pt, 6-14 FG, 2-5 3PT
T Chandler 9 pt, 16 reb, 3 blk

---

Seattle Slip To Sixth Straight Loss
Seattle matches Phoenix in the first half but struggles to keep up with the Suns’ Sizzling Pace

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Date: Nov 25, 2008

Phoenix Suns (Away) 38 – 36 – 28 – 31 – 133
Seattle Stealth (Home) 38 – 32 – 16 – 23 – 109

Key Performers

Phoenix

S Nash 25 pt, 15 ast, 9-16 FG, 3-4 3PT, 4-4 FT
L Barbosa 22 pt, 4 reb, 4 ast, 7-15 FG, 2-6 3PT, 6-8 FT
A Stoudamire 19 pt, 9 reb, 3 blk, 8-13 FG
R Bell 17 pt, 6-8 FG, 3-3 3PT, 2-2 FT
G Hill 17 pt, 6-6 FG, 1-1 3PT, 3-3 FT
S O’Neal 12 pt, 17 reb, 4 blk, 6-10 FG, 0-3 FT
M Barnes 11 pt, 3 reb, 4-5 FG, 1-1 3PT, 2-4 FT

Seattle

K Durant 23 pt, 5 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 10-21 FG
J Green 20 pt, 6 reb, 6-10 FG, 7-8 FT
C Wilcox 15 pt, 6-11 FG
R Westbrook 14 pt, 7 ast, 5-8 FG, 2-2 3PT
E Watson 14 pt, 7 ast, 5-8 FG, 2-3 3PT

- - -

[Fresh8]

Important Notice To Readers!

I hope you guys can tell me if you liked this recap. Hopefully it looks a bit neater. I decided to just do a basic recap and post up the game scores instead of doing individual blurbs. It saves me time too!

If there’s any additional information (eg. Team Records will be included in the next recap) that you want me to include in these ‘wrap ups’, please let me know!

Also, some quick questions:

1. If the team does not make the playoffs, do you guys expect/want me to post detailed information about the playoffs?

2. I am thinking of having NLSC players in this Association. If you want in; PM me with name, age (usually 19-23 - would be good to have a mix of ages), position, school, height, body type/tone, 5 strengths, 5 weaknesses, brief description of your playing style and perhaps a background story that I can incorporate into this one. I will be making NLSCers as mid-late first rounders so if you are lucky, you may slip into the lottery! I’m yet to decide how many I will include… it will depend on how many people want to be included. Just note that you can’t edit player faces and the what not so you will get whoever I choose for you to look like.

(Note: With the background story, you don't need one but it would be good but I'm quite the brainstormer so if you dont give me a story, I will give you one that is interesting anyways!)

3. Any other suggestions to make this Association Story better would be much appreicated!

Hope you are all enjoying!

[hova-]

I think the recap style is very formal and neat. I like it. Would be cool if you could give a bit more impressions about the opponents. Maybe topscorer or best player and record. About the Playoffs: Imho it would be enough to give a short recap of each series but not of any games. Maybe name us the best players or the ones that stood out.

P.S. I sent you a PM

[Oskar]

That's absolutely terrific dynasty man. Thumbs up.

I'll also send my stuff to be in the association.

[cocobee]

Important Notice To Readers!

I hope you guys can tell me if you liked this recap. Hopefully it looks a bit neater. I decided to just do a basic recap and post up the game scores instead of doing individual blurbs. It saves me time too!

If there’s any additional information (eg. Team Records will be included in the next recap) that you want me to include in these ‘wrap ups’, please let me know!

Also, some quick questions:

1. If the team does not make the playoffs, do you guys expect/want me to post detailed information about the playoffs?

I would like to see updates, nothing too detailes just the scores and players of the game would be cool.

2. I am thinking of having NLSC players in this Association. If you want in; PM me with name, position, school, height, body type/tone, 5 strengths, 5 weaknesses, brief description of your playing style and perhaps a background story that I can incorporate into this one. I will be making NLSCers as mid-late first rounders so if you are lucky, you may slip into the lottery! I’m yet to decide how many I will include… it will depend on how many people want to be included. Just note that you can’t edit player faces and the what not so you will get whoever I choose for you to look like.

PM sent!!!

3. Any other suggestions to make this Association Story better would be much appreicated!

League news, probably some of the key news every month. weird trades, stories etc..

Hope you are all enjoying!

I am, keep it going.

[Fresh8]

League news, probably some of the key news every month. weird trades, stories etc..

Yeah, I've already got a format I will be using for my monthly recaps which will include transactions, rumours as well as league standings, stats, player and rookies of the month. I hope that will be sufficient.

Note to everyone! I forgot to add that I will need your ages... you can choose to be anywhere between 19 and 23. Age will affect your ratings and potential...

Also, any suggestions on what signature shots, free throws, dunk, post moves, dribbling will be welcome.

I will have final discretion on these created players.

[The X]

Okay Point God, I have sent you mine. I'm hoping, if you make my guy this year, that he will get a guaranteed 1st Round contract Either way, all is good.


As for your questions:

1) Playoffs - I wouldn't go too much detail, just quick summary, a few points to note, great performances, surprises, if you want to, maybe put a tad more detail into NBA Finals

2) Done

3) I'm with cocobee. To add to that, keep it varied & fresh (pun intended )

[Martti.]

For the playoffs, just a brief overview will be fine I think. I'll send you my info in a minute.

Would like to see more league news, league leaders etc. The game recaps are fine.

[homicide1550]

1. A brief recap about the playoffs is enough, just tell us who won the championship, awards, etc..

2. I would love be in your dynasty... I’ll be sending you the info!

[Fresh8]

I'm trying to get through the season as quick as possible because I want to get through a few years in this. There will be 7 updates to wrap up this virtual month coming soon so don't forget to keep checking.

Another quick note:

For those intending to be in the Draft Class of 2009, you have one virtual month to get your details into me! Also, not everyone will make the 2009 Draft... there will be a list of names that will be posted later to show who has made the cut and who has not. Those who don't will be considered for 2010 and 2011!

[Fresh8]

Seattle Too Slow
Stealth Miss Out On Chance To Improve Team

November 26, 2008


By Woody Hannes
ESPN.com Junior Writer

With so many players not happy with their teams, one must wonder why Seattle Stealth GM Will Sit and Head Coach Gary Payton haven't made anything happen. They have players of their own who aren't happy about their current situations like Earl Watson (After being benched for Russell Westbrook), Darius Miles (He asked to be picked up by the Stealth so I don't know why he's complaining), and Nick Collison (Not happy he was pushed to the bench for Adam Morrison). And let's not forget Adam Morrison whose agent told media yesterday that his client was not happy about the minutes he's been getting with Seattle.

The Stealth also have a huge logjam at the SF position with Kevin Durant, Morrison, Jeff Green, Desmond Mason, Miles all jostling for minutes at the same spot. Durant playing at SG still means that there's four decent players wanting to play big minutes for this team. And it's hard for a coach to have to choose when none of them really stand out from the others. It wasn't a problem at the start of the season but with the return of Miles to the team and losses piling up (Currently the team is in a six game losing streak), frustration peaks and players think about themselves first and foremost.

I could understand why Seattle doesn't want to make a move. Green is young and could develop further. He had a great rookie season last season and this season, he's proved great at filling up the whole stat sheet. Morrison looks like he's having a ball and could score 20 on any given night but I do admit he looks like he's capable of putting doughnuts on any given night too. Miles was signed for one season and might be traded if he causes too much trouble. At this stage though, it is said that Sit is a big fan in trying to revive the forward's career. Mason has not had the chance to play but he isn't unhappy about it; he even told reporters that he was fine with the situation.

So we get back to my first line. So many players are unhappy with their teams. I emphasise many.

Sasha Vujacic of the Lakers wants a trade. Stephon Marbury wants a trade. Al Harrington wants a trade. Who else? Well, if we include the Rockets wanting to trade away Rafer Alston and the Cavs wanting to trade away Zydranus Ilgauskas - that's two more players! Seattle could have used another scorer and they missed out on grabbing Ben Gordon!

I know, I know. A lot of the players I mentioned might not fit into Seattle's plans now or in the future. That probably explains why nothing has happened. However, one player did and Seattle just hesistated a little too long for my liking.

Eddy Curry was available. He has been snapped up by the Sacramento Kings. Seattle reportedly offered a deal involving Nick Collison and Earl Watson to the Knicks but they didn't like the offer. The Knicks announced that they are sending Curry to Sacramento today. It has been agreed to in principle and just shows that Seattle were too slow.

Curry was someone who could have helped the Stealth. Seattle has no one who can play the C position. Chris Wilcox and Nick Collison are the best big men on the team but they have been getting abused every night by opponents. Sure, Curry isn't much of an upgrade on defence (Unless he miraculously put his mind to the task, he might be an able rebounder) but he would have been huge for this team on offence. The inside scorer that the team needs.

Oh well. I am hoping, for the sake of Seattle fans, that Seattle management know what they are doing. Word on the street is that Seattle are offering to trade for the troubled soul that is Stephon Marbury. Perhaps this is proof that the Stealth don't know what they are doing.

[Fresh8]

Stealth Scouting Report #1

The Seattle Stealth have started scouting the next crop of young talent early and it was only logical to start from the top of the list. Seattle sent its scouts to check out who many consider to be the Top 5 Draft Prospects in the Nation. Without further ado, we shall show you what our scouts have discovered! (Note that the players are listed merely in alphabetical order!)

Top Five Projected Players

It is perhaps a coincidence that the top 5 players of the nation are also the top 5 projected for the upcoming NBA Draft. All of these guys should be declaring so keep an eye and ear out for what could be some big years from them in the College scene!

Moses Chara

Position: SF
Height: 6'9'
Weight: 280 lbs
Age: 23
College: Duke

Moses Chara, coming off a crushing defeat in this year's NCAA Finals, has never looked better. He is again leading Duke in nearly every statistical category whilst the team has been unbeaten thus far this season. The Senior has vowed that he will lead the team to the NCAA title and stated that he is still bitter over the loss to Reshawn Tyson and the Tar Heels. Everyone knows who he is but if you have been living under a rock for the past three or four years, he is by far the most well-rounded player in the NCAA and although he would be a star at the next level right now. He chose to stay at Duke in order to win it all in March. That's what we call passion and that's why scouts love him. Moses Chara can shoot the lights out, make the flashy passes and he has been named the best rebounder for this group of Draft prospects (yes, ahead of Donnell Lawrence). He does it all and he is that good!

Pros: Outside Scoring, Playmaker Ability, Rebounding, Man to Man Defence
Cons: No Major Weakness
NBA Comparison: LeBron James

Donnell Lawrence

Position: PF
Height: 6'9'
Weight: 262 lbs
Age: 22
College: Northwestern

Lawrence is a factor on both ends of the floor and if Moses Chara is the definite choice to go number 1 in the next NBA Draft, then Donnell Lawrence is an logical choice to go number 2 (If you want a player who is proven and will perform right away. The only other player you would pick second might be Steele who is stated below). That is how good this college Junior is. He can score from inside with a nice array of post moves while he is no slouch on defence either. He has great hands and is the most energetic and spirited player in the NCAA; wowing people across the coutry with his 'save the ball in whatever way possible' mindset.

Pros: Inside Scoring, Inside Defence, Rebounding, Intangibles
Cons: No Major Weakness
NBA Comparison: Pau Gasol

Stanley Mayo

Position: PG
Height: 6'2'
Weight: 197 lbs
Age: 20
College: Boston College

Stanley Mayo, with no relation to current NBA rookie OJ Mayo, is noted for his upside. Once he gets stronger, he should be a credible floor general. A great ballhandler with solid passing skills and a hunger to win; Mayo has impressed many on the NCAA circuit. He considered to enter the 2008 Draft but changed his mind at the last minute. We think he made the right choice and he should shine for Boston College this year helping him get selected relatively high on the Draft Board next year.

Pros: Playermaker Ability, Intangibles
Cons: Inside Scoring, Inside Defence. Rebounding
NBA Comparison: Deron Williams

Quinn Person

Position: SF
Height: 6'7'
Weight: 233 lbs
Age: 23
College: Massachusetts

Talk about guys playing above the rim. This guy literally lives there. Quinn Person is one of the most athletic basketball players I have ever seen. His raw athletic ability is, admittedly, what has been his ticket throughout four years of college but no one is complaining. Person has learnt how to time his rebounding and has become very good on the glass. He averaged 7 rebounds a game last season which was good for first amongst SFs in the nation. What we would like to see more from Person is an improved jumper. He uses his athleticism well in transition and has had some big scoring nights but an improved jumper would make it a lot easier for him. Once he is in the NBA, he might have to focus on being a lockdown defender first and foremost. An interesting prospect indeed.

Pros: Athleticism, Rebounding
Cons: Outside Scoring
NBA Comparison: James Posey

Barney Steele

Position: PG
Height: 6'4'
Weight: 208 lbs
Age: 19
College: Baylor

When a reporter walked up to this wiry thin teenager at his Waco high school last year, he said one thing: 'Don't forget the name Barney Steele. I am for real.' This kid is for real and after seeing him play a game for Baylor a week ago, we can gladly say that he has a huge future ahead of him. Against a strong UCLA squad, Steele put on a show with his friends and family watching on. He finished with 24 points, 8 rebounds and an insane 15 assists in a blowout win. Baylor has not been relevent for the past few years and no one has wanted to play for them due to scandals. We are quite certain that Steele is going to change that. This kid is so good that many expected him to be picked ahead of Derrick Rose if he was eligible for the NBA Draft. Due to eligibility rules, Steele considered packing his bags for one pro season in Europe before testing the Draft waters but thought a stint at his home college wouldn't hurt his stock.

Pros: Playmaker Ability, Athleticism, Intangibles
Cons: No Major Weaknesses
NBA Comparison: Chauncey Billups

[The X]

Luv the scouting reports....I'm thinking Donnell Lawrence will go number 1, Steele number 2 & possibly Chara at 3....

[nba_baller]

Deron Williams (Stanley Mayo NBA Comparison) is spelt with one r.

[Fresh8]

Luv the scouting reports....I'm thinking Donnell Lawrence will go number 1, Steele number 2 & possibly Chara at 3....

Cheers. I will be doing one every few virtual weeks... figured that its something I need to do... Will scout most first rounders and fringe first/second round players.

Deron Williams (Stanley Mayo NBA Comparison) is spelt with one r.

Taken care of

[cocobee]

Moses Chara

Position: SF
Height: 6'9'
Weight: 280 lbs
Age: 23
College: Duke

Moses Chara, coming off a crushing defeat in this year's NCAA Finals, has never looked better. He is again leading Duke in nearly every statistical category whilst the team has been unbeaten thus far this season. The Senior has vowed that he will lead the team to the NCAA title and stated that he is still bitter over the loss to Reshawn Tyson and the Tar Heels. Everyone knows who he is but if you have been living under a rock for the past three or four years, he is by far the most well-rounded player in the NCAA and although he would be a star at the next level right now. He chose to stay at Duke in order to win it all in March. That's what we call passion and that's why scouts love him. Moses Chara can shoot the lights out, make the flashy passes and he has been named the best rebounder for this group of Draft prospects (yes, ahead of Donnell Lawrence). He does it all and he is that good!

Pros: Outside Scoring, Playmaker Ability, Rebounding, Man to Man Defence
Cons: No Major Weakness
NBA Comparison: LeBron James

Where can I get my Chara jersey? I predict he will go number 1 in the draft. You forgot another major weakness....he went to Duke! LOL

[hova-]

Nice reports. This Moses man should be your pick. Inside presence is crucial to be successfull. Seems to be a bit undersized though. Hopefully youll be able to get a top pick.

[StupidBoy]

Hey, Fresh, I just started reading your story. I already sent you the information for my draftee Anyway, can I just ask you, which pick are you hoping to get?
From your descriptions, I'd say Moses will go first... Go Moses Malone..err, I mean Chara.
Take care, stay Fresh

[Fresh8]

Maurice Williams Leads Cavs To Win

Preview | Box Score | Recap


LeBron James scored 11 points, 10 of them on dunks

26 Nov, 2008

CLEVELAND (AP) – Maurice Williams was perfect as he landed five treys in an 8-8 shooting performance; finishing with 21 points and 8 assists. The Cleveland Cavaliers stuck it to the Seattle Stealth through defence and made it hard for the visiting team to score. It was a sight to behold as the Central Division leaders showed their mettle in a blowout win.

“Williams was unstoppable tonight,” Cavs Coach Mike Brown said, “We didn’t need LeBron to play a big match for once.”

The Stealth came out with a game plan to limit the amount of touches LeBron James would get. It was with some success as Jeff Green was a pest, constantly annoying James with or without the ball. However, James would go on a tear and score with three consecutive dunks in the third quarter ending a Seattle run where the visitors cut the lead to single digits. James’ solo run had his team back on top with a big lead.

The Cavs were as lethal on defence as they were from behind the arc. Sloppy ball handling and passing, along with the Cavs’ defensive pressure and instinct, led to numerous fast breaks. The Cavs were also knocking down shot after shot from the perimeter and that did not help Seattle’s cause as they did not change their strategy of keeping the ball out of LeBron’s hands.

“When you have to choose to be beaten by a team or one player,” Gary Payton explained his decisions, “It’s a no-brainer that you would choose to be beaten by a team.”

Kevin Durant left matter a little late. Although he scored 23 points; 16 of them came in the final quarter. Durant stated, “Coach told me I need to help get my team mates involved. When we were down by so much, he gave me the green light to start scoring and trying to get us back into it.” Adam Morrison was the next best on the team with 17 points. He started the match strong with 7 straight points but disappeared in the second half as he struggled to keep up with the frantic pace of the game.

The Seattle Stealth currently find themselves in a rut but things might become a little easier with games coming up against fellow cellar dwellers the Memphis Grizzlies and the Minnesota Timberwolves to close out November.

Notes: When questioned on whether recent trade rumours were true, Seattle Coach Gary Payton acknowledged, “The team is in trade talks right now” and when asked if Ilgauskas was a player Seattle would look into trading for, he answered, “He is in our frame of thought right now”… The Stealth’s losing streak reached seven games with this loss; landing them in a tie for 10th place in the Western Conference. It was only two weeks ago when the team was an astonishing fourth…

Quarter-by-Quarter Team Score

Seattle (Away) 19 – 14 – 21 – 22 – 76
Cleveland (Home) 29 – 25 – 23 – 20 – 97

Jordan Player of the Game

Maurice Williams
21 Points
8-8 FG
5-5 3PT
8 Assists

Key Performers

Seattle (5-11)

K Durant: 23 pt, 4 reb, 1 stl, 1 blk, 11-16 FG
A Morrison: 17 pt, 7-12 FG, 3-6 3PT
C Wilcox: 10 pt, 5-6 FG
J Green: 7 pt, 5 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl, 3-6 FG

Cleveland (11-4)

Z Ilgauskas: 12 pt, 5 reb, 6-6 FG
W Szercerbiak: 12 pt, 5-11 FG, 2-5 3PT
D Gibson: 12 pt, 5-7 FG, 2-2 3PT
L James: 11 pt, 2 reb, 6 ast, 4 stl, 5-8 FG

[Mark.]

Looking tops bro, im enjoying the read. I think Coco's answers to those questions your posted pretty much cover what I was going to say. One last thing tho..... play longer quarters

Oh btw, ill send you a PM later tonight with my players details etc.