A LEGEND IS BORN II

[The X]

you didn't have to change storyline just for me....either way, I'm 27, I'm above optimal playing weight & I'm lost a half foot of speed, so it's not looking good

I just gotta hope that there is a crazy GM out there who'll take a look at me Hopefully some GM is stupid enough to take me before Mark

[Fresh8]

European Star Decides It’s Time

15 Dec, 2008

SLOVENIA (AP) – Slovenia’s starting point guard Klemen Pirc has told teammates and coaches of his decision to hang up his jersey at Slovenian club Union Olimpija in a bid to chase his dream of playing in the United States. At 6’3” and 22 years of age, Pirc had decided to forego this year’s Draft in an attempt to lead his club to a second Euroleague title.

Pirc’s chances of being drafted by an NBA club this year were high after he led his team to a surprising Euroleague championship as well as helping his side dominate the Slovenian league. His Draft stock rose further with an excellent showing at the 2008 Beijing Games. Not only did Pirc lead his side to an upset of Germany in a pre-games qualifying tournament; he led the unheralded side to a quarter final appearance against Lithuania.

Pirc had his best game in a losing effort to Lithuania where he accumulated a total of 16 points and 8 assists. He also impressed scouts with his showing against the United States in the pool stage of the tournament. Pirc was poised and matched NBA stars Chris Paul, Deron Williams, and Jason Kidd as he finished with a respectable 11 points, 6 rebounds and 10 assists. The Slovenian even received compliments from his much more fancied opponents with Paul stating, “He (Pirc) can really play. With a bit of work on his jumpshot and maybe getting a bit stronger I think he would be a decent player one day.”

Despite garnering rave reviews from opponents and coaches, Pirc decided to stay in Europe for another year citing another run at Euroleague as motivation. “I want to make sure people know that we won Euroleague and it was not a mistake. We have a great team here and just because we are not a rich club like the Russian clubs and the Spanish clubs; it does not mean we are weak,” Pirc stated.

Pirc is a product of the Slovenia’s national basketball program, having been trained from an early age. He is well known in Europe for his unorthodox shooting style; an area in which he will need to improve on if he were to join an NBA club. So far though, NBA scouts have been endeared with the guard’s ability to all-around play: he is able to play solid defense as well as pass, rebound, and shoot the basketball. For a player who lists Jason Kidd as a major influence on his game; it makes sense he can do a little bit of everything.

His club coach, who happens to be American, seems to think that his star playmaker is an all-around talent, “Klemen is a triple double threat every night. He may not be the best shooter but he can still score in the paint. He is unselfish and he always hits the boards. I can see why people call him the European Jason Kidd.”

Pirc’s professional career began at the age of 17 for the club and it took him a while before he was rewarded with regular playing time and a starring role on the team. Last season was his breakout one as he averaged modest numbers across the board: 11.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg, and 6.3 apg. This season, he is having a better statistical season with 18.4 ppg, 7.3 rpg, and 8.8 apg though with less team success. Union Olimpija sits in the middle of the standings in their domestic league. The team has not won a Euroleague game to date for this season.

Many Draft insiders believe this has hurt him with ESPN.com’s Woody Hannes writing in a recent column: ‘Pirc was probably better served to declare and enter the 2008 Draft. He would have been a lottery pick and he would have been guaranteed a contract. Right now though, he is keeping his averages up and on paper looks like one of the better players in Europe but the reality is that he has no shot, an average dribble and he surely does not have the athleticism to play in the NBA. He was a lottery pick in 2008 but now he is on the fringe of dropping into the second round for 2009. I’m sorry but that is the harsh reality and most NBA scouts and managers aren’t as stupid as some make them out to be.”

Despite the negative reports, Pirc is still confident that he will win himself an NBA gig for the guaranteed three years all first round picks receive. “Sure, my season has had a bumpy start but I am playing great,” Pirc says as he ponders his future. When questioned on whether he will stay in Europe for another season in order to help his team for the following season, he replies, “No because this is the last year I can be in the Draft so I will not stay. My dream is to play in the NBA!”

[Fresh8]

NLSC Ballers Update

As of the end of November, these are the likely draft entrants for the respective NBA Drafts. Changes may occur over time as circumstances may persist. Ages are as the of 2008-09 season.

2009 NLSC Draft Class (FULL)

C. B Brock, 23
SG. M Moore, 22
PG. K Pirc, 22
PG. Z Resurreccion, 24
SG. A Watson, 27
PF. M Must, 20

2010 NLSC Draft Class

SG. J Mason, 21
SF. J Carter, 21
PG. E Cocobee, 21
SF. K Dela Cruz, 18
PG. C Hova, 20
PG. R liliach, 21

2011 NLSC Draft Class

SF L Washburn, 18
SG A Sotirov, 19
C J Kalnins, 20
PF. E Smith, 20
PG. T Hedge, 20

2012 NLSC Draft Class

Pending - Taking Applications Now

Don't forget to keep applying as there are sitll many spots up for grabs!

How To Join

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.

You may add suggestions for signature shot, free throw, dunks, and handles.

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!)

[StupidBoy]

Wow man, just wow. That article its phenomenal.
btw, Olimpija has won one game this year (in 7 games) in Euroleague and is, IRC, dead-last And just like the NBA teams, they already sacked their coach
Anyway, you gave me a really great introduction, you made my day xD
Take care, stay Fresh

[Fresh8]

Wow, you really got the thing for writing, great update

Hope you keep dropping by Thanks for the comment.

you didn't have to change storyline just for me....either way, I'm 27, I'm above optimal playing weight & I'm lost a half foot of speed, so it's not looking good

I just gotta hope that there is a crazy GM out there who'll take a look at me Hopefully some GM is stupid enough to take me before Mark

Will be funny to see who takes you and Mark and who becomes the third Kiwi to ever play in the NBA... and who is the second to ever be drafted. History in the making I tell you.

And changing the storyline, it makes more sense now... you are truly going to be a 'fairytale' Draft story

Wow man, just wow. That article its phenomenal.
btw, Olimpija has won one game this year (in 7 games) in Euroleague and is, IRC, dead-last And just like the NBA teams, they already sacked their coach
Anyway, you gave me a really great introduction, you made my day xD
Take care, stay Fresh

I'm glad I made your day. Can't wait for my tv to be fixed so we can get to the NBA Draft! Will be lots of fun!

[Fresh8]

Princeton Floor General Ponders Future

15 Dec, 2008

NEW JERSEY (AP) – He may play in the Ivy League but Princeton Tigers Senior Zoilo Resurreccion is pleading for NBA scouts to look his way. The Ivy League has never been the conventional place to look for NBA talent but Philippines-born Resurreccion maybe buck the trend.

Standing at a mere 5’8”, he starts at point guard for the Tigers and so far has them sitting pretty at the top of the Ivy League with a surprising 6-2 record. Resurreccion has been solid averaging a team leading 22.3 points a game while dishing out a nation third best 7.3 assists. In the team’s recent 72-60 success against Manhattan, the fiery leader compiled 28 points and 8 assists.

Originally at Princeton to study engineering, the international student was a walk-on for the basketball team. After coaches saw potential in him, he was offered a spot on the roster and has improved each of the past four years. He started off on the bench but claimed a starting spot in his sophomore season and has seen his scoring increase each year; 5.5, 15.2, 18.6, and 22.3.

“Princeton has never been so good since the days of (Bill) Bradley when he was averaging 30 and 10,” the Tigers Coach says, nodding at Resurreccion, “All of this can be attributed to the little fella over there.” In Princeton’s basketball glory years, they were able to make the NCAA tourney and that is where Resurreccion is planning to have them headed, “I want to lead this team to the big dance for 2009. That is my goal and after that, I will declare for the NBA Draft because I have figured out that basketball is something I would love to do.”

Resurreccion has been relatively unknown to the basketball world due to Princeton not performing. Last season, he did make some noise as he helped lead the Tigers to the Ivy League Championship Final. In that game, they lost to Harvard 65-63 in a gallant effort with Resurreccion being blocked on his shot attempt to tie the game at the buzzer. “That game where I got blocked on the last play and we didn’t win the Ivy League championship really hurt,” the Tigers captain states, “It was then that I felt this desire to really improve my own game and come back stronger.”

He went back home to the Philippines during the off-season where he worked on his shooting stroke every day and night. After returning to the States, he immediately sought out the Tigers coaching staff and had them help him with his conditioning and strength training. The hours piled on in the gym and the court seems to have paid off with a more toned physique and fitter Resurreccion. His improved endurance has had a positive impact on his defensive game whilst his shooting efficiency has been the main reason for his bump in points a game.

“I’m shooting the same amount of times as last season, it’s just that my shots are dropping,” Resurreccion smiles, “I worked very hard and it looks like all the practice was good for me.” Resurreccion’s strengths lie in his shooting ability, passing, and leadership skills. A vocal player who likes to compare himself to Chauncey Billups, he thrives in half court play but unfortunately struggles in the open court. His size and lack of athleticism to compensate do admittedly hurt his chances at an NBA Draft selection. However, his level headedness in game situations and his desire to improve are positives that have been noted by many.

Resurreccion is humbled by his experiences in America. He had always played basketball at home but it was never organized basketball. He feels that all of the opportunities he has ahead of him are to be thanked for. “If I never came to Princeton, I would have never been able to play at this high of a level in basketball. I was never the greatest player but the Coaches here always made me feel welcome and taught me the fundamentals and intricacies of the game. Now I have my heart set on going pro and I can’t thank them (Princeton) enough,” he states in a recent interview, “Maybe if we get to play in March, that will be my way of saying thanks.”

[Rondo]

One if not the best dynasty writers on this forum. I will be studying this extensively. I'll come back momentarily and look through this a bit more. I bought 2k9 for the computer, when I get my graphic card upgraded I might start a 2k9 Association myself...is the Association as good as I've read on the net?

[Fresh8]

Thanks man. I hope you come back and read it

And good news guys! The TV got fixed earlier than expected so December Recap is coming your way!

[Fresh8]

Eight Game Recap
Stealth Hold Onto Top Spot

Current Starting Lineup: C Brad Miller, PF Chris Wilcox, SF Adam Morrison, F/G Kevin Durant, PG Russell Westbrook

Record Over 8 Games: 5-3
Team Record: 16-17
Division Rank: Tied 1st
Conference Rank: Tied 4th
Team Chemistry: 30%

- - -

Game Recaps On-The-Fly

First Place Clippers Shocked By Seattle
Stealth steal a game from the other team from Hollywood

Date: Dec 16, 2008

Los Angeles Clippers at Seattle Stealth: 75-82

Key Performers

Los Angeles

B Davis 15 pt, 7 ast, 2 stl, 6-16 FG
T Thomas 11 pt, 5-8 FG
R Davis 11 pt, 9 reb, 6 ast, 4-11 FG, 1-3 3PT, 2-3 FT

Seattle

K Durant 26 pt, 8-16 FG, 2-4 3PT, 8-9 FT
A Morrison 12 pt, 6-13 FG
B Miller 8 pt, 8 reb, 3 ast, 3-6 FG, 1-1 3PT, 1-1 FT

Kevin Durant Notches Career High 47 In Overtime Thriller
Seattle holds off Chris Bosh and Toronto in extra time

Date: Dec 19, 2008

Toronto Raptors at Seattle Stealth: 128-133 OT

Key Performers

Toronto

C Bosh 29 pt, 9 reb, 3 ast, 1 stl, 2 blk, 11-19 FG, 7-8 FT
J Calderon 28 pt, 6-13 FG, 1-5 3PT, 15-15 FT
A Parker 16 pt, 7 reb, 4 ast, 4-7 FG, 2-4 3PT, 6-8 FT

Seattle

K Durant 47 pt, 5 reb, 16-27 FG, 2-6 3PT, 13-15 FT
R Westbrook 16 pt, 6 ast, 8-10 FG
A Morrison 15 pt, 5 reb, 4-5 FG, 1-2 3PT, 6-8 FT

Mo Williams Still Shooting Well But Seattle Win This Time
Seattle avenges earlier loss in season to Cavs, level season series 1-1

Date: Dec 21, 2008

Cleveland Cavaliers at Seattle Stealth: 88-106

Key Performers

Cleveland

M Williams 26 pt, 5 reb, 3 ast, 8-16 FG, 3-4 3PT, 7-8 FT
L James 23 pt, 8 reb, 5 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 7-17 FG, 4-8 3PT, 5-7 FT
D West 13 pt, 4 ast, 6-11 FG, 1-3 3PT, 0-2 FT

Seattle

K Durant 25 pt, 5 reb, 2 ast, 4 stl, 2 blk, 10-16 FG, 2-2 3PT, 3-4 FT
J Green 15 pt, 5 reb, 5-11 FG, 5-5 FT
A Morrison 11 pt, 5 reb, 6 ast, 4-8 FG, 1-2 3PT, 2-2 FT

Hawks Snap Stealth 4-Game Winning Streak
Joe Johnson paces Atlanta with 35 as Hawks score easy win at home

Date: Dec 23, 2008

Seattle Stealth at Atlanta Hawks: 92-101

Key Performers

Atlanta

J Johnson 35 pt, 6 reb, 5 ast, 13-23 FG, 3-7 3PT, 6-6 FT
J Smith 19 pt, 4 reb, 5 ast, 9-13 FG
M Bibby 15 pt, 7 ast, 5 TO, 6-9 FG

Seattle

K Durant 23 pt, 4 reb, 2 stl, 8-16 FG
C Wilcox 16 pt, 5 reb, 2 stl, 1 blk, 6-10 FG, 4-6 FT
R Westbrook 11 pt, 4 reb, 6 ast, 3-9 FG, 1-2 3PT, 4-6 FT

Pistons Have Late Present For Stealth
Despite poor shooting night, Durant leads Seattle to win at the Palace

Date: Dec 26, 2008

Seattle Stealth at Detroit Pistons: 103-93

Key Performers

Detroit

A Iverson 21 pt, 11 ast, 7-15 FG, 1-3 3PT, 6-7 FT
R Hamilton 20 pt, 4 reb, 5 ast, 9-18 FG, 0-2 3PT, 2-3 FT
S Vujacic 13 pt, 4 reb, 5-10 FG, 3-8 3PT

Seattle

K Durant 21 pt, 2 reb, 2 ast, 1 stl, 1 blk, 8-21 FG, 0-4 3PT, 5-5 FT
B Miller 19 pt, 9 reb, 6 ast, 6-10 FG, 1-1 3PT, 6-8 FT
D Miles 14 pt, 7-9 FG

Fatigue Catches Up With Seattle
Stealth run off the court as they end up on wrong side of back-to-back games on consecutive nights

Date: Dec 27, 2008

Seattle Stealth at Washington Wizards: 97-121

Key Performers

Washington

G Arenas 32 pt, 6 ast, 11-16 FG, 3-7 3PT, 7-8 FT
C Butler 21 pt, 10 reb, 6 ast, 7-17 FG, 2-6 3PT, 5-5 FT
A Jamison 17 pt, 10 reb, 4-11 FG, 1-3 3PT, 8-9 FT

Seattle

K Durant 23 pt, 3 reb, 3 ast, 4 stl, 8-23 FG
D Miles 12 pt, 3-8 FG, 6-6 FT
J Green 11 pt, 4 reb, 4-11 FG, 3-4 FT

Phoenix Suns Burn Seattle Stealth
Leandro Barbosa too good off the bench

Date: Dec 29, 2008

Phoenix Suns at Seattle Stealth: 121-95

Key Performers

Seattle

K Durant 29 pt, 6 reb, 10-27 FG, 2-4 3PT, 7-9 FT
A Morrison 10 pt, 2-11 FG
D Miles 10 pt, 5-8 FG

Phoenix

L Barbosa 34 pt, 12-19 FG, 3-4 3PT, 7-9 FT
A Stoudamire 20 pt, 10 reb, 6 blk, 6-9 FG, 8-11 FT
J Richardson 20 pt, 4 reb, 5 ast, 2 stl, 6-9 FG, 4-5 3PT, 4-5 FT

Seattle Ends 2008 On High
Kevin Durant Knocks Down Three At Buzzer To Win

Date: Dec 31, 2008

Golden State Warriors at Seattle Stealth: 100-101

Key Performers

Seattle

K Durant 25 pt, 3 reb, 10-19 FG, 3-3 3PT, 2-2 FT
A Morrison 25 pt, 9-13 FG, 2-3 3PT, 5-6 FT
C Wilcox 13 pt, 4 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl, 5-6 FG

Golden State

S Jackson 20 pt, 6 ast, 2 blk, 7-12 FG, 2-4 3PT, 4-7 FT
C Maggette 16 pt, 12 reb, 2 stl, 5-7 FG
A Harrington 15 pt, 9 reb, 4-12 FG, 2-5 3PT, 5-10 FT

[Mandich]

great updates man, simply amazing

[StupidBoy]

Im so glad your LCD is repaired, you can finnaly continue with your games
Great to see you winning some games, you beated the Clippers? wow
Btw, wouldn't it be better to switch Morrison and Durant in the starting lineup?
Anyway, take care, stay Fresh

[Fresh8]

great updates man, simply amazing

Thank you

m so glad your LCD is repaired, you can finnaly continue with your games
Great to see you winning some games, you beated the Clippers? wow
Btw, wouldn't it be better to switch Morrison and Durant in the starting lineup?

Now we are doing awesome, I hope we continue on in the New Year... I wasn't banking on this happening in my dynasty. I was expecting us to be at the bottom of the table all season. At least this is an unexpected twist!

And Morrison and Durant are interchangeable... but what I really need is a standout SG. I want Durant at SF and maybe Morrison as a sixth man... but his ego too big for it I think... so might be gone next season. Who knows.

[Lamrock]

Still the finest Association going here. I'm enjoying catching up on the updates. Great job keeping Seattle a respectable franchise. Can't say about the Thunder in real life...

[Valor]

Still the finest Association going here. I'm enjoying catching up on the updates. Great job keeping Seattle a respectable franchise. Can't say about the Thunder in real life...

i feel sorry for Durant man...i think the Thunder would win a couple of games if they played in the D-League..

[Fresh8]

Still the finest Association going here. I'm enjoying catching up on the updates. Great job keeping Seattle a respectable franchise. Can't say about the Thunder in real life...

I saw that the team was 3 wins in real life... that is just terrible...

i feel sorry for Durant man...i think the Thunder would win a couple of games if they played in the D-League..

Why feel sorry for Durant? Feel sorry for the whole team lol... beaten nearly every game...

[Fresh8]

Monthly Recap: December
Part One: League Standings

Monthly Recaps are divided into several parts in order to give readers a quick and organized overview. Part One of the Monthly Recap provides the league standings; divided into the two conferences. Part Two will feature the ‘Race to the MVP’.

The Seattle Stealth was the surprise team for December. Seattle posted a 10-5 record for the month. It seems that the additions of Adam Morrison and Brad Miller have really helped the squad. If the young team can keep their form up for the rest of the season; play-off basketball doesn’t seem like a remote possibility anymore. Other teams that had good Decembers were the San Antonio Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets find themselves stuck at the bottom of the NBA Standings.

Western Conference Standings

1. Los Angeles Clippers (22-9)*
2. New Orleans Hornets (20-8)*
3. Los Angeles Lakers (20-10)
4. San Antonio Spurs 18-13
5. Houston Rockets 19-14
6. Seattle Stealth (16-17)*
7. Minnesota Timberwolves 15-16
8. Golden State Warriors 16-18

- - -

9. Portland Trailblazers 15-17
10. Dallas Mavericks 14-17
11. Phoenix Suns 13-17
12. Utah Jazz 14-19
13. Sacramento Kings 13-19
14. Memphis Grizzlies 10-22
15. Denver Nuggets 9-24

Eastern Conference Standings

1. Cleveland Cavaliers (22-8)*
2. Miami Heat (19-11)*
3. Detroit Pistons (19-11)
4. Orlando Magic (20-12)
5. Boston Celtics (20-13)*
6. New Jersey Nets (10-13)
7. Washington Wizards (17-13)
8. Atlanta Hawks (16-15)

- - -

9. Indiana Pacers (14-17)
10. Philadelphia 76ers (13-18)
11. Chicago Bulls (12-20)
12. Toronto Raptors (12-20)
13. Charlotte Bobcats (12-20)
14. New York Knicks (11-19)
15. Milwaukee Bucks (11-22)

Key

* Denotes Division Leader
** Denotes Clinched Title
# Denotes Clinched Seed
## Denotes Eliminated From Postseason

[Valor]

Still the finest Association going here. I'm enjoying catching up on the updates. Great job keeping Seattle a respectable franchise. Can't say about the Thunder in real life...

I saw that the team was 3 wins in real life... that is just terrible...

i feel sorry for Durant man...i think the Thunder would win a couple of games if they played in the D-League..

Why feel sorry for Durant? Feel sorry for the whole team lol... beaten nearly every game...

meh, durant is the one of the few players that i like on the thunder

[Mandich]

Haha....Clippers still ruling the NBA, is Baron still the leading MVP candidate?

[Fresh8]

Monthly Recap: December
Part Two: Race To The MVP

Monthly Recaps are divided into several parts in order to give readers a quick and organized overview. Part Two of the Monthly Recap is the ‘Race To The MVP’. Part Three will feature Rumors and trade news from around the league.

1. LeBron James, SF, Cleveland | Team Record: 22-8

Key Stats: 29.1 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 8.3 apg, 2.3 spg, .518 FG%, .479 3PT%
Last Months Rank: 2

Since we last wrote the R2MVP, LeBron was at the number two spot. After a month in which the Cavs went 10-3 and James bumping up his scoring numbers whilst keeping his other stats steady; it was hard to deny him the number one spot. Our mind was made up when we took note that last month’s leader of the tally (Baron Davis) led the Clippers to just a 7-8 record after an amazing 15-1 start to the season. LeBron is winning hands down.

2. Chris Paul, PG, New Orleans | Team Record: 20-8

Key Stats: 22.2 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 9.1 apg, 2.2 spg, .900 FT%
Last Months Rank: 3

Chris Paul’s Hornets were 9-4 for December; just a tiny bit behind LeBron and his Cavs. I’m feeling that it won’t be long before New Orleans overtakes the Clippers for the top spot in the Western Conference. The All-World PG has been brilliant on both ends of the floor and continues to build from where he left off last season; close to snatching MVP off of Kobe Bryant. Team need to figure out whether they want Paul to shoot, pass, or go to the line. Right now, it seems that he is great at all three which makes him so tough to defend.

3. Allen Iverson, SG, Detroit | Team Record: 19-11

Key Stats: 25.6 ppg, 7.9 apg, 1.6 spg, .506 FG%
Last Months Rank: 7

The points and assists totals have dipped over the last month but that is because Iverson is getting more help from the Pistons than on any other team he has played on. However, it is no doubt that Iverson is the leader of this team. Detroit needed a superstar to propel them to the brink for at least one last season before their stars become too old. Iverson is shooting at a career best mark from the field and the Pistons are winning nearly effortlessly.

4. Kobe Bryant, SG, LA Lakers | Team Record: 20-10

Key Stats: 27.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 5.3 apg, 2.1 spg, .512 FG%, .387 3PT%, .834 FT%
Last Months Rank: 5

Why is Iverson ahead of Bryant? Bryant has Pau Gasol; Iverson has Rasheed Wallace. Bryant has Lamar Odom; Iverson has Marvin Williams. Bryant has Andrew Bynum; Iverson has Kwame Brown. Iverson is doing as much as Bryant with a less talented team. That is why Bryant still ranks in the middle of the race to the MVP – behind Iverson. I’m sure many Lakers fans will call this blasphemy but it is the truth. Right now, Iverson is more important to his team than Bryant is to his. However, it should be noted that whilst Pau Gasol has struggled, Bryant has been able to pick up the slack.

5. Manu Ginobili, SG, San Antonio | Team Record: 18-13

Key Stats: 27.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 4.5 apg, 2.0 spg, .503 FG%, .483 3PT%, .872 FT%
Last Months Rank: Unranked

The Argentine superstar has become the undisputed star for the Spurs. Tim Duncan may be one of the most consistent players for their team and Tony Parker may run the point but it is Ginobili who scores, scores, and scores some more. Outstanding in fourth quarters; Ginobili has been in top form. The Spurs had a slow start to the season but as they have gotten better, so has Ginobili. That is no coincidence. With career high numbers across the board, Manu has proven that he is a true NBA star. Both Parker and Duncan have had individual success and now it is Ginobili’s turn.

6. Dwyane Wade, SG, Miami | Team Record: 19-11

Key Stats: 23.3 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 8.1 apg, 1.7 spg, .495 FG%
Last Months Rank: 8

With the help of Ben Gordon’s scoring, Wade has been able to propel the Heat to the top of their Division. The Heat were 9-4 during December as they took advantage of Gordon and Wade combining to be one the highest scoring backcourts in the league. Wade’s hustle and style of play has energized this overachieving Heat outfit. Many cite Gordon’s 20 ppg as a reason for Miami’s revival but without Wade in the fray, Gordon would not be getting the opportunities that he gets night in and night out.

7. Baron Davis, PG, LA Clippers | Team Record: 22-9

Key Stats: 22.6 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 5.9 apg, 2.2 spg, .478 FG%, .429 3PT%
Last Months Rank: 1

This is what you get when your team struggles for a month (The Clippers had a losing record for December: 7-8). It doesn’t matter if your team is still at the top of the West (Although that fact has kept Davis in the R2MVP rankings). This is because guys like James, Paul, Iverson, Bryant, and others have kept their teams consistently on top (I’m going to stop writing in brackets now).

8. Gilbert Arenas, PG, Washington | Team Record: 17-13

Key Stats: 28.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 6.4 apg, 2.0 spg, .501 FG%, .459 3PT%
Last Months Rank: 9

Moving up one spot from last month is Gilbert Arenas. Arenas’ scoring has taken a dip however this season he is taking better shots, sharing the ball, and playing better defense. All that was missing for Arenas was an ability to defend and he has worked hard for years to improve that aspect. This season, he has shown that he can lock onto a player and it has helped the Wizards’ immensely.

9. Kevin Garnett, PF, Boston | Team Record: 20-13

Key Stats: 20.4 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 3.6 apg, 2.0 spg, 2.7 apg
Last Months Rank: 6

Still holding onto a spot in the Top 10 is Kevin Garnett. The story is still the same: KG is the best player on this Boston team. Garnett leads the team in rebounds, steals, and blocks whilst ranking third in scoring.

10. Vince Carter, SG, New Jersey | Team Record: 19-13

Key Stats: 21.3 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 6.2 apg, 1.2 spg, .504 FG%, .415 3PT%, .798 FT%
Last Months Rank: Unranked

The Nets were 12-4 during December and we had to find a spot to put Vince Carter on this list. We all knew that Vinsanity could play and it was always a question of heart. This season, many weren’t expecting Carter to put in much of an effort but his selfless play and improved shot selection has helped him lead the Nets into playoff contention. Carter is leading the team in scoring with 21 a game and it is impressive to note that he is the lone gunner on this team as no one else averages over 14 a game. On any other team, there are at least two guys hovering near the 20 mark. This proves that either the Nets are playing out of their skin or that Carter is actually willing his team to victory (Or both).

Honorable Mention: J Johnson, Atlanta; R Allen, Boston; P Pierce, Boston; M Yao, Houston; T MacGrady, Houston; P Gasol, LA Lakers; A Jefferson, Minnesota; H Turkoglu, Orlando; T Parker, San Antonio; K Durant, Seattle

[Lamrock]

MVP rankings are well-written and spot-on. Good call having AI above Kobe. Looking forward to the rest of the December recap. Hopefully Durant is in the top 10 by next month. Keep this up.

[Valor]

very well written R2MVP, brings me down in shame

[Fresh8]

Monthly Recap: December
Part Three: Around the League

Monthly Recaps are divided into several parts in order to give readers a quick and organized overview. Part Three of the Monthly Recap is the ‘Around the League’ recap, which features transactions and other League news. Part Three will feature the T-Mobile Rookie Rankings.

Transactions

Big man Joe Smith was traded a second time this season; as he was included in a deal that netted the Charlotte Bobcats Phoenix Suns Raja Bell and Boris Diaw. The big prize for the Suns was swingman Jason Richardson who will attempt to fit into the new system being instilled in Phoenix. Suns GM Steve Kerr stated, “We are hoping to mix things up a little bit. Jason gives us another scoring option on the wing. We just needed a little change to hopefully spark our team. Joe Smith is a veteran big man who is still able to come in and relieve Shaq. He is still a double double threat.” Bobcats GM Michael Jordan declined to comment on the deal but Coach Larry Brown did say, “Raja Bell gives us someone who can play on both ends of the floor. We are extremely excited about the level of defensive intensity he will bring to our club. Boris Diaw is a big man who can do a bit of everything and we like that.”

Since the deal, both teams have still struggled with the Bobcats going 2-5 and the Suns going 2-3. Bell has immediately taken over in Richardson’s starting spot and delivered a solid 16 point debut in the Bobcat’s win against Chicago. Bell was brilliant in a 139-102 win against Washington, finishing the game with 31 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. Teammate and good friend Diaw hasn’t been so blessed; struggling to play significant minutes at the moment. He had 4 points in his first game for the Bobcats and his best game as a Bobcat came in the win against the Wizards. Diaw had 14 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists.

Meanwhile, Richardson has taken little time to adjust in Phoenix. The talented guard had 28 points in his Suns debut, which was an 86-105 loss to Portland. His best effort to date as a Sun was his 43 point effort in a 133-78 win against the Denver Nuggets. Richardson was one point off of his career high.

It is rumored that the Bobcats did the deal in a bid to trade Mike D’Antoni favorites Bell and Diaw for New York’s most hated son Stephon Marbury. NBA players need to wait a month before they can be traded again which means that a swap may occur between the two sides in the middle of January.

December Trades:

5 Dec – Rockets PG R Alston traded for 76ers SF L Williams
15 Dec – Suns SG R Bell, C/F B Diaw traded for Bobcats SG J Richardson, PF J Smith

News

LeBron James and Steve Nash Named As Players Of The Month

LeBron James and Steve Nash were named as Players of the Month for their respective conferences. James was phenomenal in leading the Cavs to an 11-3 record, which included a team 12 game win streak. James has been scoring at will against teams with 8 30+ point games over the month and not going below 20 in any of the other remaining games for December. In a 124-104 win against Denver in the middle of the month, James had his best game of the season notching 58 points along with 7 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 steals.

Steve Nash had little trouble compiling points and assists as he collected 8 triple doubles in 12 games. Amongst the many efforts he had: 23 points, 16 assists in a 133-78 win against Denver; 27 points and 10 assists in a 144-125 win against New York; and 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 13 assists in a 132-106 win against Utah. Although Phoenix were only 5-7 for the month, it is clear to see that the team wins whenever Nash is on song. Read More…

Lee, Love Top Rookies For December

Courtney Lee and Kevin Love were announced as the T-Mobile Rookies of the Month for December.

Orlando Magic rookie Courtney Lee made the most of his minutes boosting his season point totals with a few surprising games. He scored a career high 30 points to go along with 4 rebounds and 6 assists in a win against the Bulls and then had 29, 6, 4 the next night against the Spurs. Two weeks later, the rookie would surpass his career high with 31 points in an exciting 131-126 win against the Phoenix Suns. Lee added 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 5 steals in that game.

Minnesota’s Kevin Love has shown a knack for not scoring big numbers but being able to fill up the stat sheet. The former UCLA Bruin does something different every night, whether it be lead the team in rebounds, steals or assists. Love had 15 points, 6 rebound, 4 assists in a 139-128 win against Dallas. He grabbed a game high 15 rebounds to go with 7 points and 7 assists in a 115-93 win against Utah. In a 100-97 win against the Sacramento Kings, Love was impressive with 11 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks. Love’s pass to Mike Miller led to Miller’s game winning trey. Read More…

Stephon Marbury Trade On Hold

The New York Times reported that a deal involving disgruntled Knicks PG Stephon Marbury, who is averaging 11 ppg in limited court time, has been put on hold due to his broken finger. The injury has sidelined him for a month and the Knicks will need to wait until he is healthy before they can move him.

In an extraordinary move, the troubled star has been ordered to stay away from the team at practices and games. Read More…

George Karl Fired By Denver Nuggets

After a slow start to the season, Allen Iverson became the first casualty after the Nuggets pledged to change the design of the team last season. Chauncey Billups’ arrival failed to spark any turnaround, which has led to the sacking of Nuggets’ coach George Karl. Read More…

Rasheed Wallace Attempts To Play With Broken Nose

Taking a page out of team mate Rip Hamilton’s book, Rasheed Wallace has been playing for Detroit with a broken nose. “It’s been bothering me for weeks but it’s not a broken arm or leg so I can still play.” Read More…

James Posey Unhappy In New Orleans

Despite helping the Hornets to a great start over two months, Miami and Boston championship winner James Posey has stated that he feels unsettled at his new ball club. Posey has cited personal reasons for his desire to move from the Big Easy and it is understood that New Orleans are attempting to move the troubled star. Read More…

”Payton’s Job Safe”: Stealth GM

Seattle Stealth GM Will Sit has publicly acknowledged that Gary Payton’s job as Head Coach is safe despite the sudden availability of Geroge Karl. “At this point of time, the team (Seattle) is playing well and a lot of that can be attributed to Gary,” Sit said in an interview before the Stealth’s narrow win against the Golden State Warriors, “Gary Payton will be Seattle Head Coach for at least the rest of this season and we are interested in keeping in that position for a while after that.” Read More…

[Lamrock]

Great recap of news and transactions. Detailed and well-written enough to be on NBA.com.

[Sacramento-kings]

George Karl fired, glad to hear that. Never liked that guy. Great month recap, Can you please post league leaders, I'm just wondering how much is the 2k sim engine better than the Live one.

[Fresh8]

meh, durant is the one of the few players that i like on the thunder

I don't like any of the Thunder.

Haha....Clippers still ruling the NBA, is Baron still the leading MVP candidate?

Not really, as you can see, they didn't do too well in December... only on top because of great start.

MVP rankings are well-written and spot-on. Good call having AI above Kobe. Looking forward to the rest of the December recap. Hopefully Durant is in the top 10 by next month. Keep this up.

Thanks man. I was thisclose to having Kobe at 3 but I felt that The Answer deserves some props. It's like in real life where Billups deserves major props! I was always saying he was a top 5 PG... with Paul, Williams, Parker, Kidd and him. He is proving it now in Denver that he can mix it with the best.

very well written R2MVP, brings me down in shame

Thanks man.

Great recap of news and transactions. Detailed and well-written enough to be on NBA.com.

I wish I could write on NBA.com.

George Karl fired, glad to hear that. Never liked that guy. Great month recap, Can you please post league leaders, I'm just wondering how much is the 2k sim engine better than the Live one.

Aight... Part 5 of my monthly recap will be Top 5 stat getters in points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks...