Tuesday Night Preview & Stats: Sun at Dream, Silver Stars at Sparks
by Nate Parham on Sep 6, 2011 6:31 PM EDT
in WNBA
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PrintThere are only two games tonight, but they a) have significant playoff implications, b) should be good games, and c) feature some of the league's biggest stars.
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Who: Connecticut Sun at Atlanta Dream When: 7:30 p.m. EDT on WNBA LiveAccess Where: Phillips Arena - Atlanta, GA What: The fourth and final meeting in the regular season series, which the Sun lead 2-1. Preview: WNBA.com preview |
Who: San Antonio Silver Stars at Los Angeles Sparks When: 10:30 p.m. EDT on NBA TV | WNBA LiveAccess Where: Staples Center - Los Angeles, CA What: The fourth and final meeting comes in the midst of a playoff battle that could go down to the wire with a L.A. win. Preview: SilverStars.com Gameday Preview |
More links, analysis, and key stats after the jump.
Feel free to leave your additional links, insights, and rooting interests in the comments.
Remember, you can follow along on your mobile device at mobile.swishappeal.com or on your iPhone using SB Nation's free iPhone app.
7:30 p.m. EDT Connecticut Sun at Atlanta Dream
Both of these teams have secured playoff spots, so this is all about positioning and homecourt advantage.
Links:
- Kris Willis of SBN Atlanta describes the implications of this particular game: Atlanta has a chance to temporarily assume sole possession of third by a half game while Connecticut can put themselves in better position to grab first. Read more and check for updates >>>
- John Altavilla of the Hartford Courant breaks down the Sun's chances to win the Eastern Conference. Read more >>>
- Ned Griffen of The Day reports that Sun coach Mike Thibault thinks having something left to focus on is good for this team. Read more >>>
- Richard Cohen has written at length about the complex Eastern Conference playoff picture as it stands now, but also makes an important note about the Sun going forward: Asjha Jones' improved play could prove valuable to the Sun in the playoffs as teams focus on center Tina Charles. Read more >>>
Key stat to watch:
Turnovers: The Sun has been the least turnover prone team in the league in the second half of the season, while the Atlanta Dream has a defense that aims to force them. That makes a player like Sixth Woman of the Year candidate Kara Lawson pretty significant.
Key players:
- Kara Lawson, G, Sun: Lawson's shooting could become a factor in this game, but most of all against the Dream her ball handling will be key - she has a team-high 2.69 pure point rating and the additional ball handling will help. In the Sun's one loss to the Dream, they had 21 turnovers; in their two losses, they had 14 apiece.
- Armintie Price, G, Dream: Price has not played well against the Sun this season, going 5-for-19 from the field in three meetings. Yet among Price's biggest improvements this season has been her ball handling efficiency - she has a pure point rating of 1.74, good for third on the team. Against the Sun, she's had 7 assists to 3 turnovers in the last two games playing starter-level minutes.
10:30 p.m. EDT San Antonio Silver Stars at Los Angeles Sparks (NBA TV)
If the fourth place Silver Stars win this one, they would still have a chance at the third seed (by virtue of a tiebreaker with the Phoenix Mercury) while the Sparks will fall three games behind with only two games remaining thus extinguishing their playoff hopes.
But if San Antonio drops this one in L.A., the final week of the season will be more exciting with both teams put in a must-win position - L.A. would tie the season series 2-2, but have a tiebreaker edge for the moment due to a better conference record.
Links:
- Roman Augustoviz of the StarTribune provides a detailed breakdown of the Western Conference playoff race as it stands today. Read more >>>
- Terrence Thomas of the San Antonio Express-News reports Silver Stars coach Dan Hughes speaking the language of opportunity before a big game. Read more >>>
- Richard Cohen describes how the Silver Stars lost to the Seattle Storm on Saturday night due to a couple of familiar problems: rebounding and, more recently, a lack of support for guard Becky Hammon and forward Sophia Young. Read more >>>
- Likewise, the Los Angeles Sparks have been both a poor rebounding team and lacked support for star forward Candace Parker, who is putting up MVP-caliber numbers since her return from injury.
- Jessica Lantz posted earlier today about Tulsa Shock point guard Ivory Latta's season-ending injury, which is also significant to these teams - back to that tiebreaker, both teams' final conference game is against the Shock. Read more >>>
Key stat to watch:
Rebounding: As noted above, neither of these teams is particularly strong on the rebounding front, with or without Parker or Danielle Adams, respectively - they are currently 11th (L.A.) and 12th (San Antonio) in the WNBA in total rebounding percentage. So someone has to win that battle and it could be especially significant for the Silver Stars - the Sparks give up the most second chance points in the league (13.29) and have the lowest defensive rebounding percentage in the league (67%).
Players to watch:
- Tina Thompson, F, Los Angeles Sparks: If this does come down to rebounding, the Sparks could use a boost from Thompson: she's the team's fourth best defensive rebounder (15.12%), virtually tied with forward Ebony Hoffman and rookie center Jantel Lavender. Another interesting tidbit: she's shot 46.5% from the field in 13 wins and 33.1% in 18 losses. A big game from her would be a big boost for the Sparks.
- Danielle Adams, F, San Antonio Silver Stars: Adams has shot 6-for-26 in their last three games and is showing now how much the Silver Stars benefited from her scoring in the early season. And again, if the game comes down to rebounding, she is the second best offensive rebounder on the team by percentage (8.84%).
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How are Stars and Sparks both so bad at rebounding?
It hurts my brain. I guess the Stars are pretty short (relatively) once you get past Appel and Riley, and neither of those two is particularly a great leaper. (That having been said, the Lynx starting frontcourt is 6’2", and they are basically crushing the whole rest of the league on the boards) The Sparks are even more mind-boggling to me, but their whole season has been pretty dysfunctional so I guess on that level I’m not surprised.
It’d be interesting to know rebounding numbers with/without Parker & Adams since they most missed significant time, but I’m too lazy to figure it out (guess I’m not really THAT interested ;) ).
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 7:34 PM EDT reply actions
Not boxing out has definitely been a problem for the Sparks
None of L.A.’s post players outside of Parker are good rebounders, either.
The Sparks literally miss box outs and get outjumped on far too many occasions
The Silver Stars are a bit more complex: their defensive rebounding is actually not bad – 72.1% is above average 71.5%.
Their problem is offensive rebounding due to size, as you mentioned, and their 6’2" players are not quite as rugged.
Hence, the need for Adams…
I don’t know the breakdown w & w/o Parker/Adams, but both teams stayed “consistent”…and were not good last year either.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
"And desire."
And with the Sparks, that seems to be the only explanation you’re left with after watching them get outrebounded over and over….
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Desire has been missing from the Sparks overall.
A few players seem to have it, but it hasn’t been contagious. I’ve wondered all season if the chemistry on that team is just…well…rotten, actually.
I’d really like to see SASS just put the Sparks out of their misery here.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions
It's so weird..
but it explains everything, like you said: the defensive effort, offensive fluidity, rebounding…
I’ve wondered if they entered the season assuming they’d be in the playoffs or got complacent after a strong start… but you had to pin those … well…. rotten.. things on a team.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Shalee Lehning with the head microphone on!
Shalee says that Connecticut is really hungry this year with a lot of weapons inside and outside.
LaChina asks if she played against Connecticut during her K-State days and asks her to give props to Connecticut which she does.
Is it bad that I want to see the 4-way tie in the east, which woud basically reverse the current standings?
I’m evil like that. I think it would be hilarious.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 7:53 PM EDT reply actions
Not good for Tamika Catchings if the
Fever end up on the bottom. Of course their goose is probably cooked anyway. Atlanta is the hot team in the east now.
Not bad at all
Chaos is always fun!
(Justine Larbalestier here. I know some of you from Twitter & finally got around to setting up an account here though I’ve been lurking for ages. Hi!)
I'm an Aussie New Yorker
So the Liberty plus any team with an Aussie on it. Though I think the Lynx are going to be tough to beat this year. They were amazing on Sunday.
Really?
Must have been before my time. I started following them seriously in 2003. Though went to my first game in 1999.
I have no idea at this point.....
I didn’t really follow much of the WNBA in the ’90’s aside from watching a bit of the Sparks dynasty.
It's kind of incredible
How many Aussies have & do play in the wnba. We’ve only a small population & we’re not that into basketball.
I seriously
Doubt that. Though with the low USD maybe . . .
I think they pay peanuts.
Half or more of what the WNBA pays.
There is a Cambage 2010/2011 highlight video that shows her playing a game in a gym that only looks to have about 7 rows of bleachers on each side.
That is what I have always assumed
Most Aussie players would prefer to play at home but there’s way more money overseas.
I found her
Annie Lafleur. 2001. (Seem to recall her have another last name, either before or after).
Not Atlanta!!!
And not Con if they have home court which they will.
We're. Not. Worthy. ;)
Welcome, though I know you’ve been reading since before this site existed…and greatly appreciate it.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Justine Larbalestier, huh?
As in, THE Justine Larbalestier?
The author of the Magic or Madness trilogy?
Lauren Jackson is back, and not a moment too soon!
Hmm
Kind of indifferent. San Antonio I think…
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 10:14 PM EDT up reply actions
:P
because I’m indifferent? Well, actually…the reason I think I want SA to win is so when we beat them at our last home game of the season, it won’t be knocking them out of the playoffs or anything. That should be determined before Sept. 11th please ;)
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 10:18 PM EDT up reply actions
OK
So maybe I do. That would also be fun. Hmm. #DecisionsDecisions
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 10:19 PM EDT up reply actions
As long time loser...
(Warriors, Niners fan)
I actually enjoy opportunities to rain on someone’s parade.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
I cheered for Purdue in 1999
Simply because they would have had an undefeated season, except that they lost to Stanford. And it was like the only good ting Stanford did all season…so I wanted Purdue to win it all and have Stanford be a blemish on their otherwise perfect season forever. Immortality for Regan Fruen!
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Good points, folks!
I’ve been like that when OSU has ruined OU’s chance at the national championship. That is fun, indeed…
But which will make the Shock pick up another win, huh? LOL
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 10:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I'd love it.
…mainly because I thought Atl would take it from the beginning so it would bail me out. ;)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Angel could teach Maya
More than somewhat about driving the lane.
So... so true...
The thing is, that jumper is so money… you almost watch her pull up and think it’s ok….
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
I question
Angel’s shot selection :-) And as a Liberty fan I think she gets away with way too many charges. But I would say that.
This is the last chance to get it right
This is the last chance to make it your night
Lauren Jackson is back, and not a moment too soon!
Halftime: 48-42 Dream
This Atl team is playing good basketball right now.
And the big thing for them: 4 first half turnovers.
“Not Atlanta” is a good choice for any eastern conference fan in the playoffs right now…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
What would their record be if they had been healthy all year?
They might be the strongest team in the league right now.
Setting aside my fan prejudices
I would like to see a Dream-Lynx finals.
Grabbing the prejudices you set aside...
I’d like to see a NYL- Minn finals in theory…
In reality, I know now that Minnesota might have an eternal grudge against NY so…. ;)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Ha!! I, too would adore that.
I love every Liberty player but we’ve been definitionally inconsistent this year. Totally understandable given our change of venue, resulting way lower attendance, change in management & coaching staff, loss of two centres. Frankly I’m thrilled & impressed we made the playoffs at all. Anything else would be gravy on gravy.
Me, too
But that’s cheating when I say that because those are my 2 teams.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions
That's tough
Obviously, I agree they’d be good…
But the thing is, Harding got off to a terrible start and Lehning was having a down season… so even healthy, they didn’t have strong point guard play….
And two of those early games were Minnesota…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2011_Atlanta_Dream_season
2-3 more wins?
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
They just showed a commercial for an Atlanta burger joint
- Checkers – that has a drive through lane on both sides of the building.
Dream playoff tickets now on sale as low as $15.
You can reserve the same seat for their entire playoff run.
Your MYstics tickets could be as low as $99!
and you can reserve the same seat for all 17 losses in 2012!
Impressive start to second half for Atl...up 52-45
Great defense on Charles right now, which is saying a lot.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
The Dream are entering the realm of the ridiculous...
I don’t think I’ve seen them click this well.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Yup
They look great. No truly stupid shots from Angel. Can’t question a thing tonight.
Sandora Irvin still hanging in the league
after being a big disappointment as a #3 pick by the Phoenix Mercury in 2003. But she still gets limited minutes.
LaChina says the crowd goes absolutely crazy
when Courtney Paris comes in the game. “They love her”.
#hotlantaisabiggirltown
Such a great pickup...
Glad to see her time finally came…and of course now I expect improvement.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Guess who sat down?
That would be Angel. But now she’s back.
I haven't looked up the stats
But I feel like Angel’s big improvement this year is passing more and thus taking less low percentage shots.
I haven't looked much actually...
I think most interesting is figuring out when she really hit a rhythm and how those #s compare to last year…
Basic stats suggest nothing spectacular and I suspect that’s why?
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
A few quick things:
- Free throw rate WAAY up: 2010: 39.4%, 2011: 50.29%…
- True shooting percentage is thus up as well, despite not shooting as well from the floor: 2010: 50.6% to 2011: 51.07%
- …which is impressive given a 35% usg rate…
Surprising, the passing numbers are down as a whole this year (assists and turnovers) so that’s something I’d wonder about picking apart a bit…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
If Atlanta plays McCoughtry, Price, Harding and Castro-Marquez together.
Their opponent had better have their good sneakers on because there is gonna be some running.
Angel has 32 pts in 32 mins
Not too shoddy. :-)
"This game has gotten physical"
“And this is the way Atlanta plays. You have got to be ready to take contact”. LaChina
Yes
I don’t have McCoughtry or Charles in the top spot, but if I had to choose one I’d go with McCoughtry. Hopefully, Catchings isn’t penalized for taking smart shots and actually being an efficient scorer. Ditto for Penny Taylor when it comes to All-WNBA voting.
Agree.
I would hope that voters at least compare Charles’ fg% to other centers and think twice before denying Catchings again…
There just comes a point when if all things are equal, give it to Catch in acknowledgment of how important defense is.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
And as you say...
I don’t actually see things as equal – smart shots and efficiency do matter as a 3.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Double agree
I would love for Catchings to win this year. So deserved.
It would drive me nuts if Taurasi got it. She’s fabulous but this year Penny Taylor is the best player in Phoenix.
by JustineL on Sep 6, 2011 10:15 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Rec'd
It confuses me how people can routinely ignore Taylor…
I guess when you just do everything so well everything blends together… ? ;)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Keep playing like that
& Atlanta will take the east.
Dunno
I’m very impressed by the Lynx and they’ll have home court.
Feel free to call me a Seattle homer..
…but I’m interested in how well Seattle can do against the Lynx with LJ…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Well...LiveAccess crapped out for me...
But that was an impressive performance…
I’m always wary of teams that rely so much on one person, but they have a defense to back them up, which is huge…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
OK!
An hour till the next game. Here’s a riddle to prepare:
Will anyone get a rebound in the LA – SASS game?
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
by Nate Parham on Sep 6, 2011 9:40 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Will anyone get a rebound in the LA – SASS game?
Great Question. Depends on who shows up for either team. May be lots of “team rebounds” whatever those are.
by lkg on Sep 6, 2011 9:55 PM EDT up reply actions
The ball will just bounce around...
…until it rolls to someone and doesn’t require effort…?
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
by Nate Parham on Sep 6, 2011 9:57 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
In seriousness...
My gut tells me SASS will win the rebounding battle.
But the thing is that the Sparks (and SASS obviously) can/have won games without rebounding if they shoot well. So it might be moot.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Becky is an awesome rebounder!!
For her height.
Let’s go, Stars! Do it for your state which is having a seriously horrendous time right now. I love you, Tully!
Otoh it’s kind of more interesting if LA wins & that Parker kid sure can play. Also they have two Aussies.
"Otoh it’s kind of more interesting if LA wins & that Parker kid sure can play. Also they have two Aussies."
I kinda agree. I want the drama.
And for mainstream audiences, getting Parker in the playoffs is a good thing.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
All of that is true
But I want to see Adams step up in the playoffs. She’s such a good story. And Danielle Robinson. Also the silver stars are NY Liberty east.
It's funny that the Dennis Rodman feature is on before this particular game too.
That Don Nelson strategy was hilarious.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
NBA tv only has four different programs as far as I can tell
And they play them over & over & over.
I predict Brunson will bet a rebound in the LA/SA game
Because the ball will hit the ground and roll THAT FAR before anyone picks it up.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Fine
I bet if DRob is in the game, she will speed over and pick the ball up before it rolls to Minnesota.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Man, I love Brunson
Why did we pick Nicole Powell in the dispersal draft?!
Don’t get me wrong very fond of Powell but Brunson’s a beast!!!!!
Well...
You know…
In retrospect – and I really do think Blaze had this in mind – a Cappie trade would be less likely without that deal to my mind.
Taking Brunson would’ve given them a logjam inside. Taking Powell made Christon “expendable” to use in a trade for Cappie…
So, I dunno. I guess it worked out.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Thats the eternal question, isnt it?
But Nicole had better numbers in 09 than Brunson, and has a more diverse game. Brunson has really picked up her game playing for Reeve.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:37 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
True
But I think Brunson has always been very underrated.
Agreed
I’m happy for her that people are finally appreciating her.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:00 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Just because
I want to pull the Swish Appeal world on my ‘drama’…. I have been frantically running around my house area for the past two hours looking for my debit card/ID. This made me miss the whole first game. And stressed me out to the max. I think I need to pour me a drink now. And watch game #2 :)
So you don't need me to suggest
Looking behind the couch? :-)
Ha
Was wedged between the seat of my car and the console….took me until the sixth tear apart of my automobile to find the little bugger!
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions
"These are the kind of games real competitors live for." - Candace Parker
I’m stashing that away in the memory banks.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
And lots of insane passes of
Surpassing beauty.
Oh yeah...
I’m talking about all the way into fantasy world: 20 pts 15 asts, 11 steals. 7 boards.
A block on Hammon maybe too.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
OK, I will accept a Sparks win under thoae circumstances.
Ticha, the Magician!
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:42 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
See...
That’s the kind of Sparks pass that makes absolutely no sense…
Lobbing a ball into traffic…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Dear Sparks,
Thanks for taking my advice and starting Tolliver and Penichero together.
But you have to lose now.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:41 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
A little delayed but..
Danielle Robinson is still faster than you. All. Of. You.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:43 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
I am on my phone
Quick, someone find a zooming DRob pic!
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:48 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Yay!
It was a good one!
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:55 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
How can the Sparks be so fail at boxing out?
All these posts know how to do that. Lame.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:45 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Becky Hammon just boxed DMJ out
That’s just sad, Sparks.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:46 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I also refuse to pin this on coaching.
If you need to tell a pro team to box out better…there’s a problem.
“These are the kind of games real competitors live for.” – Candace Parker
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Chemistry
Maybe they’re motivated to play a bit for their own pride, but they don’t look like they want to play together.
Well, except Tina and Tolliver just tried to make me eat that comment.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:50 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
My fave thing in the entire universe
Is when Leilani rebounds. So joy inducing.
It is, indeed, most excellent.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:51 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
No
But I’m aggravated because I want SASS to win.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:57 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
OMG, DID YOU KNOW TULLY IS 40?!
FORTY!
:/
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 10:53 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Lots of people
are forty. or close to forty. even non basketball player people i know. ::cough cough cough::
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 10:54 PM EDT up reply actions
That might be why I'm sensitive
Maybe.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:01 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
It's a miracle
She can still walk at such a crazy advanced age!
MicroTouchMax
I’m glad the all-important chest-shaving male WNBA fan demographic is being served.
End 1: 20-18 San
A few observations:
- Rebounds have been secured. Riley leading with 4.
- Am I the only one who thinks, “Sydney Colson could’ve stopped her?” every time I see any guard drive to the hole? I’m troubled that I’m thinking that when she is nowhere near the arena?
- Riley is also doing an admirable job on Parker. I’ll take turn around lefty fades any day of the week.
- Jenna O’Hea is good. But if we start too many #Free[AussiePlayer] campaigns, we’ll spread ourselves too thin.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
You are not being weird about Colson
There is definitely a place for her in the league. IDK WTCwH is wrong with her getting PT in NY.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:05 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
And every time I see another team that could use her skills...
…I start hoping she gets to go there.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:06 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
It's very strange
Could have used her spark in Sunday.
I seriously thought to myself
“Well, I wonder if they shoulda drafted Colson instead of Lavender?”
Stay with me now…
They had Paris in camp as a big… and you can’t tell me they couldn’t use her rebounding now…
…
OK. You may point and laugh now.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
WHAT SHE SAID
THERE IS EVIL AFOOT IN TULSA KEEPING OUR LIZZIE DOWN!!!
Agreed.
Jessica sent a Lizzie shirt to the Seattle game for me so I could represent for the cause.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:10 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Pffft
“Jenna O’Hea is good. But if we start too many #Free[AussiePlayer] campaigns, we’ll spread ourselves too thin.”
Too many? Does not compute. We Aussies are a persecuted minority in the WNBA. Save us!
In solidarity with Jessica,
we’re directing our efforts to the #FreeLizzie cause.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
There can be more than one campaign!!
#FREELIZZIE&JENNA!!!!
Definitely Kayla too :/
I love her so much. And I get called out if I ask about her. So no more Kayla news from me. :’( waa.
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 7, 2011 3:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Maybe you could point out to rookie losing coach that she hasn't done ish as a coach yet, either
So why does she think anyone wants to talk to her?
(And then you could get thrown out of press conferences forever. But wouldn’t the look on her face be priceless?)
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Tully > Jenna
That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:08 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Bevilaqua hit a three
and then immediately looked over at the large-letter scoreboard to see where they stood.
bryant has to put in shooters that can counter what SASS is doing….Toliver on the bench isn’t helping. Even with 2 fouls, so what. Put her out there.
I was thinking that's what O'Hea was in there for.
But it’s insulting to let someone zone you up if you’re the best 3pt team in the league…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Big Barbie doing good
It’s not wrong to call her that, is it?
Ultimate California girl.
She’s pretty much taller, stronger, fitter, better looking, nicer, and smarter than most of the people on the planet. I don’t think she cares what people call her.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:13 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Everyone in yellow just stood there...
…and watched Tully take the 3. At least pretend to defend.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:12 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
They call them "O" boards...
…because they named them after O’Hea.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:17 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Craig the photographer is at the game.
He texted.
To summarize, he’s not pleased that minutes of his life have been spent watching this event.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
but is he
at least getting quality shots? lol
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 6, 2011 11:13 PM EDT up reply actions
If he gets a picture of the Sparks getting an o-board...
…he might be a rich man.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
on i’m the free Jenna bangwagon. i thought she was in the doghouse consider bryant hadn’t played her in a while…but, i like her energy.
Seems like all coaches can have a strange
substitution pattern for some of their lower bench players
There it was!
The rebound hit the floor! And DRob is who grabbed it!
Knew it.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:15 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
lol
The funny.. .or sad.. thing is that both Hammon and DRob were joked about and have gotten boards…
Yes, sad.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
I was not joking
I never joke about Becky BigTime!
Jack Black?!
Damnit, I wanted to try to get to that game, too.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:20 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
SASS' problem (that I think Shannon and I have discussed previously)
Is they struggle to put teams away. They should be up by a LOT more but just don’t create shots well…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Yes.
They are a really structured team, and they are at their best when they get to run their set plays. They do have people who can create but its like they don’t know when to do that.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:23 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I still want to see DRob really become OU DRob again
I think as she continues to gain confidence we’ll see it again, but they could sure use it this season.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:25 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Creating, and getting fired up about it
Dreadlock shaking, foot stomping, yelling, chest pounding.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions
When I say club, I am using the broader definition that
includes a sports bar with money in the juke box. :)
And when I say
dreadlock shaking and foot stomping I mean head nodding and foot tapping. And when I say yelling I mean singing badly and loudly to the chorus of Ne-Yo songs. And when I say chest pounding I mean thigh slapping. But the resemblance between you and the collegiate DRob is kinda spooky.
This whole thread of conversation has taken a really weird turn
Really, really weird.
And it makes me sort of itchy, TBH. Just saying.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Does that mean
The Porthole counts as a club? LOLOL
by Jessica Lantz on Sep 7, 2011 3:12 AM EDT up reply actions
How irritated is Tina?
She’s a competitor. This season must make her want to break things.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:21 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
And, uh....
Why are they three-way switching if they’re not used to doing it… with their season on the line….
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
well...
…Tina been part of the problem this season. If she’s frustrated, hopefully she’s putting herself at the top of the list. Although, there are times when I wished she would just walk over and snatch the clipboard out of Jen or Jellybean’s hands and take over. LOL
Yup
And Essence Carson is quicker than people realise.
The other day Sue Wicks said that
Essence Carson was the most athletic player in the league “right there with Swin Cash and (I assume younger) Sheryl Swoopes”.
Essence is an interesting one though.
I definitely forget her when thinking about quickest.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
I think Lindsey Harding needs to be in that discussion as well.
But DRob is just amazing fast and increasingly controlled with the ball in her hands.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
...Sunshine for nothing!
And my cat says hi. She’s trying to eat my phone.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Halftime: 39-34...
We’re harping on the rebounds for good reason…
But the turnover story is noteworthy:
SASS: 8
LAS: 4
I can’t imagine that continuing… so they have to shoot better and stop SASS from getting to the rim so easily…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
He tried to play summer league one year I think...
I sort of imagine him as a rookie Essence Carson type player…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
It was a bad idea from inception
Tony Gonzalez couldn’t make it and he actually played college.
Charlie Ward was … Charlie Ward ;)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
i just laughed SO HARD
Sooooooo very hard.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:01 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
"Time now for the first half stats "
brought to you by Waste Management".
by ttdomi on Sep 6, 2011 11:31 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Thank god they weren't the Mystics jersey sponsor this season
even though they would promote a healthy environment by recycling retreaded coaches and players
Dan Hughes thinks Ruth Riley is having her
best year since she’s been in San Antonio.
She never did dominate in the WNBA the way she did in her senior year in college. Leading a team with only 1 future WNBA player on it to the title. Although her teammate Sophia did with 0 WNBA players if I am not mistaken.
Parker is long and graceful, like a gazelle,
but when she is talking to teammates or coaches it always looks like she is on Jerseylicious.
Adams trying to look innocent there.
That was hilarious.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:44 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
It should be noted that Hammon's last turnover should not be credited to Sparks defense
I’m not sure what she was doing.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
oooo Becky wants playoffs
I don’t know what she just said but it looked fierce.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:50 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Adams is quite a character. ;)
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:52 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Erm
I appear to have responded to this comment of yours below. Because I’m a bit challenged.
It's ok...
It takes getting used to.
A million bucks if you can properly define the distinction between a “fan post” and “fan shot”.
But overcoming the barriers to entry make it so much more fulfilling! :)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Well.. this is the time where your gut tells you who you're truly rooting for...
And I’m going up and down with the Sparks…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
And I'm with San Antonio
All the way!!! Becky is amazing!!!
"How does she do that?!"
She’s Becky Hammon. Duh.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:54 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Dear Jayne,
Please grab the rebound with BOTH hands.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:56 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
OK, Silver Stars.
Show us some fire in the 4th.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 6, 2011 11:58 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
OK... roll call.
Sparks or Silver Stars.
I will ban all Silver Stars fans.
Just kidding.
(maybe)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
OK... I hate to say this..
But Hammon must be shaving points with these turnovers…
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Dear Becky Hammon,
I’m sorry I offended you.
But please don’t take it out on the Sparks – I take full responsibility.
Thanks.
Nate
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
She is going to make you suffer...
…by dismantling the Sparks all by herself.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:11 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
May have to go to sleep, my eyes keep closing against my will
Very long day & I’m on the east coast but just wanted to say thanks for being so welcoming. I feel like Nate’s old blog & now swish appeal have taught me tonnes about the game & deepened my appreciation. Thank you.
Becky just turned her game up to 11
This stuff is ridiculous.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:04 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Becky just turned her game up to 11
This stuff is ridiculous.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:05 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Somewhere, the Hammonites are celebrating.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:06 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
AMAZING THINGS!
They must be seen to be believed.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:08 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Haven't seen
This Becky for a while. She’s been missed.
Becky Hammon
Becky finally decided to take the shot when she has it instead of looking for somebody to pass the ball off to. She finally heard me yelling. GO BECKY!
T.O., you are a jackass
That is all.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:09 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
“These are the kind of games real competitors live for.” – Candace Parker
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
by Nate Parham on Sep 7, 2011 12:11 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Whalenites, Hammonites, and Leilanians oh my!
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:25 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
"We're working a a deal with Becky"
How hard is it to work out a deal in the WNBA? Does that mean they don’t want to pay her the max?
PUT THE HAMMER DOWN, SILVER STARS!
PUT IT DOWN HARD!
(Did I ever mention I was a Sparks STH for 2 seasons? But I barely have any emotional connection to them anymore.)
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:13 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
You know you're in bad shape
when Tully banks in a 3 at the buzzer
by garzai38 on Sep 7, 2011 12:14 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Tully is going to do her Becky impersonation now.
Badass.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:14 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Seeing Ronkeeka Hodges
makes me fondly remember Doneeka Lewis who came in and started her first game at point guard for Tulsa and gave an inspired effort at home where Tulsa only lost by 8 to Phoenix (a win in my book). But then RIchardson got fired and her days were numbered.
Look at the Sparks bench.
They’ve totally given up. Where is that 3rd quarter energy?
Sorry, Sparks, but you really don’t deserve the playoffs this year. Take the extra time and figure your ish out.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:16 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Go ahead, get T'ed up.
In fact, get thrown out. Not like you’re doing anything anyway.
Oh, and he took my advice.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:21 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
To tell you the truth, LA is better
off in the lottery. They get a little more money for being in the playoffs this year but they need some players for the future. They’ve got 3 key players who are close to retirement.
DRob runs circles around you!
Chase her, silly Sparks…Chase her.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:22 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
SASS On to the Playoffs And Minnesots
Give up over 15 turnovers. Give up 4 offensive rebounds on one play and still win by 15. SASS needs to get a lot better quickly so they can stay with Minnesota. (HaHa).
They've played Minn relatively well this year.
Hard to know how they’d get over the hump.
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
I do wonder who was guarding her that day.
None of the options that come to mind seem to speak anything less than 35 points ;)
Twitter: @NateP_SBN.
Silver Stars vs. Lynx
Actually, 2 of the 4 games the Lynx beat the Silver Stars were won on last second shots. So, who knows? Every game is a new game starting at 0-0.
Luol Deng has pulled a Hammon or a Lyttle
Now a citizen of Britain and will play for their Olympic team.
deng was raised in the uk
He got citizenship in 2006 but liked in the UK for much of his childhood.
by thewiz06 on Sep 7, 2011 8:54 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
ben gordon, the pistons guard and former uconn star
is also playing for the UK and was born there, though I believe he moved to the us soon after birth.
by thewiz06 on Sep 7, 2011 8:55 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Oh, the guys on NBA-TV
gave me the impression he was just signed up as a citizen to play basketball with no history of being there. Maybe they were saying he wasn’t one of those cases.
Great Britain automatically gets a team as the host country. It’s a good thing they have Deng and Gordan so they can be somewhat respectable.
You know, for all the talk in LA about how the Purple and Gold is all about championships,
The ballclubs sure tend to go out with a whimper when the chips are down. When the Lakers and the Sparks are facing elimination, more often than not they completely fall out of the picture by the time we get to the 4th quarter.
Lauren Jackson is back, and not a moment too soon!
Dramatic collapses!
Hey, we are talking Los Angeles here. All Hollywood, all the time.
by Shannon Cotterell on Sep 7, 2011 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions
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