Saturday, January 31, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 31st, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----It is Saturday, so time for another edition of Crawford's NBA power rankings and Greg Crawford On Basketball has the best power rankings for both college teams and the NBA in the world. Per usual we things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Portland----Still one of the best teams in the NBA, but fading a little under what is tough schedule.

8. Washington---- One of the best surprises in the NBA this year.

7. Clippers--- Deserve to be here, but need to be more consistent.

6. Houston--- The Rockets in the last 20 years always seem to have good teams.

5. Cleveland---- 8 wins in row, funny how the talk of firing Dave Blatt has disappeared.

4. Toronto---- No one is paying attention to the Raptors, but you better, they will be tough out in playoffs

3. Golden State----Had a slight reality check this past week, but still really good.

2. Memphis----Been a consistent team and strong team all year long.

1. Atlanta----Crawford's power rankings would be a joke if it did not have a team that has won 18 in a row on top.

Small College Hoops---- Last night I saw my 114th college basketball game, start to finish, live. It was significant, as I can say after watching College of Idaho defeat a really good Concordia team on their home floor, the Yotes are the best small college basketball team I have seen this year.

College of Idaho is coached by Scott Garson, who prior to coming to College of Idaho served as an assistant for many years at UCLA under Ben Howland. Obviously if you work under Howland you are a good basketball coach and Garson is one of the best young coaches in the country. The big question, will C of I be able to keep him in Caldwell, where his team has a 29 game home court winning streak and plays before sellout crowds of 2,400 almost every game.

The Weekend---- As I say often, it is Saturday, so just get out and see a college basketball. On any level, there is nothing like seeing a game live. I strongly recommend you take in an NWAC Sports game, for schedule you can go to their website.

NBA Draft---- Starting tomorrow and every Sunday up to the NBA Draft we will give you plenty of information on players you might be seeing down the road in the NBA or playing professional basketball.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)

Friday, January 30, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 30th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford----editor of Greg Crawford On Basketball---- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Stuff--- The items below use to mean something in both college and professional basketball, now they do not mean as much, or very little or even nothing.

..... It use to be that 20 wins would get you at least to the bubble in the NCAA tournament, not anymore. If you are not an automatic qualifier, anymore to get to the Big Dance you better have at least 25 wins.

........ Averaging one steal per game in both the NBA and College games was pretty good. Nowadays, a 3rd grader could steal the ball or a pass from many players, the way the skill level has dropped in dribbling and passing.

......... Five year contracts. If you are an NBA general manager or an athletic director, you probably should not give anyone a five year contract, cause the patience level for not winning has risen dramatically just in the last five years and in most cases unfairly.

......... One or two assistant coaches, yes, remember those days. Jack Ramsay won the NBA Championship in 1977 with one assistant coach, Jack McKinney. In today's game on all levels, often times there will be more coaches on the bench than substitutes. It is over abundance in its finest.

......... 10 seconds means nothing in the college game. That is the allotted time it takes to get the ball across mid court by the offensive team. The rule is pathetic, a team can call timeout after spending 9 seconds in the backcourt and come back out and get a fresh 10 seconds. We all know the great solution, the offensive team should not be able to call timeout in the backcourt.

......... 1,000 wins means nothing. Well at least for Danny Miles at Oregon Tech. Once again, it is criminal that Miles is not the Basketball Hall of Fame. 1.000 wins in the college game should be an automatic qualifier.

.......... Students. So many college games, where there are very few students that show up, if any. Kind of sad, but if you want students, you better feed them and have your social media technology in order.

........Great Centers. Where has the center gone in basketball. No longer is the center an integral part of the game for the most part, let alone it is almost impossible to see a good 7-footer play the game anymore.

Please feel free to add what you think has disappeared from basketball.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)


Thursday, January 29, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 29th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Atlanta Hawks----What a season for the Atlanta, as last night they won there 17th straight game and 38th win of the season, which is only one win away from their entire victory total in 2013-14.

In another big move for the Hawks, in up to date attendance figures, they moved up one spot to rank 21st in the entire NBA in attendance, averaging just over 16,500 fans per game. In all of sports there more than likely has never been a team that has done so well overall on the field or court, had such a great win streak and still can't attract large crowds to their games.

So far this year, the Hawks at home have played to 88 percent capacity of their arena. Can anyone be serious about keeping this team in Atlanta?

Portland State/Montana----Tonight, at the Stott Center in Portland, Oregon, Montana will come to  town for their annual visit to the Rose City. (Well I guess I should be careful using the word annual, since the Big Sky plays an unbalanced schedule and we might not see Montana here next year, as Portland State this year does not travel to the Montana schools.)

With all that said, Montana usually is a huge draw at the Stott Center, tonight's game has a very good chance of selling out. I also think it is safe to say, despite the fact many people think Eastern Washington is the big rival for Portland State, in men's basketball without question the biggest rival is Montana.

Since Portland State brought D-1 basketball back in 1996, the Grizzlies and Vikings have played some tremendous games against each other, but none greater than last year's terrific 3-overtime game won by Portland State.

Another words, get there early tonight.

Crawford's NWC/CCC Combo Power Rankings---- It is Thursday, so that means another edition of Crawford's combo power rankings for the Northwest Conference and Cascade Collegiate Conference. Both these leagues play great basketball and both leagues have many long time coaches, who are terrific at what they do. Out of respect for the great game of golf, we always do things in 9s.

9. Puget Sound
8. Northwest Christian
7. Whitman
6. Warner Pacific
5. Southern Oregon
4. Lewis and Clark
3. Concordia
2. College of Idaho
1. Whitworth

Big time match up tomorrow night, as College of Idaho visits Concordia, 7:00 tip.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 28th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Pac-12---- Even though many of us would like for this to different, the Pac-12 for sure is not as strong as the past couple of years in men's basketball.

Yes, Arizona is pretty darn good, but when you think about it, they are also vulnerable to being beaten as they showed at Oregon State earlier this month.

The bottom half of the league is pretty anemic with the likes of USC and California, with the Bears showing lots of promise in December games, but certainly folding to 1-6 so far in January.

Then throw in the fact that Washington, Colorado and UCLA are just average so far, it really makes for a weak Pac-12.

With all the glitz and glamour, I have often thought Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott should figure out a way for the Pac-12 men's basketball teams to stand out nationally. Despite the fact the league will argue they do, they do not.

With TV perhaps now the biggest part of college basketball, my suggestion would for the Pac-12 to play one game each Monday night, 6:00 pm and work it out with some network, saying we own the world on that night.

Coaching--- It is really nice to see two great people who care much more than just coaching basketball, having great years coaching basketball. Tom Crean at Indiana and Mark Turgeon at Maryland both have teams have played great basketball in the Big Ten and good for them, you could not ask for nicer human beings.

Gregg Marshall---- I first saw Gregg Marshall coach a game live in Portland, Oregon when he brought his  Winthrop team into play at U of Portland. I went on the radio the next day and said I saw a guy coach last night that I feel will be a major star someday in the coaching ranks.

Sometimes you get things right, sometimes wrong. On Marshall, I hit a home run. Marshall's present team, Wichita State is once again having a banner year at 18-2 and once again is a threat to go a long way in the NCAA tournament.

It is now obvious Gregg Marshall could coach the Washington Generals and win. I am really hoping Marshall will not succumb to the many offers he will get from the NBA. He is a college guy who has what it takes and always will be.

Yes, if I had one choice of a coach today to start a men's basketball program, it would be Coach Marshall.

Crawford's NWAC Men's Power Rankings-----It is Wednesday, so it is once again time for Crawford's NWAC men's basketball power rankings, out in afternoon before a nearly full slate of NWAC games on Wednesday night. Per usual, we do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Wenatchee Valley 14-6, -3-2--- Tough road losses this past week at Treasure Valley and Blue Mountain.

8. Everett 13-7, 4-1--- Tied for second in league, chance to move into first Saturday, when they host Bellevue.

7. Clark 13-5, 6-1---- 5 game win streak put to the test tonight at Highline.

6. Big Bend 16-5, 4-1--- Big game tonight at Wenatchee Valley.

5. Columbia Basin 11-8, 4-1----Two big road wins last week put Columbia Basin into a tie for 1st in East.

4. Highline 14-5, 6-1--- Host Clark tonight in battle for first in the West.

3. Chemeketa 14-6, 5-0--- 8 wins in a row for the Storm.

2. Edmonds 16-4, 4-1----Remain in 2nd spot in power rankings after overtime loss to Bellevue.

1. Bellevue 18-2, 5-0----Wins over Edmonds and Peninsula push their win streak to 9 games.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)


Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 27th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Robert Upshaw---- The case of Robert Upshaw being dismissed from the Washington Huskies basketball team, is just another example of an all so talented athlete not being able to take control of his life and perhaps his future.

It has been reported that Upshaw was dismissed from the Huskies for a violation of team rules, which has been reported as a failed drug test, of which Upshaw had the same issues and problems at Fresno State, before transferring to Washington.

If you have watched the 7-footer play, it is pretty easy to recognize he is one of the most talented players on the west coast and is true, old school shot blocker, averaging 4.4 blocks ppg. with his time up to his dismissal Monday from the Huskies.

A waste of true talent, but perhaps the future can be brighter for Upshaw, in life first, then basketball.

NBA----It truly has been an exciting year in the NBA as always, here is a little catching up from Greg Crawford On Basketball.

......... Is TNT really thinking about taking Charles Barkley out of the studio, or is he thinking of ending his TV stint himself. I have news for the world, people do not tune into the studio show for Shaq, Ernie or Kenny, they tune in for Chuck.

--------Speaking of announcing, it is becoming more and more apparent that Kevin Harlan, who usually does one of the TNT games on Thursday night, might be the best play by play announcer in sports. He is terrific on basketball and if you have not heard him calling NFL games on radio, you are missing a real treat. By the way, he will be calling the Super Bowl on Westwood One, this Sunday. He is as good as it gets.

......... It is kind of surprising that the richest franchise in the NBA, could not keep a great team on the court. The Lakers are horrible, they probably will be back, but it is going to take awhile. They failed to keep developing young players, while adding pieces to the puzzle that just did not fit.

........It seems as if every NBA city gets a new arena about every 25 years for the most part, or at least a renovation. Now, the common thinking seems to be shifting that each team needs to either renovate or get a new arena every 15 years or sooner. The reason, fans want an experience, not just a place to watch the game. You can obviously never leave your house to get more than enough college and NBA basketball. The college game is finding out, unless they make major changes, they will continue to see attendance decline at staggering levels. The NBA can't let it happen to them.

NWAC Sports Coach/Player Of Week---- Each Tuesday, in Greg Crawford On Basketball, we pick a player and coach of the week. It is always hard, but always fun. NWAC Sports women's and men's basketball is terrific, get out and see a game, I am sure you will go back often.

Coach Of Week----This week's choice is Chad Meadors, Lower Columbia women's basketball coach. His team at present is riding a 7 game winning streak, all league wins and leads the NWAC Sports West Division. Lower Columbia had a huge win last weekend, defeating previously unbeaten in league play Centralia.

Player of the week honor goes to Columbia Basin's James Lopez as he led his team to two victories, getting them into a time with Big Bend for the top spot in the East region. Lopez in the two victories had  62 points, 10 rebounds and 16 assists.

Greg Crawford On Basketball says congrats to Chad Meadors and James Lopez.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com

Sunday, January 25, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 25th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Hall Of Fame---- Is this really fair. Today, Coach K will probably get his 1,000th win as a college basketball coach. Coach K entered the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001. Herb Magee is the coach at D-2 Philadelphia University (formerly known as Philadelphia Textile) for 47 years as the head coach and 56 years at the school. Magee entered the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011 and at present has 997 career wins.

Danny Miles has been the head men's basketball coach at Oregon Tech in Klamath Falls, Oregon for 44 years. In February of 2014, Miles won his 1,000th game, up to date he has 1,016 career wins, all at Oregon Tech. Oh by the way, Danny Miles is not in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Bottom line, huge omission that Miles has been left in the dust.

Oregon State---- There is no question that the Oregon State Beavers' men's basketball team is having a magical season, led by their 1st year head coach Wayne Tinkle. Heading to the Desert this week to meet ASU and Arizona State, the Beavers are tied for 3rd in the Pac-12, with 14 total wins on the season.

The Beavers have not been to the NCAA tournament since 1990, so the talk is starting is this the year. As much as all of basketball would love to see it, it probably will not happen. Besides this week in the Desert on the road, the Beavers still must play the L.A. schools on the road as well as Stanford and Cal.

My handicapping the schedule has Oregon State finishing the regular season with a record of 18-12. Now, a great run in the Pac-12 tourney and me being wrong, could change things lots and make the Beavers a bubble team for the NCAA tournament.

Crawford's NWAC Sports Women's Power Rankings-----It is Sunday, so that means another edition of Crawford's NWAC Sports Women's Power Rankings. Hard to do, but lots of fun, so many good teams. Of course per usual, we do everything in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Clark
8. Walla Walla
7. Centralia
6. Lane
5. Skagit Valley
4. Bellevue
3. Columbia Basin
2. Lower Columbia
1. Umpqua

Unbalanced Is Out Of Balance---- There is a guarantee from Greg Crawford On Basketball. I will never stop complaining, arguing and adamant about leagues playing unbalanced schedules. Of course covering the West in college basketball, the two biggest villains for me are the Pac-12 and Big Sky.

This I can tell you, with TV every year playing a larger role in college basketball, do viewers really want to see some of those horrid non-league games, as compared to a great league contest.

Let's take my home state of Oregon as an example. This year, in the Pac-12 Oregon Ducks do not have to travel to Utah and Colorado, but do not get to meet Stanford and California at home.

Portland State of the Big Sky does not travel to meet the Montana schools and does not get to play Idaho State and Weber State at home.

An unbalanced schedule is just flat unfair and quite frankly their should be an asterisk put by the regular season champion of any league that plays an unbalanced schedule. As they would say in boxing, that team is a closet champion, not their fault, but certainly the fault of leagues that want this type of unbalanced schedule.

Crawford's Best Nine----It is Sunday still, so it is time for another edition of Crawford's world famous Best Nine. The best nine, from the six D-1 leagues out west. This is fluid each week, lots of changes, but a good indicator of who is playing well during the season and currently.

9. St. Mary's 8-1, 16-4----Crushed by Gonzaga, but still deserve to be in the picture of Crawford's Best Nine.

8. Utah 5-1, 15-3---- Best Utah men's basketball season in many years

7. Sacamento State 7-1, 13-6---- The surprise team of west coast basketball.

6. Stanford 5-2, 14-5---- Johnny Dawkins finally has the Cardinal where they need to be.

5. Oregon State 5-2, 14-5----Wayne Tinkle has to be in the talk for national coach of the year.

4. Colorado State 5-2, 18-2---- The Rams are really good and will be a tough out in NCAA tournament.

3. Wyoming 6-1, 17-3---- Best team in the country, no one is talking about.

2. Arizona 6-1, 18-2----Only Pac-12 loss, to Oregon State on the road

1. Gonzaga 9-0, 20-1---- 37 straight home wins, destroyed their closest WCC competition St. Mary's and my pick to be in the Final Four this year.

Cascade Collegiate Conference---- In my hometown of Portland, Oregon, there will be a big time match-up, this Friday in the best NAIA men's basketball conference in the country. College of Idaho visits Concordia, both teams nationally ranked and tied for the league lead.

Two outstanding coaches in Brad Barbarick and Scott Garson, it is a game if you are in the area, you should attend.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 360 days per year)

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 24th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kssportsmgmt

Coaches vs. cancer----- In most parts of the country, this is the annual weekend for college basketball coaches ditch their dress shoes and don sneakers, to bring attention to their support to fight cancer. A noble cause and as someone who works in the cancer unit of a major hospital, I applaud anyone who joins the battle against this dreaded disease.

Of course cancer hits the patient the hardest, both mentally and physically, but it also hammers patients' families, relatives and friends, who often become the caregiver in tough times. It is never easy.

So today, I not only salute everyone above, but I also want to send a messages to all college basketball coaches. Besides this weekend, I would hope you join a movement, I started. Never, ever again capitalize cancer, it does not deserve it, it is a chance for many people including coaches to send a strong message, as simple as it might be.

Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- It is Saturday, so time for another edition of the ever popular Crawford's NBA power rankings. Very hard to do, but also so much fun and even more difficult since I always do things in 9s, out of the respect for the great game of golf.

9. Toronto
8. Dallas
7. Chicago
6. Houston
5. Washington
4. Memphis
3. Clippers
2. Golden State
1. Atlanta

Yes, the Hawks do not have the best record in the league, but I think they are the best team at present.

NBA Attendance Up To Date----- Even though they are number one in Crawford's NBA power rankings, the Atlanta Hawks still are floundering at the box office (well I guess maybe there is no box office now with technology, but I still like the term), as the Hawks rank 22nd in NBA average attendance rankings. Amazing they draw on average almost 2,000 more on the road than at home. 16,400 at home, 18,005 on the road.

No surprise, Chicago leads the league in average attendance of 21,505, selling out every game. Last in the league is the Timberwolves at 13,870. Memphis, which is having one great year like the Hawks ranks 18th with an average of 17,031.

Here is a list of teams that have a higher average of fans seeing their games on the road,  than at home, sadly----- Milwaukee, Denver, New Orleans, Sacramento, Phoenix, Atlanta, Indiana, Orlando, Brooklyn, Washington, Boston, Charlotte and Memphis.

Cascade Collegiate Conference---- Last night, I saw my 104th college basketball  game in the 2014-15, live, start finish and it was a great one. A battle for first place in the Northwest Conference, between inner city rivals, as Concordia visited Warner Pacific. For those of you reading around the world, the CCC is the best NAIA Division 2 Conference in the country.

Last night's game did not disappoint, as Concordia won a nail biter to move into a tie with College of Idaho for the top spot in the CCC. C of I, plays tonight at home against Oregon Tech, if they win, that will set-up a huge game next Friday night as C of I comes to Concordia.

There is still something special about last night, with not a seat to had in the gym 2 hours before tip-off and people standing 3-4 deep in every corner. Granted, Warner Pacific is a small gym, but seeing a game sold out, is always special. By the way, everyone got along as well, which always make a night at a basketball game even more special.

Tonight the CCC, along with the Northwest Conference and NWAC Sports leagues are all back in action. This is small college basketball at its best, so just get out and see a game.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com



Friday, January 23, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 23rd, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Seattle Redhawks
---- Today in Seattle they are not exactly jumping up and down about the Seattle Redhawks men's basketball team,  like they are about the Seahawks, but anyone associated the team should at least be smiling.

The Redhawks are currently leading the Western Athletic Conference with a 3-1 record and on the season are 10-8.  Not records that many people in basketball will get excited about but considering the state of basketball since the Redhawks went from D-2 to D-1 in 2009, this is huge news.

Prior to this year, the Redhawks have just not gotten it done, but maybe, it still early in league play, this is the year of the turn around.

It should also be noted, for many young people, who do not know the history of Seattle U. basketball, it is iconic in many ways. Since the 1950s, Seattle U has had 18 players play in the NBA, more than Gonzaga, Washington, Washington State, Oregon and Oregon State. It is also important to mention that in 1958, Seattle U played in the championship game of the NCAA tournament, losing to Kentucky in the Final.

The most fun fact about Seattle U. basketball is that in 1952, they beat the Harlem Globetrotters, 84-81, a game played to a sellout in Hec Edumundson Pavilion on the U of Washington campus, which drew a sellout crowd and featured the first ever halftime show at a college basketball game, with the greatest trumpet player ever performing,  Louie Armstrong.

That 1952 gmae also changed basketball history, as after the loss, Abe Saperstein, owner of the Globetrotters, was so incensed his team lost, he immediately called his friend Red Klotz and told him to a form a team, that the Globetrotters could beat every night. The team that Klotz formed? The Washington Generals.

Injuries---- You always hear in the game of basketball that injuries are a part of the game and you can't use them as an excuse for losing. WRONG. Teams have every right and should use injuries as an excuse for losing.

There are only 12 players on almost every basketball team from high school to the NBA. If you lose one star, let alone two stars off any of those teams, then you are going to lose games, end of story. Let's get real here, injuries matter big time in the game of basketball and fans who care should always know, injuries can be used as an excuse.

A Sweep---- It has been a long time in my home state of Oregon since the four D-1 teams all won conference games on one night. But it did happen on Thursday night, as Oregon, Oregon State, Portland and Portland State all won. Not earth shattering, but certainly good.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 360 days per year)

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 22nd, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Valuations--- There is always lots of talk about sports teams and their valuations. When it comes to valuations of basketball teams or any sports team, it truly is just a number, that people can have fun with and banter around.

We do our own valuation of sports' teams at Crawford's Sports Biz, which comes from years of figuring out the right formula and how to properly valuate. As good as that it is and economically sound as it is, once again it is just a number.

The real valuation of any team is what someone wants to pay for it, end of story. Often in sports the purchase of any team is strictly an emotional buy, which often can turn out to be a good business buy.

So never get too caught up in the valuation of team on paper, get caught up if it becomes a great or bad business deal down the road. (NOTE: If you would like a correct valuation of your favorite sports team, just email me at crawfordssportsbiz@gmail.com

D-League--- The NBA's developmental league just completed another successful showcase in Santa Cruz. Well attended, with plenty of top flight NBA people from every single team around. Plus, the basketball is not bad either.

Keep in mind that even some of the D-League's best players make only $25,000 per year, which is a paltry sum compared to what many top international players receive. With the next NBA TV deal set to kick in two years from now and the fact the year after the players association or management can back out of the current collective bargaining agreement, the pay of D-League players will become an issue, especially since the TV deal calls for payment to the league of $2.66 billion per year, compared to now, $930 million.

Every team in the D-League has a single affiliation with an NBA team, except the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, who are supplied players by 13 different NBA teams.

NWC/Cascade Conference Power Rankings--- It is Thursday, time for another combo edition of Crawford's Northwest Conference/ Cascade Collegiate Conference Power Rankings. Per usual, we always do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Northwest Christian
8. Puget Sound
7. Lewis and Clark
6. Whitman
5. Warner Pacific
4. Southern Oregon
3. Concordia
2. College of Idaho
1. Whitworth

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 360 days per year).


Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 21st, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

St. Mary's/Gonzaga---- St. Mary's and Gonzaga will meet again tomorrow night in Spokane and everyone on the west coast at least is talking about the game as they should. First place is on the line in the West Coast Conference, as both teams are 7-0 and both are playing great basketball at present.

The one problem here, is the people that refer to this as a rivalry. It is two top teams, but a rivalry it is not. As I often say, Gonzaga has been the best regular season team in sports of any kind in the last 25 years. They have dominated the West Coast Conference, winning 12 of the last 13 regular season championships and every year since 2000, have been in the NCAA tournament.

A rivalry in most sports is when there is somewhat equal winning and even better somewhat equal championships. St. Mary's has been very good in the last 15 years, but not good enough to be considered a rival of the Zags.

LaMarcus Aldridge---- The Portland Trail Blazers are really hoping, as they should to get their star power forward back in the line-up soon from his hand injury, as tonight he will miss his second game in a row.

The Blazers need him and they always  need him. It does bring up the question, who is more important to the Blazers, Aldridge or their other big time star Damian Lillard. It is often said, Aldridge is their best player. I have to disagree, I think the best player on the team is Damian Lillard. There is one big reason----I want Lillard taking that game winning or tying shot every time on this team, more than any other player including Aldridge.

Naturally if the Blazers are too go far in the playoffs, they need both of these great players and much more, but when people talk about Aldridge and Lillard, it is hard to go against Lillard as the Blazer MVP.

NWAC Sports Men's Power Rankings-----It is Wednesday, so that means another edition of Crawford's NWAC Sports Men's power rankings, done always Wednesday afternoon, before a full slate of NWAC games on Wednesday night. So here we go and always remember, we do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Clackamas 11-7, 3-0-----Cougars are off to a fast start in league play, 3-0, first place on the line tonight at Chemeketa.

8. Highline 12-5, 4-1----Travel to South Puget Sound and Green River this week.

7. Columbia Basin 9-8, 2-1----Big road trip to Big Bend and Spokane in hopes of staying near the top of the East region.

6. Chemeketa 12-6, 3-0----Make it 6 wins in a row, after road wins at Umpqua and in OT at Mt. Hood.

5. Skagit Valley 10-5, 2-1----Tough loss at home to Bellevue 85-79. Looking to bounce back this week against Everett and Whatcom.

4. Wenatchee Valley 14-4, 3-0----Convincing win at Columbia Basin, 86-69.

3. Big Bend 15-4, 3-0----Host Columbia Basin and Walla Walla this week as they try to stay perfect in league play.

2. Edmonds 15-3, 3-0----Last 2 games, scored 181 points and gave up only 117.

1. Bellevue 16-2, 3-0----Host Edmonds tonight, with first place on the line in North region and Crawford's power rankings implications.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 20th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

NBA--- Perhaps many would disagree with me, but it always seems sad when the NBA has pathetic teams that have been iconic in many years. I hate the word cyclical, to me that is just simply an excuse.

You probably get where this is going. It is not fun, to have the Lakers, Celtics, 76ers and Knicks, being sad and pathetic teams, especially from this long, long time observer of the NBA.

Yes, I live in Portland, Oregon, but I want the whole league each year to be successful and exciting. The excitement goes away, especially when the Knicks, Celtics, 76ers and Lakers virtually have no chance of being in the playoffs come April.

Please don't call me a traditionalist, instead I am a realist. Good teams are always needed in Boston, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and New York. It also makes it much more fun when those teams are really good and get beat, it actually is a special occasion.

Atlanta Hawks---- This has much more to do with the Hawks success than one would think. Recently Mike Budenholzer stated he allows all his players "to play through mistakes." A profound statement indeed.

With so much pressure to win these days, all the way down to the high school level, I see way too many coaches pull players out, the minute they make one mistake. It is especially prevalent on the high school level, where at times coaches let their egos get in the way of good coaching.

Basketball is full of mistakes, every game. Yes, you do not want players making mistakes over and over again, but not allowing for a mistake, jerking the players out immediately can have nothing but bad outcomes down the road.

NWAC Sports Basketball---- Each Tuesday, until March, Greg Crawford On Basketball will bring you an NWAC Sports coach of the week and player of the week. The choices can come from either the women's or men's basketball side and to only pick one of each means the award is pretty special.

Coach of the week, which runs from last Wednesday to today is, Shane Schutz, the head women's coach at Centralia CC, in Centralia, Washington. Schutz's team is currently leading the West region of the NWAC  Sports, they have won eight games in a row and five games in a row in the league season.

Player of the week, comes from Clackamas CC, located in Oregon City, Oregon, as they are getting terrific play out of their freshmen center Vince Boumann, who presently is 9th in NWAC field goal percentage at just over 58 percent. Boumann in his most recent game against SWOCC scored 22 points, while grabbing 16 rebounds. The game prior he had a double/double in scoring and rebounding and is one of the major reasons the Cougars are off to a 3-0 start in NWAC South play.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 360 days per year).

Sunday, January 18, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 18th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Crawford's Best Nine---- Each Sunday, we bring you the nine best teams from the six D-1 leagues that play out west. Those leagues are, Mt. West, Big West, WAC, Big Sky, Pac-12 and West Coast Conference. Many teams could qualify, but we have broken it down, per usual we always do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf. Here we go.

9. Sacramento State 5-1 11-6---- Perhaps playing the best basketball in the Big Sky, with a great weekend sweep over two talented teams, Idaho and Eastern Washington.

8. UC Davis 4-0 14-3-----Easily the class at present of the Big West. Jim Les has brought the Aggie program to a new level.

7. Wyoming 5-1 16-3--- One of the best seasons ever for Cowboy men's basketball.

6. Utah 4-1 16-2---- Many were looking for a better performance from the Utes on Saturday at Arizona, but it did not happen, still one fine Pac-12 team.

5. Stanford 4-1 13-4----The Cardinal make the Pac-12 2014-15 season really interesting, big non-league game win this past weekend over Connecticut.

4. San Diego State 4-1 14-4---- Steve Fisher is one of the 5 best coaches in all of college basketball and his Aztecs are rolling, have won 7 of 8 and a big road win over Wyoming this past week.

3. St. Mary's 7-0 15-3---- Showdown game this week at Gonzaga, Randy Bennett does nothing but win  games at St. Mary's.

2. Gonzaga 7-0 18-1---- Still a strong pick of mine to advance to the Final Four, without question this is the deepest team Mark Few has had in Spokane.

1. Arizona 4-1 16-2---- The Wildcats move to number 1 in Crawford's Best Nine, big statement win this past weekend over a tough Utah team, plus the only team this year to beat Gonzaga.

Crawford's NWAC Women's Power Rankings---- Every Sunday, we bring you Crawford's NWAC Sports Women's power rankings. NWAC Sports women's teams play a great brand of basketball, there are 32 teams in the league, which encompass four regions of community colleges. Greg Crawford On Basketball is the leading media source for both NWAC men's and women's basketball. Here we go and as usual, we do everything in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Blue Mountain
8. Lane
7. Clark
6. Columbia Basin
5. Lower Columbia
4. Bellevue
3. Walla Walla
2. Umpqua
1. Centralia

Wayne Tinkle---- Another example of why Wayne Tinkle, head men's coach at Oregon State is a terrific basketball coach. The Beavers lost a tough game on Thursday night in Seattle to Washington and also lost a a terrific player in Victor Robbins, as Robbins was suspended this past week for 10 games, due to a violation of the Oregon State athletic code.

It would have been easy for the Beavers to go into Pullman last night and get creamed by Washington State, who just happened to be one of the hottest teams on the west coast, coming off a huge overtime win on Thursday over Oregon.

But, wait just a second, the Beavers destroyed the Cougars, moving their Pac-12 record to 3-2 and 12-5 overall. It gets better, as most people know, the Beavers have a top 25 recruiting class coming in for the 2015-16 season.

My take on all of this. If the Beavers can keep Wayne Tinkle in Corvallis for the next 10 years, they will not only make an appearance in the NCAA tournament often, they will make a Final Four, where despite their storied history prior to 1990, they have only been to one Final Four and have not been to the NCAA tournament since 1990.

Cascade Collegiate Conference---- This is the best NAIA men's basketball league in country and it is having one great race for the top spot this year, so important to finish first and host all playoff games if your team keeps winning.

This Friday in Portland, Oregon, there will be a big showdown game at Warner Pacific, as Concordia comes calling. Both teams are tied for the league lead, along with Southern Oregon and College of Idaho. Get there early, but get there to see this game, as it will be standing room only.

Portland State---- Speaking of standing room only, that was the case last night in Portland, Oregon at the Stott Center, for the Idaho/Portland State game. The crowd was bolstered by a strong turnout of Idaho fans, but equally as important was a huge turnout of Portland State students.

I have argued for years, that every game should be sold out at the Stott Center, as it seats only 1,500 people at best.

Jon Spoelstra is considered universally as the best sports marketer ever, his many great books including "Marketing Outrageously, Redux",  are and have been forever popular and it is Jon who always says building a strong college basketball fan base, starts with the students. Now Portland State must keep up the momentum and bring those students back for their next home stand against Montana and Montana State to close out January.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (sports biz and golf, 360 days per year)


Saturday, January 17, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 17th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

NBA Power Rankings---- It is Saturday, so that means it is time for another edition of Crawford's world famous NBA power rankings. Lots of changes this week, we always do things in 9s out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Dallas
8. Clippers
7. Chicago
6. Portland
5. Toronto
4. Houston
3. Memphis
2. Golden State
1. Atlanta

NBA Finals---- I have changed from my August prediction of having the Chicago Bulls defeat Portland in the NBA Finals. Now I think Portland will win it all, defeating Chicago in 7 games, a dramatic series indeed.

For some reason as good as they are, I think Golden State will get knocked out in the second round. As for a sleeper, you obviously have to consider Memphis, Houston and Atlanta, as there is no question the Hawks are for real.

Once again, it shocking that the Atlanta Hawks in the up to date NBA attendance figures still rank 24th, averaging 16,181 fans per game. Number one in NBA attendance is Chicago with 21,898 and last is Minnesota at 13,818 fans per game.

Score Predictions----- Took a little break from my score predictions because of so many pressing stories that needed to get out and always will here in Greg Crawford On Basketball, but we are back today, with a season record so far of 40-18.

Portland 100 @ Memphis 97
Atlanta 83 @Chicago 104  The Bulls end the Hawks' 11 game winning streak.
Golden State 116 @ Houston 121 GS loses for only the 7th time this year.

Final Four---- As long as I am in the prediction mode, how about a little college final four. Of course always dependent on the region a team lands in, but here is who I think might be there in April.

Gonzaga, Michigan State, Kentucky and Kansas.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com


Friday, January 16, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 16th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

4 Quarters---- After this weekend is over, I will have seen 95 college basketball games in 2014-15 live, start to finish. Out of that has come a strong conviction, that college basketball needs to get away from halves and go to four 10 minute quarters. It would improve the flow of game which is greatly needed and it would take away so many timeouts which are ruining the game.

Here is how it should be played. One media timeout per quarter, 3 30 second timeouts per game for each team, of which you can only use one of those 30s in the first two quarters. As for when a team gets into the bonus. That would be at the 5th foul and it would start clean with each quarter. No more double bonus, as teams can't shoot free throws anyway anymore, so why bother.

This would work.

LeBron--- It is not Monday morning quarterbacking, but let's face facts. LeBron should have stayed in Miami, where he would have won multiple titles, with the infrastructure of Pat Riley and Erik Spoelstra in place. Cleveland is a mess, plus there is a very good chance Kevin Love will leave after this season and Love is a much better player than anyone will ever give him credit for, or has.

Ernie Kent----The guy can coach, yes he can coach. Yes, it is early, but so what, the Washington State Cougars are tied for 2nd in Pac-12 men's basketball, after the dramatic win last night over Kent's former team, Oregon. No one at this juncture of the season had Kent doing anything even close to what the Cougars have accomplished.

I said it at the time and am saying it now, Oregon never should have gotten rid of Ernie, despite the fact Dana Altman is a terrific coach and will be for sometime to come.

Eastern Washington--- Who would have thought that the two best D-1 teams in the Pacific Northwest at present would be only 16 miles apart. Of course, Gonzaga is the best, but right behind them is Big Sky member Eastern Washington.

The Eagles are a deep team, at present they have sole possession of first place,  with so much offensive punch, they really have to be the favorites to win the Big Sky regular season championship, under coach Jim Hayford. Fun to watch and fun to see a good team in Cheney.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 15th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

NBA History---- Today, January 15th is the 50th anniversary of one of the biggest trades in NBA history. In the midst of a 17 game losing streak, the San Francisco Warriors traded disgruntled Wilt Chamberlain to the Philadelphia 76ers for 3 players and cash.

Of course Chamberlain had a great career in Philadelphia, eventually leading the 76ers to the NBA championship in 1967. His overall career in the league was awesome, it is shame many young people today did not get to see him play either on TV or live. It brings up the always great question, who is the greatest player ever in the NBA?

It is an easy choice for me, so here are top 3 of all time. 1) Magic Johnson 2) Wilt Chamberlain 3) Michael Jordan.

Portland, Oregon--- In my hometown of Portland, Oregon, it is a huge weekend for the Portland State men's basketball team. With the team finally reaching some good health, after a run of devastating injuries, the Vikings will host  tonight Eastern Washington and on Saturday Idaho. Led by their outstanding coach Jim Hayford, EWU has sole possession of first place in the Big Sky Conference at 3-0, so the Viks will have their hands full.

Even though the Vikings have played Idaho before at Portland State, on Saturday night it will be the Vandals first visit to Portland, with both teams being members of the Big Sky. It is great to have Idaho back in the Big Sky this year, after a long absence.

NWC/CCC Power Rankings---- Every Thursday, we bring you Crawford's NWC/CCC combo power rankings. Both the Northwest Conference and Cascade Collegiate Conference have so many talented teams, so it is great to combine the leagues for my power rankings. Per usual, we do things in 9s out of the great respect for the game of golf.

9. Northwest Christian
8. Puget Sound
7. Oregon Tech
6. Whitman
5. Concordia
4. Southern Oregon
3. Warner Pacific
2. College of Idaho
1. Whitworth

Bob Boyd---- Since I have followed Pac-8, Pac-10 and Pac-12 basketball closely since the early 60s, I was saddened to hear yesterday the passing of Bob Boyd, at the age of 84.

Bob Boyd was one of the best coaches ever in the Pac-8, Pac-10 and Pac-12, coaching the USC Trojans from 1967-79 and compiling a 236-131 win loss record.

One of the most important accomplishments for Bob Boyd at USC is that his Trojans were the first ever team to win a game in Pauley Pavilion, which happened during the 1968-69 season.

more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 14th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

NWAC Sports Men's Power Rankings---- It is Wednesday, so time for another edition of Crawford's NWAC Sports Men's Power Rankings. Of course this is always a big night for NWAC basketball as almost every men's and women's team is in action. Always do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Highline 11-5, 3-1----Started league play 3-0. before losing 87-73 at home to Tacoma. Doug McDaniel is the 3rd leading scorer in the NWAC at 21 ppg.

8. Chemeketa 9-6, 1-0---- The Storm hit the road this week at Mt. Hood and Umpqua. They have won four in a row.

7. Lower Columbia 11-6, 3-1----Good past week with wins over Clark and Green River. Jamie Ford is scorching hot from behind the arch on the season making 57 of 110 shots, a 52 %.

6. Skagit Valley 8-4, 1-0--- The Cardinals have been led by Gerad Davis. who is averaging 19.5 ppg and 7.3 rebounds as a guard.

5. Wenatchee Valley 11-4, 1-0--- Game of the week tonight at Columbia Basin will help show us who is emerging early in the East.

4. Columbia Basin 8-7, 1-0--- Won a shootout 107-95 at Treasure Valley, with James Lopez scoring 30 points and adding 7 assists. He is the NWAC leader in both of those categories.

3. Big Bend 13-4, 1-0--- The Vikes make it 10 of 11 last week and host Blue Mountain and Treasure Valley this week.

2. Edmonds 13-3 1-0---Put their six game winning streak up against Everett tonight at home.

1. Bellevue 14-2 1-0----Coach Eggers squad host Olympic tonight and Skagit Valley on Saturday.

NBA Relocation/Expansion---- Last week in Greg Crawford On Basketball, I gave you the top 9 cities in the United States that are ripe for either a team relocating or NBA expansion.

It appears that it would be a real long shot for Atlanta to relocate, even though I am not sure how many people in the Atlanta area outside of a few politicos are interested in the team staying. As mentioned last week, despite having the 3rd best record in the league, the Hawks still rank 24th in overall attendance in the NBA this season, that for sure does not add up.

This is the most likely scenario before we reach the end of the decade for NBA expansion. It will be hard not for Seattle to get back in the mix and have a team. We have also learned that quietly, behind the scenes there is big money behind a group to bring the NBA back to San Diego, where it has not been since 1984.

San Diego is a wonderful sports town, with so many people landing there from the East, where sports overall is much more popular than on the west coast in general, so built in fan base exists for sure.

Put your money on Seattle and San Diego to be in the NBA before 2020.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports business)

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 13th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Gregg Popovich--- For a guy who always seems to be leaving players at home to rest them during the NBA season, many times cheating the fans, it seemed a little bit hypocritical that Popovich had the whole team at the White House to meet the President Obama recently. If he would have been consistent,  wouldn't he have at least left a couple of guys home?

Oregon State/Arizona--- Even though it has been two days since Oregon State beat #7 ranked Arizona in Corvallis, 58-56, some in the basketball world are still buzzing about the Beaver win. It is interesting to note that many basketball experts felt the Beavers would be lucky to win five total games this year, at the same time saying it would be tough for the Beavers to even win one in Pac-12 play.

Yes, it is early, but the Beavers are 2-1 in Conference and 11-4 overall. Wayne Tinkle is the real deal, he will put Oregon State basketball on the map before it is all said and done, as the Beavers have a top 15 recruiting class coming in for 2015-16.

One sour note, only 6,191 fans showed up at Gill Coliseum on Sunday night to see the nationally ranked Wildcats. Shame on you Oregon State fans and shame on basketball fans in general in the state of Oregon. With limited live and TV competition, this game should have been sold out, well in advance, it is not that hard to get 9,500 people in Corvallis to see an improved Oregon State team.

Linfield College---- Linfield is a member of the D-3 Northwest Conference. Under second year coach Shanan Rosenberg the team is striving to get better and get back up in the top rung in future years in the Conference.

No matter who it is, you have to feel for Linfield, as at present they are  the midst of playing 7 of 8 games on road, almost unheard of in the modern era of college basketball scheduling. While you do at times see some NBA teams, play 7 of 8 games on the road, as everyone knows the NBA plays a regular season schedule of 82 games. The Northwest Conference plays 16 league games. When you play 7 of 8 games on the road in a 16 game league schedule, please do not mention to me the term student/athlete. Kind of takes the student side out, if you get the drift. Another words, UNFAIR, no matter what school or conference to have a schedule like that.

NWAC Sports---- Doing the NWAC Sports power rankings each week for both the men and women basketball, it means I love the league as a basketball conference. 34 wonderful schools in Oregon and Washington,  who many have long time, dedicated coaches on both the men's and women's side. The league games started last week, as most NWAC games are played on Wednesday and Saturday, with the exception of the NWAC western region which often plays on Monday night as well.

Every Tuesday, we will be giving you a coach and player of the week, starting next week from each of the four regions of the NWAC. Glad to do it and get out and see a game, for sure you will go back.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz).



Sunday, January 11, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 11th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Crawford's Best Nine---- Each Sunday, we will bring you Crawford's Best Nine, which will consist of the best nine teams out West, from the six D-1 men's leagues that have teams playing out west. Those leagues are Big Sky, Big West, WAC, Mt. West, West Coast Conference and Pac-12. The list is fluid and obviously will change, sometimes dramatically each Sunday.

9. Oregon (12-4 2-1)--- There should be no disputing, Dana Altman is one of the best college basketball coaches in the country.

8. UC Davis (12-3 2-0)--- At present, easily the class of the Big West.

7. Pepperdine (11-5 4-1)----Marty Wilson has made Wave basketball relevant again.

6. Eastern Washington (12-4 3-0)----Jim Hayford Eagles' have sole possession of first place in the Big Sky Conference.

5. Wyoming (15-2 4-0)---- The Cowboys are easily one of the great stories this year in college basketball and leading the Mt. West at this point.

4. St. Mary's (13-3 5-0)--- What can you say, the Gaels will never be bad or even average under Randy Bennett.

3. Utah (13-2 3-0)---- It did not take Larry Krystkowiak very long to make the Utes a basketball power out west.

2. Arizona (14-1 2-0)----The Wildcats will probably never be out of the Crawford's Best Nine.

1. Gonzaga (16-1 5-0)--- I not only think the Zags will go undefeated in West Coast Conference play this year, I think they will be a Final Four team for the first time ever.

Montana Coaching Tree---- If you want to succeed in college basketball coaching, perhaps one of your stops should be in Missoula, coaching at Montana.

So many good coaches have been there, then had huge success after leaving. One of those is Stew Morrill, who this week announced his retirement at the end of the season from Utah State, where since 1998 he has compiled so far with the Aggies an incredible 393-149 record. Besides Morrill, other so talented coaches who have been the top guy at Montana have been Mike Montgomery, Blaine Taylor, Jud Heathcote, Wayne Tinkle and Larry Krystkowiak. What a group, that at one time have been the head coach of the Montana Grizzlies.

Crawford's NWAC Women's Power Rankings---- Every Sunday we bring you the NWAC Sports women's basketball power rankings and the men's on Wednesdays. Some big changes this week and of course I always do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

1. Centralia
2. Umpqua
3. Wenatchee Valley
4. Lane
5. Walla Walla
6. Skagit Valley
7. Bellevue
8. Columbia Basin
9. Lower Columbia

Congrats to the teams that made it, if your team is not there, get there please.

Props--- For sometime, way before other people I have been singing the praises of two coaches out west, I have been telling the world to watch these guys. Please take note that both Marty Wilson of Pepperdine and Jim Hayford of Eastern Washington are having great years so far. Both of these guys are quality people on and off the floor, so get to know them in college basketball.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year).


Saturday, January 10, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 10th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

After Game Handshakes--- Last night in Portland, Oregon I watched one great NAIA basketball game between Northwest Christian and Concordia, won by Concordia in overtime, a game that had first place on the line in the Cascade Collegiate Conference.

I love the way the NAIA starts a game. by having the players line-up foul line extended, play the national anthem and then come together for a handshake and wish each other good luck during the game. Now the NAIA, NCAA and high school basketball organizations should take this one step further and eliminate the line-up after games for handshakes.

The after game handshake needs to done away with, it has nothing to do with sportsmanship, but everything to do with safety and common sense. I am sure some coaches would disagree, but there is not one coach I have talked with that likes the after game handshake. Too many potential problems can arise with friction that might have happened during the game and problems arise every year with these stupid after game handshakes.

As well, not to single out Northwest Christian, as they are a total class act led by  their coach, former Oregon Duck great Luke Jackson, but does anyone really think they wanted to go through a handshake line after such a tough loss in overtime. Let's cut the crap and really make the game about the student-athlete and eliminate after game handshakes. The NBA does so many things right, you notice this does not happen in the NBA.

NBA Power Rankings--- It is Saturday, that means it is time for another edition of Crawford's world famous NBA power rankings and of course out of respect for golf, things are always done in 9s.

1. Golden State

2. Atlanta

3. Portland

4. Dallas

5. Chicago

6. Memphis

7. Toronto

8. Clippers

9. Houston

College of Idaho---- Last night in Caldwell, Idaho, home of College of Idaho, the Yotes men's basketball team won their 27th straight game on their home floor to move into a tie for first place in the always brutally tough Cascade Collegiate Conference. The game was played before an overflow crowd.

College of Idaho is coached by one of the best in the business on any level in Scott Garson, who for many years was an assistant on the staff of Ben Howland at UCLA.

Of course any time you mention College of Idaho, talk must include the days that basketball hall of famer Elgin Baylor and San Francisco 49er great R.C. Owens played together and were roommates at the school. By all accounts, they were one of the best combos to ever play basketball together on level in the Pacific Northwest.

Owens was a tremendous leaper, who will never be given enough credit for helping invoke goal tending rules in college basketball, as on many a night he blocked so many shots, which now would be illegal blocks, but his leaping ability both in basketball and football will always be part of sports lore.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year).

Friday, January 9, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 9th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford----TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Pac-12 attendance--- When it comes to basketball, I have always been an attendance and schedule watcher, this year is no different. Should basketball be alarmed about attendance in the Pac-12, due to the following.

1. In the best basketball arena in the league, Matt Knight, the Ducks men's basketball team so far in 2014-15 is averaging just over 5,100 per game and for the Civil War battle with Oregon State last weekend, only 7,100 showed up, the lowest attendance for a Civil War basketball game in Eugene in the last 21 years.

2. Arizona State, an NCAA team last year is averaging under 5,000 fans so far this basketball season.

3. USC home attendance is under 3,000 per game.

4. Yes, even at UCLA, where earlier this year the Bruins fell 3,000 short of selling out for always popular Gonzaga.

Alarming ? Yes. Surprising? No. West Coast college basketball has never drawn well, much like East Coast football does not do well at the gate.

Terry Stotts--- How about long term contract for Portland Trail Blazer coach Terry Stotts? Yesterday the Blazers promoted Neil Olshey to president of basketball operations and gave him a new four year extension, well earned.

Stotts needs  a contractual pat on the back as well, with the terrific job he has done in Portland, on the floor, off the floor and his in-game adjustments are second to none in a coaches league like the NBA.

Big Game--- In my hometown of Portland, Oregon there is some big games this weekend in the Cascade College Conference and Northwest Conference.

Biggest game of the weekend might be Northwest Christian visiting Concordia, with first place on the line. Score prediction.

Northwest Christian 90 Concordia 93

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 8th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

NBA Expansion---- If the NBA decides that it wants expansion in the next few years, or sooner and if one team wants to relocate, per the Gregory Crawford Sports Biz index, here are the top cities that deserve NBA expansion or to get a team that wants to relocate.

1. Seattle

2. San Diego

3. Buffalo

4. Pittsburgh

5. Kansas City

6. Louisville

7. Las Vegas

8. Albuquerque

9. St. Louis

Atlanta---- Does Atlanta really deserve an NBA basketball team. No one really seems to care, until talk turns to the team possibly moving out of Atlanta.

The Hawks are for sale right now, we valued the team today in Crawford's Sports Biz 59 Seconds, http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz). As has been stated the politicos of Atlanta want to keep the team, but do the fans really care.

Best example of fans not caring, the Hawks have a great team this year, with the best record in the Eastern Conference, but still the team ranks only 24th in NBA attendance.

Oregon/Oregon State---For two teams that have played against each other more than any other NCAA D-1 teams in the country and have a great rivalry going in all sports, it sure did not seem like it this past weekend, as only 7,100 fans showed up for the Oregon State/Oregon men's Pac-12 game in Eugene. The lowest crowd for the Civil War battle in Eugene, in the last 21 years.

Tyler Geving---- The popular Portland State men's basketball coach will do something very unique tonight, when his team plays against Northern Colorado in Greeley. To hear what he will be doing, http://tobtr.com/s/7241195 on the Tyler Geving Basketball Show.

Santa Clara/Portland--- As I say often, the West Coast Conference has just above average players, but great coaches. Two of those coaches will battle tonight in Portland, when Santa Clara visits the Chiles Center. It is always fun to watch Eric Reveno and Kerry Keating develop their strategies on the court.

My score prediction on the game:

Santa Clara 68 Portland 69.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year).

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 7th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

NWAC Sports---- It Wednesday, so that means another new edition of Crawford's NWAC
Sports men's basketball power rankings. Always tough, but enjoy and feel free to respond. Always do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.

9. Chemeketa (9-6)---The Storm open Southern region play on Saturday at home.

8. Walla Walla (8-7)--- Led by point guard Satchel Schetzle with 29.2 ppg and 6.69 assists.

7. Highline (9-4) (1-0)---Started league play with a win over Pierce and travel to Lower Columbia tonight.

6. Skagit Valley (8-4)----SVC has not played since December 20th, when they lost the championship game of the Clackamas Crossover to Treasure Valley.

5. Wenatchee Valley (11-4) ----Host 10-5 Spokane to open league play on Saturday.

4. Columbia Basin (7-7)--- 6-0 since activating James Lopez who is averaging 27.3 ppg. and 6.8 assists, which is second and first ranked in the entire NWAC.

3. Big Bend (12-14)---- The Vikes have won 9 of the last 10.

2. Edmonds (12-3)---Have won five in row, including the Clackamas Holiday tournament.

1. Bellevue (13-2)---Bulldogs had a strong pre-league and open league play at home against Shoreline on Saturday.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)

Tuesday, January 6, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 6th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Big Sky Conference--- The Big Sky men's basketball race is shaping up as one of the best in years, yes I fully realize we are only two games in, but look who is on top and look who is the bottom, some real strange faces for sure, but at the same time, some solid teams. Every Tuesday, we are out with the Crawford's Big Sky men's power rankings. Of course per usual, out of respect for golf, I always do things in 9s.

1. Eastern Washington

2. Sacramento State

3. Idaho

4. Montana

5. Northern Arizona

6. Northern Colorado

7. Portland State

8.  North Dakota

9. Weber State

Of course next week, these could easily change dramatically.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)

Sunday, January 4, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 4th, 2015

By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

It is Sunday, so that means lots of basketball and lots of power rankings. Every Sunday, you will see Crawford's NWAC Sports women's power rankings and today also marks the 2015 debut of the combo Northwest Conference/Cascade Collegiate Conference Crawford's power rankings, which became quite popular last year, in its first year. So here we go and of course, out of respect for the game of golf, I always do things in 9s. If your team is not in there today, perhaps they will be in coming Sundays.

NWAC Women's Power Rankings--
1. Centralia
2. Umpqua
3. Lane
4. Wenatchee Valley
5. Spokane
6. Clackamas
7. Walla Walla
8. Clark
9. Skagit Valley

NWC/CCC Combo Power Rankings----
1. Whitworth
2. Northwest Christian
3. College of Idaho
4. Southern Oregon
5. Whitman
6. Concordia
7. Warner Pacific
8. Puget Sound
9. Northwest U.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://gregcrawfordbasketball.blogspot.com

email Gregory--- gregcrawfordbasketball.blogspot.com

Saturday, January 3, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 3rd, 2015

By Gregory Crawford----TV, Print and Radio Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Pac-12---- Since Greg Crawford on Basketball focuses mostly on the west coast, except for the NBA, it is only fair to the great readers and I am overwhelmed by how many of you there are, that I give my predictions for regular season end when it comes to the Pac-12, still the biggest league west of somewhere.

Once again I do this with a little irritation, as just like the Big Sky Conference, the Pac-12 plays an unbalanced schedule and it really is not a true champion. But here we go, with what we have.

1. Arizona
2. Utah
3. Washington
4. Stanford
5. Colorado
6. California
7. UCLA
8. Oregon
9. Oregon State
10. Arizona State
11. Washington State
12. USC

Hold me to it in March and we will see how things play out. Thanks for reading and be sure to send me your choices, gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com

Big Day In Oregon----In my home state, there has never been a bigger day overall then today, January 3rd,  when you combine the NBA and college basketball.

A little commentary and some score predictions.

Gonzaga @ Portland---- This could be one of the last two stops in the WCC, that someone can beat Gonzaga and keep them from running the table. This is a solid Pilot team, they have to play nearly a perfect game to win, which I think they might just do. Let's go with the upset this year.

Gonzaga 81 Portland 84 in overtime

Atlanta @ Portland---- Heavyweight NBA match-up. Two of the league's best nine teams, no question.

Atlanta 123  Portland 128

Northern Arizona @ Portland State---- Critical game for both teams, especially for the Vikings, as they need to protect home court all year long in order to finish in the top tier of the Big Sky Conference race.

NAU 72 @ Viks 73

Oregon State @ Oregon---- Both early surprises with their records in non-league play, this will be an interesting match-up, as both teams start league play. Tough game to call, but why not an upset.

Oregon State 66 Oregon 65 in a thriller.

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 day per year)

email gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com

Friday, January 2, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 2nd, 2015

By Gregory Crawford----- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops, @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt

Cascade Collegiate Conference---- The Cascade College  Conference men's basketball race is always exciting, as the league is probably top to bottom, the best NAIA Div-2 conference in the country.

Although it is early on in the league race and only January, this weekend just might separate some issues in the league, as four heavyweight teams will do battle.

Concordia and Warner Pacific, will travel east to meet Eastern Oregon and College of Idaho on Friday and Saturday night. All four teams once again this year, have terrific teams and terrific records.

Losses might not be the end of the world, but come March, these games this weekend will mean a lot as per seeding for the end of year CCC tournament.

Tomorrow---- Come right back here tomorrow, for my always world famous prediction on the Gonzaga/Portland game, played tomorrow night at the Chiles Center in Portland, Oregon.

Eastern Washington--- One game completed in Big Sky Conference, but the headliner game, turned out to be just that. Eastern Washington coming from behind to defeat powerhouse Weber State, at home 84-79. This was a must win for the Eagles, as they try to ascend to the top of the Big Sky, a place I think they will be at come season end.

If you missed my predictions for the Big Sky Conference regular season, you can catch them right here in the January 1st edition of http://gregcrawfordbasketball.blogspot.com

more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days a year )

Thursday, January 1, 2015

Greg Crawford On Basketball, For January 1st, 2015

By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz

Big Sky Conference---- Tonight the great Big Sky Conference starts its men's basketball league season. Quite frankly, the Big Sky Conference is an underrated league, that has good players and great coaches. It is fun basketball and many times, it is actually a pure style of basketball, not seen these days on the college level.

Two things that I think need to change in the Big Sky Conference to move it up to the next level. 1) The league in basketball needs to play a balanced schedule, meaning there needs to be 22 league games as compared to the 18 league games at present. There is no real excuse not to play a balanced schedule and I have not talked to every coach in the league, but the ones I have want a balanced schedule. 2) Change the name, as long as it has been there, it is outdated. The league is spread out so much, Big Sky no longer fits, plus the branding that would occur with a new name would give the league some great added publicity. Other than that, if you have not been to a Big Sky men's or women's game, you are missing a real treat.

Crawford's predicted order of finish for the Big Sky men in the 2014-15 season, hold me to it and we will see you in March as to how I did.

1. Eastern Washington
2. Weber State
3. Portland State
4. Northern Arizona
5. Sacramento State
6. Northern Colorado
7. Idaho
8. Montana
9. North Dakota
10. Southern Utah
11. Idaho State
12. Montana State

The Big 3--- While Wade, James and Bosh, no question were the Big 3 in Miami and had much success, the next Big 3 in the NBA could very easily be Westbrook, Love and Durant. What uniform will they be wearing? It easily could be a Laker uniform, scary for the rest of the league.

As I mentioned in this blog in August, ahead of everyone else, I thought Kevin Love would end his career in Los Angeles. When contracts allow, these three very easily could unite, in what would be a huge move for the Lakers and a huge move for the NBA, as the league needs a great team with an iconic franchise, whether you love em or dislike em.

more Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com

email Gregory gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com