By Greg Crawford---- COO of Kiyokawa Crawford Sports Management, on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
NBA Playoffs----I know I am pushing my good fortune here, after correctly picking 7 out 8 first round playoff series correctly, but here we go with the second round, much tougher choices. My lone first round mistake, taking Portland over Memphis.
Chicago wins in 6 game over Cleveland, Chicago is a very underrated team and without Kevin Love, the Cavs will be hurting.
Houston wins in 6 over the Clippers, two really good teams, but my pick on April 19th to win the NBA Championship right before the playoffs started was the Houston Rockets and sticking with it.
Atlanta over Washington in 7 games. Toughest series to pick, once again the reason they are here is that they are both really solid teams, well coached.
Golden State over Memphis in 7 games. Should go the distance, as Memphis is much better than most people think they are and will give Golden State a battle.
Max Deals----More than likely, with all the free agents up this year, there will not be that many max deals, especially with the new TV deal kicking in one year from now and the fact that there will more than likely be a lockout, perhaps a long one in 2017. So if Love and Aldridge do leave their respective teams, which there is a great chance of happening, they will probably opt for a two year deal with their new clubs.
Popovich---Resting all those players and cheating the fans of seeing stars often, did not work this year. The Spurs often looked sluggish and Popovich was out coached in the series with the Clippers, just like he was outcaoched two years past by Erik Spoelstra in the NBA Finals.
more of Gregory blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Sunday, May 3, 2015
Sunday, April 19, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For April 19th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
NBA Attendance---- The final attendance figures are in for the 2014-15 NBA regular season and it was a record setting year.
21,926,548 fans attended games during the regular season, which broke the previous all time high attendance mark of 21,841,488 set in the 2006-07 season. This year's attendance was up 2.4 percent from the 2013-14 season.
There were 700 sellouts in the regular season, breaking also the old high sellout mark, which was surprisingly set in the 1994-95 season when 626 games sold out.
Average attendance for all league games this year was 17,826, which is close to 94 percent of capacity. The Thunder, Rockets, Spurs, Clippers, Warriors, Heat, Knicks, Cavs, Mavericks and Bulls were the teams which sold out every game. The Bulls led the league in attendance with an average of 21,343 and the 76ers finished last in NBA attendance with an average of 13,940 fans attending each game. The biggest draw on the road this season were of course the Cavaliers, at 18,915.
Notre Dame----This week Notre Dame made history, when their women's basketball coaching position was the first women coacning job in the country to become endowed, thanks to a generous $5 million donation from Karen and Kevin Keyes. Karen played for Notre Dame, under present coach Muffet McGraw.
Earlier this year Notre Dame's athletic department encouraged donors and alumni to support endowments for all coaching positions at the school. For the record, the current tuition at Notre Dame is just over $45,000.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
NBA Attendance---- The final attendance figures are in for the 2014-15 NBA regular season and it was a record setting year.
21,926,548 fans attended games during the regular season, which broke the previous all time high attendance mark of 21,841,488 set in the 2006-07 season. This year's attendance was up 2.4 percent from the 2013-14 season.
There were 700 sellouts in the regular season, breaking also the old high sellout mark, which was surprisingly set in the 1994-95 season when 626 games sold out.
Average attendance for all league games this year was 17,826, which is close to 94 percent of capacity. The Thunder, Rockets, Spurs, Clippers, Warriors, Heat, Knicks, Cavs, Mavericks and Bulls were the teams which sold out every game. The Bulls led the league in attendance with an average of 21,343 and the 76ers finished last in NBA attendance with an average of 13,940 fans attending each game. The biggest draw on the road this season were of course the Cavaliers, at 18,915.
Notre Dame----This week Notre Dame made history, when their women's basketball coaching position was the first women coacning job in the country to become endowed, thanks to a generous $5 million donation from Karen and Kevin Keyes. Karen played for Notre Dame, under present coach Muffet McGraw.
Earlier this year Notre Dame's athletic department encouraged donors and alumni to support endowments for all coaching positions at the school. For the record, the current tuition at Notre Dame is just over $45,000.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For April 18th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----- Before the great start of the playoffs, here is my final NBA power rankings for the 2014-15 season. We will be back next year with our now world famous power rankings and always keep in mind, we do things in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf.
9. Dallas
8. Chicago
7. San Antonio
6. Memphis
5. Houston
4. Clippers
3. Atlanta
2. Cleveland
1. Golden State
Crawford's NBA Playoff Predictions-----It will be an interesting playoffs this year in the NBA, with what in my mind, no clear favorite to win the title. When the season started, I predicted that Chicago would beat Portland in the NBA Finals. I was obviously wrong on that one, it is not going to happen. But not backing off, how about this, my finals prediction is that Houston will beat Cleveland in 7 games. Now it is your turn to make your choices. Here is my opening round picks, which also have a chance to be special.
Golden State beats New Orleand, in 5 games
Houston wins over Dallas, in 6 games
Clippers beat the Spurs in 6 games
Portland upsets Memphis in 6 games
Atlanta wins over Brooklyn in 5 games
Cleveland beats Boston in 5 games
Chicago wins over Milwaukee in 6 games
Washington upsets Toronto in 7 games
Kevin Love---- As I reported on Rip City Radio 620 earlier this week, with breaking news, there is pretty much zero chance that Kevin Love will return to Cleveland next year. Top to contenders for him to join in order, Boston, followed by the Lakers.
Note: We are back with Greg Crawford On Basketball, for hopefully a long time to come, as technical issues prevented us from posting the past couple of weeks. So follow us everyday but Monday, as we cover the great world of college basketball on all levels, the NBA, D-League and NBA Draft.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----- Before the great start of the playoffs, here is my final NBA power rankings for the 2014-15 season. We will be back next year with our now world famous power rankings and always keep in mind, we do things in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf.
9. Dallas
8. Chicago
7. San Antonio
6. Memphis
5. Houston
4. Clippers
3. Atlanta
2. Cleveland
1. Golden State
Crawford's NBA Playoff Predictions-----It will be an interesting playoffs this year in the NBA, with what in my mind, no clear favorite to win the title. When the season started, I predicted that Chicago would beat Portland in the NBA Finals. I was obviously wrong on that one, it is not going to happen. But not backing off, how about this, my finals prediction is that Houston will beat Cleveland in 7 games. Now it is your turn to make your choices. Here is my opening round picks, which also have a chance to be special.
Golden State beats New Orleand, in 5 games
Houston wins over Dallas, in 6 games
Clippers beat the Spurs in 6 games
Portland upsets Memphis in 6 games
Atlanta wins over Brooklyn in 5 games
Cleveland beats Boston in 5 games
Chicago wins over Milwaukee in 6 games
Washington upsets Toronto in 7 games
Kevin Love---- As I reported on Rip City Radio 620 earlier this week, with breaking news, there is pretty much zero chance that Kevin Love will return to Cleveland next year. Top to contenders for him to join in order, Boston, followed by the Lakers.
Note: We are back with Greg Crawford On Basketball, for hopefully a long time to come, as technical issues prevented us from posting the past couple of weeks. So follow us everyday but Monday, as we cover the great world of college basketball on all levels, the NBA, D-League and NBA Draft.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 29th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- Radio, TV and Print Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
Hot Topics-----Time for a few hot topics in the world of basketball.
Calipari----If Kentucky wins the national championship, there is lots of talk that John Calipari will head back to the pros. The last time he was not successful, but what is interesting is this time he seems to be interested in going and is not denying his interest. There will be plenty of places for him to go, my take is he would be a great fit with the Denver Nuggets. I think that he is for sure a much better basketball coach than he was the last time around in the NBA. What do you think?
Notre Dame----One of the sad things each year is that often the second best team in the NCAA tournament, never gets a chance to prove it. Notre Dame is in no way a 3 seed and they proved it during the year and in the tournament. Not even because they played great and easily could have beaten Kentucky with a break, but Notre Dame is gone and they probably are the second best team in the country at present. What do you think?
Texas---- Texas AD, Steve Patterson has a tough choice in selecting a replacement for Rick Barnes as the new men's basketball coach at Texas. The early choices are always the same, Gregg Marshall and Shaka Smart, who are always on everyone's short list. Keep in mind however that Patterson is an NBA guy of many years and he might very well look to the NBA for his next choice. It would never happen, but I have always thought it would be great to see Erik Spoelstra coaching in college. He would be an awesome recruiter for sure and we already know how good he is at Xs and Os. What do you think?
Announcing---- There is no question in my mind that this team should be advancing. The announcing team of Kevin Harlan, Reggie Miller and Dan Bonner were without question the best announcing team in the NCAA tournament. Kind of shame they will not be doing the championship game, instead of who will, Jim Nantz, Bill Raftery and Grant Hill. What do you think?
Sunday Scores---Here we go with score predictions for Sunday, did not have a good Saturday going 1-1, which does not cut it these days.
Michigan State 68 Louisville 67
Duke 90 Gonzaga 80
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Hot Topics-----Time for a few hot topics in the world of basketball.
Calipari----If Kentucky wins the national championship, there is lots of talk that John Calipari will head back to the pros. The last time he was not successful, but what is interesting is this time he seems to be interested in going and is not denying his interest. There will be plenty of places for him to go, my take is he would be a great fit with the Denver Nuggets. I think that he is for sure a much better basketball coach than he was the last time around in the NBA. What do you think?
Notre Dame----One of the sad things each year is that often the second best team in the NCAA tournament, never gets a chance to prove it. Notre Dame is in no way a 3 seed and they proved it during the year and in the tournament. Not even because they played great and easily could have beaten Kentucky with a break, but Notre Dame is gone and they probably are the second best team in the country at present. What do you think?
Texas---- Texas AD, Steve Patterson has a tough choice in selecting a replacement for Rick Barnes as the new men's basketball coach at Texas. The early choices are always the same, Gregg Marshall and Shaka Smart, who are always on everyone's short list. Keep in mind however that Patterson is an NBA guy of many years and he might very well look to the NBA for his next choice. It would never happen, but I have always thought it would be great to see Erik Spoelstra coaching in college. He would be an awesome recruiter for sure and we already know how good he is at Xs and Os. What do you think?
Announcing---- There is no question in my mind that this team should be advancing. The announcing team of Kevin Harlan, Reggie Miller and Dan Bonner were without question the best announcing team in the NCAA tournament. Kind of shame they will not be doing the championship game, instead of who will, Jim Nantz, Bill Raftery and Grant Hill. What do you think?
Sunday Scores---Here we go with score predictions for Sunday, did not have a good Saturday going 1-1, which does not cut it these days.
Michigan State 68 Louisville 67
Duke 90 Gonzaga 80
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 28th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- Print, Radio and TV Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Crawford's NBA power rankings---It is Saturday, so once again time for the most recent edition of Crawford's NBA power rankings. Per usual, we do everything in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.
9. Memphis
8. San Antonio
7. Chicago
6. Portland
5. Houston
4. Atlanta
3. Clippers
2. Cleveland
1. Golden State
Northern Arizona---- Congrats to Northern Arizona on winning their 22 game of the season last night, as they advance in the CIT tournament.
It has been a great year for the Lumberjacks, as well as it was a great year for the Big Sky Conferecne of which they are a member. You had to think NAU was pretty good this year, when in December they went into St. Mary's and beat the Gaels on their home floor.
Hot Rod Hundley---- As someone who has followed the NBA closely for 6 decades, it is always sad to hear of the passing of one of the league's greatest broadcasters of all time.
Hot Rod Hundley was not only a good player in the NBA in the early 60s, but he was an even better broadcaster on TV and Radio.
His most famous time came with the New Orleans and Utah Jazz, where he broadcasted at a high level from 1974-2009, calling 3,051 games.
A very funny guy and wonderful to listen too as well. Thank you for great memories, Hot Rod Hundley.
Scores----Ok, here we go with my NCAA tournament predictions for today.
Arizona 66 Wisconsin 65
Kentucky 68 Notre Dame 53
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Crawford's NBA power rankings---It is Saturday, so once again time for the most recent edition of Crawford's NBA power rankings. Per usual, we do everything in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.
9. Memphis
8. San Antonio
7. Chicago
6. Portland
5. Houston
4. Atlanta
3. Clippers
2. Cleveland
1. Golden State
Northern Arizona---- Congrats to Northern Arizona on winning their 22 game of the season last night, as they advance in the CIT tournament.
It has been a great year for the Lumberjacks, as well as it was a great year for the Big Sky Conferecne of which they are a member. You had to think NAU was pretty good this year, when in December they went into St. Mary's and beat the Gaels on their home floor.
Hot Rod Hundley---- As someone who has followed the NBA closely for 6 decades, it is always sad to hear of the passing of one of the league's greatest broadcasters of all time.
Hot Rod Hundley was not only a good player in the NBA in the early 60s, but he was an even better broadcaster on TV and Radio.
His most famous time came with the New Orleans and Utah Jazz, where he broadcasted at a high level from 1974-2009, calling 3,051 games.
A very funny guy and wonderful to listen too as well. Thank you for great memories, Hot Rod Hundley.
Scores----Ok, here we go with my NCAA tournament predictions for today.
Arizona 66 Wisconsin 65
Kentucky 68 Notre Dame 53
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo)
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 26th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Coaching Changes--- Always a hot topic this time of year, who is going to get jobs in coaching that are open and who has already been hired.
Nevada---- The Wolf Pack have hired Eric Musselman, who was an associate coach at LSU, after being on the staff of Herb Sendek at Arizona State the previous two seasons.
Musselman's head coaching experience has been strictly in the pros, where he had success in the D-League, but no success in the NBA.
A puzzling hire here, with so many more talented coaches available, but only time will tell.
San Diego----It was really surprising that San Diego of the WCC let Billy Grier go after nine seasons. The job now is wide open, to me it is a great job, in a city that can be really crazy about basketball, especially if you win. The WCC also is such a good league. I might suggest the Toreros take a hard look at Jim Hayford at Eastern Washington, a total winner, who can take a program to a higher level in a hurry.
Arizona State--- The powers that be at Arizona State want their team in the NCAA tournament every year, lofty, but probably not possible. That was the major reason, Herb Sendek was let go. The job has been offered to Duke assistant Jeff Capel.
Not sure if that would be a choice I would make, but time will tell for sure.
Besides Hayford, another person these teams should look at to run their orogram is Bob Cantu, who did an outstanding job at USC, both as a head coach and lon time assistant and is one of the best recruiters in all of college basketball.
Coaching Changes--- Always a hot topic this time of year, who is going to get jobs in coaching that are open and who has already been hired.
Nevada---- The Wolf Pack have hired Eric Musselman, who was an associate coach at LSU, after being on the staff of Herb Sendek at Arizona State the previous two seasons.
Musselman's head coaching experience has been strictly in the pros, where he had success in the D-League, but no success in the NBA.
A puzzling hire here, with so many more talented coaches available, but only time will tell.
San Diego----It was really surprising that San Diego of the WCC let Billy Grier go after nine seasons. The job now is wide open, to me it is a great job, in a city that can be really crazy about basketball, especially if you win. The WCC also is such a good league. I might suggest the Toreros take a hard look at Jim Hayford at Eastern Washington, a total winner, who can take a program to a higher level in a hurry.
Arizona State--- The powers that be at Arizona State want their team in the NCAA tournament every year, lofty, but probably not possible. That was the major reason, Herb Sendek was let go. The job has been offered to Duke assistant Jeff Capel.
Not sure if that would be a choice I would make, but time will tell for sure.
Besides Hayford, another person these teams should look at to run their orogram is Bob Cantu, who did an outstanding job at USC, both as a head coach and lon time assistant and is one of the best recruiters in all of college basketball.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 22nd, 2014
By Gregory Crawford---TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analysis --- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Pac-12---- Going into Oregon's game tonight with Wisconsin, the Pac-12 is 7-0 so far in the NCAA tournament. Remarkable, considering it was down year for the league, with not that many good teams and some horrible games during the season.
Anything can happen once tournament time comes and it has for the Pac-12. Not only was it a poor basketball regular season for the Pac-12, but for the third year a row attendance declined overall. Oregon which has a great coach, an exciting up-tempo team, had their attendance dip nearly a 1,000 per game from the 2013-14 season, with an average this year of just over 6,200.
Portland, Oregon----Portland has a hosted an opening round weekend now for the third time in six years. This year attendance was down from 2012, surprising considering in the field were Arizona, Ohio State and Utah all who travel well and have for years. The field also included Eastern Washington, a five hour car trip to Portland from their home of Cheney, Washington.
Many in Portland are clamoring for a regional the next time around, but to have the 2nd and 3rd round games is not all that bad, as you get 8 teams as compared to 4 and two more games.
All indications from the powers that be are that Portland will continue to be in the rotation for NCAA tournament games and might very well be hosting a regional in 2019.
TV----Overall so far in the NCAA tournament, attendance is down slightly going into the round of Sunday games.
No one seems to mention it, but with actual TVs becoming so much more high tech, it gets easier and easier to stay home. Of course, nothing beats being at a sporting event live, but as the United States population ages and more people are living much longer, TV has become a great option.
Evidence of this is the record ratings which came in Thursday from the tournament games, overall up 16 percent from last year and the 9:00-1:30 PDT time frame being up 24 percent from 2014 and the highest number of viewers in 25 years.
NBA Attendance----Always interesting to follow the NBA attendance figures. The largest arena in the league is in Chicago, seating 21, 244. The Bulls have sold out every game this year, as have Cleveland, Dallas, Knicks, Miami, Warriors, Clippers, San Antonio, Houston and Oklahoma City.
No NBA team has played to full capacity this year on the road, as expected the Cavaliers being the highest percentage of 99 percent of capacity.
At home, the Detroit Pistons have the lowest percentage, playing before 68.7 capacity this year. Really surprising, as these teams are having great seasons, but do not even come close to capacity at home are Washington (89 percent), Atlanta (91 percent) and Memphis (95 percent).
The question once again begs with Atlanta being for sale, having a great year on the court and playing to less than capacity, does the team deserve to stay in Atlanta?
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com
Pac-12---- Going into Oregon's game tonight with Wisconsin, the Pac-12 is 7-0 so far in the NCAA tournament. Remarkable, considering it was down year for the league, with not that many good teams and some horrible games during the season.
Anything can happen once tournament time comes and it has for the Pac-12. Not only was it a poor basketball regular season for the Pac-12, but for the third year a row attendance declined overall. Oregon which has a great coach, an exciting up-tempo team, had their attendance dip nearly a 1,000 per game from the 2013-14 season, with an average this year of just over 6,200.
Portland, Oregon----Portland has a hosted an opening round weekend now for the third time in six years. This year attendance was down from 2012, surprising considering in the field were Arizona, Ohio State and Utah all who travel well and have for years. The field also included Eastern Washington, a five hour car trip to Portland from their home of Cheney, Washington.
Many in Portland are clamoring for a regional the next time around, but to have the 2nd and 3rd round games is not all that bad, as you get 8 teams as compared to 4 and two more games.
All indications from the powers that be are that Portland will continue to be in the rotation for NCAA tournament games and might very well be hosting a regional in 2019.
TV----Overall so far in the NCAA tournament, attendance is down slightly going into the round of Sunday games.
No one seems to mention it, but with actual TVs becoming so much more high tech, it gets easier and easier to stay home. Of course, nothing beats being at a sporting event live, but as the United States population ages and more people are living much longer, TV has become a great option.
Evidence of this is the record ratings which came in Thursday from the tournament games, overall up 16 percent from last year and the 9:00-1:30 PDT time frame being up 24 percent from 2014 and the highest number of viewers in 25 years.
NBA Attendance----Always interesting to follow the NBA attendance figures. The largest arena in the league is in Chicago, seating 21, 244. The Bulls have sold out every game this year, as have Cleveland, Dallas, Knicks, Miami, Warriors, Clippers, San Antonio, Houston and Oklahoma City.
No NBA team has played to full capacity this year on the road, as expected the Cavaliers being the highest percentage of 99 percent of capacity.
At home, the Detroit Pistons have the lowest percentage, playing before 68.7 capacity this year. Really surprising, as these teams are having great seasons, but do not even come close to capacity at home are Washington (89 percent), Atlanta (91 percent) and Memphis (95 percent).
The question once again begs with Atlanta being for sale, having a great year on the court and playing to less than capacity, does the team deserve to stay in Atlanta?
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 21st, 2104
By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----It is Saturday, so time for another edition of Crawford's NBA power rankings. Always done in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf.
9. Portland
8. Toronto
7. San Antonio
6. Clippers
5. Houston
4. Memphis
3. Atlanta
2. Cleveland
1. Golden State
It is interesting to have Golden State and Cleveland at one and two, as I do not think either of those teams will make the NBA finals this year.
Big Dance--- It is great for many things to have a number 14 win a first round game in the NCAA tournament. However, before anyone gets excited, about every 25 years, a surprise team will win the NCAA championship. This year is no exception, only a handful of teams can win it all, just like every other year for the most part.
Winners of the NCAA championship can be equated to the NBA Draft. Seldom do you see a player drafted below number 10 make it big in the NBA.
Kentucky----It is obvious, no one appears to be able to stop Kentucky this year. Best chances might be Wisconsin and Arizona, because they both play a similar style to the Wildcats and do have some height.
But do not hold your breath. Very slim chance of anyone besides Kentucky being crowned the champ in April.
Tomorrow----Greg Crawford On Basketball will start tomorrow, naming some coaches of the year and players of the year, so keep reading and spread the word. Thank you.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo, each day,)
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----It is Saturday, so time for another edition of Crawford's NBA power rankings. Always done in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf.
9. Portland
8. Toronto
7. San Antonio
6. Clippers
5. Houston
4. Memphis
3. Atlanta
2. Cleveland
1. Golden State
It is interesting to have Golden State and Cleveland at one and two, as I do not think either of those teams will make the NBA finals this year.
Big Dance--- It is great for many things to have a number 14 win a first round game in the NCAA tournament. However, before anyone gets excited, about every 25 years, a surprise team will win the NCAA championship. This year is no exception, only a handful of teams can win it all, just like every other year for the most part.
Winners of the NCAA championship can be equated to the NBA Draft. Seldom do you see a player drafted below number 10 make it big in the NBA.
Kentucky----It is obvious, no one appears to be able to stop Kentucky this year. Best chances might be Wisconsin and Arizona, because they both play a similar style to the Wildcats and do have some height.
But do not hold your breath. Very slim chance of anyone besides Kentucky being crowned the champ in April.
Tomorrow----Greg Crawford On Basketball will start tomorrow, naming some coaches of the year and players of the year, so keep reading and spread the word. Thank you.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz combo, each day,)
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 14th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford---TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- The latest version, we always do things in 9s.
9. Chicago
8. San Antonio
7. Clippers
6. Houston
5. Memphis
4. Cleveland
3. Portland
2. Golden State
1. Atlanta
NBA Playoffs---- Outside of Atlanta, Cleveland and yes, New Orleans, no one is playing great basketball right now in the NBA. What that means for the fans, is nothing but good news. It is shaping up as one of the greatest playoffs in a many years, as there really is no clear cut favorite at present.
It also means the East could be terrific for playoffs. Toronto has gone into a big tailspin right now, but they are capable as they have shown of beating any team, especially at home. Never backing down, I sticking with what I said in October, a Chicago/Portland final. Of course really unrealistic at present, with yet another knee injury to Derrick Rose. I still like Portland, but their chances are damaged for sure with the season ending injury to Wes Matthews. Portland's five game road trip which starts Sunday in Toronto, will tell a lot about the playoff fortunes of the Blazers in 2015.
Jim Hayford---- Jim Hayford is a perfect example of if you can coach, you can coach at any level in college basketball. There was lots of criticism 5 years past when Hayford was picked to lead a floundering Eastern Washington basketball program, mainly cause Hayford was a D-3 coach coming from Whitworth where he built a powerhouse.
Well guess what, as I predicted in October, Hayford's Eagles will be playing today for the Big Sky Championship and spot in the Big Dance.
Monty Williams--- You never hear much about Monty Williams, head coach of New Orleans in the NBA, but he is doing a great job this year. His team is currently 36-29, in playoff contention and have won 8 out of 10.
NWAC----NWAC basketball is great, as I report all year. Tomorrow, at Clackamas Community College, the league will present a showcase of outstanding sophomores from both the men's and women's side. The action starts at noon.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, combo)
email Gregory at gregcrawfordbasketball.blogspot.com
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- The latest version, we always do things in 9s.
9. Chicago
8. San Antonio
7. Clippers
6. Houston
5. Memphis
4. Cleveland
3. Portland
2. Golden State
1. Atlanta
NBA Playoffs---- Outside of Atlanta, Cleveland and yes, New Orleans, no one is playing great basketball right now in the NBA. What that means for the fans, is nothing but good news. It is shaping up as one of the greatest playoffs in a many years, as there really is no clear cut favorite at present.
It also means the East could be terrific for playoffs. Toronto has gone into a big tailspin right now, but they are capable as they have shown of beating any team, especially at home. Never backing down, I sticking with what I said in October, a Chicago/Portland final. Of course really unrealistic at present, with yet another knee injury to Derrick Rose. I still like Portland, but their chances are damaged for sure with the season ending injury to Wes Matthews. Portland's five game road trip which starts Sunday in Toronto, will tell a lot about the playoff fortunes of the Blazers in 2015.
Jim Hayford---- Jim Hayford is a perfect example of if you can coach, you can coach at any level in college basketball. There was lots of criticism 5 years past when Hayford was picked to lead a floundering Eastern Washington basketball program, mainly cause Hayford was a D-3 coach coming from Whitworth where he built a powerhouse.
Well guess what, as I predicted in October, Hayford's Eagles will be playing today for the Big Sky Championship and spot in the Big Dance.
Monty Williams--- You never hear much about Monty Williams, head coach of New Orleans in the NBA, but he is doing a great job this year. His team is currently 36-29, in playoff contention and have won 8 out of 10.
NWAC----NWAC basketball is great, as I report all year. Tomorrow, at Clackamas Community College, the league will present a showcase of outstanding sophomores from both the men's and women's side. The action starts at noon.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, combo)
email Gregory at gregcrawfordbasketball.blogspot.com
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 8th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
Crawford's Best Nine---My final best nine of the 2014-15 college basketball season. This is really tough, but fun to do, so many teams could be in the best nine. Overall it has been a sub-par year for basketball out west. Big Sky had a good year, so did Mt. West, but rest of leagues, including the Pac-12 were sub-par at best.
9. UC Davis---- Great year for the Aggies, winning the Big West, but because it is the Big West, they must win the tournament to get to the NCAA Big Dance.
8. Colorado State---- 26 wins for the Rams, third place in the tough Mt. West and becoming a strong basketball school.
7. Eastern Washington--- They win because they have a great coach in Jim Hayford. He has taken a depressed basketball program in short time, to winning this year a share of the Big Sky title.
6. New Mexico State--- Easy winners of the WAC. They are really good team, that no matter what happens in the WAC tournament, they deserve to be in the NCAA tournament.
5. BYU----The Cougars have now won 9 of 10, meet Portland on Monday night in the WCC tournament semis. They will be in the NCAA tournament and deserve to be there.
4. Oregon Ducks----Closed out the season winning 11 of 13, gaining the number 2 seed in the upcoming Pac-12 tournament. Dana Altman has to be considered for national coach of year.
3. Gonzaga--- I am still holding out hope the Zags will make the Final Four this year, but they need to start playing better.
2. Arizona----Another team to watch in the NCAA tournament, so much talent, they should advance a long way.
1. Boise State----Yes, my final number one of 2015. Mt. West champs, they are so well coached by Leon Rice and finished the regular season winning 14 of 15, in a great basketball conference.
Barry Tompkins----Always good to see Barry doing games. One of the all time great broadcasters in the country, it is surprising and shocking why he is not on the Pac-12 network.
Jim Boeheim--- Should he step down? You make the call. Certainly his legacy has changed forever in the past few days, plus his win count, losing 108 victories off his record.
Danny Miles--- Miles will end his career at Oregon Tech after the 2015-16 season. What a career it has been. Let's hope Miles will have a great final year in the Cascade Collegiate Conference, but let's really hope with over 1,000 wins, 45 years at the same school, he is in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame really soon.
Big Sky Conference----Congrats to the Big Sky on one of their best men's basketball seasons ever. Great to see teams like Eastern Washington and Sacramento State in the mix on the final day for the conference title. EWU and Montana wound up co-champs, Montana getting the tie breaker and hosting the postseason tournament.
Advice from Crawford to the league I love. Next year play a balanced schedule and never again with 8 teams in the tournament, have all games played at one site. Fans and teams deserve better. It is actually thought that next year the Big Sky will move to a neutral site for their postseason, with Reno being the frontrunner at present.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, combo)
Crawford's Best Nine---My final best nine of the 2014-15 college basketball season. This is really tough, but fun to do, so many teams could be in the best nine. Overall it has been a sub-par year for basketball out west. Big Sky had a good year, so did Mt. West, but rest of leagues, including the Pac-12 were sub-par at best.
9. UC Davis---- Great year for the Aggies, winning the Big West, but because it is the Big West, they must win the tournament to get to the NCAA Big Dance.
8. Colorado State---- 26 wins for the Rams, third place in the tough Mt. West and becoming a strong basketball school.
7. Eastern Washington--- They win because they have a great coach in Jim Hayford. He has taken a depressed basketball program in short time, to winning this year a share of the Big Sky title.
6. New Mexico State--- Easy winners of the WAC. They are really good team, that no matter what happens in the WAC tournament, they deserve to be in the NCAA tournament.
5. BYU----The Cougars have now won 9 of 10, meet Portland on Monday night in the WCC tournament semis. They will be in the NCAA tournament and deserve to be there.
4. Oregon Ducks----Closed out the season winning 11 of 13, gaining the number 2 seed in the upcoming Pac-12 tournament. Dana Altman has to be considered for national coach of year.
3. Gonzaga--- I am still holding out hope the Zags will make the Final Four this year, but they need to start playing better.
2. Arizona----Another team to watch in the NCAA tournament, so much talent, they should advance a long way.
1. Boise State----Yes, my final number one of 2015. Mt. West champs, they are so well coached by Leon Rice and finished the regular season winning 14 of 15, in a great basketball conference.
Barry Tompkins----Always good to see Barry doing games. One of the all time great broadcasters in the country, it is surprising and shocking why he is not on the Pac-12 network.
Jim Boeheim--- Should he step down? You make the call. Certainly his legacy has changed forever in the past few days, plus his win count, losing 108 victories off his record.
Danny Miles--- Miles will end his career at Oregon Tech after the 2015-16 season. What a career it has been. Let's hope Miles will have a great final year in the Cascade Collegiate Conference, but let's really hope with over 1,000 wins, 45 years at the same school, he is in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame really soon.
Big Sky Conference----Congrats to the Big Sky on one of their best men's basketball seasons ever. Great to see teams like Eastern Washington and Sacramento State in the mix on the final day for the conference title. EWU and Montana wound up co-champs, Montana getting the tie breaker and hosting the postseason tournament.
Advice from Crawford to the league I love. Next year play a balanced schedule and never again with 8 teams in the tournament, have all games played at one site. Fans and teams deserve better. It is actually thought that next year the Big Sky will move to a neutral site for their postseason, with Reno being the frontrunner at present.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, combo)
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For March 1st, 2015
By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Crawford's Best Nine--- The best nine teams that play in the six D-1 leagues out west. Very tough, but fun to do.
9. UC Davis---- Continue to play well and will win the Big West regular season. Have won 13 of 15.
8. San Diego State--- Tied for the league lead in the toughest league out west, Mt. West, but suffered a tough home loss yesterday to Boise State.
7. Oregon---- Huge game today at Stanford, in 3rd place in Pac-12, one game lead over Stanford.
6. Utah----When the Utes were winning big, some were saying, not me, a Final Four team. Now they will not even win the Pac-12 regular season title, but still a great year.
5. BYU--- Playing some of the best basketball in the country right now, huge road wins at both Portland and Gonzaga vault the Cougars up to 5th spot.
4. New Mexico State--- Continue to roll in the WAC Conference, will easily win the league and have won 14 of 15.
3. Boise State---- Best team in the country no one talks about. Just completed a road sweep of New Mexico and San Diego State, have won 12 of last 13.
2. Gonzaga----Despite having their 41 game home winning streak snapped yesterday by BYU, they still are worthy of number 2. Will be interesting to see how they do in WCC tourney and NCAA.
1. Arizona--- They have earned it big time. Huge win yesterday at Utah and easy to forget, but beat Gonzaga earlier in season.
Bad Basketball---- In picking Crawford's Best Nine, I do have to say and it is painful, this is one of the weakest years I have seen overall for college basketball out west. Of the six D-1 leagues out west, there really is no strong league, the best of the bunch is the Mt. West.
I still think Gonzaga has a great chance to get to the Final Four, but the loss at home yesterday to BYU was nothing short of shocking.
It is also fun to see a surprise team doing really well in the Big Sky, as Sacramento State has a one game lead over Montana and Eastern Washington going into the final week of league play. The Hornets have played well all year long. If they win the league, they will host the entire Big Sky playoffs, but it will not be in their regular place on campus, the "Nest", which does not meet NCAA standards for attendance. They will play on campus, in the "Well", which is the PE and Wellness Center and will seat about 3,000 with the addition of portable seating being brought in.
None of the other great places to play in Sacramento are available during the time of the tournament.
No matter what is has been a great time and year for Sacramento State.
Crawford's NWAC Power Rankings---- Now here is a league, that is not part of the NCAA, but instead community college basketball that has great coaches, great players and great teams. So with only 2 days left in the regular season, time for double dose of Crawford's NWAC power rankings, starting with the women's teams first. As always, we do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.
Crawford's Women's Power Rankings
9. Highline
8. Lane
7. Bellevue
6 Wenatchee Valley
5. Centralia
4. Walla Walla
3. Umpqua
2. Lower Columbia
1. Peninsula
Crawford's Men's Power Rankings
9. Lane
8. Columbia Basin
7. Clackamas
6. Highline
5. Wenatchee Valley
4. Big Bend
3. Clark
2. Edmonds
1. Bellevue
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year).
Crawford's Best Nine--- The best nine teams that play in the six D-1 leagues out west. Very tough, but fun to do.
9. UC Davis---- Continue to play well and will win the Big West regular season. Have won 13 of 15.
8. San Diego State--- Tied for the league lead in the toughest league out west, Mt. West, but suffered a tough home loss yesterday to Boise State.
7. Oregon---- Huge game today at Stanford, in 3rd place in Pac-12, one game lead over Stanford.
6. Utah----When the Utes were winning big, some were saying, not me, a Final Four team. Now they will not even win the Pac-12 regular season title, but still a great year.
5. BYU--- Playing some of the best basketball in the country right now, huge road wins at both Portland and Gonzaga vault the Cougars up to 5th spot.
4. New Mexico State--- Continue to roll in the WAC Conference, will easily win the league and have won 14 of 15.
3. Boise State---- Best team in the country no one talks about. Just completed a road sweep of New Mexico and San Diego State, have won 12 of last 13.
2. Gonzaga----Despite having their 41 game home winning streak snapped yesterday by BYU, they still are worthy of number 2. Will be interesting to see how they do in WCC tourney and NCAA.
1. Arizona--- They have earned it big time. Huge win yesterday at Utah and easy to forget, but beat Gonzaga earlier in season.
Bad Basketball---- In picking Crawford's Best Nine, I do have to say and it is painful, this is one of the weakest years I have seen overall for college basketball out west. Of the six D-1 leagues out west, there really is no strong league, the best of the bunch is the Mt. West.
I still think Gonzaga has a great chance to get to the Final Four, but the loss at home yesterday to BYU was nothing short of shocking.
It is also fun to see a surprise team doing really well in the Big Sky, as Sacramento State has a one game lead over Montana and Eastern Washington going into the final week of league play. The Hornets have played well all year long. If they win the league, they will host the entire Big Sky playoffs, but it will not be in their regular place on campus, the "Nest", which does not meet NCAA standards for attendance. They will play on campus, in the "Well", which is the PE and Wellness Center and will seat about 3,000 with the addition of portable seating being brought in.
None of the other great places to play in Sacramento are available during the time of the tournament.
No matter what is has been a great time and year for Sacramento State.
Crawford's NWAC Power Rankings---- Now here is a league, that is not part of the NCAA, but instead community college basketball that has great coaches, great players and great teams. So with only 2 days left in the regular season, time for double dose of Crawford's NWAC power rankings, starting with the women's teams first. As always, we do things in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.
Crawford's Women's Power Rankings
9. Highline
8. Lane
7. Bellevue
6 Wenatchee Valley
5. Centralia
4. Walla Walla
3. Umpqua
2. Lower Columbia
1. Peninsula
Crawford's Men's Power Rankings
9. Lane
8. Columbia Basin
7. Clackamas
6. Highline
5. Wenatchee Valley
4. Big Bend
3. Clark
2. Edmonds
1. Bellevue
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year).
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 28th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----It is Saturday, so that means another edition of Crawford's world famous NBA power rankings. Always done in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.
9. Clippers
8. Toronto
7. Chicago
6. Portland
5. Memphis
4. Cleveland
3. Houston
2. Atlanta
1. Golden State
BYU--- The Cougars were in my hometown of Portland, Oregon this past week to play the U of Portland Pilots, in which they won the game 82-69.
It was a good chance for me to talk with many BYU people and ask them a question which is often brought up, "Is BYU committed to the West Coast Conference?"
Now for sure I could be told anything, but people I seek out are usually very honest and candid. To a person, they all told me that BYU loves being in the West Coast Conference and they plan is to stay for a long time.
Of course the talk is always generated by the fact the West Coast Conference is not a football league and BYU football is big time and now plays as an independent.
My analysis is that in all sports but football, BYU is going nowhere, which is great for the WCC.
Oregon Ducks--- Big question around the state of Oregon is will the Ducks make the NCAA tournament. With a huge match-up on Sunday at Stanford and then a tough road contest at Oregon State on Wednesday night, my feeling is that the Ducks have to win both of those games to make the NCAA tournament. Sitting at 21 wins right now, there just is not enough quality wins for Oregon at present, to make them a lock. If they do not win the Pac-12 tournament, I think they have to get to 24 wins to get in.
Crawford's NBA Bottom Power Rankings----Sports should be fun, so I am expanding my NBA power rankings to give you the worst nine teams in the league. Per usual, once again, we do things in 9s.
9. Boston
8. Detroit
7. Denver
6. Orlando
5. Sacramento
4. Lakers
3. Philadelphia
2. Minnesota
1. New York----Yes, sadly the Knicks per my power rankings, are without question the worst team in the league.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings----It is Saturday, so that means another edition of Crawford's world famous NBA power rankings. Always done in 9s, out of respect for the great game of golf.
9. Clippers
8. Toronto
7. Chicago
6. Portland
5. Memphis
4. Cleveland
3. Houston
2. Atlanta
1. Golden State
BYU--- The Cougars were in my hometown of Portland, Oregon this past week to play the U of Portland Pilots, in which they won the game 82-69.
It was a good chance for me to talk with many BYU people and ask them a question which is often brought up, "Is BYU committed to the West Coast Conference?"
Now for sure I could be told anything, but people I seek out are usually very honest and candid. To a person, they all told me that BYU loves being in the West Coast Conference and they plan is to stay for a long time.
Of course the talk is always generated by the fact the West Coast Conference is not a football league and BYU football is big time and now plays as an independent.
My analysis is that in all sports but football, BYU is going nowhere, which is great for the WCC.
Oregon Ducks--- Big question around the state of Oregon is will the Ducks make the NCAA tournament. With a huge match-up on Sunday at Stanford and then a tough road contest at Oregon State on Wednesday night, my feeling is that the Ducks have to win both of those games to make the NCAA tournament. Sitting at 21 wins right now, there just is not enough quality wins for Oregon at present, to make them a lock. If they do not win the Pac-12 tournament, I think they have to get to 24 wins to get in.
Crawford's NBA Bottom Power Rankings----Sports should be fun, so I am expanding my NBA power rankings to give you the worst nine teams in the league. Per usual, once again, we do things in 9s.
9. Boston
8. Detroit
7. Denver
6. Orlando
5. Sacramento
4. Lakers
3. Philadelphia
2. Minnesota
1. New York----Yes, sadly the Knicks per my power rankings, are without question the worst team in the league.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 24th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- On twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Court Storming----How do you stop it. I am really not sure, but I am sure someone will get seriously hurt and I have thought that long before the major bad incident last night in the Kansas State-Kansas game.
Like everything else it will take someone to get seriously hurt, before some major solutions come into play. While I am on this rant, once again let's do away with the after game handshake line in college and high school basketball. Quit crying about sportsmanship and start thinking about how many incidents take place after games. There are many more than you think. Finally, I have not talked to one coach that disagrees with me on the after game handshakes.
Cascade Collegiate Conference---- My second favorite college basketball conference right behind the NWAC Sports has some key playoff games tomorrow night, all local starting times of 7:00 pm. So how about a few score predictions and I am going completely with the chalk.
Oregon Tech 83 @ College of Idaho 102
Corban 59 @ Warner Pacific 64
Eastern Oregon 93 @Concordia 99
Northwest Christian 78 @ Southern Oregon 79
Derrick Rose--- So sad to see this terrific player hurt again and probably out for the season, with another knee injury for the Chicago Bulls.
It will be Rose's 3rd knee surgery in 3 years and one can only hope he will come back healthy.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (sports biz and golf, 365 days per year)
Court Storming----How do you stop it. I am really not sure, but I am sure someone will get seriously hurt and I have thought that long before the major bad incident last night in the Kansas State-Kansas game.
Like everything else it will take someone to get seriously hurt, before some major solutions come into play. While I am on this rant, once again let's do away with the after game handshake line in college and high school basketball. Quit crying about sportsmanship and start thinking about how many incidents take place after games. There are many more than you think. Finally, I have not talked to one coach that disagrees with me on the after game handshakes.
Cascade Collegiate Conference---- My second favorite college basketball conference right behind the NWAC Sports has some key playoff games tomorrow night, all local starting times of 7:00 pm. So how about a few score predictions and I am going completely with the chalk.
Oregon Tech 83 @ College of Idaho 102
Corban 59 @ Warner Pacific 64
Eastern Oregon 93 @Concordia 99
Northwest Christian 78 @ Southern Oregon 79
Derrick Rose--- So sad to see this terrific player hurt again and probably out for the season, with another knee injury for the Chicago Bulls.
It will be Rose's 3rd knee surgery in 3 years and one can only hope he will come back healthy.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (sports biz and golf, 365 days per year)
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 22nd, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Crawford's Best Nine---- It is Sunday, so time for another edition of Crawford's Best Nine, the nine best teams at the moment who play in the six D-1 leagues out west.
9. Sacramento State----Hornets have won 9 of 11, tied for Big Sky lead, finish with 3 tough games on the road, at a dangerous Portland State team next Saturday.
8. Boise State----Another solid year under Leon Rice, who obviously is a really good basketball coach.
7. UC Davis--- The class of the Big West still, have won 12 of 13 and show no signs of slowing down.
6. BYU----Big road trip to finish the WCC regular season, in Portland on Thursday and Spokane on Saturday.
5. New Mexico State----Have now won 14 of 15, a team I am sure no one wants to play in the NCAA tourney.
4. San Diego State--- Aztecs lead the best basketball conference out west, the Mt. West by one game, have won 7 of 8.
3. Arizona----Strong team, in holding patter right now, just keep winning games.
2. Utah---- A shade higher than Arizona, showdown game next Saturday in Salt Lake City with the Wildcats, but must get by a really good Oregon team, a noon contest today.
1. Gonzaga---- Down 17 yesterday at St. Mary's, but Zags do what they do best in the regulars season, win games. Team has Final Four written all over it.
Cascade Collegiate Conference----More evidence of why this league is the best D-2 NAIA men's basketball conference in the country. Regular season play ended yesterday, with 3 teams as co-champs. Congrats to Warner Pacific, Concordia and College of Idaho.
C of I won the tiebreaker, so they get the number one seed, let the playoffs begin. This league does it right when it comes to playoffs, as 8 of the 10 teams get in, the top four seeds host games, the top seed winners continue to host games. A very fair way to do things.
A big difference here. The Big Sky Conference has the same amount of teams in the playoffs, but every game is played at the home site of the regular season league winner. Why not let the top seeds host at least one playoff game. It does not make sense to me. Penalizes the fans and teams.
While we are discussing playoffs, it is about time the very tough D-3 Northwest Conference got out of the dark ages and get more teams in the playoffs for basketball. At present four of the nine teams in the league make postseason. How about six making it, 3 plays 6, 4 plays 5 and the winners get 1 and 2. If these leagues really want to be known for their student/athletes, then you expand the playoffs and make it a great college experience.
Crawford's NWAC Women's Power Rankings----It is Sunday, so time again for Crawford's NWAC power rankings for the women's teams. It has been a great year of basketball, but big shake up this week, as the team's head to the final week of regular season play.
9. Blue Mountain
8. Columbia Basin
7. Highline
6. Walla Walla
5. Peninsula
4. Centralia
3. Bellevue
2. Umpqua
1. Lower Columbia
Yes a new number one, well deserved.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Crawford's Best Nine---- It is Sunday, so time for another edition of Crawford's Best Nine, the nine best teams at the moment who play in the six D-1 leagues out west.
9. Sacramento State----Hornets have won 9 of 11, tied for Big Sky lead, finish with 3 tough games on the road, at a dangerous Portland State team next Saturday.
8. Boise State----Another solid year under Leon Rice, who obviously is a really good basketball coach.
7. UC Davis--- The class of the Big West still, have won 12 of 13 and show no signs of slowing down.
6. BYU----Big road trip to finish the WCC regular season, in Portland on Thursday and Spokane on Saturday.
5. New Mexico State----Have now won 14 of 15, a team I am sure no one wants to play in the NCAA tourney.
4. San Diego State--- Aztecs lead the best basketball conference out west, the Mt. West by one game, have won 7 of 8.
3. Arizona----Strong team, in holding patter right now, just keep winning games.
2. Utah---- A shade higher than Arizona, showdown game next Saturday in Salt Lake City with the Wildcats, but must get by a really good Oregon team, a noon contest today.
1. Gonzaga---- Down 17 yesterday at St. Mary's, but Zags do what they do best in the regulars season, win games. Team has Final Four written all over it.
Cascade Collegiate Conference----More evidence of why this league is the best D-2 NAIA men's basketball conference in the country. Regular season play ended yesterday, with 3 teams as co-champs. Congrats to Warner Pacific, Concordia and College of Idaho.
C of I won the tiebreaker, so they get the number one seed, let the playoffs begin. This league does it right when it comes to playoffs, as 8 of the 10 teams get in, the top four seeds host games, the top seed winners continue to host games. A very fair way to do things.
A big difference here. The Big Sky Conference has the same amount of teams in the playoffs, but every game is played at the home site of the regular season league winner. Why not let the top seeds host at least one playoff game. It does not make sense to me. Penalizes the fans and teams.
While we are discussing playoffs, it is about time the very tough D-3 Northwest Conference got out of the dark ages and get more teams in the playoffs for basketball. At present four of the nine teams in the league make postseason. How about six making it, 3 plays 6, 4 plays 5 and the winners get 1 and 2. If these leagues really want to be known for their student/athletes, then you expand the playoffs and make it a great college experience.
Crawford's NWAC Women's Power Rankings----It is Sunday, so time again for Crawford's NWAC power rankings for the women's teams. It has been a great year of basketball, but big shake up this week, as the team's head to the final week of regular season play.
9. Blue Mountain
8. Columbia Basin
7. Highline
6. Walla Walla
5. Peninsula
4. Centralia
3. Bellevue
2. Umpqua
1. Lower Columbia
Yes a new number one, well deserved.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 21st, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Radio and Print Basketball Analyst---- @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- As always you get the most famous and accurate basketball power rankings, with Greg Crawford On Basketball. It is Saturday, so that means NBA power rankings, big shake up and as always we do things in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf.
9. Milwaukee
8. Dallas
7. Clippers
6. Oklahoma City
5. Cleveland
4. Atlanta
3. Memphis
2. Toronto
1. Golden State
It is going to be a great March and April in the NBA, with so many battles for playoff spots in both Conferences.
Kyle Wiltjer---- Sometimes D-1 college basketball players transfer for all the wrong reasons. In the case of Kyle Wiltjer, who tranferred from Kentucky to Gonzaga, it was a brilliant move. A move I might add that was totally supported by Kentucky coach John Calipari.
Never mind the fact Wiltjer scored 45 on Pacific Thursday night. He has become a West Coast Conference star indeed and part of that reason, Wiltjer has become a power player down low, with his scoring and rebounding.
His Zags are 26-1, heading to a huge game tonight at St. Mary's, which almost certainly will be the last hurdle for the 15-0 Zags to running the table in the WCC, as them come home next week to meet BYU and San Diego, two teams they should beat at home for sure.
Wiltjer almost certainly this year would have been to the NCAA Final Four had he stayed at Kentucky, but he has a great chance this year of going to a Final Four with Gonzaga, plus being on the floor in the Final Four, something that would have been tougher with the Wildcats.
NBA Draft--- Starting next Friday and every Friday in Greg Crawford On Basketball, we will be giving you in-depth coverage of the 2015 NBA Draft. No, we do not do mock drafts until the day before draft day, but instead we tell you about many players to watch and our own personal evaluation.
State of Oregon--- Never can forget my home state of Oregon and the great basketball games that will take place today.
Oregon State hosting Colorado
Portland State hosting Northern Colorado, with huge playoff implications on the line
A host of NWAC Sports games, including Umpqua visitig Clackamas CC in a key game.
Cascade Collegiate Conference, so much riding on their final day of regular season.
Northwest Conference, with the headliner, Pacific at Willamette, final playoff spot up for grabs
NJIT---- Today in http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sport biz, 365 days per year), I talked about New Jersey Institute of Technology and the school being the only totally D-1 independent athletic program in the country.
Earlier this year, NJIT beat 17th ranked at the time Michigan on the road. Obviously it was not a fluke, as the men's basketball team is now 16-11 and having a great season.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- As always you get the most famous and accurate basketball power rankings, with Greg Crawford On Basketball. It is Saturday, so that means NBA power rankings, big shake up and as always we do things in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf.
9. Milwaukee
8. Dallas
7. Clippers
6. Oklahoma City
5. Cleveland
4. Atlanta
3. Memphis
2. Toronto
1. Golden State
It is going to be a great March and April in the NBA, with so many battles for playoff spots in both Conferences.
Kyle Wiltjer---- Sometimes D-1 college basketball players transfer for all the wrong reasons. In the case of Kyle Wiltjer, who tranferred from Kentucky to Gonzaga, it was a brilliant move. A move I might add that was totally supported by Kentucky coach John Calipari.
Never mind the fact Wiltjer scored 45 on Pacific Thursday night. He has become a West Coast Conference star indeed and part of that reason, Wiltjer has become a power player down low, with his scoring and rebounding.
His Zags are 26-1, heading to a huge game tonight at St. Mary's, which almost certainly will be the last hurdle for the 15-0 Zags to running the table in the WCC, as them come home next week to meet BYU and San Diego, two teams they should beat at home for sure.
Wiltjer almost certainly this year would have been to the NCAA Final Four had he stayed at Kentucky, but he has a great chance this year of going to a Final Four with Gonzaga, plus being on the floor in the Final Four, something that would have been tougher with the Wildcats.
NBA Draft--- Starting next Friday and every Friday in Greg Crawford On Basketball, we will be giving you in-depth coverage of the 2015 NBA Draft. No, we do not do mock drafts until the day before draft day, but instead we tell you about many players to watch and our own personal evaluation.
State of Oregon--- Never can forget my home state of Oregon and the great basketball games that will take place today.
Oregon State hosting Colorado
Portland State hosting Northern Colorado, with huge playoff implications on the line
A host of NWAC Sports games, including Umpqua visitig Clackamas CC in a key game.
Cascade Collegiate Conference, so much riding on their final day of regular season.
Northwest Conference, with the headliner, Pacific at Willamette, final playoff spot up for grabs
NJIT---- Today in http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sport biz, 365 days per year), I talked about New Jersey Institute of Technology and the school being the only totally D-1 independent athletic program in the country.
Earlier this year, NJIT beat 17th ranked at the time Michigan on the road. Obviously it was not a fluke, as the men's basketball team is now 16-11 and having a great season.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 19th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcpsortsmgmt
Jerome Kersey---- The passing yesterday of Jerome Kersey is sad, sad, sad. So many great tributes to him from fans, teammates, coaches, ex-teammates and the NBA family. They have said it all.
Kersey's passing also is another strong sign of just how important the Portland Trail Blazers are to the people of Oregon and SW Washington. If you honor the fans here as Kersey did when he was a player and as person who stayed in the community, they are going to honor you 100 times over.
There is a reason why so many players, some who played very little, often choose to spend the rest of their life in the community that adored them.
Crawford's NWC/CCC Power Rankings----- It is Thursday, so that means another combo edition of Crawford's Northwest Conference/ Cascade Collegiate Conference men's basketball power rankings.
9. Northwest Christian
8. Puget Sound
7. Lewis and Clark
6. Southern Oregon
5. Warner Pacific
4. Concordia
3. College of Idaho
2. Whitman
1. Whitworth
Cascade Collegiate Conference----The CCC is the best D-2 NAIA men's basketball conference in the country and once again it is having a tremendous race for home seedings in the upcoming 8 team league playoffs.
It appears College of Idaho is in the driver seat to win the regular season title, with a one game lead over Warner Pacific and Concordia. C of I finishes the season at Northwest and Evergreen, two teams they should beat, but you never know.
The race for 2nd through 4th place is going to be exciting with so much on the line. Warner Pacific and Concordia, travel to Oregon Tech and Southern Oregon, very tough places to play on the road.
When we wake up Sunday morning, who knows where a team will be positioned to start the playoffs next week. The one constant, the basketball is great, exciting and so well coached.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Jerome Kersey---- The passing yesterday of Jerome Kersey is sad, sad, sad. So many great tributes to him from fans, teammates, coaches, ex-teammates and the NBA family. They have said it all.
Kersey's passing also is another strong sign of just how important the Portland Trail Blazers are to the people of Oregon and SW Washington. If you honor the fans here as Kersey did when he was a player and as person who stayed in the community, they are going to honor you 100 times over.
There is a reason why so many players, some who played very little, often choose to spend the rest of their life in the community that adored them.
Crawford's NWC/CCC Power Rankings----- It is Thursday, so that means another combo edition of Crawford's Northwest Conference/ Cascade Collegiate Conference men's basketball power rankings.
9. Northwest Christian
8. Puget Sound
7. Lewis and Clark
6. Southern Oregon
5. Warner Pacific
4. Concordia
3. College of Idaho
2. Whitman
1. Whitworth
Cascade Collegiate Conference----The CCC is the best D-2 NAIA men's basketball conference in the country and once again it is having a tremendous race for home seedings in the upcoming 8 team league playoffs.
It appears College of Idaho is in the driver seat to win the regular season title, with a one game lead over Warner Pacific and Concordia. C of I finishes the season at Northwest and Evergreen, two teams they should beat, but you never know.
The race for 2nd through 4th place is going to be exciting with so much on the line. Warner Pacific and Concordia, travel to Oregon Tech and Southern Oregon, very tough places to play on the road.
When we wake up Sunday morning, who knows where a team will be positioned to start the playoffs next week. The one constant, the basketball is great, exciting and so well coached.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 18th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford---TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
NBA Attendance----On most Wednesdays, we try and take a look at NBA attendance. As play begins again tomorrow in the NBA, some things never change.
1. Bulls continue to lead the league is average home attendance---- 21,882 per game and that is 104 % of capacity.
2. Both Memphis and Atlanta are having magical seasons, but not at the game. Memphis is 16th in overall attendance with an average crowd of 17, 187, 94% of capacity and the Hawks play before an average of 16,864, 90% of capacity. Very sad figures indeed for two great teams.
3. It is also interesting to note that two teams that are having tough years, New York and Miami, have sold out every game so far, a credit to both of those organizations and great fans.
Kevin Durant--- Today Durant apologized to the media for going off on the media during all-star weekend. There is no disputing that Kevin Durant has been more confrontational this year in many areas, which tells me my assessment of the fact Durant, Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook will all be Lakers when their contracts allow is more of a possibility than ever.
Crawford's NWAC Power Rankings---It is Wednesday, time for another edition of Crawford's NWAC Sports men's basketball power rankings. These are getting tough, but someone has to do them. Remember, we always do things in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf. There is a full slate of NWAC basketball games tonight, you need to be there for sure.
9. Spokane
8. Lower Columbia
7. Clark
6. Columbia Basin
5. Edmonds
4. Big Bend
3. Chemeketa
2. Highline
1. Bellevue
Danny Ferry----On September 12th, Danny Ferry took a leave of absence from his position of general manager of the Atlanta Hawks, over remarks he was attributed too, regarding race.
One of America's most prominent Civil Rights leaders and resident of Atlanta, Andrew Young spoke out today and strongly urged both Ferry and the Hawks to bring him back. Young's endorsement certainly will have a big impact on Ferry' future.
I am pretty sure no one thinks Ferry is a racist. But, what I am not sure of, is he really that good of general manager? Something for everyone to consider. We all say and do the wrong things from time to time, but we all better be good at our jobs, or we are not going to keep them.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
email, gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com
NBA Attendance----On most Wednesdays, we try and take a look at NBA attendance. As play begins again tomorrow in the NBA, some things never change.
1. Bulls continue to lead the league is average home attendance---- 21,882 per game and that is 104 % of capacity.
2. Both Memphis and Atlanta are having magical seasons, but not at the game. Memphis is 16th in overall attendance with an average crowd of 17, 187, 94% of capacity and the Hawks play before an average of 16,864, 90% of capacity. Very sad figures indeed for two great teams.
3. It is also interesting to note that two teams that are having tough years, New York and Miami, have sold out every game so far, a credit to both of those organizations and great fans.
Kevin Durant--- Today Durant apologized to the media for going off on the media during all-star weekend. There is no disputing that Kevin Durant has been more confrontational this year in many areas, which tells me my assessment of the fact Durant, Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook will all be Lakers when their contracts allow is more of a possibility than ever.
Crawford's NWAC Power Rankings---It is Wednesday, time for another edition of Crawford's NWAC Sports men's basketball power rankings. These are getting tough, but someone has to do them. Remember, we always do things in 9s, out of the great respect for the game of golf. There is a full slate of NWAC basketball games tonight, you need to be there for sure.
9. Spokane
8. Lower Columbia
7. Clark
6. Columbia Basin
5. Edmonds
4. Big Bend
3. Chemeketa
2. Highline
1. Bellevue
Danny Ferry----On September 12th, Danny Ferry took a leave of absence from his position of general manager of the Atlanta Hawks, over remarks he was attributed too, regarding race.
One of America's most prominent Civil Rights leaders and resident of Atlanta, Andrew Young spoke out today and strongly urged both Ferry and the Hawks to bring him back. Young's endorsement certainly will have a big impact on Ferry' future.
I am pretty sure no one thinks Ferry is a racist. But, what I am not sure of, is he really that good of general manager? Something for everyone to consider. We all say and do the wrong things from time to time, but we all better be good at our jobs, or we are not going to keep them.
more of Gregory's blogs--- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
email, gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 17th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst--- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
NWAC Picks---- It is Tuesday and time to pick Crawford's NWAC Sports basketball coach and player of the week.
Coach of the week is Alison Crumb, head women's coach at Peninsula College. Coach Crumb has guided her team this year to a 15-5 overall record, including at present five straight wins and a 9-1 record in league, with their only loss to Bellevue, who is leading the Northern region at 10-0.
Player of the week honors go to Bellevue point guard Jalen Ward and what a week he had. In 2 games, he scored 50 points, had 11 rebounds, dished out 8 assists, committed only one turnover and helped keep his team undefeated in league play.
Congrats to Coach Crumb and Jalen Ward.
Dick Vitale----By now everyone knows that for the first time since 1979, Dick Vitale will not be calling the Duke-North Carolina game on ESPN tomorrow night.
Dick Vitale has a right to call his own shots on games, he has earned it. Vitale has made college basketball what it is today on TV. As matter of fact, he should be given an Emmy for lifetime achievement.
Yes, at times he can grate on you, but what person in the media, including myself does not from time to time.
What ESPN has done is wrong, too late to correct it, but at least it is never to late to say it is wrong.
NBA--- The league will start up again this Thursday. Do you miss it, or do you like the longest break the league has taken during the all-star break in its history.
It might be great for the players, but they make big money, they need to play. In my opinion this break has been way too long.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
NWAC Picks---- It is Tuesday and time to pick Crawford's NWAC Sports basketball coach and player of the week.
Coach of the week is Alison Crumb, head women's coach at Peninsula College. Coach Crumb has guided her team this year to a 15-5 overall record, including at present five straight wins and a 9-1 record in league, with their only loss to Bellevue, who is leading the Northern region at 10-0.
Player of the week honors go to Bellevue point guard Jalen Ward and what a week he had. In 2 games, he scored 50 points, had 11 rebounds, dished out 8 assists, committed only one turnover and helped keep his team undefeated in league play.
Congrats to Coach Crumb and Jalen Ward.
Dick Vitale----By now everyone knows that for the first time since 1979, Dick Vitale will not be calling the Duke-North Carolina game on ESPN tomorrow night.
Dick Vitale has a right to call his own shots on games, he has earned it. Vitale has made college basketball what it is today on TV. As matter of fact, he should be given an Emmy for lifetime achievement.
Yes, at times he can grate on you, but what person in the media, including myself does not from time to time.
What ESPN has done is wrong, too late to correct it, but at least it is never to late to say it is wrong.
NBA--- The league will start up again this Thursday. Do you miss it, or do you like the longest break the league has taken during the all-star break in its history.
It might be great for the players, but they make big money, they need to play. In my opinion this break has been way too long.
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year)
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 15th, 2015
By Gregory Crawford--- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @kcsportsmgmt @crawssportsbiz
Crawford's Best Nine---The best present nine teams that play basketball in the six D-1 leagues in the western United States.
9. Eastern Washington----Despite a devastating loss to Portland State at home yesterday, they still belong here as they are leading a very strong Big Sky Conference with three weeks to go.
8. UC Davis----Pretty terrific year for the Aggies, only one loss in Big West play and four losses all year long.
7. BYU---Very tough schedule ahead in the West Coast Conference, as they still have to visit Gonzaga and Portland, but playing really good basketball right now.
6. San Diego State----Leading the best basketball conference out west, the Mt. West. with the most underrated coach in college basketball, Steve Fisher.
5. Boise State----Trailing by one game in the Mt. West, a big win over San Diego State last week, had won 8 in row up to last night.
4. New Mexico State---- A dangerous team, that I am certain no one wants to play in the NCAA tournament. They will make it and at present have won 12 of 13 games.
3. Arizona----Leading the Pac-12, everyone is looking way ahead to the February 28th showdown against Utah in Salt Lake City.
2. Utah----What a coaching job by the other Coach K for the Utes. He has turned them into a powerhouse team in short time period and could win the Pac-12 regular season.
1. Gonzaga----I am still counting on the Zags to make the Final Four this season. Must play St. Mary's on the road this week, in what could be their last stumbling block to running the table in the WCC.
Seattle U----By all accounts, Seattle U. head coach Cameron Dollar is a great person and everyone in Seattle really likes him. He does however have lots of pressure right now, one would have to think. It was suppose to be a good year for Seattle U. basketball, it has not been.
At present the team is 11-13 on the season and in the weak WAC Conference, the Redhawks have lost 5 out of their last 6. The Redhawks come home to for three straight to finish the regular season.
Dollar took over at Seattle U in 2009-10, which was his only winning season at the school, which has one of the most iconic histories in college basketball. Since joining the WAC Conference in 2012-13, the Redhawks have gone 12-32 to date in Conference games. Those are not numbers anyone associated with the program likes to see for a team that plays its home games on Baylor Court, named after Elgin Baylor, one of the NBA's top 50 players of all time and star player at Seattle U.
Crawford's NWAC Women's BB Power Rankings---- It is Sunday, so time for another edition of Crawford's NWAC women's basketball power rankings. Big shake up from 4 down this week, as we always do things in 9s out of respect for the great game of golf.
9. Walla Walla
8. Centralia
7. Highline
6. Columbia Basin
5. Wenatchee Valley
4. Peninsula
3. Bellevue
2. Lower Columbia
1. Umpqua
Adam Silver----I am always amazed at how much criticism, NBA commissioner Adam Silver gets, all the way down to his looks, which is pathetic to say the least.
Adam Silver deserves a chance to build his own agenda since taking over for David Stern, just over a year past. It is obvious that Silver wants to be more inclusive than Stern, who ran the league with an iron fist, to put it mildly.
If you really listen to Silver, many of his ideas make lots of sense, such as changing the NBA schedule to bring more rest for players and referees, raising the age limit to 20 and legalizing sports betting.
Of course the greatest challenge for Silver will come in 2017, when the NBA will almost certainly face a labor stoppage, as 2017 is the first year that either management or the players union can try to renegotiate the present collective bargaining agreement.
Please also read, http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year.
email--- gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com
Crawford's Best Nine---The best present nine teams that play basketball in the six D-1 leagues in the western United States.
9. Eastern Washington----Despite a devastating loss to Portland State at home yesterday, they still belong here as they are leading a very strong Big Sky Conference with three weeks to go.
8. UC Davis----Pretty terrific year for the Aggies, only one loss in Big West play and four losses all year long.
7. BYU---Very tough schedule ahead in the West Coast Conference, as they still have to visit Gonzaga and Portland, but playing really good basketball right now.
6. San Diego State----Leading the best basketball conference out west, the Mt. West. with the most underrated coach in college basketball, Steve Fisher.
5. Boise State----Trailing by one game in the Mt. West, a big win over San Diego State last week, had won 8 in row up to last night.
4. New Mexico State---- A dangerous team, that I am certain no one wants to play in the NCAA tournament. They will make it and at present have won 12 of 13 games.
3. Arizona----Leading the Pac-12, everyone is looking way ahead to the February 28th showdown against Utah in Salt Lake City.
2. Utah----What a coaching job by the other Coach K for the Utes. He has turned them into a powerhouse team in short time period and could win the Pac-12 regular season.
1. Gonzaga----I am still counting on the Zags to make the Final Four this season. Must play St. Mary's on the road this week, in what could be their last stumbling block to running the table in the WCC.
Seattle U----By all accounts, Seattle U. head coach Cameron Dollar is a great person and everyone in Seattle really likes him. He does however have lots of pressure right now, one would have to think. It was suppose to be a good year for Seattle U. basketball, it has not been.
At present the team is 11-13 on the season and in the weak WAC Conference, the Redhawks have lost 5 out of their last 6. The Redhawks come home to for three straight to finish the regular season.
Dollar took over at Seattle U in 2009-10, which was his only winning season at the school, which has one of the most iconic histories in college basketball. Since joining the WAC Conference in 2012-13, the Redhawks have gone 12-32 to date in Conference games. Those are not numbers anyone associated with the program likes to see for a team that plays its home games on Baylor Court, named after Elgin Baylor, one of the NBA's top 50 players of all time and star player at Seattle U.
Crawford's NWAC Women's BB Power Rankings---- It is Sunday, so time for another edition of Crawford's NWAC women's basketball power rankings. Big shake up from 4 down this week, as we always do things in 9s out of respect for the great game of golf.
9. Walla Walla
8. Centralia
7. Highline
6. Columbia Basin
5. Wenatchee Valley
4. Peninsula
3. Bellevue
2. Lower Columbia
1. Umpqua
Adam Silver----I am always amazed at how much criticism, NBA commissioner Adam Silver gets, all the way down to his looks, which is pathetic to say the least.
Adam Silver deserves a chance to build his own agenda since taking over for David Stern, just over a year past. It is obvious that Silver wants to be more inclusive than Stern, who ran the league with an iron fist, to put it mildly.
If you really listen to Silver, many of his ideas make lots of sense, such as changing the NBA schedule to bring more rest for players and referees, raising the age limit to 20 and legalizing sports betting.
Of course the greatest challenge for Silver will come in 2017, when the NBA will almost certainly face a labor stoppage, as 2017 is the first year that either management or the players union can try to renegotiate the present collective bargaining agreement.
Please also read, http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz, 365 days per year.
email--- gregcrawfordbasketball@gmail.com
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Greg Crawford On Basketball, For February 14th, 2014
By Gregory Crawford---- TV, Print and Radio Basketball Analyst---- on twitter @wchoops @crawssportsbiz @kcsportsmgmt
Happy Valentine's Day
New College Basketball League---- As one of the leading advocates of west coast college basketball, our company, Kiyokawa Crawford Sports Management, does not have a dream, it actually has something we would love to see a reality. The odds are stacked against us, but also know one thought we could land on the moon, ever have cell phones or even light bulbs that work.
The same as college basketball everywhere, west coast basketball really needs a boost. So how about a brand new basketball league only. Any leagues want great basketball programs and we would have them. Our 16 team league would have the following teams.
UCLA----Anything on the west coast when it comes to basketball, has to start with UCLA.
UNLV--- A revenue generating machine, ever since Jerry Tarkanian was there, it is a natural.
Arizona--- Best basketball program out west in the last 25 years for sure.
Gonzaga----They have to be included in the mix always, plus a great fan base nationally.
Washington----The Huskies are a must for this new league, as well as we need the Seattle market
Portland State---- We also need the Portland market, with their new arena coming on board a great fit.
Oregon----The flash and dash of the Ducks is a must for us. Plus, one great basketball coach.
Boise State----Great city and great arena, plus a rising basketball program under Leon Rice.
Utah State----Best place on the west coast to watch a game, because of tremendous fans.
BYU----Iconic fan base, so needed for our new league to succeed.
San Diego State-----Great basketball city, great fans and great program under Steve Fisher.
New Mexico----What a great basketball state and a fan base that has been solid years.
New Mexico State---- Same as New Mexico, nothing more needs to be said.
San Francisco---- The history of this program is terrific and we need the Bay Area market
UC Davis----- So much potential in athletics, also brings in the Sacramento mark
Eastern Washington---Might be the surprise of the group, but would be great for the league.
Every great league has rivalries, some we would have to build on, some are long established as you can see below.
Washington/Gonzaga
UC Davis/San Francisco
UCLA/San Diego State
Portland State/Oregon
UNLV/Arizona
Utah State/ BYU
Boise State/Eastern Washington
New Mexico/ New Mexico State
Every college basketball league is also has a great group of people leading the league. So whether they accept or not, here is who we would ask to be in charge of this league. Three as talented of people as you will ever find in sports.
Commissioner----Jon Spoelstra----Jon is the world's greatest sports marketer of all time. He would put people in the seats, he would get us the best TV deal possible and he is as respect a person as anyone in sports. If you have not read Jon's books, you are missing out. Start with "Marketing Outrageously, Redux and go from there.
Director of Officiating---- Terry Durham---- Terry is a natural leader of officials, as his teaching of referees is world renown. Every good league needs great referees and we would have them under Terry. Plus, we would pay every referee $90,000 and sign them to a contract, where they would work exclusively in our league and our league only. They would be fresh each night, with no tired legs.
Directory of Communications---Mike Lund--- There is no better sports information director in the country than Mike Lund. Plus, no one outworks him, he understands the media, he knows how to work with coaches and teams, plus our TV partners would love working with Mike.
In conclusion, every league needs a great name and also great playing dates. We would play our games on Friday night and Sunday afternoon/ nights. As for a name, how about BEST BASKETBALL CONFERENCE, because we would be.
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- It is Saturday, so that means it is time for another edition of the world famous Crawford's NBA power rankings. Enjoy and remember we always do things in 9s, out of the respect for the great game of golf.
9. Oklahoma City
8. San Antonio
7. Dallas
6. Portland
5. Toronto
4. Houston
3. Memphis
2. Atlanta
1. Golden State
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)
Happy Valentine's Day
New College Basketball League---- As one of the leading advocates of west coast college basketball, our company, Kiyokawa Crawford Sports Management, does not have a dream, it actually has something we would love to see a reality. The odds are stacked against us, but also know one thought we could land on the moon, ever have cell phones or even light bulbs that work.
The same as college basketball everywhere, west coast basketball really needs a boost. So how about a brand new basketball league only. Any leagues want great basketball programs and we would have them. Our 16 team league would have the following teams.
UCLA----Anything on the west coast when it comes to basketball, has to start with UCLA.
UNLV--- A revenue generating machine, ever since Jerry Tarkanian was there, it is a natural.
Arizona--- Best basketball program out west in the last 25 years for sure.
Gonzaga----They have to be included in the mix always, plus a great fan base nationally.
Washington----The Huskies are a must for this new league, as well as we need the Seattle market
Portland State---- We also need the Portland market, with their new arena coming on board a great fit.
Oregon----The flash and dash of the Ducks is a must for us. Plus, one great basketball coach.
Boise State----Great city and great arena, plus a rising basketball program under Leon Rice.
Utah State----Best place on the west coast to watch a game, because of tremendous fans.
BYU----Iconic fan base, so needed for our new league to succeed.
San Diego State-----Great basketball city, great fans and great program under Steve Fisher.
New Mexico----What a great basketball state and a fan base that has been solid years.
New Mexico State---- Same as New Mexico, nothing more needs to be said.
San Francisco---- The history of this program is terrific and we need the Bay Area market
UC Davis----- So much potential in athletics, also brings in the Sacramento mark
Eastern Washington---Might be the surprise of the group, but would be great for the league.
Every great league has rivalries, some we would have to build on, some are long established as you can see below.
Washington/Gonzaga
UC Davis/San Francisco
UCLA/San Diego State
Portland State/Oregon
UNLV/Arizona
Utah State/ BYU
Boise State/Eastern Washington
New Mexico/ New Mexico State
Every college basketball league is also has a great group of people leading the league. So whether they accept or not, here is who we would ask to be in charge of this league. Three as talented of people as you will ever find in sports.
Commissioner----Jon Spoelstra----Jon is the world's greatest sports marketer of all time. He would put people in the seats, he would get us the best TV deal possible and he is as respect a person as anyone in sports. If you have not read Jon's books, you are missing out. Start with "Marketing Outrageously, Redux and go from there.
Director of Officiating---- Terry Durham---- Terry is a natural leader of officials, as his teaching of referees is world renown. Every good league needs great referees and we would have them under Terry. Plus, we would pay every referee $90,000 and sign them to a contract, where they would work exclusively in our league and our league only. They would be fresh each night, with no tired legs.
Directory of Communications---Mike Lund--- There is no better sports information director in the country than Mike Lund. Plus, no one outworks him, he understands the media, he knows how to work with coaches and teams, plus our TV partners would love working with Mike.
In conclusion, every league needs a great name and also great playing dates. We would play our games on Friday night and Sunday afternoon/ nights. As for a name, how about BEST BASKETBALL CONFERENCE, because we would be.
Crawford's NBA Power Rankings---- It is Saturday, so that means it is time for another edition of the world famous Crawford's NBA power rankings. Enjoy and remember we always do things in 9s, out of the respect for the great game of golf.
9. Oklahoma City
8. San Antonio
7. Dallas
6. Portland
5. Toronto
4. Houston
3. Memphis
2. Atlanta
1. Golden State
more of Gregory's blogs---- http://crawfordsgolfdaily.blogspot.com (golf and sports biz)
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