I ONCE CUT MY ARM,
AND THE NBA DRIBBLED OUT
WHORING MYSELF
2012-2013 REGULAR SEASON
2011-2012 REGULAR SEASON
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The NBA Dribbled Out
Episode 3: Andrew Ungvari
And the podcast keeps rolling along. Remember, you can subscribe to it in iTunes by clicking this link.
This week, I’m happy to bring you the Los Angeles episode with Andrew Ungvari, who stopped by to discuss his script writing career, his childhood days with The Alchemist, Kobe, Lakers, more Kobe and Lakers, how he got Magic Johnson to sign a napkin for him, and so much more.
Streaming link up top, download link below this, and because we covered so much, there’s a ton of show notes this week, which I definitely recommend reading because I wrote them.
Right-click to download the podcast
Show notes:
1. You can find Unga’s entire archive of Lakersnation writing here. Specifically, his open letter to Kobe and subsequent plea to fans to be civil.
2. Unga’s “Peking Dunk” script was inspired by this Sports Illustrated article titled “The Man Who Would Be Ming”. We called him Todd McClintock on the podcast, it’s actually Dan. We apologize, maybe.
3. Unga previously talked about “Peking Dunk” on Jensen’s “Get Up On This” podcast, in this episode with Sean O’Connor. Unga is a frequent guest and co-host on the podcast, he also guested on this episode, and co-hosted with Jensen to speak with Melissa Stephens, the rap group Overdoz and most recently Morgan Murphy.
4. One of Unga’s scripts that he discussed was “Fourteen Feet”, based on a true story of football coach Sandy Brown who used football to rehabilitate troubled kids in Texas. You can read more about it here.
5. Here’s a good write-up on former Los Angeles Rams’ Darryl Henley’s crazy story.
6. We talked briefly about Washington Wizards owner Ted Leonsis’s “list”, which he detailed in this blog post.
7. Unga is childhood friends with hip hop producer The Alchemist. I suggest you read this Complex article where he gives an oral history of some of his greatest tracks. Unga’s cameo appearance in The Whooliganz - “Put Your Hands Up” video can be viewed here.
8. One of Unga’s in development script ideas is about the origin of the Harlem Globetrotters, which he was drawn to after reading “Tricksters In The Madhouse” by John Christgau.
9. The back story behind Yori, better known as the Asian lady who sits front row at Lakers games. Also, a Hollywood Reporter infographic on celebrity Lakers fans.
10. We spoke at length about Kobe and his changing image through the years. Here’s Kobe’s McDonalds commercial from more than a decade ago, contrast that with his “Love Me, Hate Me” commercial. We also discussed Tiger Wood’s post-scandal Nike ad, and LeBron’s post-Decision ad campaign.
11. Unga thinks Kobe is like the old people who don’t care anymore about what people think, as detailed in Louis CK’s recent Saturday Night Live monologue.
12. Some of LeBron’s great dunks: on Damon Jones and on John Lucas III.
13. Vince Carter talks about his tenure in Toronto; Sam Mitchell discussing the Carter trade to New Jersey, and my response to all of this for Raptors HQ at SB Nation.
14. Half a season of Jermaine O’Neal in exchange for Roy Hibbert did happen, and this Pacers fan thinks it’s the best deal ever for them.
15. Former Cleveland Cavaliers owner Ted Stepien is why teams can no longer trade first round picks on consecutive years.
16. The Lakers have tribute videos for just about anyone who returns to Staples, Jordan Farmar included.
17. If Magic Johnson was before your time, this YouTube video should help you appreciate him. Here’s the napkin that Unga gave to Magic Johnson to sign, and here’s Mitch Kupchak’s napkin.
18. Finally, here’s the download link to the Trilambs album on Matt Robinson’s Twitter profile.
19. Thanks to @jonsavant for editing the podcast and @bouncex3 for the podcast logo.
I’m reblogging this because it features one of my favorite Tumblr writers, Steven LeBron, and someone that writes about the Lakers like a smart adult, Andrew Ungvari. Go ahead and click play to chill with these two. You’ll enjoy it. Promise.
People you should follow during the 2012 NBA playoffs:
From the start of his career, Kobe has always done things a little differently. The high schooler who orchestrated his way onto the Lakers who somehow by his sheer talent involved himself in a feud for alpha dog status with the most dominating big man in the game.
So while we criticize how his game is dominated by moments of individualism that somehow lessen the overall good of his team, the five rings and his dedication to the game stand as the perfect argument against all that he’s not.
And as these playoffs start, we’re about to find out just what the last stretch of Kobe’s career will really be about.
His performance this season has been a surprise, if only because by all accounts, a player of his mileage was projected to show a steeper decline than he’s demonstrated.
But on a team with lesser talent than years past, in a conference filled with teams that have seemingly surpassed his, it’s a testament to his reputation that this version of the Lakers is still in the championship discussion.
Which is what makes it all the more interesting to contrast how his team performed while he was out several weeks this month. They seemed more in sync, more understanding of what makes the team successful. The team was able to more freely exploit their strength in the front court, and played with more cohesion.
Which is not really a relevation when you consider that Kobe has never really seemed to fit with his teammates on the court. It always seems as though his performances are viewed in isolation, away from what the possible better alternative should’ve been.
But somehow we’ve reconstructed Kobe’s persona as the veteran with less of the primadonna qualities that the next group of younger superstars carry.
And in that context, it makes him easier to root for, and easier to relate to.
It’s incredible that someone of his talent and accomplishments is still viewed in such a way that his flaws welcomes more discussion than all that makes him great.
The superstar in isolation starts another run at the title. Not favorites or even a logical choice for most.
But just remember: Kobe’s always done things a little bit differently. It wouldn’t be the first time he’s surprised us with a different ending.
Footnotes:
You can read all my 2012 NBA Playoff related posts by clicking here, and by following me on Twitter for in game musings and on Facebook for other great reads, videos and links throughout the post-season.
Rodman Does Dallas
In 2000, just two years removed from having won three consecutive titles with the Chicago Bulls, Dennis Rodman was a 38 year old power forward looking for a job.
On February 3 of that year, he signed with the Dallas Mavericks. His entire stint with the team lasted all of 12 games and spanning a month in total.
Rodman’s debut with the team drew the highest local ratings for a Mavericks telecast since 1994.
In his second game with the Mavericks, Rodman had 6 points, 16 rebounds and 4 assists against the Milwaukee Bucks1, but was ejected from the game for demonstratively arguing a foul call against him.
After the game, he directed a few shots at commissioner David Stern: “I wish me and David Stern could put some damn gloves on and go in the ring. We’ll see who comes out the winner.”
The Mavericks, who had won 10 of their last 13 games prior to signing Rodman, were entertaining hopes of making the playoffs. But they kept losing with The Worm, and he kept losing it himself.
After a blowout loss to Sacramento, Rodman’s disruptive side took over as he criticized his teammates and the organization as a whole: “We’re like that movie Lost in Space. We have no sense of direction. We’re lost. There’s not much else to say. We really need some players to fill in the holes we have here. We need a backup center, a starting center, a true power forward, a couple of guards. Above all, we need some more veterans to come in here and provide some leadership. If we don’t get that, then this team is always going to be on the bottom. And I won’t stay on a team that’s always at the bottom. I’ve been on the top too many years to do that.”
The final straw came the next night, when he directed his anger towards Cuban, who allowed Rodman to stay at his guest house when he first arrived in Dallas: “He doesn’t need to be hanging around the players like he’s a coach or something. That’s like Jerry Jones, and it’s dumb. That’s why the Cowboys went down. He needs to be the owner, step back and put people in who can get this team in the right direction.”
The next morning, Rodman was released by the Mavericks.
It would turn out to be his last stint in the NBA.
Footnotes:
1 You can watch highlights of that game here. It’s funny to see a young Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash on the court with Rodman, and also fascinating how effective Rodman still was on defense and on the boards.
It’s that time again. Mailbag with Steven LeBron. You can follow him on Tumblr and Twitter, if you aren’t already. Questions are from you guys, but some couldn’t be answered this time. Keep sending in questions for Steven LeBron and FuckYeahNBA.
Q: Top 10 clutch players in the NBA
Steven LeBron (SL): I don’t have 10 players off the top of my head. But in late game situations, here’s some players I wouldn’t mind having the ball in no particular order: Chris Paul, Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose, Dirk Nowitzki and Kobe Bryant.
Having the pleasure of seeing CP3 in person, I have to say that every time he steps on the court, he’s crafting a masterpiece in running the point guard position. The way he steps it up in the fourth quarter when needed is so seamless from the things he does in the first three quarters to move the team along.
Durant, Rose and Nowitzki’s track records speak for themselves.
As for Kobe, I know much has been written about whether he’s clutch or not. I’m a huge fan of his game so I will admit it’s a bit hard for me to step away from that bias and ignore the fact that he has tunnel vision when it comes to late game situations. But if I need a player to bail me out in a late game situation, there’s still no one better than Kobe, by any mask necessary.
Q: Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol vs. Kevin Love and Nikola Pekovic
SL: Out of the four, the best player is obviously Kevin Love, who I think is the best power forward in the league at the moment. But as a combo, Bynum-Gasol are very underrated. Though it’s been difficult at times, I think their style of play can and do compliment one another, and Bynum has been relatively healthy this season which is a good sign so far.
I’d love for the Lakers to find out whether the offense could revolve around Bynum, and whether he has the skill set and stamina to handle being the number one option, but that seems unlikely with Kobe in gunslinger mode all year.
Still, you don’t want to give away Bynum without ever finding out whether that potential is there.
Gasol is one of those big men that does all the little things, doesn’t put up numbers that awe you, but there’s few power forwards I’d rather have on my team.
As a duo, it’s not even close. I’ll take the Lakers duo. But in a few years, when Derrick Williams gets comfortable in the league, we can have the conversation again. By then, it’s possible none of the other three will still be with their current team anyways.
Q: LeBron James and the decision (sorry) to pass at the end of the Utah game. Fair or foul to call him out since he’s the superior player. (this was my own amalgamation of a couple questions/statements I got from readers).
SL: I wrote a thousand words on this very question this week. Check it out at The Tickr.
In short, he is not just the superior player. He is the best player in the game. Is he shying away from that responsibility, or is he in the process of redefining what we think of as the best player.
He is the consummate team player, but if we accept him as the best player in the game, than shouldn’t we also except his late game decision making not as stage fright or having the moment become too big for him, but as the best player in the game making the best basketball decision at all times.
It seems hypocritical to praise all his skills and also believe that one of his greatest strength, his court vision, is suddenly impeded in the big moments. He’s not committing turnovers, throwing the ball away. The ball was in his hands in the Utah game, and he made a pass to an open teammate.
Again, I could go on and we can debate in circles, end of the day: winning a championship will validate all these decisions. Coming up short again will make all my arguments moot.
Q: First half MVP?
SL: LeBron James.
Although Derrick Rose should get lots of consideration if he stays healthy and gets Chicago to the top seed in the East. Trailing votes go to Kobe, who won’t win it cause his team has taken a step back, and Durant, who will suffer because of his strong supporting cast.
Q: Rookie of the year?
SL: Kyrie Irving. His performance has been surprising to me. The Cavs have a point guard they can build around for the future. Not bad less than two years removed from James’ departure.
Q: Coach of the year?
SL: If the Grizzlies hold onto a top four seed, without Zach Randolph for essentially the whole season so far, I’d have to give my vote to Lionel Hollins.
Though these coaches deserve significant consideration: Scott Brooks, Tom Thibodeau and Gregg Popovich.
I think Erik Spoelstra has done a wonderful job this year, in maximizing all the talent he has. Didn’t Phil Jackson used to do the same thing and get a lot of respect. Spoelstra is doing the same to some extent, but because he coaches LeBron and Wade, he’ll always come short in this category.
Q: Defensive player of the year?
SL: Still Dwight Howard, though if voters like to switch it up and enjoy the crazy box scores, Serge Ibaka should get some votes.
Q: Most improved player?
SL: Ryan Anderson has already been given this award right?
Q: Sixth man of the year?
SL: I know I’m missing a lot of guys, but Louis Williams and James Harden stand out to me. I’ll go with Harden.
Contributor, Steven LeBron, answers some of your questions, which have been accruing space in my mailbox for a while now. You should also follow his excellent tumblr and twitter if you aren’t already.
Q: Are you starting to like the Mavericks’ chances with Dirk playing the way he has? Also what do you think the chemistry will be like when West comes back?
Steven LeBron (SL): I have my doubts as to whether this team is ready to win four rounds in the playoffs. The classic Mavericks team in the Mark Cuban era always plays great during the regular season, than finds a way to throw it away in the post-season.
Last season changed that narrative, but the roster has turned over.
I don’t have doubts Dirk will continue along the elite level that he’s been at for the past decade, but the center position continues to concern me, and I’m not sure what I’m getting off the bench from Lamar Odom, Vince Carter and Delonte West when he comes back.
The Mavericks will win their share of regular season games, but right now, I see them in the middle of the pack. They’ve shown too many championship hangover moments for me to think there’s a commitment there to get it done for a repeat.
Q: Who would you rather trade: Melo or Amare, if you had to trade one?
SL: Amare for sure.
It’s been a tough season on the court and personally for Stoudemire. He was a consolation prize for the Knicks in the off-season last year, after they moved so many pieces to get a shot at Lebron.
Instead, he took the city by storm and energized New York for the first half of the season. He’s taken a step back this year, struggling to find a proper rhythm in the offense. But the more important thing is that he’s always one injury away.
For all the criticism about Carmelo’s ball-stopping offense (more on that in another question below), he’s 27 years old, a relatively clean bill of health, and one of the best pure scorers in the league.
You can build around Carmelo. He’s more of a sure bet than Amare to me, short-term and long-term.
Q: Who are the top tier teams in the West and the East. That is, who has a legitimate chance to go to the Finals this year?
SL: Assuming no significant injuries. In the East, I’m of the opinion that it’s the Heat and Bulls. The Pacers and Sixers are having surprise seasons, the Celtics and Magic are lurking on reputation alone, but there’s a clear separation and Miami and Chicago are way ahead of the class.
I’ve written about Derrick Rose and the Bulls, and I believe that they’re a clear second to Miami unless you believe that the tandem of Rose and Deng can create enough offense for the team to keep up in the post-season against the Heat. Their defense and style of play will keep them in games they have no business being in, but they still face an uphill climb come playoff time.
The wild card in the East are the Knicks. They’re a .500 team now, but with all the bodies coming back healthy, I’m very intrigued to see how their players fit in. If we are to believe that they’ve acquired a top point guard in Jeremy Lin, all the pieces start to fall into place. A match-up with Miami this Thursday before the all star break will be very telling.
In the West, it’s got to be the Thunder, Spurs, Mavs and Lakers. I would put the Nuggets and Clippers on the fringe. I don’t trust either team’s coaches. The Thunder are head of the class on record alone. The Spurs are quietly angling themselves for another title run. The Mavs are here on reputation alone. And I have so much respect for Kobe that I am looking past all their flaws (more on this below as well) and giving them a puncher’s chance in what I think is a wide open conference.
Q: Would you sign Gilbert Arenas if you were Mitch Kupchak?
SL: Short answer: Yes.
Long answer: Their point guards are Derek Fisher and Steve Blake right now. So yes. The Lakers have a lot of needs they need to fill. Why not take a chance on Gilbert Arenas and see what happens. Though, when you’re attached to every player that’s currently not in the league (Arenas, Iverson), it’s a sign your team is more than a few pieces away from contending. Kobe, out of anyone, should recognize that you don’t just piece together players and expect to create a contending team.
Q: Can Jeremy Lin play with Carmelo Anthony? Will his play fall off this year, and if yes, why?
SL: Yes, Jeremy Lin can play with Carmelo Anthony. Knicks fans should look at it this way: you’re pairing one of the top scorers in the league with one of the top emerging young point guards in the league. If anything, they should be excited.
You traded half of your team for Carmelo last year with the understanding that you’d have to build pieces around him. Amare was one. Chandler another. And now, they have a point guard in Lin. They’re going to make each other better, and make this team very dangerous down the stretch.
As for Lin’s play. He’s brought something new to the table every game. Whether it’s the early questions about his jump shooting. Or doubts about his toughness. Or the ability to not be a shoot first point guard and create for others. We’re not watching a one trick pony here. He’s shown a diverse enough set of skills over two weeks that it’s not inconceivable to think that this is a level of play he can sustain.
The best thing is that the Knicks don’t need Lin to be a superstar; to be their primary scorer and distributor at once. This team has weapons in the starting line-up and off the bench. If Lin just focuses on being a distributor alone, he can be very successful with this line-up. I think he will.
Do you have a question for Fuck Yeah NBA? This will probably become a regular feature. Make sure you follow Steven LeBron, and keep asking questions.
If you think you’ve written something interesting about the NBA both current and past, shoot me an email, and you can be a contributor too.
[Pic Via]
