Saturday, September 15, 2012

Roy Expects Return to ‘My Old Game’

After several weeks of workouts, Timberwolves guard Brandon Roy wants to ease concerns about his knees.
Roy, who announced his retirement in December because of a degenerative condition in his knees, says he is satisfied with his progress and is “not holding back” in preparation for the 2012-13 season.
“I’ve had no setbacks,” the three-time NBA all-star told reporters Thursday, Sept. 13, after an informal practice with teammates and several former college players. “There’s nothing stopping me from getting back to my old game. It just takes work and getting my rhythm back.”

Clippers sought Griffin's approval on Barnes

Chris Paul recruited Matt Barnes. Blake Griffin forgave him.
Barnes said the All-Star point guard pitched signing Barnes to Clippers management, though there was one potential hang-up: Barnes had shoved Griffin to the floor during a preseason game last December, earning a flagrant foul.
So before agreeing to acquire the nine-year veteran, Barnes said, the Clippers checked with Griffin to receive his blessing. Barnes said he also spoke with Griffin on Thursday.
“I just kind of explained to him that it was no disrespect to him or his game,” Barnes said. “I think he’s one of the best players in the league and arguably the most athletic player. I play basketball hard-nosed and if you’re not on my team, during that 48 minutes we’re enemies. He appreciated it and understood where I was coming from.”

Could an NBA Team Land in Louisville?

A group of community leaders convened by restaurant franchisee and former professional basketball player Ulysses “Junior” Bridgeman met with Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer on Friday to discuss the possibility of a National Basketball Association team coming to Louisville, Fischer’s office said.
In a statement, Fischer said the meeting gauged the “level of interest” and the “conditions necessary to attract a team.”
“There was a lot of excitement in the room about what an NBA team could mean for Louisville’s global recognition and as a job attractor and economic engine. There are many elements involved in a journey such as this,” the mayor said. “This must be a win for the University of Louisville, as well as other stakeholders. I’m excited to be part of the dialogue and I continue to believe we should be ready if an opportunity presents itself.”