New York, New York! Bringing a championship home

[AussieVilla]

Fans of San Diego are about to find out the value of some 21st century Art...

Fans are already coming up with possible nicknames for the new sixth man, recently arrived from Boston, with an evening newspaper poll revealing the following results

43% The Artisan
21% Public Art #1
20% The Art-ist Formerly Known As...
15% Art 2 Art

[zike_42]

As I'm gearing up to begin my return to writing a gargantuan dynasty, I hope I find some readers as loyal as I am to your story.

That would be fantastic and I would definitely be a loyal reader. I love reading dynasties, like Rizzo's Houston one right now and Skyline's draft one not long ago.

[zike_42]

Fans of San Diego are about to find out the value of some 21st century Art...

Fans are already coming up with possible nicknames for the new sixth man, recently arrived from Boston, with an evening newspaper poll revealing the following results

43% The Artisan
21% Public Art #1
20% The Art-ist Formerly Known As...
15% Art 2 Art

Love The Artisan, absolutely putting that in here next time he is mentioned.

[zike_42]

December Player of the Game – Jimmy Forrest, San Diego Riders – 32.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.5 blocks per game.

December Rookie of the Game – Andy Kante, Houston Rockets – 19.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.3 steals and 0.2 blocks per game.

Our first game of 2028 was against the 4-21 Rockets and predictably we smashed them 109-87 without any trouble. Jack shot horribly, going 5/28 for 16 points but he did add 11 assists, 7 rebounds and 4 steals. There were a couple of other notable games with Emmett Emerson adding 15 points and 18 rebounds, Nashon Smith scored 26 points but they were all dwarfed by Kelly Pryor’s game. Playing nine minutes, the reigning Rookie of the Year hit 8/9 shots and 5/9 threes for 20 points in a dazzling display of shooting. Andy Kante had 19 points and 8 rebounds but had no other friends.

Dallas Mavericks 21-13

In our best offensive game of the year, we obliterated Cleveand by shooting 58% from the field and hitting 33 free throws for a 141-112 win. Jack went 10/15 for 34 points with seven other Dallas players scoring in double figures as Julius Hobbs had a nice game with 19 points and 6 rebounds off the bench. Ron Winston and Brooks Badu combined for 31 points but we simply blew them off the court with our scoring.

Dallas Mavericks 22-13

Our first away game was an easy affair as we got out to a 22 point lead in the third quarter against the Sonics before they cam storming back with a 45-31 last term to force overtime. We ran out of puff after that as we succumbed to Seattle 134-126. Travis Grigsby is really enjoying being a PG with 21 points, 14 assists and 7 rebounds as Marlo Graham and Darryl Iacona also scored over 20 points. Isaac Holdan was our best believe it or not with 25 points and 5 steals as we were hurt when Emmett Emerson fouled out in the third term after scoring 15 points.

Dallas Mavericks 22-14

The Blazers got out to a 41-25 first quarter lead and all looked lost before we fought back with a 28-15 third term to take the lead. All was going well until Tiburcio Tommasini let loose with 10 of his 25 points in the final term including the go ahead basket with 30 seconds to go as we lost 109-106. Emmett Emerson led the way for us with 20 points but we were in trouble from the start and we just couldn’t peg them back enough to take the win.

Dallas Mavericks 22-15

Jack made up for his mediocre game last time with 31 points as we take another win from Houston 108-93. Julius Hobbs is now starting at PF and had 10 points and 9 rebounds as we didn’t shoot better than the Rockets but we did shoot more shots. Quantity over quality I guess. Mike Watson was the best for Houston with 16 points and 11 rebounds as Jay Warren nearly had a triple double with 12 points, 9 assists and 8 rebounds.

Dallas Mavericks 23-15

Grr, damn you Sonics, you win again but we will have our revenge. Travis Grigsby had 28 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds to lead Seattle to another win over Dallas 120-109. Jack went 14/16 from the line for 32 points but we shot 39% from the field which is going to get us nowhere.

Dallas Mavericks 23-16

John Johnson is currently injured (nothing serious but still enough to keep him out) so it was an easy 119-102 win over Detroit. Their whole team is built around him so when he doesn’t play they are in trouble. Jack had 34 points and 8 rebounds while Emmett Emerson added 24 points and 9 rebounds. Ryan Smiley had made a name for him in Detroit after having trouble getting serious minutes in Sacramento and put in 19 points tonight.

Dallas Mavericks 24-16

Six Dallas players were in double figures while seven Charlotte ballers had ten or more points but fortunately for us we had Jack Dawkins’ 28 points and ended up with a 115-107 win. Julius Hobbs was our second best with 16 points and 11 rebounds as Dan Mixson was the high man for the Bobcats with 15 points.

Dallas Mavericks 25-16

Art Stevenson is now starting for the Riders and did a great job with 16 points and 11 rebounds and even though Jimmy Forrest only scored 9 points they still beat us, at home no less, 107-93. Dionsio Mason was the reason why San Diego won with 22 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds to counteract Jack Dawkins’ 4/22 shooting night as we shot 39% from the field in a terrible night.

Dallas Mavericks 25-17

Even with Enrique Mendez and Camah Williams in the starting line-up the Wolves are only 13-30 and must be still enjoying their championship hangover. Mendez did his best with 29 points but Williams sucked with a 5/18 night. Jack Dawkins was amazing with 30 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and even though Isaac Holdan isn’t starting anymore he still put up 9 points and 10 assists. Hell, rarely used Mike Bailey had 12 points and 10 rebounds off the bench.

Dallas Mavericks 26-17

We had four players in double figures but that is all we needed as Jack (28 points), Nashon Smith (23 points, 8 assists), Mike Bailey (again with 17 points) and Emmett Emerson (12 points) doing the lion’s share of the work as we topple the Knicks 119-112. Terry McKenzie is only in his third year but he is becoming a star attraction in the Big Apple and tonight had 31 points and 14 rebounds but didn’t have any help and they still nearly won.

Dallas Mavericks 27-17

Our last game of the month was a very disappointing 127-120 loss to the very average Thunder. We wasted 62 points from Emmett Emerson and Jack Dawkins as Mike Bickerstaf is back at his natural SG position and tore us a new one, scoring 42 points on 14/21 shooting and ripping down 10 rebounds. It’s good to see rookie Jason Collins starting as he had 16 points and 8 assists.

Dallas Mavericks 27-18

I’m unimpressed with this month going 7-5 when we really should have won at least two more games. We are still in fifth spot in the West but are now three games behind fourth placed Nevada. Utah are surprising everyone at 33-12 with LA right behind them at 29-12. Denver has lost 37 games while Houston only 27 but they have both won only 9 so they are in a similar predicament.

The Heat have opened up the tiniest of gaps at 37-12, only a fraction above Washington with their 34-13 record but hey, a lead is a lead. Brooklyn have fallen off the wagon with a 10-31 record, already four games behind Cleveland for last place.

Dallas Top Points
Jack Dawkins – 25.9
Emmett Emerson – 18.1
Nashon Smith – 15.1

Dallas Top Assists
Nashon Smith – 5.3
Jack Dawkins – 5.0
Isaac Holdan – 4.6

Dallas Top Rebounds
Joe Duggins – 8.0
Emmett Emerson – 6.8
Jack Dawkins – 6.5

League Leaders
Points – Tiburcio Tommasini (POR) – 28.8
Assists – Reggie Dobbins (ORL) – 11.8
Rebounds – Bryce Metcalf (CHA) – 10.9
Blocks – Carl Farmer (SEA) – 2.8
Steals – Cedric Watson (SAS) – 2.8
Efficiency – Mike Bickerstaf (OKC) – 26.7

Rookie Leaders
Points – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 18.2
Assists – Jason Collins (OKC) – 6.0
Rebounds – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 8.2
Blocks – Colt Hassell (DEN) – 1.0
Steals – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 1.4
Efficiency – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 17.6

Second Round of NBA Draft Prospects
1. (NR) SG Robert Martin (Florida), Freshman, 6’7”, 187lbs
2. (NR) C Jason Harriman (Syracuse), Junior, 6’11”, 272lbs
3. (2) SG Ray Haymon (Temple), Sophomore, 6’3”, 207lbs
4. (NR) SG Jarron Campbell (Oklahoma State), Freshman, 6’4”, 210lbs
5. (5) PF Chris Barnes (Seton Hall), Freshman, 6’11”, 251lbs

Thoughts – Nathaniel Jackson is rawer than anyone could have imagined and has dropped all the way down to eleventh. But right on cur Jason Harriman leaps up to second which is a great spot for him. There are a lot of sophomores and juniors in this draft as many didn’t want to be stuck in the grind of last season’s stellar crop.

[zike_42]

January Player of the Month – Enrique Mendez, Minnesota Timberwolves – 27.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.6 steals and 2.3 blocks per game.

January Rookie of the Month – Michael McQuay, Atlanta Hawks – 18.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.4 blocks per game.

We start the month with a disappointing 115-101 home loss to Toronto as Cederic Thomas dominated us for 20 points and 14 rebounds. Matias Perez is back from injury and was so close to a triple double with 15 points, 14 assists and 9 rebounds. Jack Dawkins shot terribly (11/27) for 31 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists while Julius Hobbs had 8 points and 11 rebounds off the bench.

Dallas Mavericks 27-19

The Thunder score 132 points on us at home to our 106 and I’m a little furious at the team right now. Mike Bickerstaf had 43 points while Peter Napier fouled out Emmett Emerson in only seven minutes which really stuffed us around. To make matters worse Julius Hobbs did his knee and will be out for a week.

Dallas Mavericks 27-20

It’s really surprising that the Wolves are 14 games below .500 with a fully healthy team and we add more to their misery with a 129-110 win in Minnesota. Nashon Smith was great with 29 points which gave Jack the opportunity to play passer with 27 points and 8 assists. Isaac Holdan is still doing well with 17 points off the bench. Enrique Mendez had 30 points to go with Camah Williams’ 32 points and 7 steals but didn’t get any other help. They really need a better centre as Jonas Valancciunas is 35 years old and a bench big at best.

Dallas Mavericks 28-20

It was practically the opposite with Nashon and Jack as Smith had 10 points and 16 assists while Jack torched Darrell Hampton for 34 points as we win another away game with a 113-105 beating of Indiana. Emmett Emerson shot 9/11 for 24 points as Kelly Pryor added 18 points in the win. Travis Ross was the best for the Pacers with 20 points and 10 rebounds but their starting backcourt of Tip Smith and Li-chi King went 2/15 for only 11 points.

Dallas Mavericks 29-20

We play the 37-13 Wizards and beating them will be a huge morale booster to show that we can play with the big boys and after a 36-19 first quarter we did just that, showing the world our muscles with a 127-118 win. Jack had a great night with 29 points, 9 assists and 7 rebounds and was helped by six other Dallas players in double figures. Adarrial Faye and Detric Jones combined for 42 points but it’s a strange set up for the Wizards as they still have two very good guards on the bench in DeShaun Worley and Alexander Verhaeren.

Dallas Mavericks 30-20

Jack still hasn’t got a triple double which is strange and tonight was agonisingly close with 26 points, 11 assists and 9 rebounds as we beat up on the Spurs 138-109. The team shot 59% from the field which is simply amazing as two bench guys stood up in Isaac Holdan (19 points, 10 assists and 5 rebounds) and Julius Hobbs (14 points and 8 rebounds) as it was party time for most of the game.

Dallas Mavericks 31-20

Our last game before the All Star break was a very poor effort against a woefully underachieving Memphis squad as we go down 109-98. There were seven Grizz players in double figures and even though Michael Williams went 1/8 from the field he still had 11 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. Rookie Six member Cort Majishun went 4/12 for 12 points and 6 assists. Nashon Smith and Emmett Emerson had 17 points each but we just weren’t in the game.

Dallas Mavericks 31-21

Unknown Xavier Michell from Toronto led from the front in the Slam Dunk contest to take home the silverware, beating out OKC’s Steve Smith in the final. In the Long Distance Shootout, John Johnson took out anther trophy and it should be named after him with his third win and seventh appearance. JJ beat Marcello Locatelli and Jaymes Kincaid very handsomely.

With guys like Arthur Keating, Dave Coulter and Kelly Pryor on the sophomore squad there was no doubting that they would beat the rookies, but a 146-104 final score is just insulting. Arthur Keating took home the MVP with 37 points while Dave Coulter added 28 points and 9 assists while our own Kelly Pryor poured in 20 points of his own. Lamar Iversen led the rookies with 20 points but neither Michael McQuay nor Andy Kante played for some unknown reason. Our Julius Hobbs played 16 minutes off the bench for 7 points and 6 rebounds.

In the All Star game the West got out to a 42-32 first quarter lead before the East won the next three quarters to take the game very, very easily 138-122. Rookie Six member Kenneth Long won the All Star MVP award with 23 points in 20 minutes off the bench as the game was very spread out with eight East players in double figures and six West guys. Michael Taylor led the way for the West with 27 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds and unsurprisingly our Jack Dawkins was picked as a bench All Star and put up 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists is a nice little cameo.

Eastern Conference All Star Starters
Reggie Dobbins, Orlando Magic
Adarrial Faye, Washington Wizards
Lars Ray, Brooklyn Nets
Anthony Davis, Charlotte Bobcats
Rowan Taylor, Washington Wizards

Teams with most representatives – Washington (Rowan Taylor, Adarrial Faye) and Miami (Kenneth Long, Eryk Charnowski) with two.
Teams represented – Ten (Washington, Miami, Brooklyn, Charlotte, Orlando, Boston, Chicago, Atlanta, Indiana, and Toronto).

Western Conference All Star Starters
Micheal Taylor, Los Angeles Lakers
Mike Bickerstaf, Oklahoma City Thunder
Enrique Mendez, Minnesota Timberwolves
Carl Farmer, Seattle Supersonics
Mark Lewis, Utah Jazz

Teams with most representatives – Minnesota (Enrique Mendez, Camah Williams) and Seattle (Carl Farmer, Travis Grigsby) with two.
Teams represented – Ten (Minnesota, Seattle, Utah, Oklahoma City, Los Angeles, Nevada, Golden State, Dallas, San Antonio and San Diego).

Jack and Emmett combined for 55 points as we withstand a spirited fightback from Toronto to hold on to a 117-112 win over the Raptors. Matias Perez led the way with 26 points and 11 assists while Paul Orvis is still going strong with 23 points in his 13th year in the league.

Dallas Mavericks 32-21

Ledaryl McMillian didn’t play in the All Star game because he has done his ACL and will be out for a whole calendar year. That’s good for us as we have two games against the Warriors in a row. First up is nothing short of a spanking, getting out to a 44 point lead to win the game easily 112-74. Jack had 40 points and 10 rebounds while Julius Hobbs made the most of the blowout with 15 points and 10 rebounds. The Warriors had three players in double figures but all three had a measly top of 10 points each.

Dallas Mavericks 33-21

I was wondering when the flood of trade deadline trades would come in and even though a little late they finally come. And boy were there some doozies.

Washington trade:
SG Adarrial Faye

Milwaukee trade:
PF John Jackson
2028 2nd round pick

Winner – Milwaukee. I understand that the Wizards were looking to unjam their guard stocks but Faye is a superstar in the making and just coming off an All Star starting gig. Jackson is decent but nothing spectacular, especially not someone you trade Faye for who is averaging 21 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds a game for.

Portland trade:
PF RJ Thompson
C Sviatoslav Guseinev
PG Sean Perry

Detroit trade:
PG Ryan Smiley
2028 2nd round pick

Winner – Portland. It doesn’t matter the circumstances around this trade, Portland wins because Smiley is a rotation player and the three they traded are garbage.

Portland trade:
SG Earl Oliver
SF Terence Lampley

San Diego trade:
C Jimmy Forrest
2028 2nd round pick

Winner – Both. Firstly for the Blazers, trading Oliver who was glued to the bench for some reason wasn’t a good game plan so trading him for the best centre in the league is a no brainer and combining Forrest with Tiburcio Tommasini look for some big scoring games. Onto the Riders, they believe that Art “The Artisan” Stevenson will be their starting C for the future so moving disgruntled Forrest for one of the best SGs in the league is another great move. To sweeten the pot, Oliver is actually starting at SG and the offence will run mostly through him. This will be the first time Oliver has starting in six years!

Our second game against the Buzzsaw-less Warriors and evevn though it was a closer game it really wasn’t that close as we run out with a 102-93 win. Jack was great with 29 points and 8 rebounds while Emmett Emerson added 19 points. Willis Owens had 20 points and 14 rebounds but Charles Canady couldn’t channel McMillian, going 4/15 for 13 points.

Dallas Mavericks 34-21

Jimmy Forrest had 24 points and 8 rebounds in his first game as a Blazer as they beat the Rockets easily while Earl Oliver is starting at PG and had 24 points and 6 assists as the Riders lost to Memphis by lots. However, his second game, a 123-100 win over Indiana, Oliver went 20/25 for 46 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists and I think he is really going to enjoy it in San Diego.

It was bound to happen with the game he plays and in our 123-104 win over the top tier Jazz Jack Dawkins went 18/38 from the field and hit 9 three pointers for his first 50 point game, scoring exactly 50 points to go along with 7 assists and 6 rebounds. Our other starters were in double figures but it was all Jack. Bret Davis led the way with 22 points but Mark Lewis fouled out in 22 minutes with 11 points and 9 rebounds to his name.

Dallas Mavericks 35-21

In our 107-81 smashing of OKC Jack did well with 31 points and 8 assists but I think everyone was getting their hopes up for another 50 point game which never came. Emmett Emerson had 23 points and 10 rebounds and the now starting Julius Hobbs had 5 points and 13 rebounds. The Thunder shot 37% from the field as we held Mike Bickerstaf to only 3/8 shooting for 11 points.

Dallas Mavericks 36-21

We finish the month on a six game winning streak after taking out the Bulls with a 40-17 second quarter to take the game 118-101. Jack had 31 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and even though Joe Duggins went 3/14 from the field he still had 11 points and 14 rebounds and held Brad Largent to only 10 points. Jamaal Lewis is becoming a really good player after a slow start to his career as a number one draft pick and had 22 points tonight.

Dallas Mavericks 37-21

After losing our first two games of February we went 10-1 for the rest of the month, moving us up to fourth in the West but still six games behind the conference leading Utah Jazz at 41-15. The Lakers and Neon are right behind them at 38-15 and 39-18 respectively. Denver are still at the bottom at 13-42 and are now focussing their efforts of draft scouting.

The Heat are only a half game ahead of Washington at 43-18 and only two games ahead of Toronto so with two months to go there is still plenty of fight at the top of the Eastern Conference. On the other end it’s the disappointing Cavaliers who are in last place at 16-44 even with Brooks Badu and Ron Winston.

Dallas Top Points
Jack Dawkins – 26.8
Emmett Emerson – 17.7
Nashon Smith – 15.0

Dallas Top Assists
Nashon Smith – 5.8
Jack Dawkins – 5.3
Isaac Holdan – 4.4

Dallas Top Rebounds
Joe Duggins – 7.8
Emmett Emerson – 6.5
Jack Dawkins – 6.4

League Leaders
Points – Tiburcio Tommasini (POR) – 29.0
Assists – Reggie Dobbins (ORL) – 12.6
Rebounds – Mark Lewis (UTA) – 10.9
Blocks – Anthony Davis (CHA) – 2.9
Steals – Cedric Watson (SAS) – 2.8
Efficiency – Mike Bickerstaf (OKC) – 26.3

Rookie Leaders
Points – Andy Kante (HOU) – 17.7
Assists – Jason Collins (OKC) – 6.3
Rebounds – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 7.8
Blocks – Colt Hassell (DEN) – 1.0
Steals – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 1.3
Efficiency – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 16.3

If anyone was wondering, here are Earl Oliver’s and Jimmy Forrest’s stats at their new teams –

Earl Oliver (SDR) – 4 games, 28.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 8.5 assists, 0.3 steals, 0.3 blocks
Jimmy Forrest (POR) – 4 games, 30.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.5 blocks

Pretty good trade all around.

Third Round of NBA Draft Prospects
1. (5) PF Chris Barnes (Seton Hall), Freshman, 6’11”, 251lbs
2. (3) SG Ray Haymon (Temple), Sophomore, 6’3”, 207lbs
3. (2) C Jason Harriman (Syracuse), Junior, 6’11”, 272lbs
4. (NR) PF Traves Parker (Mercer), Sophomore, 6’8”, 236lbs
5. (NR) PF Nathaniel Jackson (Oklahoma State), Freshman, 6’11”, 236lbs

Thoughts – Barnes is nearly as raw as Jackson so this is going to be a draft for the patient. It’s not a very good draft for SFs either, as the first one ranked is #17 Kenroy McPherson from Indiana and even he isn’t that good.

[zike_42]

Mid Season Report of the Rookie Six – Year Three

#41 SF Jack Dawkins, Dallas Mavericks – 26.8 points, 5.3 assists, 6.4 rebounds, 0.9 steals, 0.4 blocks

Had his first 50 point game not long ago, Jack has taken over as the leader of the Mavericks. At only 22 years old he is nearly at 27 points per game and has still got some growing to do. A bonafide MVP candidate as soon as next season he is looking more and more like Lebron James (sans defence) every day. Was selected as an All Star reserve for the West this season, his second consecutive appearance.

2025 – Rookie Game Starter
2026 – Sophomore Game Starter
2026 – All Star Reserve
2027 – All Star Reserve

#35 PF Terry McKenzie, New York Knicks – 19.6 points, 1.3 assists, 9.3 rebounds, 1.1 steals, 1.1 blocks

A surprising snob for the All Star game, McKenzie has stats and team record to be selected but was mysteriously left out. The elder statesman of the Rookie Six at 24 years old he has well and truly set himself as an elite PF in the league. Apart from Mark Lewis who is the only player in the league who is averaging a 20/10 season, McKenzie is the closest to that level at 19.6 points and 9.3 rebounds. Apart from being struck by lightning he will be an All Star and maybe even an All NBA team member next season.

2025 – Rookie Game Starter
2025 – NBA All Rookie 1st Team
2026 – Sophomore Game Starter

#13 SG Kenneth Long, Miami Heat – 19.4 points, 6.2 assists, 4.7 rebounds, 1.4 steals, 1.1 blocks

Long and the Heat’s coaching staff sat down and ironed out the problems that had created a rift between the two parties and the results have been spectacular. Starting at PG has been no problem for Long as his scoring skills has opened up his teammates for assists. Taking home the All Star MVP award this season has really put him on the map and his celebrity status will rise in South Beach as the Heat gear up for the playoffs.

2026 – Sophomore Game Starter
2027 – All Star Game Reserve
2027 – All Star Game MVP

#17 PG Cort Majishun, Memphis Grizzlies – 18.5 points, 9.3 assists, 3.1 rebounds, 1.3 steals, 0.3 blocks

Unfortunately for Cort basketball isn’t a one man game because his stats are extremely good. He has had to carry this Grizzlies team on his back as marquee signing Marcus Randle has been very unimpressive as the other Memphis players haven’t played up to their standards. If Randle can snap out of his funk next season combined with a high draft pick the Majishun will likely be an All Star.

2025 – Rookie Game Starter
2025 – NBA All Rookie 1st Team
2026 – Sophomore Game Starter

#4 SG Chris Jones, Atlanta Hawks – 15.1 points, 7.5 assists, 4.9 rebounds, 1.3 steals, 0.0 blocks

His numbers might not be as gaudy as the other Rookie Six members he isi doing his part for the team that is now not a laughing stock of the league. The Wizard’s percentages have gone up as well as his scoring but his leadership and all around game has been essential to the Hawks who have made rookie Michael McQuay their top priority. Jones will never be a superstar at Atlanta but he could play in a few All Star games if he keeps developing.

2025 – Rookie Game Reserve
2025 – NBA All Rookie 2nd Team
2026 – Sophomore Game Reserve

#43 C Art Stevenson, San Diego Riders – 11.3 points, 0.7 assists, 5.2 rebounds, 0.4 steals, 1.0 block

After being traded from the Celtics to the Riders in December it has been a revelation. The Artisan has started every game for San Diego and averaged 16.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks a game in the red and white. Now that Jimmy Forrest has been dealt to Portland look for Art’s numbers to go up further as those ‘Free Art’ campaigns seemed to have work.

2025 – NBA All Rookie 2nd Team

[zike_42]

February Player of the Month – Jack Dawkins, Dallas Mavericks – 29.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.0 steal and 0.3 blocks per game.

February Rookie of the Month – Leon Oliver, Denver Nuggets – 20.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.7 steals and 0.0 blocks per game.

Jack picks up his first player of the month award which is amazing and don’t be surprised if he doesn’t pick up another one this season.

In a massive statement game we absolutely flog the Spurs 136-101 to really showcase how dangerous we can be. Jack continues his PotM form with 30 points while four bench players were in double figures, led by Isaac Holdan’s 15 points and 7 assists. Another bench player led the way for San Antonio with Jon Mitchell having 16 points but the team shot 43% compared to our phenomenal 62% (48/78).

Dallas Mavericks 38-21

Brooklyn vs. Detroit. The Pistons shoot 56% from the field led by John Johnson with 27 points and three other players with 20 points or more. The Nets shoot 61% from the field as their second best scorer was Donte Rock with 16 points before fouling out. Their leading scorer was Lars Ray who went 27/38 from the field, 10/15 from three and 5/6 from the line for a mind bending 69 points as the Nets win the game 148-135 in regulation! Defence anyone?

I’m really not enjoying the Kings lately. Sure they are a good team and all that but we shouldn’t be losing to them 123-110 at home. Joe Abney of course top scored with 26 points as Jack had an off night, going 8/21 for only 20 points. Hell, our point guards couldn’t hold onto the ball as Nashon Smith turning it over seven times and Isaac Holdan losing it eight times! Geez, take care of the rock guys.

Dallas Mavericks 38-22

Jack went a stinky 2/19 for only 9 points (and 8 assists, 7 rebounds) but our guys rallied around him to take the 123-105 win over Philly. Nashon Smith led the way with 15 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks while Isaac Holdan and Casey Floyd both scored 19 points, going 15/23 from the field combined. Second round pick from three years ago Billy Manley had a great game with 24 points and 12 rebounds to try and stick with us but when we shoot 51% from the field it’s usually our game.

Dallas Mavericks 39-22

The Nuggets have won 14 games all season and we weren’t going to let them get to 15 as we demolish them 127-90 at home. Jack had a better game with 30 points and 9 rebounds while Matt Wingfield got a rare game with 15 points in 15 minutes off the bench. Denver have no scorers on the team now Chris Drexler is gone as Schuyler Vanderwerken led the way with 15 points and 9 rebounds. Get them a go to scorer the Nuggets have some nice parts like Shoo and Leon Oliver but nowhere near competing at the moment.

Dallas Mavericks 40-22

Anthony Davis just isn’t the same person he used to be, but in his 16th season he has a reason. Without a powerhouse Davis who fouled out in 22 minutes with only 4 points to his name we coasted to a 124-78 win. Jack was again our best with 30 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists with six other Dallas players in double figures.

Dallas Mavericks 41-22

What did I say about not losing to the Nuggets? Oh wait, it doesn’t matter as we beat them up again 111-98 as the only lead Denver had was a 3-2 score in the first minute before we stormed off. Julius Hobbs looks to be the starting PF now which is great but only had 7 points and 7 rebounds while Joe Duggins made up for it with 9 points and 11 rebounds off the bench. Leon Oliver continued his nice little rookie season with 20 points and 6 rebounds for the losers.

Dallas Mavericks 42-22

Who knew that after November we would have gone 33-11 to be sitting two games out of second place in the West?

It’s four games in four nights with our first being a fairly comfortable 121-111 home win over Phoenix. Jack had 24 points and 10 assists for a seemingly normal game for him now while Kelly Pryor put up 22 points. Tim Westbrooks had 14 points and 11 assists for Phoenix as he seems to be a new man out in the desert, averaging 18.5 points, 6.3 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 2.0 steals a game for the Suns since going there. Good on him.

Dallas Mavericks 43-22

Next up is a tough away game against the Wizards and it seemed that the game was out of reach after the first quarter as Washington poured on 30 points to 18 and we were on the mat already. We fought back and kept clawing but even a 46 point last quarter couldn’t stop us from going down, losing by a single stinking point 121-120. Detric Jones is loving starting at PG with 20 points and 11 rebounds as Rowan Taylor added 22 points for the winners. Jack only had 17 points as Nashon Smith took up the slack with 32 points and 11 rebounds but it just wasn’t enough as the Wizards shot 44 foul shots to our 26.

Dallas Mavericks 43-23

We bounce back wtih a 112-94 win over Detroit as Jack was back to his best with 28 points and Emmett Emerson finally had a go after a while not producing much with 24 points. John Johnson is back in the line-up and had 22 points like he never left but they just don’t have any other talent now they traded away Ryan Smiley.

Dallas Mavericks 44-23

Grr, we just aren’t the fourth quarter closers like we used to be as the Bucks holds on to a 111-109 win to dash our hopes at moving up the rankings. New addition Adarrial Faye was the high man with 24 points on 25 shots as we wasted a 31 point, 9 rebound and 9 assist night from Jack.

Dallas Mavericks 44-24

This is the Nashon Smith is envisioned when I traded for him as our point guard went 12/18 for 31 points and 6 assists as we overthrow the Magic 106-95. Jack only had 19 points but Emmett wowed everyone with 7 blocks in the game. The guy Nashon was traded for, Reggie Dobbins, also had a nice night with 23 points and 8 assists but the Magic shot 18/36 from the charity stripe to lose the game themselves.

Dallas Mavericks 45-24

I don’t know why the Cavs suck so much this year but in our 122-84 win it might have something to do with their backcourt of Ron Winston and Brooks Badu shooting 11/27 while their bigs can’t stay on the court because of foul trouble. Jack and Emmett both had 24 points as this was a rout form the get go.

Dallas Mavericks 46-24

We just can’t get a winning streak going as we go down to the Bulls 115-101 as Chicago had a whopping eight players in double figures led by Brad Largent’s 19 points and 9 rebounds. Jack had a shocker, going 3/14 for 12 points and 4 turnovers as we shot 41% which is never going to win us a game.

Dallas Mavericks 46-25

The new and improved Blazers have been on a tear since they got Jimmy Forrest but they weren’t man enough to beat us as we take our last game of March 129-116. Jack had 28 points, 11 assists and 6 rebounds but Nashon was our hero with 33 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds on 13/20 shooting. Jimmy Forrest and Tiburcio Tommasini combined for 45 points but our firepower out powered their firepower.

Dallas Mavericks 47-25

If it wasn’t for the Spurs having a down month we would still be in fourth spot but luckily for us we went up to third, six games behind the 52-19 conference leading Jazz, while Nevada are two games ahead of us. Denver as usual are still holding everyone up at 16-54.

The Heat are already at 55 wins with 20 losses while Washington is right behind at 53-21. It might be great at the top of the East but it drops off pretty quickly after that as 8th placed Orlando are below .500 at 36-38.

Dallas Top Points
Jack Dawkins – 26.3
Emmett Emerson – 16.9
Nashon Smith – 15.5

Dallas Top Assists
Nashon Smith – 6.0
Jack Dawkins – 5.5
Isaac Holdan – 4.3

Dallas Top Rebounds
Joe Duggins – 7.7
Jack Dawkins – 6.4
Emmett Emerson – 6.3

League Leaders
Points – Tiburcio Tommasini (POR) – 28.2
Assists – Reggie Dobbins (ORL) – 12.4
Rebounds – Mark Lewis (UTA) – 10.8
Blocks – Anthony Davis (CHA) – 2.8
Steals – Cedric Watson (SAS) – 2.8
Efficiency – Mike Bickerstaf (OKC) – 26.5

Roookie Leaders
Points – Andy Kante (HOU) – 17.8
Assists – Jason Collins (OKC) – 6.2
Rebounds – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 8.1
Blocks – Tip Smith (IND) – 0.9
Steals – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 1.3
Efficiency – Michael McQuay (ATL) – 16.9

Last Round of NBA Draft Prospects
1. (NR) PF Jesse Rucker (Ohio State), Senior, 6’9”, 250lbs
2. (2) SG Ray Haymon (Temple), Sophomore, 6’3”, 207lbs
3. (4) PF Nathaniel Jackson (Oklahoma State), Freshman, 6’11”, 236lbs
4. (NR) SG Steve Mapp (New Mexico State), Sophomore, 6’3”, 224lbs
5. (3) C Jason Harriman (Syracuse), Junior, 6’11”, 272lbs

Thoughts – This draft is all over the place. There isn’t a clear cut number one pick and Ray Haymon is the only player who has been in the top five all four months. Hell, this is the first time Jesse Rucker has been in the top five and he comes in at number one! After the last couple of really good drafts this is the first real weak class.

[zike_42]

March Player of the Month – Enrique Mendez, Minnesota Timberwolves – 28.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 0.7 steals and 1.4 blocks per game.

March Rookie of the Month – Michael McQuay, Atlanta Hawks – 19.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.7 blocks per game.

With only ten games to go in the season we are six games behind Utah for the first spot so that is most likely out of the question but we are very much still in the running for the second seed, only two games behind Nevada.

The month starts off well with a 117-111 win over Memphis as the Grizzlies raced back into the game with a 39-28 last quarter but we held on for dear life for the win. Nashon Smith was our best with 18 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds before fouling out while Julius Hobbs added 10 points and 9 rebounds off the bench. There were only two decent players for the Grizz with Joe Curry putting up 28 points and 6 rebounds while Cort Majishun added 27 points and 11 assists before fouling out down the stretch. Marcus Randle has been terrible this season and tonight was no different with 6 points and 5 fouls at PF.

Dallas Mavericks 48-25

I can’t remember the last time a championship team missed the playoffs the next year, especially when the squad wasn’t changed at all but that will happen with Minnesota as we heap on some more misery with a 120-110 win. Jack had 34 points in the win but he wasn’t the best SF out there as we withstood 46 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 4 blocks, 3 steals and 8 turnovers from Enrique Mendez. Camah Williams had 17 assists but only scored 4 points which is simply not going to win games for them.

Dallas Mavericks 49-25

I was going to say that we got our 50th win over Phoenix but it’s like we didn’t even play in the second half, losing it 62-47 to lose the game 121-110. Antonio Haginas had 30 points and 9 rebounds on 14/17 shooting in a ridiculous night as the Suns shot 51% from the field to our 42%. Jack was our only light with 26 points and 8 assists.

Dallas Mavericks 49-26

That’s better, we get our 50th win. It was a defensive masterpiece as we hold the Suns to 32% for a stifling 97-76 win. Jack needed 22 shots for 22 points but it didn’t matter, as our defence kept every single Phoenix player to fewer than 50% shooting.

Dallas Mavericks 50-26

This is our biggest game of the month as we host the second seeded Nevada Neon and if we can win this we will get back to a two game deficit. It wasn’t much of a game even with Jack shooting 7/20 as Nashon torched Darren Banks for 27 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists to take the win 114-98. Kelly Pryor shot 7/10 for 21 points as all of our starters were in double figures. Ryan Garris was the high man for the Neon with 23 points and even though we won this game we need to keep winning, especially in a few nights time when we visit the conference leading Utah Jazz.

Dallas Mavericks 51-26

Jay Warren and Brian Jenkins, Houston’s starting back court, went 4/19 which means a 111-97 away win for us. Kelly Pryor continued his fine form with 29 points as Jack backed him up with 25 points. Umm, nothing else to report pretty uneventful game.

Dallas Mavericks 52-26

This is the biggest game of our year, an away game against the 55-22 Jazz. We can’t catch them but it would be a great statement game. The first quarter was even at 33 apiece but we blew out the game in the second, 35-24 to take the win 123-109 in a real wake up call to the league. Nashon Smith led the game with 27 points and 13 assists in an All NBA game while Casey Floyd backed up Emmett and Joe with 16 points off the bench. The reason we won so easily was Mark Lewis’ inability to stay on the court, fouling out in 32 minutes with only 9 points and 10 rebounds to his name.

Dallas Mavericks 53-26

We’ve moved into second place purely because we have played more games with 53 wins instead of Nevada’s 50 wins. Both teams have 26 losses so we still have to keep our guard and try and win the next three games.

There were 14 lead changes and nine ties in our game against Portland and for some reason Jimmy Forrest only played 15 minutes but didn’t pick up a foul so it must have just been a precaution. Tiburcio Tommasini and Jack Dawkins both scored 23 points but rookie Tobe Slaughter’s 16 points off the bench was the turning point as we stumble down the stretch, losing the game 115-112. Emmett Emerson had 16 points in 23 minutes as it was very much a mirror game for both teams.

Dallas Mavericks 53-27

The Hawks won’t make the playoffs this year (three games back) but are hoping to play the spoiler but we get the best of the always improving team 128-118. Nashon Smith and Jack Dawkins combined for 70 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds as Joe Duggins added 14 points and 14 rebounds. Probable rookie of the year Michael McQuay had a quiet night, going 3/18 for 15 points and 8 rebounds as Chris Jones led the way with 15 points and 14 assists.

Dallas Mavericks 54-27

With one game left in the season we are one game in front of Nevada in second spot so as much as I would love to rest our starters we need to solidify our playoff position. We rested our starters anyway as the team got out to a 38 point lead against the Thunder before OKC raced back in garbage time but we were never in trouble, winning our 55th game 129-111. Jack had 34 points and 10 rebounds while Emmett Emerson added 25 points and 11 rebounds on 10/13 shooting. Rookie Jason Collins led the way for the Thunder with 27 points and 6 assists in 21 minutes off the bench.

Dallas Mavericks 55-27

After the game Emmett came into my office red as a strawberry saying that he has had enough with Coach Garnett and wants out. Apparently Kevin is too severe with Emmett and “everything is my fault”. I have never head of Kevin doing this so I thought (to myself) that maybe Emmett doesn’t have the mental strength for a coach like Garnett. I told him that I can’t do anything about it now but if you still feel this way after the playoffs then I will grant him his wish of going to a new team. I also told him not to throw the playoffs as I would like to get something back for him, otherwise I will hold onto his contract and Emmett will have to play under Garnett again next season. I saw a little bit of terror in his eyes at that thought.

Western Conference Final Standings
1 – Utah Jazz – 57-25 (.695)
2 – Dallas Mavericks – 55-27 (.671)
3 – Nevada Neon – 53-29 (.646)
4 – Los Angeles Lakers – 52-30 (.634)
5 – Portland Trailblazers – 51-31 (.622)
6 – San Antonio Spurs – 50-32 (.610)
7 – Sacramento Kings – 50-32 (.610)
8 – Oklahoma City Thunder – 41-41 (.500)
Last – Denver Nuggets – 17-65 (.207)

Talk about tough, seven teams with 50 wins and the first round of the playoffs should be fantastic.

Eastern Conference Final Standings
1 – Miami Heat – 62-20 (.756)
2 – Washington Wizards – 59-23 (.720)
3 – Toronto Raptors – 51-31 (.622)
4 – New Orleans Hornets – 50-32 (.610)
5 – Chicago Bulls – 48-34 (.585)
6 – New York Knicks – 46-36 (.561)
7 – Boston Celtics – 43-39 (.524)
8 – Philadelphia 76ers – 41-41 (.500)
Last – Cleveland Cavaliers – 22-60 (.268)

Dallas Top Points
Jack Dawkins – 26.2
Emmett Emerson – 16.6
Nashon Smith – 15.9

Dallas Top Assists
Nashon Smith – 6.1
Jack Dawkins – 5.4
Isaac Holdan – 4.3

Dallas Top Rebounds
Joe Duggins – 7.9
Emmett Emerson – 6.3
Jack Dawkins – 6.3

League Top Points
Tiburcio Tommasini (POR) – 28.0
Ledaryl McMillian (GSW) – 26.9
Mike Bickerstaf (OKC) – 26.6

League Top Assists
Reggie Dobbins (ORL) – 12.4
Darcel Settles (SAS) – 10.6
Kevin Epps (POR) – 10.1

League Top Rebounds
Mark Lewis (UTA) – 10.8
Bryce Metcalf (CHA) – 10.7
Terry McKenzie (NYK) – 9.4

League Top Blocks
Anthony Davis (CHA) – 2.8
Mike Lingle (SAC) – 2.5
Ryan Wadley (CHI) – 2.5

League Top Steals
Cedric Watson (SAS) – 2.8
Hillar Petrauskas (NOH) – 2.4
Camah Williams (MIN) – 2.4

League Top Efficiency
Ledaryl McMillian (GSW) – 26.2
Mike Bickerstaf (OKC) – 25.8
Jack Dawkins (DAL) – 24.3

Rookie Top Points
Andy Kante (HOU) – 18.1
Michael McQuay (ATL) – 17.7
Leon Oliver (DEN) – 14.1

Rookie Top Assists
Jason Collins (OKC) – 5.9
Tip Smith (IND) – 3.7
Lamar Iversen (MEM) – 1.6

Rookie Top Efficiency
Michael McQuay (ATL) – 17.1
Andy Kante (HOU) – 14.5
Tip Smith (IND) – 13.8

[jcomey]

I'm hoping Jack nets a All-NBA Second Team award.

[jcomey]

As far as the team goes, it's going to be an awfully tough climb through Sacramento, then Nevada/SA (if the team gets that far).