USA's Down With Durant

Yes, that's right count Kevin Durant as a USA Team Member in 201o. Hmmmm? You said Kevin Durant? As in the Kevin Durant that was drafted behind Greg Oden? The Kevin Durant who is stuck in a terrible market of Oklahoma City, and missed out on an All Star selection? Yup, that Kevin Durant. Pencil him in, here's what Coach K said after their first day of a three day training camp for players attempting to make the senior national team.

"Everyone who was watching from our group said you could tell that Durant was a little bit on a mission -- and that's good for them to see that; it picks everybody up," Krzyzewski said. "He's that versatility guy, and the other thing is he's a shooter, and with the way we were playing defense for most of the Olympics, with his length, he could be a heck of a defender. So he's really at the head of the list for me."

Wow, high praise right? Apparently Durant's had this ability the whole time, I mean, I did say he's in a crappy market right? Well, let's hope Coach K and the other assistants are right because we could use as much help as possible in retaining our crown as Hoops Nation.

Mr. Eccentric

Now, you've all probably heard that Ron Artest has been traded to the Lakers via Houston, for Trevor Ariza, and you're all probably puzzled as to why. I mean, did the Lakers not just handle the Orlando Magic in the Finals? Answer- The Magic got better with acquisition of Vince Carter. The Cavaliers got better with the acquisition of Big Diesel. The Spurs got better with the acquisition of Richard Jefferson, and the Celtics got better with the acquisition of Sheed. The Lakers had to improve, and they did well of it. Here's why....

First off, Ron Artest is a slightly better player, than Trevor Ariza. Secondly, they acquired him cheaper. Last, after any type of Championship, when the fame comes about, it's hard to pick yourself up, and re-bring that energy you had last year, for another go. Ron Artest brings that energy. A one time eccentric crazy guy (remember him on the Pacers?), Ron Artest has become not only a more mellow person, but a better player, who brings energy like Ronny Turiaf. He didn't sign with the Lakers for money, no, he signed with the Lakers for a championship, and he's determined to get it. You know Kobe will be to, so the others, they'll just fall in suit.