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Lifestyle => Sports & Entertainment => Topic started by: Sikotic™ on August 15, 2004, 12:52:37 PM

Title: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Sikotic™ on August 15, 2004, 12:52:37 PM

(http://images.usatoday.com/news/_photos/2004/08/15/team-usa-lose-hp.jpg)

ATHENS, Greece (AP) – In an upset that was as historic as it was inevitable, the U.S. men's basketball team lost for only the third time ever in the Olympics on Sunday, 92-73 to Puerto Rico.

It was also the most lopsided loss in the games for the Americans, alarming not only for its significance but also for its decisiveness.

Puerto Rico, which had lost to the Americans five times in the past 13 months, took control in the first half, led by 22 at halftime and gamely held off a fourth-quarter comeback for one of the biggest sports achievements in the island territory's history.

The loss was a blow to the confidence of Tim Duncan, Allen Iverson and the rest of the Americans, but it did little to hurt their gold medal chances. They need only to finish in the top four of their six-team group to reach the quarterfinals.

Still, the defeat will go a long way toward giving the competition the bold idea that it's someone else's turn to move to the top of a sport that's been dominated by one country for nearly three-quarters of a century.

As Carlos Arroyo left the court with just over a minute left, he defiantly pulled at the words ``Puerto Rico'' on his jersey. He led his team with 24 points.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: ...'BfCfC'... on August 15, 2004, 12:53:51 PM
thats a big upset  :o

then again . there bound to happen  :-\
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Montana00 on August 15, 2004, 12:54:55 PM
lol i just read this on yahoo.

kinda funny.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 15, 2004, 12:59:43 PM
aww shit..just made a topic lol, didn't see this..gotta delete it now

TEAM Lithuania TO WIN IT ALL  8) [LDK]
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: On The Edge of Insanity on August 15, 2004, 01:20:50 PM
Holy shit! USA need to get their act together, cause this sort of shit is embarrassing. Saw they were selling USA tops in a store here in the UK. Out of the three shirts they offered Iverson was the only one who is actually taking part in the olympics. Thats pretty sad.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Ðøšïå on August 15, 2004, 01:24:20 PM
makes the usa look like the wwe.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Maestro Minded on August 15, 2004, 01:48:28 PM
LMAO  ;D :o 8)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: A-Trak on August 15, 2004, 01:57:56 PM
this lost has to be awake up call. there goes the unbeaten streak in the olympics.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Sikotic™ on August 15, 2004, 02:08:58 PM
I saw the game. Fuckin' terrible. Iverson and Duncan's face say it all.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 15, 2004, 02:20:48 PM
*shakin my head*

I just watched this game too. The fact that they lost wasnt such a BIG deal. But they got handled lol. They just need to learn to play together, and the perimeter players needa start knockin down the jumpers. Duncan and Iverson are like the only two that have come to play in these games. Odom has had some good games too. But nobody else has really contributed much.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 15, 2004, 02:50:58 PM
/me orders a puerto rico jersay
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Storm on August 15, 2004, 04:12:48 PM
this is just embarassing
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Woodrow on August 15, 2004, 09:10:33 PM
Shoulda made Puerto Rico a state...
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Sikotic™ on August 15, 2004, 09:51:39 PM
Shoulda made Puerto Rico a state...

LMAO awesome
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Da WCC Hopar! on August 15, 2004, 10:55:39 PM
Holy shit! USA need to get their act together, cause this sort of shit is embarrassing. Saw they were selling USA tops in a store here in the UK. Out of the three shirts they offered Iverson was the only one who is actually taking part in the olympics. Thats pretty sad.
ytf do we always expect the US to win? its a fair game wen everyone else looses they dont take it up the culo like we do cuz they no theyll have another chance again in the future to win wat ever they were compiting in but no we have make a big deal about it we have show how upset we are and express our feeling wit the whole world theres a say "TAKE LIKE A MAN" dats wat the US shood do
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: ARYC on August 15, 2004, 11:04:32 PM
everyone expects the US to win because they have the best players , but I guess the theme of the year is "team work>individual abilities" , Detroit proved it , Greece proved it and now it's being proven at the expense of the US .
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Jacob on August 15, 2004, 11:09:19 PM
i'm glad they lost i hate almost every player on that team....that ain't no Dream Team. fuck that ain't even    a cat nap team!


Dream team 3 SHOULDA been

C-Shaq
Pf-Duncan
SF-Garnett
Sg-Kobe
pg-Kidd
Pf- Elton Brand
Pg-Iverson
SG-T-mac
Pf/c- J. O'neal
Pf-Ben Wallace
Sg-Vince Carter (just so he can dunk on a 7 foot goof off from france again)
C/PF-Brad miller ( fuck it, dude would fit in well )

Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: ecrazy on August 15, 2004, 11:13:36 PM
Anyone See The Argentina vs. Serbia-montenegro Game where Ginobili scored the buzzer beater with his left hand???
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 16, 2004, 12:32:13 AM
^^yup, the coach or whatever runs like a fag

remember the dream team that averaged a win of 43.5 points a game :)?
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Jacob on August 16, 2004, 01:10:57 AM
yeah THAT was a team


Magic
Bird
Jordan
Pippen
Malone
Stockton
Barkley
Drexler
Robinson
Mullen
Miller
oh yeah and we can't forget the MVP of the team....Christian Latener,lol



Hell Dream Team 2 was the Shit too



Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 16, 2004, 01:15:02 AM
^^yup, the coach or whatever runs like a fag

remember the dream team that averaged a win of 43.5 points a game :)?



This ain't no dream team...This ain't even All NBA 3rd Team...LOL
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Seer on August 16, 2004, 01:32:51 AM

you know not very long ago pro athletes (that means who got paid in any way) weren't even allowed to compete in the olympics..

its just like with football, rugby and cricket and us english..  we invented them all.. we took them to our colonies.. now india and pakistan and the west indies routinely whoop our butts at cricket... and although we're on top right now others were kicking our ass at rugby.. and the less said about football the better... lol

its probably good for the US to lose.. because it'll make them realise they have to work, and maybe next time ya'll will bring a stronger team (sounds like ya'll think some people should be there...)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 16, 2004, 01:54:57 AM
its probably good for the US to lose.. because it'll make them realise they have to work, and maybe next time ya'll will bring a stronger team (sounds like ya'll think some people should be there...)


The problem with the US team is that all the players who were selected didn't want to play for one reason or another...Only two players remain from the players originally selected (and one of them isn't even American): Iverson & Duncan...That's why the team is so shitty...LOL.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 03:43:16 AM
You all understimated Italy's victory. That's wassup. Served. 8)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Seer on August 16, 2004, 03:53:37 AM
its probably good for the US to lose.. because it'll make them realise they have to work, and maybe next time ya'll will bring a stronger team (sounds like ya'll think some people should be there...)


The problem with the US team is that all the players who were selected didn't want to play for one reason or another...Only two players remain from the players originally selected (and one of them isn't even American): Iverson & Duncan...That's why the team is so shitty...LOL.

i wondered if that was the case.. perhaps next time there will be more pressure for them to play if the US loses.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 04:06:07 AM
No. Last time USA team played in an international competition they arrived 6th.
They had pressure already.
They just aint Americans enought.
Out.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Seer on August 16, 2004, 05:57:47 AM

maybe its just about the money for some of em then..
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 06:45:21 AM
Some of them? Man read this article, please. ESPN.com
 
Quote
[..]It was a little fun the first time in 1992, when we saw perhaps the greatest basketball team of all time play. But it started losing its appeal as soon as the players under the contract of one shoe company used the American flag to cover up the logo of another shoe company. It was a petty act, and it only got worse with each subsequent Olympics.

What is so aggravating is the way the basketball team sets itself apart from the rest of the world's Olympians -- both literally and figuratively. Following in the grand tradition of luxury accommodations, this year's team is staying on the Queen Mary II, anchored outside of town and protected by NATO.

Why shouldn't they? They're not Olympians -- that's beneath them. They're the Dream Team, and they can't be bothered hanging with mere world champions like Paul Hamm and Rulon Gardner. I still remember how the 1996 team marched into the stadium well behind the other U.S. athletes, as if they were their own country, which they probably thought they were. Given the way the U.S. Olympic committee caters to the basketball team's every whim, I was just surprised Li'l Penny wasn't the flagbearer that year.

Now we have Athens, the year the NBA players turned the Olympics into the Pro Bowl. Shaq, KG and about half the league made up reasons why they couldn't play, but the bottom line is they didn't want to play or were too scared to come to Greece. That leaves the U.S. with a team that includes Carlos Boozer and Shawn Marion. This isn't a dream team. It's a Hollywood Squares B list.

After the U.S. lost by 22 to Italy in the prelims, no one should be surprised by a 19-point loss to Puerto Rico. Everyone knew this team couldn't shoot.

The problem isn't Sunday's loss. With the way the game has blossomed around the world, it's no shame for the U.S. to lose to any country in any venue. Puerto Rico guard Larry Ayuso, who dropped 15 on the U.S. on Sunday, is a living example of how basketball is the world's sport. "We're a small island with a big heart,'' he said.

Ayuso was born in Puerto Rico, moved to the Bronx as a child and then was adopted by a family in New Mexico as a teenager. He played basketball for Hank Bibby at USC, had a couple minutes with the Spurs and spent last season with an Istanbul team. He even has a business card: Elias "Larry'' Ayuso, Combo Guard/3 Point Shooter.''

"I hate to see the U.S. lose but I have to root for my little brother,'' said his adopted brother, Domi Taylor. "It's an achievement to beat the U.S. team. I love the NBA -- I'm a big Lakers fan -- but the big problem is the U.S. is not a team.

"They need to get the college players back. At least when they lost, it wasn't an embarrassment. But they looked like they didn't care tonight.''

That's the problem. The players don't care, and the fans don't care anymore, either.

The good news is we can fix this. And we don't need to go back to a collegian-only team or see whether Magic Johnson wants to make another comeback. All we need is one simple rule. And here it is.

Players can make any amount of money. Players can wear any shoe. Players can employ any number of posse members. But if they want to play in the Olympics, they have to stay in the Athletes' Village. If they aren't willing to share a bathroom with their fellow Olympians, if they aren't willing to pluck their hairs from the drains and squeegee the water from around the shower, then the Olympics just don't mean enough to them.

And if they don't, then they shouldn't bother to show up.

Now that basketball is a worldwide sport, the U.S. isn't going to win the gold medal every Olympics. That's OK. But if we can't field a winning team every time out, at least we can field a likable team.

Jim Caple is a senior writer at ESPN.com
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Sikx on August 16, 2004, 09:24:52 AM
saw the 3rd quarter, it was terrible lol, puerto rico controlled totally the game, and usa couldnt make 3pointers, plus who the fuck is boozer, that guy sucked ::)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 10:01:56 AM
Boozer? Mr. 68m $ man? Man i can list you at least 10 European players who're better than Boozer and who makes max 1m $ a season. This shit  explains everything.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 10:03:24 AM
All the players from the Italian team combined (12 players + coach + staff) makes a total of 5m $ a year.
Italy cancelled Boozer from the floor and embarassed USA.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 16, 2004, 11:29:19 AM
in about 5-10 years, USA will still be favoured to win the Olympics, but wont be surprised if they don't.

Like Canada with hockey, who are expected to win everytime they play in the olympics (or the world cup coming up this august) or any other world championships. Like U-20 World champions every christmas (that we end up losing in the final, but we've got a medal (silver or bronze) the past 6-7 years ;D)

But, we Canada wont be a shocked if Sweden, finland, Chezhs, Russia or USA (or even Slovakia!) end up winning, becuase they are all great teams (with pros in the NHL)


Same is gona happen with the NBA, more internationl players are gonna be coming to the NBA, so their National teams will get better.

But right now however, USA should have the BEST team int he world and SHOULD WIN every game, however Shaq/Garnett and Co dont want to play becuase, will, its expected that even the USA's 4th team should win it all lol (which is true)

Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 12:12:13 PM
its expected that even the USA's 4th team should win it all lol (which is true)

Let me highlight the NBA's official ALL-NBA 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams.

2003-04 ALL-NBA FIRST TEAM:
Tim Duncan
Kevin Garnett
Shaquille O’Neal
Kobe Bryant
Jason Kidd

2003-04 ALL-NBA SECOND TEAM
Jermaine O’Neal
Ron Artest
Ben Wallace
Sam Cassell
Tracy McGrady

2003-04 ALL-NBA THIRD TEAM
LeBron James
Lamar Odom
Baron Davis
Michael Redd
Zach Randolph

Those are the players (in order) who received other nominees: Steve Nash, Dallas, 75, Paul Pierce, Andrei Kirilenko, Stephon Marbury, Mike Bibby, Vince Carter, Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Brad Miller, Jamaal Magloire, Pau Gasol, Allen Iverson, Ray Allen, Elton Brand, Erick Dampier, Michael Finley, Manu Ginobili, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Amare Stoudemire, Jason Williams, Richard Hamilton, Shawn Marion, Tony Parker, Rasheed Wallace, Carlos Boozer, Steve Francis, Corey Maggette, Kenyon Martin, Theo Ratliff.

Which means you have 1 player ALL-NBA 1st team, a pair of 3rd team, and a couple of 4th team.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Montana00 on August 16, 2004, 12:19:57 PM
I wouldnt care if USA doesnt win one game. I know that america has the best ballers, and i dont need them to beat some third world country to prove it.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Da WCC Hopar! on August 16, 2004, 03:01:31 PM

you know not very long ago pro athletes (that means who got paid in any way) weren't even allowed to compete in the olympics..

its just like with football, rugby and cricket and us english..  we invented them all.. we took them to our colonies.. now india and pakistan and the west indies routinely whoop our butts at cricket... and although we're on top right now others were kicking our ass at rugby.. and the less said about football the better... lol

its probably good for the US to lose.. because it'll make them realise they have to work, and maybe next time ya'll will bring a stronger team (sounds like ya'll think some people should be there...)
i agree wit u
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: M Dogg™ on August 16, 2004, 03:18:55 PM
I always thought the USA basketball should be represented by the NBA champions, and in the case of foreign players on the team, then replace them with college students... lol. For reals, that way we already have a TEAM out there, which is the most important thing. Another thing, we need to make Puerto Rico a state right away, shit, and get some of their players. We need good players by tomorrow.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Javier on August 16, 2004, 03:44:48 PM
U.S.A basketball in a fucking crisis right now.

 im sick and tired of this bullshit.


1. No more god damn HS players can enter the NBA, no college players can enter the NBA until their 3rd year playing college ball.  This will pretty much make them smarter players , have a better work ethic, and actually compete against GOOD DEFENSE. Of course there are some exceptions but damn now its a fucking joke.  You have every good HS player thinking they can jump from HS to NBA so easily.

2.  THen you have players who dont give a fuck for their country, while the women's USA team is completely the opposite.  They LIVE for this, they play hard, to get to the olympics and to get that pride of the medal and then you have players that are afraid to go to Athens for security reasons, well what a pussy they play in arenas where every other night they have a game and there is a possibilty of a terrorist attack in every arena at all times.  That is an insult to all the other american athletes that are competiting at the olympics.  so basically, have some fucking pride and balls.

3.  What the fuck am i seeing?  U.S.A basketball getting BITCHSLAPPED by Puerto Rico.  WTF is that?!  Nobody on the god damn team knows how to play defense.  You have arroyo busting and 1 moves on the team and dancing all around them, whil they just fuckign stand there.
 

4.  I would much rather see the elite college players being coached by Coach K.  They would have pride, balls, and play much smarter ball and will fucking sweat that jersey.  What kind of player plays harder for their club than their fucking country.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 16, 2004, 04:15:29 PM
U.S.A basketball in a fucking crisis right now.

 im sick and tired of this bullshit.

1. No more god damn HS players can enter the NBA, no college players can enter the NBA until their 3rd year playing college ball.  This will pretty much make them smarter players , have a better work ethic, and actually compete against GOOD DEFENSE. Of course there are some exceptions but damn now its a fucking joke.  You have every good HS player thinking they can jump from HS to NBA so easily.

2.  THen you have players who dont give a fuck for their country, while the women's USA team is completely the opposite.  They LIVE for this, they play hard, to get to the olympics and to get that pride of the medal and then you have players that are afraid to go to Athens for security reasons, well what a pussy they play in arenas where every other night they have a game and there is a possibilty of a terrorist attack in every arena at all times.  That is an insult to all the other american athletes that are competiting at the olympics.  so basically, have some fucking pride and balls.

3.  What the fuck am i seeing?  U.S.A basketball getting BITCHSLAPPED by Puerto Rico.  WTF is that?!  Nobody on the god damn team knows how to play defense.  You have arroyo busting and 1 moves on the team and dancing all around them, whil they just fuckign stand there.
 
4.  I would much rather see the elite college players being coached by Coach K.  They would have pride, balls, and play much smarter ball and will fucking sweat that jersey.  What kind of player plays harder for their club than their fucking country.


5. Get some coaches from Europe. They arent worse than 90% of the coaches in the NBA. And give them respect. Cause they better than retired players who thinks they can coach somebody just cause they dunked over people when they were 20.

6. Change the fucking rules and make them like the international ones. In the rest of the world Basketball is a team sport. In the USA it's a show.

7. Improve the game. In the States one big man, Shaq, dominates the whole NBA alone. It's not possible. Here you can stop Duncan and everybody with zone, 3pts, double-triple teams, half pressure, Centers shooting from 3pts, pick 'n' rolls.. In America? Shaq is enought to win a title. Wack. The only team i've seen playing European style was been Detroit. Great team (i gotta admit it) with no real "superstars" but with that European style, you know, playing like a TEAM, with great defence, great karma. In fact they are world champions.

8. Istead of having that Iverson attitude: "Pozzecco? Who's Pozzecco?" (it was the Italian PG who litterally schooled him the night before, when Italy won by 17), show some respect to Europeans and South-Americans. Players like Yao, Okur, Nowitsky, Gasol, Stojakovic, Kirilenko, Ginobili, Bodiroga, Parker, Jasikievicius, S.Nash, etc.. are not Americans, but they still damn good. Better than a lot of players in the ALL-NBA 2nd team/3rd team.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Javier on August 16, 2004, 05:35:08 PM
iverson is an idiot, getting parking ticketrs for parking in handicapped zones, fuck Iverson.  How the fuck can he be co captain if he shows up late to team meetings, and then bitches at how he should get special treatment cuz hes the co captain.  What a fuckin scum.

"practice, we are talking bout practice here not the actual game"

"parking tickets? we are talking bout tickets here not a federal law parking tickets"

"meetings?! we are talking bout meetings here not the actual game"


Iverson is getting paid millions to be a piece of shit
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Nutty on August 16, 2004, 08:01:28 PM
It's good that they lost the game, then maybe it'll kick some sense into the NBA players who turned the opportunity to rep the US @ the games. How can u not want to rep yer country?

1 problem is that their ego's are so big.

lol@ rugby. Don't even think about sending a 2nd string team again. Pity man, I wanted the ABs n Aussie to play the English WC team. Might've been a different result.........(not), lol.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: M Dogg™ on August 16, 2004, 09:09:36 PM
No offense to the European game, but it sucks donkey balls. It's boring, and when compared to a true American Dream Team, they got whopped by an average of 40 points. I agree with Javier, we need to have players stay in college, so they can devolpe, instead of do a few moves to get in the NBA. Or players are not ready to be in the NBA, let alone the world game. I still like the NBA champion idea, but if not, well, fuck it, get some real players. Too bad we only had one Dream Team, I still don't know how anyone could ever play against the 3 greatest players ever. We have Kobe, Shaq, and Duncan, and all we have playing is Duncan.

Oh, and for Shaq winning all the titles, He would too in Europe. When we had Shaq in the national team, he dominated the other countries like he was Godzilla in Japan. It's Shaqzilla!!! Shaqzilla!!!
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 16, 2004, 11:41:55 PM
I still don't know how anyone could ever play against the 3 greatest players ever. We have Kobe, Shaq, and Duncan, and all we have playing is Duncan.

LMAO
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 17, 2004, 12:02:00 AM
its probably good for the US to lose.. because it'll make them realise they have to work, and maybe next time ya'll will bring a stronger team (sounds like ya'll think some people should be there...)


The problem with the US team is that all the players who were selected didn't want to play for one reason or another...Only two players remain from the players originally selected (and one of them isn't even American): Iverson & Duncan...That's why the team is so shitty...LOL.

i wondered if that was the case.. perhaps next time there will be more pressure for them to play if the US loses.

it wont. It sucks to knock this team. Like it was said earlier, the only two that SHOULD be there are Duncan and Iverson. None of the other selected players came. Give props to those two for actually putting themselves aside and comin to play. Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 17, 2004, 12:08:47 AM
7. Improve the game. In the States one big man, Shaq, dominates the whole NBA alone. It's not possible. Here you can stop Duncan and everybody with zone, 3pts, double-triple teams, half pressure, Centers shooting from 3pts, pick 'n' rolls.. In America? Shaq is enought to win a title. Wack. The only team i've seen playing European style was been Detroit. Great team (i gotta admit it) with no real "superstars" but with that European style, you know, playing like a TEAM, with great defence, great karma. In fact they are world champions.


lol. Shaq is coo and all...but "enough to win a title"? Cmon, dont be stupid. Shaq didnt win a title before he came to the Lakers...and wont win one now either. So dont say he can win it alone. He looks good some games, bad some games...just like every other player. Despite what u might think, he doesnt REALLY have an S on his chest. And i havent seen the teams in the Olympics really STOPPING Duncan. He's getting alot of the shots he wants, just like alot of players. Thats not stopping somebody. Its up to them to knock down the shots. He has been the only real consistent player. Iverson has had some good games too. But nobody else is stepping up at all.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: M Dogg™ on August 17, 2004, 12:15:32 AM
I still don't know how anyone could ever play against the 3 greatest players ever. We have Kobe, Shaq, and Duncan, and all we have playing is Duncan.

LMAO

wow... you quoted that to make it seem like I'm calling Shaq Duncan and Kobe the greatest players ever... lol. I was typing really quick going from the Dream Team, Mike, Magic and Bird, then talking about today. I was speedy on the boards today... lol
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 17, 2004, 12:41:46 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 17, 2004, 12:47:46 AM
I still don't know how anyone could ever play against the 3 greatest players ever. We have Kobe, Shaq, and Duncan, and all we have playing is Duncan.

LMAO

wow... you quoted that to make it seem like I'm calling Shaq Duncan and Kobe the greatest players ever... lol. I was typing really quick going from the Dream Team, Mike, Magic and Bird, then talking about today. I was speedy on the boards today... lol

lol...thats betta

Anyone remember the 1936 Olympics  ;D?? berlin? HERE'S THE DREAM TEAM..beat the shit out of cananda 19-8..thats a HUGE WIN!

Basketball made its first appearance as an Olympic sport in Berlin and with Dr. James Naismith in attendance, Canada loses only one game on their way to a silver medal. That silver medal is the last medal ever won by a Canadian team at the Summer Olympics. The victory by the United States over Canada, 19-8 in the final, began a 62 game winning streak by the Americans in basketball.

Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 17, 2004, 02:12:46 AM
No offense to the European game, but it sucks donkey balls. It's boring, and when compared to a true American Dream Team, they got whopped by an average of 40 points.

I disagree. Coach Brown, a player who knows the game, a very good coach, maybe the only one good coach you have there for international game, said yesterday that here in Europe we play basketball the way the game is supposed to be played. The way Malone and Stock used to play it. The old school way. Now, in the States, it's enought to have a big body like Shaq or to jump over people like Carter to be MVP and win the title. They dont play basketball in the States, it's a continuos 1 on 1 with 4 other players watching the go-to-guy. The only defence you can do it man to man (you dont even know how to defend on zone!), so you can never stop Shaq. It's embarassing. You cant just use your dribble's ability when you play against European zone. You cant just give the ball inside to Shaq/Duncan when you play against European zone. You cant dunk over 2 guys when you play against European zone. You have to play intelligent basketball, and defeat it. Maybe you dont know, but here we use zone defence only for about 5-10 mins a game. I'm not joking. Cause good teams knows how to beat it. It's good for particular moments, but everybody knows how to defeat it (3pts, jumpshots, fast passes, etc). Against USA? Italy has played zone for 40 mins, and you've never understood how to beat it!!!!!!!! That's what i'm talking about!! It's not that our game is boring. It's more intellingent. We dont have Shaq, Kobe, T-Mac and KG here in Europe. So here it's rare to see people dunking like them, celebrating like them. But here we play REAL basketball. There, you play playground basketball. If you take a great player from playground, he can play very well in the NBA too (it happened).

Quote
I agree with Javier, we need to have players stay in college, so they can devolpe, instead of do a few moves to get in the NBA. Or players are not ready to be in the NBA, let alone the world game.

In College they play an European-style basketball, that's why. There is no Shaq, no T-Mac, no Kobe in College. Coach K is a coach who can coach in Europe too. Very good coach. That's why people are saying "College guys are better". Cause they learn how to defend on zone, how to attack the zone, how to make the right play (and not only how to dribble and dunk), how to defend 1 on 1 (not only trying to steal the ball)... You know what i mean? That's why i prefeer NCAA to NBA. There you see real basketball. With real coaches.

Quote
I still like the NBA champion idea, but if not, well, fuck it, get some real players. Too bad we only had one Dream Team, I still don't know how anyone could ever play against the 3 greatest players ever. We have Kobe, Shaq, and Duncan, and all we have playing is Duncan. Oh, and for Shaq winning all the titles, He would too in Europe. When we had Shaq in the national team, he dominated the other countries like he was Godzilla in Japan. It's Shaqzilla!!! Shaqzilla!!!

Obviously when you put Kobe and Shaq on the floor, you have more guns, and it's almost impossible to beat that team. Well.. if you make Europe vs USA... maybe.... :P
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Seer on August 17, 2004, 05:27:55 AM
so reading between the lines of what ya'll are saying.. the NBA is filled with selfish showboaters?

Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 17, 2004, 06:51:30 AM
Quote
After Sunday's loss to Puerto Rico, what will the US Men team win at the Olympics?

Gold  27%
Silver  6%
Bronze  15%
No medal  52%
Total Votes: 73409
ESPN.com

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: 7even on August 17, 2004, 08:47:48 AM
I saw the game. Shit was fucking hilarious. Me and my dad laughed our ass off during the most parts of it. The problem of Team USA is that they cant make a shot whatsoever.  5-for-41 outside the paint shooting, this is far beyond horrible. You have to get the ball to the only reliable player, who isnt true american by the way. Give him his 25-30 shots, and things should become better. Plus dont cry about how many players didnt join the Team. God dammit, Peja and Divac didnt join their Teams either. You simply aint that good. Deal with it like men, not like whining, ignorant pussies.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Javier on August 17, 2004, 10:06:23 AM
yea laugh it up...whats funnier is that most of america could really give a fuck about the USA team.  I am "whining" at the actual system. 
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 17, 2004, 12:32:28 PM
In College they play an European-style basketball, that's why. There is no Shaq, no T-Mac, no Kobe in College. Coach K is a coach who can coach in Europe too. Very good coach. That's why people are saying "College guys are better". Cause they learn how to defend on zone, how to attack the zone, how to make the right play (and not only how to dribble and dunk), how to defend 1 on 1 (not only trying to steal the ball)... You know what i mean? That's why i prefeer NCAA to NBA. There you see real basketball. With real coaches.

Coach K has Sheldon Williams  ;D (I'm a Big Duke fan)...Williams is a Shaq player compared to other NCAA players
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 17, 2004, 02:29:05 PM
In College they play an European-style basketball, that's why. There is no Shaq, no T-Mac, no Kobe in College. Coach K is a coach who can coach in Europe too. Very good coach. That's why people are saying "College guys are better". Cause they learn how to defend on zone, how to attack the zone, how to make the right play (and not only how to dribble and dunk), how to defend 1 on 1 (not only trying to steal the ball)... You know what i mean? That's why i prefeer NCAA to NBA. There you see real basketball. With real coaches.

Coach K has Sheldon Williams  ;D (I'm a Big Duke fan)...Williams is a Shaq player compared to other NCAA players

Yeah, and Germany has Nowitsky, Spain has Gasol, Lithuania had Sabonis, etc..
The point is he doesnt have ONLY him. ;)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 17, 2004, 02:33:23 PM
Anyway USA just defeated Greece by 6, if i remember well. Now they have 2 points.

GROUP A W L
Spain 2 0
Argentina 1 1
China 1 1
Italy 1 1
Serbia-Montenegro 1 1
New Zealand 0 2

GROUP B W L
Lithuania 2 0
Australia 1 1
Greece 1 1
Puerto Rico 1 1
United States 1 1
Angola 0 2

Shit, Italy lost by 2 with Serbia! :'(
If we went 2-0 we were pratically in the next round! :-\

THURSDAY'S
GAMES 2 a.m. ET - Serbia-Montenegro vs. New Zealand (TV: MSNBC)
4:15 a.m. ET - Italy vs. Spain
7:30 a.m. ET - United States vs. Australia (TV: USA)
9:45 a.m. ET - Puerto Rico vs. Angola
1 p.m ET - Argentina vs. China (TV: MSNBC)
3:15 p.m. ET - Greece vs. Lithuania
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 17, 2004, 02:36:13 PM
My prediction:

GROUP A
Spain, Argentina, Italy/China & Serbia-Montenegro. 90% sure.

GROUP B
Lithuania, Australia, Greece & United States. 99% sure.

Group A is hella harder tho.

Italy vs China will be THE MATCH who'll really make a difference. The other teams i think are pretty sure to go to the next round.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: 7even on August 17, 2004, 02:56:12 PM
Group A >>>>>>>>>>> Group B

if USA was in Group A they prolly wouldnt make it past the group phase.

Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 17, 2004, 03:02:52 PM
Group A >>>>>>>>>>> Group B

if USA was in Group A they prolly wouldnt make it past the group phase.

No fucking doubts about it.

Group B has Angola and Puerto Rico (LMAO) who will easly finish to be eliminated.

Group A has NOBODY that dumb (2 between New Zealand, Italy and China will be eliminated. But they all can beat USA).
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 18, 2004, 12:33:40 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: eS El Duque on August 18, 2004, 12:40:19 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*

Malone is wicked, shut the fuck up mayne!
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 18, 2004, 12:48:54 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*



LOL@the girl wants to drop the case, and you're still ignorant enough to call Kobe a rapist...
LOL@Malone shut down Duncan in the playoffs
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop ya hating man.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 18, 2004, 12:50:05 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*

Malone is wicked, shut the fuck up mayne!

Malone WAS wicked. Now he's just an old hick with some muscles that cant last all the way to the playoffs...
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 18, 2004, 12:51:36 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*



LOL@the girl wants to drop the case, and you're still ignorant enough to call Kobe a rapist...
LOL@Malone shut down Duncan in the playoffs
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop ya hating man.

LOL@ Kobe probably buying her the same 4 million dollar ring he got his wife when he cheated on here...
LOL@You obviously not watching the playoffs if u think Malone did, could, or ever would shut down Duncan...
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop dickriding homie.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 18, 2004, 12:52:21 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*

Malone is wicked, shut the fuck up mayne!

Malone WAS wicked. Now he's just an old hick with some muscles that cant last all the way to the playoffs...


I'm pretty sure any "old hick" can outplay Duncan and Garnett in the playoffs... :D
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 18, 2004, 12:54:19 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*



LOL@the girl wants to drop the case, and you're still ignorant enough to call Kobe a rapist...
LOL@Malone shut down Duncan in the playoffs
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop ya hating man.

LOL@ Kobe probably buying her the same 4 million dollar ring he got his wife when he cheated on here...
LOL@You obviously not watching the playoffs if u think Malone did, could, or ever would shut down Duncan...
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop dickriding homie.


LOL@If you got raped, would you settle for a ring? I don't think so, you'll probably just like it, cuz you're a flamer...
LOL@Duncan didn't score field goals in the 2nd half of game 4 and 5
LOL@Jocking me.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Don Jacob on August 18, 2004, 01:01:15 AM
i'm going to say this right here and Now if Shaq was playing in these olympics right now we'd be in medal contention....it happened in 94 and it happened in 96' , those international teams would be in a plunder trying to get passed shaq, the reason why teams are beating us now is cuz there's no REAL offensive weapon on that team....some of you might say "well there's iverson" man fuck iverson he's not THAT good. You put a real offensive player on this USA team .....and i mean an offensive player who can score at will and make the other players better you got at LEAST a silver....there's 4 of them who should be in the olympics right now!


go Spain/Italy
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 18, 2004, 01:01:43 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*



LOL@the girl wants to drop the case, and you're still ignorant enough to call Kobe a rapist...
LOL@Malone shut down Duncan in the playoffs
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop ya hating man.

LOL@ Kobe probably buying her the same 4 million dollar ring he got his wife when he cheated on here...
LOL@You obviously not watching the playoffs if u think Malone did, could, or ever would shut down Duncan...
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop dickriding homie.


LOL@If you got raped, would you settle for a ring? I don't think so, you'll probably just like it, cuz you're a flamer...
LOL@Duncan didn't score field goals in the 2nd half of game 4 and 5
LOL@Jocking me.

Youre right, maybe he just got you...i mean, her...a ring AND a bracelet.
Duncan wasnt being guarded strait up, he was having double teams thrown towards him at the same time...dont pretend Malone is something he is not.
LOL@You still thinking the Lakers are winning the Championship this year...u should be a Clippers fan i think, they need that kinda blind faith cheering them on too...
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: .:DayGoStyLz:. on August 18, 2004, 01:07:41 AM
i'm going to say this right here and Now if Shaq was playing in these olympics right now we'd be in medal contention....it happened in 94 and it happened in 96' , those international teams would be in a plunder trying to get passed shaq, the reason why teams are beating us now is cuz there's no REAL offensive weapon on that team....some of you might say "well there's iverson" man fuck iverson he's not THAT good. You put a real offensive player on this USA team .....and i mean an offensive player who can score at will and make the other players better you got at LEAST a silver....there's 4 of them who should be in the olympics right now!


go Spain/Italy

I think if Shaq played we'd definetely have a better chance. But thats because most teams cant match up with the size. We're looking back because we cant SHOOT from the outside for shit. Other teams are killing us from the perimeter. All the team can do is go down low to Duncan. Iverson isnt even beating his man off the dribble...thats SAD. It is true, there hasnt been much practice time for this team. It isnt easy just to throw a team together and compete. But they SERIOUSLY need some outside shooters. I think they could run a pick and roll with Duncan and Iverson and it would NOT be stopped...BUT, you have to have an outside shooter in case They close out on Iverson and dont allow the pass to Duncan....he can kick it out to the perimeter for three....but we dont have that.
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Now_Im_Not_Banned on August 18, 2004, 01:26:32 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*



LOL@the girl wants to drop the case, and you're still ignorant enough to call Kobe a rapist...
LOL@Malone shut down Duncan in the playoffs
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop ya hating man.

LOL@ Kobe probably buying her the same 4 million dollar ring he got his wife when he cheated on here...
LOL@You obviously not watching the playoffs if u think Malone did, could, or ever would shut down Duncan...
LOL@you're too obvious...Stop dickriding homie.


LOL@If you got raped, would you settle for a ring? I don't think so, you'll probably just like it, cuz you're a flamer...
LOL@Duncan didn't score field goals in the 2nd half of game 4 and 5
LOL@Jocking me.

Youre right, maybe he just got you...i mean, her...a ring AND a bracelet.
Duncan wasnt being guarded strait up, he was having double teams thrown towards him at the same time...dont pretend Malone is something he is not.
LOL@You still thinking the Lakers are winning the Championship this year...u should be a Clippers fan i think, they need that kinda blind faith cheering them on too...


You're getting desperate...I never said Lakers are winning the championship this year, I said they were contenders, and I think they are...Any team with Kobe coached by Rudy Tomjonavic would be...And what the fuck does that have to do with what we were talking about anyways?...Damn man, you're sad...After watching Duncan play in the Olympics, I can tell you that he's very overrated...And mark my words, the Spurs will be worse next year, and won't get passed the Lakers in the playoffs...PeACe
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 18, 2004, 04:09:22 AM
Everyone else who turned it down are fuckin pussies.



Oh yea...Kobe and Malone are pussies, even though Kobe has a rape trial to attend, and Malone has a major knee injury. ::)

my bad, i mean...if youre a Laker or Former Laker....its ok. lol.

Kobe has a pass...i dont think a rapist should be representing the country in the olympics anyways lol. And Malone...thank GOD for the knee injury, now we have a chance at the gold....*whew*

7even the Harbinger, that's what i call an "hater"! ;D ;)
Title: Re: Olympics Basketball: Puerto Rico 92, United States 73
Post by: Smoke on August 18, 2004, 04:10:45 AM
LOL@If you got raped, would you settle for a ring? I don't think so, you'll probably just like it, cuz you're a flamer...

 ;D ;D ;D