Five on the Floor
Everybody loves Baron.Around this time last year, when the D-Wade/Barkley T-Mobile commercials were all over everyone’s TV, the Dime crew was inspired to roll out our individual lists of our five favorite ballplayers. A lot has changed since then — if not the overload amount of “Pookie” ads, but the player-preferences and overall size of the Dime family. We’ve expanded within the past year to include, among other ventures, Bounce Magazine. So with the Dime offices looking a lot different, we figured it’s about time to let you get to know us a bit more. Here are everyone’s fave fives:
Austin Burton, aka “A-Train,” aka “Johnny Exclusive,” aka “Austin X”
1. Zach Randolph - First off, I know he has his flaws (defense, passing, playing with 4 other guys), but Z-Bo is still a consistent 20-10 guy who will always hold a special place with me. As the subject of my first-ever magazine feature (Dime #19), Zach indirectly helped jump-start my career. Not to mention he came up from bleak circumstances to succeed at the highest level of the game, and he’s not the bad guy some people paint him out to be.
2. Tim Duncan - I’m still lobbying to get TD his first Dime cover; I’ve got something big on him cooking right now, so maybe that day will come sooner than later. I just don’t understand why so many people fail to appreciate what Duncan does on such a consistent basis. In my opinion, he is the best basketball player of the past decade.
3. Tracy McGrady - I’ve said it for years and I’ll keep saying it: Kobe isn’t that much better than T-Mac. When Mac gets on a roll, he’s impossible to stop, and even though he can give you 40 points on any given night, he’s a natural team player who is just as happy creating for his teammates as he is getting buckets for himself.
4a. Jamal Crawford - I always show love for my Seattle guys. It’s unfortunate that JC is stuck on a bad team, but I do enjoy getting to watch him in-person 41 times a year. He’s a good dude who gives back to the community in Seattle (and New York) and hasn’t forgotten his roots. You can find him on the playground back home every summer.
4b. Brandon Roy - He’s doing it big more than any other Seattle native in the League, a complete ballplayer who does everything well. I guess I can forgive Brandon now for stealing my starting running back spot on our Little League team.
5. Bruce Bowen - If I had to compare my game to anyone in the League, it’d be Bowen: Defense first, with an occasional corner three and otherwise a self-admitted liability on offense. I don’t kick people, though.
Honorable Mention - Of course I root for my Seattle guys, especially Nate Robinson, Jason Terry, Marvin Williams, Rodney Stuckey and Aaron Brooks. I didn’t go to Georgetown, but that’s been my team since I was a kid, so Iverson, Mutombo and Jeff Green make the list. I’m a fan of Juan Dixon because I can identify with what he went through growing up and how he didn’t let it stop him. Caron Butler, Carlos Boozer, Delonte West and Randy Foye are just a few of the guys who stand out because of how cool they’ve been with me in person. And I just like watching Tony Parker, Monta Ellis and Kevin Durant play.
Patrick Cassidy, aka “Cass,” aka “Irish Pat Cassidy”
1. Allen Iverson - Aside from Michael Jordan and Mike Schmidt, Allen Iverson is the greatest athlete I have ever seen live. And for a decade, I had the privilege of watching A.I. lead my favorite team into battle every night. Decades from now, Philly fans will still be lamenting the fact that we never gave Allen the legit supporting cast he needed to really make a run. Matt Harpring? Keith Van Horn? Toni Kukoc? Glenn Robinson? Come on. One of the greatest wastes of a transcendent athlete’s prime years in the history of sports. I hope he gets a ring before it’s all said and done.
2. Kobe Bryant - He’s the best basketball player on the planet, and I don’t really think it’s even close. I try to watch every Lakers game I can, because you never know what can happen.
3. Ray Allen - It kills me that he plays for the Celtics. I’ve said for years that if I could have anyone’s game in the NBA, I’d want Ray’s. I love shooters, and he’s one of the best ever.
4. J.J. Redick - Without a doubt, my favorite college player of all-time. Everybody loves to hate on Redick because he hasn’t done anything in the NBA just yet. I really believe though that he will find his spot in L and be a factor for a long time. Every team needs a shooter and he has the best jumper I’ve ever seen.
5. Jason Smith (76ers) - The guys in the office laugh at me because I’ve nicknamed a guy who plays less than 15 minutes a night and averages less than five points a game “The Dominator.” Seven-footers who are faster than a lot of guards, who can jump and who can knock down perimeter jumpers don’t grow on trees. He could be very, very good.
Honorable Mention - Baron Davis, Andrei Kirilenko, Kevin Garnett.
Sean Couch (Bounce), aka “Bub Hawkman,” aka “Flowpain,” aka “In-Fin”
1. Steve Nash - Unmatched combination of vision, footwork in tight spaces on the dribble, and fast break offensive play that personifies team basketball.
2. Baron Davis - The Baron’s in-and-out crossover dribble into the jump shot is the smoothest in the league. Can go into his one-man offense bag with no screen and dominate at the end of the game.
3. Kobe Bryant - The most skilled all-around player in the NBA.
4. Dwayne Wade - Tremendously gifted player that makes the backboard shot an art form.
5. Ben Gordon - Gordon is another end-game player that makes the ball go “ultra-magnetic” once it’s released.
Sixth Man - Jamal Crawford. Gets on offensive rolls that give defenders headaches. One of the best game-winning shot players in the NBA.
Honorable Mention - Kevin Garnett, Shaquille O’Neal, Monta Ellis, Rafer Alston, Smush Parker, Ray Felton, Chris Paul, Hilton Armstrong and Devin Harris.
Matt Donohue, aka “Matty D”
1. Carmelo Anthony - He led my beloved ‘Cuse to its only National Championship, so he’d be one of my favorite players even if he was a career 10 and 6 guy. Turns out he drops 25 a game and he’s a complete beast in the League, too.
2. Jason Kidd - Regardless of how his tenure in Jersey ended, he will always be one of my all-time favorite players. He’s a true leader, a triple double-machine, and flat-out one of the greatest PGs of all-time. Although it won’t be with the Nets, I truly hope he wins a championship before he retires, because he deserves it.
3. Allen Iverson - Never has the League seen a player of his size score as unconsciously as he does. If I had a nickel for every time I watched an A.I. highlight over the past 12 years and said “Wow!” I’d be a millionaire.
4. Chris Paul - How can you watch this guy and not be totally amazed by what he does? Maybe not this year, but CP3 and MVP will definitely be used in the same sentence at some point in the near future.
5. Tim Thomas - Gotta show love for my guys from North Jersey!
Honorable Mention - Baron Davis, Rudy Gay, Hakim Warrick, Jason Richardson, Ronnie Brewer.
Bobbito Garcia (Bounce), aka “Kool Bob Love,” aka “DJ Cucumber Slice”
1. Rafer Alston - He “skipped” on the Lakers, dropped 8-of-11 for 31, and in the process went in the record book for most consecutive as the starting point.
2. Baron Davis - Just because he is that dude. His inside hand change would create a traffic jam if it was ever allowed on the L.A. freeway.
3. Smush Parker - I don’t care what anyone says, he’s my homeboy and former teammate so I’m gonna root for him and anyone else that made it to the League that wasn’t even recruited out of high school but maintained playground status to the fullest.
4. Kobe Bryant - Hate me again, I don’t care. We both rep Lower Merion H.S. (PA) as alumni to the fullest, and he’s having yet another MVP season.
5. Al Thornton - I’ve barely seen any live games this season, but when the Clippers played at the Garden, the Florida State product was super-impressive with a handle, hops, and ha cha cha from 20 feet and out. He even boogied during pre-game, which I always appreciate.
Christian Grant-Fields, aka “Lord Cheese,” aka “Constable Goon”
1. Stephon Marbury - Say what you want about Starbury, he is the first player I followed from high school to the NBA. Yes, he has many issues, but you can’t deny talent-wise he is one of the best PG’s ever.
2. Joe Johnson - Dude is a 6-7 do-it-all guard. He can play the 1 or the 2, and can get off at the 3, too. Joe Jeezy is mad underrated.
3. Carmelo Anthony - Hands down, ‘Melo is the best pure scorer in the League besides Kobe. Plus I am a huge ‘Cuse fan.
4. Kevin Garnett - KG is the best PF in the League. Yes, he is better than Duncan. And he has the heart of a lion.
5. Amare Stoudemire - Straight beast. And he is hitting that J now too? STAT is a young KG in the making in regards to the intensity at which he plays the game.
Honorable Mention - Carlos Boozer, Chris Paul, Larry Hughes, Lamar Odom and Josh Smith.
Naomi Jefferson, aka “Snacka$$,” aka “Thoia Thoing,” aka “Mama Na Na”
1. Brandon Roy - Bulldogs for life! (And everything you said, Austin.)
2. Baron Davis - He plays with heart despite bum wheels like me, and I love watching the whole GS squad play.
3. Allen Iverson - He’s been in my top five since his G’town days.
4. Chris Paul - He’s nasty and I like hoopin’ in his kicks.
5. Kevin Garnett - He proves himself year after year. I hate the Celtics, but I hope he gets a ring soon.
Honorable Mentions - Dwyane Wade (Though he didn’t play much this season and the Heat have about as many wins as there were candles on my nephew’s b-day cake, I still have faith in him); Dwight Howard (He’s superhuman and the guy is creative. He brought something new to the dunk contest. Whether you wanna call it a dunk or not, it was hot!).
Andrew Katz, aka “Whitey,” aka “Tyler Hansbrough,” aka “I Ate Your Lunch”
1. Chris Paul - For entirely different reasons than Naomi, I would rock a CP3 jersey because I find myself glued to the TV whenever he’s got the ball in his hands. And I’ve got a ton of respect for the relationship he had with his grandfather, as my grandfather taught me the game.
2. David Lee - Hard-nosed on the glass, Lee is the new millennium’s version of my favorite player as a kid, Charles Oakley.
3. Baron Davis - Dude is 12th in the League in scoring, 6th in assists, and 2nd in steals. Odds are that when you turn on the Warriors, Boom is making a play.
4. Al Jefferson - It was better when he was in Boston, because then I could see him play occasionally. But even now in the Twin Cities, Al embodies everything I like in a player: fundamentals and a workhorse mentality. I watch video of his up-and-over before I go to bed at night.
5. Josh Smith - What’s the most exciting play in basketball: A deep three? A great assist? A dunk? I say it’s a great blocked shot. When J-Smoove skies for his patented swat-from-behind on the break, I find myself screaming “Send it to the frank man!”
Honorable Mention - Gilbert Arenas, Monta Ellis, Shaq, Zach Randolph, Rasheed Wallace.
Dewane Mutunga, aka “Semore Swag,” aka “I Been Doing This”
1. Dwight Howard - Let’s start with he’s a beast. Then it also helps that he plays for my Orlando Magic (yes, that’s my squad). He already gets Top-5 consideration amongst the elite bigs and he’s getting better with every year.
2. Chris Paul - He’s a lot better than I thought he’d be at this point in his career. Dude has a complete game and gives the opposition fits. Easily the best point guard in the League at this point and probably for the next 10 years.
3. J.R. Smith - I don’t really know why, but I just like this kid’s whole approach to everything. He probably doesn’t care about playing and when he does play, he plays no D and shoot just about every time he touches the ball. He’s got an NBA brawl under his belt, definitely a certified goon in my book as far as guys in the League. And if you make the mistake of sleeping on him, you’ll find yourself on the wrong end of a poster or getting cooked from behind the arc.
4. Josh Smith - I love his game. An overall talent, could be more polished offensively, but I’d have no regrets taking him as-is at this point in his career. Just stay away from the rim on defense and you should be alright.
5. Carmelo Anthony - ‘Melo has one of the most polished offensive games I’ve seen. He has a lot of moves, my favorite being that jab step. He doesn’t play much D, but who really does anymore? To sum it all up, he’ll give you buckets at the end of the day.
Honorable Mention - Tyson Chandler, Allen Iverson, Caron Butler, Shaun Livingston, Deron Williams, Monta Ellis, Tracy McGrady and Kobe Bryant.
LeKeith Taylor, aka “Keef”
1. Kobe Bryant - I’ve been a die-hard Kobe fan since day one. Being from Chicago and watching Michael Jordan as a child, Kobe is the closet thing that’ll come to MJ in my opinion. Similar mannerisms. Similar game. Similar legend?
2. Dwyane Wade - No one imagined this he would THIS good, THIS fast. I played against D-Wade a couple times in high school, so I’ll always rock with Chicago’s own. Much respect.
3. Rajon Rondo - This dude is so fluid on the court, how can you not love his game? The green Celts jersey is fitting, cause Rondo is Money. He hasn’t even begun to tap into his potential either.
4. Chauncey Billups - Been rocking with this dude since Colorado. One of my favorite players. Sick game.
5. Brandon Roy - I’m a huge fan of fundamentals, so anyone with a polished game gets a nod in my book. Brandon Roy is one of those few players.
Honorable Mention - Ray Allen, Rudy Gay, Andre Iguodala, Shawn Marion,
Jamal Crawford, Deron Williams, Ronnie Brewer.
April 9th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Amar says:
what? none of you guys picked rafael araujo in your top 5! former raptors GM Rob Babcock is absolutely SHOCKED!
April 9th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Sam I Am says:
I see Christian Grant-Fields, aka “Lord Cheese,” aka “Constable Goon” has good tast with the KG and Amare shout out.
Go Wolves !
Suns vs Celts Finals 08
April 9th, 2008 at 11:04 am
GEE...What up 901, Da N.H., The Burn, The Conglomerate and Ch's. 16 all day! says:
Aww naw you all finally gave the nicknames. Hilarious but real cool.
Would love to know the history behind some of the names but anyway.
Bub Hawkman…ok that one needs some splaining for real.
Anyway I will get with yall:
GEE, aka “Outrighteous” aka “Shutdown City” (I am the mayor) aka “Sean Warrington III”
1. T-Mac - for all the reasons Johnny Exclusive said.
2. Kobe - just unstoppable!
3. K.G - outside of ZO no warrior can match the tenacity!
4. A.I. - G’Town and the definition of heart.
5. Dwight Howard - Call him the new Shaq, pure beast!
Honorable Mention - B.Diddy, Deke, Bruce Bowen, Shane Battier, Marcus Camby, Al Horford, Stat, Skip, Jeff Green, Chauncy B., Rip, Matrix, T. Prince, Wade, Caron and Tim D.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Logan Light says:
This was cool… I think its great when we get to see a little of the personality behind our beloved staff. Plus, it’s not everyday that someone lists all of Zach Randolph’s flaws just to give him their number 1 spot in a fave five.
Love it.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:19 am
TJ says:
I think its interesting that not one person mentioned Lebron. I wouldn’t have guessed that.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:24 am
cbizzle says:
“I’ve said it for years and I’ll keep saying it: Kobe isn’t that much better than T-Mac.”
T-Mac is good and all that, but Kobe is better be a wide margin. He’s more consistent on offense, miles ahead on defense, and more importantly, he can go a season without missing 40 games due to injury.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:27 am
Sam Boobie says:
Surprise, surprise. Pat Cassidy all up on Kobe’s jock again. Not one single mention of LeBron by any of these so-called “experts” — although, I’m sure when the Cavs are in the Eastern Conference Finals again in June, Smack will be all — “We always knew LBJ was the ultimate Beastmaster,” “We’ve always loved the King around here,” etc etc.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Smitty313 says:
No one at Dime loves Lebron. Werid!
My Fave 5
Kobe a.k.a Mamba - If Lebron is the King of basketball Kobe is the GOD of the court. My 2nd favorite basketball player of alltime, the closest thing to my favorite basketball player of all time.
Lebron a.k.a King James - If Lebron doesn’t ever win a ring he would probably be number 1 in all important statistic catagories.
Amare Stoudemire a.k.a S.T.A.T - F a post move I’m going to try and Dunk on you every chance I get.
Josh Smith a.k.a J-Smoove - If he ever gets a consistent offensive game he will be a top ten player. I don’t know if he has the drive to get there.
Rudy Gay a.k.a Rudy - He will be up there with Lebron and Kobe in a few years as one of the top scorers in the league.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:39 am
Sam Boobie says:
There is an institutionalized bias against LeBron at Dime. This is not at all surprising. I don’t know if it’s because some members of the writing staff are prejudiced or what it is — but I do know that it is deeply troubling.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:42 am
yallallreadyknow says:
this fave five list sucks.
yall bums got smush parker, steph marbury, rafer alson, jj reddick and tim thomas….are ou kidding me? are these the guys you wanna call reguarly?
…yall story writers are wack. picking bums just because they gave yall an interview in the parking lot.
step yall game up…geesh
alonzo mourning (he dont need no explain-ation)
dikembe mutombo (the best person off the court)
scot pollard (funny as hell and down to earth as all hell)
caron butler (gotta repect the way he turned his life around)
sam cassell (he’d play in ur rec center with you right now if you have a ball in ur car trunk)
April 9th, 2008 at 11:47 am
JA says:
Christian - off topic but I’ve gotta ask … in the new Dimemag issue, page 78, any idea where one could order online that hoodie B-Roy’s wearing? It’s killer.
Any help with tracking it down would be much appreciated.
April 9th, 2008 at 11:53 am
yallallreadyknow says:
JA
how bad you want that hoodie? would you suck off broy to get one?
April 9th, 2008 at 11:57 am
tjack says:
finally ppl are realizing that lebron is not all that. he got way too much hype.
kobe best player in the whole world, galaxies, undiscovedred planets, the whole thing. MVP!!!
April 9th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Celts Fan says:
My top 5 (to watch play.)
1. KG - Loved him before this year. That’s jumped to a whole other level after watching him play in person on a daily basis. His intensity is up there with MJ, Kobe, Rodman, and every other guy that you knew would rather break his leg trying than to lose a game (ANY game!) and sorry Christian, but Amare’s intensity is nowhere near KG’s. You can’t play zero D and say that.
2. Rajon Rondo - damn right LaKeith. I’m glad someone else sees the potential I do. If this kid keeps his head on straight and keeps working on the jumper, there’s no reason he can’t be in the 2nd tier group of top PGs behind Deron and CP3 within 5 years.
3. CP3 - no comment needed
4. AI - the toughest guy in the league. By this time, his body should’ve broken down, he should’ve slowed down, and he should have come back to the pack. Instead, he’s in a harder conference, still making people look silly. From MJ to Kevin Durant, try to D him up, and you will get embarassed.
5. Kobe - best player on the planet, and it’s not even close. Closest thing to MJ since MJ. He’s become a much better teammate and is sharing the ball. The most clutch in the NBA. Oh ya, once dropped 62 in 3 quarters and the “experts” said he should’ve played the 4th because, “this is a once in a lifetime type opportunity to possibly get 70,” Then he goes out and hangs 81 on the Raptors within the month. Has no weaknesses in his game. NONE.
Honorable mentions:
Big Al Jefferson - A serene post player that will make you say “wow” at least twice a game with some of his moves. Minnesota got a hell of a centerpiece for KG. Now if they could only teach him to play some D…
Brandon Roy - versatility personified.
Deron - what can I say, I like PGs.
Nash - see Deron Williams
Gilbert Arenas - His game is amazing, but his blog and personality make you have to love him, even if he does play for the other team. The best thing Gil does is when he takes a buzzer beater, his arms are raised and he’s walking away before it even falls.
JSmooth - he’s a bit of a tweener with not much of a jumper. He should be an average player at best, but his effort and play make him what he is, which is a hell of a player that will spike your shot into the 10th row.
Eddie House - gunner with some control. you can always tell how we’re doing based on his play. If we’re winning (or losing) by a lot, he’s shooting every time. It’s hilarious!
Paul Pierce/Ray Allen - score in a variety of ways. May not be on this list if I wasn’t a Celtics fan.
Kevin Durant - the future’s coming. Anyone see the dunk he unleashed last night? SICK
JRich - will throw down Dunk-contest level dunks in games.
April 9th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
JA says:
@yall
I “allreadyknow” that you’re an idiot. You don’t need to go out of your way to reinforce that fact.
April 9th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
yallallreadyknow says:
figures that celts fan would name a bunch of celtic players. come off it homey…eddie house as an honorable mention?..eddie friggin house?
JA
just jokes homey, just jokes. i didn’t call u any names. ease up
April 9th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Austin Burton says:
You do know this is “favorite” players, not necessarily who we think the Top 5 players in the League are, right? If the man likes Eddie House, what’s wrong with that? If people at Dime/Bounce like Smush, that’s their prerogative.
(I think if we did a Top 10, LeBron would make a lot of lists. It doesn’t mean anyone’s hating on ‘Bron.)
April 9th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
yallallreadyknow says:
anyone with smush as one of their favorite players is ________ (i’ll let u fill in the blank).
and that other dude is just a celtics homer. he want leon powe in the hof
April 9th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Austin Burton says:
@Yall — If one of your boys made the NBA, even if he never played, he wouldn’t be one of your favorite players?
April 9th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Steven says:
Definitely a cool piece Dime. Glad to see B.Roy getting some love.
April 9th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
yallallreadyknow says:
austin
agreed. i can’t wait until someone from my home country makes it big as an athlete in the states. but we aint very tall. if that were to happen, he would not only be my fav player, but an icon
..oh yeah
tell that dude in ur office to pick better boys. smush?..geesh
April 9th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
GEE...What up 901, Da N.H., The Burn, The Conglomerate and Ch's. 16 all day! says:
Aight what about the 5 players that get on your nerves and that you almost hate!
1. Dirk - I can’t stand his faces and he looks homeless.
2. Shaq - The Big DooDoo. Please retire. He ain’t that funny either.
3. Ben Wallace - A bum and bully. Washed up!
4. Stephen J. - Is he midly retarded?
5. Ron Artest - Is he seriously retarded?
Honorable Mention:
Derrick Coleman, David Robinson, Drew Gooden, Rasheed, Kenyon, Carmelo, Most of the Knicks..just playing but Nate, Z-Bo, Steve Nash and Skip (who was also honorable mention as a favorite, he tries to be to hard sometimes).
April 9th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
Willis says:
my fav 5
1. Kevin Garnett - epitome of perseverance. This guy blames himself for every loss, you gotta love a guy who is willing to take it all on his shoulders. I love the way he plays, his mere presence is dominating. You KNOW when KG is on the floor. Also, he was the classiest guy ever when CWebb missed a three at the buzzer in game 7 of the only Kings-Minny series. Walked over, bent down, offered a hand to help Webb up, and gave him a hug. Respect, man.
2. Dwayne Wade - funny, personable, and able to take over any game at any time. He can make any shot he wants. He doesn’t shoot 3’s because he doesn’t need to. He can get to the hole anytime, he can get to the line anytime, he can dunk on anybody, and he shuts kids down. He plays injured, he plays great, and he plays defense. And he’s one of the only players Ron Artest has never shut down. (people in Rons pocket: Kobe, Manu, Joe Johnson, Ray Allen, Rashard Lewis, Melo, Brandon Roy, Maggette, Lebron, Paul Pierce, Danny Granger, Michael Redd, and the lsit goes on. These are people he has shut down at least twice.)
3. Kevin Martin - Being the gold player on my favorite team gets him this spot. But also the fact that he is the only player in the league that could easily get 20 points without making a shot helps him out too. He is way to quick for all defenders (even Monta) and his jumper is wet most nights.
4. Gilbert Arenas - Ice water man, I love his story, his swagger, and his demeanor. He can hit from anywhere anytime, and for the love of God dont piss him off. Unless you’re Portland. But I like this guy mostly for his work on the defensive end. He can strip you anytime.
5. Dwight Howard - Dwight the Fright. He just has a weird dominating presence. If he catches it, your done. He’s over you, on you, through you. And if you try to crown him, you are sent packing with a ticket to the next game. And he is the best dunker in the game right now.
Honorable metnion: Josh Smith - stone face whatever, he blocks the ish outta everybody. Has a nice offensive game too.
Ron Artest - If he weren’t on the Kings I wouldn’t like him so much. Recently though he’s been a black hole on offense. But I’ve never seen anybody completely dominate somebody like he does on defense.
Mike Bibby - The man is clutch and funny as hell. When his shot is going, pencil him for 30.
Baron Davis - I love the mans handles. That sounded really wrong.
Ray Allen - I love the mans release. continuing…
Damon Stoudamire - I always thought he was a poor mans Iverson, and I just really like watching him play.
Vince Carter - really though, who doesn’t like him?
Marcus Camby - I like blocked shots.
April 9th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
djKianoosh says:
great lists.. AI is #1 on my list cause he’s so good at two of the most exciting things in basketball: stealing and finishing. so I’ve loved watching him ever since he became a sixer, and then he reached legendary status instantly with me when he crossed over MJ. that was all I needed as a sixer fan. i can remember it clearly. finally, after so many years there was at least some pride being a sixer fan.
nobody mentioned Manu!
hahahah.. i know i know, i’m in the minority. that’s aight. he’s in my fave 5 cause I grew up in Argentina, but also cause he really plays with almost the same heart that AI plays with. chris paul is in my fave 5 now too. wow, the kid can play PG for me any day. I love watching great shooting form, and there’s nobody better than Ray Allen. Last, I like watching smart players do smart things and be dominant doing them, in such a way that they are impossible to contain. That’s Tim Duncan.
I think people hate on Lebron for all the hype. it’s interesting that nobody in Dime listed him.
after that, I like watching KG, Monta Ellis, Korver, Camby, Kobe, Bowen, Rip Hamilton & Billups, sheed, the centaur in orlando, nobody on the stinkin knicks, etc, etc..
April 9th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
Sam Boobie says:
Note that in his brief, less than candid reply, Austin refused to address the question of whether or not there exists an institutionalized bias against LeBron at Dime. I think his silence on this issue speaks volume.
April 9th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Austin Burton says:
It was such a ridiculous claim, I wasn’t sure if you were serious. But there is no bias against LeBron here.
April 9th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Brown says:
Brown aka “Downtown”
1. Monta Ellis. Always looking to score and has an array of finishes. When he’s in a zone, he’s almost impossible to stop.
2. Brandon Roy. Really stepped his game up this year. Should’ve been the first pick overall two years ago and does everything you could want out of a 2-guard and more.
3. Caron Butler. One of the best 2-way players in the league. The type of player everyone would want on their team.
4. Chauncey Billups. Best combo guard in the league. Dude has icewater in his veins and is a hell of a competitor. Another one of the best two-way players in the game.
5. Dwyane Wade. Plays with reckless abandon, which has been a gift and a curse. I think people may have forgotten just how good he is.
Honorable mention: Andre Iguodala, Jamal Crawford, Jesus Shuttlesworth, Tim Duncan, Kevin Martin, Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Rudy Gay, Baron Davis, David West.
April 9th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
GEE...What up 901, Da N.H., The Burn, The Conglomerate and Ch's. 16 all day! says:
“Baron Davis - I love the mans handles. That sounded really wrong.
Ray Allen - I love the mans release. continuing…”
Pause
April 9th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Andy W says:
How can none of you pick Manu? He’s one of the most exciting players in the league!
April 9th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
GEE...What up 901, Da N.H., The Burn, The Conglomerate and Ch's. 16 all day! says:
DIME I ain’t been hearing nothing about you all getting in work in on the PS3 or 360 lately what up, is this the off season for you all?
Is Naomi Jefferson the only female on deck? You all should have put pics up with the names so we can put face to name …in Naomi.
Oh yea and to DJ Cucumber Slice ..”The Action is the Reaction” They should let him do more video game announcing.
April 9th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Celts Fan says:
Y’All, reread my thing on Eddie House. Dude’s just funny, that’s why he’s on the list. Watching him pretend to play PG when it’s close, then make up for it by jacking up 10 shots in 2 minutes once we pull away is high comedy.
And yes, of course a Celtics fan would have a bunch of Celtics players as his favorites to watch, but I listed guys from all over the league (and made a specific point of only going with KG and Rondo in my top 5, who are 2 of my favorite players in the league and favorites to watch, forgot LeBron and JKidd in my honorable mentions - obvious reasons for both of them, and Stephen Jackson/Ron Artest both for their gritty, tough games, hard-nosed D, and the off chance they may do something “abnormal.”)
Thanks for getting my back Austin. I got your back on this one: just cuz LeBron isn’t their favorite player and isn’t mentioned on every post doesn’t mean there’s a bias, they just don’t fall all over themselves talking about him like some sites do.
April 9th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
weng santos says:
1. Melo: Too smooth, too many moves. Will make you look silly while he looks like he’s not even trying.
2. Iverson: Heart, skill, fire, speed, hops, and a ton of scoring ability in one tiny package.
3. KG: Plays with a quiet but perpetual rage. He’s a superstar, but he still tries so damn hard every time.
4. Ray Allen: Beautiful, beautiful stroke. Quick and accurate, perfect shot mechanics every time.
5. Manu: Shifty, clutch, fearless. Liked him from the moment he torched USA in 02. Gets through any defense.
Subs: Duncan (efficient), Nash (footwork), Durant (wunderkind), Monta (talented), D Rose and Mike Beasley (the next).
Yup, no LeBron for me too. He’s good, but I get bored watching him take that ugly jumper of his. If he wasn’t so athletically explosive and able to throw it doen hard like a 6-8 240lbs dude should, I wouldn’t even watch his highlights. I’m all about skill; freak athletes don’t matter as much to me as grace of movement.
LBJ is a natural athlete; but he’s not poetry in motion. He was born with this physical gift and never learned to glide and finesse it. Nurture over nature, baby.
April 9th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
djKianoosh says:
weng i think you’re on to something about lebron. he’s so damn overpowering.. but once he learns to add a little finesse, a little icing on the cake, if you will, he’ll be complete. but still, there’s no denying he’s dominant, just that a certain aesthetic quality isn’t there yet. interesting…
is there any player in today’s L with the grace of a Dr. J or Clyde the Glide?
April 9th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Jim says:
1. Manu. What can I say? I’m a homer, and he puts games on ice. He’s fun to watch and plays with heart, flops aside.
2. Tim Duncan. This is my man; he took the franchise that broke my heart as a kid and made them into a dynasty. He’s the best ever at his position and lets his coach yell at him, setting the tone for team success. How can I put him at #2?
3. Caron Butler. Skills, heart, good dude. And like someone mentioned, great story. I wish they were on TV more. He works at both ends and facilitates. This is somebody that deserves all the good things that come to him.
4. Malik Rose. Malik is the coolest guy in the L. He wasn’t anybody coming out of HS, wasn’t anybody coming out of college, and made himself a big part of a championship team. I loved him in SA and hope he gets a better situation before his time is up. Better than living in NYC and making $8mil/year, I guess. But you know…
5. KG/AI. Have to give a tie to the stars with the most heart, who don’t cheat the game. Wish we could see some more D in Denver from AI, but I am so glad to see KG’s success in Boston. He is a guy who you can tell cares about the game and his teammates.
Bench: Smush. I have to speak up. Smush was not even a top recruit but has made himself stick longer in the L than anybody. I’ve seen him play in small venues and he is charismatic and nice as hell. The joy he plays with when not fearing the hook is terrific to watch.
Kevin Durant. More homerism, but KD is a freak. You could take anyone who doesn’t know ball and they could appreciate his game and recognize its beauty. Just like…
Steve Nash. His game looks amazing…it’s just going home early again.
April 9th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
Jim says:
edit Smush: *longer than anybody could have expected.
April 9th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
srb says:
1. Paul Pierce
2. Paul Pierce
3. Paul Pierce
4. Paul Pierce
5. Paul Pierce
April 9th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
word says:
1. AI
2. STAT
3. Big Ticket
4. Nash
5. Pierce
clearly i don’t like SA, or the Lakers, but Lebron def. gets an honorable mention, Deron and Iggy/Miller too.
Go Suns!! I concurr with the suns v celts finals. that would be a dream come true for this ball fan right here. And my old fav the 6ers are making me proud again, but the bulls did break my heart this season, if they make the right trades I’ll support their asses again we will see though.
April 9th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
iain. says:
celts fan dude,
i swear to god ive heard you tell that story about eddie house like 7 times before, way back to january or some time. ok he shoots the ball a lot in a blowout whats “high comedy” about that..
April 9th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
miamiVIS3 says:
1.D-wade
2.KG
3.Lebron
4.Kobe
5.Shaq
April 9th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
miamiVIS3 says:
5. I meant to say Dwight Howard but my fingers said shaq
April 9th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
ML says:
1.Kobe
2.Allen Iverson
3.Carmelo Anthony
4.Kevin Garnett
5. Steve Nash
April 9th, 2008 at 9:15 pm
K Dizzle says:
1)B Diddy aka Boom Dizzle aka Too Easy
nickname says it all - only point when he’s on his game will PHYSICALLY crush the opponent, will take and make ridiculous shots, will cross you up, will post you up, will launch from 30, will dunk on you ferociously. supreme confidence in this man. LA’s finest since the 8th grade
2)Lamar Odom - loved dude’s game since high school(Magic being my alltime fave, there some similarities)noone else in the league 6′10 can rebound, go coast to coast, break down the d and flip a no-look on the money. So underrated it’s disgustin.
3)Chris Paul - the first non-laker jersey I’ve ever bought
. I don’t care how good Marv Williams becomes. Atlanta messed up. You needed a point guard, God put 2…TWO, in your lap and you take another swingman. I think of CP3, JJ, J Smoove and Alfred on one squad and we talkin eastern conference finalists at the very least for the next decade. Dude is the truth and he’s good peeps
4) KB24 - I’ll be honest. I was mad at Kobe when Shaq got traded cuz I’ve always been about winning. Don’t need to win, just can’t stand losin. So when we have the two best players in the L on the squad and we got a chance to put on more rings than Phil Jax and petty jealousy ruins that, I went with the media and blamed Kobe. good thing i woke up and realized that there was a plan, sh*t…even Caron for kwame EVENTUALLY proved ok. mamba’s just the best in the world so I appreciate being here able to watch it daily and those interviews with Cabbie bring out a funny side of dude that keeps me laughin (T-Dot, you know)
5)…..don’t really care bout anybody else lol
April 9th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
Joe BreeZee says:
I’m a big fan of the site. Don’t comment much but this article got me thinking big time. I can’t limit my list of favorite active players to five. But as I sit here looking down at my three month old son, there are a few players that come to mind that I would love my son to emulate (when he’s not modeling his game after his proud papa that is
First, let me say that I am a point guard through and through so my list will obviously be biased as such. But here it is:
1) Chris Paul - Extraordinary person with extraordinary game. I am an ACC fan so I have followed him since Wake and I became a total fan when I heard the story about scoring 61 for his gramps. Tops on a loaded list of quality point guards in the league.
2) Steve Nash - Bukkets! Another exceptional point guard that makes everyone around him better. Defies the odds by showing that you don’t have to be the biggest, fastest, or strongest.
3) Baron Davis/Deron Williams/Chauncey Billups - Great point guards with the added dimension of above average strength for their size making them physical forces against smaller guards.
EVERYONE ELSE:
There are alot of great players that I love for other reasons as well.
Passion - ‘All I Got All The Time’
1) Allen Iverson
2) Kevin Garnett
Picture Perfect Fundamentals - ‘Instructional Video’
1) Tim Duncan
2) Ray Allen
Killer Instinct - ‘Jugular’
1) Kobe
2) Manu
Persistence - ‘Energizer Bunny’
1) Richard Hamilton
Beasts - ‘Men Playing A Boys Game’
1) Amare
2) Dwight Howard
3) Lebron
Thanks for the white space to post a list of my favorite players currently playing the greatest game in the world. Great topic. Keep up the good work.
***Look out for Joseph B. Braxton III two decades from now.***
April 9th, 2008 at 11:59 pm
doc says:
I aint never seen no dude name Braxton make it.But my fave 5 is AI,Lebron,Kobe,CP3,Duncan.With the whole Sixers team off the bench.
April 10th, 2008 at 1:52 am
weng santos says:
djKianoosh says:
“weng i think you’re on to something about lebron. he’s so damn overpowering…”
____________________
Exactly. LeBron won the genetic lottery. I can’t- and a lot of people can’t- train hard enough to even approximate his physical gifts.
I’m an average guy; and to be exceptional I have to work extra hard at it. When I play, I can’t dunk or just shoot over anybody like LeBron can. I have to rely on know-how and footwork and be a deadshot with a quick trigger to even get a good shot off. On defense, I can’t get up 40 inches in the air and pin a shot to glass, so I have to use smart position defense and understand angles to guard anybody.
Which is why I can identify more with Melo’s jab series or Ray’s shooting or Iverson’s underdog fire more than I can with LeBron’s athleticism and power. I never had LeBron’s hype, so I learned to enjoy being underestimated.
I like guys who, through work ethic and maximizing their potential, get good enough to hang with anybody. LeBron’s just too blessed for my tastes; he was just lucky enough to be born with all these physical traits and has never learned to refine his game because he can get away with just being the strongest or fastest or jump the highest.
April 10th, 2008 at 1:53 am
weng santos says:
djkanoosh,
Exactly. LeBron won the genetic lottery. I can’t- and a lot of people can’t- train hard enough to even approximate his physical gifts.
I’m an average guy; and to be exceptional I have to work extra hard at it. When I play, I can’t dunk or just shoot over anybody like LeBron can. I have to rely on know-how and footwork and be a deadshot with a quick trigger to even get a good shot off. On defense, I can’t get up 40 inches in the air and pin a shot to glass, so I have to use smart position defense and understand angles to guard anybody.
Which is why I can identify more with Melo’s jab series or Ray’s shooting or Iverson’s underdog fire more than I can with LeBron’s athleticism and power. I never had LeBron’s hype, so I learned to enjoy being underestimated.
I like guys who, through work ethic and maximizing their potential, get good enough to hang with anybody. LeBron’s just too blessed for my tastes; he was just lucky enough to be born with all these physical traits and has never learned to refine his game because he can get away with just being the strongest or fastest or jump the highest.
April 10th, 2008 at 3:32 am
bookkwormmaster says:
My Top 5 Players (2 watch)
1. Kobe Bryant - Hands down the best player in the game 2day. Sick arsenal of offensive moves ranging from post-ups to fade-aways to pull-ups to nasty crams, great ball-handler, a defensive ace (one of a FEW handful of star players that actually play defense and guards the opposing team’s BEST PLAYER), and an unmatched killer instinct. Love his nickname “Black Mamba” beecause he is a straight up killer on the court. Dude will maim, kill, rape, murder, assassinate, impale anyone that gets in his way on the court. He is the guy that would beat your ass in a fight, step on your throat and suffocate you, and then stand over you and watch you drown in your own blood
2. Caron Butler - One of the game’s best all-around players. Like Kobe, there is nothing on the court that he can’t do. Has gotten better every year in the league and has transformed himself into a superstar. Like Kobe he also goes hard on both ends of the court. Also one of the few players in the league you have to put in the “What Player Could Avergae A Triple-Double Over A Season” discussion. He is that good.
3. Gilbert Arenas - One of the league’s most entertaining, recognizable, likable players. Has a hilarious blog and interacts with fans in the league like none other (gives his jersey away after EVERY game to some lucky fan, for example). One of the most clutch players in the game today (ask Milwaukee and Utah) and always provides great highlights on or off the court.
4. Andrei Kirilenko - The sneakiest player in the league. One of the league’s best shot blockers, unselfish player, an underrated passer, a solid defender and rebounder. The only thing that really holds him back from elite player status is that he isn’t that much of a great offensive player. The kind of player that every team in the league should have on their roster because he does the little things that matters in a game that doesn’t get recorded on the stat sheet.
5. Ron Artest - In my personal opinion, the BEST DEFENDER in the entire league. Guy is a straight BEAST on the defensive end of the floor (it’s a shame that he only has 1 Defensive Player of the Year award to his name, really, because he IS that GOOD). Also is a handful on the offensive end with his hulking frame when he isn’t settling for jumpers. A solid rebounder and passer. A bit of a headcase but has really mellowed out down in Sac.
Honorable Mention - Tim Duncan, Steve Nash, LeBron James, Paul Pierce, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Josh Smith, Marcus Camby, Chauncey Billups, Brandon Roy, Allen Iverson, Baron Davis, Monta Ellis, Elton Brand, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Jamal Crawford
April 10th, 2008 at 3:45 am
karan says:
KG - i know nobody who dislikes KG, and if they exist, then they dont know basketball
Starbury - ya, let the hate come, but a few years ago he was one of the most popular players in the L, and i’m not gonna jump on the hate-marbury bandwagon just yet, altho being a stephon/knick fan is fuckin frustating
VC - best dunker ever, and clutcher and tougher than most rate him to be
AI - obvious reasons
wade - better than lebron
April 10th, 2008 at 5:36 am
Joe BreeZee says:
Doc: Theres a first time for everything. And I want you to remember your words 20 years from now when my son is serving you that ‘Humble Pie A La Mode’…
April 10th, 2008 at 8:38 am
YOUNGFED says:
1.)K-Hova
2.)Boom-Dizzle
3.)Kobe
4.)AI
5.)J Smoove
April 10th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Smooth says:
none of you like lebron ????
April 10th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
Smooth says:
my top.5
1. dwyane wade (when he was fully healthy @ his top peak 2006 playoffs/finals & 06-07 season be4 injury in houston no1 can stop him, his game looks like iverson & jordan put 2gether)
2. allen iverson
3. kobe bryant
4. carmelo anthony
5. lebron james
honorable mentions : the truth, boom dizzle, kg, amare, sheed, t-mac
April 11th, 2008 at 8:20 am
Kingboy D says:
Current:
Camby
Mourning
Gilbert
Baron
Wade
Historic:
Starks
‘Nique
Drazen
Wilt
Walt Clyde Frazier
(honorable mentions: Barkley and Trent Tucker)
Most hated historic:
Reggie
Malone
Stockton
McHale
Charles Smith (NEVER FORGET!!)
April 11th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Momma NayNay says:
Yo Sam B. I can’t argue Cass’ man-crush on Kobe, perhaps it is true. I think you can relate though, you probably feel the same way about Lebron.
But don’t doubt my boy’s expertise on this sport or his ability to analyze players or the game. He and the rest of the editorial team know their ish. Just thought I’d point out that these are our favorite players, not who we think are the greatest players of all time or at present. I think most of us would agree that Bron would get mention on a list of that kind.
May 17th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
Ian says:
1.manu
2.timmeh
3.carter (sorry people)
4.j.smith
5.b.barry
May 18th, 2008 at 8:50 am
Cammy Z says:
1. Ron Artest- It’s fair to say that he’s underated, thanks to some attitude problems. When this guy was on Indiana, they were a different team and Sac plays at a different level when he’s in there. His defense is known to you all but he has been a solid scorer almost his whole career. His overall stats have hovered around All-Star material for most of his career.
2. Nick Van Exel- I don’t think he’s officially retired, is he? Anyways, the man is/was? clutch, has/had great handles, quick, one of the best at setting up the alley-oop (remember McDyess’s days in Denver? Or how about him feeding Kobe in Kobe’s second year, Van Exel’s last in LA). He got blamed for the disappointing playoff-performance of the Lakers in ‘98 whereas the real problem was more like Kurt Rambis can’t coach and Eddie Jones was the most un-clutch All-Star I can remember.
3. Danny Fortson- why can’t someone just let this guy play like 35 minutes? I think he’d grab like 30 rebounds per game.
4. Dikembe Mutumbo- I remember reading like 5 years ago that this guy was over 40 but that he didn’t have an official birth certificate or something. That would mean this guy’s close to 50 and he still contributes greatly to one of the top teams in the league. His game is just a thing to admire, pure D, rebounds and blocks, and he’s contributed to some impressive teams (Denver’s 1st round upset, Philly’s run to the Finals, Houston’s 22 game run).
5. J.R. Smith- Is it possible for one player to be one of the most athletic players in the league and also one of its best shooters? He might be just that. If only he could play with some more wisdom, play more D and get the playing time he deserves, he’ll be a superstar in no time.
September 25th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
kennypayne says:
pg- chris paul- straight up smooth
sg- tmac- when he’s on, he’s just as bad ass as kobe, but he’s injury prone
sf andre iguodola - crazy athleticism, hopefully he puts it all together
pf kg- nuff said
c- d howard - straight beast
all time
pg- isiah thomas- tuffest little man who inspired ai
sg m jordan- the greatest
sf bernard king- smooth
pf charles barkley - warrior
c- hakeem olajuwan
honorable mention
tim hardaway, dale ellis, paul pressey, ricky pierce, sean kemp, gp, moses, dr j, magic, worthy, ai, booger, bird, kj