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Tony Answers
November 9, 2009 Question: Hey Tony, Beasley seems to have improved from last season. Why doesn't Spoelstra play him late in the fourth quarter? Tony: Hi Alix. Michael has improved from last season. In the off-season he worked very hard on the court to refine his ball handling skills and defense against smaller, quicker players and he is stronger due to all the work he did with strength and conditioning coach Bill Foran. Beas also has a year's experience under his belt and seems to be playing with more focus. Udonis Haslem has championship experience and at crunch time HEAT Head Coach Erik Spoelstra needs UD on the court at power forward at both ends of the court. As Beas gets more experience playing small forward you will probably see him out there late in games to help the HEAT win. You can't argue with success - the HEAT is 4-1 at this juncture so you have to like Coach Spo's decisions. Question: Are the HEAT's BIG men capable of bringing the team to the top? Tony: Hi BJ. Love getting questions re: the HEAT from the Philippines!
The HEAT bigs are a good mix of accomplished, veteran players with young, energetic, athletic ones. Udonis Haslem, co-capt. and NBA champion, along with 6 time NBA all-star Jermaine O'Neal and 9 year vet Jamal Magliore, bring a lot of experience and leadership to the front court contingent. Second year forward Michael Beasley and third year center Joel Anthony are the young bucks who are learning from the vets and gaining invaluable experience. These front court players will help the HEAT have a successful season like last year. How far the HEAT will go remains to be seen but I am very optimistic that this team, if they stay healthy, can win more games than last year.
Question: How do you think Jermaine's health will affect the rest of the team and Miami's chances in the playoffs? Tony: Hi Madeeh. I think the three keys for a successful HEAT season are: May 1, 2009 Question: Why does the Hawks PA Announcer say "thunder sticks" when a free throw is being shot. GO HEAT! Tony: Hi Christian. I'll have to take your word for it that the P.A.. announcer for the Hawks says that. I have headphones on while I am broadcasting the HEAT games and cannot hear him. I'm usually describing a replay or talking to the producer, Ted Ballard, during lulls in the action. I can't comment on something I haven't heard. However, if I see the Hawks P.A. announcer - I'll tell him you don't like it! Question: If Wade is not 100% why does he handle the ball as point guard and create his own plays most of the time. Shouldn't Chalmers or even Quinn handle those duties most of the time? Tony: Hi Tino. There's probably more wear and tear on a player's body having to make sharp cuts to the rim, weaving through the defense using screens to get open while taking shots to the body than running the point. Besides D-Wade is a gamer and is very effective when the ball is in his hands and he is very durable.
Question: James Jones has been hot as of late. Do you look at him as a big contributor to the HEAT and a permanent stay as a starter? Tony: Hi Keivon. James Jones is showing why HEAT President Pat Riley signed him as a free agent in the off season last year. He is a very good 3 point shooter, a good defender & rebounder and a very intelligent person who is also a good teammate. There is no doubt he can be a good contributor to the HEAT in the future. We'll have to wait and see if he is to be a starter next year. I don't think he really cares if he starts or not - it's the minutes that's important to him - and who finishes!
April 22, 2009 Question: Do you think that the HEAT will bounce back after a rough Game 1 in Atlanta? Tony: Hi Brian. The HEAT are well coached and have been resilient all season long so I do expect them to bounce back and play much better in game 2 of the series with the Hawks. Atlanta is a very athletic team and the HEAT have to find a way to neutralize them on the boards and make them play half court offense - limit the Hawks fast break points. Question: Do you feel that the HEAT has given Dorell Wright enough time to prove himself as a NBA calibur talent or did they miss on that draft pick? Tony: Hi Cortez. Dorell Wright has had 2 knee surgeries on the same knee and is not fully healthy yet to play everyday. He has one more year left on his contract and next year will be his sixth with the HEAT. With more rehabbing of his knee in the off season, he will hopefully come back next fall and prove to everyone that selecting him with the 20th pick in 2004 NBA draft was a good idea.
Question: How productive,important ,and effective do you think the bench performance will be for the Miami HEAT in the playoffs? Especially Michael Beasley? Tony: Hi Abbas. Michael Beasley has shown that playing in pressure situations doesn't bother him and the NBA playoffs is the biggest stage he can play on. I think he will be a very productive scorer for the HEAT vs the Hawks and that will be very important for the HEAT to advance to the second round. The HEAT need others to step up and score when Atlanta double and triple teams Dwyane Wade when he drives to the rim and Michael is a scorer.
April 9, 2009 Question: Hi, Tony. During the all-star break LeBron James said he will compete in the 2010 slam dunk contest. Since D Wade is my favorite player, I was wondering do you think D Wade would ever compete in the SLAM DUNK CONTEST? Tony: Hi Richard. I don't know if Dwyane will compete in the slam dunk contest. The way the contest has evolved, it takes a lot more time and effort to prepare for now with the creativeness of the last 2 contests. It would be a lot of fun to watch though - LeBron and D-Wade going at it with their most imaginative dunks! Question: Do you think Wade will be the defensive player of the year? Tony: Hi Diego. The Defensive Player of the Year award in the NBA will come down to Dwight Howard and Dwyane. Howard leads the league in blocked shots and Dwyane leads all guards in that category and is 2nd is steals. I personally think they should have co-winners this year since Howard and D-Wade are clearly the two best defenders in the NBA this season and if one of them wins it - the other one is slighted. That wouldn't be fair.
Question: Which player other than D. Wade do u think will have a great impact for the heat in the playoffs? Tony: Hi Brian. There is no substitute for experience. I think Udonis Haslem will be a solid contributor in scoring, rebounding, defense and leadership. The HEAT has 2 rookies and 2 second year players in its core rotation and co-captains UD and D-Wade have championship experience to lead the relatively young team.
I also expect Michael Beasley to do well in the playoffs. He has made great progress since the start of the season and although he is a rookie, he shows great poise in tough situations especially on offense. He is the HEAT's second best offensive player!
It should be an exciting "second season"!
April 1, 2009 Question: Hello Tony! What are the HEAT's chances of securing the 4th seed in the 2009 NBA playoff race in order to get home court advantage for the 1st Round? Tony: Hi Anthony. With 8 games left in the season, the HEAT is doing all they can to hold onto the 5th seed. Atlanta has the upper hand to come in 4th. If both teams hold onto their spots, the HEAT will open the playoffs in Atlanta for a 7 game series with Atlanta having the home court advantage. I think that scenerio has a better chance of happening than the HEAT coming in 4th. Question: What do the HEAT have to do to secure a playoff berth? Tony: Hi John. With 8 games left, the HEAT need to keep their focus on each game and get as many wins as possible and they will make the playoffs. That will be a great accomplishment for them after winning just 15 games last year.
Question: Hey Tony, my name is Shattsy and I live in Australia so I don't hear everything about the NBA and whats going on. I wanted to know why Dwyane Wade is not the favourite for MVP but instead Lebron, even though Wade averages better in almost everything eg blocks,points,steals.... Tony: Hi Shattsy. Dwyane Wade has had an unbelieveable year leading a very young, relatively inexperienced team in competing for the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. LeBron James had led Cleveland to at least 60 wins and the best record in the NBA.
Both players have put up incredible numbers to lead their team. Very often, It is hard to tell what criteria voters use when they vote for the MVP award but it seems they select the player who has the better supporting cast and whose team has the better record. Dwyane may not win the award because his team didn't win as many game as LeBron's. It may not seem fair but that is usually the reality of this award.
March 25, 2009 Question: Mr. Tony, I just want to take my hat off to you, because you are one of the best basketball commentators in the league. I like the way you explain every play in detail to the fans. You and Eric Reid make a great duo. I have listened to other commentators but they cannot do it like you guys. I would like to see you both nominated for The Commentator of the Year Award. My question for you is: Why didn't you pursue a career as a head coach? Tony: Hi Kender. Thank you for your kind words, I appreciate it. Eric is one of my best friends and one of the best play-by-play announcers in the NBA. He and I enjoy announcing HEAT games and are happy that a HEAT fan like you enjoys listening to us. I was a high school coach, a college coach, an NBA coach with the HEAT and a WNBA coach with the SOL (owned by the HEAT) which encompassed my whole adult life until I started announcing HEAT games on the radio and then on TV. I enjoy living in South Florida and I appreciate working for a classy organization like the Miami HEAT. I realized a long time ago that I would enjoy announcing HEAT games and decided not to continue to pursue coaching in the NBA. I give private BB lessons in my spare time so I do continue to coach which I still enjoy. Question: During the March 22nd game against the Pistons, I noticed D-Wade interacting with the fans. One, is this common during NBA games? Two, has any player ever said something to you during a telecast while running up the court? Tony: Hi Ryan. Dwyane Wade enjoys interacting with fans both at home and on the road. When he hit the game winning shot at the buzzer a few years ago against the Knicks in Madison Sq. Garden, he ran over to a section of celebrities who were Knick fans and had fun with them. It's not unusual for NBA players to mingle at times with fans. I like it - I think it personalizes players and makes the game more fun to watch.
Sometimes HEAT players will ask Eric and me if the ref was right on a call that went against them. We respond honestly after we watch a reply.
Question: Do the heat still have a chance to get the number 4 seed and get home court advantage? Tony: Hi Abe. The HEAT does have a chance to secure the 4th seed and get home court advantage in the Eastern Conf. playoffs. The HEAT plays at Atlanta, the team in 4th right now, in the next to last game of the regular season. That game may determine who gets the higher seed.
March 18, 2009 Question: What are some of the heat players pre-game rituals? Tony: Hi Trent. The HEAT loves having fans on the other side of the world! Miami HEAT players are to be in the lockerroom 1 and 1/2 hours before a home game. Most HEAT home games start at 7:30 pm so that means they are there at the latest - 6pm.On the road they arrive together by bus from the hotel. Younger players - mostly rookies and second year players arrive earlier to get extra work on the court with the assistant coaches. Their workouts are specifically geared to the skills they need to work on. Joel Anthony for example will work on his low post moves, Mario Chalmers, Daequan Cook & Chris Quinn will do shooting drills both spot-up and off the dribble shots. Michael Beasley works on perimeter shots as well as driving and finishing to the rim. The HEAT coaching staff is arguably the best teaching staff in the NBA. Dwyane Wade doesn't usually shoot before a game. He gets extra shots up at the morning shoot around. Tim Hardaway was the same way. Keith Askins, HEAT assistant coach and former HEAT player for nine years, used to make himself make five 3 pters in a row from 5 spots - the 2 corners, the 2 wings and the top of the key. Alonzo Mourning liked to come out about 10 minutes before the players were to go in for the pre-game meeting and shoot hook shots from both sides of the rim and shoot mid-range and foul shots. Many players also use this time to go to chapel in the arena.
As you can see Trent - different strokes for different folks!
Question: Hey Tony! These days there are a lot of talk about who will be the MVP this season. Most people would agree that it will end up being a 3-man race between Kobe, LeBron and D-Wade. If you had to vote today, who would you pick and for what reason? Tony: Hi Mark. Very interesting question. In voting for the MVP this season, one has to ask oneself is it more of an accomplishment to lead your team to perhaps the best recored in the league as Kobe and Lebron are trying to do with very talented, experienced teammates or is it harder for Dwyane Wade to lead a team of two rookies and two 2nd year players in the eight man rotation(and a 40% change to your starting lineup with O'neal and Moon) to the 4th or 5th seed in the playoffs? Of all the things I have heard and read from so-called self-proclaimed BB experts, it took the best golfer in the world to puts things in perspective. Tiger Woods said, after being asked about Dwyane Wade and the MVP award and I'm paraphrasing, Dwyane Wade is a candidate for the MVP award but it in the NBA they seem to give it to the player who has the best supporting cast. My choice will come down to Lebron or Dwyane. That's all I'm going to say right now. Question: Hey Tony, can you explain what Erik Spoelstra's offense is like? Is there a name for it? Tony: Hi James. Coach Spo has put in a few different sets than Pat Riley had. He doesn't have a name for his offense per se but one offensive set he put in is called "Elbow". It's where the point guard passes to a power forward or center usually at the high post just left or right of the foul line. That area on the court is called the elbow. After the pass is made, the point guard then sets a screen usually on his backcourt mate near the wing area and they play a three man game with the high post player. Coach Spo put it in I think to utilize the skills of Michael Beasley because one of the options on the play is for Beasley to drive to the basket to score. I have seen Coach Spo put Dwyane in that high post spot and have him go 1 on1 with his man from the elbow area. It has been a very effective play for the HEAT.
March 4, 2009 Question: Tony, regarding the lineups, with Moon playing small forward, could Dorrell Wright switch to guard? Tony: Hi Amaury. Yes, Dorell Wright has the ball handling skills at 6'9 to play the guard position and can defend guards as well. Right now he is behind the rotation guys Moon,Yakouba Diawara, James Jones and Daequan Cook. Question: Can D-Wade play like he did in the 4th against the Knicks every game or was that just because of the emotions running through him that game? Tony: Hi Alex. It is very difficult for an NBA player to play with great emption every night in an 82 game season. Dwyane Wade plays at a very high level every night and can take his play to another level in spots. He proved that in the NBA finals in 2006 when he led the HEAT back from an 0-2 deficit to lead them to the world championship against the Dallas Mavericks. He averaged nearly 40 points a game in the HEAT's four game sweep after the 0-2 deficit, capturing the MVP award.
Question: Why does o'neal play center but not forward when we already have 4 centers? Tony: Hi Christian. Jermaine is a center by trade. He is comfortable positioning himself in the low post, catching the ball and going to work. He can play power forward at times but it depends on the match-up. Remember, there are two ends of the court and a coach has to consider defensive match-ups when positioning players. Jermaine is a very good shot blocker (5th best in the league) so you want him in the basket area to help teammates defensively - not out on the perimeter guarding a forward.
February 23, 2009 Question: Who are the 5 startes for the HEAT since the big trade? Tony: Hi Jaron. Since "the big trade" that brought Jermaine O'Neal and Jamario Moon to the HEAT, we know 4 of the starters. Mario Chalmers and Dwyane Wade in the backcourt (as a duo, they have more steals and blocked shots than any other teammates in the NBA), Co-captain Udonis Haslem at power forward and Jermaine O'Neal at center. The options Coach Spoelstra and his staff have for a starting small forward are James Jones, Jamario Moon, Yakuba Diawara and Daequan Cook. Jones started the first game since the trade was made but hurt his hand so you may see the 6'8, 200 pound Moon start. Jamario is in his second year in the NBA and is a good athlete who runs the floor well. He is very active defensively and a good spot-up shooter. He has shot 34% from the 3 point line in his brief career. Question: When will Dorell Wright return? Tony: Hi D'andre. Dorell Wright, in his 5th year with the HEAT, is practicing with the team and must battle 4 others for playing time at the small forward position (see above).
Question: What should fans expect from Jamario Moon and Jermaine O'Neal? Tony: Hi Gabriel. Jermaine O'Neal is 6'11, a 13 year vet and a 6 time all-star who gives the HEAT a center piece at both ends of the floor. He is a good post-up player and gives the HEAT another option besides D-Wade to run their offense through. He is a good rebounder who has averaged just under 8 rebounds a game for his career. Defensively, he is the league's 5th best shot blocker, averaging 2 rejections per game so he can protect the basket in the paint. Jamario Moon, in addition to what I wrote above, has been a journeyman player who wants very much to stick with one team in the NBA. His game is a lot like Shawn Marion's with the exception that he is a better spot-up shooter.
February 11, 2009 Question: Hey Tony, do you think DeQuan Cook will be a better shooter for the Miami HEAT in the years to come than "Thunder" Dan Majerle? Tony: Hi Alex. Dan Majerle played 14 years in the NBA and had a career 3 pt shooting percentage of 36%. He played 5 years for the HEAT and had nine 3's in a game for the HEAT vs Houston on Jan. 11, 2000. Daequan Cook has quickly become one of the best 3 point shooters in the NBA. He is shooting 41% from downtown and will participate in the NBA's 3 point shooting contest this weekend in Phoenix. As you know, Daequan has a sweet looking J and has a good chance to surpass Thunder Dan's 3 point shooting % in his career. I like his chances! Question: Hi Tony!!!! From the all the years you have been with the Miami HEAT, who are the top 10 players that you liked that have played for the HEAT and why? Tony: Hi Elizabeth. That's a tough question. As you may know I was an assistant coach with the HEAT the first 11 years of the franchise so I'll give you my favorite players in that time span. (1988 - 1999) My favorite HEAT player is Keith Askins. He epitomized what a professional athlete should be. A sincere, tough minded individual who worked very hard to make and play in the NBA. He played 9 years for the HEAT and is now one for the best teachers in the NBA as an assistant coach on Erik Spoelstra's staff.
I enjoyed working with Rony Seikaly, Glen Rice, Bimbo Coles, Grant Long, Alonzo Mourning, Tim Hardaway, Dan Majerle, Bruce Bowens & P.J. Brown. They all brought a passion to improve on the court and were all good guys to work with.
Question: Hey Tony, im a really big heat fan here in Canada. I was just wondering if the heat have ever hosted the NBA all star game.
Tony: Hi Harrion. We like having HEAT fans north of the border.
The Miami HEAT hosted the 1990 NBA All-Star game in the old Miami Arena, which was new at the time since it had been built in 1988 - the 1st year of the HEAT. Hosting an all-star game is a long, laborious undertaking. Team officials have to meet with NBA officials in planning the event for a year leading up to all-star weekend. The NBA is allotted many seats in the arena for corporate sponsors, celebrities, NBA personal from each team in the league and the league office. Very often the home franchise hosting the event does not have enough seats available to offer for sale to all their season ticket holders and that causes problems. That being said, Miami put on a great show in 1990 and maybe someday the HEAT will host the all-star game again.
January 15, 2009 Question: I've been a great fan of HEAT ever since from Glen Rice was on the team. How is Dorell Wright? Can he still play the way he played in the 2007 season? Tony: Hi Bernard. G-Money was some shooter, wasn't he? Daequan Cook will challenge him as the best shooter in HEAT history! As you probably know, Dorell Wright underwent a 45 minute follow-up surgery on his left knee on Nov. 25, 2008 performed by HEAT orthopedic surgeon Dr. Harlan Selesnick. Dr. Selesnick cleaned loose bodies from Dorell's knee. He originally had surgery on his knee on March 3rd last year to repair a meniscal tear. Dorell stayed behind in Miami to rehab his knee when the HEAT went on their 13 day, 7 game trip. To their credit, the HEAT has never rushed a player's return before they are healthy enough to play. I think Dorell is close to returning to HEAT practices and will need time to get into shape and also get acclimated again to the physical nature of the game and trusting that his knee will hold up.
Question: Excluding The '06 Finals, what is your favorite Dwyane Wade moment? Tony: Hi Jonathan. I have 2 Dwyane Wade moments that stick out for me. Being from New York, probably my favorite one is the game winning shot Dwyane made in Madison Square Garden against the Knicks at the buzzer to win the game. It was on March 15, 2005 and the game was tied at 96. Dwyane had the ball and was sizing up 6'8 Trevor Ariza who was guarding him. Dwyane made a 20 foot jumper over Ariza as the buzzer sounded ending the game. Nearly 20,000 people in the Garden went silent and Dwyane and his teammates celebrated a last second victory. I will never forget how Dwyane quieted all those New Yorkers with one breath-taking shot. My other favorite Wade moment was the game winning jumper he made against the New Orleans Hornets in game 1 of the 2004 NBA playoffs. He was a rookie who helped lead the HEAT back from an 0-7 start to capture the 4th seed in the playoffs. The game was tied and after a HEAT timeout Dwyane was isolated 1 on 1 against Baron Davis. Dwyane faked a drive and stepped back for a 16 foot jumper and won the game. It was an omen of what Dwyane's career would be all about - a great clutch player who wants to take, and make, game winning shots. Two great memories for me and I got to announce them on TV. Sweet! Question: Why did the HEAT trade Shaun Livingston?
Tony: Hi Rex. The HEAT traded Livingston to gain a little more flexibility under the cap. It's too complicated to understand and I'm not sure I totally understand it but trust Pat Riley and his people that the trade was a good thing for the HEAT. Question: As a Miami HEAT season ticket holder since 2003, I have to say im ashamed the way the NBA highlights Lebron and Kobe but barely mentions Dwayne Wade. My question is why do you think the NBA's leading scorer as well as being in the top ten in virtually every category and is at the bottom of MVP candidates?
Tony: Hi Spencer. I can understand your frustration regarding Dwyane. I think the reason LeBron and Kobe get so much attention is because they are not only great players but their respective team has one of the best records in the league and seem to be on national TV every week. MVP voting is very subjective and very often votes go the player who's team has the better record and who has the most exposure. When you look at the numbers - scoring, assists, rebounds, blocked shots and steals - also consider a player's influence on his team's winning performance in the 4th quarter - and remembering his Olympic gold medal dominance - there is no question in my mind that Dwyane is the best player in the world. He has led a young, inexperienced Miami HEAT team into the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race and deserves strong consideration as the league's MVP.
January 2, 2009 Question: What are the factors in determining the League MVP? Tony: Hi Rick. That's a very good question. Voters use their own discretion in voting awards at the end of an NBA season. As a HEAT broadcaster, I usually get 3 awards to vote on and they vary from year to year. For ex: MVP, Coach of the Year, Most Improved, Best Sixth Man, Best Defender etc. It is a subjective thing Rick. I look at the worthy candidates based on their contributions during the regular season and I try to determine their impact on their team's winning record. There are no guidelines on how to vote so each voter uses their own criteria to decide the best for that year in each category. Question:Hello! I am huge fan of the HEAT, and I am so glad that they are doing great this season. When will James Jones be ready to play? Tony: Hi Andy. I'm happy to see we have a fan in the Philippines. James Jones, as you may know, had a ruptured tendon in is right wrist (his shooting hand) and had surgery back in the Fall. He is shooting again in HEAT practices and participating in non-contact drills. He is probably still weeks away from being activated. He and the HEAT want to make sure he is ready when he does return and not rush him back. James, who played locally at American High School and the University of Miami, was 3rd in the NBA last season in 3 pt FG%, shooting 44% beyond the line for Portland.
Question: I've got 2 questions about Mario Chalmers. First, Do you think Chalmers will make the Sophomore Rookie Challenge or possibly even start? And second, 3-5 years from now do you picture Chalmers making the All-Star team?
Tony: Hi Dylan. I believe they only have 8 rookies and 8 second year players participate in the Rookie-Sophomore game All-Star Weekend in Phoenix in Feb. I think both Mario and Michael Beasley have a shot at being chosen to play in that game. Near the end of January, NBA execs will choose the two teams of players. It would be a lot of fun for HEAT fans to see Mario and Michael participate in that game as well as watch Dwyane Wade start in his fourth straight All-Star game (5th overall). By the way, Daequan Cook, the HEAT's sharpshooting guard-forward, has a shot at being selected as part of the sophomore team and to compete in the 3 point shooting contest. We'll have to wait and see if Mario reaches the level of an Eastern Conference All-Star. He certainly has captured the attention of the whole league for the great start he has had to his career. Give Pat Riley and his scouting staff a lot of credit for trading with Minnesota to get the rights to Mario and for Erik Spoelstra and his coaching staff for making Mario the starting point guard. Outstanding decisions by all!!
December 19, 2008 Question: What does thumbs down mean? Tony: Hi Max. The Thumbs Down signal for the HEAT is the high pick & roll between a HEAT big and a guard..Usually it's Udonis who sets a screen at the top of the key (above the foul line) on Chalmers or Wade and then rolls to the rim..We've seen Dwyane hit UD for easy baskets in front of the rim as opponents double team D-Wade to stop his penetration into the lane. When the opponent doesn't double team D-Wade or Mario, they get to the rim for a layup. Next time Max, watch the action when the HEAT give that signal. Question:With most team playing a 2-3 zone defense, why wont the HEAT play 1-3-1 zone defense, with most our players quick and playing the passing lanes? Won't the rack up more steals? Tony: Hi Stephano. Playing any type of zone in the NBA is risky business because every team has a good perimeter shooter or two. The offensive team also has the advantage for an offensive rebound since the defenders don't have a particular opponent to box out. The 1-3-1 zone leaves a defense vulnerable to corner jump shots so you're basically leaving it to chance that they miss the open shot. You don't usually see an NBA team employ a 1-3-1 defense unless it is a trapping one to disrupt the offense. Even then - it is done as a quick hit, surprise tactic. NBA players are able to adapt to gimmick defenses so you can't stay in them too long.
Question: Do you think Mario Chalmers has a chance for Rookie of the Year? Tony: Hi LLoyd. I love hearing from our fans from the land down under. Mario Chalmers is having an outstanding rookie year for the HEAT. He plays with a lot of poise for a rookie, he shoots 37% from the 3 point line and is an outstanding defender. His on the ball defense is relentless with very good technique (he was taught well by his father in high school and at the University of Kansas). He is averaging 2 steals a game which leads all rookies and is 7th best overall in the NBA. Derrick Rose, the #1 pick in the NBA draft playing for the Bulls has been terrific and O.J. Mayo for Memphis, the 3rd pick in the draft, leads all rookies in scoring. I think it will be hard for Mario to be rookie of the year but I think he has a very good shot to be on the All NBA Rookie Second team and possibly the first team.
December 15, 2008 Question: Do you think Dwyane Wade will keep up these past amazing performances for the rest of the year? I think he will , personally. I am a huge Dwyane Wade fan and I believe that he’s been back and will continue his amazing performances. Tony: Hi Shannon. Dwyane Wade has been the best player in the NBA the first quarter of this season. He not only is leading the league in scoring but he is in the top 10 in assists, top 5 in steals and is usually in the top 3 in free throws made and attempted. He has been the best shot blocking guard in the NBA by far since he entered the league in 2003. It would be very difficult for Dwyane to continue to dominate like this for 82 games. The NBA is a 6 month season - then hopefully the playoffs. D-Wade is not into numbers unless they are in the win column. As the young players progress, less will be needed of Dwyane but he is there when the team needs him and will do whatever it takes to help the team win. Question: What are your predictions on the miami heat's final regular season record? Tony:
Hi William. The goal of the Miami HEAT is to improve as the season progresses, win as many games as you can through the improvement and make the playoffs. It would be premature to try to put a number on their win total for the season. Lets enjoy the season and watch them as they compete for a playoff spot.
Question: Why do the coaches meet in the middle of the floor, don't they communicate during play what they have seen? Doesn't that take away time from letting the players know what schemes to use? Tony: There are many reasons why head coaches like to meet during a timeout. Eric Spoelstra is up and about when the game is going on and doesn't really converse with his assistants at times so when a timeout is called he solicits comments from them before he talks to the players. A head coach can't see everything going on in the game and welcomes comments from his staff. The players get to sit and gather themselves for a little while, maybe talk among themselves before the coaches get into the huddle. A head coach by nature of his job and the long season talks a lot to his team during an 82 game season and the many practice. Sometimes less is more in the huddle. There are more timeouts in an NBA game than in a college game and the timeouts are longer in the NBA so there is more time to get a coach's point or points across. What also happens is if your team is playing well at that point there is less to say in the huddle. Thank you for an intriguing question Shari.
December 8, 2008 Question: Why is it that Micheal Beasley works hard for position at the high post, just to have the ball swung away from him for what is usually a forced perimeter shot? Tony: Hi David. The HEAT put in their "elbow" offense in part to accommodate Michael Beasley's skills which is taking his man off the dribble with either hand and finishing with either hand at the rim. It also lends itself to a 3 man game on one side of the floor which sometimes results in back door lay-ups and split high post action by the perimeter players to get open J's. Sometimes the defender pushes the high post big of the HEAT (at times Beasley) out further than the HEAT want the action to start and so the pass goes in the other direction. There are many options & wrinkles to NBA plays and sometimes there are mis-directions so it is all part of the action. You also have to give the opponent credit for doing a good defensive job at times. After all, they are professionals as well. Don't get too upset David - Beasley gets plenty of touches and shots for the minutes he plays and is having a very good start to his rookie season.
Question: I have two questions why is Dwyane Wade not wearing his shooter sleeve and his new wade 4's? Tony:
Hi Joel. NBA players spend many hours on the basketball court with 82 regular season games and countless amount of hours practicing and they have to feel comfortable with the sneakers they wear. Dwyane Wade went back to wearing the Wade 1 sneakers because they felt good on his feet at that time. He wears the Wade 4 sneakers when he likes their feel. All his signature sneakers are to his liking so it's just a matter of preference. As for the shooter sleeve, I would imagine he uses the same reasoning as he does with his sneakers. It's a matter of comfort. D-Wade is shooting 50 percent from the floor and leads the NBA in scoring. His jump shot has never been better. Forget the sleeve Joel.
November 24, 2008 Question: Do you know why Wade is wearing his old school shoes from '06? And have you heard anything about JWill? Tony: Hi Patrick. Dwyane Wade has told us he is wearing his old Wade 1 shoes because they are comfortable. Players like to wear different shoes during the season depending on the comfort level of their feet. Jason Williams, 33 years old, signed with the Los Angeles Clippers in the off season - then retired. He has attended to a few HEAT games and I believe he still has a home in Orlando. Question: I would like to find out , in your opinion , do You think Michael Beasley would be a 25/10 guy and be the future franchise player? Tony: Hi SVB. Michael Beasley, at 6'9 1/2, is a very skilled offensive player who obviously has a very bright future. He will be 20 years old in January. He has a great work ethic and desire to become the best player he can be. Let’s enjoy watching him play and grow as a player and see where it takes him.
Question: The Knicks are looking good without Marbury and Curry. Don't you think by the HEAT trading for Curry or most preferred Marbury will make them a force to wrecken with in the eastern conference? Tony: Hi Lydell. I trust whatever decisions HEAT President Pat Riley makes for this franchise. He has reshaped and rebuilt this franchise three times before in his 13+ years in Miami, resulting in an NBA Championship as you know. There are many factors that go into trades in the NBA -short and long term needs, style of play, salary cap, luxury tax, team chemistry, etc. Fans don't have the knowledge or burden of having to consider all those factors. We are not allowed to comment about or discuss players on other teams regarding how they would affect our team.
November 18, 2008 Question: Why doesn't coach Spoelstra play Mark Blount more often as a reserve off of the bench?
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Tony: Hi Anthony. I think the reason Mark Blount doesn't play more is because for a 7 footer he doesn't rebound as well as he should. Granted, his strength is shooting the perimeter J out to the 3 point line so that may explain somewhat his lack of offensive rebounding but he should be getting more defensive rebounds. He needs to stick his nose in it more and battle for more defensive rebounds. Question: Does Pat Riley have a plan to get help for Udonis Haslem at Center spot? Tony: Hi Djoser. The NBA today is a perimeter oriented league. Look at most of the leading scorers in the league - they score mostly from the perimeter. There aren't as many good big men in the NBA as there used to be. With size a commodity, many teams are reluctant to give up a quality big so acquiring one is not easy. That having been said. Pat Riley is always open to trade possibilities to make the HEAT team better. Keep in mind, there are also cap and luxury tax restraints he has to take into account.
Question: I Went to my first HEAT game ever on June 20, 2006. It was one of the most glorious moments for me. Why isn’t Shawn Marion playing like he did when he was back in Phoenix, where he averaged 11 rebounds and shot 3 pointers? Was he that reliant on Steve Nash?
Tony: Hi Alan. I'm with you regarding the HEAT's electrifying win at Dallas in game 6 of the 2006 championship series. I wear my HEAT championship ring everywhere with pride. You and I and all HEAT fans will always remember that incredible evening!! Shawn Marion came to the HEAT in the middle of last season and then got hurt and had to shut it down. This season he is getting acclimated to new teammates (the HEAT start 2 rookies as you know) and he has had various injuries (broken nose, groin strain, injured finger). Coach Spoelstra has praised Marion for the incredible job he does in the HEAT's defensive system. He covers a lot of ground rotating to help teammates and is still one of the best forwards in the NBA. His scoring and rebounding production will increase when he gets healthy and as he gets comfortable in the HEAT's offensive system.
November 10, 2008 Question: Who are the starting 5 for the HEAT?
Tony: Hi Joey. The HEAT opened the season with rookie Mario Chalmers and Dwyane Wade in the backcourt, Shawn Marion and rookie Michael Beasley at the forward spots and Udonis Haslem at center. Wade, Marion and Haslem are the tri-captains. Question: Even though I’m from New York, I love Dwyane wade and the HEAT. Do you think they can make playoffs with the east getting harder? Tony: Hi Sharay. I am from New York as well - Mt. Vernon to be exact. I think if HEAT players stay healthy - especially Dwyane Wade -the HEAT can make the playoffs. You are right - the Eastern Conference is much tougher than last year so it will be a more difficult challenge for the HEAT but led by a healthy Dwyane Wade-one of the best players in the NBA-the HEAT can achieve their goal.
Question: Do you think that Shaun Livingston should be getting more playing time, and if so why is he not getting more playing time?
Tony: Hi Diandra. Shaun Livingston is still recuperating from a devastating knee injury and surgery 2 years ago and is not 100% yet. He has made great strides getting back to where he was before his injury but it will take a little more time. Shaun has worked incredibly hard to strengthen his knee and when he is capable of going full tilt on the court many days in a row - he will be available to be in the HEAT's rotation. To his and the HEAT's credit, they are not rushing his rehabilitation. Patience is the key here.
October 30, 2008 Question: I've heard there are new rules for zone defense, what are they and how do they affect the game?
Tony: Hi Joe. I don't know where you are getting your information but there are no new rules regarding zone defense. There are new rules governing replays that officials can use during a game to get the calls right. They mostly involve whether a shot was 2 or 3 points and game clock malfunctions but no new rules regarding zone defense.
October 15, 2008 Question: Do you think that Zo is coming back to the roster?
Tony: Hi Emmanuel. Alonzo Mourning, as you know, incurred a serious leg injury last December in Atlanta and underwent surgery to repair the torn patella tendon and torn quadriceps tendon in his right knee. He has been in rehab since January with the intention of returning to the court if and when he's healthy. It remains to be seen if Zo can make it back from such a devastating injury. We know his resilience coming back from adversity before(kidney transplant). By the way, Zo has a book out titled RESILIENCE - Faith, Focus, Triumph. It captures his spirit, courage, unyielding determination and successful return to the court after a kidney transplant. An inspiring read for everyone!
Question: What do you think the changes of Dwayne Wade going to an other team are?
Tony: Hi Alberto. Dwyane Wade has another year left on his contract after this one which would take him to the end of the 2009-2010 season. While Dwyane will be a free agent at that time I personally feel he will sign a new contract with the HEAT and some day end his career here in Miami. He is the face of the franchise and has returned as one of the elite basketball players
in the world. He was the best basketball player in the Beijing Olympics and helped the USA recapture the gold medal! Question: Hey coach! My question is simple; who is gonna be are starting point guard and is Spoelstra considering in pointing Beasly as 6th man?
Tony: Hi Oneido. There are 4 point guards vying for that position in the HEAT training camp. There's Chris Quinn, 2nd year guard out of Notre Dame, who played very well last year and was good from the 3 point line; veteran Marcus Banks, who came to the HEAT with Shawn Marion in the Shaquille O'Neal trade with Phioenix, is in his 6th year; 23 yr old, 6'7 Shaun Livingston out of Peoria Central High School in Illinois is trying to return from a serious knee injury two and one-half years ago when he played for the L.A. Clippers and Mario Chalmers, the 6'1 guard who was chosen by the Minnesota T'Wolves with the 34th pick in last June's NBA draft and then traded to the HEAT. Chalmers led Kansas to the national title last April. It's anyone guess right now who will start at point guard for the HEAT. Coach Spoelstra will leave all his options open as to who's starting and who is coming off the bench. Whether 6'91/2 Michael Beasley will start or come off the bench at forward, the 2nd pick in last June's NBA draft will play a lot of minutes and will be an important player for the HEAT to get back to the playoffs this season.
March 24, 2008 Question: This year The HEAT have lost a lot of games against good and bad teams where the score has been tight throughout. Do you think with a 100% Dwyane Wade Shawn Marion and a healthy squad through the whole season can Miami be a playoff contender once again?
Tony: Hi Jason. I trust that Pat Riley and General Manager Randy Pfund will rebuild this team into a contender again in the East just as they have three times already in the 13 years they have been with the HEAT. Wade and Marion will be healthy again next year and with the help of the HEAT's high draft pick and perhaps a few free agents signed by the HEAT, you can expect the HEAT to be much better next year.
Question: Hi, Tony I am a loyal HEAT fan who watches every game on Sun Sports TV. I would like to know what kind of players are Joel Anthony and Bobbi Jones who just recently signed a 10-day contract? Are one or both of those new additions to the HEAT bright spots in the future?
Tony: Hi Anthony. 6'9 Joel Anthony has really improved in his short time with the HEAT. He works every day with the HEAT coaching staff specifically Keith Askins and has improved catching the ball, grabbing strong rebounds in traffic and is a threat offensively inside with a jump hook. He is an excellent shot blocker and runs the floor very well for a big body guy. If he continues to improve, Joel has a chance to have a good career in the NBA. Bobby Jones was not signed to another 10 day contract with the HEAT so he is no longer on the roster but he showed some promise as a 6'7 small forward who is a good athlete, can knock down the three point shot and gets after it on the boards. He is back in the NBA Development League and will have a tougher road to go to make it in the NBA.
Question: Is Dwyane Wade going to play in the Olympics this year?
Tony: Hi Diana. Dwyane Wade is planning on playing on the U.S. Olympic Team in Beijing in August. He has to go through a rehab program getting his knee back to full strength after undergoing a medical treatment with an OssaTron which is shock wave therapy. Dwyane had been bothered with some tendonitis in his left knee, which was operated on last May. With Dwyane, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant, Carmello Anthony, Dwight Howard,Carlos Boozer, Chris Paul et al intending to play on the team, I think the U.S. has a great chance to win back the Gold Medal.
Question: Hey Tony! You, Eric, and Jason are the best commentators ever! My question is I am a huge J.Will fan and I just wanted to know what are the shoes he wears? He moves in them really well. They are really cool and I wanted to know just incase I want to get a pair myself. Tony: Hi Stephanie. Thanks you for the compliment. We enjoy broadcasting the HEAT games on Sun Sports and appreciate your support.
February 28, 2008 Question: Hey Tony, I'm a huge Heat fan and I know and have seen every single player on the team except for Joel Anthony who I've only seen twice for like 3 minutes. I want to know more about him. What kind of player is he? Will he get more playing time? Is he bright for the Heat's future? Do you think he'll get good enough that around 6 years from now he'll be a starter or backup center? P.S. You, Eric, and Jason are the best commentators ever.
Tony: Hi John. Joel Anthony is a 6'9, 245lb left handed power forward. He is the second all-time leading shot blocker at the University of Nevada Las Vegas. When my partner, Eric Reid, and I saw him play in the summer league for the HEAT in Orlando back in July, he blocked a lot of shots but had trouble holding onto passes from teammates. He has made much progress since then working with the HEAT coaches. He is a strong presence in the low post, has developed better hands catching passes and rebounds the ball better. Pat Riley recently sent Joel and Daequan Cook to the NBA Development League to the Iowa Energy to better hone their skills and to get more game experience on the pro level. It is the next step in their development. Joel is the kind of guy you root for to make it in the NBA but it remains to be seen if he'll be in the HEAT's future plans Thank you for the compliment. I am fortunate to be working with outstanding professionals in Eric Reid, Jason Jackson and Sun Sports producer Ted Ballard.
Question: Hi Tony, great work out there. Who is the captain of the Miami HEAT and for how long has he been that? Tony: Hi Kevin. I am happy to see the HEAT has fans in Sweden. Thank you for the compliment. Udonis Haslem was appointed Captain of the HEAT by President and Head Coach Pat Riley back when the season began. Udonis epitomizes how a professional athlete should go about his work. He leads by example. He is the hardest worker on the team and sacrifices his body to lead the team in drawn charges. He has improved his offensive skills in his 4+ years with the HEAT and plays to win all the time. He was born and raised in Miami and has been a HEAT fan his whole life. Pat Riley could not have picked a better Captain for this HEAT team!
Question: Wow. It’s true. The last time that I saw you I was receiving dribbling instructions from you at Mt Vernon HS. I wasn't on the team. This was during phys ed. I coach 2 teams in my town and still love the game. I play whenever possible. By the way has the city put you in the Mt V Hall of Fame yet? I hope so. Me and my family are big HEAT fans and wish you well. Tony: Hi Alex. I always enjoy hearing from Mt. Vernonites and am happy you contacted me. I know the Mt. Vernon Knights basketball team is having another banner year. Did you know Alex that Mt. Vernon High School has produced 8 NBA players - one of the top high school's in the country to do so? They are Gus Williams, Ray Williams, Earl Tatum, Rudy Hackett, Lowes Moore, Rodney and Scooter McCray (2 guys I had the privilege of coaching) and Ben Gordon, playing with the Chicago Bulls. We are proud of our basketball, aren't we? No Alex I am not in the City's hall of fame. I wasn't aware there was one. Great hearing from you! Question: Who do you think would be the best player in this years draft for the HEAT? Tony: Hi Austin. I haven't watched much college basketball this season but the player everyone is raving about is Michael Beasley, a 6'9 freshman forward at Kansas State. He is tearing up the Big 12 league. He can score inside with either hand (he's left handed), he has a smooth jump shot to 17' or so and is an outstanding rebounder. Another freshman who is having an outstanding season is 6'3 point guard Derrick Rose who plays for the University of Memphis Tigers. Memphis has been ranked very high in the college polls all season (#1 for a while) and Rose runs the show. It remains to be seen if either or both players enter the NBA draft in June. Question: G'day Tony, I was watching a HEAT game on cable from Australia and found your commentary a lot better then ESPN and TNT. How do you think the upcoming draft is going to pan out for the HEAT? Will they go for some Australians in college or from our league, the NBL? Tony: G'Day Patrick. Thank you for the compliment, I appreciate it. I think it's too early to tell what any NBA team will do in the off-season to better themselves. The HEAT will certainly try to get the best player possible that fits into Pat Riley and General Manager Randy Pfund's rebuilding process -whatever pick they get come June. They also have to make decisions regarding the HEAT's free agents and other free agents in the league come season's end. I had the privilege of coaching one of the finest women basketball players to ever come out of Australia - Sandy Brondello. I was an assistant coach for the Miami Sol of the WNBA the 3 years we were in existence 2000-2002 (the team was owned by the HEAT). Sandy was a guard on those teams and was an outstanding shooter on the court and an even better person. She's an assistant coach in the WNBA now as well as a new mom! February 12, 2008 Question: How will this trade affect the replayed game against the Atlanta Hawks on March 8th considering he was the main reason for the game being replayed?
Tony: Hi Bryan, The HEAT and the Hawks, prior to their scheduled game on March 6th in Atlanta, will replay the last 51 seconds or so of their game from Dec. 19th. As you may recall, Shaq was assessed a 6th personal foul at that juncture in the game and was disqualified from the game but actually had only 5 fouls. The NBA is still sorting out the details but what is known is anyone who was on the inactive list for that protested game is ineligible to play in the replay game. Jason Williams was inactive that night so he will not be allowed to play. As far as I know, anyone on the HEAT roster on March 6th who was not on the inactive list for the De. 19 game is eligible to play. What it means for HEAT fans is newly acquired Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks can play for the HEAT in that game. Ironically, Shaquille O'Neal will not play in the replayed game - he is on the Phoenix Suns now. Question: After the trade is completed how do you believe our starting lineup will look? Will Marcus banks become the starting point guard and will Coach Riley be inclined to play “small-ball” using Udonis Haslem at the center position? Tony: Hi Alex. The HEAT's starting lineup, when everyone is healthy, will probably look like this: Jason Williams, Dwyane Wade, Shawn Marion, Udonis Haslem & Mark Blount Marcus Banks will probably back-up JWill at point guard. You may see Udonis play the center spot on occasion when Pat Riley wants to go "small ball". A lineup you may see with UD at center is Banks,Wade,Ricky Davis and Marion. A very quick, athletic team albiet a small one.
Question: Do feel that Shaquille left on good terms as far as his relationship with players and the coaching staff is concerned? Tony: HI Gary. As far as I know Shaq had a good relationship with his teammates and coaching staff. He was brought to the HEAT to help the franchise win its first NBA Championship and the mission was accomplished. He leaves for Phoenix on good terms with those he left behind. Question: We all know what Shawn Marion can do as an athletic and smart small forward, but what about Marcus Banks? I know he's had solid games against us in the past. What can you tell me about Marcus Banks? Tony: Hi Tanika, Marcus Banks is 6'2 point guard out of UNLV. He is in his fifth year in the NBA and was the 13th pick (Memphis drafted him) in the 2003 draft - the same draft Dwyane Wade was taken 5th. He has played on the Celtics,T'Wolves & Suns. Marcus is a good ball handler who can take the ball coast to coast and can drive to the basket with either hand. Marcus is a good shooter to 18' although he did shoot 32% from the 3 point line last year in Phoenix. He's a ball hawk defender which means he likes to pick-up the opposing point guard full court and zig zag him up the court. Question: Shaq seemed to have a great relationship with Dwyane Wade, Udonis Haslem, and Jason Williams. How will those guys and the team in general be affected by the departure of the Big Diesel on a personal level? Tony: Hi Jared. It's always hard on the pro level when a teammate you like and get to know gets traded. Shaq was popular with his teammates and he'll remain friends with them from a distance. Professional basketball is a glamorous profession but it is also big business. Shaq ia one of the top 5 players of his era yet he'll be playing for his 4th team. He'll adjust to his new team and the HEAT players will adjust to not having Shaq around. January 22, 2008 Question: Hey Tony, I had a similar surgery on my shoulder to Dwyane's from which he injured in march, and I was wondering what did he do to get it back in shape? After 4 months mine is still very stiff and sore, and Ive tried all I could think of. Keep up the great work guys! Tony: Hi Jerome. Dwyane Wade went through an extensive rehabilition program for his left shoulder once he was able to after surgery. I don't know the specifics of what he did exactly but if your shoulder is still bothering you, you should go see the HEAT's orthopedic surgeon Dr. Harlan Selesnick in Coral Gables. There is no one better to treat your shoulder than he. He'll examine you and tell what you have to do to feel better. Question: Hey Tony. First I want to say thanks to both you and Eric for your great commentating in such difficult times as a HEAT fan. I was wondering if the HEAT will have to trade their first round pick to Minnesota as a part of the Ricky Davis trade even if it is a lottery pick. Tony: Thank you for the compliment. Eric and I love announcing the HEAT games and although the HEAT is not playing well right now, there are brighter days ahead - so hang in there as a HEAT fan. In the deal that brought Ricky Davis and Mark Blount to the HEAT, the HEAT gave up a conditional first round pick to Minnesota. What that means regarding this June's NBA draft is if the HEAT do not make the playoffs they are in the lottery with the other teams who also didn't make the playoffs. The HEAT retain their pick this draft and then other conditions apply for future drafts. In other words, the HEAT's 1st round pick this year is lottery protected.
Question: Hi Tony, I just moved from Jacksonville to New York but I still watch all the HEAT games ( NBA League pass is awesome !! ). My question is do you think Penny Hardaway's career is over? Tony: Hi Brady. In the little time Penny was in Miami I was impressed with his love of the game and his desire to continue his career even after the many surgeries he had on his knee. Those of us who got to know him are rooting for him to make it back into the league. Whether he makes it back or not we'll have to wait and see. Question: Through the heats twenty years who has been their most productive point guard in your opinion? Tony: Hi Halston. Even though Jason Williams won an NBA title with the HEAT as its starting point guard, I don't think there's any doubt Tim Hardaway is the best point guard the HEAT has had in its 20 yrs in the league. Tim seemed to always play his best in the biggest games for the HEAT. A 5 time all-star (3x with the Warriors and twice with the HEAT), Tim is still the HEAT's all-time leader in assists. He won a gold medal along with teammate Alonzo Mourning in the 2000 Olympics in Australia and remains to this day a HEAT season ticket holder. January 07, 2008 Question: what will the HEAT look like in the next few years? Obviously Shaq needs more help now in his later years, but he still draws a lot of attention. So will it be possible to get Wade someone younger and a second scoring option? Tony: Hi Joe. Shaq has 2 years left on his contract and despite the fact that his scoring and rebounding numbers are down he is still, as you say, drawing attention in the low post which frees up his teammates to get better shots. Pat Riley and Randy Pfund(General Manager) will evaluate the team after the season and decide what is needed to help the HEAT return to elite status in the Eastern Conference. There are some expiring contracts when the season's over of players presently on the team so the HEAT will have some decisions to make regarding re-signing those players or pursuing others. Question: Hi Tony, First I want to say how wonderful of a job you guys do on Sun Sports, I never miss a game. Anyways here is my question, why do the visiting teams sometimes wear their home jerseys and the home team wears the away jersey. Tony: Hi Christian. Thank you for the compliment. Ted Ballard, our producer, is well respected around the NBA as one of the best in his profession and we all follow his lead. It is our pleasure to bring the HEAT games into your home on Sun Sports! Typically, in an NBA game, the home team wears a white uniform and the opposing team wears a dark color one. There are times when they change it up. For example, many teams this season are having Hardwood Classic Nights which means the home team wears uniforms from years past. The HEAT wore home uni's from the first year of the franchise in 1988 at one of their home games. Sometimes, the home team wants to wear the dark color uni's at home and they make an arrangement with the visiting team to wear white. There are times also when the visiting team may be on the road for many games and it may be diifcult to get their road uni's washed so they request to wear white uni's for a particular game.
Question: Hi Tony, I went to Timberwolves.com the other day and I noticed that Wayne Simien wasn't on the roster and I am interested to find out what happened. Was he waived or sent to the D-league? How is the old Heat player doing? Tony: Hi Dylan. Wayne Simeon, as you know, was traded to Minnesota as part of the Ricky Davis-Mark Blount trade before the season. Wayne was then waived by Minnesota. He is currently not in the NBA as no team has signed him as a free agent. Wayne is an outstanding person and had a good rookie season in the NBA with the HEAT. I think he has a shot to play in the league again. His best chance may be to go to training camp with a team next fall and compete to make the team. All of us who know and respect Wayne are rooting for him to make his way back into the league. Question: I'm a huge fan of Dwyane and as I went to his site and saw the video he made and read the poem he wrote to the game of basketball. I just wonder if there is ever time that he does not want to get on the court and play the game. Tony: Hi Diana. Dwyane loves to play basketball and his creativeness on the court gives all of us thrills to watch him play. Dwyane is a what we call a gym rat meaning he loves to go to the gym and practice sometimes late at night when no one is around. He has improved his jump shot since his rookie year and that has come with many hours working in the gym. Those of us who are around him alot also respect Dwyane the person. He carries himself with alot of class and seems to always handle pressure situations well. He is a true role model for young people. Question: hi Tony I heard that Earl Barron played in the Philippines. Can you ask him what team he was playing in Philippines? I’m from Philippines and live here now in Florida. Tony: Hi Ken. According to the HEAT media guide, Earl played for the Red Bull Barako team in the Philippine Basketball Association. He played 14 games for Barako in the 2004-05 season. He averaged 26.9 points, 15.4 rebounds and 2 assists per game. He was among import leaders in the PBA in free throws made, free throw percentage, scoring and three point field goals made. He led Red Bull Barako in rebounding. December 11, 2007 Question: Do you think Miami will return to their championship form and make it to the playoffs this year despite starting 4-15? Tony: Hi James. I do think the HEAT is potentially a lot better than their record indicates. Winning the last 2 games of the West Coast trip especially beating the Suns in Phoenix goes a long way to giving the HEAT confidence they can come back from a very difficult start to get back into the division & playoff race. What's also encouraging is Dwyane Wade is getting back to 100% and that has coincided with the HEAT scoring over 100 points in the last 5 games of the road trip. This an exciting time for all HEAT fans to get behind their team and support their climb back to respectability and beyond! You should never count out a team that has Dwyane Wade, Shaquille O'Neal and future hall of fame coach Pat Riley at the helm. Question: I'm originally from the Bay Area where I live now, but I used to live in Plantation, FL for nine years (1996-2004), so I am a loyal Miami Heat fan. I was at the Heat- Warrior game last week in Oakland and wondered why Shaq rested most of the fourth quarter? I understand he needs rest at his age, but it was obvious our "small-ball" lineup could not protect a big lead late in the game! What was your take on this and do you think the HEAT are still alive? GO HEAT! Tony: Hi Jonathan. The HEAT played an outstanding game vs. the Warriors but couldn't hold on the get the victory. The small lineup Pat Riley used was very effective and the Heat controlled the tempo of the game for @44 minutes (of a 48 minute game)against the top scoring team in the NBA. When Golden State made their run late in the game it would have been unfair to put Shaq back in the game at that point. He had sat out a long time in the second half and would have needed a few minutes to get back into the rhythm of the game. The HEAT showed their metal by bouncing back to beat the Clippers and the Suns in the last 2 games of the 6 games west coast trip. Keep rooting for the HEAT from the bay area Jonathan!
Question: Miami HEAT has been a defensive kind of team, by nature or coaching style. But this year, even when the offense is not at the level of consistency to win games, the defensive nature of the team has practically disappeared. I understand that there is a group of new acquired player who are still trying to get into Pats system; but also understand that some players are more offensive than defensive (which seems to me is the case of this 07/08 Heat). What do you think about the balance of this team? Would they, for the first time in years, become a more offensive than defensive team? Tony: Hi Humberto. Going into the 6 game west coast trip, the HEAT was second in the NBA for opponents points per game (Boston is #1) and eight in defensive field goal percentage(out of 30 teams). The HEAT faced 4 of the top scoring teams in the NBA on that trip and gave up more points per game than they had previously. What emerged from that trip for the HEAT is they scored over 100 points per game in the last five games, as I mentioned above. The HEAT had been averaging @90 points per game before the trip.
What does it all mean? With the return of Dwyane Wade to near 100%, the HEAT is scoring more now and giving up more points as well. With 3 back to back games in 9 days on that trip, the HEAT had practically no time to practice so there has been some slippage at the defensive end. Pat Riley and his staff would like to get the HEAT back to a defensive posture while maintaining the offensive flow the HEAT has developed of late.
November 29, 2007 Question: Why do the HEAT sit to the right of the scorers table at home, when most teams reserve that for the visiting team? I can't think of any other time I've seen a home team sit on that side from high school all the way to the pros. Tony: Hi Sean. You haven't been paying attention. Did you watch the Magic-HEAT game in Orlando? The Magic sit on the same side of the scorer's table at home that the HEAT do at home. How about the Detroit Pistons, Seattle Sonics, Minnesota T'Wolves and Chicago Bulls? They all sit on that same side as did the Lakers in Los Angeles when Pat Riley coached them in the 80's! The way American Airlines Arena is constructed, the HEAT's lockerroom is through the tunnel near the HEAT bench, go right, pass through Championship Alley to their lockerroom. It wouldn't make much sense for them to sit on the other bench.
Question: I've been listening tuning in to all the games this season and noticed a unique element of the Heat telecast has been out of place. With that said, I ask - What happened to "Kabooom!" ?? Tony: Hi Juan. My partner, Eric Reid - the Voice of the HEAT, uses his signature call when he is excited about a HEAT basket. I think with the HEAT playing better now you'll hear him use it more. He'll be pleased to hear you like "Kabooom". I'm with you - I like it too!
Question: Hey Tony I was just wondering how you and Eric maintain an upbeat attitude during certain games when the Heat aren’t playing their best. Whenever the HEAT lose a game badly I am so frustrated
P.S. you guys are the best announcers in all of basketball Tony: Hi Chris. Eric and I, as you may know, are HEAT originals and the only announcers in the NBA who have been with their team since its inception. We have a lot of confidence in Pat Riley and his staff as well as the HEAT players that in the long run the HEAT will prevail as they did in the championship year of 2006! That confidence and excitement comes out in the broadcast, even when the HEAT is not playing well. NBA basketball features the best athletes and arguably the most skilled players in all of professional sports which in itself is exciting! Thank you for the compliments. Eric, Jason Jackson and I appreciate it!
Question: I am a massive HEAT fan but in Australia there is only about 5 games with the HEAT a year. Do you know a good place to download or buy games? Also are the HEAT or any NBA team planning to come to Australia in preseason like they do China? Tony: Hi Patrick. You should probably contact the NBA office in New York City and ask them if it's possible to buy games. Do you have DirecTV? If you do or subscribe to a cable company you probably can buy the NBA ticket which features NBA games most nights during the regular season. I don't know of any plans by the NBA to play preseason games in Australia.
Question: We're watching you guys here in Japan. Tony, in the box score, there's "BA" between the block shots (BS) and the points (PTS). What's this "BA"?
Tony: Hi Koki. How's my friend from Japan? The BA that the NBA is putting in the box score for the first time this season is probably blocks against. If you check the total of BA's for a team and check the other team's blocked shots for that game - it should be the same total.
Question: When is Alonzo Mourning coming out with his book and will they ever make a documentary based off of his life?
Tony: Hi Brandon. I don't know if Alonzo Mourning has plans of writing a book or if a documantary of his life will be made. We do know that when Zo retires after this season, he and his wife Tracy plan on spending more time helping underpriveleged youth (if that's possible)!
November 15, 2007 Question: Lately what I have been noticing from the HEAT is that their defense has been improving every game. For example they held the Knicks to just 72 points on Sunday when New York was averaging 106 points per game before the game. All that the HEAT seems to be lacking is the offense to make them a playoff team. So if D-Wade comes back being himself and the HEAT defense stays the same, I think this team could be the best team in the east if not the NBA. So what do you think? Tony: Hi Lazaro. That sounds like a good game plan for the HEAT. Continue to play good defense (the HEAT is ranked 2nd in the NBA at this writing in points allowed per game {San Antonio is #1}) and with D-Wade returning to the lineup to help provide more scoring, the HEAT can overcome its sluggish start and compete for the division title. The NBA season is a marathon and the HEAT will rebound from the slow start to compete with the best teams in the East..
Question: I was wondering what you thought on Zo announcing this is his last year in the NBA? I mean his shotblocking is still one of the best in the league and with his left and right handed hook he might just be the best backup center in the entire league. Tony: Hi George. Alonzo Mourning has had an outstanding career and has earned the right to retire under his terms. As you know, Zo and his wife Tracy have done incredible work in the community raising money for abused and neglected children as well as children who live in at-risk situations in South Florida. Zo wants to devote himself full time to these projects and has announced he will retire after this season. As you mentioned, at 37 years old he is unquestionably the best back-up center in the NBA and will retire after a 15 year career as still a very important member of a championship caliber team. As most HEAT fans know, Zo had kidney transplant surgery in 2003 and only he and his family knows how much toll an 82 game NBA schedule has on his body. I'm sure Alonzo Mourning appreciates your sentiment wanting him to play longer but we must respect his wishes to retire after this season. Question: Hi Tony! I watch all the televised HEAT games here in the Philippines because I am a Heat fan through and through. I would just like to ask how often the team lifts weights and are they restricted from eating fatty or processed food? Also, are there any flat-footed players on the team? I am just curious Tony: Hi Mikey. I'm happy to hear we have fans in the Philippines and that you have the opportunity to watch HEAT games through Sun Sports. The HEAT has an extensive weight training program throughout the year. In the off-season, the players do some serious weight training. During the season they do maintenance weight training. What this means is that in the NBA, teams play on the average of 3-4 games a week for 6 months. For HEAT players to maintain all that they gained from the off-season training, they weight train approximately once a week when the schedule allows. Bill Foran, one of the best strength and conditioning coaches in the NBA and in his 19th year with the HEAT, develops and oversees a program for each individual HEAT player. As it states in the HEAT media guide, Bill supervises a combination of weight training, plyometrics, stretching and dieting to ensure players' maximum results on the court. I do not know if any of the players have flat feet but they are fitted for orthodics if they need it.
Question: Hello, I'm a Fan of the Miami HEAT, I'm from Syria, the HEAT is famous here. I'd like to know if you have any plans to visit the Arabian world, especially Syria.
Tony: Hi Ziad. Thank you for being a HEAT fan all the way from the Middle East. I do not know of any plans by the Miami HEAT to visit your area or country. I'm sure the players will be pleased to know they have fans in your part of the world and appreciate your support!
Question: Do you think Daequan can make the rookie team for all star weekend? Tony: Hi Andrew. Daequan Cook at 20 yrs old, is a 6'5 guard and world class athlete. He has 3 point range, can drive to the basket and elevate over front court players and finish at the rim and has the makings of becoming a very good defender in the NBA. I think Daequan has a good chance to make the rookie game All-Star weekend in New Orleans.
Question: Will you explain the plus/minus column in the box scores? How are these numbers calculated? I am baffled! Love to read your Q&A's!? Tony: Hi Gloria. The box scores this year have added a plus/minus column for each player who participated in that particular game. It is a system of grading a player's contributions to his team based on his team's success while he was in the game. Many coaches like to use it as gauge for a player's impact on a game, positive or negative. Question: Hey Tony, what starting lineup do you see the Heat ultimately going with upon D-Wade's return? Tony: Hi Todd. When D-Wade returns to the HEAT line-up we'll probably see a backcourt of Jason Williams and Dwyane with a front line of Ricky Davis, Udonis Haslem and Shaquille O'Neal. Pat Riley would then have as back-ups:
Point guard - Smush Parker,Chris Quinn,Penny Hardaway:
Shooting guard - Daequan Cook,Parker,Hardaway,Davis
Small Forward:Dorell Wright,Wade,Hardaway
Power Forward:Mark Blount,Alexander Johnson
Center:Alonzo Mourning,Blount,Earl Barron,Joel Anthony
Question: Can Wayne Simien go to a heat developement team , so that if down the road they need a power forward and he is healthy, they can call him back? Tony: Hi Joe. The HEAT have 15 players on their roster. They can send some younger players to the NBA Development League but only players off their roster. Wayne Simien is a free agent at the moment (he was dropped from Minnesota's roster after the HEAT traded him to the T'Wolves as part of the Ricky Davis-Mark Blount trade). Wayne had a productive rookie year for the HEAT but was set back last year with an illness and was hurt most of the pre-season this year with the HEAT. Wayne is a great person, the type of guy you root for to make it in the NBA and I'd like to see him make it back into the league. Question: I thought Brian Chase and Marcus Slaughter did a great job during preseason. I was suprised they were waived. I thought specifically Marcus would be a great backup for Haslem. Do you think we will be able to see them in the NBA soon? Tony: Hi Gabe. Brian Chase and Marcus Slaughter gave it a good shot in the pre-season to make the HEAT but came up short. Pat Riley and Randy Pfund (HEAT GM) have a terrific record of evaluating players in their 12+ years with the HEAT and you have to trust their judgement. Chase and Slaughter didn't make the team but are young enough to continue to develop and possibly play in the league someday. Question: I'm Heat fan for 10 years in Korea.
In Korea, Heat is one of most famous team of NBA.
I just wonder, do Heat players know about Korea?
Please ask Flash, Diesel and other Heat players about korea.
If they don't know about Korea we will tell you.
Tony: Hi Ji-hyun Park. It's great to hear that the HEAT is so popular all the way to Korea. I am sure that Dwyane Wade and Shaquille O'Neal know some things about your country. I will tell them how popular they and the Miami HEAT are in Korea. Thank you for being a loyal fan!
October 19, 2007 Question: Hey Tony! How was your summer? What do you think of Brian Chase? Tony: Hi Matt. I had a very good summer playing golf and conducting private basketball lessons but it was too long. I would have had a much better off-season if the HEAT had progressed further into the playoffs last season. Brian Chase is trying to beat the odds of making the NBA at 5'10 or so. Offensively, he is a very good open shooter, is quick off the dribble penetrating to the rim and leads the HEAT's up-tempo game efficiently. Defensively, he can pick up the opponent's point guard full court and really create havoc. He forces the opposing point guard to focus on bringing the ball up the court without a turnover rather than run the offense. His size though, limits his effectiveness in pick and rolls as he has trouble hitting his big teammate rolling to the basket after the screen. He will also need help when the opposing point guard posts him up inside.
Question: Do you think Shaq will be ready for the start of the season? Will he be dominant?
Tony: Hi Eric. I think Shaq will be ready to play on Nov. 1, the HEAT's season opener at home vs the Detroit Pistons. In the pre-season, players are not only getting in game shape for the season but are also taking care of little nagging injuries that can hinder their effectiveness come game time. Shaq will do what he has to do to help the team win. He knows Dwyane Wade will miss some games early on and the HEAT's offense will go through him more often in the low post. He doesn't have to score big numbers every night for the HEAT to win. We have seen how smart Shaq is when defenses attack him near the rim - he knows when to attempt a shot and when to pass to an open or cutting teammate. The Big Aristotle can still dominate at times but now in a different way. Question: Will Wade be starting the season or will he be sidelined for a few weeks due to his injury?
Tony: Hi James. Dwyane Wade had 2 operations in mid-May, one on his left knee and one on his left shoulder. The doctors have said it takes up to 6 months for the shoulder surgery to heal. Mid-Nov will be 6 months since the surgery. D-Wade does non-contact drills with the team in practice but won't be able practice all out probably until Nov. when the doctors clear him to play. It looks like he will miss at least the first 2 weeks of the season (the season opener is on Nov. 1st vs the Pistons) and may not get back until the end of Nov - early Dec. (the HEAT have 15 games in Nov.) We all know what a tough competitor Dwyane Wade is and it will be great to get him back healthy again!
Question: How come Penny Hardaway has not played this preseason? Tony: Hi Isaac. Penny Hardaway had a strained quadracep in his leg due to someone stepping on his foot the very first practice back on Oct. 2nd. He has recently started practicing again and is anxious to show what he can do. He is fighting for a spot on the HEAT roster at 36 years old and having recovered from a micro-fracture knee operation. Penny was one of the great players in this league when he teamed up with Shaq in 1995 to lead the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals where the Hakeem Olajuwon led Houston Rockets won the championship. This is a great comeback story and anyone who knows Penny is rooting for him to play for the HEAT this season.
April 30, 2007 Question: Hi, Tony F. What is Dwyane Wade's foundation called? Tony: Hi Anthony. Dwyane Wade's foundation is called Wade's World Foundation. It aims to provide support to various youth,educational,health,and family service programs, in particular those that benefit the underprivileged and underserved (as it states on the foundation's web site).
Question: Hey Tony. I have an interesting question for you: When I looked online, I found that the NBA Three Point arc is 23' 9" from the basket (22" in the corners). But where is exactly is it 23' 9" from? For example is it from the front of the rim, or backboard etc. Thanks!
Tony: Hi Ray. The NBA 3 point line 23'9" is measured from the middle of the basket. You are right re: the corners. The court in 50' wide. So, to give players room in the corner and avoid them from stepping out of bounds, the 3 point distance to the corners is 22' from the middle of the basket. Question: Hey, Tony! What's up! Do you know what are the biggest comebacks win in HEAT and NBA history?
Tony: Hi Kevin. The biggest comeback in HEAT history was on Jan. 15, 1989, the HEAT's inaugural season in the NBA. The HEAT trailed the Indiana Pacers 54-25 (29 points)with 4:46 left to play in the 2nd Quarter in the old Miami Arena. With a few seconds on the clock in the 4th quarter, Rony Seikaly threw a pass to John Sunvold in the right corner in front of the HEAT bench. With a capacity crowd worked up into a frenzy over the HEAT's ramarkable comeback to that point, Sunvold, the NBA's best 3 point shooter that season (.522), buried a 3 pointer at the buzzer as he was falling out of bounds. I was sitting on the HEAT bench as an assistant coach watching the whole sequence unfold right in front of me. Ron Rothstein, the HEAT's original head coach, drew up a play in the huddle on a side out of bounds play with about 4 seconds remaining in the game and Sunvold delivered. The crowd erupted and gave Sunvold and the HEAT a standing ovation. The HEAT went on to win one of the most exciting games in HEAT history 118-117 in double overtime!!
Question: I was wondering if any player drafted out of college went on to win the M.V.P in his first season?
Tony: Hi Ken. There have been only 2 players in the 61 year history of the NBA to win the Rookie of the Year award and the MVP award in the same year. Wilt Chamberlain (of course) was the first to do it in 1959-60 season for the Philadelphia Warriors and Wes Unseld did it for the Baltimore Bullets in the 1968-69 season!
Tony: Hi Nick. Thanks for the compliment!
April 20, 2007 Question: what was the first HEAT player ever to get drafted? Tony: Hi Alex. The first HEAT player ever drafted was Rony Siekaly, 6'11, Syracuse University. The HEAT chose him with the 9th pick in the 1988 NBA draft. Rony was born in Lebanon but lived most of his life in Greece. An intriguing part of this story is Rony notified several NBA teams picking ahead of the HEAT that he wanted to play for Miami (mediterranean climate and all) and for them not to draft him. The Charlotte Hornets with the 8th pick wanted to draft Rony and tried to pursuade him to want to go to Charlotte if they drafted him. He told them again on draft day he didn't want to go anywhere but Miami. Charlotte chose Rex Chapman of Kentucky and the HEAT picked Rony.
Question: Hi, Tony F. Who is Shaquille O'neal's all-time NBA favorite player?
Tony: Hi Anthony. In an interview we (Sun Sports) did with Shaq prior to the season he mentioned two players he emulated growing up. One was Rony Siekaly and the way Rony would spread his legs out in the air when he dunked. Shaq said he started doing that in high school when he saw Rony dunk when Rony played for Syracuse. Shaq started dunking that way and said he patented it, so-to-speak.
Question: How can I obtain a copy of Pat Riley's video "Teamwork"? Tony: Hi Frank. I am not aware that Pat Riley wrote a book with that title. He wrote Showtime which is about his success with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980's and The Winner Within, which, in my opinion, is his best book. There are many life skills Coach Riley writes about in the Winner Within and I recommend it to everyone, not just sports fans! Question: Hi Tony, Those of us that watch Heat games regularly are aware of the fact that Alonzo Mourning is the 10th greatest all time shot blocker in NBA history, my question is who are the numbers 9 and 8 shot blockers, and how many blocks does Mourning need to achieve the number 9 spot? Tony: Hi AC. The Top 10 shot blockers (read the note below) of all-time in the NBA are as follows:
Tony: Hi Casey. It's a very good question Casey. Players react differently to losses. It often depends on the importance of the game and the impact of the loss. Another factor might be whether the team was playing short handed on an opposing team's court and the odds were stacked against them so-to-speak. In general, coaches carry a loss with them longer and with more intensity than do players. As fans, we can only watch the games and hope for a good outcome. The players can affect an outcome and can come back in the next game, play better and get some of the frustration of a loss out of their system. Fans and coaches tend to suffer more after a loss. Question: Hey Tony, I was just wondering what was the most points a rookie has ever scored in his first game? Tony: Hi Alek. How's the HEAT's Aussie fan doing? We had Sandy Brondello on our Miami SOL team of the WNBA for the 3 years we had the team in Miami. Sandy is one of the best basketball players ever from Australia. What a great shooter and a fantastic person! April 11, 2007 Question: It's been a milestone week for Alonzo earning the mantle of franchise leader. I was curious to find out what Heat milestones Eddie Jones is in line for. It seems that he has accumulated over 7000 points and almost 1000 three pointers for the HEAT. Where do those figures rank? Tony: Hi Jeremy. It's great to see the HEAT has a fan in Singapore.
Question: IF WILT CHAMBERLAIN WOULDVE HAVE HAD 10 ASSIST WHEN HE GOT HIS NBA RECORD 100 POINTS WHAT WOULD HAVE THAT BEEN CALLED? A DOUBLE DOUBLE TRIPLE Tony: Hi Jimmy. I have no idea what you would call that accomplishment. Perhaps a triple-digit double! Any HEAT fans want to email us with suggestions?
Tony: Hi Lorenzo. There are no "tryouts" for the Miami HEAT per se. The HEAT has a rookie-free agent camp in the summer as most NBA teams have. It is by invitation only. Question: Hi Tony, I would like to know what has been the longest game in NBA history? For example, how many overtimes did the game go into. What about in HEAT history? Tony: Hi Taaha, The longest game in NBA history was Indianapolis (75) at Rochester (74), January 6, 1951, 6 OT
Question: When I'm at a game & a foul is committed in the last 2 minutes of the half, I can't help but notice "The Voice" Mike B announce; "that is the 1st Team Foul in the last 2 minutes." I can't figure out the significance or the reason for him making that announcement during a game? Got an answer for me Tony? Tony: Hi Jamie. In an NBA game, a team is allowed 4 fouls in each quarter before they are in the penalty. Every foul committed after 4 team fouls each quarter results in 2 free throws for the team fouled.
Question: How many players are allowed to be on a teams’ roster? I know the heat have 15 players and other teams have 12 or 13 but what are the maximum number of players allowed on a team. Tony: Hi Melanie. An NBA team is allowed to have 15 players on their roster. Before every game, the team designates 3 players who are inactive for that game (12 players active). It can change from game to game.
Question: Hi Tony, appreciate your commentary. When coaches review game film, does it include the commentary from the sidelines that you and Eric and other commentators do? Seems to me it would give a complete perspective if they include what you guys observe as the game is being played. Tony: Hi Thurman. Thank you for the compliment. If a coach is watching a full game tape he can listen to the announcers commentary. Sometimes a coach is watching an edited version of the game which eliminates commercials, pauses in the action etc. He can get through the tape quicker that way.
April 2, 2007 Question: Hey Tony. I was wondering: Where do the HEAT practice? Tony: Hi Ray. The HEAT has it's own practice gym attached to American Airlines Arena in the rear of the building. It is a state of the art facility and the best practice gym in the NBA. It has a 94' NBA court that extends another 40' or so giving the HEAT 3 main baskets to work at when they divide the practice up by postion.(there's 9 baskets in all) For example for drill work at times, the centers and power forwards are at one main basket, the small forwards are at another main basket and the guards are at the third one.
Question: Why do some players where a shooting sleeve? Tony: Hi Kyle. I believe one of the reasons the players wear a "shooting sleeve" is because in the course of practice and games there is alot of banging of bodies and they don't want to sustain injuries to their shooting arm. Another reason some players wear them is they want to protect a sore area on their arm from a previous injury. They become confortable with wearing it so it becomes part of their game uniform so-to-speak.
Tony: Hi Juan. There have been 8 triple-doubles in the 19 year history of the Miami HEAT. Point guard Rory Sparrow had the first one on April 18th, 1989 vs Dallas. He had 24 points,10 rebounds and 10 assists. Steve Smith Billy Owens, Lamar Odom and Shaquille also had one for the HEAT. Who is the player who leads the HEAT with 3 triple-doubles so far in his career? You guessed it - the incomparable Dwyane Wade. Three and counting!
Question: Tony, of the following guards who do you feel was the most dominant and complete player and why? Jerry West Tony: Hi Mike. This is a tough question and very subjective. In my opinion, I would rate your four players this way as to who was the most dominant:
Question: How low were the HEAT in the standings earlier this year? How many games below 500 were they? The move all the way up to 3rd from where they were so late in the season has to be close to a record type comeback. Tony: Hi Alan. The HEAT was 13-19 when they lost to Phoenix on Jan. 5th. Dwyane Wade came back from his wrist injury and the HEAT went on a four game winning streak on that West Coast trip. I do not believe it is a record comeback. March 26, 2007 Question: Who was Wade’s basketball inspiration as a kid? Tony: Hi Tanner. Dwyane Wade is from in the suburbs of Chicago so not coincidentally he grew up idolizing Michael Jordan. Some of D-Wade's mannerisms reflect those of Jordan, especially the one-handed "fly" to the rim dunks. I would have to believe that Dwyane's coolness under pressure, the ability to take over a game when he needs to (or a series - rememeber last yr's NBA Finals?) and his ability to win games with clutch baskets is due, in part, to watching MJ do it so many times successfully for the Bulls. Dwyane even carries himself off the court like Michael Jordan in the classy, humble way he answers questions to the professional way he dresses. By the way, Dwyane credits his older sister Tragil as the person he is most thankful for because she helped raise him growing up.
Question: Hey Tony, I was wondering if there is any other active player in the league that has won an NBA Championship, NCAA Championship, and has been in the All Star game? The only one I can think of is the Heat's Antoine Walker. Tony: Hi Julio. You had me thinking with this question so I contacted Research@stats .com and they provided me with the answer. Antoine Walker (University of Kentucky,Miami HEAT) and Richard Hamilton (University of Connecticut, Detroit Pistons) are the only 2 active NBA players who have won an NCAA Championship, an NBA Championship and were NBA All-Stars. Good question Julio! Question: What is meant by the term "post-up?" "in the post?" "he had him posted-up?" I watch all the games but I still don't know what that looks like. Tony: Hi Young. The post area on a basketball court in just to the right or left of the 3-second lane close to the basket. There is a painted box on each side of the lane (low block) and when a player "posts his man up" he is in that area with his back to the basket looking for the pass from a perimeter teammate. When you watch a Miami HEAT game, see where Shaq catches the ball very often. He is "in the post". Low post players work at developing skills to score or pass out of the post with their back to the basket. March 19, 2007 Question: Why do players wipe their hands on the sole of their shoes? Tony: Hi Brian. The players are not wiping their hands on the bottom of their sneakers - they are wiping dirt and dust off their sneakers to get a good grip when they run the court. NBA games now have entertainment in almost every timeout, between quarters, halftime etc. The floor. although wiped clean with brooms prior to the game, gets somewhat dirty during the game so players wipe the bottom of their sneakers to get better traction when they run and cut in different directions during the game. Question: Hi Tony, I'm just wondering why the Heat changed their black uniforms? I noticed that instead of saying Heat across them it said Miami. So I'm just wondering why? Tony: Hi Blaine. On any level of basketball, high school, college or professional, home uniforms usually have the nickname of the team on the front. For example, the HEAT, (Miami) HURRICANES, (Florida) GATORS. The road uniforms have the name of the team or school on the front. For example, MIAMI, FLORIDA, FLORIDA STATE. When I coached high school basketball in New York, our home uniforms had KNIGHTS on the front while our road uniforms had MT. VERNON.
Tony: Hi Koki. There are 258 people (players, coaches, referees and contributors) enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. A player becomes eligible when he or she is fully retired for five years. There are many factors the selection committee considers when deciding who is voted into the Hall. There is a formula that is used to guide the committee members regarding a professional basketball player's career but the results are not etched in stone. There is no "NBA criteria" for entering the Hall. It is the Basketball Hall of Fame, not the NBA Hall of Fame. A person can have a great college career and not do much as a professional and get elected to the Hall for his or her collegiate accomplishments. Shaquille O'Neal & Gary Payton have had outstanding careers and should be enshrined one day in the Hall as will Pat Riley for his incredible coaching success. Alonzo Mourning may make it in but that remains to be seen. If Zo never had to get a kidney transplant which short circuited his career for a while, he would have had a much better chance to be elected but he still may make it someday. I don't believe Antoine Walker or Eddie Jones will make it to the Hall. Dwyane Wade is on his way to a Hall of Fame career but he is only in his 4th year in the NBA and has to play more years at a high performance level to make it. I'm happy to hear that Eddie Jones is one of your favorite players. He is highly respected by his teammates and coaches for his professionalism and is helping the HEAT win with D-Wade on the shelf with the shoulder injury. Question: I noticed that Miami seems to be short on draft picks from trades and stuff. What draft picks does Miami have this year and the next? What position will they be trying to fill, or will they be looking for talent? Tony: Hi JD. The HEAT has their first round pick in this June's NBA draft and next year's first round pick as well. The HEAT does not have a second round pick this year or next, they were traded in the Shaq and Antoine Walker trades. In the 2003 draft the HEAT needed a point guard and a center and with the 5th pick chose Dwyane Wade, the most talented player available (and we know how that worked out). I don't know who the HEAT will draft this June but Pat Riley and General Manager Randy Pfund have an incredible 12 year track record in making good personnel decisions so trust whatever decision they make. March 12, 2007 Question: Tony, With trades and other player moves a part of professional sports, players traded must have fun trying to find a place to live in a new city while still playing and practicing. Does the HEAT have someone in the organization to help a new player find lodging in South Florida? Tony: Hi Tom. Kenny McCraney is in his third year as the HEAT's Director of Team Services. Kenny "helps provides the smooth transition for HEAT players and assists them with their everyday needs" as is stated in the HEAT media guide. Kenny began working for the HEAT in 2000 as a coach's assistant for the WNBA's Miami SOL. Kenny played four years at the University of Florida and was captain of the team in 1980 & 1981. He has also coached on the high school and college level. Kenny does everything from helping players find a place to live when they come to the HEAT to helping them secure passports and Florida driver's licences etc. Question: Coach - why do they refer to assists as "dimes?" Tony: Hi David. An assist being referred to as a "dime" is inner city slang. I grew up in the New York suburbs and have heard an assist as a "dime" since I was a teenager. Years ago a phone call from a public phone used to cost ten cents, not a quarter like it is today. "Dropping a dime" meant calling someone - in other words connecting or hooking up with them. Giving an assist in a basketball game is hooking up with a teammate. If a teammate was open and didn't get the ball he may say to his teammate "why don't you drop me a dime once in a while". At least that's what they used to say.
Tony: Hi Peter. Probably the combination of an opposing player knowing that Shaq is not a good foul shooter and trying to get a quick start to what is probably a rebound to Shaq having a little hitch (hesitation) in his shot. Opponents are also quick to step in front of Shaq to box him away from what could be a long rebound.To be honest, I am surprised that he causes so many lane violations and I have said so on the air. There have been other players in the league who have had a noticeable pause in their free throw (remember Anthony Mason) and caused many lane violations. Question: Dear Tony, I am perhaps the biggest heat fan in the islands and would like to induct my children in to Heat way of life. In this regard, I am very interested in bringing my son to Miami during the summers to attend your Heat Camp. He is eight years old but is a British citizen and not a US citizen. Is the camp open only to US citizens?
Tony: Hi Ayana. The Miami HEAT basketball camp is open to all boys and girls between the ages of 7 to 16. We have had campers from as far away as England & France and have had some from the islands as well. The Miami HEAT dancer camp is for one week and is also open to boys and girls ages 7 to 16. The week of June 11th will be the dancer camp and also the first week of basketball camp so you do have one week where you can have both children in camps at the same time. Question: Why are the Chicago Bulls in 5th place if they have a better record than the Toronto Raptors? Tony: Hi Albert. In the NBA there are three divisions in each conference with five teams to a division. The teams that lead each division cannot be seeded lower than 4th in their conference. Being a division leader ranks them ahead of teams in their conference who may have a better record. It's really only for seeding purposes. The NBA wants to give meaning to winning a division title. For example, if Toronto wins their division and has to play Chicago in the playoffs and Chicago has a better record, Chicago get the home court advantage. It's not really as confusing as it may sound. I hope I helped clear that up for you. March 5, 2007 Question: I would like to know how Pat Riley is taking care of his knee because I had the same surgery and I would like to heal, the right way. Tony: Hi Michael. Coach Riley is probably strengthening his knee and the muscles around it exercising with a weights program designed by the team's medical staff and trainers. My advice to you is to see a physical therapist to find out what regimen is best for you. Every case is a little different and the therapist should know what routine will best help you to get back to full strength. Question: Hi Tony. My friends and I have a running debate about a former Miami Heat player, PJ Brown. I claim he was a valuable member of the Heat during those years in the 1990s. He played good defense, rebounded, set picks, and he even had a little bit of an outside shot. What's your take on PJ - especially his 15 foot jumper? Tony: Hi David. You get the gold star for stating the obvious to your friends. I was an assistant coach when PJ played for the HEAT and I can tell you without a doubt he was not only an important member of successful HEAT teams for 4 years but he is also one of the finest individuals I have ever coached. Alonzo Mourning was voted the best defensive player in the NBA in 1999 and 2000 and part of that award goes to PJ. PJ at 6'11 was an outstanding defensive player covering Zo's back when Zo tracked penetrators to the basket looking for the blocked shot. He was also a very good rebounder and you're right about PJ's 15' jumpshot -he was deadly with the open J on the baseline. PJ was a selfless player who did many intabgible things to help the HEAT win - and remains a first class person!
Tony: Hi Matus. How often and how long the HEAT practice depends on the game schedule. Pre-season in October the team practiced twice a day. During the season the HEAT will practice between games unless thay have a tough schedule like 4 games in 5 nights or like earlier in the season when the HEAT had 10 games in 16 days starting with a West coast trip. As the season wears on (like now) there are fewer and shorter practices because the coaches want to preserve the players legs for the games. The challange for coaches is to keep the players sharp without wearing out their legs. Question: Why did the Heat retire Michael Jordan's jersey? Tony: Hi Paul. HEAT President Pat Riley decided to retire Michael Jordan's # 23 jersey and hang it from the rafters at the American Airline Arena out of respect for MJ's incredible career accomplishments and for all that he meant to the game of basketball. To my knowledge, no other NBA team has retired an opponent's jersey. February 26, 2007 Question: Does anyone else feel that Alonzo Mourning deserves special recognition from the NBA for overcoming his medical condition and playing with all the intensity I have seen in 25 years of watching the NBA, and playing his way back to be one of the top centers in the game today? Tony: Hi Steven. Alonzo Mourning is widely recognized around the NBA for his fierce, intense effort whenever he is on the court and there isn't a person in the league who doesn't respect his accomplishment and his coming back and playing at a high level after a kidney transplant. A remarkable story especially since he helped the HEAT win an NBA championship last season.
Tony: Hi Koki. How's my favorite HEAT fan from Japan?
Question: Hey Tony! Has there ever been a player in NBA to register a quadruple-double. If so who and what year? Tony: Hi Evens. There have been 4 players in the history of the NBA (since they have kept such statistics) who have recorded a rare quadruple-double. Here they are compliments of Stats.com, a company which provides Eric Reid, Jason Jackson and myself valuable statistics every game that we use in our broadcasts:
Question: What activities take place at the HEAT Camp? Tony: Hi Mark. We will have 5 weeks of HEAT basketball camp this summer in 3 different locations (HEAT.com has information and an application for anyone interested in signing up) Camp runs Monday through Friday 9:00am - 3:30pm. Campers have a lot of fun in camp while working on and learning the basic skills of basketball such as shooting, dribbling, passing, rebounding, defense and team play. We have shooting, 3 on 3 and beat the coach contests (in which campers can win basketball cards) as well as have two 5 on 5 games every day. We also provide giveaways everyday so that campers don't go home empty handed. On Friday, every camper receives a progress report from their coach evaluating their strengths and areas of improvement for them to take home to discuss with their parents/guardians/ older brother or sister. We also try to have 2 HEAT players make a guest appearance each work to talk to the campers, sign autographs and sometimes take pictures with them. My goals for the campers each weak is to have fun, turn weaknesses into strengths, learn to play with their teammates and to learn life skills as well. We have a lot of fun and I like to think we have the best basketball camp in South Florida. By the way, there is also a HEAT dancer camp directed by Janine Thompson, arguably the best choreographer in the NBA! Question: Hey Tony, do you think the NBA will ever invest for a franchise team to be in Las Vegas? Keep up the good work. Tony: Hi Casey. From what I read in the paper, NBA commissioner David Stern seems to be receptive to possibly having an NBA franchise in Las Vegas in the future. They would have to resolve the gambling situation as it applies to league rules but it seems there will be dialogue in that vein so yes, I think it's possible there will be a franchise in Las Vegas someday. I read somewhere that Las Vegas is one of the fastest growing areas in the country population wise so it makes sense. February 20, 2007 Question: Dear Tony. First of all, I wanted to thank you for the amazing job you, Eric and Jason do covering every game. It is a pleasure to watch. I was reading an article from earlier in the year that surmised Miami won the championship with an offense rather than defense last season. I was wondering what your thoughts are on this? Tony: Hi Peter. Thank you for your kind words on behalf of me and my colleagues. We very much enjoy broadcasting the HEAT games.
I'm not sure what article you read but the HEAT's defense in the NBA Finals was as good a reason as any for the HEAT winning the championship. We know that Dwyane Wade averaged almost 40 points per game in the HEAT's 4 straight wins over Dallas to win the championship but what people don't realize is that the Mavericks.who averaged 99 points per game in the regular season, were held to 92 points per game in the finals by the HEAT. Dirk Nowitzki did not dominate the series as he could have and had to earn every point he made. In game 6, which clinched the championship for the HEAT, the Mavericks shot 37% overall (Jason Terry, Jerry Stackhouse and Josh Howard were 17-54 (31%). I'd say that was pretty good defense.
Question: Tony, how you doing my name is John and the question I wanted to ask you is, did you ever played professional basketball for any team in the NBA? I am only 15 and I don't know. Tony: Hi John. I played small college basketball in New York for two colleges and captained two teams but I wasn't nearly good enough to play in the NBA. I was strictly a rec league and church league guy in my post college days. To use an old Mohammed Ali saying changed somewhat - If I dreamt I played in the NBA I'd wake up an apologize!! ")
Question: Hey Tony, Kapono is on fire. He is shooting the 3 at 56 percent. I just wanted to know what was the highest 3 point percentage in a single NBA career. Tony: Hi Cartman. The highest 3 point percentage for a single NBA season was .524 by Steve Kerr in the 1994-95 season. Jason Kapono is shooting 55% from the 3 point line which would establish an NBA record if he maintains that percentage for the rest of the season. Incidentally, the 3 point shot was introduced to the NBA in the 1979-80 season and the first person to record a 3 point basket was Chris Ford, who later went on to coach the Celtics.
Tony: Hi Charlie. Thank you for the compliment.
Question: Hi Coach:
I like to read some of your previous conversations because I get some answers to my questions before I write. There is one in particular that captured my attention and it is your coaching job with kids and adults.
Tony: Hi Humberto. I started teaching private basketball lessons about 5 years ago. Just as young people can take tennis or swimming lessons, I provide basketball lessons. I had been a coach my whole adult life (high school, college, NBA & WNBA) and missed coaching when I started announcing HEAT games first on radio now on TV. I enjoy teaching kids the fundamentals of basketball. When you learn the right way to do things at an early age (this doesn't just apply to sports), it's knowledge that will stay with you forever. Kids who love basketball are eager to learn and I very much enjoy seeing their improvement over a period of time. I often combine life skillsI in my basketball lessons. For example, there is a common thread in listening to your parents, your teacher and your coach. They should only have to say something once and a child should listen.
Question: Hey Tony, I was wondering how it is that the players get voted into the all-star game/competitions. Does the actual popular vote count or is it up to the coaches. How about the coaches for the East or West; how is that decided? Also how do players become eligible for dunk/3pt contests and once eligible how are they voted in? For example, what did Jason Kapono have to do to become eligble/particiate in the 3pt shoot out?
Tony: Hi Harrison. As to who coaches in the all-star game, there is a cut-off date prior to the all-star game (maybe 2-3 weeks) where the coaching staff of the team in each conference whose team has the best record at that time gets to coach in the game. There is a rule that if a coaching staff coached in the game the year before, they are ineligible to coach in the game the following year. ( I believe unofficially it is the Pat Riley rule. If you'll recall, Pat Riley's Lakers very often had the best record in the league in the 1980's so Coach Riley and his staff coached in many all-star games. They made the rule regarding not coaching 2 all-star games in a row as a result, so that other coaches get to experience it)
Question: Hey Tony. I was wondering, do the Heat have a long term contract to play home games at AAA, or do they keep renewing the contract after a certain amount of years? Tony: Hi Andrew. I believe the HEAT signed a 30 year lease to play in the American Airlines Arena when it opened in the middle of the 2000-2001 season.
Question: hey Tony, you have done a great job on this site but could you explain the defensive 3 seconds rule, because we dont have that rule in Australia?
Tony: Hi Patrick. Thank You! About 8-9 years ago the NBA decided to allow teams to play zone defense. To keep a tall, long armed player from just standing in the lane making it very difficult for offensive players to get to the rim, the NBA enacted the defensive 3 sec rule. Here's rule 10, section VII b of the NBA officials rule book:
Question: Do the Heat currently have a captain? I remember Eddie Jones was the HEAT's captain for 4 years while he was here, but there hasn't been a captain listed on this website since. If the Heat do have a captain, then who is he and what duties does he have? Tony: Hi Chad. Presently, the HEAT does not officially have a captain. If a team doesn't officially have a captain or captains, players are assigned to be the acting captain(s) for that game. The officials meet with players at half-court to be introduced to the captains before the tip off. Captains are allowed to approach the officials during a game or timeout to discuss a situation or call. The HEAT usually has Shaq and Dwyane as it's acting captains.
Question: Dear Tony, I've been wanting to know who is the oldest active NBA player?
Tony: Hi David. The oldest player in the NBA is Dikembe Mutombo of the Houston Rockets. Dikembe was born on June 25, 1966 which makes him 40 yrs old and in his 16th yr in the NBA.
Question: Who is your MVP of the mid-season? Tony: Hi Evens. If I had to vote this minute for MVP of the league I would choose between Steve Nash and Dirk Nowitzki. The Suns and Mavericks have played great basketball to date and these 2 guys lead their respective teams. February 9, 2007 Question: Hey Tony, now that Eddie Jones is headed back to Miami, how do you think he will affect the HEAT’s offense and defense? Tony: Hi #1 HEAT Fan. Eddie Jones has endeared himself to his HEAT teammates who were here when he was traded to Memphis. When he left, his teammates and coaches to a person praised him for being a professional and sacrificing for the good of the team. He led the HEAT in scoring the first four years of his five years in Miami. Stan van Gundy, then HEAT coach, moved EJ to the small forward spot so the HEAT could start Damon Jones in the backcourt with Dwyane Wade. You'll recall, the HEAT became a good team with that move and all EJ did was improve his rebounding totals against bigger opponents, improve his scoring and play outstanding defense on the opponents best perimeter offensive player. Eddie is a specialist in the HEAT's system meaning he will be available to guard a hot perimeter opponent when needed and can bury a 3 pointer if the HEAT need that. The HEAT have improved their chances of defending its NBA Championship with the re-acquisition of Eddie Jones.
Question: What are the colorful bands that Alonzo Mourning wears? One is green and one is yellow. Thanks Tony! Keep up the great work! Tony: Hi Cheri. The yellow wrist band Alonzo Mourning wears is a Live Strong band. Live Strong is recently retired cyclist Lance Armstrong's foundation. The Lance Armstrong Foundation raises money for cancer research. The website is http://www.livestrong.org/
Tony: Hi Tony. That's an interesting question. With Jerry Sloan, Nate McMillan, Eddie Jordan, Doc Rivers, Scott Skiles, Isiah Thomas, Rick Carlisle, Maurice Cheeks, Mike Dunleavy, George Karl, Pat Riley, Byron Scott, Randy Whitman and Avery Johnson all head coaches in the NBA and former guards who played in the league, one would think to look at the guard position especially the point guard spot to consider a potential head coach. Point guards are an extension of the coach and his system out on the court. He has to know where all five players on the court have to go in every play the team runs. It stands to reason that a reasonable progression for a point guard who wants to stay in the game is to coach. Having said that, there are very smart players who play other positions. For example, Keith Askins is doing an outstanding job as a HEAT assistant coach. I was always impressed by Keith's intelligence as a player (9 years with the HEAT) and that he would make a good coach someday. Bob McAdoo is another example of a player who made a living shooting the basketball (Hall of Famer) and is going a real good job as an assistant coach. Phil Jackson, with 9 NBA championship rings, hasn't fared too badly after playing power forward and center in his playing days.
Question: Who would you rather have to take a free throw in order to win a game at the last second Shaq or Ben Wallace?
Tony: Hi Scott. There is no doubt in my mind that I would rather have Shaq shoot the free throw to win a game. You'll recall last year that Shaq came back from a bad ankle injury against the Wizards at home and had to make a free throw with 2 seconds on the clock to send the game into overtime. If he misses the HEAT loses the game. He buried the shot and the HEAT went on to win the game in OT. Shaq also made 2 big free throws late in Game 3 last year against Dallas in the NBA Finals when the HEAT stormed back from a 13 point deficit in the last 6:34 left in the game to win Game 3 and get back into the series which we know the HEAT won in 6 games and captured the NBA Championship.
Question: Hey Tony! How is it decided whether the HEAT wear red on the road or black? Tony: Hi Mario. Jay Sabol, the HEAT's Equipment Manager, decides what color uniform the team wears on the road. The HEAT's basic road uniform is black. With red as an alternate color, the HEAT has to wear the red uniforms at least 12 times a season. (as per the NBA) Jay likes to wait until @ Christmas or after New Year's before breaking out the red uni's (just a preference on his part). Often, if the HEAT loses a game on the road, they change colors for the next road game. Question: If you were asked what your favorite five dunkers of all time were, who would they be?
Tony: Hi Peter. I believe you just asked me! Here are my favorite 5 dunkers of all time in no particular order: Honorable Mention: I did not consider dunk contests. These choices were of players who dunked in NBA games. For older fans they will recall the great Connie Hawkins, the first "Dr. J". Question: I was in a discussion with my friend about something. If you just scored and the other team is about to put the ball in play, can you ask for time out? In other words, in what instances a team can request time out? Tony: Hi Corneliu. NBA rules are different than high school or college rules. Re: your question, the answer is yes for high school and college. In the NBA, after a team scores a basket, only the team who has possession of the ball can call time-out. In many dead ball situations in the NBA (not after a team scores and the ball is inbounded), either team can call a time-out. February 2, 2007 Question: Hey coach. I have noticed that the HEAT has always been the only team to wear the Jerry West silhouette logo on the right side of its jerseys as opposed to the left. Do you know if there's a reason? Thanks! Tony: Hi Rob. Very good observation, I did not notice that although you are not entirely right. Jay Sabol, the HEAT's equipment manager as well as assistant trainer, found out for us that the Washington Wizards second road uniform also has the NBA logo (Jerry West silhouette) on the right side. The reason the HEAT has it on the right side is because the flame above T in HEAT takes up the visual space needed for the logo thus the logo is on the right side. The HEAT's road jersey has MIAMI on the front and the league could have put the NBA logo on the left side but decided to be consistent with the home uniform so they put the logo on the right side as well.
Question: Hello Tony. Do you think that Jason Kapono should be considered for the Most Improved Player award if he continues his success throughout the season?
Tony: Hi Diego. Yes, I think Jason Kapono is one of the most improved players in the NBA so he should have a shot at winning the award especially if he continues to lead the league in 3 point shooting percentage! Others who will probably be considered are Eddie Curry (Knicks), David Lee (Knicks), Caron Butler (Wizards), Kevin Martin (Kings) and Monta Ellis (Warriors).
Question: The Heat has only retired one jersey, and that was Michael Jordan's. Who do you think will be the first Heat player to have their jersey retired by the team?
Question: Hi Tony, I was wondering how many jerseys do HEAT players go through in one full season? Tony: Hi Bailey. Most of the players have 2 game jerseys for both home and road games. Some of the players have 3 jerseys because they sweat so much during a game they put on a fresh jersey at half-time. The equipment manager has a reserve uniform available if a player needs one. For example, if a player gets blood on his uniform he may have to replace it during a game to continue to play. Question: What is the average body fat for an NBA player? Tony: Hi Scott. The ideal body fat of perimeter players in the NBA such as Dwyane Wade, Jason Kapono, Jason Williams etc is 8% or less. The ideal body fat for "bigs", front court players such as Shaq, Zo, Doleac, Udonis etc is 10% or less. Bill Foran is the HEAT's strength and conditioning coach and he periodically measures body fat in HEAT players. Bill is one of the best at his profession in the NBA and the HEAT is usually one of the best conditioned teams in the league. Question: I feel that all of the injuries might be a blessing in disguise for the HEAT, because guys like D-Wade and Shaq have been able to rest their legs and will be more fresh come playoff time. What do you think?
Tony: Jakob. There can be a silver lining to a team incurring injuries early in the season. The biggest advantage is the emergence of players who wouldn't normally get significant playing time.
January 25, 2007 Question: Hey Tony, I think that you and Eric do a fantastic job and you guys are definitely "the best!" My question is whenever I watch a HEAT game, I always see a very large man with glasses behind the bench and very close to a Heat player during an interview. I assume he is a security guard. I never see anything like this with any other team! What is the purpose of this? Thanks and keep up the great work-GO HEAT! Tony: Hi Dan. Thank you for the compliment. Eric and I are good friends and try to make viewing the game for HEAT fans enjoyable.
The HEAT has 2 security men who are with the team all the time. They are David Holcombe & Jerome Crawford. Jerome is Shaq's uncle and is also Shaq's personal body guard. Most, if not all the teams in the NBA have security with them at home and on the road.
Question: What is a triple-double?
Tony: Hi Peter. A triple-double is when a player records double figures in three different categories in a game. For example, Dwyane Wade achieved his first triple-double against Detroit on Dec. 30, 2004 when he recorded 31 points, 10 assists and 10 rebounds. Dwyane has 3 triple-doubles in his career.
Question: Hi Tony....Love your color commentary for the HEAT. Always top notch insight. I also enjoy Clyde Frazier, Mike Smith, and Jim Barnett. Who do you enjoy as a commentator? Is there anyone who has influenced you over the years? Tony: Hi Tony. Thank you for the compliment, I appreciate it. When I was an assistant coach with the HEAT and had to scout many tapes over the years, I always put the volume up to listen to the broadcasters. The broadcasters I enjoyed listening too the most and learned the most from were Doug Collins, Hubie Brown, Mike Fratello and Jack Ramsay. The announcer who's style I try to emulate is Bill Raftery. He does many college games and makes it seem as though you are on a couch watching a game with him. I try to point out the important little things happening on the court but also make it fun for the viewer.
Question: Hi Tony. Do you think Jason Kapono should participate in the three-point competition during All-Star Weekend?
Question: Do you think William Earl Tatum would have made more of a impact on the NBA in today's NBA game then when he was with LA, Indy, Detroit and Boston back in his day?? Tony: You're dating yourself and me. :) Earl Tatum was one of the best pure shooters I have ever seen. He played at my high school in Mt. Vernon N.Y. and went on to star at Marquette University. They have Earl's jersey hanging from the rafters in the Bradley Center in Milwaukee where Marquette plays its home games. Earl played about 5 years in the NBA and was once touted as the "black Jerry West" for his long range accuracy. With the many penetrating guards in the league and the defensive rules being what they are regarding contact on players with the ball, I think he may have gotten more open jumpers than he did in the 1970's when he played. There are more drives to the rim that draw defenders in today's game and it puts a premium on draw and dish to an open teammate. Question: How's your golf game? What's your favorite local course? Tony: Hi Stuart. How's one of the HEAT's biggest fan's and sponsor's doing these days? I have not missed a putt or a fairway in two months. Of course I haven't played in two month's as you would surmise since you play with me once in a while. I'm looking forward to getting back out there and kicking your butt again at Parkland! :)
Question: Do you think that Miami being a veteran team, thrives off the fact that they aren’t' getting the respect as a contender around the league as they did last year? Tony: Hi Don. I am not sure the HEAT's lacking respect this year from others around the league. The HEAT has the championship banners and beautiful championship rings - that commands respect. The HEAT has a losing record to date so that may be what people look at in judging whether the HEAT can repeat as champions. I am looking forward to when the HEAT is healthy and playing the way they are capable of. When we are healthy, I wouldn't trade our chances to win the NBA championship this year with any other team! Question: Hi Tony. I was wondering, is Jason Kapono under contract for next year? Also, you, Eric, and Jason Jackson do a great job announcing the games on Sun Sports. Tony: Hi Andrew. Thank you for the compliment. It is great working with first rate professional announcers and producers as I do. What makes it even more special is the quality individuals they are. Jason Kapono is in the last year of his contract and will be a free agent when this season is over. He has proven this year that he not only one of the best shooters in the league but a solid basketball player. He has a bright future ahead! January 19, 2007 Question: Hi Tony. Me and my father have been watching you and Eric since the mid 90's. Well anyways my question is have you noticed how much better James Posey and Antoine Walker have been playing since they returned from deactivation. Posey was doing well before but Walker was, to be honest with you, awful. I felt bad of his slump but now he is making his 3's and proving to be a slick passer. I have a feeling the new ball is helping him a lot. Why do you think he is improved back to his normal form? Tony: Hi Azam. You are right about Antoine Walker. He has struggled this season so far but he seems to have gotten back to the form that helped the HEAT win an NBA championship last year. He worked very hard to get back on the active list after he and James Posey were put on the inactive list to meet conditioning requirements. He and James stayed behind in Miami when the team started their 6 game trip. They worked on conditioning with HEAT Strength and Conditioning Coach Bill Foran and also refined their basketball skills with Assistant Coach Octavio de la Grana. I think that and bringing back the original leather ball to the NBA has helped Antoine. He shot the ball better the last 3 games of the road trip and seems to have his confidence back. The HEAT need him to play up to form to truly defend their title.
Question: Hi, coach. Could you tell us a little bit about Coach Rothstein? From the Heat's Championship DVD, I learned that he was the very first head coach for the Heat (Tony, you're also in that DVD; you haven't changed a bit!).
Question: How big of an impact will Chris Webber have in Detroit? Tony: Hi Nicholas. That is a good question. Chris has had a very productive career since his Michigan days as part of the Fab 5. He has outstanding numbers having averaged 21.6 points and 10 rebounds per game in his 13 year career entering this season. He gives Detroit another quality big man who can pass, hit the open 15-16 foot high post shot rebound. He was not having a good year with the 76ers but can be a big boost to the Pistons if he returns to form.
Question: Does a player get credited with an assist if he is the one inbounding the ball? Example: Throwing a alley oop pass from out of bounds. Tony: Hi Gary. Yes, a player gets credited with an assist if his inbound pass leads directly to a basket. Question: Hello coach, first I want to congratulate you, eric, and jason for the fine work you guys do every game. My question is the following, I wanted to become a basketball player at one point but I had a few injuries and side tracked me a bit. Currently I'm 21 years old and coaching is very appealing to me. What are the 1st steps I would have to take in order to one day become an NBA coach? Tony: Hi Juan. On behalf of Eric, Jason and myself, thank you for the kudos. We enjoy what we are doing and respect each other and hope that all HEAT fans enjoy the broadcasts. The best advice I can give you Juan is to begin coaching on the high school level. Be dedicated to learning the game by going to clinics, working basketball camps in the summer picking coaches brains you respect and continue to grow as a coach. You'll make mistakes but you'll learn from them and hopefully you can work your way up the ladder and get a shot someday at coaching in the NBA. I started out as a high school junior varsity coach, then a varsity coach, then an assistant college coach and fortunately became an NBA assistant coach. Don't get discouraged by the pitfalls - every coach has them. Learn from them and you will be a better coach for it. GOOD LUCK! Question: As a young woman I am very intrieged by the game of Basketball and Braodcasting Journalism, so do you have any tips on how I can pursue my dream career? Tony: Hi J.J. I don't know how old you are but you can major in Broadcast Journalism in college. While there, see if you can announce any of the freshman games to start out and with the knowledge you get in the classroom and the experience behind the microphone doing actual games - you will be on your way. Today, there are more opportunities for women in the broadcast business than a generation ago. I'll be rooting for you!
Question: Tony, Love the work you three do every game! Would you please explain the responsibilities of the small forward and power forward positions?
Tony: Hi Richie. We appreciate your compliment. The small forward position in basketball is considered a skill position meaning ideally a player can shoot from the perimeter, handle the ball well enough to take it to the rim and finish, be a scorer a coach can rely on, get his share of rebounds and be able to guard other perimeter players as well. The best small forward ever in basketball, in my opinion, was Larry Bird.
Question: Hey Tony! Even with a struggling team, the AAA seems to be full most of the time on TV. Do you know where the Heat rank as far as NBA home attendance? Tony: Hi Bobby. The HEAT has averaged 19,710 fans a game this season in their 17 home home games. There are only 4 teams in the 30 team NBA who have averaged more fans per game - Chicago Bulls (22,225,-leads the league), Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks and the Detroit Pistons. I think the HEAT home attendance will jump up to over 20,000 a game when Shaq comes back. Incidentally, the HEAT leads the league in road attendance averaging 18,857 fans a game. (l.A. Lakers are second averaging 18,784) January 12, 2007 Question: Hi Tony, Do NBA teams still hold open tryouts? If so, what is the process for that? Tony: Hi Leo. NBA teams do not have open tryouts. Every team has a summer league team and/or camp to workout free agents the team may be interested in. Included in this may be their recent draft picks and younger players on the roster. You have to be invited to these camps and it usually comes about through a player's agent.
Question: First of all, let me say that of all the TV analysts in the NBA, you and Eric Reid are by far the most entertaining and charismatic. My question is: Why wasn't Wade credited with 5 blocks in the Christmas Day game this year? In the play-by-play at this website, HEAT/Lakers Play-by-Play, he was credited with 4 blocks, but his fifth block on Smush Parker which I believe happened with 1:36 left in the game wasn't credited. I'm asking because Wade would've had a career high 5 blocks in this game, but I think the statisticians made a mistake. I'm emailing this to you because I wasn't sure who else would be able to do something about this. Thanks for your help!
Tony: Hi Chad. Thank you for the compliment. Eric and I enjoy announcing the games especially since we are both HEAT originals and have been here the whole 19 years.
Question: Hey Tony, I’m a fan of Dwyane Wade. I was wondering , what other sports does Dwyane like other than basketball? Tony: Hi Khadija. According to Dwyane's bio in the HEAT media guide, he enjoys football, with the Chicago Bears and the University of Miami being his favorite football teams. (D-Wade is from the Chicago area) He enjoys buying and collecting shoes and lists Italy as the favorite place he has visited. Chicken and mash potatoes are his favorite foods and likes to listen to rap and rhythm and blues. 50 Cent, Jay-Z and R.Kelly are among Dwyane's favorite musical artists.
Question: How many pairs of shoes does Dwyane Wade or any of the HEAT players go through in a full season? Tony: Hi Robby. Dwyane Wade goes through about 100 pairs of sneakers in an NBA season which includes the pre-season and playoffs. Last year the HEAT played 7 pre-season exhibition games, 82 regular season games and 23 games in the playoffs which totals 112 games. Dwyane played in 75 regular season games which means he wore a new pair of Converse sneakers basically every game. When you take into account how often NBA players practice in a 9 month season (if you play in the finals as the HEAT did last year) and how hard Dwyane plays with all his aggressive cuts and drives to the rim - his sneakers get worn out quickly. That's not to mention that he may tear his sneakers on the rim now and then (only kidding but it does seem that way, doesn't it?:) Question: Hi Coach! We really enjoy listening to you and Eric on NBALP. Do you know why Wade and Wright are sporting similar haircuts (three parts)? Thanks! Tony: Hi Jenny. To be honest, I didn't notice that they have smilar haircuts. I do know that Dwyane has taken Dorell under his wing and Dorell looks up to Dwyane as he would a big brother. Dwyane is young himself (he will be 25 years old on Jan. 17th) but is mature for his age and is a good influence on and off the court for Dorell who is only 21. Dorell's maturity on the court this season can be attributed to Dwyane's guidance and through all his work with the HEAT coaching staff, one of the best teaching staffs in the NBA. Question: Hey Tony, what is the difference between a flagrant one and a flagrant two foul?
Tony: Hi Bobby. A referee calls a flagrant one foul on a defender when he feels there was unnecessary contact on the play. That results in the defender getting a technical foul (2 technical fouls in a game results in an ejection). The player fouled gets 2 free throws and his team gets possession of the ball.
Tony: Hi Mitch. Rade Petrovic won the raffle for the HEAT's dazzling NBA Championship Ring. Question: Hi Tony. I was wondering about this the other day: Which player is Miami's leader in the locker room? Thank you. Tony: Hi Anthony. I think Alonzo Mourning and Shaquille O'Neal are the locker room leaders. They are well respected by the other players. Zo is intense and leads with his passionate desire to excell and win and Shaq has a quick wit and is a proven winner with 4 NBA Championship rings. They bring a lot of experience to the table and lead on and off the court. Question: Hey Tony, what do you think the chances are of Erik Spoelstra taking over as head coach when Pat Riley steps down? Tony: Hi Tony, my Key Biscayne neighbor. Pat Riley has said that when he steps up actually (as President) and no longer coaches the HEAT, he will choose his successor among his assistants. As you may know, they are Ron Rothstein, Eric Spoelstra, Bob McAdoo and Keith Askins. (new assistant coach octovio De La Grana just joined the staff and lacks NBA experience so I don't think he is included in this). Eric Spoelstra has worked his way up the ladder on Pat Riley's staff starting as the video coordinator and now is a bench assistant coach. He does a terrific job along with Brian Hecker to prepare the staff and the team for the HEAT's opponents and is a very good teacher. Although I think he will be a head coach someday in the NBA I don't know what his chances are to be the next head coach for the HEAT. Only Pat Riley knows that. January 4, 2007 Question: Hi Tony,
Do you think that Pat Riley will still remain as president even when he retires as head coach? Tony: Hi Derek. As most people know, Pat Riley is an NBA "lifer". He has been associated with the NBA his whole adult life as a player, broadcaster, assistant coach, head coach and team president.
If you're a HEAT fan, you want Pat Riley to continue coaching as well as be the team president for many years to come. He is a future Hall of Fame inductee as a coach and he and General Manager Randy Pfund have done a remarkable job building this franchise into a championship one especially after losing Alonzo Mourning for a few years to kidney disease. I don't know what Coach Riley's plans are when he does retire from coaching but I think it's possible that he'll stay on as the team's president.
Question: Dear Tony, In terms of your career, what would you identify to be your personal strengths and weaknesses? Don't count your dashing looks as one of your strengths ;) What is your favorite college basketball team?
Tony: Hi Vivian. Thank you for the compliment - the camera may be helping me out there!
Question: Shandon Anderson isn't the HEAT roster. I loved his defensive game and also his quickness around the basket. Do you know what happened to him?
Tony: Hi Koki. How's my Japanese contributor doing?
Tony: Hi Daniel. When the HEAT plays the Bucks in Milwaukee on Feb. 3rd, Marquette University, Dwyane Wade's alma mater, will retire his Marquette jersey. Dwyane had a triple-double (29 pts, 11 assists, 11 rebounds) in the regional final vs Kentucky and led Marquette to the final four in 2003. As you may know, Marquette has a long history of basketball success and have had many players play in the NBA. (There are presently five former Golden Eagles playing in the NBA) When it's all said and done, D-Wade may be the best Golden Eagle of them all!! Question: What do you think of Kapono's 27 point game? Tony: Hi James. Jason Kapono was very efficient in scoring 27 points in 34 minutes off the bench against the Golden State Warriors. He was 11-18 from the floor (3-8 from behind the 3pt line). He also had 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Jason has been playing very well for the HEAT with the more playing time he has earned with all the injuries the HEAT as a team has incurred. He is a solid defensive player and is among league leaders in 3pt FG%. It would thrilling for him (and HEAT fans) to be selected to compete in the NBA long distance shooting contest All-Star weekend in Las Vegas in February. |
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Question: Hey Tony, I was wondering if you knew who the all time winningest coach was? I know Pat and Phil are up there, but who holds the crown? Thanks Coach, keep up the great work through the playoffs!!! Go HEAT!!!!!
Question: Hey Tony, I got back from the HEAT Wizards game. I even got a chance to meet Etan Thomas and a few other players from the Wizards after the game. They seemed not to be upset with their loss to the HEAT as they talked and laughed with me and other HEAT fans. My question goes with players and your own experiences as an assistant coach. How seriously do you take a regular season loss or a losing streak? As a huge HEAT fan I am always very upset whenever the HEAT has lost a game.
Question: I was wondering when do the Miami HEAT have tryouts for the team?
Question: Who is the HEAT’s all time leader w/ triple doubles?
Question: Finally! My first Heat game (vs. TWolves) on SunSports this season here (League Pass Japan); its nice to see you and Eric on TV! Here’s my question. What are the NBA’s criteria for entry into the Hall of Fame? We often hear that Shaq, Payton, Zo, Walker, Coach Riley (and D-Wade) will be elected in the future. How about Eddie Jones (3-time All-Star and 3-time All-Defensive Team)? He’s one of my favorite HEAT players, and right now he’s playing like a Hall of Famer.
Question: Hey Tony. I was wondering... why do you think Shaq draws so many lane violations on his free-throws?
Question: I would like to ask, how often players practice during a week
Question: Hi, Tony. In basketball, an offensive foul leads to a turnover, and I believe that those charges you draw from your opponents are huge (like shot blocks) and charge-drawing players like Haslem, Posey and Wade should be praised more. Dont you think that those offensive fouls (drawn) should appear in the boxscore and be part of the official NBA statistics?
Question: Hey Tony, before I get to my question, I want to say how much I enjoy you and Eric on your TV broadcasts. In my opinion, you're the best.
Question: During his playing career, it seemed obvious that Avery Johnson had the leadership skills and game awareness to possibly be a head coach at some point. In your opinion, who of the current players in the NBA has the "coaching gene"?
Tony: Hi Martin. I think Alonzo Mourning's #33 will be the first HEAT uniform retired. He has been the franchise's greatest warrior in its 19 year history. If Zo never needed a kidney transplant he wouldn't have missed all that time getting healthy again and would have had a very good chance of making the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Tony: Hi Diego. I don't think there is any question that Jason should be in the three-point shooting contest all-star weekend in Las Vegas. He is leading the league in three-point shooting percentage and is arguably the best three-point shooter in the NBA this season. Can you have a shooting contest without the best shooter in the league to date??
Tony: Hi Koki. Thank you for the compliment, my grey hair not withstanding!
Question: Who won the ring in the raffle?
Question: Hey Tony, I heard someone mention during the HEAT vs. Milwaukee game that D. Wade will be retiring his jersey sometime next year, and I was wondering what exactly does that mean?