My physiologist finally recommended that I visit a rheumatologist as he didn't feel like it was anything structural (degenerative disks, pinched nerves, etc.). Through some family connections I was able to get an appointment in a week. I didn't realize how unusual that was at the time. Ironically enough it might have been better to wait a month or so for the appointment my physiologist set up with a different rheumy initially. But I'll get to that later.
In short I had my appointment, was tested for HLA-B27 and was positive. This corresponded with my other symptoms of stiffness and pain. I was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis. For the first little while I couldn't even spell or say it right. Such a relief to know what was going on.
My rheumy assured me that while it had no cure, it was treatable with what they called NSAIDs. These were basically amplified versions of ibuprofen and the like. Sounded easy enough...
Friday, May 16, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
My mystery illness...
While on a religious mission in South America I began to have some pain in my right hip. I should probably mention that prior to this I had exercised 2-3 hours/day and was employed in landscaping. So although as a missionary I was walking miles each day, it wasn't as though I was out of shape.
As the pain and discomfort continued to get worse I began doing some chiropractic treatment. The visits did seem to help some but their benefit was fleeting. A few days after my appointment I'd be back where I started.
After a few weeks my lower back started giving me trouble as well. From this point on everything just got worse. Since I had so much fatigue I was tested for amoebas and parasites and found I had contracted a couple. I was given some very strong antibiotics and subsequently tested clean. The problem was that I wasn't feeling any better. Chiropractic treatment ceased to do much of anything and after a few months I had exhausted the treatments their primitive healthcare could provide.
I returned to the U.S. a little over 3 months after my symptoms had begun. At this point I had been spending 17-18 hours each day in bed for a few weeks, oftentimes more. I anticipated some fairly quick answers now that I had quality physicians surrounding me. Unfortunately what I got were tests and lots of "well you don't have this" statements. I almost started wishing they'd say I had something like cancer just so I could know what was going on. I had extensive MRIs done that showed no structural problems. I wasn't despondent, but I was getting pretty frustrated. My idea of a good time was definitely not lying in bed all day...
As the pain and discomfort continued to get worse I began doing some chiropractic treatment. The visits did seem to help some but their benefit was fleeting. A few days after my appointment I'd be back where I started.
After a few weeks my lower back started giving me trouble as well. From this point on everything just got worse. Since I had so much fatigue I was tested for amoebas and parasites and found I had contracted a couple. I was given some very strong antibiotics and subsequently tested clean. The problem was that I wasn't feeling any better. Chiropractic treatment ceased to do much of anything and after a few months I had exhausted the treatments their primitive healthcare could provide.
I returned to the U.S. a little over 3 months after my symptoms had begun. At this point I had been spending 17-18 hours each day in bed for a few weeks, oftentimes more. I anticipated some fairly quick answers now that I had quality physicians surrounding me. Unfortunately what I got were tests and lots of "well you don't have this" statements. I almost started wishing they'd say I had something like cancer just so I could know what was going on. I had extensive MRIs done that showed no structural problems. I wasn't despondent, but I was getting pretty frustrated. My idea of a good time was definitely not lying in bed all day...
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Ankylosing Spondylitis Exercise Regimes
Many people would like to start an exercise program but aren't sure where to start. For ankylosing spondylitis people may also be scared they'll cause a flareup or worsening in symptoms.
AS is tough enough on its own without making it worse. So because of a hesitancy to hurt themselves (and no one wants to hurt more than they have to) exercise is shelved as something that would be nice but can't be done.
It can also be difficult to use the energy for exercise if there doesn’t appear to be any positive results. You only have so much energy in a day. Why not enjoy yourself as much as you can.
All of this is unfortunate. These thoughts crossed my mind when I was diagnosed. How will I stay in shape? Will I be able to play tennis, soccer, football, windsurf, run, bike, ski, etc.?
Well I just got back from playing tennis so there's the answer to that question ;). But it certainly didn't happen overnight, and gaining the knowledge regarding what types of exercise were the most effective, how to stagger workouts and how to recover while still having a normal life were among some of the problems I faced. I'll begin chronicling my journey back to full health and strength in my upcoming posts.
AS is tough enough on its own without making it worse. So because of a hesitancy to hurt themselves (and no one wants to hurt more than they have to) exercise is shelved as something that would be nice but can't be done.
It can also be difficult to use the energy for exercise if there doesn’t appear to be any positive results. You only have so much energy in a day. Why not enjoy yourself as much as you can.
All of this is unfortunate. These thoughts crossed my mind when I was diagnosed. How will I stay in shape? Will I be able to play tennis, soccer, football, windsurf, run, bike, ski, etc.?
Well I just got back from playing tennis so there's the answer to that question ;). But it certainly didn't happen overnight, and gaining the knowledge regarding what types of exercise were the most effective, how to stagger workouts and how to recover while still having a normal life were among some of the problems I faced. I'll begin chronicling my journey back to full health and strength in my upcoming posts.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Ankylosing Spondylitis and Exercise
One of the more popular things to do when someone has a problem is to claim you have found the miracle answer. For AS that is often the new "ankylosing spondylitis breakthrough" and accompanying testimonials, or maybe it's glucosamine, or some other natural remedy.
I think that if something works for you, do it. Maybe it's lots of medication. Maybe it's none. Maybe it's radon baths, chiropractic care, acupuncture, or antibiotics. To me if it brings relief then it's worth it.
But here's the problem.
Regardless of what may or may not be effective for one person, I feel that consistent physical activity and stretching exercises help everyone. No exceptions.
Some people will ask "well what about if I can't run without it hurting for the next 4-5 days"?
Then don't run. Hit up pool exercises, swimming if feasible. Test out yoga and opt for alternate poses when difficulty arises. Perform Swiss ball exercises to the reasonable degree of difficulty. Get into resistant band workouts. Experiment with bodyweight exercises and biking. Maybe even elliptical work.
Now why isn't exercise touted as much by doctors? I feel the main reason is that they don't have as much knowledge about its benefits as they do medications and other western treatments. It's natural to strongly advocate what you understand if you feel it is of worth. It's just a shame most physicians don't have a better understanding of the potential of exercise.
I think that if something works for you, do it. Maybe it's lots of medication. Maybe it's none. Maybe it's radon baths, chiropractic care, acupuncture, or antibiotics. To me if it brings relief then it's worth it.
But here's the problem.
Regardless of what may or may not be effective for one person, I feel that consistent physical activity and stretching exercises help everyone. No exceptions.
Some people will ask "well what about if I can't run without it hurting for the next 4-5 days"?
Then don't run. Hit up pool exercises, swimming if feasible. Test out yoga and opt for alternate poses when difficulty arises. Perform Swiss ball exercises to the reasonable degree of difficulty. Get into resistant band workouts. Experiment with bodyweight exercises and biking. Maybe even elliptical work.
Now why isn't exercise touted as much by doctors? I feel the main reason is that they don't have as much knowledge about its benefits as they do medications and other western treatments. It's natural to strongly advocate what you understand if you feel it is of worth. It's just a shame most physicians don't have a better understanding of the potential of exercise.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Effective Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
To me one of the funniest things about Ankylosing Spondylitis is that most people don't want to know what it is. Even funnier is that those who do know what it is often make their description by pointing out what it isn't. Let me explain.
When I was initially dx'd the doctor gave me a very scientific-sounding explanation and an accompanying handout. It had some basic information on what it was and what to expect.
But more than anything it just told what it wasn't.
For example it did say it was an auto-immune disease. But that it wasn't Crohn's. It wasn't IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). It wasn't fatal, etc. Ironically enough it didn't have much info. on HLA-B27, past medical advice vs. current, or the main ankylosing spondylitis treatment options:
But it would be interesting to know what my reaction would have been had they told me at that time what has proven to be the best medication for me...
EXERCISE!
There are a lot of alternative treatments for ankylosing spondylitis, and yet usually exercise is only mentioned passively as a potential treatment option. Why is that? I have a few theories I'll be discussing in the upcoming days. Until then, make sure you ConquerAS.
When I was initially dx'd the doctor gave me a very scientific-sounding explanation and an accompanying handout. It had some basic information on what it was and what to expect.
But more than anything it just told what it wasn't.
For example it did say it was an auto-immune disease. But that it wasn't Crohn's. It wasn't IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). It wasn't fatal, etc. Ironically enough it didn't have much info. on HLA-B27, past medical advice vs. current, or the main ankylosing spondylitis treatment options:
- NSAIDs Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories Naproxen, Diclofinac, etc.
- DMARDs Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs Methotrexate, Sulfasalazine
- Biologics and TNF Blockers Drugs that inhibit the binding of a specific protein
- Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, and Golimumab
- Steroids Mainly Cortisone
But it would be interesting to know what my reaction would have been had they told me at that time what has proven to be the best medication for me...
EXERCISE!
There are a lot of alternative treatments for ankylosing spondylitis, and yet usually exercise is only mentioned passively as a potential treatment option. Why is that? I have a few theories I'll be discussing in the upcoming days. Until then, make sure you ConquerAS.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Live to be 100
Interesting article pointed out to me today. Some things I found interesting:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23115268/
- Reference to a belief in god/religion making a difference
- Abstaining from alcohol and smoking
But what didnt't surprise me was what they found concerning exercise.
IT WORKS!
Leading an active life is the one faction of everyone's life that can be manipulated for benefits. As for the old adage "It's never to late to to get active?"
Looks like it has some empirical proof after all.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23115268/
Return of the Boozer
Finally! Boozer is back. After reading my frank commentary on his subpar play, he decided to start with the basics.
Rebounding and defense. Just like I talked about. Free throws?
Hey you can only expect so much of a guy who isn't an All-Star. Err....But back to the good stuff.
Boozer jumpstarted himself with some quality defense on Gasol, coming up with a couple deflections which led to steals and slowed the initial Lakers attack enough to keep the Jazz in the game. Not only that, he rebounded with ferocity, rarely allowing himself to be boxed out. After his early free-throw-line jumper it appeared Utah had unwrapped whatever had been covering his confidence.
An impressive 20-20 game was culminated by his play down the stretch. Instead of fading per usual he went to work. With L.A. keying on Williams every pick-and-roll, Boozer came up big hitting a tough fadeaway as the shot clock expired, another jumper, and a tough jump hook in the lane.
When Bryant badly missed a 3 he even did the unthinkable: boxed out!
Of course there were a couple reminders of why he's no Malone: his soft foul on Turiaf and missed free throws at the end. Still, it was encouraging to say the least. With Memo and Millsap both on their games, Utah's frontline is absolutely BEASTLY. Add in Williams' poised play at the point and the Jazz suddenly have a very good chance against any team.
Which Boozer will show up on Sunday? I don't know but I certainly hope it's something worthy of Mothers' Day.
And hits free throws too.
Rebounding and defense. Just like I talked about. Free throws?
Hey you can only expect so much of a guy who isn't an All-Star. Err....But back to the good stuff.
Boozer jumpstarted himself with some quality defense on Gasol, coming up with a couple deflections which led to steals and slowed the initial Lakers attack enough to keep the Jazz in the game. Not only that, he rebounded with ferocity, rarely allowing himself to be boxed out. After his early free-throw-line jumper it appeared Utah had unwrapped whatever had been covering his confidence.
An impressive 20-20 game was culminated by his play down the stretch. Instead of fading per usual he went to work. With L.A. keying on Williams every pick-and-roll, Boozer came up big hitting a tough fadeaway as the shot clock expired, another jumper, and a tough jump hook in the lane.
When Bryant badly missed a 3 he even did the unthinkable: boxed out!
Of course there were a couple reminders of why he's no Malone: his soft foul on Turiaf and missed free throws at the end. Still, it was encouraging to say the least. With Memo and Millsap both on their games, Utah's frontline is absolutely BEASTLY. Add in Williams' poised play at the point and the Jazz suddenly have a very good chance against any team.
Which Boozer will show up on Sunday? I don't know but I certainly hope it's something worthy of Mothers' Day.
And hits free throws too.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Utah Jazz and Boozer the Loser
I thought it was possible for the Jazz to win last night. They had a disappointing game 1 but certainly things couldn't get much worse.
Unfortunately they did. Sort of.
Worse in respect that they lost again to a Lakers juggernaut that is now 6-0 in the playoffs. The results for the last 4 Lakers teams to start the playoffs 6-0?
1 NBA Finals loss and 3 championships.
Needless to say this doesn't bode well for the Jazz. For that matter neither does Carlos Boozer. This is a guy who took the time to record a special TV appearance with a local network and yet somehow hasn't found the time to score above his season average since March.
Sloan's philosophy has always been that if you aren't an offensive threat or are in a slump, there are still 4 things you can do:
1) Play defense.
2) Box out and rebound.
3) Work on your free throws.
4) Play some more/better defense.
It's these keys that kept Jason Hart around for so much of this season even though everyone in the building and his grandma knew he couldn't hit a 12-foot jump shot to save his life. Ronnie Price has since eclipsed him to take the backup job. Why? Because he can now do all 4 of those things better, hit shots and has grasped the offense.
SO WHY HASN'T THIS HAPPENED WITH BOOZER?
Millsap has proved to have im-proved enormously since last season. Last night he only had 5-6 three point play opportunities. He scored 13 in 17 first half minutes and was the only reason Utah didn't trail by over 20 going into the half. He finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Still not good enough to avoid getting subbed out with Jaron Collins in favor of an Okur/Boozer combo down the stretch.
Come on Sloan. Start playing your players based on performance and not salary, media attention, or "All-Star" status.
Unfortunately they did. Sort of.
Worse in respect that they lost again to a Lakers juggernaut that is now 6-0 in the playoffs. The results for the last 4 Lakers teams to start the playoffs 6-0?
1 NBA Finals loss and 3 championships.
Needless to say this doesn't bode well for the Jazz. For that matter neither does Carlos Boozer. This is a guy who took the time to record a special TV appearance with a local network and yet somehow hasn't found the time to score above his season average since March.
Sloan's philosophy has always been that if you aren't an offensive threat or are in a slump, there are still 4 things you can do:
1) Play defense.
2) Box out and rebound.
3) Work on your free throws.
4) Play some more/better defense.
It's these keys that kept Jason Hart around for so much of this season even though everyone in the building and his grandma knew he couldn't hit a 12-foot jump shot to save his life. Ronnie Price has since eclipsed him to take the backup job. Why? Because he can now do all 4 of those things better, hit shots and has grasped the offense.
SO WHY HASN'T THIS HAPPENED WITH BOOZER?
Millsap has proved to have im-proved enormously since last season. Last night he only had 5-6 three point play opportunities. He scored 13 in 17 first half minutes and was the only reason Utah didn't trail by over 20 going into the half. He finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Still not good enough to avoid getting subbed out with Jaron Collins in favor of an Okur/Boozer combo down the stretch.
Come on Sloan. Start playing your players based on performance and not salary, media attention, or "All-Star" status.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Only 1 beast in the East...
It's official: The East is boring and WAY under par. Last night's game between Boston and Cleveland wasn't so much about defense as it was anemic offenses. Ray Allen and Paul Pierce? 4 combined points. 4! And Lebron "King" James couldn't hit a shot to save his life. Or to win the game for that matter. His outside shot is inconsistent and people know that.
BUT that's actually not his biggest problem. If he could consistently finish with his left he wouldn't even have to worry about his shot. Case in point: With the Cavs down 2 Lebron drove to the hoop and had a very makeable layup attempt. But since he was off balance and going to his left he missed trying to finger roll with his right hand. Had he shot it left? Game tied.
Hope my Jazz come out with more intensity tonight. It's important for Okur and Williams to play well, but the wildcard will be whoever Kobe is guarding (probably Brewer). It's important to make him work on the defensive end so he can't just coast.
BUT that's actually not his biggest problem. If he could consistently finish with his left he wouldn't even have to worry about his shot. Case in point: With the Cavs down 2 Lebron drove to the hoop and had a very makeable layup attempt. But since he was off balance and going to his left he missed trying to finger roll with his right hand. Had he shot it left? Game tied.
Hope my Jazz come out with more intensity tonight. It's important for Okur and Williams to play well, but the wildcard will be whoever Kobe is guarding (probably Brewer). It's important to make him work on the defensive end so he can't just coast.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Summer and the NBA Playoffs
School is out! Finally. Plus it looks like the weather has finally begun to listen to me and started warming up. On that note...
The playoffs are in full swing and so far have not disappointed. With the exception of Lakers-Nuggets (also known as Defense-Is-Optional) the first round had some good excitement. I really thought the Mavs would be able to take the Hornets but West and Paul have developed into a very potent 1-2 punch and so far their bench has been adequate. I don't know if they have enough in the tank to take the Conference finals though.
My Jazz made it tough on themselves but managed to finish off Houston. However the chance to sweep or finish them in 5 may come back to haunt them. They looked the older team in Game 1 vs. the Lakers. However, a scheduling quirk giving them an extra days rest before Game 2 could be enough to get them a bit more rejuvinated.
And if T-mac's whining wasn't enough the NBA has now instructed referees to call fouls anytime Kobe Bryant touches the ball. At least that's what it seemed like at times on Sunday according to multiple reports. 23 free throws? That's ridiculous even by Iverson standards. Brant is a physical guy, and to not be able to meet that physicality makes guarding him nearly impossible. I still think he's not as good defensively as he's given credit for so I'd love to see Brewer and co. make him work harder. Could Boozer maybe even play aggresive for a change? Perhaps that's too much to ask.
The playoffs are in full swing and so far have not disappointed. With the exception of Lakers-Nuggets (also known as Defense-Is-Optional) the first round had some good excitement. I really thought the Mavs would be able to take the Hornets but West and Paul have developed into a very potent 1-2 punch and so far their bench has been adequate. I don't know if they have enough in the tank to take the Conference finals though.
My Jazz made it tough on themselves but managed to finish off Houston. However the chance to sweep or finish them in 5 may come back to haunt them. They looked the older team in Game 1 vs. the Lakers. However, a scheduling quirk giving them an extra days rest before Game 2 could be enough to get them a bit more rejuvinated.
And if T-mac's whining wasn't enough the NBA has now instructed referees to call fouls anytime Kobe Bryant touches the ball. At least that's what it seemed like at times on Sunday according to multiple reports. 23 free throws? That's ridiculous even by Iverson standards. Brant is a physical guy, and to not be able to meet that physicality makes guarding him nearly impossible. I still think he's not as good defensively as he's given credit for so I'd love to see Brewer and co. make him work harder. Could Boozer maybe even play aggresive for a change? Perhaps that's too much to ask.
Monday, April 14, 2008
School should be out, my Jazz, and BYU
Not gonna lie, school should probably just be cancelled because it is not my idea of a good time anymore. Guess there's only 2 weeks or so left so after due contemplation I've decided not to withdraw and tough it out ;)
Jazz won, but it doesn't matter as much as the Lakers' victory and Hornets' downswing. I think we have a good chance against the Lakers but it won't be anywhere near the pushover series N.O. would have provided.
Keeping in the sports vein, BYU finished up spring workouts with their annual scrimmage. Starters were held out but that didn't stop D'Luigi(sp?) and a freshman tight end from impressing. Luigi has a good opportunity even though he's behind a formidable stable of backs because he can provide what the others can't: speed and quickness. I predict he'll get about 5 carries/game to keep defenses honest and give them a new look.
Jazz won, but it doesn't matter as much as the Lakers' victory and Hornets' downswing. I think we have a good chance against the Lakers but it won't be anywhere near the pushover series N.O. would have provided.
Keeping in the sports vein, BYU finished up spring workouts with their annual scrimmage. Starters were held out but that didn't stop D'Luigi(sp?) and a freshman tight end from impressing. Luigi has a good opportunity even though he's behind a formidable stable of backs because he can provide what the others can't: speed and quickness. I predict he'll get about 5 carries/game to keep defenses honest and give them a new look.
Friday, April 11, 2008
The Ankylosing Spondylitis Website: Update
I haven't mentioned it much, but I've been working on a website for Ankylosing Spondylitis and exercise. So far I've just use googlepages. The positives are that it's free. The negatives? WAY too many to list...ans it messed up my homepage for the (insert your choice of a positive integer here) time. Based on this and other faactors, I'm going to back what I've done so far on google and go ahead and begin building in earnest with a host. I don't think my time was wasted, however, but I'm not sure there's really much more to gain. I'll keep the updates coming.
The Rewards in Losing
So my Jazz went out and lost last night. Wasn't their greatest game, and they only stayed around because of the quality play of Okur and the Kirilenko. Williams helped out some in the 4th, but Boozer was non-existent and was the reason Novitzki got open.
Anyway, it's certainly unfortunate to lose a close one on the road (97-94) on a last second shot. However, this pretty much ensures the Jazz will finish in the 4th spot. Why is that better than 2 or 3? Because we know we can beat Houston even when they have Yao and homecourt advantage. This year they don't have Yao which will enable Okur to be a factor on offense -a big deal considering his play since the all-star break - and we still have an outside chance of getting homecourt. We play Houston once, so if we win that game and they lose once more the series could feasibly be a sweep...
The Hornets or Nuggets in round 2? Hornets have no bench, and the Nuggets have no D and Carmelo really struggles with Harpring. Pretty funny actually. The path to the conference finals seems about as groomed as it could be.
Anyway, it's certainly unfortunate to lose a close one on the road (97-94) on a last second shot. However, this pretty much ensures the Jazz will finish in the 4th spot. Why is that better than 2 or 3? Because we know we can beat Houston even when they have Yao and homecourt advantage. This year they don't have Yao which will enable Okur to be a factor on offense -a big deal considering his play since the all-star break - and we still have an outside chance of getting homecourt. We play Houston once, so if we win that game and they lose once more the series could feasibly be a sweep...
The Hornets or Nuggets in round 2? Hornets have no bench, and the Nuggets have no D and Carmelo really struggles with Harpring. Pretty funny actually. The path to the conference finals seems about as groomed as it could be.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Jazz keep on tearing it up. With the win over the Hornets they held opponents under 70 points back-to-back for the 1st time in franchise history. The only problem is that with the Spurs losing to the Suns last night and LA square in the mix they might move up to #3 if they keep it up. Ironically that would be worse than ending #4. Why? Because we OWN everyone besides the Spurs and possibly Lakers. Houston or Phoenix in round 1 would be a breeze -especially if we had homecourt advantage - and N.O. or Denver/G.S. would be cake as well. Crazy thinking I know...It will be interesting to see how our recent road success factors in tonight vs. Dallas.
I'm continuing to work on my site for Exercise and Ankylosing Spondylitis, it's coming along. You can check it out at http://unstoppablemurri.googelpages.com Let me know what you think.
I'm continuing to work on my site for Exercise and Ankylosing Spondylitis, it's coming along. You can check it out at http://unstoppablemurri.googelpages.com Let me know what you think.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Monday...
After two convincing wins the Jazz followed it up with a resounding 90-64 walloping of the Spurs. How? DEFENSE. When Boozer and Co. put their minds to it they are a great defensive team. Holding the Spurs to 9 points in the 3rd quarter and a franchise-tying low in total points was a great way to begin the final 6 games.
While I picked UCLA to win it all, I was rooting for Memphis to pull off the "upset. " Well, Rose has become the replacement for Curry as the tourney's most prolific remaining scored. Memphis' fre throws also haven't been the issue they were in the regular season. If they can keep their bigs out of fould trouble they'll win comfortably. Otherwise look for Rose to have to take over to give them a chance. So glad Hansborough and the unending gushing by Dick Vitale are finally over.
Really enjoyed General Conference. In particular Elder Holland's talk was one that i felt did a great job of combining spiritual and academic knowledge into a holistic viewpoint. What's more, he did it assertively wihtout demeaning others' viewpoints.
While I picked UCLA to win it all, I was rooting for Memphis to pull off the "upset. " Well, Rose has become the replacement for Curry as the tourney's most prolific remaining scored. Memphis' fre throws also haven't been the issue they were in the regular season. If they can keep their bigs out of fould trouble they'll win comfortably. Otherwise look for Rose to have to take over to give them a chance. So glad Hansborough and the unending gushing by Dick Vitale are finally over.
Really enjoyed General Conference. In particular Elder Holland's talk was one that i felt did a great job of combining spiritual and academic knowledge into a holistic viewpoint. What's more, he did it assertively wihtout demeaning others' viewpoints.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
I'm really impressed with the way my Jazz have come out in their last 2 games. Granted, they haven't exactly faced stellar competition in Washington and Minnesota(38-37 and 19-55) but the results have still been amazing! They blew out the Timberwolves by 47 points while breaking the franchise record for 3-pointers(previously 14) and then played Minnesota increasingly tough each quarter until the end of the 3rd and 4th quarters was just garbage time.
Why were these games so crucial? A couple reasons:
1. It's the West. Every game counts, as it's possible to be in 1st place and then lose a couple and be out of the playoff picture. The closest race ever, and it really underlines how weak the East is. Boston is the cream of a very withered crop followed by Detroit. The only other team with a chance are the Cavaliers-LeBron is just a beast.
2. The remaining schedule is brutal. With 2 games against San Antonio and the remaining4 split between the Hornets, Nuggets, Houston, and Dallas, the Jazz face probably the most difficult home stretch in history. A win is a win regardless of the competition(or lack thereof).
3. Winning despite injuries. With Kirilenko, Brewer, and Okur all missing time, the Jazz have still stayed atop the Northwest . Wining sans 3 starters? That's some serious depth that will become crucial come playoff time and in the coming 2 weeks. The resurgence of C.J. Miles shooting touch has to be a welcome sight as perimeter shooting and team defense have been the Jazz' two biggest weaknesses this season.
Shout out to Spenser and http://spondyville.com/ Check it out, there are weekly chats as well.
Why were these games so crucial? A couple reasons:
1. It's the West. Every game counts, as it's possible to be in 1st place and then lose a couple and be out of the playoff picture. The closest race ever, and it really underlines how weak the East is. Boston is the cream of a very withered crop followed by Detroit. The only other team with a chance are the Cavaliers-LeBron is just a beast.
2. The remaining schedule is brutal. With 2 games against San Antonio and the remaining4 split between the Hornets, Nuggets, Houston, and Dallas, the Jazz face probably the most difficult home stretch in history. A win is a win regardless of the competition(or lack thereof).
3. Winning despite injuries. With Kirilenko, Brewer, and Okur all missing time, the Jazz have still stayed atop the Northwest . Wining sans 3 starters? That's some serious depth that will become crucial come playoff time and in the coming 2 weeks. The resurgence of C.J. Miles shooting touch has to be a welcome sight as perimeter shooting and team defense have been the Jazz' two biggest weaknesses this season.
Shout out to Spenser and http://spondyville.com/ Check it out, there are weekly chats as well.
Monday, March 31, 2008
NCAA Final Four
I know that #1 seeds are supposed to win, but all four still around? What a shame. My man Curry had three great games and will doubtlessly go down as one of the top scorers in the history of the tourney, he just couldn't put together four in a row(still ended up with 25 pts. but on 9-25 shooting or something like that). It will be interesting to see if he goes pro or not..
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