213 Comments »

1. Sure, I love the fact your team is 0-3….keep it up. Anyone who has watched Dirk, Howard etc; should know nothing has changed. The stars will still get star treatment and spares like Greg Buckner will get the shaft.

   Comment by Scott — November 7, 2006 @ 1:47 pm

2. I like the new arena and decor related rules… not sure I like the new ball, changes are subtle but also create disadvantages
   bobby

   Comment by bobby orbach — November 7, 2006 @ 1:48 pm

3. While I agree that the level of backtalk and complaining was too high before, now it seems that the pendulum has swung much too far in the other direction. Officials seem freer to make bad calls and to throw out players and coaches they don’t like at the drop of a pin. Perhaps that’s a misconception from not being on the floor, but that’s just how it looks to me.

   Comment by Brock Batsell — November 7, 2006 @ 1:49 pm

4. I would guess that at least 30 technical fouls have already been called this season. Players are getting technicals for raising their hands in question after a call has been made, as well as for rolling their eyes and getting frustrated.

   Usually, I’m against complaining and I don’t think players should do it. I am also against fans booing the refs. Even so, this new policy goes too far. It allows the officials to get away with bad calls. It forces players to be emotionless. A lot of times, it is just instinct to raise your arms and question when you get fouled. I think the refs should stop calling so many technicals. They make mistakes sometimes and they need to admit it.

   Comment by Boris G. — November 7, 2006 @ 1:54 pm

5. I love it too. Don’t know about the ball, I checked it at Academy but didn’t buy it. I love too see the refs calling traveling. As a youth coach, it was hard to teach the kid about this rule when almost everybody in the NBA used the extra-step. I love the return of the small ball and the fact that, once again, point guards are so important. I watched few games, including the Mvas, and I got the feeling that the game is faster. Maybe I’m wrong but the NBA is moving into the right direction.

   Comment by William Reymond — November 7, 2006 @ 2:03 pm

6. My favorite is the zero tollerance complaining rule. Second only to the Tim Duncan pardon from said rule.

   I think next year it would be cool to have a new rule that says if Duncan gets the ball, play and the clock are stopped while the ref hands him the old regulation ball and resumes.

   Comment by Ted Forbes — November 7, 2006 @ 2:07 pm

7. I love the fact that, so far, your commentors don’t appear to understand the underlying tone of extremem sarcasm in this post or in your previous interview regarding becoming a changed man. I have applauded your efforts to improve the NBA in the past, and I understand your exasperation at the latest draconian decision-making direction of the league office, but frankly I had found your recent approach of over-the-top biting ironic implication as childish and unnecessary. Given that your readers (and by extension NBA fans in general) don’t even get it, apparently I was wrong.

   Rant on Mr. Cuban…rant on.

   Comment by Josh — November 7, 2006 @ 2:07 pm

8. No complaining and no backtalk is so refreshing and was so necessary that I have already watched more game action then through Thanksgiving last year.

   NBA players complaining and acting like children become the story, instead of the call they are whining about. Similiar to the recent call that cost Edmonton a game tying goal friday night, bad calls in professional sports will be reported on and reviewed in the media. I think this will help the officiating, not hurt it. Once the players adjust, and stop with the antics, the commentators and replay guys will finally show the play over and over and show why the player should be upset. That is what happens in all other sports.

   Comment by Rich Gross — November 7, 2006 @ 2:10 pm

9. I like the new rules. It makes the players more disciplined and the game more enjoyable to watch.

   However, I thought that all players not in uniform (but on the bench) had to be in full suits? I have seen many players this season in a sport jacket and collared shirt, but no tie and they are wearing fashionable blue jeans! To me, this is unacceptable. I do not like the message that it sends.

   With the average NBA salary in the hundreds of thousands, can the players not afford the pants that go with the jacket?

   Comment by Espo — November 7, 2006 @ 2:11 pm

10. Is it just me or do the refs seem to a little late getting to the plays? It could be that NBA has some sort of Nepotisitic system keeping 80 year old men making the calls. Is too much to ask for a ref nimble enough to be in the right place at the right time and not assume there was a foul because they could not eb next to play fast enough?

    Comment by SteveinNC — November 7, 2006 @ 2:13 pm

11. I like the no complaining rule also. While I’m sure the refs will blow a call here & there
    we can’t expect them to be 100% perfect.

    I got so tired of seeing the players whine on every whistle blown against them..
    Even Stu Lantz an ex - player and the Lakers color commentator stated it was out of hand.
    It slowed down the game and made them appear to behave as cry babies..

    Just shut up & let your game do the talking! Same way in the real world..

    Now if they could just do something about the chest beating every time a dunk or blocked shot happens…. I wish I could do that at work!

    Comment by matt — November 7, 2006 @ 2:15 pm

12. Yes, just play basketball! No whining, no complaining, no on-court crazy antics just to improve your “value”. I still prefer watching college ball, but the NBA is at least on the right track.

    Comment by South Bay — November 7, 2006 @ 2:17 pm

13. I love the new format. It reminds me of golf. Lite cheering, little clapping, and just sit and watch. Why get excited?

    David Stern is one of the biggest idiots I have ever seen. He has taken the game of basketball away and turned it into a piss-poor old man’s YMCA league. Why would anyone come to a game? Why would you spend that kind of money on entertainment when you can’t be entertained? I know I won’t.

    Mark, I think you should become the arena announcer down there in Dallas just to tick Stern off or what about becoming a Mavs commentator during the games and saying whatever you want on Sirius or whatever station you want.

    I know you have considered selling the team, but I think making David Stern’s life living hell is much better than selling the team. Keep up your amazing work and being the biggest kick-ass owner in the league. You have taught us more about business than we will ever know. Thanks!

    Comment by AaroninIowa — November 7, 2006 @ 2:25 pm

14. I like the new ball and arena rules but the zero tolerance rule I think has gone too far. I think you should at least be able to make your case if you feel the ref made a mistake. the way the league has it, I guess you can’t show emotion in games? doesn’t make sense. basketball is a game about emotion. now I understand that some players go a little too far, but it doesn’t mean that you should change it for everyone else.

    Comment by Matt Montgomery — November 7, 2006 @ 2:28 pm

15. I love the new NBA. When did grown men suddenly decide that acting like a 4 year old a complaining about everything was an OK way to act? The NBA could get rid of all the “sheed” like players and would do wonders to their image. What you truly have is a bunch of spoiled brats, who get upset when things don’t go their way. I think you should start paying them less as well.

    Comment by Rick Milone — November 7, 2006 @ 2:37 pm

16. Why let the players decide games when the officials can do it for you? Fans love paying hard-earned money to watch their favorite players get thrown out. What could be better for the NBA than that?

    No doubt the Nuggets fans thought it was better to have the refs decide their first game rather than ‘Melo. Ditto the Kings & Bibby.

    The officials have already played a large part in the Pistons two losses. I’m sure Joe D, Flip, ‘Sheed & the rest of the team love the “new NBA”.

    The owners, coaches, players, & most of all fans, need to let David Stern know just how dumb he is!

    Comment by Ashton — November 7, 2006 @ 2:40 pm

17. Long live the “Stern-minator” He is a sports genius or is that a Sports Ghengis…I get them confused. He is, albeit slowly, choking the game of professional basketball. Stern wants to take emotion out of basketball…where does he think the love of the game comes from, whether it is the fans, the players, the coaches or the owners? Sure there needs to be boundaries and the boundaries needed tightening no argument there. Most of us learn about boundaries playing pickup ball as kids and all through organized sports. We also learned that it is not right to think; “if you don’t play my way, by my rules I’ll take my new synthetic ball and send you home!!!

    Boundaries, not walls!! It’s seems the Sternline Wall is being Built…edict by edict, fine by fine, suspension by suspension, flagrant 2 foul by flagrant 2 foul, ejection by ejection…didn’t we battle communism and tear a similar wall down 16 years ago??? Refs are human, fallible and subject to anger but also they are selected, trained and PAID to be impartial unlike the players, coaches and fans. We do not have to be impartial, but we should be fair. And to be fair, 3 games into the regular season and already I have seen too many bad calls, no calls, quick T’s, quick whistles, it borders on comical. They are not just against the MAVS although they do seem to be a favorite of the refs…I suppose they are just making their (his) point? I really don’t blame the refs; I am sure they are “interpreting” what they have been told their job is and “how” to do it.

    Wow, just think if the President of the United States had that much unilateral power??…We would all be better off, no matter whom the President is??? There would be no war in Iraq, no unemployment, FEMA would be the best Emergency Response Team in the world… we wouldn’t need to vote today…From the mind of the Stern-minator, “Congress smongrish I know best and I know what is right for everyone!!!!” Let’s plan on a write in campaign next year…David Stern for President…That would solve all our problems!!

    PS..Why don’t you consider becoming an assistant coach??….last time I checked they can be part of the team huddle during the game…but then maybe that will change also Sorry for the rant. but I feel better.

    Comment by tomindallas — November 7, 2006 @ 2:43 pm

18. I get so excited each morning when I check to the papers to see what refs are coming to town. I will go down to their hotel and just hang out hoping to get a glimpse of the stars of the NBA. If i’m lucky I may get to see a reverse-spin technical foul call. That would be freakin’ sweet.

    Comment by OneEye — November 7, 2006 @ 2:53 pm

19. Kepp everything positive Mark! Continue to make your tea,m sucessful in any way possible. Your purpose is to be GS, not Nellie. He is a great mind of basketball and no one can take that away from him so focus on what you have put together!
    A.J.GUyton

    P.S. Fellow Hoosiers are proud of you!

    Comment by A.J.Guyton — November 7, 2006 @ 2:56 pm

20. Thank you for trying to keep the NBA honest.

    Comment by Kevin — November 7, 2006 @ 2:59 pm

21. all these rules are ridiculous. these are grown men, not 20 year old freshman. the next rule from DSU (david stern university) will should be players cannot drink alcohol, talk to agents, or drive pimped out rides.

    Comment by winash — November 7, 2006 @ 2:59 pm

22. I do get what you were going after, but I for one like it.

    I pay good money to come see good basketball play, all the other junk is just a distraction, including over exuberant PA announcers, guys running around trying to jack up the crowd etc… all of this is just One BIG Distraction.

    Believe me the problem with the Mavs is not the new rules, it is that we have nothing but soft guys that won’t take it to the hole and choose to shoot clankers off the front iron. There was a stretch last night that I thought they were going to have to stop the game and replace the rim because so many shots clanged off the front iron.

    I like the new rules and also a crack down on players, coaches and owners complaining every little call. The crack down on traveling, palming the ball, and 3 seconds are all good.

    Avery did get the hook too quick last night, if you are going to get tossed the refs need to at least let you get your money’s worth.

    I have own the new ball for over a month and I and my players on our team like it also. I consider it just excuses, The Jazz, 76′ers and all the others that are winning right now don’t seem to let it bother them.

    It is gut check time and time for these guys to look in the mirror and will them self a win or they will be 0-6 before this week is out.

    Comment by stacey — November 7, 2006 @ 3:01 pm

23. If Nash doesn’t like the ball, I don’t like the new ball. In all serious though, the ball makes no difference. I think the changes are going to be for the better, but so far this season they have really slowed the game down. There have been way too many technicals on calls argued (I understand that it is the new rule, but until players realize no means no, its rather annoying). Officials shouldn’t be given so much freedom. I also don’t understand the circumstances in which carrying and traveling are called. It’s as if it is ok to call that crap at the beginning of the game, but they don’t want to mess up the end of the game. The NBA will be extremely exciting next year because of the changes, but also because it’s scary to think how good the Suns are going to be next year with all those first round draft picks (which they might actually use for the first time in what 4 years?).

    Comment by Andrew Brooks — November 7, 2006 @ 3:03 pm

24. The first change that makes no sense to me is why change the basic piece of equipment in the game…what was wrong with the old ball? It seemed to work fine but like everything else I guess the players will adapt, just seems stupid.
    After 3 games of basketball I have zero tolerance for the zero tolerance edict-rule. I agree that players reactions needed to be tempered in many instances…but you can not stop natural reactions like looking at the ref and asking “what did I do?”. The referee is now deciding the game, they have made it pointless to watch because you know the most talented and savvy team won’t necessarily win. And how can this edict be taken seriously when it is not applied equally to all players/coaches on all teams?
    Good Luck with team and don’t let up the NBA powers that be.

    Comment by Oliver — November 7, 2006 @ 3:06 pm

25. Honestly, I’d like to say I hate the changes. I’d like to side with you and say David Stern is an ass, and completely out of touch with what the fans want. But, I actually really like the players’ on-court behavior now, compared to in previous years. They seem slightly less like whiny spoiled rich kids, and more like competitors trying anything to win. Sorry Mark. I really like the new rule change.
    As for the new ball…I don’t really care. I don’t play with it. I didn’t really care when the old one was wet and sweaty, as long as Nash could still make crisp passes up court, and start the offense. I never saw it as a problem, and I don’t see the new one as a problem either.
    Again, where a player can change his uniform doesn’t make one bit of difference to me. Why should it? I’d rather the players be happy about their working environment, and I’m sure they still are. This may be an issue with the players, more than an issue that the fans will care about.
    Sorry for not seeing your side of this, but I’m a fan, not a player. See ya at the next Suns!

    Comment by Ben — November 7, 2006 @ 3:07 pm

26. I’m less than thrilled. I mean, if players can’t object to bad calls, who can? Just who are refs accountable to? If I made half the number of mistakes at my job that they make on the court, I’d hear about it from somebody. And also, why can refs snap and snarl at the fans? On opening night at the Target Center, Wolves fans were yelling, “Three seconds! Three seconds!” and Crawford (the bald one) turned around and hissed at the crowd to shut up. So refs can complain, but nobody else can? Doesn’t seem right.

    Comment by Suzi — November 7, 2006 @ 3:12 pm

27. I am fine with the new increase in technical fouls being called on players for backtalking under one condition: the NBA holds the officials accountable for thier calls. Maybe not in a nagetive way, but even rewarding the officials who call good games. This could tie directly into Cuban’s ranting last year about how the NBA selected thier officials for the playoffs - and got fined for it.

    If you stop all complaining, then there is no check to terrible officiating. No official likes being screamed at, but sometimes, they need it to straighten them up.

    Comment by Kip Nickell — November 7, 2006 @ 3:15 pm

28. I have no issue with the new rule regarding complaining to the referee’s especially when inappropriate language comes into play. What I do find difficult to swallow is the NBA’s quest to control human emotion. These players are passionate and should be allowed to express emotions in a reasonable fashion. And the two techs on Avery last night? I admit he deserved the first one, but the second one so quickly and the ejection….ridiculous!!! Oh yeah and Mark…you’ve been a good boy (so far, haha).

    Comment by Carol Beggs — November 7, 2006 @ 3:20 pm

29. Mark Cuban should put whistle around his neck, name himself an assistant couch and stand in all the huddles he wants.

    Comment by Ronnie Nall — November 7, 2006 @ 3:32 pm

30. skewing the data a little?

    Comment by PRoales — November 7, 2006 @ 3:37 pm

31. I guess the NBA is socialist now. Next thing, they’ll be picking the NBA owners, approving ad campaigns, restricting music on players’ ipods, limiting the number of coaches a team can have, approving jersey + logo designs, restricting players’ choice of shoe sponsors, etc. What’s the point of having a franchise? They might as well own every team.

    Comment by Preston — November 7, 2006 @ 3:41 pm

32. The NBA sells stars. If stars complain, they get kicked out of the game. The biggest loser? Fans who pay to see the game - which includes complaining to refs and encouraging the crowd to follow his lead.

    Why attach a half ejection (technical foul) to such an subjective thing as “if he’s complaining, T him up”? The rules aren’t quite clear as to what constitutes complaining. Shake your head after a non-call? T him up. Stare at the ref? T him up. Look frustrated after a called foul? T him up. Where does this stop?

    Solution: don’t issue Ts. Note the complaining (in any form) and review it after the game. Fine $5,000 per offense at the leagues’ discretion. Therefore, Sheed can complain all he wants, still play, and potentially generate more income for the league. Of course, a line has to drawn. Physical contact, verbal abuse, etc can still be T-ed.

    Comment by Eric Lam — November 7, 2006 @ 3:47 pm

33. I love it! I’ve been going to games since 1987 and back in those days, players didn’t bitch after every call, like they have been doing the past 5 years.
    Bravo to David Stern for putting this in place. Although, I’m a Piston fan, I was tired of seeing Rasheed get so upset after every foul against him.

    Although, if Bill Laimbeer was still in the league, I would probably be against this rule because he made the best faces when he thought he was wronged.

    Comment by Jason — November 7, 2006 @ 3:48 pm

34. I can’t believe you’re a Stern disciple .. your report on the ball makes me gag and I can’t believe that the top tier of the world bball talent didn’t get sufficient input about the change.

    The games, however are well worth watching, some of the rules have had a positive impact, as does the normal “extra focus” for early season calls, but its the trade backstories I wish we would hear more about.

    Lastly I do have a complaint, some teams have taken to standing until their team scores, or sometimes for a whole quarter .. nice that they’re showing team support .. horrid for the folks in the first 5 rows or so, who even, if standing have no chance at seeing over/through a bunch of 6′8″ bench stiffs. Not only that, when they crowd around the corner (and intimidate the play) you can’t even see what happened even on the screens. I’ve heard the crowd ask, then yell, its only a matter of time till they start throwing things at them to get them to sit down .. the players are acting as if they’re the only ones in the arena.

    Comment by sdy — November 7, 2006 @ 3:49 pm

35. Check the transcript from the D.Patrick show on Monday. Reggie Miller said it best. The new rules are taking the passion out of the game. If you take out the passion it becomes work. I don’t want to watch a boring, no-emotion, dead-silent basketball game.

    Avery was tossed because of Terrell Owens’ TD celebration on Sunday…zero tolerance right?

    On a sidenote, Chris Arnold is the most obnoxious person in the building.

    Comment by Index! — November 7, 2006 @ 3:52 pm

36. I actually like the no complaining rule, but I think it’s a bit extreme to call it a technical and throw players out after two in a game. Like others have said, if I go to a game I don’t want to see it decided by a ref. It should be just a free throw for each infraction. It would be pure comedy to see Rasheed Wallace give the other team 12 extra free throws in a game (and the Pistons lose by 1) on one of his particularly moody nights. Think of the play that would generate on SportsCenter!

    The other rules I don’t care for. I think the ownership code of conduct was petty, and controlling how arenas are run shouldn’t be under league jurisdiction. It seems the other owners are looking for more regulation to the point where ownership ceases to be a point of differentiation. Your purchase of the Mavs has proven that ownership does make a difference - and the people of Milwaukee, Golden State, Atlanta, Toronto, etc. have to be wondering that if Dallas can go from the bottom to the (near) top, why can’t they? And that makes their ownership look bad. And your colleagues certainly don’t want to look bad.

    Love the sarcasm, but you’ve made your point. I long for the old posts that were strictly about the Mavs. Please don’t sell, just keep finding ways to get your team an advantage. Having Stern (who is still a great commissioner - can you imagine working with Selig?!?!?) hand you the Larry O’Brien trophy will be the best way to extract your revenge.

    Comment by David — November 7, 2006 @ 3:53 pm

37. Rules only work if they’re fair and balanced. And they’re not - d-wade gets all the calls; sheed can’t put his arms in the air (but Luol deng can - watch last nights mil-chi game); and defense has been banned (unless you are considered a “defender”; ie bowen).

    I do think that players complained WAY TOO MUCH in recent seasons - to the point where a foul was obviously committed, but they’d whine anyways to hopefully affect future calls. Players should be able to show emotion, but without crossing the line (which sheed did far too much).

    Comment by Chris — November 7, 2006 @ 4:05 pm

38. Let’s just eliminate all identity from the game. The players can wear full head hoods so that they can’t be recognized, remove the numbers and names from the jerseys and just force them to run up and down the court playing offense and defense. No fist pumps, no high fives, no team enthusiasm.

    When you’re taken out of the game, promptly return to your seat and sit arms crossed until you’re asked to return. Once the game is over, exit immediately. It’s like the basketball utopia!

    Oh, one last rule, if a crowd cheers or boos it’s an automatic technical on the home team. Can’t have people enjoy the game. They should just pay and sit there.

    Comment by Troy — November 7, 2006 @ 4:20 pm

39. It’s one thing to make a rule against complaining, I can understand not wanting a player tittybabying it up to the refs for this or that, although no matter which team you support, ya know those questionable plays have raised your blood pressure a time or two. To throw players (and coaches) out for the slightest show of emotion is too much. Emotion is what makes this game so exciting and fun to watch. When I heard about this rule, I thought it could be alright so long as they didn’t take it too far; well there goes that good idea. They have given too much power to men that had enough power already. I don’t turn on the game, and sure as hell won’t buy tickets to see what the refs are going to do this time, who’s going to get ejected or see what power suits the players are going to wear (who really cares if they got a pair of jeans on, give me a break). I want to watch the team go out and play with heart and emotion. Isn’t that what it is suppose to be about?

    Comment by jessica — November 7, 2006 @ 4:22 pm

40. Do I like watching basketball? Yes. Do I like the passion it brings out of players? Of course. Do I like the new rules that put the muzzle on players? The jury is out.

    Obviously I don’t like the muzzle that’s placed on owners, as it makes your blog so damn boring, Mark. And I know my favorite basketball player (KG) is probably going to be on the wrong side of these new rules more often than not. But he’s one of those guys that gets fired up and uses his energy to motivate teammates. He’s talking, animated, and breathes life into the game each minute he is on the court.

    Unfortunately, there are 9 other guys on the court with KG at any given moment. And wouldn’t you know it, but there’s always the one or two guys that are just hanging off the ref the entire game. Now, no human is infallible, but wouldn’t you agree that that sort of behavior can influence calls? I certainly think so. Referees should not be intimidated by anyone and are supposed to be impartial, so why not shield them?

    Yes, I am playing devil’s advocate a little, and I’d love to write more, but I’d like to hear what you all think.

    Comment by antonymous — November 7, 2006 @ 4:24 pm

41. Having been a Mav’s fan since 1981 i have seen many changes.This year “Take the CAKE”. I agree with the players not allowed to questionthe officals calls,but it should be every player. Tim Duncan still question every call,and still gets away with it.

    Comment by Jerry Brown — November 7, 2006 @ 4:29 pm

42. sdy wrote:
    “Lastly I do have a complaint, some teams have taken to standing until their team scores, or sometimes for a whole quarter .. nice that they’re showing team support .. horrid for the folks in the first 5 rows or so, who even, if standing have no chance at seeing over/through a bunch of 6′8″ bench stiffs.”

    This sounds like a great opportunity for a new rule:

    All players must sit unless they are playing or preparing to play.

    This rule will help eliminate unnecessary outbursts of emotion, but is especially important because it only benefits (arguably) the richest 1% of attendees to a game (that is - those who can afford to sit in the first 5 rows).

    Comment by Steve — November 7, 2006 @ 4:34 pm

43. Mr. Cuban, you are awesome.

    Comment by superdave — November 7, 2006 @ 4:44 pm

44. Great comments, I couldn’t agree more.

    Comment by Hollis — November 7, 2006 @ 4:48 pm

45. I’m sure the changes make for a better game… but after the phantom fouls in the last two rounds of the playoffs last year, I can’t get back into watching the NBA. I’m going to need to see a fairly-called playoffs next year to spend my time and money on the sport.

    Comment by Mike — November 7, 2006 @ 4:54 pm

46. Which has been worse this year: the new ball, or the Zero-Tolerance Technical foul rule?

    For those who’d like to sign the petition:
    http://www.need4sheed.com/savesheed.html

    Comment by AJL — November 7, 2006 @ 4:59 pm

47. RU KIDDING!!!
    The NBA is wonderful now! The players now must act like the good, wholesome suburban men they all have been raised to be. No messy collars, NO vulgar language, and freedom of speech be damned, no complaining to their superiors or saying something bad about the almighty one(because that would be treason). The owners MUST now be the calm, well manured aristocrats they are and not act like the low class proletariats that are wallowing around the arena (why are they there anyway). This is a gentleman’s game now, and its a good thing too, the old NBA was getting out of hand, with its connecting with those “fans” and all.

    Glory be to Stern!!!

    Comment by Alex, 17, Dallas — November 7, 2006 @ 5:04 pm

48. I would say that I like the changes, but it’s apparent that David Stern sent a memo to the refs with an “exception” list. Tim Duncan is exempt on ANY court from the rules, as is ANYONE who plays at the AAC. I’m sure Avery deserved the T’s last night because he was arguing with the RIDICULOUS calls being made against the Mavs. The media continuously screams for the Mavs to “take the ball to the rack”, and they too will get the calls that everyone else seems to get. Well, there was an attempt by the Mavs to do that last night with ABSOLUTELY ZERO fouls being called when the Mavs drove to the rack and were obviously fouled.
    So…the rules suck, just like Stern.

    Comment by BTwice — November 7, 2006 @ 5:05 pm

49. While we are changing things…how about stopping the blaring music during play???

    At other sporting events (NHL, NFL) when the play starts the music stops…

    Comment by Jim — November 7, 2006 @ 5:20 pm

50. II think it is horribly unfair to have so many new rules at the beginning of the season and not give anyone a grace period to get used to them.

    Also, I don’t know if this one slipped off the radar or not but Stern also instated rules about layers of shorts the guys can have on under their uniform shorts as well as not having their wrist sweatband pushed up to the elbow. There was also one about tattoos but I won’t get into that since the country is still mixed on their opinions on body decorations.

    For me, the icing was when they owners had rules put on them too. What’s next? Is Stern going to make rules about the diameter of shoelaces the guys can have in their shoes?

    Comment by Rebeccalee Coventry — November 7, 2006 @ 5:20 pm

51. I don’t think it’s ever good to give Officials more leverage on “judgement calls”. This pertains not just to the NBA, but the NFL also.

    Comment by The Pimpmeister — November 7, 2006 @ 5:28 pm

52. I think the NBA has gone to extremes on some things. They should at least give a player one warning before issuing a T, the refs are just going crazy now. As far as the ball, if it ain’t broke then don’t fix it, Stern is trying to whore out too many things. I don’t see how watching teams turnover the ball more as a good thing. I agree with the arena sound system, if the crowd is going to be a factor it’s one thing but the arena sound system should never be the 7th man so to speak. The Refs do need to be more consistent calling travels/palming, seems stars like Lebron still get to do whatever they want without a call.

    Comment by Double D — November 7, 2006 @ 5:33 pm

53. After the debacle the refs made of the Finals last year, I swore off NBA basketball. I forgot my pledge, however, until I started seeing the ridiculous Ts the refs are handing out this year. Sheed’s T cost the Pistons the game for an act that Wade & Duncan get away with nightly. It’s not right and I’m not watching.

    Comment by Larry — November 7, 2006 @ 5:35 pm

54. Hi Mark,
    I am really confused this year. I DON’T sense the aura and excitement that was felt last year. It almost seems like the Mavs players have given up on this season. Did Jason Terry and Stackhousework on their games in the offseason, cuz they both look terrible. Mavs are 0-7 since last year’s debacle. I don’t wan’t to believe this, but PLEASE tell me that things are going to be okay for MAVs fans because this is the first time I have experienced this with the New Look Mavs. Going 0-3 is not good, and it seems that the schedule doesn’t seem to friendly. The emotions that a Mavs fan goes through can be pretty tense, and I feel alot of tension right now. I DON’T know why, but I am worried. Worried about Avery keeping his composure, and not losing it. The players need a real kick in the ASS if you know what I mean. I mean, you dish out all these millions for these guys, and this is what the fans get? That game the other nite against Golden State. I think the league has finally caught up to you guys, and you better think of a new game plan real quick because there are alot of INPATIENT MAVS fans. Especially knowing how close we came last year. Unacceptable in my book.

    Comment by raf — November 7, 2006 @ 5:39 pm

55. The new NBA is a joke. What is the Stern’s ultimate goal? What is he really trying to accomplish by this? Yes, we can all admit that there were a few problems with the NBA of the past. But Stern’s solution is to use an atomic bomb to kill an ant hill. Star players getting kicked out, coaches being thrown out for thinking mean thoughts about the ref, late calls, etc. Its ridiculous! Keep up the bad work Mr. Stern.

    P.S. Is there any way to impeach Stern or can we expect to be stuck with him until he dies/retires?

    Comment by Gerrell — November 7, 2006 @ 5:44 pm

56. I’ll hit these one at a time, but as I write about them I wonder how much of these moves are motivated toward the international audience and game? I wonder if Stern, whose reputation was built on the growth of the NBA, is starting to wonder about how his legacy will be impacted if the US keeps going to international tournaments and getting bounced by teams with “better fundamentals” and “team play.” Is he, on the one hand, trying to move the NBA’s rules and regulations closer to FIBAs, and on the other attempting to recast NBA players in the stereotypical international (ie, European) mode by squashing individual personality into the formulaic team mold.

    1) The new ball - On this one, I’m with the players. I want the players to play with a ball they feel comfortable with, whether it’s old ball or new ball. I heard one player on the radio a few weeks back (I can’t remember who; it might’ve been Nash) saying that while there was some irregularities with the leather ball, players felt comfortable with that spectrum of difference and only time will tell if they feel comfortable with the new ball. What gets me is that I’m just not 100% why this move was made? Was it an attempt t get inline with the ever-increasingly important international game? FIBA’s website has a ton of approved balls and there doesn’t seem to be a problem with leather balls but I’d be interested in knowing what they use in international events and whether this move by Stern has anything to do with that.

    2) The warmups rule - Ridiculous new rule. It seems like a classic political 1-2 move where you throw out something you don’t care about along with something else that you’re really interested in (in this case, the no-complaining rule). The pol can then pull back the item he doesn’t care as much about and claim that he makes compromises.

    3) The No Complaining Rule - I’ll admit it, I like the spirit of this rule much more than I like the application of the rule by the refs. NBA players have become too much like the Bush Administration - they never admit when they make a mistake. Even more, it’s like the idea of them making a mistake and committing a foul is, in and of itself, completely preposterous. Watching Rasheed or Antoine berate the official every … single … time is just too much. I’m a Celtics fan and while I defended Toine for much of his tenure the one thing I never defended him on was the complaining to the officials. I never thought that set a good tone for the younger players, and it does hurt the viewing experience at home - when I go down to Indy to watch the Pacers it doesn’t bother me nearly as much as it does from home when you get close-ups and replays.

    But the application of the rule has been far too draconian. There’s got to be some leeway; players have to have an ability to question the officials. Taking that away from the players allows for a system where the refs are, literally, never wrong because no one gets to question it. But the NBA players as a whole have to acknowledge there is a problem with their general behavior towards officials when they question calls - the NBA had started to look too much like world soccer, where players do everything but physically punch officials when they disagree with an official’s bad/”bad” call and not enough like baseball or football, where you have the infrequent meltdown and the frequent controlled (if angry) exchanges. If a player puts his hands down and says, “That’s crap. You blew it, I didn’t touch him” that’s fine, but when they throw their hands around and run after the official and incite the crowd … that’s too much. Maybe the NBA should institute an MLB-type move - in MLB you can’t question balls and strikes or you’re gone. Maybe the NBA could install a similar rule, like not letting you question, I don’t know, foul calls in the paint.

    Or maybe that’s just dumb. But the players do have to tone it down and the refs do have to lighten up.

    Comment by Bousquet — November 7, 2006 @ 6:03 pm

57. The most interesting new trend is the ammount of teams trying to “go small.” New rules, European players, and the simple lack of quality big men available have all contributed to this. IMO this makes for a much more exciting game to watch!
    As far as the ref’s calling more techs, it was long over-due. The refs already hear enough from fans (and owners), which is the way it should be.

    Comment by Jason M — November 7, 2006 @ 6:27 pm

58. While trying to change the image of the NBA for the betterment of corporate sponsors (which is probably a good thing as a commissioner) the rule about “whining” is ridiculous. As a former collegiate athlete, I know emotion is involved in almost every second of a game. Let them play, and starts letting the talent (players) decide the contest, not the refs.

    Comment by jd — November 7, 2006 @ 6:31 pm

59. Apparently your wink and smile were lost in the (e)mail…

    I’ve been an NBA fan since I was a child. My dad took me to a Mavs game and I fell in love from right there in the cheap seats. I loved the Mavs when they were good. I loved them when they were bad. I of course joined the MJ bandwagon, not even noticing the rule changes that David made to accommodate the isolation style that Phil Jackson ran. After MJ I started watching the ascent of the Mavs. Now that the league was about teams instead about a player, though, I started to notice how Stern changes the rules to suit his tastes. The changes seem to have become audacious in the last few years…to the point of changing perimeter defense rules so good players would have MJ-like numbers. Kobe’s 81 was out of sight…but it will always have and asterisk: * Occurred during the period when defenders couldn’t touch perimeter players. * The NBA seems to now be aging with David. While the rest of the nation is relaxing dress codes (I’m a sales director with 25 reports…I wear jeans), the NBA threw suits onto their athletes. Now with these newest changes, plus the muzzle they’ve put on you…it’s getting to be a bit much for me. I have to admit that I haven’t watched a game this season.

    Mark, THANK YOU for being who you are. THANK YOU for being the flavor of the NBA. Keep up the great work.

    Comment by Joel Shoemake — November 7, 2006 @ 6:35 pm

60. Mark, You are a smart guy. Do you really care about the customer, in this case the fan. Do you really want to improve/fix the game for the consumer. Here’s a suggestion for a “Maverick” like you who has the resources and clout to pull it off. Start a FAN UNION. The reality of profesional basketball and professional sports in general is it will never be consumer/fan oriented until the fan is truly represented at the bargaining table. Players have there Union, management there representation. It’s the fan that always gets screwed when players and teams want more, more, more… I’ve pretty much tuned out of sports as I’ve gotten older (40 now) and become dissilusioned with the whole thinG. One day some Maverick, with enough clout and resources will come along and say this is riduclous, I’m gonna step up for the the most important party in professional sports - the Fan. If someone can truly organize even 10-15% of the fan base to act collectively they will change the face of profesional sports forever. Are you a Maverick? Do you truly care about the customer / the fan? Do you believe in a system where all sides are truly represented? Do you believe in checks and balances to keep all parties in line? If so now’s your chance to have a bigger impact on professional sports than you ever could as simply a basketball franchise owner. Oh and if you do get this started give me a holler, I’ll be the first to join!

    John

    Comment by John — November 7, 2006 @ 6:41 pm

61. I have the same complaint with the ‘new’ NBA that I had with the old NBA: selective enforcement of the rules. If you’re a star (see Duncan for example) you can act up after a call FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME and not get a technical. If you’re a ‘little fish’ (see Diop) and you get a T for jumping after a bad call. I know it takes some time for the officials to get back into the game as well but there have been some horrendously blown calls in games I’ve watched (and not just Mavs games) and not getting to complain makes it worse.
    Is there some way I can support the Mavs (gear, games, etc.) that helps the team but with minimal support for the league? I want to send a strong message of dissatisfaction. I try to be open-minded and I’m willing to admit when calls against the Mavs get missed but it seems there’s specific bias against some teams and certain players. There always has been but it seems worse this year.

    Comment by Joe Schneider — November 7, 2006 @ 6:41 pm

62. As a G.S. Warriors fan, I’m curious what you think accounts for my generally dreadful team’s ability to beat the Mavs over the past year or so. The Mavs are one of the best in the league, and the Warriors are consistently dreadful (for instance, they made the Lakers’ Ronny Turiaf look like the second coming of Karl Malone on opening night). Is this just a fluke? Or is it a function of the Warriors being able to play up-tempo ball comparatively well?

    Comment by Andrew — November 7, 2006 @ 6:53 pm

63. mark, you want the best product for the customers. the star players make the product, any you want them to be healthy as much as you. sure, injury is part of the game, but should not be caused by intentional, and dangerous moves. i’m talking about bruce bowen of the spurs. his best defense is to stuck his foot under the guy in the air, and when the guy landed on his foot, you know what happened, a sprain ankle. this is bruce livehood for a long time. he did to vince cater twice, once vince was out for 30 some games, the second time, vince punched him and got a suspension. a couple games before, he did it to josh howard, josh punched him and got suspended. he was eventually out after another sprain. yesterday, he did it to steve francis, and steve is now out indefinitely. sure he guarded dirk, and dirk was not hurt, but, don’t tell me dirk was not look out for him. intimidation works better, but you can’t blame the player to be afaird of careen ending or altering injuries. can you imagine somebody, you or I can do it, stuch a foot under tim duncan? this is too tempt not to imitate, this is exactly what happened to NHL, when it becomes goons play goons, what kind od product would you be selling? commissioner, are you there, take a look at the films, talk to vince, etc, stop the attrition now.

    Comment by just a fan — November 7, 2006 @ 6:57 pm

64. I can live without the new ball and the rules about warmups. Sound levels? Who cares?

    But the “no whining” rule? Brilliant. It’s about time NBA players stopped acting like 3 year old kids (and badly behaved kids at that - my daughter was never that pathetic…).

    Comment by Rob McDonagh — November 7, 2006 @ 7:04 pm

65. Tim Duncan’s face is more annoying than Christmas commercials the day after Halloween. I’m glad Tim (Bitter Bobby) Duncan has to quit whining and just play basketball. But is there seriously a rule that the PA and music can’t be too loud, cause that is the problem with the “new” fans and I guess the “new NBA”, they don’t make enough noise.

    Did you know that if you contest a call at the Rec people will call you Tim Duncan everytime they see you (office, rec, grocery store)

    Comment by Kyle — November 7, 2006 @ 7:05 pm

66. Clad in the cloak of entitlement, Stern claws his new ball with skeletal dactility. As smarmy smirk lines of his weathered vinyl face spew forth the lunatic ravings of a marked dictator, the aristocrats of the Association harumph while they jockey for their share of the sullied carcasses beneath Stern’s cloven feet.

    The only solace the detractors may take is the comfort of awareness that the shelf life of his Commission is in it’s twilight. The Devil will take what is due at the time of her choosing — assured to be something to do with the details.

    Don’t worry MFFLs - It’s just the final throws of a few dead-enders.

    Comment by saM FFL — November 7, 2006 @ 7:34 pm

67. I love the new no-bitchen rule. If you fouled that big 7′10″ man, be happy he doesnt crush you under his thumb nail. It is what it is! I hate the new ball, oh-well.
    Since your boys will be in Portland on Sunday, if you fly in early, come check us out @ Digitaltrends.com!

    Comment by Matt A. — November 7, 2006 @ 7:34 pm

68. I lost interest in the NBA when Larry Bord retired. I’m an ex-high school player and ex-high school coach. The NBA game is no longer interesting to me as a sports fan. I took my 13 year old son to an exhibition game two weeks ago. It was horrendous. Not one outlet pass. No ball movement. Just isolation plays and drive-and-dish offense.

    One day we’ll look back and realize that David Stern killed the game of basketball in the U.S.

    Sell now, Mark. Try baseball. It’s a game with a much better demographic.

    Comment by Doug — November 7, 2006 @ 7:55 pm

69. I get the sarcasm Cuban, though as one I was confused at first reading several posts that didn’t seem to recognize it.

    The complaining rule is stupid and picks on role players. I am for technicals when Tim Duncan or somebody is in a ref’s face whining ab a call but not when Diop or somebody makes a face immediately after a call. That’s just silly. The finals did beat me when they became a free-throw competition and now this will make it even more boring. Go Mavs!

    Comment by Jay Callicott — November 7, 2006 @ 8:12 pm

70. Hey, Mark you should seriously change your last name to Smith not cuban because your giving us Cuban a bad name.

    Comment by Alex — November 7, 2006 @ 8:27 pm

71. All will be fine as soon as the Mavs start winning again!

    I guess the MAVS are easing into the season to build some drama. After all they don’t want to peak to early, right?

    Comment by Antonio Howell — November 7, 2006 @ 8:28 pm

72. The new rules are slowly clamping down on the whole individuality aspect of the game. On the issue of noise in stadiums, if someone doesn’t like loud noises, don’t go to the games. That is the whole point of going to the games; to be LOUD, ROUDY, and PROUD!! GO MAVS!!

    Comment by Alexi — November 7, 2006 @ 9:05 pm

73. Been reading for a while, first time I felt I needed to comment.

    I like the traveling, palming, 3 seconds enforcement and related stuff.

    I can see why they wanted a new ball, but what a crappy job of qualifying it! Who did they ask about this? Not the key players, not a physics study, not the owners. Maybe they asked the guys who are selling it, or Stern’s kids? Also, why not decide between a few designs? This was not treated like the big decision it is.

    The “backtalk rule” is just stupid. Again, good intentions, bad execution. That’s just what we needed, another subjective rule that these cranky old officials can unevenly enforce, along with less accountability. IMO, games decided by bad, subjective officiating is the biggest problem in the NBA, and they found a way to expand it. Can’t wait for the playoffs this year.

    The restriction on the owners involvement is also ridiculous. Though I am a Lakers fan and local, I completely respect what Mark has done for his team and the league. I know most fans wish their team’s owners had as much enthusiasm and involvement.

    To sum it up, Stern and company are completely out of control. He has become a running joke, just listen to the radio here in LA.

    Comment by shonenfan — November 7, 2006 @ 9:05 pm

74. I love the quick trigger given to the Refs. I can’t wait to see some of these “babies” get T’s and kicked out of the game for crying. As far as the ball, I need to feel it and play with it in order to agree with the change or not.

    Thanks for reading.

    Comment by Browie.com — November 7, 2006 @ 9:07 pm

75. I’m excited about the changes. I’m glad the refs can make quick decisions. I hate those babies that complain all the time. I need to play with the ball myself to see if I like it or not.

    Comment by Browie.com — November 7, 2006 @ 9:26 pm

76. The new NBA is a disappointment! I hate the new ball, it seems to be rubber like when it hits the rim and rattles out. Stern has taken the feel out of the game and the emotion. It has taken a step back this year. Bring back the leather and the Stockton, Ainge, and Barkley type players who show passion and desire to win. Everything Stern does for the league seems to be in the best interest of his wallet, not the GAME! Its a fucking game! Can we play a hard fought game in this country anymore? Lawyers SUCK! Stern SUCKS! If someone doesn’t put a leash on this guy he will ruin the NBA! Never fear, the game will live on! Maybe another league will come along and de-throne Stern’s NBA!!

    Comment by jeff gilleland — November 7, 2006 @ 9:52 pm

77. I hate the new rules.
    I hate the ‘Cuban’ rules.
    I hate the ball.
    I hate the Zero Tolerance rules… screw that, they should have called those the “Tim Duncan Rules, and it should have been merely been an addition to last year’s Tim Duncan rule (ya know, the dress code?)
    Sorry about the bad start… but it’ll get better, ya know if the refs stop ejecting key components of your team.

    Comment by Charlie — November 7, 2006 @ 9:53 pm

78. Mark don’t forget that you have became different too.

    http://www.gentletip.com

    http://www.gentletip.com

    http://www.gentletip.com

    http://www.gentletip.com

    Comment by GentleTip.com — November 7, 2006 @ 10:03 pm

79. I like the no complaining rule, but the interpretation needs to be set.

    In the Nuggets first game, Melo gets tossed early for tossing his headband to the sideline (2nd T), but then later the in game Cassell is crying like a baby, running up the ref hands in the air getting in his face and no call. How can that be possible?

    If you’re going to have the rule, you need to enforce it all the time, not just with the players you don’t like.

    If there remains gray area, the rule will be shunned. Good intentions, it just needs good execution.

    Comment by James Clark — November 7, 2006 @ 10:23 pm

80. I have a solution to these ridiculous new rules.

    If so many superstars have a problem with them why don’t they just refuse to play? If the very core of the product doesn’t like the changes being made then David Stern will have to listen to them, because in the end they have all the power, NOT Mr. Stern! He doesn’t have a jersey, a shoe deal, commercials or a stadium that he can pack full of fans.

    Think about it. If Shaq, Dwade, Nash, Lebron, Dirk and Kobe all got together and sat out games it would reak havok on the NBA, it’s ratings, it’s advertising, marketing dollars and fans.

    It would be clever, callous, manipulative and a mutiny inside the NBA.

    And I would be right there cheering the players on.

    Comment by Brian — November 7, 2006 @ 11:10 pm

81. Perhaps the changes are a good first step. But the fact remains that that the NBA is still HORRIBLE basketball. Forget about bigger, better light shows and louder music and concentrate on fixing the game and the rest will have and even bigger impact. To paraphrase an old saying, if you put a bow on a piece of crap, it may look a little better, but underneath it’s still crap.

    Comment by JP — November 7, 2006 @ 11:11 pm

82. Mark…

    You look miserable back there in those seats, absolutely miserable.

    As for giving referees even more dicretion on something that can effect a ball game….Is the NBA kidding me?

    Now I have to worry about some referee who got up on the wrong side of bed throwing out someone because they absolutely cannot believe how bad a call was just made.

    Comment by Danny — November 7, 2006 @ 11:20 pm

83. I can’t wait until Stern repeals the rule on disputing calls. I mean who goes to a basketball game to see basketball? I go for the excessive whining. Guys like Rasheed Wallace are a role model for all types of people: little children, spoiled teenagers, the insane.

    Just when I thought that Dikembe Mutombo’s complaining over every single call would soon be retired with him, a youngster like Nate Robinson comes along following in his footsteps. I can’t watch old videos of the NBA, where guys are actually raising their hands after a whistle admitting the call. If the NBA is going to go back to that, they might as well outlaw the jumpshot and overhand free throws.

    As for the game play rule changes, it’s been utterly unwatchable. Teams going small and flying up the court at breakneck speed. It’s like watching a tennis match. Gimme the behemoths of the late 80s/early 90s, and the isolation game that accompanied it. There’s nothing like watching a 7-footer get the ball in the post and pound that sucker into the hardwood as the shot clock hits single digits.

    Comment by KnickerBlogger — November 7, 2006 @ 11:24 pm

84. Mark, you’re a legend at I.U. I don’t understand all the sports related stuff, but I’d like to see more of your chaotic ranting. Good for the league, fans, and ratings. You’re the ultimate NBA p.r. person, no matter what the outcome.
    Keep up the great work,

    C.

    Comment by zionsville soy candles scented candles — November 8, 2006 @ 12:02 am

85. I think the new NBA is crap. This isn’t how basketball was meant to be played. David Stern is slowly ruining the NBA. Some of the changes have been ok. I think the wardrobe change was a good change. Players should look like professionals. The new ball was a horrendous idea. The rule about no stockings becuase was stupid. But this new no tolerancy policy is ridiculous. And the biggest problem is that the calls aren’t consistent. Duncan got away with way too much according to the new rules in the Mavs vs. Spurs game. David Stern is Ruining the NBA and it is pissing me off. Just let the boys play. David Stern is an A$$!

    Comment by Navid Daryapayma — November 8, 2006 @ 12:08 am

86. Who are you?
    You are not the Mark I adore!
    Where did you take him!?

    Comment by galemazuma — November 8, 2006 @ 12:25 am

87. How do we like the new league? We are season ticket holders for the LAST year. The feel of the game has changed for the worse. The new ball is terrible, the sanitized attitude mandated for players, coaches and owners is boring and unfair and the concession price increases will finally drive these two 15+ year season ticket holders away from the American Airlines Center for good. Mavs Fans For Life? You bet we are but from next year on it will be from the comfort of our sofa. Come on Mark, you’ve fried bigger fish than David Stern.

    Comment by Bob — November 8, 2006 @ 12:53 am

88. Mark,

    I’m actually coming back to watch some games this year. I am one of the disillusioned disenfranchised fans who left somewhere along the line when they realized that the game was no longer the team game that they remembered growing up. If my team hadn’t just been sold to an out of town investor I’d be even happier. The overall quality of the game is up and I, for one, really appreciate the changes. ESPECIALLY the edict from Stern that whiners and complainers will be ejected, I LOVE that. I’m hoping football will pick up on the lessons that (it appears) the NBA has learned before they enter the same dark period that (again, it appears) the NBA is coming out of.

    Thanks for the blog. I appreciate the fact that you are willing to put yourself out there, for better or worse. At least you have balls.

    Comment by Chad — November 8, 2006 @ 3:35 am

89. The NBA is like a strict Catholic school, where if you don’t shine your shoes you get a swat on your hands. Of course it has gone too far. Stern is smothering the precious child he is attempting to protect. WE NEED THE PERSONALITIES, the Slick Watts headband, the Michael Cooper kneehighs, the Rodman shirttails.

    Now, back on point, why don’t you respond to my asking your advice on my attempt to ascend the Spanish League and backdoor myself into ownership of an ACB team? I don’t want your money, just some of the knowledge you’ve acquired over the last several years being an owner.

    Your future professional team colleague,
    -TK

    Comment by Tom — November 8, 2006 @ 4:10 am

90. I’m a big fan of the no complaining rules. It is nice to watch basketball instead of a bunch of whining. The players and coaches spent more time whining then playing. I think this change has to stay!

    Comment by David — November 8, 2006 @ 6:05 am

91. The commmisioner is overstepping his position. To say that “whining and complaining” are not going to be tolerated. Why do they even have technical fouls. Why don’t they treat it like Vegas and if a referee doesn’t like your reaction, you have to pay the pot money or you can’t continue to play the game. Referees in the NBA are the worst professional sports game officials. They have achieved “superstar status” and they act like they are bigger than the game, especially the guys that get those scowls on their faces like Joey Crawford. The NBA is becoming a joke and I think it is time for Mark Cuban to become the commisioner.

    Comment by Joseph — November 8, 2006 @ 7:15 am

92. I want the players to be able to speak their mind to the officials. Red Auerbach was a mastermind when it came to gaining the mental edge over the officials and the officials. Basketball is a chess match, let the players talk and work every angle possible.

    The new basketball is the worst decision the league has ever made. It would be equivalent to MLB using Aluminun bats.

    Calling the travel is a good move. It keeps fundamentals a priority.

    I don’t like the fact that hand checking has been taken out of the game. I also don’t like that more blocking violations are being called. I would prefer a league where there are more “no calls”. If a player is undercut call a foul, if it’s just contact, let it go, don’t blow the whistle.

    I would like an arena, where I could talk during timeouts, rather than have to listen to commercials and loud music.

    Comment by Max Haake — November 8, 2006 @ 7:19 am

93. I went to opening night for the Memphis/NY game. It was great. Faster pace, no BS, three technicals, music throughout the game plus it went into triple OT what more could you ask for. I am all for the new NBA.

    Comment by Andre Pope — November 8, 2006 @ 8:26 am

94. its hard to watch the players try to express emotions and they aren’t allowed to. it’s hard enough to get boys to be emotional, and now they get penalized for it!?!? BOOO!!! i say…give em’ a break.

    Comment by cali — November 8, 2006 @ 8:53 am

95. The level of whining and showing off in professional sports has seemed, for the last couple of decades has been anything but professional. The NBA has been the worst of the lot followed by the NFL e.g. the biggest embarrassment for Dallas since Jerry Jones (T Owens).

    It will be interesting to see if the NBA continues to make these over-paid children behave as adults; I certainly hope so.

    As to the ball; it really makes no big difference as all the players have to use the same ball and they just need to get over it. This is presuming there really was a reason for changing it.

    There seems to be some anti-Cuban rules which I find petty and a reflection of how popular Cuban is relative to the other owners. I feel sorry for the people that would make such rules based on their feelings of inadequacy.

    Comment by Rupert — November 8, 2006 @ 9:10 am

96. umm, the new ball. Come on Mark. I’m not a player, but I think James says it best, “You can shorten our shorts, tell us how to wear wristbands, things like that. Change the dress code. But the one thing we care about is the basketball,” he said. “When you start changing the thing we play with every single day, it doesn’t make sense to me — at all.”

    I am sure you read that already. http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2653254

    I usually agree with you, but the ball….???

    Comment by Shawn Dragann — November 8, 2006 @ 9:27 am

97. I love the new changes also but that doesn’t make it an excuse to be down 0-3. Everyone in the NBA is playing by the same rules.

    Comment by Ray — November 8, 2006 @ 9:32 am

98. Don’t take the emotion out of the game, please!

    Guys like Nate Robinson shouldn’t get a technical for screaming after a failed drive to the basket. Guys like Nate Robinson are the reason people love this game.

    The most ridiculous foul so far, Tim Duncan for delaying the game because he had to put his jersey back in his shorts. What a joke…

    Comment by Christophe — November 8, 2006 @ 9:33 am

99. I personally love the no whining rule. I think it (whining) cost the Pistons a shot at the title last year. (ok maybe wade & zo & shac had something to do with it to.) If you watch how Prince, learned to whine from Sheed, All he did last year in the play-offs was bitch. If you look 2 years ago all he did was preform. I think the rule goes to far this year, but I’m sure it will be tweaked along the road. The really interesting part of the rule will be when the play-offs come arround, Will it be enforced then? Will the league risk kicking “stars” out in the critical games?

    Comment by Jeff Mol — November 8, 2006 @ 9:43 am

100. Mark,

     Can you enlighten me on the governing structure of the NBA? I was under the impression that the Commissioner worked for the league, which is owned collectively by the owners. Am I wrong?

     What path has Stern taken with the current ownership that has enabled him to weild so much authority? Especially without fear of rebuke from his employers?

     As far as feedback, I side mostly with the players (with one exception). It is a player’s league. Players are the ones fans pay to see. Players set trends in Pop Culture. Players are the product that the league markets. However - players, like any other group of men, are NOT going to govern their own conduct well. So on points related to player conduct, I side with Stern.

     But changing the ball? Asanine. Dress Codes? Product of an old Man’s fashion “sense.” Regulating owners behavior? Hubris bordering on insubordination.

     Can you imagine if a Company President were to dictate conduct to his Owner/Chairman? He’d be censured at least, and likely replaced.

     Stern needs to check himself, and quick, or he is going to risk losing the fans who keep his league relevant.

     Comment by Robert — November 8, 2006 @ 9:46 am

101. I find this whole thing fascinating, that this many star players can complain about the ball, Shaquille O’Neal, Dwyane Wade, Steve Nash and James Lebron, and nothing can’t be done… wow

     You got to love the NBA.

     Comment by Crazyglues — November 8, 2006 @ 9:57 am

102. The no complaining policy on the players is great for the game. However, the coaches should be given a little room to argue on their players behalf. I agree with other readers; now the officials have too much power.

     Comment by Casey — November 8, 2006 @ 10:00 am

103. I like the changes regarding histrionics, it’s nice to see guys just doing their jobs now. Griping at the refs is the coaches job.
     I think they should have focused more on the complaining while the ball is in play.
     Watching a player argue and whine under the backboard while his teammates are hustling back on defense would be grounds for an automatic ejection in my book. Coaches seem emasculated by players to take a guy out of a game for this offense so let the officials do it.

     As to the ball change, has anyone explained why it was necessary?
     Also I notice the ball seems to be going in and out of the rim on free-throws more this year, has there been any marked change in free-throw averages?

     Comment by djjord — November 8, 2006 @ 10:07 am

104. I’m still trying to understand David Stern’s motivation for the radical rule changes. Rasheed Wallace has ‘earned’ four technical fouls in four games. Granted Rasheed lets his opinions known on certain calls, but the zero tolerance for any kind of comment toward a referee is a friggin’ joke! For one thing, if the officials were any good, they wouldn’t have players/coaches complaining. The phantom calls they make are blantantly bad and the calls they make just because a they think a situation necessitates it, is bogus. Improve the talent and quality of the referees and complaints would slow considerably.

     As far as the arena music volume, warm up protocol, etc., I really believe someone in the NBA front office has too much time on their hands. The dress code was the first step and many more are to follow. What direction does the NBA actually want to take? It appears to me they are confused as to what audience they are attempting to appeal to.

     Maybe if they were really thinking they would shorten the regular season, improve officiating and worry about things which really effect ball games, not this penny-ante junk.

     Go get em’ Cube!

     Comment by Iceman Scott — November 8, 2006 @ 10:08 am

105. This is why you can’t be sarcastic online, no one gets it…everyone is commenting like you really do love the new rules. You and I both know the NBA is going down hill with these childish antics by the referees.

     Comment by Nate Dwelle — November 8, 2006 @ 10:27 am

106. I also love the new rules. Now if the league would actually enforce all of the rules (e.g. traveling) and stop star treatment, it would actually be a basketball league. Basketball by itself is entertainment, not the sideshows.

     Comment by SAR — November 8, 2006 @ 10:30 am

107. Anything that will bring more discipline to the NBA is a good thing. Especially after the idiotic behaviour of, my home team, some of the players from the Indiana Pacers last month. Seriously, these guys aren’t frat boys anymore and for the amount they get paid to play basketball they should definetly take the image of the NBA, their teams, and themselves more seriously.

     I think that as of recently the NBA has been too afraid to discipline because they might lose a star. As long as they make the big plays and sell seats and jerseys they can do whatever the hell they want. What they need is some old school discipline and respect for the position that they’ve been given.

     These changes are a small step in the right direction but some of the players, not all, need a serious reality check. For 100 million dollars you can make me practice 24 hrs a day and run wind sprints the whole time if you want. High School coaches can work their players harder than an NBA coach can work his team. If a player acts up or gets in trouble with the law he should get an old school ass whoopin. Run him until he pukes.

     Equally if they do right they should be praised for their positive efforts.

     Anyway I’m starting to ramble and I’ll end by saying GO PACERS!

     Comment by Aaron — November 8, 2006 @ 10:43 am

108. This might be a little over the top but the new rules against complaining is the most important thing to happen in the NBA in years. The NBA, especially during the playoffs, was becoming almost unwatchable with all the whining and complaining players were doing ON EVERY SINGLE CALL. I’m a Wizards fan and during the playoffs against the Cavs I couldn’t believe how much complaining LeBron was doing, and this is a guy who, in almost every case, is going to get the benefit of the doubt from the refs. So I agree with you Mr. Cuban, I love the new NBA because I no longer have to watch multimillionaires act like babies when they think a call didn’t go their way.

     Comment by Jake — November 8, 2006 @ 11:07 am

109. Mr Cuban,

     Can you please pay the officials more than Stern is paying them? I’d like for the mavs to win some games this year.

     Thanks,
     Melissa

     Comment by Melissa — November 8, 2006 @ 11:08 am

110. As a long time Piston fan, I have seen first hand Rasheed, Tayshaun, and the long-lost Ben Wallace react inappropriately to the referees calls. I am enjoying the quick whistles early in the NBA season, even though it has hurt my team. Even asst. coach Dave Cowens managed to get T’d up the other night. The NBA is doing the right thing in trying to get the focus back onto the game, and not the theatrics following each whistle.

     Mark - when did this behavior start? Basketball players would be T’d up at every level of play from grade school, high school, college. How did Rasheed act to a call when he really was a child, and not just behaving like one?

     Comment by John Tarquinto — November 8, 2006 @ 11:20 am

111. Obviously, the rule changes and the equipment changes are completely necessary. I mean we can’t chance that the Mavericks might make it to the Finals again and actually win. Basically we have to decide to arbitrarily change things to make everyone play worse, and create a way to toss anyone out of the game at anytime. That is the only way to ensure that the players that people actually get excited about watching spend more time in the locker room, and the 4th and 5th string players get some playing time. I mean, don’t you want to watch 5 scrubs playing the Spurs or Heat starting lineup every night, because let me tell you, that would amazing.
     Arg, sorry, that was new alternate personality, I need the Mavs to start winning some games!

     Comment by Niki — November 8, 2006 @ 11:28 am

112. Dont all you Douchebag’s realize Mark is being facetius? He is so pissed off at the NBA, Stern and his B.S., he could kill somebody.

     However, some spare on ESPN did say the Mavs would be better off because the new rules “protect Mark from Mark”. I tend to agree, but I think we are in for a “Cuban Missle Crisis” soon when Mark figures out how to beat the new system and make David Stern look like a fool in public.

     I cheer you on Mark, but remember with Stern, the punishment may not fit the crime. If you get banned from the games, you got my number, just gas up the G5 and I’ll grab my passport and pack a cooler and head out wherever you wanna go!

     Keeping it real…

     TP

     Comment by Sean Doyle (TP) — November 8, 2006 @ 11:30 am

113. Funny sir. The NBA, and, all leagues perhaps need opposition. Though I do not agree with all of your views I respect the fact that you have the … Hrmm … Courage to stand your ground. It is healthy and actually required for progress. We all know the history of a dictator with no opposition.

     Comment by Don — November 8, 2006 @ 11:35 am

114. I hope that the league is being as aggressive on evaluating and correcting the lazy/poor tendencies of its on-court officials as it is on players griping. I checked out on the NBA when the “star system” of officiating was at its full zenith(the Jordan Years). Consistent officiating matters - not 100% correct calls - just a consistent expectation of standards.

     Comment by Charlie — November 8, 2006 @ 11:41 am

115. David Stern seems intent on copying the No Fun League (NFL) and making the NBA less fun than the NFL which of course is no fun anymore. I think the problem in all sports is that the owners have ceded their control to commissioners who have no passion for the game. It’s all about doing what the TV networks want. Change our schedule? Sure, no problem. Change the dress rules? Absolutely, we don’t anyone looking bad on Network TV. And on and on, ad infinitum.
     I have personal theory about why they invented the “Cuban” rule, which was passed at a meeting that Mark did not attend:
     1. The other owners felt they would start getting heat from their customers about not being involved, sitting in ivory boxes, not having passion for the game, etc.
     2. The constant references by the national sports media about Cuban’s “antics” in the NBA finals “hurting the Mavs” would imply that the referrees were influenced in their calls by something other than the action on the court. The owners needed to deflect that suggestion; as we all know, NBA refs are totally unaware of crowds, replays on the arena screens that show they made a bad call, players complaints that they are being mugged by Bruce Bowen while the ref is watching who knows what, oh well, you get the picture.
     Take your choice of 1 or 2, personally I believe both.

     I have been to games in Dallas as well as other cities. There is no comparison to the fun and excitement of a Mavs game. I only wish I could afford season tickets (not too close to the floor because I would not want to be thrown out for yelling at the refs).

     Comment by MIke Genette — November 8, 2006 @ 11:45 am

116. I love the Suns, Hate the Mavs and think Cuban is a Genius.

     Its been said a hundred times over, but I think the NBA is going to regret pushing Cuban away from the game. It seems the only owner on the planet who understands the game is Mark. The crazy thing is if Mark were not the owner of the Mavs, he would be the “target” audience. You would think he would want to solicit Mark’s opinion instead of silencing it.

     Mark Cuban for Commissioner!

     Comment by Mike D — November 8, 2006 @ 12:00 pm

117. Mr. Cuban,

     Regarding arena sound, I am a weekend sound technician, and the sound level in the stadiums today is way above safe. If OSHA occupational noise standards applied to the NBA, I’m sure you’d all be required to issue hearing protection.

     The noisiest I’ve been at was a Miami Heat home game, but I’m sure there are worse.

     The ball issue is a biggie. I’ve noticed Chauncey Billups is really having a hard time with the lack of absorption of the new balls. I thought you did a great service by arranging the study of the new balls. I’ve also noticed games decided by the bounce of the new balls. The new “dead ball” is allowing shots that would have bounced far from the bucket to stay closer to the rim on rebounds. It looks like hoops may have a dead-ball era like baseball did pre-Babe Ruth.

     As far as the conduct of the players on the court and what’s being allowed by the officials, I think the application of the “Rasheed rule” is tougher at the outset than it will be later in the season.

     You really can’t fault the spirit of the rule. Looking at video of games from the 70’s and 80’s and comparing it to today you’ll see a huge difference in how stars from that era interacted with the referees. Danny Ainge is probably the only guy I can recall whining to the officials on a regular basis, and people still remember that. Magic, Bird, Jabbar, Dr. J., and others just went about their business and adjusted to how the game was being called. I think the rule is getting us back to that.

     Pretty nice sarcasm, Mark. I appreciate it when people don’t bring that weak stuff

     Comment by Paul — November 8, 2006 @ 12:48 pm

118. David Stern is doing more “quality control” to the NBA this seanson than ever. Is that the “quality control” the fan want? Who knows? The ball is not the same ball. I would put the blame on the ball for the MAVS 0-3 record. The player cannot play with the “emotion” that they have. Who whould ever know, from this season on, a good basketball player has to have good basketball skills, basketball IQ, and basketball EQ?

     I was a regular subscriber to the NBA League Pass for the last few years. I am not subscribing this season because I don’t like too many “visiable” changes to the NBA.

     Comment by Rico — November 8, 2006 @ 12:52 pm

119. Mark , I agree. The new NBA is a more positive. But I wonder if there is anything ion the new NBA that prohibits owners from complaining as well? I personally enjoy your comments on and off the court and I am wondering if you still are going to put in your two cents about the refs and players? Because if not I will feel like , as a fan ,that I am missing out on someones respected opinion

     Comment by Jay Knight — November 8, 2006 @ 1:17 pm

120. I’m happy about many of the changes. Cutting down on the whining and complaining and general “bad boy” behaviour will improve the overall fan experience.

     It’s refreshing to see players getting called for traveling and turning the ball over. Those are the real rules and should be enforced. Believe me, the good players will adapt.

     I’m seeing more 3 second calls and more moving pick calls. Again, the players will adapt.

     And what will be most refreshing of all is not seeing the owner down in the huddle with the real players.

     By the way, Mark, I really enjoy HDNET and pray that you and Comcast will be able to work out a deal before they take it away from us down here in Houston.

     Comment by Tom — November 8, 2006 @ 1:52 pm

121. The only thing David Sterne should have changed is making you marketing director. Granted, seeing you on the court during a fight might not be the best thing, but you’re enthusiasm gives me a reason to tune into Mavs games. I don’t really have a favorite team being from Tennessee, but I love being entertained and you do the trick. Stay on ‘em Mark.

     Comment by Erik — November 8, 2006 @ 1:57 pm

122. Hate it. The technical fouls take the fun out of the game. Refs are human. They make bad calls. Players should be able to voice their displeasure…to a point. Like it used to be.

     New ball…Well. If the players don’t like it. Change it back. They are the ones making the league the money. They are the “elephants in the center ring.” If they don’t like the new peanuts, go back to the ones they liked.

     Seems pretty simple to me.

     Comment by Steven — November 8, 2006 @ 2:37 pm

123. sounds like you’ve just gotten soft. david stern grab your balls and tell you to shut up? i don’t mind the changes…but i like that you usually do.

     Comment by boby — November 8, 2006 @ 2:50 pm

124. I love the “No Complaining” rule the best. I live in Cleveland and I am a huge Cavs fan, but I found the “Lebron Grimace” after every questionable call to be really embarassing. Since the rule has been implemented we haven’t seen Lebron carrying on after every single play like he used to do.

     Comment by FilteringCraig — November 8, 2006 @ 2:53 pm

125. I actually like the music being turned down. It got way too loud and its unnecessary. The game should be entertaining enough. We dont need to hear the instrumental to Usher’s “Yeah” while Mike Bibby is bringing the ball upcourt.

     And I actually like the dress code, but it doesn’t need to be as “clean cut” as they made it. Long diamond/platinum chains and doo-rags needed to go. But I think they should’ve been allowed to wear jerseys, but basketball only. I think it would’ve been a great marketing tool to see the guys on the bench with a throwback.

     The change of the ball was all about money. The NBA needed something new to sell. The old fashioned ball was $50 at its highest and sales were probably slumping. But this new ball is $100! Perfect for attracting the latest consumer sucker who wants to plunk down that type of money at the NBA store or nba.com so they can think they’re cool.

     Comment by Randi — November 8, 2006 @ 3:39 pm

126. when i picture stern approving these rules all i can think about is him sitting in his office with a smug little grin on his geriatric face.

     Comment by Emily McCann — November 8, 2006 @ 4:09 pm

127. Did Stern finally hear the fans? We’ve been shouting “shut up and play!” for quite a while, and now it’s policy.
     GO BULLS!

     Comment by jeffhenderson — November 8, 2006 @ 4:27 pm

128. When they start calling travelling and palming EVERY TIME, I’ll start going to games again!

     Comment by Ken Carpenter — November 8, 2006 @ 4:29 pm

129. Mark,

     It is driving me crazy but 2 things keep happening:

     1) Dirk is the MAN but no one gets him the ball. (Sometimes looks like keepaway!)
     2) When he does get it, he doesn’t take the shot nor take it to the rim.

     What gives?

     Give Stern hell,
     Al

     Comment by Al Tilley — November 8, 2006 @ 4:30 pm

130. I, too, love the new NBA. I love it so much that I gave up my season tickets. I love the fact that I am saving money on going to games. I love the fact that I don’t have to waste time watching an entire game. I love the fact that I can sit on my hands and be bored during the game! I love the fact that players can raise their arms and be ejected! I love the zero toleration! It makes for an exciting game of who will get tossed tonight! I love the fact that all of the courts are neutral without the loud music! I love the new NBA studio announcers on ESPN! They all have the same opinions! Who wants to deal with compelling arguments when they all say that Cleveland is going to dominated the East! Wow, this is such an exciting new season! Toot, toot! I, too, have taken a ride on the sarcasm train!

     Comment by Travis — November 8, 2006 @ 4:48 pm

131. Man… David Stern must be STOPPED! I wonder if he (Mr. Stern) loves the game from a real fans perspective? Not the luxury box buyers or court side seat ownners… What’s next, no chewing gum during games?

     Comment by tee jay — November 8, 2006 @ 4:58 pm

132. I like some of the new rules… but i hate the “zero tolerence” rule that they claim isnt zero tolerence. i mean, i miss the emotion in the game and there is no way to get rid of that.

     Comment by Marissa — November 8, 2006 @ 5:18 pm

133. Please do something to rally the team, they have been good but not closing out the final period, or they get a little lead and play soft. A 0-3 start makes me sad and if we can’t beat the Clippers tonight I’m gonna cry

     Comment by Robert P — November 8, 2006 @ 5:49 pm

134. I love the new NBA!!!!! It’s the best thing ever!!!!! Right? I mean what’s not to love? The super loud sound systems allow you to go deaf in minutes when it used to take years (you know, like 65). It’s like a fun game to see where you have to sit to keep your ears from bleeding. All the techincal fouls allow us to see who the real role players are and learn more names. You can’t do that when everyone stays in the game. Finally, the ball creates the enjoyment of getting to see NBA players wine. I mean this NEVER happened before. All these changes have made the nba the greatest thing ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (bye the way, has anyone else noticed that all the good teams (dallas, pheonix, Denver) have started out poorly and all the supposedly shaky teams (phillidelphia, Atlanta, Portland counts because they have actually won games, that shouldn’t have happened until December at the earliest) have started out on fire?

     Comment by Micah — November 8, 2006 @ 6:15 pm

135. Mark,

     If it helps you grow up a little and represent the team as the wonderful, outstanding owner you are, rather than the petulant man-child we see all to often, then it sounds good to me!
     You seem to think everyone agrees with your conduct. Don’t be so sure!

     Comment by Don — November 8, 2006 @ 6:26 pm

136. With each and every new rule change implemented by stern, it feels more and more like it’s turning into the new WWE. It’s not about watching basketball anymore because its just all about the marketing of it. Basically the game is coming down to which ’superstar’ gets away with a call, while 95 percent of the ‘other’ players get called for the same thing. Also, which ref will blow a crucial call late in a game and not have to hear anyone whine about it anymore. Enjoy the NBA! I for one am done supporting it.

     Comment by Joel — November 8, 2006 @ 6:48 pm

137. i agree that these new rules are ridiculous, i pay to see the players. as long as they are wearing pants, what do i care what they wear before and after the game? As for the new basketball, it is clearly is changing the game. No one seems to think it is for the better. The “sheed rule” is even worse. It has been violently misapplied. I like the idea of cutting down on some of the complaining, but creating a rule that gives referees that much discretion is going to kill the game. Next year fantasy leagues will let you draft refs, since they are clearly more outcome determinative than the players themselves.

     For the specific “cuban rule”, i don’t think it’s a bad idea to have some restraints on the owners. It might have been introduced for all the wrong reasons, and given how you were treated, i would be a team player via lip service instead of actively helping the other 29 teams as well. However, you have to admit, if the refs shouldn’t overshadow the game then neither should the owners.

     Comment by justin brown — November 8, 2006 @ 6:55 pm

138. Maybe Stern should take over the NHL; he could end all that nasty fighting, checking etc.

     These changes are making the officials too powerful. The more choices they have (T up Dirk; ignore Duncan) the more power they have. I didn’t intend to buy tickets to watch them call the game. I wanted to watch the Mavs play NBA basketball.

     Comment by Tim Atkinson — November 8, 2006 @ 7:30 pm

139. The ball is a joke. David Stern dribbled it and pronounced it ok (no lie).

     The Zero Tolerance Rules simply empower the most incompetent referees in the major sports. These guys do not command the respect of the players, and thus have to resort to fascist threats and scare tactics to coerce compliance.

     The Last NBA Finals was UNWATCHABLE. Never forget how the foul calls racked up at an unnatural rate. Watch any Cavs game as LeBron uses his massive off arm to push away defenders and receive the call everytime. This is the WWF with young guys like Wade and ‘Bron taking care of their portfolios and entourage at an age when Michael Jordan was struggling to achieve greatness.

     Mark for Commissioner. We deserve someone who has more than one strategy for marketing and competitiveness (scripted king making). That’s Mark. Out of the box, critical and capable of admitting a mistake.

     Comment by Anand — November 8, 2006 @ 7:35 pm

140. Well well well…the 15 tech rule turned out to be not quite good enough to satiate dominator Dave’s woodie for Sheed. Sheed only missed one game due to suspension last year and Stern was bummin…he expected Sheed to miss 10-15 games. So…now we have ‘Zero Tolerance’.

     I don’t know how people feel about Sheed outside of the Detroit market. Maybe he’s considered a crybaby…I don’t know. What I DO know is that he is one of the most animated guys in the league…as well as one of the funniest!

     However, Mr Stern doesn’t appreciate Sheed’s humor. He wants Sheed to conform to his ideal of a quiet stone-face NBA persona for some reason. Stern is on a severe power trip. The Zero Tolerance thing will most likely have it’s biggest affect on Sheed…but, if applied fairly, it can not do so without having an impact on other players around the league. Is it really fair to T a guy because of a facial expression?

     I don’t know about anyone else, but I will not attend games that are forced to be played by a suit denying the passion of the players and the game. I will watch most Piston games on TV because they are my team, but I will not enjoy them as much as I have in the past. As a fan, I am forced by Stern to watch expressionless players run the floor dribbling a Stern superball without fear of being touched. Stern is slowly & methodically draining away everything that has made the game great…it is time for him to go.

     Mr Cuban…this is my first post to your blog and I will be frank. Since you became an owner, I have despised you for what I felt was your flamboyancy within your relatively sudden wealth. However, I have been growing to appreciate your expressed concern for the game while every other owner is close-lipped about Mr Stern. You have done a great job in building the Mavs…Avery is on my wish list for Piston head coach.

     http://www.pistonsforum.com good people & unbiased commentary on all things NBA

     Comment by detteam — November 8, 2006 @ 8:58 pm

141. The changes seem cool some of these new rules is just nit-picking though
     On a side note actually early this past summer I went to the local YMCA
     and seen a NBA players buddy with what was to become the new ball this season.
     (I had no clue just thought it look rather peculiar.)
     I ask the guy “Yo! can I see that ball? He hesitated then gave it up
     I rolled it around in my hand as it revealed the NBA players name engraved.
     I started shootin the rock it felt good, and the design was crazy. “Assitant guy” was getting
     pretty ticked and watched me like a hawk, As I shot the rock I giggled under my breath as the guy was looking physically ticked off at letting me get my hands on the rock. After a few jumpers I gave it back and told him thanks. I think I may buy one for Christmas! One rule that SHOULD be enforce is traveling more. Some players drive to the basket leave ther feet and
     hang in the air and don’t release the ball untll the feet has made contact with the floor again!!
     This urks me but I am glad that carrying the ball has been called more from what I see. Btw, Glad I found your blog awesome man!

     Comment by Clt_Bobcats Watcher — November 8, 2006 @ 10:14 pm

142. Mark,what’s worry with your team???what’s worry with terry7he played like a highschool girl.it stinks!!!!!!!!come on,find way cheer them up!

     Comment by rocketfan — November 8, 2006 @ 10:28 pm

143. Not one player has said they like the new ball. The ball change was obviously done to sell more NBA balls that can be played with outdoors since the old leather ball was an indoor only ball. It’s amazing Stern would make an equipment change without the players demanding it instead of Spaulding. The technical rule is over the top. The NBA should now eliminate the foul out rule and keep the players in the game. You can’t foul out in football…Keep the pressure on Mark, common sense will eventually rule.

     Comment by Erik Bach — November 8, 2006 @ 10:43 pm

144. I think one of the only positives of this new “T” rule, is that big whiners like the Spurs will have to dial it back.

     The new ball sucks.

     Also, while I hate to steal ideas from other teams, I would love to see a Mavs version of “white heat”. Every fan in the AAC could wear Mavs blue. In support of our “ballers” we would call ourselves the Blue Ballers. The double beauty of this how much it would piss off Stern, and how you couldn’t get in trouble for it because it was a fan idea.

     I really look forward to making it to some games this year, now that I’m employed again and live in Dallas.

     We’re gonna win it all this tear.

     Comment by Sam G. — November 8, 2006 @ 11:02 pm

145. No backtalk? This is the same thing as our government giving us fines for letting them know they’re doing a poor job. Open your eyes NBA fans (if there are any left). The officials are dirty. They gamble like many human beings do. Basketball is really the ONLY sport where the officials have a DIRECT effect on the scoring. Sending men to the line who shoot free throws in the range of 70-90 percent can CLEARLY change the make-up of a game (in addition, affect the way the team that is overloaded with fouls plays as they are now in danger of fouling out). Find me an NBA evening where there wasnt at least one game with a HUGE disparity in free throws between two teams. You can’t. And guess what…someone made some good vegas/bookie money from it. And now with no complaining… more free throws to unfairly spread around. Mr. Cuban, you are smarter than this and probably are the only one with the financial resources to attempt to do something about it. I urge to re-examine this NEW NBA.

     Comment by drumbok5 — November 8, 2006 @ 11:06 pm

146. Mark Cuban- please purchase the Penguins-or buy them from the person/group that did. Keep them in Pittsburgh (where they belong). Malkin will purchase a house in “Lebo”–Hockey News will read ” Mt. Lebanon Residents Capture the Cup”(Mario,Sid,Malkin,Cuban)—-Imagine a picture on the back of an “Iron” with “Lord Stanley” raised above!–

     Joe Feeley– Upper St. Claire –1982
     Paul Baxter–Penguin of choice during my “formitive years”

     Comment by Joe Feeley — November 8, 2006 @ 11:17 pm

147. Being a Piston fan, I don’t like the new no tolerance rule. I think they made up this rule just because of the way the Pistons play, which is with alot of emotion. They want guys to bottle up their emotions and have no personality while on the court. That makes for a less entertaining and boring game. I want to see players different personalities out there on the court, hell I wish Rasheed wore a mic and I could hear what he’s saying. The uptight owners of the league want things done the old fashioned way.

     Comment by Rob — November 8, 2006 @ 11:24 pm

148. Mark, have you wondered if your not being in the huddle has affected the coach & players? I wonder if your presence & attitude might be what gives them that inspirational boost. Somethings up. As for the new rules, I’m guessing you believe in the ” give them enough rope” philosophy. Hope things proceed well this season.

     Comment by Glenn Greene — November 8, 2006 @ 11:47 pm

149. why is it that david stern (who deserves credit for being generally a good comissioner) all the sudden feels the need to have all this control? Its like hes thinking “wow, thank God i found a way to screw the mavs last season, im gonna make sure this never happens again” Cuban, im a season ticket holder, and i was at the first two games, and frankly, its bullshit. I watch dirk get mugged inside (whistle-less) night after night. Im not yelling fix, but i think the nba has a hard-on for making it difficult on teams like the mavs.

     Comment by adam — November 8, 2006 @ 11:49 pm

150. Mark, I think you need to need re-think this whole situation. To hell with what the NBA thinks. They can change the ball, they can call more techs, but it shouldn’t quiet you down overall….even if this whole thing is a big sarcastic joke (which I think it is). The only thing you should care about is the Mavs. If the Mavs are good…it’s good for the NBA. If you are quiet and the Mavs suck…it is no good for the NBA.

     I think you believe that your influence was very small on this team in terms of the past controversies and how it effected the team. Sure, maybe it accounted for the Mavs being called for another foul here or there…but it seems the team has now taken on the demeanor you have had thus far this year. They are quiet, they aren’t playing with any heart (0-4 as of seconds ago), etc. Believe it or not, I think the way you were gave the team alot of confidence….a f*uck it attitude. That’s the attitude you had after all….if the NBA didn’t like something, you were like f*uck it….which was good.

     Simply put, whether you like it or not, the less emphasis on you means more on the team, and they just aren’t handling it very well right now. You took some of the pressure off of them before…which was a big help. I think you need to keep voicing your opinions like you always have, and if it means a fine, so be it. The league would be ALOT worse off had you been the person you are now….when you came into the league. Suck it up!

     MFFL,
     Matt

     Comment by Matt — November 9, 2006 @ 12:02 am

151. Your personality made this team. Of course I am sure Stern’s new touch on you will make things much better. Then again, I could be wrong, has Stern ever revitalized a franchise to greatness? Wait, no he hasn’t. Well Mark, I am sure you have a lot to learn and I can’t wait for the final exam. Study hard!

     MFFL

     Nick

     Comment by Nick — November 9, 2006 @ 12:12 am

152. As for the rules, I guess the new ball is ok since only a handful of players have made public their opinion.

     As for the no whining or complaining, I like the idea, but I don’t like the idea that all the players are getting penalized when the whining comes from a handful of players. It also seems that the rule does not apply to all the players..I have seen Duncan, Cassell, Wade all react adimantly to calls made against and nada!!

     Refs have too much power and too much inconsistency. They now feel they can call the game their way knowing that the disagreements will be kept to a minimum. They wil