5 Under-the-Radar NBA Free Agent Signings

Dee Bost, PG, Portland Trail Blazers
Bost, the former Mississippi State star, is now a member of the Portland Trail Blazers. He will be behind competing in training camp for the Damian Lillard's backup point guard slot with Mo Williams and Earl Watson. Bost was eligible for the 2012 NBA Draft, but went undrafted. Bost is an excellent shooter, but after a wrist injury and suspension, his production slipped and so did his draft stock. After a strong overseas performance last year, he has a legitimate shot to make the Blazers roster this year.

Josh Akognon, PG, Memphis Grizzlies
Some people were just put on this planet to get buckets(see Michael Jordan, Tracy McGrady) and Akognon is one of them. He was cut off of the Dallas Mavericks roster in training camp last year, but when the Mavericks needed shooting, they regretting cutting Akognon. He will be competing for Mike Conley Jr.'s backup point guard spot, but even if he doesn't get it, he will be a key factor for a Memphis team with little to no three-point shooters. He will join Jerryd Bayless and Quincy Pondexter as the Grizzlies go-to shooters.

Phil Pressey, PG, Boston Celtics
Already Rajon Rondo's backup, Pressey has gotten nearly no attention from the media. An established passer out of Missouri, Flip declared for the draft early, but didn't get picked. Hours after the draft, the Celtics signed Pressey, who they couldn't pass up on. Pressey may start at the beginning of the season if Rondo is not available or Avery Bradley shows inconsistency. The former SEC assists leader has had trouble in the clutch, but he probably won't be facing that this year.

Arinze Onuaku, F/C, New Orleans Pelicans
Onuaku was a D-League All-Star last year, and led the Canton Charge in field goal percentage. He is a tough inside presence, and at 6'9" and 256 pounds, the Pelicans will need him this year to help Anthony Davis and Jeff Withey defend the basket. The former Syracuse standout is underrated and is capable of making big plays under basket.

James Southerland, F, Charlotte Bobcats
Southerland is a flat out scorer. He can score from anywhere and everywhere on the floor. He possesses a high shot release that is very hard to contest, and at 6'8", that gives him a huge advantage. The undrafted free agent out of Syracuse can spread out the floor to allow Kemba Walker, Cody Zeller, and Al Jefferson make plays inside. Southerland can and will give some defenses fits. Southerland helped the Orangemen reach the Final Four last year, and hopefully he will have a positive impact on the Bobcats.

Peyton Siva: The Legend

Peyton Robert Siva Jr. was born on October 24, 1990, into a troubled Samoan family in Seattle. For his early life, he lived near an intersection of three gang territories. His father, Peyton Sr., was never around because he struggled with drugs and alcohol. His father was always in trouble with the law as well, and his sister was often caught for shoplifting. By the age of 13, Peyton Jr. had taught himself how to drive. He drove to find his father who had been reported missing for about a week, and Peyton found his father in a drug den holding a gun to his head. Peyton convinced his father to put the gun down, and his father has been forever changed by these actions

Peyton Jr. desperately wanted to avoid the fate of his other family members, so he started playing sports. When he tried out for youth football, he was too light, so he stuffed his pockets with playing cards and cell phones. He was soon known as a relentless athlete on the field and on the court. Siva helped his fellow athletes avoid drugs and alcohol as well as gangs.

In high school, Peyton led his high school to win two championships, and was the unanimous selection for Washington's Mr. Basketball award. He graduated as a 4-star McDonald's All-American and committed to Louisville on May 16, 2008.

Peyton backed up Cardinals' star Edgar Sosa in his first year at the U of L, but he managed to average 3 assists a game in 11 minutes a game. The Cards made the tournament as a 9 seed, but they lost to Cal in the first round.

In Siva's sophomore year, he started all 35 games for Louisville, averaging 9.9 points and 5.2 assists per game. In two straight games against West Virginia and Connecticut, he hit game-winning layups in the final seconds. He was selected to the All- Big East Honorable Mention Team, but his 4 seeded Cards were upset by Kenneth Faried and the 13 seed Morehead State.

As a junior, Peyton Siva struggled with his three-point shot, making less than 25% percent of his attempts, and turned the ball over way too much. Coach Rick Pitino was furious with Siva, and he scolded Siva for getting caught up in two many things. Siva was to only focus on two things- school and basketball, because Pitino need Siva's 100% attention. After this, Siva turned into the player that Mr. Basketball, and was elected the 2012 Most Outstanding Player in the Big East Tournament. The 4 seeded Cardinals made it to the Final Four before being knocked out by arch-rivals Kentucky.

Siva, now a senior, was ready to lead his team to the final goal, a national championship. The Cards were No.2 in the preseason polls and Siva was the preseason Big East Player of the Year. Siva won his second Most Outstanding Player Award, tying Patrick Ewing as the only two players to win the award twice. Siva made huge plays in the NCAA Tournament, leading the Cards to the National Championship in a tight win over Michigan. Siva left Louisville as the all-time leader in steals and third in assists.

Siva was recently drafted and signed by the Detroit Pistons. He was married this July in the KFC Yum! Center. Siva is a devout Christian who gives thanks to God in all of his actions. Siva is one of the most liked characters in basketball, and hopefully he will have a great career in the NBA.

Top Current NBA Players From Every Big East School

Butler- Gordon Hayward
Hayward is a do-it-all player for the Utah Jazz now. In his college career, he is most known for almost sinking a half-court shot that would have won the game for Butler against Duke in the NCAA Championship Game. But anyways, he is a great scorer, passer, rebounder, and defender.

Creighton- Kyle Korver

Korver, who has kept the shaggy hair over the years, is now a 3-point marksman who signed an extension with the Atlanta Hawks. Korver has been a key role player over the years for the Philadelphia 76ers, Utah Jazz, and Chicago Bulls. His title may be taken away soon when Doug McDermott enters the NBA.

Georgetown- Roy Hibbert

 

Hibbert, who has been an Indiana Pacer his whole career, has made headlines the last few years. He was selected to an All-Star Game in 2012, and has made trouble for the Miami Heat in the playoffs. Hibbert, along with Paul George, should lead the Pacers to the top of the Eastern Conference the next few years.

Marquette- Dwyane Wade

Was there any doubt about this one? Wade is a top 10 shooting guard of all time, spending his whole career for the Miami Heat. The fourth pick in the 2003 NBA Draft has been an All-Star player since he got into the league, and will continue to be until he retires. Wade's explosiveness is the reason he has been as productive as he has recently.

Providence- MarShon Brooks

Brooks is a rising star now in his 3rd NBA season. He spent his first two years with the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets and is now a member of the Boston Celtics. He will always be remembered for his 52-point performance against Norte Dame, tying the Friars school record. He has the ability to catch fire on any given night, and will do so for the Celtics.

St. John's- Maurice Harkless/Metta World Peace

While World Peace(top) is at the end of his career, Harkless(bottom), a second year player, plays a similar game as him, without the attitude. Both are spectacular defensive players, shooters, and athletic. World Peace, formerly known as Ron Artest, has signed a contract with the New York Knicks, and Harkless is currently a member of the Orlando Magic. World Peace has had a spectacular career, and it will be interesting to see how Harkless plays in the future.

Villanova- Kyle Lowry

Lowry is a standout point guard for the Toronto Raptors. The scoring guard landed in Toronto after playing for the Houston Rockets and Memphis Grizzlies, but he has been high quality his whole career. His most recent headline was when he was blocked by 5'4" comedian Kevin Hart. Hopefully, this is not a sign to come for Lowry's next year.

Xavier- David West

David West has been a huge contributor for whatever teams he has played on, whether it be his former team, the New Orleans Pelicans, or his current team, the Indiana Pacers. Roy Hibbert and West gave the Heat fits in the playoffs last year. His ability to hit the free-throw line jumper and finish inside makes him one of the most underrated power forwards in the NBA.


DePaul and Seton Hall have no current NBA players, but Fuquan Edwin(Seton Hall) should change that for his school soon.

 

Top 10 College Basketball Players With Awesome Names

Indiana Faithfull- Wofford
First of all, it seems he is on the wrong team. Second, who else here wants the last name Faithfull? It can't just be me.

McWisdom Badejo- Florida A&M
May we present the professor of the newly established McDonalds University, McWisdom Badejo?

Prince Williams- ECU
ROYALTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nate Snodgrass- Northern Kentucky
He should own a lawn care company.

Traddarius McPhearson- New Orleans
Straight outta Shakespeare.

Daddy Ugbede- Drake
The name says it all.

Xzaivier James- Northern Colorado
The letters X and Z in the same name..... wow.

Sir'Dominic Pointer- St. John's
MORE ROYALTY!!!!!!!!!!!

Devareaux Manley- Kent St.
Perfect first name- check. Manly last name- check. Amazing name- you know it

God'sgift Achiuwa- St. John's
Well, someone is a little presumptuous, aren't they?

Honorable Mentions: Peter Pappageorge, Gee McGhee, Staats Battle

Top 3 Players From Every NCAA Basketball Power Conference

ACC

3. P.J. Hairston, UNC
Hairston has been is a lot of legal trouble this offseason. He will most likely miss games, but his star power makes up for that. Hairston is a lights-out shooter from everywhere on the court. As his offense keeps getting better, his defense should improve as well.

2. Jabari Parker, Duke
Parker, an incoming freshman, is very highly rated. He landed a Sports Illustrated cover calling him the best high school basketball player since LeBron, and for good reason. He is a star offensive player and a stupendous defender.

1. C.J. Fair, Syracuse
Fair has been upping his game every single year he has been at 'Cuse, and no reason to stop now. With last year's "Big Three" of Michael Carter-Williams, Brandon Triche, and James Southerland gone, the left-handed star will get more touches and more chances to score. Aside from leading Syracuse in scoring and rebounding last year, he provides excellent energy with his dunks and highlights.

Honorable Mentions: Rodney Hood(Duke), Dez Wells(Maryland), and Joe Harris(Virginia)

AAC

3. Shabazz Napier, UConn
Napier has been a big name over the years, and he is finally a senior. He will be leading a talented Connecticut team that could go deep into March. Napier is a great passer, a ball hawk, and a knockdown shooter.

2. Monztrel Harrell, Louisville
Harrell exploded in the final Big East tournament and the NCAA Tournament last year. He is a tough inside presence who can block shots and finish plays with stanchion-rattling slams. He has immense potential and could develop under Rick Pitino.

1. Russ Smith, Louisville
"Russdiculous" does much more than just give Coach Pitino gray hairs. He can knock down the outside shot and finish inside with ease. He gets in the passing lanes and picks pockets easily. He has turned into a good passer when he wants to pass.

Honorable Mention: Joe Jackson(Memphis), Ryan Boatwright(UConn), Keith Frazier(SMU)

Big East

3. Bryce Cotton, Providence
One word can describe Cotton. Scoring. Cotton led the talented Big East in scoring last year over players such as Russ Smith and D'Angelo Harrison. Cotton has the potential to lead the new Big East in scoring, but it will be tougher.

2. Ryan Arcidiacono, Villinova
Arcidiacono had nearly no talent surrounding him last year, but he still managed to lead the Wildcats to yet another NCAA Tournament berth. He is a great distributor and a sweet shooter. He can lead Nova to another tourney bid.

1. Doug McDermott, Creighton
McDermott, like Bryce Cotton, is a scorer. He shot nearly 50% from the three-point line. He was a good rebounder as well. He can score from everywhere on the floor and do it easily. He can go for 30 points on any night.

Honorable Mention: Semaj Christon(Xavier), D'Angelo Harrison(St. John's), Davante Gardner(Marquette)

Big 12

3. Cory Jefferson, Baylor
Jefferson is one of the best inside presences in the nation. He has monster ups, and with his 6'9", 220 lbs frame, that helps him block shot and dunk on people, which is how he scored over half of his points last season. Without Pierre Jackson, it will be tough for Jefferson and the Bears, but they should be able to contend.

2. Andrew Wiggins, Kansas
It will definitely surprise you that another player in the nation, especially in the Big 12, is better than Wiggins. But it happens. Anyways, Wiggins is one of the most complete players in the nation, even though he is a freshman. He can shoot, finish, defend, and rebound. He didn't earn the nickname "Canadian Jordan" for nothing.

1. Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State

Smart, the reigning Big 12 Player of the Year, is possibly the only player in the nation who can challenge Wiggins for the NPOY. Smart is a great finisher. He is a top defender (2 steals per game) and a great passer. He beat out a top Kansas player last year(Ben McLemore), and will beat out another one this year.

Honorable Mention: Markel Brown(OK State), Wayne Selden(Kansas), Isaiah Austin(Baylor)

Big 10

3. Andre Hollins, Minnesota
I am a huge fan of Andre Hollins. He can go off at any given moment, just ask Joe Jackson, who Hollins dropped 41 points on last year. Hollins averaged 26.5 points per game last year in the NCAA Tournament against the likes of UCLA and Florida. Hollins is losing two of his favorite targets from last year (Trevor Mbakwe and Rodney Williams) but he will find ways to lead the Golden Gophers this year.

2. Gary Harris, Michigan State
Harris, who burst onto the scene last year as a freshman, is one of the best shooters in the nation. He shot 41% from 3-point land and averaged 13 points per game. He won Big 10 Freshman of the Year last year.

1. Adreian Payne, Michigan State
Payne is one of the best centers in the nation. He can shoot very well and rebound at the top of the Big 10. His main concern is foul trouble, but if he avoids fouls, he should get more time on the court to make plays.

Honorable Mention: Glenn Robinson III(Michigan), Aaron Craft(Ohio State), Roy Devyn Marble(Iowa)

SEC

3. Marshall Henderson, Ole Miss
"Jeminem" is truly a mix between Jimmer Fredette and Eminem. Like Jimmer, he can get baskets in a hurry, but he can also shoot you out of a game. Like Eminem, he is very arrogant, cocky, and just doesn't care. His biggest games came in the SEC Tournament, where he led the Rebels to an automatic tournament bid.

2. Jordan McRae, Tennessee
McRae is less cocky Henderson who takes some inside shots. The first team All-SEC star saved Tennessee's season and helped them score big victories over Florida and Missouri. McRae should have more of a green light this year and have a better supporting cast(Jarnell Stokes returns, Jeronne Maymon comes back from injury, and Antonio Barton will be eligible to play for UT).

1. Julius Randle, Kentucky
Randle is the best player in the nation outside the Big 12. At 6'9", Randle can has explosive hops and is a decent shooter. He pulls down rebounds and runs the floor better than most big men. Randle, along with the best recruiting class in the nation, should lead Kentucky to the Final Four

Honorable Mention: Andrew Harrison(Kentucky), Jarnell Stokes(Tennessee), Patric Young(Florida)

Pac-12

3. Spencer Dinwiddie, Colorado

Dinwiddie was the star of the Colorado team last year, because Andre Roberson underachieved. He will now have full control of the Buffs. He is a great shooter, but a rocky point guard. He needs to improve his assist-to-turnover ratio if he wants to be in contention for the National Player of the Year.

2. Aaron Gordon, Arizona

Gordon is probably the best player in the country no one is talking about. He is a great inside player, with Blake Griffin-like athleticism and the ability to rebound. He was a great rebounder in the high school ranks and is a stud leaper.

1. Jahii Carson, Arizona State

Jahii Carson is the best college basketball player under 6-foot. At 5'10", he is a great athlete who can shoot and pass. He burst on to the scene last year, and is here to stay. He has proven that he can play with the best players in the nation.

Honorable Mention: Nick Johnson(Arizona), Dominic Artis(Oregon), Kaleb Tarczweski(Arizona)

Top 5 Most Explosive Dunkers in College Basketball 2013-14

5. Aaron Gordon, Arizona F

Gordon, a top recruit, is the best dunker among incoming freshmen. He is already being compared to Blake Griffin, who is the best dunker in the NBA. Gordon should be a top prospect in the draft as well. Here is one of Gordon's best dunks from his high school years.

4. Montrezl Harrell, Louisville F

Harrell burst on to scene last year in the postseason for the Cardinals. He scored the majority of his points off of dunks. He should start this year for Louisville, and get more opportunities for dunking.

3. Sam Thompson, Ohio State F

Thompson didn't earn the nickname "Slam Thompson" for nothing. He has an amazing vertical leap, and long arms to catch alley-oops. He will be a key contributor at Ohio State this year.

2. Cory Jefferson, Baylor F

There were various times last year I would watch Baylor, and see Jefferson catch monster lobs. If he got the ball inside the paint, you knew he was going to dunk. He helped Baylor win the NIT last year, and should play a crucial role for the Bears this year.

1. Markel Brown, Oklahoma State G

I was watching Oklahoma State last year, and I looked down for one second, and Markel Brown pulled off the dunk of the year. Brown is infamous for being kicked out of a game once against Missouri because the refs couldn't handle his hops. Brown is the best dunker in college basketball.

 

 



 

  

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                    

Returning College Basketball Stat Sheet Stuffers

A stat sheet stuffer is typically a player who does many things well on a nightly basis. For example, Former Missouri guard Phil Pressey had a game last year where he had 19 points and 19 assists. That is a stat sheet stuffer game, but when someone plays strong for the whole year, they are considered a stat stuffer.

Chaz Williams, UMass PG, 15.5 ppg, 7.3 apg (3rd in nation), 2 spg
Williams basically does it all for the Minutemen. He was the top scorer on the team, as well as the assists leader and steals leader. He is only 5'9", which make his stats more incredible. If he could up his 3-point shooting (33.3% last year), Williams has a great shot at the Bob Cousy Award, given to the nations top point guard.

DeAndre Kane, Marshall PG, 15.1 ppg, 7 apg (11th in the nation)
Kane is a tremendous player on the talented Marshall squad. His stats are almost the same as Chaz Williams', but Kane has a better chance to make to make it to the NCAA Tournament. Marshall has been mediocre for years, but that should change soon with Kane leading the Thundering Herd.

Doug McDermott, Creighton F, 23.2 ppg (2nd in nation), 7.7 rpg
McDermott is an flat out scorer. He finished second in the nation behind Virginia Tech's Erick Green, who was drafted in the second round. He has the potential to lead the nation in both in scoring and 3-point percentage ( 49% last year, 3rd in nation). He is also not a shabby rebounder, finishing the season with 7.7 rpg.

D.J. Covington, VMI F/C, 15 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 3 bpg (8th in nation)
Admit it, you probably have never heard of D.J. Covington, but he is a very productive center. He boasts a 56% field goal percentage. He is one of the top shot blockers in the nation, and holds down the VMI defense that finished around the top 50 in the nation. VMI finished top 10 in the nation in points per game, so if Covington continues to dominate the paint, VMI could possibly make the tournament.