New NBA Ball

by unblinded on Oct 3, 2006 10:10 AM PDT

Here's what Shaq and DWade had to say,
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2610976

"Feels like one of those cheap balls that you buy at the toy store, indoor-outdoor balls," O'Neal said. "I look for shooting percentages to be way down and turnovers to be way up, because when the ball gets wet you can't really control it. Whoever did that needs to be fired. It was terrible, a terrible decision. Awful. I might get fined for saying that, but so what?"

Sounds like an excuse for more missed free throws!

Wade said the biggest complaint players have with the new ball is the slippage factor, as in how much grip will be lost when players' hands sweat and that moisture gets on the ball.

I've never heard a player complain about the old, trusty leather ball. It does look a bit like a toy ball. And less grooves.. less grip. Maybe this is the NBA's way of reducing costs and increasing profits?

Pic of the new ball... and Dajuan Wagner looks ready to play!

Poll

As of now... Do you prefer the new ball?

Yes

1 votes

No

13 votes

14 votes | Poll has closed

This FanPost is a submission from a member of the mighty Golden State of Mind community. While we're all here to throw up that W, these words do not necessarily reflect the views of the GSoM Crew. Still, chances are the preceding post is Unstoppable Baby!

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More Info

Ball Introduction
http://www.nba.com/news/blackbox_060628.html

More Players' Comments
http://www.nba.com/news/newball_quotes_060628.html

by unblinded on Oct 3, 2006 11:47 AM PDT reply actions

Pretty curious

I've never played with the new ball or even touched it. The players could have some legit concerns. I'll check it out next time I'm at FootLocker or Champs.

Also, great job with this diary. It looks great (link, quote, and image)!

by Atma Brother ONE on Oct 3, 2006 11:57 AM PDT reply actions

Thanks

I just follow how the GSoM starting five throw it down.

Interesting to find conflicting opinions from DWade.

http://www.nba.com/news/newball_quotes_060628.html

"It will be great to get a ball that just feels the same no matter where you are and then it'll really give you that comfort that you need, either home or away...I think the grip is nice ... I'll be able to do more tricks with it, so I'm excited about the grip of it. It feels really good."
-- 2006 Finals MVP Dwyane Wade

Also, great job with GSoM. Its the best sports blog of all time!