Notes and Quotes

1. How did Sundiata Gaines (arguably the coolest name ever to put on a Jazz uniform) get his name?

“I’m named after Sundiata (Keita c. 1217-1255), who was the king of Mali. He led his people through a lot of battles and wars. He went through a lot of adversity. Sundiata was a fighter and a leader who competed and he did whatever he had to do for his people.” (desnews)

2. Jerry Sloan: unintentional dirty quote machine?

“…if you’re a shooter — step up there and shoot, and make it. Not just get it off.”

OK OK, here’s the full quote:

“Kyle’s not in the best of basketball shape,” Sloan added. “I was glad to get him in the game some because he executed our offense and then caught the ball and shot it. I mean, if you’re a shooter — step up there and shoot, and make it. Not just get it off.” (desnews)

3. More quotage. Carlos on his hard foul on Conley during Friday’s game against the Grizz:

“He’s just real light, and I’m real strong.” (desnews)

4. We got a good win in the last one, so this doesn’t sting as much as it did two days ago, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less true:

Utah might have to send a representative to Secaucus for the lottery drawing next spring, but it might be their own damn fault. These Knicks could still be playing at that time. (Ball Don’t Lie)