East Rombo: The Blog with Balls

I remember being one of those who believed that this Sacramento would not make to the playoffs this year. As soon as injuries struck the Kings, with Peja and Bonzi down, I assumed that their franchise would be one of those who would get early lottery picks. Even after Artest was traded to the Kings, I still had my doubts. I must admit I was very disappointed when he asked for a trade from Pacers president Donnie Walsh. In fact, betrayed would be a more fitting term. I was rooting for the Indiana Pacers then and hoping that they would finally win over Detroit in the post-season. But then again, things change. Fate would not allow a rematch between the Pacers (with Artest) and Detroit.

When Artest was finally traded to Sacramento, I didn’t think he would fit in to their system. For years, Sacramento has been known for their team game and terrific offense and I couldn’t imagine where Artest would fit. He even made a bold prediction that they would make the playoffs and as I saw it during that time, I must admit I had my doubts. But then again, things change. The Kings renewed their identity and became a defensive team, relying on tough half-court defense to create opportunities for their offense. It all seemed that the moves they made since their loss to the Lakers during the Conference finals was to build a defensive team, and that Artest was the final piece of the puzzle.

As the Kings started to come back from a seemingly hopeless season, some players stepped up, showing what they could do and raising some eyebrows in the process, including mine. These players are 2^nd year Kevin Martin, rookie Francisco Garcia, and veteran Kenny Thomas. Kevin Martin showed the league that he could be a scoring threat, averaging more than 20 PPG during the first few weeks since Artest’s arrival. Francisco Garcia was not bad either, running the point and having his share of jumpers despite being a rookie. And Kenny Thomas, despite being smaller than most power forwards could have double digit numbers in the rebounding department if given enough playing time. They were having good chemistry during their run. My friend and I even imagined what if they would make it to number 6 and match up against Denver. It would have been a good match-up and the Kings could come out on top. But then again, things change. Kevin Martin was injured and was replaced by Bonzi Wells. Shareef Abdur-Rahim also returned and replaced Kenny Thomas from time to time. Little did I know, the Kings would never reach no.6 this season.

As the line-up changed, I noticed that their offense had also changed. The team’s offense relied more on one-on-one match-ups, which I found it dull to watch. Watching missed baskets and turnovers whenever they did their one-on-one’s would make me grimace and say, “Dapat pinasa mo!!” Despite their worse offense, at least their defense was still worth watching. I found their games exciting whenever the other team is being suffocated by their stingy defense.

The Kings would eventually clinch the number 8 spot with Artest making good with his previous guarantee. But then he recently made another as he promised that the Kings would make through the first round. They’ll be facing defending champions San Antonio Spurs, and I must say it would be no easy task. Nawili ata sa guarantees niya. But then, things change. I wouldn’t mind Sacramento surprising me again. But for now, Sacramento, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!