No Country for Old Men: A Utah Jazz Story.

[crashnebula]

Re: No Country for Old Men: A Utah Jazz Story.

This seems pretty thoroughly thought out and well-written, I'll be looking forward to seeing what comes for the Jazz next season as they have to pick up the pieces coming off of the end of their most successful era.

[RMJH4]

Jazz Host Star-Studded Pre-Draft Workout.

Jazz Host Star-Studded Pre-Draft Workout.

This morning began with heavy hearts in Salt Lake City as the Utah Jazz’s legendary point guard John Stockton announced his retirement after 19 illustrious seasons in the NBA. Stockton’s departure marked the end of an era for the Jazz, leaving a gaping void at the position he had owned since 1984.

Despite the initial somber mood at the Delta Center, the focus quickly shifted to the future as the Jazz hosted a marquee pre-draft workout featuring ten highly-touted prospects from the heralded 2003 NBA Draft class. With the No. 3 pick in the draft, General Manager Mike Hobbs and Head Coach Jerry Sloan were intent on evaluating the next potential cornerstone of the franchise.

The workout was divided into two teams, showcasing both high-profile stars and under-the-radar talents. The workour included Texas point guard T.J. Ford, French forward Boris Diaw, Syracuse standout Carmelo Anthony, Xavier big man David West, and Serbian phenom Darko Miličić, Marquette guard Dwyane Wade, Auburn sharpshooter Marquis Daniels, Georgia swingman Jarvis Hayes, Georgia Tech forward Chris Bosh, Sharpshooter Kyle Korver and Central Michigan center Chris Kaman. Notably absent was LeBron James who has been given a guarantee of being drafted No 1 by his hometown Cavaliers.

The session opened with a mix of agility drills and shooting competitions, but it was during the live scrimmages that the true potential of these prospects emerged. Carmelo Anthony displayed his scoring prowess, lighting up defenders with a mix of midrange jumpers and powerful drives to the basket. T.J. Ford dazzled with his quickness and pinpoint passing, evoking flashes of Stockton’s court vision, albeit in a different style.

On the opposing team, Dwyane Wade’s slashing ability and defensive intensity left a strong impression. Chris Bosh’s smooth footwork and touch around the rim showcased his versatility as a big man, while Chris Kaman held his own in the paint, battling aggressively on both ends.

Hobbs and Sloan, visibly weighed down by the emotional gravity of Stockton’s retirement earlier in the day, found themselves energized by the spirited play of the young prospects. “It’s a bittersweet day for this franchise,” Sloan admitted after the workout. “You don’t replace a guy like John Stockton, but seeing the talent out there today gives us hope for what’s to come.”

Hobbs echoed the sentiment, highlighting the unique opportunity the Jazz have to rebuild around a new core. “The skill level, the athleticism, and the character of this draft class are exceptional,” he said. “We’re confident we’ll find a player who can help define the next chapter of Jazz basketball.”

As the workout concluded, the decision facing the Jazz’s front office loomed large. With such a deep and talented pool of prospects, the pressure to make the right choice with the No. 3 pick has never been higher.

While Stockton’s shadow will undoubtedly linger over the franchise for years to come, today’s workout offered a glimpse of a bright future. Whether it’s Anthony’s scoring, Wade’s grit, Ford’s playmaking, or the potential of other standout prospects, the Jazz are poised to usher in a new era, one that will honor Stockton’s legacy while forging a fresh identity.

NCAA Champion Carmelo Anthony is expected to be drafted #2 overall by the Pistons.


Darko Milicic has been earning rave reviews, and could go anywhere in the top 5.


Dwayne Wade is a top 5 prospect who led Marquette to the Final Four this year.


Chris Bosh has been a standout with Georgia Tech this season.

[RMJH4]

Re: No Country for Old Men: A Utah Jazz Story.

Must go back to the beginning and read this one!

Yeah I had been meaning to get this one finished for some time. Started on 2k11 and have moved it over to 2k25 now on PC!

Jordan out, LeBron in. But it's undoubtedly a fantastic class full of quality. James, Carmelo, Wade until (if I'm not mistaken) Korver's year. It's going to be interesting.

So many stars and underated players here all over the draft. Mutliple allstars. Very very deep.

This seems pretty thoroughly thought out and well-written, I'll be looking forward to seeing what comes for the Jazz next season as they have to pick up the pieces coming off of the end of their most successful era.

Appreciate it! As I was saying to Kiba, its been a long term project, every move is really well thought out. I have had several different paths I could go down, and after getting stuck down a rabbit hole for months with other options, I am back to plan A now!

[RMJH4]

LeBron James chosen No. 1 in the 2003 NBA draft.

LeBron James chosen No. 1 in the 2003 NBA draft.

NEW YORK -- LeBron James was chosen No. 1 in the NBA draft Thursday night and strode onstage wearing an all-white suit, appropriate garb for a player expected to be the savior of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

James, the 18-year-old prep phenom from Akron, hugged his agent, Aaron Goodwin, then turned and did the same to his mother, Gloria, before pulling on a Cavaliers cap and shaking the hand of commissioner David Stern.

"I just think I look pretty good in all white," said James, whose suit was custom-made by a Charlotte fashion designer. "My guy made it for me and said he'd make the best suit in the draft."

The most heralded high school player of a generation, James is considered a can't-miss prospect with the skills of a guard, the body of a forward and the potential of a superstar.

James turned to the audience and beamed a wide smile, although the audience at Madison Square Garden didn't exactly embrace him. Many in the raucous crowd were already busy chanting "Fire Lay-den" -- a reference to general manager Scott Layden of the hometown Knicks.

"It was great. This is a longtime dream -- to finally accomplish this," James said.

Serbian 7-footer Darko Milicic was chosen second by the Detroit Pistons, stopping to kiss the cheeks of his family who sat with him at the table next to the James entourage.

Utah then shocked the crowd and went for Marquette junior guard Dwyane Wade, who said Wednesday that he had no idea whether he'd be picked anywhere from fourth to 10th. 3rd wasn't even on the cards for him.

"I've been living in cold all my life. Going to Salt Lake City, I'll be right at home." Wade said.

With the news of John Stockton retiring this week, Utah GM Mike Hobbs may have had to change plans and draft a guard over a wing.

Carmelo Anthony, who led Syracuse to the national championship, was chosen fourth by the Denver Nuggets continuing the dramatic first 15 minutes. The Jazz may regret not going for the best player available.

Things were expected to get even more intriguing over the rest of the first round, with many teams in the remainder of the lottery trying to guess during the past few days what the order would be of the second-tier prospects.

The Miami Heat, who were listening to trade offers throughout the day, used the No. 5 pick on 6-foot-11 freshman forward Chris Bosh of Georgia Tech. With Alonzo Mournings health concerns still fresh, it was a wise move for the Heat.

Central Michigan center Chris Kaman, a 7-footer who averaged 22.4 points last season as a junior, went sixth to the Toronto Raptors. Hakeem Olajuwon is expected to retire this offseason after picking up another back injury.

Next two teams with point guard problems snatched up the two top-rated playmakers with the next two picks.

Kirk Hinrich of Kansas was the first senior to be selected, going sixth to the LA Clippers. The Clippers are expected to lose point guard Andre Miller to free agency this summer.

T.J. Ford of Texas, winner of the Naismith and Wooden awards, went at No. 8 to the Milwaukee Bucks -- Head Coach George Karl still led the Bucks to an NBA title despite a 34 year old declining Sam Cassell at the point.

The Charlotte Hornets selected Georgetown power forward Michael Sweetney -- a choice that should add some depth behind elder statesman PJ Brown.

Mickael Pietrus, a 6-6 swingman from France, was the second international player taken, going 10th to the Golden State Warriors.

Luke Ridnour of Oregon went 11th to the Boston Celtics. The Celtics who made the Eastern Conference Finals in 2001-02, took a major step back by not making the playoffs this season. The lack of a true point guard had a large role to play in that.

"I think I can make an impact right away," Ridnour said.

Jarvis Hayes of Georgia went 12th to the Chicago Bulls who are still searching for building blocks.

The biggest shock of last season was the Lakers missing the playoffs behind Shaq's season ending MCL injury. But the Lakers added a solid player in Kansas' Nick Collison at Power Forward. Collison has the smarts to fit into the triangle offense.

[RMJH4]

2003 NBA Draft Recap: Jazz Find Hope in Wade.

2003 NBA Draft Recap: Jazz Find Hope in Wade.

Salt Lake Tribune, June 27, 2003

The Utah Jazz entered the 2003 NBA Draft facing the most pivotal offseason in franchise history. With John Stockton officially retired and Karl Malone’s future uncertain as he explores free agency, the Jazz needed to nail this draft to begin charting a path forward. New General Manager Mike Hobbs delivered with two selections that have fans in Salt Lake City buzzing about the future.

Dwyane Wade: The Heir to Stockton’s Throne?

With the No. 3 overall pick, the Jazz selected Dwyane Wade, the electrifying 6’4” guard out of Marquette. Wade is seen as the franchise’s best hope to replace Stockton—not as a traditional pass-first point guard, but as a dynamic two-way playmaker capable of creating his own offense and leading by example.

“Dwyane is a special talent,” said Hobbs after the pick. “He’s fearless, he’s relentless, and he has the kind of character that fits the culture we’ve built here in Utah. We believe he’s going to make an immediate impact and grow into one of the league’s premier players.”

Wade burst onto the national radar this past season, leading Marquette to a Final Four berth while showcasing his ability to score, defend, and lead. His versatility, athleticism, and tenacity on the court make him a perfect fit for Jerry Sloan’s system.

When asked about stepping into Stockton’s shoes, Wade said he’s ready for the challenge.

“John Stockton is a legend, and I’ll never try to be him,” Wade said. “But I’m here to work hard, compete, and bring everything I’ve got to this team. I’m excited to grow with this franchise.”

Wade really impressed Mike Hobbs and Jerry Sloan at the draft workout.

Boris Diaw: A Do-It-All Wing at No. 22

With their second first-round pick, No. 22 overall, the Jazz selected Boris Diaw, a 6’8” forward from France. Diaw’s versatility was the selling point for Hobbs and the front office, as he has the skills to play shooting guard, small forward, and even power forward when needed.

“Boris is a guy who can do a little bit of everything,” Hobbs said. “He’s got great court vision, can defend multiple positions, and has a feel for the game that you don’t see often in young players. We think he’s going to thrive in this league.”

Diaw’s ability to handle the ball, create for others, and contribute defensively gives the Jazz a valuable piece for their rebuild. While he might take some time to adjust to the NBA, his skill set and high basketball IQ make him a perfect complement to Wade and the team’s core.

The Malone Question Looms

While the Jazz’s draft night provided reasons for optimism, questions remain about Karl Malone’s future with the team. The 39-year-old power forward, who has spent his entire Hall of Fame career in Utah, is now a free agent. Speculation has swirled that Malone may look to join a contender for a final shot at an NBA championship, though Hobbs expressed hope that the Mailman might return.

“Karl has been the heart and soul of this franchise for nearly two decades,” Hobbs said. “We’d love to have him back, but we also understand he’s earned the right to explore his options.”

Malone has yet to comment publicly about his plans, leaving the Jazz in a holding pattern as they wait for his decision.

Looking Forward

With Wade and Diaw in the fold, the Jazz are taking bold steps toward their post-Stockton and Malone future. While the team’s identity remains in flux, the selections of two high-character, versatile players offer a glimpse of what might come next.

“We’re building for the future, but we’re not backing down from the challenge of competing right now,” Hobbs said. “Tonight was a big step forward.”

Jazz fans, while saying goodbye to legends is never easy, can take comfort in the promise of a new era headlined by Dwyane Wade, Boris Diaw, Andrei Kirilenko and Nenad Krstic. Whether Malone returns or moves on, the Jazz are determined to build a team that can once again contend in the West.

[crashnebula]

Re: No Country for Old Men: A Utah Jazz Story.

You've already got a very uniquely versatile young core with AK-47, Wade and Diaw. That's a fun team already, regardless of what their record ends up being.

[kibaxx7]

Re: No Country for Old Men: A Utah Jazz Story.

Yep, I bet that playing with AK and Flash will be really fun.