Weather & Climate in Bulgaria

WEATHER AND CLIMATE IN BULGARIA

Bulgaria's most comfortable temperatures are found mid May to mid September. The country's climate is influenced by the Mediterranean and Black Seas, making for generally mild conditions throughout the country. Summer days rarely get too hot. In the mountains and in the evenings, temperatures are about 10 degrees F/5 C cooler than in the rest of the country, on average. The winter can be bitterly cold, snowy and damp, but health spas are open, skiing is good, and the concert season is in full swing. Be sure to take a sweater, even in the summer, for cool evenings.

The Lakers need Plan B, Steve Nash gets the last laugh, and who rock purple-and-gold next year? Dime

Rumor is the Nuggets will pursue a deal to send disgruntled forward Kenyon Martin to Portland for forward Zach Randolph. The Trail Blazers repeatedly turned down Denver's overtures this past season. But considering Randolph doesn't see eye to eye with Portland coach Nate McMillan and is close with Nuggets assistant GM Mark Warkentein, who drafted him, expect the trade talks for players each making $12 million next season to come up again. Denver Post

As of Friday, Martin had not filed a grievance with the players union in hopes of getting back the $296,901 he lost after being suspended for the final three games of the playoffs for conduct detrimental to the team. Denver Post

Reached in his native Brazil on Friday, the restricted free-agent forward said he was surprised by Vandeweghe's departure and said it could affect his decision to re-sign with Denver this summer. Dan Fegan, Nene's agent, has a strong relationship with Vandeweghe. "Kiki and Dan talk," Nene said. "I don't know now. We need to wait....The communication is going to change now because Kiki knows a lot of Dan. I don't know the new (general) manager." Denver Post

Forward Reggie Evans, another Denver free agent, said, "It really won't affect me that much." Denver Post

Team officials have recommended the re-signing of Cassell and Radmanovic, Clipper sources said. Owner Donald T. Sterling has approved big-budget moves recently, such as the signing of Mobley for $42 million — the richest contract in team history for a free agent from outside the organization. Radmanovic might accept a six-year deal in the neighborhood of $40 million, and Cassell probably would re-sign for $10 million to $12 million over two seasons. Los Angeles Times

The team holds a 2006-07 option on Coach Mike Dunleavy's contract, but many in the organization said Dunleavy deserves a new deal because of his key role in what's considered the best season in franchise history. "I don't make the decisions, but I definitely want to see Sam back, Vlade back and, of course, Coach back," Brand said. "Wherever we end up this season, I want another crack at it, with the same team." Los Angeles Times

Kirk Hinrich is eligible for a contract extension, which can be signed between mid-July and Oct. 31. “Kirk is obviously, the type of guy we want in this organization for a long time,” John Paxson said. Arlington Heights Daily Herald

Former Gophers center Joel Przybilla, who will become an unrestricted free agent after playing this season for the Portland Trail Blazers, is home visiting family in Monticello this weekend. It's unclear where the 7-footer will end up next season. "It's wide open," agent Bill Duffy said. St. Paul Pioneer Press

Flip Murray could emerge as a hot item in July on the free-agent market. Supposedly, the Charlotte Bobcats will have a sincere interest in him. He could start for the expansion Bobcats. He also attended Shaw College in North Carolina, so he might be attracted to a lucrative contract there with a real shot to start. Akron Beacon Journal

The Bucks will be without a first-round draft choice because that went to New Orleans / Oklahoma City along with Desmond Mason for Magloire. But if the Bucks choose to get back into the first round, Magloire may be the trade bait. Magloire will be in the final year of a contract that will pay him $8.3 million, and knowing that salary will be coming off the books may be enough for some teams. Joe Smith, who will make $6.8 million, also will be in the final year of his contract and may be tradable. Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

"With Jamaal, he's a starting center on a playoff team; you can't deny that," Harris said. "The guy has a skill, he has a talent, and there are not a lot of true centers. . . . So when you're thinking about moving people around and moving size around, you better make sure you get the pieces that complement the players you do have." One of those needs, Harris said, would be to find a young, athletic power forward during the off-season. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

"We're going to need some kind of a 4 man," Harris said. "We're a team that likes to open the floor up. Andrew is better with spacing, and the rest of our players like to play a more open style of game where we're cutting; we can post up Bobby (Simmons) and Michael (Redd). We need someone who can space the floor." Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Harris confirmed that the Bucks' plan next season is to move Bogut to the center position, his more natural role, after he played nearly his entire rookie year at power forward. Bogut started in tandem with veteran center Jamaal Magloire, an acquisition the Bucks general manager made to reduce the intense pressure on the No. 1 overall draft pick and lead him to long-term success. "If we wanted to get somewhere, I thought it really solidified the fact we were going to be a playoff team, by getting Magloire," Harris said. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

A ridiculous value for the Mavs, Howard made $873,880 this season, a fraction less than project center DJ Mbenga and $4.5 million less than his good buddy Daniels. Howard's contract runs through the 2006-07 season, after which he will be in line for a significant raise. "Whatever happens will happen," Howard said. "I'm not pushing the issue." Surely, the Mavs will. Fort Worth Star-Telegram

"I said he should be taken in the top five picks," said Marty Blake, the NBA's director of scouting services. "Twenty-eight teams didn't listen to me." Howard watched the draft at his grandma's house with friends and coach Prosser. "We felt strongly that he would go 14th, 15th, something like that," Prosser said. "Teams kept picking someone else and we kept getting more and more frustrated." How could Howard, a pedigreed college star and four-year graduate, sink while teams snatched up Marcus Banks (13th), Reece Gaines (15th), Zarko Cabarkapa (17th) and Aleksandar Pavlovic (19th)? "I still don't know to this day," Howard said. "I've seen good things said, I've heard bad things said. I've heard I did everything good and not just one thing. A lot of those guys in my class aren't even playing." Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Howard believes his good fortune just might have started in a most unusual way as a 4-month-old infant. "I was born real bowlegged," Howard said. "They had to break my legs. I've got pictures and everything, from the thigh down to maybe my shins. I'm still kind of bowlegged a little bit. Maybe it helped. It got me walking straight." Fort Worth Star-Telegram

Word is the pickup of Derek Anderson will be more costly than Miami hoped. Before acquiring him, the Heat tried to get Anderson to waive his $2.5 million player option for 2006-07, but Anderson declined. He's likely to exercise that option, meaning Micky Arison likely will need to relent to paying a luxury tax for Miami to use its $5 million cap exception. Miami Herald

The Phoenix Suns have scheduled a news conference for Sunday at which it is expected guard Steve Nash will officially be named MVP for the second straight season. The announcement would come the day after Nash helped lead the Suns to an opening-round playoff series win over the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming the eighth team to come back from a 3-1 deficit to win a playoff series. ESPN.com

In Chicago, the Bulls had two younger, harder-nosed small forwards, Andrés Nocioni and Luol Deng. They acquired Thomas because his expiring contract would help them reduce their payroll. But Thomas was unhappy with his role, and the Bulls, concerned that he could become a distraction, sent him home. "They made the trade to write me off at the end of the year," Thomas said. "I just hate all the negativity that comes with it. And I heard 15 million stories — I didn't work hard, I was bad in the locker room, all kinds of stuff. But the bottom line is, they really didn't want me there, to take away from the guys like Nocioni and Luol." New York Times

A New Jersey native, Thomas had hoped for better when the Knicks acquired him in a 2004 trade. But, like many players, he often found it difficult to thrive in an offense dominated by point guard Stephon Marbury. "With a guy like Steph, you can't really get involved unless he lets you get involved," Thomas said. "He's a scoring point guard. And scoring point guards don't really look to give the ball up as much." New York Times

He said it was the most fun he had had "since probably high school, college" and his early days with the Milwaukee Bucks. "This team, it's like a college atmosphere. We hang out together, we go out to eat together, our wives hang out together. In other situations, you had so much separation. The major goal here is just to win. Everybody's on one page." That description is in stark contrast to the foreboding, politically charged atmosphere of Madison Square Garden, where Thomas spent a season and a half with the hapless Knicks. New York Times

While Los Angeles Clippers center Chris Kaman has no problem with coach Mike Dunleavy getting in his face during a game, word is he's tiring of hearing criticism from veteran guards Sam Cassell and Cuttino Mobley. Denver Post

Cassell said he's been using the down time to relax and prepare. Prepare for his next career, that is. "I'm going to be a coach when I retire," he said. "You got to put the work in. I don't watch basketball like a fan, I watch basketball. I get a little notepad, jot things down that I notice." Pasadena Star-News

"For me, it's all about business," said Finley, who had 10 points in Friday's win against Sacramento. "There won't be any kissing and hugging during the games." Finley's role has changed as much as the uniform. The Mavericks counted on him to play a major postseason role. There were good moments, such as the 33-point performance Finley had against Utah in 2001 to give the Mavericks their first playoff-series win since 1988. Dallas Morning News

Hughes also was asked about putting on a pair of Wizards shorts following the game. "I've been wearing those shorts all year. I always wear a pair of shorts under my clothes," said Hughes, who left Washington after three seasons to sign a five-year, $60 million contract last summer. Washington Post

"I just believed in him," Brown said of Jones. Jones said, "I tried to stay positive for my team and be a professional." It was tough, I won't lie," he said about coming in cold in overtime. "I can't say I'm all nails." New York Times

Shaquille O'Neal is a man of nearly as many languages as interests. When discussing New Jersey forward Jason Collins after Saturday's practice, the Heat center spoke Greek. "They're all the same," O'Neal said of opposing interior defenders, from former NBA center Vlade Divac through Collins. "They all have their flop fraternity. A flopternity is what I call them." Flop flop flop? "Flop flop flop," he said. "I just have to mix it up and stay out of foul trouble, and I will. I'm going to enjoy mixing it up." South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Alonzo Mourning briefly shared a frontcourt with Collins as a Net in 2003 and 2004. "What frustrates me is not the player, it's the way the league has called games," Mourning said. "I was a part of this game when flopping wasn't a factor. Now they're making flopping a factor and the league is helping those guys." South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Mourning said that, since officials fall prey to the David and Goliath syndrome and "feel sorry" for the weaker player, the stronger one must make the adjustment. "I think you're going to have to get deeper spots on the court," Mourning said. "Because the less dribbles you have to take to get to that rim, the better off. As soon as you catch, I can just go straight up with it. I think that puts the defense at more of a disadvantage and forces the referees to make the calls in your favor, as opposed to when you have to dribble and back down and back down." South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Haslem started 80 of his 81 games. But what about starting Posey and Walker together? "I haven't really thought about that, but that's a possibility," Riley said. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

"I just need to shoot the ball," the Nets captain said yesterday as the team prepared for the Miami series that opens tomorrow night. "I was thinking too much. That was the biggest change I made, besides my uniform (at halftime of Game 6 at Indiana) -- just shoot it, don't think about it. That's why I made the first two (in the third period)." Newark Star-Ledger

It isn't a mechanical issue, Kidd said -- he hasn't even consulted Bob Thate, the Nets' superb shooting coach, because a 12-year pro can usually figure it out on his own. But he sounds as though he might consult a therapist. "It's more mental," he said. "When I start thinking about my shot, it becomes a hesitation instead of just letting it go. And in the second half, I just let it go. I couldn't do any worse." Newark Star-Ledger

"They've wanted us year in and year out," Tim Duncan said. "We've got the better of them in years past and I know when we were in that situation and the Lakers were beating us, we wanted to get them. They're in the same situation. "They want to go through us. They want to take it from us." San Antonio Express-News

What was a cozy series lead dissipated quickly amid the revival of the Suns, who averaged 120.3 points over the final three games. "I knew that it was a serious possibility given the fact that the team we're up against has a lot of firepower," Bryant said. "I knew that we were playing extremely, extremely well. And I knew that they had a notch that they can go to, and they went to it and we couldn't keep up." Los Angeles Times

Clippers center Zeljko Rebraca was able to participate in all drills for the first time since complaining of shortness of breath before Monday's Game 5 victory over Denver. Rebraca had surgery during the season to alleviate an irregular heartbeat and the recent shortness of breath is considered normal after the surgery. Los Angeles Daily News

Mourning said his right calf felt "a whole lot better than a week ago," and that he was glad that he had followed medical advice to return, in order to get the strength back. "I didn't feel comfortable at all coming back," said Mourning, who missed five weeks after partially tearing the calf muscle March 22. "I actually wanted to sit out a little more." Dwyane Wade said his bruised left hip was still "a little sore, but hopefully by Monday, it feels a little better." South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Parker was so effective that Duncan jokingly questioned the severity of his injuries. "He's attempting to overtake Eva (Longoria) as the best actor in the family," Duncan said. "Seriously, he's a trooper. He's a tough one. We needed him and he showed he had it." After laboring on a sore right foot for much of the season, Duncan used the first round to show he also remains a fairly imposing force. It's safe, however, to also say he's not looking forward to today's noon tipoff. Throughout his career, regardless of his health, Duncan has often struggled with matinee starts. San Antonio Express-News

One negative NBA scouts will hold against Shakur — if he remains in the draft — is that he was not smart enough to understand his value and his ability. Decision-making is part of making one attractive to NBA teams. Arizona Daily Star

The Nuggets, who have the 49th overall pick in the second round of this year's draft, begin workouts Thursday at the Pepsi Center. Illinois guard Dee Brown and Iowa State guard Curtis Stinson are scheduled to take part in the first workout. Denver Post

As opposed to years past, NCAA underclassmen are not allowed to let NBA teams pay for the expenses involved in getting to private workouts, fully knowing that they will have to pay them back before the fall semester starts at school. Underclassmen must now not only set up their workouts either by themselves or with their college coach (quite a challenging task in itself), they must find a way to pay for them on their own as well, up front, or risk be ruled ineligible by the NCAA if/when they pull out of the draft. DraftExpress.com

Considering the expenses involved in flying to 12-15 NBA cities around the country on short notice and having to pay for hotels, food, transportation as well as the airfare, players will need a small fortune to be able to explore their NBA options. If you don’t come from a well-off family and resist the temptation to hire an agent and have all these problems sorted for you, it’s difficult to envision how a typical college student can shoulder these expenses on their own. DraftExpress.com

To minimize costs and still provide an avenue for players to be seen, many top colleges (such as Michigan State) are reportedly looking into the possibility of conducting a public workout for NBA executives on their own campus. Needless to say, NBA teams aren’t thrilled with the idea. DraftExpress.com

Sacramento State's DaShawn Freeman worked out for the Kings along with Nevada's Mo Charlo as NBA teams begin their quest for talent to fill out summer-league teams, as well as search for sleepers to play in their veteran camps. Sacramento Bee

The Los Angeles Lakers are in hot pursuit of former Mounds View star Nick Horvath, who is expected to play in their summer league. St. Paul Pioneer Press

Ex-Gophers center Jeff Hagen is home in Minneapolis after leading the National Basketball Development League in blocked shots per minute while playing for the Austin Toros as a rookie. The 7-footer is working out under Trent Tucker's tutelage at Williams Arena and hopes to play for an NBA summer league team. "It was different from playing in college, but I enjoyed it and learned a lot," Hagen said. St. Paul Pioneer Press

"Everything takes time, and I need to go step by step to get to the goal," said Sun, who likes to spend his free time playing on the computer. "I think I've improved, but I'm not where I want to be yet. Since I came over here (to the United States), there wasn't a lot of systematic training. I had to prepare for the surgery and the recovery. "Now I need to get in better shape and get faster. This is a good opportunity that I have here, so I want to take my time to do it right." Dodge Globe

But he did say, with a big smile on his face, that if he had his way, he would be playing in the NBA right now. Osbourne said the speed of the game in an up-and-down-the-court league concerned him at first, but Sun has started to make adjustments and changed the coach’s opinion of what he might be able to do. Dodge Globe

Even though Sun's height is a luxury in his sport, being one of the tallest people in the world is also a burden for a shy young man who wants to be treated just like everyone else. Sun Ming Ming adjusts to life in the United States while pursuing dreams of the NBA Rick Druse "I've gotten used to the attention," Sun said in a recent interview through interpreter Janney Duncan. "But most of the time, it's not very convenient for me. I've tried to accept it, but it's hard sometimes. I don't like all the attention, all the time." Dodge Globe

But when you're as big as Sun, hiding and living a public "normal" life is almost impossible. "He's trying to understand Dodge City," Osbourne said. "It's new to him, and he's a very humble and quiet guy that doesn't want to be disrespectful to anybody. He's always going to get a lot of attention, no matter where he goes. I don't think people realize what he has to go through everyday, being 7 foot 9 and 370 pounds. It's not easy and something that most people really wouldn't want to go through." Dodge Globe

Vandeweghe, whose best seasons as an NBA player were for Denver and Portland, could resurface in Portland. The contract of Trail Blazers’ general manager John Nash expires June 30, and many believe he won’t return. But Portland’s muddled ownership situation could complicate matters. "I’m not going to speculate on that,’’ Vandeweghe said of possibly going to the Trail Blazers. "I’m just going to decompress for a few days.’’ Rocky Mountain News

Vandeweghe, a self-described gym rat, wants to stay in the game. At this time, there are no GM vacancies in the NBA. However, there has been speculation Trail Blazers general manager John Nash might not be back, and that the Blazers could have new ownership soon, too. Vandeweghe is a former Portland player. "I really think I need a couple days to talk to my family," Vandeweghe said. "My wife reminded me that I haven't taken a vacation since I've been here. My vacation has been going in the gym. I'm going to take some time with family, which is wonderful, and figure out what's next. "The one thing I know is I love basketball." Denver Post

Kroenke, the Denver Nuggets owner, on Saturday responded to some questions from the Rocky Mountain News via e-mail. On the most pressing issue, Kroenke wrote there is no plan to name an interim general manager to replace Kiki Vandeweghe and that current members of the basketball staff will handle matters until the front office is restructured. Rocky Mountain News

Kroenke and Vandeweghe met Friday in Los Angeles. Kroenke informed Vandeweghe his contract, which was due to expire Aug. 1, would not be renewed after five years and the two parted ways. "We have not named an interim general manager,’’ Kroenke wrote. "We have a team of individuals in place that can handle our basketball decisions in the short term as we look to take our next step. We currently have more than a combined 80 years of basketball experience in our front office — not to mention a veteran coaching staff — that will help us through this transition.’’ Rocky Mountain News

Vandeweghe repeatedly stressed what a pleasant exit interview he enjoyed with Kroenke. "If everything was so hunky-dory," I finally asked Vandeweghe, "then why do you no longer work for the Nuggets?" There was dead air on the phone line for two seconds. "Um," said Vandeweghe, politely refusing to answer, "I promised myself I would take the high road." Denver Post

"I'm not going to lie, it's a tough day for a lot of reasons," Vandeweghe said. "You want to stay positive, but you put your heart into something for five years you deeply care about. Now you want to see that flourish and continue. You want to be a part of that. "I really believe this is going to be a successful team for a long time. If this team stays healthy, which it will, they will be successful for a long time and big time." Denver Post

"The process for identifying the right leaders to bring us to our goal has begun and as soon as we finalize the personnel, announcements will be made,’’ Kroenke wrote. "We are looking extensively at several candidates — internally and throughout the league — and will assemble a front office that gives us the best chance of moving forward and winning an NBA championship.’’ Rocky Mountain News

While Kroenke did not name any specific candidates, if the Nuggets go with a general manager, director of player personnel Mark Warkentien is believed to be a strong candidate. Warkentien has a long relationship with Nuggets coach George Karl, and the two have worked well together. Rocky Mountain News

Warkentien would not comment on the possibility of being Vandeweghe’s replacement. He will continue with his previous plan of flying from his hometown of Portland, Ore., where he has been for several days, to Denver on Sunday night and be in the Nuggets’ offices Monday. In addition to Warkentien, other key Denver front-office officials in place during Kroenke’s "transition’’ period are assistant general managers Jeff Weltman and David Fredman, and Bret Bearup, a Kroenke advisor, is expected to have influence. Rocky Mountain News

Rumored potential candidates include: Tommy Sheppard, Washington's director of basketball operations; San Antonio assistant GM Sam Presti; Detroit vice president for basketball operations John Hammond; Utah assistant coach Scott Layden; and Mark Warkentien, the Nuggets' director of player personnel. Denver Post

Aside from often being listed as a future general manager, Hammond has ties to Kroenke. He served as Missouri's associate head coach in 1999-2000 on a team that included the owner's son, Josh Kroenke. Layden has served as the top decision-maker in New York and Utah, and has ties to Fredman in Denver. Denver Post

Is Bret Bearup a candidate for the job? What role has he played in this team's decision-making, and what do you expect it to be in the future? Stan Kroenke: Bret has been a close friend of mine for many years. I have kicked out ideas with Bret for years, long before I bought the Nuggets. As far as basketball, Bret is viewed as a respected voice in many basketball circles. Naturally, given his background, we are interested in his opinion. And frankly, his opinions have benefited everyone in the Nuggets organization over the years. But as to whether we are looking at him as a candidate for a front-office position, Bret is not a candidate - nor has he ever sought a position within the Nuggets organization. Denver Post

Or is Bearup calling the shots now? A former college player and financial adviser, Bearup attends games and shadows Kroenke so closely that they could wear the same sport coat. "No, I'm not calling the shots. Stan Kronke calls the shots. Make no freakin' mistake about that," Bearup said. Denver Post

There were no fewer than six men deciding Martin's fate, according to somebody who was in the room. Bearup, who has no official capacity with the team, was present. But Martin, whose career with the Nuggets hung in the balance, was not in attendance. Instead of settling differences, what resulted was the destruction of whatever trade value Martin, his bad knees and bad attitude had left. Denver Post

Nene said that because of Vandeweghe's strong relationship with his agent, Dan Fegan, this move might affect his decision to re-sign. He wants to see who the new GM is. Carmelo Anthony has repeatedly backed Vandeweghe. Are you concerned about any backlash from the players? SK: Our players are professionals and they understand that difficult decisions must be made, and at times those decisions result in change. Every member of the Nuggets shares our desire to build a team that will consistently compete at the highest levels. Denver Post

On paper, the Nuggets do have tantalizing talent. In reality, there is such disharmony that smart fans cover their ears and run away. "This is not fantasy basketball. It isn't just about assembling talent," Nuggets assistant general manager David Fredman said Saturday. "You have to have talent to win. But if that talent cannot play together, it will never win." Denver Post

Or, as one basketball official with an Eastern Conference team told me last week: "You ever walk in a theater, sit down and think: This is a real good idea for a movie? But then the director keeps adding so many characters until you have no idea what's going on? It becomes impossible to follow the story. That's the Nuggets." Denver Post

Coach George Karl said he expects his coaching staff to return, though he left the door open for a newcomer to arrive as assistant Tim Grgurich did late last offseason. "My staff did a great job," Karl said. "I'm very complimentary of them. I'm always interested in improving a staff, but it's not high on my list of worries. If a Tim Grgurich were to fall out of the sky, I'd probably look at it, but I don't expect that and I expect my staff to be back." Denver Post

Let's see. Nash's contract expires June 30, stirring debate about whether he will be retained. Meanwhile, Pritchard covets Nash's job so much that he's bragged to numerous people about how often owner Paul Allen e-mails him. And Patterson has just headed up one of the most tragic free falls in U.S. sports-management history, fostering an organizational atmosphere of mistrust and contempt in the process. Oregonian

On Saturday, Nash declined comment on his future, and indicated via e-mail: "It is counter productive for me to be discussing my situation publicly when I haven't yet done so with my boss." Hold up. They haven't even discussed it? Oregonian

Which is why Nash, who cuts the most sympathetic figure in the bunch, is about to be tossed on the steps of One Center Court and offered as a sacrifice to the Vulcans. Blazers insiders will tell you that Nash has had almost no autonomy in three years. As his first duty, he overruled scouts in picking Sebastian Telfair in the first round, but beyond that single draft pick, he's had to smile a lot, and eat piles of distasteful moves fed to him by Patterson, Pritchard, and also, Vulcan. Oregonian

"They don't let John do his job," a one-time Blazers' assistant said. "They never have, aside from letting him pick Telfair." Nash's contract was extended last May. In an attempt to cut a clear definition of his tenure, at the news conference where the team made the announcement, I asked Patterson if, say, Telfair would be in a Portland uniform if it weren't for Nash. Oregonian

Don't be surprised if Fred Hoiberg, forced to retire as a player this season because of aortic surgery, is named the Timberwolves' player personnel director while being groomed for a general manager position. St. Paul Pioneer Press

According to sources with knowledge of the situation, an extension for Jordan has not been discussed, which was fine with Jordan, who didn't want any distractions as the Wizards battled first to reach the postseason and then to advance in the playoffs. Wizards president of basketball operations Ernie Grunfeld, as a policy, never divulges personnel plans. But make no mistake, Jordan's future will be discussed during an offseason in which the Wizards will try to focus on getting better than the team that reached the second round last season and was eliminated in the first round this year after dropping three games by just one point. Washington Times

Wizards Coach Eddie Jordan and his staff are under contract through next season, but Jordan will be looking for an extension this summer. President of Basketball Operations Ernie Grunfeld said any discussions about an extension for Jordan would take place "after the season," and the two sides are expected to meet soon. Washington Post

In the aftermath of the Cleveland Cavaliers eliminating the Wizards 4-2 in the first round of the playoffs thanks to Damon Jones' late jumper on Friday, point guard Gilbert Arenas threw his support completely behind Jordan. "I wouldn't be where I'm at if it weren't for Eddie. He believed in me," said Arenas, who averaged 34 points a game in the series. "When I was a free agent he called and told me that he wanted me to be his point guard when he started his team. We bumped heads our first season, but that was two guys trying to get to know each other. But since then to now it's a totally different relationship, and I don't want to see him go. I'll even say if he's not here I don't want to be here. I'll even go that far. That's how badly I want him here." Washington Times

Much was made about the way the series was officiated, but Arenas has no complaints. "People can say that there were plenty of times when they let LeBron [James] do this and they let LeBron do that. But there were plenty of times when I traveled out there and they didn't call it," he said. "At the end of the day, I think the games were called fair." Arenas and Jordan picked up technical fouls in the first quarter of Game 6 when they vehemently protested the refs' failure to call what they thought was a foul on James when Arenas attempted a layup that resulted in Arenas being knocked to the floor. "As much as Eddie and I got up and protested, I did use my off arm to cause contact," Arenas said, after viewing the replay. Washington Times

That chill in the Arco offices isn't caused by air conditioning alone. A year ago, remember, having become almost dismayed following their club's opening-round effort against the Seattle Sonics, the Maloofs went off in pursuit of Phil Jackson. As recently as two weeks ago, as the Kings backed into the playoffs and before their surprisingly resilient performance against the Spurs, Joe Maloof repeatedly hedged on the matter. On Friday, however, the Kings' co-owner hinted at a future that could very well include the return of the veteran coach, who in recent comments to The Bee, expressed his own reservations about returning. And while group therapy would seem a prerequisite to any future Adelman-Maloof pairing, Petrie's influence remains of greatest significance. Petrie still calls the plays, and based on the team's improvement since acquiring Artest, he would more likely volunteer for a root canal than advocate a coaching change. Sacramento Bee

Pete Carril, the longest-tenured Kings assistant coach, is not exactly sure where he will be next season. He'll either return to the Kings and continue mentoring young players such as Kevin Martin, or he'll retire in or near his beloved New Jersey, where he coached at Princeton. Carril, 75, has maintained all season that he wants to return to the Kings only if he feels "wanted." The players want him back, to a man, as do the coaches and Petrie. "I feel wanted, yes," Carril said. "But I haven't made up my mind yet if I'll come back." Sacramento Bee

"How smart would it have been, if to satisfy my ego, I had this team practice four hours a day and had Shaquille [O'Neal] tear a hamstring?" he asks. He stands on the court, at the end of practice Saturday, two days before the start of the New Jersey series. "I haven't won a title in 18 years," he says. "Maybe I pushed [Alonzo Mourning] and those guys a little too hard. Maybe some of those last-second shots we lost in a Game 7, we could've won in five [games] if I hadn't pushed that way. "I think about that. I had some pretty good teams. The one that we had in '94 [with the New York Knicks] definitely was a championship team. Here, I thought we had the best team we had was (1998-99). I thought we were the best team in the league and got beat on the [Knicks' Allan Houston's] runner." South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Part of Riley wasn't ready. He didn't get training camp. He estimates now only half his playbook is in. Plus, he says, "When I knew I was coaching, in September, my biological clock would start ticking and I'd gear up and up and be ready. This time I came back to four games in five nights and I said ... `What have I gotten myself into?'" The other part of Riley was ready, though. His two years off the sideline served him well. He had his longest recess since starting the crazy coaching business in 1981 and saw everything from another angle. He returned changed, too. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Before being introduced as N.C. State's basketball coach yesterday afternoon, Sidney Lowe met with his new team. He explained his philosophy and laid down the law. "I told them I don't have a lot of rules, just a few," Lowe said. "To play hard, to play smart, to play together, and the most important thing, the biggest rule I have, is have fun. Winston-Salem Journal

Fowler said that Lowe received a six-year contract with a base salary of $210,000. The total package has yet to be determined because details such as shoe contracts haven't been worked out. But Lowe's annual pay could reach as much as $1 million. "It will be at least what Herb was making," Fowler said. Winston-Salem Journal

Lowe, a former State star who finished his college eligibility without a degree in 1983, starts coaching the Wolfpack on July 1. Lowe, who has been working to finish his degree in fits and starts since 1983, will complete the three classes he needs for a Business Administration degree from Saint Paul's College in Lawrenceville, Va., in June. "The feeling I have right now knowing I'm going to have my degree is a feeling I've never had before," Lowe said Saturday while being introduced as the 18th men's basketball coach at State. Raleigh News & Observer

I asked Thorn the other day if the Knicks ever called him while he was working in the NBA offices, right at David Stern's side. "No they did not," he said. And look where the Knicks are today, wallowing in their 23-59 muck. They are a monument to dysfunction, this while the Nets are riding a wave of five consecutive playoff appearances and heading toward a new arena just a borough away. USA Today

Thorn would've taken the Knicks job, no question about that. All of his friends and colleagues thought he was either positively mad, or completely caught up in a mid-life crisis, when he left his cushy league job for a chance to run the Nets. No, those friends and colleagues wouldn't have tried to talk Thorn out of it if the offer had come from the flagship Knicks. USA Today

The Nets lost to the Shaq and Kobe Lakers and the Tim Duncan Spurs in back-to-back Finals, lost a 3-2 playoff series lead to the eventual champion Pistons. When they lost Martin because the new owner, Bruce Ratner, didn't want to pay him, the Nets appeared ready to devolve back into the Nets. "I thought we were in a lot of trouble," Thorn said. "Our core was evaporating, (Alonzo) Mourning didn't want to play for us, Jason was upset, and we didn't have anyone to replace Kenyon. It didn't look good. And then Vince Carter saved us." Rod Thorn saved the Nets a second time, his Carter steal almost as felonious as his Kidd steal. "Vince brought our credibility right back," Thorn said. USA Today

Three years ago, Rock Financial became the team's top sponsor as it was prepping for back-to-back NBA title appearances. Billups does endorsement work for the company, including commercials and billboards. One of Gilbert's close friends is Detroit rocker Kid Rock. ``I think the Cavs are becoming his second-favorite team,'' Gilbert said, laughing. ``We don't let the rivalry get in the way of friendship. It's kind of like (Wizards guard) Gilbert Arenas and (Cavs guard) Larry Hughes.'' Akron Beacon Journal

Gilbert concedes he sought guidance from Joe Dumars, his friend and the Pistons' general manager. The Pistons' blueprint, especially as it pertains to arena operation, can be seen at Quicken Loans Arena. Gilbert hasn't been afraid to reach for his checkbook after his initial $375 million investment. He committed $150 million to free-agent signings. He spent $12 million on arena upgrades. He plans to build a $20 million practice facility in Independence. Akron Beacon Journal

He expects to create new jobs in Cleveland by expanding Quicken Loans, which is headquartered in Livonia, Mich. Gilbert wants to supply the city something else: a championship. He has come to appreciate the effect a 41-year title drought has on the psyche of a fan base. Detroit has won seven major championships since 1983, including three each by the Red Wings and Pistons. Akron Beacon Journal

Larry Miller is not the only downtown business owner to lose money because the millionaires underachieved again this season. Several businesses, mostly of the eating and drinking variety, go boom when the Jazz make the playoffs. Three years running, they've lost wads of cash. Lumpy's owner Ken Dinsmore estimates his downtown establishment picks up an extra $50 grand for each postseason round the Jazz make. For the dreamers among us, that would be $200,000 if the NBA finals came around this way again. Since they're not getting to the finals any time soon, despite that impressive season-ending win over the Warriors, the Jazz ought to pass around the hat to help a fella out. They already did. Salt Lake Tribune

Last Sunday, when nothing was happening at the Aaron's 499 at the Talladega Superspeedway, the rain delay attracted 7.2 million viewers from 2 to 4 p.m. Eastern, while the Miami-Chicago playoff game, which started at 1, lured 3.6 million viewers. Nothing beats action. Nothing beats Shaq. In Atlanta on March 19, the rainout compelled 5.7 million people to watch compared with the 2.2 million who watched the Lakers-Cavaliers or the Mavericks-Nets games. The recap: Nearly three times more people watched no laps than a Kobe Bryant-LeBron James matchup. New York Times

Len DeLuca, senior vice president for program acquisition at ESPN, fondly notes that so far in these playoffs, ABC is experiencing an early viewership renaissance, after falling a smidgen in the regular season. The ABC games are averaging 4.4 million viewers, up 16 percent from 3.79 million a year ago. In the service of fairness, Fox's Talladega rainout rating finally took a 22 percent plunge when its coverage of absolutely nothing butted up against the first quarter of the Lakers' overtime victory over the Suns in Game 1. New York Times

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