Joel Brigham of HoopsWorld's latest column checks in on Lou Williams' move to the Hawks in the post-Joe Johnson era, Malcolm Thomas' attempt to crack the Bulls training camp roster and a quick check-in on USA Basketball. Here are the highlights…
- Williams didn't want to leave the Sixers, but the team let him walk when it realized Nick Young could be signed to a short-term deal. After trading Johnson to the Nets, the Hawks were in search of a shooting guard and Williams proved to be a strong fit who had grown up in the area. “I’m excited to be home. I’m excited to be an Atlanta Hawk,” Williams said. “This is a good opportunity for me, and I’m blessed to be able to continue my career in my hometown.”
- With his strong rebounding ability and high energy defense, Thomas impressed many people at the Las Vegas Summer League. After spending most of last season in the D-League, Thomas is looking to get an invitation to training camp with the Bulls, who could use a few inexpensive parts to round out their roster, with hopes of making the team. “I just want to play basketball,” Thomas said. “I want to play hard for a team. I want to make a team.”
- Team USA is currently taking on France in the squad's first Olympic action in London. While USA was favored by 25 points, Brigham successfully predicted that the game would be a good test for LeBron James and friends. As of writing, Team USA is up nearly 20 points as the third quarter winds down.