BySimon Griver, Simon Griver
David Blatt insists a kick up the backside had the desired affect after LeBron James put in a scintillating performance as Cleveland Cavaliers registered their first win of the NBA season.
After losing their opener 98-92 against the New York Knicks, Blatt’s words saw James put in a real shift against the Chicago Bulls, with the four times MVP scoring 36 points in a 114-108 victory.
“After the Knicks defeat, we cleaned some things up, and the guys responded beautifully and we played a great game,” said Blatt who earned praise from pundits for confronting a player many consider the best in the league.
Israeli guard Gal Mekel has been released by the Dallas Mavericks after just one season. He said: “I’m confident I can find another team in the NBA.”