I am well aware that the 2012 NBA Draft has not even occurred yet.  Still, we are looking ahead to the 2013 NBA Draft with insanely early projections on how it may unfold.  Team needs and outstanding trades have NOT been taken into consideration with this 2013 NBA mock draft.  Click on the players’ name for a complete, in-depth scouting report.

(By the way, The Sports Bank was graded as the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.)

CLICK HERE FOR THE SPORTS BANK’S 2012 NBA MOCK DRAFT

1. Charlotte- Shabazz Muhammed, G/F, Undecided, 6-6, HS Sr.
Considered by most as the top recruit in the 2012 class, Shabazz Muhammed has a complete, all-around game for a wing player.

2. Detroit- Nerlens Noel, PF/C, Undecided, 6-10, HS Sr.
An extremely athletic, lengthy big man who protects the rim like Anthony Davis, Nerlens Noel recently reclassified to the 2012 class which will make him draft eligible in 2013.

3. New Orleans- Quincy Miller, SF, Baylor, 6-9, Fr.
A gifted athlete with a smooth jump shot, Quincy Miller could benefit from another year in college to get stronger.

Go here for more on Quincy Miller

4. Washington- Steven Adams, C, Pitt, 7-0, HS Sr.
The New Zealand native has the ideal size to be a true NBA big man and the developing skill set to match.

5. Sacramento- Kyle Anderson, SF, UCLA, 6-7, HS Sr.
Kyle Anderson is a smooth, all-around talent who can play a point forward type roll.

6. Toronto- Cody Zeller, C, Indiana, 6-11, Fr.
The Hoosier is so talented for a young big man and has such a terrific feel for the game, but needs to get stronger before making the leap to the league.

Go here for more on Cody Zeller

7. New Jersey- James McAdoo, F, North Carolina, 6-9, Fr.
He comes off the bench at UNC but would likely blossom next season in a premiere role.

Go here for more on James McAdoo

8. Golden State- Austin Rivers, SG, Duke, 6-4, Fr.
A pure scorer, Doc’s son is extremely dangerous off the bounce but can also stroke it from deep.

Go here for more on Austin Rivers

9. Phoenix- Isaiah Austin, C, Baylor, 7-0, HS Sr.
The future Bear is a rim protector with great length and athleticism but a lack of physicality is a concern.

10. New York- Myck Kabongo, PG, Texas, 6-1, Fr.
A pure distributor, the Canada-native would benefit from another year of playing the point at the college level before leaving for the NBA.

11. Cleveland- Mason Plumlee, PF, Duke, 6-10, Jr.
Athletically gifted, the middle Plumlee makes his biggest impact on the glass, but has a fairly limited offensive game.

Go here for more on the Plumlees

12. Minnesota- Dario Saric, SF, Croatia, 6-10, 1994
The prototypical, versatile European prospect, Dario Saric has great fundamentals for his size but must get stronger.

13. Memphis- Dion Waiters, G, Syracuse, 6-4, Soph.
The Orange sixth man is dangerous off the bounce and can also shoot it from deep.  I’d like to see him in a prominent, starter’s role before he makes the jump to the NBA.

14. Houston- Tim Hardaway Jr., SG, Michigan, 6-5, Soph.
The Wolverine sophomore can score the basketball in a variety of ways.s

Go here for more on Tim Hardaway Jr.

15. Milwaukee- LeBryan Nash, SF, Oklahoma State, 6-7, Fr.
LeBryan Nash has NBA-ready size and athleticism but needs to work on his outside shot.

Go here for more on Lebryan Nash

16. Boston- Trey Burke, PG, Michigan, 5-11, Fr.
A mature young floor general, Trey Burke is quick with the basketball when attacking the hoop but can also knock down shots from the perimeter.

17. L.A. Lakers- Fab Melo, C, Syracuse, 7-0, So.
If Fab Melo can make a step as a junior like he has done during his sophomore season, he will be a first round pick.

18. Portland- Adonis Thomas, G/F, Memphis, 6-6, Fr.
Already blessed with an NBA-ready build, Adonis Thomas is a tough match-up due to his strength, athleticism, and ability to shoot the ball.

Go here for more on Adonis Thomas

19. Orlando- Ryan Harrow, PG, Kentucky, 6-2, Soph.
The N.C. State transfer will greatly benefit from playing the point under John Calipari.

20. Utah- Rodney Hood, SF, Mississippi State, 6-8, Fr.
The athletic lefty has a smooth stroke from the perimeter.

21. San Antonio- Royce White, PF, Iowa State, 6-8, So.
The big fella can handle the ball like a guard but also knows how to throw his body around down low.

Go here for more on Royce White

22. Dallas- Allan Crabbe, SG, California, 6-6, Soph.
A talented shooter with ideal size for a two-guard, Allan Crabbe needs to improve his dribble-drive game.

23. Denver- C.J. Leslie, F, N.C. State, 6-9, Soph.
A ridiculous athlete who excels above the rim, C.J. Leslie will need to develop the other areas of his game to be a first round pick.

24. L.A. Clippers- Christian Watford, F, Indiana, 6-9, Jr.
Christian Watford is an athletic, skilled combo forward with good size.

Go here for more on Christian Watford

25. Indiana- Jarnell Stokes, PF, Tennessee, 6-8, Fr.
Jarnell Stokes enrolled in college a semester early, but is already a man down low due to his size, strength, and skill.

26. Atlanta- Fuquan Edwin, G/F, Seton Hall, 6-6, Soph.
Fuquan Edwin is an athletic wing who is a terrific perimeter defender.

27. Philadelphia- LaDontae Henton, SF, Providence, 6-6, Fr.
The lefty is an inside/outside threat who rebounds the ball very well and one of my early, early sleepers for the 2013 Draft.

28. Miami- Lucas Noguiera, C, Brazil, 7-0, 1992
A raw seven-footer, Lucas Noguiera has been on scout’s radars for a while due to his size and athleticism.

29. Oklahoma City- Deonte Burton, PG, Nevada, 6-1, Soph.
Deonte Burton can be a distributing play-maker but also knows how to score the rock.

30. Chicago- Khris Middleton, SF, Texas A&M, 6-7, Jr.
The Aggie junior has battled injury this season but has a nice inside/outside game.

SECOND ROUND
31. Charlotte- Alex Oriakhi, PF, UConn, 6-9, Jr.

32. Detroit- Maalik Wayns, PG, Villanova, 6-2, Jr.

33. New Orleans- Trevor Mbakwe, PF, Minnesota, 6-8, Sr.

Go here for more on Trevor Mbakwe

34. Washington- Mouphtaou Yarou, PF/C, Villanova, 6-10, Jr.

35. Sacramento- Aaric Murray, C, West Virginia, 6-10, Jr.

36. Toronto- Isaiah Canaan, PG, Murray State, 6-1, Jr.

37. New Jersey- Aziz N’Diaye, C, Washington, 7-0, Jr.

38. Golden State- Brandon Paul, SG, Illinois, 6-4, Jr.

Go here for more on Brandon Paul

39. Phoenix- Tony Mitchell, SF, Alabama, 6-6, Jr.

40. New York- Jeff Withey, C, Kansas, 6-11, Jr.

41. Cleveland- Michael Snaer, SG, Florida State, 6-4, Jr.

42. Minnesota- Tim Frazier, PG, Penn State, 6-1, Jr.

Go here for more on Tim Frazier

43. Memphis- Matthew Dellavedova, PG, St. Mary’s, 6-4, Jr.

44. Houston- Erick Green, PG, Virginia Tech, 6-4, Jr.

45. Milwaukee- Zeke Marshall, C, Akron, 7-0, Jr.

46. Boston- Elias Harris, SF, Gonzaga, 6-7, Jr.

47. L.A. Lakers- Rodney Williams, SF, Minnesota, 6-7, Jr.

Go here for more on Rodney Williams

48. Portland- C.J. McCollum, SG, Lehigh, 6-3, Jr.

49. Orlando- Keith Clanton, PF, UCF, 6-8, Jr.

50. Utah- Elijah Johnson, G, Kansas, 6-4, Jr.

51. San Antonio- Wally Judge, PF, Rutgers, 6-9, Jr.

52. Dallas- Solomon Hill, SF, Arizona, 6-6, Jr.

53. Denver- Arsalan Kazemi, SF, Rice, 6-8, Jr.

54. L.A. Clippers- Raul Neto, PG, Brazil, 6-2, 1992

55. Indiana- Jared Cunningham, SG, Oregon State, 6-4, Jr.

56. Atlanta- Dexter Strickland, G, North Carolina, 6-3, Jr.

57. Philadelphia- Kenny Boynton, G, Florida, 6-2, Jr.

58. Miami- Rudy Gobert, PF/C, France, 6-10, 1992

59. Oklahoma City- J’Covan Brown, G, Texas, 6-1, Jr.

60. Chicago- Peyton Siva, PG, Louisville, 5-11, Jr.

David Kay is a senior feature NBA Draft, NBA, and college basketball writer for the Sports Bank.  He also heads up the NBA and college basketball material at Walter Football.com and is a former contributor at The Washington Times Communities.  David has appeared on numerous national radio programs spanning from Cleveland to New Orleans to Honolulu.  He also had the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.

You can follow him on Twitter at DavidKay_TSB.

The 2012 NBA Draft figures to consist of a deeper, more talented group of prospects that the 2011 class.  Team needs  HAVE been taken into consideration with this 2012 NBA mock draft and the order is based off the current NBA standings.  Click on the players’ name for a complete, in-depth scouting report.  Check out The Sports Bank’s NFL Mock Draft as well.

(By the way, The Sports Bank was graded as the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.)

Check out our ridiculously early 2013 NBA Mock Draft.

UPDATED: 2/2/12

1. Charlotte- Anthony Davis, PF, Kentucky, 6-10, Fr.
Regardless of who gets the #1 pick, Anthony Davis will likely be the selection.  The Bobcats are bad, I mean REALLY bad so they could use talent at every position except point guard.  Davis and Bismack Biyombo could be the frontcourt of the future in Charlotte.

Go here for more on Anthony Davis

2. Detroit- Andre Drummond, C, UConn, 6-10, Fr.
The Pistons would use a big body inside to compliment the skill level of Greg Monroe.  Andre Drummond or Thomas Robinson would be options but it is hard to pass up a potential franchise center like Drummond.

Is Drummond the next NBA franchise center?  Go here for more.

3. New Orleans- Thomas Robinson, PF, Kansas, 6-9, Jr.
This would be a slam dunk for the Hornets.  Robinson fills a need at power forward and is ready to be an impact player right away.  Is it too early to declare him the Rookie of the Year favorite for next season?

4. Washington- Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolina, 6-8, So.
If the Wizards could draft “chemistry” with their first round pick, they should do so.  Washington did just draft Chris Singleton who plays the three and still has Rashard Lewis and his horrendous contract (how did they not amnesty him, seriously?) but Barnes is the best player on the board.

Go here for more on Harrison Barnes

5. Sacramento- Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF, Kentucky, 6-7, Fr.
I love, love, LOVE this pick for the Kings.  MK-G is a talented, all-around player and maybe most importantly for Sacramento; a winner.  Sacramento has a lot of scorers but lack a true glue guy who can impact the game without needing to score like Kidd-Gilchrist can.  (This pick goes to Cleveland if it falls out of the lottery.)

Go here for more on Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

6. Toronto- Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio State, 6-9, So.
The Raptors could go in a number of directions but a player with his size and physicality in the post would be a nice compliment to Andre Bargnani or Ed Davis.

Go here for more on Jared Sullinger

7. New Jersey- Perry Jones, F, Baylor, 6-11, So.
Assuming the Nets don’t land Dwight Howard via trade, they will lose Deron Williams next off-season and pretty much be starting from scratch.  Jones is the best available player and also fills a need at power forward since Kris Humphries only signed a one-year deal.

Go here for more on Perry Jones

8. Utah (from GS via NJ)- Moe Harkless, SF, St. John’s, 6-8, Fr.
The Jazz have a lot of young talent and will go in one of two directions; a point guard or small forward.  I am really high on Harkless (obviously) and he is better than any point guard on the board and provides depth in case C.J. Miles and Josh Howard leave via free agency.  (This pick stays with Golden State if it falls in the top 7.)

Go here to see why I am buying Harkless’ stock

9. Phoenix- Jeremy Lamb, SG, UConn, 6-5, So.
The Suns would seriously look at taking a point guard since Steve Nash is a free agent but the ninth pick would be reaching for a guy like Maruis Teague, Tony Wroten, or Kendall Marshall.  Jeremy Lamb would give them needed depth on the wing since Jared Dudley and the worthless Josh Childress are the only ones under contract for next season.

10. Houston (from NY)- Meyers Leonard, C, Illinois, 7-1, So.
Hasheem Thabeet certainly isn’t the long-term solution and Samuel Dalembert is more of a temporary fix meaning the Rockets could use a center.  I am not as high on Meyers Leonard as other mock boards but because of his size and athleticism, he will be a lottery pick.

Go here for more on Meyers Leonard

11. Cleveland- Terrence Ross, SG, Washington, 6-6, So.
The Cavs biggest need is on the wing where there are a few options.  Terrence Ross is a talented all-around scorer who could become the backcourt mate of the future for Kyrie Irving.  I’ll give him the edge over Bradley Beal.

12. New Orleans (from LAC via MIN)- Bradley Beal, SG, Florida, 6-3, Fr.
It doesn’t seem like Stephen Jackson will be the answer at two guard for the Bucks so taking Bradley Beal makes sense.  Plus with Carlos Delfino a free agent after this season, Milwaukee will be looking for some scoring on the wing.

Go here for more on Bradley Beal

13. Memphis- Tony Wroten, PG, Washington, 6-5, Fr.
The Griz could use improved depth at just about every position so a player like Tony Wroten who is capable of playing either backcourt position would make sense and provide insurance in case O.J. Mayo leaves via free agency.

14. Houston- Marquis Teague, PG, Kentucky, 6-2, Fr.
In addressing their need for size with their earlier pick, the Rockets should look for a back-up to Kyle Lowry since Goran Dragic is a free agent and Jonny Flynn doesn’t seem to be the answer.

Go here for more on Marquis Teague

15. Milwaukee- Doron Lamb, SG, Kentucky, 6-4, So.
It doesn’t seem like Stephen Jackson will be the answer at two guard for the Bucks and starting small forward Carlos Delfino is a free agent so grabbing a scorer on the wing would be a wise decision.

16. Boston- Arnett Moultrie, PF, Mississippi State, 6-11, Jr.
The Celtics could use improved depth at just about every position, but with Kevin Garnett and Jermaine O’Neal both free agents, adding a big body is the direst need.  Finding a potential Ray Allen replacement would be another option since he too is a free agent.

17. L.A. Lakers- Kendall Marshall, PG, North Carolina, 6-2, So.
The Lakers need depth at just about every position but their point guard play has been especially poor this season.  Marshall is a true distributor who would help Kobe Bryant out to his fantastic court vision.

18. Portland- John Henson, PF, North Carolina, 6-10, Jr.
With Marcus Camby, Greg Oden, and Craig Smith all free agents this summer, the Blazers could use some depth in their frontcourt.  John Henson is a great get here and would give the Blazers a shot blocker to pair with LeMarcus Aldridge.

Go here for more on John Henson

19. Orlando- Terrence Jones, F, Kentucky, 6-9, So.
This pick all depends on what happens with Dwight Howard this season so for now, I’ll give the Magic the best available player.  If Jones showed more consistency, he would easily be a lottery pick.

20. Minnesota (from Utah)- John Jenkins, SG, Vanderbilt, 6-4, Jr.
The one glaring weakness for the Timberwolves this season has been finding a scoring two guard who can consistently knock down outside shots.  That is what John Jenkins’ game is all about.  (This pick stays with Utah if it falls in the lottery.)

21. San Antonio- Tyler Zeller, C, North Carolina, 7-0, Sr.
The Spurs need some depth inside and Tyler Zeller would be capable of stepping in right away and being a contributor off the bench.

Go here for more on Tyler Zeller

22. L.A. Lakers (from DAL)- Mike Moser, SF, UNLV, 6-8, So.
The Matt Barnes/Metta World Peace/Luke Walton/Devin Ebanks quarter isn’t the answer at small forward for the Lakers, maybe Moser could be.  (This pick stays with Dallas if it falls in the Top 20.)

23. Denver- Will Barton, SG, Memphis, 6-6, So.
Since the Nuggets have most of their core locked up for next season, they turn to “best available player” mode.  A point guard would be another option since Andre Miller is a free agent but there is no floor general worth taking this high.

24. Boston (from LAC via OKC)- William Buford, SG, Ohio State, 6-5, Sr.
The Celtics could use some depth at shooting guard since Ray Allen is a free agent.  Even if Allen does return, some young legs on the wing would be beneficial.  (This pick stays with the Clippers if it falls in the top 10.)

Go here for more on William Buford

25. Indiana- Jeffery Taylor, SF, Vanderbilt, 6-7, Sr.
The Pacers could use some depth at the three behind Danny Granger and Jeffery Taylor is the type of role player who could immediately be a contributor off the bench.

26. Atlanta- Tony Mitchell, SF, North Texas, 6-8, Fr.
With only six players under contract for next season, the Hawks take the best available player.  Mitchell is an athletic combo forward who has a lot of room for growth.

27. Philadelphia- Tomas Sotaransky, SG, Czech Republic, 6-6, 1991
Another big body would be the ideal fit for the 76ers since Spencer Hawes is a free agent, but with no big on the board worth a first round pick, selecting a foreign player like Sotaransky who can still develop overseas for another year or two would makes sense.

28. Miami- Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbilt, 6-11, Sr.
The Heat were so desperate for a big man that they brought in Eddy Curry so their hunt continues for size in the middle.  Festus Ezeli is a big body in the middle (not as big as Curry thankfully) and could be a decent option off the bench.

29. Oklahoma City- Kris Joseph, SF, Syracuse, 6-7, Sr.
OKC has most of their players locked up for next season so adding someone like Kris Joseph who has made the most out of being a versatile role player during his career would make a lot of sense.  Either that, or drafting a foreign player and stashing him overseas.

30. Chicago- Evan Fournier, SG, France, 6-6, 1992
The Bulls have most of their roster under contract for next season so I think they go the foreign route rather than adding somebody who will ride the pine.

CLICK HERE FOR THE SECOND ROUND

David Kay is a senior feature NBA Draft, NBA, and college basketball writer for the Sports Bank.  He also heads up the NBA and college basketball material at Walter Football.com and is a former contributor at The Washington Times Communities.  David has appeared on numerous national radio programs spanning from Cleveland to New Orleans to Honolulu.  He also had the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.

You can follow him on Twitter at DavidKay_TSB.

I am well aware that the 2012 NBA Draft has not even occurred yet.  Still, we are looking ahead to the 2013 NBA Draft with insanely early projections on how it may unfold.  Team needs and outstanding trades have NOT been taken into consideration with this 2013 NBA mock draft.  Click on the players’ name for a complete, in-depth scouting report.

(By the way, The Sports Bank was graded as the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.)

CLICK HERE FOR THE SPORTS BANK’S 2012 NBA MOCK DRAFT

1. Charlotte- Shabazz Muhammed, SF, Undecided, 6-6, HS Sr.
Considered by many as the top recruit in the 2012 class, Shabazz Muhammed has a complete all-around game.

2. Washington- Quincy Miller, SF, Baylor, 6-9 Fr.
A gifted athlete especially in the open floor, Quincy Miller has a well-rounded game as he can stroke it from deep.

Go here for more on Quincy Miller

3. Detroit- Steven Adams, C, Pitt, 7-0, HS Sr.
The New Zealand native has the ideal size to be a true NBA center and a decent skill set to match.

4. New Orleans- Kyle Anderson, SF, UCLA, 6-7, HS Sr.
Kyle Anderson is a smooth, all-around talent who is capable of playing a point forward type role.

5. Toronto- James McAdoo, F, North Carolina, 6-9, Fr.
He is UNC’s sixth man this season but the combo forward might be the team’s best long-term prospect.

Go here for more on James McAdoo

6. Sacramento- Isaiah Austin, C, Baylor, 7-0, HS Sr.
The Baylor recruit is a rim protector due to his length and athleticism, but needs to get much stronger.

7. Golden State- Austin Rivers, SG, Duke, 6-4, Fr.
A pure scorer, Doc’s son can light it up from deep and is also extremely effective off the bounce.  He needs to get stronger though.

Go here for more on Austin Rivers

8. Phoenix- Cody Zeller, C, Indiana, 6-11, Fr.
The Hoosier freshman is a talented, athletic big man but needs to add weight and muscle before being ready for the next level.

Go here for more on Cody Zeller

9. New Jersey- Patric Young, PF, Florida, 6-9, So.
Patric Young is built like a house and very athletic, but limited with his offensive game.

10. New York- Moe Harkless, SF, St. John’s, 6-8, Fr.
Moe Harkless is a skilled, lengthy, athletic wing who can you inside or outside.

11. Milwaukee- Mason Plumlee, PF, Duke, 6-10, Jr.
Athletically gifted, Mason Plumlee makes his biggest impact on the boards but also shown more aggression as a scorer in his junior season.

Go here for more on the Plumlees

12. Minnesota- Dario Saric, SF, Croatia, 6-10, 1994
The prototypical, versatile European, Dario Saric has great handles but has a long way to go in his physical development.

13. Memphis- Myck Kabongo, PG, Texas, 6-1, Fr.
A pure distributor, Kabonogo hasn’t lived up to expectations as a freshman but is still a big time talent.

14. Houston- Dion Waiters, G, Syracuse, 6-4, So.
The Orange sixth man is having a breakout season and is dangerous off the bounce or shooting the rock.

15. Cleveland- Tim Hardaway Jr., SG, Michigan, 6-5, So.
The Wolverine sophomore can score the basketball in a variety of ways.

Go here for more on Tim Hardaway Jr.

16. Boston- Jarnell Stokes, PF, Tennessee, 6-8, Fr.
The Volunteer freshman enrolled in college a semester early and is already a beast down low.

17. L.A. Lakers- Adonis Thomas, G/F, Memphis, 6-6, Fr.
Already blessed with a NBA-ready build, the Tiger freshman is a tough match-up due to his strength, athleticism, and ability to shoot the ball.  An ankle injury ended his freshman season early.

Go here for more on Adonis Thomas

18. Utah- Tony Mitchell, SF, North Texas, 6-7, Fr.
The former Mizzou commit just recently became eligible at North Texas.  His athleticism makes him attractive for the next level.

19. Dallas- LeBryan Nash, SF, Oklahoma State, 6-7, Fr.
The OSU freshman has incredible athleticism and strength but needs to work on his outside shot.

Go here for more on Lebryan Nash

20. Portland- Ryan Harrow, PG, Kentucky, 6-2, So.
The N-C State transfer will sit out this season but should greatly benefit playing the point for John Calipari next season.

21. San Antonio- Christian Watford, SF, Indiana, 6-9, Jr.
Christian Watford is a versatile, athletic combo forward with great size.

Go here for more on Christian Watford

22. L.A. Clippers- Fab Melo, C, Syracuse, 7-0, So.
The Orange big man has shown steady improvement and is in much better shape this season, but is still developing as a post player.

23. Orlando- Shabazz Napier, PG, UConn, 6-0, Soph.
His size is a concern, but Shabazz Napier’s natural feel as a point guard, ability to shoot the ball, and peskiness as a defender is hard to overlook.

24. Indiana- Allen Crabbe, SG, Cal, 6-6, So.
A talented shooter, Allen Crabbe needs to improve his dribble attack game.

25. Philadelphia- C.J. Lesile, F, N.C. State, 6-9, So.
A ridiculous athlete who excels above the rim, C.J. Lesile will need to develop the other areas of his game in his second year with the Wolfpack.

26. Atlanta- Rodney Hood, SF, Mississippi State, 6-8, Fr.
The athletic lefty has a smooth stroke from the perimeter.

27. Denver- Royce White, PF, Iowa State, 6-8, So.
He has had his share of issues during his collegiate career, but is a big body who handles the ball well for his size.

Go here for more on Royce White

28. Miami- Fuquan Edwin, G/F, Seton Hall, 6-6, So.
Edwin is an athletic wing who could become a terrific perimeter at the next level.

29. Chicago- Khris Middleton, SF, Texas A&M, 6-7, Jr.
The Aggie junior battled injury early this season but has a nice inside/outside game.

30. Oklahoma City- Alex Oriakhi, PF, UConn, 6-9, Jr.
The Husky big man has the size and strength to be a serviceable post player in the league.

Second Round
31. Charlotte- Maalik Wayns, PG, Villanova, 6-2, Jr.

32. Washington- Aaric Murray, C, West Virginia, 6-10, Jr.

33. Detroit- Mouphtaou Yarou, PF/C, Villanova, 6-10, Jr.

34. New Orleans- Aziz N’Diaye, C, Washington, 7-0, Jr.

35. Toronto- Elias Harris, F, Gonzaga, 6-7, Jr.

36. Sacramento- Lucas Noguiera, C, Brazil, 7-0, 1992

37. Golden State- J’Covan Brown, G, Texas, 6-1, Jr.

38. Phoenix- Jared Cunningham, G, Oregon State, 6-4, Jr.

39. New Jersey- Raul Neto, PG, Brazil, 6-2, 1992

40. New York- Zeke Marshall, C, Akron, 7-0, Jr.

41. Milwaukee- Rodney Williams, SF, Minnesota, 6-7, Jr.

Go here for more on Rodney Williams

42. Minnesota- Michael Snaer, SG, Florida State, 6-4, Jr.

43. Memphis- Tony Mitchell, SF, Alabama, 6-6, Jr.

44. Houston- Jeff Withey, C, Kansas, 6-11, Jr.

45. Cleveland- Elijah Johnson, G, Kansas, 6-4, Jr.

46. Boston- C.J. McCullom, SG, Lehigh, 6-3, Jr.

47. L.A. Lakers- Keith Clanton, PF, UCF, 6-8, Jr.

48. Utah- Dexter Strickland, SG, North Carolina, 6-3, Jr.

49. Dallas- Arsalan Kazemi, SF, Rice, 6-8, Jr.

50. Portland- Erick Green, PG, Virginia Tech, 6-4, Jr.

51. San Antonio- Kenny Boynton, G, Florida, 6-2, Jr.

52. L.A. Clippers- Matthew Dellavedova, PG, St. Mary’s, 6-4, Jr.

53. Orlando- Tim Frazier, PG, Penn State, 6-1, Jr.

Go here for more on Tim Frazier

54. Indiana- Andre Dawkins, SG, Duke, 6-4, Jr.

55. Philadelphia- Brandon Paul, G, Illinois, 6-3, Jr.

Go here for more on Brandon Paul

56. Atlanta- Wally Judge, PF, Rutgers, 6-9, Jr.

57. Denver- Solomon Hill, SF, Arizona, 6-6, Jr.

58. Miami- Ryan Kelly, PF, Duke, 6-10, Jr.

59. Chicago- Isaiah Canaan, PG, Murray State, 6-1, Jr.

60. Oklahoma City- Peyton Siva, PG, Louisville, 5-11, Jr.

David Kay is a senior feature NBA Draft, NBA, and college basketball writer for the Sports Bank.  He also heads up the NBA and college basketball material at Walter Football.com and is a former contributor at The Washington Times Communities.  David has appeared on numerous national radio programs spanning from Cleveland to New Orleans to Honolulu.  He also had the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.

You can follow him on Twitter at DavidKay_TSB.

The 2012 NBA Draft figures to consist of a deeper, more talented group of prospects that the 2011 class.  Team needs  HAVE been taken into consideration with this 2012 NBA mock draft and the order is based off the current NBA standings.  Click on the players’ name for a complete, in-depth scouting report.  Check out The Sports Bank’s NFL Mock Draft as well.

(By the way, The Sports Bank was graded as the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.)

Check out our ridiculously early 2013 NBA Mock Draft.

CHECK OUT OUR LATEST MOCK DRAFT VERSION UPDATED: 2/2/12

1. Washington- Anthony Davis, PF, Kentucky, 6-10, Fr.
Regardless of who gets the #1 pick, Anthony Davis will likely be the selection.  Even though the Wizards have quality youth up-front in JaVale McGee, Andry Blatche, Jan Vesely, Kevin Seraphin, and Trevor Booker, Davis’ skill and potential is too good to pass up.  Andre Drummond and Harrison Barnes would be the other options.

Go here for more on Anthony Davis

2. Charlotte- Andre Drummond, C, UConn, 6-10, Fr.
With the exception of the point guard position, the Bobcats need help all across the board especially at center where Byron Mullens and DeSagana Diop are not the answer.  Drummond has the makings of a future franchise center but is still rather raw.  The Bobcats could choose to keep things in-state and take a safer pick like UNC’s Harrison Barnes or even Thomas Robinson of Kansas.

Is Drummond the next NBA franchise center?  Go here for more.

3. New Orleans- Thomas Robinson, PF, Kansas, 6-9, Jr.
This would be a slam dunk for the Hornets.  Robinson fills a need at power forward and is ready to be an impact player right away.  Is it too early to declare him the Rookie of the Year favorite for next season?

4. Detroit- Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolina, 6-8, So.
I think the Pistons would be tempted to take Sullinger and add a bruiser inside to compliment the skill level of Greg Monroe, but Barnes is too good to pass up at this point.  Detroit did just sign Tayshaun Prince to an extension but could use some scoring on the wing which Barnes would provide.

Go here for more on Harrison Barnes

5. Toronto- Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio State, 6-9, So.
The Raptors could go in a number of directions but a player with his size and physicality in the post would be a nice compliment to Andre Bargnani or Ed Davis.  Perry Jones of Baylor would be another option but Sullinger is the safer pick and better fit.

Go here for more on Jared Sullinger

6. New Jersey- Perry Jones, F, Baylor, 6-11, So.
Assuming the Nets don’t land Dwight Howard via trade, they will lose Deron Williams next off-season and pretty much be starting from scratch.  Jones is the best available player and also fills a need at power forward since Kris Humphries only signed a one-year deal.

Go here for more on Perry Jones

7. New Jersey (from GS)- Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF, Kentucky, 6-7, Fr.
Continuing their makeover, MK-G is a talented, all-around player and maybe most importantly for New Jersey; a winner.  Building your frontcourt around Jones and Kidd-Gilchrist would help the re-building process immensely.  (Utah owns this pick if it falls out of the top seven from the Deron Williams trade.)

Go here for more on Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

8. Sacramento- John Henson, PF, North Carolina, 6-10, Jr.
The ideal fit for the Kings would be a small forward but since there is no three worth taking this high, a shot blocker like John Henson would be a nice addition to an already young frontcourt.

Go here for more on John Henson

9. Phoenix- Jeremy Lamb, SG, UConn, 6-5, So.
The Suns would seriously look at taking a point guard since Steve Nash is a free agent but the ninth pick would be reaching for a guy like Maruis Teague, Tony Wroten, or Kendall Marshall.  Jeremy Lamb would give them needed depth on the wing since Jared Dudley and the worthless Josh Childress are the only ones under contract for next season.

10. Milwaukee- Bradley Beal, SG, Florida, 6-3, Fr.
It doesn’t seem like Stephen Jackson will be the answer at two guard for the Bucks so taking Bradley Beal makes sense.  Plus with Carlos Delfino a free agent after this season, Milwaukee will be looking for some scoring on the wing.

Go here for more on Bradley Beal

11. Cleveland- Terrence Ross, SG, Washington, 6-6, So.
A true center like Meyers Leonard would be a possible pick since the Cavs don’t have a true center, but I think their bigger need is on the wing.  Terrence Ross is a talented all-around scorer who could become the backcourt mate of the future for Kyrie Irving.

12. New Orleans (from LAC via MIN)- Marquis Teague, PG, Kentucky, 6-2, Fr.
In addressing their need for a power forward with their earlier pick, the Hornets could go in a number of directions.  A play-making point guard like Marquis Teague would give New Orleans a floor leader of the future especially since Jarrett Jack will be entering the final year of his contract next season.

Go here for more on Marquis Teague

13. L.A. Lakers- Tony Wroten, PG, Washington, 6-5, Fr.
The Lakers need depth at just about every position but their point guard play has been especially poor this season.  Wroten is a creator and play-maker who would take some of the pressure off Kobe Bryant and also score on his own due to his size and ability to get to the basket off the bounce.

14. Houston- Meyers Leonard, C, Illinois, 7-1, So.
Hasheem Thabeet certainly isn’t the long-term solution and Samuel Dalembert is more of a temporary fix meaning the Rockets could use a center.  I am not as high on Meyers Leonard as other mock boards but this would be a good spot for him to land.

Go here for more on Meyers Leonard

15. Houston (from NY)- Kendall Marshall, PG, North Carolina, 6-2, So.
With so much young talent already on their roster, the Rockets don’t really need two more first round picks to add to the mix and would probably look to deal one of their selections.  If not, Kendall Marshall adds depth at the point behind Kyle Lowry since Goran Dragic is a free agent and Jonny Flynn doesn’t seem to be part of Houston’s future.

16. Boston- Arnett Moultrie, PF, Mississippi State, 6-11, Jr.
The Celtics could use improved depth at just about every position, but with Kevin Garnett and Jermaine O’Neal both free agents, adding a big body is the direst need.  Finding a potential Ray Allen replacement would be another option since he too is a free agent.

17. Memphis- John Jenkins, SG, Vanderbilt, 6-4, Jr.
The Griz won’t have any glaring needs on their roster for next season but could use a sharpshooter off the bench.  John Jenkins is one of the most dangerous three-point shooters in the college game.

18. Dallas- Doron Lamb, SG, Kentucky, 6-4, So.
Jason Terry and Delonte West are both free agents after this season so the Mavs could use a long range scorer which is exactly what Doron Lamb is.

19. Portland- Tyler Zeller, C, North Carolina, 7-0, Sr.
With Marcus Camby, Greg Oden, and Craig Smith all free agents this summer, the Blazers could use some depth in their frontcourt.  Point guard would be another possibility since Raymond Felton is a free agent but Portland is not going to find anyone here better than their first round pick from last year, Nolan Smith.

Go here for more on Tyler Zeller

20. San Antonio- Terrence Jones, F, Kentucky, 6-9, So.
Terrence Jones has lottery talent but inconsistencies drop him this low.  I actually think he would be a solid fit on the Spurs since he plays hard on the defensive end.

21. L.A. Clippers- William Buford, SG, Ohio State, 6-5, Sr.
Finding frontcourt depth will be a priority for the Clips next summer but so too will adding a true shooting guard since Randy Foye and Chauncey Billups are free agents.

Go here for more on William Buford

22. Minnesota (from Utah)- Jeffery Taylor, SF, Vanderbilt, 6-7, Sr.
With Michael Beasley and Martell Webster possibly leaving in the off-season via free agency and Wesley Johnson still struggling as a pro, the T-Wolves could use some depth at small forward.

23. Indiana- Mike Moser, SF, UNLV, 6-8, So.
The Pacers could use some depth at the three behind Danny Granger and Mike Moser is a skilled inside/outside threat who can attack the glass due to his athleticism and length.

24. Miami- Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbilt, 6-11, Sr.
The Heat were so desperate for a big man that they brought in Eddy Curry so their hunt continues for size in the middle.  Festus Ezeli is a big body in the middle (not as big as Curry thankfully) and could be a decent option off the bench.

25. Orlando- Kris Joseph, SF, Syracuse, 6-7, Sr.
This pick all depends on what happens with Dwight Howard this season so for now, I’ll give the Magic the best available player

26. Philadelphia- Tomas Sotaransky, SG, Czech Republic, 6-6, 1991
Another big body would be the ideal fit for the 76ers since Spencer Hawes is a free agent, but with no big on the board worth a first round pick, selecting a foreign player like Sotaransky who can still develop overseas for another year or two would makes sense.

27. Denver- Damien Lillard, PG, Weber State, 6-3, Jr.
Since the Nuggets have most of their core locked up for next season, Damien Lillard would provide insurance in case Andre Miller leaves via free agency.  Lillard currently in college basketball’s leading scorer.

28. Atlanta- Will Barton, SG, Memphis, 6-6, So.
The Hawks only have six players under contract for next season so they are on the hunt for the best available player.  I really like Will Barton’s potential and think he could develop into a poor man’s Jamal Crawford in the NBA.

29. Oklahoma City- Darius Miller, G/F, Kentucky, 6-8, Sr.
This is a pretty big reach, I know.  However, OKC has most of their players locked up for next season so adding someone like Miller who has made the most out of being a versatile role player during his career at Kentucky would make a lot of sense.  Either that, or drafting a foreign player and stashing him overseas.

30. Chicago- Evan Fournier, SG, France, 6-6, 1992
The Bulls have most of their roster under contract for next season so I think they go the foreign route rather than adding somebody who will ride the pine.

CLICK HERE FOR THE SECOND ROUND

David Kay is a senior feature NBA Draft, NBA, and college basketball writer for the Sports Bank.  He also heads up the NBA and college basketball material at Walter Football.com and is a former contributor at The Washington Times Communities.  David has appeared on numerous national radio programs spanning from Cleveland to New Orleans to Honolulu.  He also had the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.

You can follow him on Twitter at DavidKay_TSB.

The 2012 NBA Draft figures to consist of a deeper, more talented group of prospects that the 2011 class.  Team needs HAVE been taken into consideration with this 2012 NBA mock draft and the order is based on the current NBA standings.  Click on the players’ name for a complete, in-depth scouting report.

(By the way, The Sports Bank was graded as the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.)

UPDATED: 1/26/12

31. Washington- Alex Young, G/F, IUPUI, 6-6, Sr.
Depth at the two would make sense since Nick Young becomes a free agent after this season.

32. Charlotte- Draymond Green, F, Michigan State, 6-6, Sr.
A young team like the Bobcats would benefit having somebody with Draymond Green’s versatility and basketball IQ on their roster.

Go here for more on Draymond Green

33. Cleveland (from NO)- Hollis Thompson, SF, Georgetown, 6-8, Jr.
Hollis Thompson is a terrific shooter with good size who could provide a scoring punch off the Cavs’ bench.

34. Detroit- Andrew Nicholson, PF, St. Bonaventure, 6-9, Sr.
Ben Wallace has to be retiring after this season, right?  As a result, the Pistons could use some frontcourt depth.

Go here for more on Andrew Nicholson

35. Toronto- Darius Johnson-Odom, SG, Marquette, 6-3, Sr.
With Leandro Barbosa a free agent this summer, the Raptors could use an off-guard with Darius Johnson-Odom’s scoring ability.

36. Golden State- Tyshawn Taylor, PG, Kansas, 6-3, Sr.
The Warriors signed Nate Robinson as a short term, back-up point guard.  Taylor could be the long-term answer behind Stephen Curry.

37. Denver (from GS)- Augusto Cesar Lima, PF, Brazil, 6-10, 1991
It would make sense for the Nuggets to go the foreign route and stash that player overseas for a year or two.

38. Sacramento- Kevin Jones, F, West Virginia, 6-8, Sr.
Jones is having a monster senior season for the Mountaineers and would be a solid value pick at this point of the draft.

39. Atlanta (from PHX)- JaMychal Green, PF, Alabama, 6-8, Sr.
Again, with only six players under contract for next season, Hawks need depth everywhere and go best available player.

40. Milwaukee- Robert Sacre, C, Gonzaga, 7-0, Sr.
The Bucks don’t have a true back-up big man for Andrew Bogut; a role that Sacre could maybe fill.

41. Cleveland- Henry Sims, C, Georgetown, 6-10, Sr.
The Cavs would be wise to use one of their picks in this draft in finding a true center.

42. Houston (from MIN)- Furkan Aldemir, PF, Turkey, 6-9, 1991
With four picks in this draft, the Rockets will take at least two foreign players who they can hope will develop overseas and contribute down the line.

43. Dallas (from LAL)- Scott Machado, PG, Iona, 6-1, Sr.
Jason Kidd is a free agent so Machado, one of the best pure distributors in college basketball, provides insurance at the point.

44. Detroit (from HOU)- Trevor Mbawke, PF, Minnesota, 6-8, Sr.
Mbakwe will apply for a medical redshirt and possibly return to Minnesota next season since he suffered a season-ending injury early this year.  If not, he could add depth to a NBA team due to his energy and ability to rebound the basketball.  (This pick stays with Houston if is between #31-#40.)

Go here for more on Trevor Mbawke

45. New York- Ricardo Ratliffe, PF, Missouri, 6-9, Sr.
Knicks need depth all across the board and Ratliffe could give them an energy player off the bench.

46. Boston- Orlando Johnson, SG, UC-Santa Barbara, 6-5, Sr.
C’s should look to add depth at the two in case free agent-to-be Ray Allen doesn’t return next season.

47. Memphis- Dee Bost, PG, Mississippi State, 6-2, Sr.
The Grizzlies should be looking to sure up their depth at the point behind Mike Conley next summer.

48. Washington (from DAL)- Herb Pope, PF, Seton Hall, 6-8, Sr.
Herb Pope could stick on a NBA roster due to his ability to crash the glass and hit mid-range shots.

49. Portland- Jordan Taylor, PG, Wisconsin, 6-1, Sr.
Taylor gives the Blazers an option at the point in case Raymond Felton leaves via free agency.

Go here for more on Jordan Taylor

50. San Antonio- Marcus Denmon, SG, Missouri, 6-3, Sr.
Marcus Denmon seems like the type of energy/role player who could find a home in San Antonio.

51. L.A. Clippers- Drew Gordon, PF, New Mexico, 6-9, Sr.
The UCLA transfer could possibly provide the Clips with a rebounding, role player to bring off the bench.

52. Utah- Tu Holloway, PG, Xavier, 6-0, Sr.
Jazz could use an up-grade at the point guard position.

53. Indiana- Reggie Johnson, C, Miami FL, 6-10, Jr.
Adding a big man behind Roy Hibbert, who is a restricted free agent this summer, seems like a wise move.

54. New Jersey (from MIA)- Renardo Sidney, PF, Mississippi State, 6-10, Jr.
When you are a team starving for talent, you can afford to take a risk on Renardo Sidney with your fourth pick of the draft.

55. Orlando- Jarrod Jones, PF, Ball State, 6-9, Sr.
Like I said earlier, since their future hinges on Dwight Howard’s status, anything is possible so I’ll give the Magic the best available player.

56. Philadelphia- Kim English, G/F, Missouri, 6-6, Sr.
English could find a home in Philly thanks to his shooting ability and versatility.

57. Denver- Chase Stanback, SF, UNLV, 6-8, Sr.
The former UCLA transfer has a smooth stroke on his outside shot that could earn him a roster spot.

58. Atlanta- Jae Crowder, F, Marquette, 6-6, Sr.
Depth, depth, and more depth is what the Hawks will be targeting in this draft.

59. Minnesota (from OKC)- Kent Bazemore, SG, Old Dominion, 6-5, Sr.
The Timberwolves need to add some depth and size on the wing.

60. L.A. Lakers (from CHI)- Eli Holman, PF, Detroit, 6-10, Sr.
Lakers need to find depth at just every position and Holman could find a spot on their roster due to his size.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FIRST ROUND

David Kay is a senior feature NBA Draft, NBA, and college basketball writer for the Sports Bank.  He also heads up the NBA and college basketball material at Walter Football.com and is a former contributor at The Washington Times Communities.  David has appeared on numerous national radio programs spanning from Cleveland to New Orleans to Honolulu.  He also had the most accurate 2011 NBA Mock Draft on the web.

You can follow him on Twitter at DavidKay_TSB.

The Chicago Bulls have the best record in all the NBA at 15-3. They have a two and a half game lead in the Eastern Conference over Orlando, and only the 13-3 Oklahoma City Thunder have a winning percentage that comes close right now. The league’s reigning MVP Derrick Rose may not play tonight against Deron Williams and the 5-12 New Jersey Nets; he’ll be a game time decision. Luol Deng will sit out with a sprained left wrist. That means the Bulls, the team which had the best record in the NBA last year,  could be without their two best players.

Rose, who has seen his Bulls go 4-1 in the past five games without him, says the toe “is never going to be right this year.” But he “felt decent” during Monday’s shootaround. Deng’s injury issues may keep him out for awhile. Joakim Noah is questionable/probable, but will likely go tonight. Taj Gibson is out, and the injuries are piling up for Chicago. Deng hasn’t missed a game since March 30, 2010, so this ends a very significant streak.

Chicago is number one in the NBA in both scoring defense and rebounding margin. They are giving up just 85.3 points per game, and 74.3 at the United Center. The most recent title team, ’97-’98, holds the record for lowest points allowed per page by a Bulls team, and they’re about four ppg higher.

The Bulls are also third in the league in blocks in 6.28 per game, and set a franchise record for 16 blocks in a game a blowout on Friday night that gave the Cleveland Cavaliers their worst loss in home history.

Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site generating millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports

A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio all over the world; and he’s a member of the Football Writers Association of America, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and Society of Professional Journalists. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too.

The 2011-2012 NBA season is less than a month old, but the league impact online was felt immediately. From opening day on, we’ve consistently seen a lot of players’ names in the terms buzzing on Twitter, Alexa, and Google Trends.

Below is the current rankings of the NBA’s biggest stars – from highest to lowest – according to their PeekScores.

PeekScore is a rank from 1 to 10, assigned to every person. The higher someone’s score, the “more important” they are on the web. In calculating your PeekScore and updating it often,  PeekYou takes into account your known presence and activity on the Internet, including but not limited to; your blogging, participation in social networks, the number of your friends, followers, or readers, the amount of web content you create, and your prominence in the news.

Being polarizing doesn’t hurt you here. Being talked about in any form helps. See the list after the jump

LeBron James Miami Heat 10.00 / 10.00

Kobe Bryant Los Angeles Lakers 10.00 / 10.00

Carmelo Anthony New York Knicks 9.45 / 10.00

Kevin Durant Oklahoma City Thunder 9.43 / 10.00

Chris Paul Los Angeles Clippers 9.35 / 10.00

Dwight Howard Orlando Magic 9.31 / 10.00

Derrick Rose Chicago Bulls 9.28 / 10.00

Amar’e Stoudemire New York Knicks 9.09 / 10.00

Dirk Nowitzki Dallas Mavericks 8.98 / 10.00

Dwayne Wade Miami Heat 8.83 / 10.00

Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site generating millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports

A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio all over the world; and he’s a member of the Football Writers Association of America, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and Society of Professional Journalists. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too

Basketball, especially the NBA variety, is truly a night thing; like comedy. So to see the Chicago Bulls playing a live game versus the Memphis Grizzlies at noon on a Monday is pretty cool. It’s the Martin Luther King Jr. Day matinee in Memphis, the Civil Rights game. The city is sullen today as it’s where MLK was slain in the 1960s. Today, the site of the assassination, the Lorraine Hotel, is a tribute to his legacy- a civil rights museum.

As I type this, the Bulls are down 39-29 with a 6 and a half left in the first half. But there’s other NBA related news today.

Bulls guard Derrick Rose (who’s sitting this one out with a turf toe injury) has been named one of the 20 finalists for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Men’s team.  Rose was a member of the 2010 USA World Championship team that claimed the gold medal in Istanbul, Turkey.  As the starting point guard for the 2010 U.S. squad, Rose averaged 7.2 ppg, 3.2 apg, and 2.1 rpg in 23.1 mpg.

For our famous “Dream Team vs. Redeem Team” essay

The finalists for London 2012 consists of eight 2008 Olympic gold medalists, 10 members of the 2010 USA World Championship gold medal winning team, one national team player and one newcomer to the USA Basketball National Team. All the finalists were named a couple hours ago by USA Basketball chairman and Chicago native Jerry Colangelo. The official 12-man U.S. Olympic team roster will be announced later this year.

Joining Rose as finalists:

LaMarcus Aldridge (Portland Trail Blazers); Carmelo Anthony (New York Knicks); Chauncey Billups (Los Angeles Clippers); Chris Bosh (Miami Heat); Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers); Tyson Chandler (New York Knicks); Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder); Rudy Gay (Memphis Grizzlies); Eric Gordon (New Orleans Hornets); Blake Griffin (Los Angeles Clippers); Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic); Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76ers); LeBron James (Miami Heat); Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves); Lamar Odom (Dallas Mavericks); Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers); Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat); Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder); and Deron Williams (New Jersey Nets).

The 2012 USA coaching staff is led by Duke’s Mike Krzyzewski (another Chicago area native), and serving as USA assistant coaches are Syracuse University’s embattled Jim Boeheim, New York Knicks head coach Mike D’Antoni, and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Nate McMillan.

Here’s the Coach K. official statement from the press release. As you read it, imagine hearing it said in my Krzyzewski impersonation voice; which is coincidentally my Squidward from Spongebob SquarePants voice. “I’m not just a basketball coach, I’m a leader who happens to coach basketball.”

“I feel like we have an outstanding blend of talents from the 2008 Olympic and 2010 World Championship teams that won gold. Reducing to the official roster limit of 12 players will be an even tougher decision, but we’ll evaluate how guys play during the 2011-12 NBA season and as we’ve done with our teams in the past, we’ll attempt to select the very best team we can.”

“Jerry has built an extremely deep and talented USA National Team roster of 35 players and I want to thank each player for their incredible commitment to being part of USA Basketball. Reducing to 20 players was unbelievably difficult,” stated Krzyzewski, who has coached USA National Teams to a sterling 48-1 record since 2006.

“Aside from the obvious special basketball talents that all of these players possess, what struck me most about the finalists was their commitment to USA Basketball and the international basketball experience they have compiled. Among our 20 finalists, we have two players who possess 55 or more games of international experience, two with 40 or more international games under their belts and eight others who have played between 23 and 38 international games – that’s a lot of experience, which is going to be extremely valuable.

“These players have helped restore the winning tradition of USA Basketball while also gaining the respect of people around the world for the manner in which they have done it,” added Krzyzewski.

Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site generating millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports

A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio all over the world; and he’s a member of the Football Writers Association of America, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and Society of Professional Journalists. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too

Last winter, I began to notice that Derrick Rose was becoming to the state of Illinois, the city of Chicago what Brett Favre was to the state of Wisconsin 1994-2008. They were deified, canonized, sacrosanct- deemed incapable of ever doing wrong in any sense. This is a dangerous path people.

I’ll admit I’ve hyped up Derrick Rose as much as possible…as a basketball player. I’ve done everything in my online power to draw cyber attention to the reigning NBA MVP for about four years. But every time I extolled his virtues, it was strictly in a basketball sense. That’s it! So Chicago really needs to take a step back and chillax a minute on the Rose worshiping.

We already have a cautious example to learn from:

Walter Payton. As Jeff Pearlman’s book revealed to us Payton was a man, not a saint. He had flaws and issues like everyone one of us; he wasn’t perfect.

During the playoffs last year, there was the nonstop “Rose came from Englewood- the roughest neighborhood in America” storyline in the multtimedia and it sickened me, because it wasn’t entirely fair and accurate. I never embraced this storyline because, having one-in-a-zillion physical gifts means he would have made it to the top no matter where he came from, and it sent the wrong message. You too can make it, if you have extraordinary physical gifts.

From Mark Yost in the Chicago Tribune:

First is the false promise that many of these kids can grow up to be just like Rose. It is simply a fairy tale. Of all the kids in America who play high school basketball, about 3 percent end up getting college scholarships. Of that sliver, about 2 percent ever have a meaningful NBA career. Those are the facts — for baseball, basketball and football.

Now no one is going to deny the fact that Derrick Rose has a TOP NOTCH work ethic. He is a gym rat of gym rats. So he’s worked as hard as he can to develop those amazing natural gifts. But then again wouldn’t you in that situation? If you had a winning lottery ticket wouldn’t make sure you take good care of it and keep it in a safe place?

Then there’s what a Bulls cheerleader said to me at the Luvabulls final tryouts.

“Have you interviewed Derrick Rose? Met him? What’s he like?”

I said, “yes, he’s very good at delivering a pre-packaged, controlled message to the media. He’s very good at saying what his people want him to say.”

Obviously, this yielded a very puzzled look. However, that’s all I know of Derrick Rose, so that’s all I can judge him on. And it’s likely a helluva more than you know of him- so why do you treat him like he walks on water? And I really shouldn’t being singling him out, this applies to any superstar athlete.

Quoting the “Derrick Rose Should Not Be a Role Model” column again

The 23-year-old NBA MVP, who just signed a five-year, $94.8 million contract extension with his hometown Bulls, was mobbed by an estimated 8,000 fans who showed up at the mall to see him and his teammates. Extra police were called in for crowd control. Northbrook firefighters on scene were propositioned by frantic girls who said they would do unmentionable things if they could just touch the hem of Rose’s jacket. And, of course, the local news media have added to the Cult of Rose

Remember, he’s a man, a basketball player- not someone who can cure Aids and Cancer with the simple touch of his hand.

Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site generating millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports

A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio all over the world; and he’s a member of the Football Writers Association of America, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and Society of Professional Journalists. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too

Michael Jordan’s son and former Illini point guard Jeff Jordan is done with UCF college basketball, the school announced in a statement late Saturday.

“We wish Jeff nothing but the best in the future,” UCF head coach Donnie Jones said in the UCF athletics news release. “We appreciate his contributions to our program and he will always be a member of the UCF basketball family.”

No specific reason was given for why Jordan left the team. Given that he’s a senior, and has zero pro potential, this is probably the last we’ll hear about him in a high profile hoops sense.

Jordan’s younger brother, Marcus Jordan, the one who’s way better at basketball will stay on the team; where he is the Knights’ leading scorer.

Jeff Jordan went from walk-on to scholarship at Illinois, but never really accomplished much. He was a decent defender and played some serviceable back up point guard minutes.

His split from the University of Illinois program was rather acrimonious as you can see here.

He did very little at Central Florida as well- averaging 2.7 points, 1.8 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.7 rebounds in 13 games this season. He started one game and averaged 21.2 minutes per contest.

Back in the summer of 2010, the Jordan brothers proved to perhaps be a little bit more of the spoiled, legacy children than any of us thought with their Vegas trip which didn’t stay in Vegas.

These (since-deleted) tweets like this were somewhat problematic from Marcus:

Last night was stupid… 35k at Haze… Totals 50k something the whole day.. Damn!! Going to the pool again today.. Gotta relax!

Website TaintedVegas.com is reporting that the Young Jordans spent $21,000 at the Liquid Pool Lounge (where one of Jeffrey’s video was posted from, at the bottom of the screen on the previous link), and then $35,000 more at Haze that night.

Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site generating millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports

A Fulbright scholar and MBA, Banks has appeared on live radio all over the world; and he’s a member of the Football Writers Association of America, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, and Society of Professional Journalists. The President of the United States follows him on Twitter (@Paul_M_BanksTSB) You should too.