Wednesday Bolts – 9.8.10

Yay publicity stunts! Jake FM in Oklahoma City is campaigning to win naming rights to the Ford Center. They are asking listeners to donate $20 each to get to $9 million. But in the event they fall short (which of course they will), they will donate all the collected money to charity. So that’s nice.

David Berri calculates the most underrated scorers. You might be shocked to see one Thabo Sefolosha is on the list.

Nike is putting out a player edition only pair of shoes for Russell Westbrook. Too bad the general public can’t buy them, because they are pretty sweet:

Susan Bible of HoopsWorld lays out OKC’s blueprint: “The excellent chemistry of the Thunder players, both on and off the court, is well-documented.   Oklahoma City places supreme value on the character of its players; they seek hard-working, selfless, humble, team-oriented individuals.  There are no guarantees here (Krstic’s involvement in the recent FIBA World Tournament brawl was shocking to those who know the quiet player), but a concerted effort is made, from top to bottom, in acquiring high-character people.  Stability is also valued, with Presti signing a multi-year extension over the summer, and Brooks being extended through the 2011-12 season. This is the Oklahoma City Thunder blueprint for success, which certainly seems to be working well.  It’s built on a model that promotes sustainability and values the right fit of players.”

KD says Team USA’s practices are getting harder.

With Luis Scola’s big performances so far, some are saying he’s already locked up the MVP award. While obviously Scola has been amazing, I don’t think that award is locked up yet. Especially considering Scola has had the chance to play most of the minutes in his games. Someone like, oh, say Kevin Durant, has only played about half of what Scola has.