Season in Review: Anthony Tolliver's perspective

Wolves forward Anthony Tolliver

What are some memorable moments you have had this year, what does it mean to play some of your former teams?

This was my first full season in the NBA so this year will always be special to me. Playing well against my former teams (GSW, New Orleans, and San Antonio) this year definitely stick out as memories that I wont forget.

How has the team improved since the beginning of the year? the chemistry?I think that the team has learned how to adjust to one another very well on the offensive end. At times this year we played and competed against the best teams in the league.

What the biggest challenge you have faced during the season?The biggest challenge has been dealing with losing so many games. I have never lost so many games in one season in my life so that has been tough.

What have you improved the most during the 2010-11 NBA season?I think I have really become comfortable with my role as a backup power forward, coming off the bench and bringing energy to the game on the defensive end.

Who has given you the best advice during your basketball career, what advice did they give?My mother always would tell me to let my game do the talking instead of talking smack to other players.

Why do you think Kevin Love doesn’t get much “Love” from NBA fans?What fans don’t notice Kevin Love? Haha. If you understand the game you notice Kevin Love because he is a phenomenal rebounder.

When out of town, what is your favorite thing to do in an off day?I like to relax and watch movies.

If The Playoffs Started Today...

With less than a week to go in the NBA regular season, lets take a look at how the playoffs would shake out if they started today.

1. Spurs vs 8. Grizzlies


2. Lakers vs 7. Hornets


3. Mavericks vs 6. Trail Blazers

4. Thunder vs 5. Nuggets

1. Bulls vs 8. Pacers


2. Celtics vs 7. 76ers


3. Heat vs 6. Knicks


4. Magic vs 5. Hawks










     In this scenario, the East has some particularly interesting match-ups.  While the Bull's will likely cruise to the second round without much resistance, the Celtics, Heat and Magic are left in much more vulnerable positions.

Gopher's Keanon Cooper on Success

There are a wide variety of teams in society; sports teams, work teams, debate teams, etc. There are many key qualities that are essential in the development of a successful team; including things like (but not limited to): teamwork, communication, sportsmanship, ethics, trust, inclusion, commitment, goals, responsibility, accountability, vision, etc.

SNN (sportsnewsnightly) is interviewing athletes, coaches, and staff ask the following three questions about creating a successful team. Here is our interview with Keanon Cooper.

What do you think are the 5 most important qualities in creating a successful team?

Cooper: Trust, accountability, communication, respect, and commitment

How would you define those qualities in your own words?

Cooper: Trust – knowing that the person next to you is going to hold up their responsibilities. Accountability – doing your assignment or fulfilling your role knowing that there are others that are depending on you. Communication – talking and being on the same page with your teammates. Chemistry – everyone accepting their roles. Commitment – buying in to accomplishing the overall goal.