JRHS Writing BLOG

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

New Basketball for NBA

There is a new aurgument which has popped up in the NBA.  The old leather Spaldings which the NBA has used for over 20 years might be replaced by a new microfiber composite basketball, which Spalding created.  According to scientific testing these new type of balls provide a more constinent feel, don;t get as slick and handle better in cold northern arenas. 

“The new ball features Spalding’s Cross Traxxion™ technology, a union of revolutionary design and breakthrough material. The design is comprised of two interlocking, cross-shaped panels rather than the eight oblong panels found on traditional basketballs. As a result, there is more material coverage. The material is a microfiber composite with moisture management that provides superior grip and feel throughout the course of a game. Additionally, the new composite material eliminates the need for a break-in period, which is necessary for the current leather ball, and achieves consistency from ball to ball.” (NBA)

But alot of the players are complaining and their position:  Why change a good thing?  This is what Shaquille O’Neal says about the new compositite ball “"It feels like one of those cheap balls that you buy at the toy store—indoor-outdoor balls,” (World magazine) I have read the review for this ball and what the players have said about it.  Some players like Paul Pierce back up this ball, while other players like Shaq dissaprove. 
Here is my opinion: NBA has been useing the leather balls for over 20 years without a problem, if the ball gets way to slick, it can be replaced during the game.  Why ruin a good part of basketball history by moving to a more high tech basketball? 

http://www.nba.com/news/blackbox_060628.html
http://www.worldmag.com/articles/12377