new jersey nets history
new jersey nets history
Kidd, the dramatics of Vince Carter, and the up and coming Richard Jefferson. Head coach Lawrence Frank, who served as assistant coach from the 2000-01 NBA season until January 2004, when he was named interim head coach, is looking to improve on last year's first-round exit from the NBA Playoffs. The strength of the team will rely on Kidd staying physically healthy, Carter keeping his heart and head in every game, and a continued improvement in forward Richard Jefferson. Continental Airline Arena will erupt if the Nets can maintain focus and strength and overcome the Miami Heat for the Eastern Conference Championship. Twice in the last five years the Nets were within reach of their first title since they conquered the ABA in 1976. In 2002, the LA Lakers had their number and swept them in the NBA Finals. They challenged again in 2003 but were over taken by the San Antonio Spurs in a six-game series.
Kidd, the seven-time NBA All-Star, has more than earned his place as captain of the Nets. He has an amazing drive to win with the skills to prove it. He holds a team record 29 triple doubles and also ranks third on the team records list for 3-pointers made, and fourth on the NBA all-time list for assists per game (9.3). It takes a true champion to follow such greats in Nets history as Buck Williams, Kerry Kittles, Derrick Coleman, and of course Julius "Dr J" Erving.
Erving was not only the face of the New York Nets, but also the ABA in the early '70's. With his high-flying antics and spectacular dunks, he became one of the greatest talents in basketball history, much to the delight of Nets ticket holders. After helping the New York Nets capture two titles, one in 1974 and another in
1976, he signed with the Philadelphia 76ers. NBA basketball Fans will never forget the excitement and drama brought to the floor by the one and only Dr. J.
Vince Carter, once labeled "the next Michael Jordan," showed great potential early in his career but seemed to lack the heart and mental toughness of a true champion. But sometimes a scenery change is just what superstar needs. With last year's addition of Carter, the Nets became an instant title contender. Nets ticket holders hope that his focus on a championship will help to motivate and inspire him. Following the lead of Kidd, and with support from the likes of Jefferson, and Nenad Krstic, New Jersey basketball fans are lining up to see if Carter and the Nets can capture the long elusive NBA Championship title in the 2005-06 season.
