Good news, Thunder fans. You can still stand up as long as you want during games inside the Ford Center. But the players who might be sitting in front of you can't. Not anymore. The NBA has issued a memo to all 30 teams prohibiting players seated on the bench from standing up for long stretches during games. The 2007-08 Boston Celtics bench often stood for several minutes to cheer on teammates. Last year's Cleveland Cavaliers adopted a similar strategy.
Fans seated in the first few rows of the lower bowl, however, complained about obstructed views and the honchos in New York have heard their cries.
For more on the league's newest regulation, pick up Thursday's editions of The Oklahoman.
BACK TO BACK
Thunder coach Scott Brooks said he plans to use two different starting lineups for games tonight (in Houston) and Tuesday night (in Austin) to evaluate different combinations.
"I love back-to-backs in preseason," Brooks said. "It helps us see where we are not only from a physical standpoint but mentally. Back-to-back games, a lot of it is mental. You have to really stay focused and concentrate both on the court and off the court. You have to get your rest and eat well."
COLLISON TO DEBUT
Nick Collison, sidelined nearly three weeks by a severely sprained ankle, should play in at least one of the two games the next two nights.
"It's nice having Nick back into the fold and not have to worry about how he's going to feel the next day," Brooks said. "Now he just needs to get the rust off his game."
MORE SCRIMMAGES
Before flying to Houston on Sunday afternoon, Brooks put players through a two-hour practice, capped by eight-minute scrimmages.
"There are so many things I like about our team," Brooks said. "But one of the main things is they love to compete. They really get after it. Even on our off day (Saturday), a lot of guys came in on their own and got in some good work."
