After our candid logo discussions earlier in the week, I was pleased to come across the artwork above representing the Dakota Wizards of the NBA Development League. Now this is the way to depict a Wizard. The WashWiz would creep opponents right out of the phone booth with this graphic emblazoning center court.

Dakota's eye for design, plus a certain something I've washed my hands clean of that's captivating hoops fans at the moment, has sparked my interest in taking a closer look at the NBA's D-League. I got my first real taste a few weeks ago while watching the D-League All-Star game as part of the NBA's All-Star Weekend. The most familiar name to me was Bakersfield Jam guard Gerry McNamera, but game MVP Pops Mensah-Bonsu has made the most of the occasion having recently been called up by the Dallas Mavericks. Here are a few links to open your eyes to the D.L.:

• The league's created a nice little promotion with Gatorade, calling players acquired by NBA franchises Gatorade Call-Ups. Luke Schenscher's the latest Gatorade Call-Up.
  
  
• Randy Livingston proves the D-League ain't just for rookies.
  
  
• In true minor league tradition, the Arkansas RimRockers are giving away Bill Clinton bobbleheads tomorrow night.
  
  
• While few D-Leaguers have yet to make a major impact in the NBA, there have been a few to latch on and play prominent roles.
  
  
• Looks like tomorrow night's Jam/Flyers tilt will feature more than one Syracuse alum.
  
  
• And don't miss this opportunity to get a tee with a real Wizards logo on it.

Labels: logos, NBA, WashWiz