TIPOFF Magazine: Dynamic Duo Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole

By James Oyola

In basketball, the point guard position has some of the largest responsibilities within the team. In his book, The Basketball Handbook, Lee Rose described the position as, “a coach on the floor, who can handle and distribute the ball to teammates.”

In the NBA, the point guard tandem of Mario Chalmers and rookie sensation Norris Cole have helped the Miami HEAT become one of the top overall teams in the league. The young guards quarterback a squad that’s amongst the league leaders in scoring and steals. Through January 18, the dynamic duo of Chalmers and Cole average 21.6 points, 7.4 assists, 3.00 steals and 4.5 rebounds per game, but what’s more amazing is their ability to work together.

While speaking with the media, Chalmers mentioned, “I look at Norris like a little brother. We’re not going to be successful without players one to 15.” In his fourth year, Chalmers, a native of Anchorage, Alaska, is having his best season with the HEAT. His three-point shot has improved as he is shooting an outstanding 45.8 percent from three-point land (as of January 18) and, and one of the best in the league. Chalmers, despite the absence of starters LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, had his best game of the season in a 116-109 triple-overtime win over the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 5th when he racked up 29 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Also speaking with the media, HEAT coach Erik Spoelstra mentioned, “We have two great, young point guards that we think bring two different things to the table that we really like. And most importantly, can help our team win.”

Cole has done extremely well coming off the bench for Miami. In the HEAT’s home-opener, he gave fans a glimpse of his abilities when he scored 14 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter to lead the HEAT in a 115-107 victory over the Boston Celtics. Cole who is averaging 9.5 points, 3.6 assists, 1.9 rebounds and 1.23 steals ranks among the top ten in scoring, assists, and steals among rookies (through January 18). His fearless approach and tenacious attack compliment the HEAT’s physical style of play.

“We keep defenses off balance when we switch it up,” Chalmers added. “Norris is more of a person who attacks the paint, and I’m more of a shooter who gets to the rim second. So it’s a good combo.”
Chalmers’ ability to shoot and stretch the defense, along with Cole’s speed and open-court poise can be a problem for opposing guards. Knowing the importance of their responsibilities is probably why Chalmers and Cole are each other’s biggest supporters.

“When he’s in the game, I’m hoping for nothing but the best for him. And when I’m in the game, he’s wishing nothing but the best for me,” Cole said.