"I think other players should prepare themselves to say the season is over," Malone said.

"I see your players are preparing to follow you."

The difference in readiness seemed more a matter of how each player prepared for a game.

The smart players take stock early and prepare for a career off the court.

Once a connection is established, the players prepare and start competing.

The money changed hands, and the players prepared for the next match.

The reality is, some players did not prepare for a long lockout.

He said the players should prepare for a serious competition.

The players, I am told, are preparing another performance.

"But I'd be more than happy to help the players prepare."