Basketball from a fan’s perspective

Die with memories not dreams-unknown 

May 27, 1985

That was the date, the Boston Massacre occurred, for you students of American History that was the second event. The original massacre transpired March 5, 1770 and was one of the foundations of the American revolution against colonial rule by Great Britain. I find it interesting in the fact the Celtics beat the Lakers 148-114 in Game one of that 1985 series, many believed that was the opening salvo to another championship for the Celtics. This series witnessed the Lakers returning from the poor start in Game 1 to win 4 games to 2,

This would become only the second time in their history the Celtics lost the deciding championship game at home. Don’t you find it interesting there are legions of fans who now believe the Laker-Suns series is “over” after one game, teams in the past have won playoff series after being down 3-1.  I cannot speak for Laker Nation however I can speak for myself; I am disappointed with the outcome of Game one with the 99-90 loss. The Lakers could lose this series, still they may not repeat as NBA champions, we just don’t know the future. This I do know, all of (well most of ) Laker Nation is proud of this team and will continue to claim Purple and Gold forever.  

Take up another pastime

We continue to read and hear complaints regarding the NBA, the objections are aimed for the most part at the social and civic stance taken by several players. This is a reminder once again; this is not your grandpa’s NBA, it’s not even your father’s NBA. The change you desire going back to an earlier time ain’t forthcoming and it’s bothersome to many of you. "Just shut and dribble" is not going to work for a number of players. The suggestion was made a few months ago and it still applies today, you might consider another pastime. NBA, NFL and other athletes are not returning to the 1950’s so if you are bothered…well. On second thought there is another suggestion, you can continue to follow the NBA and other sports but ignore the other.

Name tag

I echo the statement from Jemele Hill former ESPN journalist, I hope I’m not guilty. I don’t think so, over the length of time this blog’s been published I don’t believe I’ve called anyone out of their name.  That is the term used when a media person in discussing an individual in a negative light attaches a derogatory tag to them.  This could be “bust, loser” or some other adjective in discussing a person. I’ve concluded anytime you must apply that type of tag to someone it details for all your juvenile mind.

I realize over the years many negative comments have originated from my publication however I hope those written their integrity was never maimed. Many in media especially the visual one believe freedom of speech allows them to make any statement they chose. It was once said by a politician, “Freedom of speech does not allow you to yell fire in a crowded theatre.” It is not now or never been okay to hang a negative tag on a person whether we are discussing the NBA or politics.    

There is no curse

We continue to read headlines, “Is this the year the Clippers break the curse?” I’ve got news for folks who wrote that story and those who believe it. There is no such thing, the Clippers haven’t won a championship because they were incredibly bad for several years. The 2005-2006 season became their first winning season since the San Diego days of the franchise. Generally, from this point going forward they were able to assemble competitive teams.

The problem, they always managed to come up short once they reached the playoffs. It was the Lob City group that failed to win for a variety of reasons, later it would become the Clippers of    Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Sorry folks, all versions of the Clippers failed to advance for one reason or another, a curse…sorry I refuse to believe that’s why they lost. This is the year they can debunk the annual headlines and talk associated with a curse.  Do the Clippers win the 2021 NBA championship, we must wait to July for that answer? 

Global game

Unlike many other sports only basketball particularly the NBA has become a world game. This was no accident it was purpose driven, it was begun by the late commissioner David Stern and has grown throughout the years. Business interest is a key component but developing talent is part of the picture as well. The NBA conducts operations in each of the locations below.

NBA Asia (Hong Kong, Manila)

NBA Canada (Toronto)

NBA China (Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei)

NBA Europe (London, Madrid)

NBA India (Mumbai)

NBA Latin America (Mexico City, Rio De Janeiro)

NBA Africa (Johannesburg)

NBA teams here will never travel to distant lands except for exhibition and the occasional regular season game. The NBA brand, less than 30 years ago there were no world offices as there are now.