More than anything else, LeBron represents hope. Not just the typical hope of the American Dream that says anyone can become successful with the right mix of talent and hard work, but the hope that there is truth behind all the hype. We are bombarded daily with images and sound trumpeting the next big thing: The trial of the century, #1 vs. #2, the season’s funniest new comedy, the pound for pound best fighter, its all bullshit. How many times do you shut off your television after a fight and swear you will never buy another one? How often does a rivalry game live up to the billing? But we all come back for more. We come back because of hope that one day a championship fight, a game seven, a conference final will actually live up to the hype and deliver. When that happens, it reminds us of why we are sports fans, because even with all the cheating it is still the purest form of drama.
LeBron is refreshing in his uniqueness. He has been thrust into the spotlight since he reached puberty and has done nothing but distinguish himself. His ability to thrive without a major stumble is remarkable. He had the world given to him on a platter at age 18; far before Michael and Tiger and look what he has done under the pressure. He isn’t perfect, just ask Paul Silas or Larry Brown but he has grown with every experience and come out better on the other side. How many of us can say that without the bright lights and big expectations as well as the embarrassment of riches. I’m certain we would all trade places with LeBron, just for the security of knowing your children’s children are set for life, but how many of us would remain motivated with that knowledge?
I want to express my excitement at being part of this venture. I have known Dan, Kris and Marty for as long as my memory reaches and feel truly fortunate to share writing space with each of them. I appreciate your indulgence and look forward to the conversations that follow.
By way of prediction: I cannot see how the Spurs can lose the series. I will tune in when available but don’t really find it to be must see games unless the Cavs strike early in the series and go up 2-1 or the series gets to 2-2. The most disappointing aspect is the ridiculous 2-3-2 format of the Finals. It makes no sense for there to be a 2-2-1-1-1 format for every round except the most important round. It serves to penalize the team with the three straight home games, because at that level it is nearly impossible to win all three and without that you have to win two on the road which is also difficult. There is no legitimate reason to continue with the 2-3-2, they take enough days off that travel shouldn’t be an issue. Lastly, some of my favorite memories of my blogmates stem from weekend afternoons on Sherman Ave during the early 90s runs of the Knicks. We are lucky to have grown up then because now we wouldn’t have Saturday and Sunday afternoon games to hang out and watch and be interrupted by OJ, we would be stuck with games starting at 9:30 on a Sunday night. The NBA should be ashamed.
1 comment:
You have all made great points. I just think that we have had many great players come into the league in the post Jordan era, some where much hyped, some not as much. They are Iverson, Duncan, KG, Melo, D Wade and so on. However the difference we are seeing with LeBron is the small glimpse of the endless possiblity in this 22 year olds' game (22 YEARS OLD)! No he is not the next Jordan, no he is not the next Magic, or Bird, maybe, just maybe, like someone on ESPN said he is just the first LeBron. The fact that we are all having this conversation, and we all agree there is something more special about him than any of these other players is evident. Probably twenty years from now when he is five years or so removed from the league we will all be comparing the young up and coming players to him.
Later
Post a Comment