Kobe Worries About Dirty Player Rep

Kobe Bryant contends that he got a “raw deal” from NBA vice president Stu Jackson, who handed him a one-game suspension for hitting Marko Jaric in the face with his elbow. 
 

Kobe is concerned with not wanting to appear to be a dirty player.  Said Bryant, “Accidents happen.  I think they need to make that distinction.” 
 

Although Stu Jackson has said that he can’t look at a player’s intention, only what happens on the court, the Lakers coaching staff has compiled “umpteen” different video clips of Kobe Bryant making similar follow through motions (like the ones that hit Ginobili and Jaric) after shot attempts, even when nobody is around. 
 

Regardless of whether it is a habit or not, or whether it’s intentional or not, the fact remains that you can’t hit people in the face.  It’s awful, I know.  Every day I have to drive through a school cross walk, but if I run over those kids, I’d be in big trouble.  Even though I’ve done it before a few times. 
 

I feel for you, Kobe.  
 

But the fact remains; rules are rules, even for stars.  If Kobe’s flailing is clearly a regular basketball move, why doesn’t this kind of incident happen more often with other players?  Why only with Kobe? I wonder.
 

As for the dirty player rep, I’m sure nobody would ever think that.  Not Mike Miller, nor Melvin Ely, nor Chris Childs, nor Reggie Miller. No.  I think your rep is safe, Kobe. You’re just a clean wholesome boy who likes clean wholesome fun, sans wife and consent.
 
So long as Kobe doesn’t intentionally or unintentionally bloody anything tonight, we can expect Lakers tickets to their homecoming game versus Dallas on Sunday to include a glimpse of Bryant focusing on his follow through. Check out StubHub.com for tickets to what should be a tough night.    


 

Permalink - Posted in General on March 9, 2007 - Post a comment

Bryant Returns to Philadelphia

The Los Angeles Lakers play the 76ers tonight in Philadelphia.  The game will be a return for Kobe Bryant in two senses of the word.  He will be revisiting his former high school in Lower Marion, and be reinstated in the Lakers lineup after his suspension. 
 

Kobe has done amazingly well in the games immediately following league-mandated suspensions, averaging just over 34 points.  The Lakers are also 3-1 when Kobe comes back from suspensions.
 

But if you’re thinking about putting a bunch of money on the Lakers, you might want to consider that the 76ers are currently on a five-game win streak.  Philadelphia is surging and the Lakers are spiraling downward.  L.A. will come into the game tonight with a four-game losing streak, and only 10 available players.
 

I’d save my betting loot to spend on Lakers tickets for when the Dallas Mavericks come to the Staples Center on Sunday.  StubHub.com will be your source for what could be a season defining game versus one of the best teams in the league.  


 

Permalink - Posted in General on March 9, 2007 - Post a comment