Witness

I am a self diagnosed basketball junkie, For me the NBA playoffs are a sacred event as it represents the second season. Tough defense, hard fouls, real post play and the best athletes in the world dig deep, not only into their talents, but their will to win. That is why the last couple of nights have been a HUGE disappointment. Joe Johnson and LeBron James are huge disappointments.




Joe Johnson of the Hawks has a nice all around game, sweet jumper, and can score from the low post. Unfortunately against the Orlando Magic he gave minimum effort when, as a free agent, he expects to receive a maximum contract this summer. Worse, in the process of explaining his dismal performance, he pointed a finger at the Atlanta fans. I understand Orlando frustrated his team. The Magic were long and got some outstanding play from their wing and back court players, but that just means you get FIRED UP. Rally the troops. Tell them don’t stop fighting and make a series out of it. To whoever signs Mr. Johnson this summer, be prepared. For your MVP money, Johnson will only play second or even third option, and oh in the playoffs if you go down 2-0 you might as well have him ride the pine. He isn’t going to give you the effort.



As bad as Johnson performed, LeBron performed worse ... because he didn't perform at all. I grew up watching three of the greatest players ever to grace the game of basketball - Jordan, Bird, and Magic. I am spoiled because even on their worst nights, these three Hall of Fame players still gave 110% and rallied everyone around them to play better. LeBron, what happened? Why did you quit on your court and your loyal subjects? Were you thinking of the upcoming treasure - this summer’s free agency? Where was your heart of a champion, that man we can comeback attitude. When the Celtics went on that 16 point run in the 3rd quarter you took the punch and folded. No response. No fire. You made me mad. While Mo Williams and Shaq were balling and trying to fire everyone up, you were nonchalant and not interested. What a pitiful sight to witness.



The physical talent you possess is beyond belief and the charisma you display are par none, but last night in Game 5 you forgot to play the game with love and that is unforgivable, especially after your fellow two time MVP'er Steve Nash played one and half quarters with one eye and won on the road. As my freshmen basketball Coach Rainey would say “Son you need to go see the Wizard.” So LeBron take a trip down the yellow brick playoff road and get some love, passion, and heart for Game 6 against Boston in Boston. As a historian of the game I tell you to watch some of the following - Russell vs. Chamberlin, Celtics vs. Lakers, Knicks vs. Bulls, Knicks vs. Heat, Bulls vs. Pistons. Specifically watch the role players like Pippen, Harper, and Starks, whose greatest moments were playing with the superstars on their teams.



I don’t know what will happen in Game 6. I just want to WITNESS a great game where LeBron shows he is worth all the hype, not just a commercial, shoe deal, or movie. Prove that you love and have passion for the game not just during the regular season, but in the playoffs when it counts. Do this LeBron and you will take the next step to become a champion. Do this and prove to this wonderful game and your teammates that you are better, cause right now it, they, and your fans deserve better.