For the time being, let’s push the ghost of Oscar Robertson over to the side. How ironic–not that long ago Michael was in Oklahoma honoring Russell Westbrook’s induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. On Friday night at Chesapeake Energy Arena, Russell Westbrook will be attempting to tie Jordan’s ’88-’89 feat of seven consecutive triple doubles.
Point blank, Michael is the greatest basketball player I’ve seen in my lifetime. Bill Russell would rank second on my list. Kareem would rank third. I was born in ’57 so I’ve been fortunate enough to see most of the greats.
During pro basketball’s time in Oklahoma City, I’ve been blessed to see Chris Paul, Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook. Think about that. All four most certainly headed to the Hall of Fame and I’ve seen all of them play in person in Oklahoma City.
This Friday will be special as Westbrook pursues his seventh straight triple against James Harden’s Rockets. I can’t speak for every Thunder fan, but I still love Harden. I wish he were still with the Thunder, but as time has ebbed along as a fan of the league I realize this is better for him and the game. Make certain of this, I do not feel the same way in regards to Durant because in the end I feel Durant is not doing anything which will help the game or even cement his own legacy. I just feel he’s taking the easiest route possible to a ring short of joining up with LeBron James. I guess I’m just too old school.
But on Friday, it’s Westbrook and Harden. Two California kids who grew in LA idolizing Kobe as their favorite player. Friday evening in Oklahoma City should be special. Maybe Michael should show up and watch from courtside sitting next to Russell’s younger brother, Ray Jr. That would be cool.
I love good interviews as you might tell from reading my blog. I enjoy observing an athlete put his guard down and revealing something of himself/herself to the public. By far, my favorite part of ESPN are the 30/30 docu movies. To me, the most compelling part of sports is often in the human story which drives the sports story. I love this interview with former Georgetown coach John Thompson just talking to Michael like he’s one of his former players and not the player who beat him in the ’82 national championship game.
Take the time to watch if you can.