Re: Larry Bird's Rocket Comments

[Cecil Wright <nocw1@nsh.library.ns.ca>]

On Thu, 30 Apr 1998, Sherry & Hart wrote:

> DMercon wrote:
> > 
> > I believe the Larry Bird quote "eat shit" was taken out of context.  He didn't
> > just make that statement, it was in response to Malone's comment that he could
> > go to a playground and pick 4 guys and with himself they could beat the
> > Celtics.  Maybe not the best choice of words, but not exactly like Mr. Hart
> > insinuated.
> 
> Does that excuse Larry from making the comment or does it just show his
> immaturity at a young age. I only stated this because an awful lot of
> people on this list are on Antoine's case for showing immaturity. It is
> my feeling that I want Antoine to be arrogant when playing Basketball as
> long as it doesn't spill over to off court behavior. But I guess maybe
> most people on this list want a bunch of do gooders to play for the
> Celtics. I for one don't. All the great teams in my memory all had
> players that showed an arrogance and confidence while playing. Think
> about it, that is what builds champion teams. 

I do not equate arrogance with greatness.  Dr. J was great.  IMO he 
wasn't arrogant, but by your definition, he should have been.  Antoine 
could be great.  Time will tell, but we know where he is on the arrogance 
scale.  And while it may not be any hindrance to you, it is to me.  I'm 
tired of stating the same thing repeatedly about how other players use 
his antics as motivation and how juvenile he behaves with the refs etc.
It just doesn't seem to click that if you're gonna take that route, you 
damn well better be able to sink your free throws for example.  Back it 
up with something other than an abundance of shots taken.

I like Toine's potential, but after 2 years in the league, he hasn't 
earned his stripes enough to strut his stuff like he does.  His stuff has 
helped us to 
a great turnaround in our W/L %, but he hardly did it alone, though he 
did lead the way.  Make the playoffs, show some consistency, work on his 
weaknesses, praise his teammates rather than himself.  Those are the 
requirements of a good team player/leader  

 My real
> hope is now that we sign him and then work on Mercers personality and
> get him to show a bit of a swagger on the court.
> We could have in our midst 2 of the top 10 players to come on to any
> team of the same age since the Bulls Jordan/Pippen duo.
> Regards,
> Hart
> 
I'd argue that we should leave Mercer alone.  He obviously is quite 
comfortable being a part of a team, without seeking additional spotlight 
on himself.  Ron should be praised for having a hardworking honest effort.

Cecil