In light of Kobe Bryant’s 81 points Sunday night and Ron Artest showing his true colors on Tuesday by refusing a trade to Sacramento, I’m beginning to wonder if it’s all worth it.
Never mind the fact that Artest finally did accept the trade on Wednesday, but the questions still loom large: does the poor character behind these players outweigh their incredible talent? Is it fair that millions and millions of dollars fall into the hands of these criminals, as I call them, each year? And do we, as the spectators and supporters of their franchises, still enjoy their performances, or has our disappointment in – and resentment of – them contaminated the game for us?
Perhaps the negative response to Kobe scoring the second-highest number of points in NBA history was a result of the game falling on a day when just about every sports fan was focused solely on football and the NFC and AFC championship games. But I find it hard to believe that the fact that he was accused of rape and has proven on many occasions to be a self-centered prick didn’t play into it at all.
After hearing about it and watching the clips on SportsCenter, I thought, “Wow, this guy is really incredible.” 28-of-46 from the floor and 18-of-20 at the foul line? What an unbelievable performance.” And yet I couldn’t find it in my heart to feel happy for him. Sure, I was a little bitter about the fact that he had significantly beaten Michael Jordan’s career high, but in general, I just couldn’t get over my deep hatred for the guy.
While I can’t say whether or not he is actually a sexual predator, I can say that he’s not the greatest guy in the world and that many others deserve his talent and success more than he does. His selfishness and heartlessness are not enough to make it worth watching him play.
And then there’s Ron Artest. As many of you know, he demanded a trade from the Pacers a short while ago. The Pacers, who owe him absolutely nothing after supporting him the way they did and welcoming him back with open arms after his suspension last season, respectfully consented to his wishes. On Tuesday there was talk of a trade with the Kings: Artest for Peja Stojakovic. The Pacers thought they were finally rid of a man who had done so much damage to their team. But not so fast.
Artest decided that he doesn’t want to play for Sacramento, declaring that he would rather ride the bench for Indiana than play for Sacramento. He finally did accept the trade on Wednesday, but only after he had created a media circus and, yet again, prolonged the process of getting himself out of Indiana.
Once the Kings got a little taste of the true Ron Artest and heard the news that he would be unhappy with them, the deal fell through. Let me just say that the man has got a lot of nerve. Unfortunately, like Kobe, Artest too has immeasurable talent. Despite his temper, his anger, and his lack of respect for authority and sportsmanship, his outstanding defensive capabilities are certainly enticing. The question is who, if anyone, will give into temptation and wait to see what Artest would do next.
The truth is that Kobe Bryant and Ron Artest are two of the most entertaining and enjoyable athletes of their time to watch. But the pit in my stomach when I’m watching them, even at their best, is impossible to ignore. I guess the best remedy is to try to forget about our true feelings about their poor judgment and unkindness and watch the games for what they’re really about: athletic excellence and entertainment value.