phoenix suns
07/25/2007
David Stern Gets Stern, Real Stern
David Stern isn't known for hyperbole or hysterical behavior. In fact, it's been his level-headed, brilliant strategizing that has made him the best commissioner in all of professional sports. So when he says that something is really bad, he ain't kidding. So the Tim Donaghy referee scandal is about as bad as it gets? Here's what Stern had to say in today's press conference: "I've been involved with the NBA for 40 years in some shape or form,
and I can tell you that this is the most serious situation and worst
situation that I have ever experienced, either as a fan of the NBA, a
lawyer for the NBA or as a commissioner of the NBA."
This makes the Pistons-Pacers brawl seem inconsequential. Hell, it even makes the whole Mike Vick/Barry Bonds sideshows seem inconsequential. Will the NBA ever recover? Probably, but the fans' faith in fair play -- not to mention Stern's impeccable stewardship of the league -- will be tainted for decades to come. But hey, it could be worse -- it could be the Tour de France.
In the next few weeks, expect tons of evidence to emerge about just how bad one apple managed to change the outcome of games. Until then, here's one YouTuber's take on Donaghy's work in game 3 of the Suns-Spurs playoff series.
