Shaq Wins 4th Ring. Kobe Wracking his Brain on the Couch?

The Miami Heat played their hearts out tonight to conquer the NBA Championship in an unexpected 6 games. Whether you like the Heat or not, you have to admit that this one was well deserved and inspiring.

The Heat have been criticized since the inception of the playoffs. People called them a paper tiger when they lost 2 games at home to the Bulls in the first round. They expected them to face adversity against Jersey. Everyone in the media declared the Pistons champions even before the Eastern Conference finals started. And, none of ESPN's "experts" really believed that the Heat could win a game in Dallas, definitely not game 6 at least.

Well, Pat Riley's team overcame all that adversity to hand him a 5th championship. I'm happy for Shaq because he delivered on his promise. I'm happy for Wade because all his hard work paid off and he has not only proven himself as of the league's best guards, but also as a leader and unifying force. I'm happy for 'Zo Mourning and Gary Payton b/c they got championship rings they truly deserved. And I'm happy for Riles b/c I thought he did an excellent coaching job.

I think the most touching thing about the win was the comradery between Shaq and Wade. I truly respect Wade for him humility, his being able to hand the spotlight to Shaq while still shining as a star on his own. And you could see the two guys being truly happy for each other, Shaq aiding Wade in a jumpstart to his career and Wade aiding Shaq to add another notch in his.

I'm not even going to bash Kobe that much in this post (however tempting it is) because it has all been said before. One thing I hope is that, while he's sitting on his couch and watching the celebration, he thinks about what he could have done differently in the past or could do differently in the future. Maybe he could call Wade and ask if he can borrow some humility.

Shaq Makes the Difference

"Ever since Shaquille O'Neal showed up on the scene, the Heat has been a legitimate contender." Pat Riley at a post-game press conference.

Shaq - Eastern Conference Champion, goes to NBA finals; Kobe still on the couch

So . . . Shaq and the Heat beat the Pistons tonight (the same Pistons that everybody crowned NBA champions mid-season, and the same Pistons who are the kings of surviving elimination games). Shaq had 28 points, 16 rebounds and 5 blocks. He carried the Heat tonight, on top of averaging 20 and 10 for the series. And, D-Wade had the flu, and only was able to contribute 14 points (way below his 27ppg average). Still, a heroic effort by Wade, the guy's resilience and determination is amazing.

So, Shaq is going to the NBA finals. Kobe must be wearing in a spot on his couch. Unless he has broken that couch in half from anger by now.