Kleeman's Last Word

Lakers-Spurs: Here we go again

Any real Spurs fan needs no explanation for .4.

Consider it the most horrific moment in the team's 35-year history and a career-defining one for an underrated point guard. But there is much more to this matchup than a Derek Fisher buzzer beater. The two teams have captured seven of the last nine titles - and Shaquille O' Neal or Tim Duncan played in every one of those championship series. The big diesel will not be around for this rematch, as the Spurs sent him packing in the first round, but the same intrigues exist.

Consider this bout Los Angeles versus San Antonio.

The Staples Center hoists the second most championship banners in the NBA. The Lakers play in a city where dreams are made and superstar actors and musicians have summer homes. The Lakers represent glamour and high ratings and may boast more bandwagon fans than the New York Yankees or New England Patriots. Now, that's an accomplishment!

The AT&T Center's East rafters hold four of the last nine championship banners. Gregg Popovich and the Spurs don't care whether you, or Mark Cuban, think the Riverwalk is a legitimate or clean tourist attraction. The Spurs represent the big league villian, a small market team that steamrolls the "more exciting" competition and draws pitiful ratings. You see a few thousand in the Central Texas area jump on the wagon each Spring but you won't hear many in New York or even Wyoming chanting "Go Spurs Go."

Laker fans seem to come from everywhere. Every gullible kid and sports softy can find something to love in the Lakers - whether it's MVP Kobe Bryant, the stars sitting on the sidelines or the television analysts telling them about the greatness of purple and gold.

Just as sure as the Lakers have earned their place in NBA history the Spurs have earned theirs. Something has to give and six or seven games will decide who's left.

The Spurs can win this series in six or seven. They can and should win it.

posted by Robert Kleeman @ 1:49 PM