Phil Jackson

Reading Phil Jackson's book on the season he left the Lakers in 2004 - mostly to dig up dirt on Kobe. A short passage I found interesting was Jackson's observations about a young LeBron James. Jackson was impressed with the basketball skills of the 19 year old, but how he didn't think anyone that young ought to be playing in the NBA. He though years from now they'd look at these kids and see the immense psychological damage done to them by such high expectations and wealth given to them at too young an age. He noted their reliance on an entourage and friends and surmised men don't really become adults and in control and understanding of their emotions until about 28 years old.

Funny reading this now, especially in light of the "taking my talents to South Beach" last summer and LaBron being turned into the villain. Thinking about the straight to NBA from high school guys - Kobe, LaBron, Garnett, and then the one-year in college guys: Carmelo, Durant, Rose, Westbrook (2 years, maybe) - and remarkably few of these guys seem to have their head on their shoulders correctly. Durant seems like the only obvious one and Rose the second. But give them a few years and they might go LeBron on us. All of the rest strike me as bizarre dudes. I can't help but wonder if being thrust into the spotlight at 19 or 20 contributes to it.

And now...on to some dirt about Kobe...my favorite bit of gossip: there were rumors about Kobe's high school days that he would purposely sabotage games in order to make them close, so he could try and be the hero in the end. Not surprising.