07-28-2007, 02:08 PM
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 | Retired from Forum | | Last Online: 02-22-2008 10:45 AM Join Date: Sep 2005
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 Rob Parker Hits The Nail On Its Head
I think RP hit the nail on its head with this article. Quote:
Wednesday, July 25, 2007 Rob Parker
Scandal worsens bad image
DETROIT -- One sad aspect of the NBA referee scandal is that many fans aren't surprised.
Not because some thought a full-blown gambling scandal would occur. It's just that while many fans believed the play on the court was fantastic, they thought the officiating was suspect, at best.
The NBA has realized its worst nightmare -- one of its referees, Tim Donaghy, is being accused of placing bets on NBA games and providing information to others betting on games.
In a news conference Tuesday, commissioner David Stern was pained about the situation that threatens the integrity of his game. He made it clear his No. 1 priority is to restore fans' confidence that what they are watching is real, not manipulated.
"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 commissioner of the NBA," Stern said. "We take our obligation to our fans in this situation very, very seriously.
"I pledge that we will do every look-back possible to analyze our processes and seek the best advice possible to continue to assure fans that we are doing the best we possibly can."
Refereeing needs help
Stern's task is bigger than convincing people there was just one bad apple in the bunch. Officiating in the NBA -- arguably as bad as it ever has been -- has to be overhauled. Even if the problem might be perception more than reality.
Although there's no proof, many fans believe the league wants certain teams or players to get the benefit of calls.
The list of examples is long. None bigger, however, than two years ago when Dwyane Wade couldn't be touched defensively. Refs whistled Miami all the way to the NBA championship.
In Game 5 against Dallas, Wade had 25 free-throw attempts, more than the entire Mavericks team.
The same thing happened to the Pistons with LeBron James two seasons ago in the second round. Despite the numerous foul calls, they were able to beat the Cavaliers in seven games.
Stars still shine
And this isn't just about superstar calls that we all know exist. The best players are given an advantage by officials. In June during a players' association meeting, a number of players asked a group of refs about it point-blank.
"They wouldn't acknowledge it," said former player and union official Tim McCormick. "That's their story, and they were sticking to it."
Many who were turned off by the game compared the NBA to the WWE, in which things are scripted and orchestrated so the best thing possible for the league would unfold.
Stern has a lot of work to do. He has to get fans to believe in the game again.
And illegal gambling isn't the only problem he faces.
Bet on it.
| Scandal worsens bad image   |