|
You Know
By Robert Doyen May 02, 2004
During interviews with the press, Tony Parker repeats the phrase “You know”, as often as a nervous teenager who says “like”, after every three words. But on Sunday vs. the Lakers, on the NBA’s largest global stage, Parker showed that he is maturing far faster than the average college dropout who shares his age. While most 21 year olds are moving back in with their parents and evaluating tech schools, one young French man is gaining the confidence and support of one of the most successful organizations in the United States. The San Antonio Spurs.
And who knew? The reliance of the Spurs on Speedy Claxton last year in the playoffs and their free agent flirtation with Jason Kidd in the off-season left many wondering what this kid’s potential was really worth. Like almost anyone so young with so much potential, he had the ability to both impress and underwhelm. Flashes of gritty brilliance were paralleled by lumbering displays of mediocre ambivalence.
These paradoxes of performance slowly became a part of Tony’s perceived basketball personality. Coach Greg Popovich issued many a red-faced tantrum toward him following his immature mistakes. No rushed shot or errant pass was ever met with less than a benching and a tongue lashing. Some thought Popovich treated him too harshly and expectantly. But did he really?
Where many young men would have rebelled against such controlling tutelage, Parker slowly blossomed. His scoring and assist totals have increased every year, but never more dramatically than in the last three months. Parker has not only blossomed, but matured. He has finally accepted the responsibility of his role as floor leader. He is scoring and distributing the basketball with confidence and impunity. His physical skill has always been apparent, but for the first time ever his decision making is ranked as one of his premier skills. He is finally joining the ranks of the premier point guards in the league during the most important time of the year. The playoffs. The time of the season where the boys are separated from the men. And, with the help of Popovich, Tony Parker is changing from boy to man right in front of the eyes of the world.
Now if only he would , like, stop saying “You know”, so often, and stuff.
Back to Articles Index
|
|
|
Next Show: Sat, Feb 22, 2020 at Click on this link to visit our myspace page for show updates
|
