So, I've been thinking about this on and off all day. Last night, as a big fan of Rondo as an even bigger fan of the Celtics, I was torn as to his actions jeopardized his reputation, but more importantly the team. Basically, as a fan of his, I really don't want him to garner this bad reputation, but at the same time I question whether his actions will hurt our team in the future as he is our future franchise player.
With that being said, I've come to the conclusion that I love what Rondo did. I know the game has evolved in the past decade and any type of aggressive play is not permitted and often frowned upon, but I honestly think that's one of the biggest problems with the league of today. I'm 25. I caught the very tail end of the 80s and all of the 90s and I miss what I witnessed as a child. I understand the game has changed, but one thing that shouldn't be distilled from these players is passion. Yeah we have a league full of talented, athletic freaks such as LeBron James, but most of these glorified superstars often seem like they are in it for the fame and the money. The league is too commercial and focuses way too much on selling a shiny, perfect product rather than really selling the game of basketball itself.
As a Celtics fan my entire life, I know what this franchise stands for transcends beyond the game. We stand for tradition, heart, intensity, family, passion, and dedication. It always comes even more apparent when we struggle such as our 20 year drought, the death of Len Bias and Reggie Lewis, the Rick Pitino era, and even now. We have a dedicated fan base, front office, and players. You see Paul Pierce never gave up and left even after years of struggle. We stick together.
Rajon Rondo, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce have been playing together for over 6 years. They've traveled around the country, world, and won a championship together. I think it's pretty safe to conclude that they're more than just teammates. They're close friends, a brotherhood. I have no problem with Rondo standing up for a friend and a teammate, especially as the leader of this team. They're in this together.
Rondo plays with fire in his eyes. He's in a mission. Him and Garnett rip their hearts out of their chests and lay it on the floor every single game. I commend any passionate player for that. Sadly, you don't really come across that anymore. Players now are cold, calculated, and manufactured.
Play for more than just to win. Make a statement. Write a story. Shed blood, sweat, and tears. So far our story this season has been rather uncouth. Hopefully, Rondo's actions opened a new chapter of this team finally coming together, gaining an identity, and rebuilding a name for itself. You can't show someone who you are if you, yourself, don't know who you are. I've found myself questioning who exactly this team is many times this season. That's a big problem.
/End rant
