Today is a Good Day to Die

I actually thought about using that title in a pre-Game 5 blog, but I was just too amped to think straight. I haven't been that wired for a sporting match since I was actually on a competitive team. I really thought we were going to get blown out and keep marching, much like the final assualt in Glory.

Today, I feel so useless. At Game 5, at least I felt like I added something as a loud fan. Before going further, I've got to say that was the best sporting event I've ever been at. It was kind of like a high school basketball game; every rebound, loose ball, shot and pass had the crowd cheering.

In high school, we went to a playoff game down in Tucson our senior year to cheer on the team (we lost that game, too). I was able to get down there, though. It was loud and hostile and fun. Paul Bertolini got escorted out of that game by an armed security guard for swearing at the other team's players (we sat behind their bench). At least I felt we could do something for the team.

Being at Game 5 was something like the atmosphere of the US v. Mexico soccer match a few months ago. That was hostile territory, too, but the Mexican fans were great. It was a great scene. I went to that game thinking, "Well, I watch and try to enjoy it." But a few minutes into the match, I really wanted the US to score so I could celebrate in the middle of the enemy territory.

I'd really love to be in San Antonio today.

Alas, I'll probably be at the Dubliner in my Pat Burke jersey drinking Guinness. Not a bad place to be ...

Is this something like raising your kid and sending him off to college -- now you can only watch? Growing up in Phoenix with the Suns as our only sports team, I've lived and died with this team. We may never win a championship, but you don't love your child only if she's smart and pretty, right?

Stop babbling!

How is anyone supposed to get anything done while we're waiting?

Update:

Fear is setting in. Everyone on the radio is saying that if we get this win, we'll definitely get Game 7. Sound familiar? Yes, that what they were saying in 1993 when the Bulls came to town for Game 6.

Damn that John Paxson! You know, he was open because of Barkley. He went for a steal at the top of the key, leaving Grant open under the basket. Ainge didn't double Grant, he ran over to provide some help defense -- which was probably a good move. Then Grant kicked it to Paxson. That shot had more hang time than any punt in football history.