LeBron James had the shot. He was wide open, having executed a deft crossover dribble that had defender Trevor Ariza literally skidding on the hardwood. The purple-and-gold faithful at Staples Center let out a collective gasp, anticipating a basket that would keep the rally going and firmly shift momentum on their side. They needed a hero, needed a fitting end to a game prefaced by a moving tribute to the passing of one of their own. And he was ready, and willing — and as he launched from beyond the arc, he very clearly wanted to be able as well. He backpedaled, believing his aim to be true, only to be greeted by a brick and a long bounce to the sideline.
Just like that, the moment was gone, and the Lakers failed to cap an emotional night with a victory in Kobe Bryant’s honor. Admittedly, they were too consumed by the tragedy to concentrate on the match in the first place. Their talent was evident, but so was their relative lack of focus; they gave up whatever advantages they had in size with careless possessions. They dominated the boards, but came up with turnover after turnover to stunt progress. And while they did try, they wound up trying too hard. James was especially intent on giving a such good accounting of himself that he ultimately, well, didn’t.
Perhaps it was unfair of the Lakers to put too much pressure on themselves to deliver. Wounds were fresh, and bound to stay fresh for a while. James’ miss was telling, but it occurred with a minute and change left in the contest, and plenty more examples of misfires and missteps littered the set-to. Yet, who could blame them for their inability to compartmentalize while buried under an avalanche of grief? It was just a game. Bryant was life, and the loss of his life would need time to digest. Plenty more setbacks may well be in the offing, and they cannot be taken to task in the face of the impact the Laker great had, and continues to have, on them.
James has the right mindset, though. All the Lakers do. Bryant’s demise brought about sorrow, but if what his life stood for is to remain meaningful, it should also be cause for celebration. By his example, they shouldn’t be afraid to reach crossroads, make decisions, and accept the results — for as long as they show nothing but their best en route. By his example, they will hopefully understand that success is a journey, not a destination. And in leaving nothing in the tank at every instance, they honor him and ensure that his memory endures.
Anthony L. Cuaycong has been writing Courtside since BusinessWorld introduced a Sports section in 1994. He is a consultant on strategic planning, operations and Human Resources management, corporate communications, and business development.
