| 11 April 2009
For a guy that just watched the Los Angeles Lakers lose at the Rose Garden – again – Kurt Rambis was sure taking his time walking to the team bus. Pulling his black Lakers logoed tote behind him, maybe he had other things on his mind; like not coming back to Portland.
It’s always a tough call to make: file the postgame story for HOOPSWORLD at the Rose Garden or leave early to catch the scene unfold outside the loading dock door. That’s where both players and media alike enter and exit. Thanks for a shoddy internet connection, I opted for the latter. And regardless of who is in town, it’s always a good way to capture the vibe of the night.
Autograph seekers scream for signatures, with a player’s first name echoing in the confined area.
“Brandon!” “Travis!” “LaMarcus!” “Brandon!”
Some players oblige. Fans scream. Other players busily discuss postgame plans as they stand alongside idling cars. More screaming. Semi-trucks filled with broadcasting gear close-up shop. Paramedics load and leave. Security guards stay serious. Opposing players slowly pile onto a waiting Greyhound with pregame meal in hand. Still more screaming.
Coaches move in packs. But on Friday night, Rambis strolled solo.
It was a long evening – one that left Kobe Bryant saying he’d “love” to face Portland in the playoffs.
A night where Brandon Roy deflected the ever present “expectations” question: as in, no one expected Portland to be where they are.
Enough said. The Blazers keep this up and he won’t be able to say that much longer.
But for now, it was just another night for a postgame walk.
pic via: daylife
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