May 6, 2008

I am a big basketball lover. Whether it is college hoops, high school or the pros, I love watching the roundball.

It is playoff time in the pros, and I have a few thoughts.

I was surprised the Celtics had to go seven games against the Hawks. When looking at Boston, I have to wonder if three players can lead this squad to a world title. Let's face it, Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen have to be the Boston Three Party for the Celtics to have a chance. It is really three against five, baby! There are a few role players, and Rajon Rondo is improving. The bottom line is the Celtics could have trouble in the next round against LeBron James and the Cavaliers.

I know that Boston has been so dominant at home, but it is mystery how that first-round series went seven. You also wonder what happened to the Hawks earlier in the regular season. Atlanta has great quickness and athletic ability. Why did they struggle during the year?

Let's look out west. Chris Paul and the Hornets were impressive against the Spurs in Games 1 and 2. I still feel that is going to be a very long and exciting series. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili for a great trio for Gregg Popovich's team, but San Antonio has more depth. Can David West keep his solid play going throughout this series?

The Lakers got off to a good start against the Jazz. Isn't it amazing how Kobe Bryant handles turmoil and adversity? Think about the trouble he had with the woman in Colorado, the issues with the Lakers and the team's makeup prior to this season. Remember when he flew to meet with team owner Jerry Buss, and he ripped Mitch Kupchak? Kobe always finds a way to perform and set aside all turmoil.

He wanted out of LA. It never stopped him from working hard and trying to make his team better in the goal of winning another title. I think Kobe will finish his career in LA and he enjoyed an MVP-worthy season.

When you look at it, Kobe has done a phenomenal job. The same can be said for the front office, which got Kobe an early Christmas present in Pau Gasol from Memphis. The Lakers should thank St. Jude every day for Mr. Gasol! That was the biggest steal of the season, baby! He gives LA post presence and skill and he takes the team to a different level, especially with Andrew Bynum sent to the sideline.

My friends, David Stern has to be smiling. This is the NBA's time in the spotlight, the postseason. I am flat-out enjoying it, baby!

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.