BOSTON, Massachusetts (AFP) - When it comes to National Basketball Association rivalries, the 21st Century version has much less venom and hatred than the 1980s editions, thanks in part to the game's global growth.
The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers, the most storied rivals in NBA history, are meeting in the NBA Finals but without the animosity that swelled rival players and cities when both teams were dominant in the 1980s.
"I've just heard horror stories from the past in the '80s when the guys came in here," Lakers star guard and NBA Most Valuable Player Kobe Bryant said.
"I've heard stories of them coming in here and not getting room service. My room service is cool. I got the nice apple pie with the ice cream on top, a la mode. I didn't even ask for the ice cream but they hooked me up.
Reply With Quote