If an NBA player responded to an interview question in the manner that Commisioner David Stern reacted to sports talk radio personality Jim Rome, that player would absolutely be fined. Stern was interviewed on Wednesday by the talk show host and was asked about the notion that the NBA lottery was fixed to give the recently sold- and NBA owned – New Orleans Hornets, the first pick in the upcoming draft.
“You know, New Orleans won the draft lottery, which, of course, produced the usual round of speculation that maybe the lottery was fixed,” Rome said. “I know that you appreciate a good conspiracy theory as much as the next guy — was the fix in for the lottery?”
“Uh, you know, I have two answers for that,” Stern said. “I’ll give you the easy one — no — and a statement: Shame on you for asking.”
After emphasizing that his line of questioning intended no disrespect, Rome noted that he still thought the question valid, since many NBA fans and observers have openly questioned the validity and purity of the lottery. This time, Stern not only bristled — he swung.
“Have you stopped beating your wife yet?” Stern asked.
Wow. I know it’s a sore subject but surely one the experience Stern has faced before. Can you imagine how he’d chastise one of the players if they did this? And really, where’s the relevance. SMH.
Check out Ball Don’ Lie for the entire transcript.
