Lakers’ sweep of the Nets surprises fans, everybody

The NBA Finals 2002 is over. It is an understatement to say that ‘time flies when you’re having fun’ because the series ended sooner than everyone expected!

From the New Jersey Nets themselves, to their fans, to the NBA officials, to the local media and the international broadcasters, all were clearly surprised with the sweep.

Right after the clincher, all members of the media had a get-together at the NBA Hospitality Suite at the Marriott Marquis in New York and everyone was disappointed that the series ended in 4 games.

NHK broadcaster from Japan Naotaka Hirota knew it was a possibility but never thought it would be a reality. He intimated that even the fans in Japan were disheartened that the series did not last long.

Marcus from Germany had to change his flight back home because his work was obviously done. He now had to content himself with covering their local games. He mentioned that two former PBA imports were playing in Germany and doing quite well. Two-time Barangay Ginebra import Ryan Fletcher was averaging about 15 points and 10 rebounds while Shell stalwart John Best just bagged an MVP award in the league and is still going strong.

Chicago-based Filipino columnist Homer Sayson gave us inside info that the Lakers did not douse themselves with Don Perignon this time but opted for a cheaper brand in order to save it for their victory party in Los Angeles.

We also had a chance to have pictures taken with our counterparts from broadcast giant ESPN like David Aldridge. He turned out to be a real gentleman. He stayed to converse about basketball and also inquired about sports in our country.

Though it was a short get-together this year among friends, we were comforted by the fact that we will hopefully see each other again in less than a year.

Congratulations to Solar’s brothers William and Wilson Tieng, Peter Chanliong, Monet Silerio, Ralph Roy, and producer Erick Tam for bringing the games live to the Filipino sports fans. They will also be broadcasting the World Basketball Championships in a few months. Watch out for that!