01.11.07
Wonderful Pau Gasol
Here is something rather cheering. I’ve never been a huge fan of basketball, believing as a friend of mine once said that, “only the Americans could have invented a sport where a goal is scored every ten seconds.” Still, if it’s on, and I have nothing pressing, I’ll watch it.
Last night was one of those nights - baby in bed, wife out with friends, too tired to do any of the necessary DIY in my house - that is perfect for watching something without having to explain why I’m watching it. The something was Grizzlies vs Lakers. I understand the Grizzlies have been having a torid time recently, not least because one of their key men, Pau Gasol has been injured with a fractured foot. Well, last night they stuffed the Lakers.
Here in Spain, Pau is a real hero. Local boy makes big time in star-filled NBA. What’s more, he seems a nice guy. He’s polite, well-spoken and unassuming. When you have to listen daily to interviews with idiot football prima donnas, this is refreshing.
Last night, he may have been flattered by a poor Lakers defence, but I thought he was magnificent. Fast, cunning and powerful. He seemed so fully in tune with his team and was reading the game so splendidly he had me bewitched. The beard is good too.