Unlike my co-editor, my passion for the Jazz has not waned. It has grown.
Like my counterpart, I lived (Stockton sends the Jazz to the NBA Finals, The Pass) and died (Dick Bavetta waives off Howard Eisley's three and allows Ron Harper's three, Jordan's push off (sorry, no link, too painful)) through every game as if I actually was a member of the team. (A side note: How is Dick Bavetta still allowed to call games? I don't think he's corrupt, just incompetent.When you pull a stunt like racing Chuck during halftime you've become an act. Dick, retire. Enjoy your golden years. Take your wife to Greece, spend time with the grand kids. Stop pretending like you belong on the court.)
Some of the fondest memories of my adolescence are of the Jazz. Whether it is Stockton's three-quarter's court drive to beat Jordan in overtime at the old Salt Palace or watching the aforementioned Pass or listening to one of Hot Rod's catchphrases (with a gentle push and a mild arc...). They are all moments that hold great nostalgia for me.
My teenage years gave way to college and family. I've matured as a person and a fan. I no longer scream and yell and jump up and down during the games. Now I just yell. But the passion is still there. I try to watch all the games that I can. Those that I don't see live I watch on DVR.
I really watch because of my kids. I love that my 5 year-old has chosen a favorite player. She likes Mehmet Okur because he has a beard and once they showed his wife and daughter in the stands. My 3 year-old runs around during games and throws his little basketball at me and against the wall. He likes to wear his Jazz shirt to match his dad's during games. He even is starting to understand the game. He knows that it's good when the Jazz score and knows to boo anyone wearing yellow and purple. My wife even has a favorite Jazzman. She thinks that Matt Harpring is a very attractive man. Hey, whatever gets her watching the game, right?
The Jazz give me something to link my past to my present. That is why I still watch and care will continue to watch and care.
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