The king of triple-doubles not so consistent off court
Oscar Robertson is the king of triple-doubles, but maybe he’s been drinking too many of ’em.
One year after Robertson belittled and trivialized Stephen Curry’s career accomplishments, the legendary guard reprised his role of NBA critic, lavishing praise on Russell Westbrook.
The Big O was in Oklahoma City on Wednesday night, a guest of the team, to present a trophy to Westbrook for breaking Robertson’s single-season record for triple-doubles.
Robertson told Westbrook, “It was a different era and time and things, but what you’re doing, I think, is historic. People see it, they love it. I think it’s great for basketball.” Absolutely. I’ll drink to that. Here’s the problem: Westbrook did this season exactly what Curry did the previous two seasons: Took his game to the stratosphere, displayed ferocity and unique skills, captivated the fans, set records.
Yet, Robertson dismissed Curry’s three-point shooting as nothing more than an amateurish magic trick, made possible by kitten-soft defenders and stupid opposing coaches.
“In basketball today,” Oscar the grouch said a year ago, “it’s almost like if you can dunk or make a three-point shot, you’re the greatest thing since sliced bread.”
In praising Westbrook, Big O apparently overlooked the fact that the Thunder star achieved his feats against the same slackjawed coaches and uninterested defenders who allowed Curry to run wild.
Robertson isn’t alone. Many who muted or withheld their praise of Curry in his two MVP seasons now fling bouquets at Westbrook.
Westbrook deserves every flower and every flowery word. Colossal season. But no less so than Curry’s two MVPers.
Why did so many dismiss Curry and now praise Westbrook? I’m no psychologist, but one factor might be that Curry has too much fun.
Westbrook plays with visible ferocity. Curry plays with visible joy.
Westbrook snarls, Curry shimmies.
Two vastly different styles and personalities. But is there only one correct approach to basketball?
Robertson, addressing the Oklahoma City fans, said of Westbrook, “He’s played with passion and pride.”
My rating of Robertson as basketball critic: A big O.