How not to be a team player
Learn from Olajuwon
Regarding “ALL-OUT BLITZ,” (A1, Jan. 29): Deshaun Watson, like James Harden, has done irreparable damage to the integrity of sports, particularly to their teammates and young athletes everywhere. Sports writers and sportscasters who have fawned over both of these athletes have added to the problem. Watson has basically told all of his teammates that “I am more important than you, and I want to be traded because I do not respect you or your abilities.”
The sportscasters and writers have told the owners who have spent millions of dollars that it is their fault and that they need to apologize. Why don’t you try that with your bosses?
The example that this sets for young athletes reinforces the old stereotype that if I am better, or if I don’t like the way the game is played, I’m leaving. Since millions play sports and learn about sacrifice and being a team member, they have been severely schooled that they are wrong. Whether Watson stays or is traded, he has shown that while a great athlete, he is not a true leader and not a role model for our young people.
Watson, and Harden, should study and learn from two other Houston star athletes, Earl Campbell and Hakeem Olajuwon, on what it takes to be a great person, not just a great athlete.
Landon Gookin, Houston