There is much marveling going on about Kobe Bryant. And I understand it. He is an incredible talent.
But truth is, the championship aspect of his career, now a fading memory, was made by Shaquille O’Neal. When Shaq went elsewhere - through no small doing of Bryant - the Lakers went South. They have a winning record now, but still don’t rate as a real championship contender. I doubt they will be as long as Bryant is the main focus of the team.
He is a ball hog. An ego come alive on the court. He is a spectacular player, true, but doesn’t make those around him better.
Thursday night at The Palace, Bryant was spectacular against the Pistons. Thursday night at The Palace, the Pistons won the game.
It was a game that summed up Kobe Bryant since Shaq departed for his championship in Miami.

Random Thoughts

- As long as they keep delivering the mail and don’t close the banks that Saturday, I have no issue with Bo Schembechler Day. The man was an icon in this state in every sense of the word.

- Illinois, despite its Rose Bowl appearance, and Michigan State, despite Mark Dantonio being an obvious upgrade at head coach, are still far behind Notre Dame, Michigan and Ohio State on the recruiting trail. And it will be reflected on football signing day next week.

- What I really hope happens this coming baseball season: Justin Verlander and Josh Beckett go head-to-head at least one time, preferably in Detroit - although April at Fenway Park wouldn’t be all bad, either.