Tony Parker’s Long Year(s)
After last night’s game Gregg Popovich self-critiqued, saying he could have done a better job managing Tony Parker’s minutes. Parker, as you all know, is hurting. Plantar fasciitis, a tender ankle, and a strained left hip flexor for those keeping score. His 28 points went down smooth, but they earned him a big bucket of ice as a postgame chaser.
I approached Parker after the game and asked if his recent vacation had helped his body.
“Not really,” Parker said.
“Well, at least you’ll have this summer to get right,” I offered.
“No, this summer I have the national team,” Parker said, somewhat surprisingly.
Oh.
I took a moment to clarify, but the answer stuck. Unless Parker’s body simply quits, he plans to play this summer.
Eva Longoria-Parker should be happy; her husband is not one to bail on a commitment.
This place is bringing me down man. Can we have a few more positive articles please?
I have no problem in Parker choosing France over the Spurs. That’s his right to do so.
What I have a huge problem is choosing France over the Spurs and still expecting the Spurs to honor his contract when he gets injured.
All foriegn (and team USA) players should realize you can’t have it both ways. If you want to play for your country, fine. Good for you. But don’t ask your NBA team to take on the risks of your decision.