Admiring the Admiral

I consider myself an average fan of college and professional basketball. I’m not a reveler, but I do find basketball to be refreshing and welcome entertainment.

I am however, quite disappointed at the rotten behavior of professional athletes that continues to make sports headline. The unprofessional conduct of many superstar basketball players both on and off the court is an insult and discredit to the game of basketball in general, and is plain disrespectful to all the great players and coaches (fans too) that contributed so much to make the game what it is.

That is why I wanted to take time to recognize San Antonio Spurs star center David Robinson. As many of you know, Robinson ended his 14-year career with an NBA championship (you still got time Jason). He is a wonderful example of someone so serious about their faith, until they refuse to allow fame and fortune to waver or compromise their stand for Christ.

Robinson came into the NBA after an academic career at the U.S. Naval academy. Nicknamed "The Admiral", his basketball accomplishments include two NBA championships, an MVP season, Rookie of the Year Award, a scoring title, two Olympic gold medals and ten All-Star selections.

Yet with all of his accomplishments, he still remained humble enough to play "team" basketball. He demonstrated this perfectly by welcoming and mentoring Tim Duncan, a superstar that would move him out of the spotlight, and take up many of his minutes. Robinson showed no hesitation or resentment, and never made presented himself as a threat to Duncan. Instead of sports headlines covering negative conflicts, divisions within the team and management fights, we read about Duncan’s own achievements (back to back MVP seasons) and NBA titles. Believe me, this would not have been possible if this unselfish superstar were not willing to humble himself for the sake of the team.

Robinson explained this to Sports Illustrated a few years ago when he said, "My faith has helped me deal with so many things, including matters of ego and pride". He spoke of how weird it felt watching Duncan take MVP honors instead of himself. He was comforted and consoled by his faith in the God of his salvation.

God can do the same thing for us that he has for Robinson. He can help us rejoice for David who slays ten thousands when we have only slain thousands. He can help us understand and accept our place in life as his instrument; willing to give him glory through a lifestyle of integrity and professionalism.

In our career, family or church, God calls us to be a team player rather than an arrogant self glorifying inflated ego superstar who cares about nothing but promoting himself. Only in God can we find the humility to have and enjoy success, and to live in such a way that we encourage and motivate those around us.

By: Edmund Brown