In a Legend’s Footsteps
March 31, 2009 by Jason Thompson
We came into ARCO Arena against the Suns on Sunday against my Twitter competitor @THE_REAL_SHAQ. I think NBA.com mentioned it was a Twitter competition between @jtthekid and @THE_REAL_SHAQ. I don’t have as many tweeps as him because I’m not a legend like he is but hopefully I can come in second in tweeps in the NBA or lead all rookies. That’d be a good accomplishment.
We came out and there was a great crowd at ARCO. Kings fans showed up and supported us and we finally got off to a good start at home. We played a tough game and came out with the victory. Spence and I just keep trying to improve and become comfortable with each other on the court. We both had good numbers and it all ended up working in the long run.
During the game, Shaq and I were talking a little bit, but we were just talking about the game. He said he really liked my game and said he sees potential in me. I remember him giving Nocioni a hard foul and he told me, “That’s what you got to do when you’re down here big fella, send a message.” That’s what I’ve been pretty much saying all year! I’m giving those fouls because I don’t want to let anybody do whatever they want. So, basically, a legend and a soon-to-be Hall of Famer said pretty much what I’ve been saying! It was nice he let me know I’m on the right track.
We have Vlade Divac’s jersey retirement ceremony tonight. He’s been having some festivities — bowling and in-restaurant type things for the special occasion, just like C-Webb. They were two guys who were the faces of the franchise when it was successful and winning the division and getting to the Western Conference Finals. It’s good to be around and see them rewarded.
After shootaround today, Vlade worked out with Spencer and me. So I got a lot of pointers from him, and hopefully we can use them as the season is winding down. I love that he took some time to show us what he does in the post and what he and C-Webb did as a team. Hopefully, Spencer and I can make our own legacy and have similar success as they did in the good old days.
It’s going to be a special night. It’s ironic we’re playing against the Hornets and his former teammate, Peja Stojakovic, is going to be here. I don’t think he’s playing, but the more and more guys here for a special night the better.
It’s good to see everyone that’s going to be there and it’ll be another emotional night with a big crowd at ARCO Arena. We thrive off that energy. Each time we play better competition, we play with a lot of energy when ARCO is rocking. So, hopefully, we come out with the W today and keep things rolling on this last road trip.
I did two brackets. On one I have UConn winning and the other I have North Carolina winning, so it should be interesting to see what happens in the Final Four.
Everybody keep supporting us at ARCO and keep checking out my blogs and @jtthekid on Twitter. I’m going to be doing a couple appearances this weekend, so look out for that.
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