Steve didn't play well because of a migraine. That aside, my point is EXACTLY the same. The fans voted Steve into the All-Star game, and a few of the players kicked him out. On the court. During the game. In a very embarassing manner. All they had to do was tell Steve he shouldn't play point with a migraine so he wouldn't stand there like a fool on national television. The best example I can think of was when one of the big guys brought it up the court (ignoring Steve). Duncan ended up dribbling the ball outside the 3-point line in the corner of the court. Duncan is 7' tall and he was surveying the court. After not seeing anything available and not be able to drive he finally passed the ball to the most convenient player (Steve). Without catching the ball Steve whipped it to Webber who was standing open under the basket for a dunk. My one moment of satisfaction during the entire game! ...and BTW, I don't think there is a conspiracy against the Rockets. I think that the league favors the bigger markets. No surprise there. It manifests itself in many ways. None of which I believe had an effect on the All-Star Game. I was joking about the conspiracy. So drop the paranoia criticism please.
It was an exhibition game. Steve has been playing his ass off lately despite migraines. He's averaging around 8 or more assists per game since his return from injury. Doug Collins told Richard Hamilton to be more complete "like Steve Francis". Common. What do you want from the guy? It was his first All Star game. If the migraines are gone this season, I can guarantee Steve will rip it up next eyar. You can't come into a team of long-time All Stars like Garnett, Kobe, Duncan, Webber, and Payton and just come out, demand the ball, wave them off, so you can hoist up shots and become a Star. He's got their respect now. When he goes back next season, he'll get more shots, and will be the man.
