Chapter 18: Looking with Elbows Propped

"Loyalty" as a trait isn't applicable to every player.

For most players, the relationship with the team is simply one of employment; contracts are signed, today you play here, tomorrow you play there, just like switching jobs—there's no talk of loyalty or faithfulness.

Only superstars might form an emotional connection with a team that goes beyond employment—this connection is essentially not with the team, but with the local fans and the city.

This is what distinguishes competitive sports from regular jobs; they carry the hopes and feelings of many people. Otherwise, what gives you the right to represent this city?

For stars in the '70s and '80s, unless absolutely necessary or if the team decided to part ways, they would not easily leave their home team.

Olajuwon came to America from Nigeria; the first city he reached was Houston. Once in the NBA, he continued to play in Houston, and it's been almost ten years. His feelings for the city are deep.