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10 March 2009
The world sport has always been soccer even though in America we consider it the fourth or fifth most popular one. All over the world, the beautiful game takes center stage. Work stops, shops close, and families get together to watch their national pastime. It’s an experience for loved ones, friends, and new acquaintances alike to get together and enjoy what most consider the most recognized sport in the world.
During the Olympics in Beijing, I realized how popular other sports are becoming on the international scene. It seemed as if people were captivated by swimming, track & field, and other lesser known sports. But one stood out to me as a new world passion. That sport? Basketball.
It was amazing to watch China, Spain, and other countries battle with dazzling skills that I thought only were displayed in the NBA. It brought the game to a new level for me after the realization that the rest of the planet has caught on. One commentator even described it as “the new national game of China.” I’m sure the emergence of Yao Ming has brought the game to national prominence.
My thoughts on this subject were confirmed when I went to the Women’s World All Star Game in Paris, as the world’s stars threw no-look passes, drove the lane, and pulled off Alan Iverson-like cross-overs that would have made the man himself proud. With the likes of Alana Beard, Candice Dupree, and Sylvia Fowles in the line-up, the game had all the flare of the WNBA. And then some.
During every time-out – and there were plenty – a group of high-flying, trampoline using slam jammers strutted their stuff for the crowd’s entertainment. Performing flips, reverse dunks, and off the backboard slams, the guys had even the players themselves clapping.
Many fans showed up for the event, which included stars from all over the world. Players who ply their trade in Russia, Sweden, United States, and other countries participated in a fun-for-all that included a 3-point competitions and an in-game dunk by my hometown girl, Sylvia Fowles. That might have been the highlight of the game! The crowd went nuts, the DJ rapped in French, and everyone gave her a high-five, including the opposing team.
Although the World team lost to Europe by more they should have, seeing basketball catching on in the rest of world is as surprising as the rise of the beautiful game in America. But hey, anything can happen in this modern age of sports, and it often does.
I guess it shows that with our cultural and political differences, the world can come together and enjoy a special moment together.
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