Letters To The Editor

Kelley a Sonics fan of convenience

Ahhhh, it is wonderful to know that in a world that seems to be changing right before our eyes, Steve Kelley is still here to remind us that some things never change.

There will always be editorial writers (notice I did not use the word journalist) that feel the need to write on the edge, but not too far over that edge to offend the people who buy their work.

I must say I have read (Seattle Times columinst) Kelley’s work for years and think of him highly as a writer. He is articulate and his column is always entertaining. But I found it interesting when he referred to the 1993 Sonics’ season (Spokesman-Review, Dec. 7). That wonderful year I remember so well. The season when it became “in” to be a fan. The year that people who a few years earlier had booed the selection of Shawn Kemp in the NBA draft now felt proud to adore him and refer to him as “The Reign Man.” The year you could not find Sonics’ merchandise in stores because most had sold it all, not because they didn’t carry it as in years past. Yes, the year of the bandwagon. Steve probably hurt himself jumping on. In fact, right before the playoffs just a year later, he guaranteed the “Sonics in four” in the first round.

The bandwagon was full and few doubters were to be seen. But a short time later, even with a 2-0 lead in the series against Denver, when those of us who really follow the team, who listened to what George Karl had said … sensed a collapse. Steve then joined us again. The new anti-Sonic bandwagon. “2-0 looks like fools gold,” he said.

And now today? It is once again not politically correct to be a Sonics’ fan. And Steve Kelley once again has joined the masses. The team is “… just not good enough” (S-R, Dec. 7). They are too old now when before they needed veteran leadership. Always an editorial to explain what has happened, to please those who won’t be there if the team loses but will claim they have been fans for years if they win. I have been on this wagon since the mid ‘70s. I have seen many get on when it was convenient.

I don’t plan on getting off.

If the Sonics win the NBA title this year, let the real fans celebrate. Steve Kelley and the “fans” he coddles have no right to be there. J. Minnerly Spokane