Mania!

I had a moment last night. I had a moment when I realized that I really really love something. You know that revelation you have....maybe you have always known it in the back of your mind, but for some reason one moment everything clicks. Well, I love the Portland Trail Blazers.

Many of you may already know that I work for the Trail Blazers. Every day I give my best at my job because I know I am lucky to have it. But last night, I was just your average fan at the Trail Blazers vs. Lakers game and I truely experienced what it means to be a fan and to be in love with a sports team.

First, the arena was insane. I mean, complete sports mania...or should I say, Blazermania. The crowd was charismatic, loud and straight awesome. And if the crowd wasn't enough, how about the team. WOW...they really pulled it out last night and proved that Portland is a contender on the national basketball stage.

But the reason I really fell in love, what really made me realize that I am head over heels in love with the Portland Trail Blazers was the moment that Rudy was lying motionless on the floor after a flagrant 2 foul by Trevor Ariza and the entire team came together in a huggle, fist upon fist, foreheads leaned in, together as one, and they prayed together for their teammate. I mean wow....none of this pacing the floor like most other teams do when a fellow teammate gets hurt, but pure concern for their friend, pure teamwork and connectedness.

Here is a brief glimpse at the Rudy foul and the huddle:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ii2DvvXdpCs

Here are some highlights from the game. BEAT L.A.

http://www.nba.com/video/games/blazers/2009/03/09/nba_lal_por_0020800948_recap.nba/whatsnew/index.html