My New Found Love for the Clippers

Growing up, I never had a basketball team.  When I moved to Los Angeles over ten years ago,  I sensibly adopted the winning team - the Lakers.  It was by far much more fun to be a Lakers fan and have a team to cheer for, especially in the playoffs, than to continually be disappointed by the Clippers. 

More recently, I gained interest in the Clippers. Although I love Kobe, I was excited that Blake Griffin would be in Los Angeles and appeared to have blown new life in to the organization.  Like most Lakers fans, this season, I was upset when the Lakers' Chris Paul trade was blocked by the League and then he was traded to Clippers.  However,  I must admit his trade, again, heightened my interest in the Clippers.

Then, last weekend, I learned a valuable lesson about myself.  I learned that my team loyalties can easily be swayed.  Some might even go so far as to say purchased.

One of my friends works for a company that may or may not sponsor the Clippers.  Said friend invited me on the team's sponsorship trip to Dallas for their game against the Mavericks.  Our 40 hour trip was jammed pack with basketball, free flowing alcohol, massages and presents.  Lots of presents.  I felt like every time I left my hotel room, I returned to another present.  A Clippers windbreaker, an amazingly soft Clippers blanket, a Lob City shirt, sunglasses.  I could go on, but my fingers would probably tire from typing so much (p.s. this fit clearly within my $20 or less commitment as it was free!).

On this trip, I also had the opportunity to spend time with the Clippers' staff and learn more about the day-to-day life of the players, coaching staff and team employees.  For someone who works with professional teams (although not in basketball), it was exiting and interesting to get a behind the scenes look at the operation of a professional team, including travel on the team plane.  Not only was I presented with a different perspective, but I also enjoyed meeting and hanging out with the staff.  I get a kick out of seeing the individuals I met on or behind the bench at games.

With my brief personal connections (and presents), I developed a deeper interest in the Clippers and find myself cheering for them.  Plus, Blake is hot and Kobe seems to have gotten crankier lately. 

We will see how long my infatuation lasts and if loyalty can truly be fostered through relationships or purchased with presents.  Everyone has a price.