You would not know he was just officially welcomed to the elite status of the league, as his demeanor and attitude remained unchanged. Thanking his teammates, the coaching staff, and all those who voted for him, Danny Granger was as down to earth as one could possibly be as he spoke about being named to the 2009 NBA All-Star team and what it truly meant to him.
“This is one of the goals I set for myself upon entering the NBA and I am so glad I have accomplished it,” said the mild mannered fourth year pro after learning of his selection to play in Phoenix on February 15. “It really means a lot to me.”
While there are always debates regarding who should be appointed to this prestigious annual event, there can be no doubt that Granger is a solid choice as he currently is tied for fourth in the NBA in scoring at 25.8 points per game, and has carried the team on his back this year, as they try and return to the NBA playoffs once again. With this season being difficult at times for the Pacers, it perhaps would be lost at this point without the superb play of Granger.
While the starters for the All-Star game are selected by fan voting, the reserves are chosen by the coaches, which in a basketball purist perspective, carries more weight in most NBA circles. The fact that opposing coaches gave Granger the nod speaks volumes for his progression this year and further solidifies his status amongst the elite players in the NBA.
When you couple his talent with his pleasant and polite disposition, you have an commodity that all NBA general managers would be enthralled with and one that a franchise can build a successful organization around as well. At a time when many NBA players suffer from self-imposed image problems, Granger is both a breath of fresh air as well as a reality check, which is precisely why the Pacers were willing to give him a healthy contract extension just prior to the start of this season.
From all accounts, the early returns are paying huge dividends and barring injury, Granger looks to be a safe bet to remain at the All-Star level for many years to come.
Notes: The Pacers played 17 games in the month of January, compiling a record of 9-8 along the way.
The Pacers will celebrate Black History Month in February with a number of programs and ceremonies. They include the recognition of both historic and current leaders, as well as members of the Indianapolis community that have made significant contributions with their work.
On February 6, prior to the Orlando game, the Pacers will distribute books written by prominent Black authors.
A complete listing of all the Black History celebration events can be seen at www.Pacers.com under the community section.
Former Pacer great, now TNT analyst, Reggie Miller questioned whether Granger or any other selection from a team with a sub .500 record is truly worthy of such consideration. Sorry Reg, you are wrong. Granger’s selection was a no brainer.
Danny Bridges can be reached at (317) 578-1780 or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
