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Thursday, September 6, 2012

As Brian Scalabrine Has Proven, You Can Always Come Home

Ever since he played for five glorious seasons in Boston (2005-10), Brian Scalabrine has been a cult hero in this city the likes of which I can't even compare him to. For whatever reason-being white, a ginger and terrible at basketball-everybody loves the guy and is obsessed with him to a creepy level. True story, I went to a Celtics-Bulls game two years ago and he got a bigger ovation that Chicago head coach Tom Thibodeau, who was a huge part of the Celtics' title in 2010 as an assistant.

His career arc takes a predictable path as it looks like he'll be a color commentator for Comcast New England this season during Celtics games according to Yahoo! Sports. You could see the wheels in motion on this move last spring since Scal joined Comcast New England as a sideline reporter during the Celtics' unexpected playoff run to the Eastern Conference Finals against Miami.

Mike Gorman (play-by-play) and Tommy Heinsohn (color commentator) are beloved in New England and rightfully so, they are broadcasting icons that truly enhance the experience of watching Celtics games. No matter if its an intense playoff game or a dull December contest against the Raptors, they always deliver the goods. Adding a younger dynamic in a guy that not only played in the NBA but in Boston very recently (making him comfortable with the players and coaches) made this hire a no-brainer.

The interesting part is that Scal apparently turned down an assistant coaching job with the Bulls to take this. I can't say I blame him, who wants to work like a dog for no money or glory behind the scenes whereas you can cover a few games a week, still live your life (somewhat) and have fun. Plus, you will receive way more attention which ultimately is what it is all about for most people.

I expect more good things from Scal as he gets further entrenched with Mike and Tommy. Things weren't always smooth in the postseason with him aboard but he is definitely a breath of fresh air compared to that clown Donny Marshall. He is smart, funny and clearly doesn't take himself too seriously. Most important, he's very knowledgeable about the game and NBA so he can provide insights that others simply cannot at this juncture.





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