With a blow to the lower body, a blindsided Dirk Nowitzki was knocked to the ground. As the Maverick’s star player scrambled to get back up, the crowd groaned in complete disbelief.
After being swept 4-0 by the Dallas Mavericks in what looked to be a possible three-peat season, the Lakers did more then stare defeat in the face.
But when did the basketball court turn into a boxing ring?
Lamar Odom’s repulsive act of shoving Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki’s body to the floor, followed by trash talk, looked a little more like Mike Tyson boxing in his prime.
And the humiliation continued for the Lakers when Andrew Bynum threw an elbow at Maverick’s guard Juan Jose Barea sending him to the hard ground, hard.
Bynum, unable to keep his composure, walked off the basketball court shirtless; an altogether unforgiveable act. These punk moves shamed both themselves and the Lakers’ organization.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Odom admitted he was “embarrassed.”
Bynum said he was annoyed that the smallest opponent kept scoring on him during his interview.
Their embarrassment and frustration changed the style of the game that night as both players were quickly ejected for purposely trying to hurt the opponents.
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has no tolerance for dirty plays, hard fouls and disrespect toward players.
David Stern, commissioner NBA assessed  punishment for Odom and Bynum’s degrading behavior, suspending Bynum for five games and fining Odom.
Basketball is a profession and athletes need to sustain a professional demeanor throughout the sport. So when emotions run high, it’s their job to show poise, self respect and gratitude for both themselves and the game.
Rather, the Lakers’ immaturity shined through on Sunday and their anger management went out the door.
Since many athletes serve as role models and heroes to children, athletes are asked to set a good example. It is important to teach children to be humble, win or lose, and instruct them on ways to keep their composure even when a temper sparks.
While the children look up to athletes, the fans put their heart and soul into the team. The Lakers inexcusable behavior during the game was also a disregard for the people that support them.
Many fans put their lives on hold to watch a basketball game or save up enough money to sit in the nosebleed section of the arena just to see a glimpse of their favorite player.
But those two inexplicable acts by Odom and Bynum showed no respect for the loyal fans who “keep the faith” throughout the Lakers’ season.
Further more, after winning 16 NBA championships, there is no reason for the Lakers to be sore losers and taint the franchise name.
So until next year, let’s keep it classy Lakers.