TOP's Tuesday: "No I in TEAM"

This is a risky conversation to have on the blog. I think sports are similar to politics at times, in regards to sharing our opinions about fair calls, fouls, flags, and such. I'll start with this disclaimer, I'm not watching the NBA playoffs. My husband is a die-hard fan and checking the score after work, searching for highlights, or falling asleep watching the game are the norm.

Yesterday as I listened and watched the news, hoping the rain would hold off for our field trip (which it did, yeah!), I couldn't get over all the talk about Lebron James. It appears he is having some great games and making history yet something was missing from each report or discussion, a mention of his team. 

I haven't played basketball since high school but in order for the star to make a basket, rebound, or be deemed a legend...he or she has a team passing, blocking, and supporting them on and off the court. Don't misunderstand, I also understand Lebron James is discussed with likeness to Michael Jordan. I do remember him and his skill on the court. Michael Jordan was Heidi's favorite player and Jordan apparel surrounded me. 

Why do I share this? It's not to ignite a debate or upset my husband. It's something that caught my attention while watching the news. As an educator in Kindergarten we encourage and model "No I in Team" for our students. I've done the same for my daughter but then we watch the news to see one of fifteen players on a professional sports team receiving all the kudos. 

What about the guys with the multitude of assists, passes, and blocks to make the score board and stats reflect the amazing numbers. Yes, Lebron James has talent and can land a sweet shot, which is a result of countless hours of practice but even he recognizes his team deserves kudos. Did you know he gifted Apple watches, among other items to his teammates during the playoffs?  Lebron James gets it. He appreciates his teammates. I read a few different articles yesterday and last night because I wanted to know more about this superstar. I was pleasantly surprised to find many reports or interviews where #23 credits his team and verbalizes he doesn't like the comparison to God. 

If Lebron James understands it's a team game and he is one of many, then why is the only aspects of the games highlighted when Lebron makes a shot or fails to make one? I don't know if last night was the last game or if there is another one tonight, I just know that if we expect our kiddos to play and live with a team mentality then it needs to be modeled for them. So many of our students dream of being the next Jordan or Lebron James, but what if they were the next Matthew Dellavedova? Something to think about. Not everyone can be in the headlines yet everyone has an important role or position.

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Thanks for reading a different 
type of TOP's Tuesday. 
Heidi was dubbed the Tower of Power 
for her stellar volleyball skills yet one thing she always remembered was her team and those who made it possible for her to shine on the court. 

Who is your all-start supporting role?