Post by hammi on Sept 19, 2005 23:46:28 GMT -5
The day after League Comissioners announced the 12 day suspension given to Kobe Bryant and Jamaal Magloire, ESPN news reporter Mike Roch sat down with the Lakers superstar in a one on one interview, to discuss what happened that night.
Mike Roch: What's been the toughest part about this?
Kobe: Well when I got the time to sit down and think about everything, the only thing I regret is retaliation. Every player gets heated when put into a circumstance like this, and I think I should have reacted a different way. I know my part as a performer on the court isn't even allowed to think about a possible fight, but things came up and I couldn't stop it.
Mike Roch: What has Phil Jackson and the rest of the organization told you since?
Kobe: To keep my head up... you know, it's tough seeing your team play knowing you could contribute in a major way. It's tough watching from the bench, and we play 10 games in those 12 games, which will be a hard stretch for the team. Hopefully, the UBLPA can appeal this and cut it down a notch.
Mike Roch: Were you mad at Jamaal or the fact that you thought some calls weren't being made?
Kobe: A little bit of both you know. I think the kind of foul wasn't necessary when you're up over 20 points with 3 minutes left in the game.. a foul is acceptable but a flagrant foul doesn't go in my books. The refs have a hard job, and of course they can't see every foul, but there were some clear handchecks and charges made that should have triggered the whistle.
Mike Roch: Are you going to take advantage of the 12 day off from work?
Kobe: Definately man, I'll have a lot of time to up my game another level before the all star break. It's not like I don't care about being suspended, but it will definately help me out when I get back. Even before the game, I've been going through different dramas in my life, and now I'll have time to solve them all.
Mike Roch: Would you like to say anything to Steve Francis for his comments about you after the game?
Kobe: Steve who? C'mon now his mouth is bigger than his wallet, and if he continues scoring under 15 a night, he'll be "ballin' for food" on the streets on Jersz. Peace!
