McGrady: Shining Never

Tracy McGrady is not a star. He is a statistical marvel. He is shimmering, luminary extravaganza. Stars advance their teams. Stars improve their teammates. Stars manufacture victory. Stars inspire admiration. McGrady scores, sparkles, and speaks. Stars win.

In 2003, McGrady’s Orlando Magic botched a 3-1 series advantage. The Detroit Pistons defeated them 4-3. Last week, McGrady’s Houston Rockets fumbled a 3-2 edge. The Utah Jazz defeated them 4-3. This latest loss slipped McGrady’s career series record to 0-6. Overall, his career playoff record is 11-21.

With Detroit debilitated, McGrady strutted. “It’s nice to finally be in the second round of the playoffs,” he boasted. Prior to opposing Utah, McGrady barked. “If we lose, its on me.” Both scenarios are emblematic of McGrady. He is entrancing and entertaining. However, he is also problematic.

McGrady is arrogant. Simultaneously, he is egotistical and condescending. He believes his hype. He believes said hype is deserved. He criticizes those with opposing viewpoints. McGrady is viewable. He is a celebrated NBA player. However, he is not a star. He is not a champion. Despite his personal conceit.