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Talking Points

The Columbian
Published: April 28, 2010, 12:00am

David Stern can’t fine us. At least we don’t think he can. So here goes …

NBA stars get star treatment from the officials.

There, we said it. The league is structured so that the big markets and big stars have a big advantage.

That’s been Stern’s blueprint in his quarter century as the NBA commish. Taking a page from the movie industry, Stern’s league promotes individuals, not teams. And it certainly wants the stars around for the marquee games.

It’s a formula that has harmed the game’s substance. But it has — as Stern points out — made a lot of money for a lot of people.

In explaining the recent spree of $35,000 fines for coaches and players who have the gall to question officiating, the Stern one said this:

“… our coaches should be quiet because this is a good business that makes them good livings and supports a lot of families. And if they don’t like it, they should go get a job someplace else.”

Bottom line: Stern’s NBA is all about the bottom line. That’s no secret.

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