Will a New Rivalry Bloom as
the Nets Move to New York?
By
Ali Koskoris
This
past Saturday, the Brooklyn Nets made their debut in a 108-105 preseason
victory over the Sixers in Philadelphia.
Players sported their new black jerseys, dominating the 76ers in
overtime to come away with the win.
After
thirty-five years in New Jersey, the Nets have now entered New York, with a
stadium in Brooklyn. The arena holds
18,000 and the center court dons the Brooklyn Nets’ logo: a basketball with a “B” on it, framed
by the words “Brooklyn New York.”
 |
| AP Photo/ Bebeto Matthews |
Nets’
CEO Brett Yormark
explained his vision to “have something that [is] truly identifiable and
unique,” similar to the impact of the Boston Celtics’ “parquet that has become
very recognizable.” Yormark
described the building and court as “spectacular." It will first be seen
by the public on November first in a
game against the New York Knicks—by no accident, I’m sure.
Now
with two New York teams, could a new rivalry between the Brooklyn Nets and the
New York Knicks sprout? The Nets
improved their lineup during the offseason, adding 6-7 guard Joe Johnson and
6-3 guard Deron Williams to accompany the strong big play of center Brook Lopez
and forward Gerald Wallace.
The
team will present come competition for the Knicks’ Carmelo Anthony, Amar'e
Stoudemire, and Jason Kidd. Though the Knicks might have the edge
in the battle, the game is sure to be a tough contest for both teams.
Unlike
the LA Clippers and the Lakers, where a rivalry has not developed, the Nets and
the Knicks will be closer in play level, creating competition not only on the
court, but in the stands.
Will
New Jersey Nets fans follow the Nets into New York, or will they begin rooting
for the Knicks? Will the Nets
steal any fans from the Knicks- especially if they are successful
on the court?
Either
way, every Brooklyn versus New York game should be interesting, exciting, and
adrenaline-pumped, especially on opening day at Barclays Center.
No comments:
Post a Comment