When I was a youngster I remember reading an article on Keith Wilkes. He
was asked the difference between NBA players and those he played against
in
college. He basically said that physically and ability-wise there was
very
little difference. The biggest difference was mental. The NBA players
were
superior in their mental state and drive.
I think that was difference between the Hawks the Celtics in this 7th
game.
Physically, the Hawks may have had the advantage, but when it came to
crunch
time, the C's were just much better prepared mentally. That's one reason
I
give some credit to Danny's use of the Brain Doctor's advice. He chose
players who could stand up to emotional challenges.
Yes, the crowd played a big part of the result today. But, the C's didn't
lose in Atlanta by 20 or more points in any game. Atlanta fell apart
mentally/emotionally when the pressure was the greatest. Wouldn't
surprise
me if Atlanta doesn't try to move some of these players in the off season
for more veteran players.
