David Stern Responds to 60 Minutes, Donaghy Interview

David Stern Responds to 60 Minutes, Donaghy Interview
December 6, 2009 by Nick Gelso

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Tonight’s astonishing interview with Tim Donaghy on CBS’ 60 Minutes led the NBA to quickly issues a statement. Filled with the same information, the NBA continued to insist that the only criminal conduct was committed by Tim Donaghy and further exonerated the league’s officials.

From Inside Hoops:

“In an interview aired on ‘60 Minutes,’ Tim Donaghy repeated his allegations against his former colleagues, NBA referees, as well as the NBA. Those allegations have been fully investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the government completed its investigation, finding that the only criminal conduct was that of Mr. Donaghy. In addition, the NBA appointed Lawrence B. Pedowitz, a former Chief of the Criminal Division in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York to lead a comprehensive independent review of the NBA’s officiating program. Mr. Pedowitz’ review revealed that the NBA’s core values of neutrality and accountability were not compromised by anyone other than Mr. Donaghy. All allegations with respect to the integrity of the NBA’s officiating program will continue to be referred to Mr. Pedowitz for his review.”

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The league’s reaction to this story that is again boiling over continues to shock me. The statement is virtually identical to past releases from the League office. What further shocks me is David Stern’s refusal to to take this controversy head on and revamp the league’s officiating protocols. Stern, who is responsible for the renaissance the league has taken since his installment as the Commissioner, has continued to ignore the issue.

I’m sorry but, in my mind, hiring your own investigator to dig into the corrupt dealings of your own front office seems to be a bit laughable. The press release from Stern clearly states that no other NBA officials committed any criminal acts other then Donaghy.

The mere fact of Tim Donaghy’s admission that league officials discuss their dislike for team owners, coaches and players and their willingness to go to lengths to suppress their dislike for them furthers the argument that the officiating system of the NBA has been incurably compromised.

The marketing mastermind of the NBA continues to get it wrong in reference to this controversy.

Can anyone say… It’s time to clean house Mr. Stern?