Letters

Nation Divided

Magic Johnson says of the Celtics-Lakers finals, "This is what America wants." America , it follows, must have wanted the Spurs and the Pistons to lose in the conference championships. That's O.K., in San Antonio we'll content ourselves with a team of character and pride—and fans second to none in their love for the game.
Bill Simons, San Antonio

Magic is correct in saying that Celtics-Lakers is a matchup America wants to see (The Rivalry, June 9). But David Stern and other NBA powers that be apparently don't think that East Coast viewers have to see the end of those games, with 9 p.m. starts here. They can't even throw us a bone with Sunday matinees.
Paul Chussil, Somersworth, N.H.

Magic is wrong. America doesn't want Lakers vs. Celtics. America wants football season to start.
David Oakley, Charlotte

Quake Relief

The next time a professional athlete complains about a cramped visitors' clubhouse or locker room, he should think of the two Chinese children playing table tennis at a refugee camp for earthquake victims (LEADING OFF, June 9). The picture of the children playing a game, and actually enjoying it, in the worst of conditions should make us all feel grateful for the wonderful life we live in this country.
Billy Wallace, Monterey , La.

War of the Rose

Hats off to Dan Patrick for his interview with Pete Rose (JUST MY TYPE, June 9). Rose should be in the Hall of Fame. He played with more energy and enthusiasm than a fan could ask for, and 4,256 hits speaks for itself. We have forgiven players for more serious issues than his.
Darrell Hale, Springfield, Ky.

I wish Patrick had asked Rose if he understood why betting on baseball was a bad thing. Rose continues to say he bet on the Reds to win, and he and others still think, What's the big deal? Being six figures in debt to illegal gambling interests is a very big deal.
Owen Good, San Mateo , Calif.

The Fastest Man