From Bruce to George

Buck Harvey has an excellent article in today's Express News about Bruce Bowen, and the sobering realization that today may be Bruce's last game as a Spur.

Many argue that Bruce is just a step below Manu, Tim, and Tony in relevance to our last 3 championships. I might argue he belongs in the conversation as the 4th musketeer. Bowen took on the dirty work night in and night out for 3 championship runs with nary a complaint. His stats were never impressive and all his hard work has relegated him to being one of the most reviled players in the league.

But to Spurs fans, his value can not be measured. He will always have a home as a Spur, and his jersey should be retired someday.

There's been a lot of talk this year about George Hill, and his emergence as a defensive stopper, a la Bowen. The potential is certainly there, and I think every Spurs fan has fallen in love with our prized rookie.

What I find particularly amazing, though, is that Bowen has taken the young player under his wing and tutored him in the ways of being an elite defender, even as Hill was usurping Bowen's playing time and role as defensive stopper. This speaks volumes to Bowen's professionalism and team first attitude, and to Hill's willingness to take on the unglamorous aspects of the game and excel where he is needed.

Tonight may be Bowen's last game as a Spur. I hope not, for a variety of reasons. But tonight might also mark the first game of the George Hill era, and his run as a valued member of Spurs championship teams.

And the beat goes on....