Had differing reactions on the various speeches.
Pippen's was well-prepared, but poorly delivered. I thought that the three family members that spoke all didn't do very well, although I felt that Dennis Johnson's brother was very appropriate in thanking Charles Barkley. I also loved the fact that Gus Johnson's brother told Jerry Sloan's same story from last year about Gus Johnson.
Cythia Cooper's speech was very off the cuff, and was actually one of the better speeches of the night, although not nearly as formal.
Malone's speech, in my opinion, was the best of the night, although it wasn't as well prepared as many of the others. You got a genuine feeling of gratitude from Malone.
Jerry Buss did a wonderful job, much as it pains me to say it. His speech was well prepared, and had the feel of amazement of the kid in the candy store. I have to say I grew to respect him a bit more as an owner after last night.
Bob Hurley's speech, sure enough, was disjointed.
Magic Johnson nearly missed acknowledging Laettner, but other than that, you could definitely see why he's still "Magic" to this day. He had a great love for the game, and it really showed through, and I thought it was appropriate for him acknowledging the on-going work of Mike Khoweveryouspellhisnamedoesntreallymatterbecausehesfromduke and Jerry Colangelo for the upcoming USA Basketball teams. I thought it was also something to hear from Oscar Roberston saying "Whenever you get a chance to play for your country, you should." Of course, such message would probably be lost on most of today's players.
Big winners of the night: Malone, Buss, Magic, and USA basketball, which should get a shot in the arm from two Olympic teams going into the Hall.
