Philadelphia 76ers fans face another NBA team hiring Sam Hinkie

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 13: Philadelphia 76ers General Manager Sam Hinkie talks to Joel Embiid
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 13: Philadelphia 76ers General Manager Sam Hinkie talks to Joel Embiid
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Philadelphia 76ers fans admire the courage of former executive Sam Hinkie in his long-term view of rebuilding. But as the team enters a season bursting with optimism, fans face the knowledge someday another NBA team will hire Sam Hinkie

The challenge of any sport is attempting to replace a legend.  Fans of Philadelphia professional sports teams know this first hand.  The passion of the fans is never more apparent than the occasion for a great to return to the Philadelphia 76ers.

It’s literally mayhem.

Allen Iverson eyes mist-up.  “Doctor J” Julius Irving gets standing ovations. Win the hearts of Philadelphia fans.  Do that, and the fans will cheer you for your entire life.

Hinkie delivered, but in another way

And then there is the odd case of former team executive Sam Hinkie. Philadelphia 76ers fans love him in Philadelphia. He remains in discussions among the fans of the Philadelphia 76ers.  Still, that love exists for an entirely different reason.

Returning players  find stands filled with cheers and love from their success on the basketball court.  Unfortunately, the tenure of Hinkie with these 76ers had nothing close to success on the basketball court. So why the love?