Philadelphia is a city which never backs down from a challenge. But no team personifies that intensity than the indomitable Philadelphia 76ers
The city of Philadelphia loves the gladiator mentality. Is that why this indomitable Philadelphia 76ers team gets so much love in the heart-hardened city? The Philadelphia 76ers have yet to flirt with that postseason plateau. How can such a “one foot on the ground” fanbase fall so deeply in love with this underachieving team? Let’s examine the history of the city and her most beloved teams:
Well, that is why the city embraced former Eagles head coach Buddy Ryan, despite Ryan’s lackluster performance in post-season. He never backed down. The Philadelphia Phillies fans loved the 1993 team for the same reason. The dirty uniforms of Darren Daulton, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, and Lenny Dykstra exemplified their attitudes, and wore like badges of honor. The national media described that team as unkempt, or worse. But they dismantled the Atlanta Braves on their way to the World Series.
Broad Street Bullies
The 1972-73 Philadelphia Flyers team, known then as the “Broad Street Bullies”, literally fought their way to win the Stanley cup. And now, the 2017-2018 Philadelphia 76ers are about to take their rightful place among this group of elite landmark teams for the city.
No, I don’t call upon the names of past teams lightly. I lived through each, and know the prestige which comes with this revered distinction. I know the characteristics which are prerequisites: the team scrap and claw to succeed. The team must be viewed by established teams as unworthy. But the most important ingredient of all, the team must tap into the “defiance” of the city and convert it into play on the basketball court. In short, the more “pissed off” these 76ers become, the more dangerous they are.