The announcement that Chauncey Billups will be Portland’s next head coach has created quite a stir! Of course, it is anybody’s guess how things will turn out, but the numbers (in a numerological sense) suggest that the drama has just begun.
It’s a red flag, for sure. How so? Chauncey Billups comes with limited experience from the Detroit Pistons, a notoriously dysfunctional franchise that has been toxic at times. And 1997 sexual assault allegations are part of the mix.
On the other side of the coin, in NBA circles, Billups is regarded as authoritative and direct. That assessment is backed by ‘his numbers,’ which indicate a strong personality with emphasis on authority, prestige, and power. All of that could lead to forceful leadership, including getting a step closer to the top of the NBA, which the Blazers seek.
On the other hand, the numbers could indicate ego, control, and arrogance–similar to what we’ve experienced with Neil Olshey’s, just not as disguised. If that side wins out, then Billips could distance himself from the fan base and, perhaps, even the organization’s best interests preferring, instead, to concentrate on self-interests.
Not that it has to turn out that way, but things could end up where the Blazers walk down one path or the other–moving ahead or unraveling.
Terry Stotts could not win the big ones and get Portland to the top, but he did lend dignity and humanity to the club. Billups? We’ll see.
