Why I Respect Raja Bell

Although I wasn't a fan of his clothesline of Kobe Bryant in last year's playoffs, I've always admired Raja Bell. Why? Because he's come in, worked his butt of and improved his game every single year he's been in the league. Like most unknown, un-drafted players, Bell made a name for himself by playing great defense. Bell could have easily stayed in the league as only a defensive specialist, but craved more. He's worked on his offensive game to the point where he's now a reliable three point threat in a Phoenix offense that rewards great three point shooters. As well, Bell is only 6'5", with what don't seem to be abnormally long arms, so it's pretty spectacular that he is able to defend the way he does. Most lock down defenders are tall and/or long. With Bell it's obviously more about heart than anything. Plus, you have to respect a man that works that hard to keep his hair lined up that fresh. Dude must get a line up every day.

But more than anything, this makes me wonder about the work ethic of other NBA players. Take Marcus Banks, who's already a great defender and ball handler, but isn't much of a shooter. The problem is that has been his story since the first day he stepped in the league. Why hasn't he worked on his game to become a better shooter? Or even take a Jared Jeffries in NYC. At 6'11", with the mobility of a guard, Jeffries has all of the tools to become a great NBA player. But it's obvious he doesn't work on his game much. He's the same player that he was when he came in the league. Good defender, terrible shooter. You guys are professionals. Get in the gym and work on your weaknesses. If Raja Bell, a relative unknown, undersized two guard can become a very good player, then guys like Banks and Jeffries (who have the bodies and talent to become great at their respective positions) should be able to do the same.