It is almost unthinkable that posts like these would appear in Phoenix. The full history is that the Valley owes a lot to Jerry Colangelo. He played a key role in starting the Suns as our first major professional team. He was instrumental in the origin of the D-backs. I believe he played a role in attracting the Cardinals. Actively involved the with USA team and the NBA front office.
As a General Manager over the decades, he was steady, but less than stellar. And as a Managing General Partner, it remained the same. His ego showed when he named himself interim Head Coach, not once but twice, rather than bring in a pro.
Once he came into prominence in our small market, Jerry became a politician. He was a very active voice and presence as a member of the Phoenix 40 political group which literally ran the Valley. Not the day to day details, but the overall direction. Until the influx of residents from outside the State turned this highly Conservative community much more moderate. And, oh yes, Jerry was guilty of nepotism, treating the Suns as his family business. These are the good's and the bad's.
When you post that the folks in Philly "hate" Jerry and feel he is "power hungry", it reflects that he turned from a sports guy into a politician. Hence, we can't be surprised when he acts like a politician. Now that he is no longer a local guy and one of us, we can look at his behavior objectively. Once again, first and foremost, Mr. Colangelo turned into a politician. And, let's face it, politicians are not viewed favorably in these times. Because of their self serving behavior in most instances.
It is the path Jerry chose. And, especially, because he is no longer part of our community, Arizonans can be objective in reacting and are doing so. Who would have thought? It is ironic that his spoiled son and daughter-in-law, who were handed everything on a silver platter, would be Jerry's undoing. There is no reason to want the Colangelo dynasty back in Phoenix and involved with our teams.
