And the only prescription is beating LA. I too carry the beat LA gene. My dad had my name narrowed down to Beat LA or James (unlike the Suns I won the coinflip). There may not be another phrase that more acutely describes the futility, frustration, and inferiority complex associated with being a Phoenix sports fan. And while I don't necessarily want to be LA, it would be nice to see how the other side lives just once. To be LA, the Suns must beat LA -- only fitting.
The Lakers are not the Suns' Yankees. It's like a Clipper fan hating the Bulls. There is no rivalry, there is no legitimate reason to hate. It's sad and pathetic and just a little bit funny. The Lakers ARE the evil empire but not for Phoenix. Folks should wait until the Suns actually do something before getting fired up about a rivalry that doesn't exist. The Suns could very well win this series and then people can talk about how they hate the Lakers. it's great to hear fans cry beat LA but saying they grew up hating the Lakers is just funny.
I'm also a 30 something who grew up in Northern California.(When Sacramento was praying for an NBA team...AFTER the Kings came to town.) SO I grew up a Laker fan. Now, like a jilted lover I HATE THE LAKERS! I think Kobe is the biggest prick this side of Colorado. I think Phil Jackson is THE most arrogant SOB this side of San Antonio! And I was in the unique position of rooting for the CELTICS two years ago. Unlike the Lakers, the Suns are a classy organization who wasn't afraid to get rid of a bad guy (Jason Kidd) even if he was a superstar. The Suns are now my team. BEAT F'N L.A.!