Nothing against Shaq. Nothing against Pat Riley or D. Wade. And, certainly, nothing against South Beach, for that matter. It's just that Redskins fans who watch the NBA should throw their support the way of the Dallas Mavericks against the Miami Heat when the finals open Thursday night.
That's because of one factor: Darrell Armstrong.
Remember what the veteran Mavs guard did last December?
The Redskins pummeled the Cowboys 35-7 last Dec. 18 in a Sunday afternoon NFC showdown at FedExField. It marked Washington's first sweep over their bitter NFC East rivals since 1995.
So, on that Sunday evening in Dallas, Darrell Armstrong couldn't resist having a little fun.
In "Big D," the Mavericks hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves in a Sunday night NBA matchup at American Airlines Center.
The story goes that, as part of pre-game ceremonies, Dallas guard Devin Harris stepped up to the microphone and wished all those who attended the game a happy and joyous holiday season.
That's when Armstrong, the 37-year-old reserve point guard, showed his true colors: burgundy and gold.
Armstrong requested the microphone and shouted: "How 'Bout Those Redskins!" He was basically mocking the famous line once offered by Cowboys head coach Jimmy Johnson in reference to his own team.
A native of Gastonia, N.C., who played his college ball at Fayetteville State, Armstrong grew up a Redskins fan and has followed his favorite NFL club throughout his long NBA career.
Armstrong was a place kicker for Fayetteville State's football squad. His favorite Redskin of all time? Kicker Mark Moseley, of course.
Armstrong's outburst, which was greeted with some boos as well as some good-natured laughter, cost him $1,000 in a fine levied by the team. The Cowboys were to decide the recipient of the charitable donation.
In this year's NBA playoffs, Armstrong has been an inspirational behind-the-scenes figure for the Mavs, who are hoping for their first NBA championship.
Redskins fans might want to return the favor and support Armstrong and the Mavs against the formidable Shaq and the acrobatic Wade. How 'bout that Darrell Armstrong!
