I understand some folks on here and through the Kings web community have not been ecstatic about Angela Tsai's work thus far as the team's new sideline reporter. And criticism of media personnel is fair game (or else the name Grant Napear would have to be banned). But there are real people behind those names, and guess what? Sometimes they read what you say. Like Tsai has. Here's part of her response to some of the comments in a recent diary.
I've been in Sacramento for a little over a month now and absolutely love my job. No bull, coming from a tried-and-true New Yorker. Now, when I first got here I didn't have any live game experience, and I'll be the first to admit that I've definitely had to adjust to that. I appreciate everyone's constructive criticisms, and have been working hard on the technical game aspects of the broadcast. I may not be as extreme of a basketball expert like my esteemed colleagueas -- a former NBA coach (Jerry Reynolds) or a broadcaster in this market for 20 years (Grant Napear) -- but I've got definite opinions on the game, I'm learning every minute and I bring a breadth of hosting experience talking to NBA players and personalities to the table.
And yes, I am a new face -- and female to boot -- in an industry dominated by men, and that's sure to provoke turmoil (as seen on these boards). I'm realistic -- I'd be remiss if I didn't expect a certain amount of hostility or comments about my appearance etc. But here's the thing: in the brief time I've been here, Sac fans have proven to me how adaptable and supportive they are in times of good AND bad. I know change is scary, guys, but would you still love your Kings if they weren't dynamic, if there weren't stories constantly fueling your message boards, if there wasn't drama? ...
I've seen games all around the league in almost every NBA city, and what's blown me away is the loyalty, passion and knowledge that Kings fans bring to Arco each and every game. And that's evident on sites like these -- despite the criticisms, if you didn't care, you wouldn't post. It's as simple as that. I genuinely trust that this season will just get better and better as Theus & Co. continue to develop an identity. Again, no BS: I'm really proud to be a part of this community, and hostile words aside, I know you are too.
I think we can all appreciate Angela's willingness to both interact with fans beyond her job duties as well as put herself out there like this. I know I appreciate it.
I'm obviously not going to tell anyone to stop making jokes about anyone; if I had to stop making jokes about Kenny Thomas, I'd be out of business. I just want to encourage folks to think before they type -- and this isn't a specific commentary on any one community member -- and show folks some respect. Several members of the local media (Sam Amick, Whitey Gleason, Tsai) have shown us a ton of respect by conversing with us directly or indirectly. They deserve the same, no? (Carmichael Dave, however, egged my double-wide last week and should be tarred and feathered.1)
I think we all do need a release on the snark, though, so I volunteer section214 for victimhood. Let it rip! (I'll start: Why did section214 cross the road?)
1 Allegedly.