Jennifer Stewart – USA TODAY Sports
It’s no surprise. Chicago Bulls fans want Nate Robinson back in Chicago next year suiting up in a Bulls uniform. And, they are willing to say so in writing.
One fan started a Keep Nate Robinson in Chicago petition and in less than a week nearly 800 fans signed. That’s nearly 800 reasons to keep Robinson in a Chicago Bulls uniform.
Why all the support to keep Robinson with the Bulls? For starters, this three-time NBA slam dunk champion has helped put excitement back into the Madhouse on Madison, a.k.a. the United Center. During this past Rose-less year, he’s been the smallest player with the biggest heart who kept the Bulls competitive, and he’s done it all for little more than the veteran’s minimum salary.
In Round 1, Game 4 of the NBA playoffs, Robinson inspired the Bulls to rally from 14 points behind the Brooklyn Nets with just four minutes to go in regulation, setting a franchise record for most points off the bench in the fourth quarter, forcing a thrilling triple OT, and winning the game 142-134.
In Round 2, Game 1, Robinson was the Bulls’ personal MVP, scoring 27 points and nine assists against the Miami Heat. Plus, he did it all with a fat lip that needed 10 stitches to close after being run over by LeBron James early in the game. The Bulls won that one too, 93-86.
Robinson has endeared himself to everyone: teammates, coaches, fans and even Benny the Bull. Yes, Robinson is buddy-buddy with the NBA’s most popular mascot Benny the Bull and the two have been seen a time or two stretched out at midcourt playing Rock-Paper-Scissors.
It’s easy to see why Robinson is a favorite. It’s no wonder that fans en masse are petitioning to keep him in Chicago.
Yes, Nate Robinson has earned the right to be a Chicago Bull and this time, he’s earned the right to a competitive salary, too.
Hollie M. Woods is a writer for Rant Sports covering the Chicago Bulls and the NBA. “Like” her on Facebook.
