Let's break down Kidd's performance and examine the particulars.

Defense

Even more convincing was Wood's testimony. David was (and is) a devout Christian whose honesty was totally beyond questioning.

"Coach," he said to me during the next timeout, "I never came close to making contact. That was the worst call I've ever been a part of."

How could a referee, who's currently considered to be one of the best in the NBA, botch such an easy call?

Because most of the CBA's refs were contracted to also work several dozen NBA games over the course of the season — Javie being among them. Accordingly, once having experienced the NBA glow, too many of these guys viewed anything to do with the CBA with disdain. As a result, CBA coaches who had previously played or coached in the league always got the benefit of the doubt against CBA lifers. The same was true in close calls involving ex-NBAers and CBA. Johnson was already a veteran of one full season with the L.A. Clippers, while Wood's NBA days were still ahead of him.

Javie's ruinous call was based more on status and wishful thinking than on reality.

Oh well.

Even though the score was now knotted at 134, we never scored again — mainly because Curtis Green missed a layup. The final was 137-134.

Cofield played all 68 minutes and finished with 51 points. The Wildcatters went on to lose the championship to Albany, but they did so without the services of Rellford, who was called up to San Antonio immediately prior to the finals. Rellford's NBA career lasted four games and his stats were admirable — 5-for-8 from the field, 6-for-8 from the stripe, 7 rebounds, 4 turnovers, 4 blocks and 4.0 ppg in only 42 minutes — but his defensive ineptitude did him in.

Two days after the aggravating loss, I was driving down State Street, Rockford's main drag, still replaying the game. I was barely paying attention to my driving and was shocked back to reality when a cop stopped me.

"You were doing 60 in a 30 zone," he said.

Then he recognized me and said, "Oh, I guess you're still thinking about the game, huh? You know, I was sitting right near the play and I could've walked sideways in the space between Woody's hand and Johnson. You know what, Charley? I'm gonna let you go with a warning. Keep your mind on your driving. OK?"

I was effusive in my appreciation, but I would have traded a speeding ticket plus a week in the slammer for a righteous call from Javie.