When America votes for things, it usually doesn’t turn out well.  For instance: George W. Bush for President, Iverson for All-Star, and Proposition 8 passing in California (come on, marriage between a man and a woman is as much of a farce or more so than marriage between a man and a man).  I have a theory about why we make such bad decisions.  It’s because we don’t have to wear our choice on our sleeve for the world to see.  I mean I voted for George W. Bush, but if I had to wear a shirt that said “I voted for Bush” around, I may not have been so stupid.  Where is this all going?  Well the most popular NBA jerseys list was released recently, and America has spoken with a vote they can’t hide as easily:

1. Kobe Bryant(notes), Lakers
2. LeBron James, Cavaliers
3. Dwight Howard, Magic
4. Derrick Rose, Bulls
5. Dwyane Wade, Heat
6. Kevin Garnett(notes), Celtics
7. Chris Paul, Hornets
8. Paul Pierce(notes), Celtics
9. Shaquille O’Neal(notes), Cavaliers
10. Pau Gasol(notes), Lakers
11. Carmelo Anthony(notes), Nuggets
12. Steve Nash(notes), Suns
13. David Lee(notes), Knicks
14. Allen Iverson(notes), 76ers
15. Kevin Durant(notes), Thunder

Whaaa?  Derrick Rose climbs from 11 to 4 this season?  It appears that while fans are dumb enough to punch Iverson on the all-star ballot, they aren’t as eager to choose an old, deluded, ball hog when they are spending their hard-earned dollar on a jersey they will have to wear around town. (Sidenote: I love Iverson and have respected his heart and passion for the game since day 1.  I still do, but his skills have diminished and he clearly can not or will not accept that reality)

Another note here is that Derrick Rose is notorious for not having any personality or speaking skills, and yet he seems to be very popular with fans.  Instead of assuming that means he is so charismatic, I think it means two things: Rose’s game is fascinating to watch on the court and his quiet yet stoic demeanor commands the respect of opponents, teammates, and fans.  So he can’t give a good interview?  So what?  He’s a good kid with an amazing game.

I wonder if that jersey tee I bought (real NBA jerseys are expensive!) counts towards his total jersey sales.