Growing up a Utah Jazz fan in the 1990s was full of a lot of hope. The state picked up the Jazz in 1979 and had been building the team in the 1980s for something special. When the Jazz traded to get arguably the best NBA duo of all time, John Stockton and Karl Malone, times were looking great! The Jazz made the playoffs for 20 straight years starting in 1984 and got to the finals in both 1997 and 1998. If it weren't for Michael Jordan playing through sickness and hitting game winning shots, I'm convinced the Jazz would have an NBA championship! Definitely not going to be getting a championship in 2014, but still our team. I really do think we have some of the most loyal fans in the NBA. Even this year, when we're not looking so hot we fill the arena and that is something to be proud of. I was taught as a Van Wagenen and am a firm believer in not being a band wagon fan! We still have season tickets and go to as many games as possible. If we could just get an elite player, I still think we have a chance. This city is made of some of the best fans and it's just a matter of time until the stars align and we get that championship.
Ryan Van Wagenen loves visiting the southern parts of the state and going to the different canyons and hiking and participating in the outdoors. Above is a picture of Bryce Canyon, one of his favorite places to visit.
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| Ryan Van Wagenen of Cottonwood Heights |
People always say Kd is in the top three, but never had considered him to be of MVP caliber. When they played each other, Durant decided to attack Lebron and try to get to that next level. Literally a poster worthy dunk on Lebron. Very interesting year and congrats to Kevin Kurant on the MVP!