Derek Fisher cried. Right there in a closeup nationally televised from Los Angeles to Rudy Tomjanovich's living room, Fisher, with three championship rings and a rich, seven-year contract in his pocket, felt the emotions rise within him and lost control. And Tomjanovich loved it.

This is not to say that Tomjanovich took any particular joy in Fisher's pain or the end of the Lakers' dynasty. He, in fact, considered the delight many found in watching the Lakers' demise somewhat distasteful.

But Tomjanovich, just back from a European scouting trip and checking out the playoffs on television, watched Fisher cry and was reminded again of the passion and dedication that still drives him.