Congratulations to the Los Angeles Lakers for their outstanding championship celebration, but even better, congratulations to Los Angeles for showing the nation that we can “Celebrate creatively, and not destructively” just as the great coach Phil Jackson had requested.

Kobe Bryant  led the diverse crowd of over 95,000 - as they all lifted a fist in air for a  unison team chant of “1,2,3 WIN!”.

How proud I am of Los Angeles, a city once torn by the racial division and tensions brought about by the police brutality and the final verdict of the Rodney King trial, as they willingly chose to come together in unity as the colors of racial diversity blended into a passion for gold and purple.

I was indeed impressed and proud to see how the authorities and the crowds interacted with the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation. It led to a wonderful and memorable celebration for all involved.

Superstar athletes and fans alike were humbled by the communities cheerful outpouring.

It’s a “Laker Nation” according to the Los Angeles Daily News.

Click on the video below, to get a birds eye view of Laker mania as filmed by my son Will McFadden, who was witness to this outpouring of hugs, high fives and high priced hot dogs!

Hopefully, next year it will reign purple and gold!