Like any sport, the basketball world is divided by tribal loyalties. It’s really hard to get around that.
Duke and UNC fans, for instance, will occasionally allow for a begrudging respect (less so post-scandal however).
It takes a lot to get past that, and often it takes a real loss. Think of the ACC reactions when Jim Valvano, Len Bias and Dean Smith died.
Everyone came together, at least for a bit.
It’s a rare person who can consistently rise above that. Think Dick Vitale, Al McGuire and Craig Sager.
Sager drew attention, laughs and admiration for his amazing collection of suits and his willingness to be a bold clotheshorse, but he also won immense praise and affection.