Mark J. Terrill / AP

Kobe Bryant and the Lakers don't show any signs of slowing down this season.

Q: Why is it that more cities in America do not own teams? Sports teams should be about more than just billionaires making more money, usually at taxpayers' expense. Making money is not as important as having people feel attached to something important to their lives.
— Eric, Walnut Creek, Calif.

A: The reason cities don't own teams is because, one, they are terrible investments in most cases, and, two, governments can barely create enough of a consensus to keep the bills paid, let alone decide on whether to extend a maximum contract during free agency.

No, the only owners who make sense are the "hobbyists," the owners who derive such pleasure from operating their teams that they are willing to accept operating at a deficit.

The last place governments, especially in this economy, should be investing their money is in pro sports.

Think California is in a financial pinch now? Imagine if it owned the Clippers and had to justify Ricky Davis' contract.

Q: I think Kobe is the best. Do you?
— Claudia, St. Louis, Mo.

A: First of all, Kobe says "thank you," Claudia.

"Best" is where we always get in trouble with these debates.

I'd have to say, right now, that LeBron James would be the preference of most general managers, due to his youth and physique.

But for one game, one playoff series, one play, I don't think anyone can accomplish as much "in the moment" as Kobe, with his skill set.

Q: Do you think the 76ers will keep Allen Iverson?
— David, Radnor, Pa.

A: I think it's a question of whether Iverson will keep the 76ers.

If the losing continues, and if the attendance boost proves fleeting, I think Iverson might finally decide to call it a career, rather than waiting until the finish with a lottery team.

And right now, the lottery is where it looks like the situation is headed in Philadelphia.

Q: What's Tracy McGrady's current status?
— Makay, Blacksburg, Va.

A: Persona non grata in Houston.

The Rockets are winning with an all-for-one approach under Rick Adelman. It truly is a pleasure to watch them grit out victories.

With Tracy in a contract year, the concern is he again will attempt to recapture the focus.

It certainly is an interesting little soap opera playing out at the Toyota Center.

Q: How do undrafted free agents enter the NBA?
— Carlton, Little Rock, Ark.

A: By finding a team willing to offer a contract.

If you're not drafted, you start knocking on doors, or by showcasing yourself in the NBA Development League or overseas.

There is no second bite at the draft.

Ira Winderman writes regularly for NBCSports.com and covers the Heat and the NBA for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

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