Two Bucks Worth

After overseeing Robinson's summer workout regimen, Milwaukee scout Butch Carter has been watching during the season to make sure Robinson doesn't fall back into his bad habits, especially on defense. Before a November game against the Phoenix Suns, in which Robinson was to be matched up against forward Robert Horry, Carter slipped Robinson a note reading, "Didn't Horry come in here and score 40 on you last year?" Robinson held Horry to nine points that night.

"Is Glenn a great defender? Not yet," says Ford. "But his effort is maybe a little bit greater than it has been in the past. He seems to realize now that going out and scoring 25 is not the only thing he can do to make a contribution."

Ford has reduced Robinson's ball handling by putting him in more situations where he can catch and shoot as he comes off screens. Also, Ford has all but eliminated references to Robinson as Big Dog at Milwaukee's Bradley Center. Robinson's baskets are no longer punctuated by canned barking, and the P.A. announcer now refers to him by name rather than nickname. "I don't need to play that character," Robinson says. "I want the fans to get to know me: Glenn Robinson."

In time the fans may develop the same affection for him as they have for Baker. Until then, Robinson will gladly settle for gaining added respect from his opponents and appreciation from his teammates, especially Baker. "We're partners," says Baker. "Glenn's putting in a recording studio in his house, and as soon as it's finished we're going to team up in there, too." It may be hard to imagine their brand of gospel rap, but keep the faith. Baker and Robinson have a way of producing remarkable harmony.

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