This is NOT meant to be a personal attack toward anyone. In fact, I even catch myself falling into this mindset on occasion.
I am discouraged when I hear players, coaches, and fans make comments to the effect of.. "We could have won that game if the official did not call (insert violation/foul here) with X seconds left." Additionally, I am appalled when I hear an "off-court" official make a judgmental jeer about another official's call, especially when it is related to the impact of a "final moments" call. Why?
Simply, it demonstrates ignorance on behalf of the person making the observation. It means that they are not taking into account the impact of a multitude plays throughout of the whole game. Yes, plays that occur during the final seconds of the game are important, but so is the missed lay-up on the opening tip-off, missed FTs in the 2nd qtr, travelling, double-dribbles, etc... These should also be viewed as having just as much impact to the outcome of the game. (I know I will get arguements on this...
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Bottom line: Focusing on the final plays of the game and claiming they won or lost the game solely, is wrong. Therefore, the AP is just a tiny part of the game. Interestingly enough, it is one of the more consistent elements of the game.