Mr. Mullins, What Happened?

As of November 5, 2013, stories about concussion syndromes centers on football. A few months ago, a doctor named Mike Lewis talked about concussions in other sports like soccer in high schools and in basketball like WNBA (Jamie Carey) on a Atlanta radio station. Which brought me to the next question, what about in the NBA? Likewise, what about history of players who suffered them and how are they doing? You hear about it in the NFL or college football but nothing in NBA or college basketball. Which brought me to this thought about a former NBA player, and college coach, Jeff Mullins.

In 2009

I attended UNC-Charlotte from 1993-1996, and graduated with a history degree. But It spent most of the time in the library look at old Sports Illustrated, Time and Life magazines as well a microfilm of the Charlotte Observer. It helped with my history degree at certain times. but for one year, I was an education major till I switched. During that time, I watched  UNCC basketball, baseball, volleyball, and soccer but basketball is the main. I use to drive or go on buses to watch them play at Independence Arena (Bojangles Coliseum) before Dale Halton Arena was built.

Jeff Mullins was the basketball coach and he was revered by the faculty as well as the business community. He could do no wrong. But among UNC-Charlotte student body, they didn't seem to share that sentiment. I would meet them in cafeterias and other student hangouts. I didn't converse with them but I would listen to cues and vibes. They kept bringing up the idea of needing another coach like a Bobby Knight.

For the three years I was there, students and hard-core grumbled over Mullins inconsistency of beating Louisville who weren't the 80's but top contenders. Yet, losing to teams that they had no business losing to like College of Charleston, South Florida, or Tulane at home despite winning the regular season Metro Conference title. Though, his last year was understandable because they moved into a new conference Great Midwest (Conference USA) with better teams but losing to Davidson at home was the last straw. His overall, his career was just over .500 if you discount the three years they went to the NCAA tournament in '88, '92, and '95.

Coaching Jarvis Lang

His supporters have mentioned that he had to compete with the ACC conference to get players. UNC-Charlotte didn't have the players, equipment, and facilities to compete with other good programs. Mullins previous coach, Hal Wissel said that he recruited Byron Dinkins to come to UNC-Charlotte not Mullins. Likewise, his good players like Dinkins, Jarvis Lang, and Henry Williams would have good sophomore, junior years but not so good senior years. Because they would get beat up and nobody cared. But the UNCC athletics turned the corner with the construction of Dale Halton Area which was supposed to be finished in 1995 but finished in 1996 after Mullins retired.

Students got angry with Athletic department for using their tuition to build the Halton Arena when they weren't going to benefit (I have to pay for my Arena parking) but for Mullins they weren't quite sure. Students thought of him as a nice man who didn't need winning to feel worthy. Some liked it others hated it. But most were working students concentrating on school to care. Whatever it was, I don't think the athletic program would be where its at without Jeff Mullins. But to the students pro,con, or apathetic at that time, Mullins didn't seem to be the guy that would reach out to them.

I, not being like other students, looked him up through microfilms spanning 1962-1977 as well other SI, Time, and Life magazine issues from that time. What I found is that he was from New York not the south. He moved to Lexington when Mullins father's company IBM transferred him from Queens. He had no idea of the passion for Kentucky basketball and Adolph Rupp so he went to Duke. He was All-American with fellow teammate Art Heyman in 1963 but Art was thought to be a better player than Mullins due to his size, skills, and brains tdespite Mullins being academic All-American, 3 times.

From his Duke days

Vic Bubbas, coach of Duke talked about his great character on and off the court. His assistant, Bucky Walters talked about him being a team player despite playing behind Heyman and that he could go to any school he wanted to be a star but chose Duke for its academics and athletics.  Likewise, he helped his teammates off the court. It was true with other coaches in the NBA with Bill Sharman and Al Attles about him putting winning first before himself. This is despite him winning the Olympics in 1964 and a NBA title in 1975 which no Duke grad has done before or since. Likewise, he played 13 seasons in the NBA, averaged 16.2 points, 13, 000 total points and a 3 time all-Star ('69, '70,
and '71).

A dunk on NYU in '64.

But after his retirement, he was an assistant Athletic Director at Duke for only one year. He did ACC color commentary for TV basketball games and headed a car-dealer ship before being named coach and athletic director at UNC-Charlotte in 1985. My curiosity aroused when broadcaster, Dick Vitale around 1994, brought up the fact that Jeff Mullins number 44  for Duke wasn't retired. This was about the time when Bob Hurley's number was about to be retired and Christian Laettner's had just retired, the year before.  Now, for what Mullins had done for Duke, his NBA career, and outside life, I just couldn't figure this out. Every time, Duke played and Vitale was broadcasting, he would bring Mullins name up till his number got retired.

On Chicago's Jerry Sloan and Thurmond in '75.

Off  Nate Thurmond pick on New York's
Walt Bellamy in '67 or '68.

Well, I was watching the 1975 NBA playoffs between the Golden State Warriors and the Chicago Bulls. I believe it was game 4, he was driving to the basket for a layup off a give and go pass from Rick Barry. I just remember when he finished the layup, he took an elbow to the back of his head. Imagine, how many times he took those shots from a  Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Zelmo Beatty, Tom Boerwinkle, Dennis Awtrey, Elvin Hayes, Jerry Lucas, Sam Lacey, Dave Cowens, Wes Unseld, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Wayne Embry, Willis Reed, Walt Bellamy, countless others, or an accidental one from his own teammate Nate Thurmond.  And those guys were forwards and centers what about guards like Jerry Sloan, Norm Van Lier, the Van Arsdales, Walt Hazzard, Jerry West, Walt Frazier, Lenny Wilkens, Jo Jo White, and countless others who could have thrown elbows on the move or make incidental contact? Role players, enforcers, or goons? Not to mention from his own teammates in practice and training camp.

Cover on SI with coach Richie Guerin

In his first two years with the St. Louis Hawks (now Atlanta),

Hawks coach, Richie Guerin thought he was too skinny to play in his slow patterned offense, couldn't take the punishment, and wasn't a good ball-handler. His nickname was Pork Chops. They traded him to the San Francisco Warriors (Golden State in 1971). There coach Bill Sharman put him in a uptempo offense which brought out his talents and abilities and neutralized his size limitations. He got his revenge by eliminating the same Hawks in the 1968 playoff  in 6 games without Rick Barry (he jumped to the ABA, Mullins 27 pts average in that series and hit a game winner in Game 4). But Sharman left for the ABA and his last coaches were George Lee and Al Attles.  They kept the fast tempo but with Nate Thurmond getting older and an older Rick Barry coming back in 1972, they started to go more half-court. This resulted in more picks, screens, and rolls as well as those elbows from those back picks. Attles used him as a messenger to set an example in practice and in games of playing hard and dutiful.

I don't know if they resulted in his concussions or if he has a concussion to speak of ? But when I saw him coach, he looked like he aged beyond his years but that could be hereditary but something didn't look right for a guy who was 50 years old in 1992. I know he had hip replacements as well as knees and lungs that slowed him down but my concern was his head. Likewise, he was an athletic director as well as coach for awhile till Judy Rose took over. However, the inner fire simmered. He would have his outbursts to refs and players. But the leadership wasn't there on the court at all times. I did see a change in Mr. Mullins as a coach that I didn't hear about as a player. I just don't believe he made that change consciously unlike what the student body said?

Hiding Behind Your Spouses

Herman Cain.  Something bothers me about guys like him not of his views. I admire his honesty like I do with Pat Buchanan. I just don't like those wives. Not to player hate them or be envious. But they seem to fit that profile of that nice, classy wife that a man can hide behind. For that matter, Michele Bachmann too and that hubby of hers. What bothers me about them is that when the heat is on, they seem to retreat to their spouses slash mom or dad. Richard Nixon comes to mind.

Gerald Ford, JFK, Madison, FDR, Lincoln, Clinton, and our President, Barack Obama. They have strong wives with personality. I always got the impression that these dudes had to earn their wives respect. No coddling from them. That includes you, Jerry Sloan.  Yet, these loudmouths take the Pat Buchanan approach and back down the during the preliminaries. Once you made your statements, you can't go back to your spouse and hide. Or can you?

It just doesn't seem American to have a quiet, standby spouse. I guess that is why you  make those statements and get away with it until the pressure you inflict on yourself gets you to back down. You can get away with it in other professions but no way in National politics.  You are facing the intensity of media scrutiny (hide-behind spouse?) and you mouth off? Ronald Regan  at least kept his mouth shut as well as George Bush and W too.

Those guys may have believed the same thing as Herman, Pat, and Michelle but they knew with the type of "wive" they are married to and couldn't do it. They always say for every strong man, there is a strong woman but in this case for every strong woman, you need a strong man and vice-versa.

Cheating in the Schools

Me, personally, I don't see nothing wrong with this scandal concerning the teachers who are involved. You got to pass them kids. Now, you can go spiritual and all that is true. I'm proof of that but what about help to the teachers and the administrators of their schools? There isn't none. Its one against 50 students per a classroom. That is assuming they have no learning disabilities or other behavioral issues. Still rough. But the reality of it, many of these kids slip through the cracks. Embarassing, yes. But I'm sure a radio station will hire these former teachers to rig the arbitron or armitron, bringing money to the station. Yippee!

I have never stolen a talk show format from another station or rigged money from a sales manager? Nah? Who cares about productivity when its all about winning. The Raiders motto, if you ain't cheatin, you ain't tryin." I really don't care for morality. You can blame children, parents, or the teachers. I don't blame any of them. Its not about serving your community and the community serving you. The attitude is survival and winning.

Actually, its about whether you are married with kids and a job. Taxes penalize a person for being single. I would say most kids grow up to be successful at that. Most marriages don't last past 10 years regardless of profession and income. Alcoholism and drug abuse crosses all lines with absolute destruction and force. You can be smart but a disease will always outsmart you.  Another thing, cheating goes on in private schools as well. The parents and alumni put money in the schools for their children. In return, a nice legacy for future generations.

In short, every person for themselves.  Kids are encouraged to educate for themselves or their family but are they encouraged to educate for the community when they are told how brutal "the world" is? As for the folks involved, I may not like it but I understand so should the community including our media because they are all in it for themselves. Sweeps, anyone?

Statue of Liberty Devils

That was my thought at this speed dating game. Didn't involve any of the participants.  Just the mood and vibe that I interpreted:  Women who are trouble but loyal.  Those are types you want to send when its time to stop Mr. Muburak. They got a plan to put you in your place. You know what, I love it. Pure American honesty at its finest in this dating scene. Certainly snapped me out a shell better than a rod or the hand.  American women or the Statue of Liberty Devils?

Yeah, they may go into your finances, character, and your psyche.  What is it that parents, coaches, teachers, and minister warned you about is that girl is "trouble" or too strong for you.  Can they drink under you? sure. Possibly be a home-wrecker? Oh, yeah!  Finally, lead men to the institution of many. You, better you bet.  But when it comes to  "war in terror", who do you want as lead Marc Wilson or Jim McMahon? I thought of that when a pious, American woman mentioned about events in Egypt when she looked at me. Another, who talked about the two young children killed in Gwinnett in a break-in (Check you in-laws before the outlaws)? Omg, Omg. I don't trust them when push comes to shove. Too, neurotic. I may end up getting shot.

In this dating scene, you don't have to worry about if I had children, she had children or about their race or culture. Even then, harshest ones. But then, they aren't married. LOL.  Finding the right one? Throw me those Liberty Devils. They are honest when things get uptight. But eventually, some do find the right and change and forget about their "devil days."  Remember, though, its Red, White, and Blue not Blue, White, and Red. Happy Valentines to you!

You are in America, Talk Spanish Review

During the Robin Williams rage with his comedy album Live at the Met, I remember my English teacher raving about him. He was on Donahue and every other morning show including Geraldo. Even this Indian group from Ohio was raving about him. They came down to Atlanta to go to Florida or Jamaica with us around 1986 or 1987. Before we left, we went to a mall to buy cassettes and books. I bought the Robin Williams tape but another tape caught my eye. It was the Paul Rodriguez album You are in America now, talk Spanish. Wasn't sure to buy it but I did. A couple from the Ohio group laughed and thought I made a bad decision. They loved Robin Williams and asked if they could listen to it.

That left a choice of the Rodriguez album which I didn't think so highly but remembering a comment by my English teacher: "don't judge a book by its cover." 24 years later, its still my favorite album. Delirious by Eddie Murphy is probably the funniest album in terms of laughs but in terms of relevant social contents, this album grabs me by the balls. My first impression was that it was going to be a PBS style or PG style where he would talk about his Latino background to white folks sort of like George Lopez, a sterilized presentation like Toastmasters, trying to using negativity as a concealed weapon to move forward. Is that the idea? Act suburban?

Rodriguez was very proud of his culture even the negative ones which seem to inspire him. He talked about Mexican-American stereotypes concerning spray painting, stealing, jumper cables, and gangs without shame and with pride. Yet, he was able to satellite his Latin point of view and cover various subjects without losing his passion for each subject. My favorite was the Gilligan's Island comparison to his short-lived show Pablo. He admitted that his show was dumb but that Gilligan's Island was dumb too. "You got a professor that could make a radio out of coconut but can't get their ass off the island. Gee, I don't know?" " Why didn't the Skipper and Gilligan didn't go after Mary Ann." This where he brings the sexual power of Latinos and what they would have done if they were in that island. I can see Ginger and Mary Ann but Mrs. Howell? That's Paul or Pablo.

He will talk about negative stereotypes from other groups but will coincide with his own. Black, Asians, Jews, Whites, Jehovah Witnesses, and other Latino groups. However, he will make statements about the Middle East with no apologies to the French. or the Spanish. Very classic. Muammar Quaddafi passing for Hispanic? Bring on Hispanic gang members from East L.A. to take on terrorism? Comparing sodomy to Earl Scheib's body shop deals? Using a weed-eater for a Punk-Rock hairdo and charging extra for a gash? Burnout on the fame of Michael Jackson. Ridiculous airline safety rules and racial profiling in airlines before 9-11. Finally, him and cousins wanting to slap Boy George then waking up with women who look like Bo Didley when he thought it was Bo Derek?

My favorite segment was the Juan Valdez commercial about making coffee just about made me laugh with hysterics. "Every morning, Juan Valdez gets up early in the morning only to find the freshest God damn beans." And he takes his burro, Ramon, with him." Great line but the content and irony is when he talks about Juan Valdez planting coffee but his neighbors aren't. "But Juan wants to do it the legitimate way." Other great lines but these are just a few that you could make a skit from this album. "You look like Hitler's wet dream" when he told this white couple on stage.

After listening, I tried to convince my Ohio associates to listen to it. They never gave it a chance. I was self-conscious about telling my Indian friends in Atlanta about till I mentioned about the Gilligan's Island diatribe. That got them interested. Soon, every time I came by, they wanted to hear that album and one guy had "Delirious" in his house but he put that aside because of these lines. "You need 40 people to fight with you. Yes! Yes we do and you know what, I get beat up real seldom." Likewise, the Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson song "For All the Girls that I Loved Before" and all the diseases that I'm responsible for" brought repetitive laughs. Likewise, his put down of Willie's love life by saying "you mean all the farm animals and equipment."

Or, how he helped then struggling actor, Don Johnson, get that rolled up sleeves look from Miami Vice " due to his teaching of how to eat tacos and enchiladas at his mom's place. Another one was how he use to masturbate to Elly May from the Beverly Hillbillies till Jethro popped in the screen and scared him by using the Deliverance line "I'm going to make you squeal, boy." Tweet, tweet." The final part about women being psychic when men try to hit on them at clubs. Yes, it crushed me when women said no to me and I played it as I asked the time.

He show started and ended real strong by discussing racial tension of finding groups that you felt were inferior to you. Paul mentioned about his complex of his genitalia being inferior to blacks but to the Japanese, "watch out, Mr. Teriyaki." Or having big penis causes unemployment compared to the smaller ones. On a serious note, he joked that Vietnamese should do the hard labor that Mexicans use to do and they will lay off your pets? Point made about being in the middle of Anglo stereotypes where they seem to be at the top. "What gives them the right to cut the fucking lane, with their baby on board stickers and other messages." The Winnebago one with the old couple complaining about 47 Mexicans in a car in front of them and the 47 Mexicans complaining about 2 people in Winnebago. "What a waste of space."

I believe his comedy was inspired due to cancellation of his show on ABC from 1984 called Pablo. Very brief . He took shots at the entertainment business of being hypocritical without wanting to be accused of bias. He didn't care about who owned the business (he made light jokes about Jews and Hollywood with edit) but when they say that minority shows like his don't come up to par with Anglo shows like Gilligan's Island? He really had something to emphasize. Some of the segments were a bit dated but still relevant concerning U.S. military "Who needs Allies, they never help us." Now, the Israeli's, they are bad. Put on those yamakas and we are ready to kick some ass." Immigration, those birth certificates from the Cabbage Patch Kids.

My friends and I felt the same way about Anglo superiority until this album which educated me on my views. That album forced me and others who listened to it to think of what's real funny. I think Asian folks can relate when he says "can you imagine your parents getting down on each other." Unfortunately, many folks never listened to the album though I tried. Maybe his title of You are in America now, talk Spanish hit a nerve including mine and other minorities who aren't American. Robin Williams, a gifted individual (David Brenner accused him of stealing his jokes)? That tape is still collecting dust somewhere.


Quotes and Phrases from Paul Rodriguez album You are in America now, Talk Spanish from 1986. No intent to make money or for distribution. Simply to bring out the glory of Mr. Rodriguez's work.

Revenge of the Nerds?

Heard a discussion concerning that movie and the Robert Carradine character who has sex with a passed out cheerleader. A lady considered it rape because the nerd wore a mask and mislead the girl thinking it was her jock boyfriend. She used a term of "defacto something "rape or it was something else. Then, I chimed in saying the point of the movie was to show that all fraternities are the same but that brain status wins over brawn status when it comes to rape and getting the girl.

I remember a scene with Jodie Foster in Accused at the bar when she got raped by these burly, blue-collar guys. Yet, she lead them on with her dress and her attitude of wanting them initially but she then said no. On the witness stand, she seemed very strong with conviction. She won because of the underdog manner of how she came across. The point is: no is no.

Now, switch the scene to an office or a library. Jodie probably is wearing a sweater, maybe some slacks, jeans, a skirt, or clothes in professional manner. Maybe, she has some sass to her step and an attitude. She maybe teasing them or leading them on with a smile. John Hinckley? no. He is a lone wolf. But how about a nerd who hangs around with his own nerd circle of friends. Big Bang Theory? Who do you feel sorry for, the nerds or the girl? Think about that.

That is why you have a fraternity. I remember when I resisted in taking Honors in subjects or go to advanced class in high school and college. The counselor or teacher would say you are no different than anybody else. I know why, now. A few years back, I came across this buxom blond and started talking. She talked about how smart Indians are and about me marrying one. Angrily, I asked her why don't you marry one? She said something about them being awkward, wouldn't recognize who is one, or where to find one. I told her go to Georgia Tech and ask one. She kept saying, yeah, but and all. "Ding, ding, ding" went in my head and the scene from "Accused" went came up except it was nerdy, Indian guys and that girl laying on the table at a computer lab. I don't know if that happened but I knew that's what she thought of their potential.

Now, she thought of me as the sweet lone wolf but nonetheless a wolf to be wary. However, nerdy Indians in a group scared her more because she would get the blame because they appear smaller and harmless. Likewise, they got the well-earned 3degrees (nothing is given makes it more appealing). I have talked to strippers and therapists. They all say, they are nice individually but in a group, look out below.

Yet, who blames Soon Yi? I don't like writing these kind of things but for my Indian sisters, related or not. Its damn important for me. Go to Chennai, India or Tamilnadu countryside, women walk in pairs with arms in a sling at street corners whether its light or dark. Regardless of the danger factor. But in "Westernized facilities", they are by themselves like clubs, hotels, colleges, shops, and places that require English. A false sense of security prevails because they are supposedly "civilized." Some have no choice to be alone but those who do......

Chris Evert's bitch (Redux--Is that the right spelling)

What all this outrage with Rick Sanchez and the suicide of a Rutgers U. student not to mention Dr. Laura on my part, I can't help wonder if I should put my religion as Christian Dependent Hindu on my facebook page. Yes, you can make high marks from your village, not covet someone's money or wife, and have an educated family. But since I'm in city, I have to know a spatter of Christianity. I know Christianity but not enough to leave Christians behind. But I can talk Christian, walk Christian, and laugh Christian. Because Anglo-Christianity is a funny religion.

Enough of Amitabh Bachchan, when it comes to religion, I consider myself one. Why? Easy. So, I can be competitive but I don't have to convert. Just lose to Chris Evert and be happy for the rest of your life. You can be rich, succesful or just pathetic. But underneath that, lies my phonies. I actually want to win and conquer but I can't. Ah, Ah. (Laugh people, c'mon). I'm must have some white in my genes but I'm not Sandy Koufax (how did he strikeout Mantle, Maris and Pepitone with ease?) or Arthur Ashe (how did he beat Jimmy Connors?). Maybe, you need to marry a Christian (an Anglican one) like Hank Greenberg or Yassir Arafat did to deal with pressure issues.

What did I do, blame your own, blame others, bully others, or help others? No, you look the other way when you are feeling left out.

Blair est puella. I remember that line written by my exploratory class in 8th grade. Homophobic, yeah. I wasn't for him or against but I looked away and joined in at times with those phobes with giggles and smirks. I made references to Eddie Murphy's "Delirious." Fitting in but trying to look reluctant. A girl named Amy Ross stuck up for him in math and here I was complaining about being an outsider to her and she befriended for me. But she scolded me too and said that he is going to commit suicide, if I didn't do something. I don't know what happened to him but I don't think it was all good. The taunts continued till he left as well as when he left. I looked away.

Oh, Lord Byron or was that Bharin before? My mind is so narrow.

Considering the consideration which became an ultimatum, I became Chris Evert's bitch and got out. You can tell that Vijay Merchant or Hazare! Likewise, to Wassim Raja and Bari! Because that match wasn't really that important compared to the one in Melbourne City or Wankede stadium. Yet, I didn't consider the consequences, very cafefully from that time to now and still don't. In this crease, action speaks louder than my words.


*** references from Amitabh Bachchan dialogue from Namak Hallal (1982). Not intention to be plagirized for distribution.

The Book of Ruth

I was looking at the Youtube comments of Ann Wilson from the band, Heart. The video was from 1976 showing a lean version of Ann who in recent years has become fat. She had surgery to reduce her weight. A comment mentioned about how great she looked then compared to now. Then, you had others who thinks she looks great being fat. Finally, you have others who say talent is more important than looks.

My take is this: certain women or people have a sexual charisma. It is innate. The attraction of the unknown. Remember school, where guys would fight over an ugly, skinny, girl with a washboard chest or gawk at this cafeteria worker with big frame glasses, built like Miss Piggy but quiet. I remember this guy telling me, "yeah, but she is the type you want to .....

Now, there is some good-looking women who have it. But tell me, Jennifer Lopez is the only best looking Latina with a butt in New York much less the world? Yet, everybody loved her during the late 90's and early 2000. She's had it but now has lost it. Now, ugly guys can have the charisma well into their 80's but very few women do with some exceptions. That is because they get labeled as sluts, subjected to smear campaigns, and rumors. Therefore, most women come off as uptight, rigid, and straight-laced dependento with a dorky husband.

Just because they are happily married, some don't lose or others get it while they are married. Davis Love's wife was subject of rumors for many years but it hasn't diminished her appeal. Even though, she is happily married to Davis with two kids. I'm not talking about the female who stalkers, lone-wolf predators, and other tragic stuff like. I'm talking about gatherings at vacations, parties, meetings, and etc. Who does everyone gravitate to or the one that other women are jealous of?

Example: A few years ago, I volunteered at a Public Access TV station. The show featured this lady who was VP of a power company. She was a nice, Christian lady with a family. She was in her late 30's, cute and conservative with her looks. Most guys would have been jealous. However, her positive energy got the guys to be "chipper." The television crew of me, another guy, and this couple gawked at her every word except for the steaming wife. Her husband was smiling, trying not to laugh. When VP mentioned that she had a house-husband, the wife went through the roof. She mentioned a story about another career woman with a less income husband, having affairs. LOL. The lady had it.

Women with sexual charisma come in all shapes and sizes. Back to Ann, I don't care if she is fat or not but I don't like how she got defensive with her size. She didn't need the looks because she had the charimsa. But those record companies and tabloids got to her head. Maybe if she went to a another country where they appreciate size and charisma, she would have felt better. Maybe that is the issue. Arturo!

Defining The New Wth The Old

In today's game, former players complain about bad positioning and tackling on defense in football. My inclination is always to defend the "today's player" and see the view of the past player. In researching some of the former players, I noticed they played both offense and defense from little league to high school. They were starters and stars in college on both sides of the ball. My question is: did playing offense in college helped them become better defensive players in the pros? Today's players learn either offense or defense but never both with some exceptions.

NFL legends like Dick Butkus, Jack Pardee, Ray Nitschke, Chuck Bednarik, and Lee Roy Jordan were linebackers who played offense as well from elementary school till college. Pardee and Nitschke played fullback in college while Bednarik, Butkus, and Jordan played center. With the exception of Bednarik, these players became defensive specialists in the pros which gave them advantages concerning positioning, tendency situations, and movement. For instance, is the receiver, running back, or quarterback timid, injured, or could not move to a certain area? Likewise, each player broke down the offense and reacted to the situation, accordingly. In essence, they knew when and how to make the tackle before the snap of the ball.

Due to this knowledge and ability, most linebackers in that period called their own plays with the exception of Lee Roy Jordan. When he played for the Dallas Cowboys, his defensive coach, Ernie Stautner called the plays. Stautner studied opponents offenses and tendencies from the week leading up to the game by film. Likewise, he set up a computer program on what teams did in situations on certain downs whether they ran or passed the football. But in a playoff game against the 49ers, Lee Roy saw something in the backfield in what appeared to be a running play but decided it was a pass play and set up the defense over Stautner's objections. The result was an interception to win the game.

The media of the time said, it was natural instincts and Lee Roy himself didn't know why he made that assumption. A close examination reveals that Lee Roy studied film like his coach. Yet, it was his experience as a center in college that helped him looked for tendencies and the confidence to make decisions. Considering that eleven other guys are at the line of scrimmage, Lee Roy noticed how a 49er running back kept his hand down during runs and on pass plays, lifted his fingers slightly before the snap of the ball. Hence, the decision to call pass and the ensuing interception.

The question becomes whether today's specialists would make that play or be in position to make that play? Should we expect them to do so when they are specialized to play one part of the line? I defend today's players but understand the frustration of past players. The blame should go to those who put emphasis on player specialization instead of player development which starts in elementary school through college. If it wasn't for development, yesterday's players might as well be today's players.

Observations in Coaching Interactions

My favorite part in watching a basketball game is to see how coaches communicate during timeouts. The brains of these coaches work quickly to come up with a play or an idea without them moving a single step. You see them rubbing their chin, writing on the clipboard, and hovering each other without muttering a syllable. Four types of coaching personalities that I notice: a dictator with a a messenger staff that answer to him; a star coach with a subordinates staff who know their roles; a leader who lets others shine in crucial moments; or an intense buddy system where one is looking out for the other.

Media likes to get on or talk about players who are selfish and self-centered in all sports. But I remember a quote from former coach, Al McGuire: "A team should be an extension of a coach's personality." For instance, Orlando's, Stan Van Gundy does not communicate with his assistants. He says, they follow. He does all the coaching and his staff just sit there and listen during timeouts. Yet, his team got to the finals because of his attitude in believing that he can win. However in the NBA finals, his players in close games took bad shots at crucial moments. Stan lashed out on his staff and the players but he didn't lash out on himself. To me, Van Gundy lost faith in himself. I mean, how did the players become so selfish so quickly?

On the other hand, coach Doc Rivers communicated with his assistants from the beginning of the season with the 2008 Celtics. Doc got his assistants to share the pressure of coaching throughout the season. Sometimes, they made good decisions and bad decisions. At playoff time, they reacted better and made clutch decisions at crucial times. Despite a close call in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics responded to playoff pressure because they trusted the head coach and his assistants to come up ready in all situations instead of expecting one lead coach to deal with all situations.

Phil Jackson's team's always seem to win on the teamwork concept of coaches but Phil seems to be more of a star than a leader. It reflects on the court. Michael and the Bulls. Kobe/Shaq and the Lakers. Now just Kobe. He gets the right coaches and let them do their jobs in a subordinate manner. He always seems to be wanting to make all the decisions so he can get the credit and glory. I'm bothered by Jackson's stubbornness in his losses in 2004 and in 2008 NBA finals of not trying to defend the pick n roll by going zone. I couldn't understand why his assistants didn't get him to adjust his defensive philosophy but then I realized that it was "his way or the highway" persona when it came to making adjustments. Can't argue with 10 championships under his reign.


On the other hand, winning and wins-losses are reflected on the head coach not on the assistants. Likewise if a great player is injured, it really doesn't matter. But if you don't have many star players but players who just work hard together like buddies. Jerry Sloan does a great job with his buddy system of assistant Phil Johnson in Utah. They each know what the other is thinking and react the same way. Both are very tense in every game but can keep each other in check without burning each other out. Another example is Larry Brown and his assistant coach brother, Herb of the Charlotte Bobcats. When Larry has Herb as his assistant, they have been to the NBA finals and won a championship in 2004 with Detroit. The result is players who play hard for each other with intensity.

During timeouts, I look to see how the players respond to their coach. For instance, do I see a coach exude the "I'm holier than you" or "I'm the messiah and I'll die for you" attitude when talking to players? Likewise, do players turn their heads away or feeling confused about what the coach has to say? In the next instance, do assistant coaches either step in or stay in their seats, looking at the court? Finally, do coaches communicate to each other when team is going well or when they go bad. Maybe, a little bit of both? There is no wrong way to coach but as Al McGuire said, "A team should be an extension of a coach's personality."

The Talent show

This tour was about to end with the the student talent show. It took place at the Falany Performing Arts Center. The acoustics of that place was awesome. The performers were magnificent. Unfortunately, the auditorium was not filled to capacity because there was an accident on Georgia Hwy 140 which caused traffic to be backed off and eventually, blocked off (drives had to take alternate routes). The organizers tried to wait it out, hoping traffic would improve and that people would eventually get here. But it didn't and the show started at about 7:30 p.m. from the noted 7 p.m. start.

I sat with Mr. McGarrity in the middle row upfront but he wasn't sitting in his chair for long. He was moving around and about, taking pictures up close while in action with the digital. Every time he got up, the seat would flap and flutter with that sound. Man, I thought some of the performers were going to get distracted but to their credit, they were professional. There were three judges looking in, one being my former counselor, Dr. Beth Russell. She sat in the front row.

Now the talents. You had a singing duet between the beauty girl and gawky, shy boy. It was decent and both put the effort and the work in but the girl seemed more comfortable and the guy kind of leaned toward her for support. He was too timid to look at her when they finished the song but the girl wasn't (Whats this story about the princess and the frog). Beauty girl dominated. Next was the dancing duo who performed a big band jazz tune. The MC was supposed to perform with this girl but he got hurt so he says. Eventually, another guy performed with her. I have to say this dude was awesome and fluid. He performed without thinking, spontaneously and energetically. On the other hand, dancing girl was watching her steps and tried to make sure that she didn't step on his. She didn't seem comfortable. However at the end, they finished off well.

Next you had a solo dancer and a singer. The dancer did a hop-hop routine which I thought was the best of the dance routines but unfortunately she kept looking up toward the audio booth instead of the audience. It was as if she was in a zone and didn't want to lose her groove that would derail her. She was cute too with that black outfit but didn't get much applause, though. After intermission, this female singer came in and sang "My Redeemer" which really made my feet tap. She did pitch off (her voice) here and there. However, I thought up to this point, she was the best performer because she seemed calm, looked to the audience, and performed the song well.

Piano man came. He wrote his own song but was visibly very nervous. He couldn't even hit the piano. He played "Chop Sticks" for laughs and said no, he didn't write the song. I think that act ticked the judges off. However, he played an incredible piece but I was holding my breath because it looked he was going to fall off that piano stool. He sat very awkwardly in a fetal position, bending low and his hands barely reaching the keys. It felt like an figure skating routine. He had to hit the routine perfectly or he was going to fall. When he finished, he received the most thunderous applause. Well, deserved.

The last dancer wore this costume where a mask cover one side of the eye and her cheek. Her clothes were risque and it was further enhanced by starting the routine with her back turned to the audience who gave a loud thunderous scream. She hit the routine confidently, played the audience like she was looking at everyone, and presentation was excellent. However, it was very short and kind of abrupt. You wanted more. It was kind of like that song by Shakira good but short.

When the judges presented their votes to the MC, the last dance won which drew surprise from everyone including me but remembering my experience as a judge, I wasn't surprised. Piano man's early nerves cost him but he got second. Third place to me was bull, the singing duet got it and I thought it should have been the solo-singer. But beauty did a great job and should take all the money from awkward, shy boy. It was like a doubles team of the Williams sisters at this year's U.S. Open: Serena made all the plays and Venus chipped in here and there. Mr. McGarrity thought they should have had awards from 5th place and on. I went up to "Redeemer" girl and told her that she did a great job and deserved to win. She was somewhat upset but very thankful for the compliment.

After the excitement, I took Mr. McGarrity to his car. He wondered how come they haven't put a motel in this area yet? He wanted to stay one more day but would have to go to Canton to stay at a motel and leave. He was bit frightened of being by solo at this time of the night. I was very gracious for his friendship. Without him, I wouldn't have this kinship feeling. I left town on a detour route back home. What a one day vacation, filled with warm and fuzzy memories of Reinhardt.

The Alumni Dinner

I entered paying ten dollars for this alumni dinner. It was run by the school and alumni directors. Jo Ellen Wilson was one and the other lady whose presence was known to me as Dr. something. Older skinny woman with short black hair turned grayish who could spunk up at moments. She did the MC of introducing the alumni awards and others. She also started the tour and did the student center reception by giving out drinks. There was another person who was a bit younger and ahead of the Alumni something. In short, they seemed important but this thought entered my head: "here today, gone tomorrow."

That was the vibe I felt. The dinner was inside this convocation hall in the admissions office. I remember the head of admissions, John Head who would ax workers and some even teachers during the middle of the school year. I remember a student named, Shonte Gulley was so upset in of those ax jobs by Mr. Head. What stood out for me was my first week at Reinhardt, the head of the campus police was let go for reasons unknown. Another campus police officer was fired for bringing search dogs continuously to my room for drugs without success. Man, she had all those children to feed. But let me say this, these administrators made these decisions because they thought about students first and these instructors were held to meet a certain standards for students to respect their Christian authority. With that said, her instincts were correct.

Back to the dinner, I got me a plate of chicken, vegetables, and salad with carrot cake. Of course, tea came with it, unsweetened. Sat across a couple and what appeared to be college-age school girl. They seemed nice and then older gentleman came to the table and sat right next to me. He graduated from Reinhardt in 1948. He told me stories about three jobs in college before the school President told him to work two because they would have to own him money. His name was Alvin McGarrity. He talked about being trained as a bookkeeper and a typist which served him when he later went into the navy. I believe he mentioned about working as court stenographer but I'm not sure. He was animated with alot of spunk. He had those big glasses with a brimmed mustache. He certainly didn't act his age. I felt at home talking to him.

When I was getting food on a table stack, a female alumni from 1964 or 1965 talked about how "everybody knew each other, they were in the same social class, worked while in school, and went to church together on Sunday's." My reaction was "wow, how did you get there without an interstate (it wasn't built till the late 80's) and how did you get to this place" (with admiration). She kind of was taken by surprise when another alumni from 1965, talked about two-lane roads from Marietta (I learned later you came from Ga highway 5, then Ga 140, and maybe one more highway at that time). He mentioned about going to University of Tennessee after Reinhardt. In response, I mouthed off "Richmond Flowers" and he was pleasantly surprised and the lady from '64 was shocked to submission. He asked me how did I know? I told him I watched the 1966 Gator Bowl highlights between Tennessee vs. Syracuse on YouTube. Richmond Flowers was the star player for the Vols in that football game. Everything seemed to loosen up with respect from the elders. I wasn't them but I was alumni. A former president smiled and thanked me for coming.

The award dinner was fun. Moderate intros of the winners. Lot of tears from the recipients. They put a lot heart and work into receiving this award. They thanked the school and their families. After the ceremony, a guy stood out for me. I went up to him and noticed that he was from a Georgia town where a famous ballplayer was from. As I talked to him, his wife introduced herself to me. I was taken back when I noticed a bruise on the side of her face. I don't know, maybe she fell, bruises easily due to a disease, or a bad face lift. I kind of looked away but then she got my attention and thanked me for being there. I don't like to judge since I have been judged on this day but let me tell you "here today, gone tomorrow" came to mind.

The Student Center Reception

I'm still wearing my green sweater over my dark powder blue shirt when I got to the student center. Three story building but it was for the students with table tennis, TV's, and stores with University clothing, flags, and books. Nice bathrooms. Elevators. Finally, the students on an autumn lazy day sitting on those couches watching American football. This one dude was betting on Georgia to win even though he went to Alabama. He was there because his sister went to Reinhardt and she sat across with her former roommates.

The reception took place on the bottom floor. There were sitting tables with old yearbooks of Reinhardt from the the 1946 to 1973 (the year that James Burgess served as President of Reinhardt College). Likewise, there was a HD plasma screen in front of the couches. Guess what everybody was watching: Georgia. vs. LSU football. Lot of old men with their wives. Some were former students who met their husbands on campus. I met this one guy who graduated in 1952 who became a pastor at a Lutheran church in Snellville. He graduated from a class of four in his high school in Savannah. All four went to college and graduated.

The person who stuck out with me was this lady named Ruth. Like a lot of women, you notice three names on their name tags with their class year they graduated. I forgot the maiden or middle and the last. One of the few times I didn't nose or talk to anybody. I sat in this corner with the yearbooks and letting my imagination run. Ruth then comes in and introduces herself to me which struck me as kind of odd. She looked like a school, guidance counselor who looked about 52 years old to 60 years old. No grays in her hair, face hardened a bit but no visible wrinkles but some strains, teeth look okay. You could tell she exercised because she was well-toned on her muscles with some flab disease. Then she throws a bomb, she tells me that she graduated in 1950.

I was visibly "flooored." I asked her what she did and mentioned working in corporate America and now works at charity organizations for people who are disabled. She can ask for a salary if she chooses but doesn't even though she easily moves up to head of the organization. Then she asked me what I did. I told her and she said about my job and looked at me and said, "it looks like the caregiver is going to go before the person you care for." There were a lot of pity and condemn type backbiting remarks from her as the conversation went on. I think she liked me but was angry at me. For what, I don't know. It was as if she knew me through somebody like a spy or something. I didn't want to look at her but she kept looking at me before leaving. I was amazed she could still walk with those flat top heels up those stairs. I couldn't find the 1950 yearbook but I looked for in the 1949 yearbook and she wasn't there.

That session was mostly soda's and something else. I did meet some more old folks and younger folks like in the early 1970's. My favorite photo from the yearbook was this long haired guy with his girlfriend or fiance looking at the horizon. I just hoped, that dude kept his hair. What struck me odd about this meeting, was the preacher saying that he didn't not know anybody from the reunion. If you listen to the theme, everybody knew each other and how they all gather to meet during church. There were people who graduated in 1952 but didn't hang around his circle. This info was very relevant for the next session. Stay tuned.

Reinhardt College Reunion, third part

After the Varsity meal, I decided to head out to the soccer game were the Reinhardt Eagle ladies were playing Milligan College of Tennessee (Del Harris and Sonny Smith went there). The soccer field was a long way from the athletic building. Man, it felt like India with those rock stones on the path. Likewise, you had to walk uphill above a softball field where the girls were doing hitting and fielding drills. The whole time I was believing that the game would be over because it started at 1 p.m. but it was about 3 p.m but to my surprise, the game was only in the 3rd quarter with seven minutes left.

When I got there, it was a 0-0 game but very fast moving with lots of noise from both teams and their fans. Defense was excellent but there was lot of passing and individual plays on scoring attempts. Reinhardt was wearing the whites with blue letters and numbers as well as gold stripes while Milligan was wearing orange with white numbers and letters. Both teams fans sat on metal seat risers beside each other. On the other side, both teams benches were next to each other. I was able to move freely from one group to another but didn't dare go to teams benches even when the game was over.

I ran into one guy whose daughter played and he played football at Auburn during the 60's. Man, he told stories about making you practice on those a two-a-day drills without water. On the Milligan side, you had this Indian dude who didn't where Milligan College but dressed in orange, rooting for them. What stood out for me was this girl rooting for Milligan who had an orange tank top,remnant tattoos on her back and parts of her neck. She looked an athlete that got suspened from the team so she started her weight gain. If you know Milligan College rules, one week suspension with a beer can, student or athlete.

A soccer mom from Reinhardt kept talking about this player from Milligan who wore no. 11 named Kristen Crute. You couldn't dribble past her, she was really quick. Not good offensively but on defense, she was Asante Samuel. A small girl at 5'2 lean but built like fire hydrant. You didn't want to run into her. What made it worse was that she was from Atlanta. Soccer mom's daughter was the goalie for Reinhardt. She was praying that it didn't go to a shootout. Well, it didn't. As a another Georgia girl from Marietta scored with .5 seconds in the second overtime for Milligan.

When the game was over, I went down to the softball field and watch the Reinhardt girls play. They were very annimated in their drills, throwing, hitting and cheering like it was tournament time. But by the time I got there, the girls were getting tired.They have been there for at least two hours indicated by that 36-22 score and the scoreboard operator stopped clicking because they scored some more when I got there. Then, a first baseman threw the softball to this fielder/pitching machine operator so hard, she gave a dirty look like she was going to kick her butt. On the previous play, the first baseman received a throw from the pitch-fielder and dropped it in a casual manner much to the shagrin of the pitch-fielder. It looked like a fight was going to occur but luckily the girls got back to their drills and the coaches decided to call it a day on this hot one.

Reinhardt College Reunion, second part

After that tour, I hung out during lunch with a couple named Bruce and Dell and their son. They invited me to sit with them (Thanks). We sat on picnic benches on the grass side of the athletic department after a long wait on the line for food. Bruce and Dell are Reinhardt parents who attended the tour. Their son just transferred from Andrew College. They liked the campus and the teaching from Reinhardt professors. I reinforced the same view with my perspective of students and professors in my years there.

Bruce talked about his days in Georgia Tech and how when he first got to campus, they were so many students that were smarter than him. He eventually got his degree and masters in textile engineering. I told him about the factory that my grandmother owned for a few years. It was small but a working factory.

Then he talked about India and some dude who went there or they know somebody there. As I finished finished my chili dogs and onion rings, they told me that they lived in Druid Hills area near Emory University. Don't know how they met and all but they did mention about that area being the largest area of publishing works. I think?
After that, they headed on out with Dell saying that she was going to see me later at the reunion (talent show)and Bruce nodded in agreement but first they were going to visit their son's dorm. I was going to the soccer game and stay on schedule.

Side note: Never did see Dell and Bruce or their son again.

The Reinhardt College Reunion, Part One

The Reinhardt College reunion was a fun one and it was just for one day (Oct 3, 2009 to be exact). Though every alumni is invited they have special ones for different groups of alumni. I hung around the group from 1946-1973 during the James Burgess presidency. Doesn't say I have to but I did. Truthfully, I enjoyed being around them than my own group when I went to my 10th reunion. Truth be known, I don't like to hang around one group too much. Funny thing, these old-timers didn't want to hang around each other as well because they didn't hang out with each other during their college years. Yet, they talked about how everybody knew each other and blah, blah when they went to school.

One alumni worked three jobs just to stay in school before the president told him to just work two because the school would have to owe him money. I tell you that dude can still move at 80 years old. He was jumping out of his seat and taking pictures during the talent show like a little kid jumping in front of the TV at every chance when somebody new was on stage. He said he did typing and bookeeping. I noticed his thick glasses. One thing he mentioned about a plane crash in the North Georgia mountains that occurred during the late 40's when he was a student. The plane crashed during the summer but the plane couldn't be found due to the thick forest so he and classmates went to look for it during the winter not to find the body but to collect the airplane parts.

Another alumni was this lady who said she graduated in 1950. Remember, Reinhardt was a two year college then but still this lady didn't look a day over 52 years old. No wrinkles or gray hair. Finally, this alumni became a preacher at a Lutheran church in Snellville. He went to a high school in Savannah that graduated only 4 people but they all went and graduated from college.

The reunion tour started outside (didn't rain on this water season in Georgia) with some directors and alumni presidents talking about the legacy of Dr. James Rowland Burgess. One of the legacy was these trees that he got from travels Asia, Europe and the United States. He would care for the seeds in his lab and then plant them on or in the campus area. Most of them were from the late 1940's through the 1960's with some in the 70's. There was tour guide who had a job as a horticulturist at some college or company, I'm not sure. He didn't go to Reinhardt; yet, he knew the campus like it was the back of his hand. Very talented, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic.

That tour was ardous. Walking around campus that long to spot trees and identify what each one of them are, my hip bone was hurting. I don't know how the ladies who were walking with heels, came? The weather got hot as well. The tour started around 11 a.m. and ended about 1 p.m. One thing I learned about the tour was the meticulous care of Dr. Burgess for these trees which otherwise left in the wild would have easily dissolved or gone away from disease or lack of nutrients. He kept incredible notes and files on every tree that he planted like it was his own child. He put them in areas where they could grow, mature, and age gracefully. Unbelievable, that an acorn grew up to be 60 feet high due to his care.

Likewise, he put the same care into his students by creating an environment where they can grow, mature, and age. He refused his college to be under a public system of Georgia despite large monetary offerings by the Lane family. I do believe he planted trees with nice aromas into these pathways surrounded by the street lamps so that a certain romantical effect would occur (Just my observation).

PRODUCTION FOLKS vs. GIVING FOLKS?

When I think about producing a child of great things, I look at the father of Cynthia McKinney, the disgraced former senator. A parent, mom or dad sometimes both, will induce their kids with their superiority complex in subtle ways. Most choose the Andrew "Dice" Clay model for example, put down everybody except Jews. Non-Achievers, love everyone. Funny thing about that, the best achievers are the ones who don't hate anyone: MLK, JFK, Mahatma Gandhi, and Tiger Woods. However, at least one parent with the exception MLK, were haters. Joseph Kennedy was the only anti-Semite in the group (Richard Williams has been questioned) but got along with Tony Curtis.

A few weeks back, the Charlotte at Museum of the South, Levine Center held a symposium about women in the pulpit regardless if they were Christian, Muslim, Jews, or Hindus. It ended up being about race and racism within religion due to the fact they weren't any Hindu's, Muslims, or Jews there. Likewise, they talked about living in a multi-cultural society and how it would affect the achievement of children. My observation, parent or parents use race or religious hatred to induce their child for success in life regardless of their religion or race.

Jorge Prado, a pastor from Cavalry Church in Charlotte, gave a talk about race and relgion at the syposium concerning his church. He talked growing up poor and dealing with racism in his native Brazil as well as America due to his Afro-Brazilian heritage. His original ambition was to be a lawyer but racism combined with classism gave him a new calling being a preacher. First in Brazil, later in New York and now in Charlotte, NC. The experience thought him that in order to build a society, you try to find people who fit with one another and are willing to give to one another. His belief with the production model is that you have to follow the American model of trying to be white, though in subtle ways. My confusion is: aren't you dependent on the white model to attract and survive even if you are a minority, racially or religiously?

Most folks at the symposium didn't stick around for the snacks and drinks provided by the center. The few who were there were mostly white and Catholic (one Jewish lady was there). Based on my conversations with those folks, they didn't seem to fit in with the Catholic Church though very proud of their Catholicism and how it gave them their identity. They complain about internal disorganization within their church in Charlotte. Yet when it came to race though sympathetic, they seemed to put expectations on minorities to achieve even though they didn't fit those expectations. Inducing more confusion.

After the symposium, I left to find a place to stay for the night. On the way, I noticed a baseball game going on near Central Piedmont Community College in downtown Charlotte. The game was between 15-16 year old kids, played at night with lights blaring on the infield but not so much on the outfield. One thing that stood out for me is the bad fielding, moms' agonizing over their sons' play, and conversations between fathers, scouts, and friends. The parents and fans were mostly white as well as the players with one or two minorities from each team.

In the stands, there was a guy whose car stood behind the cobble, stone seating area behind home plate. He mentioned that his car wouldn't start and asked me if I had jumper cables. I said no. He and I asked around. The ladies said no as well as some of the fathers. But one guy said he had one. With that jumper cable, my car was parked in front of his, jumper cable put in place, and his son started the car. Once the car started, I went straight to a gas station without saying a word due to my low gas tank. When I came back, the game was over and everybody left. Some things are best left unsaid.

By Davan Mani, 2009

NO LOVE FOR THE DREAM

I was reading the Atlanta Journal Constitution while doing arts & crafts at my job for folks who are physically and mentally challenged. Sports page, of course and those box score of baseball and basketball. I tried to make a box guitar out of popsicle sticks like guitar legend, Bo Didley. Working with two other fellows, I realized that the job was stacking three popsicle sticks on top of each other using glue and tape.

To prevent glue stains on the table, my boss asked me to put paper underneath the popsicle sticks. She reminds me of Barney Fife from the Andy Griffith show. LOL. Needs to be in total control but unlike Barn, competent. She is no Andy Taylor but can read tendencies of certain people. She noticed my co-worker looking at a clothing advertisement while doing the popsicle project on top of the newspaper. With my other co-worker, they got into a argument of why this project. Then, she noticed my sticks were on top of an NBA Finals box score between the Lakers and Magic. Meanwhile, my mind wandered to a match that I saw the night before on the Tennis Channel, the 1973 Wimbledon final, Chris Evert vs. Billie Jean King.

My impressions of that match was of shaky confidence from the 18 year old, Chris while the 29 year old, Billie Jean was of confidence and fight. The score ended up being 6-0, 7-5 in favor of Billie Jean. From this match and others, I usually remember more from the losing player than the winning player whether it was her behavior, a certain shot, or a failure. Since Chris lost, I remember her graciousness towards a winning Billie Jean (she held her trophy when Billie got tired holding it to the cameras), a top-spin lob over a net approaching Billie, and her drop shot over the net with Billie standing on the service line. Some points later, Billie tried to hit a drop shot and ran towards the net. Remembering the lob, Billie tried to go back but Chris hit a shot right at her feet. Finally, Chris's serve failed in the first game of the match, the first game of the second set, and in her final game.

We finished the required work of fifty-four stacks of the three-stick popsicle set though we all shook our heads of why the work. Meanwhile, my boss put a barcode sticker over the NBA box score because I was discussing to the workers how a box didn't tally up for one team's score. However, the box I was discussing was for the WNBA, Atlanta Dream, whose box score was on the next page. Their tally showed them at fifty-seven points instead of the sixty-seven points they scored against the Connecticut Sun who scored 62. Maybe, she or Aunt Bee knew. But, what did I learn?


P.S. This article is dedicated to my two nephews.


By Davan Mani, 2009

The BOUNCE OFF

When I listen to anything whether is radio, conversation, or watching news, I look for the ones who can bounce off each other, energetically. Guys seem to do this better than women in groups and some soloists but few. Women seem to just vent when put in isolation mode of many dimensions. They don't seem to be part of the whole.

For instance, if you look at the music of Jewel or Sarah McLachlin. You hear this incredible voice but you don't have that bounce off from the drummer, bassist, guitarist, or other instruments unless they are playing their respective instruments. Men solo artists are the same way. But you do have men who can bounce-off with other men in groups whether its music or movies. In movies same thing with women, great individual talent but no bounce-off. However, the exception is this movie called "The Trouble with Angels" starring Hayley Mills and Rosalind Russell about their adventures at a all-girl Catholic, boarding school.

I liked this movie due to the chemistry between actress Mills and June Harding. When the movie was filmed in 1965, June was 25 and Hayley was 19. Though very one dimensional concerning their acting, both had that kind of chemistry. Former basketball coach, Gene Shue, says that basketball is essentially a two-man game with five on a team. This theory applies to this movie. Turn off the sound, you feel the energy between the two. Even when they aren't on the scene, you see the reactions of the nuns and the girls focusing on guess who? The director made the implication that they were in for themselves and bonding was out of necessity due to fact that one was an iron-willed, leader and the other a dim-witted follower. Throughout the move, the viewer sensed that one was going to leave but when and how.

The turning point of the movie contrary to other critiques was when the girls made fun of the accent of Sister Ursula. Mother Superior chimed in and told the girls about how she kept 34 Jewish children hidden before being captured and suffering "untold indignities" in Munich during World War II. Mary didn't want to hear the information while Rachel coped with the information. However, you saw the change with Mary as she realized that there is something bigger than being naive and playful. Mary sees this the kinder side of Mother when she watches her attend the funeral for her best friend, Sister Ligouri. Finally, you see the will and determination of Rachel in making that dress when she couldn't sew a lick.

Despite the events and circumstances, the girls maintained energy like it was scene one. If they didn't have that kind of chemistry, could I believe Rachel crashing into a statue during art class, awkwardly because she was clumsy? No. She was concentrating intently on Haley to her voice. You can't make that up. Second when they are smoking cigarettes and getting into trouble, you see them clutch and help each other like sisters. Finally in the swimming pool scene where each was afraid of going in the water, they both feared, jumped, and floated the same way before reaching out to the nun without looking. "You can't fake it till you make It" when it comes to chemistry on the movie screen.

One of the scenes, you see them visit a place for older women. These women discuss being neglected by their own children during the Christmas holidays. Mother Superior makes a glance at Mary who is serving cake to these ladies. After the party and remembering the glance, Mary screams at Mother than she wants to die young and wealthy. Mary's makes her own decision when Sister Constance leaves St. Francis for a leper colony in the Philippines by her own will. At the end when Mary says she will write, you think bull but their body language says otherwise. That is where chemistry makes the script whole with the "bounce."

Karrie's Profile

1999-2001 was that period I really got into LPGA because of her. Karrie was kicking major butt.  Annika was going to disappear the way Karrie played. She won 5 majors and so many tournaments.

People in history will talk about Kathy Whitworth, Babe Didrikson, Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright, and those other American "Fargo" golfers (yes, I'm going there). Great golfers and great people but.... robotic and controlled by prejudicial forces. Louise Suggs comes to mind. Babe broke rules and norms as was hated by most white men and women for her success but she had this fear about black people growing up in Texas. Therefore, she was dependent on white "haters."

I like Grace Park, Se Ri Pak, and all those Korean golfers. The Johnny Yune type. Now, that LPGA is cracking down on them, you are starting to see them become Babe Didrikson, defensive and bigoted (who cares if you speak English or not; women regardless of culture still have to f--k the "toad" for success and acceptance and just maybe the toad will become a prince. LOL). Likewise, today's Korean golfers don't have the need to know English because they share the same "fear", work hard, and get "respect." The dependent redneck.

Karrie was different from those molds. She didn't have that societal conscience or programmed to be bleeped by "toad." I know she was close nit to her family but it didn't come across as being snobbish or putting on heirs to me. Instead, it felt sincere which is why I watched her more. When her sexual orientation and her new partner were revealed, I watched her more as well even when she was losing (Yet when Rosie Jones came out, I didn't care or look; What is the difference between her, Annika or Julie Inkster. And people complain about Ivan Lendl because he worked like a robot. LOL).

Karrie possess that special charisma. Most athletes you watch because they have a chance to win but if they lose turn the clicker. With Karrie, I would watch regardless of the score, hoping she would win. She did have an artist way about her game and her. Of course, cute with that accent and I have grown to adore that "chicken" neck too.

In short, I love Karrie Webb.