Who did you play sports against in those younger days?

[Bocabirdman]

Originally Posted by tombocombo

Summer League playoff game, much to my dismay I'm to guard Eric Fernsten. Talked with Eric before the game, told him I would go for any clean plays I could see. Basically agreed not to hack him. Yes we lost, although went pretty good. After the game he said he was pleased with the sportsmanship, and invited myself and my girlfriend to a party at his house. Was hesitant at first and went for it. Upon arrival we were to meet about five Celtics, and Bruins players. Apparently they had rented a house as a group in Winchester Ma. Stayed in touch with Eric for a few years, and negotiated my own contract lol. Basically caretaker of the house. Was bitter sweet experience as I realized how much separation there was from a pro to myself on that day. Played against a lot of talent, but that was my only direct match-up. Patrick Ewing is playing pick up and leaves the court as i had next game! so disappointing. He was playing for Cambridge Rindge and Latin, I was playing for North Cambridge Catholic. Trust me the guy is huge!
One super talented shows up one day. He was hands down the best ball handler, and passer. So i ask "Who do you play for?" He laughs and says "Croatian National team" Those were all in Boston. So many games in LA at Venice Beach, was just another level.

I can vouch for Patrick Ewing being enormous. I played against him about the same time. He wasn't quite 7 foot then, perhaps 6'10", but damn.... I even covered him for a quarter and a half until I fouled out. Our center broke one of his fingers attempting to stop Patrick on a power move to the hoop. I was 6'2" but was a strong leaper with longer arms than most guys my height. Our coach had no other alternative. I held my own, pissing him off with a clean blocked shot. I scored twice. One was a put back. The other was a spin back to the inside where I used the rim to prevent him blocking my shot. His team beat ours by double digits but it wasn't really that close.

I also played hoops against both Flutie brothers and a couple of Celtics. I ran Cross Country against Alberto Salazar.

Mark Fidrych struck me out three times in one game. I think he struck out 14 or 15 of us. I did hit a loud foul ball that came close to staying fair for extra bases. Funny, as the years pass, that foul ball grows louder and closer to the chalk.....