“Regardless of whether you’re a coach, player, statistician, or simply someone pouring cool cups of water – know that you’re a part of something much bigger than basketball. The spirit of ‘The Blueprint’ will forever be present in our hearts.”
Coach Chimmi of Team Hakuna Matata
Death Row b-ball is far more than a mere prison
activity. It’s a movement that boosts
the morale of men, ostracized by society.
Coach Chimmi – the sideline boss for Team Hakuna Matata – is a longtimer
who’s more than familiar with life on the row, before and after our annual
festivities came into existence.
“Having a b-ball
tournament for the row was the vision of Earl J. Richmond (The Blueprint). He worked tirelessly to make it a reality –
not for himself, but for us. In many
ways, we share the responsibility of keeping the torch burning. This is why it’s important – in spite of age,
injuries, or skill set – that we consciously strive to make every tournament
the very best possible.”
This season is probably the strongest core of coaches we’ve
had on the sidelines, from game to game.
With his team tied for first place, at 4-2, Coach Chimmi knows exactly
what separates his coaching prowess from any other, on the opposing sideline. “The
other coaches in this league are all fierce competitors. As for myself, I bring my personality to the
sideline. What I bring has a more
profound meaning than just coaching.
It’s about bringing my contribution to further the legacy of our brother,
The Blueprint.”
When the coach speaks of legacy, it hits me like the mesmerizing
sounds of a Kendrick Lamar track; you can’t kill this vibe. Ya heard?
“Earl J. Richmond is
sadly gone, but not forgotten. The man
loved this game. Today, we are able to
enjoy the fruits of his hoop dreams, and I know he wouldn’t have it any other
way.”
Personally, I could talk about “The Blueprint” and the content
of his character all bay, but the coach and I took a mutual turn back to the
present, when I asked him to discuss his M.V.P. candidate, E-Smoove, and the
team dynamics of Hakuna Matata. “The key is to remain focused as a
team. No doubt about it, E-Smoove is all
business. I think this is the best start
he’s ever had in the tournament. This
year’s difference? He has openly
embraced his role as a leader. He wants
the responsibility, and that has been exhibited by his performance thus far.”
The intensity level of this rap session begins to increase
when the coach tightens his fists to pound his legs for emphasis. His emotional connection to his squad is more
than evident. “E-SMoove is playing with an unseen level of confidence that is
bone-chilling scary. He’s a freakishly
talented player that can dominate an opponent as he damn well chooses. But at the end of the day; he knows what I
expect from him as a player, and I know what he expects of me as a coach. The M.V.P. conversations are always fun, but
it’s an individual award that means nothing to us as a team.”
The coach catches his breath, and wipes the sweat from his
brow, before continuing. “Together, Hakuna Matata recognizes
individual accomplishment; we don’t celebrate individuality. Our Lil’ Giant, Frost, has been amazing. He can score from anywhere on the court. His rocket speed and tenacious defense are
unmatched. The kid has a big heart, and
he brings it every game. And our
best-kept secret El Toro, has been fantastic.
Playing with poise and confidence, he’s a much welcomed addition to the
team fold.”
Raising his right fist, the coach appears to be seeking
strength from an unseen force, before giving his final thought. “Effective
immediately: The bull has been turned loose in the China chop (a reference to
his handy big man, El Toro). Success
only comes with sacrifice.”
Once again, the heartbeat of the row continues to flow. I’d like to give a special shout out to our
viewers in Nairobi, Kenya. Asante sana
for your viewership. The motto continues
to burn. Word is bond!!
This session is now closed.
I’ll see you at the table.
100,
ManofStat
Copyright © 2013 by Leroy Elwood Mann
