If you are a hoops fan, New York basketball junkie and are in the mood to cry tonight, watch the Chris Mullin Hall of Fame Induction Speech tonight! Reports suggest that Mullin(out of Flatlands ,Brooklyn,St. Johns) will have 100's of supporters there. Not a dry eye, I guarantee it.
What a story, what a man. Of course Mullin is remembered as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. Savy, great passer,could shoot with either hand and had amazing court sense. Lou Carnesecca, his long-time mentor, college coach and friend said," imagine how great he would be if he could run and jump" . Selected to the dream team in 1992 with Jordan, Barkley, Ewing and Company. In one of his best years he averaged 26.5 points and more than 5 rebounds and 5 assists per game. Got to an NBA final. Never won one though. Became a well-respected GM and now ESPN analyst.
But that's the story we all know. What you don't know or may not remember is that in 1987 while playing for Golden State , Don Nelson ,his coach, pulled him aside and told him that he had to confront the fact that he was an alcoholic. Mullins' dad was a recovering alcoholic. Nelson made Mullins call his parents right on the spot and tell them about his problem. He did. Chris' dad said "listen to your coach". He did so , checked into a 30 day rehab and has been sober ever since . The rest is history!
So tonight , if you have 45 minutes to spare, you will be in for a treat listening first to Carnesecca and then Mullin in Brooklyn's finest accent humbly thanking everyone along the way that made it possible.I can't wait!
That's what life is all about, isn't it?
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