Connecting with One of the All-Time Greats

I recently participated in a great event. The Joe Morgan Golf Tournament raises money for education for local Bay Area youth.

Along with Joe Morgan, Bill Russell funds scholarships for Oakland youth who would not otherwise be able to attend college. Higher education for all kids is one of Bill Russell’s missions in life. He is one of the few “celebrities” who makes such a difference in the lives of people who really need support.

I was able to talk with Bill for a long time, and I must say, I am more and more in awe of him. He shared much of his history with me including some of his time at USF and the challenges facing him in that era.

I am thrilled my team got to meet him last spring and hear about his struggles, and learn from his life. Without him, we do not have the wonderful winning history at USF.

He shared with me about learning the rules of basketball as a young boy and there was no rule for not blocking shots, so he said he started to do it (very successfully!!). He mentioned it was such a new skill there was no stat for blocked shots!

He told me he loves to watch women’s basketball and appreciates our game for our fundamental skills. He is a huge fan of the WNBA’s Seattle Storm and can be seen regularly at their games.

I could go on and on...I am so grateful to be able to connect with Bill and learn so much.

Helping Make the World a Better Place

What an honor for me and my players to speak with Bill Russell! We share his passion for education and his love for basketball. We were in awe as Mr. Russell spoke about the problems facing the Oakland community (namely, education and violence) and how he was going to lead the way towards a better community.

I have never seen a "celebrity" with that much passion and conviction to help make the world a better place for all. I am thrilled my team was able to have such a real world education last night.

Additionally, they were able to listen to legendary athletes talk about the problems facing the Oakland community and how we all need to join forces to help raise graduation rates and stop violence. Proceeds from the dinner help support The George P. Scotlan Youth and Family Center: http://scotlancenter.org/

 Oakland mayor Jean Quan

 Baseball great Vida Blue

 Former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown