I've just come across this amazing story about a guy returning to play junior college ball at the age of 73. Previously, Setshot has reported on a 52 year-old college player and a 50 year-old WNBA player, but this guy's story seems patently absurd. Ken Mink last played organized college basketball in 1956. Now a semi-retired journalist, he's somehow made the team at Roane State Community College in Tennessee.There is video of Mink practicing with the team here and here. While the whole thing seems kinda gimmicky, and it's clear from the video that Mink is not really on the same level as his juco teammates, you've got to admire the guy's moxie. The Roane State coach says he hopes to get Mink some minutes during garbage time in blowouts. Setshot will be eagerly awaiting those YouTube clips.
A fantastic quote from the coach: "Our weakness last year was experience; I think I've taken care of that.''
The best part of the video is near the end, when Mink's teammates ask him to come to a party. The coach discourages it because, he claims, Mink will need to stay in top condition to continue practicing and playing. And then Mink calls his wife to ask if he can go, and she says no. In response, the coach praises Mink's "support system at home." I love that:
a. He is asked to go to the party.
b. He wants to go to the party.
c. His coach does not want him to go to the party.
d. His wife does not want him to go to the party.
e. He apparently needs a "support system" to keep him from making reckless decisions.
**UPDATE 11/4/08: Mink scored 2 points in his first game! Video here.**
1 comment:
What a wonderful story! The guy is an inspiration to us aging ballers. I'm creeping up on 40 and starting to detect the inevitable slide in my skills and often ponder what my athletic future holds. I love basketball so much and want to remain competitive. Reading stories like this just fill me with awe and hope. Your site does too. Keep up the good work!
Post a Comment