You Fixin to Hoop?

Those of you who know me in the least bit are well aware of my love for playing pickup basketball. I decided that even IM/tournament hoops fall short of the grandeur of the open play. I conceded long ago that I would have and would've had more time for many things, namely studying, if I didn't spend an average of 3 hours a day playing ball.

That is not the case so much anymore, but no longer do I feel like that time spent was me indulging a hobby of sorts. It has proven to be a valuable social asset. From basketball I have met and and nourished many friendships that have lasted by sheer virtue of a shared experience.

I didn't play much in high school, but as soon as I was allowed access to GRE I couldn't keep myself away-- before and after classes, at night, and shoot-around sessions in the mornings.

I've grown closer with friends I already had and met and met countless others I've recognized everywhere--downtown austin, the capitol, houston, vegas...

This was all fun but now it has started to become more useful academically and professionally. As I embark on this journey into law school, I have encountered a veritable network of fatefully placed hardwood companions before and beside me. At the Ellis Minority Admitted Students' reception, I saw my fellow player Ed Gardea--I've also played quite a bit with his father. I also saw Rep. Armando Walle who immediately started talking about playing ball. Love it.

I've known a few players who happened to be in law school... Derek __?__ who now works at the Federal Courthouse and 3L tall guy who talked to me during admitted students day-- should've got his name...but then again, the common experience really is what defines the "relationship". I'm sure I'll play with him again.

I hope I am able to share that interest with many more people, and know them increasingly outside of the court.

Thanks to all of you who play, keep it alive.