Features
Here I’ve collected links to some of my longer pieces or those published in random corners of the internet — along with new introductions. The most recent material is on top.
Las Vegas Bypass.
This updated version of my story, Las Vegas in 10 Parts, features a new ending. Available exclusively in print version.
Published in: Open City Literary Magazine // #26 // Winter 2008-2009
Rebound Relationship.
In this short piece I offer 5 pieces of advice for Sonics fans who are considering hopping on the Portland Trail Blazers’ bandwagon, comparing the plight of Seattlites to that of the memorable sap in Swingers.
Published in: Portland Monthly // October 2008
Vegas In 10 Parts.
Las Vegas: land of opportunity?
In this 10 part piece, I describe the 2008 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas by contrasting 3 stories: the on-court success of the Portland Trail Blazers, the history of the Hoover Dam, and a real-time account of a street corner narcotics arrest. A central theme is the relationship between history and opportunity. This is the first piece in which I look to actively incorporate elements of “New Journalism” into my online sportswriting.
Published on: Hardwood Paroxysm // 08.18.08
Praise: “A few weeks back, Ben Golliver and I engaged in a long discussion about the relationship between blogging and New Journalism. I was skeptical and said the same shit I always do. He had a vision. Now, Ben’s brought it to fruition, and I feel like a moron for having ever doubted him. This is some calling card shit right here.”
~ Nathaniel Friedman, Slam Magazine, Sporting News, FreeDarko.com
Daddy Gaddy.
Abdul Gaddy: The Future
At a Nike AAU tournament, I had the pleasure of meeting the father of highly-recruited basketball prospect, Abdul Gaddy.
In this short essay, I watch a father watching his son, the basketball star. I imagine the pressure and difficulties of dealing with impending stardom. I try to capture the pride the man has for his son’s abilities and the bond that develops between families within the upper echelons of competitive youth basketball.
Published on: Blazers Edge // 08.11.08
Praise: “You will never see a more involved blog post focused on high-school phenom Abdul Gaddy’s father.”
~ Henry Abbott, ESPN.com.
It’s Time to Move On
This piece was subtitled, “A Response to Kerry Eggers’ Unprovoked Attack on Bloggers,” and it disputes stereotypes of bloggers that have been put forth recently in the mainstream media.
Published on: Blazers Edge // 07.06.08
Praise:
“Freakishly in-depth… incredibly talented.”
~ Ezra Caraeff, Portland Mercury.
“With the surgeon-like precision of Fire Joe Morgan… Beautiful stuff.”
“The [media] veterans with all the training and credibility act illogically, even hysterically, and based on evidence that largely falls apart upon examination. The most sober and logical responses, supported with actual evidence tend to come from the bloggers.”
~ Henry Abbott, ESPN.com.
Gunnin’ For That #1 Spot Review
A lengthy review of a slept-on basketball documentary, Gunnin’ For That #1 Spot, which follows top high school basketball prospects as they work the AAU all-star circuit and prepare to head off to college.
Published on: Blazers Edge // 06.29.08
The Advantage of Playing White
I am a chess nerd. I love the game. I have had dreams where I’m a bishop and I can only do everyday things — like crossing a street — by moving diagonally. In this piece, I compare preparing for the NBA draft to chess, arguing that seizing the initiative is of utmost importance.
Published on: Blazers Edge // 06.24.08
The Best Thing In The World
The Oregonian’s Ryan White ran a summer-long bracket-style tournament to determine “The Best Thing In The World.” In this piece, I guest post for 2 of the matchups in his “Sweet 16.” The two match-ups: “Bacon” vs. “Free Beer” and “The first kickoff of the season” vs. “Having nothing to do… at all.” So, yeah, not exactly rocket science here.
Published on: Oregonlive’s Tailgate Blog // July 14, 2008
Ms. Nared vs. The Hoop
In a story that made national headlines, Beaverton’s Jaime Nared was not allowed to play in a boy’s league at The Hoop, a private basketball gym. In this piece, I encourage Ms. Nared (and especially her parents) to see the bigger picture: playing against older, more talented female players is better than playing against boys her age.
Published on: Blazers Edge // 05.29.08
Nate McMillan: Stay or Go.
In this 2007-2008 season summary piece, I look at Portland Trail Blazers Coach Nate McMillan’s ability to do what coaches do: manage personalities, develop players, and handle a rotation.
Published on: Oregonlive.com Blazers Blog // May 6, 2008
ESPN does a good thing: A review of “Black Magic”
Black Magic, a documentary about the integration of college and professional basketball, was one of this year’s best films. Here I review the movie, produced by ESPN, complimenting its civility and class,
Published on: Blazers Edge // 03.17.08
