Ron Haraka: New York, New York
Having grown up in North Jersey, and attending Seton Hall Prep, one of the strongest high school basketball powerhouses out there, I’ve grown to appreciate all aspects of this game, especially New York style ball.
And that’s what’s great about the game, it can be played so many ways. We have the Big Ten flow of defense first, and slow methodical offenses. There’s the Princeton offense, Euro style, and geniuses running 2-3 zones that make opposing teams rip their headbands off. But nothing’s better, nothing’s realer, than the New York street ball style of tough, athletic, and passionate hooping. No matter how the game is played, however, it’s a team sport, and it’s beautiful.
Next time you’re at a basketball game (at any level), I implore you to shut your eyes for a few minutes. Take in the sounds of the game: the squeaking sneakers, the ball tickling the twine, the crowd in an uproar, the players jawing, coaches screaming, and tell me that wasn’t one of the most fulfilling experiences you’ve ever had in your life.
And this:
Ball on.
