16/03 – ‘Black Magic’ is all about history

BT - March 16, 2008

16/03 – ‘Black Magic’ is all about history
Almost every sports fan has heard that Wilt Chamberlain once scored 100 points in a game for the Philadelphia Warriors. It happened against the New York Knickerbockers in Hershey, Pa. in 1962. But it takes a very special fan to know that Richard “Pee Wee” Kirkland – a streetballer with Hampton Roads ties — not only scored 100 points, but followed it up with a 135-point scoring barrage in 1974 that some argue might be the greatest feat in sports history. ..read more..

29/01 – From American gangster to crossover legend

BT - January 29, 2008

29/01 – From American gangster to crossover legend
He’s been compared to NBA legends Tiny Archibald and Julius Erving, but he was probably more akin to “American Gangsters” characters Frank Lucas and “Mr. Untouchable” Nicky Barnes. The rap group Clipse put it best in their 2002 smash, “Grindin’” (still their top song on iTunes): From ghetto to ghetto, to backyard to yard I sell it whip on whip, ..read more..

03/01 – Pee Wee Kirkland – Legal Tender

BT - January 3, 2007

19/07 – The Rucker (Movie)

BT - July 19, 2005

19/07 – The Rucker (Movie)
All street basketball players dream of making the pros, of flashing their baddest moves in front of the cameras and wowing millions of viewers the same way they impress their playground fans. But for every player who makes it, countless others fall short and watch their dreams rattle off the rim. ..read more..

27/09 – Asphalt Gods : History of the Rucker Tournament

BT - September 27, 2004

27/09 – Asphalt Gods : History of the Rucker Tournament
The real basketball deal–the inside story of Harlem’s legendary tournament and the pros and playground legends who have made it world famous. Earl “The Goat” Manigault. Herman “Helicopter” Knowings. Joe “The Destroyer” Hammond. Richard “Pee Wee” Kirkland. These and dozens of other colorfully nicknamed men are the “Asphalt Gods,” ..read more..