Need a beginning

Fri, Jul 4 01:35 AM

ONE IS a basketball player of the past, who has played with the likes of Michael Jordan, while the other is as popular today for his amazing long rangers as for his good looks. Both are in India now, to serve a common purpose - 'get more people interested in this game so that one day an Indian player will also play in the NBA.' Meet Dominique Wilkins and Kyle Korver.

It has come as a pleasant surprise to most Indian sports lovers that the NBA and FIBA (Federation of International basketball Association) picked New Delhi as the first Asian city to promote their programme 'Basketball without Borders.' "We understand that basketball is not popular in India, and it's going to be difficult to popularise this sport.

Likewise even in China, basketball was not so popular, but now we have two hoopsters, Wang Zhizhi and Yao Ming from China in the NBA," says Wilkins, who played for Atlanta Hawks. "It's a gradual process.

It will take time but there has to be a beginning. There is always a first time and unless we sow the seeds, we can't expect the results," adds Wilkins.

But will India's lack of good infrastructure curtail this ambitious project? "Absolutely not", said Korver. "I didn't start playing in good, polished courts.

I come from a small place in Iowa and I remember playing on the streets and backyard of my house. It's the passion and that fact that you enjoy it," says Utah Jazz's Korver.

Korver, who is often called 'Justin Timberlake' owing to his blond locks and good looks, says he owes his disciplined life to the game. "More than enjoying the game, I learnt about life, discipline and work ethics by playing basketball.

One should get into this game only if one feels deeply for it and not just for money and fame." Does that mean Indians are lacking passion for this game? "Probably.

But the passion will come only when they see stars and someone making it big in this game. Like I grew up watching Wilkins," says Korver.

Perhaps, but Wilkins does not rule out the market dynamics too. "Merchandising is a major part of any sport.

No one can ignore the market today," says Wilkins. Their message to Indian hoopsters? "Indians labour under some weird myths, like lack of height and bad infrastructure are obstacles in making a career in basketball.

We remember playing with some short players and they were good. All you need is that drive and a bit of hard work, and no one can stop you.

" Indian connection NBA legend Wilkins has an Indian connection. His nephew, Ramesh Ouslay, is an Indian.

Wilkins sister, Wander Ouslay adopted Ramesh at the age of four from an orphanage in New Delhi. "Ramesh is now ten.

He is also learning basketball. I train him whenever I get time.

I do hope that he takes it seriously. However, he is an intelligent child and I see him into other things," says Wilkins.

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