The driver also informed us that New Orleans had a very bad land shortage before the hurricane. He showed us big open lots by the river that were totally demolished. He proceeded to tell us that everywhere we saw open land, that a house or building used to be there. We pulled into a huge empty lot where you could see left over foundations where buildings used to stand. The driver then told us that those were the foundations of the homes that someone once lived in. When he said that, it really hit me hard and it is almost impossible to comprehend. That was the story for the most part of the city. It was just totally heart-breaking to see but definitely something that I am glad I experienced. I felt like the hurricane had just passed a couple of months ago because it looked as though nothing had been done to help. This is an American city that is still suffering from a hurricane a couple years ago and will be rebuilding for a long time.

Now, my season is over and I will finish out the last month of classes as an almost regular student. No more practice or games this year. It hasn’t really sunk in yet but I am sure it will soon. What’s done is done and you can’t go back. The important thing is to make sure you do not leave room for “what ifs”. Live in the now and live up every second of life and make sure you lay it all on the line. Remember the important things in life like family, friends and the fact that you are alive and kicking. Basketball can take you far in some situations but this game that we have such passion for is indeed, just a game.

On a side note, “Mr. Wildcat,” Bill Keightly, passed away recently from an undiagnosed tumor on the spine. He has been the University of Kentucky’s men’s basketball manager for years and years and I had the pleasure of meeting him last year at the Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame banquet. He always made you laugh and he was known for his sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who had a chance to be in his life and I know he will be greatly missed.

Until next time, stay cool and keep ballin’ ya’ll!

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