White Men Can Jump (Into the HOF)

     Months ago, this year's batch of Hall of Fame nominees was embroiled in a controversy, as former Indian Pacer Reggie Miller, who was made eligible this year, was completely snubbed.  While hundreds have expressed their anger and want to disregard this year's batch, I'm not.  This year's batch is especially significant as my basketball hero, Chris Mullin is an inductee.

Mullin with his HOF Jersey

     Usually, NBA players who make the "Hall" are household names, especially in basketball-crazy lands like the Philippines.  Mullin may not be.  He lacked the speed and athleticism usually possessed by the greats, but he achieved his greatness through hardwork, skill, determination and IQ.  That, of course, doesn't translate to much popularity and that's perfectly understandable but still perfectly unacceptable.


     If you want to go by numbers, the man's got them.  In sterling 16 year career, the St. John's All American averaged an astonishing line, including 18.2 points, 4 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.5 steals.  Look deeper into the numbers and you will see his greatness further.  In a five season stretch during his prime (1988-93), Mullin averaged 25.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4 assists and 1.6 steals per game.  What makes those numbers even more impressive is that he did all that while shooting 52% from the field, which is astounding for any player, let alone an outside shooter.  Those numbers are actually better than Joe Johnson's and Paul Pierce's numbers for the past 5 years, and even Dirk Nowitzki's numbers, save for the rebounds. 


     The Wooden Award recipient is also a winner.  As an amateur, Chris was a 3-time All American, USBWA College Player of the Year and he is the all time leading scorer of St. John's.  Apart from his college conquests, Mullin is also a two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner, teaming up with Michael Jordan both times as amateurs in 1984 and as members of the famed Dream Team 1 in 1992.  As a pro, he was also named to the All Star Game 5 times and the All NBA 1st Team once. 

Mullin playing for USA in 1992

    
 For all his great numbers, though, his greatness lies in something that cannot be counted.  Early in his career, Mullin lost his way, falling into bad habits and alcoholism, forcing the Warriors to suspend him.   Mullin then checked himself into an alcohol rehabilitation center and slowly got back in shape.  When he finally re-emerged, Mullin became the player everyone thought he could be.  That began his five year stretch mentioned earlier, making Mullin the only Warriors player to achieve those numbers other than Wilt Chamberlain.  When he finally re-emerged, Mullin became the standard by which players measure dedication.  He made practice a vocation, which included the rumored 1000 free throws and 500 3 point shots every time.  So impressive was his dedication that two of his former teammates, Mario Elie and former PBA import Vincent Askew, soon wore the number 17 to honor him.


     As the story of Reggie Miller's snub and Dennis Rodman's unlikely induction dominate the media stories surrounding this year's Hall of Fame ceremonies, From the 50 Peso Seats writes only for Chris Mullin.  Way to go Mully. It's about time you join your place among the greats.  Make sure the Hall of Famers sign up for your shooting classes.