There are a lot of authors in the world, so it's difficult to find a unique niche to present your take on things. That is always a challenge for any author.

All the courage and competitiveness of Jackie Robinson affects me to this day. If I patterned my life after anyone it was him, not because he was the first black baseball player in the majors but because he was a hero.

If they took the idea that they could escape poverty through education, I think it would make a more basic and long-lasting change in the way things happen. What we need are positive, realistic goals and the willingness to work. Hard work and practical goals.

I was getting hot flashes and sweats on a regular basis. That's not normal, even for my age.

OK, I'll put it like this: I doubt if we will see another All-American basketball athlete who is a Rhodes Scholar.

It's hard for young players to see the big picture. They just see three or four years down the road.

If not shown appreciation, it gets to you.