NBA Aspirations from a Childhood Inspiration

Many know the story of a young basketball start hailing from Texas, but few know about the character of the young man off the court. Katz unpacks the story behind MT’s playing style and reasoning behind donning the number 52 his freshman year at the University of Texas.

It was a childhood friend by the name of Habram Rosario that played basketball with an ethic that made Turner reevaluate the way he took to the floor. Their friendship developed in the fifth grade and was a mainstay until his 9th grade season. Rosario had been diagnosed with Leukemia and his condition worsened over the years. When asked about his dear friend’s passing, he recalled:

“I hated that it had to happen to such a good person,” said Turner. “When I heard the news that he had passed, it was almost unreal. I didn’t believe it at first. I knew he was sick, and I knew people were talking about it a lot, and I had just visited him a couple of days before it happened in the hospital. The best thing I can do is say, I remember him by honoring him.”

While some may have turned away from basketball, Myles was inspired to reinvent his game and to finish his junior high season winning the district championship as tribute to the friend he had lost.

In addition to his on the court presence, Katz discussed the unique things about Myles. Everything from his criticisms as a lottery pick, his unique shoe sizing, and the bond of the Turner family that keep him grounded during his transition to the professional athlete lifestyle.

To read the article: http://www.foxsports.com/nba/story/indiana-pacers-myles-turner-childhood-friend-death-leukemia-rick-barnes-texas-size-21-18-shoes-too-big-102815