John Stockton - HOF Speech

While the weekend basketball buzz is all about Michael Jordan being inducted to the Basketball Hall Of Fame in the USA, here is the greatest Zag of all-time being inducted.

Below is John Stockton's speech that he made during the HOF ceremony.

True to his word, his brother Steve was/is a baller.

I was introduced to both the Stockton boys when I was fresh faced and new to the Gonzaga campus.

Sure I knew who John Stockton was, and I could not wait to get onto the floor to kick his ass but I was more interested to find out where his brother played.

Steve was blessed with a mirror image game of his brother's, right down to the trademark one hand pass. I guess he passed a few of his tips onto his younger brother in those drive way battles.

I remember asking the question one day at an open gym session,"What country does Steve play in?", thinking he at least played overseas.

He had never played pro ball in his life.

Back to HOF Stockton. He was the ultimate professional and I guess I can say by seeing him go about his business on a day to day basis, it helped me realize what dedication is required if I wanted to become a successful pro.

He would lift weights, then work out individually then return in the afternoon to scrimmage against the college guys.

Now scrimmaging against him was fun. It was a buzz to be on his team, but a great challenge to play against him. You certainly cherished a win on the odd day when you would catch him off guard.

I have to say though, I did question his scorekeeping abilities on more than one occasion but that's what made it fun.

Congratulations to John Stockton and his family. Quite an achievement, but no one deserves it more than you.