The new movie out, "Glory Road, about an southern basketball team in the 1960's with the first all-black starting lineup really brings things into perspective in modern times. Today, student-athletes have too many luxuries like wearing expensive tennis shoes rather than worn-out second hand sneakers that always smell of another person's feet. They also receive extra incentives such as stipends for signing on to play basketball for a university (Yeah, like $500 "walking around" money for the week and other secret gifts). The movie goes to show just how much times have changed.
It used to be if college athletes cursed out an authority figure or caused disruption on campus (protest or assembly) they'd get in big trouble, now players are found guilty of sexual abuse, drug use, illegal possession of firearms, and murder. Quite a stretch from the 60's, huh? I have yet to see "Glory Road", but I know it focuses on a team breaking the color barrier and starting a trend in college sports, to pave the way for all black athletes to play organized ball. The story relives an event that touches close to home with many people who lived in that era.
A tradition of white supremacy was broken in a time period where schools remained segregated. The competition of not only basketball, but all sports expanded shortly later. "Glory Road" reflects on how having talent and desire can overcome the rules of a society. No can stand in a person's way if they believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. I can't wait to see this movie, it's sure to be a real classic.
Monday, January 23, 2006
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