Dawkins, a man-child who signed with the 76er's out of high school, died yesterday at age 58. He was one of the first players I ever saw who saw basketball as being fun rather than a job. I've often wondered what heights he could have reached if he had just taken the game more seriously. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, fans, and the many kids that he coached over the years. You'll be missed, Chocolate Thunder from the Planet Lovetron.

58 is way too young.  RIP Big Man.

...like "The-Chocolate-Thunder-Flying, Glass-Flying, Robinzine-Crying, Babies-Crying, Glass-Still-Flying, Cats-Crying, Rump-Roasting, Bun-Toasting, Thank You, Wham-Bam-I-Am-Jam."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtJawsitMsA

"Robinzine-crying" refers to Bill Robinzine (no. 52 in white, Dawkins 53 in red) who was under the basket when it shattered.  His story is quite sad as well:

http://www.nytimes.com/1982/10/18/sports/the-mystery-of-the-life-and-death-of-an-athlete.html?pagewanted=2

-- Modified on 8/30/2015 1:01:57 AM