When the Milwaukie Bucks decided not to play it was very personal for me. Not just because I am Black, and an NBA fan; but because over 60 years ago the choice was made for my Grandpa to not play for the Bucks, because he was Black (thread). #WholeNewGame

My paternal grandfather Eural McKelvy (spelling story for another day) was one of the best athletes in California. He was a 2 sport athlete and was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals. But he loved Basketball. He played for the Harlem Globetrotters for years.

As many Basketball fans know, the Globetrotters were often better players than those in the NBA. They played with flare and skill, sometimes schrimaging against college or NBA teams. You can read more of his legacy here: https://www.facebook.com/938823612809055/posts/957174707640612/?extid=4ecsG4zQEkt8Zwgn&d=n

He was so good that he was credited in @RealBillRussell’s biography as teaching him to rebound. Yes, that Bill Russell!

Well, at some point in his journey he followed his passion and tried out for NBA teams. And despite Black players still struggling to be accepted he made it! You can imagine with his journey how happy he was.

Well soon he was told that despite having the skill, the team was not ready for a Black player. So just like the Bucks today, this Black player didn’t play. But this time it was us making the decision. This time it was us taking our power back. I can’t help but feel him smile.

I never knew my grandfather. But his legacy always lived through my family. We still go to Harlem Globetrotter games whenever they come to town. All of my brothers played ball in college. The court at my dads house says “Mac” on it. Named for him. His legacy is with me.

We are a family of Basketball. Over 60 years ago my Black Grandfather was told he can’t play for the NBA because he was Black. Now the NBA players are saying they won’t play because they are Black and things need to change, and it feels good.

Anyways, we are good. He had a very successful career in sports. But he never got to play in the NBA so this is a cool moment.

Lastly, Blazers in 7. #RIPCITY