To read the tribute to SFC Marcus Muralles, please click here
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Almost Makes Me Want to Watch Basketball
There's a young man with his head on his shoulders. I wish him all the best in his new career, and I pray he has a good (IOW, not a sheister) financial advisor.As competitors from around the country took turns exposing Mr. (Marvin) Williams' (selected No. 2 overall in last month's NBA draft- ed) virtual shortcomings, the soft-spoken 19-year-old demonstrated restraint beyond his years. "Golly," he finally blurted after someone named Dominique in Arizona scored for the umpteenth time. Several ensuing outbursts proved no more objectionable.
Mr. Williams' "yes sir, no sir" respect in addressing reporters confirmed an uncommon discipline neatly folded within his personality. More than mere country manners, this public display was intentional. "Somebody's always going to be looking at you, so you can always affect somebody's life whether it's just being nice to somebody or helping somebody out," he told WORLD.
Since dominating local courts in the small naval town of Bremerton, Wash., Mr. Williams has understood his power to influence. While helping the University of North Carolina Tar Heels claim a national championship this past March, he joined several teammates in offering regular pre-game prayers. Millions of dollars later, nothing seems to have changed. "God blesses us all everyday," Mr. Williams said. "Without Him, none of this would be possible, so you've definitely got to give Him the glory."
