I love basketball. I really was fortunate to be able to play in youth and adult Recreation Leagues all during to 70's. I would spend Saturday afternoons at either Zane, Winship or Jacobs challenging in for a chance to play. Or I would be outdoors facing up against the dreaded Victor Boutan who would wipe the asphalt on the short baskets at Marshall Elementary. I was on the courts at Lafayette most other time that I was off school or work. I worked at Duck's Market off and on from 72' to 75' and then at Bazar until they closed. I could shoot pretty well and held my own for the most part. But who were the best players I saw during that time? When I was at St Bernard's I would say that Zach Barnes was really a notch above as was Gary Mendenhall. Jim Berning from Eureka was the best shot blocker by miles. Ron Webb was smooth and Don Snowton was forceful. Tim Ison was probably the best shooter. Frank Powers from Arcata was almost mythical with his height. Mark and Matt Nilsen were a great brother duo. Bill Lund from Del Norte was the best near the border.
The one player that was almost legend when he played at Eureka was Simon Abittan. Had a nice little baseline 10ft jumper and not intimidated with the moment.
It seems like a blur after all of these years. I can'r remember too many others. Was the 70's just a lean time for players?
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