Morris helps Star beat Tijuana

November 23, 2004 - American Basketball Association (ABA)
Los Angeles Aftershock News Release


The Silent Word Deaf Ministry

Los Angeles, CA. "With only 30 secs remaining in the game, Deaf Player, Osei Morris was called from the bench to go in for the final play. As he emerged from the bench, a small applause was heard and wave of hands was seen among the packed stands of Mexican fans.

At first thought, who could possibly know our Deaf Player, or who was waiting for him to get in? I turned to see and asked in sign language of the small group, "Are you Deaf?" and the answer signed was "Yes!" I then asked how did you know? as I hadn't interpreted anything said in the huddle this game as the coach had told us early on it would be unlikely that Osei would get in the game tonight.

Still I asked and they pointed to the announcer's table. I forgot that at the start of the game, I pointed to Osei Morris' name on the roster sheet and indicated to the Spanish-speaking commentator that this player was Deaf. They seemed very pleasantly surprised. I can only assume it was announced at some point during the game commentary that the LA Stars had a Deaf Player and it was communicated to these Deaf persons.

At the end of the game, these Deaf fans approached Osei, asked him for an autograph and picture. I saw a little deaf boy among them asking for something to keep from Osei. Osei willingly took off his bracelet and gave it to him. I watched as the little boy joyfully ran off to catch up with his family and show them. It didn't matter how many minutes Osei played, he didn't care. His fans didn't care either. To both fans and Osei it was a dream come true. To see a Deaf person succeed in spite of his physical challenges.

The Deaf Community are considered the forgotten community. This game will be long remembered by Osei and the Deaf Fans in Tijuana Mexico. I can't thank the ABA enough for having an open mind, open heart and open door in providing an opportunity for Osei Morris to develop and actualize his dream of becoming a professional basketball player. As Director of The Silent Word Deaf Ministry and member of LABDA (LA Black Deaf Advocates), I applaud you for your promotion, encouragement and support.

(Sheree, on behalf of the ABA, we thank you for this wonderful letter).

Note: OurSports Central no longer actively covers the American Basketball Association (ABA) as a professional league due in part to its inability to publish and play a schedule and the transitory nature of many of its teams. For information on professional minor leagues, please see OSC's basketball section.



American Basketball Association Stories from November 23, 2004


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