During the late 80’s and early 90’s, basketball players wanted to be “Like Mike.”  During the same time in Baltimore, basketball players wanted to be like Sam Cassell of the world champion Boston Celtics.  Cassell, a three-time NBA champion, is an icon in Baltimore and probably the greatest player from Baltimore since the legendary Skip Wise. 

All good things must come to an end and for Cassell this is the best time to walk away.  Cassell can still play ball on the highest level, but during this NBA’s post season, his body was saying please stop.  With Cassell’s back wrapped up in games, it is clear that he can not play a full season.  The way Cassell can contribute as a player to a team is to become a free agent during the season and help a contender that needs an experienced point guard going to the playoffs.  Sam Cassell can still play in the NBA, but not for a whole season.

                  
    Cassell is in great health, so he can pursue another career, perhaps coaching.  On a local radio station in Baltimore, 92 Q with the host Conan, Cassell expressed his feelings about becoming a head coach in the NBA.  Like the opportunity he got to play in the NBA, his dream to be a head coach will happen as well. Cassell has good leadership skills, is a positive influencer, and a great teacher (Cassell back in the day helped me with my shooting form).  On the sideline Cassell was actively encouraging his teammates and talking with the coaches.  If Cassell walks away now, he could become an assistant to head coach Doc Rivers of the Celtics and help develop young point guard Rajon Rondo.

                 
      Cassell is well respected in the NBA community and peers recognize his talent.  Knowing Cassell, it will be hard to walk away because he loves to play basketball.  Cassell is one man who would play basketball for free.  Just because Cassell can not contribute on the court the way he wants to doesn’t mean he can’t contribute to the game.  Whatever Cassell decides to do, he will get full support from well wishers. 

                    
   Congratulations Sam Cassell on winning your third NBA championship and thank you for representing Baltimore with such class, pride and dignity.      

Written By Barry Barnes