A Chance

The one thing Jamario Moon has always wanted and is now being given to him. Jamario Moon will be attending the Toronto Raptors training camp later this month, and will showcase all the talent he has. Never would you think an athletic freak from Goodwater, AL, from a community college, from the minor-leagues, would be given this once in a lifetime opportunity. Reality says otherwise.

Coach Sam Mitchell has stated clearly saying to Jamario, "If you don't work, I'm going to cut your ass quick". This should be all the motivation Jamario needs. Sam Mitchell knows everything about what it takes to make the NBA. Jamario is now taking the same steps his coach took. Sam Mitchell came from a community college, through the minor-league's, into the NBA. He knows what it takes and the level he needs to work at. Anything but his best will cost him the final remaining roster spot. As of now, there are 14 players guaranteed leaving one remaining spot. Jamario has a non-guaranteed contract worth $427,163. His competition? Darrick Martin, an NBA hopeful who also made his way through the CBA (Continental Basketball Association). Darrick got his first chance with the Vancouver Grizzlies and then was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He played for the Raptors briefly last year averaging 3.0 points per game. The battle moves on to Spain in October when the Raptors play in the NBA's Euro-League.

Jamario has waited all his life for this. He regrets the bad grades he got and the people he associated with early on. He's very lucky to even made this far. Bounced out of NBA training camps, minor-leagues, and now is given his one shot to make it big. I've had confidence in him since the first time I saw him play. If there's anything I know about him, it's that his talent is no issue. His ability is no issue. It's his work ethic. If Jamario wants it as bad as I believe he wants it, don't be surprised to see him wearing red and black come November.

-Frankie Anetzberger©