Dear Tyler Hansbrough: Congratulations on finishing one of most outstanding basketball careers in National Collegiate Athletic Association history.
After being named National Player of the Year last season, breaking both the North Carolina scoring record and the Atlantic Coast Conference's scoring record from the free-throw line, and helping your team win the national championship, all of these accomplishments will forever remain a testament to your handwork and dedication to the sport of basketball.
As a fan of college basketball, it was exciting to see you out on the court doing the little things that it takes to win games such as hustling on every play and diving on the floor.
It is hard to believe that when I watched you on television this past Monday, it would mark the last time any of us will see you in a basketball uniform.
Why won't we see you again?
The reason no one will see you anymore is because you are going to get garbage minutes for whatever team you play for. Everyone turns their TVs off when the scrubs get in.
Some argue that you won't even get selected in the NBA Draft because you're too short for the power forward position.
However, that's absurd. They will at least give you an opportunity to embarrass yourself like J.J Redick and Adam Morrison.
But it is true that your height is the reason why you will get limited play.
The NBA is a cruel place now where they preach the message of equality and diversity, but they will discriminate on you based on your height.
The days when a center could be as short as 6 foot 7 inches and still find a roster spot is far and done.
I know it is not your fault that you are only 6 foot 9 inches. But I think people forget that there was a special athlete who played in the league who is the same height as you and resembles your style of play.
Who was it? Mark "Mad Dog" Madsen.
In his eight years in the NBA, Madsen averaged 2.2 points and 2.6 rebounds.
Can you do that much?
This should be a very low and obtainable goal for you. You just need to do better than him.
But Tyler buddy, whatever happens to you and your career, please remember this. Your humbleness and mild-mannered personality is what makes fans of all ages love and respect you.
Make sure pride does not creep into your life, because it will take you down a road in which you'll think you're to good for it, like the National Basketball Developmental League.
No Tyler, you are not good enough for the NBDL. In fact, if the Harlem Globetrotters offer you an invitation to join their team, you should do it. At least you'll get some airtime.
After you get passed around team to team like an offering basket at church, you'll soon realize that you made the right decision to stay for your four years of college. You'll realize that it was better to go for the college degree, not just for the championship ring.
You will need something to fall back on when your NBA career diminishes.
Sincerely,
Aaron Moe
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
