One of my favorites is about me and Red Auerbach.. I had just came back from Red Sox spring training in Florida... While there I ran into a famous restaurant (Bobby Rubino's) that specialized in "The Best Spare Ribs in the country."
Couldn't pass that up so I brought back a few orders for Auerbach... I went to the Celtic's offices and gave them to Red's secretary... I finished my business with the media department about half an hour later and went to the elevators... Just as I stepped in Auerbach, himself stepped in... I told him I was the guy who brought the ribs and asked how he liked them... With that tough Aurbach scowl he said, "For Christ sakes, they were cold"... I was stunned. Luckily the ground floor opened and Red got out before I could say a word.. I never told a soul about it. Just chocked it up to a bad day for Red.
A few weeks later there was a season ticket holder's party and Big posters of Red Auerbach were handed out.. I got a couple and stood inline as Red autographed them for the fans......When I got to him he signed one then I said, Red, I hate to be a pain in the ass but I've got two nephews. Could you sign one more for me?... He replied in his patented "Auerback grumble, "Well, you ARE a pain in the ass" as he signed it for me.....handed my pen back, gave me a pat on the arm and said, "Thanks for the spare ribs." and walked off to the next group of fans... Mere words can't tell you how great I felt after that...
Red Auerbach was a once in a lifetime experience and I can only wish that the present generation(s) get to know more about him... The closest I can see in THESE days is Bill Belichick who follows Red's winning philosophies right to the tee... the proof is in the results...
Stay tuned for more...