May 5, 2007

By Daniel Fermaint / PlanoSI.com

Plano - The NBA Playoffs are of particular interest to basketball fans throughout the world. With all of the hype, controversy and egos, one might wonder why so many fans stick by their teams and heroes? Maybe because an NBA player has the potential to live a life envied by many or it could be their phenomenal athleticism or some other reason. Whatever the reason, we tend to immortalize these cagers as our personal heroes; even when they toss a chair across the court.

Well, in our much smaller world of basketball, we have a local Hero. He doesn't toss chairs across the floor nor is he looking to be envied by others either. Actually, he's not that athletic these days, though he'll give you the fight of your life and have you thinking your were in the ring with Rocky. You see, this local hero has fought for his life. Probably more times that we'll ever know or have to ourselves. This local hero doesn't complain, nor does he expect anything from those around him. He's just happy to be around us another day.

Meet Richie Herskowitz.

Richie is battling Cystic Fibrosis and his body began to reject a double lung transplant - done ten years ago - in the past 24 months. Yet, Ritchie doesn't complain. He's just happy to be around us another day.

In early February, through the efforts of the Plano Boys Basketball Team Booster Club in conjunction with Power Brokers, a Silent Auction was held to raise funds and awareness for Richie during one of the Plano Boys basketball games. During the game, Richie was awarded with four tickets to a Mavericks home game and received an roaring ovation from the fans as Richie was wheeled out near center court.

Richie truly is a one of local Heroes and PlanoSI.com caught up with Richie after he attended the game where Richie helped to celebrate the Mavs 60th victory.

PlanoSI.com: Overall, what was the night like for you?
Ritchie: The night was amazing. I got to see a great game, and then I got to meet every Maverick and Avery Johnson!

PlanoSI.com: Who is your favorite Maverick's player?
Ritchie: My favorite Maverick is Josh Howard.

PlanoSI.com: Did you get a chance to meet any of the players? If so, which players?
Ritchie: Yes, I got to wait right outside the locker room after the game and got to meet all the players.

PlanoSI.com: Exactly how did you come to own one of Jason Terry's sweatbands?
Ritchie: Jason Terry tossed the wristband to me right before the game started.

PlanoSI.com: What impressed you the most about the game?
Ritchie: I was most impressed with how nice all the Mavs were, including Avery Johnson.

PlanoSI.com: In one word, sum up your experience at the American Airlines Center as you watched the Mavs win game 60 on the season.
Ritchie: In one word I would say... INCREDIBLE!!!