Political Quotes

“Madam President, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a world-class athlete, NBA executive, proud West Virginian, and my very, very dear friend, Jerry West. Often referred to as one of the greatest American basketball players of all time, his career led him to success, joining the greats in stadiums across America, far from his hometown in the Mountain State of West Virginia. Born in Chelyan in 1938, Jerry spent the beginning of his life in a small town in southern West Virginia. He faced many health and family challenges as a young boy, but he spent a lot of time shooting hoops in his backyard. At East Bank High School, he began educating himself on the ins and outs of the sport he loved. Jerry quickly began to excel in the game as the star of his beloved high school team. His jump shot was always his trademark, and it allowed him to stand out even as a young player. Jerry attended West Virginia University, where his already well- developed skills and unyielding consistency were notable characteristics of his playing ability. He consistently averaged double digits in points, rebounds, and assists in almost every major game. One personal story I can tell you: As a 10-year-old boy in 1957, my mother took me--she loved basketball and loved to go to Mountaineer games. She took me to the games as a small boy. She said: Now you watch that little No. 44, that little skinny guy over there. He really can move the ball well. He has very good delivery.…”