The SCGA Foundation hosted 100 SCGA members for an intimate lunch with Northern Trust Open Executive Director and NBA Legend Jerry West. He captivated the audience with his personal stories and opinions on a variety of topics.
When he knew it was time to retire from the NBA
"I didn't think it was right for me to play on a team when I knew I wasn't at my best anymore. It's not fair to the people who pay to see me play. When you're not at the top of the mountain, you just know. As a player, you just know."
Youth
"We have so many kids that need something to do with their lives. They just need someone to pay attention to them. I just feel that because of what I've seen in my life, and what I remember about my own life, I would just want someone to take me on a trip, take me fishing, something like that."
Golf
"I was a plus-handicap for awhile. I don't get a chance to play very much anymore, but I have a few friends that are fun to play with. We can giggle and laugh and remember the good old days when we could really go out and golf. But I can relax and enjoy the game. That doesn't mean I don't get competitive, though. You can't golf if you don't bet something..."
"It really teaches a lot. Etiquette, courtesy, how to be involved in different types of environments. You never know when one kid might have an opportunity to change his life and find a game he loves just like I found a game I loved."
"Everyone's opinions should be valued. The only difference is that some people have a platform to speak on. Sometimes that platform can either get people excited about what you say or just the opposite."
"I'm excited about the season for the Warriors. The West is going to be very good, especially when the Lakers get their new people out there we'll all see a much-improved team I'm sure. But the preseason doesn't count. The summer league doesn't count. The season begins Oct. 31, and that's what counts."
