No Means Yes!!

DeeOne was more persistent than a crack fiend who hasn't found a drug dealer in three days. One of the difficulties for me in coaching this population has been my inability to turn a blind eye to hopelessness. I tend to feel like some of these guys behave as they do because nobody has taken the time to teach them otherwise. That mentality has lead me to extend myself to individuals who need way more than positive reinforcements or sound advice. Six years into this, I know for certain that some of these behaviors stem from undiagnosed mental health issues.

DeeOne was determined to play for me this season. I don't know if I was his last hope, or what, but the kid wouldn't stop trying to get a commitment from me. One morning he texted at 7 a.m. to let me know he was on his way to visit. A short while later, he texted again to let me know that somebody "stole his return ticket" while he was asleep.

I thought his trip here was odd for two reasons. First, the last time we communicated I basically told him to "get lost." Secondly, I'd been clear that I need advanced notice to accommodate him during a campus visit.

After intentionally making DeeOne wait at the bus station for an hour and a half, I went to pick him up. I contemplated not going at all, but I felt it was my responsibility to help him understand the ridiculousness of his actions.

Me: Do you realize how many mistakes you've made with me in the three weeks we've been communicating?
DeeOne: What you mean?
Me: See. That's why we're talking because I don't think you realize how poorly you're presenting yourself. I'm gonna take my coach hat off and help you out as a young brotha.
DeeOne: yup
Me: Let me ask you a question. If you met a really fly female who came at you hard and made it clear she was ready to get down, what would you do?
DeeOne: LOL! Cmon Coach. I'd handle my biz. LOL!
Me: Easy question, right? Now what if she told you she had herpes? Would you still get down with her?
DeeOne: Heck naw, man! Ain't nobody worth all that!
Me: As a coach, how do you think I look at a player who's calling me once a week about an injury, or texting me at odd hours with different issues? You limped from the car to my office. Do you think I want damaged goods on my team?
DeeOne: Got you. I see what you sayin..

After this conversation, I took him to lunch so we could talk some more. I felt like there was a breakthrough. When I dropped him off afterwards, he asked me for money to get back home. I didn't give him a dime.