The beautiful, simple blessing of basketball: A reminder

A time for reflection, and a time to learn.

Credit: Dan Bennett Photography

As a basketball writer, the stories that most drive you are the ones with an emphasis on the human element; unlikely heroes rising against the odds, players overcoming adversity or displaying unique qualities that make them stand out.

We idolise our athletes, champion them — as well we should — for their talent and commitment to their craft. But every now and then, something occurs which has nothing to do with the sport whatsoever, shaking your foundation and making you wonder what it’s all really for.

Specifically, I am referring to the awful events that transpired on the evening of 22 January, when Brisbane Bullets centre Harry Froling was assaulted during a night out in Wollongong. Though he initially discharged himself from the ER, he would later be re-admitted to a Brisbane hospital where he was diagnosed with a fractured skull and brain bleed. He underwent brain surgery, and will miss the remainder of the 2022-23 NBL season.