I start off today’s Open Thread with modicum of gratitude.
Back in 2017, I found PoundingTheRock.com while searching the web for Spurs related stories. I instantly became a fan. I remember spending some time listening to every episode of “A Fifth of Spurs” and reading a backlog of articles. I soon discovered the Fanposts and immediately set up an account.
At that time, PtR had their own merchandise for sale from time to time. I saw a post about a new release and after ordering, posted a question in the comments, “How many t-shirts has PtR released?” The editor-in-chief, J.R. Wilco, posted a response, “Wouldn’t it be great if someone figured that out.”
I decided to take that as my first assignment.
I combed through the site as far back as I could until I had compiled a list of shirts. In the end, I was missing one or two, but I did get Wilco’s attention. He reached out and we had a phone call. Full disclosure, my wife described my side of the conversation as “giddy.” What can say, I was a fan.
We discussed a number of Spurs related topics as well as writing and a few ideas each of us had. I pitched a series covering the players whose jersey numbers had been retired, and the Hanging From The Rafters series was born. My first piece on James Silas, the first member of the Spurs to have his jersey retired, posted on August 1, 2017. Eight years ago today.
I kept up the Hanging From the Rafters series, updating it over the years to include Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing. In my first year I took on writing some of the Game Previews. For a matchup where the Spurs were facing the Philadelphia 76ers without the services of Kawhi Leonard, Rudy Gay, and Manu Ginobili, I boldly predicted a victory, “Spurs by 17.” I was way wrong. The 76ers ended up beating the Spurs by 17 on that night.
It wasn’t long before I was asked to write a daily Open Thread, something that lent itself to conversations for any discussion while allowing articles to maintain on topic comments. At this point, I am creeping up on my 3000th article.
In these eight years I have worked with some remarkable people. Folks I have now known longer than most coworkers from my day job. I have developed solid relationships based on honest collaboration and constructive feedback.
I get to do something that I truly love: write about the San Antonio Spurs, my favorite team. It keeps me connected with others who share the same passion for Spurs culture.
And in the last eight years, as the Spurs have had their ups and downs, I’m glad to be still be watching every single game — excited to see what develops, no matter the outcome. Thanks to all of you who read, and comment, and share.
Here’s to another year of pounding the rock!
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