First Time Overseas Experience

Email from Corey Sanders sent from Uruguay Tuesday, September 20, 2005 2:33 PM

I sent out an email a couple weeks ago telling u I was in Montevideo Uruguay.  This is an experience  it is different from America and I am starting to come to the conclusion that there is nothing like where we stay. 

The people are very hospittable but they cant drive, they make extra lanes and even drive down one ways going in the opposite direction.  It kinda reminds me of Turkey the biggest car wins.  But as scary as it may be they always seem to stop inches from hitting the other car.  They got horses carriages going down the street as well (the poor use them to go thru the trash and collect whateva they can find)

The food is ok they eat a lot of meat. (I believe the call it parilla) steak chirizo, chicken guts and gizzards yes i said that. 

The craziest thing I have seen that goes on everyday is that they have people at the stop lights playing music, juggling tennis balls,  even bowling pins giving u entertainment while u wait on the light to turn green.  Anything to make a few coins.  They have people who just stand on street corners and when u park they watch your car when u leave u tip them coins for watching your car.  Apparently, there are no jobs here so people are creative with their skills to make money.  Hotels are relatively cheap, the hotel we are in its 6 US dollars a night but better hotels on average u will pay 20-60 for a 3 or 4 star hotel.   

As far as the Basketball games.  There are 2 americans to almost every team and the other American for us he is from Detroit.  As far as our team we have a great starting 5 but we dont have anyone who can help us off the bench.  They are not that experienced so it seems as if it is important to not get the starting 5 in foul trouble.  The conditions of our gym is not good but they are working on the court to make sure it is safe to play on.  You have to be careful on our home floor but that does not stop the games.  The fans are wild and erratic.  The police are at every games in full riot gear and when the game is over the rush the floor so no one can come on it to start fights with the players.  The weirdest thing is during warm ups and timeouts the children run on the court just to be up and close with the players.  During timeouts they play football(soccer) or come in the huddle with the team (there is no organization) We are 1 and 2  and one game was cancelled.  The first game I had 6 points 7 rebounds 4 blocks 3 steals and 2 assist we won the second game was cancelled because one of our players stepped and his foot went into the ground the wood just gave out.  The second game we played was a tv game and i had 4 points 8 rebounds 2 blocks 3 steals and 1 assist we lost that game 91-81 and last night i had scored 14 points 8 rebounds 2 blocks 1 steal and 3 assist.  I fouled out and we lost in overtime.     

We havent got out much but I am looking into googling the city to find things to do and will take pictures when I find a reasonable priced camera.  Electronics are expensive here.  I was rushing when I left home and forgot mine.  Any way I just wanted to give u an update of how things are here on my end.  Talk to u soon and keep me in your prayers.

 Sincerely,

Csanders

From: "Charlie Mandt"
T "corey sanders"
Subject: RE: Update
Date: Tue, 20 Sep 2005 14:43:32 -0400

I can't believe the wood gave out on the court.  LOL!

Subject: Update #4

Hello, It seems as if these weeks are going by real fast.  I guess when you are enjoying yourself it is like that.  Things have been very interesting down here.  I cant wait to get this camera so I can share the photos.  Words just cant describe the actual experience but for now they will have to do.  We had 3 games since my last update. 

In our first game it was a makeup from the suspended game at the beginning of the season when the wood gave out on our court.  We had started out with a sizeable lead but it quickly dissapeared.  The team was not better than us but we werent playing smart.  In the end we made some big plays and won 86-77.  I had a horrible shooting night 3/15.  I scored 8 points and 15 rebonds 3 assist and 1 block.  The next day I was in the gym getting shots up, The basket was just not my friend this night. 

Our next game was against a team called Malvin.  Every Friday they come out with a magazine recapping the week.  Talking about any news in the league.  Well this particular issue, there was an article saying that the guy I was guarding for Malvin was the best player in the league and he was going to MVP.  I received 1 vote and my teammate Morris received 3 votes.  Well, the only way to prove them wrong was to annilate him.  It was a gret matchup because the other American for their team was the second leading scorer in the league behind Morris.  The game was classic.  Trading baskets left and right.  The refs decided to give 3 technicals all in one play to our power forward and to our coach.  The refs called themselves trying to change the game and our president and fans werent having it.  The President rushed the court and started yelling and then from there it was getting out of hand.  After about 5 minutes of this I went to the president and said everything will be ok let us finish and did a hand gestures to the crowd to calm down.  I couldnt believe it worked.  the last 2 minutes of the game Morris hit the floor pretty hard and did not know what was going on.  He said he was ok made the freethrows and with 2.8 seconds left passed the ball to our small forward and got fouled with the game tied.  Morris came to me and said he didnt know what happened i said just dont foul and go to the locker room after.  We won the game 78-76 I scored 14 pts and 9 rebounds and 1 assist, The so called MVP 5 pts 8 rebounds 4 fouls.  Well we gave the critics something to talk about for this week. 

After the game Morris was not ok so an ambulance took us to the hospital.  They claim it was one of the best in Montevideo, but I will let u decide.  We got there the nurses spoke English.  They said everything will be ok they did a great job but they said the doctor was not there and they would have to page him.  The guy never came.  We waited 6 1/2 hours for the doctor to come.  The kept saying 30 minutes.  At 4am they made everyone there leave the emergency room so it could be clean.  They made us step outside of the hospital locked the doors while they cleaned it.  Finally we just decided to leave and if he felt pain he would just go back later.  The next day the president called his own doctor and he came to the hotel to check him out.  All is good. 

Sunday we had practice and at 630 i was a little disgruntled because the woke me and said practice at 520.  as u know they dont speak English and my Spanish is limited.  When we got to the gym I asked why are they waking us up early they said time went up.  What a great way to tell me.

On Monday we played a team called Bohemis.  There center is the leading rebounder in the league so again this was important for me to out do him. We started out on a fast track i had 5 pts 2 reb and morris had 4 pts, the shot clock kept acting up and 4 mininutes into the game the refs called it.  We finished it up last night.  They were a bit more aggresive with us in the first half.  All that changed when dude snatched the ball out of my hand after the ref called travelling on me.  The next play I trucked the dude laying him out.  Our fans went wild.  I am not out to hurt noone but no one disrespects me.  After that play our team was just flat out better than them.  In the 4th quarter the made their final run and with 6 seconds left our point guard fouled theirs on a 3 pt attempt.  He made 2 of the 3 and I got the rebound.  With 4 seconds left i am at the freethrow line with the game 85-86.  I made one of 2 freethrows we won the game.  I scored 14 pts 13 rebounds 3 assist and 4 steals. Once again our fans rushed the court.  This time the police were in their riot gear pushing them back.  We were in the locker room and heard some commotion.  I stayed far away but they were really throwing blows with the Bohemis fans.  They were attacking the police.  I dont know what happened but it was a wild scene. 

Well until next week.  Enjoy

Subject: Update #5

Hello To All:

These weeks are going by pretty fast.  I dont know whether thats a good or bad thing but I am riding with the flow.  As you know every week I share a little about the country and then tell about the games.  Well this week you are going to flip out because even this one caught me by surprise.  Morris and I both had packages sent out here.  Little did we know the rules were different than in America because it wouldnt be worth the hassle.  He had a package shipped via UPS and myself Post Office.  for his 4 llbs he paid 125usd to get it here and for my 16 lbs I paid 96usd.  When the packages arrived they would not give them to us because Urugrayan law states anything valued over 50 dollars you must pay 60% of the value of the package (Yes 60%).  The team has wrote letters to the proper people and Morris was successfuly able to get his but because mine had a digital camera and camcorder in it they say I will have to wait a little more to where hopefully I wont have to pay for the package.  They say this is law because it stops people from doing business in other countries where products are cheaper and promotes business in their country.  

As far as our games are concerned Saturday was a tv game.  We played our rivals and it was like a classic hs rivarly.  The police were doubled and in full riot gear making sure there was no problems on either side.  When we arrived at the gym the place was packed and it was 2hrs before game time.  The game went back and forth until the end and thats when Morris made a big shot and to put us up 2 and I sealed the deal making the freethrows with 4 seconds left to play.  I finished with 21 pts and 14 rebounds.  Our fans rushed the court which seems like a tradition here when you win.  After the game the fans of the other team left the gym quietly but went outside and broke car windows of our fans.  It was pretty sad to see people act like this but these people lve their teams and they will fight and even die for their team.  Its real crazy. 

That night we went club hoppin and everywhere we went 5 clubs in total the bouncers told us to come on thru no waitin in lines and drinks were free.  I guess news spread fast.  I had a ball they have no hip hop but I recognized some Motown songs and the rest was Spanish music.  By 6am we were leaving.  I had enough but the party was still going.

On Monday we took a 4 hour bus ride to Soriano We had an away game Everyone was mighty happy because no one expected us to be in 2nd place and Our team is going to make the playoffs.  We arrived early and had a lite lunch.  Before every game I eat something so I have energy.  They laughed at me when I asked for food.  They offered me bread and butter and said this is normal for them.  By us being on the road I was subject to go with the flow but in the end they found some hotdogs and all was good. 

When the game started,we did not play well in the beginning.  we missed a lot of easy shots and they were playing dirty.  Our power forward and the American on there team got into it throwing elbows when the melee was cleared up they both had shiners underneath each others eyes.  What shocked me was no one was thrown out the game.  The police came over to our bench with their shields and billy clubs to try and calm down our power forward.  I hate to see what they would have done to him we were on the road and he really went crazy trying to throw a chair.  At halftime we were down by 10 but we came back and won 72-67.  Although it was a bad shooting night for me i scored 11 pts 11 reb and 2 blocks. 

We are now tied for 1st place and tonight we play the other team that is in 1st place.  Its so much excitement going on around here about our team that they decided to make it a tv game.  So stay tuned to find out what happened.

Subject: Update #6

Hello another Wednesday has come and as usual a lot has transpired in the time tat we have been away.  I last left off with a game the night of the last email.  If we won we would have sole possesion of 1 st place.  Well we found out it was a tv game so that added more excitement to the game and the game was a sellout. 

In the beginning we did not start off to well and Morris missed a lot of easy shots.  I think by him having so much success it was just his time to have a bad game.  It happens to the best players so its understandable.  Our team got the big head and decided to play selfish.  They forgot how we got here ad it seems to me that it happens a lot overseas.  The locals dont want the foreigners to get all the credit and would like to be recognized as well.  There was no reason why the game should have been tied at halftime with their 2 star players on the bench in foul trouble.  When we got into the locker room I voiced my opinion (English and Spanish just doesnt go to well I must learn Spanish sentences)  and that did not go over to well with the players and some pushing and shoving occured.  Somehow some of the fans got into the locker room trying to ease the situation but it only made it worse and finally the coach came in to restore order.  After we all voiced our opinions he broke the chalkboard and u could see his anger over the selfishness of the players in question.  At the end of halftime we kept all of the drama in the locker room and took the frustrations out on the other team. 

 Not knowing what was going on the cameras stayed in my face and the player Johnny I had words with.  The coach benched him and everyone was trying to figure out why.  We ended up becoming victorious 70, 63.  I scored 16 pts and broke the league season high record previously set by me (21 rebounds) with 23 rebounds and 1 block.  After the game we got our frustrations out in a players only meeting.  The next day the radio station called Johnny phone asking him what happened in the altercation in the locker room he down played the situation which was very professional and we have since killed the situation. I received a few emails from American players asking my side but its an inhouse situation so its none of their bizzness as well. 

On Friday we played a team that had a guy that was supposed to be leaving soon to Spain or Greece for a lot of Money 6¨10 300 lbs It was motivation for me because I wanted to give people 2nd thoughts on him.  We pretty much knew he was going to get his points (Like Shaq)but it was our goal to take everyone else out of the game and we did that.  The game was so crazy because when we got to their gym 90% of our fans were already there with our banners and flags up in their gym.  It was so bad that folks walked to the other side of town just to see us and there was 300 people watching the game from the windows.  We are No. 1 and fans just came out of nowhere.  We jumped on them early and they never got a chance to make a game out of it.  I dont know how but their 300 llb center had 20 pts but that was it.  He leads the league in rebounds and is in the top 10 in scoring and assist but this night belonged to me.  I had 19 pts 17 reb and 1 block. 

Saturday was our day of rest and we got a suprise.  We were invited to the tv station for an interview.  It was all in Spanish but it was quite fun.  They translated for us and it was a great interview.  They said we would get a copy of it this week.  I recommended a good restaurant and when we got back to the hotel the front desk man said no to cocos Hotel Arosa.  It was classic.  All week wherever we have been I am the guy who said Cocos restaurant.  Everyone knows me for that one line.  Great Marketing and free advertisement for them.  When we went to Cocos on Sunday people recognized me and smiled and a few came over to try and talk to me.  But what shocked me was The food was not on the house.  Sunday we went bowling and that was cool.  Our President is a cool guy.  For a guy who is in his middle 40s he tries to do things with us every weekend.  We went bowling I had the high score with 136 pts in the 1st game and the 2nd game we made a competition out of it the Amerians vs Urugrayans.  we won 129 to 111. 

Tuesday we hit the road for Paysandu a 6 hr trip.  There was 2 bus loads of fans that joined us as well.  Morris and I heard that people are personally coming to the game to see us and to them we are the Lakers.  With all the drama this past week I could believe it.  We have nicknamed our selves Morris the Show and Corey the After Party (Fiesta).  It is quite comical but people are loving it.  Someone told me that the tv guy nicknamed me SGT Sanders but I wasnt feeling it I told him Colonel Sanders was better but people have been sticking with the SGT because it reminds them of a character on a tv show out here. 

I personally dont think the coach tries to get us properly prepared as a team.  We eat, he says rest get a snack then go sight seeing 1 hr before the game.  Kinda backwards to me.  Morris and I are disciplined enuff to know better but the team it showed when we started being down 12 to 0 and eventually 17 pts down at one point.  We came back and took the lead at one point.  But with the game tied and 7 seconds left in regulation Johnny missed 2 layups underneath the basket to send it to overtime.  With Morris and 2 others on the bench fouled out.  We had a chance to still win with a 2 pt lead with 31 seconds left but they went to the free throw line made the first and the second one fell into johnnys chest and the guy snatched it away from him and scored to put the up by 1.  we lost 93 to 91 i had 21 pts 18 reb and 1 blk and a long 6 hr bus ride back to Montevideo. 

I have been working on a website tell me what you think of it.  www.basketballoverseas.net any suggestions or ideas would be great.  But I would like to here your feed back on it.  And to all My New Orleans people I didnt say it last week but Didnt the Falcons beat yall yet once again.  Will the Aints ever beat us.  Its like a natural beatdown every year.  those are just 2 losses u are guaranteed to get.  See Ya next week

Subject: Update #7

Hello as the weeks keep passing on here is another chapter of Overseas Life in Montevideo.  I would like to say thank you to all the people who took the time out to check out the website I put together to help other Americans along in their personal journey.  Any suggestions anyone has I am all ears. 

As far as this week that just passed it was not a very good one as far as our games.  We played a team on Friday called Sayago.  It was an away game but it was in the city.  Things did not start out to well for me.  I was held to 2 points in the first half.  A lot of had to do with the fact that I did not eat before the game and a tooth ache.  They gave me some pills but I had no food in my system.  You really appreciate home when you dont get an opportunity to eat or people forget to get you food before the games.  At halftime I was not feeling to good and started throwing up.  I made it to the locker room THANK GOD and not on the gym floor.  When the 3rd quarter started it they asked me if I would be availiable.  I said we play it by ear.  It got so bad that I went in to give what I had and finished the game with 13 points and 8 rebounds.  We lost but I thought it was a great effort under the circumstances. 

 The next day we went to go see the dentist.  Now thats an experience.  I say all the time that if there was one thing I could change about overseas it would be the language barrier.  Our President speaks little English so I had to piece the words together and figure it out.  All I understood was a tooth was so bad that everytime I ate food it would go straight to the nerve.  He injected a needle so long in my mouth that he told me to raise my hand if I felt pain because if I move I would cause damage.  (Did I feel pain? YES Did I raise my hand? NO, I grabbed his shirt.  After a while he fixed it up and things feel a lot better than the day before. 

Sunday was a nice day so I decided to check out the beach and the Casino.  They have slots but its a little different.  Instead of getting 3 in a row to win you have to get 5 in a row.  All I could say wow.  The odds are a little tougher.  They had no Craps and Roulette is on a computerized and not standard to placing the ball the bowl and where it lands is your winner.  Same style just computerized.  They have Black jack at only 1 casino I have seen so far but I played Black jack on the slots and came out successful under the amount of time I had before practice. 

Monday we had a game 8 hours away we were to play a team called Salto Urugray.  They are known for their water parks and hot springs.   It was a nice day although we were on the bus the whole day.  We were told that they would make time for us to see the water parks and that they did.  They drove us by it and said see, its time to go to the hotel and rest we have a game.  That was so cold how the played us.  The coach was very adament about us not going.  Saying we needed to focus.  Well when the game started I played very well but the second half guys started doing there own thing and it seemed as if no one cared whether we won or loss.  It was very tough because guys were starting to play for self and al words for team were out the door.  I hate to say it but I took 2 three point shots myself (No I didnt make them but it did feel good for a moment to take them).  Well I finished with 14points 13 reb and 1 block and a long 8 hour ride home.   I believe this week is going to be a dead week I am not sure they said only one game.  So this an opportunity to explore the city. 

Well I have been reading some news articles and I see Rosa Parks has passed I hope everyone has taken a moment out to reflect on how she has made America a better place.  Trust me being here you appreciate having Hot Water and Mc Donalds at your leisure in America.  Although she has nothing to do with those two examples I am pretty sure everyone understands what I mean.  So until next week Have a great one

Subject: Update #8

Hello to all, Hope everyone´s week went well.  As far as mine it has been very interesting so without further babbling here we go into the Adventures of Montevideo.  Early last week My teammate Morris and I did an interview for a popular sports magazine. little did we know how big it would be.  On Friday when we saw it we were on the cover and it basically stated we were the 2 best americans playing in Urugray.  What an honor that was.  It let me know all the hard work this summer paid off with Mike Curry (NBA Player)  At the time Curry kept telling me dont worry about anything, if you work hard you will get rewarded.  Well now I am seeing a piece of that reward.  I want to just say thanks Curry for believing in me and taking the time out this summer to work with me.  Attached is a copy of the article and the cover (Its in Spanish but you can enjoy the pictures if you dont understand.  You can try www.freetranslation.com copy and paste).

Friday we went to a tattoo convention.  There all the tattoo artist in the area and from Argentina came and competed and showcased their talents.  It was a good outing.  We were going to get tatooed at the convention but our guy who did our first ones here had just got some work done to him and he didnt want to take any chances.  He told us to come back to his shop later in the week and he would give us a free tattoo for the inconvience.  Hey you cant beat that deal. 

Saturday we were on the road to a city called Anastasia.  It was 4 hours away.  It was nice to have a bus load of fans come and support us in a hostile environment.  We were on a 3 game losing streak and people were starting to think that we won all of those games by luck.  So we had to silence the critics.  The game was very hostile.  2 fights broke out in the stands and the police had to escort the rowdy ones out and to make things worse the referee started throwing fans on both teams out of the game.  I guess he didnt like what they were saying about his officiating.  There team pretty much controlled the game until the fourth quarter.  Double teaming me and not letting Morris do his thing.  Other players stepped up and I made some beautiful passes instead of forcing shots.  The fourth quarter we took control of the game and with us up by 1 point with 15 seconds left their star player dribbled the ball off his leg and we scored with 1.9 seconds left to go up 110-107.  We silenced there crowd.  I finshed the game with 11 pts 12 reb 6 assist and 3 blocks. 

We were told after the game we had to be escorted out of the gym by our fans and the police because the fans were not happy.  As we were going to the bus they were cursing us and as we got on the bus we heard firecrackers (the initial sound sounded like gun fire).  Our coach told us to close the windows and stay down.  We had to get a police escort out of the city.  As the bus turned the corner the fans were about to throw rocks and bricks at our bus but before anything released there hands the police intercepted and arrested them.  That was a crazy situation.  We had to go to the next city to eat.  Our fans stopped as well and enjoyed the win with us.  I took the gesture to buy all the kids who travelled on the trip cookies and chips for there ride back to Montevideo.

On Monday, we had a home game against Union Athletica.  They have a player we have nicknamed Just Buckets because he is 6´10 and plays like a guard and gets nothing but buckets (points)  He plays no defense and does not pass Just Buckets.  First the team did not pick us up till 830 pm when the game was at 915pm.  I told them I had to eat before the game.  Normally home games its not a problem its just the away games they dont want to give me any food.  But the team doctor told the coach to not give me any food because it was too close to the game.  I said I had not eaten in 8 hrs.  The coach said No and I told him food or no play his choice.  Everyone said give me food but they said No.  I told the President what was going on and they hustled me up 2 hotdogs.  The fans were wondering why I was eating hotdogs (If they only knew)  During the game our team was on all cylinders playing together we controlled the game from jump.  Just Buckets was in foul trouble and really was not an impact in the game.  In the fourth quarter there team made a run to come back but it was just our night.  The final score 88-83  Just Buckets scored 22 pts how I dont know, it was a quiet 22.  I finished the game with 15 points 12 rebounds 6 assist and 1 block. 

I am feeling a triple double coming real soon and I think I will be the first one to do it this season.  After the game people were telling me I need to eat 4 hot dogs and I am thinking to myself if they only knew I wasnt eating out here before the games.  They would not be happy. 

As far as my package is concerned, one of the directors from customs was at the game he told me he would try and see if he could lower the price for me.  I stressed to him that I would not sell the products in my package.  For those who dont know Urugray has a law saying that any packaged valued over 50 US dollars they must pay 60% of the value of the package.  They say it promotes business in Urugray.  So right now they want me to pay 450 dollars or pay 1000 dollar deposit.  I dont think so.  So we will wait and see.  Some fans said they will pay for it if they lower the price. 

Well until next week Tranquilo (Tran key low) take it easy   

Subject: Update # 9  

Hello everyone, sorry for the delay on this weeks update.  I have been very tired with the games we have been playing.  It seems like every other day is a game.  Non stop.  As soon as one game is over we can only enjoy it for a few hours because the next day we have to prepare for the next team who is coming after us.  We are in 2nd place and noone expected it so we have to stay focused and not get the big head. 

Well the last time I left you we were hoping to get the package from Customs.  We had went to immigration to take care of our visa on the amount of time we can stay in the country with out leaving.  Visitors have 3 months and then they must leave so we had to get an extension on the amount of time we could stay.  The president received a phone call while we were there and we went to an office and VOILA there it was being placed in my hands.  I was so Happy.  It was Christmas in Montevideo.  I got my new toys Camcorder, Digital Camera, Portable DVD, and NBA Live 2006 for Playstation 2.  Now I can explore the city a little bit.  I have attached some photos of this past week. 

1. Fans at an away game

2. The Beach (its right across the street from our gym)

3. Taxi (can u imagine me in one of these, I have to sit in the front seat)

4. Victory party after our game on last friday

5. This is the casino/hotel across the street from the beach

6. Actual Horses in the street.  (The poor use them to store whatever goods they can to survive off of.  Its very sad.  They are all over town going down the streets with regular cars)

As far as the games are concerned, on Friday we played a team called Welcome.  There gym is 3 or blocks from our gym.  They are the worst team in the league.  I was suprised it was a tv game.  Everyone was expecting a blowout because they cant keep Americans on there team.  They had 2 new ones come in and they played very well.  They were up 10 or 12 points at one point but in the 3 rd quarter we chipped away at the league and by the 4th quarter it was a tie game.  With 30 seconds left I received the ball and passed it to our small forward and he nailed a big 3 point shot to give us the lead for good.  I finished the game with 12 pts 12 reb 5 assist and 1 block.  We won 77-72. 

 On Saturday we were told to pack all of our things we were going to move in the apartment they fixed up for us.  We were not to happy about going but they said it was closer to the gym and we didnt have to rely on them to make sure we ate or to get to practice.  When we arrived we were impressed it had nice carpet a big bed for me and a hot shower.  (My room in the hotel, i could not get hot water on a consistent basis, I would have to use other rooms to shower)  So I was cool all we need now is communication.  Phone & Internet, Right now we are either using a cyber cafe or walking to the hotel to use PC. 

Monday we had another game against Bigua.  They had just got another America to play for them so they would have 2 now but technically one is married to a Urugrayan lady so he counts as a Urugrayan.  The last time we played them I had 19 pts 21 reb and 5 blks.  So I knew they would be trying to do something to stop me.  From the tip we took te lead and never looked back.  So it was an easy win.  The guy I was guarding only scored 2 points (He was a former national player for Urugray) I dont know if something was wrong or if he was intimidated).  We won 75-67.  I scored 15 pts 10 rebounds 4 assist 4 steals and 2 blocks

Last night we played a team called Olimpa.  It was a tough game because it was very hot On every dead ball I was going to the bench pouring cold water over my head.  This was the only team in the league that plays physical and dirty.  One of the players complained that my nails cut him so he decided to try to hurt me and when he got in foul trouble his replacement was doing the same.  I thought with my head and basically fouled the guy out of the game.  I ended up having 4 dunks in the game and the last one was what sealed the deal.  We won 100-95.  I scored 18 pts 20 reb and 3 blks.  The fans were so happy with my performance that when we got home they were cheering outside the apartment.  (Like a renactment of Remember the Titans)

Well I apologize for the delay on the update but it was well worth it.  You get pictures this time!!

Well until next week stay cool.

Subject: Update # 10


 Hello Everyone,

How are things?  I hope everyone enjoyed there week.  Things are nearing its end here.  We have 6 games 18 days until the end of the season.  I am counting down until time to hit America.  We had only 2 games this week so its not much to report on them.  

On Friday, we played a team called Cordon.  A teamate from UNO University of New Orleans plays for them Clyde Ellis.  He was staying at the same hotel until we moved out so it was a game I was looking forward to.  Our fans really did not care for him because he made some gestures and tried to hurt one of our players, although he played well 20 pts.  The game was pretty even and in the 4th quarter they started to pull away.  I received the ball and tried to drive across the lane and banged knees with a player and got hurt.  I tried to return but it was too late.  I finished the game with 18 points 12 rebounds 6 assist and 3 blocks.  People were quite happy with the performance but were upset that we lost to the 2nd worst team in the league.  Our fans got into a fight with there fans and the Swat team came out with there shields and night sticks.  They had to escort the 2 Americans on there team out of there gym for safety.  After the game the doctor gave me 2 pills and said ice the knee and the pain will go away.  No Xrays nothing he didnt even look at it. 

Saturday we went to the restaurant we normally eat and I had an experience with the language barrier and customs.  It was very hot outside and I asked for a bottle of water.  The owner asked me if I would like a glass and I told him No Thank you.  After I drunk from the bottle he snapped and told me I was disrespectful and that Morris and I could not eat there anymore and we must leave the restaurant.  I asked what did I do and he told me that he explained to me to not drink from the bottle (like I understand Spanish)  We went to the gym and explained what happened and they went to talk with the man he felt very strong about his opinions although they told him I did not understand the customs.  Supposedly, it is disrespectful to drink from a bottle at a restaurant in Urugray and it means you have no manners.  What a lesson I learned.  Well the team has had to find another place for us to eat and although it is ok we dont have the freedom to order what we want so that is not good. 

Sunday I met a couple from St Simons Ga. The Polsons, they were very nice people.  They tried to explain to me that Urugray used to be a very beatuful country but the government has allowed the city to deterioate and not get better.  I was very fortunate to be able to tape the conversation with them on my camcorder just about life and S. America in general.  I have taken some pictures of the city they are pretty self explanatory in the titles so I will not list them in this email. 

Monday I decided to go sight see.  I went to a leather good store where I met some Americans who worked at the US EMBASSY they told us to contact them next week and we will be able to meet with some other Americans.  As I was walking the old city they had a street art exhibit that I would be willing to share with anyone who is interested.  (I have pictures)

Tuesday we played a game on tv against Malvin.  I only played 10 minutes but finished the game with 6 pts and 5 rebounds Unfortunately we lost but I think things will be ok for the next game.  Well I hope everyone enjoys there Thanksgiving and spend time with there family.  

Until next week............

Subject: Update # 11

Hello everyone.  Hope all is well with you.  This has been a quiet week because the league suspended play for a couple of days because of the violence that has been occurring at the games.  As I told you before The SWAT team is at every game for all the teams.  Because people fight over the fact there team loses they must provide some security for the refferees players and the innocent. 

Over the weekend we found a club called Labodquita it was a Reggeation type club.  Although I am not a fan of that kind of music it turned out really nice.  They played salsa music as well as Reggation.  I had never done salsa before but it was quite cool and I recommend you try it at least once.  I stood No chance for the Pablos or the Juans in club moving like professionals and the women were saying (tu muy maloy=you very bad) but it was cool.  We left the club at 7 am.  I had never been in a club that long.  It was daylight outside, very crazy. 

Monday we had a game the league resumed the games with new rules.  If a fan fights in the game the team automatically loses.  Also, if any damage is done to the opposing teams property (cars, businesses, stores in the neighborhood etc. The team loses as well.  I never thought Basketball would be this crazy.  We played a team called Bohemios.  I was talking with the 2 Americans and they told me this was there last game because the sponsors pulled out on them because they were losing.  It was sad to hear but its business.  I had a lot of respect for those 2 guys because they played hard till the last second and they knew they would not get paid for the game.  They had worked out an agreement with the team to pay for there housing and food till Mid December and just live here and sight see for a couple of weeks. 

 In the game our teamed played horrible.  No one played hard we basically knew we were a better team than them and did not take them serious.  They kept the game close and even took the lead in the 4th quarter.  But in the final minute we scored and I got the defensive rebound to seal the win.  It was a very horrible game.  But one highlight I took a 3 pointer and made it the fans were saying NO Sanders and as it went in there were saying Ole Ole Ole Ole Sanders, Sanders.  I thought to myself I got to take more of these.  I finished the game with 16 pts 12 reb and 5 assist. 

I have attached some photos for you from the weekend at the club and the fire picture they call that Tamborees.  They meet on Saturday evening and play in the streets it is real nice I had an opprtunity to get some on tape.  And the police truck.  That is the Swat truck thats at every game they load up 15-20 officers in there.  All are in full gear for the games

Well thats all for this week nothing else too special so until next week have a good one.

Subject: Update # 12

Hello once again.  Well we are at the end of this season.  Things have been real crazy this past week although we played one game.  It will be one I will never forget and I will explain to you later in the update. 

Thursday a few Americans went to The US Embassy.  It was down the street from our gym but we had never went.  All this time.  I was fortunate to meet someone who works there and he invited us there for a personal tour.  It was great they took photos with us and said they would post it on the US Embassy website soon.  It was amazing that there world was totally different from ours.  Some of them did not know anything about basketball.  Wow was all I could say.  The Embassy is protected by 7 military personell.  They are in charge of the whole building and the people inside it.  Yes they do have locals who work security but still 7 thats amazing and a lot of responsibility. 

Saturday we were to play Aguada our arch rivals.  but because of bad weather and lack of security they cancelled the game.  We went to the club La Bodquita again and had a great time.  After the club my teammate and 2 Americans from another team got arrested and went to jail.  The police were basically trying to make life difficult for them.  The police told them to leave and take a taxi.  When they tried to flag one down one of the Americans slapped the trunk of a taxi as it passed.  The police then told them to just walk.  As they were walking 2 bike cops pulled next to them and said uno, dos, tres come with us.  They took them to jail and left them in holding for 4 hours.  The police officer said you are all guilty so you are going.  They finally called the hotel where they stay and our General Manager picked them up.  They had no charges just inconvienced. 

On Monday we played Soriano.  It was horrible from the jump.  We did not play well as a team.  And were down by 30 at one point.  What made it worse was that we had the best home record and we were getting crushed at home.  To make things even worse I got attacked by my own fans.  You will never believe this happened it was like a nightmare The coach took me
out with 4 min left one of the fans started screaming and cursing me (my own fans) The police got involved and seperated dude. He got free and said something else and the police pulled out there night sticks.  They told me to go to the locker room. After the game was over dude found a metal pipe and was coming to the locker room. They pushed him in the visitors locker room and escorted me out (keep in mind the same guy)

When I got outside they let him go and he came outside chasing me with the metal pipe.  Swinging!!!  It took 20 people to hold him back and when i got to the corner some fans were around me, one decided to kick me in the back of the knee after I chased him. They pulled me away and another fan kicked me in the other leg. I was walking towards the house and another fan picked up a bottle, someone put him in a choke hold.  Some people were telling me to get on the bus. The bus driver opened the door but saw 60 people coming towards the bus so he closed the door and kept going.  I was left stranded.  I ended up going into a restaurant and the president had someone drive me home.

The president and GM came to the house 2 hours later and say they were sorry for what happened. They talked with the people and ask what is the problem. They told him they were Drunk and we were losing so they saw some people act so they decided to act.  He said he promised me my safety and wants me to stay these last 4 games.  I dont feel comfortable being in a situation like this. He told me the fans were dead wrong on this and I did nothing the whole team played bad not just me but because I was the tallest they felt like I was an easy target.  He wanted me to know that All of the fans are not against me.  Its just a few bad apples in the bunch but with so many people coming at you you dont know what to think. 

This is life overseas very cut throat.  I dont know what to think because when I asked where were the police they told me the police (Swat team) could only call for backup because they have no jurisdiction outside the arena.  

When you think about it we are very blessed to be in America because there is no way any of this could happen and people actually get away with it.  Well I should be home early next week.  We are waiting on a flight out of Montevideo.  Its sad that it had to end like this because it was an enjoyable experience.  I learned a lot and hopefully I can take my experiences here and put them to use in my next journey.  I dont want anyone to panic I am ok, I am not bruised or hurt.  I even practiced with the team yesterday to stay in shape.  They play against there arch rivals on Saturday and I may just stay till then to help them win.  The President and GM are good people and they have treated me well here so out of good faith I may decide to play one last game plus its not a home game.