http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news/ap/20001011/ap-rockets-olajuwon-health.html October 11, 2000 HOUSTON (AP) -- Hakeem Olajuwon is relieved. He knows he can play his final season while he battles a breathing disorder. Helped by a halftime dose of medicine for the asthma-like condition, the Houston star passed his first test Tuesday in the Rockets' 93-92 exhibition loss to the Dallas Mavericks. ``The second half, I felt very comfortable,'' Olajuwon said. ``The first half, my chest was burning. Practices have been wonderful. The games have been different. But in the second half, I felt comfortable. I'm encouraged to work out, improve.'' Olajuwon was bothered by the breathing disorder last season but expects to be able to complete his all-star career without difficulty. He played 15 minutes against the Mavericks, scored five points and got four rebounds. ``Oh man, what a difference (from last season),'' Olajuwon said. ``I was very relieved. I was coughing in the first half. But after taking the medicine, it was much better in the second half. I was trying to get my second wind. ``I'm excited. I feel I can do much better.'' Olajuwon's breathing condition is not a problem during regular workouts but is brought on by the intensity of games. He used an inhaler at the half to help his breathing against the Mavericks. ``I didn't know what to expect coming to camp,'' Olajuwon said. ``I was training, preparing for camp. But I needed a game to see, I didn't have the power. But I ran comfortably. Now I'm comfortable to work hard, train, practice. It will come.'' ------------------ stop posting my damn signature
No criticism, but it's on NBA .com, Houston Chronicle page and several AP newspaper pages (Like maybe 100). As well as ESPN sound bites and Fox carried it last night and this AM.
Damn Pops, you really get around. Doesn't take away from my surprise though. ------------------ stop posting my damn signature
Pole, thanks for posting that for those of us that don't check out the other sites that often or simply don't have the time to do so. It's great to see that Hakeem can feel the difference and believes he can compete at the level he is accustomed too. ------------------ Too often, we lose sight of life's simple pleasures. Remember, when someone annoys you it takes 42 muscles in your face to frown, but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and pimp-slap the mother****** upside the head!
