I think Olajuwon's stated that he changed his game up to counter all the big dudes like Eaton in the paint and forcing them to guard him further out where they stood no chance. The respect was mutual : https://hoopshabit.com/2014/11/01/utah-jazz-interview-defensive-legend-mark-eaton/ DM:The player I hated guarding the most was _______ ME: Oh that’s easy, Hakeem Olajuwon. We were in the same division so we played them like every other week. His soccer background, and the foot speed he had in a 7-foot body, he completely re-engineered what the center position was all about.
I still remember when he answered an email of mine way back when when we were arguing about his weight or something and he clarified it. lol. Always seemed like a nice dude even though he was on what was probably my most hated team. R.I.P. Big Dude.
He holds the record of career most blocks per game. He probably could have held the total blocks record if he had a longer career.
Mark was a really cool dude off the court, and a defensive force on the hardwood.. A mountain of a man (my friends and I called him Sasquatch)...Really sad news. Much respect and love.
Far too young. Rest In Peace, big guy. A reminder to those of us who get on a bike to pay attention and be careful. It’s too easy to get lost in the breeze.
More like, what's up with Utah? First Bradley and now Eaton. Too much of a coincidence given their size.
