Great story even if it isn't northern California related

This book sounds like a great read. The other element we take from this article is we would never allow any relative of ours to play for Rick Majerus. The basketball world is a different crucible but there is no room for sadistic behavior anywhere, anytime.

Against all odds / 'Longshot: The Adventures of a Deaf Fundamentalist Mormon Kid and His Journey to the NBA'
Becky Wright
Standard-Examiner
June 7, 2009

"Longshot: The Adventures of a Deaf Fundamentalist Mormon Kid and His Journey to the NBA," released May 26 by HarperOne ($25.99), is Allred's autobiography.

Rebounding is not an athletic skill.

"Most of it's just the ball has to bounce your way, but then after that, it's up for grabs, and that's when it's all about heart and wanting to go get it," said Lance Allred, 28.

The ball hasn't always bounced Allred's way, but heart and the determination to go after his dreams have made him a premier rebounder -- on and off the basketball court.

More than a story about how he beat the odds and wound up one of the best rebounders in the NCAA as a center for Weber State University, and then played for the Cleveland Cavaliers, it's a personal account of Allred's struggle to rebound from challenges and make peace with himself...

Go here for the remainder, especially the Majerus mentions.