Become That Someone: The Legacy of Maurice Stokes and Jack Twyman

Описание: Maurice Stokes seemed destined for greatness in the National Basketball Association. An All-American at Saint Francis College in western Pennsylvania, the Pittsburgh native earned NBA Rookie-of-the-Year honors in 1956 and broke the league’s single-season rebounding record in 1957.

The direction of Stokes’ basketball career – and his life – changed dramatically on March 12, 1958. During a game against the Minneapolis Lakers, the Cincinnati Royals’ star fell awkwardly and hit his head against the court. He was knocked unconscious. Three days later, he became paralyzed from the neck down as a result of the accident.

Stokes spent the rest of his life under hospital care, working tirelessly to regain limited use of his arms and legs. While Maurice’s successes during 12 years of grueling therapy and rehabilitation were minimal, his medical expenses were not. Stokes’ hospital bills piled up quickly and it became clear that he needed financial help.

Enter Jack Twyman. Stokes’ teammate with the Royals, Twyman became Maurice’s legal guardian and assumed responsibility for his friend’s medical expenses. He became a tireless fundraiser for Stokes. He shared Maurice’s story with anyone who would listen. He championed the cause of raising money to pay Stokes’ bills.

Stokes was black and Twyman was white – in 1960s America – but their story transcends race. It is an inspirational story of perseverance, of selflessness, of brotherhood, and of an unbreakable bond. It is a story that continues to inspire at Saint Francis University, in the National Basketball Association, and beyond.

In this documentary video – produced and directed by Chris Miller and narrated by Pat Farabaugh – the viewer learns more about these two special men and their legacy. Farabaugh is the author of "An Unbreakable Bond: The Brotherhood of Maurice Stokes and Jack Twyman."