Earlier this year a long-time friend passed away from breast cancer. We were best friends since high school. While I could not cure cancer, I wanted to be part of the process that will eventually find a cure. While watching a WNBA game a few months later, I saw a commercial with Lisa Leslie and others discussing Sears and the WNBA's involvement. I saw the charity auction on the web site and decided to participate.

Stiles

The company I work for, SBC Communications, used to be headquartered in St. Louis. Since SBC moved to San Antonio a few years ago, there has been an influx of information about everyone and everything in Missouri. A number of friends clued me into everyone's favorite, Jackie Stiles. We pulled for her and SMS through the NCAA tournament and into the WNBA.

I went to Portland a few weeks after winning the auction to play against Jackie in a game of HORSE. The Fire organization was the model of professionalism. In particular, Jill Wiggins and Katrinka Rau were remarkable. I went to two Fire home games and had a great time.

I met Jackie on one of her days off. I expected she would be nice, but I underestimated the degree. She was incredible. Beyond charming. Jackie won handily and yet it was still a blast. For someone that has every reason to be aloof and arrogant, Jackie is the exact opposite. She is what is wonderful about the WNBA.

Next year's auction should be even better. I'll either have to practice my trick shots or convince Jackie to play against me in golf.