Would you shed a tear or two if you heard
About the betting from referees?
Trying to hoard the money for themselves,
While destroying basketball’s integrity?

Would you let out an aggravated sigh,
If you could see the low levels to which we resort?
That fandom is now more about how many jerseys you own,
Than appreciating the beauty of the sport?

As it sets in that you’re gone,
We humbly admit,
That the lessons you taught us so well,
We so often forget.

We get so caught up in gimmicks,
We get so obsessed with the fame.
It’s sometimes hard to remember,
From where exactly we came.

Red, please don’t get me wrong.
There are still a few players who see,
That the passion of the game,
Matters far more than the money.

For what we’ve done, please forgive us.
Know that no matter how far we stray
from your wise words and your legacy,

We’re only one heartbeat away.