Tyrese Haliburton's 10 Essentials

Inspiration has a mind of its own. It doesn't follow rules; it disobeys deadlines. I have yet to find inspiration or creativity on demand—when, where and how it unfolds is a mystery. So when it comes, seize the day, hour or minute. And that explains why, I am outlining the introductory assignment for the Fall 2025 semester of Sports and Spirituality here and now.

With the league MVP and a strong bench, the Oklahoma City Thunder were heavily favored to win the NBA title and succeeded. However, the Indiana Pacers put up a fight—and an exciting one at that. The Pacers beat the odds on their journey to the championship—both in Vegas and winning games with buzzer beaters, while overcoming ten, twelve and even 2o point deficits. They played with so much heart and the beat of it can be attributed to third year player, Tyrese Haliburton.

Tyrese Haliburton has quickly risen to become one of the NBA’s premier young point guards.Standing at 6'5" and 185 pounds, Haliburton is known for his exceptional court vision, playmaking, and efficient scoring. A recent injury, a torn Achilles in Game 7 only raises the questions of "What if?" No doubt this  is a major setback, but his talent and character suggest he could return even stronger. I get the sense that he will utilize one of his ten essentials: the Bible to help along the way.

In fact, Haliburton said that the Good Book is his number one on his list of ten essentials. This is because 

Over the past two years, religion has become very important in my life—just understanding that I'm made in the image of God in a world where if you have a bad game or they're killing you on social media or confidence goes up and down— you can always come right here. This is my peace. I understand that I am made in His image and that He is the only one who can judge me. 

Growing up, the verse that everybody got. tattooed was Philippians 4:13 I can do all do through Christ who strengthens me and I always believed in that, but I never read a Bible, so it's been important to me last two years. 

I didn't go to church growing up so when I got the NBA, they do chapel before every game. So when sixty in on the clock there's always a meeting where both teams, coaches, everybody's welcome to come in and do like a 15 minute service. Harrison Barnes was my vet, so I used to always go with him and then when I got traded, I started going with Buddy (Hield) and now Buddy's gone, so it's really just me most of the time and it's been really good for me,

I was surprised to learn that the NBA holds chapel services so close to game time. Tyrese Haliburton’s testimony about the peace he finds in God’s Word was deeply moving. It made me wonder how many other players turn to prayer as a way to center themselves and find focus before stepping onto the court. I always thought "what if any religious article might be listed in my own 10 Essentials." 

This is a question I will be inviting my seniors to consider. I realized I don't even have ten items. What might yours be? So far I have included:

1. My grandfather's All-Ireland medal.
2. Golf clubs, but most especially my 9-wood. 
3. a deck of cards
4. lap top
5. car keys
6. green Masters hat
7. —10. TBD!
   

I came across this video because one of my students asked me if I had heard Haliburton talk. She said his voice is "not what you expect." I responded, "Do you mean it is unique, like Pat Mahomes?" That conversation prompted me to learn more. I happened upon this interview and just two minutes in—inspiration or was in the Holy Spirit led me to something new. 

I will be asking my students to create a video of their own so that I can get to know them and what they value. What I find interesting and surprising is that Haliburton, a pro basketball player didn't include anything related to basketball. No stones however have been thrown here. Please see my list. I'm a theology teacher and work in the office of adult spirituality, and I'm without a spiritual resource or religious relic. There is however, plenty of inspiration, creative, Sports and Spirituality between the two of us. Amen.

Photo Credits
Tyrese with Scripture

The Gifts of and from Barry Bonds

Later today, I’ll head to the house that Barry Bonds built. You read that right. Oracle Park—formerly Pacific Bell Park, SBC Park, and AT&T Park—would not have risen from the shores of China Basin in San Francisco’s SoMa district without the home run king. While many played a role in bringing this gem of a ballpark to life, failing to recognize #25 as the central figure is shortsighted. Furthermore, Bonds does not become the home run king without his father, Bobby and his Godfather, Willie Mays. Both men were outstanding players who shaped Barry in a different way. And the interview of Barry Bonds by KNBR's Murph and Marcus on the one-year anniversary of the Say Hey Kid's passing offers wonderful insight into their influence, impact and Sports and Spirituality.

To know Barry Bonds, follow Barry Bonds and listen to Bonds on Bonds is an exercise in question and conflict, grace and discord. I love him and I don't know what to do with him. I recently got into a heated argument with a friend who wanted to know if I think Bonds will be in the MLB Hall of Fame. His inquiry is one many people ask. It was however, the spirit behind the question that made me uncomfortable and defensive. Barry's my guy and yet, he's not. What to do?

I believe it’s an act of generosity to see someone at their best. At the same time, it’s foolish to ignore a person’s wisdom or fail to learn from their greatness. But it’s equally unwise to dismiss the past, excuse bad behavior, or overlook selfish choices and ulterior motives. The truth is, I don’t know Barry Bonds personally—he’s not a colleague or a friend. He’s a public figure, a fourteen time All-Star, seven time MVP and, as noted here, someone who helped make something very special in San Francisco possible. Somehow, I’m able to hold all of that—his brilliance, his flaws, and his impact—at once.

When Barry signed with the San Francisco Giants in 1993, he intended to wear #24, the number he wore for most of his time with the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the number worn by his Godfather, Willie Mays. 

Mays actually gave his blessing for Bonds to wear #24. However, there was a public outcry and media commotion surrounding the idea of unretiring what has long been associated with the Say Hey Kid. 

Ultimately, Bonds decided to wear number 25 in honor of his father, Bobby Bonds, who also wore number 25 during his time with the Giants. Bobby Bonds was a teammate of Mays and also served as a mentor to Barry. 

No doubt Willie gave Barry much more than literally the number off of his back. As noted in the interview, he gave Barry both permission and encouragement to surpass his record of 600 home runs. He gave him the support and love that at times was elusive from his own father, Bobby. 

To wrap up the interview Brian Murphy said "one year ago we lost Willie, right away—what is your favorite favorite story, memory, instant anecdote. What do you think about?

"My Godfather. That's it" said Bonds.

Murphy responded, "watching the game?"

"No."

"Hanging out on the back porch?"

"No, said Bonds. I have one thing of Willie's, and it's a picture of him and me. But the greatest gift that I ever got from my Godfather is him saying "I will be your Godfather. There's no greater gift I could ever have."

I heard these words and paused. I can't believe it took watching an interview of Barry Bonds for me to realize the importance of my own Godmother and my own role as one. What were all Godparents and Godchildren to understand, appreciate and hold this simple truth? Might we live that role differently? Would be appreciate our Godparents more? 

Part of why baseball fans love the game is that it moves at a pace different than other sports. There is action and inaction in baseball. Its cadence allows for us to stand up and cheer, sit down and look around. We have space to think and ponder, recall and reminisce. Today I will take the words, the lesson and insights from Bonds with the me to the yard—grateful that he is a key reason I can sit in View Reserved, Row 16, Seat 5.

photo credits
Bond and Bonds
Laughing with Willie

Carnage, Catastrophe, Brtuality and Beauty: Thoughts on the Story of the 2025 U.S. Open.

The leaderboard on Sunday morning for the final round of the 125th U.S. Open felt... underwhelming. No marquee names, fan favorites, or likely heroes were anywhere in sight. Any claim to the contrary likely came from someone managing a Fantasy team. Analysts must have proclaimed a dozen times, “the winner is Oakmont.” But as we know "this wasn't a storybook finish — storybooks only wish they could be this good." So here are but a few of the plot points and characters that need a nod and are worth remembering.

Carnage and catastrophe
Oakmont Country Club is widely considered one of the most difficult golf courses in the world, and for good reason. In addition to lightning fast greens, brutal rough, and narrow fairways, it has deep and steep bunkers (surrounded by that 5" rough) and plays to a par 70, at just over 7,300 yards. Physically and mentally it is relentless. "The Best of the East" rewards patience, precision, and discipline—and punishes everything else. And if you caught the final round, that is precisely what you saw.

Rarely have I seen such carnage and catastrophe. One player after another couldn't get out of the bunker. Balls that should have been a "green in regulation" stayed for seconds before rolling off and into more rough. Players missed routine putts. Every golfer I know has experienced this level of frustration—it's just rare to see it from so many in the field. 

But a few were able to keep their composure. The struggle was so real. In the same way we rubberneck—availing our eyes to carnage—it was hard to turn away from the TV. Maybe you didn't have the stomach to take it all in, but for those who stayed, they know: the story doesn't end in defeat. From the catastrophe emerged a new champion: J. J. Spaun.

An Unsuspecting Hero
Before the 2025 U.S. Open, Spaun’s résumé included four pro wins—across developmental and professional tours—and one PGA Tour victory. His rise from walk‑on college player to major champion is the stuff of great stories. But if I were to tell you the winner "bogeyed five of the first six holes—carding a 40 (+4) on the front-nine of the final round," you would say that is a tall tale. It's not. 

With four birdies on the back nine, Spaun carded a 72 (+2 over par) and was the only player in the tournament to finish under par—with a total score of 279 (one under par). To me, this is where the story gets interesting.

A Win of Biblical Proportions
Spaun sealed the win with an incredible 64-foot putt on the 18th hole. Yes, he got a good read from Viktor Hoveland; it was quite an exclamation putt, I might point. However, he might not have been put in that position were it not for a 96-minute rain delay. As written on the TODAY show website, 

Spaun says the rain delay proved to be a game changer.

“Actually, it was a gift from God, honestly,” he said June 17 on TODAY, noting that his caddie's father died a year ago on Father's Day.

He also recalled having to sit through a delay after getting off to a bad start while leading on Sunday at the 2025 Players Championship, only to do better and make a playoff once play resumed.

Spaun said he and his caddie, Mark Carens, knew the delay at the Open would help them out.

“When that horn blew on the ninth tee, we looked at each other and said, ‘This is exactly what we needed.’ So we went back in, reset and (I) came back out a different man,” he said.

Carens then came out to explain what happened during the rain delay.

“He changed clothes, he changed everything,” he said.

If I were only reading and teaching this story, I’d likely focus on its symbolism—how a forced delay can serve as a form of purification, and how the act of shedding the old makes space for something new to emerge. While the Bible doesn’t mention “rain delays” in a literal or casual sense, it does feature weather-related interruptions and divine uses of rain that alter human plans and timelines. The most well-known example, of course, is Noah’s 40 days and 40 nights—a delay of transformative proportions. But sports fans need not go that far back to find that example. 

The 2016 Chicago Cubs all cite the 17 minute rain delay in Game 7 of the World Series as to why they beat the Cleveland Indians. Cubs outfielder, Jason Heyward gave a “beautiful” speech, which preceded an open discussion. As written in Rain delay for the ages becomes part of Cubs’ lore, “We all had heart to hearts, we all felt we had to say things that were on our minds and get them off our chest,” Russell said. “We reached new levels when you talk about that stuff. Grown men talking about that stuff, it doesn’t matter. The fact that we did it here in the World Series.” That break from the heavy skies ended a 108 year drought for Cubs fans. A championship had returned to Wrigley field anew.

I Never Want the Story to End.
A great match or contest doesn't end. How? Why? It leaves us with so much to reflect upon and remember. I found myself analyzing, revisiting and reconnecting events of the day. I was able to watch the match with my Dad on Father's Day. We have talked about what we witnessed—together—in the days thereafter.

There are stories within the story (J.J. Spaun going to CVS at 3:30 a.m. for his daughter), wrongs that can't be made right (the ruling on Sam Burns who was asking for relief from his ball in standing water) and connections that need to be made (what other rain delays have occurred in sports history?!).

As Jay Busbee of Yahoo Sports writes

This was the right stroke, in the right tournament, at the right time, for the right player. This was one of those why-we-watch moments, a triumph in the evening fog, a victory for the little guy in a sport increasingly tilted against the little guys. This wasn't a storybook finish — storybooks only wish they could be this good.

Thank you to the players, the USGA and Oakmont Country Club who made the 125th US Open brutal and beautiful. What a great story....!

Photo Credits
TODAY Show: Trophy
Rain delay

Pope Leo XVI Meets Jannik Sinner: Where the Culture of Encounter Ought to Go

Much has been made of Pope Leo XVI's recent meeting with tennis' number one player on the men's tour, Jannik Sinner. From the puns associated with the Italian athlete's surname to their common "love" of the game, the reports of this encounter can't leave Catholics and sports fans without a smile. For example, upon giving the Holy Father one of his rackets and a ball as written by NPR, "the three-time Grand Slam champion suggested a quick volley. But the pope looked around at the antiques and said, "Better not." Though his papacy is nascent, it's obvious that this pontiff will continue—if not extend—the culture of encounter preached and promoted by Pope Francis. I believe that is incredibly important. However, this particular meeting raises an important question for me. If an encounter is but an exchange of pleasantries and puns, gifts and goodness, it falls short. It remains but a photo opportunity. My hope is that a meeting like this offers the time and space to raise questions and express concerns. And in the case of meeting with Jannik Sinner, I believe the culture of doping and the usage of PEDs in tennis ought to be acknowledged and addressed.

On March 14, 2025, Sinner visited the pope at the Vatican, along with his parents and Alberto Binaghi, the president of the Italian Tennis Federation, during the Italian Open in Rome, after returning to the game following a three-month doping ban.

As written in The Guardian,

Sinner tested positive for low levels of a metabolite of clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid that can be used for ophthalmological and dermatological use. It's the same drug for which San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. was suspended by MLB.

Sinner tested positive again eight days later in an out-of-competition sample.

Sinner failed a drug test twice. Sinner's explanation — that trace amounts of Clostebol in his doping sample was due to a massage from a trainer who used the substance after cutting his own finger — were accepted. Originally,  he was allowed to compete without suspension, raising questions about the treatment of high profile athletes. Eventually, Sinner accepted a three-month ban in a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency. 

You can decide for yourself what to make of Sinner's story. Much has been written and reported. I don't feel good about it. Personally, I don't celebrate this encounter in the way I wish I could, so I turned to a friend with my questions. I expressed my concerns.

I asked, What is the best we could hope for in this encounter? Given the timing and publicity of Sinner's case, we agreed that it could be opportune for the Holy Father to inquire about the culture of doping surrounding the sport. Making accusations or assigning blame is not appropriate. Asking about the pressure, temptation, policies, provision and communication around PEDs—defining, testing, banning and more is essential to understanding the decisions that athletes make. What are the conversations you are having with your physio? your doctor, your team? yourself? 

My friend added that the encounter could also serve as a space to remind a person of their moral responsibility to others. In this case, the Pope could  As the number one player in the world. countless others—young people, tennis players, sports fans, Italians and Catholic look to you to set an example. You have great power and responsibility—whether you want it or not. I urge you to choose the good. I encourage you to live with integrity. Make the game we both love even greater by the holistic use of your talent, style, mentality and more.  

It's possible that Pope Leo and Sinner had a serious conversation—a private one. I respect that we might not be privy to it all. As noted in 2024 US Open champion Jannik Sinner meets with Pope Leo XIV "during the audience, Binaghi gave the pope an honorary federation card, and the pontiff and Sinner posed for photos with the Davis Cup trophy that Sinner helped Italy win in 2023 and 2024, as well as the Billie Jean King Cup trophy won by the women in 2024, led by 2025 Italian Open women's champion Jasmine Paolini."

"We all felt the passion that Leo XIV has for our sport and this filled us with pride," Binaghi said in a statement. "We hope to embrace the Holy Father again soon, maybe on a tennis court."

Who knows, that might be the right place, right time for the next encounter.

Photo Credits
Pope and Sinner
Trophy

The Sacrament of Confirmation: You'll Never Walk Alone

It's Confirmation season in the Catholic Church. As the third and final sacrament of initiation, Confirmation strengthens and deepens the grace received at Baptism. It seals the person with the gift of the Holy Spirit, empowering them to live as adults in the Church who are called to witness to Christ. It is not meant to be a Catholic "Bar/Bat Mitzvah." Other think of it as Catholic graduation. It need not be relegated to a second class sacrament. Perhaps Sports and Spirituality can help. 

It makes sense to me that the word Confirmation means “to strengthen” or “to make firm.” Receiving this sacrament requires personal preparation through prayer, study and reflection. Athletes are not strangers to a regime of strength training, self discipline, and teamwork. In Confirmation, a young person confirms their intention to live as a mature member of the Church. The training or this important sacrament are designed to help them take that step with faith and confidence.

I had the opportunity to witness this firsthand when I met with the eighth graders at Notre Dame des Victoires in San Francisco during their Confirmation retreat. To share a small, but important part of their journey was an honor and a privilege. And what stood out to be about this retreat is that it  included both Confirmands and sponsor. In my opening remarks, I acknowledged that special component of the retreat. I said, "As they sing in Liverpool You'll Never Walk Alone." I got smiles from all of the soccer fans in attendance.

In Baptism, a child is given God parents. In Confirmation the confirmands choose a sponsor—a spiritual mentor who can help them grow in their relationship with God and live out their Catholic faith more fully. Practically speaking, sponsors  stand as witnesses during the Confirmation ceremony, publicly affirming their commitment to support the confirmands. Ideally, their role doesn’t end with the ceremony. A sponsor is encouraged to extend guidance, encouragement, and prayer as they continue their journey in faith. I think we can all use a good sponsor! 

Many of the sponsors on the retreat were extended family members—aunts, uncles and cousins. Some were the parents of the confirmand's friends. A few were even former teachers and neighbors. Each one in attendance was there to listen and learn, lead, guide and offer an assist when necessary. I had both parties interview one another (email me if you want the questions). They trusted the process. That time together was a win.

But, I also wanted to be realistic about the role of a sponsor. I thought of a quote from the legendary, late St. Ignatius High School football coach—Vince Tringali. When asked, "What do you get out of coaching?" he said: 

What you get from coaching is a relationship. And for some it only lasts a season. Still others, ask or need more of you and it extends beyond. And with some, the relationship lasts a lifetime. One that does not end in even with this life.

His words have forever resonated with me. Today I saw a photo taken from graduation day eight years ago: it features me and one of my golfers, Rachel. I attended her brother's funeral last April. I hope to play golf with her this summer. She is often in my prayer, that is but one relationship that has extended far beyond one golf season.

I think too of countless other runners, rowers and golfers who I have coached in the past. Among the majority, our relationship lasted but a singular season. Those relationships are invaluable. I learned about them and about myself in our time together.

I think this is an appropriate analogy for the role and expectation of a Confirmation Sponsor. The fruit of this shared sacred journey is a relationship. For some it may only be during the preparation and training for the sacrament. Among others, it might be one that lives long. Regardless of its tenure, I hope both Confirmand and sponsor will always pray for one another. 

Before the retreat, I thought back to my own sponsor, Diane Woods. She was our neighbor, a member of our parish and one of the most loving, warm, lively and kind women I knew. I was so excited to ask her to accompany me on my journey. When I showed the photo you see on this blog (the top one) from my Confirmation day at St. John Vianney Church, all I see is how she is looking on with great love, warmth and affection. (N.B. what is also special about this photo is that in the background stands a friend from both grade school and high school, Brian. His son attends the school where I teach!). Diane and her husband moved back to the East coast when I was in college. We lost touch over the years but I remain grateful for the seasons we shared.

With Susan at the wedding of the son of our good friend!

I have been a sponsor twice—for my dear friend Susan and my God daughter, Grace. I am but one year older than Susan but I feel a blessed kinship with her to this day for having had the privilege of being her sponsor. I should let her know, I pray for her regularly. Prayers of gratitude for her friendship, our memories, her kindness, love of her family and friends and for her faith. She asks great questions about it. Tough questions. I have always enjoyed the opportunity to think, discuss and unpack these matters with her. When my niece Grace asked me to be her sponsor, I wasn't sure if I should concede as I am already part of her faith journey. But, I realized she asked me to step up and stand in as her sponsor. How many times in life do we get to accompany those we love in such a special way?! Through both Susan and Grace, my faith was strengthened and made firm. I hope I was able to give both the sponsors and Confirmands in the room a sense of the gift of preparing for Confirmation can and will bring.

Between the grace of the sacrament, the sponsor and the Spirit, Confirmation is a worthy endeavor—training, toil and time and all! What a blessing to know "You'll Never Walk Alone." 

A fitting prayer to offer on the Feast of Pentecost, Ascension Sunday, for Confirmands and their sponsors.

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful.
And kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you will renew the face of the earth.
O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit.
Did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit.
We may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen. 

Photo Credits
Liverpool United