Bridges would Never have allowed Sikma to play Gobczynski one on one.  Gobo shot a lot and he would have been in foul trouble or fouled out. Can't score from the bench.

Thanks to all who have made me feel welcome.  I am not a writer, athletic director, or casual fan, but someone who has played at every level.  The point I have been trying unsuccessfully to make apparently is that every player who puts on a uniform and puts themselves out there for someone's entertainment is worthy of the respect the difficulty it takes to do that.  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and thank heavens we don't always agree on whom is the best player, team, coach or whatever.  History is a fair judge of talent and at the end of the day will bring balance to any opinion.

I stand corrected with the Thompson name.  It was actually Michael Harper who was probably the best player who played at North Park.  I am surprised you did not have that name in your memory as it seems quite vivid.  He played from 1978-80 on some great teams. 43 - 5 in conference during those 3 years.  Thanks for the welcome.  What bothers me most in my RANT is that a lot of people who have never played a college game nor ever seen a particular player, seem to think they are qualified to judge players skill levels. 

I have read a lot of posts over the last few years and have been shocked by the lack of respect and accuracy on players of years gone by.  In particular, the 1960's and 1970's would have to be considered the heyday of the conference.  Now to hear some tell it, basketball talent today in the CCIW is great.  While it has some talented players, players of that era in the NAIA had many more options as far as ability to go play at other schools.  Just go up and down the scoring and rebounding records of the CCIW to see the tremendous talent that was playing during that time.  In 1973 there were 4 players 6'10" and better.  Laing, Hamming Gobczynski and Sikma.  All 4 were All Americans and either played professionally or were drafted by the NBA.  Some of you old timers might remember another All American in Thompson from North Park who played in the late 70's.  No time to mention MANY other GREAT players of that era.  No 3 pointers, no 120 game careers, just hard nosed basketball with talented players.  Could they play today?  Don't you doubt it!