May 7
Where were all the experts evaluating personnel back in 1984? That's right, sometimes you can't measure the heart, the mental capabilities and desire once you get the mounds of cash.

	Stockton

Maybe that's why 15 players were chosen in the draft before the Utah Jazz selected a guard out of Gonzaga named John Stockton. OK, there were players named Olajuwon, Jordan and Barkley who went in the top 10 that year, but Mr. Stockton had quite a remarkable 19-year career.

He had Hall of Fame numbers with more than 15,000 assists and 3,000 steals to rank No. 1 in NBA history in those categories.

Stockton always came to play and never wanted to miss a game. He was like Cal Ripken Jr., throwing on the uniform and performing each game. In fact, in 17 of his 19 seasons he played in every Jazz game. Think about that -- what incredible durability and longevity!

And, of course, nobody excelled at the pick and roll better than Stockton and Karl Malone. Working off Stockton for 18 years, we'll see if the Mailman returns to Utah or goes elsewhere. Either way, he will miss Stockton, his floor general and maestro man.

For 19 years, Stockton was awesome, baby with a capital A! In the upcoming draft, we'll have to see if a team can find a gem in the rough like Stockton was out of Gonzaga.