Sloan and the passing of Abe Pollin

Today’s passing of longtime Washington Wizards owner Abe Pollin conjures memories of this note, written after a Jazz game at Washington:

“(Jazz coach Jerry) Sloan’s postgame meeting with media members in Washington was interrupted when Abe Pollin, longtime owner of the Wizards, was wheeled by.
Pollin owned the franchise when, while known as the Baltimore Bullets, Sloan was a rookie on the roster.
Said Pollin to Sloan: ‘What year was that?’
Sloan: ‘Abe, that was 1965.’
Pollin: ’1965. And then I made a mistake and let you go.’
(Sloan went to Chicago in the 1966 NBA expansion draft).
Sloan: ‘Well, you’re very kind to say that. But I had a fun time while I was here.’
The two briefly reminisced about Sloan’s early career, then Sloan asked the 84-year-old about his health.
(Pollin reportedly has a rare degenerative brain disease that impairs movement and balance.)
Said Pollin: ‘Unfortunately I have a serious illness that has put me in a wheelchair. But I’m gonna get better.’
Sloan: ‘I know. You’re a tough guy.’
Pollin: ‘Not as tough as you.’ ”
That chance meeting and subsequent conversation took place on Nov.13, 2008. Pollin lived just more than a year longer.

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