This weekend, Basketball Hall of Famer Ralph Sampson is making a variety of appearances in Southwest Florida.  On Thursday afternoon, Sampson went to the Greater YMCA Naples for a meet and greet.

Sampson gave advice and inspired the kids assembled at the YMCA to pursue their dreams.  It was just an ad-on in a schedule that includes a speaking engagement at Immokalee High School and a function with the One by One Leadership Foundation. 

At 7’4”, Sampson was a standout NBA big man in the 1980s after being a three-time national player of the year in college at the University of Virginia.  He was the first overall pick of the 1983 draft, won the Rookie the Year award, and made four All-Star teams in the decade.

Sampson is also long remembered for a game-winning, buzzer-beating shot that beat the Los Angeles Lakers and sent his Houston Rockets to the NBA Finals in 1986.  Unfortunately, several knee injuries would shorten a remarkable career.

In addition to his induction in Springfield, Sampson is also a member of the College Basketball Hall of Fame and has his jersey retired by Virginia.  He has remained a tremendous ambassador for basketball throughout his post-playing days. 

To inquire about Ralph Sampson's speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now. 

Ralph Sampson Talks About Today's Centers at his Naples YMCA Event: