The NBA It has been throughout its history the scenario of great feats, unforgettable legends … and also of episodes wrapped in mystery. One of the most unusual comes to light again: The true age of Manute Bolthe 2.31 meter Sudanese pivot whose figure continues to generate fascination. Kevin Mackeythe coach who recruited him in the 80s, has recently admitted that his date of birth was invented because, simply, “No one knew how old he was”.
“Bol could have been between 40 and 50 when I already competed in the NBA”
“I put an age because they had no idea. Neither his companion could give me a clear answer. So I fabried it. I had to do it if I wanted me to have a chance in professional sport”Mackey explained in an interview. The coach acknowledged that, in reality, Bol could have been between 40 and 50 when he already competed in the NBA. “At 19, everyone looks at you as a promise. At 35, no one is committed to you”He justified.
Bowl was initially recruited to Cleveland Statebut never played there for not fulfilling the level of English. Ended in the Bridgeport Universitya modest institution of the Division IIwhere he played the 1984-85 season before making the jump to the NBA. Mackey achieved an official date of birth thanks to his influence with migratory agents that, according to himself, were followers of the university team.
“We did not get any sporting advantage. We knew I wouldn't play for us. But we were not going to return it to a country devastated by hunger. He refused to leave, and I understand”, Says Mackey, who was fired in 1990 due to alcohol and drug problems.
He Gran Maneute bowl / X
This episode is not unique. Similar cases have occurred with African athletes whose countries lack reliable civil records. A recent example was that of Thon Makeralso Sudanese, who faced similar accusations about his age when he entered the 2016 draft.
The only player in history with more caps than points scored
Beyond the enigma of his date of birth, Bol left an indelible mark on the NBA. It was the maximum caps of the league in 1986 and 1989, and is the only player in history with more plugs (2,086) than points scored (1,599). He averaged 2.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.3 caps per game in 10 seasons between Washington, Golden State, Philadelphia and Miami.
MANUTE BOL / X
Manute Bol retired in 1995, officially with 35 years, and died in 2010 due to renal failure. Beyond basketball, he dedicated his life to humanitarian causes, becoming a symbol for generations of African players. The man who blocked shots like no one remains, in part, an enigma. We may never know how many years Manute Bol was really. But what is certain is that his legend, such as his plugs, remains intact.
