With each Off the Cuff, we try to share some insight into notable people who have made their mark on St. Louis, but unfortunately, it’s impossible for us to include it all. So this issue we’ve decided to share some of the awesome answers that we couldn’t the first time around.
howard richards
From the NFL to the CIA, you’ve had quite the career and life.
It’s been interesting. You spend your whole life, or a good part of it, doing something completely outside of the realm of where you thought you’d end up. Working for the CIA was a tremendous learning experience, almost like an out-of-body experience when you think about where I came from. An inner city kid from St. Louis presented with all of these opportunities. Fortunately for me, I had mentors and good people to guide and prepare me. I loved it.
travis ford
What would you be doing if you weren’t coaching?
Right when I got out of playing, I did a movie, The 6th Man. I wouldn’t have been an actor; that’s for sure. I also took the Series 7 exam just for the fun of it. I’ve always enjoyed following the stock market and the competitive nature of it. I might be doing something in a brokerage firm.
oliver marmol
No one succeeds by themselves. Who is on the team behind you?
My wife for sure. We’ve been doing this together in the minor and big leagues for about 15 years now. She’s definitely one of the biggest reasons for me doing this and doing it well. I’ve also had mentors outside of baseball who have helped me grow in my leadership style.
napheesa collier
What was the biggest adjustment you faced going into the WNBA?
I think I adjusted pretty well. My freshman year of college was the hardest obstacle I’ve had to face basketball-wise. Everything in comparison has been a little bit easier. I did struggle a little in our pre-season games. I think I scored maybe six points combined in both. I found myself reverting back to how I felt that first year in college, but that was something I never wanted to experience again. I kinda just flipped a switch and told myself I was there to play. The first game, I scored 27 points, and I never looked back from there.
gary “dee dee” james
What advice have you gotten that you still live by?
Bootsy Collins told me I should put myself in the position to control my own destiny. I’d always worked for somebody else, but he told me I should never have to walk in another man’s footprint. I’ve lived by that motto ever since.