[folkertino]

As a Dutchman I have always had love for Rik Smits who was at his peak when I was in my teens and spent most of my time playing basketball myself.

Now others will probably remember him for one of two moments, 1) his behind-the-back pass in the 1998 All-Star Game or 2) the game-winning buzzerbeater in Game 4 of the 1995 Eastern Conference Finals, tying the Series 2-2 (although they wouldn't make it to the Finals though).



In commemoration of this moment I designed a booklet that shows the shot (I used the photo from a 1995-96 Collector's Choice ShowTime card) and on the inside describes the sequence of events in the hectic last minute of the game. On the back it has Smits's career stats.

back - front - inside front in one strip:
inside back:


As an investigation expert (I have seen like 70% of all CSI episodes) I found out Smits's current address and thought I'd try my luck. I just sent the page I wanted signed (not the whole booklet) to save on postage and to be able to have it sent as a letter to avoid customs.
I actually sent two copies of the page in case he wasn't happy with the auto on first attempt.

Anyway, on the 9th of March it went along with a letter and a preview of the design to the address that I had found. To my great surprise on Monday I already received the return-envelope back and here's what was in it:


^^^^ he signed both copies and

^^^^ he actually signed the draft design with a note saying "greetings from Indy" in Dutch - absolutely amazing

Needless to say I was completely amped about getting his signature (although in the video I may not sound like it - shell-shock effect). I know he's not considered the greatest player of all time, but for me personally he's a hero. Having received his signature for the booklet that captures one of the highlights from his career is an absolute thrill for me and I can't wait to get started on it and actually make it.

Thanks for looking/reading!

[bbills1999]

That is So awesome dude congrats

[crimedawg47]

WOW that is insane!!! What a great sport of Rik, very nice story as well....Grats!

[afff]

very nice

[sonnyday]

Nice, Smits is a stand up guy!

[mickey7mantle7]

Very cool and very creative..

[will23c1982]

Just an awesome thread. I really enjoy stuff like this. It must have felt great receiving that in the post. You deserve it.

[edye1286]

Very Nice, Great story I love how he signed the draft design with a note saying "greetings from Indy" in Dutch. Congrats!


As an investigation expert (I have seen like 70% of all CSI episodes) lol