B.O. Barn’s Unexpected Reward

For my first three years at UCLA, we played our home games in the B.O. Barn itself. Custodians would set up bleachers that seated about 2,100—until the fire department moved in and cut it down to 1,100. This forced us to play our “home” games elsewhere.

So for almost fourteen years, we traveled around playing those games at Santa Monica City College, Venice High School, Long Beach City College, Long Beach Auditorium, Pan Pacific Auditorium, and elsewhere.

Because of our lack of a real home court an unanticipated benefit occurred. Our team became a much stronger road team because we were virtually on the road all of the time.

I have little doubt this was of considerable advantage to us when we played opponents on their home courts. We were used to the disruption of travel and were more comfortable in “foreign” environments. This was particularly advantageous at tournament time.

Adversity often produces the unexpected opportunity. Look for it. Appreciate and utilize it. This is difficult to do if you’re feeling sorry for yourself because you’re faced with the adversity.