In Memory Of Our
Fallen Gangsta
Derek
"40" Kleinmann
Starting Power
Forward
December 10,
1997 to November 13, 1998
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Derek was the heart
and soul of last years inside game. Not only was he a monster on
the boards, but he was a motivational gangsta among his thugs.
His contributions will not be forgotten. This year, he plans to
register as a member on the NWSC roster despite his traumatic
season ending injury. Though his on court abilities will be
sorely missed this season, he plans to help to coach and guide
his fellow teammates. The night of his tragic injury, the entire
Northwestside Connection team came to visit him in the hospital.
He was in a great deal of pain, and heavily medicated. After
giving the team a long lecture on the importance of ceiling fans,
he motioned for the team to move closer to him. As a tear rolled
down his cheek he smiled and said, "Win this season for me
G's, just do it for me." As the last word escaped him, his
eyes closed as passed out. Jason opened up his bottle of Henessy,
still wrapped in the paper sack, and poured a little out in
memory of Derek. As the team exited the door, Derek sat up in
bed, and yelled "Westsiiide." As the players turned
back towards the room, Derek's eyes lit up, noticing Jason's
bottle. Derek smiled and said, "Give me that damn Hennesy,
Beahm." All the players laughed, and Derek put his hand out
and said, "Now, lets break it off Thug Style!" T.J.
Nodded as all the players put their hands in, took a swig of
Hennesy and said, "1-2-3- WESTSIDE!"
"40" FOR
LIFE