Cheeks: It would be ‘dream’ to get into the Hall of Fame

Maurice Cheeks looks as fit as ever at the ripe, young age of 54.

“I’ve still got game!,” Cheeks bellowed to Russell Westbrook, the Oklahoma City rising star at point guard.

Now an assistant coach with the Thunder, Cheeks continues to make his mark in the NBA. He was a four-time All-Star and was also named to five All-Defensive teams during his 14-year career. Cheeks guided the Sixers to a championship in 1982-83.

“It would be a dream to get in the Hall of Fame,” said Cheeks, who retired in 1993 and later coached the Trail Blazers and Sixers. “I couldn’t have done what I did without incredible teammates. It just wouldn’t have been possible. You know, Moses Malone and Dr. J and Andrew Toney — all those guys and so many others helped me become the player I was.”

That was an unselfish player who always made his teammates better.

“I tried to play the game the right way,” Cheeks said. “I had respect for the game and I was fortunate to be surrounded with great players. If I am picked, I’ll be thrilled. If I’m not picked, I’ll be OK. Just being nominated is an honor. I mean that. I’m truly blessed.”