From his early years as a military brat moving from Japan to various states, to the cultural shock of settling in Jennings, Louisiana, Melvin Adams a standout running back (Top 5 National Recruit) shares his story. The impact of his family and their unwavering support shines through as Melvin reflects on his high school years, excelling in multiple sports and nurturing his athletic talent.

Experience the thrill of his intense recruitment process with top-tier football schools like Texas, UCLA, and LSU vying for his signature. Despite initially committing to Texas, Melvin's strong bond with a teammate and an unforgettable visit to Tulane led him to switch his commitment at the last moment.

Life after football posed new challenges for Melvin, and he candidly discusses the transition from athlete to post-college life. The importance of academic commitment, the emotional toll of injuries, and the support systems that helped him persevere are all part of his journey. Melvin's story comes full circle as he returns to complete his degree, spurred on by the encouragement of his wife and a supportive retiring dean.

Don’t miss this inspiring episode, and make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more engaging conversations.

(00:00) Melvin Adams

(09:05) College Recruiting and Commitment to Tulane

(25:09) Life After College Football

(38:32) Legacy

Join us for an engaging episode of TTalk, where Carmen Jones and Harold Sylvester sit down with the remarkable John Arthurs, a celebrated Tulane athlete and former professional basketball player. We explore John's early years in New Orleans, where he developed his athletic prowess at Wisner Playground. John reminisces about his time at De La Salle High School, where he not only excelled in sports but also served as student body president. The conversation then shifts to his impactful collegiate career at Tulane, discussing the significance of his athletic scholarship and the meaningful relationships he formed during his time there.

John shares vivid recollections of intense games, including memorable matches against LSU and UCLA, and the personal stories that shaped his athletic journey. We also touch on the transitional phase from college to the professional leagues, offering a rare glimpse into John's experiences with the Milwaukee Bucks, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson and the camaraderie among players during the early days of the NBA.

Finally, we delve into John's life after professional sports, highlighting his successful career in banking and commercial real estate, and his enduring connection to Tulane University and New Orleans. As we wrap up, we share heartfelt memories and the joy of reconnecting with old friends, showcasing the deep bonds and shared experiences that continue to shape our lives. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with rich stories and reflections on a life well-lived both on and off the court.

00:01) Intro
(09:10) Basketball Memories Similar Upbringing, Different Realities
(17:22) Tulane Basketball Memorable Senior Year Basketball Wins
(26:08) Historic UCLA Matchup
(33:28) Transition From College to Pros Rooming With Alcindor
(45:39) Post-Professional Life Reflections
(51:53) College Athletics' Experience and Relationships
(01:02:21) Supporting Student-Athletes
(01:09:13 ) Summer Baseball League With Stephen Martin
(01:14:36) John and Harold Reminisce

Imagine growing up with a life filled with ballet, gymnastics, and piano lessons, only to discover your true calling is the competitive world of track and basketball. That's the story of Mashandra Hall a dynamic Tulane Hall of Famer, who joins us to share her incredible journey from Memphis to collegiate sports stardom.

She tackles the contentious issue of youth sports specialization, leveraging both personal anecdotes and professional insights to weigh the pros and cons. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of following one's dreams, the impact of educators, the legacy of strict fun, and the lasting power of kindness.

(00:00) Meshandra Hall Introduction

(05:20) Youth Sports Specialization

(20:05) Transition to College Athletics Experience"

(31:52) Navigating Freshman Year in College Sports

(41:06) Track vs. Basketball

(49:52) Athlete's Struggle With Transition and Injury

(54:59) Former Athlete Reflects on Coaching Track

(58:40) Career Transition and Academic Success

(01:03:18) Life Reflections and Memorable Moments

(01:14:01) Inspiring Young People Through Kindness

Hall, was a two-sport athlete for the Green Wave from 1989-1994, and later served as a track & field assistant coach. As a standout on the Tulane women's track and field team, Hall was a two-time Metro Conference Track & Field Most Valuable Player in 1993 and 1994, the Tulane Female Athlete of the Year in 1993 and 1994 and ranked No. 7 in the nation among United States women in the long jump.

She holds the Tulane record in the long jump, ranks fourth all time in the 400-meter dash and was the Green Wave's three-time MVP of running and field events (1992, 1993 and 1994). When she wasn't performing on the track, Hall was a defensive standout for the TU women's basketball team from 1989-91. She was voted defensive MVP in 1989-90 and played her final hoops season in 1990-91.

In the classroom, she received the Sophie B. Newcomb Academic Award in 1993, served on the African-American Congress of Tulane from 1989-94, was a Tulane Student-Athlete Advisory Board member from 1991-93 and was a member of Tulane's 3.0/4.0 GPA Club in 1993 and 1994.