Can’t Abdul-Jabbar Get Hold of Himself?

Your Thomas Bonk went bonkers in his 27-line bylined story May 17. Even Cyndi Lauper knows better than to label Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s hold on Denver’s Danny Schayes a headlock. It’s common knowledge to all, except perhaps to Bonk, that Kareem applied a choke hold on Schayes (Danny said he couldn’t swallow for two days). A choke hold is around the neck; a headlock is around the head.

This childish, nonsensical act by Kareem should forever place him behind Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell, two non-whining players, on the all-time center list. When Kareem finally retires, he would make a good villain on the pro rasslin’ circuit.

C. J. ANDERSON

San Bernardino