David Richman, a 1967 graduate of Cheltenham High School, will be holding a book talk and signing of his memoir “Wilt, Ike, & Me” at the Narberth Bookshop, 221 Haverford Avenue, on Thurs, June 22 at 7:00pm.
All are welcome to come hear Richman’s stories about growing up outside of Philly. In his 300-page personal memoir, the former Cheltenham High Student Council president writes how his father, Ike Richman, founded the Philadelphia 76ers, and moved former NBA superstar Wilt Chamberlain into their Elkins Park home during the 1965 NBA season.
The book is full of stories involving Chamberlain and Cheltenham, including the 7-foot-1, 300-pound NBA legend sleeping diagonally on two twin beds in David’s room, taking two mile walks around the Elkins Park neighborhood, and teaching David how to drive on Cheltenham Township streets.
From Amazon’s description:
Imagine you’re 16 years old and the most famous athlete in the world becomes your roommate.
Wilt Chamberlain moved into 76ers owner Ike Richman’s home during the 1965 NBA season, and that was just the beginning of this incredible coming of age journey for Wilt and David, Ike’s son.
Their daily life took on a normal routine – until game time, when David’s casual friend would turn into a mighty superstar, the beloved hero of ten thousand adoring basketball fans. Wilt was at his peak and soon, the Championship was within reach.
However, the enchanted tale takes a tragic turn. Ike suffers a fatal heart attack at courtside, and David’s young world is shattered. But unexpectedly, he has some profound, mystical experiences that help restore his spirit.
Wilt, Ike & Me is a poignant story of epic characters, set in a bygone era. As it journeys from the everyday, to the fantastic and even the metaphysical, the touching family saga is filled with triumph and tragedy. But ultimately, its true hero is the human heart, with its remarkable ability to transcend both time and death.
To purchase a copy of the book, you can click here.
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