AS I RELEASED THE BALL - I CALLED OUT YOUR NAME!

As I released the ball
I called out your name
Without you in the court
How could I play any game
I dribble the ball and look at you
The hasty eye-contact and looking away
The fake that I looked at you
I stake the lane and put an easy lay up
As I released the ball
I called out your name
You entered as a substitute
In the opposite team
I allowed you an easy steal
How could I block your shot
And forgive myself
As you released the ball
I wanted to know your name
I had played tough in my life
I had played rough in my life
The game I played with you
Was to lose from you
And win your heart
As I jumped in the air
And you followed me up
With both arms fully stretched
I knew I wouldn't come down again
As I released the ball
I asked you - your name
You laughed and walked away
Although I wanted you to stay
My team and the coach teased me
For losing my heart and the game
As I released the ball
I called out your name.
It is forty years since
I still keep playing ball
Hoping you will one day walk in
And tell me your name
Today as I released the ball
I came to know your name.