Flashback: Tom Workman Bishop Blanchet, Class of 1963

Sport: Basketball.

High-school rewind: Named by the Times as boys basketball player of the decade for the 1960s, the 6-foot-7 Workman led Blanchet to the school's first state title in 1963, and to date its only boys basketball title. In Workman's senior year, the Braves finished 27-0 and beat two-time defending state champion Garfield 36-29 for the state title. Earned state player of the year as well as state tournament MVP that season.

After high school: Attended Seattle University and was named to the All-America team his senior year. Highlights include a game-winning jumper over eventual national champion Texas Western during his junior year, handing the Miners their only loss that season. Was drafted eighth overall in 1967 by the St. Louis Hawks, one of only four players who played high-school basketball in Washington taken in the top 10 of the NBA draft. Workman had a short professional career that was plagued by injuries, playing two-plus seasons in the NBA and two seasons in the ABA.

After athletics: Moved to Portland after pro career ended in 1972 and began working as a manager with Coca-Cola Foods Division. Took over the Happy Landing Tavern in Portland in 1977. Today, Workman keeps busy with his tavern and trying to improve his golf game.

Personal: Workman, divorced, lives in Portland and has three children: Julie Christ 35, Brent Workman, 33, and Lisa Fisher, 31. Has two grandchildren.

Fast forward: Today, Workman tries to follow his alma mater, but admits he's lost touch a little bit recently. "I stayed in touch with the school through Mickey Naish until he died," said Workman of the legendary Blanchet football coach who died last year. Family members are carrying on the basketball tradition. Workman's youngest daughter Lisa Fisher is an assistant coach on the women's team at Washington State, while his daughter-in-law Stacy works in sales and marketing for the Trail Blazers.

— John Boyle