There are some moving tributes to Ralph on today's Page 2. Wiley was that unique kind of writer that I didn't like but I definitely respected. I think he came from a political sensibility that I couldn't relate to. I'm half his age, white and Canadian. What do I know about the African American struggle in media, sports and society? I think he performed a unique and important role in sports journalism and I fear that there is nobody else out there with the stones or the talent to take his place. Ralph, the Road Dog and the rest of us will toast you when the badass Pistons bury the Lakers tonight.
I thought he was a very good writer within his subject area, but honestly, I didn't read him that much. Why? Because he confined himself to the American professional leagues in just three sports. That does not a mighty sportswriter make, IMO.
I actually liked Wiley a great deal, especially his commentary on the NBA. He'll most certainly be missed.
I couldn't stand his writing style, but after reading the various tributes, I've got a new respect for what he accomplished. Rest in peace.
