Carlos Arroyo : Star Light , Star Bright
This Estrella Continues to Shine
By : Marti Lopez
FLASHBACK : February 24 , 2006 . Carlos Arroyo first enters the court with the Orlando Magic midway through the second quarter . Arroyo ’ s fellow Puerto Ricans came in caravans that night , his first home-game appearance in Orlando ; Each time Arroyo touched the ball , his “ Puerto Rican Magic section ” erupted . He grabbed a rebound and got a standing ovation . The referee called Arroyo for an obvious reach-in foul and there was a deep , loud chorus of boos . Arroyo hit a 10-foot bank shot and two men actually hugged , they were so joyous ! And there was a sign that read : “ Welcome Home , Carlos .” AND NOW : April 7 , 2006 : It is Latin Night at the Orlando Magic game . TD Waterhouse was completamente sold out . His Puerto Rican fans brought flags , signs and , more than anything , they brought their Island Pride . There were even fans that flew in from his proud island of Puerto Rico to see him play . The fans at TD Waterhouse estaban felizes throughout the game , and about 30 minutes after the game , a couple thousand fans remained , many leaning over the railing waiting for Arroyo . Finally , Arroyo strode to mid-court in a navy blue pinstripe suit , and , in Spanish , addressed a crowd that nearly drowned him out . Arroyo told the fans he wants to make it a long career in Orlando . Then he walked off the court , leaving the court in the good hands of Victor Manuelle who gave a stellar performance and turned the TD Waterhouse into “ Festival Arroyo !” By the way , the Orlando Magic beat the Detroit Pistons 89 to 87 , a victorious win against the team that
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the Central Floridians acquired Arroyo from , their bitter loss is our sweet gain !
It ’ s been said by some in Orlando , “ For us , [“ Arroyo ”] is to basketball what Roberto Clemente was to baseball .” Carlos Arroyo fans in Orlando hope that Arroyo ’ s success will lead to more Puerto Ricans in the NBA . They call Arroyo “ an icon ” and say his arrival in Orlando has increased his celebrity .
In July 2006 , Arroyo will be the featured athlete in the league ’ s Basketball Beyond Borders trip to San Juan .
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