Just one shot in wins. The challenge is tempting. How hard could it really be? You used to play basketball in high school and you’re feeling lucky. One easy basket for a giant, plush victory prize. Or is it that simple?
There’s an optical illusion at play. Take a closer look and you’ll find that the hoops aren’t up to NBA standards. They’re more elliptical than round.
Tricky.
David Harris (pictured) sees the hesitation and doubt on your face. Donning a faux referee jersey and a lucky tattoo of the Virgin Guadalupe, Harris implements his famous behind-the-back shot. The ball swooshes in and you’re sold.
“It draws the customers in when they see that the ball can actually make it,” says Harris of his well- rehearsed hook-shot.
It’s a crowded Saturday night at the Evergreen State Fair and when the daytime heat fades, business at the hoop game starts jumping.
“You can’t win from way back there; come on up!” The voice is hoarse from yelling.
Along with emphatic heckling is the band Aerosmith wailing through speakers overhead. Harris sings to the music and another worker spins a basketball on his finger. One customer after another approaches Harris with $5 and a determination to win.
And then it happens; someone sinks a shot. A riot of whistle-blowing and arm-waving erupts from the carnies, and a bright green monkey is plucked from the bunch. After two minutes of celebratory hollering and high-fives, Keith Cardwell, 25, of Granite Falls totes away his trophy. Actually, Cardwell has stolen away with three or four prizes over the years. His secret?
“You gotta have the rainbow shot,” he explains, the name deriving from the high-arching path of the ball.
“Forget about the backboard. Give it a little more arc and go straight down.” That’s some good advice. Still though, you’ll probably need a load of cash and, perhaps, a tattooed saint. Good luck!
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