Long-Awaited Return A 'Slam Dunk'

Feb. 1 - KGO (KGO) -- The backdrop of this story is basketball -- but what it's really about is second chances. Actually, for Elijah Holman, it's a third chance. Suspended from his Richmond team, then shot, Elijah hit the court for the first time in a long time Thursday night. It was a slam dunk in many ways.

With his teammates sporting shirts that read, "He's Back," Richmond high school blue chip basketball recruit Elijah Holman wanted to put on a show in his first game back.

Elijah Holman, Richmond high school center: "It's great to be back out here with these guys, running out on the floor, grabbing boards, blocking shots. It's just like old times. It's like old times."

Holman was suspended by the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) from playing back in December 2005 after pushing a referee. Although Holman says it's a moment he regrets, his guardian says it's made him a better player on the court -- but more importantly a better man off the court.

Michelle Banks, Elijah's guardian: "He became a lot more aware of his actions. He thinks, you know, much more than he acts now."

Holman says it's all about dealing with adversity. The 6'10" center, who signed a national letter of intent to attend Indianna in the fall, was grazed by a bullet last month. It came within inches of his spine.

Elijah Holman: "Actually, it was a wakeup call from God, you know, saying I need to get my life back on track. I just got a 3.2 on down in the classroom."

Roy Rogers, Richmond high basketball coach: "It's a bad situation he got himself in. But he handled the situation well and I think he learned a great, great lesson, so he shouldn't do anything now but, you know, go up the ladder even higher."

Now, Holman is doing everything right. He's doubled his SAT scores, is now making A's and B's, and had this message for the youngsters:

Elijah Holman: "Take it from a guy who's been there. You know what I'm saying? Live the streets, smoke the weed, sold the weed, got shot. Take it from somebody that's been there, that's 6'10", that's an easy target. Take it from me. Believe me. Stay off the streets. Go to school, stay in class man.

Definitely words to live by.

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