Anne Stein

Richard “Rip” Hamilton

Guard, Detroit Pistons

Age: 30

Over the past six seasons, Rip Hamilton has started all 110 playoff games that Detroit’s appeared in, and last week became the all-time leading scorer in Pistons playoff history, passing Isiah Thomas with 2,282 points. Originally drafted by the Wizards and now in his ninth NBA season, the 6-foot-7, 193-pound former UConn star also has started every regular-season game (463 of ‘em) he’s played in Detroit. Next up for the masked one: Boston.

What’s been the favorite moment of your career? Winning the NBA championship in 2004 (Detroit beat the Lakers 4-1 for the title).

What’s been the toughest moment of your career? Losing the NBA championship the next year, to San Antonio (four games to three). I was convinced we’d win because we won it the year before. I always say you shouldn’t be on the floor if you don’t think you can win.

Who’s an athlete in another sport you admire? Terrell Owens (Dallas Cowboys). Just the way he attacks the game, his energy, his will to go out and win.

If you weren’t playing basketball, what would you be doing instead? I’d probably be a professional poker player. I watch it all the time on ESPN, I go on the Internet and play, and I play at home with my friends all the time. I play Texas hold ‘em.

What’s your favorite book? “Makes Me Wanna Holler,” by Nathan McCall. 

Where’s your favorite place to go on vacation? Jamaica with my family. We do all the different activities they have, from jet skiing to massage to manicure and pedicure. The Grand Lido in Negril is like a second home.

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