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Few things in life excited Ritchie Davis more than talking basketball.

High school, college, pro ... it didn't matter.

Get on a topic, go to the next topic and then circle around to the first topic. 

For the past 25 years or so, Ritchie and I talked at least four times a month -- often far more -- about the state of basketball in Wisconsin. 

The conversations were never short, often lasting more than an hour. They were never dull or lacking opinion. 

And, Ritchie, who passed away suddenly of a heart attack on Sunday, was always passionate. 

He loved basketball. 

He loved helping kids. 

And, he loved being in charge of the Fox Valley Skillz and later the Wisconsin Playground Club. 

He mentored and coached some of the top players to come out of the state during the past 25 years. Guys like Brian Butch, Sam Dekker, JP Tokoto and Johnny Davis, to name a few. 

His teams on the club circuit were always well organized, well dressed and well prepared for their opponent. 

His unexpected death on Sunday marked the end of a coaching career that, it could be argued, is unparalleled on the state's club scene.

The 1990 Bloomer High School graduate won often during the past 25 club seasons with his stellar teams and players, and he most definitely earned his way into becoming a recognizable face of grassroots basketball in Wisconsin.

Like all who achieve success, Ritchie was not without some detractors. Some maybe didn't like his attitude when he won. Or the fact he maybe accepted a player into his program who had previously played elsewhere. 

Such is the life of an AAU coach and club president.

My dealings with Ritchie were such that we became close friends. Our relationship extended beyond basketball, but almost always centered on sports. The Bucks, the Brewers, Marquette, Wisconsin, you name it, and we discussed it. 

I will miss Ritchie's passion for the game. His continued support of myself, the Wisconsin Sports Network and, for many years now, the Wisconsin Basketball Yearbook. 

My prayers go out to his wife, Amy, and his young son, Jace. 

We lost a giant in the Wisconsin basketball circuit yesterday. 

I lost a close friend.

It will take some time getting adjusted to not seeing Ritchie at future hoop events. And, it just won't be the same.   

RIP, Ritchie. 

We will miss you. 

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