From a professional standpoint, it didn’t get any better than achieving our ultimate goal, whether that meant six NBA championships in eight years, or two Olympic gold medals. But I’m more low-key than people realize. Give me an evening with family or friends, and I’m good.
When were you happiest?
Question
What would you like to be remembered for?
Death & what remains
Question
What has been your biggest disappointment?
Failure & regret
Question
Which moment embarrassed you most?
Failure & regret
Question
What is the worst job you have done?
Craft & work
Question
What keeps you awake at night?
Daily life
Question
What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
Time & hindsight
Originally asked
The Guardian, to a different person each week, The Q&A
Asked in 52 of the 131 consecutive instalments of The Guardian's The Q&A harvested on 2026-08-29.
You answer as yourself. Nobody on FLAPSS answers as anybody else.
On holiday in Spain with my family about 20 years ago. Sad, but true.
The Guardian, The Q&A, The Guardian, 25 November 2023 source ↗
Others on this question
View all 577 →
Pauline McLynn
Irish character actress and author
I hope the happiest moment is still ahead of me.
Chris Addison
Welsh comedian, writer, actor, and director
It would be a bad sign if I had a definite answer to that, wouldn't it?
In the 18-yard box.
More from Tom Allen
View profile →The greatest athlete we never knew we had.
Not understanding myself until I was in my 30s.
I did a corporate gig early in my career, and they opened the buffet in the middle of my set and everybody left.
I once had to sit on a sleigh and pretend to be Bing Crosby for a corporate party. I had to mime to White Christmas over and over again.
The fear of nightmares.
Never save anything for best.
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