TULSA, Okla. -
Remember classic movies about billiards such as "The Hustler" and "The Color Of Money?" In the 1960's and early 70's, Mike Massey was the kind of pool player depicted in those films.
Like the stories and tales suggest, that kind of lifestyle can be as dangerous and self-destructive as portrayed.
"I've been locked in rooms. People would come at me with guns, knives," Massey recollected Tuesday morning at Magoo's in South Tulsa. "I've been to jail six times. I've had law enforcement take my money. I've had all kinds of things happen."
What's kept Massey playing for more than five decades isn't the love of money, but a profound sense of faith.
"This is a gift god has given me and we're supposed to use our gifts. And if you don't use them, you lose them," said Massey.
According to Massey, this change in perception occurred when he started playing pool for more "positive" reasons, i.e. not trying to take other people's money.
Massey's gift is one he continues to share with people everywhere. He has entertained countless fans around the world while accumulating a total of 23 major championships. He was also elected to the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 2005.
But even after all of that, Massey's abilities still serve a higher purpose.
"I'm with the Trick Shot Ministries. I went to Egypt last year with them," Massey said. "We were out in the desert, to demonstrate messages of the Bible through trick shots."
He was in the Philippines last month doing the same type of missionary work. Even now, Massey still travels close to 40 weeks a year for pool. And he claims this is the best he has felt in his life.
"My shows are all about entertaining people and seeing people smile around a pool table," explained Massey.
"And I love entertaining and that's what the exhibitions are all about."
Pool legend Mike Massey demonstrates a trick shot during an interview Tuesday morning at Magoo's in Tulsa.
