Many have noted Barack Obama's cool, no-drama campaign style, but few have noticed how he resembles a professional athlete in his demeanor.
"I can get to the rim on anyone," he has reportedly said, a basketball phrase with a precise meaning. He doesn't claim to be the best; simply that he can score on anyone — repeatedly.
He doesn't get too "up" when his stats look good; he doesn't get too "down" on himself or his people and and panic when things aren't going well. He's level-headed, cool under pressure, like a great slugger.
Mr. October, courtesy of Steve Brodner and The New Yorker (here).
Kit Stolz 