Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel Season 22 Episode 15 The Guru / The Third Man / Coming to America

"The Guru / The Third Man / Coming to America" is the 15th episode of the 22nd season of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel. In this episode, viewers are given a close look at some inspiring and fascinating stories within the world of sports.

The first segment of the episode focuses on a chess master who has become a spiritual guru to some of the world's greatest athletes. Maurice Ashley, a Grandmaster of chess, has been hosting sessions with NFL players, NBA stars, and top-performing Wall Street traders to teach them the mental skills he's honed over years of game play. Ashley believes that the focus, patience, and strategy needed to excel at chess also translate to success in every other aspect of life, and his followers agree. Viewers are taken inside one of Ashley's sessions to see firsthand how the lessons of the game of chess can be applied to the world of sports.

The second segment of the episode explores the life and work of Adrian Krainer, a biochemist whose research has led to breakthroughs in treatments for certain genetic disorders. Krainer's work has had a profound impact on families affected by these conditions, and many of them are grateful for the hope he's given them. However, Krainer's research isn't done in a vacuum; he's constantly seeking collaboration with other scientists around the world to deepen his understanding of these conditions. Through his commitment to ongoing research and collaboration with others, Krainer is making strides in treating genetic disorders and improving the lives of countless individuals.

The final segment of the episode turns to the story of two young African men who have dedicated themselves to becoming professional soccer players in the United States. Despite the many obstacles they face, both on and off the field, these players are determined to succeed. Viewers will get a glimpse into the grueling training regimen of these athletes, the challenges they face as non-native English speakers, and the support network they've built to help them pursue their dreams. Ultimately, their story is one of perseverance and determination in the face of obstacles that would cause others to give up.

Overall, "The Guru / The Third Man / Coming to America" is a moving and multifaceted episode that will appeal to anyone interested in the intersection of sports, science, and human resilience. Viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of the power of the human mind, and the ability of individuals to overcome almost any challenge with discipline and tenacity.