Oregon State University basketball coach Craig Robinson will introduce his sister, Michelle Obama, tonight at the Democratic National Convention. Below are some advance excerpts from his prepared remarks. 

"But when I really think back, I can also see how the person she is today, was formed in the experiences we shared growing up: working hard, studying hard, having parents who wanted more for us than what they had. And always being reminded that in this country of all countries – those things were possible."

***

"We lost my father in 1991.

And I know he’s looking down on us tonight, so proud of his daughter, not because of who she married, though he was a big fan of Barack – but because of the hard-working, brilliant woman she is, what she’s accomplished in her own right, the mother she’s become, and the values she’s instilled in her daughters.”
***

“She has continued to follow that passion.  She gave up a job in a big law firm to work in her community. With a group called Public Allies, she trained a new generation of community leaders.

She developed the University of Chicago's community service center - connecting the university to the neighborhood that was blocks away - but often worlds away - from its gates.”
***

“My sister had grown up hearing my father and me talk about how to judge a person’s character by what type of sportsman they are, so she asked me to take Barack to play basketball.

If you're looking for a political analysis based on his playing, here it is:  he's confident but not cocky, he'll take the shot if he's open, he's a team player who improves the people around him, and he won’t back down from any challenge.

Together, I've watched Barack and Michelle strengthen each other.  I've watched them create a home filled with love, and grounded in faith.

During challenging times I've watched Michelle and Barack stand by each other.  And I know, they'll stand by you -- the American people -- now and in the future."