Inmates at San Quentin always have to share the popular tennis court in the exercise yard. It's very popular since it's the only tennis court at the prison.
The inmates were happy to share with a pair of visitors — world champion doubles team the Bryan Brothers — on Friday for an exhibition tennis match.
"The serves. Their serves can really throw you off," said J.T., one of the inmates after playing a set with the twins, Mike and Bob Bryan. Their serves reached upwards of 120 mph. "You just have to watch out for their serves."
The Bryan Brothers entertained the crowd assembled in the yard with their skill. Taking a handicap, they even played while holding hands. That wasn't much of a handicap, though, since one brother is left handed, while the other is right handed.
"It's amazing. Most of these guys never played in high school or college, but this San Quentin team is pretty impressive. These guys can play," said Bob Bryan.
While J.T. and other inmates admitted facing the brothers was an intimidating experience, the Bryans confessed they were a little wary at first before entering the gates of San Quentin.
"Reading the waiver, it's a little scary," Mike Bryan said with a laugh. "If you're taken hostage, that's it. These guys were really nice, really respectful, though."
