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99.9 The Fan

Kevin Costner feels connection with Durham, Triangle

By Adam Harris

Jul 3, 2008

It's been 20 years since Kevin Costner and the rest of the "Bull Durham" cast and crew spent months in Durham making the classic baseball movie.  Despite that span, Costner says he takes pride in his association with the Triangle.

Costner told 99.9 FM The Fan on Wednesday,  "It was great because I saw James Taylor while I was there, and he hadn't been back to Carolina for a long time." 

Besides the Old North State's famous musician, Costner also mentioned his affininity for something most all of us hold near and dear to our hearts - ACC hoops. 

"I became friends with Coach Krzyzewski and Roy Williams," said Costner.  "I continue to see those guys in the Final Four.  So, I have a little bit of a small connection back there.  I watch with a certain amount of interest and pride in what both guys are doing."

Which program does the "Bull Durham" star root for when the Heels and Devils square off?  Costner decided not to alienate either side by answering, "It's not important, is it?"

Costner's decision not to split up his fan base by choosing a certain shade of blue was understandable.  Instead he would say something that all Triangle residents could get behind.

"It's a great place to be," he said.  "I could have seen myself growing up around that area.  If I was a kid I would have loved it."

Scott Jackson and Mark Thomas of The Insiders touched on a number of topics during their interview with Costner.  His favorite scene in "Bull Durham" and his band "Modern West" were among them.

Kevin Costner and "Modern West" will be in the Triangle on Friday to play a special Fourth of July concert at Durham Bulls Athletic Park. 

Tickets for the show are available at DurhamBulls.com or by calling 956-BULL.  There will also be a fireworks display as part of the Independance Day celebration.