Introduction: Jehovah’s Witness in the NBA
The NBA, known for its diversity, encompasses athletes from various ethnicities and religious backgrounds. While Christianity and atheism are prevalent among players, a few individuals adhere to Jehovah’s Witness beliefs. This article sheds light on the lives of three former NBA players who are followers of Jehovah’s Witness in the NBA: Danny Granger, Dewayne Dedmon, and Darren Collison.
Danny Granger:
Danny Granger, a skilled small forward, dedicated the majority of his NBA career to the Indiana Pacers, playing from 2005 to 2015. He earned All-Star recognition in 2009 and gained acclaim for his philanthropic endeavors in Haiti and advocacy for mental health awareness. Raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household, Granger attributes his faith to helping him navigate the challenges of professional sports. He states, “As a Jehovah’s Witness, I feel a profound sense of serenity that extends to the basketball court.”
Dewayne Dedmon:
Standing tall at 7 feet, Dewayne Dedmon served as a center for several NBA teams, including the Miami Heat, Sacramento Kings, and Atlanta Hawks. Dedmon’s basketball journey faced hurdles due to restrictions imposed by his mother, stemming from their religious beliefs, delaying his entry into high school basketball until his final year. Nonetheless, he remained steadfast in pursuing his passion for basketball and attributes his faith to overcoming early career challenges. He remarks, “My faith has been instrumental in maintaining my composure and positive attitude during trying times.”
Darren Collison:
Former point guard Darren Collison graced the NBA courts, representing teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, and Indiana Pacers from 2009 to 2019. Collison, who retired from the NBA at 31, cited religious motivations for his decision. Growing up in a family of Jehovah’s Witness in the NBA followers, Collison discussed the challenges of balancing his professional career with his faith, emphasizing the primacy of his religious convictions.
Conclusion:
While Jehovah’s Witness in the NBA are a minority in the NBA, the impact of faith on the careers of players like Danny Granger, Dewayne Dedmon, and Darren Collison is profound. Despite facing obstacles, these athletes excelled both on and off the court, with their religious beliefs playing a significant role in shaping their journeys.