The National Basketball Association (NBA) boasts a diverse community of athletes, encompassing various ethnicities and religious affiliations. While the majority align with Christianity or atheism, there are a select few who practice Jehovah’s Witness. This article delves into the lives of three ex-NBA players who adhere to the Jehovah’s Witness faith: Danny Granger, Dewayne Dedmon, and Darren Collison.
Danny Granger:
Former small forward Danny Granger, a standout player for the Indiana Pacers from 2005 to 2015, earned All-Star recognition in 2009. Beyond his on-court prowess, Granger gained acclaim for his philanthropic efforts in Haiti and advocacy for mental health awareness.
Raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household, Granger attributes his faith to providing serenity amidst the pressures of professional athletics. He asserts, “I have a profound sense of peace as a Jehovah’s Witness, and that tranquility extends onto the basketball court.”
Dewayne Dedmon:
Standing at 7 feet tall, center Dewayne Dedmon graced the courts for various NBA teams, including the Miami Heat, Sacramento Kings, and Atlanta Hawks. Hindered by religious restrictions imposed by his mother, Dedmon only began playing high school basketball in his final year. Despite the challenges, he remained determined to pursue his passion for the sport and worked tirelessly to enhance his skills.
Dedmon credits his faith with providing the resilience needed to overcome the early obstacles in his basketball career. He emphasizes, “My faith has been instrumental in maintaining composure and a positive attitude amid challenging circumstances.”
Darren Collison:
Former point guard Darren Collison, who played for teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, and Indiana Pacers from 2009 to 2019, announced his retirement from the NBA in 2019 at the age of 31, citing religious motivations.
Growing up in a Jehovah’s Witness family, Collison openly discussed the challenges of balancing his professional responsibilities with his faith. However, he consistently prioritized his religious convictions.
While Jehovah’s Witnesses are not widely represented in the NBA, the religious convictions of these three players significantly impacted their careers. Overcoming hurdles, they found success on the court, with their faith playing a pivotal role in both their personal and professional lives.