The world of professional basketball has seen several players who, after or during their careers, have publicly identified as Jehovah’s Witnesses.
While the exact number is debated, at least a dozen former NBA players are known to have embraced this faith, with some making significant life decisions based on their beliefs.
What’s Jehovah’s Witnesses?
Jehovah’s Witnesses are a Christian-based religious movement known for their door-to-door evangelism, non-Trinitarian beliefs, and rejection of traditional Christian holidays and practices like Christmas and Easter.
They believe in one God, Jehovah, and view Jesus as his first creation and the Holy Spirit as God’s active force, not a person.
Witnesses expect the imminent end of the current world system, the establishment of God’s kingdom, and the resurrection of the dead to a paradise on earth.
They are recognized for refusing military service, blood transfusions, and avoiding involvement with other religions, considering their faith the only true path to salvation.
Notable Ex-NBA Players Who Are Jehovah’s Witnesses
1. Darren Collison
Collison, a former point guard for teams like the Indiana Pacers and Los Angeles Clippers, retired in 2019 at the age of 31. He cited his faith as the primary reason for stepping away from the NBA, stating that his commitment to Jehovah’s Witnesses and his desire to help others through ministry brought him more joy than basketball ever did.
2. Danny Granger
Granger, a former All-Star with the Indiana Pacers, was raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household. He was baptized in 2017, two years after retiring from the NBA. Granger has spoken about how his faith provided him with peace and helped him manage the pressures of professional sports.
3. Dewayne Dedmon
Dedmon, who played for the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers, began playing basketball later in life due to his mother’s Jehovah’s Witness beliefs. His late start in the sport is directly tied to his religious upbringing.
4. A.C. Green
Green, known for his longevity and durability with the Los Angeles Lakers, has been a Jehovah’s Witness since the 1980s. He has been a regular speaker at religious gatherings and youth events, often sharing his experiences as a professional athlete and a Witness.
5. Detlef Schrempf
Schrempf, a FIBA Hall of Famer, adopted the Jehovah’s Witness faith during the 1990s and has been an active preacher ever since.
6. Reggie Theus
Theus, a former NBA player and coach, is known for blending his basketball career with his religious beliefs. He has spoken about his journey as a Jehovah’s Witness and how it has shaped his life beyond basketball.
7. Michael Adams
Adams, who played for the Denver Nuggets and Washington Bullets, became a devoted follower of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the late 1990s. After retiring, he dedicated his life to his family and his faith.
8. Dave Meyers
Meyers, a former UCLA and NBA player, quit his career early to commit to his family and his faith. He is known for his commitment to Jehovah’s Witnesses and his decision to prioritize his beliefs over basketball.
9. Greg Ostertag
Ostertag, who played for the Utah Jazz, became a Jehovah’s Witness during his NBA career. He has spoken about how his faith influenced his decisions both on and off the court.
Reasons for Their Faith
NBA players may become Jehovah’s Witnesses due to a strong religious connection, the need for a community and support system to handle the demands of the NBA, and a desire for a new purpose, especially after retirement. They may find that the religion provides a strong sense of community and a structured way to focus on faith, family, and service outside of their basketball careers.
Religious belief and fulfillment
- Strong spiritual connection: Players may have a deep-rooted Christian background and find that their beliefs align with the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
- Spiritual growth: Joining the religion can be a way to pursue spiritual fulfillment, which they may see as equally, if not more, meaningful than career success.
- Worship and service: The religion’s emphasis on preaching and service can provide a new sense of purpose and motivation, especially after their playing days are over.
Support system and community
Post-career focus: After retiring from the NBA, the religion can provide a sense of community and a framework for life, including focusing on philanthropy, community service, and family.
Coping with stress: The demanding and high-pressure environment of the NBA can lead to stress, and many players seek a strong support network to cope with these pressures.
Community and relationships: Jehovah’s Witnesses offer a global community with strong social ties, which can help players build relationships with fellow believers both on and off the court.
Conclusion
While the exact number of ex-NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses may vary, the impact of their faith on their lives and careers is undeniable.
These players have shown that professional success and deep religious commitment can coexist, inspiring others to pursue their beliefs with courage and conviction.