The NBA, or the National Basketball Association, is one of the most popular sports leagues in the world. Millions of fans tune in to watch their favorite teams and players compete on the court. However, did you know that there are NBA players who are also Jehovah Witnesses?
What is Jehovah Witnesses?
Jehovah Witnesses is a Christian denomination that is known for their door-to-door evangelism and their refusal to participate in certain activities, such as celebrating birthdays and holidays. They believe in the Bible as the only source of truth and have their own translation, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.
NBA Players who are Jehovah Witnesses
One of the most well-known NBA players who is a Jehovah Witness is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He converted to the faith in 1968 and has been a devout member ever since. He has even written about his faith in his book, "Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court."
Another NBA player who is a Jehovah Witness is Michael McDowell. He played for the Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors during his career.
Tom Hammonds is another NBA player who is a Jehovah Witness. He played for the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves during his career.
How does being a Jehovah Witness affect their NBA career?
Being a Jehovah Witness can affect an NBA player's career in a few ways. For one, they may choose not to participate in certain activities, such as the national anthem or holiday celebrations. They may also have to schedule their door-to-door evangelism around their games and practices.
However, being a Jehovah Witness can also provide a sense of purpose and motivation for an NBA player. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has said that his faith helped him stay focused and disciplined during his career.
Conclusion
While there may not be many NBA players who are Jehovah Witnesses, those who are have found a way to balance their faith with their career. Whether it's through scheduling or finding motivation, these players have shown that it's possible to be successful in both aspects of their lives.