Meet NBA Players Who Are Jehovah's Witnesses

Igaming NZ - NBA Players Who Are Jehovah’s Witnesses

The NBA is known for its diversity of talent and backgrounds. Among these elite athletes are players who follow the beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses. This Christian faith has shaped the lives and careers of some well-known players, such as Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dewayne Dedmon.

 

These athletes have faced the challenge of balancing a high-profile basketball career with their spiritual commitments. Let’s dive into their stories and understand how their faith has influenced their path in the NBA.

What is the Jehovah’s Witness Faith?

Jehovah’s Witnesses trace their origins to the late 19th century, founded by Charles Taze Russell in 1879. This Christian group emphasizes the worship of one true God, referred to as “Jehovah,” and believes in the eventual establishment of God’s kingdom on Earth. 

 

Members of this faith are known for practices like door-to-door preaching, rejecting military service, and abstaining from political involvement. Sports participation can be a sensitive area, as competitive sports are often seen as contrary to the faith’s teachings. Despite this, a few have pursued professional basketball, carving a space for themselves in the league while staying true to their beliefs.

NBA Players Who Are Jehovah’s Witnesses

Dewayne Dedmon – Current NBA Player

At 7 feet tall, Dewayne Dedmon has made his mark in the league despite initial obstacles due to his mother’s strict religious beliefs. He didn’t start playing basketball until he was 18 years old but quickly rose through the ranks. Dedmon has played for teams like the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic.

 

Today, he plays for the Ontario Clippers in the NBA G League. His journey shows how a player can pursue their dreams while respecting their religious convictions.

Danny Granger – Ex-NBA Star

Danny Granger grew up in a Jehovah’s Witness household and became a key player for the Indiana Pacers. Over his ten-year career, Granger earned an All-Star selection and the Most Improved Player Award in 2009.

 

He averaged 17 points per game and became known for his scoring prowess. Even after retirement, Granger continues to give back through mentoring and community service, reflecting his faith-driven values.

Darren Collison – Ex-NBA Player

Drafted by the New Orleans Hornets in 2009, Darren Collison had a successful career, playing for teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Indiana Pacers, and Sacramento Kings. Collison retired in 2019, citing his desire to focus on his faith. However, he briefly returned in 2020 to play for the South Bay Lakers.

 

Collison’s story highlights the difficult decision some athletes face when balancing their careers and spiritual commitments.

Dave Meyers – NBA Veteran

Dave Meyers was a prominent player drafted by the LA Lakers in 1975 but spent his entire career with the Milwaukee Bucks. Meyers averaged 11.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. He retired in 1980 to dedicate himself fully to his faith, showing how deeply religious beliefs can shape an athlete’s life choices.

The Impact of Faith on Basketball Careers

Jehovah’s Witnesses have nearly two million active members worldwide. While only a handful of NBA players have been Jehovah’s Witnesses, their presence showcases how religion and professional sports can intersect in meaningful ways.

 

These athletes bring unique perspectives to the court, contributing to the rich diversity of the league. Their stories inspire others by demonstrating that it’s possible to succeed in sports without compromising deeply held values.

Final Thoughts

The stories of NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses provide a fascinating look at how faith and sports can coexist. These athletes serve as examples of perseverance, discipline, and integrity, inspiring fans and players alike. Their presence in the league enriches the NBA’s cultural tapestry, reminding us that success comes in many forms.

 

Want to learn more about other inspiring sports figures? Stay tuned for more stories like this!

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any current NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses?

Yes, Dewayne Dedmon is a current player who follows the faith.

Who are some retired NBA players who were Jehovah’s Witnesses?

Notable examples include Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dave Meyers.

What are the key beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses?

Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in one God (Jehovah), emphasize door-to-door evangelism, and avoid political and military involvement.

Why do some Jehovah’s Witnesses avoid competitive sports?

Competitive sports can conflict with their values around humility and avoiding worldly ambitions, though individuals may interpret this differently.

How many Jehovah’s Witnesses are there globally?

As of 2022, there are about 8.5 million active members worldwide.

What is the significance of the name 'Jehovah'?

Jehovah’s Witnesses use this name for God, derived from ancient Hebrew scriptures, emphasizing its importance in their worship.

What challenges do Jehovah’s Witness athletes face?

They may encounter conflicts between religious practices and the demands of professional sports, such as scheduling conflicts and lifestyle expectations.

Has any Jehovah’s Witness ever won major NBA awards?

Yes, Danny Granger was an All-Star and won the Most Improved Player Award in 2009.

Are Jehovah’s Witnesses active in other sports?

While competitive sports participation is less common, there are Jehovah’s Witnesses involved in various professional sports.

Do Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in using modern technology?

Yes, they embrace modern technology but remain cautious about content that may conflict with their beliefs.