How Many Ex-Nba Players Are Now Jehovah's Witnesses?

The Jehovah’s Witnesses in the NBA

Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for their strict adherence to their religious beliefs and practices. This has led to many high-profile athletes converting to the faith, including several NBA players. In this article, we will take a closer look at how many ex-NBA players are now Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Conversion to Jehovah’s Witnesses

The conversion to Jehovah’s Witnesses is a personal decision that can be made by anyone. However, for many NBA players, the decision to become a Jehovah’s Witness is often influenced by family members or friends who are already practicing the faith. The faith is also known for its strict moral code, which may appeal to athletes looking for a more disciplined lifestyle.

Former NBA Players Who Are Now Jehovah’s Witnesses

One of the most well-known NBA players to convert to Jehovah’s Witnesses is Michael Jordan’s former teammate, Dennis Rodman. Rodman made the decision to convert in the early 2000s and has since become a vocal advocate for the faith. Other notable ex-NBA players who are now Jehovah’s Witnesses include Mark Jackson, A.C. Green, and Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf.

The Impact of Jehovah’s Witnesses on NBA Careers

For some NBA players, their conversion to Jehovah’s Witnesses has had a significant impact on their careers. A.C. Green, for example, famously abstained from premarital sex during his playing career, which he attributed to his faith. Similarly, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf’s decision to not stand for the national anthem during games was heavily influenced by his religious beliefs.

The Role of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the NBA Community

While the number of ex-NBA players who are now Jehovah’s Witnesses may be relatively small, the faith has had a significant impact on the NBA community as a whole. Many NBA players have spoken publicly about their admiration for the faith and its teachings, and the Jehovah’s Witnesses have been an active presence at NBA events and games.

Challenges Faced by Jehovah’s Witnesses in the NBA

Despite the positive impact that the Jehovah’s Witnesses have had on the NBA community, there have also been challenges faced by those who practice the faith. For example, some players have faced criticism for their decision to abstain from certain activities, such as premarital sex or standing for the national anthem. Additionally, the strict moral code of the faith may conflict with some aspects of the NBA lifestyle, such as the partying and excess that can come with fame and fortune.

The Future of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the NBA

As the NBA continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how the Jehovah’s Witnesses continue to fit into the larger basketball community. With a new generation of players coming up, it’s possible that we will see more NBA players converting to the faith in the years to come. However, it’s also possible that the challenges faced by those who practice the faith may continue to be a source of controversy and debate within the league.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the number of ex-NBA players who are now Jehovah’s Witnesses may be relatively small, the impact of the faith on the basketball community has been significant. From high-profile converts like Dennis Rodman to the challenges faced by players who practice the faith, the Jehovah’s Witnesses have brought a unique perspective to the NBA. As we look to the future, it will be interesting to see how the faith continues to evolve and influence the world of basketball.