Legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Cooper, and James Worthy discuss sports, activism, and health matters in an interview
Legendary Basketball Star and Activist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Emphasizes Health, Activism, and Social Justice
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, has had a remarkable career both on and off the court. His impact extends beyond sports, with a strong emphasis on health, activism, and social justice.
As a young man, Abdul-Jabbar was inspired by James Baldwin's "The Fire Next Time" and Muhammad Ali. These influences shaped his worldview and played a significant role in his commitment to activism.
Abdul-Jabbar's athletic career was prolonged by his dedication to yoga and the importance he places on maintaining accurate health records. Despite surviving colon cancer, leukemia, and a heart condition, he continues to prioritize his health.
In line with his health consciousness, Abdul-Jabbar, along with his former teammates Michael Cooper and James Worthy, have received or are receiving COVID-19 vaccines. They all support the vaccines and encourage others to get vaccinated.
The trio's health-focused approach continues post-retirement. Cooper had a hip replacement six months ago, and Worthy advocates for knowing family health history, paying attention to one's body, and taking preventive care seriously.
Abdul-Jabbar's activism spans decades, rooted in personal experience and engagement with major social justice movements. He is a prominent civil rights activist, advocating for social justice, racial equality, and identity issues. His books and talks serve to educate others on the history and importance of civil rights activism.
Refusing to join the U.S. men's basketball team for the 1968 Olympic Games was a means of protesting racial inequality. Abdul-Jabbar's activism is intertwined with his identity and faith, with spirituality influencing his worldview and activism efforts.
Abdul-Jabbar's impact extends beyond his teammates. He served as a role model for James Worthy, who joined the Lakers in 1982 and was tutored by Abdul-Jabbar. Abdul-Jabbar advises young activists to follow their passions and what naturally stirs their sense of justice and righteousness.
He encourages community involvement, continuous learning, and recognizing one's platform for those who want to make a difference in the world. His activism bridges sports excellence and sustained advocacy, inspiring both athletes and the public to engage with social justice issues.
Abdul-Jabbar's former teammates, Cooper and Worthy, still refer to him as "Cap" as a sign of respect and admiration. Despite the passage of time, Abdul-Jabbar's influence remains strong, inspiring generations of athletes and activists.
[1] [Source for information about Abdul-Jabbar's activism] [2] [Source for information about Abdul-Jabbar's faith and spirituality] [3] [Source for information about Abdul-Jabbar's books and talks] [4] [Source for information about Abdul-Jabbar's influence on younger athletes] [5] [Source for information about Abdul-Jabbar's impact on sports and activism]
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's emphasis on health extends to mental health as well, as he encourages everyone to prioritize their psychological well-being, an essential aspect of overall health-and-wellness.
- The science of mental health is gaining increasing attention, and Abdul-Jabbar's contributions to promoting social justice make him a significant figure in understanding how mental health intersects with civil rights and activism.
- The NBA, as a prominent sports organization, can play a crucial role in raising awareness about mental health issues, much like Abdul-Jabbar’s advocacy for social justice and his influence on younger athletes, such as James Worthy, who carries on his legacy of combining sports excellence with activism and impactful community involvement.
