How many NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses?

Religion is not an all-consuming part of the National Basketball Association (NBA), but some religious beliefs have come to fascinate onlookers. Insofar as NBA players go, they are no exception, and they come from different socioeconomic backgrounds and creeds.

A distinct number of NBA players are Jehovan witnesses, too, which has intrigued fans. This is not to say that all players have talked openly about their religion, and many consider it a private matter that bears no discussion. Yet, their beliefs are often a matter of public record.

Are there Jehovah's Witnesses in the NBA?

Jehovah’s Witnesses are a well-represented religion in nearly all walks of life, and the NBA is not an exception. Over the years, there have been many confirmed past and present players who have espoused this particular theology, among which are prominent names such as:

• Danny Granger
• Reggie Theus
• Dewayne Dedmon,
• A.C. Green

The exact number of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the NBA is not really known, as some players may be even more private about their religious beliefs, while others, although happy to confirm that they are of a given creed, do not feel enthusiastic about discussing matters publicly.

Does faith affect NBA players’ careers?

Speaking specifically about the NBA, religion has indeed had an impact on players’ careers, and if not that, at least contributing to the decisions they have made over the years.

Jehovah’s Witnesses are passionate about door-to-door ministry, and they see proselytizing as an important part of their religion.

Darren Collison, who spent ten seasons (2009–2019) in the NBA with teams such as the Indiana Pacers and Sacramento Kings, famously stepped away from the league at age 31, citing that faith and family were more important to him than continuing his professional career.

Dewayne Dedmon has also spoken about the influence of religion on his early life.

His mother, a Jehovah’s Witness, discouraged him from playing basketball out of concern that it would interfere with religious commitments. Dedmon initially complied but later pursued the sport, eventually reaching the NBA after time in junior college and the G League.

Being a Jehovah's Witness in the NBA

The NBA does not prohibit espousing any faith while playing in the league. While the number of Jehovah’s Witnesses in the league is not openly known, it’s one of the documented religions that players believe in.

This has not stopped them from reaching for the very top of professional basketball, even if some have chosen an early retirement to have more time with their faith and family.

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