Basketball and faith cross paths in surprising ways. One question fans ask is: How many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses? Over the years, several former NBA stars have chosen this faith — some even retired early to live by its strict beliefs.
In this article, you’ll find the real number, a full list of names, and insight into how faith shaped their lives on and off the court.
At least eight to eleven ex-NBA players are known to be Jehovah’s Witnesses. The number isn’t exact since some keep their beliefs private, but credible reports and interviews houlton media confirm this range.
Full List of How Many Ex-NBA Players Are Jehovah’s Witnesses
| Player Name | Career Highlights | Faith Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Darren Collison | Retired in 2019 to focus on faith | Publicly confirmed |
| A.C. Green | Iron Man of the NBA; celibacy & faith | Confirmed |
| Danny Granger | Former Pacers All-Star | Open about faith |
| Dewayne Dedmon | Played for multiple teams | Raised JW |
| Michael Adams | NBA guard, quick-shot style | Multiple reports confirm |
| Detlef Schrempf | Notable European NBA star | Reported JW upbringing |
| Mark Jackson | NBA point guard, later coach | Raised JW, still active |
| Reggie Theus | Former NBA star | Linked by some reports |
| Dave Meyers | Retired early for faith | Confirmed |
| Wayman Tisdale | NBA player & jazz musician | Faith noted by peers |
| Greg Ostertag | Ex-NBA center | Some sources claim JW ties |
Note: Some were raised JW or returned to the faith after retiring.
Ex-NBA Players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses
Darren Collison
Collison surprised the league by retiring in 2019 at age 31, citing his commitment to his faith as a Jehovah’s Witness. In interviews, he spoke openly about prioritizing ministry work over basketball.
A.C. Green
Known for his strong Christian values, Green was outspoken about his beliefs throughout his career. Multiple sources confirm he practices as a Jehovah’s Witness and remained celibate during his entire NBA career.
Danny Granger
Granger grew up in a devout Jehovah’s Witness family and remained connected to the faith during his NBA years. He has publicly acknowledged his beliefs in several post-retirement interviews.
Dewayne Dedmon
Dedmon’s mother raised him as a Jehovah’s Witness, and she initially discouraged him from playing organized basketball due to religious reasons. Despite eventually joining the NBA, his background in the faith has been well-documented.
Michael Adams
Though not as vocal as others, Adams has been linked to the Jehovah’s Witness community in multiple biographies and retrospectives. His off-court life has been noted for its religious discipline.
Detlef Schrempf
While not outspoken about it, reports from his early years suggest Schrempf was raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household. However, he has not publicly confirmed continued association with the faith.
Mark Jackson
Jackson was raised in a Jehovah’s Witness family and frequently referenced his faith throughout his playing and coaching career. He continues to identify with the religion in interviews and public appearances.
Reggie Theus
Though Reggie Theus has not confirmed it directly, several sources have linked him to Jehovah’s Witnesses. Some reports suggest his family was connected to the faith during his early life.
Dave Meyers
Meyers retired early from the NBA in 1980 to focus fully on his life as a Jehovah’s Witness. He was known for leaving a promising basketball career to follow his spiritual path.
Wayman Tisdale
Tisdale, also a professional jazz musician, was remembered by teammates as a man of strong faith. Multiple colleagues noted his connection to Jehovah’s Witness beliefs after his retirement.
Greg Ostertag
Though not widely publicized, a few sources claim Ostertag had ties to Jehovah’s Witnesses during or after his NBA career. However, he has not publicly confirmed his religious views.
Why Do Some Ex-NBA Players Become Jehovah’s Witnesses?
Jehovah’s Witnesses follow strong teachings: no military service, no politics, no certain celebrations, and active evangelism.
For NBA players, this can clash with the demands of the game. Darren Collison retired during his prime to focus on ministry. Others, like A.C. Green, are famous for living by their values during long playing careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any current NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses?
Currently, there are no confirmed active NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses. Most examples are retired players.
Who is the most famous ex-NBA player who’s a Jehovah’s Witness?
Darren Collison is the most well-known example — he surprised fans when he retired in 2019 to focus on his faith.
Does the faith forbid playing professional sports?
No — but followers must balance their careers with strict beliefs, which can affect contracts, travel, and lifestyle.
Wrapping up
So, how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses? At least eight to eleven names come up in verified reports. Their stories show how deeply faith can shape careers and life choices.
Do you know of others? Drop your thoughts or additions in the comments below!
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