The world of basketball has always been full of larger-than-life personalities—athletes who inspire millions through their talent, discipline, and dedication. But behind the fame, fortune, and flashing lights, some NBA stars have found themselves searching for something deeper—faith. This spiritual journey has led a few of them to embrace the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian denomination known for its strong sense of community, evangelism, and strict moral code.
So, how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses? That question first gained massive attention after comedian Brittany Schmitt’s viral comedy routine about her ex-boyfriend, a former NBA player who became a Jehovah’s Witness. Since then, fans have been curious to uncover which basketball stars share this faith and how it has shaped their lives on and off the court.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into this fascinating topic. We’ll explore who these players are, how they discovered their beliefs, what it means to live as a Jehovah’s Witness in the spotlight, and how faith can transform even the most competitive athletes into humble servants of their convictions.
Understanding Jehovah’s Witnesses in the NBA Context
Before we uncover how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses, it’s important to understand what this faith represents. Jehovah’s Witnesses are Christians who base their beliefs strictly on the Bible. They emphasize preaching, rejecting political involvement, and maintaining a moral life. They also refrain from celebrating holidays or participating in military service, which often sets them apart in mainstream society.
Now imagine living by these principles in the fast-paced, media-driven world of professional basketball. The NBA is known for its grueling schedule, celebrity status, and the constant attention from fans and sponsors. Balancing such a lifestyle with the modest and disciplined beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses is no small task. That’s what makes the stories of these players truly inspiring—they chose conviction over convenience.
This unique intersection of faith and fame has drawn curiosity not just from fans but also from cultural observers. Because when an NBA player, used to millions of eyes watching every move, decides to dedicate himself to a humble religious path, it speaks volumes about the power of belief.
The Spark That Ignited Curiosity: Brittany Schmitt’s Viral Story
The conversation around how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses began trending after comedian Brittany Schmitt shared a story about her former NBA boyfriend. In her comedy set, she revealed that he had contacted her after their breakup to tell her that he had become a Jehovah’s Witness—and urged her to “repent.”
Though Schmitt never mentioned the player’s name, her story instantly captured public attention. Fans and media outlets started connecting the dots, trying to identify who the mystery player might be. The joke ended with Schmitt’s husband suggesting she Google how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses—a move that brought surprising results.
It turns out, there are only a few NBA players who have publicly identified as Jehovah’s Witnesses—making the mystery relatively easy to narrow down. According to various reports, there are three known players connected to this faith: Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dewayne Dedmon.
Each of these athletes has his own journey—stories of personal growth, faith, and finding peace beyond the court. Let’s take a closer look at how these men found their spiritual direction.
1. Danny Granger – The Quiet Superstar with Deep Conviction
Danny Granger, a former Indiana Pacers All-Star, is often at the center of the discussion when people ask, “How many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses?” Known for his smooth shooting and leadership on the court, Granger’s NBA career was marked by excellence and consistency. But off the court, he was known for his calm demeanor and thoughtful personality—a reflection of the faith he embraced later in life.
Granger’s spiritual journey wasn’t a headline-grabbing transformation. Instead, it was deeply personal. Growing up in a strong family environment, he was exposed to religious teachings early on. However, like many athletes, the demands of professional sports often took priority. As injuries and time took their toll on his career, Granger reportedly turned more toward faith and introspection.
Jehovah’s Witnesses emphasize community, humility, and discipline—values that mirror what made Granger a great teammate. In interviews, he often spoke about the importance of mental strength, patience, and staying grounded, which perfectly align with the spiritual mindset encouraged by his faith.
While he has largely stayed out of the spotlight since retiring, his quiet devotion and the integrity he carried throughout his playing days have made him a respected figure among both fans and believers.
2. Darren Collison – Walking Away at His Peak for Faith
When discussing how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses, it’s impossible to ignore Darren Collison’s remarkable story. In 2019, Collison shocked the basketball world when he announced his retirement from the NBA—at just 31 years old—to focus on his faith as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
At the time, Collison was a key player for the Indiana Pacers and was expected to sign a multi-million-dollar contract in free agency. His sudden decision surprised fans, analysts, and even teammates. But for Collison, it was simple: his commitment to Jehovah came first.
In a heartfelt statement, he said that while he loved basketball, he valued his relationship with God more. He expressed a desire to focus on ministry work and helping others—a principle central to Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Collison’s story highlights how powerful faith can be, even in the face of financial and career success. Walking away from fame and fortune is no easy choice, especially when you’re at the height of your profession. But for Collison, spiritual fulfillment outweighed the applause of the crowd.
Interestingly, Collison later considered returning to the NBA but ultimately decided to continue prioritizing his faith and family. His journey remains one of the most striking examples of how belief can redefine personal purpose.
3. Dewayne Dedmon – From Setbacks to Spiritual Strength
Another name often mentioned in discussions about how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses is Dewayne Dedmon. Standing tall at 7 feet, Dedmon’s path to the NBA was anything but ordinary. Unlike many players who join AAU teams and play high-level basketball from an early age, Dedmon’s upbringing as a Jehovah’s Witness prevented him from participating in organized sports during his teenage years.
Jehovah’s Witnesses often discourage excessive focus on worldly achievements or competitive activities that might conflict with their beliefs. As a result, Dedmon didn’t start playing basketball seriously until college. But his late start didn’t stop him from making it to the NBA, where he played for multiple teams, including the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, and Orlando Magic.
Dedmon’s story is not just about basketball—it’s about resilience, faith, and the courage to balance both. His journey proves that even within the structured beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses, personal dreams can coexist with spiritual devotion.
While Dedmon is known for his aggressive playstyle and rebounding skills, off the court, he has remained grounded in his faith. His humility and discipline are often attributed to his spiritual background, showing that his success is as much about belief as it is about athleticism.
Faith in Focus: The Shared Values of These Players
Although their stories differ, these three players—Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dewayne Dedmon—share core values rooted in the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Their commitment to integrity, humility, and spiritual purpose defines them as much as their athletic achievements do.
Let’s take a look at a comparison of their journeys:
| Player Name | NBA Status | Known for | Connection to Jehovah’s Witnesses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danny Granger | Retired | All-Star with Indiana Pacers | Reportedly joined after retirement |
| Darren Collison | Retired (2019) | Playmaker, 10-year NBA career | Publicly declared Jehovah’s Witness faith |
| Dewayne Dedmon | Active/Recently Retired | Defensive presence, Miami Heat | Raised as Jehovah’s Witness |
These players illustrate that faith doesn’t fade when the spotlight dims. For them, spiritual commitment continues long after their final game.
Challenges of Being a Jehovah’s Witness in the NBA
Being a professional athlete already comes with unique challenges—pressure to perform, media scrutiny, and constant travel. But for Jehovah’s Witnesses, these challenges are even more pronounced. Their beliefs often limit participation in certain activities that conflict with their faith—like team celebrations involving alcohol, patriotic rituals, or certain holiday events.
Jehovah’s Witnesses also dedicate time each week to evangelism and Bible study. Balancing these spiritual commitments with an NBA schedule filled with games, flights, and practices can be incredibly difficult.
Yet, these players managed to navigate that world without compromising their beliefs. Their stories highlight the internal strength and self-discipline that comes from having a strong moral foundation.
Faith, in their lives, wasn’t just something private—it was a guiding force that influenced how they played, how they treated others, and how they defined success.
Life After Basketball: A Shift from Fame to Faith
For many athletes, retirement is a time of reflection, a chance to redefine their identity beyond the game. But for those who have chosen faith, like the ex-NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses, life after basketball has taken a deeply spiritual turn. While some athletes chase broadcasting deals or coaching roles, these men have prioritized a quieter, more purposeful path.
Darren Collison, for instance, spends much of his time in community service and Bible study. He has often been seen participating in ministry work, sharing teachings, and engaging in outreach activities that reflect the humility and compassion central to Jehovah’s Witnesses. His choice to walk away from fame at his peak wasn’t a loss—it was a conscious decision to seek spiritual fulfillment over public recognition.
Danny Granger, though less public about his post-retirement activities, has also embraced a peaceful lifestyle. Those close to him describe a man content with his achievements, now focused on personal growth and family. The serenity that accompanies this shift is a powerful reminder that faith can often provide the sense of purpose fame cannot.
And then there’s Dewayne Dedmon, whose journey from humble beginnings to professional basketball remains an inspiration. Even as he pursued success in the NBA, he stayed true to his spiritual foundation. Dedmon’s balance between career and faith offers hope to anyone who thinks they have to choose between ambition and belief.
Ultimately, these players remind us that there’s life beyond the spotlight—and that faith can be the most rewarding victory of all.
The Media Buzz: Curiosity Around Faith and Fame
The surge of interest in how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses shows how curious fans become when religion enters the sports narrative. Most of us see athletes as icons of entertainment, not spiritual figures. So when a player turns toward faith, especially a faith as distinct as Jehovah’s Witnesses, it sparks curiosity and discussion.
The viral attention started with Brittany Schmitt’s comedy set, but it evolved into a genuine conversation about religion in sports. People began searching online, watching interviews, and re-evaluating what it means for professional athletes to make such personal decisions.
However, it’s important to understand that being a Jehovah’s Witness often means living privately. Members of the faith rarely seek public recognition or media attention for their beliefs. So, while fans crave details, the players themselves prefer discretion—a reflection of their modesty and spiritual discipline.
This quiet strength contrasts with the loud world of sports, where fame often thrives on exposure. Yet, that very silence and humility are what make these stories compelling. The intrigue isn’t just about who these players are—it’s about why they chose faith over fame.
Public Reactions and Fan Respect
Public reaction to these athletes’ faith has been overwhelmingly respectful. When Darren Collison announced his retirement, fans were surprised but supportive. Many admired his courage to walk away from millions of dollars for his beliefs. His decision resonated with people who understood the value of prioritizing one’s spiritual well-being.
Danny Granger’s subtle embrace of faith also drew appreciation from fans who viewed him as one of the NBA’s true professionals—humble, hardworking, and ethical. His calm demeanor both on and off the court made his spiritual side believable and inspiring.
And Dewayne Dedmon’s background struck a chord with many who saw him as proof that faith can fuel success, not hinder it. Despite growing up with religious restrictions that delayed his basketball journey, he reached the NBA—something many athletes dream of.
These players show that spirituality in sports doesn’t have to be controversial. In fact, it often adds depth to an athlete’s story, showing the human side behind the fame.
Balancing Faith and Professional Commitments
The question isn’t just how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses, but how they balanced their faith while still playing at the highest level. Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for living by strict moral principles—abstaining from certain celebrations, avoiding nationalistic acts like saluting flags, and dedicating time to ministry work.
This can clash with the NBA lifestyle, which often includes public appearances, sponsorships, and media events. Imagine refusing a holiday commercial or skipping a patriotic ceremony in front of millions of viewers—it takes conviction to stay true in such moments.
Players like Collison and Dedmon demonstrated that balance is possible. They played with intensity, respected teammates, and fulfilled professional duties, all while maintaining their beliefs. They didn’t use faith as a shield from responsibility; instead, they used it as a guide to remain grounded amid chaos.
Faith, in their careers, was not a burden—it was a compass. It reminded them that integrity mattered more than applause and that true victory comes from staying authentic to one’s principles.
Faith’s Influence Beyond the Court
The legacy of these Jehovah’s Witness NBA players extends far beyond basketball. Their influence has encouraged fans, young athletes, and even fellow players to think about life from a broader perspective.
Faith teaches humility, and humility builds character—qualities every athlete needs to succeed not just in sports, but in life. For many, these stories serve as reminders that success doesn’t always mean trophies or championships; sometimes, it’s about personal peace, moral integrity, and emotional stability.
Through their faith, these athletes demonstrate that being successful doesn’t have to mean being loud. Sometimes, it’s about standing quietly firm in what you believe, even when the world doesn’t understand it.
And that, perhaps, is why people remain fascinated by this question: not because of how many there are, but because of what their faith represents in a world driven by fame and material success.
Why the Number Is Small but the Impact Is Big
When fans Google how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses, they might be surprised by the small number. Only three known players—Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dewayne Dedmon—are publicly identified with this faith.
But that limited count doesn’t make their impact any less significant. In fact, it highlights the rarity and courage of such decisions. In a league filled with endorsement deals, media pressure, and social expectations, staying committed to spiritual convictions requires incredible strength.
Each of these players has contributed something unique:
- Granger showed how quiet faith and professionalism can coexist.
- Collison proved that walking away from millions can bring peace.
- Dedmon reminded the world that belief can fuel ambition, not stop it.
Their stories represent the broader message that success in life isn’t measured by fame or money—it’s defined by the ability to remain true to oneself.
FAQs About Ex-NBA Players Who Are Jehovah’s Witnesses
1. How many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses?
There are currently three known NBA players associated with Jehovah’s Witnesses: Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dewayne Dedmon.
2. Who was the NBA player mentioned in Brittany Schmitt’s story?
Brittany Schmitt never officially named the player, but fans speculated that she was referring to Danny Granger due to clues in her story.
3. Did Darren Collison really retire because of his faith?
Yes. In 2019, Collison retired from the NBA at the age of 31 to dedicate his life to Jehovah’s Witness ministry work.
4. Are Jehovah’s Witnesses common in professional sports?
Not really. The strict lifestyle and focus on spiritual service make it challenging to balance with the demanding life of a professional athlete.
5. Did Dewayne Dedmon grow up as a Jehovah’s Witness?
Yes. Dedmon was raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household, which limited his participation in organized sports during his youth.
6. Are there any current NBA players who are Jehovah’s Witnesses?
As of now, there are no confirmed active players publicly identifying as Jehovah’s Witnesses, though some may practice privately.
7. What challenges do Jehovah’s Witness athletes face in the NBA?
They often face conflicts between faith-based commitments and team or media obligations, such as holidays, travel schedules, or sponsorship events.
8. How has the public reacted to these players’ religious choices?
Most fans and fellow athletes have shown respect and admiration for their convictions, viewing their decisions as courageous and authentic.
Conclusion: When Belief Becomes the Ultimate Victory
So, how many ex-NBA players are Jehovah’s Witnesses? Only three names are known—but their influence stretches far beyond numbers. Danny Granger, Darren Collison, and Dewayne Dedmon each prove that success in life isn’t just about the game—it’s about character, courage, and conviction.
In a world that glorifies fame and wealth, these men chose faith and humility. They serve as reminders that the greatest victories aren’t always celebrated in stadiums. Sometimes, they happen quietly, in hearts devoted to something greater than themselves.
Their journeys blend two powerful worlds—faith and basketball—showing that even under the brightest lights, spiritual truth can shine brighter than fame.
