Jaden Ivey, a shining star in the NBA with the Detroit Pistons, has taken his moments of fame to share a message bigger than basketball.
After a stellar game where he scored 34 points leading his team to victory, Ivey chose to speak on something dear to his heart. Ivey took his post-game moment not to bask in personal glory but to share a message of faith. He preached about the return of Jesus Christ, making sure his voice went beyond just the sports world.
Following his team’s victory, Ivey took the moment to give thanks and share his belief. “I give all the glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for giving me these gifts and… just being able to glorify Him in heaven,” he said. Every day, he commits to growing not just as a player but in his spiritual life. “I sow the seed every day, just continuing to trust God to… grow my game. I still have more growth to go.”
Jaden Ivey, selected fifth in the 2022 NBA draft, quickly made his mark. His dedication earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie team and a respectable sixth in Rookie of the Year voting. This season, he’s been averaging a notable 15.4 points per game.
Jaden Ivey preaches the gospel
Towards the end of his press conference, Ivey shared something heartfelt and urgent with everyone listening. “I just want to say that Jesus is the way, the truth, the life,” he emphasized. He wanted the whole world to know, “the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Jesus is coming back, and we all have to repent for our sins. And we have to put our faith in Jesus.”
He highlighted the unpredictability of Jesus’s return, saying, “He will come back when you least expect it.” It was a call to action, urging people to awaken their faith. “It’s time to wake up if you haven’t put your faith in Jesus Christ.”
WATCH: NBA Star Jaden Ivey Shares the Gospel
“Jesus is the way, the truth, the life.
The Kingdom of heaven is near… He will come back when you least expect it and it’s time to wake up if you haven’t put your faith in Jesus Christ.”
– Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Iveypic.twitter.com/BSiJP3LNAe
— Sports Through Faith (@Christletes4Him) March 13, 2024
From a young age, Ivey has seen his talent as a divine gift. “First and foremost, I would like to thank God for blessing me with the ability to play the game of basketball. He has given me the passion, confidence and drive to pursue this dream of mine.” His journey to and in the NBA, he sees as guided by God’s hand.
Let us remember to give all glory to God, just as Jaden Ivey does, for the talents and opportunities He provides us. May we also share our faith boldly, reminding the world of His love and the promise of His return.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16