The Indomitable Spirit of Craig Hodges: Basketball, Activism, and the Pursuit of Justice

In the glitzy world of the NBA, where towering athletes compete for supremacy, Craig Hodges stood tall not just for his basketball skills but for his unyielding commitment to activism and justice. From his upbringing during the turbulent era of Jim Crow to his fearless advocacy during his NBA tenure, Hodges’ story is a testament to the power of conviction and the cost of truth-telling.

From Chicago Heights to Civil Rights: A Formative Beginning

Growing up in Chicago Heights, IL, Hodges wasn’t merely shaped by basketball drills and hoops but by a rich legacy of activism and the fight against racial injustice. Raised in a household that prioritized political and spiritual consciousness, Hodges learned early about the significance of standing up for what’s right. His mother, a secretary for a civil rights organization, was a beacon of leadership and change, allowing young Hodges a ringside view of transformative events and personalities.

The assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a defining moment in his early life. It was a grim reminder of the fight ahead and a spark that ignited Hodges’ fervor to champion the cause of justice.

Education, Activism, and Heartbreak

At Long Beach State, Hodges wasn’t just a student of the game; he was a student of history. Here, he was introduced to African American history and activism, reshaping his outlook and mission in life. Beyond the basketball courts, the tragic and senseless death of his close friend, Ron Settles, a victim of racial violence, stoked the fires of his activism even more.

A Court of Advocacy: Hodges in the NBA

While many remember Hodges for his exceptional skills on the court, it was his bravery off the court that etched his name in history. Inspired by legendary athletes and activists like John Carlos, Tommie Smith, and Muhammad Ali, Hodges realized the NBA was not just a platform for sport, but a stage for advocacy.

In a bold move in 1991, Hodges championed the idea of boycotting Game 1 of the NBA Finals, a protest aimed at the stark lack of Black ownership in the league. His activism didn’t stop there. Following the Bulls’ triumphant win in the ‘91 championship, Hodges made headlines by donning a dashiki and presenting a letter on discrimination in America during the team’s celebratory visit to the White House.

The Price of Speaking Out: Blackballing from the NBA

For all his prowess on the court, Hodges’ outspoken activism came at a cost. In what many saw as a clear response to his advocacy, he found himself sidelined from the NBA. No contracts, no tryouts, and a career cut abruptly short. But while the NBA may have blackballed Hodges, his legacy was already cemented – not as just an athlete, but as a fearless advocate for justice.

In the end, Craig Hodges’ story serves as a poignant reminder: while games are won on courts, real victories are achieved when we stand up, speak out, and strive for a better world.