Larry Johnson has money, fame, and now he has a diploma from UNLV, 16 years after leaving school for the NBA. Johnson promised his mother he would graduate from college, and he made good on that promise, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in social science studies.
Johnson played three years at UNLV, was a two-time All-American, won the John Wooden and James Naismith awards, and was the best player on the 1990 national championship team.At a time when the nationwide college graduation rate for black males continues to dwindle, it's nice to see Johnson, who in the small picture may not need the degree, go back and get it because he sees its importance in the big picture of life.
The commencement ceremony took place at the Thomas & Mack Center, where his No. 4 jersey and hangs from the rafters.
One might even wonder if years from now, we will see Greg Oden, Kevin Durant, and even LeBron James, who never went to college, go back and get their diplomas.
Only time will tell.
For Kicks and Giggles
Here's a clip of Larry Johnson playing his alter-ego Grandmama. We're pretty sure he didn't take Cross-Dressing 101 but he does make for a funny old lady:
Comments: (89)
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By: Anita on 12/27/2007 5:48PM
congrats larry j.
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By: dyanna on 12/27/2007 6:15PM
I think that's wonderful.congradulations to Larry & for keeping his promise to his mom.I'm sure she is so proud of him.all the best.
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By: Wanda Johnson on 12/27/2007 6:38PM
Congrats Larry...This is your former peer from Odessa College...captain of the Odessa Women's Track N Field Team. Now USA Track N Field Fla Women's Track N Field Chair.
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By: Jr. Pooh on 12/31/2007 2:40PM
What can you say about a mother`s influence? It`s overwhelming to say the least.Moma is the only person that you can make proud and make yourself happy at the same time.Good job Larry.Mothers don`t give up!
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By: A on 12/29/2007 10:31AM
You Go Larry!
One of my favorite players! A true ball player. Gave us one of the greatest moments in Knick basketball with that 4 point play in the finals.
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By: Deron on 12/30/2007 10:24AM
To my main man Big L, I want to say congratulations! The New York Knicks could definitely use someone like you. Thanks for keeping the promise you made to your mother. I hope all the other young black athletes, who are making money in the NFL, and NBA are paying attention.
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By: Shandra on 12/30/2007 5:42PM
I think that it's great that he went back to school and got his degree. I am also glad that he kept his promise to his mother. I am not a sports fan, but I remember the Converse commercials. I thought he was a cutie.
I hope that not only young Black athletes see what he has done, but all of our Black youth. I myself will be returning to college in 2 weeks and hopefully my teenaged son and preteen daughter will choose the same university to attend.
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By: Anthony Clay on 1/13/2008 11:04PM
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By: Jeffrey Muhammad on 12/31/2007 10:11PM
Good job Brother Larry, Keep up the good work and may Allah continue to bless you and your family. Your Brother and Servant Brother Jeffrey Muhammad As-Salaam Alaikum
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