George Raveling on Defying the Odds and Changing The Game of Basketball Forever (PT. 2)
Mar 8, 2025
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George Raveling, a basketball legend and Civil Rights leader, shares his deep bond with Michael Jordan and the daily question that drives him. He emphasizes the value of serving others and the importance of mentorship in shaping young athletes. Raveling reflects on his pivotal role in the creation of Air Jordan and the significance of the handwritten 'I Have a Dream' speech he safeguards. Through personal anecdotes, he discusses balancing toughness with kindness and the essence of building meaningful relationships, highlighting the fragility of life.
George Raveling prioritizes serving others and finds his legacy in the positive impact he has on young people's lives.
He emphasizes the importance of daily choices in inspiring kindness and gratitude, aiming to foster meaningful relationships.
Deep dives
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Barriers to Seeking Therapy
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Lessons from George Raveling's Life
George Raveling, a notable figure in the basketball world, emphasizes that his legacy lies in the impact he's had on others rather than his personal achievements. He views his role as a leader and mentor, taking pride in how many young people he has helped throughout his career. As he reflects on his life experiences, he aims to teach others valuable lessons and is committed to being a positive influence. Raveling believes that these connections with his players and mentees ultimately define his worth more than any accolades he may have received.
The Value of Living a Purposeful Life
In his later years, Raveling focuses on living a life dedicated to serving others and engaging with social issues. He highlights the importance of daily choices, aiming to inspire kindness and positivity in others. Acknowledging the fragility of life, he commits to expressing love and gratitude regularly, emphasizing the significance of making each moment count. By fostering meaningful relationships and sharing wisdom gained from years of experience, Raveling seeks to leave behind a legacy of compassion and purpose.
In today’s PT. 2 episode, George Raveling, basketball legend and Civil Rights leader, opens up about his close bond with Michael Jordan, the question he asks himself every morning, and why serving others holds more value than any accolade.
As one of the most revered basketball coaches of all time, George has mentored legendary athletes and worked alongside coaching icons like Bob Knight and John Wooden. He played a pivotal role in persuading Michael Jordan to collaborate with Nike on Air Jordan, guided the 1984 U.S. men’s Olympic team to gold, and even became the unexpected guardian of the original, handwritten copy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.