Emotional and excited, Michael Jordan’s former teammate is embracing a new year full of milestones. And he has more than a few reasons to celebrate. First came a new challenge for the former NBA player, which is a major deal with NBC. Then, a proud moment with his alma mater added to the list of accomplishments. Now, the joy continues as his son, Eric, is all set for a new coaching role. As the former NBA player was honored with a prestigious recognition this month, he couldn’t hide his elation. The basketball legend opened up about what this remarkable chance means to him.

With Crawford and the rest, NBC is all set to usher in a new era this October. As it returns to the NBA after decades, the company has brought in broadcasting veterans and analysts on board. Carmelo Anthony is the latest member to join the crew as an in-studio analyst. Just recently, the company dropped big news that Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan will be stepping into a new role alongside Crawford. But before that, Crawford had a big day at Rainier Beach. And no, this time it isn’t basketball but payback.

Speaking of the change, Crawford said, “I just figured out my purpose in life. I’m in a place of evolving and I’ve evolved into this my life. Like I was put on this earth to help give and help somebody else be better. And for me, like I’m just walking towards that. I really am. And it’s nothing more important to me. It makes me happy. It makes me the happiest to help somebody else. And that’s just my life. But now I know my purpose. It was to help and be of service. I’m here to serve people and help as much as I can. Keep doing God’s work, bro,” Crawford said. 

The 3x NBA Sixth Man of the Year was honored by alma mater Rainier Beach. The Jamal Crawford Basketball Court received a new upgrade. This was as part of the nearly $283 million project to build a new high school, replacing the old one that has stood since 1960. The old gym was in need of a lot of new equipment and facilities. In contrast to the old gym capacity which could allow 1,400, the new gym will seat 2,000 spectators.

Both Crawford and Mike Bethea attended the event, celebrating the opening of the Michael S. Bethea Athletic Complex and the Jamal Crawford Basketball Court. The design also had inputs from both the veterans. One of the biggest changes was the locker rooms. It was a proud moment for both. 

Apart from his work as a coach, Crawford will soon be joining Jordan. “The NBA on NBC was a meaningful part of my career, and I’m excited about being a special contributor to the project,” Jordan words about his new job. He will be joining as a special correspondent. Both Crawford and Reggie Miller will join as game analysts.

Crawford has experience as an NBA analyst with TNT, so he likely won’t have much trouble with his new job at NBC. Even as a coach, the former NBA player has taken long strides.

What is Jamal Crawford’s biggest achievement for Rainier Beach? 

Thrill and nostalgia ran high for Rainier Beach and assistant coach Crawford. He led his alma mater to the WIAA State Championship back in 1998 as a player. He did the same again but this time, he changed hats. As longtime coach Mike Bethea was sick, he suggested the former NBA player Crawford take up the role of assistant coach.

The former NBA player helped lead the 3A boys basketball team to its 10th state championship and the Vikings’ first win since 2016, with a 68–48 victory over Edmonds-Woodway. Holding the trophy in his hands, he emotionally detailed, “I ain’t held this thing for 20 years. in 27 years. I’m here. There’s a lot of heat out there, but there’s way more love, and we’re going to continue to give love. We’re going to keep giving love to our city, and this will come back.”

Coaching the team, the former NBA player also built a close connection with all the players, especially New Mexico signee Jaylen Petty. Both Crawford and his wife praised the New Mexico signee, who won MVP honors! This is indeed a new chapter for Crawford with his alma mater and his new role once NBA on NBC rolls into action.