Some sports legend’s journeys are so special that they not only inspire future generations but their legacy is engraved in the sport forever. Former NBA star John Amaechi’s story is one such journey that moved the US Olympic legend, Michael Johnson. Playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Houston Rockets, Johnson achieved massive fame and was even offered a contract from the Los Angeles Lakers. Recently, the athletics champion shared Amaechi’s powerful speech on his Twitter handle.

Narrating how he started playing basketball at the age of 17, Amaechi described his motivating journey to play in the NBA. Further, he also related an interesting anecdote of his first gym session. The former NBA player delivered this speech on the occasion after receiving a huge accolade.

John Amaechi’s unforgettable speech after achieving a milestone

Amaechi recently secured the Integrity and Impact award at the FEVO Sports Industry Awards 2023. On this memorable occasion, Amaechi spoke from his heart. He admitted, “I thought sports hated me, and worse still, I thought, that you thought I hated sport.” Recalling how he was overweight, loved books, and ate Gregg steak slices, Amaechi indicated how he was initially disinclined towards sports. Continuing, he related how his negative perception changed.

Developing an interest in basketball after the age of 16, Amaechi recounted an interesting anecdote from his first practice session. “I missed my first shot by 6ft and the people who surrounded me looked at me, and all I could see reflected back in their face was my potential.” After this, Amaechi elaborated on how he was told about the NBA during that practice session. This helped him to make up his mind that he would play in the NBA. Six years after this incident, Amaechi went on to play for the NBA. Responding to this speech, Johnson stated, “John is truly an inspiration!”?

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This isn’t the only time Johnson openly gave his views on athletes. Recently, Johnson also shared an intriguing video of an NBA player responding to criticism and disclosed an important fact.

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Michael Johnson’s interesting opinion after an NBA star expresses frustration

Earlier, Johnson shared the video of NBA player Giannis Antetokounmpo’s response after a journalist asked him if the Milwaukee Bucks season was a failure. Losing their fifth game to Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks could not make it to the playoffs of the Eastern Conference. Responding to the journalist, Antetokounmpo asked, “Do you get promotion every year?”, indicating that the Bucks’ performance in the season was a step towards future success.

Reacting to this video, Johnson praised Buck’s response and said, “There is failure (to reach a goal)? in sport and life. You can make that failure temporary though.”

Johnson’s Twitter posts depict his deep interest in the journey of NBA players and how they react in various situations. How are you inspired by Amaechi’s speech? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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