CBC News — Backcourt — DunkinDhooma

“I’ve Seen A Lot Of Things That Ordinary Kids My Age Weren’t Supposed To Be Seeing But I Wanted Something Different For Myself"... The Basketball Story Of Braylon Rayson

Before Braylon Rayson became an All-Star and an MVP in the NBLC, he was challenged from day one to defy all odds. Growing up, he was surrounded by gang violence, drugs and poverty but was gifted with a family that helped him and guided his basketball dream. Even though he did receive that level of support from his family, more specifically his mother, Rayson’s mentality towards life is why he could prosper in this world. However, what did Braylon Rayson do to get to this point in his life and become one of the greatest athletes Canada has ever seen?

"Coming From Where I Came From Motivates Me To Play Basketball Everyday Because Without This Game, I Wouldn't Be Here Today"... The Devastating, Shocking, And Inspiring Story Of Xavier Moon

Growing up in Goodwater, Alabama, Xavier Moon was faced with challenges destined for him to fail. Moon never let his circumstance define him and instead realized that his actions towards fixing it actually represents him. Instead of subjecting to what was given to him, he worked twice as hard to get to where he is today. However, how did Moon become the player he is today?

"Playing Basketball In A Place Where No One Cared About It Shaped Me To Become The Player I Am Today"... The Basketball Journey Of Otas Iyekekpolor.

The moment that Otas picked up a basketball, his dream was to play for a Division 1 school. However, playing basketball in Edmonton, Alberta, at a school where athletics was scarce at the time was problematic at the surface level. For some people. It would have been disheartening to play your favourite sport in a place where no one cares about it. But for Otas, he used his situation as motivation and would consistently work on his game every day until he graduated.

"I Grew Up In A Situation Where If You Didn't Have Something To Pursue, You Would Enter A Void Of Danger And Uncertainty..." The Incredible Basketball Journey Of Jeremiah Mordi.

Before Jeremiah Mordi became a Moncton Magic legend, he grew up in New York City, where he would immediately find passion and love for the game of football. However, a particular moment in his life changed his perspective of finding a passion for basketball, which led him to never looking back. As a result, Mordi is now one of the greatest NBLC players ever to enter the league. But what moment in his life changed his perspective?

"I Would Not Be A Professional Basketball Player Today If It Wasn't For My Brothers...” The Basketball Story Of Kenny Ejim.

Before Kenny Ejim became a professional basketball player, he started his life by building the mentality of evaluating and appreciating the aspect of family. Growing up, the number one thing that he was chasing in his life was getting approval and validation from his family. Over time, the support from his family was beyond comprehension and pushed him to reach heights that he never saw he could reach. However, how did basketball play a role in his life?