Show Notes

EP100: THE MAKING (and re-making) OF LARRY JOHNSON PART 9: DEAR MAMA with NBA & NCAA Legend Larry Johnson 

About the Guest:

Larry Johnson
Larry Johnson, also known by his alter ego “Grandmama,” is a legendary basketball player who made a significant mark in the NBA during the 1990s. Born in Dallas, Texas, he was the first overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets and was named NBA Rookie of the Year. Johnson played college basketball at UNLV where he won a national championship. He later played for the New York Knicks and is celebrated for his powerful play and team-oriented approach. Following his professional career, Larry transitioned into a role as a player ambassador for the NBA.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of “Becoming UnDone,” host Toby Brooks welcomes NBA legend Larry Johnson to discuss his extraordinary journey from a challenging upbringing in Dallas, Texas, to becoming a collegiate standout and an NBA All-Star. Johnson shares vivid anecdotes from his early years, including his influential relationship with Coach JD Mayo and life lessons from his mother, Dortha. The episode chronicles Johnson’s college career at Odessa Junior College and UNLV, his conversation with Nike, and his iconic “Grandmama” campaign with Converse.

Larry dives into the emotional impact of his father’s absence, his time at UNLV under Coach Tark, and his unexpected transition to Converse after Nike’s rejection. The dialogue unfolds to reveal Johnson’s thoughts on the evolution of basketball, the challenge of transitioning from his athletic prime due to a back injury, and his continuation as a player ambassador for the Knicks. Filled with wisdom from Johnson’s playing days and reflections on his ongoing journey, this episode is a treasure trove for basketball enthusiasts and those eager to understand the mindset of a high achiever.

Key Takeaways:

• Influence of Early Mentors: Johnson credits much of his success to his junior high and high school coaches, particularly JD Mayo, who instilled discipline and a team-first mentality.
• College and NBA Transitions: Faced with setbacks like missing out on a Division I college right out of high school, Johnson’s time at Odessa Junior College and UNLV prepared him extensively for the challenges in the NBA.
• Grandmama Campaign Insight: Initially skeptical, Johnson embraced the iconic Converse “Grandmama” persona, which became a defining element of his career and helped cement his place in popular culture.
• Resilience and Adaptation: Despite early career highs, a significant back injury required Johnson to adapt his playing style and eventually retire, underscoring his ongoing resilience and ability to reinvent himself.
• Team Player Legacy: Throughout his career, Johnson’s identity as a team player remained central, contributing to his successful transitions both on and off the court.

Notable Quotes:

1. “Once I went through the discipline of Skyline High School and Coach Mayo, everything else was easy.” – Larry Johnson
2. “Nike told me to my face that they didn’t want to sign me because they didn’t think I would be a good pro.” – Larry Johnson
3. “My whole career is because of the people that I’ve met. And it started with JD Mayo.” – Larry Johnson
4. “In New York, I’m known for the four-point play.” – Larry Johnson

Resources:

• LarryJohnson2.com
• Larry Johnson on Twitter (X)
• “Kings of Vegas” Documentary – Details on the upcoming documentary about UNLV’s basketball team’s dominance.
• UNLV Basketball History
• Odessa College Sports

For an in-depth dive into Larry Johnson’s extraordinary career and inspiring life lessons, be sure to listen to this full episode. Stay tuned for more compelling content on Becoming UnDone as we explore the journeys of high achievers and their unstoppable growth.