EPISODE · Sep 5, 2025 · 59 MIN
From Walk-On to the NBA: Lessons From NBA Player Mario West
from Developing Athletes Podcast · host Rashad Jones-Jennings
Join us for an inspiring episode of the Developing Athletes podcast as we sit down with Mario West, a former NBA player turned author and philanthropist. In this episode, Mario shares his incredible journey from Huntsville, Alabama, to the NBA, discussing the challenges he faced and the work ethic that propelled him to success.Discover how Mario's upbringing, strong family values, and the influence of his grandmother, Alberta West, shaped his mindset and determination. He reflects on his time at Georgia Tech, the importance of education, and how he balanced academics with his basketball dreams.Mario opens up about the realities of being an undrafted player in the NBA, the grit required to make a name for himself, and the significance of cultivating relationships both on and off the court. He also shares valuable insights on life after basketball, the importance of having a plan B, and how he transitioned into his current role as the director of the NBA Players Association's transition program.Additionally, learn about the impactful work of the Mario West Foundation, which focuses on promoting education, diversity, and empowering youth in the community. From providing scholarships to feeding the homeless, Mario is dedicated to giving back and making a difference.Tune in for an episode filled with motivation, wisdom, and the power of perseverance! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring stories from athletes and leaders.Subscribe Now: https://www.youtube.com/@UCBKOZIJLiyno0g9pbF7mMxA Join Community: https://post-pro-community.mn.co/
What this episode covers
Join us for an inspiring episode of the Developing Athletes podcast as we sit down with Mario West, a former NBA player turned author and philanthropist. In this episode, Mario shares his incredible journey from Huntsville, Alabama, to the NBA, discussing the challenges he faced and the work ethic that propelled him to success. Discover how Mario's upbringing, strong family values, and the influence of his grandmother, Alberta West, shaped his mindset and determination. He reflects on his time at Georgia Tech, the importance of education, and how he balanced academics with his basketball dreams. Mario opens up about the realities of being an undrafted player in the NBA, the grit required to make a name for himself, and the significance of cultivating relationships both on and off the court. He also shares valuable insights on life after basketball, the importance of having a plan B, and how he transitioned into his current role as the director of the NBA Players Association's transition program. Additionally, learn about the impactful work of the Mario West Foundation, which focuses on promoting education, diversity, and empowering youth in the community. From providing scholarships to feeding the homeless, Mario is dedicated to giving back and making a difference. Tune in for an episode filled with motivation, wisdom, and the power of perseverance! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring stories from athletes and leaders. Subscribe Now: https://www.youtube.com/@UCBKOZIJLiyno0g9pbF7mMxA Join Community: https://post-pro-community.mn.co/
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From Walk-On to the NBA: Lessons From NBA Player Mario West
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