Rebound: How Artis Gilmore Defeated The Odds and Helped Unify The City

Artis Gilmore’s journey is the definition of perseverance. Before he was a Hall of Famer, before he was an NBA star, he was a kid growing up in a segregated town in rural Florida, living amid poverty and racial terror. But basketball was his salvation. His size, drive and commitment led him to Jacksonville University, and eventually to the school’s unprecedented – and unreplicated – NCAA championship final. He would later go on to perform as one the most dominant centers in basketball history. But he recalls his time playing in Jacksonville as not just a highlight of his life, but a central piece of the city’s racial history. In this episode, Gilmore reflects on his early struggles, the impact of sports on racial progress, and the legacy of the 1969-’70 “Cinderella team” that unified the communities of the First Coast. Kingpins & Catalysts was executive produced by Letisha Bereola and Anne Schindler. It was directed by Brady Corum and produced by Stacey Bennett, who also composed the music. Graphic design by Bonnie Zerr. Support the stories that matter to you—become a WJCT News Now member today! As a member, you’ll enjoy NPR bonus content and ad-free listening, exclusive on-demand podcasts from WJCT News 89.9 , and early access to new podcasts. Plus, your support helps power trusted local journalism and original podcasts like this one. Join now at wjct.org/newsnow.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.