Description
In this episode, we sit down with C.J. Watson, former NBA point guard, author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, to talk about his journey from being undrafted to carving out a 10-year career in the NBA. We explore challenges, mindset, playing with the Chicago Bulls & Derrick Rose, lessons learned — both on the court and off.
Connect with C.J. Watson
📘 Buy the book series / get more info here: CJPens.com
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Chapters
0:00 – Intro & Welcome
1:03 – Talking Bulls, Bench Mob & Inspiration
2:10 – Growing Up in Vegas & Early Love for Basketball
3:10 – High School Work Ethic & Competing at a Higher Level
4:34 – Going Undrafted & Mental Challenges
5:35 – Overseas Basketball Experience
6:24 – Transition to D-League & NBA Call-Up
7:20 – Golden State Warriors: 10-Day Contract Journey
9:00 – First NBA Game & Welcome to the League Moment
10:13 – Playing with Baron Davis, Monte Ellis & the Warriors
11:20 – Family Reactions & Achieving the NBA Dream
12:05 – Chicago Bulls Era: Team Chemistry & Practices
13:40 – Derrick Rose MVP Season & Impact
14:50 – The Injury Year & Missed Championship Opportunity
15:57 – Favorite Bulls Moment (Miami Game-Winner)
17:05 – Kobe Bryant Influence & Mamba Mentality
18:35 – Longevity in the NBA & Learning from Veterans
20:00 – Life After Basketball: Books, Foundation & Giving Back
22:05 – Writing Children’s Books & Inspiring Youth
23:20 – Quiet Storm Foundation & Community Work
24:45 – Angel Investing, Tech & Post-NBA Ventures
26:05 – Advice to Young Athletes & Having a Plan B
27:20 – Advice to Younger Self: Enjoy the Process
28:05 – Rapid Fire Questions (Teammates, Toughest Opponents, Cities)
30:00 – Closing Thoughts & Links to Books/Socials