J.J. Redick Brings “The Mindset of Champions” to Summit Sportsplex

J.J. Redick speaks to over 600 students at Summit Sportsplex

On September 2, Summit Sportsplex welcomed Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach and Roanoke native J.J. Redick back home for The Mindset of Champions, an afternoon focused on discipline, preparation, resilience, and pursuing big goals.

More than 600 students and attendees from across the Roanoke Valley gathered at Summit, including students from Roanoke County schools, Roanoke Catholic School, Roanoke College, and Ferrum College, along with local business leaders.

Redick’s message was personal. The former Cave Spring High School and Duke standout shared stories from his own journey, from shooting on a weathered basketball hoop in Roanoke County to playing 15 seasons in the NBA and ultimately becoming head coach of the Lakers.

But much of his message focused on the parts of that journey that didn’t go according to plan.

Redick spoke openly about failure, moments when he considered giving up, and the work required to move forward. He encouraged students to find a dream worth pursuing, take risks, surround themselves with the right people, and understand the importance of the reputation they build along the way.

He also reminded students not to overlook what they have right here at home, sharing how special Roanoke remains to him after living throughout the country.

The Mindset of Champions reflects what we believe at Summit: sports can be the beginning of something much bigger.

The lessons that help someone succeed on the court, including commitment, courage, discipline, resilience, and confidence, can help young people succeed in school, their careers, and life.

We’re grateful to J.J. for coming home and investing his time in Roanoke’s next generation. It was a special afternoon and a powerful reminder that where you start doesn’t have to determine how far you can go.