About This Episode
A 3x NBA Champion shares how iconic Coach Dean Smith and the North Carolina community supported him through the darkest chapter of his life – the trauma of his father taking the life of his mother before taking his own. Scott and Travis connect on their (very different) shared trauma and being able to empower others by sharing their learned life lessons – in Scott’s case; lessons from former teammates Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
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About Our Guest
From scottwilliamsbasketball.com:
Scott’s story is one of hope, tragedy, and redemption
Scott attended and played basketball for Glen A. Wilson High School in Hacienda Heights, California. He led the 1986 squad to the 1986 C.I.F State Championship Title. Williams was named a McDonald’s All-American in 1986 before enrolling into the University of North Carolina. From 1987-1990 Scott attended and played basketball UNC. He was known for his rugged play and his high shooting percentage. Scott was also Dean Smith’s first recruit from the West Coast.
Scott’s parents died on the first day of practice October 15, 1987, when his father shot and killed his mother then turned the gun on himself. He was 19 years old and his coach Dean Smith notified him of the tragedy. He credits his UNC family for helping him through that difficult time.
Scott went on to win three world championships playing alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippin for the Chicago Bulls. In all, Scott played 15 seasons in the NBA. After his playing career he became a NBA analyst with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Phoenix Suns.
15 year NBA legend & 3X World Champion
– Chicago Bulls ( 1991 – 1994)
– Philadelphia 76ers (1995 – 1999)
– Milwaukee Bucks (1999 – 2001)
– Denver Nuggets (2001 – 2002)
– Phoenix Suns (2002 – 2004)
– Dallas Mavericks (2004)
– Cleveland Cavaliers (2004 – 2005)
During the 2012–13 season, Williams was an assistant coach for the Idaho Stampede in the NBA Developmental League.
Prior to the 2013–14 season, Williams was hired as an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Bucks under Larry Drew.
Scott is currently the game analyst for the Grand Canyon Antelopes men’s basketball games in Arizona and is also the Executive Vice President and Partner of Anytime Media and Security.