Dyslexia is a reading disability that makes it difficult for people to read and spell. Dyslexia may be a tremendous learning roadblock, but those who suffer from this disorder are often the toughest and most hardworking people. In fact, some of the most successful NBA superstars suffer from dyslexia.
Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, and Gary Payton II are three of the most famous NBA players who suffer from dyslexia. They are living proof that having a disability should not stop you from pursuing your dreams.
Like these NBA big shots, you should use the obstacles in your way to push you to work harder and never give up. Let’s look at the stories of three people who overcame their disabilities and made a mark in basketball history.
1. Kobe Bryant
Everyone knows Kobe Bryant. Black Mamba. The man that many people argue to be the true GOAT. But whether you’re rooting for Kobe or MJ, anyone who has seen this man play knows that, just like his nickname suggests, his killer instinct on the court is undeniable.
Five-time NBA champion, Kobe’s following all over the world remains strong, even after his tragic passing. And why not? He electrified everyone that watched him play. Whether you were a Laker fan or not, you would have seen that he was on a completely different level, a cut above the rest of all the NBA players he ever rubbed elbows with (except, perhaps, Michael Jordan).
But more than his amazing basketball skills, Kobe is known for his incredible work ethic and passion. His teammates often talked of Kobe waking up at 4 in the morning to head to the gym and practice way before the rest of his team woke up. What’s more, he did this consistently. He worked very hard. He achieved success through hard work.
Nobody would have guessed that such a strong athlete suffered from dyslexia and grew up with the tremendous frustration that came from being diagnosed with the learning disorder at an early age. He channeled his anger and frustration from this disability into basketball. And look where it brought him.
2. Magic Johnson
Another NBA legend that has made an indelible mark in the world of basketball is Earvin Johnson, Jr., most popularly known as Magic Johnson. Johnson is one of the world’s basketball greats who is credited with the now-common basketball jargon “triple-double” because of his incredible ability to do virtually everything on the court. And he did it all exceptionally well.
He gained the nickname Magic Johnson in his high school basketball days, when a sportswriter, enthralled with his play (36 points, 16 rebounds, and 16 assists), gave him the nickname–and it stuck.
Like Kobe Bryant, Johnson was diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age. Instead of stopping him, it only motivated Johson to work harder. By the time he was in eighth grade, he already knew his future was in basketball, where he would eventually become one of the greats who would revolutionize the game.
3. Gary Payton II
Playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, Gary Payton II is another NBA star that has overcome dyslexia and went on to carve a name for himself in basketball. He previously played with the Golden State Warriors and the Raptors, among other teams.
Among his awards and achievements are the following:
- NBA Champion (2022)
- NBA G League Defensive Player of the Year (2021)
- NBA G League Steals Leader (2021)
He and his father, Gary Payton, Sr. (“The Glove“), are the fifth father-and-son duo to win an NBA championship.