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LA Lakers' Trey Jemison Shares Thoughts on Juneteenth

Jun 18, 2025

Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, but freedom and what the day represents means something different to everyone. We recently connected with Birmingham-native and current LA Laker, Trey Jemison, to hear what Juneteenth represents to him, how he celebrates his personal freedom, and his vision for the future.

Trey Jemison dribbling

What does Juneteenth mean to you personally as a Black man and a Birmingham native?

Trey: Being born and raised in Birmingham, I grew up hearing about the city's history almost every
other day. So, Juneteenth being a national holiday feels as if the nation now understands the
magnitude of the history that built not just my city but the entire country.

How has your upbringing in Birmingham shaped your identity and how you carry yourself as a professional athlete?

Trey: Citizens of Birmingham are extremely kind and try to show everyone respect. Natives are
hardworking and determined people, and I make sure to carry those traits no matter what NBA
team across my chest.

Trey Jemison shaking younger players hand

What role do you think athletes—especially Black athletes—play in continuing the legacy of empowerment and change in our communities?

Trey: The role we play is astronomical; we are children's first role models. Black athletes must
realize that nine out of ten kids want to be professional athletes. Therefore, we must use that
fame to feed into the communities that raised us to make a difference. So that the next
generation does not repeat the same struggles we had growing up.

How do you stay grounded in who you are, especially now that you're representing Birmingham on a national stage with the Lakers?

Trey: Basketball is what I do and not who I am. This quote is how I remind myself that this part of
my life is only a moment in time. Even when I retire, I will still be a little black kid from
Birmingham, Alabama.

Trey Jemison Playing Basketball for the Lakers

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young Black boys growing up in cities like Birmingham with dreams bigger than their surroundings?

Trey: The place you were born, the family that you were born into, and even the financial status
you have do not matter. Chasing GOD and focusing on him being greater than your surroundings is the way you will receive a blessing you’ve never dreamed of.

In what ways do you hope to use your platform to give back or inspire change in your community?

Trey: First off I want my platform to be an encouragement that no matter where you are in life,
honoring GOD and pursuing a Christ-like life is worth it. Despite what the world says.

Trey Jemison Guarding Brunson in NBA game

Juneteenth is about freedom and progress—how do you define freedom in your own life today?

Trey: Freedom in my life is being able to worship GOD and pursue any career I desire without
backlash from what someone else believes.

Who are some historical or present-day Black figures who have inspired you personally or professionally?

Trey: Mae Jemison is a historical Black figure that I look up to (No relation). Mae Jemison has a
quote that I live by that says,” Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations.” In this
world where everyone has an opinion on what you can and can not do, I look at a strong black
women who accomplish something that no one would have dreamed was possible if she did not
believe in herself.

Trey Jemison Walking Carrying Black Duffle

What’s your vision for the future when it comes to racial equality, and what role do you want to play in that journey?

Trey: My vision is for people to see the greatness and positive impact that other races have on
each other, not the negative stereotypes that are highlighted. This is something I pride myself
on, by carrying myself as a respectful God-fearing man at all times.

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  • Photo of Trey Jemison Playing Basketball for UAB

    Lifestyle

    LA Lakers' Trey Jemison Shares Thoughts on Juneteenth

    Jun 18, 2025

    Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, but freedom and what the day represents means something different to everyone. We recently connected with Birmingham-native and current LA Laker, Trey Jemison, to hear what Juneteenth represents to him, how he celebrates his personal freedom, and his vision for the future.

    Read More