The Bahamas, 10th July 2025
Thanks to the caring support of my mother, grandmother, family members, and the Bimini Island village, I never went to bed with an empty stomach.
Today, my heart is full to learn that I have been named to the 2025 conferral of awards under the National Honours Act to citizens of The Bahamas. I am very surprised, deeply humbled, grateful, and by all means honoured to identify as a recipient of the prestigious Order of Lignum Vitae Award.
I commend the Office of The Governor General and, by extension, the government and people of The Bahamas for such a profound recognition. Through this award, my name will forever be linked with hundreds of great Bahamians who have and continue to contribute tremendously to nation-building. My heartfelt congratulations to all.
Thank you all so very much for considering me to be placed among so many outstanding giants, in particular my fellow athletes who have and are presently performing on the international stage.
This award has everything to do with my mother’s incredible sacrifice, my siblings, and my family’s belief in me, the Bimini village, and wider Bahamas support base, and the many individuals and institutions abroad who are now regarded as my family.
Never in my wildest dream did I expect to wake up on the 52nd Anniversary of my country’s Independence to find that I am a National Honours recipient.
I have always dreamt big, but only divine intervention could have made it possible for me by way of a National Honours list to be associated with the courageous Pompey Rolle, a slave from Lord Rolle’s Plantation in Steventon, Exuma,The Bahamas, back in 1839, who led a revolt with unmatched bravery to free himself and fellow slaves from despicable human suffering – 77 slaves are noted in this chapter of our nation’s history .
Today, in 2025, without ever drawing any real tangible connection to Pompey’s heroics, I wear jersey number 77 for the Philadelphia 76ers.
What a difference 186 years make.
To God be the Glory.
