When Bruce Lee Trained with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
7 hours ago
- #Bruce Lee
- #Martial Arts
- #Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
- Bruce Lee and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (then Lew Alcindor) began training together after the 1968 national college basketball championship.
- Kareem sought Bruce Lee's martial arts training to improve his basketball skills and mental discipline.
- Bruce Lee initially doubted Kareem's abilities but was impressed by his athleticism and potential.
- Their training sessions focused on Jeet Kune Do, footwork, and practical combat techniques.
- Kareem adopted Bruce Lee's philosophy of mastering fundamentals through repetition, applying it to his iconic skyhook shot.
- Bruce Lee learned from Kareem how to fight taller opponents, adapting his techniques accordingly.
- Their bond extended beyond training, sharing discussions on philosophy, religion, and experiences with discrimination.
- Kareem converted to Sunni Islam and changed his name during this period, reflecting his personal and political awakening.
- Both faced media scrutiny and public backlash for their political stances, including Kareem's boycott of the 1968 Olympics.
- Their friendship provided mutual support and understanding, bridging their shared experiences as iconic athletes facing societal challenges.