In the world of music, we often associate our favorite artists with their iconic performances and chart-topping hits. However, some of these musical legends also possess athletic prowess that extends beyond the stage. Join me as we explore the remarkable journeys of famous musicians who once showcased their skills on the basketball court before finding fame in the world of music.
Master P (Percy Miller)
Before he became known as the hip-hop mogul Master P, Percy Miller was a talented basketball player who received a full athletic scholarship to play for the University of Houston in the early 1990s. Miller, a point guard, showcased his skills on the court alongside future NBA players like Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. While his basketball career didn’t lead to the NBA, Miller’s passion for music eventually propelled him to stardom as the founder of No Limit Records and a successful rap artist.
Lil Romeo (Romeo Miller)
Following in his father’s footsteps, Romeo Miller, also known as Lil Romeo, made a name for himself as a successful rapper and actor. However, before he pursued a career in entertainment, Miller was a standout basketball player who received a scholarship to play for the University of Southern California (USC) in 2008. Miller played for the USC Trojans basketball team as a walk-on guard, showcasing his skills on the court while pursuing his passion for music and acting.
Jermaine “J. Cole” Cole
Before he became one of the most acclaimed rappers of his generation, J. Cole was a talented basketball player who walked on to the basketball team at St. John’s University in New York City. While his basketball career at St. John’s was short-lived, Cole’s passion for music ultimately led him to pursue a career as a rapper and producer. Today, J. Cole is celebrated for his introspective lyrics, soulful beats, and powerful storytelling, cementing his status as one of hip-hop’s most influential artists.
2 Chainz (Tauheed Epps)
Before he became known as the rapper 2 Chainz, Tauheed Epps was a talented basketball player who received a scholarship to play for Alabama State University in the mid-1990s. Epps played as a forward for the Alabama State Hornets basketball team, showcasing his athleticism and skills on the court. While his basketball career didn’t lead to the NBA, Epps eventually transitioned to a successful career in music, where he found fame as 2 Chainz with hits like “Birthday Song” and “I’m Different.”
Drake (Aubrey Graham)
Long before he became a Grammy-winning rapper and international superstar, Aubrey Graham, better known as Drake, was a promising basketball player who played for his high school team at Forest Hill Collegiate Institute in Toronto, Canada. Although his basketball career didn’t extend to the college level, Drake’s love for the sport has remained a constant throughout his life, influencing his music and even leading to his role as the global ambassador for the Toronto Raptors NBA team.
