Written By: By Just Bona Fide Media
It was just another ordinary day in San Francisco for Justin Dizon, who was diligently serving as a Program Director for a non-profit organization, helping underserved kids through art programs at local schools. Little did he know that a single phone call and text message would set him on a course that would forever alter the trajectory of his life. As he accompanied students on a field trip to a museum, Justin received an unexpected call from Jose Gil, the commissioner of the Kobe Bryant Basketball Academy. The two had crossed paths previously at the Stanford University Basketball camp. The content of the call left Justin in shock—Jose informed him that a coaching position had suddenly opened up at the Kobe Bryant Basketball Academy, and there was space for one more coach. “I mean, this is Kobe Bryant we’re talking about here,” Justin remarked, fully aware that he was facing a life-altering decision. However, the timing posed a significant dilemma. He was ensnared in a high-pressure job with a demanding boss who would undoubtedly frown upon his abrupt departure for a basketball camp. Mr. Gil required an immediate response, and it boiled down to a simple yes or no. After a few minutes of internal deliberation and coming to his senses, Justin knew he couldn’t miss this golden opportunity, even if it meant setting aside his current responsibilities. Despite the counsel of his girlfriend at the time, who urged him to prioritize his job over the camp, Justin’s resolve was clear: “It’s Kobe; you have to say yes.”
Justin got on the phone and gave a resounding yes to Mr. Gil, acknowledging that he would be a bit late for the camp’s start due to the 400-mile drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles. He informed his boss that he was feeling unwell, hailed an Uber back home, hastily packed his essentials into a backpack, and embarked on the arduous journey to Santa Barbara, California. His trusty old car sputtered and emitted smoke throughout the drive, forcing him to make pit stops to cool the engine and replenish coolant. During the treacherous drive, Justin’s mind buzzed with thoughts. He pondered how his sudden departure would irk his boss, how he’d need to call in sick for the next five days, and how his girlfriend might feel let down by his choice to prioritize what she perceived as a hobby over his job, which she viewed as a responsibility. Yet, for Coach Justin, whose life revolved around basketball, this was the most crucial decision he could make. Furthermore, he grappled with doubts and insecurities, given his status as an Asian-American coach in an industry where stereotypes can cast doubt on his skills. He was concerned about how he’d be received by fellow coaches and players at such a prestigious camp, all while striving to perform in front of his idol and global icon, Kobe Bryant.
Upon arriving at the camp, Coach Justin hit the ground running. Recognizing that it was an international camp with players from different parts of the world, he decided to learn essential words and phrases in Mandarin, Cantonese, and Spanish to effectively communicate with his players during drills and games. His passion and dedication to the game shone through.
In the midst of the camp, Justin’s team reached the championship but faced an unfortunate defeat due to a rival coach’s disregard for the rules. Nevertheless, his hard work, integrity and dedication were recognized when he was honored with the “Most Outstanding Coach” award, presented to him by none other than Kobe Bryant himself. The recognition was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the sport and his ability to overcome challenges and stereotypes, proving that true dedication knows no boundaries, be they geographical or cultural. Coach Justin’s journey, marked by determination and passion, stands as an inspiring tale for aspiring coaches and athletes around the world.
