J. Cole Could Have Played D1 Basketball According to Former Lakers Coach

When you think of J. Cole, what comes to mind? A Grammy-winning rapper? A savvy entrepreneur? Or perhaps a man of many talents who could drop bars as easily as he could drop buckets on the court? According to former Lakers coach Phil Handy, the latter is a very real possibility.

In a recent interview, Handy—who spent years coaching with the Los Angeles Lakers and helping develop some of the NBA’s brightest stars—expressed his admiration for the multi-faceted artist, revealing that J. Cole’s basketball skills could have made him a standout at the collegiate level. That’s right, folks: Phil Handy believes J. Cole could have played Division 1 basketball.

A Rapper’s Hoops Dreams? Not as Far-Fetched as You Think

For many, it might sound like a wild stretch. After all, J. Cole, whose real name is Jermaine Cole, is better known for his mic skills and chart-topping hits than for slam dunks or pick-and-roll executions. But the rapper’s basketball journey goes beyond the studio and the stage. Cole has been involved in basketball since his high school days in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he was a standout player.

J. Cole was no slouch when it came to hoops. He attended St. John’s University on a basketball scholarship, though he ultimately chose to pursue his musical dreams rather than continue playing at the collegiate level. But the passion for the game has never left him. In fact, J. Cole has consistently made headlines over the years with his on-court exploits, from his performances in celebrity games to his run with the Rwanda Patriots in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). But it’s Handy’s comments that have really stirred the pot and put J. Cole’s basketball potential under the spotlight.

Phil Handy’s High Praise

Handy, who has coached some of the biggest names in basketball, including LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, shared his thoughts on J. Cole’s basketball talents during a candid discussion about work ethic and dedication. “I’ve seen a lot of players in my time, and J. Cole—he’s one of those guys who could have played at the highest level,” Handy said. “His basketball IQ is through the roof, and his work ethic is second to none. He’s one of the most dedicated athletes I’ve ever met.”

These are not words to take lightly, especially coming from someone who’s worked with NBA legends. The idea that J. Cole could have been a Division 1 athlete is no longer just a fun ‘what if’ scenario. According to Handy, it’s grounded in Cole’s determination and natural talent.

For J. Cole, this level of praise isn’t just a nod to his athletic ability—it’s a testament to his mindset. Known for his meticulous approach to his music, the rapper carries that same mentality onto the basketball court. It’s about the grind, the hustle, and the desire to improve. Handy’s comments paint a picture of a man who doesn’t take shortcuts and is willing to put in the work to be the best, whether it’s in the recording studio or on the hardwood.

J. Cole’s Hoops Journey: From Dreams to Reality

While it’s clear that J. Cole could have made it as a D1 player, he chose to pursue a different path. After attending St. John’s, he shifted his focus entirely to his music career, releasing his first mixtape, The Come Up, in 2007. The rest, as they say, is history. J. Cole’s rise to fame has been marked by chart-topping albums, collaborations with heavyweights like Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar, and a dedicated fanbase that spans the globe. But throughout his success, basketball has remained a constant in his life.

Cole frequently shares his love for the game through social media, often posting clips of his workouts, pick-up games, and even sharing his connection with NBA players. Over the years, he’s been seen working out with players like LeBron James, and he has even participated in celebrity charity basketball games, proving his skill and passion for the game.

In 2021, J. Cole’s basketball journey reached a new level when he joined the Rwanda Patriots in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). His brief but impactful stint with the team earned him respect not just as a rapper but as a legitimate athlete. His performance in the BAL was a clear indication that J. Cole was more than just a celebrity in sneakers; he could hold his own with professional basketball players.

Despite his love for basketball, J. Cole’s connection to the sport has always been more about passion than competition. While he’s never aimed to break into the NBA, he’s always been open to using basketball as a platform to inspire and connect with his fans. His love for the game is evident in the lyrics of many of his songs, where he often references basketball as a metaphor for life’s challenges.

The Work Ethic that Makes J. Cole Stand Out

So, what sets J. Cole apart from other celebrities who play basketball for fun? According to Handy, it’s his work ethic. The rapper has never been content to simply show up and rely on his natural abilities. Instead, he puts in the work, pushing himself to get better every day. Whether it’s through his rigorous workout routines or his hours spent on the court refining his skills, J. Cole is known for his commitment to excellence.

Handy’s observations about J. Cole’s approach to basketball echo the same level of dedication that fans see in the rapper’s musical career. Just as J. Cole has built a successful career by pushing the boundaries of hip-hop, he’s shown the same drive on the basketball court. This mindset—combined with his natural talent and basketballIQ—has earned him respect from those in the basketball community.

What Does This Mean for J. Cole’s Future in Basketball?

While J. Cole has never publicly pursued a full-time basketball career, there’s no denying that his relationship with the game remains strong. Whether or not we’ll see J. Cole in a professional league again is anyone’s guess, but one thing is certain: his basketball journey is far from over. Whether it’s running drills, getting into pickup games, or continuing to mentor young athletes, J. Cole’s love for the game will likely continue to shape his life for years to come.

Moreover, as Handy’s comments suggest, J. Cole’s connection to basketball goes beyond just a hobby. The rapper’s potential in the sport serves as a reminder that talent doesn’t always fit into a box. Sometimes, the best athletes aren’t always the ones you expect. And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see J. Cole running drills with NBA stars or even stepping onto the court for another unexpected appearance in a professional league.

For now, fans of both J. Cole and basketball can take solace in knowing that the rapper continues to embody the values of dedication and passion, whether he’s on stage or on the court. Who would have thought that a Grammy-winning rapper could have been a Division 1 basketball player? But as Phil Handy so clearly puts it, “J. Cole could have done it all.”