Community News
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar honored by Los Angeles City Council
On February 22, 2007 Los Angeles City Councilmembers Bernard Parks and Jan Perry and County Supervisor Yvonne B. Burke honored author and UCLA basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The professional and collegiate basketball superstar was recognized for his outstanding accomplishments on the court and for the completion of his most recent book “On The Shoulders of Giants” which chronicles the Harlem Renaissance.
The program was held in the City Hall rotunda where Councilmember Parks introduced the one-and–only former UCLA basketball coach, John Wooden. Wooden spoke fondly of Jabbar and the time he served as Jabbar's coach, and Jabbar spoke about his book and the importance of the Harlem Renaissance and how it helped change the perception many had of African Americans. Jabbar also mentioned that he had been offered a full time coaching position with the Lakers, and indicated that he had accepted the position. He later participated in a book signing, which had many eager readers standing in a long line.
Also in attendance were City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo, Councilmember Tom LaBonge, UCLA Athletic Director Dan Guerrero, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak (UCLA MBA 1987), Executive Vice President of Business Operations Jeanie Buss, and musician Herbie Hancock.
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