Basketball Star from Anchorage Fought Odds

Seeks to inspire others with his story

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By Corey Allen-Young
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Story Created: Jan 11, 2012 at 8:09 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Jan 11, 2012 at 8:09 AM AKDT

From the basketball courts at East High to the beautiful lands of Brazil, it’s been an up and down journey for Andre Laws, a hometown hoops star who never gave up on his dream despite the obstacles in his way.

Laws took a path to success one step at a time, with a little inspiration, a whole lot of motivation and his family by his side.

Being back on the court where Andre Laws’ star rose is a bit surreal. It was part of his path to playing pro ball – a path he wants to define for kids with stars in their eyes.

Andre followed other East High greats like Trajan Langdon and developed his skills on the hardwood. His passion took him all the way to a scholarship at the University of San Diego, where his goal of playing in the NBA was within reach – until he was cut by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Broke, with no playing prospects, Andre took a job at a local beverage distributor as a stocker – a big drop for the successful and confident player whose dream seemed to be vanishing.

But with his fire still lit, Andre finally got the call that put him back on the court, a stage he hasn’t left yet – he’s since played in Turkey, Israel, Bosnia, Jordan, Argentina, and now Brazil.

It’s a blessing that began with his parents’ ongoing commitment – they believed in Andre and his brothers. It’s a message even the youngest Laws, Jarred, who’s playing ball at East right now, is learning – which is why Andre was there cheering him on, to not only be the best in sports, but in life as well.

It’s a positive message Andre is spreading to whomever will listen, because he’s determined to inspire a new crop of dreamers to become whatever they want if they’re willing to put in the work to make the journey.

 

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