The legacy of Cape Verdean Americans in the NBA is not just imparted through their athletic exploits on the court but also through their significant contributions to society and basketball culture after their playing days. Dana Barros, Ryan Gomes, and Charles Smith each carved unique paths through the NBA and have continued to impact the sport and their communities in profound ways.
Dana Barros: A Sharpshooter's Journey from Boston College to Community Leader
A product of Boston College, Dana Barros made a name for himself in the NBA with his exceptional shooting skills. Drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1989, Barros's career spanned over a decade, including a memorable stint with the Philadelphia 76ers where he was named an NBA All-Star in 1995. Behind the arc, he set the franchise record for three-point shooting percentage during his tenure with the 76ers. Post-NBA, Barros has been actively involved in community outreach, leading the Dana Barros Basketball Club where he focuses on youth programs and leverages his status to foster new generations of athletes through basketball camps and trainings. He also continues to perform community outreach through Media Relations with the Boston Celtics.
Ryan Gomes: From Providence College to the NBA and Beyond
Ryan Gomes’s remarkable journey from Providence College to the NBA saw him don the jerseys of the Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Los Angeles Clippers, and Oklahoma City Thunder. Known for his adaptability and robust play, Gomes carved out a respectable career in the league. Following his NBA career, he founded the Hoops for Heart Health Foundation to raise awareness about heart conditions in athletes, inspired by personal tragedy. Currently, Gomes is also making his mark as a coach at Overtime Elite (OTE), where he mentors young prodigies, shaping the future of basketball with his extensive experience and passion for the game.
Charles Smith: Versatility On and Off the CourtÂ
Charles Smith's NBA journey began after being drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1988. His career spanned several teams, where he was celebrated for his scoring and defensive skills. After retiring, Smith ventured into diverse roles that leveraged his leadership skills and business acumen. He founded NewMedia Technology Corp, engaged with the National Basketball Players Association, and explored roles in media and advertising, including positions at Midas Exchange and MediaCom. These roles have highlighted his capability to transcend the basketball world and succeed in business and media.
Connecting to the Cape Verdean Basketball Association (CVBA) MissionÂ
The stories of Barros, Gomes, and Smith embody the spirit of the CVBA’s mission to nurture and empower young Cape Verdean athletes, not just within the sport but also as well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. The CVBA aims to provide platforms for young athletes to grow and thrive, inspired by the examples set by their predecessors. Through training, educational programs, mentorship, and community engagement, the CVBA is dedicated to nurturing athletes who can carry forward the legacy of making significant impacts both on and off the court.
In celebrating these athletes, the CVBA continues to promote the values of perseverance, leadership, and community engagement. This ensures that the impact of Cape Verdean descent players in the NBA extends far beyond their basketball careers, influencing countless lives and shaping the future of the community.