Spencer Haywood Shares His Untold Story on “The Art of Rebounding” Podcast
In a personal new podcast series, basketball legend Spencer Haywood opens up like never before. Hosted by former Harlem Globetrotter Harold “Lefty” Williams, The Art of Rebounding delivers an exclusive two-part conversation that dives into the triumphs, trials, and legacy of one of basketball’s most influential figures.
Produced by The Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network and distributed through Mission Media, the series captures the heart of Haywood’s story — from rural poverty to Olympic gold, NBA superstardom, personal redemption, and his ongoing fight for athletes’ rights.
A Legend’s Rise: From Mississippi Fields to Basketball Glory
Before he was an NBA All-Star, Spencer Haywood was a young boy in Silver City, Mississippi, picking cotton under the hot southern sun. Part One of The Art of Rebounding, now available across major platforms, explores this remarkable rise from humble beginnings to global fame.
Listeners are taken on a journey through:
Early hardship and perseverance: Growing up in poverty, Haywood used basketball as a lifeline.
Olympic triumph: Winning gold for Team USA at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, a symbol of hope during a time of racial and political unrest.
NBA revolution: Haywood’s historic Supreme Court case (Haywood v. NBA) in 1971, which forever changed the league by allowing underclassmen to turn professional before completing four years of college.
“Spencer’s fight wasn’t just for himself — it was for generations of players after him,” says host Lefty Williams. “Without that case, we wouldn’t have seen legends like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, or Kevin Garnett enter the league when they did.”
Breaking Barriers: The Supreme Court Case That Changed Basketball
Spencer Haywood’s legal battle against the NBA is one of the most defining moments in sports law. Challenging the league’s “four-year rule,” Haywood’s lawsuit reached the U.S. Supreme Court, where he ultimately prevailed. The landmark decision paved the way for early entry into the NBA and reshaped professional basketball forever.
This segment of the podcast digs into the emotional and mental cost of standing up to powerful institutions — and the personal toll that came with it.
Haywood reflects on:
The backlash from team owners and fans at the time.
His resolve to protect young athletes’ futures.
The legacy of his legal courage — a ripple effect still felt today.
Part Two: Struggles, Redemption, and Reconciliation
Set to release on Tuesday, November 14, 2025, Part Two of the series peels back the curtain on Haywood’s personal life. Listeners will hear candid discussions about addiction, recovery, and the search for peace after fame.
Among the highlights:
Addiction and self-reflection: Haywood opens up about his battle with substance abuse during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, and how he eventually found strength in faith and family.
Falling from grace: The story behind his controversial exit from the Lakers during their 1980 championship season — one of the most turbulent moments in team history.
Healing old wounds: Heartfelt reconciliations with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson, two of his former teammates who once distanced themselves from him.
Legacy beyond the game: His tireless advocacy for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights — a fight that echoes his earlier legal battles and continues to shape how student-athletes are compensated today.
Faith, Purpose, and Legacy: The Heart of the Conversation
Throughout the series, Haywood speaks with humility and grace, emphasizing that his story is not just about basketball — it’s about the power of faith, perseverance, and rebounding in life.
“Talking with Spencer was powerful,” says Williams. “He’s lived through some of the most pivotal moments in basketball history and still brings so much heart, humility, and perspective. This interview goes far beyond the game — it’s about perseverance, purpose, and legacy.”
Haywood’s reflections remind listeners that greatness isn’t just measured in points scored or trophies won, but in the ability to overcome personal battles and use one’s platform for good.
The Art of Rebounding: A Podcast About More Than Basketball
The Art of Rebounding isn’t your typical sports podcast. Hosted by Lefty Williams — the first Harlem Globetrotter to start his own basketball brand — the show blends motivational storytelling, sports history, and personal transformation.
Each episode focuses on how athletes, entrepreneurs, and everyday people “rebound” from life’s challenges. The Spencer Haywood series is its most emotional and impactful to date.
Where to Listen:
You can stream The Art of Rebounding on:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
iHeartRadio
YouTube
The Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network
Listeners can also find exclusive behind-the-scenes clips and extended interviews on Mission Media’s official website.
Spencer Haywood: Then and Now
Haywood’s legacy continues to evolve. Today, he remains an outspoken advocate for athlete empowerment, speaking at schools, events, and conferences across the U.S. He also mentors young players, sharing lessons learned from both his triumphs and mistakes.
Key Facts About Spencer Haywood:
Born: April 22, 1949, in Silver City, Mississippi
NBA Teams: Seattle SuperSonics, New York Knicks, New Orleans Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers, Washington Bullets
Career Highlights:
4× NBA All-Star
Olympic Gold Medalist (1968)
ABA Champion (1969–70)
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2015)
Off-Court Achievements: Advocate for player rights, NIL reform supporter, motivational speaker, author of The Spencer Haywood Rule
Why This Podcast Resonates in 2025
In an era where mental health, addiction recovery, and athlete advocacy are at the forefront of sports conversations, Haywood’s story feels more relevant than ever. His honesty bridges generations — connecting old-school legends with today’s rising stars.
The Art of Rebounding isn’t just a podcast — it’s a reminder that life, like basketball, is about how you bounce back after the fall.
