Horace Jenkins (6'1, 180lbs)

Born: October 14, 1974

High School: Elizabeth High School, New Jersey

College: William Patterson '01

Horace is someone who refuses to give up. His persitance, determination and his preseverance has gotten him a chance to play in the NBA. 

He was only a backup in his 3 years as a Varsity player in high school and he was inelgible to play in his Senior season. He then played one season at Union Country College before giving birth to his son. 

Worked for the Postal Service, electrician and on the back of a garbage truck just to provide for his family.

Once he had saved some money he decided to go back to college, get his degree and play basketball.

While in college (Division III) he was a three-time player of the year, All-American with numerous school records. After graduating from college he went undrafted. But he never gave up and went on to play in the Italian League. Then played in various summer leagues with NBA teams and he was finally given a chance to play in the NBA with the defending champion Detriot Pistons. Jenkins was notable for being the oldest rookie in the NBA and his story was the subject of a short presentation by Jamie Foxx on ABC during the 2005 NBA Finals. 

Jenkins shows people that you can do anything you believe in and to never give up.

"That was probably one of the toughest things. I did everything I was supposed to do. I just took it as a test from God."

"This is a big opportunity. I got to try to go out there and do more, and I have no problem with that. I'm a person who refuses to fail."

"You can't force anything, but when the opportunity presents itself, if the ball was in my hands, I was going to do it."

"I think of everything I have been through...It makes me see how blessed I am. I've done real hard labor, worked as an electrician and stuff. I was out of basketball, working labor jobs to make money. I could have stayed there, done the work, and made a pretty good living for my family. But I couldn't let basketball go. I had to see this all the way through, and I'm glad I did. You will never hear me complain. I have nothing to complain about. I've been on the other side. I know how it is in the real world."