In life, Len Bias was a transformative basketball player. In death, he’s a cautionary tale and an iconic symbol of poor decision making. Len Bias is also a cultural catalyst.
In this episode, Len’s story and legacy are juxtaposed with those of many important figures in American cultural history…Emmit Till’s traumatic tale, and racial injustice. The tragic young death of rapper Biggie Smalls…The black folklore fable of John Henry.
His legacy is addressed in contemporary black writings, including by acclaimed poet Reginald Dwayne Betts and Justin Tinsley. Songs have been written about Bias. And a play used his story to teach youth about the perils of drug abuse. All this, in the last narrative episode of this podcast series.
About the Narrator: John Salley - John Salley is an American former professional basketball player, talk show host, and actor. He was the first player in NBA history to win championships with three franchises, as well as the first player in the NBA to win a championship in three different decades.
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