John Celestand facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 6, 1977 Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| High school | Piscataway Township (Piscataway, New Jersey) |
| Listed height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Listed weight | 178 lb (81 kg) |
| Career information | |
| College | Villanova (1995–1999) |
| NBA Draft | 1999 / Round: 2 / Pick: 30th overall |
| Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers | |
| Pro career | 1999–2005 |
| Career history | |
| 1999–2000 | Los Angeles Lakers |
| 2000 | New Mexico Slam |
| 2000–2001 | Phantoms Braunschweig |
| 2001 | Skipper Bologna |
| 2001–2002 | ASVEL Villeurbanne |
| 2002–2003 | Alba Berlin |
| 2003–2004 | BC Kyiv |
| 2004–2005 | Phantoms Braunschweig |
| Career highlights and awards | |
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John Celestand (born March 6, 1977) is a retired American professional basketball player. He was a talented point guard who played for the Los Angeles Lakers. John even won an NBA championship with them in 2000. After his playing career, John continued to be involved in basketball and education, helping young people.
Contents
John Celestand's Early Life and College Basketball
John Celestand grew up in Piscataway, New Jersey. He went to Piscataway High School where he played basketball. After high school, he played college basketball at Villanova University. He was a strong player for the Villanova Wildcats from 1995 to 1999.
Professional Basketball Career
Joining the NBA and Winning a Championship
In 1999, John Celestand was chosen by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1999 NBA draft. He was the 30th player picked overall. John played for the Lakers during the 1999–2000 season. That year, his team won the NBA championship. This was a huge achievement for him and the Lakers.
Playing Basketball Overseas
After his time in the NBA, John Celestand played professional basketball in other countries. He spent several years playing in Europe. He played for teams in Italy, France, and Germany. For example, he played for Skipper Bologna in Italy and ASVEL Villeurbanne in France. He also played for Phantoms Braunschweig in Germany.
Life After Playing Basketball
Training Young Basketball Players
John Celestand now lives in New Jersey. He is a co-owner of a company called All-State Basketball. Through this company, he helps train young people who want to become basketball players. He works with aspiring athletes in Central New Jersey.
Working as a Sports Announcer
John also works as an announcer for sports broadcasts. He covers college basketball games for ESPN Plus and ESPNU. He is also a studio analyst for "76ers Post Game Live" on Comcast Sportsnet Philadelphia. Additionally, he is a color analyst for IMG College Radio and MSG Varsity. He covers the National Big East Game of the Week and high school basketball in New Jersey.
Helping the Community and Mentoring
John Celestand is very involved in helping his community. He used to coach the Central Jersey Jammers AAU team. He still helps various basketball groups in Central New Jersey.
Promoting Literacy and Mentoring Youth
John is a member of the "I Can Foundation." This non-profit group started in 2005. It helps encourage young people in cities to read more. He also works as a motivational speaker across New Jersey. He inspires students to do their best.
John also works with "Heroes and Cool Kids." This non-profit company is based in North Jersey. It helps high school student athletes by providing mentors. He is also part of the Rutgers Future Scholars program. This program mentors students who will be the first in their families to go to college.
Celestand Consulting: Education and Character Development
John Celestand is also the president of his own company, Celestand Consulting. Through his company, he gives motivational speeches. He also organizes seminars about education and building good character. He has spoken at many universities, high schools, and middle schools. He shares his experiences and encourages others to succeed.
See also
In Spanish: John Celestand para niños
