From Basketball Star to Purpose-Driven Pastor

Calvin Duncan's life story reads like a Hollywood script, but with greater depth and more meaningful turns than any screenwriter could imagine. Orphaned at just five days old when his mother died shortly after his birth, Calvin was raised by his aunt in urban New Jersey where he discovered basketball at age 12 after being inspired by Dr. J.

His path wasn't immediately smooth – struggling academically and facing ridicule on the basketball court, Calvin developed the resilience that would define his life: "Regardless how bad it is, I'm never going to quit." This determination led him from being laughed off the court to becoming one of the nation's top high school players at Oak Hill Academy, where he famously scored 61 points in a game – coincidentally matching his 1961 birth year.

Despite offers from major basketball programs, Calvin chose VCU where he became a standout player whose jersey now hangs retired in the Siegel Center. But perhaps most surprising was his decision in 1985 to decline an NBA career with the Chicago Bulls (during Michael Jordan's second year) to pursue spiritual work with Athletes in Action following a life-changing faith commitment during college.

Today, Calvin leads Faith and Family Church, which he grew from two families to approximately 1,000 members, while developing the Calvin Duncan Life Academy to help youth navigate life challenges. He also serves as a liaison between communities and Governor Youngkin's administration, embodying his philosophy that true success comes through helping others discover their purpose.

Calvin's story powerfully demonstrates how determination, faith, and mentorship can transform lives even from the most challenging beginnings. As he puts it: "If you can see it, you can be it" – words that carry special weight coming from someone who's lived them so completely. His journey inspires us to consider what mountains we might climb with the right support and unwavering resolve.