Meet Hussein Abdul Jabbar, a remarkable individual who redefined the boundaries of what was possible in wheelchair basketball. In 2015, at the age of 56, Hussein's journey was a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and an unyielding passion for the game.
Despite facing physical challenges that came with age, Hussein remained a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court. He humorously acknowledged the changes in his physical abilities, particularly when it came to getting back up after a fall. Yet, he wasn't one to back down from a challenge. Instead, he relied on the support of his teammates, embracing the camaraderie that defined the sport.
For Hussein, wheelchair basketball wasn't just a game; it was a way of life. He understood the importance of staying active and refused to let his disability dictate his choices. Hussein firmly believed that sitting idly at home was not an option. "I have to be active," he asserted, "if I don't play, it just doesn't feel good."
Hussein's journey into wheelchair basketball began in his thirties when he was introduced to the sport by a friend. What drew him in was the game's unapologetic toughness. Far from the stereotype of gentle, wheelchair-bound individuals, wheelchair basketball was a physically demanding and intensely competitive sport. Hussein's first experience was a revelation. He was taken aback by the game's physical nature, but instead of being discouraged, he embraced it wholeheartedly.
Hussein Abdul Jabbar's journey came to a celebrated conclusion with his retirement from wheelchair basketball after 2 appearances in the ASEAN Para Games. As he bid farewell to the court, he carries with him the memories of fierce competition, unwavering camaraderie, and a legacy of determination.