The 1984 NBA Draft saw many legends come into the league. This includes the likes of Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, John Stockton, and the man who went No.1 overall, Hakeem Olajuwon.
Advertisement
The Dream as he was referred to was one of the greatest of all time and easily stands as the greatest Rockets player ever. With averages of 22 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks per game, Hakeem delivered two championships to the city of Houston.
Having played 20 seasons in the NBA, Olajuwon retired in 2002. Following his retirement, he began focusing on a variety of different ventures, including the establishment of his own mosque. One that unfortunately donated $80,000 to terrorist groups.
Hakeem Olajuwon once opened a mosque that unknowingly donated $80,000 to terrorist groups like al-Qaida
Hakeem Olajuwon was a heck of a player on the court. He is a true great, and he replicated this greatness outside the NBA as well. His moves in Houston’s real estate market and his basketball camps are great examples. He even founded his own mosque in 2002.
The Islamic Da’Wah center in Houston was established as a reflection of Hakeem’s faith. Unfortunately, the mosque made headlines for all the wrong reasons. It was revealed that they had made sizeable donations totaling $80,000 to terrorist groups like al-Qaida and Hamas.
Olajuwon later commented on the news, claiming that he was not aware the donations were being used for such causes. Even strongly stating he would not have donated if he had known.
It truly was a disastrous situation. But, both Olajuwon and the mosque have recovered from this adversity.
Hakeem moved to Jordan with his family in order to earn Arabic
Hakeem Olajuwon always had a strong Muslim faith. He follows the tenants of his religion very seriously and always looks to expand his knowledge. As such, post-retirement The Dream moved to Jordan with his family to learn Arabic.
Olajuwon is easily one of the greatest players in NBA history, and it’s all thanks to his dedication on the court. It is great to see he shows the same when it comes to his religious beliefs as well.
