Etan Thomas is more than an athlete. He’s been called a “gentle giant.” A “rebounder with a cause.” Now the world can add published author to that list! With the release of his first collection of poems, Thomas defies the stereotype of the apolitical athlete, and plants his roots in his budding literary career. With the conviction of a Bill Russell, and the poetic finesse of Muhammad Ali, Thomas takes on controversial topics, such as, the death penalty, the GOP, racism and abortion.
Born in Harlem and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Thomas’ childhood was surrounded by books on the civil rights movement, politics and the 1960′s. He was greatly influenced by his mother, Deborah Thomas, a schoolteacher who traveled with Thomas and his younger brother back home to Harlem every summer, attending plays and poetry readings.
This young, fiery poet approaches his work fearlessly. Described by Hall Of Famer Kareem Abdul Jabbar as “The Poetic voice of his generation” and by Hip Hop legend Chuck D of Public Enemy as “A Portal of our future” Etan Thomas has made his mark far beyond the boundaries of a basketball court. Never afraid to voice his opinions he has been an outspoken pillar in the community. Recipient of the 2010 National Basketball Players Association Community Contribution Award as well as the 2009 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Foundation Inc Legacy Award. His writings have appeared in CNN, Huffington Post, Hoopshype.com and slamonline.
