Imagine NBA star John Wall starting his day, filled with excitement. No, he’s not headed to the basketball court; instead, he’s fulfilling his most important role yet — that of a dedicated father. This is the heartwarming perspective brought to life in the final feature of Black Love’s 2024 Father Noir series, a visual celebration of Black fatherhood.
Created by Tommy Oliver, the founder of Black Love and a father of three boys himself, Father Noir has been capturing and sharing touching moments between Black fathers and their children since 2021. This year, the series — which highlights fathers Rotimi, Devale Ellis, Eric Bellinger, and J. Alphonse Nicholson — concludes with John, who shares his experiences and reflections on fatherhood. The 33-year-old point guard, who is a father to two young boys, Ace and Amir, offers a candid glimpse into his life off the court.
“I think the most fulfilling thing is just being present,” John shares. “Being there with them. Like today, they had a spring concert play that was exciting for me to be there. I know when they look in the crowd and see me, they [have] joy. I enjoy just being present for anything they have. If it’s his soccer game, training, any little thing I can be there for.”
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“I think it’s all fun,” the NBA star says about being a dad. “I think the older they get, they try to be a little smarter. They know a lot. They teach you certain things that you didn’t have before. They give you more patience than you probably ever had because you have to be patient with them. I think that the hardest part is just trying not to get frustrated.”
As he speaks about his sons, the pride in John’s voice is unmistakable. The point guard isn’t too big on dad jokes, but does reveal that one of his sons is his “twin,” who looks just like him. His other son, John adds, acts just like him.
“I get both worlds,” he muses. “I mean, they both got different personalities. They’re growing into their own. That’s the most exciting thing for me.”
The delight he finds in seeing his children develop their unique personalities is a testament to his love and dedication as a father. John also touches on the deeper responsibilities of being a Black father in today’s world.
“I think the most important, fun part about being a dad is just waking up knowing you have a chance to pass on your family traditions and build on your legacy,” John says. “Sometimes it gives you chills because you see a reflection of yourself and you just try to give them the best world that you didn’t have. Show them what discipline is [and] how to be a young, Black, African-American man in this world. You’re teaching the wrong, the rights, and you got to take your time with it.”
With his words, John highlights the profound joy and responsibility of raising Black children in America. His commitment to instilling values, discipline, and a sense of identity in his sons is truly inspiring.
As we wrap up this season of Father Noir, we can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for fathers like John who share their stories with such openness and love. Their experiences enrich our understanding of fatherhood and the unique dynamics within Black families. So, whether it’s Eric Bellinger’s soulful words or John’s heartfelt reflections, Father Noir reminds us of the power of presence, love, and visibility in shaping the narratives of Black fatherhood. Here’s to celebrating these incredible fathers and the beautiful moments they create with their children.
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