‘Don’t be a passenger’: Former Duke basketball star Grant Hill urges graduates to lead with action in commencement address
At Duke University’s 2025 commencement ceremony, former Blue Devil and NBA Hall of Famer Grant Hill delivered a poignant address to the graduating class. Drawing from his own experiences, Hill emphasized the importance of active engagement and leadership, urging graduates to “not be a passenger” in their journey through life.
Grant Hill’s journey from Duke to the NBA is marked by resilience and excellence. A standout player for the Blue Devils, Hill helped lead the team to back-to-back national championships in 1991 and 1992. His leadership on the court was evident, and he continued this trend throughout his 19-season NBA career, earning seven All-Star selections and induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018.
Beyond basketball, Hill has made significant contributions in business and philanthropy. He is a part-owner of the Atlanta Hawks and has been involved in various ventures, including real estate and sports media. His commitment to service is also evident through the Tamia & Grant Hill Foundation, which focuses on education and youth development.
In his commencement address, Hill urged graduates to take an active role in shaping their futures. He emphasized that success is not merely about achieving personal goals but also about contributing to the greater good. Drawing parallels between his experiences on the basketball court and the challenges graduates will face, Hill highlighted the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and integrity.
He shared personal anecdotes of overcoming adversity, including his recovery from a severe ankle injury and a life-threatening MRSA infection. These experiences, Hill noted, taught him the value of resilience and the necessity of taking initiative, rather than passively accepting circumstances. His message resonated with the graduates, encouraging them to lead with purpose and to be proactive in their endeavors.
Hill’s address also touched on broader societal issues, urging graduates to be agents of positive change. He spoke about the importance of addressing systemic inequalities and fostering inclusivity in all aspects of life. Referencing the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Hill called for a commitment to justice and equality, encouraging the graduates to use their education and platforms to make a meaningful impact.
His words served as a reminder that leadership extends beyond professional achievements; it encompasses the responsibility to contribute to the well-being of society and to advocate for those who are marginalized.
Grant Hill’s commencement address was a powerful reminder of the importance of active engagement and leadership. By sharing his personal journey and insights, Hill inspired the Duke Class of 2025 to take ownership of their futures and to lead with purpose. His message, “Don’t be a passenger,” will undoubtedly resonate with graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
