Don’t Be a Passenger’: Grant Hill Inspires Duke Graduates to Lead with Action in Powerful Commencement Address.

In a stirring address at Duke University’s 2025 commencement ceremony, former Duke basketball star and NBA Hall of Famer Grant Hill delivered a powerful message to the graduating class. With his characteristic blend of humility, wisdom, and experience, Hill urged the graduates to take ownership of their futures, emphasizing that success is not merely a matter of being along for the ride, but of actively shaping their paths. “Don’t be a passenger,” he said, “Be a leader. Be someone who drives change, challenges the status quo, and makes a lasting impact.”

Hill’s speech resonated deeply with the audience, as he reflected on his own journey—from a standout college basketball career to overcoming setbacks in the NBA—and offered insights on leadership, perseverance, and the importance of action. For many of the 2025 graduates, this moment was more than just a ceremonial sendoff; it was a call to arms, urging them to embrace the responsibility that comes with their education and privileges as they venture into the world beyond the hallowed walls of Duke.

The Power of Action: A Lesson from Grant Hill’s Own Life

Grant Hill’s life is a testament to the power of action. From his days as a star player for Duke, where he led the Blue Devils to two NCAA championships, to his successful, albeit injury-plagued, career in the NBA, Hill’s journey has been defined by his relentless pursuit of greatness, his leadership on and off the court, and his ability to overcome adversity.

Hill’s basketball career is often remembered for his effortless style of play, his ability to elevate his teammates, and his off-the-court persona as an athlete who transcended sports. His impact on the court was undeniable, but it was his character and ability to act with purpose that defined him as a true leader. Throughout his career, Hill was known for his ability to lead by example, not just by scoring points or winning games, but by displaying resilience, sportsmanship, and a commitment to personal growth.

In his commencement address, Hill reflected on how action shaped his own life. He spoke candidly about the challenges he faced in both college and professional basketball, particularly his struggles with injuries that threatened to derail his career. “There were times,” Hill shared, “when I could have chosen to be a passenger in my own story, when I could have let circumstances dictate my future. But instead, I chose to take action—no matter how hard it was, no matter how uncertain the outcome. And that, I believe, made all the difference.”

For Hill, taking action was not just about advancing in his basketball career but also about giving back to the community and ensuring that his influence extended beyond the court. “Action,” Hill said, “is about taking responsibility for what you do, both for your success and for the ways in which you impact others.”

Don’t Be a Passenger: A Call to Leadership

Hill’s central message to the Duke graduates was clear: don’t be passive observers of your own life. Instead, take the wheel. In an age where many are content to sit back and wait for opportunities to present themselves, Hill’s words were a reminder that waiting passively for things to happen is not a recipe for success.

He urged the graduates to take ownership of their careers, their relationships, and their futures. “It’s easy to let life happen to you, to ride along with the flow, to follow the path that’s already been set. But that’s not leadership,” Hill said. “Leadership is about making decisions that align with your values, about standing up when the road gets tough, about choosing to step into uncomfortable situations because you know that’s where growth happens.”

Hill’s emphasis on leadership was not limited to traditional notions of power and authority. Instead, he broadened the definition of leadership to include every individual’s potential to influence and inspire others. “You don’t have to be a CEO or a political leader to make an impact. Every day you’re given the opportunity to lead by your actions, by the choices you make, and by how you treat others.”

This inclusive definition of leadership is particularly relevant in today’s world, where leadership is no longer just about holding positions of power but about creating positive change in any environment. Hill’s message resonated deeply with the graduates, many of whom are entering fields like technology, social justice, medicine, and the arts—fields where leadership is often defined by innovation, compassion, and collaboration rather than traditional authority.

Resilience and Overcoming Setbacks

Throughout his speech, Hill emphasized the importance of resilience. As someone who endured multiple career-threatening injuries in the NBA, Hill knows firsthand the challenges that come with adversity. But instead of succumbing to disappointment, Hill chose to take action in the face of uncertainty. His message to the graduates was simple: setbacks are a part of life, but they should never define you.

Hill shared personal anecdotes from his basketball career, recalling the injuries that sidelined him for long periods of time and the physical and emotional toll they took. “There were days when I thought my career was over, when I questioned if I would ever be the player I once was,” he admitted. “But I kept showing up. I kept putting in the work, and I kept believing in my ability to overcome. That’s the essence of resilience. It’s not about avoiding failure. It’s about how you respond to it.”

The ability to respond to setbacks with action is critical in all aspects of life. For the graduates facing the uncertainties of post-college life, Hill’s advice was both timely and relevant. Whether it’s navigating the competitive job market, adjusting to new responsibilities, or dealing with personal challenges, Hill’s message was clear: the key to overcoming adversity is not to wait for things to get better, but to take proactive steps to improve your situation.

The Importance of Values and Integrity

Another core theme of Hill’s speech was the importance of values and integrity. As a student-athlete at Duke, Hill was not only a leader on the basketball court but also a model student and a role model to others. His commitment to excellence was rooted in a strong sense of values, and throughout his career, he prioritized integrity above all else.

In his address, Hill urged the graduates to stay true to their values, even when faced with difficult choices. “There will be times when the world around you may push you to compromise on your principles. But I encourage you to resist that temptation,” Hill said. “In the long run, it’s not the accolades or the recognition that will define you, but your character and the choices you make when no one is watching.”

Hill’s emphasis on integrity was particularly poignant for a generation that is increasingly focused on both personal success and societal impact. His words served as a reminder that success is not measured solely by what one achieves but by how one achieves it—and by the positive impact one has on the lives of others.

Action and Collaboration: The Power of Community

Finally, Hill’s speech underscored the importance of collaboration and community. He acknowledged that while individual action is crucial, the greatest successes are often achieved through collective effort. “You are not alone on this journey,” Hill told the graduates. “The world needs you to work together, to collaborate, to build networks of support that will help you grow and succeed.”

For Hill, the notion of leadership extends beyond individual achievement. It’s about creating communities that uplift and support one another. Throughout his career, Hill has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including his work with underserved communities and his focus on youth development. He encouraged the graduates to not only lead but to bring others along with them, lifting as they climb.

In today’s interconnected world, Hill’s message about collaboration is particularly relevant. Whether it’s in business, social movements, or global issues, working together with others who share your values can lead to greater impact. Hill’s call for action was not just a call for personal growth but for collective progress—emphasizing that the best way to create meaningful change is by lifting others as you lead.

Grant Hill’s commencement address was more than just a speech—it was a clarion call for the Duke graduates to lead with purpose, resilience, and integrity. His message to “not be a passenger” resonated deeply with the audience, as he encouraged the graduates to take active control of their futures, to embrace challenges, and to lead with action.

As the graduates embark on their next chapters, Hill’s words will likely stay with them, serving as a reminder that success is not passive, but active—and that leadership comes from within. Through his personal story, his career in basketball, and his enduring commitment to service and integrity, Hill exemplifies the very principles he espoused in his speech. His words were not just a final farewell to the class of 2025, but an invitation to take action, to lead with purpose, and to leave a lasting legacy of positive change in the world.

“Don’t be a passenger,” Hill concluded. “Be the one who makes the journey worthwhile. Be the one who takes action, who leads with integrity, and who leaves a lasting impact. The world is waiting for you to make your mark. Now go out there and do it.”

The graduates, inspired and motivated, will likely carry Hill’s message with them into their future endeavors, determined not to simply ride along in life, but to take charge, drive change, and lead with purpose.