Jerrod Mustaf's basketball journey began under the spotlight during his high school years at DeMatha Catholic High School in the late 1980s. As a standout player, Mustaf's talents on the court earned him recognition and paved his path to college and eventually the professional leagues.
College Success at Maryland
Mustaf continued his ascent at the University of Maryland, where he excelled as a former All-ACC big man. Over two seasons, he averaged an impressive 16.6 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, numbers that underscored his potential as a burgeoning talent in the sport. His collegiate performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection as the 17th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks.
Professional Career and Challenges
Upon entering the NBA, Mustaf faced the inevitable challenges and adjustments that come with transitioning from college to professional basketball. After being drafted by the Knicks, he was traded to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Xavier McDaniel. Although his stint in Phoenix offered opportunities, Mustaf found playing time limited, averaging no more than 13.3 minutes per game. Unfortunately, his final NBA season in 1994 saw him absent from postseason play.
Mustaf's career took a turn as he became embroiled in a high-profile murder case. While linked by police as "an investigative lead" in the murder of Althea Hayes, he was never charged. His cousin, Lavonnie Woten, was convicted for the crime and sentenced to life in prison. Reflecting on the case, Mustaf expressed regret, stating, "It's one of my biggest regrets that I wasn't allowed to try this case."
Mustaf also shared his frustrations regarding the impact of the controversy on his career, describing the situation as "totally unfair" and suggesting that he was "blackballed" from the NBA. Despite these setbacks, Mustaf continued his basketball career abroad, playing for seven years in countries such as Greece, Spain, France, and Poland.
Post-Basketball and Giving Back
After his days on the court, Mustaf ventured into entrepreneurship and philanthropy. He founded the Street Basketball Association, which, although it ultimately folded, demonstrated his determination to expand his love for basketball into new arenas. More significantly, Mustaf helped establish the Take Charge program in 1990. This initiative aimed to guide teenagers in the Washington D.C. area away from the criminal justice system and continues to positively impact lives today.
Jerrod Mustaf's life story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. From his early promise to his trials, both personal and professional, Mustaf's narrative encompasses the highs and lows often seen in sports careers. Yet, it is his efforts off the court, particularly his work with Take Charge, that perhaps illustrate his true legacy in giving back to the community and helping shape a positive future for others.