Lansing, Michigan – Denzel Valentine, a professional basketball player hailing from Lansing, Michigan, is not just making waves on the court but also in the music industry. Known for his versatility in both basketball and music, Valentine is on a journey to share his story and experiences through his art, taking fans along for the ride.
Valentine, an accomplished athlete and emerging artist, is committed to creating music that reflects his lifestyle and the challenges he’s faced. “I’m doing music for fun on the side to vent and tell my story of the lifestyle and experiences I’ve had in the past or heard about,” he shares. “Music is a way to express myself beyond basketball or social media. I love doing music whenever I get the chance.”
While pursuing his passion for music, Valentine continues to chase his dreams of returning to the NBA, all while enjoying his experiences overseas. “Playing professional basketball at the highest level is a blessing, and the experiences I’ve had and am going to have are special. I’m grateful for each and every one of them,” he reflects.
Valentine’s journey is one of perseverance and hard work. He made it to the NBA, drafted 14th by the Chicago Bulls in 2016, and was named Player of the Year in NCAA basketball that same year. With six years of NBA experience and a championship title with Olympia Milano in the Italian league, Valentine has much to be proud of. His career high of 34 points in an NBA game showcases his talent and determination.
Despite his success, Valentine faces challenges as he navigates the dual roles of athlete and artist. “Being an athlete and dealing with criticism for making music on my ‘free time’ has been tough. I’m focused on my journey and being the best basketball player I can be while also nurturing my creativity as a musician,” he explains. He has an album in the works, set to release within the next year, which he is excited to promote.
Looking to the future, Valentine envisions himself collaborating with mainstream artists and having his music played worldwide. “I want to have a hit on the Billboard Top 100 and create songs that resonate globally. I see myself and other top athletes making music together,” he says.
Valentine’s brand is rooted in his identity as both a basketball player and an artist. He aims to inspire others, particularly those from his hometown of Lansing, Michigan, where talent often goes unrecognized. “I’m trying to create and be an example for people back home,” he affirms. “I’m very proud of my hometown and the experiences that have shaped me. I’ve taken that mentality and expanded it into a worldwide brand.”
To follow Denzel Valentine’s journey and explore his unique musical style, fans can connect with him on social media through his Linktree.