KEELUNG (TVBS News) — American professional basketball player Michael Porter Jr. shared his on-court experience and wisdom with Keelung City students on Thursday (Sept. 7).
The Keelung City government invited the 25-year-old athlete, also known by his initials, MPJ, to teach and interact with students from four school teams at the Keelung Rising Stars International Basketball Training Camp.
A forward for the Denver Nuggets, Porter Jr. shared his career experiences, highlighting the importance of balancing education and playing a sport, as students may not be "sure if basketball is going to be [their] job one day."
He also talked about the sacrifices he had to make when pursuing his dream to become a professional basketball player.
"But it's whatever hobby, whatever dream you have, you have to be willing to sacrifice time in order to become great at something," Porter Jr. said.
Speaking about his injuries that led to three back surgeries, jeopardizing his career, Porter Jr. shared his outlook on facing hardships in life and how his faith helped him during those times.
Adversity is a part of life," he said. "I believe that when bad things happen to us, they're for a reason, to shape us into a stronger person. [...] So when you go through tough times, don't give up on your dreams; keep persevering."
As a testament to his positive attitude, the Nuggets won its first NBA championship in 2023.
Porter Jr. arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday (Sept. 6) for a 4-day trip, mainly involved in charity work, and will throw the ceremonial first pitch at Taichung's CTBC Brothers' home field on Saturday (Sept. 9).