Managing editor
Wayne Simien Jr. was a powerhouse on the basketball court when he played for the University of Kansas Jayhawks 2001 through 2004. He was the Big 12 Player of the Year his senior year, and he helped KU win three Big 12 championships and four NCAA tournament berths.
He found himself searching for something greater to live for than just himself and basketball. He found the answer to his searching and became a born-again Christian in 2003.
Simien then went on to play in the NBA for the Miami Heat, helping the team to win a championship in 2006.
He retired from professional basketball in 2009, to answer another calling — one from God.
Simien now spends his time ministering through Called To Greatness, an organization in Lawrence, as a commissioned minister. He also volunteers as a KU religious adviser and mentor of student athlete development.
A sought-out motivational speaker, the Leavenworth native will share his faith journey as part of Chingawassa Days at 10:30 a.m. June 5 at USD 408 Performing Arts Center, Marion.