Joshua Colton Owens, born on December 7, 1988, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, demonstrated an early flair for basketball. He attended Phillips Exeter Academy, where his athletic prowess earned him the title of 2007 New Hampshire Gatorade Player of the Year. This accolade was not merely a testament to his on-court skills but also his leadership and academic performance. Owens' high school career saw him averaging 18.5 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 4.3 blocks per game in his senior year, making him one of the most sought-after recruits in the country.
College Career at Stanford University
Owens accepted a scholarship to Stanford University, where he played for the Stanford Cardinal. His college career was marked by both triumph and adversity. After a promising start, averaging 6.9 points and 3.6 rebounds per game as a freshman, Owens faced a significant health scare. In 2009, he was diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening condition – an enlarged aorta. This condition sidelined him for the entire 2009-2010 season, casting doubts over his future in basketball.
However, Owens' resilience shone through. He returned to the court the following year, leading Stanford in rebounds and blocks, and earning All-Pac-10 Honorable Mention honors. By his senior year, Owens had solidified his reputation as a formidable forward, averaging 11.6 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. His performance helped Stanford clinch the 2012 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) Championship, showcasing his ability to overcome adversity and lead his team to victory.
Professional Career: NBA G League and Overseas
Despite going undrafted in the 2012 NBA Draft, Owens' professional journey was far from over. He was picked up by the Austin Toros of the NBA G League, where he quickly made a name for himself. His athleticism and defensive skills earned him a spot on the 2013 NBA D-League All-Rookie First Team. During his stint with the Toros, Owens averaged 12.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, drawing attention from international scouts.
Israel became Owens' next destination, where he signed with Hapoel Tel Aviv in 2013. His impact was immediate, helping the team reach the Israeli League Playoffs. Owens' performance in Israel included averaging 10.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, solidifying his reputation as a reliable forward.
In 2014, Owens moved to Italy, signing with Pallacanestro Reggiana. His tenure in Italy was marked by significant growth, both in terms of skills and financial earnings. Owens played a crucial role in leading Reggiana to the 2015 Italian League Finals, where they narrowly lost to Dinamo Sassari. His Italian venture saw him averaging 9.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, with his market value increasing substantially.
Further Journeys: Greece and Turkey
Owens' career took him to Greece in 2016, where he joined AEK Athens. His time in Greece was highlighted by a strong performance in the Greek Basket League and the Basketball Champions League. Owens averaged 8.7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, contributing significantly to AEK's success in domestic and international competitions.
Turkey was Owens' next stop, where he signed with Pınar Karşıyaka in 2017. His tenure in Turkey was marked by consistent performances, with Owens averaging 10.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. His financial earnings in Turkey saw a notable increase, with his annual salary reportedly reaching $500,000, a testament to his value as a player in the European leagues.
Financial Insights and Investments
Owens' professional career not only brought him fame but also financial stability. Over his ten-year career, his total earnings are estimated to be around $3 million, considering his salaries from various international leagues and endorsements. Owens has been prudent with his finances, investing in real estate and tech startups. He owns properties in San Francisco and Austin, valued at over $1.5 million combined. Additionally, Owens has invested in several tech startups, including a stake in a health tech company valued at $200,000.
Post-Retirement Ventures
After retiring from professional basketball in 2020, Owens transitioned into a career in sports management and entrepreneurship. He co-founded Next Play Capital, a venture capital firm focusing on sports and entertainment startups. The firm has successfully raised over $50 million in funding, with Owens playing a pivotal role in securing investments and partnerships.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Owens has remained committed to giving back to the community. He established the Josh Owens Foundation, which focuses on providing scholarships and mentorship programs for underprivileged youth. The foundation has raised over $500,000 since its inception, impacting the lives of hundreds of young athletes.
Legacy and Impact
Joshua Colton Owens' journey from high school standout to international basketball star, and now a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, is a story of resilience, adaptability, and triumph. His ability to overcome personal challenges and achieve success on and off the court serves as an inspiration to many. Owens' legacy is not just defined by his achievements in basketball but also by his contributions to the community and his strategic financial investments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Joshua Colton Owens exemplifies the qualities of a true sportsman and a savvy businessman. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic thinking, and the importance of giving back to society.
