ORLANDO, Fla. (BVM) — Jonathan Judah Isaac has had several challenges throughout his basketball life. On New Year’s Day 2020, after playing some of the best basketball of his career, Isaac landed awkwardly and had to be stretchered off the court for a “posterior lateral corner injury and a medical bone contusion.” He would miss months of basketball for recovery, but the pandemic postponed the season and gave an opportunity for him to jump back into basketball. However, he did not lose hope for the new year and instead, he focused on his ministry and became ordained.

For someone who follows Isacc, it does not take long for anyone to recognize that he takes his faith seriously. For over three years, the 23-year-old has prided himself on his Christian walk and has constantly pointed above to the one he believes is responsible for his growth and purpose.

And aside from Isaac posting Bible verses and words of encouragement on his social media and sharing his faith, the young man is also already an ordained minister. In March of 2020, Judah received his certificate of ordination at J.U.M.P. Ministries Global Church in Orlando through his mentor Bishop Durone Hepburn the founder and lead pastor there.

Isaac has preached a number of times at his home church since becoming ordained and enjoys the opportunity to share his story with others.

“I still have hope,” Isaac told Essentially Sports. “I still have a purpose. I still have a job that I go to and take care of business. But it’s definitely been my faith that has kept me encouraged and kept me going and the people that I’ve surrounded myself with.”

Excited to finally take to the court and build on his game again, Isaac was back on the hardwood for the NBA restart. In his second game after the restart, Isaac tore the ACL and meniscus in his left knee. The devastating injury occurring only days after his return and instantly ended the remainder of his season and the entire 2021 season as well. 

After the injury, Isaac returned to his church at J.U.M.P. to preach. Isaac limped up to the pulpit in his brace with a wide smile to express his thankfulness and speak encouragement to his congregation. His hopefulness is evident throughout his messages and has changed many lives.

Isaac frequently posts scripture and other words of wisdom and encouragement for his followers on social media. Many respond positively to his joyful attitude and humble demeanor.

Along with his church, Issac has also been involved with Coaching for Literacy for young students who struggle with reading.

“I was one of those kids that struggled with literacy growing up. We want kids to have the opportunity to get an education so they can become outstanding citizens,” said Isaac in a Facebook post. “This cause is personal to me, so it’s important I use my platform to try and provide kids the literacy skills necessary in life.”

Literacy and reading have been a central part of Jonathan’s giving back to the community. He has visited local schools to meet with the students and read stories and books for their classes and encourage them to keep learning.

Isaac takes action to make a difference. He has refused to let his injuries affect his impact on his community and beyond. He has been more involved than ever and has turned his misfortunes into positives making a difference through multiple mediums. 

He will finally make his much-awaited return to the court at the start of the upcoming NBA season.

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