Former NBA Star and Activist Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf to Headline WBMK Gala

Washtenaw My Brother’s Keeper (WMBK) announces former NBA standout, activist, and author Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf will deliver the keynote address at WMBK’s 3rd Annual Gala on Sunday, October 26, 2025, 5:00–8:00 PM, in the Grand Ballroom at Eastern Michigan University.

The gala is WMBK’s signature annual celebration, convening community leaders, partners, and supporters to invest in opportunities for boys and young men of color across Washtenaw County.

”As someone who looked up to Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, it's an honor to have him as the keynote speaker for this year’s WMBK Gala,” said Jamall Bufford, Director of WMBK.

He continued, “But more importantly, our young people can look at him as inspiration to not be one dimensional or to be pigeonholed as just an athlete or just a basketball player. It's ok to have aspirations to be an athlete, but that doesn't have to be your only aspiration. It's possible to be multidimensional, to be an athlete, to be an activist, to be a leader in your community as well.”

About Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf
Selected third overall in the 1990 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf became known for elite ball-handling, accuracy from long range, and relentless work ethic. He earned the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award (1993) and played nine seasons in the league, later extending his professional career internationally. Beyond sports, Abdul-Rauf is widely recognized for his principled political and religious stance. In 1996, he sparked national dialogue when he declined to stand for the national anthem, citing his Islamic faith and concerns about social injustice.

About Washtenaw My Brother’s Keeper
Washtenaw My Brother’s Keeper (WMBK) is a community-driven initiative inspired by President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Challenge. WMBK advances mentorship, educational attainment, career readiness, and leadership development for boys and young men of color in Washtenaw County, building pathways to opportunity and belonging.

Event Details
What: WMBK 3rd Annual Gala featuring keynote speaker Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf
When: Sunday, October 26, 2025 | 5:00–8:00 PM
Where: Grand Ballroom, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI
Why: Annual fundraiser supporting mentorship, education, and leadership programs for boys and young men of color

Tickets & Sponsorship
Reserve seats, tables, or sponsorships via Eventbrite: https://wmbk2025gala.eventbrite.com

Media Contacts:
Lauren Hodges
Gala Co-Coordinator, WMBK
lauren.a2ypsioutreach@gmail.com 734-999-5320

Bilal Saeed

WMBK Steering Committee Member, Point of Contact for Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf requests

bsaeed21@gmail.com