Kareem gets some sugar… from the Big Cheese — Bruin Legend and Philanthropist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed on a civilian in this Country
Another day, another Bruin gets a top honor. Just a day or two after Bruin Dave Roberts gets named National League Manager of the Year, another Bruin trumps that award with an even more prestigious one — Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has been selected by President Barack Obama as a recipient of the 2016 Presidential Medal of Freedom. [Or as Steve Bannon would say: Lame Duck Black Muslim Prez gives award to fellow Black Muslim rabble-rouser?]
This Award is designated for people who have contributed greatly to society, World Peace, culture, etc., and Abdul-Jabbar definitely deserves it. Not only has he entertained millions with his Hall of Fame Basketball career, but he has also had success with acting, and especially with his WRITING. His books and political commentary have stressed the importance of peace and harmony, racial tolerance, and other elements of society that require our attention. He has remained a pillar of society, and a wonderful representative of UCLA and the United States throughout several decades.
So the Bruin Basketball Legend, who is known for his love of Jazz, is about to be a Medal Head. And he won’t be alone — Joining him on the stage that night will be fellow recipients Michael Jordan, Tom Hanks, Bill Gates, Robert DeNiro, Robert Redford, Cicely Tyson, Bruce Springsteen, Lorne Michaels, Vin Scully, and Diana Ross amongst others.
Speaking of all-star dream-team line-ups, here are 74 more photos of the UCLA Spirit Squad…
