Andre Drummond has been one of the most reliable back-to-the-basket big men in recent memory. The ‘Big Cat’ has showcased his brilliant low-post scoring and rebounding skills for each of the six teams he’s played so far in the league. However, there was a time when the towering center failed to make an impression on the hardwood.

During this time, the parents of his teammates begged the coach to keep Drummond on the sidelines so that he wouldn’t negatively impact the game. It is safe to say that the game took its time to grow over the Philadelphia 76ers star as Drummond was a part of his elementary school team but was so uncoordinated with his movement and positioning that he failed to make an impact on the court.

“His love was basketball. But he just wasn’t very good at it yet,” said Andre’s mother who further recalled. “You’d brush against him, and he’d fall over on the floor. I used to joke that the ball would be going to one end, and he’d be going to the other end. When he would go on the court, you have parents shouting from the stands, ‘Don’t put him in! Don’t put him in the game!” 

However, Drummond’s love for hooping was much stronger than the struggles he faced as a kid and soon he made a giant leap by working hard on his skills. Later on, he went on to have an illustrious career in his high school and became one of the most sought-after names entering his collegiate career. All of this was made possible by his hard work and his parents’ support let’s dive into his family roots and get to know more about the two-time All-Star Center.

What nationality is Andre Drummond? Is the Philadelphia 76ers star an American? 

Andre Drummond hails from Mount Vernon, New York, and the Sixers star was born to Jamaican parents back in 1993. However, he soon had a change of scenery as he, along with his mother Christine Cameron and sister moved to Middletown, Connecticut when Drummond was just seven. It was in Connecticut where he would grow up and start his basketball journey.

Drummond attended Woodrow Wilson Middle School before transferring to Capital Preparatory Magnet School in Hartford. Furthermore, he holds American nationality and has Jamaican roots. Also, Christine and Andre share a pretty special bond and the Center even refers to his mom as his ‘best friend’.

So much so that she has been the biggest influence in Drummond’s basketball career. One such incident took place while Andre was selecting a college program to represent and his mother had the final say, as he landed to play for the University of Connecticut. He explained, “I had no chance of going anywhere else,” The center recalled, “You’re going (to UConn), whether you like it or not,” this is what his mother told him while he was assessing schools to pick from. Christine wanted him to stay close by so that his close-knit family could watch his games and support the future star.

What religion does Andre Drummond follow? A look into his bold reply to a fan from 7 years ago

One thing other than his family’s support which has remained constant throughout his journey from Connecticut to the NBA has been Andre Drummond’s faith. The Sixers star has been an avid follower and believer of Christianity and has also displayed that on multiple occasions during his time in the league. One such event occurred when a fan on X asked him, “I will give someone 1000 bucks if they can tell me one thing @AndreDrummond has improved on since his rookie year”

Following it, Drummond wrote an epic reply by commenting on the tweet, “My faith in Christ” which is a clear indicator of how highly the center regards faith in his life. However, this interaction wasn’t the only one where he credited god. After putting up 24 points and 25 rebounds in a matchup when he used to play for Chicago, Drummond thanked god for this achievement saying, “Just thanking God for the opportunity, can’t take this game for granted, you never know when’s the last time on the court,” Drummond acknowledges how lucky to make it to the league and that he has to make the most of this opportunity.

What is your favorite moment from the Sixer’s player so far? Tell us in the comment section below!