Church News Parker Van Dyke on why being a disciple of Jesus Christ comes before basketball
Mar 10, 2026
Parker Van Dyke, collegiate and professional basketball player and broadcaster who served a full-time mission, talks about faith, sports, and service. He recalls growing up in a meetinghouse gym and how mission work shaped his path. He shares stories from playing overseas, navigating college sports changes, mentoring young players, and the call to build teams and communities rooted in faith.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Gym Where Basketball And Testimony Began
- Parker Van Dyke grew up practicing in his ward gym where he shot more than anyone and developed both basketball skills and testimony.
- He calls the building a 'waters of Mormon' place because it shaped his faith and community relationships.
Mission In Alabama Built Leadership And Relationships
- Van Dyke served a full-time mission in the Alabama-Birmingham mission and used basketball as a way to connect with people there.
- He describes the mission as an investment that developed leadership, confidence, and lifelong relationships.
Pro Career Overseas Opened With Patience
- After college Van Dyke played professionally in Mexico, Estonia, Germany, and Spain, facing COVID delays and tough early experiences.
- He emphasizes that perseverance and patience opened doors and led to meaningful international relationships.