THE latest star to sign for the Cheshire Jets is making the most of his second chance after a spell in jail forced him to re-appraise his life.
Chris Commons is a friendly, softly spoken, two-time All- American forward.
But in 2006 the 6ft 9in player was a world away from professional basketball as he pleaded no contest to two armed robberies. It was a crime he claims he did not commit, but in court his only option was to plead no contest, receiving an eight-month sentence and paying $194.55 in fines.
“I was at the University of Findlay in Ohio,” said the 25-year-old, speaking to The Chronicle from his home in America. “I wanted to get along with everybody, be Mr Congeniality and be everyone’s friend.
“But I got in with the wrong guys and it led to me getting into some legal trouble.”
The experience was a wake-up call for Commons and he resolved to turn his life around upon his release.
He moved to the University of South Carolina Aiken in 2007 to graduate and restart his career with the Pacers.
Commons threw himself into community work at schools and churches, helping young people avoid the pitfalls he encountered.
He also became one of the Pacers’ best ever players, playing for the Western All-Stars as they beat the Eastern All-Stars last year.
After spending time at Al Ittihad in the Bahrain Premier League and BSW Wulfen in Germany, where he won the WBV Cup, Commons is coming to the BBL.
He said: “I am totally focused on my game and being a success on and off court.
“I grew up fast. You can’t be everyone’s friend. But you can succeed through hard work and that has brought me to the BBL and the Jets.”
