In the Blink of an Eye

An Autobiography

By: Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Nick Chiles - contributor

Narrated by: Corey Allen

In an autobiography marked by staggering vulnerability, former NBA star Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf–whose given name was Chris Jackson before converting to Islam and changing it in 1991–recounts the twists, turns, trials, and triumphs of his life.

He is perhaps most well-known for being exiled from the league for praying—instead of standing and saluting the flag–during the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before games throughout the 1995-96 season. Abdul-Rauf’s protest sent shockwaves through the NBA that can still be felt today. With wit and candor, Abdul-Rauf tells the story of how he rose to the top of his game—only to have his career taken away in the blink of an eye when he stood up for his principles. He also recounts his experiences living with Tourette syndrome, committing his life to the Islamic faith, and growing up estranged from his father.

In the Blink of an Eye challenges listeners to examine our own lives by asking what we value, how we want to be remembered, and how we can contribute to making the world a better place. Through evocative passages that place the listener in the heat of the moment as well as poignant portraits of the important people in his life, In the Blink of an Eye will capture the attention of listeners from all walks of life. This book is a must-hear for anyone who has faced down adversity by standing up for the integrity of their own life, path, and identity. From his confrontations with racism—including the burning down of his house—to his difficult relationship with some of his closest family members, Adbul-Rauf reveals in intimate detail the important and inspirational, if painful, episodes that shaped his life.

©2022 Kaepernick Publishing (P)2022 Audible, Inc.

The Awakening Must Begin 2 Chronicles 7:14

I purchased Mahmoud's book because of the Kyrie Irving canceling attempt by the Asian owner of the New Jersey Nets. Watching what was happening to Kyrie made me Google Mahmoud to see how he was doing. This book was a constant reminder of white Europeans trying to control people of color. There must be an Awakening of the gifts that God has blessed us with. We must as a people understand the devil's approach control and undermine our value.

My favorite player

I watched Mahmoud as a kid….bc there was a small media presence back then, it was hard to keep up with players. One day he disappeared from the Nuggets and I didn’t know why….I never heard his name again…..and now I get to understand why. This really broke my heart

Engaging

Couldn’t stop listening! Held my breath between chapters. Mr. Abdul Rauf told about his journey to the NBA, his time with the NBA and his later basketball career after the NBA. His real life story about saying his opinion about the US flag needed to be told and is documented in this book.

Outstanding

Excellent a page turner, couldn’t put down. The more I read the more I wanted to read about him!

Impactful

I first witnessed Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf in 1985 during a high school basketball tournament in Fort Walton Beach, FL. I had never seen anyone who could do what he does on the basketball court. It was on another level... super human. My teammates and I instantly knew he would one day be in the NBA. I followed his play during his time at LSU, not surprised that he could put up 50+ point games. Later I found myself living in Denver during the same years he was a Nugget. I was there during the National Anthem controversy. I attended games where American Legion members handed out American Flags to attendees to "wave in his face" during the anthem.
After listening to his story, I feel ashamed of my indifference. He is one of the all time greats and easily the greatest player I have witnessed in person. As he concludes his story, he understands that not everyone will agree with his actions or words. I am one of those people, but I also appreciate his honesty and pray that he continues to find peace.

Very Encouraging

Great read! The story of Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf's life is an encouraging one that shows that you can go through ups and downs and make mistakes along the way. But if you work hard and stay true to your principles then it will work out in the end.

Principles

this is a blueprint for choosing quality Aesthetics and sticking to them. incredible story, and unfortunate that it's not singular

Great Story

This was a great story of Mahmoud Abdul-Rahuf and his journey to the NBA while battling TS. Great read!

Solid

I was a big fan of his as a kid. The guy overcame a lot in life but he has a little of the “victim” mentality. He has a problem w everyone - coaches , wives , media , sports leagues - but it’s never his fault…

Great Read

I literally couldn’t stop listening. It was so eye-opening and thought provoking. The passion he has is unmatched. His humble spirit and the perseverance from almost nothing prepared him for the ups, downs, and ups again. Other than the mispronunciations of the Gulf Coast areas(which was understandable-I silently corrected the performer), this was perfect, a must-read!
Thnx Classmate!