Joakim Noah | 2x NCAA Champion, 2x NBA All-Star, 2014 Defensive Player of the Year | The Global Impact of Basketball (EP.116)

In this episode of the SBC Audio Experience, alumni host Alex Cocoros sits down with Joakim Noah, a two-time NCAA Champion with the University of Florida, two-time NBA All-Star, and the 2014 Defensive Player of the Year. Known for his relentless energy, defensive tenacity, and passion for the game, Noah became the heart of the Chicago Bulls after being drafted in 2007, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise and the league.

Beyond his playing career, Noah has embraced a role as a global ambassador for basketball, drawing from his multicultural background—born to a Cameroonian father and a Swedish mother—spanning Africa, Europe, and North America. His work with the NBA, including involvement in international events like the Paris Games, highlights his commitment to growing the game worldwide and uniting cultures through basketball.

During the episode, Joakim discusses:

• His pride in seeing the NBA in Paris and the electric basketball culture
• How three years in college helped him mature and prepare for the NBA
• His transition into sports media and ambassadorial roles post-retirement
• How playing with heart on his sleeve shaped his leadership and media presence

With a career defined by passion, leadership, and international influence, Noah continues to inspire the next generation of players and fans. Tune in for a dynamic conversation about basketball’s growing global reach and the lessons he’s carried beyond the court.