[Saba Sports News] Compton, California, is renowned for producing top-tier basketball talent, including NBA stars like DeMar DeRozan, Tayshaun Prince, and Brandon Jennings. Among the standout players to emerge from Compton, David Hamilton, known as Super Crip, stands out as one of the toughest and most skilled, despite never making it to the NBA.
Former NBA champion Tyson Chandler had a firsthand encounter with Super Crip during high school, recalling his surprise when facing the imposing and athletic player. Super Crip’s reputation preceded him, but Chandler held his ground, earning respect.
In 1998, tragedy struck when Super Crip was shot in the leg during an attack that claimed the life of one of his friends. Remarkably, just a few days later, he participated in the Magic Johnson Roundball Classic, displaying exceptional courage and dedication to the game.
Super Crip, whose real name is David Hamilton, was a legend in Compton and the wider California basketball community. He continued to inspire through his toughness and love for the game, despite the adversity he faced.
Hamilton, a star center at Compton High School in the 1990s, later played college basketball at Auburn University. Although his college career was brief, he remained connected to the sport and his hometown of Compton.
Today, Hamilton contributes to the Compton Magic, a basketball program that not only teaches the game but also instills life skills and values in its players.
The program has produced numerous NBA and college athletes and stands as a testament to Hamilton’s enduring impact on Compton’s youth.
While his name may not be widely recognized outside of Los Angeles, Super Crip’s influence on the basketball world and his community is profound.