A FEW WORDS ABOUT US

Roger Powell Jr.

Since his childhood growing up in Joliet, IL, Roger W. Powell Jr., dreamed of winning Big Ten titles, going to the Final Four, and playing in the NBA.

As he entered college, he continued to live on his own terms, at times hurtful to himself and others. However, it was in his junior year in college, that his motivation changed when he finally realized that as he approached his goals, he was really setting himself up for failure. After reading Romans 12, he recognized that he was living in rebellion to God and knew that he needed God’s mercy. So he admitted his sin, asked for forgiveness given through Christ's death and resurrection, and decided to offer himself up as a living sacrifice.

Since his transformation, Roger has obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, and is currently in pursuit of a Doctorate degree from the International College of Excellence. He has been the keynote speaker for the FCA Game Day at the U of I, the Annual Governor’s Prayer Breakfast, and for several other events. He is committed to: continuing to speak to the youth of Illinois at various outreach events; and having the annual RPJ Basketball Leadership Camp each summer, that will mentor and teach high school athletes integrity and Godly character.

Not only has Roger prospered off the court, he has experienced success on the court. During his career at the University of Illinois, he participated in the NCAA’s Final Four basketball tournament his senior year. The Fighting Illini tied for the best record in NCAA history, with a 37-2 record. The Illini were also able to acquire (3) Big Ten regular season titles, and (2) Big Ten tournament titles. Roger began his professional basketball career as a member of the Rockford Lightning of the CBA (Continental Basketball Association). Leading his team with one of the best records in Lightning history, he was chosen as a CBA All-Star, and named Rookie of the Year. He also broke the record for the most points ever scored by a rookie for the Lightning, and was chosen for the All CBA 2nd Team.

The next step for Roger was the NBA (National Basketball Association). Roger signed a contract with the Utah Jazz where he was reunited with his college teammates - Dee Brown and Deron Williams. In Roger’s rookie season the Utah Jazz had their best start ever with a 12-1 record. After departing the Jazz, Roger was signed by the Arkansas Rim rockers, an NBADL (NBA Development League) professional team where he lead the league in scoring, and earned the Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award, an award for displaying outstanding character on the court. Last season Roger played for Teramo Silvilia Wear Professional Basketball team in Italy. For the 2008-2009 season, Roger played with the Hapoel Jerusalem Professional Basketball team in Israel. Currently, Roger played with CB Murcia in Spain and then in Feburary 2010 switched teams to JDA in Dijon, France. He was injured during a game and is currently out for the remainder of the season. We look forward to next season!

Roger married on September 2, 2005 to his wife, Tara and they are expecting their first child in August 2010. During the off-season they reside in the Chicago Metropolitan area and attend Family Harvest Church.

RPJ Ministries History

RPJ Ministries was founded in 2006 by Roger and Tara Powell Jr.. After Roger's transformation, he saw a need for athletes to develop in their integrity and character. With the exposure that athletes have, they have a platform unlike many to impact all spheres of influence. Roger knew that if he could help change athletes character, he could help change the entire game of basketball. Thus the RPJ Ministries Basketball Leadership Camp was created.

This camp is designed to equip high school athletes with the proper tools they need as they pursue their dreams in basketball and in life. The athletes are hand selected to participate in this camp. We look for those who have demonstrated leadership qualities and a determination to succeed on a higher level of basketball.

Our Vision

Our vision is to see young athletes use their talent to bring glory to God. We envision them becoming leaders for Jesus Christ and one day sharing the Gospel of Christ on their college campuses, in their homes, on their teams and in their communities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to develop our participants into leaders both on and off the court. Our focus is not only to train up young athletes in the skills of basketball, but also in the understanding of the Word of God.

Our Future Goals

Our future goals for RPJ Ministries are to one day provide scholarship funds for those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities and basketball skills. We would also like to see the foundation expand to different states and even different countries lead by our own RPJ alumni. Thus creating a cycle of sowing and reaping.

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