Today we’d like to introduce you to John Best.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was blessed to be selected 36th overall in the 2000 NBA Draft—a dream realized after years of sacrifice, sweat, and hustle. While many chased fame in the States, I chose to take my game overseas, carving out a successful career across Europe. Playing internationally taught me more than basketball—it taught me discipline, humility, and the power of culture.
When I returned home, I didn’t seek the spotlight—I sought purpose. I joined Memphis-Shelby County Schools as a security team member, committed to protecting our children and giving back to the community that raised me. What started as protection soon evolved into passion. I saw firsthand the potential in our students, and I knew I had more to give.
I became a media teacher—combining my love for technology, storytelling, and youth development. Teaching media wasn’t just about pressing record or editing video—it was about giving students a voice, a vision, and a belief in their own creativity.
In 2018, I was honored to become the General Manager of WQOX 88.5FM—The Voice of MSCS. From day one, my mission was clear: uplift our stories, amplify community voices, and train the next generation of media professionals. I poured everything I had into that station—transforming it from a traditional school outlet into a cultural engine for Memphis. We produced original content, launched new shows, introduced livestreaming, and leaned into digital broadcasting.
In 2021, that work was recognized when I was inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame—a moment I’ll never forget. It wasn’t just about me. It was about every student who sat behind a mic, every teacher who believed in the power of media, and every Memphian who tuned in.
More recently, I was humbled to be named a Memphis Maker of Culture—an honor that speaks to my deepest passion: shaping the identity of this city through storytelling, education, music, and mentorship. I’m proud to say that my journey—from NBA dreams to European courts, from MSCS hallways to radio waves—has been driven by faith, love for Memphis, and a calling to build something that lasts.
And I’m just getting started.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all smooth. My journey has had its fair share of bumps, detours, and uphill climbs. From being drafted into the NBA, to adjusting to life overseas in Europe, to transitioning into everyday life—working security, then becoming a media teacher, and eventually leading The Voice of MSCS—it’s been anything but easy. But each stage shaped me. Every challenge taught me resilience. I had to reinvent myself more than once, and I had to believe in my future even when others couldn’t see it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Streaming is a passion, from starting streaming all MSCS graduations in 2014 to now.. Streaming events and sporting events.. Brown Baptist gave me a shot. DJaying since age 14. I am known for bringing people together by the music I play. Hence the name Maker of Culture. I am also a Tech nerd and I am a lover of all things AI. What sets me apart from others is i am an unorthodox leader, I will do and say what others wont, I will always test my folks to see if they learn by real world examples. No one works hard as me and since basketball, I was the team captain on 90% of the teams I played for over 14 years. So you will never out work me, I am most proud of being inducted into The Radio Hall of Fame in Tennessee. Everyone laughed at me and our station but no Memphis station ever won that award.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
i do not believe in luck. I believe in Be Do Have!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: thebestjams
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djbrotherjohn
