Former NBA player will speak at area schools, groups next week

Former NBA player Adrian Branch will talk to students at six local schools and speak for three Christian organizations Wednesday through Nov. 5.

Branch talks about his life experiences and delivers a message about striving for excellence and avoiding life’s pitfalls, according to organizer Bob Nations.

Branch grew up in Maryland and played for the University of Maryland Terrapins along with eventual No. 1 draft pick Len Bias. Branch won an NBA championship with the 1986-1987 Los Angeles Lakers and also played for the New Jersey Nets, Portland Trailblazers and Minnesota Timberwolves from 1985 through 1989. He also played professionally in Spain, France, Australia and Israel.

Branch works for ESPN as a college-basketball analyst.

On Wednesday, Branch will speak at 1:15 p.m. at Scott County Central High School and 7 p.m. at Teen Challenge International of Mid-America.

On Nov. 3, Branch will speak for the Cape Girardeau Prayer Breakfast at 6:45 a.m. at the Osage Center, 9:05 a.m. at Central Academy in Cape Girardeau and 10:55 a.m. at Cape Girardeau Central High School.

On Nov. 4, Branch will speak at 8 a.m. at Jackson Middle School, 9:40 a.m. at Jackson Junior High School and 12:45 p.m. at Anna-Jonesboro Community High School.

On Nov. 5, Branch will speak at 8:30 a.m. at True Vine Ministries at 236 S. Sprigg St. in Cape Girardeau.

bkleine@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3644

Pertinent address:

20794 U.S. 61, Sikeston, Mo.

303 Matc Lane, Cape Girardeau, Mo.

1625 N. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, Mo.

330 N. Spring Ave., Cape Girardeau, Mo.

1000 S. Silver Springs Road, Cape Girardeau, Mo.

1651 W. Independence St., Jackson, Mo.

210 N. West Lane, Jackson, Mo.

608 S. Main St., Anna, Ill.

236 S. Sprigg St., Cape Girardeau, Mo.