Which basketball legend, later known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, was a major figure in race, sports, and activism and participated in the Cleveland Summit?

• A. Bill Russell
• B. Wilt Chamberlain
• C. Lew Alcindor/Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
• D. Magic Johnson

Answer: (C)

Race, sports, and activism intersect in this question, spotlighting the Cleveland Summit of 1967 and the athlete who later became Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He originally entered the world of basketball as Lew Alcindor and later adopted the name Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, becoming a prominent voice on civil rights and social justice throughout his career. His participation in the Cleveland Summit placed him alongside other movers in the struggle for equality, demonstrating how top athletes used their fame to advocate for changes beyond the court. This moment helped anchor the idea that sports figures could take a public stand on race and justice, influencing national conversations. The other listed basketball legends are celebrated in their own right, but they do not fit both parts of the clue—having the name Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and taking part in the Cleveland Summit.