James Gist was born on October 26, 1986 in Turkey, making him the first American child born on Incirlik Air Base to Linda and James C. Gist. Growing up in a military family, Gist moved around frequently before eventually settling in the United States. His early exposure to different cultures and experiences shaped him into the well-rounded individual he is today.
After completing high school, Gist continued his education and basketball career at the University of Maryland. During his time there, he honed his skills on the court and made a name for himself as a standout player. His hard work and dedication paid off when he was selected in the second round of the 2008 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs.
Although Gist was drafted by the Spurs, his career took him overseas to play for various international teams. One of the highlights of his career came in 2013 when he won the Greek Cup and Greek League Championship with Panathinaikos BC. His success on the court continued as he was named the Spanish League Slam Dunk Contest Champion while playing for Unicaja Malaga in 2012.
Off the court, Gist is known for his philanthropic efforts and involvement in various charitable organizations. He is passionate about giving back to the community and using his platform to make a positive impact on the lives of others. In addition to his charitable work, Gist is a devoted husband and father, balancing his professional basketball career with his family life.
Throughout his career, Gist has proven himself to be a versatile and skilled power forward. He is admired for his work ethic, leadership qualities, and sportsmanship both on and off the court. His contributions to the game of basketball have not gone unnoticed, and he continues to inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams and never give up on their goals.