Bobby Ray Jones Jr. on Healing, Purpose, and Giving Back to Compton

Bobby Ray Jones Jr. is an author, wellness leader, and former NBA athlete whose work bridges story, movement, and community impact. A native of Compton, California, Bobby has remained deeply connected to ensuring that his community has access to resources for wellness, creativity, and growth. After 12 years playing professional basketball in Italy and building strong relationships across the NBA, he returned home to launch Grow. Unwind. Connect. — a nonprofit dedicated to bringing yoga, mindfulness, and storytelling programs to schools, hospitals, and community spaces.

As the creator of the Yoga Bob series, Bobby has already inspired children and families with programs that blend movement and storytelling. Through Grow. Unwind. Connect., he’s now expanding that vision into a broader community initiative rooted in Compton, while carrying the reach of his national and international experience.

You’ve had an incredible journey from the NBA to 12 years of professional basketball in Italy. How did those experiences shape the way you approach wellness and leadership today?

My basketball journey taught me the true value of discipline, community, and caring for my mental health just as intentionally as my physical health. Competing at every level showed me that longevity, performance, and joy all come from breath, recovery, and self-awareness. My years in Italy reprogrammed me on how I lead, teach, and help others tap into their fullest potential through wellness.

What inspired you to create Grow. Unwind. Connect., and how has the organization evolved since its launch?

Grow. Unwind. Connect. was created from a deep desire to give communities tools to heal, express themselves, and grow together. What began just three years ago as a once-a-month yoga class at the Compton Airport and Wilson Park has blossomed into workshops, retreats, school programs, and a cultural movement rooted in unity and mental well-being. I’m truly grateful to watch it become a platform that uplifts youth, families, and leaders across the world.

The Yoga Bob series beautifully combines storytelling and movement. What message do you hope children and families take away from it?

I want kids to know that fears, big emotions, and moments of doubt are normal and that they have the power to breathe through them. Yoga Bob shows young people that mindfulness and self-love are superpowers they can use anytime. Get your copy of Yoga Bob on Amazon.

Coming from Compton, you’ve stayed deeply connected to your roots. What does giving back to your hometown mean to you personally?

Compton raised me, protected me, and encouraged me to dream beyond what I could see. Every opportunity to come back and serve is my way of honoring the people and the city that shaped me. Giving is a responsibility and a privilege that I hold with deep pride since returning back to the states in summer 2021.

Through your nonprofit work, you’ve brought yoga and mindfulness into schools and hospitals. Can you share a moment when you saw the impact of these programs firsthand?

One moment that sticks with me is a student who initially arrived angry, anxious, and shut down. Weeks later, he shared he uses the breathing techniques from class almost every night before bed. That shift reminded me that introducing wellness early is like planting a seed that can transform a life’s direction. These practices are healing in real time, often in small but powerful ways.

You’ve successfully merged sports, creativity, and wellness into one mission. What advice would you give to other athletes looking to use their platform for community impact?

Your story is bigger than the game. Share the lessons behind the wins and the losses. Lean into the passions that bring you peace, that’s where purpose lives. And always remember: real impact begins with service and gratitude.

As you look ahead, what are your goals for the next phase of Grow. Unwind. Connect. and for your own journey as a wellness leader and author?

There is so much beauty ahead. We’re preparing for our 2nd Annual GUC Holiday Toy Giveaway at the Compton Airport on December 14th. Last year, we served more than 100 families with free haircuts, braiding, plane rides, toys, and over 30 resource vendors, and we’re still looking for partners and toy donations to make this year even bigger.

“We’re also filling spots for the 2nd Annual GUC Wellness Retreat in Florence, Italy happening July 24–30, 2026 — a transformative week of movement, cultural exploration, incredible food, and personal growth in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. I’ll continue sharing the Yoga Bob series and expanding the story as he grows into junior high and high school, giving kids support at every stage.”