Where Basketball Meets Biblical Truth

Orlando Magic Jonathan Isaac evangelizes through retail while taking culture head-on

Most NBA players build their brands around flashy endorsements and social media buzz. Jonathan Isaac chose a different playbook entirely. Between the pressures of playing for the Orlando Magic and life's constant noise, he knew what it was like to be pulled in every direction. When the chaos threatened to drown out his convictions, he didn't just stand up—he started up.

After Nike moved on following his injury, Isaac saw opportunity where others might see setback. Conversations with his longtime pastor and mentor, Bishop Dr. Durone Hepburn, led to a revolutionary thought: why not make faith visible? Isaac revealed: "One day, we were talking about what it would look like to start a values-based sports and apparel company. He actually said to me, 'Why don't you create your own sneaker? So I started to go down the road of what that would look like, and I did."

Isaac explained: "I started working on what a shoe could possibly look like, and then it blossomed into this idea of why not start an entire sports and apparel company and give people the freedom to buy with their values." The result? Unitus—proof that kingdom principles and business acumen make a powerful combination. Literally making footwear that serves as a lamp unto our feet.

Isaac's approach to cultural hot-button issues reveals a man unashamed of his worldview and unwavering in his commitment to biblical truth. On biological males competing in women's sports, his position is crystal clear: "I believe that men and women are different. I believe that men do not belong in women's sports, that's a fundamental belief I hold." This stance reflects both Genesis 1:27: "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them" and Matthew 19:4: "Haven't you read," he replied, "that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female.'"

The depth of his conviction shows in his compassionate yet firm reasoning: "I understand the humanity of the situation. I feel for the humanity of the situation. But at the end of the day, I believe it's right to stand on the truth of men and women are different. And I wouldn't want my daughter to have to compete against a transgender athlete (who) has gone through puberty or has testosterone." This embodies both Ephesians 6:14: "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist" and Daniel 3:18: "But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."

Isaac's business sense shines when discussing Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark's dynamic. He sees opportunity where others see controversy: "I think it's truly great for basketball. Obviously, the reason it's being pitted like this is because it's great for TV. It sells tickets. Because of the rivalry, because of Angel Reese, because of Caitlin Clark... [there's been an uptick in the] interest in women's basketball that wasn't completely there before. I want to see them continue to grow their careers and be the best female basketball players they can be."

When addressing racial tensions in sports commentary, Isaac demonstrates mature wisdom: "Some things I do think get out of hand with some of the commentary on the white vs. the black. I understand there's nuance to that and there's a reality to that as well. But I think at the basic level it's basketball and rivalries are good for basketball." This reflects both Galatians 3:28: "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" and 1 Corinthians 12:12: "Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ."

From his solo stand during the 2020 national anthem to building a faith-based empire featuring scripture on every product, Isaac operates with the confidence of Romans 1:16: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes." He lives out Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

The brand has grown beyond that original vision. Their upcoming "Freedom" Fortra limited release features Isaiah 9:6 on the heel: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

"Freedom" Fortra ISAIAH 9:6

Every scripture-embedded sneaker and faith-forward apparel piece represents more than merchandise—it's ministry disguised as retail. Isaac proves you can pursue excellence in sports while prioritizing kingdom values. His approach reflects Matthew 6:33: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Isaac embodies John 8:32: "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." He demonstrates 2 Timothy 1:7: "For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." Every Unitus purchase is a reminder: faith and purpose can coexist with professional success.

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Psalm 51:7

Isaac's showing that you can serve Jesus and play ball—you don't have to pick one. He's proving that entrepreneurs don't have to choose between profit and principles. The man isn't just playing basketball—he's playing for eternity, changing how the game gets played.

Every time you wear Unitus, you're reminded: God is with you. And honestly, that's exactly the kind of example the sports world needs right now.

Sometimes the most powerful statements are the ones you can wear.