Junior guard for Knox College, Jeremiah Horton, has spoken out about his decision to become vegan last spring, quoting his ‘compassion for animals’ and love for basketball as his motivations.
The Oak Park and River Forest High School, Chicago grad told outlet Chicago Tribune: “I have a lot of compassion for animals and I’ve always loved the game of basketball.”
The athlete plans to continue his animal-friendly lifestyle after his playing career is over.
Weight loss
The 6-foot-2, 180-pound basketball player slimmed down from 245 pounds after he switched to a plant-based diet.
He said of his transformation: “I’m so much quicker, can jump higher and don’t get tired or sore.
“I feel stronger than last year.”
The sportsman plans on staying vegan following his basketball career (Photo: Facebook)
Diet
Horton, whose three-month-old companion bunny is named Tofu, said he eats a diet of black bean burgers, smoothies, salads, seeds, and nuts.
He shops for his groceries at a health food store near his apartment in Galesburg, as well as a local Walmart that carries vegan options.
Impact
Horton played last Saturday against Lake Forest College – scoring three points in about a minute of playing time.
Knox head coach Kevin Walden said of Horton’s performance: “He brings a lot of energy and intensity.”
Horton added: “Becoming a vegan has really made an impact.”