Alex Len has slowly become a very good, albeit somewhat unknown, young player in the league. The Phoenix Suns center has emerged as a cornerstone for a team that just endured a disastrous season.
A different disaster was avoided, however, with the help of Len. The 7’1″ big-man recently saved a friend from drowning in the Dominican Republic, according to Paul Coro of AZ Central.
Jay Johnson is an associate of Len’s through their non-profit and charitable work. Johnson runs the Gametyme Foundation which helps NBA players to take part in charitable acts around their communities. Len recently started the LenD a Hand foundation, organized to help youth in the Phoenix area.
The friendship sparked between the two associates saw them vacationing in the Dominican Republic last week where Johnson say himself taken out nearly 40 yards away from land after being engulfed in several waves.
Len swam out to save Johnson who by that time was “halfway passed out,” having to repeatedly go under water to keep Johnson above it as the latter was unable to swim at that point. A lifeguard was able to get to the duo and give a flotation device to Johnson, but even he needed Len’s help in swimming ashore.
In the end, Len’s bravery helped save Johnson and the lifeguard from what seems to have been a terrifying situation. Johnson was the one to inform the media about the situation making sure that his friend’s courageous act did not go unheralded.
Alex Len’s basketball aptitude may be the reason for his fame and fortune, but the quick instincts, the athleticism, and the good will to risk his own life for that of an other are why he should become a household name.
