From the Court to Cannabis: Al Harrington’s Second Act

When Al Harrington retired from the NBA after a 16-year career, he didn’t step away from competition — he redirected it. Known for his versatility, toughness, and longevity on the court, Harrington carried those same traits into an industry still fighting for legitimacy: cannabis.

Drafted straight out of high school, Harrington played for six NBA teams between 1998 and 2014, carving out a reputation as a reliable scorer and respected veteran. But his most impactful work began after basketball, inspired by a deeply personal moment — helping his grandmother find relief through cannabis when traditional medicine failed her.

That experience led to the founding of Viola Brands in 2011. What started as a mission to provide quality flower quickly became something bigger. Viola emerged as a brand rooted in intention: prioritizing clean cultivation, consistent standards, and meaningful representation in an industry where equity has often been an afterthought.

Today, Viola is one of the most recognizable Black-owned cannabis brands in the U.S., frequently cited for its leadership in social-equity conversations and its commitment to doing things the right way — not the easy way. Harrington’s journey reflects a broader shift happening across cannabis culture, where credibility, purpose, and lived experience matter as much as aesthetics or hype.

From the court to cannabis, Al Harrington didn’t just change careers — he helped set a new standard.

— By Justice, Elevated Club NYC