Richardine Bartee
Although American pop culture is seemingly eminent for misguiding and misinforming its youth and general public from time to time, it is still infrequent for any individual to become a household name or record-holding athlete by happenstance. When you’re a gifted and hardworking person, coincidences are like unicorns. A similar philosophy rings true for professional basketball player Blake “La Máquina” Walker, a Los Angeles native who currently plays for Los Jefes de Torreon in Coahuila, Mexico. When Walker isn’t referred to as “La Maquina,” which means “The Machine” in Spanish, friends call him “Bdub,” a portmanteau of the first letters of his first and last names.
Originally from the culturally rich neighborhood of Inglewood, the 32-year-old Swingman played in Mexico, Puerto Ordaz and Venezuela for 4 years. Now Walker, resides in the PNW (Portland, Oregon) and is continuously working on his craft daily. Recently, I had the chance to meet with and interview Walker about success, confidence and his career. He was friendly, cool and handsome as ever — even better in-person. Ladies, meet my new 6’6” Grunge Boy, Blake Walker.
How long have you been playing basketball?
I have been a professional basketball player for over 9 years.
How did you discover GrungeCake? What were your first thoughts when seeing our website / social media? What made you want to be a Grunge Boy?
I came across GC through a well-respected friend of mine, Danielle Adefeso, and have been intrigued about it ever since. My first thoughts on the GC site was that it was very diverse, and had a wide range of topics, events and information for the viewer’s mind.
What defines success to you?
My definition of success is doing something you love, that also makes you smile. Success doesn’t equate to money, fame or status… It’s about being happy with whatever you are doing. I am successful, because I am able to do what I love everyday, and I am elated for that blessing.
What makes you (feel) confident?
Blake Walker’s Formula for Confidence: Work ethic + Passion = Confidence. My confidence level is and has always been high. I attribute my confidence to my work ethic, and how passionate I am about life and everything that I do. I strive to be better each day because I believe to be great you have to push yourself to the limit. From my education to sports, I have always wanted to be the best, being 2nd best was never an option. I want to leave my mark on the world through my actions, work ethic, and my desire to be great.
What words of encouragement could you give to someone in need of inspiration and motivation?
What you do for yourself, you’re doing for others, and what you do for others, you’re doing for yourself. The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are, and embracing it fully.
What’s next for you?
Basketball is always on my agenda. I am currently working on building my brand Blake Walker which will include but is not limited to apparel, fitness accessories, and real estate, this brand will be a reflection of who I am.
Thank you for allowing me to be apart of the GC family. It’s very well appreciated and admired.
