Behind The Smile Inc.
About Behind The Smile
Behind The Smile — By Darnell Jackson
A story of triumph, struggle, and the fight to turn pain into purpose.
From the outside, Darnell Jackson’s life looked like a dream — NCAA Champion at the University of Kansas, NBA draft pick, and a professional basketball career that took him around the world. But Behind The Smile reveals the truth hidden beneath the surface: the battles with emotional trauma, mental health, family struggles, financial mistakes, and the haunting shadow of gang violence.
This deeply personal autobiography pulls back the curtain on what it really means to chase greatness while carrying the weight of pain. Darnell’s story is not just about basketball — it’s about survival, resilience, and finding the strength to rise after life knocks you down.
“I had learned how to smile through the pain, but I didn’t realize that healing meant more than just hiding the hurt.”
“Money can’t fix a broken spirit. Fame can’t erase the past. But faith, work, and love can build a future.”
Through raw honesty and unfiltered truth, Behind The Smile speaks to anyone who has ever felt like giving up. It is a reminder that no matter how dark life gets, your story can still inspire hope in someone else.
Why This Book Supports the Mission
Proceeds from Behind The Smile help fund Behind The Smile Inc., Darnell’s nonprofit dedicated to mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and empowering at-risk youth. Every donation and book purchase is more than support — it’s a step toward saving lives and changing futures.
“If I could help just one person see that their life matters, every scar I carry would be worth it.”
Your generosity will help bring this message to schools, community centers, and sports programs — reaching those who need it most.
About Darnell Jackson (CEO & President)
A quote from Darnell Jackson: “Time Is Undefeated It’s one of the most Valuable Things we can’t get back.”
Darnell Jackson is the founder of Behind The Smile Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, youth development, and community empowerment—especially within underserved and historically marginalized communities.
He is the author of Behind The Smile, a powerful and personal memoir available on Amazon and Apple Books, where he shares his journey through adversity, resilience, and triumph.
A 2008 NCAA National Champion with the University of Kansas, Darnell was selected 52nd overall in the 2008 NBA Draft and went on to play three seasons in the NBA, followed by 16 seasons of professional basketball internationally. He currently serves as a coach for the Los Angeles Clippers’ NBA G League affiliate, the San Diego Clippers.
A proud citizen of the Cherokee Nation and a lifelong member of the Boys & Girls Club, Darnell has dedicated his life to uplifting others both on and off the court. He has spoken at numerous conferences and youth events, including the prestigious Congressional Black Caucus in Washington, D.C., where he presented the Darnell Jackson Mentoring Program in 2008–2009.
Through every chapter of his life, Darnell remains committed to inspiring the next generation—by leading with purpose, heart, and the message that no one should ever have to suffer in silence.
“Time Is Undefeated It’s one of the most Valuable Things we can’t get back.”
About Elwood Ott (Vice President)
A quote from Elwood Ott: “A little reciprocity goes a long way.”
Elwood Pipestem-Ott is a Tribal citizen of the Otoe-Missouria Nation and has worked with Indian Country for nearly 20 years. He is well known as a keynote speaker on critical topics such as mental health, trauma-informed practices, and higher education. An advocate for suicide prevention efforts and other youth initiatives,. A graduate of Haskell Indian Nations University, he holds a Bachelor’s in Native American Studies. Besides a diverse skill set, he brings an extensive network, a passion for community engagement, and a commitment to fostering positive change.
“A little reciprocity goes a long way.”