Clyde Drexler

Position: Guard

Clyde Drexler launched his NBA career in 1983, embarking on a journey that would earn him widespread recognition, wealth, and, after years of perseverance, an NBA championship title. Over his 15-year career, he amassed 22,195 points, earned a spot in nine All-Star Games, and was celebrated as the top guard in the league, second only to Michael Jordan.

In his early years, Drexler gained fame for his extraordinary 43-inch vertical leap and his spectacular dunking skills, including helicopters, tomahawks, and alley-oops, inspired by his idol, Julius Erving. As his career progressed with the Houston Rockets, his hometown team, Drexler evolved into a more versatile player, enhancing his passing, defense, and jump shot. Despite these improvements, he maintained his signature style, earning him the title of "the coolest guy in the league" by GQ magazine.

Born on June 22, 1962, in New Orleans, Drexler spent his formative years in Houston, where he played for the University of Houston Cougars. He was part of the legendary "Phi Slama Jama" lineup alongside Hakeem Olajuwon and Larry Micheaux, known for their electrifying dunking displays. Despite reaching the Final Four in both 1982 and 1983, the team fell short of securing a national championship, leaving them with heartbreaking losses.

Selected as the 14th pick in the 1983 NBA draft, Drexler joined the Portland Trail Blazers with minimal attention. His rookie season saw limited playtime, averaging 7.7 points. However, he steadily improved, boosting his scoring each year and peaking at 27.2 points per game during the 1988-89 season. Under Drexler's leadership, the Trail Blazers reached the NBA Finals twice, though they were defeated by Detroit in 1990 and Chicago in 1992. The 1991-92 season marked his peak performance, averaging 25.0 points, leading the team in assists, and finishing as the runner-up to Jordan for the NBA MVP Award.

As the Trail Blazers declined after the 1992 playoffs, Drexler grew increasingly dissatisfied. Midway through the 1994-95 season, the team honored his request for a trade, sending him to the Rockets to reunite with Olajuwon. Just months later, the Rockets clinched the NBA championship by sweeping the Orlando Magic in the Finals.

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