George Mikan Profile Career - The Unforgettable Giant

George Mikan, known as the "Unforgettable Giant," was a legendary professional basketball player who dominated the sport during his time. Standing at a towering 6 feet 10 inches, Mikan's exceptional skills and dominance on the court revolutionized the game.

Early Life and College Years

George Lawrence Mikan Jr. was born on June 18, 1924, in Joliet, Illinois. He developed a passion for basketball at a young age and played for his high school team, which laid the foundation for his successful career ahead.

After completing his high school education, Mikan attended DePaul University in Chicago, where he continued to excel in basketball. He became a prominent figure in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and led DePaul to its first-ever National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship in 1945.

George Mikan’s Profile & Career: All About ''Mr. Basketball'' George Mikan: George Mikan

by Darrius Hawkins(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20764 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	46 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	176 pages
Item Weight	:	15.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches

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Professional Career and NBA Dominance

Mikan's exceptional skills and dominance in college basketball caught the attention of professional scouts. In 1948, he joined the Minneapolis Lakers (now the Los Angeles Lakers) in the newly formed Basketball Association of America (BAA),which later became the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Mikan's impact on the game was immediately evident. He introduced a new era of play through his dominant low-post scoring, precise footwork, and shot-blocking ability. Mikan became the one player that every team needed to find a way to stop, but few had any success.

Throughout his professional career, Mikan led the Lakers to numerous championships. In fact, he won a total of five NBA championships, including three consecutive titles from 1952 to 1954. His incredible performances on the court made him the first true superstar of professional basketball and a crowd favorite wherever he played.

Legacy and Impact on the Game

Mikan's impact on the game of basketball extended far beyond his playing days. His dominance in the paint forced the NBA to implement several rule changes, including the widening of the key to limit his low-post influence and the of the shot clock to prevent teams from stalling the game.

He was also the first player to truly integrate the power of being a big man, showcasing incredible agility and finesse despite his size. Mikan's skills laid the foundation for future generations of tall players to follow and develop similar techniques.

Off the court, Mikan's professionalism and dedication to the game inspired countless young athletes worldwide. He served as the first president of the NBA Players Association and contributed significantly to the growth and development of the sport, ensuring that players' rights were protected and valued.

Retirement and Personal Life

George Mikan retired from professional basketball in 1956, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. He later pursued a successful career in law and worked as an executive in various organizations.

Despite his accomplishments and fame, Mikan remained humble and approachable throughout his life. He served as a mentor to many aspiring athletes and was always willing to share his wisdom and experience.

George Mikan passed away on June 1, 2005, at the age of 80, leaving a lasting impact on the sport he loved and the generations of players who followed in his footsteps.

George Mikan was more than just a basketball player; he was a game-changer who revolutionized the sport with his exceptional skills and dominance on the court. His legacy serves as a constant reminder of the impact one individual can have on an entire sport.

Mikan's contributions to the game of basketball will forever be remembered and celebrated. He will forever be known as the Unforgettable Giant who left an indelible mark on the sport, forever etching his name in basketball history.

George Mikan’s Profile & Career: All About ''Mr. Basketball'' George Mikan: George Mikan

by Darrius Hawkins(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20764 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	46 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	176 pages
Item Weight	:	15.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches

FREE

George Mikan was a professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association. Besides the National Basketball League, this legend also played for the Basketball Association of American. Furthermore, he served as a center for Chicago American Gears and Minneapolis Lakers. The late basketballer was also an NBA coach. Mikan coached his former NBA team Minneapolis Lakers, now known as Los Angeles Lakers, from 1957-58. Besides that, the legendary player helped implement many NBA rules. Some of the rules are goaltending, shot clock, and the Mikan rule. Moreover, he played a critical role in the formation of the NBA team Minnesota Timberwolves. Hence, to honor him, Timberwolves has a Mikan statue shooting his trademark hook shot in their Target Center. Aside from that, the basketball world regards him as one of the greatest players of all time. Likewise, he was also one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1966. The former basketball player played collegiate basketball at DePaul University. Correspondingly, he was an outstanding center for the DePaul Blue Demons. George passed away just 17 days before his 81st birthday on June 1, 2005. He died due to complications from his diabetes. Before getting into details about the legendary player’s life, career, and death, here are some quick facts about him.