American · Traverse City, Michigan · Born 9 September 1965American basketball player known for his three-point shooting and defensive intensity, three-time NBA All-Star who played primarily for Phoenix Suns and Miami H
Daniel Lewis Majerle was born in Traverse City, Michigan in 1965. Phoenix Suns selected him 14th overall in the 1988 NBA Draft from Central Michigan University. His 14-season career produced 14.0 points per game and three All-Star appearances. He was nicknamed Thunder Dan for his aggressive, fearless attacking style — he would drive into traffic and draw fouls as readily as he would launch three-pointers. He won the Three-Point Contest at the 1994 All-Star Weekend. He was the key perimeter weapon on the Charles Barkley Suns teams that reached the 1993 NBA Finals — losing to Chicago in six games. He won Olympic gold with the USA at the 1994 FIBA World Championships. His combination of three-point shooting, defence and athleticism made him the prototype for the modern 3-and-D wing before that role had a name. He later became head coach of the Phoenix Suns — completing a full circle to the franchise where he spent his peak years. He averaged 17.0 points per game in the 1993 Finals — his finest individual stage performance.
Three-point shooting and defensive intensity
How They Played
Sharpshooter guard/forward with strong defensive skills
Lasting Impact
One of the best shooters of the 1990s and key player in Phoenix Suns Finals runs
Career Honours
- All-Star 3x
- All-NBA Third Team
- Olympic Gold Medal (1994)
- Three-Point Contest Champion (1994)
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Suns | 1988–1995 | 548 |
| Miami Heat | 1995–2001 | 538 |
American Athletes