American · Joliet, Illinois · Born 18 June 1924The first great center — so dominant they had to change the rules to limit his advantage.
George Lawrence Mikan Jr was born in Joliet, Illinois in 1924. He stood 6ft 10in at a time when most NBA players were 6ft 3in — his dominance was so complete that the NBA widened the lane from 6 to 12 feet and introduced goaltending rules specifically to limit his effectiveness. He won five BAA/NBA championships with the Minneapolis Lakers. He was named the greatest basketball player of the first half of the 20th century by the Associated Press. He was the prototype for the dominant center position that Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell and Kareem would subsequently occupy.
First dominant big man in basketball history
How They Played
Dominant center with hook shot and strong post presence
Lasting Impact
Revolutionized basketball and established NBA's early popularity
Career Honours
- BAA Champion 1947 (Chicago Gears)
- BAA/NBA Champion 5x (Minneapolis Lakers)
- Hall of Fame 1959
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis Lakers | 1947–1956 | 520 |
American Athletes