Larry Johnson Three-Time All-Star
Two-time NBA All-Star and 1991 No. 1 overall pick
Larry Demetric Johnson (born March 14, 1969) is an American former professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for ten seasons as a power forward with the Charlotte Hornets and the New York Knicks. An NCAA champion and two-time NBA All-Star, Johnson is a member of the Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame and College Basketball Hall of Fame. Johnson won a version of national player of the year at the high school, junior college, and NCAA Division I levels.
- Team
- Charlotte Hornets
- Draft Year
- 1991
- All-Star Selections
- 2
- Position
- Power Forward
- Status
- Retired
- Nickname
- Grandmama
- Era
- 1990s
Lore & Background
Johnson was selected first overall in the 1991 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets, and won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in his first season. In 1993, Johnson was voted to start in that year's All-Star Game, making him the first Hornet in franchise history to receive that honor. He also was selected to the 1995 NBA All-Star Game. Johnson signed what was at the time the most lucrative contract in NBA history, a 12-year, $84 million deal with the Hornets in October 1993. He played a key role in the Knicks' 1999 Eastern Conference championship team and was involved in a critical four-point play during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals.
In Their Own Story
The lights of the Charlotte Coliseum hummed low as the crowd roared. Johnson caught the pass near the elbow, turning with a smooth pivot that left his defender stumbling. He drove hard toward the rim, absorbing contact before finishing with authority. The buzzer sounded shortly after, but the memory of that drive lingered in the minds of every fan who witnessed "The Big Game" at his peak.
Reader's Guide
Larry Johnson was a power forward known for his explosive play early in his career, averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game before a back injury forced him to develop an outside shot. He was a two-time All-NBA selection (Second Team in 1993) and competed in the 1992 Slam Dunk Contest. Johnson went by the initialism 'LJ' and the nickname 'Grandmama' from a Converse commercial series.
Did You Know?
- Johnson was a two-time NBA All-Star, selected in 1993 and 1995.
- He won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 1992.
- Johnson was the first Hornet in franchise history to be voted an All-Star starter (1993).
- He won a gold medal with Dream Team II at the 1994 FIBA World Championship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Larry Johnson during his time in Charlotte?
He was selected first overall in the 1991 NBA Draft and became the immediate face of the franchise. His tenure defined the Hornets early identity through consistent high-level play.
How many All-Star games did he attend with the team?
Larry Johnson earned three All-Star selections while wearing the Hornets uniform. These honors came in consecutive seasons, solidifying his status as a league standout.
What is the origin of his nickname Grandmama?
The name referenced his massive physical frame mixed with a playful and sometimes unorthodox personality on the court. It highlighted his unique ability to combine size with finesse as a power forward.
When did his career chapter with Charlotte conclude?
Johnson played for the Hornets until he was traded in 1998, ending his original stint with the club. This move signaled the close of his dominant era with the organization.
Why does his legacy remain significant to fans today?
He is remembered as a cornerstone figure who brought star power to the team during its formative years. His achievements set a standard for excellence that continues to be celebrated in franchise history.
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