Derrick Coleman
Derrick Coleman was drafted first overall by the New Jersey Nets in 1990 and later played for the Charlotte Hornets from 1999.
Derrick Demetrius Coleman (born June 21, 1967) is an American former professional basketball player. He was selected first overall in the 1990 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets and later played for the Charlotte Hornets from 1999.
- Draft Year
- 1990
- Draft Status
- First Overall Pick (New Jersey Nets)
- Primary Position
- Power Forward / Center
- Franchise Tenure
- 1990–1996
- College
- Syracuse University
- All-Star Honors
- NBA All-Star Selection
Lore & Background
Coleman attended Syracuse University and was a prototypical Big East power forward. He was named Big East Player of the Year as a senior and had his number 44 jersey retired by Syracuse. In the NBA, he won Rookie of the Year in 1991 and made the 1994 All-Star team. He played for the New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Charlotte Hornets, and Detroit Pistons. His career was marked by injuries and attitude problems; Sports Illustrated remarked he 'could have been the best power forward ever; instead he played just well enough to ensure his next paycheck.'
In Their Own Story
The lights hummed above the hardwood at the Charlotte Coliseum. Coleman wiped sweat from his brow, clutching the ball near the baseline. The crowd roared, a sea of blue and white jerseys filling the stands. He drove into the lane, absorbing contact before finishing strong with a thunderous dunk that shook the rim. In that moment, he embodied everything the city hoped for in their new team.
Reader's Guide
Derrick Coleman was a left-handed low post scorer who averaged 16.5 points and 9.3 rebounds over his career. His best years were with the New Jersey Nets, where he averaged 19.8 points and 10.6 rebounds. He was compared to elite power forwards like Karl Malone and Charles Barkley. He signed with the Charlotte Hornets in 1999 and was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in a three-team deal. He also played for the Detroit Pistons and was suspended for one game for his role in the 2004 Pacers–Pistons brawl. He is one of only four players in NBA history to record a five-by-five with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Did You Know?
- Coleman was selected first overall in the 1990 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets, not the Charlotte Hornets.
- He was a member of the US national team at the 1994 FIBA World Championship, but the team finished 8th, so he did not win a gold medal.
- After his playing career, he worked as a developer and entrepreneur in Detroit and appeared as a studio analyst for NBA TV.
- During the Flint water crisis, Coleman drove 65 miles daily to bring residents clean bottled water and eating utensils.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Derrick Coleman in the context of the Hornets?
He was the first overall pick of the 1990 NBA Draft who became the cornerstone of Charlotte's inaugural era. Playing as a power forward and center, he anchored the frontcourt while defining the team's identity during those formative years.
What role did Coleman play on the court?
Coleman served as the primary anchor of the Hornets' frontcourt throughout his tenure with the franchise. His physical presence helped establish a competitive culture while proving Charlotte could be a viable NBA market.
How long did he stay with the organization?
He played through this crucial decade, remaining on the roster from 1990 until December of 1996. This period covered the team's most foundational seasons following their expansion into the league.
Did Coleman earn any individual accolades?
Yes, he received an NBA All-Star Selection during his time in Charlotte after attending Syracuse University. His performance highlighted him as a top-tier talent in the Eastern Conference during that period.
Why is Derrick Coleman important to Hornets history?
As the No. 1 pick, he built the foundation for the roster's culture and guided the new franchise into the national spotlight. His legacy remains tied to proving the viability of the Charlotte market during a pivotal expansion time.
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