Larry Johnson
American basketball player known as Grandmama
Larry Johnson (basketball, born 1969), American basketball player, nicknamed "Grandmama", who played five seasons for the Charlotte Hornets from 1991 to 1996.
Quick Facts
- Born
- 14 March 1969
- Birthplace
- Tyler, Texas, U.S.
- High school
- Skyline (Dallas, Texas)
- College
- Odessa (1987–1989); UNLV (1989–1991)
- Draft round
- 1
- Drafted by
- Charlotte Hornets
- Career position
- Power forward; small forward
- Career number
- 2
Did You Know?
- Johnson is the only player to win the NJCAA Division I Player of the Year award in both seasons played at Odessa College.
- He signed a 12-year, $84 million contract in October 1993, which was the most lucrative deal in NBA history at that time.
- During his tenure with the New York Knicks, Johnson faced the Indiana Pacers in the 1998 Eastern Conference Semifinals, as the Knicks were eliminated by the Pacers in that round.
- Raised Catholic, Johnson maintained a Christian faith throughout his career and did not convert to Islam or observe Ramadan as an NBA player.
- He appeared as himself in both the movies 'Eddie' (1996) and 'Space Jam' (1996).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Larry Johnson?
He was an American professional basketball player born in 1969 who became a cornerstone for the Charlotte Hornets during their early years. Selected first overall in 1991, he played ten seasons as a power forward before retiring.
What is Larry Johnson's famous nickname?
Fans and media often called him "Grandmama," a moniker that originated from a series of Converse commercials following his debut. This name stuck throughout his career and remains associated with his time in Charlotte.
How did Larry Johnson start his NBA career?
He entered the league as the number one pick in the 1991 draft and immediately earned Rookie of the Year honors. His explosive playstyle helped define the franchise's identity during his five seasons with the Hornets.
What were Larry Johnson's major achievements?
He was a two-time NBA All-Star and won an NCAA championship while playing for UNLV before turning pro. His performance in Charlotte remains one of the most celebrated eras in franchise history.
Where did Larry Johnson play after the Hornets?
Following his five-year tenure in Charlotte, he continued his career with teams like the New York Knicks for the remainder of his ten-season run. He eventually retired from professional basketball after establishing himself as a legend.
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