Dream Shake
The signature move of Hakeem 'the Dream' Olajuwon, a two-time NBA champion and Hall of Fame center.
The Dream Shake is a signature move popularized by Hakeem Olajuwon, a Nigerian and American former professional basketball player who played 18 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the Houston Rockets. Olajuwon, nicknamed 'the Dream,' is widely regarded as one of the greatest players and centers of all time.
- Player
- Hakeem Olajuwon
- Team
- Houston Rockets
- Legacy Status
- Hall of Fame Icon
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Hakeem Olajuwon was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and did not play basketball until age 15. He played college basketball for the University of Houston under coach Guy Lewis, where his effortless dunks earned him the nickname 'the Dream.' He was drafted first overall by the Houston Rockets in the 1984 NBA draft. Olajuwon is a two-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and the 1994 NBA MVP. He is the only player in NBA history to win the NBA MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP awards in the same season (1993–94). He ended his career as the league's all-time leader in blocks (3,830) and is one of four NBA players to record a quadruple-double.
In Their Own Story
The source also states that Olajuwon ended his career as the league's all-time leader in blocks (3,830), is one of four NBA players to record a quadruple-double, and is the all-time leader in 5x5 games with six.
Reader's Guide
The Dream Shake is a series of fakes and pivots used by Olajuwon to create space for a shot near the basket. His footwork and agility were honed by playing soccer as a goalkeeper in his youth. The move relies on his ability to sell a fake, pivot, and finish with either hand. Olajuwon's shot-blocking ability also contributed to his defensive prowess, making him a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year.
Did You Know?
- Olajuwon is the all-time leader in 5x5 games (at least 5 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 5 steals, and 5 blocks) with six.
- He was a member of the 1996 Olympic gold medal-winning United States national basketball team.
- Olajuwon was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2008 and the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2016.
- He was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in October 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is the Dream Shake?
It is Hakeem Olajuwon’s signature post move that defined his era with the Houston Rockets. This deceptive footwork sequence allowed him to score effortlessly against top defenders throughout his Hall of Fame career.
How did this move contribute to team success?
Olajuwon used the Dream Shake to dominate the paint and lead the Rockets to back-to-back NBA championships in 1994 and 1995. His mastery of this technique was instrumental in him winning two Finals MVP awards during that dynasty period.
Why is Hakeem Olajuwon credited with creating it?
He developed the complex footwork to exploit defensive positioning, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest centers of all time. He remains the only player to win MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP in a single season while utilizing this dominance.
What makes the Dream Shake so difficult to defend?
The move combines multiple fakes and pivots that confuse defenders about which direction the player will attack. Even elite shot-blockers struggled to anticipate his final scoring motion during his prime seasons with Houston.
Is the Dream Shake still used in modern basketball?
While many players attempt to emulate the footwork, few have replicated the specific timing and effectiveness Olajuwon displayed. It remains a legendary technique studied by coaches and big men aspiring to reach his level of dominance.
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