Gary Payton

The Glove

Gary Dwayne Payton Sr. (born July 23, 1968) is an American former professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 17 seasons. Nicknamed "the Glove" for his defensive abilities, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards of all time. He spent the majority of his career with the Seattle SuperSonics, where he holds franchise records in assists and steals, and later played short stints for the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat. He made three NBA Finals appearances: with the Sonics in 1996, the Lakers in 2004, and the Heat in 2006, winning in the last.

Quick Facts

Team: Alameda Cougars
Position: Head coach
League: Bay Valley Conference
Born: 23 July 1968
Birthplace: Oakland, California, U.S.
High school: Skyline (Oakland, California)
College: Oregon State (1986–1990)
Draft round: 1

Lore & Background

Payton was the first point guard to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. He was selected for nine All-NBA Teams, All-Defensive First Teams (tying the record), and All-Star Games each. He was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013 and named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.

Reader's Guide

Payton wore the #20 jersey for the majority of his NBA career, except for his rookie season when he wore #2 due to Quintin Dailey wearing his preferred #20.

Did You Know?

Payton was the second overall pick in the 1990 NBA draft by the Seattle SuperSonics.
He recorded his first career triple-double on February 23, 1991, with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Payton was a consensus All-American and the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year in college.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Gary Payton?

Gary Dwayne Payton Sr., known as 'the Glove,' was an elite point guard born in Oakland who spent most of his 17-year career with the Seattle SuperSonics. He is widely considered one of the greatest players at his position and holds franchise records for assists and steals.

How did Gary Payton's career end?

After losing two NBA Finals with Seattle and Los Angeles, Payton finally secured his only championship ring in 2006 while playing for the Miami Heat. He officially retired following that season after a long journey through multiple teams.

Did Gary Payton play for the Oklahoma City Thunder?

No, Gary Payton never played for the Oklahoma City Thunder or its predecessor franchise in Seattle during their time there. The Thunder were established after Payton had already retired from professional basketball.