Steve Francis
Three-time NBA All-Star and co-Rookie of the Year who played for the Orlando Magic from 2004 to 2006.
Steven D'Shawn Francis (born February 21, 1977) is an American former professional basketball player. He was selected with the second overall pick of the 1999 NBA draft and was named co-NBA Rookie of the Year (along with Elton Brand) in his first season. He was a three-time NBA All-Star while playing for the Houston Rockets. Francis also played for the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks, finishing his career with the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association. He was known for his crossover dribble, driving ability, and flashy dunks. He was given the nickname Stevie Franchise.
- Role
- Point Guard
- Affiliation
- Orlando Magic (1999–2004)
- Draft Year
- 1999
- Jersey Number
- 5
- Status
- Retired
- All-Star Appearances with Orlando
- 3
Lore & Background
Francis was born and raised in Takoma Park, Maryland. He attended San Jacinto College in 1996–97 and Allegany College of Maryland in 1997–98, then transferred to the University of Maryland for his junior season. He was a consensus second-team All-American and a finalist for the Wooden and Naismith Player of the Year Awards. He entered the 1999 NBA draft after stating he was '99% sure' he would return to Maryland.
In Their Own Story
The arena hums with anticipation at the TD Waterhouse Centre, the air thick with the scent of popcorn and anticipation. Steve Francis stands at the top of the key, jersey number 5 tight against his frame, eyes locked on the defense. With a sudden burst, he executes his trademark crossover, the ball snapping from right to left in a blur. The defender stumbles, off balance, as Francis drives past him like a freight train, soaring toward the rim for a thunderous layup that silences the crowd before erupting into cheers.
Reader's Guide
Francis played for the Orlando Magic from 2004 to 2006. He was traded from the Houston Rockets to the Magic in a deal that sent Tracy McGrady to Houston. In his first season with Orlando, he averaged 21.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. The Magic missed the playoffs both seasons. In February 2006, he was traded to the New York Knicks.
Did You Know?
- Francis was selected second overall in the 1999 NBA draft by the Vancouver Grizzlies but was traded to the Houston Rockets before playing a game.
- He scored a career-high 44 points in a nationally televised home win against the Los Angeles Lakers on January 17, 2003.
- Francis recorded a quadruple double in a junior college game against Shawn Marion and Vincennes University.
- He was nicknamed 'Wink' as a child.
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