ATHLETES

Hakeem Olajuwon

Nigerian-American basketball center widely regarded as one of the greatest centers in NBA history, known for his footwork and back-to-back championships with the Houston Rockets.

Background

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Hakeem Olajuwon began playing basketball as a teenager after a soccer and handball background, then accepted a scholarship to the University of Houston.

Career

Selected first overall in the 1984 NBA draft, he spent 17 seasons with the Houston Rockets, leading the team to consecutive NBA titles in 1994 and 1995. He also won an Olympic gold medal with the United States in 1996.

Style of play

Known for the “Dream Shake,” a fluid set of post moves built on footwork, Olajuwon combined offensive skill with elite shot-blocking, finishing as the NBA’s all-time blocks leader.

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