Christian Laettner

Date of Birth: August 17, 1969

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Biography

Christian Donald Laettner is a retired American professional basketball player known for his outstanding college career and significant contributions to the sport. Born on August 17, 1969, in Angola, New York, Laettner became a household name while playing for the Duke Blue Devils in the NCAA. At Duke, he led his team to two national championships in 1991 and 1992 and was named the NCAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player in 1991. His iconic last-second shot against Kentucky in the 1992 NCAA Tournament is one of the most memorable moments in college basketball history. Laettner’s success in college led to him being the third overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft, selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves. He played 13 seasons in the NBA, with stints on teams including the Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons, Dallas Mavericks, Washington Wizards, and Miami Heat. Although he never achieved the same level of success in the NBA as he did in college, Laettner was a solid contributor and even made an All-Star appearance in 1997. Outside of his playing career, Laettner was a member of the 1992 United States men’s Olympic basketball team, famously known as the “Dream Team,” which won the gold medal in Barcelona. Post-retirement, he has been involved in various business ventures, basketball camps, and philanthropy.

5 Interesting Facts about Christian Laettner

1. Christian Laettner is the only college player to be selected for the original “Dream Team” in 1992.

2. He is one of only four players in NCAA history to appear in four consecutive Final Fours.

3. Laettner’s game-winning shot against Kentucky in the 1992 NCAA Tournament is often referred to as “The Shot” and is considered one of the greatest moments in college basketball history.

4. He was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010.

5. Laettner co-founded the Blue Devil Ventures, a real estate investment firm focused on revitalizing urban areas in Durham, North Carolina.