Gary Payton

Date of Birth: July 23, 1968

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: *

Biography

Gary Dwayne Payton, widely known as “The Glove,” is a retired American professional basketball player who had an illustrious career primarily with the Seattle SuperSonics. Born in Oakland, California, Payton is considered one of the greatest point guards and defensive players in NBA history. His tenacity, defensive prowess, and trash-talking made him a formidable opponent on the court. Payton attended Oregon State University, where he gained national attention for his skills and leadership. He was drafted second overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1990 NBA Draft. During his 13-year tenure with the SuperSonics, Payton became the franchise’s all-time leader in points, assists, and steals. He was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1996, a rare honor for a guard, and was selected to the All-Defensive First Team nine times. Gary Payton also had stints with the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat. He won his only NBA Championship with the Miami Heat in 2006. After retiring, Payton has remained involved in basketball through coaching and media work. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013.

5 Interesting Facts about Gary Payton

1. Gary Payton is the only point guard in NBA history to win the Defensive Player of the Year award.

2. He holds the Seattle SuperSonics franchise records for points, assists, and steals.

3. Payton was an NBA All-Star nine times during his career.

4. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013.

5. Payton won an NBA Championship with the Miami Heat in 2006.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gary Payton

1. “You can’t let nobody come into your house and disrespect you.”

2. “I was a gym rat. I loved the game. I loved to play. I loved to compete.”

3. “Defense is about attitude. It’s about being tough, about being nasty.”

4. “I always felt that I was one of the better players in the league, and I just needed to prove it every night.”

5. “Winning is fun, but I want to make sure I’m remembered for my defense.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gary Payton’s highest net worth achieved is estimated to be around $50 million.

Children

Gary Payton has three children: Gary Payton II, Julian Payton, and Raquel Payton. His son, Gary Payton II, is also a professional basketball player who has played in the NBA.