In the world of basketball, every day of the year holds significance as some of the greatest NBA players were born on each day. Let’s take a closer look at a day-by-day breakdown of the calendar to discover which NBA stars share the same birth date.
Starting with September 17, this day has seen the birth of some notable NBA players who have left a lasting impact on the game.
One of the most iconic figures born on September 17 is none other than Phil Jackson, born in the year 1945. Jackson’s NBA career is nothing short of legendary, both as a player and a coach. As a player, he played a crucial role as a key reserve on two championship teams with the New York Knicks in 1970 and 1973. Transitioning into coaching, Jackson achieved even greater success, winning a total of eleven championships. Six of those titles came during his time with Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s, followed by five more championships with the Los Angeles Lakers. Jackson’s coaching philosophy, influenced by Native American and Eastern philosophy, earned him the nickname “Zen Master” and solidified his place in NBA history as the coach with the most championship wins.
Another standout player born on September 17 is Rasheed Wallace, born in 1974. Wallace was selected as the fourth overall pick in the 1995 NBA Draft and went on to have a successful 16-season career playing for six different NBA teams. His most notable stints were with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Detroit Pistons, where he played a significant role in helping the Pistons secure the 2004 NBA title. Throughout his career, Wallace showcased his versatility as a power forward, accumulating impressive stats including 16,006 points, 7,404 rebounds, 1,994 assists, 1,460 blocks, 1,090 steals, and 1,086 three-pointers made. His impact on the game can be seen in his inclusion among the select group of players with at least 1,000 blocks and 3-pointers made.
September 17 truly stands out as a day that has produced some of the most remarkable talents in NBA history. The contributions of Phil Jackson and Rasheed Wallace have left an indelible mark on the sport, ensuring that their legacies will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
