In the world of basketball, the date of a player’s birth can hold special significance. Have you ever wondered which NBA players share your birthday? Let’s take a day-by-day journey through the calendar to discover the notable names born on each day of the year.
Today, we focus on September 16th, a day that has seen the birth of some truly remarkable talents in the NBA. One of the legends born on this day is Elgin Baylor, who entered the world on September 16, 1934. Described as one of the game’s most gifted players, Baylor brought a rare combination of strength, grace, and athleticism to the court. When he was selected first overall in the 1958 NBA Draft by the Minneapolis Lakers, he immediately made an impact. Not only did he win Rookie of the Year honors, but he also earned 10 All-NBA First Team selections, made 11 All-Star appearances, and was named All-Star MVP.
Standing at 6-foot-5, Baylor averaged 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds during his 14-year career with the Minneapolis and Los Angeles Lakers. He made history by becoming the first player to score 70 points in a regular-season game and set a playoff record by scoring 61 points in the 1962 NBA Finals, a mark that stood for 24 years. His legacy as a dominant scorer and rebounder remains unparalleled.
Another NBA player born on September 16 is Aaron Gordon, who came into the world on September 16, 1995. Selected with the fourth overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, Gordon wowed fans with his high-flying acrobatics, including two runner-up finishes in the Slam Dunk Contest at NBA All-Star. In March 2021, Gordon was traded to the Denver Nuggets, where he found success as a key player on a team with championship aspirations. His contributions helped the Nuggets secure the 2023 NBA title, and he looks to build on that success in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
If you want to see a full list of every NBA player born on September 16, here is the complete chronological lineup:
– Elgin Baylor (September 16, 1934)
– Aaron Gordon (September 16, 1995)
As basketball enthusiasts, we can appreciate the impact these players have had on the game. Their talents and contributions continue to inspire the next generation of athletes. So, the next time your birthday rolls around, take a moment to celebrate alongside these NBA greats born on the same day.