Florida has been a breeding ground for basketball talent, producing some of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Here, we take a look at the 9 historic basketball players born in Florida:
1. David Robinson
David Robinson, born in Key West, Florida, is a basketball Hall of Famer known for his dominant play as a center for the San Antonio Spurs. Robinson was a 10-time NBA All-Star, 2-time NBA Champion, and 1995 NBA MVP.
2. Tracy McGrady
Tracy McGrady, born in Bartow, Florida, was a versatile scorer and playmaker during his NBA career. McGrady was a 7-time NBA All-Star and 2-time NBA scoring champion.
3. Amar'e Stoudemire
Amar'e Stoudemire, born in Lake Wales, Florida, was a force in the paint during his time in the NBA. Stoudemire was a 6-time NBA All-Star and won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2003.
4. Vince Carter
Vince Carter, born in Daytona Beach, Florida, is known for his high-flying dunks and longevity in the NBA. Carter was an 8-time NBA All-Star and won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 2000.
5. Mitch Richmond
Mitch Richmond, born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was a sharpshooting guard who excelled on both ends of the court. Richmond was a 6-time NBA All-Star and won an NBA Championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2002.
6. Otis Birdsong
Otis Birdsong, born in Winter Haven, Florida, was a prolific scorer during his NBA career. Birdsong was a 4-time NBA All-Star and led the league in free throw percentage in 1981.
7. Artis Gilmore
Artis Gilmore, born in Chipley, Florida, was a dominant center known for his shot-blocking and rebounding. Gilmore was a 5-time ABA All-Star and 6-time NBA All-Star.
8. Dwayne Schintzius
Dwayne Schintzius, born in Brandon, Florida, was a skilled big man who played in the NBA for several seasons. Schintzius was known for his passing ability and basketball IQ.
9. Vernon Maxwell
Vernon Maxwell, born in Gainesville, Florida, was a tenacious defender and clutch shooter during his NBA career. Maxwell won 2 NBA Championships with the Houston Rockets in the 1990s.
