Standing 6 ft 10 in and weighing 245 lb, George Mikan fundamentally altered professional basketball by establishing the era of the dominant big man. Throughout his tenure with the Minneapolis Lakers, his physical presence and specialized skill set forced the league to implement significant structural rule changes to preserve competitive balance for smaller opponents.
Formative Years and Collegiate Development
Born in Joliet, Illinois, Mikan was educated at Joliet Catholic Academy and Archbishop Quigley Preparatory Seminary before enrolling at DePaul University in 1942. Under the guidance of coach Ray Meyer, Mikan overcame early concerns regarding his coordination and frame. Through an intensive regimen that included speed bag training and jumping rope, he mastered an ambidextrous hook shot.
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Mikan began his professional career with the Chicago American Gears in 1946 before joining the Minneapolis Lakers. His effectiveness at rebounding and shot-blocking was so profound that it necessitated modifications to the sport, including the establishment of the goaltending rule, the widening of the foul lane, and the eventual creation of the shot clock. He earned All-NBA Team honors every year from 1949 through 1954 and secured the NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award in 1953.
Transition to Executive and Advocacy Roles
Following his playing career, Mikan transitioned into roles as a sports executive and coach. He acted as one of the founders of the American Basketball Association, serving as its commissioner, and assisted in the creation of the Minnesota Timberwolves expansion franchise. In later years, Mikan pursued a legal career and engaged in extensive litigation against the NBA, seeking to secure improved pension benefits for players who had retired prior to the league reaching its modern financial peak.
Fast facts
- Born: 18 June 1924, Joliet
- Died: 1 June 2005, Scottsdale
- Height: 6 ft 10 in
- Weight: 245 lb
- Education: DePaul University
- Primary Teams: Chicago American Gears, Minneapolis Lakers
- Occupation: Lawyer, basketball player, coach, executive
- Burial Site: Lakewood Cemetery
Questions readers ask
How did George Mikan influence basketball rules?
His dominance as a tall player forced the NBA to widen the foul lane and introduce the goaltending rule and the shot clock.
What was Mikan's post-retirement career?
He worked as a lawyer, served as the commissioner of the American Basketball Association, and helped form the Minnesota Timberwolves.
