Hakeem Olajuwon was selected first overall in the 1984 NBA draft by the Houston Rockets, beginning a professional career that saw him become the league's all-time leader in blocks with 3,830. Born in 1963 in Lagos, Nigeria, he emigrated to the United States to play basketball at the University of Houston, eventually establishing himself as one of the most decorated centers in NBA history.
Transition to Basketball
Born to Salim and Abike Olajuwon, he grew up in a cosmopolitan environment in Lagos. His initial athletic focus was soccer, where he played as a goalkeeper. This role developed the agility and footwork that later defined his basketball style. He did not begin playing basketball until the age of 15 while attending the Muslim Teachers College. After relocating to the United States, he joined the University of Houston under coach Guy Lewis.
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During his tenure with the Cougars, Olajuwon was a core member of the Phi Slama Jama group. His development accelerated after off-season training sessions with Moses Malone at the Fonde Recreation Center. He helped the team reach consecutive NCAA championship games in 1983 and 1984. His individual collegiate accolades include being named the 1984 Southwest Conference Men's Basketball Player of the Year and receiving consensus first-team All-American honors.
Professional Achievement
Olajuwon spent the majority of his 18-season career with the Houston Rockets. His defensive impact was immediate, earning a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Team in 1985, 1990, 1991, and receiving the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 1993. In the 1993-94 season, he achieved a rare milestone by winning the NBA MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP awards within the same year. He concluded his career with multiple All-NBA Team selections.
Fast facts
- Born: 1963, Lagos
- Citizenship: United States; Nigeria
- College: University of Houston
- NBA Draft: 1st overall selection, 1984
- Career blocks: 3,830
- Religion: Sunni Islam
- Languages: English, Nigerian Pidgin
Questions readers ask
What college team did Hakeem Olajuwon play for?
He played for the University of Houston Cougars.
What is Olajuwon's total career block record?
He is the NBA's all-time leader in blocks with 3,830.
Which year did he win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award?
He won the award in 1993.
Achievements
- FIBA Hall of Fame
- NBA Most Valuable Player Award
- Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award
- NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award
- Southwest Conference Men's Basketball Player of the Year
- Competed at the 1996 Summer Olympics
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