History of Chris Herren in Timeline
Chris Herren is a former professional basketball player who struggled with substance abuse throughout his career. Despite early success and a promising future, his addiction led to multiple relapses and legal troubles, ultimately derailing his NBA prospects. After several attempts at rehabilitation, Herren eventually achieved sobriety. He now dedicates his time to sharing his story and raising awareness about addiction through public speaking engagements and his non-profit organization, The Herren Project. His memoir, "The Basketball Junkie," and the ESPN documentary, "Unguarded," chronicle his journey from rising star to recovering addict. He uses his experiences to inspire and educate others about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of seeking help.
September 27, 1975: Chris Herren's Birth
Chris Herren was born on September 27, 1975.
1990: High School Start
Chris Herren began attending B.M.C. Durfee High School in 1990.
November 25, 1994: Boston College Debut and Injury
Chris Herren debuted for Boston College, scoring 14 points in 21 minutes, but broke his wrist and was sidelined for the 1994-1995 season.
1994: High School Graduation
Chris Herren graduated from B.M.C. Durfee High School in 1994, scoring a record 2,073 points. He received the Boston Globe and Gatorade player of the year awards, and was named to the McDonald's All-America Team.
1995: Expulsion from Boston College
Chris Herren failed two drug tests for marijuana and cocaine and was expelled from Boston College in 1995.
December 10, 1996: Fresno State Debut
Chris Herren made his debut for Fresno State on December 10, 1996, averaging 31 points per game over his last four games.
November 25, 1997: Failed Drug Test and Rehab
Chris Herren failed another drug test on November 25, 1997, and went to rehab for 21 days.
January 10, 1998: Return to Fresno State
Chris Herren returned to Fresno State's basketball team on January 10, 1998.
1999: NBA Draft and Career Start
Chris Herren was drafted into the NBA by the Denver Nuggets in 1999 and began his professional career.
2001: End of NBA Career
Chris Herren's NBA career with the Nuggets and Celtics concluded in 2001 after playing 70 games and averaging 3.2 points and 2.4 assists.
December 2004: Heroin Possession Charge
Chris Herren was charged with heroin possession in December 2004 after being found unconscious in a Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru.
June 2008: Overdose and Near-Death Experience
In June 2008, Chris Herren overdosed on heroin and crashed into a utility pole, briefly being declared clinically dead.
August 1, 2008: Sobriety Date
Chris Herren achieved sobriety on August 1, 2008.
June 2009: Hoop Dreams Launch
Chris Herren launched Hoop Dreams, a basketball player development company, in June 2009.
May 2011: "Basketball Junkie" Release
Chris Herren's memoir, "Basketball Junkie," was published in May 2011.
March 20, 2012: "Unguarded" Emmy Nominations
The ESPN documentary "Unguarded," about Chris Herren's life, was nominated for two Emmys on March 20, 2012.
2018: Herren Wellness Founding
Chris Herren founded the Herren Wellness residential treatment center in 2018.