Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Christian Laettner

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Christian Laettner made an impact.

Christian Laettner is a retired American professional basketball player renowned for his illustrious college career with the Duke Blue Devils. A key player on Duke's consecutive National Championship-winning teams in 1991 and 1992, he earned the NCAA player of the year title during his senior year. Laettner is particularly remembered for his iconic game-winning shot against Kentucky in the 1992 NCAA tournament, solidifying his place in college basketball history. His skill and success also made him a target for opposing fans, contributing to a complex and memorable legacy.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1988: Attended Duke University

In 1988, Christian Laettner began attending Duke University and playing for the basketball team under coach Mike Krzyzewski.

1990: Game-Winning Jumper Against UConn

In the 1990 regional final against UConn, Christian Laettner made a game-winning jumper as time expired, foreshadowing his later famous shot against Kentucky.

1991: Duke National Championship

In 1991, Christian Laettner was the star player on the Duke National Championship team.

1991: Game-Winning Free Throws Against UNLV

In the 1991 NCAA tournament semifinal, Christian Laettner swished the game-winning free throws against undefeated and heavily favored UNLV.

1992: Led Duke to National Titles

By 1992, Christian Laettner had led the Duke Blue Devils to their first two national titles in school history.

1992: Game-Winning Shot Against Kentucky

In 1992, Christian Laettner had a clutch performance and made the game-winning shot against Kentucky in the regional final.

1992: The Shot and Second National Title

In 1992, Christian Laettner hit "The Shot," a game-winning, buzzer-beating turn-around jumper against Kentucky in the East Regional Final. He also led Duke to its second consecutive national title.

1992: Dream Team Member

In 1992, Christian Laettner was part of the Dream Team

1992: Drafted by Minnesota Timberwolves

In 1992, Christian Laettner was selected third overall in the NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves.

1992: Selection for the Dream Team and Olympic Gold Medal

In 1992, Christian Laettner was the only college player selected for the United States men's Olympic basketball team, known as the "Dream Team," which won the gold medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics.

1992: Duke National Championship and Kentucky Game-Winning Shot

In 1992, Christian Laettner was the star player on the Duke National Championship team and is particularly famous for his game-winning shot against Kentucky in the 1992 tournament.