Childhood and Education Journey of Gary Payton in Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Gary Payton, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Gary Payton, nicknamed "The Glove," is a retired American professional basketball player renowned as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. He spent 13 years with the Seattle SuperSonics, leading them to an NBA Finals appearance and setting franchise records for assists and steals. Payton also played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat, winning an NBA championship with the Heat in 2006. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, Payton was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013 and named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

July 23, 1968: Gary Payton's Birth

On July 23, 1968, Gary Dwayne Payton Sr. was born. He later became a professional basketball player in the NBA and is considered one of the greatest point guards of all time.

Others born on this day/year

1987: Pac-10 Honors

In 1987, Gary Payton was named Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year and conference Freshman of the Year.

1989: Featured in Sports Illustrated

During his senior season in 1989, Gary Payton was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated on March 5 as the nation's best college basketball player.

1996: Appearance in "Eddie"

In 1996, Gary Payton appeared in the film "Eddie".

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1996: The Gary Payton Foundation Established

In 1996, Gary Payton established The Gary Payton Foundation to provide safe recreational spaces and support underprivileged youth in Oakland to stay in school.

1996: Elected into OSU's Sports Hall of Fame

In 1996, Gary Payton was elected into Oregon State University's Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his achievements during his college career.

July 26, 1997: Marriage to Monique James

On July 26, 1997, Gary Payton married Monique James. They resided in Oakland and Las Vegas and have three children: Gary II, Julian, and Raquel.

1998: Radio Show Host on KUBE 93.3

In early 1998, Gary Payton hosted a radio show on Seattle's KUBE 93.3 station during the NBA lockout, playing hip-hop music for charity.

1999: Speaking Role in "The Breaks"

In 1999, Gary Payton had a speaking role in the comedy film "The Breaks".

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1999: Author of "Confidence Counts"

In 1999, Gary Payton wrote an autobiographical children's book entitled "Confidence Counts" as part of the "Positively for Kids" series, highlighting the importance of confidence through his life experiences.

2000: Payton's Durability Highlighted

In 2000, The Sporting News emphasized Gary Payton's remarkable durability, noting he had missed only two games in ten seasons. Despite chronic back pain, he consistently played nearly a full game, relying on extensive stretching and heating packs.

2001: Donation to EOYDC

In 2001, Gary Payton donated $100,000 to renovate the gym at the East Oakland Youth Development Center (EOYDC), where he spent time as a youth.

2002: Appearance in "Like Mike"

In 2002, Gary Payton appeared in the film "Like Mike".

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2002: Trade request due to conflict with Howard Schultz

In 2002, due to a sour relationship between Gary Payton and Howard Schultz, who had bought the SuperSonics in 2001, Schultz insisted that Payton be traded after Payton did not attend the first day of training camp.

2003: Christmas Shopping Spree for Ronald McDonald House Families

For Christmas 2003, Gary Payton took 10 families from the Ronald McDonald House in Los Angeles and gave each of the over 40 children a $100 shopping spree at FAO Schwarz.