Early Life and Education of Kawhi Leonard: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Kawhi Leonard. From birth to education, explore key events.

Kawhi Leonard is a highly decorated American professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Clippers. Renowned as one of the NBA's premier two-way players, he has earned the moniker "The Klaw" due to his defensive prowess and large hands. Leonard boasts two NBA championships, six All-Star selections, six All-NBA Team nods, and seven All-Defensive Team selections. He was also named Defensive Player of the Year twice (2015, 2016). His accomplishments led to his inclusion on the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, solidifying his status as an all-time great.

Sections (4)

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

June 29, 1991: Kawhi Leonard Born

On June 29, 1991, Kawhi Anthony Leonard was born. He is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Clippers of the NBA.

Others born on this day/year

January 18, 2008: Father's Death

On January 18, 2008, Kawhi Leonard's father, Mark Leonard, was shot and killed at his car wash in Compton.

2009: Freshman year at San Diego State University

In 2009, Kawhi Leonard began his freshman year at San Diego State University.

2009: Recruiting Ranking

In 2009, Kawhi Leonard was considered a four-star recruit by Rivals.com, and was listed as the No. 8 small forward and the No. 48 player nationwide.

2010: MWC Freshman of the Year and Tournament MVP

In 2010, Kawhi Leonard was named MWC Freshman of the Year, First Team All-MWC, and the 2010 MWC tournament MVP. He also led the MWC in rebounding, averaging 12.7 points and 9.9 rebounds per game.

2011: Declared for the NBA Draft

In 2011, Kawhi Leonard declared for the NBA Draft, forgoing his final two years of college eligibility, after being named to the Second Team All-America.

January 2020: Shared Pilot with Kobe Bryant

In January 2020, after the death of Kobe Bryant in a helicopter crash, Kawhi Leonard revealed that he and Bryant shared the same pilot, Ara Zobayan, who also perished in the crash.

2022: Father's Murder Still Unsolved

As of 2022, Kawhi Leonard's father's murder is still unsolved.

April 2023: Sister Sentenced to Life in Prison

In April 2023, Kawhi Leonard's sister, Kimesha Williams, was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murder.

October 17, 2024: Leonard ruled out indefinitely to begin season

On October 17, 2024, it was announced that Kawhi Leonard would be ruled out indefinitely to begin the new season due to inflammation in his right knee.