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 NBA player currently with the Los Angeles Clippers. Known as "The Claw" for his defensive prowess and large hands, he is considered one of the best two-way players ever. His accomplishments include two NBA championships and Finals MVP awards, seven All-Star selections, six All-NBA Team selections, and seven All-Defensive Team selections. He was named Defensive Player of the Year twice (2015, 2016) and was selected for the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, solidifying his place among basketball's elite.

Sections (4)

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

June 29, 1991: Kawhi Leonard's Birth

On June 29, 1991, Kawhi Anthony Leonard was born. He would become a professional basketball player.

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, California. The murder was never solved.

2009: Freshman Year at San Diego State

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

2009: Recruiting Rankings

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

2010: MWC Tournament MVP

In 2010, Kawhi Leonard led San Diego State to win the Mountain West Conference (MWC) tournament title and was named MWC Freshman of the Year, First Team All-MWC, and the 2010 MWC tournament MVP.

2011: Entering the NBA Draft

In 2011, Kawhi Leonard entered the NBA draft, foregoing his final two seasons of college eligibility.

August 2019: Sister's Crime

In August 2019, Kawhi Leonard's sister Kimesha robbed and fatally beat an 84-year-old woman at the Pechanga Resort Casino, which later led to her life sentence in April 2023.

January 2020: Pilot Connection to Kobe Bryant Crash

Following the January 2020 Calabasas helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant and others, Kawhi Leonard revealed that the pilot, Ara Zobayan, also worked as his pilot.

April 2023: Sister Sentenced to Life in Prison

In April 2023, Kawhi Leonard's sister Kimesha was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murder, robbery, and elder abuse stemming from an incident in August 2019.