Kawhi Leonard's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Kawhi Leonard.

Kawhi Leonard is a highly decorated American professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Clippers. Known as "The Claw" for his defensive prowess and large hands, he's considered one of the NBA's best two-way players. His accolades include two NBA championships, six All-Star selections, six All-NBA Team selections, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards (2015, 2016). Leonard's defensive impact is further highlighted by his seven All-Defensive Team selections. He was also named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.

Sections (4)

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

1980: Magic Johnson Wins Finals MVP

In 1980, Magic Johnson won the NBA Finals MVP at the age of 20 years and 278 days, becoming the youngest player to win the award.

1982: Magic Johnson Wins Another Finals MVP

In 1982, Magic Johnson won another NBA Finals MVP at 22 years old.

1986: Mike Mitchell's Streak

In 1986, Mike Mitchell was the last San Antonio player to score at least 30 in six straight games.

1989: Dennis Rodman

In 1989, Dennis Rodman achieved Defensive Player of the Year honors.

1990: Dennis Rodman

In 1990, Dennis Rodman achieved Defensive Player of the Year honors.

1992: Michael Jordan scores 759 points

In 1992, Michael Jordan scored 759 points. This was the highest scoring total for a single NBA postseason.

2002: Duncan Streak

In 2002, Tim Duncan did so in 2002–03.

2004: Finals MVP Not an All-Star

In 2004, Chauncey Billups became the first player since to win Finals MVP in a season in which they were not an All-Star.

2005: Spurs Win

In 2005-06 the Spurs had a 63 win season.

2010: MWC Tournament MVP and NCAA Tournament Appearance

In 2010, Kawhi Leonard was named MWC Freshman of the Year, First Team All-MWC, and the MWC tournament MVP. He also helped San Diego State reach the NCAA tournament.

2012: Tony Parker 30 point games

In 2012, Tony Parker was the last San Antonio player to record three consecutive 30-point games.

2014: NBA Championship and Finals MVP

In 2014, Kawhi Leonard won an NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs and was named the Finals Most Valuable Player.

2014: Home Winning Streak

In 2014-15 the Spurs started their home winning streak.

2015: Defensive Player of the Year

In 2015, Kawhi Leonard won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. This recognition highlighted his exceptional defensive skills.

January 21, 2016: First All-Star Selection

On January 21, 2016, Kawhi Leonard was named as a starter to the Western Conference team for the 2016 All-Star Game, earning his first All-Star selection.

April 2, 2016: Career-High 33 Points and Franchise Record

On April 2, 2016, Kawhi Leonard set a new career-high with 33 points in a win over the Toronto Raptors, helping the Spurs set a franchise record with their 64th victory.

2016: Second Consecutive Defensive Player of the Year Award

In 2016, Kawhi Leonard earned his second consecutive Defensive Player of the Year award, solidifying his reputation as a top defensive player in the NBA.

2018: LeBron James scores 748 points

In 2018, Lebron James scored 748 points. This was the second best scoring total for a single NBA postseason.

January 1, 2019: Career-High 45 Points Against Jazz

On January 1, 2019, Kawhi Leonard scored a career-high 45 points in a 122–116 win over the Utah Jazz.

2019: Leonard wins NBA Championship and Finals MVP with Raptors

In 2019, Kawhi Leonard led the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA Championship, defeating the Golden State Warriors. He was named NBA Finals MVP for the second time in his career, becoming the third player to win the award with two different teams. Leonard also scored 732 points during the 2019 playoffs, the third-highest total in a single NBA postseason.

January 14, 2020: Leonard Scores Season-High 43 Points

On January 14, 2020, Kawhi Leonard scored a season-high 43 points in just 29 minutes in a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

February 1, 2020: San Diego State Retires Leonard's Number

On February 1, 2020, San Diego State retired Kawhi Leonard's number 15, making him the first Aztecs men's basketball player to have his jersey raised to the rafters.