Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Kenyon Martin

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 18, 2026

How Kenyon Martin built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Kenyon Martin is a retired American professional basketball player who spent 15 seasons in the NBA. A power forward, Martin played for several teams, including the New Jersey Nets, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks. Before his NBA career, he played college basketball at the University of Cincinnati, where he earned national player of the year honors. The New Jersey Nets selected Martin as the first overall pick in the 2000 NBA draft. His achievements include being named an NBA All-Star in 2004.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

April 25, 2000: Cincinnati Retired his Jersey

On April 25, 2000, Cincinnati retired Kenyon Martin's #4 jersey.

October 31, 2000: NBA Debut

On October 31, 2000, Kenyon Martin made his NBA debut with the New Jersey Nets against the Cleveland Cavaliers, recording 10 points and 7 rebounds. He was later named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team.

2000: Drafted into the NBA and named College Player of the Year

In 2000, Kenyon Martin was drafted first overall in the NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets. He was also named the national college player of the year.

2002: NBA Finals Appearance with the Nets

In 2002, Kenyon Martin, along with his teammates, led the Nets to the NBA Finals, where they were defeated by the Los Angeles Lakers.

January 29, 2003: Career-Best 21 Rebounds

On January 29, 2003, Kenyon Martin recorded a career-best 21 rebounds, along with 19 points and eight assists, in a win against the Washington Wizards.

2003: Traded to the Denver Nuggets

At the end of the 2003-04 season, Kenyon Martin was traded to the Denver Nuggets.

2004: NBA All-Star Selection

In 2004, Kenyon Martin was selected as a backup forward for the Eastern Conference All-Stars and scored 17 points in the NBA All-Star Game.

2004: Played 70 Games During Season

In 2004-2005 season, Kenyon Martin played 70 games, averaging 15.5 points and 7.3 rebounds.

December 24, 2011: Released from Xinjiang Flying Tigers

On December 24, 2011, Kenyon Martin was released from the Xinjiang Flying Tigers so that he could "take care of family affairs".

February 3, 2012: Signed with the Los Angeles Clippers

On February 3, 2012, Kenyon Martin signed with the Los Angeles Clippers, scoring six points in his first game.

February 15, 2012: Initial Date for NBA Return

Kenyon Martin was initially not allowed to return to the NBA until the Flying Tigers' season ended on February 15, 2012.

February 21, 2013: Agreed to join the New York Knicks

On February 21, 2013, Kenyon Martin agreed to join the New York Knicks on a 10-day contract, reuniting him with Jason Kidd.

July 25, 2013: Re-signed with the New York Knicks

On July 25, 2013, Kenyon Martin re-signed with the New York Knicks for the 2013-14 season.

January 9, 2015: Signed with the Milwaukee Bucks

On January 9, 2015, Kenyon Martin signed a 10-day contract with the Milwaukee Bucks.

February 2, 2015: Final NBA Game

On February 2, 2015, Kenyon Martin played his final NBA game in a win against the Toronto Raptors, recording 4 points and 3 rebounds.

February 19, 2015: Waived by the Milwaukee Bucks

On February 19, 2015, Kenyon Martin was waived by the Milwaukee Bucks.

July 3, 2015: Retirement Announcement

On July 3, 2015, Kenyon Martin announced his retirement from professional basketball.

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