Clyde Drexler (Part 1)

Clyde Drexler, born on June 22, 1962, is renowned as one of the most talented and versatile basketball players in NBA history. His illustrious career spanned 15 seasons in the NBA, where he earned the nickname "Clyde the Glide" for his smooth and graceful playing style.
Drexler spent the majority of his career with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he established himself as a perennial All-Star and one of the premier shooting guards in the league. He possessed a unique combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess that made him a standout player during his era.
One of the highlights of Drexler's career came in 1995 when he joined the Houston Rockets and helped lead them to an NBA championship. His leadership and contributions were instrumental in the team's success that season.


Internationally, Drexler was a key member of the renowned 1992 United States Olympic basketball team, famously known as "The Dream Team," which dominated the competition and won the gold medal at the Barcelona Olympics.
Drexler's accolades include being named a ten-time NBA All-Star and being selected to the NBA's 50th and 75th anniversary teams, a testament to his lasting impact on the game. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame twice, first in 2004 for his individual career achievements and then again in 2010 as a member of the legendary "Dream Team."
Throughout his career, Clyde Drexler left an indelible mark on the sport of basketball, earning a place among the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood.


Clyde Drexler's journey to basketball stardom began in his hometown of Houston, Texas. He attended Ross Sterling High School, where his athletic talents started to shine. Initially, Drexler faced setbacks in basketball, failing to make the cut for the team as a sophomore. However, his determination led him to eventually make the varsity team as a senior, where he played as a 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) center.
Drexler's breakout moment came during a 1979 Christmas tournament when he delivered a remarkable performance, scoring 34 points and grabbing 27 rebounds against Sharpstown High School. This outstanding display caught the attention of college coaches across the country.


Despite receiving interest from several universities, including New Mexico State and Texas Tech, Drexler ultimately chose to stay close to home and attend the University of Houston. His decision was influenced by his friendship with Michael Young, a childhood friend who also joined the Houston Cougars basketball program.
Drexler's arrival at Houston initially faced skepticism from some supporters and alumni, who doubted his abilities to compete at the college level. However, under the guidance of head coach Guy Lewis, Drexler quickly proved his worth and became an integral part of the team.
Throughout his college years, Drexler balanced his academic pursuits, majoring in finance, with his basketball commitments. His dedication and talent on the court helped him emerge as one of the top players in college basketball, setting the stage for a remarkable career at both the collegiate and professional levels.


Clyde Drexler's college career at the University of Houston was marked by extraordinary success and electrifying play alongside his fellow "Phi Slama Jama" teammates. Alongside Michael Young, Larry Micheaux, and the emerging star Hakeem Olajuwon (then known as Akeem), Drexler formed a dynamic and high-flying basketball fraternity that captured the nation's attention with their acrobatic and above-the-rim style of play.
The "Phi Slama Jama" fraternity became legendary for their highlight-reel dunks and fast-paced, entertaining brand of basketball. New recruits were initiated into the group in a unique manner: by standing underneath the basket as Drexler soared in from halfcourt to deliver a thunderous tomahawk slam over them.


During the 1982 NCAA Tournament, Houston, led by Drexler, made their first of two consecutive Final Four appearances. Despite their formidable presence, they fell short in the semifinals against eventual champions North Carolina. Drexler's stellar performance throughout the tournament earned him recognition, averaging 15.2 points and 10.5 rebounds per game as a small forward.
The following season, in 1983, Houston returned to the Final Four as the top-ranked team in the nation. In a highly anticipated matchup against Louisville, known for their "Doctors of Dunk," Drexler and his teammates showcased their aerial prowess in a thrilling 94–81 victory. Drexler's performance, including a memorable double-pump slam, left an indelible mark on the game.


However, Houston's championship dreams were dashed in the title game against North Carolina State, where Drexler encountered foul trouble and struggled to make an impact. Despite the disappointment, Drexler's collegiate achievements were impressive, earning him accolades such as Southwestern Conference Player of the Year and first-team All-American honors in his final season.
After his junior year, Drexler declared for the NBA draft, leaving behind a remarkable legacy at Houston. His versatile skill set and remarkable statistics, including over 1,000 career points, 900 rebounds, and 300 assists, solidified his status as one of the greatest players in the university's history.

References

1.  Men's Tournament of the Americas – 1992, USA Basketball. Retrieved December 6, 2018.
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5. ^ Shilcutt, Katharine. "Still Standing." Houston Press. Wednesday January 12, 2011. 1 Archived January 16, 2011, at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved on January 13, 2011.
6. ^ "NBA Legends Unveil Tundra Turnaround Court at Delmar Complex" Archived December 5, 2008, at the Wayback Machine – Houston Independent School District – May 7, 2007
7. a b Higdon, David. "Clyde Drexler: Portland's Pride". Sports Illustrated for Kids February 1993.
8. Drexler, Clyde with Kerry Eggers. Clyde the Glide. Sports Publishing. 2004. ISBN 1-58261-742-2
9. a b Bengtson, Russ. Quiet as Kept, Slam Magazine, December 1996
10. ^ Haley, Ish (February 7, 1986). "Drexler's Days as a Forward Behind Him". Dallas Times-Herald. Archived from the original on June 22, 2021. Retrieved May 29, 2020 – via Los Angeles Times.
11. ^ Clyde Drexler Career Highlights No. 14, "Quotes in Mid-Flight." Fleer Corporation, 1993–94
12. ^ Clyde Drexler Career Highlights No. 3, "Southern Rock n' Roll." Fleer Corporation, 1993–94
13. ^ Database Basketball Archived December 14, 2010, at the Wayback Machine
14. ^ "Clyde Drexler – Basketball | Oregon Sports Hall of Fame & Museum". November 9, 2018. Archived from the original on January 3, 2023. Retrieved April 4, 2023.
15. ^ "Portland Trail Blazers | NBA.com". www.nba.com. Archived from the original on January 3, 2023. Retrieved April 4, 2023.