Kevin Johnson

Kevin Maurice Johnson (born March 4, 1966 in Sacramento, California) is a former American NBA player for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Phoenix Suns. Originally drafted from high school to play professional baseball with the Oakland Athletics as a pitcher, Johnson chose to play basketball instead, and was drafted for the 1987-88 season by the Cavs.

Related Topics:
March 4 - 1966 - Sacramento, California - American - NBA - Cleveland Cavaliers - Phoenix Suns - Baseball - Oakland Athletics - Basketball

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On February 28 1988, Johnson and teammate Mark West were traded to the Suns, where he averaged 18.8 points and 9.5 assists a game for the next 10 years. He became an NBA All Star three times and was part of a team that made it to the playoffs every year he was there.

Related Topics:
February 28 - 1988 - Mark West - NBA All Star

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Johnson teamed up with Charles Barkley in 1992, and with Barkley, who won the MVP that year, Johnson and the Suns posted the NBA's best record at 62-20. The Suns made it to the NBA Finals against the Chicago Bulls but lost in six games. Johnson, however was praised for his stellar defense of Michael Jordan throughout the series.

Related Topics:
Charles Barkley - 1992 - MVP - NBA Finals - Chicago Bulls - Michael Jordan

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Johnson retired after the 1997-1998 season, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest playmakers in league history.

Related Topics:
1997 - 1998

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Johnson returned briefly during the 1999-2000 campaign, helping the Suns win their first playoff series in five years (and their only series victory between 1995 and 2005). But after Phoenix fell in the second round to Los Angeles, he retired for the second and final time.

Related Topics:
1999 - 2000

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In 2001, Johnson had his number 7 jersey retired during a game where the Suns lost to the Sacramento Kings, Johnson's hometown team.

Related Topics:
2001 - Sacramento Kings

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While he was a Suns player, he would often sign free autographs at mall autograph shows. During his time with the Suns, he opened St. Hope Academy, a school for inner-city children in his hometown of Sacramento.

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