
Larry Nance Jr. is a name that resonates with basketball fans, especially those who follow the NBA. Born into a family with a rich basketball legacy, Larry has carved out his own path in the sport. Did you know that he was drafted 27th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2015 NBA Draft? His high-flying dunks and defensive prowess quickly made him a fan favorite. Beyond the court, Larry is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in raising awareness for Crohn's disease, a condition he has battled since his teenage years. Curious about more? Here are 25 fascinating facts about Larry Nance Jr. that will give you a deeper look into his life and career.
Early Life and Background
Larry Nance Jr. has an interesting background that shaped his journey to the NBA. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life.
- Born on January 1, 1993, in Akron, Ohio, Larry Nance Jr. grew up in a family with a strong basketball legacy.
- His father, Larry Nance Sr., was a three-time NBA All-Star and the first winner of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1984.
- Larry Jr. attended Revere High School in Richfield, Ohio, where he played basketball and developed his skills.
- Despite his father's fame, Larry Jr. was not heavily recruited out of high school and had to prove himself on the court.
College Career
Larry Nance Jr. attended the University of Wyoming, where he made a significant impact on the basketball team.
- He played for the Wyoming Cowboys from 2011 to 2015, becoming a key player for the team.
- In his junior year, he was named to the All-Mountain West First Team and the All-Defensive Team.
- During his senior year, he led the Cowboys to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2002.
- Larry Jr. finished his college career with an average of 11.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.
NBA Draft and Early Career
Larry Nance Jr.'s journey to the NBA was marked by determination and hard work.
- He was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 27th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft.
- Larry Jr. made his NBA debut on November 6, 2015, against the Brooklyn Nets.
- He quickly became known for his high-flying dunks and defensive prowess.
- In his rookie season, he averaged 5.5 points and 5.0 rebounds per game.
Playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers
Larry Nance Jr. continued to grow as a player after being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
- On February 8, 2018, he was traded to the Cavaliers as part of a multi-player deal.
- Larry Jr. wore the same jersey number (22) as his father did when he played for the Cavaliers.
- He signed a four-year contract extension with the Cavaliers in October 2018.
- During the 2018-2019 season, he averaged career highs in points (9.4) and rebounds (8.2) per game.
Personal Life and Interests
Beyond basketball, Larry Nance Jr. has a rich personal life and various interests.
- He married his longtime girlfriend, Hailey Pince, in 2018.
- Larry Jr. is an advocate for Crohn's disease awareness, a condition he was diagnosed with in high school.
- He has a passion for cars and often shares photos of his collection on social media.
- Larry Jr. is also known for his philanthropic efforts, including hosting basketball camps for kids.
Fun and Lesser-Known Facts
Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Larry Nance Jr. that might surprise you.
- He once dunked over his father during the 2018 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, paying homage to his dad's iconic dunk.
- Larry Jr. has a pet dog named Moose, who often appears in his social media posts.
- He is a fan of video games and enjoys playing NBA 2K in his free time.
- Larry Jr. has a tattoo of the state of Ohio on his arm, symbolizing his love for his home state.
- He is known for his sense of humor and often jokes around with teammates and fans.
Larry Nance Jr.: A Slam Dunk of Facts
Larry Nance Jr. isn't just a name in basketball; he's a story of talent, dedication, and family legacy. From his high-flying dunks to his commitment to community service, Nance Jr. has made a significant impact both on and off the court. His journey from a promising college player to an NBA standout is filled with inspiring moments and achievements.
Whether it's his impressive stats, his charitable work, or his connection to his father's legacy, Nance Jr. continues to be a player to watch. His story reminds us that greatness isn't just about athletic prowess but also about character, perseverance, and giving back.
Next time you see him on the court, remember these facts and appreciate the depth of his journey. Larry Nance Jr. is more than just a basketball player; he's a testament to hard work and heart.
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