Penny Hardaway

Penny — one of the most gifted players of the 1990s whose combination of 6ft 7in size, guard skill and marketability made him a global star before devastating knee injuries cut short one of basketball's most promising careers.

Anfernee Deon Hardaway was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1972 and attended Memphis State University. Orlando Magic acquired his rights via a draft night trade — they selected Chris Webber third overall and traded him to Golden State for the rights to Hardaway, selected third in the deal. His first four seasons alongside Shaquille O'Neal were transcendent — he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game and was named to the All-NBA First Team twice, selected to four All-Star games. At 6ft 7in with guard skills, his physical profile was two decades ahead of its time. Nike's Little Penny puppet advertising campaign made him one of sport's most marketed figures. He won Olympic gold with Dream Team III at Atlanta 1996. A series of knee surgeries from 1998 onwards — he eventually required reconstruction of ligaments, cartilage and other structures across multiple operations — progressively stripped his athleticism and ended what should have been a top-five career. He won the Hall of Fame debate continues based on those brilliant early seasons. He became head coach of the Memphis Tigers, returning to his hometown. His four seasons of greatness represent one of basketball's most tragic injury narratives.

Versatile point guard with size, court vision, and scoring ability

One of the most talented point guards of the 1990s before injuries

• All-Star 4x
• All-NBA First Team 2x
• Olympic Gold Medal 1996