Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon anchored Houston's high-flying Phi Slama Jama squads to three straight Final Fours, leading the nation in rebounding as a senior.

Hakeem Abdul Olajuwon was born in Lagos, Nigeria in 1963 and did not play basketball until he was 17. He moved to the United States after being identified by scouts through his soccer goalkeeper skills. The University of Houston offered him a scholarship and he became the centerpiece of the Phi Slama Jama dynasty. He was an All-American in his final two seasons. He led Houston to two consecutive national championship game appearances (1982, 1983). His combination of athleticism, shot-blocking and improving offensive ability made him the most recruited big man of his era. His 1983 final — when NC State's Derrick Whittenburg launched a half-court shot that Lorenzo Charles dunked at the buzzer to beat Houston — remains the most famous upset in tournament history. Houston Rockets selected him first overall in the 1984 NBA Draft. His professional career — two NBA championships, two Finals MVPs and the Defensive Player of the Year award twice — fulfilled and exceeded every promise his college career showed. He is the greatest international player in college basketball history, having arrived knowing nothing about the sport at 17 and leaving as the first overall pick three years later.

Olajuwon was known for his exceptional footwork, agility, and versatility as a center, displaying skills uncommon for players his size. His signature 'Dream Shake' move combined quick pivots, fakes, and fadeaway shots that made him nearly impossible to defend in the post. He possessed excellent shot-blocking ability, rebounding skills, and surprisingly good ball-handling for a big man.

Olajuwon helped elevate the profile of international players in American basketball and inspired a generation of big men to develop more complete skill sets. His success paved the way for future international stars and demonstrated that players from non-traditional basketball countries could excel at the highest levels.

• NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player 1983
• NCAA rebounding leader 1984
• SWC Player of the Year 1984