John Paxson

American former professional basketball player who played point guard in the NBA, best known for hitting clutch shots during Chicago Bulls' championship runs

With 3.9 seconds remaining in Game 6 of the 1993 NBA Finals, John Paxson caught a pass from Horace Grant and hit a three-pointer that gave Chicago its third consecutive championship — a moment that defines a career whose 7.1 career scoring average gives no indication of its actual significance.. San Antonio Spurs selected him in the sixth round of the 1983 NBA Draft before he joined the Chicago Bulls in 1985. His nine-season career with the Bulls produced three NBA championships (1991, 1992, 1993) alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. His career scoring average of 7.1 points per game understates the most significant moment of his professional life: with the Chicago Bulls trailing the Phoenix Suns by one point with 3.9 seconds remaining in Game 6 of the 1993 NBA Finals, he caught a pass from Horace Grant and hit a three-pointer — the championship-winning shot. He shot 59.0% from two-point range across his career and 38.3% from three — extraordinary efficiency for a reserve guard. His intelligence, shooting and willingness to subordinate his individual aspirations to the team made him the ideal teammate for Jordan and Pippen. He was named vice president of basketball operations for the Chicago Bulls in 2003 and later general manager, overseeing roster decisions through multiple rebuilding and competitive cycles.

Smart floor general, excellent three-point shooter, clutch performer

Key role player in Chicago Bulls dynasty, reliable point guard

• NBA Champion 3x (1991, 1992, 1993)