Larry Johnson

American basketball power forward known for his physical playing style and signature 'Grandmama' commercials during his NBA career from 1991-2001.

Johnson's four-point play with 5.0 seconds remaining in Game 3 of the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals — drawing the foul while converting a three-pointer to complete an improbable comeback against Indiana — remains the single most celebrated late-game play in the history of the New York Knicks.. Charlotte Hornets selected him first overall in the 1991 NBA Draft. He won the Rookie of the Year award in 1992 after averaging 19.2 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. He was selected to two All-Star games. He signed an 84 million dollar contract with Charlotte in 1993 — at the time the largest in NBA history. He was traded to the New York Knicks in 1996 and his most celebrated moment came in Game 3 of the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers — his four-point play with 5.0 seconds remaining, drawing the foul while making a three-pointer to cut the deficit and ultimately win the game, is one of the most celebrated late-game plays in Knicks history. A back injury that required surgery in 1994 progressively limited his effectiveness and prevented him from ever matching his spectacular early career production. He was the GrandMama — the character from his famous Converse advertising campaign. He won Olympic gold with the USA at the 1994 FIBA World Championships.

Physical power forward with strong post moves, mid-range shooting, and rebounding ability

One of the most dominant power forwards of the early 1990s before back injuries shortened his prime

• Rookie of the Year (1992)
• All-Star 2x
• All-NBA Second Team
• Olympic Gold Medal (1994)