Clyde Drexler

Enshrined: 2004
Born: June 22, 1962
New Orleans, LA

One of the most graceful athletes ever to step onto a basketball court, Clyde "The Glide" Drexler earned his nickname for his seemingly effortless glides to the basket. Drexler's explosive first step helped him blow by defenders for his patented flights to the front of the rim. His jumping ability and quick feet were complemented by his perimeter game, making Drexler one of the most difficult players of his era to guard. In 12 seasons with Portland, Drexler was an eight-time All Star and led the Trailblazers to the NBA Finals in 1990 and 1992. After being traded to Houston in 1995, Drexler was reunited with college teammate Hakeem Olujawon, and helped lead the Rockets to the franchise's second NBA championship. At the University of Houston, Drexler played a starring role on the famed "Phi Slamma Jamma" team that made two consecutive appearances in the NCAA's Final Four.