This year marks the return of the Chinese zodiac’s Year of the Snake, a cycle that comes around every 12 years. In Chinese astrology, the snake is seen as one of the most auspicious signs, often called the “Little Dragon.” Those born under this sign are believed to possess intelligence, resilience, and a knack for navigating challenges.
Speaking of resilience, the Year of the Snake has given the NBA some of its most adaptable and creative minds. Many legends who thrived under pressure and found ways to reinvent themselves share this zodiac sign. Their ability to evolve, whether on the court or the sidelines, speaks to the snake’s defining traits. Among them are championship winners, record-holders, and some of the most influential figures in the sport. Let’s take a look at one such legend who embodies these qualities.
Steve Kerr
Steve Kerr, born on September 27, 1965, is one of them. Over a 15-year NBA career, he won five championships and made his mark as one of the most accurate three-point shooters in league history. In fact, he still holds the record for the highest career three-point percentage, proving his precision and consistency. His ability to stay calm under pressure made him a trusted asset on championship teams, particularly alongside Michael Jordan and the Bulls.
Jan 22, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr walks up the court during the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
But Kerr’s impact didn’t stop there. After retiring in 2003, he transitioned to coaching and became one of the most successful leaders in the game. As the head coach of the Golden State Warriors, he has won four NBA championships, solidifying his place in basketball history. His strategic mind and ability to build winning teams earned him a spot among the NBA’s 15 Greatest Coaches of All Time.
Scottie Pippen
Next up is Scottie Pippen, one of the most versatile forwards the game has ever seen. Born on September 25, 1965, Pippen played 17 seasons in the NBA and was a key piece in the Chicago Bulls’ six championship runs. His ability to dominate both ends of the floor made him an irreplaceable part of the Bulls’ dynasty alongside Michael Jordan. Beyond his individual success, Pippen helped globalize the NBA, bringing the league into the mainstream during the 1990s.
Kenny Smith
And then there’s Kenny Smith, a name familiar to both NBA fans and sports analysts today. Born on March 8, 1965, Smith spent a decade in the league, winning back-to-back championships with the Houston Rockets in 1994 and 1995. Before that, he was a standout McDonald’s All-American in high school and a gold medalist with Team USA in the 1986 FIBA World Championship. These days, he’s still a major voice in the game, breaking down plays and moments as an analyst on TNT’s Inside the NBA.
Reggie Miller
Up next is Reggie Miller, the legendary sharpshooter born on August 24, 1965. A Hall of Famer and one of the greatest clutch performers in history, Miller played 18 seasons with the Indiana Pacers, earning five All-Star selections. His impact was so significant that the Pacers retired his #31 jersey. Beyond the NBA, he brought home gold for Team USA in the 1994 FIBA World Championship and the 1996 Olympics, further cementing his legacy.
Vernon Maxwell
Next on the list is Vernon Maxwell, born on September 12, 1965. The explosive shooting guard spent 13 seasons in the league and played a crucial role in the Rockets’ back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995. Before his NBA days, he was already making headlines, earning the title of Florida Mr. Basketball in 1984. His fearless play and championship pedigree make him yet another fitting representative of the Year of the Snake.
Paul Pierce
Up next is Paul Pierce, a Boston Celtics legend who left his mark on the game. Born on October 13, 1977, Pierce played 19 seasons in the NBA, earning a reputation as one of the most clutch players in history. He was a McDonald’s All-American in high school before dominating at Kansas and eventually becoming the face of the Celtics.
In 2008, he led Boston to an NBA championship and took home Finals MVP honors. His legacy was cemented with inductions into both the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. These days, he’s still shaping the conversation around the game as an analyst and podcast host.
Ime Udoka
Then there’s Ime Udoka, born on August 9, 1977. While his playing career was solid, his impact as a coach has been even bigger. After retiring, Udoka joined the San Antonio Spurs as an assistant coach, playing a key role in their 2014 championship run. He later took on coaching roles with the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets before landing the head coaching job with the Boston Celtics. In his first season, he led them to the 2022 NBA Finals. Now, he’s at the helm of the Houston Rockets, continuing to make his mark in the league.
Kenyon Martin
Another standout from this zodiac year is Kenyon Martin, a dominant power forward born on December 30, 1977. Over his 15-year career, he suited up for several teams, including the New Jersey Nets, Denver Nuggets, and Los Angeles Clippers. In 2004, he earned an NBA All-Star selection, showcasing his tenacity and defensive prowess. Beyond the NBA, he even took his talents overseas, playing for the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in China. Since retiring, Martin has stayed close to the game, sharing his insights through various basketball podcasts.
Tyronn Lue
Rounding out the list is Tyronn Lue, born on May 3, 1977. While many remember him for his playing days—where he won back-to-back championships in 2000 and 2001—his coaching career has been even more impactful. As the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lue led LeBron James and company to their first-ever NBA title in 2016. Now coaching the Los Angeles Clippers, he remains one of the league’s top strategic minds. On top of that, he recently added an Olympic gold medal to his resume as an assistant coach for Team USA in 2024.
Beyond the legends already mentioned, plenty of other NBA greats share this zodiac sign. Some honorable mentions include Stephon Marbury, a two-time All-Star who made waves in both the NBA and China, Blake Griffin, a high-flying dunk machine and former Rookie of the Year, and David Robinson, the Hall of Fame center who led the Spurs to two championships.
As for active players? The list includes James Harden, known for his elite scoring ability, Jimmy Butler, a relentless competitor, and DeMar DeRozan, a mid-range maestro. But how they’re shaping today’s game? That’s a story for another day.
The post Steve Kerr to Scottie Pippen: NBA Legends Who Were Born in the Chinese Year of the Snake appeared first on EssentiallySports.
