Seattle Sports Legend – Shawn Kemp

I am starting a new section.  Seattle Sports Legends.  For the first edition, we will be reliving one of Seattle’s favorite stars (before all the kids and drugs) – the Reign Man himself.  Shawn Kemp.

First and foremost, this isnt about the Shawn Kemp outside of the court.  We are all aware of his legal problems.  (If not you can see them here.)  I am here to pay tribute to the amazing basketball player that help define Seattle sports during the glory years of the Seattle Supersonics. 

The Beginning 

Shawn Kemp was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics (1st round, 17th pick) in 1989.  Although, he started only 1 game his rookie year, it was easy to note that his impact was going to big.  His 2nd year in the league is when this future superstar hit it big.  He was promoted to starter during the middle of the season and from there became of force to reckon with.  During the ‘90-’91 season he averaged 15 points, 8 rebounds, and finished runner up in the slam dunk compition.

 

Look at this young slim Shawn Kemp.

The Supes glory years.

Starting in the ‘91-’92 season the Seattle Supersonics were starting to take off.  The team was play above .500 basketball and the team was led by young superstars, Gary “The Glove” Payton and Shawn “The Reign Man” Kemp.  This young duo was known for ally-op dunks and tremenous teamwork.  During these next years, Shawn Kemp averaged a double-double until his last years in Seattle, ‘96-’97.  During this time, Shawn kemp more of less, was a freak!  Just look at these monster jams.

 What Shawn Kemp has ment to Seattle.

Kemp was a star.  Being a star in a city like Seattle is very unique.  People become attached to their icons here.  Just look at this last year when Ken Griffey Jr. returned to Seattle.  (Mariner fans boo’d our own pitcher when he threw to first during Griffey’s at bat).  Watching Kemp and Payton together was a thing of beauty.  They led the Sonics to a 60+ win season, a trip to the finals, and most importantly Kemp made Seattle proud of their sonics (which we still are Mr. Bennett, lets see OKC support a team that is as bad as they are now).

Shawn Kemp, a toast to you!!