George Mikan

Introduction:
George Mikan, the towering figure of American basketball, remains one of the most celebrated names in the history of the sport. Known for his exceptional height, superior skills, and undeniable dominance on the court, Mikan left an indelible mark on basketball that brought about rule changes and set new standards for the game. With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, Mikan remains a true legend of the game and a source of inspiration for aspiring basketball players across the world.

Basic Information and Background:
George Lawrence Mikan was born on June 18, 1924, in Joliet, Illinois, USA. He was the youngest of six children and grew up in a middle-class family. As a child, George suffered from a severe case of rheumatic fever, which caused him to miss several school years. However, he made a full recovery and became a star player on his high school basketball team. Mikan attended DePaul University, where he played college basketball and led his team to the NIT championship in 1945.

Career and Important Events in Life:
After completing his college studies, Mikan began his professional basketball career with the Chicago American Gears in 1946. He soon became one of the tallest players in the league, standing at 6 feet 10 inches, and quickly established himself as a dominant force on the court. In 1947, Mikan joined the Minneapolis Lakers, where he would go on to lead the team to five championships and become a seven-time all-star player. In addition to his impressive career, Mikan also played a pivotal role in shaping the game of basketball itself. His dominant play led to new rules being implemented, such as the introduction of the shot clock and the widening of the lane.

Personality and Motivation:
Mikan was known for his hard-working, determined, and competitive personality both on and off the court. He was a man of unwavering values and principles, who refused to compromise on his beliefs, no matter the circumstances. Mikan had a strong motivation to excel and be the best, which drove him to work tirelessly at perfecting his craft and never settling for anything less than his best.

Before Becoming Famous:
Before achieving fame and fortune, Mikan faced several obstacles and challenges. As a child, he struggled with a severe case of rheumatic fever, which kept him bedridden for over a year. However, he made a full recovery and went on to become a star player on his high school basketball team. Later, during his college years, Mikan faced discrimination and segregation due to his Polish heritage. Despite these challenges, he persevered and went on to achieve remarkable success in his career.

Family Life:
Mikan had a loving and devoted family, which included his wife Patricia and their six children. He remained married to Patricia until his death in 2005 and had a strong bond with his children throughout his life.

Linked to Other People in the Industry:
Mikan was a highly-respected figure in the world of basketball and had many friends, colleagues, and fans. He was often compared to legendary Celtics player Bill Russell due to his exceptional skills and influence on the game. Mikan also had numerous friends and colleagues in the industry who respected and admired him for his dedication, hard work, and contributions to the game.