In Focus: Shawn Kemp
Shawn Kemp at the 1991 Slam Dunk Contest. (John Biever/SI)
By Andy Gray
On Monday, Shawn Kemp celebrated his 43rd birthday. In honor of this important event, here’s a look at Kemp’s career — from the high-flying days in Seattle to his slightly overweight tenure in Orlando.
GALLERY: Rare Photos of Shawn Kemp
The “Reign Man” in the rain. (Ronald C. Modra/SI)
*****
Kemp (right) and Gary Payton defend Charles Barkley during a 1993 Sonics-Suns game. (John W. McDonough/SI)
*****
Vincent Askew (from left to right), Kendall Gill, Gary Payton and Kemp wait at the scorer’s table during a 1994 game. (John W. McDonough/SI)
*****
Kemp takes a quick rest during a 1998 Cavs-Pacers game. (AP)
*****
Dale Davis (left) and Kemp talk during Blazers Media Day in 2000. (AP/Don Ryan)
*****
Kemp talks to Grant Hill (left) and Tracy McGrady during a 2002 Magic-Lakers game. (Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE/Getty Images)
*****
For more historic sports photos, NBA and otherwise, visit the SI Photo Blog and follow Andy Gray on Twitter.
Talk about the shortest 'prime' in the history of basketball...1, or 2 yrs??? man what a tragedy, LOVE this phenom!!!