Lionel Hollins

Career Highlights

• 1977 NBA Champion with the Portland Trail Blazers
• NBA All-Star (1978)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1976)
• Drafted 6th overall in 1975 by the Portland Trail Blazers
• 10-year playing career spanning five NBA franchises
• Head Coach, Memphis Grizzlies (2009–2013): led team to first playoff series win in franchise history, defeating #1 seed San Antonio Spurs
• Memphis Grizzlies franchise-record 56 wins in 2012–13, reached Western Conference Finals
• Head Coach, Brooklyn Nets (2014–2016)
• Inducted into Southern Nevada Sports Hall of Fame

About Lionel

Lionel Hollins is one of the most accomplished player-coaches in professional basketball. Born in Arkansas City, Kansas, Hollins became a star at Arizona State before the Portland Trail Blazers made him a top-ten pick in 1975. His arrival in Portland coincided with one of the most magical eras in franchise history.

In 1977, Hollins was a key contributor to Portland's first and only NBA Championship, playing alongside Bill Walton in one of the era's most beloved teams. The following season, he earned his only All-Star selection — a testament to his growth as one of the league's finest point guards.

His second act as a coach was equally impressive. Taking over the Memphis Grizzlies in 2009, Hollins transformed the team into a Western Conference force through his philosophy of defensive intensity and blue-collar determination — the "Grit and Grind" era that Memphis fans still revere. His Grizzlies teams twice upset higher-seeded opponents in the playoffs, including a legendary first-round win over the #1-seeded San Antonio Spurs.

Teams Played For

Portland Trail Blazers · Phoenix Suns · Philadelphia 76ers · San Diego Clippers · Houston Rockets