Ever wonder what it takes to reach the pinnacle of basketball success? For Samuel Bruce Perkins, born on June 14, 1961, it was a combination of raw talent, unwavering dedication, and the ability to shine alongside some of the game's greatest icons. From the playgrounds of Brooklyn to the hallowed halls of the University of North Carolina and finally, the bright lights of the NBA, Perkins, often called "Big Smooth" or "Sleepy Sam," carved out a remarkable legacy.
His journey began in Brooklyn, New York, but his formative years were spent in Latham, where he became a standout player at Shaker High School. This early promise propelled him to the University of North Carolina (UNC), where he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. As a Tar Heel, Perkins was named ACC Rookie of the Year in 1981, marking the beginning of a stellar college career that saw him amass over 2,000 points and 1,000 rebounds, all while earning a degree in communications. More importantly, he forged a dynasty, playing alongside future NBA legends like James Worthy and Michael Jordan, culminating in the 1982 NCAA Championship victory over Georgetown. That team, coached by the legendary Dean Smith, became synonymous with excellence, setting the stage for Perkins' professional career.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Samuel Bruce Perkins |
| Nicknames | Big Smooth, Sleepy Sam |
| Date of Birth | June 14, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
| High School | Samuel J. Tilden High School, Shaker High School (Latham, NY) |
| College | University of North Carolina (UNC) |
| Degree | Communications |
| College Achievements | ACC Rookie of the Year (1981), NCAA Champion (1982) |
| NBA Draft | 4th overall pick, 1984 NBA draft (Dallas Mavericks) |
| Playing Position | Power Forward, Center, Small Forward |
| NBA Teams | Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, Seattle SuperSonics, Indiana Pacers |
| NBA Career Length | 1984-2001 (15 seasons) |
| Olympic Medal | Gold Medal, 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics |
| NBA Playoffs Appearances | 13 out of 15 seasons |
| Post-Playing Career | Executive, Treasurer for the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), Youth Summer Camp Organizer |
| Summer Camp Location | Chapel Hill, NC |
| Reference Link | NBA.com - Sam Perkins Profile |
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