Richard “Rip” Hamilton

Before the NBA

Richard “Rip” Hamilton was born February 14, 1978. He was born and played high school basketball in Coates ville, Pennsylvania. After graduation in 1996, he attended, and played basketball for the University of Connecticut. In his senior year, 1999, he was named the NCAA Most Outstanding Player.

NBA

“Rip” Hamilton was the 7th overall draft pick in 1999. After playing for the Washington Wizards for three years he was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Since the trade, Hamilton's career began to boom. What began as a horrible injury to his nose, lead to a now infamous mask. After he broke his nose, he wore the mask to ensure that it would not be broken again and so he could play in future games. This mask is now one of Hamilton's most distinguishing features on the court.

Hamilton's Accomplishments and Awards

• Hamilton was named the NCAA Most Outstanding Player in 1999.
• His college number was retired in his honor.
• In 2004 the Pistons won the National Championship.
• He participated in the 2006 and 2007 All-Star Games.
• On January 9, 2007 he reached a career total of 10,000 points.
• His career high is 51 points which was recorded on December 26, 2006

Hamilton's Stats (NBA.com as of May 2nd, 2007)

• He plays shooting guard and small forward
• Height: 6 foot 7 inches
• Weight: 193 pounds
• His points per game is averaged at 19.8 (career)
• His rebounds per game is averaged at 3.8 (career)
• His assists per game is averaged at 3.8 (career)