SUMMARY
- Michael Porter Jr.'s basketball journey is deeply rooted in his family's rich basketball legacy.
- Michael Porter Sr. had the opportunity to coach Michael Jr. and his brother Jontay.
Michael Porter Jr. is an American professional basketball player for the Denver Nuggets of the NBA. Selected 14th overall by the Nuggets in the 2018 NBA draft, Michael’s basketball career is greatly influenced by his parents, Lisa and Michael Porter Sr.
His journey from being one of the top prospects of the 2017 class to winning an NBA championship in 2023, shows his skill, dedication, and the role of his family. Both of his parents had a long history in basketball.
Lisa Porter was a former professional player and coach, and Michael Porter Sr. was a seasoned player and coach at various levels, including college basketball. Michael Porter Jr. also once acknowledged the crucial role his parents played in his basketball career.
Michael Porter Sr. was a four-year member of the University of New Orleans basketball team
Michael Porter Sr.’s basketball journey started in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and took him to the University of New Orleans, where he played for four years before graduating in 1989. His experience on the court and coaching career has been instrumental in shaping not only his own children’s careers but also the lives of numerous young athletes.
Michael Sr.’s passion for basketball did not stop after his playing days were over, he transitioned into coaching, taking assistant coach roles at the University of Washington and Missouri, where he had the opportunity to coach his sons, Michael Jr. and Jontay.
Lisa Porter played college basketball for the Iowa Hawkeyes from 1983-87
Lisa Porter has an impressive basketball career. During her tenure (1983-1987) with the Iowa Hawkeyes, she won multiple awards, including Big Ten Freshman of the Year and Academic All-Big Ten honors. Her impact on the court helped lead Iowa to its first Big Ten title and NCAA Tournament appearance in women’s basketball.
Apart from her college career, Lisa also caught attention at the national level. She participated in the 1984 Olympic team trials and made the 1985 and 1987 U.S. Select Team. Lisa played a big role in coaching and mentoring her children.
Michael Porter Jr. has seven siblings
Michael Porter Jr. is one of eight siblings, all of whom have been involved in sports at different levels. His older sisters, Bri and Cierra played for the University of Missouri’s women’s basketball team. Also, Cierra was named SEC Sixth Woman of the Year in 2018-19.
Jontay, Michael Jr.’s younger brother, has also made a name for himself in basketball, playing in the NBA and G League. The younger Porters, Coban, Jevon, Izaak, and Jayda, have all followed sports careers.