Cade Cunningham was born on September 25, 2001 in Arlington, Texas, into a sports-oriented family. His father, Keith, was a football player, instilling a love for athletics in Cade from a young age. He has an older brother named Cannen who also shared his passion for sports. Growing up, Cade showed exceptional talent on the basketball court, quickly making a name for himself in the competitive Texas basketball scene.
During his junior high school season, Cade transferred to Montverde Academy, a powerhouse basketball program in Florida. It was there that he began to truly shine, showcasing his skills and leading Montverde to multiple victories. His performances caught the attention of scouts and college recruiters across the country.
In 2019, Cade was named the MVP of the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League while playing for the Texas Titans, solidifying his status as one of the top prospects in his class. He was also selected as a McDonald's All-American and the Naismith Prep Player of the Year, further cementing his reputation as a future star.
After an impressive high school career, Cade had his pick of top college programs vying for his talents. In 2020, he made the decision to commit to Oklahoma State University, becoming the first five-star recruit to sign with the Cowboys since Marcus Smart in 2012. His decision to join Oklahoma State was a game-changer for the program, instantly elevating their national profile.
Cade's talents were not limited to the U.S. courts. In 2019, he led the U-19 U.S. national team to a gold medal at the FIBA U-19 World Cup, showcasing his leadership and skill on an international stage. His performance was hailed as a testament to his basketball prowess and ability to excel under pressure.
After a standout freshman season at Oklahoma State, Cade declared for the 2021 NBA Draft, where he was selected as the first overall pick by the Detroit Pistons. His selection marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to his craft, as he officially entered the professional ranks of the NBA.
Off the court, Cade is a devoted father to his daughter, Riley, who was born in 2018. Despite his rapid rise to basketball stardom, he remains grounded and values his family above all else. His journey from a promising high school recruit to the number one pick in the NBA Draft is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and unwavering determination to succeed.
As Cade Cunningham continues to make his mark on the basketball world, his future looks bright with limitless potential. He has already proven himself as a force to be reckoned with, and his journey is only just beginning.