Jeff Hornacek was born on March 3, 1963, in Elmhurst, Illinois. He grew up in a sports-loving family, with his father serving as a basketball and baseball coach at St. Joseph High School. Hornacek developed a passion for basketball at a young age and excelled throughout his high school years.
After graduating from high school, Hornacek went on to attend Iowa State University, where he quickly made a name for himself on the basketball court. In 1986, he helped lead Iowa State to an upset victory over the 2-seeded University of Michigan in the NCAA tournament, propelling them to the Sweet 16.
Following his successful college career, Hornacek was selected 46th overall in the 1986 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns. Known for his sharp-shooting from beyond the arc, Hornacek quickly became a fan favorite and established himself as one of the league's top shooting guards.
During his time in the NBA, Hornacek played for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers, and Utah Jazz. He was an NBA All-Star in 1991 and his #14 jersey was ultimately retired by the Utah Jazz in honor of his contributions to the team.
Throughout his career, Hornacek maintained an impressive scoring average of 14.5 points per game and boasted a remarkable 40.3% three-point shooting percentage. He was a key player in leading the Utah Jazz to multiple NBA Finals appearances, although they were unable to secure a championship victory against the dominant Chicago Bulls led by Michael Jordan.
After retiring as a player, Hornacek transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the Utah Jazz before eventually becoming the head coach of the Phoenix Suns in 2013. He later went on to coach the New York Knicks from 2016 to 2018, showcasing his leadership skills and basketball acumen on the sidelines.
Off the court, Hornacek is a devoted family man. He is married to Stacy Hornacek and together they have a daughter named Abby, as well as two sons, Tyler and Ryan. Hornacek's family plays an important role in his life, providing love and support throughout his basketball career.
Jeff Hornacek's legacy in the world of basketball is undeniable. From his humble beginnings in Illinois to his stellar performance in the NBA, he has left a lasting impact on the sport. His dedication, talent, and leadership have inspired countless fans and aspiring basketball players around the world.
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