Ken Darnel Norman, born on May 9, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, was the seventh of twelve children in a struggling family. His father passed away when he was just seven years old, leaving his mother to care for the large brood on her own. Half of his siblings were raised by their grandparents, including his half-brother, Bobby Duckworth, who later went on to play in the NFL for the San Diego Chargers and the Los Angeles Rams.
Norman attended Crane High School in Chicago, where he began making a name for himself on the basketball court. He then continued his education and basketball career at the University of Illinois. In 1987, he was selected by the Los Angeles Clippers as the 19th overall pick in the NBA draft, marking the beginning of his professional basketball career.
Norman played a total of 10 seasons in the NBA, six of which were with the Los Angeles Clippers. Known for his scoring ability, he appeared in 646 games and scored an impressive 8,717 points throughout his career. His skills on the court earned him the nickname "the Snake" among fans and fellow players alike.
In 2004, Norman was honored by being elected to the Illinois Men's Basketball All-Century Team, a testament to his impact on the sport in his home state. His contributions to the game were further celebrated in 2015 when he was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association's Hall of Fame.
Following his retirement from professional basketball, Norman transitioned into a career in real estate. He gained recognition for owning a lavish mansion in Illinois, which was famously showcased on the popular MTV Cribs television show. Despite his success off the court, Norman remains a beloved figure in the basketball community, particularly for his time playing for the University of Illinois.
Ken Darnel Norman's story is one of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. From humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming a standout player in the NBA, he has left a lasting impact on the world of basketball. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of hard work and dedication in achieving one's dreams, both on and off the court.