Lauri Markkanen was born on May 22, 1997 in Finland to parents Pekka and Riikka Markkanen, both of whom were professional basketball players. He grew up in a sports-oriented family, with his brother Eero also pursuing a career as a professional soccer player. Lauri also has another brother, Miikka, who shares his passion for sports.
Markkanen's talent for basketball was evident from a young age, and he began competing at a high level early on. He represented Finland in the 2015 FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship as part of the Finnish U-18 national team, showcasing his skills on an international stage. In the 2016 FIBA Europe Under-20 Championship, he averaged an impressive 24.9 points per game, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the world of basketball.
After graduating from high school, Markkanen made the decision to further his basketball career by playing college basketball at the University of Arizona. Under the guidance of coach Sean Miller, he honed his skills and developed into a dominant force on the court. During his time at Arizona, Markkanen's performance earned him recognition as one of the top prospects in the 2017 NBA Draft.
In the 2017 NBA Draft, Markkanen was selected as the 7th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, he was soon traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he would begin his professional career. Markkanen quickly made an impact in the NBA, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility as a 7-footer. His impressive performance on the court earned him a reputation as one of the league's rising stars.
Off the court, Markkanen enjoys spending time with his family and friends. In 2018, he welcomed a son, further emphasizing the importance of family in his life. Despite his busy schedule as a professional basketball player, Markkanen remains committed to his loved ones and strives to be a positive role model for his son.
As Lauri Markkanen continues to make his mark in the NBA, his legacy grows stronger with each game he plays. With his combination of size, skill, and work ethic, he has the potential to become one of the game's elite players. Markkanen's journey from Finland to the NBA serves as an inspiration to young athletes around the world, showing that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
Related links