Norman Powell was born on May 25, 1993, in San Diego, California. He grew up surrounded by sports, and it was his uncle, Raymond Edwards, who first introduced him to basketball. Powell quickly fell in love with the game and began honing his skills at a young age.
As a high school student at Lincoln High School in San Diego, Powell became the driving force behind the revitalization of the school's basketball team. After the school had been rebuilt, Powell led his team to prominence with his exceptional skills on the court. He was twice named the Western League MVP and earned First-Team All-State honors during his time at Lincoln.
One of the standout moments of Powell's high school career was winning the San Diego County All-Star Game Dunk Contest in 2011, showcasing his athleticism and talent to a wider audience.
After a successful high school career, Norman Powell went on to play college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins. Powell played four years with the Bruins, making significant contributions to the team's success during his time there.
One of Powell's teammates at UCLA was shooting guard Zach LaVine, who would later go on to be drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014. Powell and LaVine formed a formidable duo on the court, showcasing their skills and athleticism to the college basketball world.
In the 2015 NBA Draft, Norman Powell was selected 46th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks. However, he was quickly traded to the Toronto Raptors, where he would go on to make a name for himself in the NBA.
During his time with the Raptors, Powell became known for his defensive prowess, versatility, and scoring ability. He played a crucial role in the team's success, including their historic win of the 2019 NBA Championship.
Norman Powell continues to make an impact in the NBA, earning respect for his hard work, dedication, and skill on the court. He remains a key player for the Toronto Raptors, showcasing his talents and contributing to the team's success.
Off the court, Norman Powell is known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to giving back to his community. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives and works to inspire and mentor young athletes.
Powell's journey from a talented high school athlete to a successful NBA player is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and determination. He continues to strive for excellence both on and off the court, setting an example for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Two-time Western League MVP in high school.
First-Team All-State honors in high school.
Winner of the San Diego County All-Star Game Dunk Contest in 2011.
2019 NBA Champion with the Toronto Raptors.