11 NBA Father-Son Pairs That Prove Basketball Is in Their Blood
Some of the NBA’s most remarkable players grew up with basketball in their blood, learning from fathers who once graced the league. These duos show how the sport has evolved through different eras, with unique challenges shaping their journeys. Let’s explore how these 15 father-son pairs impacted the game’s history.
Dell and Steph Curry
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In the Curry household, basketball was a way of life. Steph grew up watching his dad sink three-pointers with ease, but his own journey was full of doubts. He wasn’t heavily recruited for college basketball but nonetheless silenced critics with his determination.
Rick and Brent Barry
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Rick Barry’s underhand free throw was unconventional but effective. His son Brent embraced the fundamentals but stayed far from flashy. Despite their differences, Brent’s championship-winning contributions reflect how his father’s no-nonsense attitude shaped him into a reliable player in the league.
Joe and Kobe Bryant
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Joe Bryant’s decision to move his family to Italy wasn’t just career-driven; it was about giving his kids a different life experience. Living in Italy introduced Kobe to a disciplined and tactical approach to basketball. This early exposure shaped his focus and fueled a career that would forever redefine the sport.
Mychal and Klay Thompson
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Mychal Thompson was the first overall pick in 1978, but that wasn’t his family’s peak. Years later, Klay Thompson’s unshakeable calm under pressure became the cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors dynasty. Mychal’s proud commentary during Klay’s games shows how special their bond is.
Tim and Tim Hardaway Jr.
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When Tim Hardaway Jr. was growing up, playground conversations often revolved around his dad’s famous crossover. For Tim Jr., the pressure to live up to that reputation was immense. Instead of imitating, he built his identity as a sharpshooter and proved that authenticity beats comparison.
Arvydas and Domantas Sabonis
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Injury robbed Arvydas Sabonis of his full potential in the NBA, but his dominance in Europe left a permanent mark. Decades later, Domantas brought that same finesse to the league by thriving in a system that now celebrates global talent. It’s a full-circle moment for the Sabonis name.
Doc and Austin Rivers
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For Austin, being coached by his dad, the NBA All-Star, wasn’t always easy. Critics often hinted towards favoritism, but Austin’s grit on the court silenced doubters and proved that he earned his place through effort, not connections.
Patrick and Patrick Ewing Jr.
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Few players embodied the Knicks’ grit like Patrick Ewing, and his son inherited that fighting spirit. Patrick Jr. faced setbacks during his career but never shied away from hard work. His resilience reflects a deeper lesson: basketball is as much about character as skill.
Gary and Gary Payton II
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Gary Payton II’s journey could’ve ended after being waived multiple times, but he chose persistence over defeat. Earning a championship years later, he credited his father’s advice about staying focused during setbacks.
Wes and Wes Matthews Jr.
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Wes Matthews Sr. played in a tough, physical era of basketball, but the modern game demanded a new skill set. Wes Jr. adjusted to that by becoming a versatile defender and spot-up shooter.
Henry and Mike Bibby
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For Mike Bibby, basketball was more about preparation than play. His father, Henry, was all about discipline and mental toughness, traits that Mike carried into his clutch playoff performances.
Larry and Kevin Nance Jr.
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Larry Nance Sr. was a consistent force in every game he played. For Kevin Jr., those expectations translated into embracing hustle plays and defensive stops. Their shared passion for giving their all shows that greatness isn’t always in the spotlight.
Harvey and Jerami Grant
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The NBA spotlight wasn’t always kind to Harvey Grant, who often played in the shadow of his twin brother. Jerami’s rise as an excellent scorer and defender gave the Grant family a fresh chapter and turned what was once an underdog narrative into a story of perseverance.
Bill and Luke Walton
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Bill Walton’s passion for the game never waned, even as injuries cut his playing career short. Watching his father get past those struggles inspired Luke to approach basketball with a balance of intensity and joy.
Manute and Bol Bol
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Manute Bol was a towering presence on the court, known for his shot-blocking skills and unique playing style. His son, Bol Bol, inherited not only his height but also a versatile skill set that allows him to contribute in modern NBA games.