Last Updated on January 29, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake
Larry Joe Kenon, also known as “Special K,” is a retired American professional basketball player renowned for his scoring and rebounding prowess during the 1970s and early 1980s. Below is an overview of his personal background and professional career:
- Full Name: Larry Joe Kenon
- Nationality: American
- Date of Birth: December 13, 1952
- Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Height: 6 feet 9 inches (206 cm)
- Weight: 205 pounds (93 kg)
- Wingspan: 6 feet 10 inches (208cm)
- Shoe Size: Size 16 (US)
- Jersey Number: 35
- Position: Power Forward / Small Forward
- High School: Ullman High School, Birmingham, Alabama
- College:
- Amarillo College
- Memphis State University
- NBA Draft: 1973, 3rd round, 50th overall pick by the Detroit Pistons
- Professional Teams:
- New York Nets (ABA) (1973–1975)
- San Antonio Spurs (ABA/NBA) (1975–1980)
- Chicago Bulls (1980–1982)
- Golden State Warriors (1982–1983)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (1982–1983)
- Championship Rings: 1 (ABA Championship with New York Nets in 1974)
- Children: Information not publicly available
- Siblings: Information not publicly available
Career Highlights:
- Three-time ABA All-Star
- Two-time NBA All-Star
- Holds the NBA record for most steals in a single game with 11
- Averaged 21.2 points and 10.1 rebounds during his five seasons with the San Antonio Spurs
College Career:
Kenon began his collegiate basketball journey at Amarillo College, where he showcased exceptional talent, averaging 27.6 points and 25.1 rebounds per game. He then transferred to Memphis State University, leading the team to the National Championship game against UCLA in 1973.
Professional Career:
Drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1973, Kenon opted to join the ABA’s New York Nets, contributing to their 1974 ABA Championship victory. He later played for the San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Golden State Warriors, and Cleveland Cavaliers, making significant impacts on each team.
Post-Retirement:
After retiring from professional basketball, Kenon’s legacy continues to be honored, notably with his induction into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.
Personal Background:
Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Kenon attended Ullman High School before embarking on his collegiate and professional basketball career. Throughout his time in the ABA and NBA, he was known for his athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive skills.