Last Updated on September 8, 2024 by Mathew Diekhake

Here’s a detailed profile for Mychal Thompson:

  • Full Name: Mychal George Thompson
  • Nationality: Bahamian-American
  • Age: Born January 30, 1955
  • Hometown: Nassau, Bahamas
  • Height: 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 meters)
  • Weight: 235 pounds (107 kg)
  • Wingspan: 7 feet (2.13 meters)
  • Shoe Size: Size 16 (US)
  • Number: Wore 43 during his NBA career
  • Position: Power Forward / Center
  • High School: Miami Jackson Senior High School in Miami, Florida
  • College: University of Minnesota (1974–1978)
    • Thompson had an outstanding college career, earning multiple All-American honors.
  • Draft: 1978 NBA Draft; 1st overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers
    • Mychal Thompson was the first foreign-born player to be selected as the number one overall pick in the NBA Draft.
  • NBA Teams Played For:
    1. Portland Trail Blazers (1978–1986)
    2. San Antonio Spurs (1986–1987)
    3. Los Angeles Lakers (1987–1991)
  • Championships: 2 (1987, 1988 NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers)
    • Thompson was an important part of the Lakers’ “Showtime” era, providing key minutes off the bench as a versatile big man.
  • Kids: Mychal Thompson has three sons:
    • Klay Thompson – NBA star and multiple-time champion with the Golden State Warriors
    • Trayce Thompson – Major League Baseball player (currently with the Chicago White Sox)
    • Mychel Thompson – Former professional basketball player
  • Siblings: Public information about his siblings is limited.

Mychal Thompson is remembered as a highly skilled big man with a high basketball IQ who played a critical role in the Lakers’ success during the Showtime era and is a respected figure both on and off the court.

Fun Facts

  • Versatility: Mychal Thompson was known for his ability to play both center and power forward effectively, giving the Lakers valuable depth during their championship runs in the 1980s.
  • Showtime Lakers: He was a key reserve on the Lakers’ back-to-back championship teams in 1987 and 1988, contributing on both ends of the floor.
  • Broadcasting Career: After retiring, Thompson became a prominent sports radio host and commentator, serving as a longtime color analyst for the Lakers’ radio broadcasts.
  • Bahamian Roots: Thompson was born in the Bahamas and remains one of the most celebrated athletes from the country. His success helped pave the way for other international players in the NBA.