Last Updated on April 18, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Here’s the detailed information about Duane Cooper:

Player Profile

  • Full Name: Duane Earl Cooper
  • Nationality: American
  • Age: Born June 25, 1969
  • Hometown: Benton Harbor, Michigan
  • Height: 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m)
  • Weight: 185 lbs (84 kg)
  • Wingspan: 6 feet 2 inches
  • Shoe Size: Size 11 (US)
  • Number: Wore jersey numbers 5 and 21 during his NBA career
  • Position: Point guard
  • High School: Pasadena High School (Pasadena, California)
  • College: University of Southern California (USC) (1987–1992)
  • NBA Draft: 1992, Round 2, Pick 36 by the Los Angeles Lakers
  • Teams Played For:
    • Los Angeles Lakers (1992–1993)
    • Phoenix Suns (1993–1994)
  • Championship Rings: None
  • Kids: Not publicly disclosed
  • Siblings: Not publicly disclosed

Player Archetype / Play Style

Duane Cooper’s player archetype was that of a quick, undersized floor general, a 6-foot-1 point guard whose game was built around pace, ball control, and playmaking rather than size or power. Defensively, his role was to pressure opposing guards at the point of attack and stay disruptive with speed and effort, while offensively he operated as a traditional lead guard who organized the team, pushed tempo, and created opportunities for others before looking for his own shot. His physical traits were modest by NBA standards at 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, but that compact frame paired well with his quickness, and contemporary coverage of his USC years specifically highlighted how fast he was with the ball. Overall, his play style was that of a steady table-setter: a fast, competitive guard who could run an offense, keep the game moving, and rely on quickness and composure more than flashy scoring volume. (Basketball Reference)

Fun Facts

  • Duane Cooper had a short NBA career, playing as a backup point guard for two seasons.
  • He was known for his defensive effort and playmaking during his time at USC, where he was a standout college player.
  • After his NBA stint, Cooper played professionally overseas and in various minor leagues, including the CBA (Continental Basketball Association).
  • Cooper has since been involved in coaching and mentoring young basketball players, focusing on skill development.

Sources:

Basketball-Reference — Duane Cooper Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft Status and more
Los Angeles Times — Tougher the Competition, the Better Duane Cooper Plays
Sports-Reference — Duane Cooper College Stats
The New York Times — TV SPORTS; Walton: Analyst For the 90’s?