Last Updated on January 8, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

Here’s detailed information about Isaiah Rider:

  • Full Name: Isaiah Rider Jr. (also known as J.R. Rider)
  • Nationality: American
  • Age: 53 (born March 12, 1971)
  • Hometown: Oakland, California
  • Height: 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters)
  • Weight: 215 pounds (98 kilograms)
  • Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
  • High School: Encinal High School, Alameda, California
  • College:
    1. Allen County Community College (1989–1990)
    2. Antelope Valley College (1990–1991)
    3. University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) (1991–1993)
  • NBA Draft: 1993 NBA Draft, 1st round, 5th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Teams Played For:
    1. Minnesota Timberwolves (1993–1996)
    2. Portland Trail Blazers (1996–1999)
    3. Atlanta Hawks (1999–2000)
    4. Los Angeles Lakers (2000–2001)
    5. Denver Nuggets (2001)
  • NBA Slam Dunk Contest Champion: 1994 (famous for his “East Bay Funk Dunk”)
  • NBA Championship: 2001 with the Los Angeles Lakers
    • Averaged a career-high 20.4 points per game in the 1994–95 season with the Timberwolves
    • Known for his athleticism, scoring ability, and dynamic dunking skills.
  • Kids: Isaiah Rider has a son named Nakia Rider, who has also been involved in basketball.
  • Siblings: He has a brother named Craig Rider.

Despite his talent, Rider’s career was marred by off-court issues and inconsistency, but he remains remembered for his electrifying play and impact in the 1990s.