Last Updated on July 1, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

Here is the detailed profile of John Paxson:

  • Full Name: John MacBeth Paxson
  • Nationality: American
  • Date of Birth (DOB): September 29, 1960
  • Hometown: Dayton, Ohio, USA
  • Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
  • Weight: 185 lbs (84 kg)
  • Wingspan: 6 ft 4 in
  • Shoe Size: Size 13 (US)
  • Number: 5 (primarily with the Chicago Bulls)
  • Position: Point Guard / Shooting Guard
  • High School: Archbishop Alter High School (Kettering, Ohio)
  • College: University of Notre Dame (1979–1983)
  • NBA Draft:
    • Year: 1983
    • Round: 1
    • Pick: 19
    • Team: San Antonio Spurs
  • Teams Played For:
    • San Antonio Spurs (1983–1985)
    • Chicago Bulls (1985–1994)
  • Championship Rings:
    • 3× NBA Champion (1991, 1992, 1993 with the Chicago Bulls)
  • Kids: Yes (He has two sons, but their names and details are kept private)
  • Siblings:
    • Jim Paxson (older brother, former NBA player and executive)

Player Overview: Paxson was known as a smart, efficient player who rarely made mistakes. He played within the system, rarely forcing plays, and always emphasized ball movement and spacing. Paxson most famously hit the game-winning three-pointer in Game 6 of the 1993 NBA Finals, sealing the Bulls’ third straight title.

Fun Facts

  • Known for his deadly mid-range and perimeter shooting, especially off passes from Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.
  • Though not a standout athlete, he was a solid positional defender and gave consistent effort.
  • Served as General Manager (2003–2009) and later VP of Basketball Operations.
  • Helped draft and develop players like Luol Deng, Joakim Noah, and Derrick Rose.
  • His older brother Jim Paxson was also an NBA All-Star and executive.
  • His 1993 Finals shot is one of the most iconic moments in Bulls history.