Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Here is the detailed profile of John Paxson:

Player Profile

  • Full Name: John MacBeth Paxson
  • Nickname: Pax
  • Nationality: American
  • Date of Birth: September 29, 1960
  • Hometown: Kettering, Ohio, United States
  • Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
  • Weight: 190 lb (86 kg)
  • Wingspan: 6 ft 4 in
  • Shoe Size: Size 13
  • Jersey Number:
    • #4 — Notre Dame Fighting Irish men’s basketball (College)
    • #4 — San Antonio Spurs (NBA)
    • #4 — Chicago Bulls (NBA)
  • Position: Point Guard
  • High School: Archbishop Alter High School (Kettering, Ohio)
  • College: University of Notre Dame (1979–1983)
  • NBA Draft: 1983 — Round 1, Pick 19 — San Antonio Spurs
  • Teams Played For:
    • San Antonio Spurs (1983–1985)
    • Chicago Bulls (1985–1994)
  • Championship Rings: 3 — NBA Champion with the Chicago Bulls (1991, 1992, 1993)
  • Children: Four children
  • Siblings: Jim Paxson (brother), Tom Paxson (brother)

Player Archetype / Play Style

John Paxson fit the mold of a steady floor-general guard archetype, known more for decision-making and shooting reliability than high-volume scoring. Defensively, he usually handled opposing point guards, focusing on positioning and effort to stay within the team’s defensive structure. On offense, Paxson’s job was to run the offense, move the ball efficiently, and knock down open perimeter shots, particularly when defenses collapsed on star teammates. He played with a solid 6-2 frame and controlled footwork, traits that helped him stay balanced and composed in half-court sets. Overall, his style reflected a disciplined, team-oriented guard who valued ball movement, smart shot selection, and dependable perimeter shooting.

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.