What Happened to Danny Granger?

By Edcel Panganiban April 03, 2024 11:18

Former Indiana Pacers star Danny Granger Jr. was born on April 20, 1983, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

He attended Grace King in Metairie, Louisiana, before pursuing his college education at Bradley and New Mexico.

Granger made significant contributions during his college basketball career, earning notable accolades such as being part of the Missouri Valley Conference All-Freshman team for Bradley in 2001–02 and leading the Lobos in various statistical categories during his time at New Mexico.

NBA Draft and Career

Drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the 2005 NBA Draft as the 17th overall pick, Granger began his professional basketball journey. He made an impressive NBA debut on November 2, 2005, as a Small Forward and went on to have a successful ten-year career in the league.

Career Highlights and Injuries

Throughout his NBA career, Granger achieved several significant milestones, including being named an NBA All-Star, winning the Most Improved Player award for the 2008-09 season, and representing the United States at the FIBA World Championship in 2010.

His exceptional performances led to notable achievements, such as averaging 26 points per game in 2009 and leading the Pacers in scoring for multiple seasons.

However, his career was also marred by injuries, particularly to his left knee, which significantly impacted his playing time and performance.

These injuries led to extended periods of absence from the court, limiting his ability to contribute consistently to his teams.

Later Career Stints and Retirement

Following his tenure with the Indiana Pacers, Granger had brief stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, and Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, his time with these teams was plagued by further injury issues, ultimately leading to his retirement from professional basketball in 2015.

Life Beyond Basketball

After retiring from basketball, Granger pursued various endeavors. He engaged in real estate investment and ventured into sports analysis, working as a studio and game analyst for the CBS Sports Network.

Also, he was honored with an induction into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame in April 2017, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of sports.

Personal Life

Granger hails from a religious background and was raised in a household influenced by Jehovah's Witnesses.

He is also related to the renowned "Queen of Gospel," Mahalia Jackson, as her great-nephew. Granger is a family man with a wife and three children and has been actively involved in the "Dribble to Stop Diabetes" campaign due to his family's history with diabetes.

In summary

Danny Granger's basketball career was marked by remarkable achievements, notable setbacks due to injuries, and a transition to diverse activities post-retirement.

His impact on the NBA and the broader sports community remains significant, and his resilience in the face of challenges serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and individuals alike.