In the NBA, rapid ascents and tragic falls are not uncommon. Former Boston Celtics big man Vin Baker, became a four-time All-Star and a two-time All-NBA player by age 26. His journey from a relatively unknown high school player to standout at Hartford paved the way for his selection by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 1993 NBA draft.
Baker’s scoring, rebounding, post scoring, footwork, and court vision pushed him to stardom. But the pinnacle of his career came crashing down around 1999 when his off-court struggles with alcohol and drugs, a well-kept secret during his playing days, started to unravel. By 2003, while playing for Boston, liver damage due to substance abuse was discovered. Baker’s career in the NBA effectively ended, and he faced personal and financial ruin.
However, after six years of sobriety, Baker made a remarkable comeback. He found redemption by coaching youth programs and eventually becoming an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Bucks.
He played a significant part in the team’s 2021 Championship run, highlighting his ability to rebound not just on the court but in life. Check out the clip embedded above to hear his story from the Andy Hoops YouTube channel.
Listen to the “Celtics Lab” podcast on:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3zBKQY6
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3GfUPFi
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3F9DvjQ