Zachary Thomas LaVine, born on March 10, 1995, is an accomplished American professional basketball player currently playing for the Chicago Bulls in the National Basketball Association (NBA). LaVine's journey in the NBA began when he was selected as the 13th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2014 NBA draft.
Known for his incredible athleticism and dunking ability, LaVine has earned the title of a two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion. His on-court prowess was further recognized when he was named an NBA All-Star in both 2021 and 2022. Additionally, LaVine secured a gold medal as part of the 2020 U.S. Olympic team in Tokyo, showcasing his talent on the international stage.
Hailing from the Seattle area, LaVine gained recognition as the top high school player in the state. He continued his basketball journey at UCLA, playing for the Bruins. After an impressive freshman season, he transitioned to the NBA, making a significant impact from the start. As a rookie with the Timberwolves, he not only won the Slam Dunk Contest but also earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. In 2016, LaVine achieved a rare feat by becoming the fourth NBA player to win consecutive dunk contests. His dedication to the game led him to the Chicago Bulls after being traded in 2017.