Dominique Wilkins

Dominique Wilkins, also known as the 'Human Highlight Film', was a highly skilled and exciting basketball player known for his scoring ability and electrifying dunks.

Basketball Player

January 12, 1960

Capricorn

65

Paris, France

Dominique Wilkins, also known as “The Human Highlight Film,” is a celebrated retired American basketball player who spent most of his professional career with the Atlanta Hawks. He gained fame for his exceptional dunking skills and dynamic playing style. A nine-time NBA All-Star, Wilkins secured the NBA scoring title in 1986 and was a five-time All-NBA selection. He also triumphed in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1985 and 1990 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.

Apart from his basketball career, Wilkins has actively participated in various charitable foundations, primarily focusing on diabetes awareness and prevention. After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2000, he became an advocate for education and healthy lifestyles for those affected by the disease. He established the Dominique Wilkins Foundation, which has provided over $5 million in diabetes-related medical supplies and care.

Wilkins had a remarkable college career at the University of Georgia, averaging 21.6 points per game and earning the title of SEC Men’s Basketball Player of the Year in 1981. The Utah Jazz drafted him as the 3rd overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft.

Throughout his career, Wilkins cemented his reputation as one of basketball’s greatest dunkers, joining the ranks of legends like Elgin Baylor, Connie Hawkins, and Julius Erving. He captivated fans with his signature windmill dunk and tireless effort on the court. Considered one of the most popular players in Atlanta Hawks history, Wilkins ranks among the top scorers of his era and is currently placed 46th on Nick Wright’s Top 50 NBA Players of the Last 50 Years list. His nickname, “The Human Highlight Film,” reflects his thrilling playing style.