Kenny Gattison on playing with and against Michael Jordan as a kid, why he chose ODU, and his NBA career with the Hornets

In The Front Row with Mike Vaccaro

Kenny Gattison was born and raised in Wilmington, NC during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. Sports became his outlet and he excelled in football at New Hanover High School dreaming of being an NFL tight end. When he started growing, basketball soon became his sport and one that he dominated on the streets of Wilmington playing with, and against childhood friend Michael Jordan (known then as Mike Jordan). After attending the Five-Star Camps in Pennsylvania, college coaches started recruiting Gattison. Old Dominion in Norfolk, VA would be the perfect fit for him to remain close to home. Playing for the Monarchs from 1982-86, Gattison was an outstanding scorer and rebounder and was named Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year his senior season. The Phoenix Suns drafted Gattison in 1986. He injured his knee his second season, but would rehab and sign with the Charlotte Hornets where he would once again play close to home. A member of the Hornets teams from 1989-95, Gattison helped lead the expansion franchise to two playoff appearances and would play with some of the biggest names in franchise history including Muggsy Bogues, Dell Curry, Alonzo Mourning and others. Following his retirement, Gattison was called into coaching starting with a stint as assistant coach to John Calipari with the New Jersey Nets. After coaching for 13 years, Gattison began a third act as Vice President of the National Basketball Retired Players Association. In this episode, Gattison shares his journey including pick-up games with some of the game’s greats when they were just kids, recruitment by Dean Smith and the lessons he’s carried throughout his life. He also reflects on many honors he’s received including induction into multiple halls of fame and having the New Hanover High School basketball court named in his honor.