A dominant center in the NBA, known for his three-point shooting and Turkish national team success. He's a beloved figure in Turkish basketball history.
Known for his remarkable three-point shooting and ability to space the floor, Mehmet Okur is a Turkish former professional basketball player who made history in the NBA. With his impressive skills and clutch performances, he earned the nickname "The Money Man" and "Memo is Money" among Utah Jazz fans.
Okur was born on May 26, 1979, in Turkey. Growing up, he idolized Toni Kukoč, a renowned Croatian basketball player. Okur's passion for basketball led him to play for the Turkish 22-and-under national team, helping them secure a sixth-place finish at the 1997 World Championship.
In 2000, Okur joined Efes Pilsen (now known as Anadolu Efes) and won a championship in the 2001-2002 Turkish Basketball League season. He averaged an impressive 13.5 points per game in his last season in Turkey, earning him a spot in the 2001 NBA draft.
Selected 38th overall by the Detroit Pistons, Okur played two seasons with the team from 2002 to 2004. During his time with the Pistons, he displayed his skills, including a career-high 18 rebounds and 12 points in a 105-99 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.
In 2004, Okur helped the Pistons win their first NBA championship, becoming the first Turkish player to achieve this feat. Following the championship win, Okur signed a six-year, $50 million contract with the Utah Jazz, where he spent seven seasons. During his time with the Jazz, he proved himself as a talented shooter, earning his nickname "The Money Man."
In 2016, Okur became a player development coach for the Phoenix Suns, marking the first time a Turkish citizen entered the NBA coaching world. Throughout his career, Okur has inspired a generation of Turkish basketball players, paving the way for those who aspire to follow in his footsteps.
Okur's success on and off the court can be attributed to his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. He believes in the importance of perseverance, hard work, and passion, inspiring others to strive for excellence.
Okur's achievements have transcended the basketball court, inspiring a new generation of Turkish athletes to pursue their dreams in the NBA. His legacy continues to have a profound impact on Turkish basketball, fostering a sense of national pride and unity.
41 Years Old
A dominant point guard who led two NBA teams to the playoffs and was a three-time NBA All-Star, known for his exceptional passing ability and scoring prowess.
44 Years Old
Power forward who played 13 seasons in the NBA, earning two All-Star selections and helping the Utah Jazz reach the Western Conference Finals in 2007.
44 Years Old
A versatile small forward who played in the NBA and internationally, known for his all-around skills and defensive prowess.
40 Years Old
Power forward who played 16 seasons in the NBA, earning four All-Star selections and known for his consistent all-around skills.
44 Years Old
A sharpshooting specialist with a record-breaking three-point streak, known for his incredible accuracy beyond the arc. 42
41 Years Old
Dominant center who played 14 seasons in the NBA, earning All-NBA Third Team honors in 2014. Known for his post-up skills and consistent scoring ability.
49 Years Old
A tenacious defender and 3-point shooter who played 12 seasons in the NBA, earning a reputation as a tough, hard-nosed competitor.
49 Years Old
Former NBA player turned sportscaster, known for his 12-year playing career and current work as an analyst for ESPN and Utah Jazz broadcasts.
