Anfernee 'Penny' Hardaway, was the number 3 pick in the 1993 NBA Draft. Chris Webber was selected 1st by Orlando, Philadelphia selected Shawn Bradley 2ND & Golden State would select Penny next from Memphis State. However Hardaway would land in Orlando as he was traded on draft night for Webber. The 6'7 point guard prior to injuries especially his knee, could do it all on the basketball court. Unfortunately injuries shortened a promising career. Penny teamed with Shaq and the likes of Dennis Scott and Nick Anderson to lead the Orlando Magic to the 1995 NBA Finals vs. Houston. Anferenee Hardaway could pass, shoot, post up, rebound and defend. He would later play for teams such as New York, Miami and Phoenix nevertheless fans will always remember him in Orlando. Nike ran great ads for the young Hardaway, introducing the character in their commercials named Little Penny. Little Penny voice over was done by Chris Rock and even starred super model Tyra Banks. During the 1990's and early 2000's the success of the Penny Hardaway line was just below Air Jordan. Many sneaker fans can't wait for Air Penny's to be released regardless of which Penny shoe they are. A personal favorite of mine are the Nike Foamposite, originally released in 1997 for $200. Hardaway to this day still has a great working relationship with the Swoosh company as they continue to add to the ever growing Penny collection.
No comments:
Post a Comment