Michael Hawkins (basketball)
Steven Hawkins | |
|---|---|
| Born | October 28, 1972 |
| Occupation(s) | Basketball player, coach |
| Years active | 1995–2006 |
| Known for | Professional basketball career in NBA and international leagues |
Steven Michael Hawkins (born October 28, 1972) is a retired American professional basketball athlete whose career included participation in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as well as several international basketball circuits.
Occupying the role of Point guard from 1995 until 2006, Hawkins initiated his professional journey with the Rockford Lightning before advancing to NBA squads such as the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Charlotte Hornets, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Beyond the NBA, he represented elite teams including Greece’s Olympiacos, Spain’s FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, alongside Belgium’s Telindus Oostende.
Among his notable accomplishments are clinching the Spanish League title and the Spanish Basketball Cup in 2001, securing the Polish League championship in 2002, and receiving several personal accolades such as leading the CBA in assists and steals in 1997, selection to the CBA All-Defensive Team, and recognition as a Greek League All-Star. Internationally, Hawkins contributed to Team USA’s success by earning a bronze medal at the 1998 FIBA World Championship and a silver medal at the 1999 Pan American Games.
College career
Standing at 6 ft 0 in, Hawkins played point guard during his high school tenure at Canton McKinley High School, graduating in 1991 alongside future NBA talent Eric Snow. He subsequently competed collegiately for the Xavier Musketeers representing Xavier University from 1991 through 1995.
Professional career
Although not selected in the 1995 NBA draft, Hawkins secured a contract with the Boston Celtics for the 1996–97 NBA season. Throughout four seasons, he appeared with three additional NBA franchises, concluding his league participation with the Cleveland Cavaliers by 2001.
His professional tenure also included significant time in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), playing for the Rockford Lightning during 1995–97 and again in 1998–99, as well as for the Sioux Falls Skyforce between 2000–01 and 2003–04. His efforts were recognized with selections to the All-CBA Second Team and All-Defensive Team in 1997. Hawkins wrapped up his club career competing for Al-Jalaa Aleppo in Syria’s top basketball division.
National team career
Hawkins donned the jersey of the United States men's national basketball team at the 1998 FIBA World Championship, where he contributed to earning a bronze medal. The following year, he helped Team USA attain a silver medal at the 1999 Pan American Games.
Coaching career
Following his playing days, Hawkins moved into coaching, offering personalized basketball training services within the Houston region through CoachUp.