Baron Davis
The two-time All-Star who led the Charlotte Hornets to consecutive playoff runs and made an 89-foot shot against Milwaukee.
Baron Walter Louis Davis arrived in Charlotte as the third overall pick in the 1999 NBA draft, immediately becoming a focal point for the franchise. In his rookie season, he backed up Eddie Jones and David Wesley before helping the Hornets reach the playoffs, where they fell to the Philadelphia 76ers in four games. His confidence grew rapidly; by his second year, Davis started all 82 games, led Charlotte back to the postseason, swept the Miami Heat, and pushed the Ray Allen-led Milwaukee Bucks to a seven-game second-round series. He etched his name in history on February 17, 2001, with an 89-foot shot against Milwaukee, while also competing in the Slam Dunk Contest and Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star weekend.
- Role
- Point Guard
- Affiliation
- Charlotte Hornets (1999–2002)
- Draft Status
- 3rd Overall Pick, 1999 NBA Draft
- Status
- Retired
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Davis's second season showcased his evolution into a primary playmaker, starting all 82 games as he guided the Hornets past the Miami Heat in a sweep before falling to the Bucks. His career-defining moment occurred on February 17, 2001, when he drained an 89-foot shot with just 0.7 seconds left in the third quarter against Milwaukee at the Bradley Center. That same All-Star weekend, he showcased his versatility by entering both the Slam Dunk Contest and the Rising Stars Challenge. By the next season, Davis averaged 18 points and 8.5 assists per game while starting every game again. He earned a spot in the 2002 NBA All-Star Game as an injury replacement for Vince Carter. The Hornets secured their third consecutive playoff berth, defeating the Tracy McGrady-led Orlando Magic before bowing out to the Jason Kidd-led New Jersey Nets.
In Their Own Story
The Charlotte Coliseum roared on February 17, 2001, as Baron Davis seized a rare opportunity late in the third quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks. With only 0.7 seconds remaining on the clock and the team trailing, he launched an 89-foot shot from deep that swished through the net for three points. This incredible feat remains credited as the longest shot in NBA history. The moment highlighted his fearlessness and creativity, traits that defined his early years with the franchise. Beyond that singular highlight, Davis proved himself a consistent engine for the Hornets, starting all 82 games in both his second and third seasons. He led the team to three straight playoff appearances, including a memorable first-round sweep of the Miami Heat and a hard-fought seven-game series against the Bucks, proving he could elevate the team's ceiling despite the eventual losses.
Reader's Guide
Baron Davis quickly established himself as a cornerstone in Charlotte, earning All-Star honors twice during his tenure there. His statistical consistency was remarkable; after starting all 82 games in his sophomore and junior campaigns, he averaged 18 points and 8.5 assists per game in the latter season. Davis's defensive prowess was also evident early on, contributing significantly to the team's identity. His ability to draw attention with high-drama moments, such as his historic 89-foot shot, complemented his steady production on both ends of the floor. Fans witnessed a young guard who could start every game, lead the league in key categories later in his career, and deliver clutch performances that defined an era for the original Hornets.
Did You Know?
- Davis made an 89-foot shot with 0.7 seconds remaining against the Milwaukee Bucks on February 17, 2001, which is credited as the longest shot in NBA history.
- In his second season, Davis started all 82 games and led the Hornets to a first-round sweep of the Miami Heat.
- Davis was selected as an injury replacement for Vince Carter to play in the 2002 NBA All-Star Game.
- During All-Star weekend in Charlotte, Davis participated in both the Slam Dunk Contest and the Rising Stars Challenge.