Rex Chapman

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Lore & Background

Chapman arrived in Charlotte following a legendary high school career at Apollo High School in Owensboro, Kentucky, where he was named Mr. Basketball of Kentucky and McDonald's All-American. At the University of Kentucky, known as "King Rex," he scored 1,073 points over two seasons, setting a freshman scoring record and leading the Wildcats to the 1987 NCAA tournament. His professional arrival brought a new energy to the franchise, though his time there was eventually cut short by injury. During his stint with the Hornets, Chapman became known for his athletic flair, particularly in the dunk contests where he developed a signature move of flipping the ball. Despite the team's early struggles as an expansion franchise, Chapman provided star power and excitement. His departure in 1992 marked a significant turning point, sending him to Washington in exchange for Tom Hammonds, though he would only play one final game that season due to injury.

In Their Own Story

The 1988 NBA Draft was a defining moment for the new Charlotte Hornets organization. With the eighth overall pick, they selected Rex Chapman, making him the first player ever drafted by the team. The anticipation was palpable as the young star from Kentucky stepped onto the professional stage. In his rookie season, Chapman lived up to the hype, averaging 16.9 points per game and quickly becoming a fan favorite. His athleticism shone brightest during the 1990 and 1991 Slam Dunk Contests, where he dazzled crowds with acrobatic dunks that involved flipping the ball in mid-air. The chemistry between Chapman and the franchise was evident, but fate intervened two-and-a-half seasons later. Midway through the 1991–1992 campaign, a trade sent him to the Washington Bullets for Tom Hammonds. Unfortunately, an injury prevented him from making a significant impact in his new home; he managed to participate in only the final game of that season before his time with the Hornets came to an abrupt end.

Reader's Guide

Rex Chapman's path to Charlotte began with dominance at Apollo High School and the University of Kentucky. As a sophomore, he averaged 19 points per game, leading Kentucky to an SEC title and earning All-SEC honors both years before entering the NBA draft with over 1,000 collegiate points. Selected first by the Hornets in 1988, Chapman's playing style was defined by his speed and scoring ability, evidenced by his 16.9 ppg rookie average. He was a key figure in the franchise's early identity, participating in back-to-back Slam Dunk Contests (1990, 1991). His tenure with Charlotte lasted until February 19, 1992, when he was traded to the Washington Bullets for Tom Hammonds. Although the trade was intended to bolster his team, an injury limited him to a single game in Washington that season. Chapman's time in Charlotte set the stage for a 12-year NBA career across four teams, establishing him as a formidable scorer and an exciting prospect for the new franchise.

Did You Know?

• Chapman was the very first player ever drafted by the Charlotte Hornets franchise.
• He competed in the NBA Slam Dunk Contests in both 1990 and 1991, known for a move where he would flip the ball.
• During his rookie season with the Hornets, Chapman averaged 16.9 points per game.
• After being traded to the Washington Bullets midway through the 1991–1992 season, injury limited him to playing only one final game of that year.