Who Is Shawn Bradley? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Shawn Bradley, born on March 22, 1972, is a well-known former American professional basketball player who gained fame for his towering height and impressive skills on the court. As of 2025, Shawn is 53 years old. After an illustrious career in the NBA, primarily with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Dallas Mavericks, he has made considerable contributions to both basketball and community outreach programs.
| Occupation | Basketball Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1972 |
| Age | 53 Years |
| Birth Place | Landstuhl, West Germany |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | Germany |
Popularity
Shawn Bradley's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at an impressive 7 feet 6 inches (229 cm), Shawn Bradley is one of the tallest players in NBA history. Throughout his playing career, he maintained a weight of around 240 pounds (109 kg), contributing to his formidable presence on the basketball court. Although no longer an active player, Shawn remains in good shape and is committed to maintaining his health.
On January 20, 2021, Bradley was struck from behind by a motorist while riding his bicycle near his home in St. George, Utah, which resulted in a traumatic spinal cord injury in his neck that left him paralyzed.
Bradley was in the process of passing a car parked on the shoulder of the road when he drifted in front of a minivan who bumped him from behind; the driver of that vehicle was not charged with a crime.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Shawn Bradley is married to his long-time partner, Anika, and they share a harmonious family life together. They are proud parents to six children. While there have been various speculations about his dating life over the years, Shawn has largely kept his personal life private. He tends to focus on family values and raising his children, away from the public eye.
military hospital. Bradley came from a tall family: his father Reiner Bradley (1949–2010) was 6ft 8in tall, and his mother Teresa was 6ft 0in.
Bradley was already 6ft 8in by the end of junior high school (age 13–14), and by the end of his junior year of high school (age 16–17) he had grown to 7ft 5in, one inch shy of his adult height of 7ft 6in.
In 2018, genetic analysis of Bradley's DNA showed that his great height is not the result of any physical or genetic disorders, but because he happened to inherit a natural but extremely rare combination of the thousands of genetic variants that determine human height.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Shawn Bradley's estimated net worth is around $27 million. His wealth has primarily been accumulated through his successful basketball career, lucrative endorsement deals, and investments. Bradley earned a significant salary during his NBA years, and his financial acumen has allowed him to secure his fortunes even after retirement.
The Nets began the 1996–97 season under new management: John Calipari was named head coach in the off-season, and John Nash replaced Willis Reed as general manager. Reed had been a big believer in Bradley, but Calipari and Nash weren't nearly as excited about the 7-foot-6 enigma.
In an effort to save some cash against the salary cap, the Nets traded their big center (and his big contract) to the Dallas Mavericks in a blockbuster mid-season deal that involved nine players.
Career, Business and Investments
Shawn had a stellar basketball career, playing for the 76ers, Mavericks, and the New Jersey Nets. After retiring from professional basketball in 2000, he focused on various business ventures, including real estate investments. Additionally, Shawn has engaged in philanthropic activities, notably supporting causes related to health and athletic development for underprivileged youth.
Bradley was raised on a farm outside the small town of Castle Dale, Utah. He and his siblings were raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Bradley was a standout basketball, football, and baseball player at Emery High School from 1987 to 1990.
He was one of the most successful basketball players in Utah high school history, finishing with career averages of 20.3 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 5.4 blocked shots per game. During his time at the school, Emery compiled a 68–4 record and won two state championships. Bradley was named All-State three times and twice earned the season MVP award.
In his senior year, he averaged 25 points, 17 rebounds, and 9 blocks per contest. He was named All-American by several national publications, including Parade Magazine, Street and Smith, USA Today, and others.
He turned in a strong performance at the McDonald's All-American Game (12 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 blocks), earning the Most Valuable Player award for the West team. As of 2015, Bradley still holds Utah state records for blocked shots in a single game (18), season (209), and career (605).
Social Network
Shawn Bradley is relatively active on social media, engaging with his fans through platforms like Instagram and Twitter. He shares insights into his family life, health tips, and memories from his basketball days. His social media presence allows fans to stay connected and updated about his post-basketball endeavors.
Philadelphia's management saw Bradley as a major project with huge long-term potential. The team acquired legendary big man Moses Malone to serve as a mentor for Bradley, hoping to develop his skills in the low post.
Also, the franchise hired strength and conditioning consultant Pat Croce and registered dietitian Jeanie Subach, as well as assistant coach Jeff Ruland, to add bulk to Bradley's skinny frame. His rookie season (1993–94) produced mixed results.
In his first game, Bradley totaled just 6 points and 5 rebounds, but he did manage to block 8 shots in 25 minutes.
Education
Shawn Bradley attended Brigham Young University, where he played college basketball and earned his degree in communications. His college experience honed his skills and set the stage for his future success in the NBA. He remains an advocate for education, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement alongside athletic pursuits.
Bradley entered the 1993 NBA draft as one of the most intriguing and highly debated prospects in the history of the NBA draft. Supporters claimed his tremendous size and surprising athleticism would allow him to dominate the league.
Critics argued that he would struggle in the NBA due to his thin build – listed at just 235 lb, he was described by Ric Bucher of The Miami Herald as "rail-thin," and Lee Rose, player personnel director for the Milwaukee Bucks at the time, said, "Size-wise, he'll get pushed around a little bit," – and lack of experience (just one season of coll
ege basketball, followed by a two-year hiatus from the sport due to his church mission).
Ultimately, he was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the second overall pick, behind Chris Webber and ahead of Penny Hardaway. Given the novelty of a 7-foot-6 center playing for the 76ers, Bradley was issued jersey number 76.
