Joe Dumars

Connection:  Born in Shreveport, LA but grew up in Natchitoches:

Sport:  Basketball

Achievements:  After graduating Natchitoches Central, Joe played college basketball at McNeese State where he finished his career as the 11th all-time leading scorer in NCAA history.  Selected 18th overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 1985 NBA Draft. Two-time NBA Champion as a player.  1989 NBA Finals MVP.  Six time NBA All-Star.  Four time All-NBA Defensive Team.  Michael Jordan called Joe the best defensive player he faced in the NBA.  Awarded the first ever NBA Sportsmanship Award in 1996 and the award has since been named the "Joe Dumars Trophy" in his honor.  Played all 14 NBA seasons with the Detroit Pistons and became President of Basketball Operations in 2000.  Won 2004 NBA Championship as an executive.  Won 2003 NBA Executive of the Year. He played for the US national team in the 1994 FIBA World Championship, winning the gold medal.  His number 4 jersey is retired by the Detroit Pistons.