Larry Sanders (basketball)
A defensive force whose promising NBA career was famously punctuated by a early, soul-searching departure from the game.
Born 1988 (age 38)·American basketball player·Birthday: November 21·Millennials
Biography
Larry Sanders's path in basketball was defined by his otherworldly wingspan and a shot-blocking instinct that made the paint a no-fly zone. Drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks, he quickly evolved from a raw prospect into a defensive anchor, leading the league in blocks during the 2012-13 season and signing a substantial contract extension. His game was one of explosive, highlight-reel rejections and fierce rebounding. Yet, Sanders's story took a turn that captivated the sports world. At the height of his earning power and on-court impact, he walked away, citing anxiety, depression, and a desire to pursue his identity beyond basketball. His departure was a rare, candid moment that challenged the traditional athlete's narrative, making him a figure of intrigue for his defensive prowess and his profound personal choice.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Larry was born in 1988, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Larry Was Born
The biggest hits of 1988
#1 Movie
Rain Man
Best Picture
Rain Man
#1 TV Show
The Cosby Show
Larry's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1988Born
Pan Am Flight 103 bombed over Lockerbie
Gas: $0.90/galHome: $74,800Min wage: $3.35/hrPresident: Ronald Reagan"Faith" — George MichaelBest Picture: Rain Man
1993Started school
European Union officially established
Gas: $1.11/galHome: $86,600Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"I Will Always Love You" — Whitney HoustonBest Picture: Schindler's List
2001Became a teenager
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2004Could drive
Indian Ocean tsunami kills over 230,000
Gas: $1.88/galHome: $157,300Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Yeah!" — UsherBest Picture: Million Dollar Baby
2006Could vote
Twitter launches; Pluto reclassified as dwarf planet
Gas: $2.59/galHome: $174,700Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Bad Day" — Daniel PowterBest Picture: The Departed
2009Turned 21
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2018Turned 30
Royal wedding of Harry and Meghan; Parkland shooting
Gas: $2.72/galHome: $211,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"God's Plan" — DrakeBest Picture: Green Book
2026Age 38 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Led the NBA in blocks per game during the 2012-13 season with an average of 2.83.
- Signed a four-year, $44 million contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2013.
- Was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team for the 2012-13 season.
Did You Know?
He is also a visual artist and musician, going by the name L8 Showers.
Sanders briefly returned to the NBA in 2017, playing five games for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
He played college basketball at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), not a traditional power conference school.
His official wingspan was measured at 7'5.5", extraordinarily long for his 6'11" height.
“I needed space to find myself. The game, the business, it can consume you.”
