Definition
Brian Skinner (born December 31 1976) is an American former professional basketball player who competed in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1999 to 2012.
Overview
Skinner was selected in the second round of the 1999 NBA Draft (44th overall) by the Seattle SuperSonics. Over a 13‑season career, he played for ten NBA franchises, including the Seattle SuperSonics, San Antonio Spurs, Memphis Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, New Orleans Hornets, and a second stint with the SuperSonics (later the Oklahoma City Thunder). Known for his size and versatility, Skinner primarily served as a power forward and occasional center, providing rebounding, interior defense, and occasional mid‑range shooting. He appeared in a total of 714 regular‑season games, averaging 4.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game.
Before turning professional, Skinner attended the University of Utah, where he played for the Utah Utes men’s basketball team from 1995 to 1999. He earned All‑Mountain West Conference honors in his senior year and helped the Utes reach the NCAA tournament.
After retiring from playing, Skinner has remained involved in basketball through coaching and mentorship roles at the youth level. He has also engaged in business ventures, though detailed public records of his post‑NBA activities are limited.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Brian” is of Irish origin, derived from the Old Celtic element brig meaning “high, noble”. “Skinner” is an occupational surname of English origin, historically referring to a person who worked as a skin or hide tanner.
Characteristics
- Physical stature: 6 feet 11 inches (2.11 m) tall; recorded playing weight around 250 lb (113 kg).
- Playing position: Primarily power forward; also deployed as a center in situational line‑ups.
- Skill set: Rebounding, interior defense, pick‑and‑roll execution, and a mid‑range jumper for a player of his size.
- Statistical highlights: Career-high average of 7.9 points and 5.6 rebounds per game during the 2006‑07 season with the New Orleans Hornets.
- Durability: Appeared in 74 games (61 starts) during his most active season (2005‑06 with the Memphis Grizzlies), demonstrating reliability as a rotational big man.
Related Topics
- National Basketball Association (NBA)
- University of Utah basketball program
- List of NBA players by franchise
- Power forward (basketball position)
- Occupational surnames in English onomastics
All information provided is based on publicly available records from reputable sports databases and historical archives.