ABOUT
Rudy Gobert-Bourgarel, born June 26, 1992, is a French professional basketball player known for his defensive prowess and towering presence on the court. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch, Gobert plays the center position and has made a significant impact in the NBA with his shot-blocking ability, rebounding, and overall defensive skills. He currently plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and is widely regarded as one of the premier defenders in the league.
BEFORE FAME
Gobert's basketball journey began in Saint-Quentin, France, where he was born and raised. He became serious about basketball relatively late compared to many of his peers, starting to play the sport at age 11. His talents were quickly recognized, and he joined the French basketball club Cholet Basket at age 15. Gobert declared for the NBA draft in 2013 after honing his skills in France, and he was selected with the 27th overall pick by the Denver Nuggets and subsequently traded to the Utah Jazz.
TRIVIA
Rudy Gobert has earned the nickname "The Stifle Tower," a play on his defensive capabilities and French heritage. He is a three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, winning the award in 2018, 2019, and 2021, and has been selected to multiple NBA All-Defensive Teams as well as All-NBA Teams. Gobert is also noted for his impressive wingspan, measuring 7 feet 9 inches, which has made him one of the most feared shot-blockers in the league.
FAMILY LIFE
Rudy Gobert was born to a French father, Rudy Bourgarel, who played collegiate basketball at Marist College in New York, and a Guadeloupean mother, Corinne Gobert. Although his parents separated when he was around three years old, they both remained actively involved in his life, encouraging his burgeoning basketball talent. Gobert is known to be very close to his family and often credits his mother for her unwavering support throughout his career.
ASSOCIATED WITH
During his tenure with the Utah Jazz, Gobert developed a formidable partnership with guard Donovan Mitchell, contributing to Jazz's strong performances in the Western Conference. Additionally, Gobert has represented the French national team in international competitions, playing alongside other notable French players like Evan Fournier and Nicolas Batum. In 2021, he further solidified his influence in both the NBA and international basketball spheres by joining the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he continues to excel and inspire new generations of basketball players.
