Gary Payton: podcast appearances and interviews

Gary Dwayne Payton Sr. is an American former professional basketball player and Hall of Famer. He played in the National Basketball Association for 17 seasons, primarily with the Seattle SuperSonics, where he set franchise records in assists and steals. Known by the nickname “the Glove” for his defensive skills, Payton is considered one of the greatest point guards in the history of the sport. Throughout his career, he also played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Miami Heat. Payton made three NBA Finals appearances with the SuperSonics in 1996, the Lakers in 2004, and the Heat in 2006, winning the championship with the Heat that year. He was notably the first point guard to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award and held the distinction of being the only point guard to do so until Marcus Smart in 2022. His accolades include selection to nine All-NBA Teams, nine All-Defensive First Teams, and participation in multiple All-Star Games. Payton’s defensive prowess and versatility earned him a prominent place in basketball history. In 2013, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and in 2021, he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, acknowledging his lasting impact on the game.