Clyde Drexler

The High-Flying Glider Who Defined Elegance and Power

Some players dominate with brute force. Others with finesse. Clyde Drexler blended both into one of the smoothest, most graceful games basketball has ever seen. Nicknamed “The Glide” for his effortless ability to soar through the air, Drexler was a perfect mix of speed, skill, and athleticism, making him one of the most complete shooting guards in NBA history.

For over a decade, he was the face of the Portland Trail Blazers, leading them to multiple deep playoff runs and redefining what it meant to be an all-around superstar. Whether it was finishing fast breaks, hitting clutch shots, or locking down opponents on defense, Drexler was the epitome of versatility and consistency.

From Houston to the NBA Spotlight

Born in 1962 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Clyde Drexler grew up in Houston, Texas, where he developed his smooth and electrifying game. Originally a baseball player, he didn’t seriously start focusing on basketball until late in high school.

That decision changed everything.

Drexler played college ball at the University of Houston, where he teamed up with Hakeem Olajuwon to form the legendary "Phi Slama Jama"—a team that revolutionized college basketball with its fast-paced, high-flying style. The Cougars reached back-to-back Final Fours in 1982 and 1983, putting Drexler on the national radar.

Though he left before Houston’s infamous loss to NC State in the 1983 NCAA Championship, Drexler’s talent was undeniable. The Portland Trail Blazers selected him 14th overall in the 1983 NBA Draft, a decision that would shape their franchise for the next decade.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Clyde Drexler’s combination of scoring, passing, rebounding, and defense made him one of the most well-rounded players in NBA history.

• NBA Champion (1995)
• Ten-time NBA All-Star
• Five-time All-NBA selection
• Member of the legendary 1992 Dream Team
• Career averages: 20.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 2.0 steals per game
• Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004

He was one of only five players in NBA history to record 20,000 points, 6,000 rebounds, and 6,000 assists, joining an elite group that included Michael Jordan, Oscar Robertson, LeBron James, and John Havlicek.

The Glide: A Perfect Blend of Power and Grace

Drexler played the game with a style that few could match.

• He had one of the most effortless dunks in NBA history—soaring through the air with a unique blend of power and smoothness.
• He was an elite slasher who could finish at the rim against any defender.
• His passing was underrated, often setting up teammates for easy baskets.
• He was an elite rebounder for a shooting guard, using his athleticism to dominate the glass.

In an era dominated by Michael Jordan, Drexler was often seen as Jordan’s closest rival—one of the few players who could match his athleticism and all-around impact.

Two Moments That Define Clyde Drexler

Leading the Trail Blazers to the 1992 NBA Finals

By the early 1990s, Drexler had cemented himself as one of the NBA’s elite players. In the 1991-92 season, he finished second in MVP voting behind Michael Jordan, leading the Trail Blazers to a 57-25 record and their second NBA Finals appearance in three years.

The 1992 NBA Finals became a showdown between Jordan and Drexler—two of the best shooting guards of all time. Though the Blazers fell short in six games, Drexler averaged 24.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in the series, proving that he could go toe-to-toe with the greatest.

Winning an NBA Championship with the Houston Rockets (1995)

For all his individual success, Drexler lacked the one thing every superstar craved—a championship. That changed in 1995.

Midway through the season, he was traded to the Houston Rockets, reuniting with his former college teammate Hakeem Olajuwon. At 32 years old, Drexler had one last shot at a title—and he delivered.

In the 1995 NBA Finals against the Orlando Magic, Drexler averaged 21.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 6.8 assists, helping the Rockets sweep the series and capture back-to-back championships. It was the moment that secured his place among the all-time greats.

Clyde Drexler’s Most Iconic Basketball Cards

1986 Fleer Clyde Drexler Rookie Card

From the legendary 1986 Fleer set, this is Drexler’s most iconic rookie card and one of the most collectible cards from the era.

1992 Skybox Dream Team Clyde Drexler

A card that commemorates Drexler’s place on the legendary 1992 Dream Team, one of the greatest basketball squads ever assembled.

1995 Topps Finest Clyde Drexler (Championship Year)

A key card from his 1995 championship-winning season with the Rockets, celebrating the moment he finally won an NBA title.

Why Clyde Drexler’s Legacy Still Matters Today

Clyde Drexler wasn’t just an all-time great—he was one of the most electrifying, complete, and underappreciated players in NBA history.

He played during the golden era of basketball, often overshadowed by Michael Jordan, but his skill set and impact were undeniable.

• He revolutionized the shooting guard position, proving that a two-way player could dominate without an outside shot.
• He helped transition the NBA into the high-flying, fast-paced game we know today.
• He was a leader, a winner, and a player who could do it all—score, pass, rebound, and defend.

To own a Clyde Drexler card is to own a piece of basketball history, a tribute to one of the greatest all-around players the game has ever seen.

Clyde Drexler isn’t just a legend—he’s a blueprint for versatility, athleticism, and pure basketball excellence.