John Starks, born on August 10, 1965, is an American former professional basketball player renowned for his explosive skills as a shooting guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Hailing from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Starks embarked on a remarkable journey to NBA stardom despite going undrafted in the 1988 NBA draft.

Starks’ collegiate career was marked by perseverance and adaptability, as he attended four different colleges in his native Oklahoma, ultimately finding his stride at Oklahoma State University. His tenacity and work ethic paved the way for him to enter the NBA as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Golden State Warriors in 1988.

However, it was during his time with the New York Knicks in the 1990s that Starks truly made his mark. Known for his fearless playing style, three-point shooting, and defensive prowess, he became a fan favorite at Madison Square Garden. In 1994, Starks earned NBA All-Star honors, a testament to his exceptional skills and contributions to the Knicks’ success.

Throughout his career, Starks embodied the underdog spirit, proving that resilience and determination could lead to greatness on the basketball court. Today, he is remembered as a symbol of grit and passion, an undrafted player who soared to All-Star heights and etched his name into NBA history as one of the iconic figures of his era.