Usman Garuba
Spanish basketball player, NBA player
A professional basketball player, played as a power forward. Began his professional career with Real Madrid, contributing to the team's success in multiple competitions. Entered the NBA in 2021 when selected by the Houston Rockets in the NBA Draft. Represented Spain in international competitions, including EuroBasket and the FIBA World Cup.
Played for Real Madrid
Selected 23rd overall in the 2021 NBA Draft
Represented Spain in EuroBasket and FIBA tournaments
Other People Born on March 9th
David Weatherall
Physician and geneticist, pioneer in hemoglobin disorders
Born
March 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2018 7 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent physician and geneticist, contributions centered on research into hemoglobin disorders, particularly thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford, influencing the field of genetics and medicine. Contributed to the understanding of inherited blood disorders through both research and clinical work. Championed the study of genetics in health care, advocating for advancements in treatment and prevention strategies. Authored numerous publications and textbooks, which shaped the education of future generations in molecular medicine.
Continue ReadingOrnette Coleman
Innovative jazz saxophonist and composer
Born
March 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
A pioneering figure in the jazz genre, this musician revolutionized the way jazz was perceived and played. Renowned for the development of free jazz, the approach to improvisation emphasized spontaneous performance without predetermined chord progressions. In 1959, released the influential album 'The Shape of Jazz to Come,' which challenged conventional jazz norms and introduced a new level of creative freedom. Collaborated with various artists and formed the group 'Ornette Coleman Quartet,' notable for their innovative sound and improvisational style. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1994 for the album 'Sound Grammar,' solidifying a significant position in American music history.
Continue ReadingKeely Smith
American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born
March 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.
Continue ReadingJock Taylor
Scottish motorcycle racer and champion
Born
March 9th, 1954 71 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1982 43 years ago — 28 years old
A motorcycle racer from Scotland, recognized for participation in various road racing events during the 1970s and early 1980s. Competed prominently in the Isle of Man TT races, where significant achievements included impressive finishes in multiple categories. Excelled in the 1976 Season, securing victories in numerous races and capturing attention within the motorsports community. Taylor's skill on the track led to a distinguished reputation, making contributions to motorcycle racing history in Scotland.
Continue ReadingMickey Spillane
Crime Novelist with Mike Hammer Series
Born
March 9th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1977 48 years ago — 59 years old
An American crime novelist published a series of hardboiled detective novels featuring the character Mike Hammer. The first novel, 'I, the Jury,' released in 1947, established a new standard in the genre with its visceral style and complex plots. Spillane's work gained immense popularity, selling millions of copies. His writing style combined graphic violence and a focus on moral ambiguity, appealing to a broad audience. The character of Mike Hammer became iconic in American fiction, influencing both literature and film. Spillane also ventured into screenwriting and created adaptations of his works for film and television, further cementing his legacy in the crime genre.
Continue ReadingBryan Bickell
Ice Hockey Player, Stanley Cup Champion
Born
March 9th, 1986 39 years ago
Performed as a professional ice hockey player, primarily with the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL. Bickell contributed to the team's success, playing a critical role in winning the Stanley Cup in 2013 and 2015. Known for his physical style of play, he also participated in various playoff campaigns, leaving a mark during key moments in games. After retiring from professional hockey, engagement in advocacy for health awareness and support for individuals with similar experiences followed.
Continue Reading