Vern Mikkelsen

Basketball player and coach with Lakers

Vern Mikkelsen - Basketball player and coach with Lakers
Born

October 21st, 1928
96 years ago

Died

November 21st, 2013
11 years ago — 85 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Played professional basketball in the NBA for the Minneapolis Lakers from 1949 to 1959. Achieved success as a player by winning four championships. Transitioned to coaching and led teams at various levels including college basketball. Known for contributions to the sport during the early years of the NBA.

Won four NBA championships with the Minneapolis Lakers

Served as head coach for several college teams

Recognized as an All-Star during his playing career

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