Chris Mihm is a former NBA center who entered the league as the ninth pick in the 2000 NBA Draft, selected by the Los Angeles Lakers. Known for his size and soft touch around the rim, Mihm’s career was significantly shaped by injuries, yet he remained a respected depth option for the Lakers during the early 2000s.
Early Life & Draft
Chris Mihm played college basketball at the University of Texas before declaring for the 2000 NBA Draft. He was selected 9th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, joining a franchise on the cusp of another championship run.
NBA Career Overview
Chris Mihm spent the bulk of his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing as a tall, skilled big man who could stretch the floor a bit and protect the rim in limited minutes. His tenure coincided with the team’s championship runs, though injuries limited his on-court impact.
Playing Style & Strengths
At 7 feet tall, Mihm brought size, length, and a soft touch around the rim. He was effective in the post and offered decent passing for a center; his mobility allowed him to guard slower bigs in certain matchups.
Role with Lakers & Key Moments
Serving as a depth center behind Shaquille O’Neal and later other frontcourt options, Mihm appeared in key playoff moments, contributing in spot minutes during the Lakers’ late-2000s runs.
Injury Challenges & Career Trajectory
Chronic knee and ankle injuries limited Mihm’s availability, leading to seasons with reduced minutes and eventual departure from the Lakers.
Post-NBA Life & Legacy
After retiring from professional basketball, Chris Mihm has kept a lower public profile, pursuing business and basketball-related initiatives while remaining a notable figure for fans who followed the early 2000s Lakers era.
Notable Stats & Records
- Draft: 9th overall in 2000
- Height: 7’0" (center)
- Teams: Los Angeles Lakers (early 2000s)
- Achievements: Two-time NBA Champion with the Lakers during the early 2000s dynasty
- Career arc: Active in the NBA from 2000 to the mid-2000s, with injuries shaping the timeline
Legacy & Influence
Chris Mihm’s career illustrates how a highly touted draft pick can be significantly affected by injuries, yet still contribute to a franchise’s success and remain a memorable part of an iconic era in NBA history. For fans and analysts, Mihm represents the importance of depth players who support a championship core and help sustain a team across a demanding schedule.
2025 Context & Relevance
In 2025, discussions around Chris Mihm often serve as a case study in evaluating big men who enter the league with high expectations but encounter durability hurdles. His journey prompts conversations about development, scouting risk, and the evolving role of centers in modern basketball.