Othella Harrington, American basketball player and coach

Othella Harrington, born on January 31, 1974, is a distinguished American former professional basketball player whose career significantly impacted both collegiate and professional basketball before he transitioned into coaching. Known for his powerful presence and versatility as a power forward, Harrington’s journey through the sport is marked by dedication and consistent performance.

Early Foundations: Murrah High School

Harrington’s basketball prowess first gained prominence during his high school career at Murrah High School in Jackson, Mississippi. His exceptional talent on the court quickly established him as a highly touted prospect, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors in collegiate athletics.

Collegiate Excellence at Georgetown University

Following his impressive high school tenure, Harrington committed to Georgetown University, a program renowned for cultivating top-tier basketball talent. During his time with the Hoyas, he emerged as a pivotal player, forming a dynamic and formidable frontcourt alongside the future NBA superstar and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, Allen Iverson. This powerful duo led Georgetown to considerable success, including a memorable run to the Elite Eight in the 1996 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament. Harrington’s contributions and robust play earned him significant collegiate accolades, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier basketball talents.

Entering the NBA: The Illustrious 1996 Draft Class

Othella Harrington’s professional aspirations were realized in the highly anticipated 1996 NBA Draft, an event widely acclaimed as one of the most talent-rich draft classes in the history of the National Basketball Association. On June 26, 1996, he was selected as the 30th overall pick, which notably marked the first pick of the second round, by the Houston Rockets. This iconic draft class is famously remembered for producing an extraordinary array of future NBA legends, including his former collegiate teammate Allen Iverson, along with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Ray Allen, and Jermaine O'Neal, underscoring the elite company Harrington joined.

A Decade of Professional Play in the NBA

Harrington embarked on a commendable and consistent professional career in the NBA, spanning a decade from 1996 to 2006. His journey through the league saw him contribute to several franchises, demonstrating his reliability and skill as a power forward. After his initial tenure with the Houston Rockets, he played for the Vancouver Grizzlies, New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, and Charlotte Bobcats. Throughout his career, Harrington was consistently valued for his strong rebounding abilities, tenacious defensive effort, and steady scoring, often serving as a critical role player who provided valuable depth off the bench for his teams.

Transition to Coaching: A Return to His Alma Mater

Upon concluding his distinguished playing career, Othella Harrington transitioned into the coaching realm, keen to impart his extensive basketball knowledge and experience to the next generation. In 2011, he notably returned to his collegiate roots, accepting a position as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Georgetown University. Under the leadership of head coach John Thompson III, Harrington played an instrumental role in player development and contributed significantly to the strategic direction of the Hoyas program until 2017. This return represented a full-circle moment, allowing him to mentor aspiring collegiate athletes at the very institution where his own basketball journey reached new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Othella Harrington

What position did Othella Harrington primarily play in his NBA career?

Othella Harrington primarily played as a power forward during his professional career in the National Basketball Association, known for his strong rebounding and defensive capabilities.

Who were some of the notable players Othella Harrington was drafted with in 1996?

Othella Harrington was part of the legendary 1996 NBA Draft class, which included future Hall of Famers and NBA superstars such as Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash, Ray Allen, and Jermaine O'Neal, among other talented players.

Did Othella Harrington play alongside Allen Iverson in college?

Yes, Othella Harrington played alongside Allen Iverson at Georgetown University. They formed a powerful frontcourt duo that helped lead the Hoyas to a memorable Elite Eight appearance in the 1996 NCAA Tournament.

What role did Othella Harrington take on after his NBA playing career?

After concluding his NBA playing career, Othella Harrington transitioned into coaching, notably serving as an assistant coach for his alma mater, Georgetown University, from 2011 to 2017.