Who is Hakeem Olajuwon? Wife, Net Worth & Biography

Hakeem Olajuwon, famously known as “The Dream,” is a former professional basketball player celebrated for his dominance on the court and strategic moves off it. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Olajuwon redefined the center position in the NBA and later became a successful businessman.

Early Life and Background

Hakeem Abdul Olajuwon was born on January 21, 1963, in Lagos, Nigeria. Raised in a middle-class family that ran a cement business, he developed his early athletic skills playing soccer, which significantly contributed to his exceptional footwork in basketball.

At the age of 17, Olajuwon moved to the United States to pursue higher education and basketball at the University of Houston. Under the guidance of Coach Guy Lewis, he led the Cougars to three consecutive Final Four appearances in the NCAA Tournament, showcasing his immense talent.

NBA Career and Achievements

In the 1984 NBA Draft, Olajuwon was selected as the first overall pick by the Houston Rockets, a decision that would forever change the franchise’s history. Competing in one of the greatest draft classes of all time, which included Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, and John Stockton, Olajuwon stood out as a dominant force.

Career Highlights:

• NBA Championships – Led the Rockets to back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995.

• NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) – Won the 1994 MVP award.

• NBA Defensive Player of the Year – Earned the title twice, known for his elite shot-blocking.

• All-Star Appearances – Selected 12 times in his career.

• Career Stats – Averaged 21.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game.

His signature move, the “Dream Shake,” became legendary, leaving defenders confused with his footwork and fakes. Olajuwon’s defensive abilities and smooth offensive game made him one of the most versatile centers in basketball history.

After 17 seasons in the NBA, Olajuwon retired in 2002, having spent almost his entire career with the Rockets before playing his final season with the Toronto Raptors.

Post-Retirement and Business Ventures

Olajuwon didn’t slow down after retirement. He turned his focus to real estate, making highly successful investments, particularly in Houston, Texas. By 2006, his real estate portfolio was worth over $100 million, and today, his net worth is estimated at around $300 million.

His strategic approach to business mirrored his playing style—calculated, patient, and intelligent. Unlike many athletes who struggle financially after retirement, Olajuwon’s smart investments made him one of the wealthiest former NBA players.

Personal Life and Legacy

In 1996, Olajuwon married Dalia Asafi, and they have children together. Known for his deep faith, he follows Islam devoutly and even established the Islamic Da’wah Center in Houston.

His impact on basketball continues as he mentors young players, teaching them post moves and footwork. Many modern NBA stars, including Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Dwight Howard, have trained with Olajuwon to improve their game.