Kirk Hinrich
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Kirk Hinrich (born February 2 1981 in Sioux City, Iowa) is an NBA basketball player, currently playing point guard for the Chicago Bulls. Hinrich was exposed to basketball at an early age because his father was a successful high school coach in Sioux City. In college, Kirk Hinrich played for the University of Kansas, helping his team reach the Final Four in the NCAA basketball tournament in 2002 and 2003. He remained in college for four years, which is somewhat unusual for players who go on to play professionally.
Hinrich was selected by Chicago in the 2003 NBA Draft with the seventh overall pick, resulting in mild surprise because many had expected him to be picked later. Some doubted that his college game would translate successfully to the NBA, in part because he often played shooting guard in college, but is considered too small to play that position professionally. Hinrich met with misfortune when he suffered an acute viral infection shortly before the beginning of his rookie season, requiring months to fully recover. However, he played well after his recovery, showing an impressive grasp of fundamental skills, solid playmaking, leadership, and a surprising defensive intensity. He solidified his position as the Bulls' starting point guard and was named to the NBA's 2004 All-Rookie first team.
As of the middle of the 2004-2005 season, Hinrich is playing much better, and, aided by many talented rookies, is leading a resurgent Chicago team that has put together a few quite impressive winning streaks.
- Kansas University Men's Basketball (http://kuathletics.collegesports.com/sports/m-baskbl/)