When They Were Young 12 years old

The path to stardom

Every NBA star can tell you exactly how they felt on the day they were drafted. It’s a time of anticipation and excitement as they are about to fulfill their ultimate dream: joining the NBA elite! Some, like Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan, have had hall of fame careers. Others such as LeBron James, Dwight Howard and Chris Paul are still writing their own legends. Each player has etched a unique path to stardom, but how did it all begin? In this action-packed program, the NBA takes you back in time, with rare high school and even youth basketball footage of some of your favorite superstars. Go behind the scenes to draft day and watch all-time greats like Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade immediately electrify fans – and learn some hard lessons along the way that helped them become the incredible players they are today.

Credits

When They Were Young Cast

Name Character
LeBron James He was 26, now 39 years old as himself
Dwyane Wade He was 29, now 42 years old as himself
Kobe Bryant He was 32, 41 years old when he died as himself
Shaquille O'Neal He was 39, now 52 years old as himself

When They Were Young Crew

Name Department
When They Were Young poster
When They Were Young (12 years)

The path to stardom

  • Release day: Monday, June 13, 2011
  • Runtime: 61 minutes