THE PLAYERS

Behind The Numbers Gilbert Arenas 0, Wizards Marcus Banks 3, Timberwolves Mike Bibby 10, Kings Andrew Bogut 6, Bucks Kobe Bryant 8, Lakers Jarron Collins 31, Jazz Tony Delk 00, Pistons Melvin Ely 2, Bobcats Pau Gasol 16, Grizzlies Manu Ginobli 20, Spurs Drew Gooden 90, Cavaliers Grant Hill 33, Magic Royal Ivey 36, Hawks Linton Johnson 43, Hornets Dikembe Mutombo 55, Rockets Eric Piatkowski 52, Bulls Paul Pierce 34, Celtics Shavlik Randolph 42, Sixers Earl Watson 25, Sonics

Linton Johnson

Since entering the NBA in 2003, Linton Johnson has been retracing his uncle's footsteps - in more ways than one.

Like his uncle, Mickey Johnson - a former NBA forward who played in the league from 1974-86 - Linton's professional debut came as a member of the Chicago Bulls. Like Mickey, Linton wore uniform number 8 for the Bulls.

And it doesn't stop there. After Mickey left the Chicago Bulls in 1979, he went on to play for Golden State, Milwaukee and New Jersey, wearing jersey number 43 at all three stops. Linton's current number with the Hornets? You guessed it: 43.

"My uncle has always helped me in my basketball career," said Linton, who was only 6 years old when Mickey retired from the NBA. "As far as my number goes, I've kind of followed after him.

"I always wanted to watch some old tapes of him playing. I finally saw a couple highlights of him when I went to the NBA (Entertainment) offices in New Jersey a couple years ago. That was the first time I saw him play. He was one of the league's first point forwards."

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