“Basketball is about discipline, resilience, and family.” — Kevin Burleson
Kevin Burleson is an American basketball coach and former professional player, currently serving as an assistant coach for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA. Known for his career as a point guard in the NBA and overseas, Burleson has transitioned into coaching, where he has built a reputation for player development and leadership.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kevin Darnell Burleson |
| Birthdate | April 9, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Seattle, Washington, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Age | 47 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 205 lbs (93 kg) |
| Education | University of Minnesota (1999–2003) |
| Profession | Basketball Coach, Former Player |
| Employer | Detroit Pistons (NBA) |
| Residence | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Years Active | Player (2003–2013); Coach (2017–Present) |
| Awards | Romanian League Champion (2010) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2–3 million |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries ♈ |
Parents, Siblings & Relatives
Kevin Burleson was born into a highly athletic family. His father, Al Burleson, played defensive back in the CFL and USFL.
His brothers also pursued sports: Alvin Jr. played college football, Nate Burleson became an NFL wide receiver and later a television host, and Lyndale Burleson played college basketball.
Kevin and Nate are one of the rare sibling pairs with one in the NBA and one in the NFL.
Early Life & Education
Burleson grew up in Seattle, Washington, and attended Garfield High School before transferring to O’Dea High School, where he helped lead the basketball team to an undefeated season and a state championship. He later played college basketball at the University of Minnesota, competing in the Big Ten Conference and earning recognition for his leadership and defensive skills.
Career Journey
Kevin Burleson went undrafted in the 2003 NBA Draft but began his professional career in Germany with USC Heidelberg and Walter Tigers Tübingen. In 2005, he signed with the Charlotte Bobcats, appearing in the NBA during the 2005–06 season. He later played in the NBA Development League and overseas in Turkey, Romania, and Egypt, winning the Romanian League Championship in 2010.
After retiring from playing in 2013, Burleson transitioned into coaching. He worked in player development for the Houston Rockets, then served as an assistant coach for the Iowa Wolves, Memphis Grizzlies, and Minnesota Timberwolves. From 2022 to 2024, he was head coach of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, the Rockets’ G League affiliate, before joining the Detroit Pistons coaching staff in 2024.
Major Works
- NBA player for Charlotte Bobcats (2005–2006)
- Overseas career in Germany, Turkey, Romania, and Egypt
- Head Coach, Rio Grande Valley Vipers (2022–2024)
- Assistant Coach, Detroit Pistons (2024–Present)
Awards & Recognition
- Romanian League Champion (2010)
- Recognized for player development expertise in NBA coaching circles
Public Persona & Style
Kevin Burleson is known for:
- Strong defensive mindset and leadership skills
- Commitment to player development and mentoring young athletes
- Family legacy in professional sports
Lifestyle & Personal Insights
Burleson resides in Detroit, Michigan, focusing on his coaching career. He maintains close ties with his brothers, especially Nate Burleson, who has also transitioned into media and broadcasting.
Physical Appearance
Standing at 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) and weighing 205 lbs (93 kg), Burleson has the build of a classic point guard, combining agility with strength.
Salary & Net Worth
His estimated net worth is $2–3 million, earned through his playing contracts, overseas leagues, and NBA coaching career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kevin Burleson? An American basketball coach and former NBA player.
What team does he coach? Assistant coach for the Detroit Pistons.
Did he play in the NBA? Yes, for the Charlotte Bobcats in 2005–06.
What is his net worth? Estimated $2–3 million.
Related Figures
Legacy
Kevin Burleson’s legacy lies in his dual career as a professional player and NBA coach, his contributions to player development, and his role in continuing the Burleson family’s multi‑sport tradition.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1979 | Born April 9 in Seattle, Washington |
| 1999–2003 | Played college basketball at University of Minnesota |
| 2003 | Began professional career in Germany |
| 2005–2006 | Played for Charlotte Bobcats (NBA) |
| 2010 | Won Romanian League Championship |
| 2017–2019 | Assistant coach, Iowa Wolves & Memphis Grizzlies |
| 2019–2022 | Assistant coach, Minnesota Timberwolves |
| 2022–2024 | Head coach, Rio Grande Valley Vipers |
| 2024–Present | Assistant coach, Detroit Pistons |
Sources
- Wikipedia
- Detroit Pistons Staff
- University of Minnesota Athletics
Interesting Facts
- Kevin and Nate Burleson are one of the few sibling pairs with one in the NBA and one in the NFL.
- Helped O’Dea High School to an undefeated season and state championship.
- Transitioned from international playing career to NBA coaching success.
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