Danny Green: Career High | Slovenia | Game Winner | How Many Rings

Daniel Richard “Danny” Green Jr. is one of the most influential role players of his NBA generation — a sharpshooter, defensive ace, and clutch performer whose career arc serves as a blueprint for modern “3-and-D” wings. From his early years at the University of North Carolina to winning multiple NBA championships, Green’s story is rich with achievements, international experience, big moments, and longevity. In this article, we’ll break down:

Career highs & statistical milestones
His Slovenian chapter
Clutch game-winning moments
How many championship rings he has won
Legacy and impact on the game

Early Life and North Carolina Stardom

Born on June 22, 1987, in North Babylon, New York, Danny Green excelled as a multi-sport athlete in high school, drawing attention as a promising basketball and football talent. He committed to the University of North Carolina (UNC), where he developed into a leader and standout player. At UNC:

• Green played 145 games, making him one of the most experienced contributors in school history.

• He helped lead the Tar Heels to an NCAA national championship in 2009.

• His well-rounded performance — contributing points, rebounds, steals, and defense — made him a favorite among scouts and fans alike.

This strong collegiate résumé set the stage for his professional journey.

NBA Draft and Early Career Struggles

In the 2009 NBA Draft, Green was selected 46th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. While second-round picks rarely become stars, Green’s career would prove exceptional.

His rookie season saw limited action, and after being waived by the Cavaliers, Green began a path filled with persistence:

• Signed and waived by the San Antonio Spurs in 2010

• Spent time in the NBA Development League with the Reno Bighorns

• Returned to the Spurs and began cementing his role in the rotation

It was this early adversity that would later define his perseverance and success.

The Slovenian Stint — A Crucial Career Chapter

During the 2011 NBA lockout, Danny Green took an unconventional step for an NBA player: he signed with KK Union Olimpija in Slovenia. 

Why Slovenia mattered:

The lockout created uncertainty in the NBA, so Green pursued playing time overseas. 
Union Olimpija, one of Slovenia’s premier clubs, offered professional competition and a way to stay sharp. 
During his stint with Olimpija, Green averaged around 11.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and nearly 2 assists per game, proving his ability to adapt to international play. 

This Slovenia experience added a valuable chapter to his development — strengthening his confidence, skill versatility, and understanding of high-level basketball outside the NBA.

Breakout in San Antonio — Career Highs and Role Growth

After returning from Slovenia, Green fully seized his opportunity with the Spurs. He became a vital starter and a key cog in coach Gregg Popovich’s system.

Career Highs

Danny Green’s statistical career highs showcase his skill level and impact:

In the 2014-15 NBA season, Green averaged a career-high of 11.7 points per game. 
In February 2013, he scorched the Minnesota Timberwolves with a 28-point game featuring 8 made three-pointers (a personal best at that time). 
He also set an NBA Finals record for most three-pointers made in a series during the 2013 Finals, a testament to his elite shooting on the sport’s biggest stage. 

Green’s ability to stretch the floor transformed him into a lethal perimeter threat — one of the earliest prototypes of today’s three-point shooters in wing roles.

Clutch Gene: Game Winners & Big Moments

Danny Green was never the primary star, but his knack for delivering in the clutch became part of his identity.

Memorable Game Winners

Among several key shots:

A notable game-winner against the Los Angeles Lakers in November 2012 helped define his rising confidence and clutch ability. 

Though not always in headline roles, Green has delivered plenty of timely shots and plays throughout his NBA career — a trademark of great role players.

Championship Rings — How Many and With Which Teams?

One of the most compelling chapters of Danny Green’s career is his championship pedigree.

Danny Green has won a total of 3 NBA Championship rings. 

Here’s the breakdown:

San Antonio Spurs (2014)
Green won his first NBA title with the Spurs, forming part of an elite squad that played beautiful team basketball. 

Toronto Raptors (2019)
Green was traded to Toronto and helped the Raptors earn their first-ever NBA Championship in franchise history. 

Los Angeles Lakers (2020)
Joining LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Green secured his third ring during the Lakers’ championship run. 

This puts him in elite company: only a handful of players in NBA history have won championships with three different teams. 

Additionally, Green won an NCAA Championship at UNC, making him part of a rare group who have won both NCAA and NBA titles.

Later Career and Retirement

After his Lakers championship, Green continued to contribute as a veteran presence:

Played for the Philadelphia 76ers
Brief stint with the Memphis Grizzlies
Returned to Cleveland Cavaliers briefly before ending his playing days

On October 10, 2024, Danny Green officially announced his retirement from professional basketball after a 15-year career filled with playoff appearances and championship success. 

Legacy — More Than Just Stats

What makes Danny Green’s career remarkable isn’t just the numbers. It’s what he represents:

A role player who turned specialized skill into championship value
A consistent three-point threat long before it became standard
 A player who embraced every role and delivered when needed

He’s a testament to how preparation, adaptability, and a team-first mindset can build a lasting professional legacy.

FAQS About Danny Green

1. How many NBA championship rings does Danny Green have?

Danny Green has 3 NBA championship rings — with the Spurs (2014), Raptors (2019), and Lakers (2020). 

2. What is Danny Green’s career high in points in an NBA game?

Green’s career high in the NBA is 28 points, achieved multiple times, including a standout game with the Spurs. 

3. Did Danny Green play basketball in Slovenia?

Yes — during the 2011 NBA lockout, he signed with KK Union Olimpija in Slovenia and played professionally there before returning to the NBA. 

4. Did Danny Green hit any notable game winners?

Yes, one notable clutch moment came in November 2012 when Green hit a game-winning shot against the Lakers, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. 

5. When did Danny Green retire from the NBA?

Danny Green announced his retirement on October 10, 2024, concluding a 15-season career. 

6. What is Danny Green known for?

He’s known as a 3-and-D specialist — elite three-point shooting coupled with tough perimeter defense — and for being a championship-winning role player.