Pekka Markkanen


Pekka Juha Markkanen is a Finnish former professional basketball player. He was named the Finnish Basketball Player of the Year, by Finnish sports journalists, in 1989, 1993, and 1996.

College career

Markkanen played college basketball at the University of Kansas, with the Kansas Jayhawks.

Professional career

During his pro club career, Markkanen won three Finnish League championships, in 1987, 1997, and 1998. He was named the Finnish League's Finnish Player of the Year, in 1989.

National team career

Markkanen had 129 caps with the senior Finnish national basketball team.

Personal life

Markkanen is the father of Chicago Bulls basketball player Lauri Markkanen and professional football player Eero Markkanen, formerly on Real Madrid Castilla. His third son Miikka, also played basketball, before retiring early due to injuries. The boys' mother and Markkanen's ex-wife Riikka, was also a basketball player.