Rudy Gobert-Bourgarel, born on June 26, 1992, in Saint-Quentin, France, is a renowned French professional basketball player who excels as a defensive powerhouse. Standing 7 feet 1 inch tall, Gobert has established himself as one of the most dominant centers in the NBA, known for shot-blocking, rebounding, and rim protection.
Over his career, Gobert has earned multiple accolades, including four NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards, three All-Star selections, and seven NBA All-Defensive First Team honors. His defensive presence has shaped the teams he has played for and inspired a new generation of players to value defense as much as offense.
Quick Facts of Rudy Gobert
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rudy Gobert-Bourgarel |
| Date of Birth | June 26, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Saint-Quentin, France |
| Nationality | French |
| Height | 7 ft 1 in (2.16 m) |
| Weight | 258 lbs (117 kg) |
| Position | Center |
| NBA Team | Minnesota Timberwolves |
| Jersey Number | 27 |
| Draft Year | 2013 (27th pick, Denver Nuggets; traded to Utah Jazz) |
| Career Start | 2011 |
| Major Achievements | 4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year, 3× NBA All-Star, 7× NBA All-Defensive First Team |
| Net Worth | $60 million (2024) |
| Family | Parents: Rudy Bourgarel & Corinne Gobert; Son: Roméo |
| Relationship | Julia Bonilla |
Early Life and Family Background
Gobert was born in Saint-Quentin, Aisne, to Rudy Bourgarel and Corinne Gobert. His father, originally from Guadeloupe, played college basketball in the U.S. for the Marist Red Foxes and also appeared for the French national team. After his parents separated when Rudy was three, he lived with his mother but frequently visited his father in Guadeloupe, maintaining a strong connection to his basketball roots.
Rudy began playing basketball at age 11 for JSC Saint-Quentin and later joined Cholet Basket’s cadet training center in 2007. By 2010, he represented France at the FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship, leading his team in scoring and rebounds.
Career Beginnings and NBA Entry
Gobert started his professional career with Cholet Basket in France’s Pro A league. During the 2011–2012 season, he averaged 4.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, improving to 8.4 points and 5.4 rebounds the following year. His defensive abilities caught NBA scouts’ attention, leading to his selection as the 27th overall pick by the Denver Nuggets in the 2013 NBA Draft. He was immediately traded to the Utah Jazz, where he became a cornerstone of their defense.
Notable Achievements
Gobert quickly gained recognition as one of the league’s premier defenders:
- 4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2018–2021)
- 3× NBA All-Star (2017, 2019, 2020)
- 7× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2015–2019, 2021–2022)
- Led the NBA in blocks (2017) and rebounds (2022)
His defensive impact has been pivotal for his teams, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest defenders in NBA history.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
In October 2024, Gobert signed a three-year, $110 million contract extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves, including a player option for 2027–2028. This deal highlights the team’s confidence in his abilities and commitment to maintaining a defensive anchor for years to come.
Personal Life and Relationships
Gobert is in a relationship with Julia Bonilla, and they welcomed their son, Roméo, on May 7, 2024. Off the court, he maintains a close relationship with his family, drawing strength and inspiration from their support.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2024, Rudy Gobert’s net worth is estimated at $60 million, primarily from NBA salaries and endorsements. Throughout his career, he has earned over $176 million in salary alone. Known for his disciplined lifestyle, Gobert invests wisely and remains active in the community.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Gobert’s father played for the French national team and U.S. college basketball.
- He became the first NBA player to test positive for COVID-19 in March 2020, which temporarily suspended the league.
- Gobert excels in shot-blocking and rebounding, making him a defensive specialist.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Gobert founded the Rudy Gobert Foundation, supporting underprivileged children in education and sports in France and the U.S. He actively promotes mental health awareness and youth development. His defensive dominance and leadership have left an indelible mark on the NBA, inspiring young players to value defense as much as scoring.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Looking ahead, Gobert aims to continue dominating defensively while expanding basketball globally. He seeks to mentor young athletes and promote the sport in Europe and Africa. His legacy extends beyond statistics, symbolizing dedication, perseverance, and the power of defense in modern basketball.
