Lonnie Walker IV Bio
Lonnie Walker IV is an American professional basketball player for Maccabi Tel Aviv of the Israeli Ligat HaAl and the EuroLeague. He was born on December 14, 1998, in Reading, Pennsylvania. Walker was a standout in high school, earning accolades like Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball and becoming a McDonald’s All-American before playing college basketball at the University of Miami. He was drafted 18th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2018 NBA Draft. Over his career, he has played for the Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Žalgiris Kaunas, which has helped him build a notable professional profile.
Early Life and Background
Lonnie Walker IV was born in Reading, Pennsylvania, where he attended Reading Senior High School. He made his varsity basketball debut as a freshman, averaging eight points per game. As a sophomore, he averaged 16.9 points per game, and during his junior year, he averaged 17.1 points per game. In his senior year, Walker was named a McDonald’s All-American and voted Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball. He averaged a career-best 18.4 points per game, surpassing the school record held by former NBA player Donyell Marshall with a total of 1,828 points. Walker led his high school team to their first state championship in 2017, scoring 22 points in the final.
After high school, Walker signed with the Miami Hurricanes, turning down offers from other prestigious programs such as Villanova, Kentucky, Syracuse, and Arizona. His decision to join Miami marked the beginning of his collegiate career.
Path to Basketball
Walker made his collegiate debut for the Miami Hurricanes on November 10, 2017, scoring 10 points and recording five assists in a win over Gardner-Webb University. He quickly established himself as a key player, achieving season highs of 26 points and seven rebounds in a game against Boston University. Walker finished his freshman season averaging 11.5 points per game and was named to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) All-Freshman Team. After one season at Miami, he declared for the 2018 NBA Draft.
Lonnie Walker IV Career
Early Career (2018–2022)
Lonnie Walker IV was selected with the 18th overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2018 NBA Draft. He was included in the Spurs’ Summer League roster and signed with the team on July 11, 2018. Walker made his NBA debut on January 3, 2019, scoring three points in a game against the Toronto Raptors. During his time with the Spurs, he had a breakout performance on December 3, 2019, scoring a career-high 28 points in a double-overtime win against the Houston Rockets.
After four seasons with the Spurs, Walker signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers on July 6, 2022. He began the 2022–23 season as a starter, averaging 14.7 points per game before being sidelined due to knee tendinitis. He returned to the lineup during the playoffs, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Breakthrough (2022–2024)
Walker’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers was marked by impressive performances, including a critical role in the playoffs. He scored 15 points in the fourth quarter of a playoff game against the Golden State Warriors, helping the Lakers secure a crucial victory. After his season with the Lakers, Walker signed with the Brooklyn Nets on July 10, 2023. However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the coaching staff’s treatment and became a free agent after the season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Walker’s signature achievements include being named Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball and a McDonald’s All-American in high school. He has also won the King Mindaugas Cup with Žalgiris Kaunas in 2025, further solidifying his reputation in professional basketball.
Lonnie Walker IV Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Lonnie Walker IV has received several nominations and accolades, including being named to the ACC All-Freshman Team in 2018 and winning the Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball award in 2017.
Lonnie Walker IV Awards Won
Walker has achieved significant milestones in his career, including winning the King Mindaugas Cup in 2025 and being recognized as a McDonald’s All-American in 2017. These awards highlight his talent and contributions to the sport of basketball.
Lonnie Walker IV Family
Lonnie Walker IV is the son of Lonnie Walker III, who moved from New Jersey to Reading, Pennsylvania, to pursue basketball at Alvernia University. Walker III raised his son as a single parent while working multiple jobs.
Personal Life
Walker has a dog named Zola, who appeared with him in a PETA ad campaign. In June 2020, he revealed he had been a victim of sexual abuse as a child, which influenced his decision to cut his long hair as a form of personal transformation.
