Vern Mikkelsen, a towering presence in the world of basketball, played a vital role in the early years of the NBA. Born on October 21, 1928, in Parlier, California, Mikkelsen grew up in Minnesota, where he developed a love for basketball. He attended Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he excelled on the court and caught the attention of professional scouts.

In 1949, Mikkelsen was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers, a team that would become synonymous with his name. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, he played as a power forward, a position that allowed him to utilize his physicality and skill. Mikkelsen quickly became known for his defensive prowess and ability to score, contributing significantly to the Lakers' dominance during the early years of the NBA.

Throughout his career with the Lakers, Mikkelsen was part of a formidable lineup that included George Mikan and Jim Pollard. This trio led the Lakers to multiple championships, with Mikkelsen playing a crucial role in their success. His ability to guard opposing players and his tenacity on the boards made him an invaluable asset to the team.

Mikkelsen's career was marked by numerous accolades. He was selected to the All-Star team six times, reflecting his status as one of the top players in the league. His defensive skills were particularly noteworthy, as he was often tasked with guarding the best forwards in the league. Despite the physical nature of his play, Mikkelsen was known for his sportsmanship and respect for the game.

One of the defining aspects of Mikkelsen's career was his durability. He played in 798 games over 10 seasons, a testament to his physical conditioning and ability to avoid serious injury. This consistency allowed him to maintain a high level of performance throughout his career, contributing to the Lakers' sustained success.

After retiring from professional basketball in 1959, Mikkelsen remained involved in the sport. He briefly coached and later worked in various capacities within the basketball community. His legacy was cemented in 1995 when he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, an honor that recognized his contributions to the game and his role in the Lakers' early dominance.

Vern Mikkelsen passed away on November 21, 2013, but his influence on the game of basketball endures.

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