Max Christie, the Los Angeles Lakers’ No. 12 shooting guard, is rapidly making a name for himself in the NBA. Born on February 10, 2003, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Christie’s story is not just one of individual achievement but also one deeply rooted in a family tradition of basketball excellence.
Max Christie Family Built for Basketball
Max Christie’s passion for basketball runs in his blood. His mother, Katrina (née Hannaford), was a standout college basketball player at Northwestern University, where she scored over 1,000 career points. Beyond her athletic achievements, Katrina pursued a career in psychology, showcasing the family’s drive for excellence both on and off the court.
His father, Max Sr., also has a basketball pedigree, having played at Parkland College and Wisconsin–Superior before transitioning into a career as an aircraft pilot. Together, his parents have been instrumental in shaping Christie’s dedication to sports and academics.
Max isn’t the only athlete in the family. His younger brother, Cam Christie, followed in his footsteps, becoming a collegiate basketball player at the University of Minnesota. On June 27, 2024, Cam made his own mark by being selected with the 46th overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers. Cam now plays professionally for the Clippers, making the Christie brothers a compelling sibling duo in the NBA.
Max Christie Early Life and High School Dominance
Max Christie’s basketball journey began in earnest at Rolling Meadows High School in Illinois. Known for his scoring prowess and defensive tenacity, he became one of the most sought-after high school players in the country. In 2021, he earned the prestigious honor of being named a McDonald’s All-American, cementing his status as a top-tier prospect.
A Stellar Year at Michigan State
Christie continued his basketball ascent at Michigan State University, where he played for the Spartans during the 2021–2022 season. As a freshman, he averaged 9.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His well-rounded performance earned him a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman Team, further solidifying his potential as a future NBA star.
Max Christie Joining the Los Angeles Lakers
Christie declared for the 2022 NBA Draft and was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 35th overall pick in the second round. At 6 feet 5 inches and 190 pounds, his athleticism, shooting ability, and defensive skills have made him a promising asset for the team.
During his rookie season, Christie gained valuable experience by splitting time between the Lakers and their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. This dual experience helped him adapt to the professional level and refine his game.
Winning the NBA Cup and Representing Team USA
In 2023, Christie achieved a major milestone by helping the Lakers win the NBA Cup. This accomplishment not only highlighted his growing role on the team but also showcased his potential to contribute to championship-caliber squads.
On the international stage, Christie’s talent shone brightly as he represented Team USA at the 2019 FIBA Americas U16 Championship in Brazil. He played a key role in securing a gold medal, adding another accolade to his impressive resume.
A Family Legacy on the Rise
With Cam Christie joining the NBA in 2024 as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers, the Christie family’s basketball legacy continues to grow. The possibility of future matchups between Max and Cam adds an exciting dynamic to their careers, capturing the attention of basketball fans everywhere.
Looking Ahead
Max Christie’s NBA journey is still in its early stages, but his steady improvement and strong work ethic point toward a bright future. Supported by his family’s deep basketball roots and his own determination, Christie has the tools to become a key contributor for the Lakers and a standout player in the league.
As fans eagerly watch Max Christie’s development, his story serves as an inspiring example of how talent, hard work, and a supportive family can lead to greatness both on and off the court.
Max Christie Contract
Christie solidified his future with the Los Angeles Lakers by signing a four-year, $32 million contract extension.
The Potential for Stardom
As Max Christie continues to grow and develop in the NBA, his ceiling appears limitless. At just 21 years old, Christie has already shown flashes of brilliance, particularly on the defensive end and with his ability to knock down clutch jumpers. His combination of size, basketball IQ, and versatility make him a unique asset for the Los Angeles Lakers, a team known for its championship pedigree.
One of Christie’s standout traits is his adaptability. During his rookie season, he demonstrated the willingness to learn and embrace various roles within the team. Whether it’s as a defensive specialist, a secondary scorer, or a reliable presence on the perimeter, Christie has consistently displayed a team-first mentality. This attitude, coupled with his natural talent, positions him as a cornerstone of the Lakers’ long-term plans.
Learning From the Greats
Playing for a franchise like the Lakers comes with unparalleled opportunities. Surrounded by seasoned veterans and some of the game’s greatest talents, Christie has access to invaluable mentorship. Learning from players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, he has the chance to absorb insights about leadership, preparation, and what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Additionally, the Lakers’ coaching staff has been instrumental in helping Christie polish his game. With their focus on player development, the organization has been a perfect environment for him to grow both mentally and physically. His improvement in three-point shooting and on-ball defense are testaments to his hard work and the support system around him.
Off the Court: A Well-Rounded Role Model
While Max Christie’s talents on the basketball court are undeniable, his off-court demeanor further sets him apart. Coming from a family that values education and discipline, Christie embodies professionalism and humility. His mother, Katrina, a psychologist, and his father, Max Sr., an aircraft pilot, instilled in him the importance of balance and hard work. These values resonate in his interactions with fans, teammates, and the community.
Christie’s background also positions him as a role model for younger athletes. He demonstrates that success is not solely about athletic performance but also about character, determination, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Sibling Rivalry and Shared Dreams
With his younger brother Cam Christie now in the NBA, the storyline becomes even more compelling. The Christie brothers, representing different teams in Los Angeles—the Lakers and Clippers—have the potential to create thrilling matchups that could become a staple of the city’s basketball rivalry. Fans eagerly anticipate the day when Max and Cam face off, showcasing their shared passion for the game while representing their family’s legacy on the professional stage.
This unique dynamic not only adds intrigue to their careers but also highlights the supportive yet competitive relationship they share. It’s clear that the Christie brothers are driven by a mutual desire to elevate each other and continue their family’s proud tradition of basketball excellence.
Max Christie Bright Future
As Max Christie progresses in his NBA career, his potential to leave a lasting impact on the league becomes increasingly evident. His journey so far has been one of steady growth, shaped by a supportive family, high-level mentors, and an unrelenting drive to succeed.
Looking ahead, Christie’s goals likely include solidifying his role with the Lakers, earning All-Star recognition, and perhaps even helping the team compete for another championship. With his talent, work ethic, and the foundation built by his family, there’s every reason to believe that Max Christie will continue to shine on basketball’s biggest stage.
The future of the NBA is filled with young stars, and Max Christie stands among them, ready to carve out his legacy as both a player and an ambassador for the game. Whether it’s on the hardwood or through his influence off the court, Christie’s story is far from over—and fans can’t wait to see what’s next.
Max Christie’s Net Worth
Max Christie’s net worth is estimated to be around $5–7 million as of 2024. This includes earnings from his NBA contracts, endorsements, and other ventures. In the summer of 2024, Christie signed a lucrative four-year, $32 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, which significantly boosted his financial standing. His growing profile in the league and potential future endorsements are likely to increase his net worth in the coming years.
Max Christie’s Girlfriends or Wife
As of now, Max Christie has not publicly shared much about his personal relationships, including whether he has a girlfriend or wife. Known for keeping his private life out of the spotlight, Christie focuses primarily on his basketball career and personal growth. Fans and media alike respect his decision to maintain a level of privacy about his personal affairs.
Max Christie’s Parents
Max Christie comes from a family deeply rooted in basketball and success. His mother, Katrina (née Hannaford), was a standout college basketball player at Northwestern University, where she scored over 1,000 career points. Beyond her basketball achievements, Katrina is a psychologist, showcasing a balance of academic and athletic excellence.
His father, Max Sr., also has a basketball background, having played at Parkland College and Wisconsin–Superior. After his basketball career, he pursued a professional path as an aircraft pilot. Max’s parents have been a significant influence on his discipline, work ethic, and love for the game.
Max Christie FAQ: All You Need to Know
What happened to Max Christie?
Max Christie continues to play in the NBA as a shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. After being selected in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft, he has developed into a promising young talent. In 2024, Christie re-signed with the Lakers on a four-year, $32 million contract, solidifying his place on the team for the foreseeable future.
Is Max Christie the son of Doug Christie?
No, Max Christie is not the son of former NBA player Doug Christie. Max’s parents are Katrina (née Hannaford) and Max Sr. His mother played college basketball at Northwestern, and his father also has a basketball background, having played at Parkland College and Wisconsin–Superior.
Is Max Christie still in the NBA?
Yes, Max Christie is still in the NBA. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he continues to showcase his potential as a young and versatile shooting guard.
Who is the No. 12 player on the Lakers?
Max Christie wears the No. 12 jersey for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Who wore No. 7 on the Lakers?
Number 7 has been worn by several Lakers players in the past, including Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza. As of the 2024 season, no player currently wears No. 7 for the Lakers.
What number is LeBron’s son?
LeBron James’ son, Bronny James, typically wears No. 6 or No. 0 in his high school and college career. If and when he joins the NBA, his jersey number may depend on team availability and personal choice.
Who wore No. 1 on the Lakers?
In the past, notable Lakers players like D’Angelo Russell and Nick Young have worn No. 1. Currently, no player on the Lakers roster wears No. 1.
Did LeBron James wear No. 6?
Yes, LeBron James wore No. 6 during his time with the Miami Heat and later with the Los Angeles Lakers from 2021 to 2023. However, he returned to No. 23 in the 2023–2024 season in honor of NBA legend Bill Russell, whose No. 6 jersey was retired league-wide.
Who wears No. 0 on the Lakers?
As of the 2024 season, D’Angelo Russell wears No. 0 for the Los Angeles Lakers.