One of the greatest European basketballers of all time was born on this day, 34 years ago.

Parker – the son of an American professional, born in Belgium but who represents France internationally – continues to leave an incredible mark on the sport.

The stylish point guard is a six-time NBA All-Star, four-time NBA champion with San Antonio Spurs and the 2007 NBA Finals MVP.

His mixture of searing pace and efficient shooting still makes him a player to fear, despite his relative lack of size at 6ft 2in.

He entered the NBA Draft in 2001 after playing his formative years in France and early promise saw him named into the 2002 NBA All-Rookie Team.

His zenith would come in the mid-00s, as the Spurs dominated the NBA. A further success came two years ago, although this year’s playoffs ended in a semi-final defeat.

1945: B. S. Chandrasekhar, ex-India cricketer who is considered one of the world’s greatest leg spinners (71).

1956: Sugar Ray Leonard, legendary five-weight world champion boxer (60).

1985: Matt Ryan, quarterback for Atlanta Falcons, who is a three-time participant in NFL’s Pro Bowl (31).

1987: Edvald Boasson Hagen, Norwegian cyclist who has won two stages on the Tour de France (29).