The 7-Foot Lineage: 5 Surprising Facts About Chet Holmgren's Parents, David Holmgren And Sarah Harris

Dec 21, 2025 • minute read

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The towering presence of Oklahoma City Thunder star Chet Holmgren is a story not just about an elite 7-footer, but about the remarkable family foundation that built him. As of December 2025, Holmgren is solidifying his status as one of the NBA's most unique talents, and the quiet support system of his parents, David Holmgren and Sarah Harris, is the essential, often-overlooked bedrock of his success. Their combined passion for basketball and professional stability created the perfect environment for a generational talent to thrive, making their own stories just as compelling as their son's journey. This article dives deep into the lives of David Holmgren and Sarah Harris, revealing how their own impressive backgrounds—from collegiate basketball courts to the world of professional real estate—shaped Chet into the player and person he is today, including their recent community involvement in Oklahoma City.

Chet Holmgren: A Quick Biography and Profile

Chet Thomas Holmgren was born on May 1, 2002, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He quickly rose to prominence as a top high school prospect at Minnehaha Academy, where his unique combination of a 7-foot-plus frame, elite ball-handling, and shot-blocking abilities made him a national sensation. He committed to Gonzaga University, playing one standout season for the Gonzaga Bulldogs before declaring for the NBA Draft.

Chet Holmgren Professional Profile:

Full Name: Chet Thomas Holmgren
Born: May 1, 2002 (Age 23 as of December 2025)
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota
High School: Minnehaha Academy
College: Gonzaga University
Position: Center / Power Forward
Height: 7’1” (216 cm)
Weight: 208 lbs (94 kg)
NBA Draft: 2022, Round 1, Pick 2 (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Current Team: Oklahoma City Thunder (OKC)

The Basketball Bloodline: David Holmgren’s Collegiate Career

The sheer height and innate basketball ability of Chet Holmgren are no accident; they are a direct inheritance from his father, David Holmgren. David is a former collegiate basketball player who provided the blueprint and the initial coaching for his son’s career.

A 7-Foot College Player at Minnesota

David Holmgren is reportedly around 7 feet tall, a stature that immediately explains Chet's own towering height. More importantly, David played college basketball at the University of Minnesota, cementing the family’s deep roots in the sport. This personal experience meant that Chet’s training and development were guided by someone who understood the demands of high-level basketball.

The Quiet Coach and Filming Games

David’s influence went beyond just genetics and general advice. He took a proactive, hands-on role in shaping Chet’s early career. According to Chet, his father was instrumental in filming his games, allowing for meticulous review and analysis of his performance. This dedication to detailed, low-key coaching helped Chet develop the high basketball IQ and unique skill set that makes him an NBA anomaly. David, despite his own history in the spotlight, has largely preferred to remain out of the public eye, focusing instead on his son's development.

Sarah Harris: The Unseen Anchor and Professional Stability

While David Holmgren provided the basketball lineage and coaching, Chet’s mother, Sarah Harris, has been described as the "constant anchor" and the source of essential stability in his life. Her role, though less public, is equally vital to understanding Chet's balanced personality and professional approach.

An Impressive Height of Her Own

The Holmgren family’s impressive height is not solely from the paternal side. Sarah Harris is also notably tall, reportedly standing somewhere around 6'4". This combined genetic advantage from both parents underscores the rare physical gifts Chet received, making him a true product of his "7-foot lineage."

A Successful Professional in Real Estate

Sarah Harris maintains a low public profile, but she is a successful professional. Reports indicate she works in the real estate sector. This professional background suggests a life outside of the intense basketball world, offering Chet a grounding perspective and a stable home life that is crucial for any elite athlete. Her quiet support contrasts with the high-energy demands of the NBA, providing a necessary balance.

The Family’s Commitment to Oklahoma City and Recent News

The Holmgren family's support was highly visible during the 2022 NBA Draft, where both David Holmgren and Sarah Harris were present to celebrate Chet being selected second overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, their commitment to Chet's career and his new home extends far beyond that single night.

Thanksgiving in OKC: Giving Back to the Community

In a recent and heartwarming example of their family values, Chet and his family—including his parents—hosted a Thanksgiving event for foster families in need from Citizens Caring for Children (CCC OKC) in November. This act of community service demonstrates that the family is not just focused on basketball success, but on integrating into and giving back to the Oklahoma City community that has embraced Chet.

Strong Family Roots Fueling NBA Rise

The story of Chet Holmgren’s success is a testament to strong family roots. David’s proactive, basketball-focused approach, combined with Sarah’s steady, professional stability, created a comprehensive support system. This balance allowed Chet to focus on developing his unique skills without the external pressures that often derail young stars. The constant presence and guidance from his parents, who both possess impressive height and professional dedication, are the true keys to understanding his rapid rise in the NBA.

The 7-Foot Lineage: 5 Surprising Facts About Chet Holmgren's Parents, David Holmgren and Sarah Harris

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