From being the 7th pick in the 2017 Draft to becoming an All-Star this season, Lauri Markkanen never gave up on himself. The Utah Jazz sensation continues to prove his worth to the team by topping the scoring lists with crucial performances. However, Markkanen couldn’t have done it all without the help of his wife, Verna Aho. After dating for several years, Markkanen and Aho tied the knot in 2017 and still continue their love tale.

The Jazz star also has two kids, who were born in 2018 and 2020, respectively. After years of continuing his hustle with different teams, the Finnish international has made a name for himself in Salt Lake City.

The rise of Lauri Markkanen has been one of the biggest stories of the season

Markkanen tied the knot with Verna Aho half a decade back after they met in middle school. Aho has been a part of the Jazz star’s life for several years. She also has been the backbone by providing support to Markkanen from the early stages of his career. 

After getting drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Markkanen was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls where he went on to have a great rookie season. In his first season in the NBA for the Bulls, Markkanen averaged 15.2 points and 7.5 rebounds. Ever since, he has been very consistent for all the teams he has played. During his second season with the Bulls, Markkanen and Aho welcomed their first child in 2018. 

After four great seasons with the Bulls, the seven-footer was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a three-way deal. Markkanen signed a four-year $67 million contract with the Cavs. Markkanen and his wife welcomed their second child in the forward’s final year with the Bulls. 

After averaging 14.8 points and 5.7 rebounds in his first season with the Cavs, Markkanen was traded to the Utah Jazz in 2022. The trade sent the Finnish player along with Collin Sexton and Ochai Agbaji to the Jazz for Donovan Mitchell. Though many did not have hopes for the new look Jazz, Markkanen and co. continue to deliver this season. In his current year with the Jazz, the forward is averaging a career-high of 24.9 points and 8.6 rebounds. 

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Further, Markkanen made his first All-Star appearance this year, playing for ‘Team Giannis’. Though the Jazz have a long and difficult road to the playoffs, a few consistent wins can help the team bag a spot in the postseason. Share your thoughts on Lauri Markkanen in the comments below.