Alton Lister has played in 953 games thus far in his career and accumulated 18,965 minutes in those games. Lister was named a starter in 582 matchups, and in those matchups he owns an average of 6.6 points per contest and has 6,298 points in total. He accumulates 12.0 points per 36 minutes, as well as grabbing 11.4 boards and adding 1.7 assists so far in his career. By converting 2,514 baskets of his 4,907 attempts, Lister has tallied a 51.2% shooting percentage. By putting in 1 out of 9 baskets from behind the arc, he has accumulated a 3pt rate of 11.1%. By converting 2,513 of 4,898 two-point attempts, he has an average of 51.3%. Lister has made 1,269 of 2,126 shots from the free throw line, giving him a clip of 59.7%. Sitting with an effective FG% of 51.2%, he has also accrued 3,179 infractions and 1,450 turnovers. Having collected 4,152 defensive rebounds and 1,844 on the offensive end of the court, Lister has tallied 5,996 total rebounds so far in his career. He has compiled 351 steals, in addition to 1,473 blocks and 914 dimes. With respect to stats per game, Lister averages 1.0 dimes as well as 6.3 rebounds.
Alton Lister is a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts who followed the NBA during the 1980s and 1990s. Known for his towering presence and defensive skills, Lister carved out a significant career in the league. This article delves into the details of Alton Lister’s NBA career, exploring the teams he played for, his career statistics, and his overall impact on the game.
Early Life and College Basketball
Alton Lister was born on October 1, 1958, in Dallas, Texas. Before making his mark in the NBA, he honed his skills in college basketball. Lister attended Arizona State University, where he became a standout player for the Sun Devils. His impressive performance at the collegiate level set the stage for his future professional career.
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Entry into the NBA
Draft and Early Years
In 1981, Alton Lister entered the NBA Draft and was selected by the Milwaukee Bucks as the 21st overall pick in the first round. Standing at 7 feet tall, Lister quickly became known for his shot-blocking ability and defensive prowess. During his rookie season with the Bucks, Lister showcased his potential by contributing significantly on the defensive end.
Milwaukee Bucks
Lister spent his first five seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he became a key player in the team’s defensive lineup. His ability to protect the rim and grab rebounds made him a valuable asset for the Bucks. During his tenure with Milwaukee, Lister helped the team make several playoff appearances, solidifying his reputation as a reliable center.
Career Highlights and Team Transitions
Seattle SuperSonics
In 1986, Alton Lister was traded to the Seattle SuperSonics. His time with the SuperSonics marked a new chapter in his career, as he continued to excel defensively. Lister’s presence in the paint helped the SuperSonics maintain a strong defense, and he played a crucial role in their playoff runs during the late 1980s.
Golden State Warriors
Lister’s journey in the NBA saw him joining the Golden State Warriors in 1989. With the Warriors, Lister brought his veteran experience and defensive skills to a team that was building towards future success. Although his time with the Warriors was relatively short, he left an indelible mark with his leadership on and off the court.
Boston Celtics and Return to Milwaukee
After his stint with the Warriors, Lister played briefly for the Boston Celtics before returning to the Milwaukee Bucks for a second tenure. His return to Milwaukee was a testament to the impact he had on the team’s defensive identity. Lister’s experience and familiarity with the Bucks’ system proved beneficial as he continued to contribute effectively.
Portland Trail Blazers
In the final stages of his NBA career, Alton Lister joined the Portland Trail Blazers. Although his playing time was limited, Lister’s veteran presence was invaluable to the team. He provided mentorship to younger players and continued to be a defensive anchor whenever called upon.
Alton Lister’s Career Stats
Alton Lister’s NBA career spanned over 16 years, and during this time, he accumulated impressive statistics. Lister played in a total of 953 regular-season games, averaging 6.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. His shot-blocking ability was a hallmark of his career, as he consistently ranked among the league’s top defenders.
Defensive Prowess
Lister’s impact on the defensive end cannot be overstated. He was known for his shot-blocking skills, often intimidating opponents with his presence in the paint. Throughout his career, Lister recorded over 1,473 blocks, showcasing his ability to alter shots and deter offensive players.
Rebounding and Leadership
In addition to his shot-blocking, Lister was a reliable rebounder. His ability to secure rebounds on both ends of the court made him an essential part of his teams’ defensive strategies. Beyond statistics, Lister’s leadership qualities and work ethic earned him respect from teammates and coaches alike.
Legacy and Impact
Alton Lister’s career in the NBA is remembered for his defensive contributions and consistency over the years. While he may not have been a prolific scorer, his impact on the game was undeniable. Lister’s dedication to defense and his ability to mentor younger players left a lasting legacy in the league.
Post-Retirement and Coaching
After retiring from professional basketball, Lister transitioned into coaching. He has shared his knowledge and experience with aspiring players, helping to develop the next generation of basketball talent. Lister’s commitment to the game continues to inspire those who have had the privilege of learning from him.
Conclusion
Alton Lister’s NBA career is a testament to the importance of defense and teamwork in basketball. His journey through various teams and his contributions on the court have solidified his place in the annals of NBA history. As a player who excelled in his role, Lister’s legacy serves as an example for future generations of basketball players who aspire to make their mark in the league.
Through his dedication and defensive prowess, Alton Lister has left an indelible mark on the NBA, and his story continues to inspire fans and players alike.