Bob McAdoo has taken part in 852 games in his pro basketball career and recorded 28,327 mins in those contests. McAdoo has started in 1 matchups, and in those contests he sports an average of 22.1 points per contest and has 18,787 points in total. He accumulates 23.9 pts per 36 mins, in addition to pulling down 10.2 rebounds and earning 2.5 dimes during his NBA career. By knocking down 7,420 baskets of his 14,751 tries, McAdoo has a 50.3% shooting rate. By putting in 3 of 37 shots from downtown, he has accounted for a three-point shooting percentage of 8.1%. By burying 7,417 of 14,714 2pt tries, he has recorded an average of 50.4%. McAdoo has knocked down 3,944 out of 5,229 shots from the foul line, putting him at a rate of 75.4%. With an effective field goal rate of 50.3%, he has also earned 2,726 personal fouls and 1,223 turnovers. With 5,502 defensive boards and 1,818 on the offensive end of the court, McAdoo has compiled 8,048 rebounds in total in his pro basketball career. He has compiled 751 steals, in addition to 1,147 rejections and 1,951 assists. In the matter of stats per game, McAdoo averages 2.3 dimes as well as 9.4 boards.
Bob McAdoo is a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts and historians alike. Renowned for his scoring prowess and versatility on the court, McAdoo’s NBA career is a testament to his exceptional talent and perseverance. Throughout his time in the league, McAdoo established himself as one of the premier players of his era, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

Early Life and College Career
Before delving into his professional journey, it’s essential to understand Bob McAdoo’s roots. Born on September 25, 1951, in Greensboro, North Carolina, McAdoo’s basketball journey began in high school, where he quickly showcased his talent. This early promise earned him a scholarship to play at Vincennes Junior College, where he continued to impress.
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McAdoo later transferred to the University of North Carolina, where he played for the Tar Heels under the legendary coach Dean Smith. His time at UNC was short but impactful, as he played a key role in leading the team to the NCAA Final Four in 1972.
Entering the NBA
In 1972, Bob McAdoo declared for the NBA Draft and was selected as the second overall pick by the Buffalo Braves. His entry into the NBA marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would span over two decades.
Buffalo Braves and Scoring Dominance
McAdoo wasted no time making his presence felt in the league. During his rookie season, he averaged an impressive 18 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award. It was just the beginning.
Over the next few years, McAdoo’s scoring ability became his hallmark. From 1974 to 1976, he led the league in scoring, averaging over 30 points per game each season. In 1975, he claimed the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, becoming one of the youngest players ever to do so at the age of 23.
Transition and Challenges
Despite his individual success, McAdoo faced challenges with team success. The Braves struggled to make deep playoff runs, and McAdoo’s tenure with the team ended in 1976 when he was traded to the New York Knicks.
New York Knicks
In New York, McAdoo continued to be a prolific scorer, but the team struggled to find cohesion and success. His time with the Knicks was marked by changes in coaching and management, leading to fluctuating team dynamics. Despite these challenges, McAdoo remained a consistent performer, showcasing his scoring and rebounding abilities.
Later Career and Team Changes
McAdoo’s career took him to several teams, including the Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons, and New Jersey Nets. Each stop presented its own set of challenges and opportunities. However, it was his move to the Los Angeles Lakers that rejuvenated his career.
Los Angeles Lakers and Championships
Joining the Lakers in 1981, McAdoo became a valuable contributor off the bench for a team that was already a powerhouse. Under the leadership of coach Pat Riley and alongside stars like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, McAdoo played a crucial role in securing two NBA championships in 1982 and 1985.
His ability to score and adapt to different roles made him an integral part of the Lakers’ success during this period. McAdoo’s tenure with the Lakers was a testament to his adaptability and resilience, proving that he could excel in various roles beyond being a primary scorer.
Retirement and Legacy
Bob McAdoo’s NBA career came to a close in 1986 after brief stints with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Italian league. His time in the NBA was marked by numerous accolades, including five NBA All-Star selections and induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000.
Career Stats and Achievements
Throughout his career, McAdoo amassed impressive statistics. He scored over 18,000 points and collected over 8,000 rebounds. His career averages of 22.1 points and 9.4 rebounds per game highlight his impact on the court.
McAdoo’s legacy extends beyond his statistics. He was a pioneer for big men with his shooting ability and versatility, paving the way for future generations of basketball players. His influence can still be seen in the modern game, where big men are expected to contribute in multiple facets.
Impact on the Game
Bob McAdoo’s impact on basketball is undeniable. His scoring ability, combined with his adaptability, made him a formidable force on the court. He demonstrated that success in the NBA requires not only talent but also the ability to evolve and embrace different roles.
McAdoo’s journey from a dominant scorer with the Braves to a key role player with the Lakers showcases the importance of versatility in professional sports. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, reminding them that perseverance and adaptability are key to a successful career.
Conclusion
Bob McAdoo’s NBA career is a remarkable tale of talent, resilience, and adaptability. From his early days as a scoring machine with the Buffalo Braves to his championship-winning contributions with the Los Angeles Lakers, McAdoo’s journey is a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport of basketball.
His career stats and achievements speak volumes about his impact on the game, and his influence continues to be felt in the modern NBA. As one of the greatest players of his era, Bob McAdoo’s legacy will forever be etched in the annals of basketball history.