Fat Lever has earned 23,814 mins and has participated in 752 games during his pro basketball career. Lever has racked up 10,433 points so far in his NBA career, comes in with an average of 13.9 PPG and has started in 599 contests. He earns 7.1 dimes, grabs 6.8 rebounds and scores 15.8 per 36 minutes. With a shot % of 44.7%, Lever has made 4,244 shots of his 9,504 tries. Having taken 523 3PT tries during his pro basketball career, he has a shooting percentage of 31.0% by converting 162 of those shots. He has recorded a 45.5% 2pt shooting percentage of by burying 4,082 out of 8,981 shots. Lever has compiled a 77.1% clip from the free throw line by converting 1,783 out of 2,312 attempts. While he has earned an eFG% of 45.5%, he has also had a total of 1,471 giveaways and has a total of 1,803 fouls. He has a tally of 4,523 total boards so far in his NBA career by grabbing 3,081 defensive and 1,442 of the offensive variety. When discussing making the extra pass, Lever is sitting with 4,696 assists, in addition to putting up 1,666 steals and 209 blocks. He is averaging 6.0 rebounds and 0.0 assists per contest.
Leveraging both skill and determination, Lafayette “Fat” Lever left an indelible mark on the NBA during his remarkable career. Known for his dynamic play style and impressive stats, Lever became a prominent figure in basketball history. This article delves into the highlights of his career, showcasing why he remains a celebrated player.
Early Life and NBA Draft
Fat Lever’s basketball journey began in Tucson, Arizona, where he honed his skills on the court from a young age. His talent didn’t go unnoticed, leading him to play college basketball at Arizona State University. Lever’s outstanding performance there caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was subsequently drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers as the 11th overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft.
Rise to Prominence with the Denver Nuggets
Lever’s career truly took off when he joined the Denver Nuggets in 1984. As a point guard, he became known for his ability to contribute across the board—scoring, rebounding, assisting, and defending. Lever’s versatility allowed him to rack up impressive career stats, making him a triple-double threat every time he took the court.
During his tenure with the Nuggets, Lever was a two-time NBA All-Star and became a key player in the team’s success during the mid to late 1980s. His performance in the 1987-1988 season was particularly notable, as he averaged 18.9 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game. This season highlighted Lever’s capability to impact the game in multiple facets, earning him the respect of fans and peers alike.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Lever’s NBA career was filled with memorable highlights that showcased his diverse skill set. One of his most outstanding performances came on February 27, 1988, when he recorded a triple-double against the Indiana Pacers with 31 points, 16 rebounds, and 12 assists. Such performances were not uncommon for Lever, as he consistently demonstrated his ability to dominate games.
In total, Lever achieved an impressive 43 triple-doubles throughout his career, ranking him among the top in NBA history for this statistic. His all-around game made him an invaluable asset to his team and a formidable opponent on the court.
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Later Career and Legacy
After his successful stint with the Denver Nuggets, Lever went on to play for the Dallas Mavericks and later the San Antonio Spurs before retiring in 1994. Though injuries hampered his later years, his legacy as a versatile and impactful player endured.
Fat Lever remains a celebrated figure in NBA history, remembered for his contributions to the game and his impressive career stats. His ability to perform at a high level in various aspects of the game solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile guards of his era.
In conclusion, Fat Lever’s NBA career is a testament to his skill, perseverance, and impact on the game of basketball. His highlights continue to inspire fans and players alike, ensuring his legacy lives on in the annals of NBA history.
