In the matter of making the extra pass, Nance has accumulated 2,393 assists, in addition to supplying 872 steals and 2,027 blocks. He is averaging 8.0 rebounds in addition to 0.0 assists per outing. He has accrued 7,352 total boards during his career by way of 5,053 on the defensive side of the court and 2,299 of the offensive variety. While he has earned an effective field goal percentage of 54.6%, he has also recorded 1,711 turnovers and accrued 2,703 infractions. Nance has accounted for a 75.5% percentage from the charity stripe by making 2,939 of his 3,892 shot attempts. He has a 54.8% two-point shooting percentage of by making 6,362 out of 11,609 tries. Having shot 55 3PT attempts so far in his pro basketball career, he has accrued a shooting percentage of 14.5% by converting 8 of those tries. Stepping onto the court with a field goal percentage of 54.6%, Nance has converted 6,370 shots of his 11,664 attempts. He earns 2.8 dimes, snags 8.6 boards and compiles 18.4 per 36 minutes. Nance has racked up 15,687 pts during his NBA career, averages 17.1 points per game and got the starting nod in 795 games. Larry Nance has earned 30,697 mins and has taken the court in 920 games in his career.
Larry Nance, a name that echoes in the corridors of NBA history, is celebrated for his exceptional skills on the court and his contributions to the teams he played for. His career, marked by impressive stats and memorable performances, makes him one of the notable figures in basketball. In this article, we will explore Larry Nance’s NBA career, his journey across different teams, and his career stats.
Early Beginnings and Entry into the NBA
Larry Donnell Nance was born on February 12, 1959, in Anderson, South Carolina. Before making his mark in the NBA, Nance played college basketball at Clemson University. His time at Clemson showcased his potential, and he quickly became a standout player. His college performances caught the attention of NBA scouts, setting the stage for his professional career.
In the 1981 NBA Draft, Larry Nance was selected as the 20th overall pick by the Phoenix Suns. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would span over a decade and leave a lasting impact on the league.
The Phoenix Suns Era
Larry Nance began his NBA journey with the Phoenix Suns, where he played from 1981 to 1988. Known for his incredible athleticism, Nance became a fan favorite in Phoenix. His ability to play both offense and defense made him an invaluable asset to the team.
During his time with the Suns, Nance was known for his spectacular dunks and shot-blocking abilities. In 1984, he achieved a significant career milestone by winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, the first-ever held during the All-Star Weekend. This victory not only highlighted his leaping ability but also solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting players to watch.
Nance’s stats during his tenure with the Suns were impressive. He consistently averaged double-digit points and was a significant contributor to the team’s success. His performance on the court earned him a spot in the 1985 NBA All-Star Game, a testament to his prowess as a player.
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Trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers
In 1988, Larry Nance was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, a move that would define the latter part of his career. The trade was a pivotal moment for the Cavaliers, as Nance brought experience and skill to a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
With the Cavaliers, Nance continued to showcase his all-around game. He played a crucial role in leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. His presence in the paint and ability to score from various positions made him a versatile player who could adapt to different game situations.
Nance’s impact on the Cavaliers was significant, and he became a key figure in the team’s strategy. He was selected to two more NBA All-Star Games in 1989 and 1993, further cementing his legacy as one of the league’s elite players.
Career Stats and Achievements
Larry Nance’s career stats reflect his contributions to the NBA. Over 13 seasons, he played in 920 games, averaging 17.1 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. His consistent performance on both ends of the floor made him a valuable player for any team he joined.
Nance’s achievements extend beyond his stats. He was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 1989 and the Second Team in 1992 and 1993. These accolades highlight his defensive prowess and ability to impact games beyond scoring.
In addition to his on-court success, Nance was known for his sportsmanship and leadership. He was respected by teammates and opponents alike for his professionalism and dedication to the game.
Post-Retirement and Legacy
After retiring from professional basketball in 1994, Larry Nance transitioned into a successful career in business. He also became involved in various charitable endeavors, using his platform to give back to the community.
Nance’s legacy in the NBA is remembered not only for his individual achievements but also for his contributions to the teams he played for. His influence is evident in the careers of his children, particularly his son, Larry Nance Jr., who has followed in his father’s footsteps to become an NBA player.
Nance’s induction into the Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor and his recognition by the Cleveland Cavaliers as one of their all-time greats are testaments to his impact on the league. His style of play and athleticism continue to inspire new generations of basketball players.
Conclusion
Larry Nance’s NBA career is a story of talent, dedication, and success. From his early days with the Phoenix Suns to his impactful years with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Nance left an indelible mark on the league. His career stats, achievements, and legacy reflect a player who not only excelled on the court but also inspired those around him.
As we reflect on Larry Nance’s contributions to basketball, it’s clear that his influence extends beyond the game. His legacy lives on through his family, his charitable work, and the memories of his spectacular performances that continue to resonate with fans and players alike.
