When discussing sharing the basketball, Woolridge has a total of 1,609 assists, as well as adding 553 steals and 569 blocks. He is averaging 4.3 boards as well as 0.0 assists per contest. He is sitting with 3,696 rebounds in total in his pro basketball career by pulling in 2,335 on the defensive end and 1,361 offensive. Stepping onto the court with an effective FG percentage of 51.4%, he has additionally accumulated 1,747 giveaways and accounted for 2,166 personal fouls. Woolridge has tallied a 73.7% percentage at the charity stripe by making 3,315 out of his 4,501 attempts. He has recorded a 51.7% shooting percentage of by way of burying 5,142 of his 9,949 tries. With 88 attempts beyond the arc thus far in his career, he has recorded a shooting percentage of 9.1% by making 8 of those shots. Sitting with a FG% of 51.3%, Woolridge has knocked down 5,150 baskets of 10,037 tries. He earns 2.4 assists, pulls down 5.5 rebounds and tallies 20.4 per 36 minutes. Woolridge has accrued 13,623 points so far in his career, averages 16.0 points per contest and was named a starter in 485 games. Orlando Woolridge has tallied 24,041 minutes and has stepped onto the hardwood in 851 games so far in his pro basketball career.
Orlando Woolridge was a remarkable basketball player known for his scoring ability and dynamic play style. His career in the NBA spanned over a decade, during which he played for several teams and left a lasting impact on the game. In this article, we’ll explore Orlando Woolridge’s NBA career, highlighting his journey, achievements, and career statistics.
Early Life and College Basketball
Orlando Vernada Woolridge was born on December 16, 1959, in Bernice, Louisiana. He showed a passion for basketball from a young age and quickly became known for his athleticism and skill on the court. Woolridge attended the University of Notre Dame, where he played college basketball for the Fighting Irish. His time at Notre Dame was marked by significant achievements, including leading his team to the NCAA tournament multiple times.
Entry into the NBA
In 1981, Orlando Woolridge entered the NBA draft and was selected sixth overall by the Chicago Bulls. His entry into the professional league marked the beginning of a dynamic and exciting career. Woolridge’s early years with the Bulls showcased his scoring ability, and he quickly became a fan favorite for his high-flying dunks and offensive prowess.
Chicago Bulls (1981–1986)
During his tenure with the Chicago Bulls, Woolridge played alongside the legendary Michael Jordan. The duo formed a formidable offensive partnership, with Woolridge often taking on the role of the primary scorer. His best season with the Bulls came in 1984-85 when he averaged 22.9 points per game. Woolridge’s scoring ability made him a key player for the Bulls, and his performances helped the team reach the playoffs.
New Jersey Nets (1986–1988)
After leaving the Bulls, Woolridge signed with the New Jersey Nets. His time with the Nets was marked by consistent scoring performances, and he continued to be a reliable offensive threat. Woolridge averaged over 20 points per game during his first season with the Nets, proving his ability to maintain high-level play across different teams.
Los Angeles Lakers and Beyond
In 1988, Woolridge joined the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Playing alongside stars like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Woolridge contributed to the Lakers’ success with his scoring and versatility. Although his role was more limited compared to his previous teams, he remained an important part of the Lakers’ rotation.
Later Career Moves
Following his stint with the Lakers, Woolridge played for several other NBA teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, and the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite frequent team changes, Woolridge continued to demonstrate his scoring ability and adaptability on the court. His career in the NBA concluded in 1994, after which he explored opportunities in international basketball leagues.
Career Statistics and Achievements
Orlando Woolridge’s NBA career is characterized by impressive statistics and notable achievements. Over the course of his career, he accumulated over 13,000 points, with an average of 16 points per game. Woolridge’s scoring ability and offensive contributions were recognized with appearances in the NBA All-Star Weekend Slam Dunk Contest, where he showcased his athleticism and flair.
Notable Achievements
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1982): Woolridge’s impact was felt from his rookie season, earning him a spot on the All-Rookie First Team.
- Slam Dunk Contest Participant: Known for his acrobatic dunks, Woolridge participated in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, delighting fans with his aerial displays.
- Consistent Scorer: Throughout his career, Woolridge was a consistent offensive force, averaging over 20 points per game in multiple seasons.
Legacy and Impact
Orlando Woolridge’s legacy in the NBA is defined by his scoring prowess and dynamic playing style. He was a trailblazer for future generations of high-flying forwards, and his contributions to the teams he played for are fondly remembered by fans and teammates alike. Woolridge’s ability to adapt to different teams and maintain his scoring touch underscores his talent and dedication to the game.
Conclusion
Orlando Woolridge’s NBA career is a testament to his skills as a basketball player and his impact on the league. From his early days with the Chicago Bulls to his later years with various teams, Woolridge’s scoring ability and athleticism left a lasting mark on the NBA. As we reflect on his career, we celebrate the achievements of a player who brought excitement and energy to the court every time he played. Whether you remember him for his dunks, his scoring, or his contributions to team success, Orlando Woolridge’s legacy in basketball remains enduring and influential.