With respect to helping on baskets, Francis has tallied 3,473 dimes, as well as providing 846 steals and 223 blocks. He sports an average of 5.6 rebounds as well as 0.0 assists per contest. He has 3,215 total boards so far in his pro basketball career by grabbing 2,255 on the defensive end and 960 offensive. Being the owner of an effective field goal percentage of 46.3%, he has also accounted for 2,030 turnovers and accumulated 1,813 infractions. Francis has amassed a 79.7% clip at the free throw line by knocking down 2,785 of 3,494 shot attempts. He has earned a 45.1% shooting percentage of by way of converting 2,968 out of his 6,583 shot attempts. Having taken 1,684 attempts from long range thus far in his career, he has accumulated a shooting percentage of 34.1% by making 575 of those shots. Having earned a shooting rate of 42.9%, Francis has knocked down 3,543 baskets of his 8,267 tries. He distributes 5.8 dimes, snags 5.4 boards and accumulates 17.4 per 36 minutes. Francis has accumulated 10,446 points in his NBA career, sports an average of 18.1 points per game and has started in 543 contests. Steve Francis has accounted for 21,632 mins and has played in 576 games so far in his career.
Steve Francis, a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts and fans of the NBA, had a career filled with electrifying moments and remarkable achievements. Known for his incredible athleticism and dynamic playing style, Francis left a lasting impact on the NBA during his time on the court. In this article, we’ll delve into Steve Francis’s basketball journey, explore the highlights of his career, and examine his career stats that made him a standout player.
Early Life and College Career
Before Steve Francis became an NBA sensation, he had to overcome numerous challenges in his early life. Born on February 21, 1977, in Takoma Park, Maryland, Francis faced adversity from a young age. Despite these obstacles, basketball became his refuge and passion.
College Beginnings
Francis’s basketball journey took a significant turn when he joined the University of Maryland. Playing for the Terrapins, he quickly made a name for himself with his impressive performances on the court. His explosive playing style and ability to score from anywhere on the court caught the attention of scouts and fans alike.
During his time at Maryland, Francis averaged 17 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His remarkable skills and determination earned him All-American honors and solidified his status as one of the top college players in the country.
Entry into the NBA
In 1999, Steve Francis declared for the NBA Draft, marking the beginning of his professional career. He was selected as the second overall pick by the Vancouver Grizzlies but was quickly traded to the Houston Rockets in a blockbuster deal.
Rookie Season Sensation
Francis made an immediate impact in the NBA during his rookie season with the Rockets. His electrifying dunks, quick crossovers, and ability to drive to the basket made him a fan favorite. He averaged 18 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award, which he shared with Elton Brand.
Houston Rockets Era
The Houston Rockets became the stage where Steve Francis showcased his incredible talents. Teaming up with fellow star players, Francis helped lead the Rockets to several successful seasons.
A Dynamic Trio
Playing alongside Cuttino Mobley and later Yao Ming, Francis formed a dynamic trio that brought excitement and competitiveness to the Rockets. His ability to distribute the ball and score when needed made him a versatile and valuable asset for the team.
Career Highlights
During his time with the Rockets, Francis was selected to the NBA All-Star Game three times (2002, 2003, 2004). His highlight reels were filled with jaw-dropping dunks and clutch plays that left fans in awe. One of his most memorable performances came against the Los Angeles Lakers in 2001, where he scored a career-high 44 points.
Later Career and Challenges
After his successful stint with the Rockets, Steve Francis faced challenges that tested his resilience as a player.
Orlando Magic and New York Knicks
In 2004, Francis was traded to the Orlando Magic, where he continued to display his skills. However, the transition wasn’t as smooth as expected, and despite his efforts, the team struggled to achieve significant success. Francis averaged 19.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game during his time with the Magic.
In 2006, Francis joined the New York Knicks, but injuries and team dynamics limited his impact on the court. Despite the setbacks, his dedication and passion for the game never wavered.
Return to Houston and Retirement
In 2007, Steve Francis returned to the Houston Rockets, hoping to recapture the magic of his earlier years. Unfortunately, injuries continued to plague him, and he played only a limited number of games before announcing his retirement from professional basketball in 2010.
Career Stats and Legacy
Steve Francis’s NBA career is marked by impressive statistics and a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring basketball players.
Career Statistics
- Points: 10,446 (18.1 per game)
- Rebounds: 3,473 (6.0 per game)
- Assists: 3,217 (5.6 per game)
- Steals: 870 (1.5 per game)
Legacy
Despite the challenges he faced, Steve Francis’s contributions to the game of basketball are undeniable. He remains a beloved figure among fans and is remembered for his incredible athleticism and unforgettable highlights. His journey from a challenging upbringing to NBA stardom serves as a testament to the power of determination and perseverance.
Conclusion
Steve Francis’s NBA career was filled with highs and lows, but his impact on the game and his fans is everlasting. From his explosive rookie season to his memorable performances with the Houston Rockets, Francis’s basketball journey is one of resilience and passion. As fans, we celebrate his achievements and look back at his career highlights with admiration and respect.
In the world of basketball, Steve Francis will always be remembered as a player who left an indelible mark on the NBA.
