Vernon Maxwell has taken part in 855 games during his pro basketball career and compiled 24,309 minutes in those games. Maxwell has started in 497 matchups, and in those matchups he owns an average of 12.8 PPG and is sitting with 10,912 points. He accounts for 16.2 pts per 36 minutes, as well as snagging 3.3 rebounds and adding 4.3 assists during his pro basketball career. By putting in 3,932 shots of his 9,878 attempts, Maxwell has earned a 39.8% FG%. By putting in 1,256 out of his 3,931 shots from long range, he has a 3pt rate of 32.0%. By burying 2,676 out of 5,947 2pt attempts, he has accumulated a rate of 45.0%. Maxwell has knocked down 1,792 of 2,446 shot attempts at the charity stripe, which had him sitting at a clip of 73.3%. While he has earned an effective FG percentage of 46.2%, he has additionally accrued 1,766 personal fouls as well as 1,663 turnovers. With 1,822 defensive rebounds and 378 offensive, Maxwell has totaled 2,200 boards in total so far in his pro basketball career. He has accounted for 975 steals, in addition to 152 rejections and 2,912 assists. When talking about stats per game, Maxwell is averaging 3.4 assists in addition to 2.6 rebounds.
Vernon Maxwell, a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts, especially those familiar with the NBA in the late 80s and 90s, had a career filled with high points and controversies. Known for his tenacity on the court and fiery personality, Maxwell made significant contributions to his teams and left an indelible mark on the league. This article delves into his journey, exploring the teams he played for, his stats, and the legacy he left behind.
Early Life and College Career
Born on September 12, 1965, in Gainesville, Florida, Vernon Maxwell began playing basketball at a young age. His natural talent was evident, and it wasn’t long before he made a name for himself in high school basketball circles. Maxwell attended the University of Florida, where he played college basketball with the Florida Gators. During his time there, he made a significant impact, setting the stage for his professional career.
College Achievements
Maxwell’s performance in college was nothing short of stellar. He was known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess, which caught the attention of NBA scouts. By the time he declared for the NBA draft, Maxwell had established himself as one of the top prospects, thanks to his impressive stats and leadership on the court.
Entry into the NBA
Vernon Maxwell was selected by the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the 1988 NBA Draft. However, he was soon traded to the San Antonio Spurs, where he began his NBA journey. Maxwell’s entry into the league was marked by his aggressive playing style, which quickly became his trademark.
Early Years and Teams
During his early years in the NBA, Maxwell played for several teams. After his stint with the Spurs, he joined the Houston Rockets, where he truly came into his own. His tenure with the Rockets was the most notable phase of his career, as he became an integral part of the team’s success in the early 90s.
- San Antonio Spurs (1988–1990): Maxwell’s time with the Spurs was a period of adjustment as he transitioned from college to professional basketball.
- Houston Rockets (1990–1995): This was the highlight of Maxwell’s career. He played a crucial role in the Rockets’ back-to-back NBA Championship victories in 1994 and 1995.
Career Highlights and Stats
Maxwell’s career is remembered for both his on-court achievements and his colorful personality. Known as “Mad Max” for his intense play, Maxwell was a reliable shooting guard who could both score and defend effectively.
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Notable Achievements
- NBA Championships: Maxwell won two NBA championships with the Houston Rockets. His performance during these championship runs was pivotal, particularly his clutch shooting in critical games.
- Scoring Prowess: Throughout his career, Maxwell was known for his ability to score points quickly. His career-high was a 51-point game, showcasing his offensive capabilities.
Career Stats
Vernon Maxwell’s stats reflect his impact on the court. Over his career, he averaged 12.8 points per game, with notable contributions in rebounds and assists. His defensive skills also earned him recognition as a formidable opponent.
- Points: 12.8 PPG
- Rebounds: 2.6 RPG
- Assists: 3.4 APG
- Steals: 1.2 SPG
Teams and Transitions
Maxwell’s career saw him play for multiple teams, each transition bringing new challenges and opportunities.
- Philadelphia 76ers (1995–1996): After leaving the Rockets, Maxwell played for the 76ers, where he continued to deliver solid performances.
- Orlando Magic, Charlotte Hornets, Sacramento Kings, and Seattle SuperSonics: In the latter part of his career, Maxwell played for several teams, bringing his veteran experience and skills to each.
Off-Court Controversies
Maxwell’s career was not without its controversies. Known for his fiery temperament, he was involved in several incidents that garnered media attention. Despite these challenges, Maxwell’s contributions on the court remained significant, and he maintained a loyal fan base.
Legacy and Impact
Vernon Maxwell’s legacy in the NBA is a blend of his achievements and his personality. He is remembered as a fierce competitor who played with passion and intensity. His role in the Houston Rockets’ championship victories solidified his place in NBA history.
Influence on the Game
Maxwell’s style of play influenced many young players who admired his scoring ability and defensive tenacity. His willingness to take crucial shots in high-pressure situations made him a player that teammates and fans could rely on.
Post-Retirement Activities
After retiring from professional basketball, Maxwell remained connected to the sport. He has participated in various basketball-related activities and continues to be a respected figure in the basketball community.
Conclusion
Vernon Maxwell’s NBA career is a testament to his skills, determination, and unique personality. While his journey was marked by ups and downs, his contributions to the game and his impact on the teams he played for are undeniable. As we reflect on his career, Maxwell’s legacy as a passionate and talented basketball player endures, inspiring future generations of athletes.
