Al Skinner's basketball career began to take shape during his college years at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he played for the Minutemen. As a forward, Skinner demonstrated a strong presence on the court, contributing to his team's efforts with his scoring ability and defensive skills. His performance at UMass caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his entry into the world of professional basketball.

In 1974, Skinner was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the ninth round of the NBA Draft. Although his time with the Celtics was brief, it marked the beginning of his professional journey. He soon found a more stable position with the New York Nets, who later became the New Jersey Nets following the ABA-NBA merger. Skinner's tenure with the Nets allowed him to further develop his game and gain valuable experience in the league.

Skinner's professional career also included a stint with the Detroit Pistons. Throughout his time in the NBA, he was known for his work ethic and ability to contribute to his team's efforts both offensively and defensively. While he may not have been a headline-grabbing star, Skinner's role as a reliable team player was appreciated by his coaches and teammates.

After his NBA career, Skinner continued to be involved in basketball, eventually transitioning into coaching. His understanding of the game and experience as a player provided a solid foundation for his coaching career, where he would go on to influence many young athletes.

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