Lang was selected by the Phoenix Suns in the second round of the 1988 NBA Draft, with the 28th overall pick. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, he quickly established himself as a defensive asset for the Suns. During his tenure with Phoenix, Lang provided solid minutes off the bench, contributing primarily on the defensive end with his shot-blocking and rebounding capabilities. His time with the Suns lasted until 1992, when he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.
In Philadelphia, Lang continued to be a defensive anchor, playing alongside stars like Charles Barkley. His role with the 76ers was similar to his previous one, focusing on defense and providing a physical presence in the paint. Lang's ability to alter shots and protect the rim made him a valuable player for the team during his two seasons there.
Lang's career took another turn when he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1994. With the Hawks, he found himself in a starting role more frequently, which allowed him to showcase his defensive skills on a larger scale. Lang's tenure with Atlanta was marked by consistent performances, particularly in blocking shots and securing rebounds. His presence in the paint was a key component of the Hawks' defensive strategy during his time with the team.
After his stint with the Hawks, Lang played for several other NBA teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, and New York Knicks. Throughout these transitions, he maintained his reputation as a reliable defensive player. While his offensive contributions were limited, his defensive skills ensured that he remained a sought-after player for teams looking to bolster their interior defense.
Lang's career in the NBA spanned 12 seasons, during which he played in over 700 games. His career averages included 4.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. These statistics reflect his role as a defensive specialist, a player who excelled in protecting the rim and providing a physical presence on the court.
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