Calbert Cheaney, an American professional basketball player, enjoyed a career that spanned over a decade in the NBA. Born on July 17, 1971, in Evansville, Indiana, Cheaney first gained national attention during his college years at Indiana University. Under the guidance of coach Bob Knight, he became the all-time leading scorer in Big Ten history, a record that still stands today. His collegiate success led to him being selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1993 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets.
Cheaney's NBA journey began with the Washington Bullets, where he played for five seasons. During his rookie year, he quickly adapted to the professional level, averaging 12.0 points per game. Known for his smooth shooting and solid defensive skills, Cheaney became a reliable player for the Bullets. His best season with the team came in the 1994-1995 campaign, where he averaged 16.6 points per game, showcasing his ability to contribute consistently on the offensive end.
In 1998, Cheaney signed with the Boston Celtics, although his time there was brief. He played only one season with the Celtics before moving on to the Denver Nuggets. His stint with the Nuggets lasted two seasons, where he continued to be a steady presence on the court, providing veteran leadership and experience to a young team.
The next chapter of Cheaney's career took him to the Utah Jazz in 2000. Playing under coach Jerry Sloan, he became part of a team known for its disciplined style of play. Cheaney's role with the Jazz was primarily as a bench player, where he contributed both offensively and defensively. His time in Utah allowed him to participate in the playoffs, adding valuable postseason experience to his career.
In 2003, Cheaney joined the Golden State Warriors, where he played for two seasons. With the Warriors, he continued to be a valuable role player, known for his professionalism and work ethic. His veteran presence was an asset to the team, particularly in mentoring younger players.
Cheaney's final NBA stop was with the Indiana Pacers, where he played the 2005-2006 season. Returning to his home state of Indiana, he brought his career full circle. Although his playing time was limited, he remained a respected figure in the locker room, known for his leadership and basketball IQ.
Throughout his NBA career, Cheaney played in over 800 games, averaging 9.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. While he may not have been a superstar, his consistent performance and professionalism earned him respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
After retiring from professional basketball, Cheaney transitioned into coaching and player development roles. He returned to Indiana University as the Director of Basketball Operations and later served as an assistant coach, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players.
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