Channing Frye, a professional basketball player, began his NBA journey when he was selected as the eighth overall pick by the New York Knicks in the 2005 NBA Draft. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, Frye played the center and power forward positions, bringing a unique skill set to the court with his ability to shoot from long range. His rookie season with the Knicks was promising, as he averaged 12.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team.
After two seasons with the Knicks, Frye was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2007. During his time in Portland, Frye's role shifted, and his playing time decreased. Despite this, he continued to develop his game, particularly focusing on his three-point shooting. His tenure with the Trail Blazers lasted two seasons, after which he became a free agent.
In 2009, Frye signed with the Phoenix Suns, a move that revitalized his career. Under the guidance of head coach Alvin Gentry, Frye thrived in the Suns' fast-paced, high-scoring system. He became an integral part of the team's rotation, known for his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting. During the 2009-2010 season, Frye played a crucial role in helping the Suns reach the Western Conference Finals, where they were eventually defeated by the Los Angeles Lakers.
Frye's time with the Suns was marked by consistent performances and personal growth. He spent five seasons in Phoenix, during which he became one of the league's most reliable big men from beyond the arc. In the 2010-2011 season, Frye averaged a career-high 12.7 points per game, further establishing himself as a valuable asset on the court.
In 2014, Frye signed with the Orlando Magic, continuing to showcase his shooting prowess. However, his stint with the Magic was relatively short-lived, as he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016. Joining the Cavaliers proved to be a turning point in Frye's career, as he became part of a championship-winning team. In 2016, Frye and the Cavaliers captured the NBA Championship, defeating the Golden State Warriors in a historic seven-game series. Frye's ability to space the floor and his veteran presence were vital to the team's success during their playoff run.
Frye remained with the Cavaliers for two more seasons, contributing both on and off the court. His leadership and experience were invaluable to the team, particularly during their subsequent playoff appearances. In 2018, Frye was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played a limited role before returning to the Cavaliers later that year.
Channing Frye announced his retirement from professional basketball in 2019, concluding a 14-year career in the NBA. Throughout his career, Frye was known for his professionalism, shooting ability, and adaptability.
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