Chris Gatling's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected as the 16th overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. Known for his scoring ability and energy off the bench, Gatling quickly established himself as a valuable player in the league. His rookie season with the Warriors set the stage for a career characterized by his knack for scoring and rebounding.
During his time with the Warriors, Gatling became known for his efficiency on the court, particularly in scoring. He played three seasons with Golden State, where he developed a reputation for being a reliable sixth man. His ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense was a significant asset to the team. In the 1994-1995 season, Gatling averaged 13.7 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly in limited minutes.
In 1996, Gatling was traded to the Miami Heat, where he continued to demonstrate his scoring prowess. However, his stint with the Heat was short-lived, as he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks later that year. It was with the Mavericks that Gatling had one of his best seasons. During the 1996-1997 season, he averaged 19 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, earning him a spot in the 1997 NBA All-Star Game. This recognition was a testament to his scoring ability and his impact on the court.
Following his successful season with the Mavericks, Gatling was traded to the New Jersey Nets. His time with the Nets was marked by consistent performances, although he did not replicate the same level of success he had in Dallas. Gatling's role as a reliable scorer off the bench continued to be his hallmark, and he provided valuable minutes for the Nets during his tenure.
Gatling's career saw him move through several teams, including the Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic, Denver Nuggets, and Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite the frequent changes in teams, he maintained his reputation as a dependable scorer and rebounder. His ability to adapt to different team dynamics and contribute effectively was a testament to his skills and understanding of the game.
Throughout his career, Gatling was known for his distinctive style of play, characterized by his hustle and scoring efficiency. He was particularly effective in the low post, where he used his strength and footwork to score against taller defenders. His career field goal percentage of 50.2% reflects his ability to score efficiently, a trait that made him a valuable asset to every team he played for.
Chris Gatling's professional basketball career spanned over a decade, during which he played for eight different NBA teams. His journey through the league was marked by his scoring ability and his role as a reliable player off the bench.
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