Mullin attended St. John's University, where he played college basketball under coach Lou Carnesecca. During his time at St. John's, Mullin became one of the most celebrated players in the school's history. He was a three-time Big East Player of the Year and led the Red Storm to the 1985 Final Four. His college career culminated in winning the John R. Wooden Award, recognizing him as the nation's top player.
In 1985, Mullin entered the NBA Draft and was selected seventh overall by the Golden State Warriors. His professional career began with the Warriors, where he quickly established himself as a sharpshooter and a reliable scorer. Mullin's ability to score from anywhere on the court made him a valuable asset to the team. He was known for his smooth shooting stroke and his ability to read the game, which allowed him to excel in various offensive situations.
Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Mullin was a central figure in the Warriors' lineup. He was part of the famed "Run TMC" trio, alongside Tim Hardaway and Mitch Richmond, which became known for its fast-paced, high-scoring style of play. During this period, Mullin was named to five consecutive NBA All-Star teams from 1989 to 1993. His scoring prowess and leadership on the court were instrumental in the Warriors' success during these years.
In addition to his NBA career, Mullin also represented the United States on the international stage. He was a member of the 1992 "Dream Team," the first American Olympic team to feature active NBA players. The team, which included legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird, dominated the competition and won the gold medal at the Barcelona Olympics. Mullin's performance in the tournament further solidified his reputation as one of the game's elite shooters.
After a successful stint with the Warriors, Mullin was traded to the Indiana Pacers in 1997. With the Pacers, he continued to contribute as a veteran presence and a reliable shooter. His experience and basketball acumen were valuable assets to the team, particularly during the playoffs. Mullin played with the Pacers until 2000, when he returned to the Warriors for one final season before retiring as a player in 2001.
Following his playing career, Mullin transitioned into roles off the court. He served as a special advisor for the Warriors and later took on the role of Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the team. His knowledge of the game and his experience as a player provided valuable insights in these positions.
In 2010, Mullin was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to his outstanding career and contributions to the sport. His legacy as a player is remembered for his scoring ability, his basketball intelligence, and his role in one of the most exciting eras of Warriors basketball.
Mullin's journey in basketball continued as he took on coaching responsibilities. In 2015, he returned to his alma mater, St. John's University, as the head coach of the men's basketball team. His tenure as a coach was marked by his efforts to rebuild the program and instill the values and skills that had defined his own playing career.
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