Cliff Levingston's journey through professional basketball is marked by his role as a reliable forward, contributing to several teams in the NBA. Born on January 4, 1961, in San Diego, California, Levingston honed his skills at Wichita State University, where he played college basketball before entering the NBA. His college career set the stage for his entry into the professional league, where he was selected by the Detroit Pistons as the ninth overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft.
Levingston's early years in the NBA were spent with the Pistons, where he played for two seasons. During his time with Detroit, he established himself as a solid player, known for his defensive capabilities and rebounding skills. His ability to contribute off the bench made him a valuable asset to the team, even if he wasn't always in the starting lineup.
In 1984, Levingston was traded to the Atlanta Hawks, where he spent the majority of his NBA career. His tenure with the Hawks lasted six seasons, from 1984 to 1990. While in Atlanta, Levingston played alongside stars like Dominique Wilkins and Doc Rivers, contributing to the team's success during the late 1980s. The Hawks were a competitive team in the Eastern Conference, and Levingston's role as a forward was crucial in providing depth and energy, particularly on defense and in rebounding.
Levingston's career took another turn when he joined the Chicago Bulls in 1990. His time with the Bulls coincided with the team's rise to dominance in the NBA. Playing under coach Phil Jackson and alongside legendary players such as Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, Levingston was part of the Bulls' championship-winning teams in 1991 and 1992. Although his role was primarily as a reserve player, his experience and defensive prowess were valuable during the Bulls' playoff runs.
After his stint with the Bulls, Levingston continued his professional career overseas. He played in Europe, including a season with PAOK in Greece, where he further demonstrated his skills on an international stage. His time abroad added another chapter to his basketball journey, allowing him to experience different styles of play and competition.
Levingston returned to the NBA for a brief period with the Denver Nuggets during the 1994-1995 season. Although his time with the Nuggets was short, it marked the end of his NBA playing career. Throughout his time in the league, Levingston was known for his work ethic and ability to contribute to team dynamics, both on and off the court.
Following his retirement as a player, Levingston transitioned into coaching and other basketball-related roles. His post-playing career included coaching positions in various leagues, where he shared his knowledge and experience with younger players. Levingston's journey through basketball, from his college days to his professional career and beyond, reflects his enduring connection to the sport.
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