Dana Barros, a dynamic guard known for his sharpshooting abilities, made a considerable impact in the NBA during his career. Born on April 13, 1967, in Boston, Massachusetts, Barros honed his skills at Xaverian Brothers High School before taking his talents to Boston College. At Boston College, he became a standout player, earning accolades for his scoring prowess and three-point shooting, which would become a hallmark of his professional career.
Barros entered the NBA when he was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics as the 16th overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft. In Seattle, he spent four seasons developing his game and showcasing his ability to score from long range. His time with the SuperSonics allowed him to learn from seasoned players and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the NBA. Although he was primarily a backup during his tenure with Seattle, Barros demonstrated flashes of brilliance that hinted at his potential.
In 1993, Barros was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, but his stay there was brief. He was soon traded again, this time to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he truly began to flourish. The 1994-1995 season marked a turning point in Barros's career. With the 76ers, he was given the opportunity to start regularly, and he seized it. That season, Barros averaged 20.6 points and 7.5 assists per game, earning him a spot in the NBA All-Star Game. His performance also garnered him the NBA's Most Improved Player Award, a testament to his growth and development as a player.
Barros's ability to shoot from beyond the arc was one of his defining traits. He set a then-NBA record by hitting a three-pointer in 89 consecutive games, a streak that underscored his consistency and shooting skill. His proficiency from long range made him a valuable asset to any team, stretching defenses and creating opportunities for his teammates.
In 1995, Barros signed with the Boston Celtics, bringing him back to his hometown. Playing for the Celtics was a dream come true for Barros, and he continued to be a reliable scorer and playmaker. Over the next several seasons, he provided veteran leadership and experience to a young Celtics team. His tenure with Boston was marked by steady contributions, both as a starter and coming off the bench.
Barros's career also included a brief stint with the Detroit Pistons during the 1999-2000 season before returning to the Celtics. He played his final NBA games with Boston, retiring after the 2003-2004 season. Throughout his career, Barros was known for his professionalism, work ethic, and ability to adapt to various roles on the court.
Beyond his playing days, Barros remained involved in basketball, taking on roles such as coaching and player development.
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