Wilkins' time with the Hawks was marked by his incredible scoring ability and highlight-reel dunks, earning him the nickname "The Human Highlight Film." He consistently ranked among the league's top scorers, winning the NBA scoring title in the 1985-86 season with an average of 30.3 points per game. His offensive skills were complemented by his athleticism and flair, making him a fan favorite and a regular fixture in All-Star games. Over his career, Wilkins was selected to nine NBA All-Star teams and was named to the All-NBA First Team in 1986.
One of the most memorable aspects of Wilkins' career was his participation in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. He won the contest twice, in 1985 and 1990, and his battles with Michael Jordan in the mid-1980s remain legendary. These contests showcased his creativity and power, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest dunkers in the history of the sport.
Despite his individual accolades, team success often eluded Wilkins. The Hawks were consistently competitive during his tenure, making the playoffs in nine of his eleven full seasons with the team, but they never advanced past the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Wilkins' scoring prowess was often on full display in the postseason, but the team struggled to overcome the dominant forces of the era, such as the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons.
In 1994, Wilkins was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers in a move that shocked many fans and marked the end of an era in Atlanta. He continued to perform at a high level with the Clippers, averaging 29.1 points per game for the remainder of the season. After a brief stint with the Clippers, he signed with the Boston Celtics for the 1994-95 season, where he led the team in scoring.
Wilkins' career then took an international turn as he joined Panathinaikos in Greece for the 1995-96 season. His time in Europe was highlighted by winning the EuroLeague title and being named the Final Four MVP, demonstrating his ability to adapt and excel in different basketball environments. He returned to the NBA for the 1996-97 season with the San Antonio Spurs, followed by a short tenure with the Orlando Magic in 1999 before retiring.
Throughout his career, Wilkins amassed over 26,000 points, placing him among the top scorers in NBA history.
🏀