Petrović's NBA career began when he was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in the third round of the 1986 NBA Draft. However, he didn't join the team until the 1989-1990 season. His time with the Trail Blazers was challenging, as he struggled to secure significant playing time in a roster filled with talented guards. Despite limited minutes, Petrović demonstrated his shooting ability and basketball IQ whenever he got the chance.
In January 1991, a trade to the New Jersey Nets marked a turning point in Petrović's NBA career. With the Nets, he finally received the opportunity to play substantial minutes and quickly became a fan favorite. Petrović's scoring ability was on full display, as he averaged over 20 points per game in the 1991-1992 and 1992-1993 seasons. His remarkable shooting accuracy, particularly from beyond the three-point line, made him one of the league's most feared shooters.
Petrović's influence extended beyond his scoring. He was known for his work ethic, competitive spirit, and leadership qualities, which helped elevate the performance of his teammates. His presence on the court was a catalyst for the Nets, transforming them into a more competitive team during his tenure. Petrović's impact was not limited to the NBA; he was also a vital member of the Yugoslavian national team, winning multiple medals in international competitions, including a silver medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics and a gold medal at the 1990 FIBA World Championship.
Tragically, Dražen Petrović's life and career were cut short when he died in a car accident in Germany on June 7, 1993. His untimely death shocked the basketball world and left a void in the hearts of fans and fellow players. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Petrović was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002.
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