Ennis Whatley, a professional basketball player, embarked on his NBA journey when he was selected by the Kansas City Kings in the first round of the 1983 NBA Draft. However, his career truly began to take shape when he joined the Chicago Bulls, where he played as a point guard. Known for his adept ball-handling skills and court vision, Whatley quickly became a reliable playmaker on the court.
During his time with the Bulls, Whatley had the opportunity to play alongside a young Michael Jordan, which provided him with invaluable experience and exposure. His ability to distribute the ball and facilitate plays was evident, as he often set up scoring opportunities for his teammates. Despite the challenges of playing in a competitive league, Whatley managed to hold his own and contribute to the team's efforts.
After his stint with the Bulls, Whatley went on to play for several other NBA teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Bullets, San Antonio Spurs, and Los Angeles Clippers. Each team provided him with different opportunities to showcase his skills and adapt to various playing styles. His journey through the league was marked by his adaptability and willingness to embrace new roles as needed.
In addition to his NBA career, Whatley also spent time playing in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA), where he continued to hone his skills and maintain his competitive edge. His time in the CBA allowed him to further develop his game and remain active in professional basketball, even when not on an NBA roster.
Whatley's career extended beyond the United States as he explored opportunities overseas. He played in leagues in countries such as Italy and Spain, where he continued to demonstrate his abilities as a point guard. These international experiences enriched his understanding of the game and allowed him to experience basketball from a global perspective.
Throughout his career, Whatley was known for his ability to read the game and make quick decisions on the court. His passing ability and court awareness were assets that he brought to every team he played for. While he may not have been a high-scoring player, his contributions as a facilitator were valued by his coaches and teammates alike.
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