Ernie Grunfeld's journey in the world of basketball began long before he stepped onto an NBA court. Born in Romania and raised in New York City, Grunfeld honed his skills on the playgrounds of Queens before attending the University of Tennessee. At Tennessee, he teamed up with Bernard King to form the "Ernie and Bernie Show," a dynamic duo that captivated college basketball fans in the 1970s. Grunfeld's collegiate success set the stage for his entry into the professional ranks.

In 1977, the Milwaukee Bucks selected Grunfeld with the 11th overall pick in the NBA Draft. He spent two seasons with the Bucks, where he quickly adapted to the professional game. Known for his shooting ability and basketball IQ, Grunfeld provided valuable minutes off the bench. His time in Milwaukee laid the foundation for a solid NBA career.

Grunfeld's next stop was the Kansas City Kings, where he played from 1979 to 1982. During his tenure with the Kings, he became a reliable contributor, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility on the court. His performance with the Kings earned him a trade to the New York Knicks, a team that would become a significant part of his basketball journey.

Playing for the Knicks from 1982 to 1986, Grunfeld found a home in New York. His tenure with the Knicks was marked by consistent play and leadership. Grunfeld's ability to connect with teammates and fans alike made him a respected figure in the organization. After his playing days with the Knicks, he spent a brief period with the Milwaukee Bucks before retiring as a player in 1986.

Transitioning from player to executive, Grunfeld joined the Knicks' front office, where he began his career in management. He served in various roles, including assistant coach and director of administration, before being named the team's general manager in 1991. Under his leadership, the Knicks experienced a period of competitiveness in the Eastern Conference, reaching the NBA Finals in 1994.

In 1999, Grunfeld took on a new challenge as the general manager of the Milwaukee Bucks. His tenure with the Bucks saw the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals in 2001, a testament to his ability to build competitive rosters. Grunfeld's knack for identifying talent and making strategic moves was evident throughout his time in Milwaukee.

The Washington Wizards became Grunfeld's next destination in 2003, where he served as the team's president of basketball operations. Over the years, he worked to reshape the Wizards' roster, bringing in key players and making pivotal trades. His efforts helped the team reach the playoffs multiple times, although a deep postseason run remained elusive.

Throughout his career, Grunfeld was known for his basketball acumen and ability to navigate the complexities of team management.

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