Gene Tormohlen's journey in professional basketball began after a successful college career at the University of Tennessee, where he played as a center. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches, Tormohlen was known for his rebounding skills and defensive presence on the court. His performance in college caught the attention of professional scouts, leading to his selection in the 1961 NBA Draft by the Syracuse Nationals.
However, Tormohlen's professional career took a different path as he opted to join the American Basketball League (ABL) instead, playing for the Cleveland Pipers. The ABL was a short-lived league, and after its dissolution, Tormohlen transitioned to the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he joined the St. Louis Hawks. The Hawks later relocated to Atlanta, and Tormohlen continued to play with the team, becoming a reliable player in their rotation.
Throughout his time with the Hawks, Tormohlen was known for his work ethic and ability to contribute off the bench. He played as a backup center, providing valuable minutes and support to the team's starting lineup. His role primarily focused on defense and rebounding, areas where he excelled and provided stability to the team's frontcourt.
After several seasons with the Hawks, Tormohlen's career took another turn when he joined the Phoenix Suns. With the Suns, he continued to play a similar role, offering experience and depth to the team's roster. His tenure with the Suns marked the latter part of his playing career, during which he continued to demonstrate his understanding of the game and his ability to support his teammates.
Following his retirement as a player, Tormohlen transitioned into coaching and scouting roles, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players and contributing to the development of the teams he worked with. His post-playing career included time as an assistant coach, where he applied his understanding of the game to help guide and mentor players.
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