George McCloud's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected by the Indiana Pacers as the seventh overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft. Known for his shooting ability, McCloud entered the league with high expectations. His early years with the Pacers were a period of adjustment, as he worked to find his footing in the NBA. During his time in Indiana, McCloud's performance was steady, but he struggled to consistently showcase the shooting prowess that had made him a standout in college at Florida State University.
After four seasons with the Pacers, McCloud's career took a turn when he joined the Dallas Mavericks in 1994. It was with the Mavericks that he truly began to demonstrate his capabilities as a sharpshooter. The 1995-1996 season was particularly noteworthy for McCloud, as he set a then-NBA record for three-point attempts in a single season with 678, while making 257 of them. This achievement highlighted his role as a long-range threat and solidified his reputation as a player who could change the dynamics of a game with his shooting.
Following his stint with the Mavericks, McCloud continued his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, and Denver Nuggets. Each team provided him with opportunities to contribute as a reliable perimeter shooter. His time with the Suns was marked by consistent performances, where he played alongside other talented players and helped the team in various capacities.
McCloud's ability to adapt to different team environments and maintain his shooting accuracy was a testament to his skills. Throughout his career, he was known for his three-point shooting, which became a valuable asset for the teams he played with. His career statistics reflect his proficiency from beyond the arc, with a significant portion of his points coming from three-point shots.
In the latter part of his career, McCloud returned to the Denver Nuggets, where he continued to play until his retirement. His experience and shooting ability provided depth to the Nuggets' roster, and he remained a respected figure among his peers.
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