Grant Long, a professional basketball player, embarked on his NBA journey when he was selected by the Miami Heat in the second round of the 1988 NBA Draft. Born on March 12, 1966, in Wayne, Michigan, Long played college basketball at Eastern Michigan University, where he honed his skills and prepared for the professional league. His entry into the NBA coincided with the Miami Heat's inaugural season, making him part of the franchise's foundational years.
Long's career in the NBA spanned over 15 seasons, during which he played for several teams, including the Miami Heat, Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons, Vancouver Grizzlies, and Boston Celtics. Known for his work ethic and consistency, Long was a reliable forward who contributed both offensively and defensively. His ability to rebound and score in the paint made him a valuable asset to his teams.
During his tenure with the Miami Heat, Long quickly established himself as a dependable player. He played six seasons with the Heat, where he was known for his durability and toughness on the court. Long's performance with Miami helped set the tone for his career, as he became known for his strong presence in the forward position.
In 1994, Long was traded to the Atlanta Hawks, where he continued to demonstrate his skills as a solid forward. His time with the Hawks further solidified his reputation as a player who could be counted on to perform consistently. Long's ability to adapt to different team dynamics and maintain his performance level was evident throughout his career.
Long later joined the Detroit Pistons, where he played alongside other seasoned veterans. His experience and understanding of the game were assets to the Pistons, as he provided leadership and stability on the court. Long's tenure with the Pistons was marked by his steady contributions in various aspects of the game, including scoring, rebounding, and defense.
The Vancouver Grizzlies acquired Long in 1999, where he continued to play a vital role as a forward. His experience was invaluable to the Grizzlies, a relatively new team in the league at the time. Long's presence on the team helped guide younger players and contributed to the team's development during his stint there.
In the latter part of his career, Long signed with the Boston Celtics. Although his time with the Celtics was brief, he brought veteran leadership and experience to the team. Long's career in the NBA concluded after the 2002-2003 season, marking the end of a long and steady presence in the league.
Throughout his career, Long was known for his professionalism and ability to perform consistently. He played in over 1,000 NBA games, a testament to his durability and skill as a player. Long's career statistics include averages of 9.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, reflecting his contributions on both ends of the court.
After retiring from professional basketball, Long transitioned into broadcasting, where he shared his insights and experiences from his playing days. His knowledge of the game and articulate analysis made him a respected voice in basketball commentary.
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