Greg Dreiling's journey in professional basketball began after a solid collegiate career at the University of Kansas, where he played under the guidance of coach Larry Brown. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch, Dreiling's height and skills as a center caught the attention of NBA scouts. In the 1986 NBA Draft, he was selected by the Indiana Pacers in the second round as the 26th overall pick.
Dreiling's NBA career spanned over a decade, during which he played for several teams. He started with the Indiana Pacers, where he spent the initial years of his professional journey. His role primarily involved providing depth to the center position, contributing defensively, and offering a physical presence in the paint. Dreiling's time with the Pacers allowed him to develop his game further and adapt to the demands of the NBA.
After his stint with the Pacers, Dreiling moved to the Dallas Mavericks. His tenure with the Mavericks was marked by consistent performances as a backup center. Dreiling's ability to come off the bench and provide valuable minutes was appreciated by his coaches and teammates. His experience and understanding of the game made him a reliable option in the rotation.
Later in his career, Dreiling joined the Cleveland Cavaliers. Although his time with the Cavaliers was relatively brief, he continued to fulfill his role as a dependable center. Dreiling's presence in the locker room and on the court was valued for the stability and veteran leadership he brought to the team.
The final chapter of Dreiling's NBA career was with the Miami Heat. As a member of the Heat, he played under coach Pat Riley, who was known for his emphasis on defense and discipline. Dreiling's defensive skills and work ethic aligned well with Riley's coaching philosophy, allowing him to contribute effectively during his time with the team.
Throughout his NBA career, Dreiling was known for his defensive capabilities, rebounding, and ability to set solid screens. While he may not have been a high-scoring player, his contributions on the defensive end and his role as a team player were valued by the organizations he played for. Dreiling's career in the NBA was characterized by his steady presence and professionalism, attributes that earned him respect from peers and coaches alike.
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