Hersey Hawkins, known for his sharpshooting skills and consistent performance, made a lasting presence in the world of professional basketball. Born on September 29, 1966, in Chicago, Illinois, Hawkins honed his skills at Westinghouse High School before attending Bradley University. At Bradley, he became one of the most prolific scorers in NCAA history, leading the nation in scoring during his senior year with an average of 36.3 points per game. This remarkable college career set the stage for his entry into the NBA.
The 1988 NBA Draft saw Hawkins selected sixth overall by the Los Angeles Clippers, but he was quickly traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. It was with the 76ers that Hawkins began his professional journey, quickly establishing himself as a reliable shooting guard. His rookie season was impressive, as he averaged 15.1 points per game and earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Over the next few years, Hawkins became a consistent scorer for Philadelphia, known for his ability to shoot from long range and his defensive tenacity.
In 1991, Hawkins had his best statistical season, averaging 22.1 points per game and earning a selection to the NBA All-Star Game. His performance helped the 76ers reach the playoffs multiple times during his tenure with the team. However, in 1993, Hawkins was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, where he continued to be a valuable asset. His time with the Hornets was marked by steady scoring and leadership on the court.
Hawkins' career took another turn in 1995 when he was traded to the Seattle SuperSonics. It was with Seattle that he experienced some of his most memorable moments in the NBA. Playing alongside stars like Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp, Hawkins was an integral part of the team that reached the NBA Finals in 1996. Although the SuperSonics fell to the Chicago Bulls, Hawkins' performance throughout the playoffs was commendable, as he provided crucial scoring and defense.
After his stint with the SuperSonics, Hawkins joined the Chicago Bulls in 1999. Although his role was more limited compared to earlier in his career, he brought veteran experience and shooting prowess to the team. He later played for the Charlotte Hornets once more before retiring from professional basketball in 2001.
Throughout his career, Hawkins was known for his shooting accuracy, particularly from three-point range, and his ability to perform under pressure. He finished his NBA career with over 14,000 points, averaging 14.7 points per game. Beyond his scoring ability, Hawkins was respected for his professionalism and work ethic, earning admiration from teammates and opponents alike.
After retiring from playing, Hawkins transitioned into coaching and basketball administration. He served as an assistant coach and later took on roles in player development, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger generations of players. His post-playing career further solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the basketball community.
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