James Edwards, a towering presence on the basketball court, played as a center in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for nearly two decades. Born on November 22, 1955, in Seattle, Washington, Edwards honed his skills at the University of Washington, where he played college basketball before entering the professional arena.
Edwards began his NBA journey when he was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the third round of the 1977 NBA Draft. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch, his height and skill set made him a valuable asset to any team. Although his time with the Lakers was brief, it marked the beginning of a long and varied career in the league.
After his stint with the Lakers, Edwards moved to the Indiana Pacers, where he played for several seasons. His performance with the Pacers showcased his ability to be a reliable center, contributing both offensively and defensively. Edwards then joined the Cleveland Cavaliers, continuing to demonstrate his skills on the court.
In 1983, Edwards found a new home with the Phoenix Suns. During his time with the Suns, he became known for his scoring ability and defensive presence. His tenure in Phoenix was marked by consistent performances that helped solidify his reputation as a dependable player.
The Detroit Pistons acquired Edwards in 1988, a move that would become a defining chapter in his career. As part of the Pistons, Edwards played a crucial role in the team's back-to-back NBA Championship victories in 1989 and 1990. His experience and presence in the paint were instrumental in the Pistons' success during this period, often coming off the bench to provide valuable minutes and stability.
Following his championship run with the Pistons, Edwards continued his career with several other teams, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Chicago Bulls. His time with the Bulls added another championship to his resume, as he was part of the team that won the NBA title in 1996, although his role was more limited compared to his earlier years.
Throughout his career, Edwards was known for his trademark mustache and calm demeanor on the court. His ability to adapt to different teams and roles underscored his longevity in the league. By the time he retired, Edwards had played for eight different NBA teams, a testament to his ability to remain a valuable player across various lineups and systems.
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