Jeff Hornacek's journey in the world of basketball began when he was selected by the Phoenix Suns in the second round of the 1986 NBA Draft. A guard known for his shooting prowess, Hornacek quickly established himself as a reliable player in the league. During his time with the Suns, he developed a reputation for his accurate shooting and high basketball IQ, which made him a valuable asset to the team.
Hornacek's career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in 1992. In Philadelphia, he continued to demonstrate his skills as a sharpshooter and playmaker. His tenure with the 76ers, although relatively short, was marked by consistent performances and leadership on the court. However, it was his next move that would define his career.
In 1994, Hornacek was traded to the Utah Jazz, where he would spend the remainder of his playing days. Teaming up with legends Karl Malone and John Stockton, Hornacek became an integral part of the Jazz's success in the late 1990s. His ability to hit clutch shots and his proficiency from beyond the arc complemented the Jazz's dynamic duo, helping the team reach the NBA Finals in 1997 and 1998. Although the Jazz fell short both times against the Chicago Bulls, Hornacek's performances were instrumental in Utah's deep playoff runs.
Throughout his career, Hornacek was known for his free-throw shooting, once setting an NBA record with 67 consecutive free throws made during the 1999-2000 season. His shooting mechanics and consistency were often highlighted as exemplary, and he finished his career with impressive shooting percentages.
After retiring as a player in 2000, Hornacek transitioned into coaching. He began as a special assistant coach for the Utah Jazz, where he shared his knowledge and experience with younger players. His coaching career progressed when he was appointed head coach of the Phoenix Suns in 2013. Hornacek's tenure with the Suns saw moments of promise, particularly during the 2013-2014 season when the team exceeded expectations and narrowly missed the playoffs.
In 2016, Hornacek took on the role of head coach for the New York Knicks. His time in New York was challenging, as the team struggled to find success in a competitive Eastern Conference. Despite the difficulties, Hornacek remained committed to developing the team's young talent and implementing a cohesive system.
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