In 1964, Mullins was selected by the St. Louis Hawks as the sixth overall pick in the NBA Draft. However, his early years with the Hawks were challenging, as he struggled to find his footing in the league. After two seasons with limited playing time, Mullins was traded to the San Francisco Warriors in 1966, a move that would prove to be a turning point in his career.
With the Warriors, Mullins found the opportunity to showcase his abilities on a larger stage. He quickly became an integral part of the team, known for his scoring prowess and defensive skills. Mullins' versatility on the court allowed him to adapt to various roles, whether it was driving to the basket, shooting from the perimeter, or guarding the opponent's top players. His consistent performance helped the Warriors become a competitive force in the league.
One of the highlights of Mullins' career came during the 1974-75 NBA season when the Warriors, led by coach Al Attles and star player Rick Barry, captured the NBA Championship. Mullins played a crucial role in the team's success, providing veteran leadership and contributing significantly in the playoffs. His experience and steady play were vital components of the Warriors' championship run.
Throughout his time with the Warriors, Mullins was selected to three NBA All-Star Games (1969, 1970, and 1971), a testament to his skill and reputation among his peers. His ability to perform consistently at a high level earned him respect across the league.
After a decade with the Warriors, Mullins retired from professional basketball in 1976. Over the course of his career, he amassed over 13,000 points, averaging 16.2 points per game, along with 4.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. His contributions to the Warriors were recognized when the franchise honored him by retiring his jersey number 23.
Following his retirement from playing, Mullins transitioned into coaching and broadcasting. He served as the head coach for the Charlotte 49ers men's basketball team from 1985 to 1996, where he helped develop young talent and guided the team to several NCAA tournament appearances.
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