Jerome Whitehead's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected by the San Diego Clippers in the second round of the 1978 NBA Draft. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches, Whitehead played as a center and power forward, bringing his skills to several teams over the course of his career. His time in the NBA spanned a decade, during which he played for the San Diego Clippers, Utah Jazz, Dallas Mavericks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs.
Whitehead's early years in the league were spent with the San Diego Clippers, where he played from 1978 to 1983. During his tenure with the Clippers, he developed a reputation as a reliable player in the paint, known for his rebounding abilities and defensive presence. His performance with the Clippers laid the foundation for his subsequent moves across the league.
In 1983, Whitehead joined the Utah Jazz, where he continued to contribute as a solid role player. His time with the Jazz was relatively short, and he soon found himself moving to the Dallas Mavericks. With the Mavericks, Whitehead provided depth to the team's frontcourt, offering his experience and skills to support the team's younger players.
The mid-1980s saw Whitehead transition to the Cleveland Cavaliers. His role with the Cavaliers was similar to his previous teams, where he was valued for his ability to come off the bench and provide crucial minutes in the post. His veteran presence was an asset to the Cavaliers as they navigated the competitive landscape of the NBA.
Whitehead's career continued with the Golden State Warriors, where he played during the 1986-1987 season. His stint with the Warriors was marked by consistent performances, as he maintained his role as a dependable player in the rotation. Following his time with the Warriors, Whitehead joined the San Antonio Spurs, where he played until the end of his NBA career.
Throughout his time in the league, Jerome Whitehead was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to different team dynamics. His career statistics reflect his role as a steady contributor, with averages that highlight his rebounding and defensive skills. While he may not have been a headline-grabbing star, Whitehead's presence on the court was valued by his teammates and coaches alike.
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