Joe Kleine's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings. Standing at 7 feet tall and weighing 255 pounds, Kleine was known for his size and presence on the court, primarily playing the center position. His career spanned over a decade and a half, during which he played for several teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Kleine's early years in the NBA were spent with the Sacramento Kings, where he played from 1985 to 1989. During his time with the Kings, he established himself as a reliable center, contributing both offensively and defensively. His role often involved providing solid minutes off the bench, using his size to secure rebounds and defend against opposing big men.
In 1989, Kleine was traded to the Boston Celtics, a team with a rich history and a strong roster. Playing alongside legends like Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish, Kleine found himself in a supporting role. His time with the Celtics allowed him to gain valuable experience and be part of a team with championship aspirations. He remained with Boston until 1993, contributing as a backup center and occasionally stepping into the starting lineup when needed.
Following his stint with the Celtics, Kleine joined the Phoenix Suns in 1993. The Suns were a competitive team during this period, led by Charles Barkley and Kevin Johnson. Kleine's role with the Suns was similar to his previous teams, providing depth and experience in the frontcourt. He played with the Suns until 1997, during which the team made several playoff appearances.
Kleine's career continued with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1997-1998 season. Although his time with the Lakers was brief, he had the opportunity to play alongside rising stars like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. After his season with the Lakers, Kleine signed with the New Jersey Nets for the 1998-1999 season, which was shortened due to a lockout. His role with the Nets was consistent with his career pattern, offering veteran leadership and depth at the center position.
In the final chapter of his NBA career, Kleine joined the Chicago Bulls for the 1999-2000 season. The Bulls were in a rebuilding phase following the departure of Michael Jordan and other key players from their championship teams. Kleine's experience was valuable to the young roster, and he provided mentorship to the developing players.
Throughout his career, Joe Kleine was known for his professionalism and work ethic. While he may not have been a star player, his ability to adapt and contribute to various teams was appreciated by coaches and teammates alike. His career statistics include averages of 4.8 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, reflecting his role as a steady presence in the paint.
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