John Battle, a professional basketball player, spent nearly a decade in the NBA, where he played as a guard. Born on November 9, 1962, in Washington, D.C., Battle attended Rutgers University, where he honed his skills on the court. His college career set the stage for his entry into the NBA, where he would go on to play for two teams.
The Atlanta Hawks selected Battle in the fourth round of the 1985 NBA Draft. He joined a team that was competitive in the Eastern Conference and featured stars like Dominique Wilkins. Battle's role with the Hawks was primarily as a backup guard, where he provided valuable minutes off the bench. Known for his scoring ability, Battle was often relied upon to provide an offensive spark when the starters needed rest. His time with the Hawks saw him develop into a reliable player who could be counted on in various game situations.
During his tenure with the Hawks, Battle played alongside some of the era's greats and contributed to the team's playoff runs. His best statistical season came in the 1989-1990 campaign when he averaged 13.6 points per game. This performance highlighted his ability to step up when needed and deliver consistent scoring. Battle's tenure with the Hawks lasted until 1991, after which he sought new opportunities in the league.
In 1991, Battle signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he continued to play as a guard. The Cavaliers, like the Hawks, were a competitive team in the Eastern Conference during this period. Battle's experience and scoring ability were assets to the Cavaliers, and he played a role in their playoff appearances. His time with the Cavaliers was marked by steady performances, and he remained with the team until 1995.
Throughout his NBA career, Battle was known for his scoring prowess and ability to perform under pressure. He was a player who could be counted on to deliver points when needed, making him a valuable asset to his teams. After leaving the NBA in 1995, Battle's professional basketball career came to a close.
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