Roche was drafted by the Phoenix Suns in the 1971 NBA Draft but opted to join the American Basketball Association (ABA) instead, signing with the New York Nets. His decision to play in the ABA was influenced by the league's growing reputation and the opportunity to make an immediate impact. With the Nets, Roche quickly established himself as a reliable guard, known for his shooting ability and court vision. His performance in the ABA earned him a spot in the 1972 ABA All-Star Game, highlighting his early success in the league.
After his stint with the Nets, Roche played for several other ABA teams, including the Kentucky Colonels and the Utah Stars. His time in the ABA was marked by consistent scoring and playmaking, which helped his teams compete at a high level. Roche's ability to adapt to different team dynamics and his understanding of the game made him a valuable asset in the league.
When the ABA-NBA merger occurred in 1976, Roche transitioned to the NBA, where he continued his professional career. He played for the Denver Nuggets, a team that had also made the transition from the ABA to the NBA. In Denver, Roche contributed as a steady presence in the backcourt, providing veteran leadership and experience to a team adjusting to the new league landscape.
Roche later joined the Kansas City Kings, where he continued to showcase his skills as a guard. His tenure with the Kings further solidified his reputation as a dependable player who could be counted on for both scoring and facilitating the offense. Throughout his NBA career, Roche demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, which allowed him to maintain a role in the league for several seasons.
After retiring from professional basketball, Roche's legacy remained tied to his achievements in both the ABA and NBA.
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