Johnny Newman, a professional basketball player, embarked on his NBA journey after being selected in the second round of the 1986 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Newman played as a small forward and shooting guard, bringing a scoring touch and athleticism to the court. His career spanned over 16 seasons, during which he played for several teams and became known for his scoring ability and longevity in the league.
Newman's rookie season with the Cavaliers was a stepping stone, as he averaged 7.5 points per game. However, it was with the New York Knicks that he began to gain more recognition. Joining the Knicks in 1987, Newman quickly became an integral part of the team’s rotation. During the 1987-1988 season, he averaged 16.0 points per game, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly on the offensive end. His performance helped the Knicks reach the playoffs, where they faced the Boston Celtics in a hard-fought series.
After his stint with the Knicks, Newman signed with the Charlotte Hornets in 1990. It was with the Hornets that he enjoyed some of his most productive years. Over four seasons, he consistently averaged double figures in scoring, peaking during the 1990-1991 season with an average of 16.9 points per game. Newman's scoring prowess and experience were valuable assets to the young Hornets team, which was still finding its footing in the league.
In 1994, Newman moved to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he continued to be a reliable scorer off the bench. His role as a veteran presence was crucial in guiding younger players and providing stability to the team's second unit. Newman’s ability to adapt to different roles and teams was evident as he transitioned to the Denver Nuggets in 1997. With the Nuggets, he maintained his role as a seasoned scorer, contributing valuable minutes and points.
Newman’s career also included stints with the Orlando Magic, New Jersey Nets, and Dallas Mavericks. Each team benefited from his scoring ability and experience. His time with the Mavericks marked the final chapter of his NBA career, where he played until 2002. Throughout his career, Newman was known for his scoring consistency, averaging 11.0 points per game over 1,159 regular-season games.
Beyond his scoring, Newman was respected for his professionalism and ability to adapt to various team dynamics.
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