Jon Koncak, a professional basketball player, spent a decade in the NBA primarily with the Atlanta Hawks. Born on May 17, 1963, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Koncak developed his basketball skills at an early age, eventually leading him to play college basketball at Southern Methodist University (SMU). At SMU, he became a standout center, earning All-American honors and catching the attention of NBA scouts.
In the 1985 NBA Draft, the Atlanta Hawks selected Koncak with the fifth overall pick. Standing at 7 feet tall, he was expected to bolster the Hawks' frontcourt with his defensive abilities and rebounding skills. Koncak's rookie season saw him playing a supporting role on a team that featured stars like Dominique Wilkins and Doc Rivers. His primary contributions came on the defensive end, where he used his size and strength to guard opposing centers and protect the rim.
Throughout his career with the Hawks, Koncak was known for his work ethic and reliability on the court. He played in various roles, often coming off the bench to provide defensive stability and rebounding. While not a prolific scorer, he was valued for his ability to set screens, box out opponents, and execute the team's defensive schemes. His presence in the paint was a key component of the Hawks' defensive strategy during his tenure.
One of the most talked-about aspects of Koncak's career was his contract. In 1989, he signed a six-year, $13 million deal with the Hawks, which was considered substantial at the time, especially for a player not known for scoring. This contract led to some criticism and the nickname "Jon Contract," as it was seen as a benchmark for escalating salaries in the league. Despite the scrutiny, Koncak continued to fulfill his role as a dependable center for the Hawks.
Koncak's time in Atlanta saw the team consistently making playoff appearances, though they often fell short of reaching the NBA Finals. His playoff performances mirrored his regular-season contributions, focusing on defense and rebounding. After spending nine seasons with the Hawks, Koncak joined the Orlando Magic for the 1995-1996 season. In Orlando, he played alongside stars like Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway, providing veteran leadership and depth to the team's frontcourt.
After the 1995-1996 season, Koncak retired from professional basketball. Over his career, he played in 784 regular-season games, averaging 4.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game. While his statistical contributions may not have been eye-catching, his role as a reliable defensive presence was appreciated by teammates and coaches alike.
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