Kelvin Cato's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected as the 15th overall pick in the 1997 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. However, his rights were immediately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he started his NBA career. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches and weighing 275 pounds, Cato was known for his defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability, which made him a valuable asset in the paint.
During his time with the Trail Blazers, Cato played as a center and contributed to the team's defensive efforts. His tenure in Portland lasted two seasons, where he played a supporting role on a team that was rich with talent. In 1999, Cato was traded to the Houston Rockets, a move that marked a new chapter in his career.
With the Rockets, Cato found more opportunities to showcase his skills. He became the starting center for the team and was known for his ability to protect the rim and rebound effectively. One of the highlights of his career came during the 1999-2000 season when he recorded a career-high 12 blocks in a single game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. This performance underscored his reputation as a defensive anchor.
Cato's role with the Rockets was primarily focused on defense and rebounding, and he played alongside stars like Steve Francis and Cuttino Mobley. Over the years, he became a reliable presence in the Rockets' frontcourt. However, injuries and changes in the team's roster eventually led to a decrease in his playing time.
In 2004, Cato was traded to the Orlando Magic as part of a deal that included Tracy McGrady. With the Magic, Cato continued to serve as a defensive specialist, providing veteran leadership to a young team. His stint in Orlando lasted two seasons, during which he maintained his reputation as a solid defender and rebounder.
Cato's final NBA stop was with the Detroit Pistons, where he played during the 2006-2007 season. His role with the Pistons was limited, and he saw reduced minutes on the court. After his contract with Detroit ended, Cato did not return to the NBA, marking the conclusion of his professional basketball career.
Throughout his time in the league, Cato was known for his defensive capabilities and his ability to alter shots in the paint.
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