Kendall Gill's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected as the fifth overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets. A product of the University of Illinois, Gill quickly adapted to the demands of the NBA, showcasing his skills as a shooting guard and small forward. During his rookie season, he averaged 11 points per game, demonstrating his potential to become a reliable scorer in the league.
Gill's tenure with the Hornets was marked by steady improvement. By his second season, he had increased his scoring average to 20.5 points per game, earning him recognition as one of the league's rising stars. His athleticism and defensive prowess made him a valuable asset to the Hornets, and he played a crucial role in helping the team reach the playoffs for the first time in franchise history during the 1992-1993 season.
In 1993, Gill was traded to the Seattle SuperSonics, where he continued to excel. His time in Seattle was highlighted by his contributions to a team that was consistently competitive in the Western Conference. Gill's ability to score and defend made him a key component of the SuperSonics' rotation, and he played an integral role in their deep playoff runs.
After two seasons with the SuperSonics, Gill was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, marking his return to the team where he began his NBA career. His second stint with the Hornets was short-lived, as he was soon traded to the New Jersey Nets. It was with the Nets that Gill achieved one of his most memorable individual accomplishments. During the 1998-1999 season, he led the league in steals, averaging 2.7 per game, and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team.
Gill's career continued with stints at several other teams, including the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Chicago Bulls, and Milwaukee Bucks. Throughout his career, he was known for his defensive tenacity and ability to contribute offensively when needed. His versatility allowed him to adapt to various roles on different teams, making him a valuable player throughout his time in the league.
In addition to his on-court achievements, Gill was also known for his durability and longevity in the NBA. He played 15 seasons in the league, a testament to his ability to maintain a high level of performance over an extended period. His career totals include over 12,000 points, 4,000 rebounds, and 1,500 steals, reflecting his all-around contributions to the teams he played for.
After retiring from professional basketball, Gill transitioned to a career in broadcasting, where he continued to share his knowledge and insights about the game. His post-playing career has allowed him to remain connected to the sport he excelled in for so many years.
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