Kenny Natt's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 1980 NBA Draft. Born on October 5, 1958, in Monroe, Louisiana, Natt played college basketball at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where he honed his skills as a shooting guard. His entry into the NBA marked the start of a career that would see him transition from player to coach, influencing various teams along the way.
Natt's playing career in the NBA spanned several seasons during the early 1980s. After being drafted by the Pacers, he played for the team during the 1980-1981 season. His time with the Pacers was followed by stints with the Utah Jazz and the Kansas City Kings. Throughout his playing career, Natt was known for his shooting ability and his understanding of the game, traits that would later serve him well in his coaching endeavors.
Following his playing days, Natt transitioned into coaching, where he spent many years developing his expertise and guiding players. He began his coaching career as an assistant coach in the NBA, working with teams such as the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Utah Jazz. His experience as a player provided him with valuable insights that he used to mentor young athletes and help them improve their game.
In 2008, Natt took on the role of interim head coach for the Sacramento Kings. This opportunity allowed him to lead an NBA team and implement his strategies on a larger scale. Although his tenure as head coach was brief, it was a testament to his knowledge of the game and his ability to lead a team at the highest level of professional basketball.
Beyond the NBA, Natt also contributed to the development of basketball internationally. He served as the head coach of the Indian national basketball team, where he worked to elevate the team's performance and promote the sport in a country where basketball was still growing in popularity. His international coaching experience highlighted his adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges in different basketball environments.
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