Kevin Willis, a towering presence on the basketball court, enjoyed a lengthy and productive career in the NBA. Born on September 6, 1962, in Los Angeles, California, Willis grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where he honed his skills on the hardwood. Standing at 7 feet tall, his physical attributes and work ethic made him a valuable asset to any team he joined.
Willis played college basketball at Michigan State University, where he developed into a formidable center. His performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, and in 1984, he was selected as the 11th overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Draft. This marked the beginning of a professional journey that would span over two decades.
During his time with the Atlanta Hawks, Willis became known for his rebounding prowess and scoring ability. He formed a dynamic frontcourt duo with Dominique Wilkins, and together, they helped lead the Hawks to multiple playoff appearances. Willis's best statistical season came in 1991-1992 when he averaged 18.3 points and 15.5 rebounds per game, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Third Team and an All-Star selection.
After spending nearly a decade with the Hawks, Willis was traded to the Miami Heat in 1994. His tenure with the Heat was brief, and he soon found himself playing for the Golden State Warriors, where he continued to be a reliable presence in the paint. Over the next few years, Willis became something of a journeyman, playing for several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, and Toronto Raptors.
In 1998, Willis joined the Houston Rockets, where he played alongside Hall of Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and Charles Barkley. His veteran experience and leadership were invaluable to the team, and he provided solid minutes off the bench. Willis's career took another turn when he signed with the San Antonio Spurs in 2002. It was with the Spurs that he achieved the ultimate goal of any NBA player: winning an NBA Championship. In 2003, at the age of 40, Willis became one of the oldest players to win an NBA title, contributing to the Spurs' success with his experience and steady play.
Willis continued to play in the NBA until 2007, with stints on the Dallas Mavericks and a return to the Hawks. His longevity in the league was a testament to his physical conditioning and adaptability. Over the course of his career, Willis played in 1,424 regular-season games, ranking him among the top in NBA history for games played.
Off the court, Willis was known for his entrepreneurial spirit. He co-founded a clothing line called Willis & Walker, which specialized in apparel for big and tall men, reflecting his own experiences as a tall athlete. His business ventures showcased his interests beyond basketball and his ability to transition into life after sports.
Kevin Willis's career is remembered for its longevity and consistency.
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