Mack Calvin's journey through professional basketball is a tale of skill, adaptability, and perseverance. Born on July 27, 1947, in Fort Worth, Texas, Calvin honed his basketball skills at Long Beach State University, where he played under the guidance of coach Jerry Tarkanian. His college career set the stage for his entry into the professional leagues, where he would become a well-regarded point guard.
Calvin began his professional career in the American Basketball Association (ABA) after being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1969 NBA Draft. However, he opted to sign with the ABA's Los Angeles Stars, marking the start of his professional journey. His rookie season was impressive, and he quickly established himself as a reliable playmaker and scorer. Calvin's agility and court vision made him a valuable asset to the Stars, and he played a crucial role in leading the team to the ABA Finals in 1970.
Throughout his ABA career, Calvin played for several teams, including the Floridians, Carolina Cougars, Denver Nuggets, and Virginia Squires. His time with the Cougars was particularly noteworthy, as he earned multiple All-Star selections and was named to the All-ABA First Team. Calvin's ability to orchestrate the offense and his knack for scoring were evident as he consistently ranked among the league leaders in assists and points.
In 1976, the ABA-NBA merger took place, and Calvin transitioned to the NBA, joining the Los Angeles Lakers. His NBA career included stints with the San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets, and Utah Jazz. While his NBA tenure did not reach the same heights as his ABA days, Calvin remained a dependable player known for his leadership and experience on the court.
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