Orlando Woolridge, a dynamic forward known for his scoring ability and athleticism, began his professional basketball career when he was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1981 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls. Woolridge quickly established himself as a valuable player with his impressive offensive skills and high-flying dunks. During his time with the Bulls, he played alongside a young Michael Jordan, and the duo provided an exciting brand of basketball for fans in Chicago. Woolridge averaged over 20 points per game in his final two seasons with the Bulls, showcasing his ability to score efficiently.
After his tenure with the Bulls, Woolridge signed with the New Jersey Nets in 1986. His scoring prowess continued to shine, as he averaged 20.7 points per game during his first season with the team. Woolridge's time with the Nets was marked by his ability to consistently put up points, although the team struggled to achieve significant success in the playoffs.
In 1988, Woolridge joined the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played alongside legends such as Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Although his role was more limited compared to his previous teams, Woolridge contributed to the Lakers' depth and provided scoring off the bench. His time with the Lakers included a trip to the NBA Finals in 1989, although the team fell short against the Detroit Pistons.
Woolridge's career continued with stints at several other NBA teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, and Milwaukee Bucks. While his scoring numbers declined as he transitioned into a veteran role, he remained a valuable asset for his teams, offering experience and leadership. Woolridge's ability to adapt to different roles and team dynamics allowed him to extend his career in the league.
In addition to his NBA career, Woolridge also played overseas, including a notable period in the Italian league with Benetton Treviso. His international experience added another dimension to his basketball journey, allowing him to continue playing the game he loved while experiencing different cultures and styles of play.
Throughout his career, Woolridge was known for his scoring ability, athleticism, and flair on the court.
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