Otis Birdsong, a talented shooting guard, made a name for himself in the world of professional basketball with his exceptional scoring ability and smooth playing style. Born on December 9, 1955, in Winter Haven, Florida, Birdsong honed his skills at the University of Houston, where he played college basketball for the Cougars. During his time there, he became one of the top players in the nation, earning All-American honors and setting the stage for a successful transition to the professional ranks.
In 1977, Birdsong entered the NBA Draft and was selected as the second overall pick by the Kansas City Kings. His rookie season showcased his scoring prowess, as he quickly became a vital part of the team's offensive strategy. Birdsong's ability to drive to the basket and his accurate mid-range shooting made him a difficult player to defend. Over the next few years, he continued to develop his game, becoming one of the league's top scorers.
Birdsong's career reached new heights during the 1980-81 season when he averaged 24.6 points per game, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. His performance helped lead the Kings to the playoffs, where they advanced to the Western Conference Finals. Although the team fell short of reaching the NBA Finals, Birdsong's contributions were instrumental in their deep playoff run.
In 1981, Birdsong was traded to the New Jersey Nets, where he continued to excel as a scorer. His tenure with the Nets was marked by consistent offensive production and leadership on the court. Birdsong's ability to score in a variety of ways made him a valuable asset to the team, and he was selected to multiple NBA All-Star Games during his career.
Throughout his time in the NBA, Birdsong was known for his smooth playing style and ability to score efficiently. He was a four-time NBA All-Star and finished his career with an average of 18 points per game. Birdsong's contributions to the teams he played for were recognized by fans and peers alike, and he remains a respected figure in the basketball community.
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