Reggie Theus, a dynamic presence on the basketball court, began his professional journey when he was selected by the Chicago Bulls as the ninth overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Theus played as a shooting guard and small forward, bringing a unique blend of size and skill to his teams. His rookie season with the Bulls set the tone for his career, as he quickly became known for his scoring ability and playmaking skills.
During his time with the Bulls, Theus averaged over 16 points per game in his first season and continued to improve, eventually becoming a two-time NBA All-Star. His ability to score and assist made him a valuable asset to the team, and he consistently ranked among the top players in assists during his tenure in Chicago. Theus's performance helped the Bulls reach the playoffs multiple times, although they struggled to advance deep into the postseason.
In 1984, Theus was traded to the Kansas City Kings, where he continued to excel as a scorer and playmaker. His time with the Kings saw him maintain his high level of play, averaging over 18 points per game. Theus's versatility allowed him to adapt to different team dynamics, and he became a reliable leader on the court. The Kings later relocated to Sacramento, and Theus played a key role in helping the team transition to its new home.
Theus's career took another turn when he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1988. Although his time with the Hawks was brief, he continued to demonstrate his scoring prowess and veteran leadership. He then moved on to play for the Orlando Magic, where he was part of the team's inaugural season in 1989. As one of the more experienced players on the roster, Theus provided guidance to the younger players and contributed significantly to the team's development.
After his stint with the Magic, Theus played for the New Jersey Nets before taking his talents overseas. He joined the Italian team Ranger Varese, where he continued to play at a high level and further expanded his basketball career internationally. His time in Italy added a new dimension to his career, allowing him to experience the game from a global perspective.
Following his playing days, Theus transitioned into coaching and broadcasting. He served as an assistant coach for several NBA teams and eventually became the head coach of the New Mexico State Aggies men's basketball team. Under his leadership, the Aggies saw a resurgence, and Theus's coaching career continued to grow. He later took on the role of head coach for the Sacramento Kings, bringing his career full circle as he returned to the franchise where he had once played.
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