Ricky Pierce, known for his scoring prowess and smooth shooting touch, played in the NBA for several teams over a 15-year career. Born on August 19, 1959, in Dallas, Texas, Pierce honed his skills at Rice University, where he became a standout player. His college performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection in the 1982 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons as the 18th overall pick.
Pierce's early years in the league were spent with the Pistons, but it was his trade to the Milwaukee Bucks in 1984 that marked the beginning of his rise as a scoring threat. With the Bucks, Pierce found his niche as a sixth man, providing instant offense off the bench. His ability to score in bunches earned him the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award twice, first in 1987 and again in 1990. During his time with Milwaukee, Pierce became known for his mid-range jump shot and his knack for getting to the free-throw line.
In 1991, Pierce was traded to the Seattle SuperSonics, where he continued to be a valuable scorer. His tenure with the SuperSonics was marked by consistent scoring and veteran leadership. Pierce's scoring ability was a crucial component of the team's offensive strategy, and he played a significant role in helping the SuperSonics reach the playoffs.
Pierce's career also included stints with the Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, Denver Nuggets, and Charlotte Hornets. Throughout his time in the NBA, he was recognized for his scoring efficiency and his ability to perform under pressure. His free-throw shooting was particularly noteworthy, as he consistently ranked among the league's best in free-throw percentage.
Despite not being a regular starter for much of his career, Pierce's scoring average remained impressive. He was known for his work ethic and his ability to adapt to different roles on various teams. His career-high scoring season came in 1989-1990 with the Bucks, where he averaged 23 points per game.
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