Robert Pack's journey through the NBA is a testament to his skill and determination on the basketball court. Born on February 3, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Pack's path to professional basketball began at Southern University, where he played college basketball. Despite not being selected in the 1991 NBA Draft, his talent did not go unnoticed, and he soon found an opportunity to prove himself in the league.
Pack's NBA career officially began when he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers for the 1991-1992 season. As a point guard, he quickly demonstrated his ability to contribute to the team, providing energy and athleticism off the bench. His time with the Trail Blazers was brief, but it set the stage for his future in the league.
The Denver Nuggets became Pack's next destination, where he played from 1992 to 1995. It was with the Nuggets that he truly began to shine, becoming known for his explosive speed and leaping ability. During the 1993-1994 season, Pack played a crucial role in one of the most memorable playoff upsets in NBA history. The eighth-seeded Nuggets faced the top-seeded Seattle SuperSonics in the first round of the playoffs. Pack's performance, including a standout Game 5, helped the Nuggets secure a historic victory, marking the first time an eighth seed defeated a first seed in the playoffs.
Following his successful stint with the Nuggets, Pack continued his career with several other NBA teams. He joined the Washington Bullets for the 1995-1996 season, where he continued to display his skills as a dynamic point guard. His journey then took him to the New Jersey Nets, where he played from 1996 to 1997. Despite facing challenges with injuries, Pack remained a valuable asset to his teams, known for his ability to drive to the basket and create opportunities for his teammates.
Pack's career also included time with the Dallas Mavericks, where he played during the 1997-1998 season. His experience and leadership were assets to the team, and he continued to be a reliable presence on the court. After his time with the Mavericks, Pack returned to the Nuggets for the 1999-2000 season, bringing his career full circle with the team where he had previously found success.
In the later stages of his career, Pack played for the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Hornets. His tenure with the Hornets was particularly meaningful, as it allowed him to play in his hometown of New Orleans. Throughout his career, Pack was known for his tenacity and ability to overcome obstacles, including injuries that occasionally sidelined him.
Pack's NBA journey concluded with the New Jersey Nets during the 2003-2004 season. Over the course of his career, he played in over 500 NBA games, averaging 8.9 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game. While he may not have been a household name, his contributions to the teams he played for were valued by coaches and teammates alike.
After retiring from professional basketball, Pack transitioned into coaching and player development roles, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of players. His post-playing career included coaching positions in the NBA and the NBA Development League, where he continued to be involved in the sport he loved.
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