Ruben Patterson, known for his defensive prowess on the basketball court, played in the NBA for several teams during his career. Born on July 31, 1975, in Cleveland, Ohio, Patterson attended the University of Cincinnati, where he played college basketball before declaring for the NBA Draft.
Patterson was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the 1998 NBA Draft. However, he began his professional career with the Seattle SuperSonics after signing with them in 1999. During his time with the SuperSonics, Patterson quickly gained a reputation as a tenacious defender, often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best player. His defensive skills earned him the nickname "Kobe Stopper," a moniker that highlighted his matchups against Kobe Bryant, one of the league's premier scorers.
After two seasons with Seattle, Patterson signed with the Portland Trail Blazers in 2001. In Portland, he continued to be a defensive asset, contributing to the team's efforts on both ends of the floor. His time with the Trail Blazers was marked by his ability to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable player in various defensive schemes. Despite his defensive capabilities, Patterson's tenure in Portland was also noted for some off-court controversies, which occasionally overshadowed his on-court performances.
In 2004, Patterson was traded to the Denver Nuggets, where he played for a brief period before being traded again to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2005. With the Bucks, Patterson found a role that allowed him to contribute more offensively, averaging double-digit points per game during his stint with the team. His ability to score, combined with his defensive skills, made him a reliable option for the Bucks during his time there.
Patterson's career continued with a move to the Washington Wizards in 2007, where he played a limited role before being waived by the team. He then signed with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he finished his NBA career. Throughout his time in the league, Patterson was known for his defensive intensity and his ability to guard some of the best players in the NBA.
Off the court, Patterson's career was not without its challenges. He faced legal issues and controversies that affected his reputation and career trajectory. Despite these challenges, Patterson's defensive skills and his ability to contribute to various teams in the NBA remain a part of his basketball legacy.
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