Steve Mix, an American professional basketball player, spent over a decade in the NBA, where he became known for his consistent performance and adaptability on the court. Born on December 30, 1947, in Toledo, Ohio, Mix attended Rogers High School before playing college basketball at the University of Toledo. His college career was marked by impressive statistics, which eventually led to his selection in the 1969 NBA Draft.
The Detroit Pistons picked Mix in the fifth round of the draft. However, his initial years in the NBA were challenging, as he struggled to find a permanent spot on the team. After a brief stint with the Pistons, Mix played for the Denver Rockets in the American Basketball Association (ABA) during the 1971-1972 season. His time in the ABA was short-lived, and he soon returned to the NBA.
Mix's career took a positive turn when he joined the Philadelphia 76ers in 1973. It was with the 76ers that he found stability and began to flourish as a player. Over the next several years, Mix became a reliable forward for the team, known for his defensive skills and ability to contribute offensively when needed. His tenure with the 76ers coincided with a period of rebuilding for the franchise, and Mix played alongside future Hall of Famers like Julius Erving.
During his time with the 76ers, Mix participated in several deep playoff runs, including the 1976-1977 season when the team reached the NBA Finals. Although the 76ers ultimately lost to the Portland Trail Blazers, Mix's performance throughout the playoffs was commendable. His ability to guard multiple positions and provide scoring off the bench made him a valuable asset to the team.
In 1982, Mix left the 76ers and joined the Milwaukee Bucks for a brief period before concluding his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers. After retiring from professional basketball in 1983, Mix transitioned into coaching and broadcasting. He served as an assistant coach for the Detroit Pistons and later became a color commentator for the 76ers' television broadcasts.
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