Nater's professional career began when he was drafted by both the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA and the Virginia Squires in the ABA in 1973. Opting for the ABA, he joined the Squires, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dominant force on the court. His rookie season was impressive, earning him the ABA Rookie of the Year award. Nater's rebounding prowess and scoring ability were evident as he consistently put up strong numbers.
After his stint with the Squires, Nater played for the San Antonio Spurs and then the New York Nets, continuing to showcase his skills as a reliable center. When the ABA-NBA merger occurred, Nater transitioned to the NBA, where he joined the Milwaukee Bucks. His time in the NBA saw him playing for several teams, including the Buffalo Braves, where he continued to be a strong presence in the paint.
Nater's rebounding skills were particularly noteworthy. He led the NBA in rebounding during the 1979-1980 season while playing for the San Diego Clippers. His ability to control the boards made him a valuable asset to any team he played for. Nater's career also included stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and the Portland Trail Blazers.
Throughout his career, Nater was known for his work ethic and his ability to adapt to different teams and playing styles. His journey from a backup player in college to a professional basketball player in both the ABA and NBA is a testament to his skill and determination. After retiring from professional basketball, Nater remained involved in the sport, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players.
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