Tom Hammonds, a former professional basketball player, had a career that spanned over a decade in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on March 27, 1967, in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Hammonds first gained attention for his basketball skills during his high school years. His talent on the court earned him a scholarship to Georgia Institute of Technology, where he played college basketball for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.
During his time at Georgia Tech, Hammonds developed a reputation as a reliable forward. He played under coach Bobby Cremins and was known for his strong defensive skills and ability to score when needed. His performance in college basketball led to his selection in the 1989 NBA Draft. The Washington Bullets picked Hammonds as the ninth overall pick, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Hammonds spent the early years of his NBA career with the Washington Bullets. He played with the team for three seasons, where he was primarily utilized as a power forward. His time with the Bullets was characterized by steady, if not spectacular, performances. Hammonds was known for his work ethic and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively when called upon.
In 1992, Hammonds was traded to the Charlotte Hornets. His stint with the Hornets was brief, lasting only one season. Despite the short duration, he continued to demonstrate his skills as a reliable team player. The following year, Hammonds found a new home with the Denver Nuggets, where he would spend the majority of his NBA career.
Playing for the Denver Nuggets from 1993 to 1997, Hammonds became a valuable member of the team. He was part of the Nuggets squad that famously upset the top-seeded Seattle SuperSonics in the first round of the 1994 NBA Playoffs, a series that went down in history as one of the biggest upsets in NBA playoff history. Hammonds' role in the team during this period was primarily as a backup forward, where he provided depth and experience to the Nuggets' roster.
After his time with the Nuggets, Hammonds joined the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1997. He played with the Timberwolves until 1999, continuing to offer his skills as a seasoned forward. His experience and understanding of the game were assets to the Timberwolves during his tenure.
Hammonds concluded his NBA career with a return to the Nuggets for the 1999-2000 season. Over the course of his career, he played in a total of 685 regular-season games, averaging 5.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. While his career statistics may not reflect superstar status, Hammonds was respected for his professionalism and ability to fulfill his role on the teams he played for.
Beyond his basketball career, Hammonds pursued a passion for motorsports. He became involved in drag racing and even competed in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) events. This transition from basketball to motorsports showcased his diverse interests and talents beyond the basketball court.
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