Tom Van Arsdale, an American professional basketball player, embarked on his NBA journey after being selected in the second round of the 1965 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. Known for his scoring ability and consistent performance, Van Arsdale quickly established himself as a reliable shooting guard and small forward in the league. His career spanned over a decade, during which he played for several teams and earned recognition for his skills on the court.
Van Arsdale's rookie season with the Pistons set the tone for his career, as he averaged 10.5 points per game and demonstrated his potential as a valuable player. His performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team, highlighting his promising start in professional basketball. Over the next few years, Van Arsdale continued to develop his game, becoming a more integral part of the teams he played for.
In 1968, Van Arsdale was traded to the Cincinnati Royals, where he further honed his skills and increased his scoring output. During his time with the Royals, he averaged over 19 points per game in multiple seasons, showcasing his ability to contribute significantly to his team's offense. His consistent scoring and reliable shooting made him a respected player among his peers.
The early 1970s saw Van Arsdale moving to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he continued to be a steady presence on the court. His tenure with the 76ers was marked by his ability to adapt to different team dynamics while maintaining his scoring average. Van Arsdale's experience and basketball IQ were valuable assets to the teams he played for, allowing him to remain a competitive player in the league.
In 1972, Van Arsdale joined the Atlanta Hawks, where he played alongside his twin brother, Dick Van Arsdale, for the first time in their professional careers. This reunion was a notable moment, as the Van Arsdale twins had previously played together in college at Indiana University. Their time together in Atlanta was a unique chapter in Tom's career, adding a familial dimension to his professional journey.
Throughout his career, Tom Van Arsdale was selected to participate in three NBA All-Star Games, a testament to his consistent performance and respect within the league. His ability to score efficiently and his dedication to the game were recognized by coaches and fans alike, earning him a place among the league's top players during his era.
Van Arsdale's career concluded with stints at the Kansas City Kings and the Phoenix Suns. Despite the challenges of transitioning between teams, he maintained his professionalism and continued to contribute on the court until his retirement. Over the course of his career, Van Arsdale amassed over 14,000 points, averaging 15.3 points per game, and left a lasting impression as a reliable and skilled player.
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