During his time with the Hawks, Rollins became a defensive anchor for the team. He quickly established himself as one of the league's premier shot-blockers, consistently ranking among the top in blocks per game. His defensive skills earned him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 1983 and the All-Defensive Second Team in 1984. Rollins' ability to protect the rim made him a valuable asset for the Hawks, and he played a crucial role in helping the team reach the playoffs multiple times during his tenure.
After spending over a decade with the Hawks, Rollins was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1988. His time with the Cavaliers was marked by his continued defensive contributions, although his role on the team was more limited compared to his years in Atlanta. Rollins then had brief stints with the Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, and Orlando Magic. While his offensive numbers were never particularly high, his defensive skills remained a constant throughout his career.
In addition to his NBA career, Rollins also played a season in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) with the Grand Rapids Hoops. His experience and leadership were valuable to the team, and he continued to demonstrate his defensive capabilities on the court.
Rollins' career statistics reflect his specialization in defense. He retired with over 2,500 career blocks, placing him among the top shot-blockers in NBA history at the time of his retirement. His rebounding and defensive presence were key aspects of his game, and he was often tasked with guarding some of the league's most dominant centers.
After retiring as a player, Rollins transitioned into coaching and other roles within basketball organizations. He served as an assistant coach for several NBA teams, including the Washington Wizards and Indiana Pacers, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger players. Rollins also took on roles in player development and community outreach, continuing his involvement in the sport beyond his playing days.
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