Bernard King has earned 29,417 minutes and has played in 874 contests so far in his NBA career. King has scored 19,655 points so far in his pro basketball career, has a rate of 22.5 points per contest and was named a starter in 547 games. He earns 3.5 assists, pulls down 6.2 boards and accounts for 24.1 per 36 minutes. Stepping onto the court with a shot % of 51.8%, King has converted 7,830 baskets of his 15,109 attempts. Having racked up 134 attempts beyond the arc in his career, he has accrued a shooting percentage of 17.2% by knocking down 23 of those shots. He has recorded a 52.1% 2pt shooting percentage of by making 7,807 of his 14,975 shot attempts. King is sitting with a 73.0% percentage from the free throw line by converting 3,972 out of his 5,444 tries. With an effective field goal rate of 51.9%, he has additionally had a total of 2,791 giveaways and accumulated 2,885 personal fouls. He has accumulated 5,060 rebounds in total thus far in his career by way of 3,356 on the defensive side of the court and 1,704 of the offensive sort. When it comes to sharing the ball, King has a tally of 2,863 dimes, as well as contributing 866 steals and 230 blocks. He is averaging 5.8 boards and 0.0 dimes per game. Bernard King is a name that resonates with basketball fans, particularly those who witnessed the NBA during the 1980s. Known for his scoring prowess and tenacity on the court, King remains one of the most memorable players in NBA history. In this article, we’ll explore his career, achievements, and the legacy he left behind.
Early Life and Introduction to Basketball
Bernard King was born on December 4, 1956, in Brooklyn, New York. Growing up in a neighborhood that revered basketball, it wasn’t long before King picked up the sport. He honed his skills at the local courts, displaying a natural talent for the game from a young age. His dedication and passion for basketball would eventually lead him to play for the University of Tennessee, where he became a standout player.
College Career
At Tennessee, King quickly made a name for himself as an unstoppable force on the court. His ability to score seemingly at will earned him the nickname “The King.” During his college career, King averaged 25.8 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability and setting the stage for his future NBA success.
NBA Career
Draft and Early Years
Bernard King was selected as the 7th overall pick in the 1977 NBA Draft by the New Jersey Nets. From the moment he stepped onto an NBA court, King proved to be a dominant scorer. In his rookie season, he averaged 24.2 points per game, immediately establishing himself as one of the league’s top offensive threats.
Rise to Stardom
After stints with the Utah Jazz and Golden State Warriors, King found his stride with the New York Knicks. It was during his time with the Knicks that he reached the pinnacle of his career. His scoring ability was unmatched, and he became one of the most feared players in the league.
Notable Achievements
Four-time NBA All-Star: King’s consistent performance earned him four selections to the NBA All-Star Game, highlighting his status as one of the league’s elite players.
Two-time NBA Scoring Champion: In the 1984 and 1985 seasons, King led the league in scoring, averaging over 32 points per game.
All-NBA First Team: His stellar play earned him a spot on the All-NBA First Team twice, underscoring his impact on the game.
The Legendary 1984-85 Season
One of the most memorable moments in King’s career came during the 1984-85 season. On Christmas Day in 1984, he scored 60 points against the New Jersey Nets, setting a record for the highest points scored on Christmas Day. His performance that season was remarkable, as he averaged 32.9 points per game, leading the Knicks to the playoffs.
Challenges and Comeback
Despite his success, King’s career was not without its challenges. In 1985, he suffered a devastating knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 1985-86 season. Many doubted whether he would ever return to his previous form, but King was determined to make a comeback.
Return to the Court
King made his return to the NBA with the Washington Bullets in 1987. While it took time to regain his form, he eventually returned to his scoring ways, earning an All-Star selection in 1991. His resilience and dedication to the game were evident as he continued to perform at a high level despite the injury setbacks.
Legacy and Impact
Bernard King’s influence on the game of basketball extends beyond his impressive statistics. His ability to score in a variety of ways, combined with his work ethic and determination, set a standard for future generations of players. King’s jersey, number 30, remains iconic, particularly among Knicks fans who witnessed his incredible performances at Madison Square Garden.
Induction into the Hall of Fame
In recognition of his outstanding career and contributions to the sport, Bernard King was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. This honor solidified his place among the greats of the game and serves as a testament to his impact on the sport.
Bernard King Stats
Throughout his career, King amassed impressive statistics that underscore his offensive prowess. He scored a total of 19,655 points, averaging 22.5 points per game over his 16-year career. His ability to score efficiently and consistently made him one of the most feared offensive players of his era.
The Bernard King Jersey
For fans and collectors, the Bernard King jersey holds a special place as a symbol of his legendary career. Whether it’s the orange and blue of the New York Knicks or the classic Washington Bullets uniform, King’s jersey represents a player who gave everything on the court.
Conclusion
Bernard King’s journey through the NBA is a story of talent, resilience, and passion for the game. From his early days in Brooklyn to his Hall of Fame induction, King left an indelible mark on basketball. His scoring ability and determination continue to inspire players and fans alike, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
In summary, Bernard King was not just a player; he was a phenomenon who captivated audiences and left a lasting impact on the NBA. His story is one of overcoming challenges and achieving greatness, a true testament to the spirit of basketball.
