In the matter of per game stats, Kemp has an average of 1.6 dimes in addition to 8.4 boards. He has a tally of 1,185 steals, as well as 1,279 rejections and 1,704 dimes. With 5,808 defensive rebounds and 3,026 on the offensive end, Kemp has accounted for 8,834 total rebounds in his pro basketball career. With an effective FG% of 49.0%, he has additionally recorded 3,826 personal fouls and 2,766 giveaways. Kemp has knocked down 4,304 out of his 5,805 shot attempts at the charity stripe, which had him sitting at a rate of 74.1%. By burying 5,472 out of his 11,159 2pt tries, he has a rate of 49.0%. By making 33 of his 119 shots from long range, he has a three-point shooting percentage of 27.7%. By knocking down 5,505 shots out of his 11,278 attempts, Kemp has compiled a 48.8% shooting percentage. He tallies 18.9 pts per 36 mins, as well as pulling in 10.9 rebounds and racking up 2.1 assists so far in his career. Kemp has started in 728 matchups, and in those contests he holds an average of 14.6 points per game and has accumulated 15,347 points overall. Shawn Kemp has taken part in 1,051 contests thus far in his career and garnered 29,293 mins in those games.
Shawn Kemp, known for his high-flying dunks and electrifying presence on the basketball court, remains one of the most memorable players in NBA history. His career spanned over 14 seasons, and during that time, he captivated fans with his athleticism, skill, and charisma. In this article, we’ll dive into Shawn Kemp’s NBA career, examine his stats, and relive some of his most unforgettable moments.
Early Life and Entry into the NBA
Shawn Kemp was born on November 26, 1969, in Elkhart, Indiana. He quickly made a name for himself in high school basketball, showcasing his talent at Concord High School. Despite his impressive performance, Kemp faced challenges in his academic life, which led him to forgo college basketball and declare for the NBA Draft in 1989.
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Draft and Early Years
In the 1989 NBA Draft, Shawn Kemp was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics with the 17th overall pick. At just 19 years old, he became one of the youngest players in the league. Kemp’s transition to the NBA was not without its challenges, but his potential was undeniable.
During his rookie season, Kemp averaged 6.5 points and 4.3 rebounds per game. He quickly adapted to the pace of professional basketball and began to stand out for his defensive capabilities and explosive dunks.
Rise to Stardom with the Seattle SuperSonics
Kemp’s second season marked the beginning of his rise to stardom. By the 1991-92 season, he had become a key player for the Seattle SuperSonics, helping the team reach the playoffs. His stats improved significantly, with an average of 15.5 points and 10.4 rebounds per game.
The Reign Man
Known as “The Reign Man,” Kemp’s impact on the court was profound. His ability to leap over defenders and deliver jaw-dropping dunks earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting players to watch. Kemp’s style of play was not only about scoring but also about energizing his team and the fans.
During the 1992-93 season, Kemp achieved a career-high average of 17.8 points and 10.7 rebounds per game. His performance helped the SuperSonics secure their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference.
NBA All-Star Appearances
Kemp’s talent did not go unnoticed, and he was selected to participate in the NBA All-Star Game six times during his career. His first All-Star appearance came in 1993, and he continued to be a regular participant until 1998. His presence in the All-Star Games was a testament to his skills and popularity among fans.
Memorable Playoff Performances
Kemp’s playoff performances were a significant highlight of his career. One of his most memorable moments came during the 1996 NBA Playoffs when the SuperSonics reached the NBA Finals. Although they were ultimately defeated by the Chicago Bulls, Kemp’s performance was outstanding. He averaged 20.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game during the playoffs, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
The Dunk Against Alton Lister
Among Kemp’s legendary moments is his infamous dunk over Alton Lister during the 1992 playoffs against the Golden State Warriors. This dunk became one of the most iconic images in NBA history and solidified Kemp’s reputation as a premier dunker.
Later Years and Career Stats
After his successful tenure with the Seattle SuperSonics, Kemp was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1997. While he continued to perform at a high level, his time in Cleveland was marked by challenges, including injuries and personal issues. Despite these setbacks, Kemp managed to average 18 points and 9 rebounds per game during his time with the Cavaliers.
Brief Stints with Other Teams
Kemp’s career continued with brief stints at the Portland Trail Blazers and the Orlando Magic. Although his performance was not at the same level as during his peak years, Kemp remained a valuable player and contributed to his teams’ efforts. He retired from the NBA in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of impressive stats and unforgettable moments.
Career Stats Overview
Throughout his NBA career, Shawn Kemp accumulated impressive stats:
- Points: 15,347 (14.6 points per game)
- Rebounds: 8,834 (8.4 rebounds per game)
- Assists: 1,279 (1.6 assists per game)
Kemp’s stats reflect his versatility as a player, capable of scoring, rebounding, and contributing to his team’s success in various ways.
Legacy and Impact
Shawn Kemp’s impact on the game of basketball extends beyond his stats. His dynamic style of play, particularly his dunking ability, inspired a generation of players and fans. Kemp’s legacy is evident in the way he transformed the power forward position, blending athleticism with skill in a way that was ahead of his time.
Kemp’s influence is still felt today, as many young players aspire to emulate his style and energy on the court. His contributions to the game and his role in the history of the Seattle SuperSonics ensure that he will be remembered as one of the greats of the NBA.
Conclusion
Shawn Kemp’s NBA career is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. From his early days as a young player in Seattle to his rise as a star in the league, Kemp’s journey is filled with highlights and achievements. His legacy as “The Reign Man” lives on, and his impact on the game of basketball will be celebrated for years to come.