Jeff Wilkins (basketball) facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 9, 1955 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| High school |
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| Listed height | 6 ft 11 in (2.11 m) |
| Listed weight | 230 lb (104 kg) |
| Career information | |
| College |
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| NBA Draft | 1977 / Round: 2 / Pick: 37th overall |
| Selected by the San Antonio Spurs | |
| Pro career | 1977–1993 |
| Career history | |
| 1977–1978 | Mobiam Udine |
| 1978–1979 | Efes Pilsen |
| 1979–1980 | Hawaii Volcanos |
| 1980 | Galleon Shippers |
| 1980–1986 | Utah Jazz |
| 1986 | San Antonio Spurs |
| 1986–1987 | Olympique Antibes |
| 1987 | Montigoma Rieti |
| 1989–1990 | Etoile de Voiron |
| 1992–1993 | Le Mans |
| Career highlights and awards | |
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|
| Career NBA statistics | |
| Points | 3,575 (7.9 ppg) |
| Rebounds | 2,574 (5.7 rpg) |
| Assists | 462 (1.0 apg) |
Jeffrey Wilkins, born on March 9, 1955, is a former American professional basketball player. He played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and other basketball leagues around the world. Standing 6 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 230 pounds, Wilkins played as a center (a position close to the basket). He was born in Chicago, Illinois.
Wilkins played college basketball at Illinois State University. In the 1977 NBA draft, he was chosen by the San Antonio Spurs. He was the 15th pick in the second round.
He signed with the Spurs in July 1977 but was waived before the 1977–78 NBA season began. Wilkins started his NBA playing career in 1980 with the Utah Jazz. He spent most of his NBA time with the Jazz. During his last year in the NBA, in 1986, he played part of the season with the Spurs after a trade.
Wilkins' career averages in the NBA include 7.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game. He also won a Turkish Basketball League championship while playing for Efes Pilsen in Turkey.
Contents
Early Life and College
Jeffrey Wilkins was born in Chicago, Illinois. He went to Hales Franciscan High School and Elgin High School in Illinois. After high school, he played college basketball. He first played at Black Hawk College from 1973 to 1974. Then, he moved to Illinois State University, where he played from 1974 to 1977.
In 1973, Wilkins was recognized as a Fourth-team Parade All-American. This honor is given to top high school basketball players in the United States.
Professional Basketball Career
NBA Journey
Jeff Wilkins was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 1977. However, he did not play for them right away. His NBA career officially began in the 1980-81 NBA season with the Utah Jazz. He played for the Jazz for several seasons, becoming an important player for the team.
In 1986, Wilkins returned to the San Antonio Spurs for a short time. This happened because of a trade during the middle of the season. He finished his NBA career with the Spurs.
Playing Overseas
Besides the NBA, Jeff Wilkins played basketball in many other countries. He played for teams in Italy, Turkey, the Philippines, and France.
- In Italy, he played for Mobiam Udine (1977–1978) and Montigoma Rieti (1987).
- In Turkey, he played for Efes Pilsen (1978–1979). He helped them win a championship in the Turkish Basketball League.
- In the Philippines, he played for the Hawaii Volcanos (1979–1980) and Galleon Shippers (1980).
- In France, he played for Olympique Antibes (1986–1987), Etoile de Voiron (1989–1990), and Le Mans (1992–1993).
His career lasted until 1993, showing his long-lasting passion for the sport.
Family Life
Jeff Wilkins has a son named John Wilkins. John also became a professional basketball player. He has played for different teams in Africa and Europe, following in his father's footsteps.
See also
In Spanish: Jeff Wilkins para niños
