Derrick McKey was a professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for over a decade. He was known for his versatility on the court, as he could play multiple positions and was a strong defender.
McKey was born in Meridian, Mississippi and attended the University of Alabama, where he played college basketball. He was selected by the Seattle SuperSonics in the first round of the 1987 NBA draft, and he began his professional career with the team the following year.
During his time with the SuperSonics, McKey established himself as a solid defender and a reliable scorer. He helped the team reach the NBA Finals in 1996, where they lost to the Chicago Bulls. McKey was traded to the Indiana Pacers in 1997, where he continued to be a key player for several seasons.
With the Pacers, McKey was part of a talented team that included Reggie Miller, Rik Smits, and Jalen Rose. He played a crucial role in the team's success, as he was able to guard multiple positions and contribute on offense as well. The Pacers reached the NBA Finals in 2000, but they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers.
McKey also played for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Seattle SuperSonics again later in his career. He retired from the NBA in 2002, having played in over 900 games and scored over 10,000 points.
Throughout his career, McKey was known for his versatility and his ability to play multiple positions. He was also a strong defender, and he was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1994. McKey was a valuable player for every team he played for, and he helped lead several teams to the playoffs and even the NBA Finals.
After retiring from basketball, McKey stayed involved in the sport by coaching and working with young players. He also became involved in philanthropy, working with organizations that help underprivileged children.
Overall, Derrick McKey had a successful career in the NBA, and he was known for his versatility, his defense, and his ability to contribute to winning teams. He remains a respected figure in the basketball world, and his legacy as a player and a mentor continues to inspire young players today.
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