Melvin Ely is a former professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and various international leagues. He was born on May 2, 1978, in Harvey, Illinois, and attended Thornton Township High School in Harvey. Ely played college basketball at Fresno State University, where he was named the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Player of the Year in 2002.
Ely was selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 12th overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft. He played for the Clippers for two seasons before being traded to the Charlotte Bobcats in 2004. Ely played for the Bobcats for two seasons before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs in 2006. He played for the Spurs for one season before being traded to the New Orleans Hornets in 2007. Ely played for the Hornets for one season before being traded to the Sacramento Kings in 2008. He played for the Kings for one season before being traded to the Denver Nuggets in 2009. Ely played for the Nuggets for one season before being waived in 2010.
After being waived by the Nuggets, Ely played for various international teams, including the Puerto Rican team Vaqueros de Bayamon, the Chinese team Guangdong Southern Tigers, and the Puerto Rican team Capitanes de Arecibo. Ely also played for the NBA Development League (D-League) team Texas Legends in 2013.
Throughout his career, Ely was known for his defensive skills and his ability to block shots. He was also a solid rebounder and a decent scorer, averaging 5.3 points and 3.3 rebounds per game over his NBA career. Ely's best season came in 2006-07, when he averaged 9.8 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for the Hornets.
Ely retired from professional basketball in 2014. He currently works as a basketball coach and trainer, helping young players develop their skills and reach their full potential. Ely is also involved in various charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of America and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
In conclusion, Melvin Ely had a solid career as a professional basketball player, playing for several NBA teams and various international teams. He was known for his defensive skills and his ability to block shots, and he was a solid rebounder and scorer. Ely retired from professional basketball in 2014 and currently works as a coach and trainer, as well as being involved in various charitable organizations.
🏀