Michael Finley is a retired American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 15 seasons. He was born on March 6, 1973, in Melrose Park, Illinois, and attended Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois. Finley played college basketball at the University of Wisconsin, where he was named the Big Ten Conference Player of the Year in 1994 and 1995.
Finley was selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 21st overall pick in the 1995 NBA draft. He played for the Suns for five seasons, from 1995 to 2000, and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 1996. Finley was then traded to the Dallas Mavericks in 2000, where he played for nine seasons, from 2000 to 2009. He was a key player for the Mavericks during his tenure, helping the team reach the playoffs six times and earning two All-Star selections in 2000 and 2001.
In 2005, Finley won an NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs, where he played for two seasons, from 2005 to 2007. He was a valuable role player for the Spurs, providing scoring and leadership off the bench. Finley retired from the NBA in 2010, finishing his career with averages of 15.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game.
Throughout his career, Finley was known for his versatility and scoring ability. He was a skilled shooter from beyond the arc, as well as a strong finisher at the rim. Finley was also a solid defender, using his size and athleticism to guard multiple positions. He was a respected leader in the locker room, serving as a mentor to younger players and earning the admiration of his teammates and coaches.
Off the court, Finley was involved in various charitable endeavors, including the Michael Finley Foundation, which provided scholarships and other resources to underprivileged youth. He was also active in the community, participating in events and programs that promoted education and healthy living.
In recognition of his contributions to the game of basketball, Finley was inducted into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012. He remains a beloved figure among fans and players alike, remembered for his talent, professionalism, and dedication to the sport.
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