Bill Smith Stats: NBA Career

Introducing Bill Smith: The Unsung Hero of the Portland Trail Blazers
Every team has that one player who may not always be in the limelight but is a crucial component of the roster. For the Portland Trail Blazers, that player is Bill Smith. While his name may not be as recognizable as some of the franchise’s legends, his impact on the court cannot be understated. Let's dive into the numbers to truly appreciate the skills and contributions of this underrated player.
Bill Smith, a native of Port...land, Oregon, began his NBA career with the Trail Blazers in the 1971-72 season. Despite only playing two seasons in the league, Smith left a lasting impression on his teammates and fans alike. Standing at 6’8”, Smith brought versatility and finesse to the court, showcasing his scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and solid defensive presence.
During his time with the Trail Blazers, Smith played a total of 30 games, logging 491 minutes on the court. In that time, he attempted 188 field goals and made 81 of them, boasting an impressive field goal percentage of 43.1%. His efficiency in scoring made him a reliable offensive option for his team, especially in crucial moments of the game.
One of Smith's standout attributes was his prowess at the free-throw line. He attempted 72 free throws and successfully made 43 of them, giving him a solid free-throw percentage. His reliability from the charity stripe made him a valuable asset in late-game situations, where every point mattered.
Rebounding was another area where Smith excelled. Over the course of his career, he secured a total of 143 rebounds, showcasing his tenacity on the glass. While he may not have led the team in this category, his contributions in securing possessions and creating second-chance opportunities for his team were invaluable.
In addition to his scoring and rebounding, Smith also demonstrated his playmaking abilities on the court. He recorded 20 assists during his tenure with the Trail Blazers, showcasing his willingness to involve his teammates and create scoring opportunities for others. His unselfish play and basketball IQ were commendable, making him a well-rounded player on both ends of the floor.
Defensively, Smith was a solid presence in the paint. While he may not have tallied significant numbers in steals and blocks, his defensive awareness and positioning were instrumental in disrupting opponents’ offensive sets. His ability to alter shots and protect the rim added a layer of security to the Trail Blazers' defense.
Over his two seasons in the league, Bill Smith accumulated a total of 205 points, leaving a mark as a reliable scorer and contributor for the Trail Blazers. Despite his early retirement from the NBA, his impact on the team and the city of Portland is still remembered by fans who appreciated his hard work and dedication on the court.
While Bill Smith may not have received the same accolades as some of his more celebrated teammates, his contributions to the Portland Trail Blazers should not be overlooked. His efficient scoring, tenacious rebounding, and solid all-around play made him a valuable asset to the team during his time in the league. To truly understand the impact he had on the court, one must delve into the numbers and appreciate the skill and dedication that defined his career.
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