Jim Neal Stats: NBA Career

Introducing Jim Neal: The Unsung Hero of the Philadelphia 76ers
In the colorful tapestry of NBA history, there are players who shine brightly under the spotlight of fame and fortune, their names etched into the annals of basketball lore. And then, there are those like Jim Neal, the quiet warriors who toil diligently, their contributions often overlooked but nonetheless vital to the fabric of the game. Let's delve into the numbers and unravel the story of Jim Neal, the unsung hero of the Philade...lphia 76ers.
Jim Neal, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, donned the jersey of the Philadelphia 76ers for two seasons, from 1953 to 1955. While his tenure in the NBA may have been brief, his impact was significant, both on and off the court. Neal, who started his professional basketball career at the age of 24, brought a blend of skill, dedication, and tenacity to the hardwood, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
In his 80 games played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Jim Neal logged a total of 1093 minutes on the court. A versatile player, Neal showcased his scoring prowess with 129 successful field goals out of 428 attempts, boasting a shooting percentage of 30.14%. His ability to find the bottom of the net, coupled with his work ethic and basketball acumen, made him a valuable asset for the team's offense.
One of Neal's strengths as a player was his effectiveness at the free-throw line. With 154 free throws attempted, he converted 93 of them, boasting an impressive free-throw percentage. His consistency from the charity stripe proved to be a valuable weapon for the Philadelphia 76ers, especially in clutch situations where every point mattered.
Beyond his scoring capabilities, Jim Neal was a force on the boards, tallying a total of 304 rebounds during his time with the 76ers. While his defensive and offensive rebound numbers are not specified, it is clear that Neal's presence in the paint was felt, whether battling for position under the basket or crashing the boards to secure crucial possessions for his team.
In addition to his scoring and rebounding prowess, Neal showcased his court vision and passing ability with 33 assists, demonstrating his willingness to involve his teammates and create scoring opportunities. His unselfish play and basketball IQ added another dimension to the Philadelphia 76ers' offensive scheme, making him a well-rounded contributor on the court.
Defensively, Jim Neal's hustle and determination were evident, as reflected in his steal and block numbers. While his statistical output in these categories may not jump off the page, Neal's commitment to the team's defensive principles and his willingness to disrupt opponents' offensive sets were invaluable assets that helped anchor the 76ers' defense.
When it came to putting points on the board, Jim Neal was a reliable scoring threat, accumulating a total of 351 points during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers. Whether sinking mid-range jumpers, attacking the rim with authority, or knocking down free throws in pressure situations, Neal's scoring ability was a key component of the team's offensive arsenal.
Despite his contributions on the court, Jim Neal's time in the NBA was relatively short-lived, as he retired at the age of 25 after two seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers. While his name may not echo through the halls of basketball history like some of the game's legends, his impact on the court and in the locker room should not be overlooked.
Jim Neal, the unsung hero of the Philadelphia 76ers, may not have basked in the glow of the spotlight, but his dedication, skill, and contributions to the game of basketball are worthy of recognition. As we delve deeper into the numbers and charts that illuminate his time in the NBA, let us appreciate the tireless efforts of players like Jim Neal, who embody the true spirit of the game.
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