Dale Ellis is a name that resonates with basketball enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate sharpshooters in the NBA. Over his 17-year career, he carved out a niche as one of the league's top scorers and a formidable outside shooter. In this article, we will delve into Dale Ellis' career statistics, including his shooting percentages, total points scored, game-by-game performance, and how he stacks up against other NBA players. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of Ellis's impact on the game and why he remains a significant figure in basketball history.
Dale Ellis Career Overview
Early Life and NBA Debut
Dale Ellis was born on September 6, 1960, in Marietta, Georgia. He played college basketball at the University of Tennessee, where he showcased his scoring prowess. Ellis entered the NBA in 1983 when he was selected by the Dallas Mavericks as the ninth overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft. His career would eventually take him to several teams, including the Seattle SuperSonics, where he truly made his mark.
Career Highlights
- NBA All-Star: 1989
- All-NBA Second Team: 1989
- NBA Sixth Man of the Year: 1992
- Total Points Scored in NBA: Over 16,000
These accolades highlight not only his scoring ability but also his versatility as a player.
Dale Ellis NBA Shooting Percentage Stats
One of the most compelling aspects of Dale Ellis's career is his shooting accuracy. Ellis was known for his exceptional ability to shoot from long range, which was a significant asset during an era when the three-point shot was still gaining traction in the NBA.
Career Shooting Percentages
- Field Goal Percentage: 49.0%
- Three-Point Percentage: 40.3%
- Free Throw Percentage: 85.5%
Ellis's three-point shooting percentage of 40.3% is particularly noteworthy. This statistic places him among the elite shooters in NBA history, especially when considering he played during a time when the three-point shot was not yet a focal point of many offenses.
Dale Ellis Total Points Scored in NBA
Throughout his career, Dale Ellis amassed a remarkable total of 16,179 points, ranking him among the top scorers in NBA history. His scoring ability was not just a product of volume; it was also about efficiency.
Breakdown of Points Scored
- Career Average Points Per Game: 15.6
- Highest Scoring Season: 1988-1989, with an average of 27.5 points per game
In the 1988-1989 season, Ellis's scoring prowess reached its zenith, making him one of the most dangerous offensive players in the league that year. This achievement not only underscores his talent but also his consistency as a scorer over the years.
Dale Ellis Game-by-Game Performance Stats
To truly appreciate Dale Ellis's contributions to his teams, we can take a closer look at his game-by-game performance. While individual game logs can be extensive, here are some highlights that illustrate his scoring ability:
Notable Career Games
- 50-Point Game: On March 17, 1989, Ellis scored 50 points against the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing his ability to take over a game.
- Consistent Scoring: Throughout his career, he had numerous games where he scored over 30 points, demonstrating his capability to perform under pressure.
Game Performance Insights
- Playoff Performance: In the playoffs, Ellis consistently contributed, averaging over 20 points per game in several postseason runs.
- Clutch Situations: Known for his ability to hit crucial shots, Ellis often performed well in high-stakes moments, making him a go-to player in tight games.
Dale Ellis vs. Other NBA Players Statistics
When evaluating Dale Ellis's legacy, it's essential to compare his statistics against those of his contemporaries and other notable players throughout NBA history.
Comparative Analysis
- Versus Reggie Miller: While both players are known for their shooting, Ellis's overall field goal percentage slightly edges out Miller's, but Miller had a higher career three-point shooting percentage.
- Versus Larry Bird: Bird, a three-time NBA champion, had a more extensive impact on the game, but Ellis's shooting stats rival some of Bird's best shooting seasons.
Statistical Peer Comparison
| Player | Career Points | Field Goal % | 3-Point % | Free Throw % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dale Ellis | 16,179 | 49.0% | 40.3% | 85.5% |
| Reggie Miller | 25,279 | 47.1% | 39.5% | 88.8% |
| Larry Bird | 21,791 | 49.6% | 37.6% | 88.6% |
This table illustrates how Dale Ellis stacks up against other shooting legends, emphasizing his place among the greats.
Conclusion
Dale Ellis's career is a testament to the evolution of the NBA and the role of scoring in the game. With over 16,000 points scored, a three-point shooting percentage of 40.3%, and an impressive list of accolades, Ellis remains a significant figure in basketball history. His ability to perform in clutch situations and his consistent scoring make him a standout player worthy of recognition.
As we look back at his career, it's essential to acknowledge the impact players like Ellis have had on the game—transforming the role of the shooter and paving the way for future generations. For fans and analysts alike, exploring the statistics of Dale Ellis offers not just numbers, but a narrative of skill, perseverance, and excellence in basketball.
If you want to dive deeper into the legacy of Dale Ellis or explore statistics from other legendary players, keep following our series on NBA history and its remarkable contributors!
