Derrick Coleman
The left-handed power forward who could have been the best, but injuries and attitude held him back.
Derrick Demetrius Coleman (born June 21, 1967) is an American former professional basketball player. Coleman attended Syracuse University and was selected first overall in the 1990 NBA draft by the New Jersey Nets. Throughout his career, the left-handed Coleman was an effective low post scorer, averaging 16.5 points and 9.3 rebounds. He enjoyed his best years as a member of the New Jersey Nets, where he averaged 19.8 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. When Coleman entered the NBA, he was compared to elite power forwards such as Karl Malone and Charles Barkley, and expected to put up similar numbers, only with the added ability to shoot from three-point range. Coleman made the 1994 NBA All-Star team, but his career was overshadowed by numerous injuries and attitude problems. Sports Illustrated once remarked that 'Coleman could have been the best power forward ever; instead he played just well enough to ensure his next paycheck.' As of 2007, he was working as a developer and entrepreneur in Detroit. He has also appeared as an occasional studio analyst for NBA TV's 'NBA Gametime Live' coverage.
Quick Facts
- Draft year
- 1990
- Draft status
- First Overall Pick (New Jersey Nets)
- Primary position
- Power Forward; Center
- Franchise tenure
- 1990–1996
- College
- Syracuse University
- All-star honors
- NBA All-Star Selection
Lore & Background
Coleman was born in Mobile, Alabama, but grew up and attended high school in Detroit. He joined the Orangemen in the 1986–87 season and was a prototypical Big East Conference power forward for the Orange. Head coach Jim Boeheim said no player in Syracuse's basketball history had more impact than Coleman. Coleman was selected to first team All-Big East selection in his sophomore and junior seasons, and as a senior, he was named the Big East Player of the Year. He finished as the NCAA's top modern-day rebounder and the school's career scoring leader. Coleman's Syracuse number 44 jersey was retired on March 5, 2006.
Reader's Guide
Coleman was the first overall pick in the 1990 NBA draft after a successful college career. He had a solid rookie season. Coleman went on to improve during the 1991–92 season, averaging close to 20 points and 10 rebounds a game. The Nets were an up-and-coming team as well, with young players like Coleman, Kenny Anderson, Chris Morris and Mookie Blaylock teaming up with solid veteran players like Sam Bowie, Chris Dudley, Terry Mills and Dražen Petrović. The addition of coach Chuck Daly, who won two NBA championships with the Detroit Pistons as head coach, was enough to get the Nets a winning record and into the playoffs during the 1992–93 season. The 1993–94 season was the peak for Coleman and the Nets during his time with the team. The Nets made it to the playoffs for the third straight season, while Coleman averaged his second straight 20 points, 10 rebounds season and was selected to represent the Nets in the All-Star game along with teammate Kenny Anderson. In 1995, the Nets traded Coleman, Rex Walters, and Sean Higgins to the Philadelphia 76ers for Shawn Bradley, Tim Perry, and Greg Graham. In 1999, Coleman signed with the Charlotte Hornets. In 2001, he was reacquired by the Philadelphia 76ers in a three-team trade involving the Golden State Warriors, where the Hornets acquired Chris Porter, Robert Traylor, George Lynch, and Jérôme Moïso. In 2004, Coleman and Amal McCaskill were traded to the Detroit Pistons for Corliss Williamson. The 2004–05 season would be Coleman's last, as he was cut by the team in January 2005. He was one of nine NBA players that faced suspension for his role in the infamous November 2004 Pacers–Pistons brawl. He served a one-game suspension for coming off the bench during the altercation at the scorer's table. Coleman is one of only four players in NBA history to record a five-by-five in a game with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds (the other being Hakeem Olajuwon, Draymond Green and Victor Wembanyama.)
Did You Know?
- Coleman played for the US national team in the 1994 FIBA World Championship, winning the gold medal.
- After the water crisis began in Flint, Michigan, Coleman drove 65 miles daily to bring residents clean bottled water and eating utensils.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Derrick Coleman in the context of the Hornets?
He was the first overall pick of the 1990 NBA Draft who became the cornerstone of Charlotte's inaugural era. Playing as a power forward and center, he anchored the frontcourt while defining the team's identity during those formative years.
What role did Coleman play on the court?
Coleman served as the primary anchor of the Hornets' frontcourt throughout his tenure with the franchise. His physical presence helped establish a competitive culture while proving Charlotte could be a viable NBA market.
How long did he stay with the organization?
He played through this crucial decade, remaining on the roster from 1990 until December of 1996. This period covered the team's most foundational seasons following their expansion into the league.
Did Coleman earn any individual accolades?
Yes, he received an NBA All-Star Selection during his time in Charlotte after attending Syracuse University. His performance highlighted him as a top-tier talent in the Eastern Conference during that period.
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