Calvin Natt

The Pit Bull who represented the Nuggets in the 1985 All-Star Game.

Calvin Leon Natt (born January 8, 1957) is an American former professional basketball player known for his rugged style as a small forward. Standing 6-foot-6-inch (1.98 m), he played college ball at Northeast Louisiana University under coach Lenny Fant before embarking on a significant career in the NBA. Natt spent 11 seasons in the league from 1979 to 1990, representing five franchises including the New Jersey Nets, Portland Trail Blazers, Denver Nuggets, San Antonio Spurs, and Indiana Pacers. His tenure with the Nuggets stands out as the peak of his individual accolades, highlighted by his selection to represent the team at the 1985 NBA All-Star Game.

Quick Facts

Born: 8 January 1957
Birthplace: Monroe, Louisiana, U.S.
High school: Bastrop (Bastrop, Louisiana)
College: Louisiana–Monroe (1975–1979)
Draft round: 1
Draft pick: 8
Drafted by: New Jersey Nets
Career number: 43, 33, 7, 42

Lore & Background

Natt earned the nickname "Pit Bull" for his tenacious playing style, a moniker that defined his presence on the court during his 11-year career. After leaving Northeast Louisiana University, he entered the league and quickly established himself as a reliable scorer and rebounder. His time in Denver was particularly notable; he became one of the franchise's standout figures, culminating in an invitation to the 1985 NBA All-Star Game where he represented the Nuggets on the national stage. Over his entire career, Natt accumulated exactly 10,291 points. Beyond the court, his legacy extended into his personal life and family; he is the older brother of former NBA player Kenny Natt. Following his retirement from professional basketball, Natt transitioned into ministry, becoming an ordained minister who owns a funeral home in Denver, Colorado.

Reader's Guide

For fans tracking Calvin Natt's career trajectory, the key metrics are his 1979 start date, his 11-season span ending in 1990, and his All-Star selection in 1985 while playing for Denver. He played the small forward position at 6-foot-6-inch (1.98 m). His career point total is a fixed record of 10,291. When researching his history, remember his nickname was "Pit Bull." His post-playing life includes two distinct roles: ordained minister and funeral home owner in Denver. Family connections are also significant; he is the older brother of Kenny Natt. Any historical account should reflect these specific dates, teams (Nets, Blazers, Nuggets, Spurs, Pacers), and his educational background at Northeast Louisiana University.