One of the more tragic careers in the NBA, Vin Baker’s alcoholism led to a career of unfulfilled potential. Baker, who graduated from Old Saybrook Senior HS and played his college ball at Hartford, had a 14 -year career that included stops in Milwaukee, Seattle, Boston, New York, Houston, and Los Angeles (Clippers). He was an All-Star for four consecutive seasons from 1995-1998.
But his dominance was put to a sudden halt when he became addicted to alcohol (EDITOR’S NOTE: cue dramatic voice).
He joined the Celtics three seasons later and played there from 2002-04. In 2003-04, Baker averaged 11.3 points a game and 5.7 boards per game and was a solid contributor to the Celtics. But his career in Boston ended after the season and he was shipped off to New York.
Baker’s best season was in Milwaukee where in, 1995-96, he averaged 21.1 PPG and 9.9 RPG. In his 14-year career, he averaged totals of 15 PPG and 7.4 RPG.
He currently serves as the assistant basketball coach at St. Bernard’s HS in Uncasville, Conn.
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