Biography
Al Long is a retired professional basketball player known for his exceptional skills as a shooting guard. Born on August 15, 1985, in Chicago, Illinois, Long rose to prominence during his collegiate career at the University of Illinois, where he led the team in scoring and helped secure multiple NCAA tournament appearances. His performance earned him recognition as an All-American, and he declared for the NBA Draft after his senior season.
Long was selected in the second round of the 2007 NBA Draft by the Miami Heat, where he quickly established himself as a reliable scorer and perimeter shooter. Throughout his six-season career in the NBA, he played for several teams including the Miami Heat, New Orleans Hornets, and the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging double digits in points per game during multiple seasons. His standout ability to perform in clutch situations made him a valuable asset to his teams, contributing to several playoff runs.
After retiring from professional basketball in 2013, Long transitioned to coaching and youth development programs, using his expertise to mentor young athletes. He remains a respected figure in the basketball community for his contributions both on and off the court, inspiring future generations with his dedication to the sport. Long's legacy as an impactful player and coach continues to be celebrated by fans and aspiring players alike.