About
Biography
Roger Atkinson is a retired professional basketball player known for his contributions to the sport during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Born on April 12, 1965, in Richmond, Virginia, he gained prominence as a shooting guard known for his scoring ability and defensive skills. Atkinson played collegiate basketball at the University of North Carolina, where he was a key member of the team that reached the Final Four in 1987.
Atkinson was selected in the second round of the 1988 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, where he quickly established himself as a versatile player. Over the course of his six-season NBA career, he played for several teams including the 76ers, the New Jersey Nets, and the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 12.5 points per game. His performance during the 1991 season earned him a spot on the NBA All-Star roster, marking a pinnacle in his professional career.
After retiring from professional play in 1994, Atkinson transitioned to coaching, leveraging his on-court experience to mentor young athletes. He is remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his contributions to the development of basketball at the grassroots level. Roger Atkinson's legacy in the sport is characterized by his determination and ability to inspire future generations of players.