American · Winter Haven, Florida · Born 16 June 1955American basketball center known for his shot-blocking ability and defensive presence in the NBA from 1977-1995, particularly with the Atlanta Hawks.
Wayne Rollins was born in Winter Haven, Florida in 1955 and attended Clemson University. Atlanta Hawks selected him 14th overall in the 1977 NBA Draft. His 15-season career produced modest scoring numbers but substantial defensive impact — he averaged 2.3 blocks per game across his career, making him one of the most prolific shot-blockers in NBA history. He was named to the All-NBA Defensive Second Team twice. He spent 11 seasons as the defensive anchor of Atlanta Hawks teams that competed in the Eastern Conference playoffs throughout the late 1970s and 1980s. His combination of timing, anticipation and rim protection made him one of the most feared interior defenders of his era. He became famous to a younger generation when he bit Danny Ainge of the Boston Celtics in a 1983 playoff fight — an incident that briefly generated national media attention. After retirement he stayed with the Atlanta Hawks organization in various coaching and player development roles for many years. His career represents the archetype of the defensive specialist whose value to winning teams exceeds what any scoring statistic can capture.
Shot blocking and defensive presence in the paint
How They Played
Defensive center specializing in shot blocking and rebounding
Lasting Impact
One of the premier shot blockers of the 1980s, known for intimidating presence around the rim
Career Honours
- All-NBA Defensive Second Team 2x
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Hawks | 1977–1988 | 723 |
| Cleveland Cavaliers | 1988–1990 | 130 |
| Detroit Pistons | 1990–1993 | 223 |
| Houston Rockets | 1993–1995 | 131 |
| San Antonio Spurs | 1995–1996 | 74 |
American Athletes