Roy Tarpley

Roy Tarpley

Roy James Tarpley (November 28, 1964 – January 9, 2015) was an American professional basketball player who played the majority of his career for the Dallas Mavericks in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Tarpley was known for his versatility and dominance in the paint but also for his troubled career marred by issues off the court.

Early Life and College Career

Born in New York City, Tarpley moved to Detroit, where he attended Cooley High School. He played college basketball at the University of Michigan, where he became a standout player. During his time with the Michigan Wolverines, Tarpley made significant contributions to the team, leading them to a Big Ten Championship and a second-round appearance in the NCAA tournament. His college career was highlighted by his selection to the All-Big Ten First Team and being named the Big Ten Conference Player of the Year in 1985.

Professional Career

Dallas Mavericks selected Tarpley with the seventh overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft. He made an immediate impact in the league, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team. Tarpley's best season came in 1987-1988 when he was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year, showcasing his skills as a dominant force off the bench. Despite his success on the court, Tarpley's career was plagued by suspensions and bans due to violations of the NBA's drug policy.

In 1991, after multiple suspensions, Tarpley was banned from the NBA for violating the league's drug use policies. He then took his talents overseas, playing for teams in Greece and Russia, where he continued to display his basketball prowess despite his off-court issues.

Later Life and Death

Tarpley attempted to make a comeback to the NBA in the late 1990s but was permanently banned in 1995 after another violation of the league's drug policy. After his basketball career ended, Tarpley's life remained out of the public eye. He passed away on January 9, 2015, at the age of 50. The cause of death was reported as liver failure, a condition that was likely exacerbated by his history of substance abuse.

Legacy

Roy Tarpley's career is a tale of unfulfilled potential. At his peak, he was one of the most talented players in the NBA, capable of changing the course of a game on both ends of the floor. However, his achievements on the court are often overshadowed by his struggles off it. Despite his troubled career, Tarpley remains a cautionary tale about the dangers of substance abuse and the impact it can have on professional athletes.

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