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{{Short description|American basketball player}}
{{Short description|American basketball player (born 1958)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2024}}
{{Infobox basketball biography
{{Infobox basketball biography
| name = Kurt Nimphius
| name = Kurt Nimphius
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| weight_lb = 218
| weight_lb = 218
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1958|03|13}}
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1958|03|13}}
| birth_place = [[Milwaukee]], [[Wisconsin]]
| birth_place = [[Milwaukee, Wisconsin]], U.S.
⚫
| high_school = [[South Milwaukee High School|South Milwaukee]]<br />(South Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
| nationality = American
⚫
| high_school = [[South Milwaukee High School|South Milwaukee]]<br/>(South Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
| college = [[Arizona State Sun Devils men's basketball|Arizona State]] (1976–1980)
| college = [[Arizona State Sun Devils men's basketball|Arizona State]] (1976–1980)
| draft_year = 1980
| draft_year = 1980
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| career_end = 1991
| career_end = 1991
| career_number = 40, 41
| career_number = 40, 41
| career_position = [[Center (basketball)|Center]] / [[Power forward (basketball)|Power forward]]
| career_position = [[Center (basketball)|Center]] / [[power forward]]
| years1 = 1980–1981
| years1 = 1980–1981
| team1 = [[Pallacanestro Chieti|Rodrigo Chieti]]
| team1 = [[Pallacanestro Chieti|Rodrigo Chieti]]
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| stat3label = [[Block (basketball)|Blocks]]
| stat3label = [[Block (basketball)|Blocks]]
| stat3value = 696 (1.2 bpg)
| stat3value = 696 (1.2 bpg)
| bbr = nimphku01
}}
}}

'''Kurt Nimphius''' (born March 13, 1958) is an American former [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA) player. Nimphius played nine seasons in the NBA after his collegiate career at [[Arizona State University]].
'''Kurt Nimphius''' (born March 13, 1958) is an American former [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA) player. Nimphius played nine seasons in the NBA after his collegiate career at [[Arizona State University]].


==Early life==
==Early life==


Born in [[Milwaukee, Wisconsin]], Nimphius was the son of Karl and Esther Nimphius and was raised with siblings Kris and Karla. His father and uncles operated the Nimphius Boat Company and his father was a woodworking teacher, who built the family home himself.<ref>https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/jsonline/obituary.aspx?n=karl-heinz-nimphius&pid=175847004&fhid=11318</ref>
Born in [[Milwaukee, Wisconsin]], Nimphius was the son of Karl and Esther Nimphius and was raised with siblings Kris and Karla. His father and uncles operated the Nimphius Boat Company and his father was a woodworking teacher, who built the family home himself.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/jsonline/name/karl-nimphius-obituary?id=3281451|title=Karl Heinz Nimphius Obituary (2015) Milwaukee Journal Sentinel|website=Legacy.com}}</ref>


==High school career==
==High school career==
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In the 1976 Wisconsin Class A Basketball Tournament, Nimphius lead South Milwaukee to three victories and the state championship to complete a 25–0 season. Nimphius scored 97 points, the second-highest total ever in the tournament, along with 40 rebounds.
In the 1976 Wisconsin Class A Basketball Tournament, Nimphius lead South Milwaukee to three victories and the state championship to complete a 25–0 season. Nimphius scored 97 points, the second-highest total ever in the tournament, along with 40 rebounds.


Nimphius led South Milwaukee to victories over [[Washington High School (Milwaukee)|Milwaukee Washington]], [[Madison West]] and [[Memorial High School (Eau Claire, Wisconsin)|Eau Claire Memorial]]. Nimphius scored 30 points with 11 rebounds in the 45–43 Finals victory over Coach [[Dick Bennett]]'s Eau Claire Memorial team. Nimphius hit a short jumper with 46 seconds left to break a 43–43 tie.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wiscnews.com/kurt-nimphius---south-milwaukee-class-of/article_44bbfc9b-774f-5fb9-a3e0-5e5ae11d35d1.html|title=Kurt Nimphius, 6–9, South Milwaukee (Class of 1976)|first=TOM OATES|last=toates@madison.com, 608-252-6172|website=Wiscnews.com}}</ref>
Nimphius led South Milwaukee to victories over [[Washington High School (Milwaukee)|Milwaukee Washington]], [[Madison West]] and [[Memorial High School (Eau Claire, Wisconsin)|Eau Claire Memorial]]. Nimphius scored 30 points with 11 rebounds in the 45–43 Finals victory over Coach [[Dick Bennett]]'s Eau Claire Memorial team. Nimphius hit a short jumper with 46 seconds left to break a 43–43 tie.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wiscnews.com/kurt-nimphius---south-milwaukee-class-of/article_44bbfc9b-774f-5fb9-a3e0-5e5ae11d35d1.html|title=Kurt Nimphius, 6–9, South Milwaukee (Class of 1976)|first=Tom |last=Oates|website=Wiscnews.com|date=9 March 2015 }}</ref>


==College career==
==College career==
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==Professional career==
==Professional career==

===Denver / Europe / Alberta (1980–1981)===
===Denver / Europe / Alberta (1980–1981)===
Drafted by the [[Denver Nuggets]] in the third round (1st pick) of the [[1980 NBA draft]], Nimphius took part in Denver's rookie/free agent camp, but was not invited to return for regular training camp.
Drafted by the [[Denver Nuggets]] in the third round (1st pick) of the [[1980 NBA draft]], Nimphius took part in Denver's rookie/free agent camp, but was not invited to return for regular training camp.


He played 1980–1981 in Europe for Rodrigo Chieti of the Italian Professional League, averaging 18.7 points and 10.5 rebounds in ten games, returning to play with [[Alberta Dusters]] of the [[Continental Basketball Association]], where he played 18 games, averaging 13.1 points and 8.7 rebounds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasljerseys.com/EBA/Rosters/CBA/Dusters_CBA_Rosters.htm|title=Alberta Dusters Rosters|website=www.nasljerseys.com}}</ref><ref>1982–83 Official CBA Guide and Register, page 85</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.statscrew.com/minorbasketball/stats/p-nimphkur001|title=Kurt Nimphius Statistics on StatsCrew.com|website=www.statscrew.com}}</ref>
Nimphius began the 1980–1981 season playing in Europe for Rodrigo Chieti of the Italian Professional League, averaging 18.7 points and 10.5 rebounds in ten games. Nimphius then returned to the United States to play with [[Alberta Dusters]] of the [[Continental Basketball Association]], playing in 18 games, averaging 13.1 points and 8.7 rebounds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nasljerseys.com/EBA/Rosters/CBA/Dusters_CBA_Rosters.htm|title=Alberta Dusters Rosters|website=www.nasljerseys.com}}</ref><ref>1982–83 Official CBA Guide and Register, page 85</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.statscrew.com/minorbasketball/stats/p-nimphkur001|title=Kurt Nimphius Statistics on StatsCrew.com|website=www.statscrew.com}}</ref>


===Dallas Mavericks (1981–1985)===
===Dallas Mavericks (1981–1985)===


On September 2, 1981 Nimphius was waived by the Denver Nuggets and immediately signed as a free agent by the [[Dallas Mavericks]] the same day.<ref name="basketball-reference.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/n/nimphku01.html|title=Kurt Nimphius Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
On September 2, 1981, Nimphius was waived by the Denver Nuggets and immediately signed as a free agent by the [[Dallas Mavericks]] the same day.<ref name="basketball-reference.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/n/nimphku01.html|title=Kurt Nimphius Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>


As an NBA rookie in 1981–1982, under Coach [[Dick Motta]] in Dallas, Nimphius played in 63 games with 27 starts, as the Mavericks finished 28–54. [[Mark Aguirre]], the number one overall pick in the [[1981 NBA draft]], [[Jay Vincent]] and [[Rolando Blackman]] were fellow rookies.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1982.html|title=1981–82 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
As an NBA rookie in 1981–1982, under Coach [[Dick Motta]] in Dallas, Nimphius played in 63 games with 27 starts, as the Mavericks finished 28–54. [[Mark Aguirre]], the number one overall pick in the [[1981 NBA draft]], [[Jay Vincent]] and [[Rolando Blackman]] were fellow rookies.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1982.html|title=1981–82 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
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In 1982–1983, Dallas finished 38–44, with Nimphius averaging 18 minutes 5.3 points and 5.0 rebounds, shooting 49% in 81 games. He split time at center with [[Pat Cummings]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1983.html|title=1982–83 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
In 1982–1983, Dallas finished 38–44, with Nimphius averaging 18 minutes 5.3 points and 5.0 rebounds, shooting 49% in 81 games. He split time at center with [[Pat Cummings]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1983.html|title=1982–83 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>


Dallas improved to 43–39 in 1983–1984. Nimphius split time with Cummings and averaged 7.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.8 blocks in 27 minutes. He played in 81 games, starting 47. Dallas made the playoffs, where they defeated the [[Seattle SuperSonics]] 3–2, before losing to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]] 4–1.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1984.html|title=1983–84 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref> Nimphius averaged 3 points and 6 rebounds in the Seattle series and 5.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in the Lakers series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1984-nba-western-conference-first-round-supersonics-vs-mavericks.html|title=1984 NBA Western Conference First Round – Seattle SuperSonics vs. Dallas Mavericks|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1984-nba-western-conference-semifinals-mavericks-vs-lakers.html|title=1984 NBA Western Conference Semifinals – Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Lakers|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
Dallas improved to 43–39 in 1983–1984. Nimphius split time with Cummings and averaged 7.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.8 blocks in 27 minutes per game. He played in 81 games, starting 47. Dallas made the playoffs, where they defeated the [[Seattle SuperSonics]] 3 games to 2, before losing to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]] 4–1.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1984.html|title=1983–84 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref> Nimphius averaged 3 points and 6 rebounds in the Seattle series and 5.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in the Lakers series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1984-nba-western-conference-first-round-supersonics-vs-mavericks.html|title=1984 NBA Western Conference First Round – Seattle SuperSonics vs. Dallas Mavericks|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/1984-nba-western-conference-semifinals-mavericks-vs-lakers.html|title=1984 NBA Western Conference Semifinals – Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Lakers|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>


In 1984–1985, Nimphius played in all 82 games for Dallas, starting 40, as the Mavericks finished 44–38. Nimphius averaged 6.1 points, 5.0 assists, 2.2 assists and 1.5 blocks in 24 minutes. Dallas was defeated by Portland in the playoffs 3–1 and Nimphius played sparingly in the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1985.html|title=1984–85 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
In 1984–1985, Nimphius played in all 82 games for Dallas, starting 40, as the Mavericks finished 44–38. Nimphius averaged 6.1 points, 5.0 assists, 2.2 assists and 1.5 blocks in 24 minutes. Dallas was defeated by Portland in the playoffs 3–1 and Nimphius played sparingly in the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1985.html|title=1984–85 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>


On November 15, 1984, [[Hakeem Olajuwon]] and Nimphius were ejected after a fight in the Mavericks' game against the [[Houston Rockets]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/11/25/sports/rockets-lose-to-mavericks.html|title=Rockets Lose to Mavericks|first=|last=Ap|date=25 November 1984|publisher=|via=NYTimes.com}}</ref>
On November 15, 1984, [[Hakeem Olajuwon]] and Nimphius were ejected after a fight in the Mavericks' game against the [[Houston Rockets]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/11/25/sports/rockets-lose-to-mavericks.html|title=Rockets Lose to Mavericks|last=Ap|work=The New York Times |date=25 November 1984|publisher=|via=NYTimes.com}}</ref>


Nimphius averaged 7.0 points, 4.6 rebounds in 13 games with Dallas in 1985, when he was traded to the Clippers.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1986.html|title=1985–86 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
Nimphius averaged 7.0 points, 4.6 rebounds in 13 games with Dallas in 1985, when he was traded to the Clippers.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DAL/1986.html|title=1985–86 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
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===Los Angeles Clippers (1985–1987)===
===Los Angeles Clippers (1985–1987)===


On November 25, 1985 Nimphius was traded by the Dallas Mavericks to the [[Los Angeles Clippers]] for [[James Donaldson (basketball)|James Donaldson]].<ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>
On November 25, 1985, Nimphius was traded by the Dallas Mavericks to the [[Los Angeles Clippers]] for [[James Donaldson (basketball)|James Donaldson]].<ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>


Nimphius became a starter for the Clippers under Coach [[Don Chaney]]. He averaged 12.0 points and 5.9 rebounds in 67 games as the Clippers finished 32–50.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/LAC/1986.html|title=1985–86 Los Angeles Clippers Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
Nimphius became a starter for the Clippers under Coach [[Don Chaney]]. He averaged 12.0 points and 5.9 rebounds in 67 games as the Clippers finished 32–50.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/LAC/1986.html|title=1985–86 Los Angeles Clippers Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
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Nimphius played 11 games with the [[La Crosse Catbirds]] of the CBA in 1987, while in transition. He averaged 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.statscrew.com/basketball/stats/p-nimphku01|title=Kurt Nimphius Statistics on StatsCrew.com|website=www.statscrew.com}}</ref>
Nimphius played 11 games with the [[La Crosse Catbirds]] of the CBA in 1987, while in transition. He averaged 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.statscrew.com/basketball/stats/p-nimphku01|title=Kurt Nimphius Statistics on StatsCrew.com|website=www.statscrew.com}}</ref>


Playing 28 games for the Pistons and Coach [[Chuck Daly]], Nimphius was used little, averaging 3.4 points and 1.9 rebounds. The Pistons, with [[Isiah Thomas]], [[John Salley]], [[Bill Laimbeer]], [[Adrian Dantley]], [[Joe Dumars]] , [[Dennis Rodman]], [[Rick Mahorn]] and [[Vinnie Johnson]] advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they were defeated by the Boston Celtics with [[Larry Bird]], [[Kevin McHale (basketball)|Kevin McHale]], [[Robert Parish]] and [[Dennis Johnson]] 4–3.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DET/1987.html|title=1986–87 Detroit Pistons Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
Playing 28 games for the Pistons and Coach [[Chuck Daly]], Nimphius was used little, averaging 3.4 points and 1.9 rebounds. The Pistons, with [[Isiah Thomas]], [[John Salley]], [[Bill Laimbeer]], [[Adrian Dantley]], [[Joe Dumars]], [[Dennis Rodman]], [[Rick Mahorn]] and [[Vinnie Johnson]] advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Pistons were defeated 4 games to 3 in the Eastern Conference Finals by the [[Boston Celtics]] with [[Larry Bird]], [[Kevin McHale (basketball)|Kevin McHale]], [[Robert Parish]] and [[Dennis Johnson]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/DET/1987.html|title=1986–87 Detroit Pistons Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>


===San Antonio Spurs (1987–1988) ===
===San Antonio Spurs (1987–1988) ===
On October 27, 1987 Nimphius signed as a veteran free agent with the [[San Antonio Spurs]]; the Detroit Pistons received a 1988 2nd round draft pick ([[Jeff Moe]] was later selected) as compensation.<ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>
On October 27, 1987, Nimphius signed as a veteran free agent with the [[San Antonio Spurs]]. The Detroit Pistons received a 1988 2nd round draft pick ([[Jeff Moe]] was later selected) as compensation.<ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>


Nimphius played 72 games for San Antonio as a reserve, averaging 4.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in 12 minutes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/SAS/1988.html|title=1987–88 San Antonio Spurs Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
Nimphius played 72 games for San Antonio as a reserve, averaging 4.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in 12 minutes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/SAS/1988.html|title=1987–88 San Antonio Spurs Roster and Stats|website=Basketball-Reference.com}}</ref>
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===Philadelphia 76ers (1989–1990)===
===Philadelphia 76ers (1989–1990)===


On October 23, 1989: Nimphius signed as an unrestricted free agent with the Philadelphia 76ers. In 38 games with the 76ers, he averaged 2.4 points and 1.6 rebounds.<ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>
On October 23, 1989, Nimphius signed as an unrestricted free agent with the [[Philadelphia 76ers]]. In 38 games with the 76ers, he averaged 2.4 points and 1.6 rebounds.<ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>


In 1990–1991, Nimphius ended his career overseas, playing for [[Pallacanestro Virtus Roma|Il Messaggero Roma]]
In 1990–1991, Nimphius ended his career overseas, playing for [[Pallacanestro Virtus Roma|Il Messaggero Roma]]


In his NBA career, Nimphius played for the [[Dallas Mavericks]] (1981–1986), [[Los Angeles Clippers]] (1985–1987), [[Detroit Pistons]] (1986–1987) , [[San Antonio Spurs]] (1987–1988) and [[Philadelphia 76ers]] (1989–1990) in an NBA career that lasted eight seasons. Nimphius averaged 6.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and shot 48% in his 564 game NBA career.<ref name="landofbasketball.com"/><ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>
In his NBA career, Nimphius played for the [[Dallas Mavericks]] (1981–1986), [[Los Angeles Clippers]] (1985–1987), [[Detroit Pistons]] (1986–1987), [[San Antonio Spurs]] (1987–1988) and [[Philadelphia 76ers]] (1989–1990) in an NBA career that lasted eight seasons. Nimphius averaged 6.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and shot 48% in his 564-game NBA career.<ref name="landofbasketball.com"/><ref name="basketball-reference.com"/>


==Personal==
==Personal==
Nimphius is married to Krista, living in Arizona.<ref>https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/jsonline/obituary.aspx?n=karla-nimphius-harris&pid=187151718&fhid=11318</ref>
Nimphius is married to Krista, living in Arizona.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/jsonline/name/karla-harris-obituary?id=3320732|title=Karla Nimphius Harris Obituary (2017) Milwaukee Journal Sentinel|website=Legacy.com}}</ref>


Nimphius is a [[black belt (martial arts)|black belt]] in [[karate]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://articles.latimes.com/1985-11-28/sports/sp-9163_1_kurt-nimphius|title=Nimphius Plays Well, but Clippers Still Lose|first=S. A. M.|last=McMANIS|date=28 November 1985|publisher=|via=LA Times}}</ref><ref>Black Belt Magazine May 1993 p.6</ref>
Nimphius is a [[black belt (martial arts)|black belt]] in [[karate]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-11-28-sp-9163-story.html|title=Nimphius Plays Well, but Clippers Still Lose|first=S. A. M.|last=McMANIS|date=28 November 1985|publisher=|via=LA Times}}</ref><ref>Black Belt Magazine May 1993 p.6</ref>


==Honors==
==Honors==
* Nimphius was inducted into Wisconsin Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007.
* Nimphius was inducted into Wisconsin Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007.
* Nimphius was inducted into the [[Pac-12 Basketball Hall of Honor]] during the [[2012 Pac-12 Conference Men's Basketball Tournament]] on March 10, 2012.<ref name="auto"/>
* Nimphius was inducted into the [[Pac-12 Basketball Hall of Honor]] during the [[2012 Pac-12 Conference men's basketball tournament]] on March 10, 2012.<ref name="auto"/>
* In 2011, Nimphius was inducted into the Arizona State University Sports Hall of Fame.<ref name="asu.edu"/>
* In 2011, Nimphius was inducted into the Arizona State University Sports Hall of Fame.<ref name="asu.edu"/>


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[[Category:American men's basketball players]]
[[Category:American men's basketball players]]
[[Category:Arizona State Sun Devils men's basketball players]]
[[Category:Arizona State Sun Devils men's basketball players]]
[[Category:Basketball players from Wisconsin]]
[[Category:Basketball players from Milwaukee]]
[[Category:CB Canarias players]]
[[Category:CB Canarias players]]
[[Category:Centers (basketball)]]
[[Category:Centers (basketball)]]
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[[Category:Los Angeles Clippers players]]
[[Category:Los Angeles Clippers players]]
[[Category:Philadelphia 76ers players]]
[[Category:Philadelphia 76ers players]]
[[Category:Power forwards (basketball)]]
[[Category:Power forwards]]
[[Category:San Antonio Spurs players]]
[[Category:San Antonio Spurs players]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Milwaukee]]

Latest revision as of 21:07, 6 November 2024

Kurt Nimphius
Personal information
Born (1958-03-13) March 13, 1958 (age 66)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
Listed height6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
Listed weight218 lb (99 kg)
Career information
High schoolSouth Milwaukee
(South Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
CollegeArizona State (1976–1980)
NBA draft1980: 3rd round, 47th overall pick
Selected by the Denver Nuggets
Playing career1980–1991
PositionCenter / power forward
Number40, 41
Career history
1980–1981Rodrigo Chieti
1980–1981Alberta Dusters
1981–1985Dallas Mavericks
1985–1987Los Angeles Clippers
1987Detroit Pistons
1987–1988San Antonio Spurs
1988–1989Canarias
1989–1990Philadelphia 76ers
1990–1991Il Messaggero Roma
Career highlights and awards
Career NBA statistics
Points3,602 (6.4 ppg)
Rebounds2,474 (4.4 rpg)
Blocks696 (1.2 bpg)
Stats at NBA.com Edit this at Wikidata
Stats at Basketball Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Kurt Nimphius (born March 13, 1958) is an American former National Basketball Association (NBA) player. Nimphius played nine seasons in the NBA after his collegiate career at Arizona State University.

Early life

[edit]

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Nimphius was the son of Karl and Esther Nimphius and was raised with siblings Kris and Karla. His father and uncles operated the Nimphius Boat Company and his father was a woodworking teacher, who built the family home himself.[1]

High school career

[edit]

Nimphius attended South Milwaukee High School in South Milwaukee, graduating in 1976 and playing basketball for Coach Jerry Sullivan.[2][3]

In the 1976 Wisconsin Class A Basketball Tournament, Nimphius lead South Milwaukee to three victories and the state championship to complete a 25–0 season. Nimphius scored 97 points, the second-highest total ever in the tournament, along with 40 rebounds.

Nimphius led South Milwaukee to victories over Milwaukee Washington, Madison West and Eau Claire Memorial. Nimphius scored 30 points with 11 rebounds in the 45–43 Finals victory over Coach Dick Bennett's Eau Claire Memorial team. Nimphius hit a short jumper with 46 seconds left to break a 43–43 tie.[4]

College career

[edit]

Nimphius attended Arizona State University, where he played for Coach Ned Wulk. As a freshman in 1976–1977 he average 1.5 points and 1.6 rebounds for the Sun Devils. As a sophomore, Nimphius averaged 8.5 points and 6.1 rebounds, shooting 55.7%, from the floor. As a junior, in 1978–1979, Nimphius averaged 9.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, shooting 58%.[5]

As a senior in 1979–1980 under Coach Wulk, Nimphius averaged 16.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists, shooting 60% from the field. Arizona State finished 22–7 and 15–3 in the Pac-10 Conference. He led the team in scoring and rebounding, playing alongside Byron Scott, Sam Williams, Alton Lister and Fat Lever.[6][5]

Arizona State played in the 1980 NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament. They defeated Loyola Marymount 99–71 before losing to Ohio State 89–75.[5] Nimphius had 13 points and 7 rebounds against Loyola Marymount and 14 points and 11 rebounds against Ohio State with Herb Williams, Kelvin Ransey and Clark Kellogg.[7]

Nimphius was named All-Pac-10 after his senior season, when he had 11 double-doubles and scored 30 points four times, including 37 points against Oregon.[8]

Overall, Nimphius played in 104 games at ASU, averaging 9.7 points and 6.0 rebounds on 58% shooting. Nimphius holds ASU records for highest single-season (60.9) and career (58.6) field goal percentage marks and ranks among the Sun Devils' top 10 in career rebounding, blocked shots and points (1,006).[9][10][11]

Professional career

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Denver / Europe / Alberta (1980–1981)

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Drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the third round (1st pick) of the 1980 NBA draft, Nimphius took part in Denver's rookie/free agent camp, but was not invited to return for regular training camp.

Nimphius began the 1980–1981 season playing in Europe for Rodrigo Chieti of the Italian Professional League, averaging 18.7 points and 10.5 rebounds in ten games. Nimphius then returned to the United States to play with Alberta Dusters of the Continental Basketball Association, playing in 18 games, averaging 13.1 points and 8.7 rebounds.[12][13][14]

Dallas Mavericks (1981–1985)

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On September 2, 1981, Nimphius was waived by the Denver Nuggets and immediately signed as a free agent by the Dallas Mavericks the same day.[15]

As an NBA rookie in 1981–1982, under Coach Dick Motta in Dallas, Nimphius played in 63 games with 27 starts, as the Mavericks finished 28–54. Mark Aguirre, the number one overall pick in the 1981 NBA draft, Jay Vincent and Rolando Blackman were fellow rookies.[16]

In 1982–1983, Dallas finished 38–44, with Nimphius averaging 18 minutes 5.3 points and 5.0 rebounds, shooting 49% in 81 games. He split time at center with Pat Cummings.[17]

Dallas improved to 43–39 in 1983–1984. Nimphius split time with Cummings and averaged 7.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.8 blocks in 27 minutes per game. He played in 81 games, starting 47. Dallas made the playoffs, where they defeated the Seattle SuperSonics 3 games to 2, before losing to the Los Angeles Lakers 4–1.[18] Nimphius averaged 3 points and 6 rebounds in the Seattle series and 5.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in the Lakers series.[19][20]

In 1984–1985, Nimphius played in all 82 games for Dallas, starting 40, as the Mavericks finished 44–38. Nimphius averaged 6.1 points, 5.0 assists, 2.2 assists and 1.5 blocks in 24 minutes. Dallas was defeated by Portland in the playoffs 3–1 and Nimphius played sparingly in the series.[21]

On November 15, 1984, Hakeem Olajuwon and Nimphius were ejected after a fight in the Mavericks' game against the Houston Rockets.[22]

Nimphius averaged 7.0 points, 4.6 rebounds in 13 games with Dallas in 1985, when he was traded to the Clippers.[23]

Los Angeles Clippers (1985–1987)

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On November 25, 1985, Nimphius was traded by the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Clippers for James Donaldson.[15]

Nimphius became a starter for the Clippers under Coach Don Chaney. He averaged 12.0 points and 5.9 rebounds in 67 games as the Clippers finished 32–50.[24]

In 1986–1987 Nimphius played 38 games for the Clippers, averaging 7.8 points and 3.5 rebounds before he was traded to Detroit for two high draft picks.[25]

Detroit Pistons (1987)

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On January 29, 1987, Nimphius was traded by the Los Angeles Clippers to the Detroit Pistons for a 1987 1st round draft pick (Ken Norman was later selected) and a 1987 2nd round draft pick (Norris Coleman was later selected).[15]

Nimphius played 11 games with the La Crosse Catbirds of the CBA in 1987, while in transition. He averaged 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists.[26]

Playing 28 games for the Pistons and Coach Chuck Daly, Nimphius was used little, averaging 3.4 points and 1.9 rebounds. The Pistons, with Isiah Thomas, John Salley, Bill Laimbeer, Adrian Dantley, Joe Dumars, Dennis Rodman, Rick Mahorn and Vinnie Johnson advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Pistons were defeated 4 games to 3 in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Boston Celtics with Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Robert Parish and Dennis Johnson.[27]

San Antonio Spurs (1987–1988)

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On October 27, 1987, Nimphius signed as a veteran free agent with the San Antonio Spurs. The Detroit Pistons received a 1988 2nd round draft pick (Jeff Moe was later selected) as compensation.[15]

Nimphius played 72 games for San Antonio as a reserve, averaging 4.4 points and 2.1 rebounds in 12 minutes.[28]

Nimphius then played for the team Cajacanarias of the Canary Islands in the Spanish league in 1988–1989.

Philadelphia 76ers (1989–1990)

[edit]

On October 23, 1989, Nimphius signed as an unrestricted free agent with the Philadelphia 76ers. In 38 games with the 76ers, he averaged 2.4 points and 1.6 rebounds.[15]

In 1990–1991, Nimphius ended his career overseas, playing for Il Messaggero Roma

In his NBA career, Nimphius played for the Dallas Mavericks (1981–1986), Los Angeles Clippers (1985–1987), Detroit Pistons (1986–1987), San Antonio Spurs (1987–1988) and Philadelphia 76ers (1989–1990) in an NBA career that lasted eight seasons. Nimphius averaged 6.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and shot 48% in his 564-game NBA career.[2][15]

Personal

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Nimphius is married to Krista, living in Arizona.[29]

Nimphius is a black belt in karate.[30][31]

Honors

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Karl Heinz Nimphius Obituary (2015) Milwaukee Journal Sentinel". Legacy.com.
  2. ^ a b "NBA Players: Kurt Nimphius Profile and Basic Stats". www.landofbasketball.com.
  3. ^ "Remembering the fire starter: Jerry Sullivan". Milwaukee Bucks.
  4. ^ Oates, Tom (March 9, 2015). "Kurt Nimphius, 6–9, South Milwaukee (Class of 1976)". Wiscnews.com.
  5. ^ a b c "1979–80 Arizona State Sun Devils Schedule and Results". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
  6. ^ "1979–80 Arizona State Sun Devils Roster and Stats". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
  7. ^ "Kurt Nimphius 1979–80 Game Log". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
  8. ^ a b Coleman, Scott (February 8, 2012). "Pac-12 Hall Of Honor Inductees: Rich Jefferson Of Arizona, Kurt Nimphius Of ASU Selected For Enshrinement". SB Nation Arizona.
  9. ^ "Kurt Nimphius College Stats". College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com.
  10. ^ a b "Ten former Sun Devils to be inducted into ASU Sports Hall of Fame". ASU Now: Access, Excellence, Impact. August 10, 2011.
  11. ^ "Athletics News". Arizona State University Athletics.
  12. ^ "Alberta Dusters Rosters". www.nasljerseys.com.
  13. ^ 1982–83 Official CBA Guide and Register, page 85
  14. ^ "Kurt Nimphius Statistics on StatsCrew.com". www.statscrew.com.
  15. ^ a b c d e f "Kurt Nimphius Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  16. ^ "1981–82 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  17. ^ "1982–83 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  18. ^ "1983–84 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  19. ^ "1984 NBA Western Conference First Round – Seattle SuperSonics vs. Dallas Mavericks". Basketball-Reference.com.
  20. ^ "1984 NBA Western Conference Semifinals – Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Lakers". Basketball-Reference.com.
  21. ^ "1984–85 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  22. ^ Ap (November 25, 1984). "Rockets Lose to Mavericks". The New York Times – via NYTimes.com.
  23. ^ "1985–86 Dallas Mavericks Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  24. ^ "1985–86 Los Angeles Clippers Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  25. ^ "1986–87 Los Angeles Clippers Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  26. ^ "Kurt Nimphius Statistics on StatsCrew.com". www.statscrew.com.
  27. ^ "1986–87 Detroit Pistons Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  28. ^ "1987–88 San Antonio Spurs Roster and Stats". Basketball-Reference.com.
  29. ^ "Karla Nimphius Harris Obituary (2017) Milwaukee Journal Sentinel". Legacy.com.
  30. ^ McMANIS, S. A. M. (November 28, 1985). "Nimphius Plays Well, but Clippers Still Lose" – via LA Times.
  31. ^ Black Belt Magazine May 1993 p.6
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