Last Updated on January 29, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake
Wayne Monte “Tree” Rollins is a retired American professional basketball player renowned for his defensive prowess and shot-blocking abilities. Below is an overview of his personal background and professional career:
- Full Name: Wayne Monte Rollins
- Nationality: American
- Date of Birth: June 16, 1955
- Place of Birth: Winter Haven, Florida, USA
- Hometown: Cordele, Georgia, USA
- Height: 7 feet 1 inch (216 cm)
- Weight: 235 pounds (107 kg)
- Wingspan: 7 feet 6 inches (229cm)
- Shoe Size: 20 (US)
- Jersey Number: 30
- Position: Center
- High School: Crisp County High School, Cordele, Georgia
- College: Clemson University
- NBA Draft: 1977, 1st round, 14th overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks
- Teams Played For:
- Atlanta Hawks (1977–1988)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (1988–1989)
- Detroit Pistons (1989–1990)
- Houston Rockets (1990–1992)
- Orlando Magic (1993–1995)
- Championship Rings: None
- Children: Information not publicly available
- Siblings: Information not publicly available
Career Highlights:
- Defensive Specialist: Rollins was known for his exceptional shot-blocking skills, finishing his NBA career with 2,542 blocked shots, which ranked him fourth all-time upon retirement.
- Clemson University Achievements: At Clemson, he was a three-time All-ACC player, finishing his career with 450 blocked shots, still third in ACC history.
- Jersey Retirement: Rollins was the first Clemson student-athlete in any sport to have his number retired.
Personal Background:
Born in Winter Haven, Florida, Rollins moved to Cordele, Georgia, where he attended Crisp County High School. He earned the nickname “Tree” during his freshman year due to his towering height.
After a distinguished college career at Clemson University, he was selected by the Atlanta Hawks in the 1977 NBA Draft.
Throughout his 18-year NBA career, Rollins was celebrated for his defensive contributions, particularly his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities. His presence in the paint made him a formidable opponent and a valuable asset to the teams he represented.