1995-96

The Clippers were one of the most improved teams in the NBA in 1995-96. Brian Williams (acquired before the season for Elmore Spencer) and longtime Clipper Loy Vaught quickly established the fact that the Clippers would not be pushed around, leading the team to a 6-3 start. Although they tailed off and ultimately finished at 29-53, they did post a 12-win improvement over 1994-95. Williams was a major reason why. He put up career numbers in scoring (15.8 ppg), rebounding (7.6 rpg) and assists (1.9 apg) and was a candidate for the NBA's Most Improved Player award. Vaught continued to put up steady numbers in Los Angeles, leading the team in points (16.1 ppg) and rebounds (10.1 rpg). Perhaps the most recognizable player on the Clippers by season's end was Brent Barry, son of Hall of Famer Rick Barry. Barry averaged 10.1 points per game in his rookie season, and was named to the All-Rookie Second Team. During All-Star Weekend, he took off from the free throw line and completed a "Jordan-esque," gravity-defying dunk to win the Slam-Dunk Championship. Coach Bill Fitch, who had to endure substantial injuries to Stanley Roberts, Pooh Richardson, Malik Sealy and Rodney Rogers, did reach a career milestone, garnering his 865th win on Nov. 12 to move into fourth on the NBA's all-time win list.