Demetrius “Tony” Antonio Battie was born in Dallas, Texas on February 11, 1976. Has a siter named Sharon Freeman and a brother named Derrick, who played for Temple University and International basketball teams. He attended Sara Zumwalt Middle School from August 1988-May 1990 before going to South Oak Cliff High School from August 1990 to May 1994.
He attended Texas Tech for three years and while attending Texas Tech, he set Tech’s all time record for shot blocking with 162 blocks. He also grew from 6’ 5 to 6’11 between his Freshman and Junior year. He was an honorable mention All-America by the Associated Press and Second Team All-American by Basketball Times and Basketball Weekly.
He was the only Big 12 player to average double figures in rebounding and scoring. He lead the Big 12 in rebounding and ranked 4th in the nation. He was the only Big 12 player to rank in the top 5 in scoring (18.8) , rebounding (11.8), field goal shooting (.579) and blocks (2.5). Shattered the school record with 71 blocked shots.
He was named to All-SWC Second team and All-Defensive Team as a sophomore and SWC All-Freshman Team.
He left Texas Tech after his Junior year to enter the 1997 NBA Draft. He was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 5th pick of the draft. After his rookie season, he was trade to the Boston Celtics. Former GM & Coach Dan Issel labeled him as “El Busto” as in that Tony didn’t meet his expectations.
He went to Boston and struggled under Rick Pitno’s system. He played 172 straight games before injuries ended his season. In 2001-2002 season, he was named the starting center for the team.
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