Ehlo’s professional journey began when he was selected by the Houston Rockets in the third round of the 1983 NBA Draft as the 48th overall pick. He made his NBA debut on April 2, 1984, quickly becoming an integral part of the Rockets team that advanced to the 1986 NBA Finals, a significant early career milestone. Following his tenure with the Rockets, Ehlo was waived in October 1986, positioning him for his next career chapter. Ehlo signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers in January 1987, where he spent the majority of his professional playing career.
Over seven seasons with the Cavaliers, from 1987 to 1993, he consistently contributed, accumulating 5,130 points, 2,285 assists, and 2,267 rebounds. During this period, Ehlo demonstrated his scoring prowess by achieving a career high of 31 points on three separate occasions, showcasing his capability as a key offensive player. He also proved his durability and reliability, playing a full 82-game season multiple times in 1989, 1991, and 1993, cementing his reputation as a committed and consistent performer. Following his impactful years with Cleveland, Ehlo joined the Atlanta Hawks in 1993, where he played until 1996, including another 82-game season in 1994.
In July 2019, he reconnected with his collegiate roots, taking on the role of color analyst for Washington State Cougars men’s basketball home games. This role highlights his continued engagement and authority within the sport, bringing fifteen seasons of NBA experience and post-playing insights to a broader audience.