After a career at the University of Memphis, he was a second round draft pick of the Orlando Magic in the 2004 NBA draft. He was then traded to his hometown Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for cash considerations. Burks averaged three points in 24 games in his rookie season. After appearing in four games for the Miami Heat during the 2006 preseason, he was signed by them on October 2, 2006. but was waived on October 26, prior to the beginning of the 2006–07 NBA season.