Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United States. It is also one of the most competitive. There are many talented athletes who play basketball, but here is what we believe to be some of the best players in NBA history.
Looking back, the 1970s were an amazing decade for the NBA. It was during this time that legends like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Rick Barry, and Wilt Chamberlain became household names. As one of the oldest teams in professional sports, the Boston Celtics were an integral part of this period.
This post features an infographic that lists all retired players with statistics and achievements from this decade, as well as what teams they played for during their careers. The information below summarizes who these players were and compares them with another top talent from other decades.
1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (born April 16, 1947) is an American retired professional basketball player with the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers. Abdul-Jabbar was a six-time NBA MVP, a 19-time All-Star, a 15-time All-NBA pick, and an 11-time NBA All-Defensive Team member. Abdul-Jabbar was twice named NBA Finals MVP as a player and twice as an assistant coach.
| Kareem Abdul Jabbar | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar |
| Birthdate | April 16, 1947 |
| Birthplace | Harlem, New York, U.S. |
| Listed Height | 7 ft 2 in (2.18 m) |
| Listed Weight | 225 lb (102 kg) |
| High School | Power Memorial (New York City, New York) |
| College | UCLA (1966–1969) |
| NBA Draft | 1969: 1st round, 1st overall pick |
| Playing Career | 1969–1989 |
| Position | Center |
| Number | 33 |
| Coaching Career | 1998–2011 |
| Career Highlights | 6× NBA champion, 2× NBA Finals MVP, 6× NBA Most Valuable Player, 19× NBA All-Star, 10× All-NBA First Team, 5× All-NBA Second Team, 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team, 6× NBA All-Defensive Second Team, NBA Rookie of the Year, NBA All-Rookie First Team, 2× NBA scoring champion, NBA rebounding leader, 4× NBA blocks leader, NBA anniversary teams, No. 33 retired by Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers, 3× NCAA champion, 3× NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player, 3× National college player of the year, 3× Consensus first-team All-American, No. 33 retired by UCLA Bruins, 2× Mr. Basketball USA, 3× First-team Parade All-American, Presidential Medal of Freedom |
| Career NBA Statistics | Points: 38,387 (24.6 ppg), Rebounds: 17,440 (11.2 rpg), Assists: 5,660 (3.6 apg) |
| Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted as a player |
| College Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2006 |
2. John Havlicek
John Joseph Havlicek (born April 8, 1940) was an American basketball player who won eight NBA titles with the Boston Celtics, four in his first four seasons.
Only Bill Russell and Sam Jones have won more NBA titles, with 11 and 10, respectively. On of three NBA players with an unbeaten 8–0 record in NBA Finals series. Havlicek was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984.
| John Havlicek | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Joseph Havlicek |
| Nickname | Hondo |
| Birthdate | April 8, 1940 |
| Birthplace | Martins Ferry, Ohio, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Czech and Croatian descent |
| College | Ohio State University |
| Position | Small forward / shooting guard |
| Team | Boston Celtics |
| NBA Championships | 8 |
| NBA Finals MVP | 1974 |
| NBA All-Star | 13 times |
| All-NBA First Team | 4 times |
| All-NBA Second Team | 7 times |
| NBA All-Defensive First | 5 times |
| NBA All-Defensive Second | 3 times |
| NBA All-Rookie First | 1963 |
| NBA Anniversary Team | 35th, 50th, 75th |
| NCAA Championship | 1960 |
| College Basketball Hall | Inducted in 2006 |
| Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted in 1984 |
| NBA 35th Anniversary | Selected in 1980 |
| NBA 50 Greatest Players | Selected in 1996 |
| NBA 75th Anniversary | Selected in 2021 |
| NBA All-Time Scoring | 16th |
| NBA All-Time Games | 30th |
| Revolutionized Role | “Sixth Man” role in the NBA |
| Clutch Steal | 1965 Eastern Conference championship |
| Leaning, Running Bank | Shot in the 1976 NBA Finals |
| Overcame 3–1 Playoff | Series deficit in 1968 |
| Notable Investment | Invested in Wendy’s fast food chain during his playing career |
| Financial Management | Shrewd financial management provided a comfortable income after retirement |
| Philanthropy | Board member of the Genesis Foundation |
| John Havlicek Celebrity | Organized John Havlicek Celebrity Fishing Tournament to support the foundation |
| Family | Wife: Beth |
| Death | April 25, 2019, in Jupiter, Florida |
| Legacy | Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in basketball history |
3. Elvin Hayes
Elvin Ernest Hayes (born November 17, 1945), often known as “The Big E,” is a former professional basketball player and radio commentator for the Houston Cougars. He has been a part of the NBA’s 50th and 75th anniversary teams and is a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee.
| Elvin Hayes | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elvin Ernest Hayes |
| Nickname | “the Big E” |
| Birthdate | November 17, 1945 |
| Birthplace | Rayville, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | Houston Cougars |
| Occupation | Former professional basketball player |
| NBA Teams | San Diego / Houston Rockets (1968–1972) |
| NBA Championship | 1978 |
| NBA All-Star | 12 times (1969–1980) |
| Scoring Titles | 1969 |
| Rebounding Titles | 1970, 1974 |
| NBA All-Defensive Team | 2nd Team (1974, 1975) |
| NBA All-Rookie Team | 1st Team (1969) |
| College Accolades | Sporting News Player of the Year (1968) |
| College Records | Most rebounds in NCAA tournament history |
| Retired Jerseys | No. 11 (Washington Wizards) |
| Career Points | 27,313 |
| Career Rebounds | 16,279 |
| Career Blocks | 1,171 |
| NBA Minutes Played | 50,000 (all-time record) |
| Defensive Prowess | Known for defensive skills |
| Offensive Prowess | Known for offensive skills |
| Great Power Forward | Regarded as one of the best in NBA history |
| Sheriff’s Deputy | Served as a sheriff’s deputy in Liberty County, Texas |
| Radio Analyst | Analyzed Houston Cougars games |
| Jersey Retirement | No. 44 retired by Houston Rockets (2022) |
| Conversion to Catholicism | Converted in the 1970s |
4. Walt Frazier
Walter “Clyde” Frazier Jr. (born March 29, 1945) is a former National Basketball Association professional basketball player from the United States (NBA). He led the New York Knicks to their only two titles (1970 and 1973) as their floor manager and premier perimeter defender, and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987. Frazier entered broadcasting after his retirement from basketball; he is presently a color commentator for MSG Network broadcasts of Knicks games.
| Walt Frazier | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Walt Frazier |
| Birthdate | March 29, 1945 |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. |
| College | Southern Illinois University |
| NBA Teams | New York Knicks (1967–1977) |
| Position | Point Guard |
| NBA Championships | 2 |
| NBA All-Star | 7 times |
| NBA All-Star Game MVP | 1975 |
| All-NBA First Team | 4 times |
| All-NBA Second Team | 2 times |
| NBA All-Defensive First Team | 7 times |
| NBA All-Rookie First Team | 1968 |
| College Basketball Hall of Fame Inducted in | 2006 |
| NBA 50th Anniversary Team | Inducted in 1996 |
| NBA 75th Anniversary Team | Inducted in 2021 |
| Career Statistics | Points: 15,581 |
| Broadcasting Career | Color commentator for New York Knicks games |
| Fashion Icon | Known for his fashion-forward style |
| Puma Sneakers | Has a line of Puma sneakers named after him |
| Personal Life | Resides in Harlem |
| Fraternity | Member of Alpha Phi Alpha |
5. Rick Barry
Richard F. Dennis Barry III (born March 28, 1944) is an American former professional basketball player (NBA). Barry is the only player to top the NCAA, ABA, and NBA in points per game in the same season. He leads the ABA in scoring (30.5 ppg) and playoff (33.5 ppg), and his 36.3 ppg in the NBA Finals is the highest ever. Barry is also the first player to score 50 points in a playoff game in either league. Only four players have been on championship teams in both leagues.
| Rick Barry | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Francis Dennis Barry III |
| Birthdate | March 28, 1944 |
| Birthplace | Elizabeth, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 205 lb (93 kg) |
| College | University of Miami |
| Teams Played For | San Francisco Warriors, Oakland Oaks, Washington Caps, |
| Position | Small forward |
| Career Highlights & Awards | NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP, ABA Champion, 8× NBA All-Star, |
| Career ABA & NBA Statistics | Points: 25,279 (24.8 ppg), Rebounds: 6,863 (6.7 rpg), |
| Free Throw Technique | Known for his unorthodox underhand free throw technique |
| Free Throw Percentage | Career .880 free throw percentage (ABA), |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame |
| NBA 50 Greatest Players | Named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History |
| NBA 75th Anniversary Team | Honored as one of the league’s greatest players of all time |
| Family | Father of Brent Barry, Jon Barry, Drew Barry, Scooter Barry, |
| Wife | Lynn Norenberg Barry, former star basketball player at the |
| High School | Roselle Park High School, Roselle Park, New Jersey |
| Nickname | “Miami Greyhound” |
6. Pete Maravich
Peter Press Maravich (June 22, 1947 – January 5, 1988), better known as Pistol Pete, was an American basketball player. Maravich grew up in the Carolinas and was born in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. Maravich starred for his father, Press Maravich, at LSU. He has 3,667 career points and averages 44.2 points per game. His achievements were before the three-point line and shot clock, and despite being unable to play varsity basketball as a freshman due to NCAA restrictions. After a 10-year professional career, he was forced to quit due to injuries in 1980.
| Pete Maravich | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Peter Press Maravich |
| Nickname | Pistol Pete |
| Birthdate | June 22, 1947 |
| Birthplace | Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Death | January 5, 1988 |
| Height | 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) |
| College | Louisiana State University (LSU) |
| NCAA Division I Scoring | All-time leading scorer with 3,667 points |
| NBA Teams | Atlanta Hawks, New Orleans Jazz, Boston Celtics |
| NBA Career | 1970–1980 |
| NBA Career Highlights | 5× NBA All-Star, NBA All-Rookie First Team |
| Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted as a player |
| College Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2006 |
| Notable Records | NCAA Division I all-time scoring leader |
| Skills | Considered one of the best ball handlers |
| Impact | Turned around LSU basketball program |
| Legacy | Named to NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary teams |
| Tragic End | Died suddenly at age 40 from a heart defect |
7. Bob Lanier
Robert Jerry Lanier Jr. (born September 10, 1948) is an American retired professional basketball player (NBA). Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee in 1992.
Lanier averaged 20.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.1 steals in 14 NBA seasons. He was MVP of the 1974 NBA All-Star Game. The Pistons and Bucks retired his #16 jersey, while St. Bonaventure University retired his #31 jersey. Lanier promotes the NBA.
| Bob Lanier | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Jerry Lanier Jr. |
| Birthdate | September 10, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Buffalo, New York, U.S. |
| Death | May 10, 2022 |
| Height | 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) |
| Weight | 250 lb (113 kg) |
| High School | Bennett (Buffalo, New York) |
| College | St. Bonaventure University |
| NBA Draft | 1970: 1st round, 1st overall pick |
| Selected by | Detroit Pistons |
| Playing Career | 1970–1984 |
| Position | Center |
| Jersey Number | 16 |
| Career Highlights | 8× NBA All-Star, NBA All-Star Game MVP |
| Career Statistics | Points: 19,248, Rebounds: 9,698, Blocks: 1,100 |
| Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted as player |
| College Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2006 |
| Notable Achievements | Played in 8 NBA All-Star Games, MVP of 1974 NBA All-Star Game |
| Additional Career Information | Assistant Coach for Golden State Warriors |
| Early Life | Overcame initial rejection due to size and clumsiness |
| College Success | Led St. Bonaventure to NCAA Final Four in 1970 |
| NBA Career | First overall pick in 1970 NBA draft |
| Humanitarian Work | Worked as NBA Cares Global Ambassador, making a positive impact |
8. Julius Erving
Julius Winfield Erving II (born February 22, 1950), most generally referred to as Dr. J, is a retired professional basketball player from the United States. Erving, regarded as one of the game’s most significant players, helped legitimize the American Basketball Association (ABA) and was the league’s best-known player when it joined with the National Basketball Association (NBA) during the 1975–76 season.
| Julius Erving | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Julius Winfield Erving II |
| Nickname | Dr. J |
| Date of Birth | February 22, 1950 |
| Birthplace | East Meadow, Long Island, New York |
| Raised in | Roosevelt, New York |
| Height | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 210 lb (95 kg) |
| Position | Small forward |
| College | University of Massachusetts Amherst |
| NBA Draft | Selected 1st round, 12th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks (1972) |
| Playing Career | 1971–1987 |
| Teams Played For | Virginia Squires (1971–1973) |
| Championships | 3 (ABA 1974, 1976; NBA 1983) |
| Most Valuable Player Awards | 4 (ABA 1974–1976; NBA 1981) |
| Scoring Titles | 3 (ABA 1973, 1974, 1976) |
| All-Star Appearances | 11 NBA All-Star Appearances (1977–1987) |
| Slam Dunk Contest | ABA Slam Dunk champion (1976) |
| Hall of Fame Inductions | Basketball Hall of Fame (1993) |
| Additional Honors | Named to NBA 50th Anniversary Team (1996) |
| Career Points | 30,026 |
| Rebounds | 10,525 |
| Assists | 5,176 |
| College Degree | Bachelor’s degree in Creative Leadership and Administration from University of Massachusetts Amherst |
| Honorary Doctorate | Yes |
| Notable Skills | Extraordinary dunking ability |
9. Dave Cowens
David William Cowens (born October 25, 1948) is a former professional basketball player and NBA head coach from the United States of America. At 6’9″, he was a center who sometimes shifted to power forward. Cowens played with the Boston Celtics for the most of his career. He was the NBA’s Rookie of the Year in 1971 and the league’s Most Valuable Player in 1973. Cowens won NBA titles with the Celtics in 1974 and 1976. Cowens has also coached in the NBA, Canadian Basketball Association, and Women’s National Basketball Association.
| Dave Cowens | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dave Cowens |
| Birthdate | October 25, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Newport, Kentucky, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) |
| Position | Center, Power Forward |
| College | Florida State University |
| NBA Teams | Boston Celtics (1970–1980, 1982–1983), Milwaukee Bucks (1982–1983) |
| NBA Championships | 2x NBA champion (1974, 1976) |
| NBA MVP | 1973 NBA Most Valuable Player |
| NBA All-Star Selections | 8x NBA All-Star (1972–1978, 1980) |
| All-NBA Second Team | 3x All-NBA Second Team (1973, 1975, 1976) |
| All-NBA Defensive First Team | NBA All-Defensive First Team (1976) |
| NBA Rookie of the Year | 1971 NBA Rookie of the Year |
| Hall of Fame Inductions | Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1991) |
| Other Hall of Fame Inductions | NBA 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, NBA 75th Anniversary Team |
| Rebound Leader | Florida State University all-time leading rebounder |
| Notable Achievements | Led Celtics to NBA Championships in 1974 and 1976 |
| Personal Life | Born in Newport, Kentucky, USA |
10. Bill Walton
William Theodore Walton III (born November 5, 1952) is an American television sportscaster and former basketball player. Bill Walton played collegiate basketball for coach John Wooden’s UCLA Bruins, earning three straight national college player of the year honors (1972–1974) and guiding the Bruins to NCAA titles in 1972 and 1973, as well as an 88-game winning streak. Walton led the Portland Trail Blazers to an NBA championship in 1977, receiving the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award that season.
| Bill Walton | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bill Walton |
| Birthdate | November 5, 1952 |
| Birthplace | La Mesa, California, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 11 in (2.11 m) |
| College | UCLA (1971–1974) |
| NBA Teams | Portland Trail Blazers (1974–1979) |
| NBA Championships | 2 |
| NBA Finals MVP | 1 (1977) |
| NBA Most Valuable Player | 1 (1978) |
| NBA All-Star | 2 (1977, 1978) |
| All-NBA First Team | 1 (1978) |
| All-NBA Second Team | 1 (1977) |
| NBA All-Defensive First Team | 2 (1977, 1978) |
| NBA Sixth Man of the Year | 1 (1986) |
| NBA Rebounding Leader | 1 (1977) |
| NBA Blocks Leader | 1 (1977) |
| College Championships | 2 (1972, 1973) |
| NCAA Final Four MOP | 2 (1972, 1973) |
| National College Player of the Year | 3 (1972–1974) |
| Consensus First-Team All-American | 3 (1972–1974) |
| NBA Career Points | 6,215 |
| NBA Career Rebounds | 4,923 |
| NBA Career Assists | 1,590 |
| Basketball Hall of Fame | Inducted in 1993 |
| Notable Accomplishments | Named to the NBA’s 50th and 75th anniversary teams |
| Personal Life | Born and raised in La Mesa, California |
| High School | Helix High School, La Mesa |
| High School Achievements | Led Helix to two consecutive CIF championships |
| College Success | Led UCLA Bruins to two consecutive NCAA championships |
| Relationship with Coach Wooden | Developed a close bond with Coach John Wooden |
11. Bob McAdoo
Robert Allen McAdoo Jr. (born September 25, 1951) is a former professional basketball player and coach in the United States of America. He spent 14 seasons in the NBA, where he was a five-time All-Star and was awarded the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 1975. He won two NBA titles in the 1980s with the Los Angeles Lakers during their Showtime era. McAdoo was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000. In 2021, he was chosen to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
| Bob McAdoo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Allen McAdoo Jr. |
| Birthdate | September 25, 1951 |
| Birthplace | Greensboro, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) |
| Weight | 210 lb (95 kg) |
| Position | Center |
| NBA Draft | 1972: 1st round, 2nd overall pick |
| College | Vincennes University, University of North Carolina |
| NBA Teams | Buffalo Braves, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons, New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers |
| Coaching Career | Miami Heat (assistant coach, 1995-2014) |
| NBA Championships | 2 (1982, 1985) |
| NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) | 1975 |
| NBA All-Star | 5 times (1974-1978) |
| All-NBA First Team | 1975 |
| All-NBA Second Team | 1974 |
| NBA Rookie of the Year | 1973 |
| NBA Scoring Champion | 3 times (1974-1976) |
| Additional Awards | Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee (2000) |
| College Accomplishments | Consensus first-team All-American (1972) |
12. George Gervin
George Gervin (born April 27, 1952), nicknamed “the Iceman,” is a former American professional basketball player who played for the Virginia Squires, San Antonio Spurs, and Chicago Bulls in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and National Basketball Association (NBA). Gervin averaged at least 14 points per game in each of his 14 ABA and NBA seasons, finishing with a 26.2 point per game average in the NBA.
| George Gervin | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | George Gervin |
| Nickname | The Iceman |
| Birthdate | April 27, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| High School | Martin Luther King, Jr. High School (Detroit) |
| College | Eastern Michigan University |
| NBA Career | Virginia Squires, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls |
| Position | Shooting guard / small forward |
| NBA Scoring Titles | 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982 |
| All-Star Selections | 9× NBA All-Star (1977–1985) |
| ABA All-Star Selections | 3× ABA All-Star (1974–1976) |
| NBA All-Star Game MVP | 1980 |
| Career Highlights | 50 Greatest Players in NBA History |
| College Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2006 |
| NBA Hall of Fame | Inducted in 1996 |
13. Archie Clark
Archie L. Clark (born July 15, 1941) is a former professional basketball player from the United States of America. He played guard for five National Basketball Association (NBA) clubs throughout his 6’2″ career. Clark was born in Conway, Arkansas, and grew up in the Detroit suburbs before joining the United States Army after high school. He was found while playing for an intramural basketball team at Andrews Air Force Base by a University of Minnesota scout and quickly accepted a scholarship to play under John Kundla.
| Archie Clark | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Archie L. Clark |
| Birthdate | July 15, 1941 |
| Birthplace | Conway, Arkansas, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Position | Guard |
| NBA Teams Played | Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, Baltimore/Capital Bullets, Seattle SuperSonics, Detroit Pistons |
| College | University of Minnesota |
| NBA Career Highlights | 2× NBA All-Star (1968, 1972) |
14. Dan Issel
Daniel Paul Issel is a former professional basketball player and coach from the United States. Issel was a standout student at the University of Kentucky, earning two All-American honors on route to a career scoring average of 25.7 points per game. He was born in Batavia, Illinois, on October 25, 1948.
| Dan Issel | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Paul Issel |
| Birthdate | October 25, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Batavia, Illinois, U.S. |
| College | University of Kentucky |
| Position | Center / Power Forward |
| NBA Draft | 1970: 8th round, 122nd overall pick (Detroit Pistons) |
| Career Teams | Kentucky Colonels (1970–1975), Denver Nuggets (1975–1985) |
| NBA All-Star | 1977 |
| ABA All-Star | 1971–1976 |
| ABA Champion | 1975 |
| ABA Rookie of the Year | 1971 |
| ABA Scoring Champion | 1971 |
| Hall of Fame Induction | Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1993) |
| College Record | All-time leading scorer at the University of Kentucky |
| NBA Record | Nuggets’ second all-time leading scorer |
15. Phil Chenier
Philip Chenier (born October 30, 1950) is a retired American professional basketball player who spent 10 seasons in the NBA as a shooting guard. [4] He has worked as a television sports announcer for the Washington Wizards of the NBA. Chenier was born and reared in Berkeley, California. He graduated from Berkeley High School and attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he played basketball.
| Phil Chenier | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Philip Chenier |
| Birthdate | October 30, 1950 |
| Birthplace | Berkeley, California, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Position | Shooting Guard |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 180 lb (82 kg) |
| High School | Berkeley High School |
| College | University of California, Berkeley |
| NBA Teams | Baltimore Bullets (1971-1979) Indiana Pacers (1979-1980) Golden State Warriors (1981) |
| Career Duration | 1971-1981 |
| NBA Championships | NBA Champion (1978) |
| NBA All-Star | 3x NBA All-Star (1974, 1975, 1977) |
| All-NBA Team | All-NBA Second Team (1975) |
| NBA All-Rookie Team | NBA All-Rookie First Team (1972) |
| College Honors | First-team All-Pac-8 (1971) |
| Jersey Retired | No. 45 retired by Washington Wizards |
| Broadcasting Career | Television sports broadcaster for the NBA’s Washington Wizards |
| Broadcasting Networks | Home Team Sports, Black Entertainment Television (BET), NBC Sports Washington |
| Residence | Columbia, Maryland, U.S. |
16. Larry Kenon
Larry Joe Kenon (born December 13, 1952) is a retired professional basketball player from the United States. Kenon, a 6’9″ forward who played for the New York Nets, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Golden State Warriors, and Cleveland Cavaliers, had a great career in both the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA). Mr. K and “Special K” were his nicknames.
| 16 Larry Kenon | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Larry Joe Kenon |
| Birthdate | December 13, 1952 |
| Nationality | American |
| Position | Forward |
| Height | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) |
| Nicknames | “Mr. K,” “Special K” |
| College | Memphis State University |
| College Achievements | Led Tigers to NCAA championship game in 1973 |
| Professional Career | Teams: New York Nets, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, |
| Career Highlights | ABA champion (1974) |
| Slam Dunk Contest | Competed in the first-ever Slam Dunk Contest (1976) |
| Points Per Game | Averaged 17.2 points per game in his career |
| Rebounds Per Game | Averaged 8.9 rebounds per game in his career |
| NBA and ABA Totals | 12,954 points, 6,701 rebounds, 1,672 assists |
| Conversion | Converted to the Muslim faith after retiring from basketball |
17. Doug Collins
Paul Douglas Collins (born July 28, 1951) is a former NBA player, coach, and television commentator (NBA). Doug Collins played in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers from 1973 to 1981, garnering four NBA All-Star berths. In 1986, he was hired as an NBA coach and spent time with the Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers. Collins has also worked as an analyst for a number of NBA-related television broadcasts. He is a Curt Gowdy Media Award winner.
| Doug Collins | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paul Douglas Collins |
| Birthdate | July 28, 1951 |
| Birthplace | Christopher, Illinois, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Position | Shooting guard |
| NBA Teams Played For | Philadelphia 76ers |
| NBA Teams Coached | Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards, Philadelphia 76ers |
| Coaching Achievements | NBA All-Star Game head coach |
| NBA All-Star Selections | 4 |
| College | Illinois State University |
| Draft Year | 1973 |
| Draft Pick | 1st overall pick |
| Height | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) |
| Weight | 180 lb (82 kg) |
| Career Points | 7,427 |
| Career Rebounds | 1,339 |
| Career Assists | 1,368 |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2016 |
| Olympic Games | 1972 Munich (Representing United States) |
| Broadcasting Career | Analyst for NBA-related broadcast shows |
| Awards | Recipient of the Curt Gowdy Media Award |
| Family | Married to Kathy Collins |
| Residence | Delaware Valley, United States |
| Notable Honors | Doug Collins Court at Redbird Arena |
18. Dick Van Arsdale
Richard Albert Van Arsdale (born February 22, 1943) is a former professional basketball player and coach from the United States of America, as well as a current NBA executive. Van Arsdale attended Indiana University under long-time head coach Branch McCracken. Dick Van Arsdale graduated from Emmerich Manual High School in Indianapolis. He was drafted in the second round of the 1965 NBA draft by the New York Knicks and was chosen to the NBA All-Rookie Team in 1966, along with his identical twin brother Tom.
| Dick Van Arsdale | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Albert Van Arsdale |
| Date of Birth | February 22, 1943 |
| Birthplace | Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former professional basketball player and coach |
| NBA Executive | Current |
| High School | Emmerich Manual High School, Indianapolis |
| College | Indiana University |
| NBA Draft | Selected by the New York Knicks in the 2nd round, 10th overall pick |
| NBA Teams | New York Knicks (1965–1968), Phoenix Suns (1968–1977) |
| Position | Shooting guard |
| All-Star Appearances | 3 |
| NBA All-Rookie Team | 1966 (with twin brother Tom Van Arsdale) |
| Free Throw Shooting | Known for exceptional skills |
| Retirement | Retired from the NBA in 1977 |
| “Original Sun” | Remembered as the original Phoenix Suns player |
| Post-playing Career | General Manager of Phoenix Suns, Current Senior Vice President of Player Personnel |
| Interim Head Coach | Coached the Phoenix Suns for 26 games in 1987 |
| Twin Brother | Tom Van Arsdale |
19. Fred Brown
Fred Brown (born August 7, 1948), sometimes known as “Downtown Freddie Brown,” is a former professional basketball player in the United States. He was a 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) guard out of the University of Iowa who spent 13 seasons in the NBA (1971–1984), all with the Seattle SuperSonics. Brown was named to the 1976 NBA All-Star Game and finished his career with 14,018 points.
| Fred Brown | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fred Brown |
| Nickname | “Downtown Freddie Brown” |
| Birthdate | August 7, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Position | Shooting guard |
| College | University of Iowa |
| NBA Teams | Seattle SuperSonics (1971–1984) |
| Career Duration | 13 seasons |
| NBA Career Highlights | NBA champion (1979), NBA All-Star (1976), NBA Three-Point Percentage Leader (1980) |
| High School | Lincoln High School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin |
| High School Achievements | Led Lincoln to two state titles, All-state selection twice |
| College Scoring Average | Averaged 27.6 points per game in senior year at the University of Iowa |
| Notable College Season | Senior year scoring average of 27.6 points per game |
| Notable NBA Seasons | Finished fifth in the NBA in scoring average and free throw percentage (1975–76) |
| NBA Career Records | Holds the SuperSonics’ all-time records for points in a regular season game, points in a playoff game, and steals in a game |
| Jersey Retirement | #32 SuperSonics jersey retired on November 6, 1986 |
| Post-NBA Advocacy | Advocating for the return of NBA basketball to Seattle |
| Pop Culture Reference | Featured in the TV show “iZombie” (Season 1, Episode 3) |
20. Geoff Petrie
Geoffrey Michael Petrie (born April 17, 1948) is a retired professional basketball player from the United States. He began his professional basketball career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he earned the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1971.
| Geoff Petrie | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Geoffrey Michael Petrie |
| Birthdate | April 17, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Darby, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Listed height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Listed weight | 190 lb (86 kg) |
| High school | Springfield High School |
| College | Princeton University |
| NBA draft | 1970: 1st round, 8th overall pick (Portland Trail Blazers) |
| Playing career | 1970–1976 |
| Position | Point guard / shooting guard |
| Number | 45 |
| NBA Rookie of the Year | 1971 |
| NBA All-Star Appearances | 2× (1971, 1974) |
| Retired Jersey Number | 45 (Portland Trail Blazers) |
| Career Statistics | Points: 9,732 (21.8 ppg) |
| Executive of the Year Award | 2× (1999, 2001) |
| Notable Accomplishments | Switched from Converse to Nike brand shoes |
| Post-playing Career | President of Basketball Operations for the Sacramento Kings (1994-2013) |
21. Truck Robinson
Leonard Eugene “Truck” Robinson (born October 4, 1951) is a former professional basketball player and coach from the United States of America. He played with the Washington Bullets (1974–77), Atlanta Hawks (1977), New Orleans Jazz (1977–79), Phoenix Suns (1979–82), and New York Knicks (1982–85) in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
| 21 Truck Robinson | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Leonard Eugene “Truck” Robinson |
| Nickname | Truck |
| Birthdate | October 4, 1951 |
| Birthplace | Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Position | Power Forward |
| Height | 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| Weight | 225 lb (102 kg) |
| College | Tennessee State University |
| NBA Teams | Washington Bullets (1974–77) |
| Coaching Career | Sacramento Kings (assistant coach) |
| NBA Career Highlights | 2× NBA All-Star |
| NBA Statistics | Points |
| NBA Achievements | Eastern Conference Champion |
22. Jerry Lucas
Former basketball player Jerry Ray Lucas (born March 30, 1940) He was a national high school standout, a gold medal Olympian and an international player before joining the NBA (NBA). Among other accolades, Lucas was selected to the NBA First Team three times, the NBA Second Team twice, an All-Star seven times (six years in a row), the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1964, and the NBA All-Star Game MVP in 1965. in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
| Jerry Lucas | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jerry Ray Lucas |
| Birthdate | March 30, 1940 |
| Nationality | American |
| High School | Middletown High School, Middletown, Ohio |
| College | Ohio State University |
| NBA Teams | Cincinnati Royals, San Francisco Warriors, New York Knicks |
| NBA Career Highlights | NBA Rookie of the Year |
| College Career Highlights | NCAA champion |
| Hall of Fame Inductions | Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame |
23. Jeff Mullins
Jeffrey Vincent Mullins (born March 18, 1942) is a former American basketball player and coach. He played collegiate basketball for the Duke Blue Devils and NBA for the St. Louis Hawks and Golden State Warriors. Mullins was the University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s head basketball coach from 1985 until 1996.
| 23 Jeff Mullins | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jeffrey Vincent Mullins |
| Date of Birth | March 18, 1942 |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Position | Shooting Guard |
| College | Duke University |
| College Career | Averaged 21.9 points per game at Duke |
| Duke Jersey | No. 44 (Retired in 1994) |
| NBA Teams | St. Louis Hawks, Golden State Warriors |
| NBA All-Star | Three-time NBA All-Star |
| NBA Championships | Helped the Warriors win the 1975 NBA championship |
| NBA Career Points | Scored 13,017 points with an average of 16.2 PPG |
| Olympic Gold Medal | Member of the 1964 United States Olympic basketball team |
| Coaching Career | Head coach at UNC Charlotte (1985–1996) |
| Coaching Achievements | Led UNC Charlotte to NCAA Tournament appearances |
24. World B. Free
World B. Free (born Lloyd Bernard Free; December 9, 1953)[1] is a former American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1975 to 1988. He is most known for his time as a member of the Boston Celtics. Free was referred to as the “Prince of Mid-Air” and the “All-World” by his peers.
| World B Free | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | World B. Free (formerly Lloyd Bernard Free) |
| Nickname | Prince of Mid-Air, Brownsville Bomber, All-World |
| Birthdate | December 9, 1953 |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. |
| Hometown | Brownsville, New York |
| High School | Canarsie High School, Brooklyn, New York |
| College | Guilford College, North Carolina |
| Position | Shooting guard / point guard |
| Teams Played For | San Diego Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Eagles |
| NBA Draft | 1975: 2nd round, 23rd overall pick (Selected by Philadelphia 76ers) |
| Jersey Retired | Philadelphia 76ers (Number 24) |
| NBA All-Star | 1980 |
| Playing Career | 1975–1988, 1991 |
| Career Points | 17,955 (20.3 ppg) |
| Career Rebounds | 2,430 (2.7 rpg) |
| Career Assists | 3,319 (3.7 apg) |
| Achievements | NBA All-Star (1980), USBL Playoffs MVP (1987) |
| Influence | Popularized the “finger roll” layup, known for high-risk shots and flamboyant style of play |
| Off-court Role | Director of Player Development and Community Ambassador for Philadelphia 76ers |
| Notable Traits | Extraordinary vertical leap of 44 inches, renowned for his “rainbow” jump shots |
| Nickname Origin | Nicknamed “World” due to his impressive leaping ability and 360-degree dunks |
| Legally Changed Name | Lloyd Bernard Free legally changed his first name to World in 1981 |
25. Don Nelson
Donald Arvid Nelson (born May 15, 1940) is a former professional basketball player and head coach in the United States of America. Nelson has the most regular-season victories (1,335) of any coach in NBA history. He served as the head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Golden State Warriors. Nelson won five NBA titles with the Boston Celtics after an All-American career at the University of Iowa. His number 19 was retired by the organization in 1978.
| Don Nelson | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Donald Arvid Nelson |
| Birthdate | May 15, 1940 |
| Birthplace | Muskegon, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Playing Position | Small Forward |
| Height | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) |
| Weight | 210 lb (95 kg) |
| College | University of Iowa |
| NBA Teams Played For | Chicago Zephyrs, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics |
| NBA Teams Coached | Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks |
| Coaching Achievements | 3× NBA Coach of the Year, 2× NBA All-Star Game Head Coach |
| NBA Championships | 5× NBA champion as a player, 3× NBA champion as a coach |
| Hall of Fame Induction | Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame (2012) |
| Record Coaching Wins | Second all-time in regular season wins among NBA coaches |
| Contributions | Pioneered the concept of the point forward |
| Academic Background | Attended University of Iowa for college basketball |
| High School | Rock Island High School, Rock Island, Illinois |
| Family Background | Son of Arvid and Agnes Nelson |
| Scoring Records | Left Iowa as the program’s all-time leading scorer |
| NBA Playoff Success | Won 5 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics as a player |
| Notable Coaching Stints | Coached various NBA teams with success |
26. Jack Marin
The retired NBA player John Warren Marin was born on October 12, 1944. Marin, a 201 cm (6 7 inch) guard/forward from Duke, was selected to the NBA All-Rookie Team in 1967 and played for the Baltimore Bullets, Houston Rockets, Buffalo Braves, and Chicago Bulls from 1966 to 1977. Marin was a two-time All-Star who scored 12,541 points. On June 23, 1972, he was dealt to the Rockets for Elvin Hayes (plus future considerations).
| Jack Marin | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jack Marin |
| Birthdate | October 12, 1944 |
| Birthplace | Sharon, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Listed Height | 6 ft 7 in (201 cm) |
| Listed Weight | 200 lb (91 kg) |
| College | Duke University |
| NBA Draft | 1966: 1st round, 5th overall pick |
| Playing Career | 1966-1977 |
| Position | Guard/Forward |
| Teams Played For | Baltimore Bullets, Houston Rockets, Buffalo Braves, Chicago Bulls |
| NBA All-Star | 2 times (1972, 1973) |
| Points in Career | 12,541 |
| NBA All-Rookie Team | 1967 |
| Free Throw Percentage | Led NBA in 1971-72 season |
| Key Playoff Performance | Averaged 20.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 1971 playoffs |
| Post-NBA Career | Duke University Law School graduate, partner at Williams Mullen |
| Involvement | National Basketball Retired Players Association, Hope For The Warriors, United States Marine Corps activities |
| Hall of Fame | North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Duke Sports Halls of Fame |
| Valedictorian | Farrell High School |
27. Campy Russell
Michael Campanella “Campy” Russell (born January 12, 1952) is a former professional basketball player in the United States of America. He spent nine years in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a forward with the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks (1975–1982, 1985), and was a member of the 1979 NBA All-Star Game.
| Campy Russell | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Campanella “Campy” Russell |
| Date of Birth | January 12, 1952 |
| Age | 71 |
| Nationality | American |
| Position | Forward |
| NBA Teams | Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks |
| NBA All-Star Game | 1979 |
| College | University of Michigan |
| College Accomplishments | All-American |
| College Stats | Junior Year: 23.7 points per game |
| NBA Career Averages | Points: 21.9 per game |
| Current Role | Director of Alumni Relations, Cleveland Cavaliers |
| Honors | Inducted into Cavaliers Wall of Honor |
28. Happy Hairston
Harold “Happy” Hairston (born May 31, 1942) was a professional basketball player in the United States. He is best recognized as a 6’7″ (200 cm) 225 lb (102 kg) big with the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA), although he also played for the Cincinnati Royals and Detroit Pistons. Hairston was a member of the NBA champion 1971–72 Los Angeles Lakers, who won 33 consecutive games, a feat unmatched in any other American professional sport.
| Happy Hairston | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Harold “Happy” Hairston |
| Birthdate | May 31, 1942 |
| Birthplace | Winston-Salem, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Listed Height | 6 ft 7 in (200 cm) |
| Listed Weight | 225 lb (102 kg) |
| High School | Atkins High School, Winston-Salem |
| College | New York University (NYU) |
| College Basketball | Averaged 21 points per game at NYU |
| NBA Career | Drafted by Cincinnati Royals |
| NBA Championship | Member of the 1971-72 Lakers team |
| Rebounding Records | Grabbed 1,045 rebounds in the 1971-72 season |
| Happy Hairston | Established the Happy Hairston Youth Foundation in Century |
| Youth Foundation | City, California |
| Death | Died on May 1, 2001, in Los Angeles |
29. Billy Knight
William R. Knight (born June 9, 1952) is a retired professional basketball player and executive from the United States of America. He was an ABA and NBA All-Star while playing with the Indiana Pacers in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and then the National Basketball Association (NBA). He attended the University of Pittsburgh and was a member of the Pittsburgh Panthers, who retired his No. 34.
| Billy Knight | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Billy Knight |
| Birthdate | June 9, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Braddock, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) |
| Weight | 195 lb (88 kg) |
| High School | Braddock High School |
| College | University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) |
| College Achievements | Consensus second-team All-American (1974) |
| Professional Career | Indiana Pacers (ABA and NBA), Buffalo Braves, Boston Celtics, Kansas City Kings, San Antonio Spurs, CSP Limoges |
| Playing Positions | Shooting Guard / Small Forward |
| Career Highlights | 2x NBA All-Star, ABA All-Star, All-ABA First Team, ABA All-Rookie First Team |
| College Jersey Retirement | No. 34 retired by the University of Pittsburgh |
| ABA/NBA Statistics | Points: 13,901 (16.9 ppg), Rebounds: 4,377 (5.3 rpg), Assists: 1,862 (2.3 apg) |
| Executive Roles | Former Executive with the Indiana Pacers and Vancouver/Memphis Grizzlies |
| Last Executive Role | Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Atlanta Hawks (2003-2008) |
| Residence | Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. |
| Hobbies | Tennis |
30. Flynn Robinson
Flynn Robinson, James (April 28, 1941 – May 23, 2013) Robinson averaged 21.8 points per game in 1969–70 with Milwaukee and was named to the 1970 NBA All-Star Game, his only appearance. That year he lead the NBA in free throw percentage. He joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1971 after being traded from the Cincinnati Royals, was a backup guard behind Jerry West and Gail Goodrich on a team that won a league-record 33 consecutive games and an NBA title in 1972. When Flynn joined the Lakers, Chick Hearn labeled him “Instant Points”.
| 30 Flynn Robinson | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Flynn James Robinson |
| Birthdate | April 28, 1941 |
| Birthplace | Murphysboro, Illinois, U.S. |
| Death | May 23, 2013 (aged 72), Los Angeles, CA, U.S. |
| Education | Elgin High School, Elgin, Illinois |
| College | Casper College (Casper, Wyoming) |
| College Achievements | Three-time first-team All-Western Athletic Conference honoree |
| NBA/ABA Career | Played for Cincinnati Royals |
| NBA Achievements | NBA champion |
| Retirement | Honored at the 20th Year Celebration of the 1972 NBA Champion Los Angeles Lakers |
| Death Cause | Multiple myeloma |
| Surviving Family | Wife: Nancy Pitts-Robinson |
| Notable Brother | Air Force Captain Johnnie Hodge Jr. |