Sports History

Born September 10, 1948, in Buffalo, New York, was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame center Bob Lanier. This legend was an eight-time NBA All-Star; NBA All-Star Game MVP 1974. Lanier famously played for the Detroit Pistons and Milwaukee Bucks. Lanier was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992. He had his No. 16 jersey retired by both the Pistons and the Bucks and his No. 31 jersey retired by St. Bonaventure University, for whom he played college basketball. After retiring from playing he was an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors, and briefly served as their interim head coach.

Born September 2, 1948, in New York, New York, was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Point Guard Tiny Archibald. Nate Archibald was a six-time NBA All-Star and was selected as All-NBA five times. His accolades include being the 1972-73 League scoring champion and winning an NBA Championship in 1981. The southpaw shooter played for the Cincinnati Royals, Kansas City-Omaha Kings, New York Nets, Boston Celtics, and the Milwaukee Bucks.

Alex English was a scoring machine and an all-time great forward who carved his name into NBA history with his smooth moves and consistent excellence. Here's a summary of his impressive career:

Score Galore:

-Career average of 21.5 points per game, 7th most in NBA history.

-Led the NBA in scoring once (1982-83 season) with 28.6 points per game.

-Scored 2,000 points in eight consecutive seasons, the first player ever to achieve this feat.

-Finished his career with a total of 25,613 points, ranking 7th all-time at the time of his retirement.


Dominant All-Around Player:

-English was not just a scorer; he was also a skilled rebounder, averaging 5.5 rebounds per game throughout his career.

-Played in eight All-Star games and was named All-NBA Second Team three times.

-Led the Denver Nuggets to nine consecutive playoff appearances during his ten seasons with the team.

He was known for his smooth fadeaway jump shot and his ability to create his own shot.


-Despite his impressive scoring stats and contributions to the Nuggets, English is often overlooked when discussing all-time greats.

-He played during a crowded era of star forwards, including Larry Bird, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Moses Malone.

-Never won an NBA championship, but his scoring prowess and consistent performances impacted the game.

In conclusion, Alex English was a prolific scorer, a versatile player, and a key figure in Denver Nuggets history.

Step onto the polished court of the Fiserv Forum, the iconic home of the Milwaukee Bucks. Here, amidst the passionate cheers of the "Deer District" faithful, lies a legacy woven with triumph, resilience, and iconic players. Buckle up, basketball fans, as we embark on a captivating journey through the storied past of the Milwaukee Bucks in a series we call "Bucks Tales."

Our exploration begins in the vibrant year of 1968, where the Bucks were born, marking the arrival of professional basketball in Wisconsin. We'll witness the team's early struggles and eventual rise to glory, culminating in their first NBA championship in 1971 – a feat led by the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

From the electrifying slam dunks of Sidney Moncrief to the smooth shooting of Ray Allen, we'll delve into the careers of the franchise's most impactful players. We'll relive the thrill of championship runs and the sting of heartbreaking defeats, each experience shaping the identity of the Bucks and their unwavering fanbase.

But "Bucks Tales" is more than just a collection of victories and defeats. We'll delve into the team's cultural impact on Milwaukee, exploring their connection to the city and its passionate supporters. We'll also analyze the evolution of the franchise's strategies and philosophies, witnessing how they adapted to the ever-changing landscape of the NBA.

As we approach the present day, the spotlight shines upon Giannis Antetokounmpo, the "Greek Freak," and the current era of Bucks basketball. We'll analyze his phenomenal rise from international prospect to NBA MVP and champion, witnessing his impact on the court and beyond.

Throughout "Bucks Tales," we'll offer unique insights and perspectives through interviews with former players, coaches, and team personnel. We'll delve into behind-the-scenes stories, historical anecdotes, and even explore the impact of iconic moments in the Bucks' history.

So, join us as we journey through the exhilarating world of the Milwaukee Bucks. Prepare to be captivated by tales of resilience, brilliance on the court, and the unwavering spirit of a team and its city.

Born April 16, 1947, Harlem, New York, was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He was the first overall pick in the 1969 NBA Draft by the Milwaukee Bucks. Kareem when he retired was the NBA's all-time leading scorer, a six-time NBA champion and the league's only six-time MVP.

Gary Payton knew how to cover an opponent on the defensive end of the floor. Nicknamed "The Glove" for his legendary defense, he carved his niche as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. His 17-year career, spanning five teams, was defined by tenacious leadership, elite playmaking, and an unmatched defensive prowess.

Payton's journey began with the Seattle SuperSonics, where he spent 13 seasons. He quickly established himself as an All-Star caliber player, earning nine selections throughout his career. His lockdown defense, earning him nine All-Defensive First Team selections (a record at the time), made him a nightmare for opposing guards. He claimed the Defensive Player of the Year award in 1996, the first point guard to achieve the feat.

Offensively, Payton was a maestro, averaging 16.3 points and 6.7 assists per game throughout his career. His vision and passing ability facilitated his teammates' success, while his clutch shooting kept opponents on edge. He led the Sonics to the 1996 NBA Finals, partnering with Shawn Kemp in a formidable duo.

While championship glory eluded him in Seattle, Payton found it later in his career. He joined the Miami Heat in 2005 and secured his coveted NBA championship ring alongside Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade in 2006. This late-career triumph cemented his legacy as a champion and solidified his place in basketball history.

Toni Kukoc wasn't your typical NBA import. Arriving in the league in 1993 amidst a wave of European talent, he wasn't a raw athlete or a high-flying dunker. Kukoc was a maestro with the ball, a European star with a skillset unlike anything American fans had seen before. This essay explores the remarkable career of Toni Kukoc, a player who defied expectations, embraced a supporting role, and ultimately carved his place in NBA history as a champion.

Kukoc's basketball journey began in his native Croatia. He dominated European competition, leading his team Jugoplastika to three EuroLeague championships and earning multiple EuroLeague MVP awards. His game was a beautiful blend of scoring, passing, and rebounding. He could shoot from anywhere on the court, handle the ball like a guard, and even post up smaller defenders. By the time he set foot on American soil, Kukoc was already a legend in Europe.

However, his arrival in the NBA with the Chicago Bulls wasn't met with immediate fanfare. He landed in the shadow of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, a formidable duo that had just secured their first three-peat championship. Kukoc, initially viewed as a project player, faced criticism for his unorthodox style.

Born September 18, 1968 in Spilt, Croatia, was Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Forward, Toni Kukoc. Kukoc played on the Chicago Bulls, Philadelphia 76ers, and Milwaukee Bucks for 12 seasons, winning three NBA Championships, making the 1993-94 All-Rookie team and 1995-96 Sixth Man Awards. Toni finished his NBA career with an 11.6 points per game average.

Wayne Embry's story in basketball is a unique one, spanning both on-court dominance and groundbreaking work as an executive. He carved a path not just for himself but for future generations of African American players and executives in the NBA. This essay explores Embry's impressive career, highlighting his playing days as a force in the paint to his visionary leadership that helped shape the league.

Dominating the Paint

Standing at a formidable 6-foot-8, Embry possessed a powerful physique and a scorer's mentality. Drafted by the Rochester Royals in 1968, he quickly established himself as a force in the league. His scoring prowess helped the Royals reach the playoffs multiple times, and his rebounding prowess made him a defensive presence. While never reaching the pinnacle of an NBA championship, Embry earned five All-Star selections during his eleven-year playing career, solidifying his place among the league's elite centers.

Breaking Barriers as an Executive

Embry's impact on basketball transcended his playing days. Following his retirement in 1969, he embarked on a groundbreaking career as an executive. He became the general manager of the Milwaukee Bucks in 1972, becoming the first African American to hold such a position in a major professional sport. Embry's keen eye for talent led him to draft Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, a move that would propel the Bucks to their first and only NBA championship in 1971. Embry's success paved the way for other African Americans to enter the front office, diversifying the NBA's leadership.

A Legacy of Excellence

Embry's career transcended individual achievements. He championed the importance of scouting and player development, emphasizing long-term success over quick fixes. His success with the Bucks led him to become the general manager of the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he continued to draft and develop impactful players.

A Visionary Leader

In 1994, Embry was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to his combined achievements as a player and executive. His influence wasn't limited to just teams he managed. He served as a mentor for aspiring executives, particularly African Americans, helping to break down barriers and create opportunities within the league.

The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame center of the Cincinnati Royals and Boston Celtics, Wayne Embry, was a five-time All-Star in the League. Embry is one of the top NBA players to have worn Jersey Number 15.

Jack Sikma: A Pioneering Center with Championship Pedigree
Jack Sikma, a seven-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer carved a unique path in basketball history. Drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1977, he became a cornerstone of their championship run in 1979, playing alongside the iconic Gus Williams. Sikma's career spanned 14 seasons, leaving an indelible mark with his innovative style and consistent production.

Known as the "hitch and shoot" artist, Sikma revolutionized the center position by stepping outside the paint and draining shots from mid-range and even beyond the three-point line. He led the league in free throw percentage (92.2%) during the 1987-88 season, a remarkable feat for a center, and finished his career with an impressive 84.9% free throw accuracy. He also developed a strong rebounding presence, leading the league in defensive rebounds twice.

Sikma's impact went beyond individual statistics. He was a pivotal piece in the Sonics' success, their offensive engine, and a defensive anchor. His basketball IQ and leadership qualities complemented the talents of his teammates, making him a valuable asset both on and off the court.

After a successful run with the Sonics, Sikma moved on to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he continued to refine his game and even added a three-point shot to his repertoire. He retired in 1991, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, versatility, and championship pedigree. His place among the game's greats was cemented by his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.

Born November 14, 1955, in Kankakee, Illinois, was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Big Man Jack Sikma. This legend played Power Forward and Center at a high level, being selected to seven NBA All-Star teams and winning an NBA Championship in 1979 as a member of the Seattle SuperSonics. After nine seasons with the Sonics, Sikma played his last five seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks.

While not reaching the same level of individual notoriety as some of his contemporaries, Bob Dandridge carved a remarkable career in the NBA, establishing himself as a key contributor to championship teams and earning his rightful place among the league's elite.

Drafted in the fourth round by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1969, Dandridge found himself alongside the likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson. He quickly fit into the system, showcasing his versatility with his ability to score, rebound, and defend. His contributions were crucial in the Bucks' historic championship run in 1971, where he nearly averaged a double-double throughout the playoffs.

Throughout his 13-year career, Dandridge remained a consistent force. He was a four-time NBA All-Star, showcasing his offensive prowess by averaging over 18 points per game throughout his career. However, his true value lay in his well-rounded skillset. He was a defensive stalwart, earning All-Defensive First Team honors in 1979, and his basketball IQ allowed him to excel in any role he was assigned to.

In 1978, Dandridge found himself traded to the Washington Bullets, reuniting with Elvin Hayes and Wes Unseld. This move proved pivotal, as they led the Bullets to their first NBA Finals appearance in 1979. Although they fell short, Dandridge displayed his leadership and scoring prowess, averaging over 20 points per game in the series.

Dandridge retired in 1981, leaving behind a legacy of contributions beyond mere stats.

Born November 15, 1947, in Richmond, Virginia, was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Forward Bob Dandridge. This legend was a four-time NBA All-Star, a former Rookie of the Year, and an NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award winner. Dandridge played on the Milwaukee Bucks and the Washington Bullets during a 13-year NBA career that saw him on two NBA Championship squads.