Sports History

Jerry Lucas was a former Ohio State and later NBA star center who earned a place in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. In this post, we explore the career of this unassuming giant, highlighting his dominance at the high school, college, and professional levels and the lasting mark he left on the sport.

Dominant from the Start

Lucas's basketball journey began in his hometown of Middletown, Ohio. He led his high school team to an unprecedented 76-game winning streak, showcasing his remarkable talent at an early age. At 6'8", Lucas possessed exceptional rebounding skills, intelligence, and a smooth shooting touch, making him a force to be reckoned with.

A National Sensation at Ohio State

Lucas's collegiate career at Ohio State University solidified his status as a national sensation. Playing alongside future NBA star John Havlicek, Lucas led the Buckeyes to the 1960 NCAA championship, defeating the heavily favored California Golden Bears. His dominance on the court earned him the prestigious Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year award in 1961, a testament to his all-around game.

NBA Success and Championship Glory

Lucas entered the NBA in 1963 and carved out a prosperous professional career. He was selected as the sixth overall pick by the Cincinnati Royals in the 1962 NBA Draft as a territorial selection. Jerry was a model of consistency. He was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 1964 and earned seven All-Star selections throughout his 11-year career. His greatest triumph came in 1973 when he joined the New York Knicks, forming a dominant frontcourt with Willis Reed and Walt Frazier. The Knicks captured the NBA championship that year, adding another significant title to Lucas's impressive resume.

Beyond the Statistics

Lucas's impact transcended statistics. He was a cerebral player known for his intelligent passing ability and dedication to fundamentals, thus giving his nicknames "Mr. Memory" and "The Computer." He was also a relentless rebounder, holding the NBA record for most rebounds in a game (32) for over two decades. His leadership and work ethic were invaluable assets to any team he played for.

He played for the Cincinnati Royals, San Francisco Warriors, and New York Knicks for 12 years of a brilliant career. Lucas is among the top NBA players to have worn Jersey Number 16. He is also one of the top NBA players to have worn Jersey Number 32.

Bailey Howell wasn't the flashiest name in NBA history, but his impact on the game echoes through decades. A six-foot-seven power forward with a quiet demeanor and an unyielding commitment to excellence, Howell carved his legacy through sheer consistency and versatility.

Emerging from Mississippi State as a unanimous All-American, Howell's journey began with the Detroit Pistons in 1959. There, he quickly established himself as a force, averaging a double-double in points and rebounds for his first six seasons. His smooth athleticism and precise shooting made him a scoring threat from anywhere on the court, while his defensive awareness and relentless hustle anchored the Pistons' back line.

His peak came in the 1960s, where he cemented his reputation as a champion and an All-Star regular. He moved to the Baltimore Bullets and later the Boston Celtics, playing alongside legends like Elgin Baylor and Bill Russell. While not the first scorer on the team, Howell was the glue, the dependable player who could be counted on for a solid performance night after night. His quiet leadership and unwavering work ethic earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike.

His accolades speak for themselves: six All-Star appearances, two NBA championships, and even a brief stint as head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers. But statistics cannot fully capture Howell's essence. He wasn't flashy, didn't crave the spotlight, yet his consistency and professionalism made him a cornerstone of some of the league's most successful teams.

Born November 8, 1938, in New York, New York, was Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Forward Tom "Satch" Sanders. This legend of the hard courts was an eight-time NBA Champion as a member of the Boston Celtics, as he averaged 9.6 points and contributed 1.1 assists each game on average during his thirteen-year career.

Satch Sanders' career with the Boston Celtics was synonymous with championship success. Drafted in 1960, he spent his entire 13-year professional career with the team, playing alongside legends like Bill Russell and John Havlicek. Throughout his time there, he established himself as a defensive cornerstone, known for his tenacity and ability to guard the league's best scorers.

While not known for his scoring prowess, Sanders averaged a respectable 10.9 points per game throughout his career. However, his true value lay in his defensive contributions. He was a master of positioning and anticipation, shutting down opposing stars night after night. This defensive prowess proved invaluable for the Celtics, as they won eight NBA championships during Sanders' tenure, solidifying him as one of the winningest players in NBA history.

Beyond his defensive contributions, Sanders was also a respected leader within the team. He served as a mentor to younger players and embodied the Celtics' winning culture. After his retirement in 1973, he continued his involvement with the Celtics, briefly serving as head coach and later focusing on player development programs. His impact on the franchise transcended his playing career, leaving a lasting legacy as a champion, a defensive stalwart, and a true Celtic.