Sports History

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.

Moses Malone, a name synonymous with power, relentlessness, and an insatiable hunger for victory, carved a legendary path in the NBA. Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the ABA (American Basketball Association) in 1974, he quickly established himself as a dominant force, leading the league in rebounds three times and winning two ABA championships before the ABA-NBA merger in 1976.

Malone's transition to the NBA was seamless. He continued to dominate the paint, averaging over 25 points and 15 rebounds per game in his first three seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers. His relentless work ethic and physical style of play earned him the nickname "Chairman of the Boards," a testament to his unmatched rebounding prowess.

In 1982, Malone's relentless pursuit of excellence culminated in an NBA championship with the 76ers. He was named Finals MVP, averaging an impressive 32.3 points and 16.8 rebounds per game, silencing critics who doubted his ability to lead a team to a championship. He later added another championship in 1983 with the Houston Rockets, solidifying his status as one of the greatest centers of all time.

Malone's impact extended far beyond his individual accolades. He is credited with popularizing the "Hakeem Olajuwon Dream Shake" move, a signature post-move that became a staple in the offensive arsenals of future generations of centers. His tireless work ethic and competitive spirit inspired countless players, leaving an enduring legacy that transcended statistics and championships.

Despite his later years being marked by stints with multiple teams, Malone retired in 1995 with a remarkable resume: 3 MVP awards, 12 All-Star selections, and a place on the NBA's 50th Anniversary All-Time Team. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009, a fitting tribute to a player who redefined the center position and left an indelible mark on the game of basketball.

Moses Malone was an NBA MVP 1979, 82-83; won the NBA Finals MVP 1983; and was selected as a 12-time NBA All Star. He played with the 1974–1975 Utah Stars (ABA), 1975–1976 Spirits of St. Louis,, 1976 Buffalo Braves, 1976–1982 Houston Rockets, 1982–1986 Philadelphia 76ers,, 1986–1988 Washington Bullets, 1988–1991 Atlanta Hawks, 1991–1993 Milwaukee Bucks, 1993–1994 Philadelphia 76ers, and 1994–1995 San Antonio Spurs. He is Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Center.

Vlade Divac, born on February 3rd, 1968, wasn't just a basketball player; he was a an ambassador of goof will on the hardcourt. Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1989, Divac became one of the first Europeans to carve out a significant space in the NBA. Standing at 7'1", his impact went beyond height. His soft touch, deft passing, and intelligent footwork brought a unique European flair to the league.

Divac spent most of his career with the Lakers (1989-1996), Sacramento Kings (1999-2004), and a brief stint with the Charlotte Hornets (1996-1998). While never an All-Star, his contributions were undeniable. He averaged 11.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists over 16 seasons, amassing over 13,000 points, 9,000 rebounds, and 3,000 assists, joining an elite company of all-around greats.

Beyond statistics, Divac's legacy lies in his impact on the league's global landscape. He paved the way for countless European players, proving their talent could translate to NBA success.

The above image, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons and MavsFan28 cropped image of Vlade Divac in 2003.

Neil Johnston, nicknamed "Gabby," carved his name in NBA history with his powerful hook shot and dominant presence. Though his career spanned only eight seasons (1951-59), he left a lasting mark. Playing his entire career with the Philadelphia Warriors, Johnston achieved multiple scoring titles (1953, 1954, 1955) and even led the league in rebounding (1955). His accuracy was unmatched, leading the NBA in field goal percentage three times.

Johnston's impact was more comprehensive than individual accolades. He was pivotal to the Warriors' 1956 championship title, forming a formidable duo with Wilt Chamberlain. A six-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, Johnston averaged a well-rounded 19.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists throughout his career.

His journey was challenging. A devastating knee injury forced him into early retirement after the 1958-59 season. Despite the premature end, Johnston's contributions were recognized with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1990.