Sports History

Charlie Scott's pro basketball career unfolded across two leagues, leaving a memorable mark in both:

1. ABA All-Star and Scoring Machine (1970-1972):

Drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1970, Scott chose to sign with the Virginia Squires of the American Basketball Association (ABA).

He quickly established himself as a scoring sensation, winning ABA Rookie of the Year and setting a league record with a 34.6 points-per-game average in his second season.
Scott's dynamic playing style and flashy personality earned him the nickname "Mr. Excitement," which helped popularize the ABA and made him a fan favorite.

2. Finding Success in the NBA (1972-1980):

Dissatisfied with the ABA's instability, Scott jumped to the NBA's Phoenix Suns in 1972. He continued to impress, making three consecutive All-Star appearances and contributing to the Suns' playoff success.
Although his scoring average dipped slightly, Scott became more well-rounded, showcasing his passing and defensive skills.
In 1976, Scott ultimately won an NBA championship with the Boston Celtics; ironically, the team initially drafted him.

3. Beyond the Numbers:

Scott's significance extends beyond his stats. He was one of the first African-American scholarship athletes at the University of North Carolina and faced racial prejudice during his playing career.
His flamboyant style and outspoken personality challenged basketball's conservative culture, paving the way for future players to express themselves freely.

In conclusion, Charlie Scott's pro basketball career blended scoring exploits, league-switching drama, and social impact. He left his mark on both the ABA and NBA, earning accolades as a scorer, an All-Star, and a champion while also becoming a symbol of progress and individual expression.