Bobby Wanzer
Inducted:
1987
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
170 lb (77 kg)
Born
June 4, 1921
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
Died
January 23, 2016
Pittsford, New York, U.S.
Position
Point guard
Shooting guard
College
Seton Hall (1942–1943,1946–1947)
Colgate (1943–1944)
Bobby Wanzer was one of the early stars of professional basketball and a pioneer in the guard position. Playing primarily for the Rochester Royals, Wanzer was known for his smooth shooting, leadership, and steady playmaking.
He helped lead the Royals to an NBA championship in 1951 and was a six-time NBA All-Star. Wanzer’s ability to control the offense, distribute the ball, and score efficiently made him one of the most respected guards of his era.
Over his career, Wanzer averaged 11.6 points per game and was recognized for his consistency, defensive skills, and role in establishing professional basketball’s early credibility. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987.
Wanzer's Awards & Records
- Inducted into the U.S. Marine Corps Sports Hall of Fame
- 8 Retired by Seton Hall Pirates
- Key guard for early Rochester Royals dynasty
- Player-coach pioneer
NBA Records
- NBA Champion (1951)
- 5× NBA All-Star (1952–1956)
- 3× All-NBA Second Team (1952–1954)
- NBA Free Throw Percentage Leader (1952)
- First player in NBA history to shoot 90%+ from the FT line
NBA Teams
Rochester Royals (1947–1957)
NBA Draft
1948: 1st round, 10th overall pick
Rochester Royals
Number Worn
9
NBA Stats
Seasons:
9 (1948–1957)
Games Played:
568
Points:
6,924 (12.2 ppg)
Rebounds:
1,979 (4.5 rpg)
Assists:
1,830 (3.2 apg)
Field Goal(%):
39.3
Free Throw(%):
80.2
Playoff Game:
38