Walter Kennedy
Inducted:
1981
Stats
Born
June 8, 1912
Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.
Died
June 26, 1977
Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.
Position
Contributor
College
Notre Dame
Walter Kennedy was the second commissioner of the NBA (1963–1975) and the man credited with transforming a struggling, disorganized regional league into a multi-million dollar global powerhouse. Succeeding Maurice Podoloff, Kennedy brought a background in public relations and politics to the office.
Under his leadership, the NBA expanded from 9 to 18 teams, secured its first major national television contracts, and successfully navigated the intense "bidding wars" with the rival ABA. He was a man of immense integrity who modernized the league's officiating, increased player pensions, and vastly improved the league's public image.
For his transformative leadership during the NBA's most critical growth period, he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1981.
Kennedy's Awards & Records
- Namesake of the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (established 1975)
- Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Basketball Coaches
- Honorary Doctorate from several universities for his contributions to sports management
NBA Position
NBA Commissioner (1963–1975)
NBA Stats
League Expansion:
Expanded from 9 to 18 teams
Television Pioneer:
NBA's first major network TV contract with ABC
Financial Growth:
Increased league attendance by nearly 400%
Legacy Award:
The J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award