Search by the First Name of the HOFers
Denise Curry
Inducted:
1997
Denise Curry is one of the most decorated and respected players in the history of women’s basketball, known for a relentless work ethic and tactical precision. At UCLA, Curry was a three-time All-American and remains the program’s all-time leading scorer (3,198 points) and rebounder. She famously led the Bruins to the 1978 AIAW National Championship, proving she could carry a team to the mountaintop on the biggest stage.
Because the WNBA did not exist during her prime, Curry took her talents to the professional leagues of Europe, where she dominated for nearly a decade. She led the French league in scoring for eight consecutive seasons and was twice named the best player in Europe. Internationally, she was a stalwart for USA Basketball, winning a Gold Medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. She was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1997.
Curry's Awards and Honors
- Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (Inaugural Class, 1999)
- Olympic Gold Medalist (1984)
- 3x Kodak All-American (1979, 1980, 1981)
- UCLA Jersey #12 Retired (First female athlete at UCLA so honored)
- World Championship Gold (1979)
- Pan American Games Gold (1983)
- Named USA Basketball Player of the year 1981
- Played eight professional seasons in Germany, France and Italy
- Won three national championships in Germany (1983, 1984, 1985)
Teams
United States
NCAA Stats
UCLA Total Points:
2,853 (All-time record)
UCLA Career Scoring Avg:
24.6 ppg
Total Rebounds:
1,310 (UCLA record)
Olympic Gold Medal:
1 (1984)
AIAW National Title:
1 (1978)
Games Scoring in Double Figures:
129 of 130 (UCLA record)
Dennis Johnson
Inducted:
2010
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
185 lb (84 kg)
Born
September 18, 1954
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Died
February 22, 2007
Austin, Texas, U.S.
Position:
Shooting guard
Point guard
College:
LA Harbor College (1973–1975)
Pepperdine (1975–1976)
Dennis Johnson was one of the most complete and unselfish guards in NBA history, known for defense, leadership, and clutch play. Nicknamed “DJ,” he played a key role on three NBA championship teams with three different franchises, winning titles with the Seattle SuperSonics and Boston Celtics. Johnson excelled as both a scorer early in his career and a floor general later, adapting his game to winning basketball.
With Boston, he became the defensive anchor of the backcourt and a trusted closer, famously delivering critical plays during the Celtics’ 1980s dynasty. Johnson’s toughness, basketball IQ, and ability to elevate teammates made him invaluable on championship-level teams. Though often understated, his impact on winning was undeniable.
In recognition of his career achievements and lasting influence, Dennis Johnson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2010.
Johnson's Awards and Honors
- 3x NBA Champion (1979, 1984, 1986)
- 1979 NBA Finals MVP (Only Finals MVP in Sonics history)
- 5x NBA All-Star
- 9x NBA All-Defensive Team (6x First Team)
- All-NBA First Team (1981)
- Jersey Retired: No. 3 retired by the Boston Celtics
- One of the most versatile guards of his era
- Finals MVP with Seattle SuperSonics
NBA Teams
Seattle SuperSonics (1976–1980)
Phoenix Suns (1980–1983)
Boston Celtics (1983–1990)
NBA draft
1976: 2nd round, 29th overall pick
Seattle SuperSonics
Number Worn
24, 3
NBA Stats
Season Played:
14 (1976–1990)
Game Played:
1100
Game Started:
673
Points:
15,535 (14.1 ppg)
Assists:
5,499 (5.0 apg)
Steals:
1,477 (1.3 spg)
FG(%):
.541
FT(%):
.864
Stanley Cups:
3 (1979, 1984, 1986)
NBA Champion:
3 (1979, 1984, 1986)
Playoffs Games:
180
Dennis Rodman
Inducted:
2011
Player Stats
6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
210 lb (95 kg)
Born:
May 13, 1961
Trenton, New Jersey, U.S.
Position:
Power forward
Small forward
College:
North Central Texas (1983)
Southeastern Oklahoma State (1983–1986)
Dennis Rodman, famously known as “The Worm,” was one of basketball’s fiercest defenders and most relentless rebounders. His career was defined by unmatched hustle, energy, and the ability to dominate games without scoring. Rodman led the NBA in rebounding for seven straight seasons, showcasing remarkable positioning and tenacity on both ends of the court.
He played a vital role in two NBA dynasties—helping the Detroit Pistons capture back-to-back championships and later anchoring the Chicago Bulls’ defense during their second three-peat. A two-time Defensive Player of the Year and five-time NBA champion, Rodman’s versatility allowed him to guard every position, making him one of the most unique and effective players in league history. While his colorful personality and off-court headlines drew attention, his on-court work ethic made him an icon of effort and intensity.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011, Rodman is remembered as a defensive legend and one of the greatest rebounders ever.
Rodman's Awards and Honors
- 5× NBA champion (1989, 1990, 1996–1998)
- 2× NBA All-Star (1990, 1992)
- 2× All-NBA Third Team (1992, 1995)
- 2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1991)
- 7× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1989–1993, 1995, 1996)
- NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1994)
- 7× NBA rebounding champion (1992–1998)
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team
NBA Records
- Averaged 18.7 rebounds per game in 1991–92, one of the highest in modern NBA history
- Defensive anchor for both Pistons’ “Bad Boys” and Bulls’ dynasty
- Regarded as one of the greatest rebounders and defenders in basketball history
NBA Teams
Detroit Pistons (1986–1993)
San Antonio Spurs (1993–1995)
Chicago Bulls (1995–1998)
Los Angeles Lakers (1999)
Dallas Mavericks (2000)
NBA Draft:
1986: 2nd round, 27th overall pick
Detroit Pistons
Number Worn:
10, 91, 73, 70
NBA Stats
Seasons:
1986–2000
Games Played:
911
Game Started:
573
Points:
6,683 (7.3 ppg)
Rebounds:
11,954 (13.1 rpg)
Assists:
1,600 (1.8 apg)Steals:
Field Goal %:
52.1
FT (%):
58.4
Point Per Game:
7.3
Denny Crum
Inducted:
1994
Coach Stats
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born
March 2, 1937
San Fernando, California, U.S.
Died
May 9, 2023
Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.
Position
Coach
College
University of Louisville
Denzel "Denny" Crum, famously known as "Cool Hand Luke" for his unflappable composure on the sidelines, was the architect of the University of Louisville's rise to national basketball prominence. He patrolled the Louisville sidelines for 30 years, leading the Cardinals to two NCAA Championships (1980, 1986) and six Final Fours.
While Crum never coached in the NBA, his impact on the professional game was immense. His teams, known as the "Doctors of Dunk," helped usher in a high-flying, athletic style of play that bridged the gap between the collegiate game and the NBA's "Showtime" era. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1994.
Crum's Awards and Honors
- 2× NCAA Division I (1980, 1986)
- 6× NCAA D-I Final Four (1972, 1975, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1986)
- 3× MVC regular season (1972, 1974, 1975)
- 2× Sporting News Coach of the Year (1983, 1986)
- MVC Coach of the Year (1973)
- 4× Metro Coach of the Year (1979, 1980, 1983, 1994)
NCAA Teams
Louisville (1971–2001)
National Team
United States
NCAA Stats
Seasons coached:
30
Games Coached:
970
Win:
675
Lose:
295
W/L(%):
.696
NCAA Tournament appearances:
20+
Final Four appearances:
6
Dick Barnett
Inducted:
2024
Player Stats
Stats:
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
October 2, 1936
Gary, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Shooting guard
College:
Tennessee State (1955–1959)
Dick Barnett was a key figure in NBA history, known for his unorthodox but effective jump shot and championship pedigree. A standout at Tennessee State University, he led his team to three consecutive NAIA championships before being drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in 1959.
Barnett later played for the Los Angeles Lakers before finding his true home with the New York Knicks, where he became an essential part of their success in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Barnett was a crucial member of the Knicks' 1970 NBA championship team, playing alongside legends like Willis Reed and Walt Frazier.
His signature "fall-back baby" jump shot was nearly impossible to defend, and he provided steady scoring and leadership throughout his career. Over 14 NBA seasons, Barnett scored more than 15,000 points and was known for his intelligence both on and off the court, earning a Ph.D. after his playing days.
Barnett's Awards and Honors
- 2× NBA champion (1970, 1973)
- NBA All-Star (1968)
- ABL champion (1962)
- All-ABL First Team (1962)
- 12 retired by the New York Knicks
- 3× NAIA champion (1957–1959)
- 3× AP Little College All-American (1957–1959)
- 2× UPI Little College All-American (1958, 1959)
- 2× NAIA tournament MVP (1958, 1959)
NBA Teams
Syracuse Nationals 1959–1961
Los Angeles Lakers 1962–1965
New York Knicks 1965–1973
NBA draft:
1959: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Syracuse Nationals
Numbers Worn:
5, 12
NBA Stats
Seasons:
14
Games Played:
971
Points:
15,358 (15.0 PPG)
Rebounds:
2,812 (2.9 RPG)
Assists:
2,729 (2.8 apg)
FG%
45.6
FT%
76.1
Dick Bavetta
Inducted:
2015
Referee Stats
6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
156 lb (71 kg)
Born:
December 10, 1939
New York City, U.S.
Position:
NBA Referee
College:
NA
Dick Bavetta was one of the most respected and enduring referees in NBA history, known for his remarkable consistency, professionalism, and longevity. Beginning his officiating career in 1975, Bavetta became an ironman of NBA refereeing, working 2,635 consecutive regular-season games without ever missing an assignment. His sharp judgment and ability to handle high-pressure situations made him a trusted figure in countless playoff and Finals matchups.
Bavetta was present for some of the league’s most iconic moments, from buzzer-beaters to historic player performances, always maintaining composure and fairness. Off the court, he became a symbol of dedication to the craft, mentoring younger officials and representing the NBA globally. Retiring in 2014 after 39 seasons, his unmatched streak and commitment to the game earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.
Bavetta's Awards and Honors
- NBA Ironman Streak: 2,635 consecutive games without absence
- Longest officiating career in NBA history (39 seasons)
- Worked 27 NBA Finals games and over 270 playoff games
- Officiated in 3 NBA All-Star Games
- Served as a mentor for new NBA referees
- Represented the NBA in numerous international games and events
- Recognized for exceptional consistency and professionalism
NBA
NBA referee (1975–2014)
NBA Stats
Seasons as Referee:
1975–2014 (39 seasons)
Regular-Season Games Officiated:
2,635 consecutive
Playoff Games Officiated:
270+
NBA Finals Games Officiated:
27
All-Star Games Officiated:
3 (1989, 1995, 2006)
Years of Consecutive Service:
39
Dick McGuire
Inducted:
1993
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born
January 25, 1926
The Bronx, New York, U.S.
Died
February 3, 2010
Huntington, New York, U.S.
Position
Point guard
College
St. John's (1943–1944, 1946–1949)
Dartmouth (1944)
Dick McGuire was one of the NBA’s first elite playmakers, setting the standard for point guard play during the league’s formative years. Known for his slick ball-handling, pinpoint passing, and defensive toughness, McGuire was the engine behind the New York Knicks in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He led the NBA in assists four times and helped guide the Knicks to three consecutive NBA Finals appearances from 1951 to 1953.
McGuire combined leadership with durability, rarely missing games in an era defined by physical play and minimal rest. After his playing career, he continued shaping the game as a head coach and executive, most notably with the Detroit Pistons. McGuire’s contributions as a player, coach, and ambassador made him a cornerstone figure in professional basketball history.
McGuire's Awards and Honors
- 15 retired by New York Knicks
- Second-team All-American – SN (1944)
- Third-team All-American – UPI (1949)
NBA Records
- 7× NBA All-Star (1951, 1952, 1954–1956, 1958, 1959)
- All-NBA Second Team (1951)
- NBA assists leader (1950)
- NBA 25th Anniversary Team
NBA Teams
New York Knicks (1949–1957)
Detroit Pistons (1957–1960)
Dick Vitale
Inducted:
2008
Coach Stats
Born
June 9, 1939
Passaic, New Jersey, U.S.
Position
Coach
Contributor
College
Seton Hall
University of Detroit
Dick Vitale is one of the most recognizable voices in basketball history, leaving a lasting impact as a coach, broadcaster, and ambassador for the game. Though his NBA coaching tenure was brief with the Detroit Pistons, Vitale found his true calling in television, where his passion, energy, and signature catchphrases helped popularize college basketball nationwide. For decades, he became the face of the sport on national broadcasts, bringing excitement, accessibility, and storytelling to fans of all ages.
Beyond the mic, he is one of the sport's greatest philanthropists, raising over $100 million for pediatric cancer research through the V Foundation. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2008.
Vitale's Awards and Honors
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame (2008)
- Curt Gowdy Media Award (1998)
- Sports Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award (2019)
- 2x CableACE Award Winner (1994, 1995)
- Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Basketball (2008)
- Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award nominee/recipient context
- One of the most influential broadcasters in basketball history
NBA Teams
Detroit Pistons (1978–1979)
NBA Stats
NBA Coaching Record (Pistons):
34–60 (.362)
College Coaching Record (Detroit):
79–29 (.731)
Broadcasting Career (ESPN):
1979–Present (45+ Years)
Games Called:
Over 1,000
Hall of Fame Inductions:
14+ (Including Naismith and Collegiate)
Philanthropy:
$100M+ raised for the V Foundation
Broadcasting career:
Over 40 years
Dikembe Mutombo
Inducted:
2015
Player Stats
7 ft 2 in (2.18 m)
260 lb (118 kg)
Born:
June 25, 1966
Léopoldville, Congo-Léopoldville
Died:
September 30, 2024
Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
Position:
Center
College:
Georgetown University (1988–1991)
Dikembe Mutombo, one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history, built his legendary career on rim protection, rebounding, and leadership. Standing 7’2”, the Congo native played 18 seasons (1991–2009) with the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets. Mutombo was an eight-time NBA All-Star, four-time Defensive Player of the Year, and three-time All-NBA selection.
Known for his signature finger wag after blocked shots, he ranks second all-time in career blocks (3,289). Beyond basketball, Mutombo became a global humanitarian, founding the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation and building hospitals in Africa. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015, Mutombo is remembered not only as an elite defender and rebounder but also as an ambassador for the game and a champion of humanitarian causes worldwide.
Mutombo's Awards and Honors
- 8× NBA All-Star (1992, 1995–1998, 2000–2002)
- All-NBA Second Team (2001)
- 2× All-NBA Third Team (1998, 2002)
- 4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1995, 1997, 1998, 2001)
- 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1997, 1998, 2001)
- 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1995, 1999, 2002)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1992)
NBA Records
- 2nd all-time in blocked shots (3,289) behind only Hakeem Olajuwon
- Most consecutive seasons leading the NBA in blocks
- One of only two players to win Defensive Player of the Year four times
- Oldest player to record a double-double in NBA playoff history
NBA Teams
Denver Nuggets 1991–1996
Atlanta Hawks 1996–2001
Philadelphia 76ers 2001–2002
New Jersey Nets 2002–2003
New York Knicks 2003–2004
Houston Rockets 2004–2009
NBA Draft:
1991: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Denver Nuggets
Number Worn:
55
NBA Stats
Seasons:
18 (1991–2009)
Games Played:
1,196
Game Started:
997
Points:
11,729 (9.8 PPG)
Rebounds:
12,359 (10.3 RPG)
Blocks:
3,289 (2.8 BPG)
Field Goal %:
51.8%
FT(%):
68.4 %
Dino Meneghin
Inducted:
2003
Player Stats
6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
243 lb (110 kg)
Born
18 January 1950
Alano di Piave, Italy
Position
Center
College
NA
Dino Meneghin, affectionately known as "SuperDino," is widely considered the greatest Italian basketball player of all time and a foundational figure in European basketball history. A 6'9" center with a body like a "Greek god," Meneghin was a relentless warrior whose career spanned an astounding 28 seasons (1966–1994). He was the cornerstone of two of the greatest dynasties in European club history: Pallacanestro Varese in the 1970s and Olimpia Milano in the 1980s.
Meneghin holds a legendary status in the NBA's international history; in 1970, he became one of the first two European players ever drafted into the NBA when the Atlanta Hawks selected him in the 11th round. Despite further interest from the New York Knicks in 1974, he chose to remain in Europe, as joining the NBA would have stripped him of his "amateur" status and prevented him from playing for the Italian National Team. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.
Meneghin's Awards and Honors
- FIBA Hall of Fame (2010)
- 2x Mister Europa Player of the Year (1980, 1983)
- 4× FIBA World Cup for Clubs champion: (1967, 1970, 1973, 1987)
- Euroscar Player of the Year (1983)
- FIBA's 50 Greatest Players (1991)
- EuroLeague Finals Top Scorer: (1974)
- European Champion (1983 EuroBasket Gold)
- 4x Intercontinental Cup Champion
Teams
Pallacanestro Varese (1966–1981)
Olimpia Milano (1981–1990,1993–1994)
Pallacanestro Trieste (1990–1993)
National Team:
Italy
NBA Draft
1970: 11th round, 182nd overall pick
Atlanta Hawks
Stats
Seasons Played:
28 (1966–1994)
EuroLeague Titles:
7 (Most all-time by a player)
Italian League Titles:
12
Italian League Games:
836 (8,560 points)
National Team Appearances:
271
Olympic Medals:
1 (Silver, 1980)
Dino Rađa
Inducted:
2018
Player Stats
6 ft 11 in (2.11 m)
225 lb (102 kg)
Born:
24 April 1967
Split, SR Croatia, SFR Yugoslavia
Position:
Power forward
College:
KK Split
Dino Rađa was one of the most skilled and accomplished big men to emerge from Europe, leaving a lasting impact both in the NBA and internationally. A talented scorer and tough competitor, Rađa played four seasons with the Boston Celtics in the 1990s, averaging 16.7 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. His smooth footwork, soft touch, and physical play made him a consistent threat in the post.
Before and after his NBA stint, Rađa was a dominant force in European basketball, winning multiple league titles and an Olympic silver medal with Yugoslavia in 1988. He was one of the earliest international players to thrive in the NBA, helping pave the way for future stars. Rađa was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018, celebrated for his excellence across continents.
Rađa's Awards and Honors
- 2× EuroLeague champion (1989, 1990)
- EuroLeague Final Four MVP (1989)
- 2× FIBA European Selection (1991 2×)
- 3× FIBA EuroStar (1997–1999)
- 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors (2008)
- FIBA World Cup Champion (1990) – Yugoslavia
- FIBA EuroBasket Gold Medalist (1989, 1991)
NBA Records
- NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1994)
- First Croatian-born player to play for the Boston Celtics
- One of the first European players to become a full-time starter
- Two seasons with 1,000+ points and 500+ rebounds
NBA Teams
Boston Celtics (1993–1997)
NBA Draft:
1989: 2nd round, 40th overall pick
Boston Celtics
Number Worn:
40, 14
NBA Stats
Seasons:
4 (1993–1997)
Games Played:
224
Points:
3,733
Rebounds:
1,883
Assists:
356
Points Per Game:
16.7
Rebounds Per Game:
8.4
Assists Per Game:
1.9
Blocks Per Game:
1.3
Dirk Nowitzki
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
Stats:
7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
245 lb (111 kg)
Born:
June 19, 1978
Würzburg, West Germany
Position:
Power forward
Special advisor
College:
NA
Dirk Nowitzki transformed the NBA with his unique blend of size, skill, and shooting. Standing at 7 feet tall, the German forward spent his entire 21-season career with the Dallas Mavericks, earning respect as one of the most versatile big men in league history.
Known for his signature one-legged fadeaway, Nowitzki scored over 31,000 points—ranking sixth all-time—and became the highest-scoring foreign-born player in NBA history. He led the Mavericks to their first and only NBA championship in 2011, defeating a heavily favored Miami Heat team and earning Finals MVP honors.
A 14-time All-Star and 2007 league MVP, Nowitzki was also named to 12 All-NBA teams throughout his career. Beyond the stats, he was known for his humility, loyalty, and impact on the global game.
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023, Dirk’s influence continues to shape generations of international players aiming for greatness in the NBA.
Nowitzki's Awards and Honors
- German Bundesliga MVP (1999)
- German Bundesliga Top Scorer (1999)
- FIBA World Cup MVP (2002)
- FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2005)
- FIBA EuroBasket Dream Team (2020)
- 6× Euroscar Player of the Year (2002–2006, 2011)
- 2× FIBA Europe Men's Player of the Year (2005, 2011)
- Mister Europa Player of the Year (2005)
- Silbernes Lorbeerblatt (2011)
- German Sports Personality of the Year (2011)
- Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)
- 14 retired by Germany national team
- 41 retired by Dallas Mavericks
NBA Records
- NBA champion (2011)
- NBA Finals MVP (2011)
- NBA Most Valuable Player (2007)
- 14× NBA All-Star (2002–2012, 2014, 2015, 2019)
- 4× All-NBA First Team (2005–2007, 2009)
- 5× All-NBA Second Team (2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2011)
- 3× All-NBA Third Team (2001, 2004, 2012)
- 50–40–90 club (2007)
- NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2006)
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team
NBA Teams
DJK Würzburg 1994–1998
Dallas Mavericks 1998–2019
NBA draft:
1998: 1st round, 9th overall pick
Milwaukee Bucks
Numbers Worn:
41
NBA Stats
Seasons:
21
Games Played:
1,522
Games Started:
1,460
Minutes Per Game:
33.8
Points Per Game:
20.7
Rebounds Per Game:
7.5
Assists Per Game:
2.4
Blocks Per Game:
.8
Steals Per Game:
.8
Field Goal Percentage:
47.1
Three-Point Percentage:
38.0
Free Throw Percentage:
87.9
Dolph Schayes
Inducted:
1973
Player Stats
6 ft 8 in (2.03 m)
220 lb (100 kg)
Born
May 19, 1928
The Bronx, New York, U.S.
Died
December 10, 2015
Syracuse, New York, U.S.
Position
Power forward
College
NYU (1944–1948)
Dolph Schayes was one of the NBA's first true superstars and the defining player of the Syracuse Nationals franchise (which later became the Philadelphia 76ers). A 6'8" forward-center, Schayes was renowned for his devastating high-arcing two-handed set shot, relentless rebounding, and exceptional durability, famously playing in 706 consecutive games from 1952 to 1961. He led the Nationals to the 1955 NBA Championship and was a staple on the All-NBA and All-Star teams throughout the 1950s.
He earned All-Star recognition in each of his first 12 NBA seasons and finished his career as one of the league's all-time leading scorers and rebounders. Schayes retired as the NBA's all-time leader in games played, points scored, and free throws made, cementing his legacy as a foundational pillar of the league. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a player in 1973.
Schayes' Awards and Honor
- Retired as the NBA's all-time leading scorer
- Held the NBA record for most games played at the time of his retirement
- Led the Syracuse Nationals to their only NBA championship
- Led the NBA in free-throw percentage three times
- One of the greatest power forwards in early NBA history
NBA Records
- NBA champion (1955)
- 12× NBA All-Star (1951–1962)
- 6× All-NBA First Team (1952–1955, 1957, 1958)
- 6× All-NBA Second Team (1950, 1951, 1956, 1959–1961)
- NBA rebounding leader (1951)
- NBA anniversary team (25th, 50th, 75th)
- NBL Rookie of the Year (1949)
NBA Teams
Syracuse Nationals / Philadelphia 76ers (1948–1964)
BBA Draft
1948: 1st round, 4th overall pick
New York Knicks
Number Worn
55, 4
NBA Stats
Seasons:
15 (1949–1964)
Games Played:
996
Points
19,249 (18.2 ppg) (NBL/BAA/NBA)
18,438 (18.5 ppg) (BAA/NBA)
Rebounds
11,256 (12.1 rpg)
Assists
3,072 (3.1 apg)
Field Goal %:
44.0%
Free Throw:
84.9
Points per game:
18.5
Dominique Wilkins
Inducted:
2006
Player Stats
2.04 m (6 ft 8 in)
230 lb (104 kg)
Born
January 12, 1960
Paris, France
Position
Small forward
College:
Georgia (1979–1982)
Dominique Wilkins, immortalized as the "Human Highlight Film," was the most explosive offensive force in the history of the Atlanta Hawks. Born in Paris and a standout at the University of Georgia, Wilkins was drafted 3rd overall in 1982 by the Utah Jazz but was traded to Atlanta before his rookie season began. He quickly became the face of the franchise, combining elite leaping ability with a relentless scoring instinct that defined the high-flying 1980s NBA.
He is perhaps best remembered for his iconic Slam Dunk Contest duels with Michael Jordan and his legendary 1988 Game 7 showdown against Larry Bird, where he scored 47 points in a losing effort. Despite a career-threatening Achilles tear in 1992, he returned to average nearly 30 points per game the following season, a testament to his legendary conditioning. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.
Wilkins' Awards and Honors
- Atlanta Hawks all-time leading scorer
- One of NBA history’s greatest in-game dunkers
- Iconic scorer of the 1980s era
- EuroLeague champion (1996)
- Greek League All-Star (1996 I)
- Greek All-Star Game MVP (1996 I)
NBA Records
- 9× NBA All Star (1986–1994)
- All-NBA First Team (1986)
- 4× All-NBA Second Team (1987, 1988, 1991, 1993)
- 2× All-NBA Third Team (1989, 1994)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1983)
- NBA scoring champion (1986)
- 2× NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1985, 1990)
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team
NBA Teams
Atlanta Hawks (1982–1994)
Los Angeles Clippers (1994)
Boston Celtics (1994–1995)
San Antonio Spurs (1996–1997)
Orlando Magic (1999)
NBA Draft
1982: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Utah Jazz
Number Worn
21, 12
NBA Stats
Season:
15 (1982-1999)
Games Played:
1,074
Game Started:
995
Points:
26,668 (24.8 ppg)
Rebounds:
7,167 (6.7 rpg)
Assists:
2,677 (2.5 apg)
Steals (STL):
1,378 (1.3 spg)
Field Goal %:
46.1%
Free Throw %:
81.1%
Point Per Game:
24.8
Don Barksdale
Inducted:
2012
Player Stats
6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
200 lb (91 kg)
Born:
March 31, 1923
Oakland, California, U.S.
Died
March 8, 1993
Oakland, California, U.S.
Position:
Power forward
Small forward
College:
Marin (1941–1943)
UCLA (1943, 1946–1947)
Don Barksdale, born March 31, 1923, in Oakland, California, was a trailblazing figure in basketball history and a pioneer for African American athletes. Excelling at UCLA, he became the first African American to earn NCAA All-America honors in 1947. In 1948, he made history as the first African American to play for the U.S. Olympic basketball team, winning a gold medal in London.
Barksdale entered the NBA in 1951 with the Baltimore Bullets, becoming the first African American selected to an NBA All-Star Game in 1953. Known for his athleticism, smooth scoring ability, and versatility as a forward, he played four NBA seasons with the Bullets and Boston Celtics.
Beyond his playing career, Barksdale was an influential community leader, broadcaster, and entrepreneur, helping open doors for future generations. His groundbreaking achievements on and off the court were honored with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.
Barksdale's Awards and Honors
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction: 2012
- First African American NCAA All-American (1947)
- First African American to play for the U.S. Olympic basketball team (1948)
- First African American NBA All-Star (1953)
- Olympic Gold Medalist (1948)
Notable Achievements
- Paved the way for African American athletes in collegiate, Olympic, and professional basketball
- One of the first Black players to have a significant role in the NBA
- Recognized for both his athletic excellence and groundbreaking influence
NBA Teams
Baltimore Bullets (1951–1953)
Boston Celtics (1953–1955)
Number Worn:
6, 17
NBA Stats
NBA Career:
1951–1955
Game Played:
262
Points:
2,895 (11.0 ppg)
Rebounds:
2,088 (8.0 rpg)
Assists:
549 (2.1 apg)
Field Goal %:
37.0%
Free Throw %:
66.0%
Olympic Gold Medal:
1948 London Games