Two-time NCAA champion and Olympic gold medalist, known for being one of the first players to dominate the paint with his size and strength.
Alex Groza, a dominant center in college and professional basketball, is best known for leading the University of Kentucky Wildcats to two NCAA championships and subsequently becoming a two-time All-NBA player for the Indianapolis Olympians. However, his promising career was cut short due to his involvement in the infamous CCNY point-shaving scandal, resulting in a lifetime ban from the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1951.
Born on October 7, 1926, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, Groza grew up in a sports-oriented family, with his brother Lou going on to become a Pro Football Hall of Famer. At Martins Ferry High School, Groza led the Purple Riders to two undefeated regular seasons and a state tournament appearance in both 1943 and 1944. He scored a remarkable 628 points in 1944, including 41 points in a single game, earning him first-team All-Ohio honors.
Groza's impressive high school career paved the way for his transition to the University of Kentucky, where he became the captain of the famous "Fabulous Five" that won the 1948 and 1949 NCAA Men's Basketball Championships. During his college days, Groza was a three-time All-American and All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) selection, and a two-time NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player. In 1948, he represented the United States at the Olympic Games, helping the team win a gold medal in the basketball tournament.
In 1949, Groza was drafted by the Indianapolis Jets in the first round of the Basketball Association of America (BAA) draft. However, he opted to sign with the Indianapolis Olympians of the National Basketball League (NBL), serving as both a player and co-owner. When the BAA and NBL merged to form the NBA in 1949, Groza began his professional career, averaging an impressive 23.4 points per game in his rookie season. Over two seasons, he maintained an average of 22.5 points per game, earning him recognition as one of the league's top players.
In 1951, Groza's career was marred by his involvement in the CCNY point-shaving scandal, which led to his lifetime ban from the NBA. The scandal, which involved several college basketball players, tarnished the reputation of the sport and had far-reaching consequences for those involved.
Despite the scandal that cut short his professional career, Alex Groza's college achievements and early NBA success remain an integral part of basketball history. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and integrity in professional athletics. Groza's impressive statistics and accolades, including his NCAA championships and All-NBA selections, continue to inspire future generations of basketball players.
"I'd like to think that I was a pretty good player, but I was also a part of something that was much bigger than myself." – Alex Groza
Born in 1924
Dominant center who pioneered the NBA's early years with his powerful play and led the Minneapolis Lakers to five championships. Known as "Mr. Basketball" for his impressive career.
98 Years Old
Hall of Fame point guard and coach who revolutionized the game with his flashy ball-handling and behind-the-back dribbling, leading the Celtics to six NBA championships.
Born in 1926
Legendary basketball player and coach who won multiple championships as a player and coach, including four NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers.
92 Years Old
Legendary basketball player, coach, and sportscaster known for his charismatic commentary and 8 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
93 Years Old
A dominant force in the NBA during the 1950s and 1960s, known for his versatile playing style and leading the St. Louis Hawks to an NBA championship in 1958. He was a 2-time NBA MVP and 11-time All-Star.
98 Years Old
A Hall of Fame center who dominated the NBA in the 1940s and 1950s, known for his unstoppable one-handed set shot and 15-year streak of consecutive free throws made.
99 Years Old
A Hall of Fame power forward and coach who dominated the NBA in the 1940s and 1950s, known for his rugged rebounding and scoring prowess.
97 Years Old
A dominant power forward who played alongside George Mikan on the Minneapolis Lakers, winning four NBA championships and earning seven All-Star selections. Known for his tenacious rebounding and defensive skills.
