A professional basketball player who played in the NBA from 1965 to 1977, known for his scoring ability and playing for several teams including the Detroit Pistons and Kansas City-Omaha Kings.
Tom Van Arsdale, the former American professional basketball player, is best known for holding the NBA record for most career games played (929) and most career points scored (14,232) without a single playoff appearance. This remarkable feat is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and unrelenting passion for the game.
Van Arsdale's journey to the NBA began at Emmerich Manual High School in Indianapolis, where he played alongside his identical twin brother, Dick. The twins then went on to play collegiately at Indiana University under the guidance of longtime head coach Branch McCracken.
The Detroit Pistons selected Van Arsdale in the second round of the 1965 NBA draft. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team in 1966, alongside his twin brother. Throughout his 12-season career, Van Arsdale played for several teams, including the Cincinnati Royals, Kansas City-Omaha Kings, Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks, and Phoenix Suns.
Van Arsdale's play peaked during his time with the Cincinnati Royals, where he averaged scoring totals of 22.8 and 22.9 points per game in 1970 and 1971, respectively. His career-high 44 points were scored on February 13, 1972, in a 112-111 loss to the Houston Rockets.
Despite never appearing in a playoff game, Van Arsdale's impressive career statistics and records have cemented his place in NBA history. He remains the NBA's all-time leader in games played and points scored without a playoff appearance.
Born and raised in Greenwood, Indiana, Van Arsdale's basketball career was marked by his close relationship with his twin brother, Dick. The twins played together through college and again in Phoenix during the 1976-1977 season, which was also their final season in the NBA.
The original lockers of both Tom and Dick Van Arsdale remain on display in the lobby of the Emmerich Manual High School gymnasium, a testament to their enduring legacy.
Tom Van Arsdale's remarkable NBA career, marked by his iron man durability and scoring prowess, continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts to this day.
82 Years Old
A four-time NBA scoring champion and Hall of Famer, known for his unorthodox free-throw shooting style and dominant playing career.
77 Years Old
A dominant NBA player and coach, known for his intense rebounding and defensive skills, leading the Boston Celtics to multiple championships.
78 Years Old
A legendary basketball player known for his incredible scoring ability, flashy ball-handling, and record-breaking college career. He was a four-time NBA All-Star and one of the greatest scorers in NCAA history.
86 Years Old
Legendary basketball player known for his clutch shooting and all-around skills, winning eight NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
79 Years Old
A Hall of Fame point guard and Olympic gold medalist, known for his clutch shooting and tenacious defense, leading the Boston Celtics to two NBA championships.
73 Years Old
Legendary NBA champion and MVP turned charismatic sports broadcaster, known for his dominant playing career and colorful commentary style.
76 Years Old
A legendary basketball player and iconic figure in the sport, known for his incredible athleticism, signature slam dunks, and charismatic personality. He's a beloved figure in the NBA, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
74 Years Old
NBA Hall of Famer known for his smooth shooting style and scoring prowess, earning him the nickname "The Iceman." He won four NBA scoring titles and was a nine-time All-Star.
