A pioneering African American basketball player who broke racial barriers in the NBA, known for his impressive scoring and rebounding abilities.
Willie Naulls is widely recognized as one of the pioneering figures in the National Basketball Association (NBA), celebrated for his impressive decade-long career, four NBA All-Star appearances, and three NBA championships with the Boston Celtics. As the first African American to be named a captain of a professional team in a major American sport, Naulls broke down racial barriers and paved the way for future generations of athletes.
Born on October 7, 1934, in Dallas, Texas, Naulls grew up in California, where he developed a passion for basketball. During World War II, his family moved to Los Angeles to escape racial segregation, and Naulls would go on to become a basketball star at San Pedro High. In 1952, he was named California's Mr. Basketball, a testament to his exceptional skills on the court.
Naulls attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he played for the Bruins under the guidance of future Basketball Hall of Fame coach John Wooden. During his junior year, Naulls outplayed future Boston teammate Bill Russell, leading the Bruins to a 47-40 victory over San Francisco. As a senior in 1955-1956, Naulls set the Bruins' single-game rebounding record. His impressive college career earned him a spot in the 1956 NBA draft, where he was selected by the St. Louis Hawks (now the Atlanta Hawks) with the ninth overall pick.
Naulls began his NBA career with the St. Louis Hawks but was soon traded to the New York Knicks, where he spent the majority of his career. In 1959, Naulls became the first African American to be named a captain of a professional team in a major American sport. After a brief stint with the San Francisco Warriors (now the Golden State Warriors), Naulls finished his career with the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships and participating in the first all-black starting lineup in NBA history in December 1964.
Willie Naulls' remarkable career and trailblazing achievements have left an indelible mark on the NBA. He was a true pioneer, breaking down racial barriers and paving the way for future generations of athletes. Naulls' legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics and accolades, serving as an inspiration to countless young athletes and a testament to the power of determination and perseverance.
After retiring from basketball, Naulls went on to work as a stockbroker and later as a community outreach coordinator for the Los Angeles Lakers. Naulls passed away on November 22, 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence the world of basketball.
90 Years Old
Dominant center who holds numerous NBA records, including the most points scored in a single game with 100. Known for his athleticism, strength, and unstoppable playing style.
92 Years Old
Legendary basketball player and coach who won an unprecedented 11 championships in his 13-year career, including an unmatched eight in a row. He's a symbol of excellence and dominance in the sport.
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.
92 Years Old
A Hall of Fame basketball player and coach who dominated the court with his athleticism and innovative playing style, known for his impressive scoring and rebounding abilities.
88 Years Old
Legendary basketball icon, known for his incredible playing career and executive success, including building multiple NBA championship teams. He's also the NBA logo inspiration.
87 Years Old
Legendary basketball player and broadcaster known for his impressive playing career and iconic status as "The Big O," with a playing style that influenced generations of players.
79 Years Old
The all-time leading scorer in NBA history, a six-time NBA champion, and a 19-time All-Star, known for his dominance on the court and his iconic skyhook shot.
86 Years Old
Legendary basketball player known for his clutch shooting and all-around skills, winning eight NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
