Short Summary
Bill Sharman was an American professional basketball player and coach, widely celebrated for his contributions to the sport. He is best known for his time as a shooting guard with the Boston Celtics and later as a successful coach. Sharman's influence extended beyond his playing days, as he pioneered modern coaching techniques and won championships in both the NBA and the ABA. His exceptional achievements earned him a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach, a rare and prestigious honor.
Early Life & Education
Bill Sharman was born on May 25, 1926, in Abilene, Texas, but grew up in the Los Angeles area. He attended Porterville High School in California, where he began showcasing his athletic talents. Sharman's early interest in sports was nurtured by his family and community, leading him to pursue basketball seriously. After high school, he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before attending the University of Southern California (USC). At USC, he excelled in both basketball and baseball, laying the foundation for his future professional sports career.
Career Highlights
Sharman's professional career began when he was drafted by the Washington Capitols in 1950. However, he gained significant fame with the Boston Celtics, where he played from 1951 to 1961. During his tenure, he formed a formidable backcourt duo with Bob Cousy, leading the Celtics to multiple championships. After retiring as a player, Sharman transitioned into coaching, where he achieved remarkable success. He became the first coach to win championships in three different professional leagues: the NBA, ABA, and ABL. His coaching career was marked by innovative strategies and a focus on physical conditioning.
Major Achievements
- Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach, a rare achievement.
- Won four NBA championships as a player with the Boston Celtics.
- Pioneered the concept of the morning shootaround, now a standard practice in professional basketball.
- Coached the Los Angeles Lakers to an NBA championship in 1972.
- Named to the NBA's 25th, 50th, and 75th Anniversary Teams.
Famous Quotes
- "It's amazing what you can accomplish if you stay focused and don't lose your cool."
- "The key to winning is poise under stress."
Interesting Facts
- Sharman was also a professional baseball player, briefly appearing with the Brooklyn Dodgers organization.
- He holds the record for the most consecutive free throws made in an NBA playoff game (56).
- Sharman introduced the concept of the morning shootaround, now widely used by NBA teams.
Legacy / Influence
Bill Sharman's legacy in basketball is profound, as he is remembered for his excellence both on the court and on the sidelines. His innovative coaching techniques and emphasis on physical fitness transformed the way basketball was played and prepared for. His influence is still felt in the sport today, particularly through the continued use of the morning shootaround and player conditioning practices he championed.
FAQ
Q: Why is Bill Sharman famous?
A: He is famous for his success as a player and coach in professional basketball, particularly with the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers.
Q: What teams did Bill Sharman play for?
A: He played for the Washington Capitols and Boston Celtics.
Q: What is a notable innovation introduced by Sharman?
A: He introduced the morning shootaround, which is now a standard practice in basketball.
