Elgin Baylor Biography

Short Summary

Elgin Baylor was a legendary American professional basketball player, coach, and executive. Renowned for his acrobatic style and scoring ability, he was a pivotal figure in the history of the NBA. Baylor spent his entire 14-year playing career with the Minneapolis/Los Angeles Lakers, where he became one of the league's most prolific scorers. His contributions to basketball earned him a place in the Hall of Fame and left a lasting impact on the sport.

Early Life & Education

Baylor was born on September 16, 1934, in Washington, D.C. He grew up in a time of racial segregation, which shaped his early experiences and challenges. As a child, he developed a passion for basketball, often playing on makeshift courts in his neighborhood. Despite financial constraints, he excelled in high school basketball. Baylor briefly attended the College of Idaho before transferring to Seattle University, where he led the team to the NCAA Championship game in 1958. His college success laid the foundation for his future career in the NBA.

Career Highlights

Elgin Baylor was drafted first overall by the Minneapolis Lakers in 1958. During his illustrious NBA career, he was known for his scoring prowess and dynamic playing style. Baylor was an 11-time NBA All-Star and facilitated the Lakers' transition to Los Angeles. Despite his career being interrupted by military service, he maintained impressive averages and led the Lakers to multiple NBA Finals appearances. After retiring in 1971, he transitioned to coaching and later served as a long-time executive in the NBA, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

Major Achievements

NBA Rookie of the Year (1959) - Recognized for an outstanding debut season.
11-time NBA All-Star - Consistently performed at an elite level.
NBA 35th Anniversary Team - Honored as one of the greatest players in the league's history.
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1977) - Acknowledged for his contributions to basketball.

Famous Quotes

"If you look up the definition of great basketball in the dictionary, there will be a picture of Elgin Baylor."
"You can't measure the impact that Elgin had on the game of basketball."

Interesting Facts

Baylor once scored 71 points in a single game, setting a Lakers record at the time.
He was known for his signature one-handed jump shot.
Elgin Baylor served as the General Manager of the Los Angeles Clippers for 22 years.
He was named one of the NBA's 50 Greatest Players in 1996.

Legacy / Influence

Elgin Baylor's impact on basketball extends beyond his playing days. His style of play and scoring ability influenced generations of players, helping to shape the modern NBA. As an executive, he contributed to the growth of the sport and its global reach. Baylor's legacy is preserved through his numerous accolades and the profound respect he garnered from peers and fans alike.