Ever wondered what people commonly ask online about Elgin Baylor? Well, you’ve come to the right place as we’ve gathered some of the most common Q&As on the internet. In this article, we will answer the 10 most frequently asked questions about the American former professional basketball player, coach, and executive.
1. Where did Elgin Baylor grow up and attend college?
Elgin Baylor grew up in Washington, D.C., and his journey into basketball began early. He attended the College of Idaho before transferring to Seattle University, where he led his team to the NCAA championship finals in 1958. This impressive performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, setting him up for a successful professional career.
2. How did Elgin Baylor’s NBA career begin?
Baylor’s NBA career started with the Minneapolis Lakers in 1958, after being selected as the first overall pick in the NBA draft. He quickly made a name for himself, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1959. His impressive debut season marked the beginning of a storied career that would span 14 years.
3. What were some of Elgin Baylor’s most notable achievements?
Throughout his career, Baylor achieved numerous accolades, including being named to the All-NBA First Team ten times and earning 11 NBA All-Star selections. He was also known for his incredible scoring ability, setting several records during his time in the league. One of his most notable achievements was scoring 61 points in a single NBA Finals game, a record that still stands today.
4. Did Elgin Baylor ever win an NBA championship?
Despite his impressive career, Baylor never won an NBA championship. He appeared in eight NBA Finals but was unable to secure a title. However, his contributions to the Lakers were recognized when the team awarded him a championship ring for his role in their successful 1971-72 season.
5. What made Elgin Baylor’s playing style so unique?
Baylor was renowned for his acrobatic and creative playing style, which influenced many future players. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his strong rebounding skills, made him a formidable opponent. His signature hanging jump shots and behind-the-back flips were crowd-pleasers and set him apart from other players of his era.
6. How did Elgin Baylor transition from playing to coaching and management?
After retiring from playing, Baylor transitioned into coaching, serving as the head coach of the New Orleans Jazz from 1974 to 1979. Later, he became the vice president of basketball operations for the Los Angeles Clippers, a position he held from 1986 until his resignation in 2008. During his tenure with the Clippers, he was named NBA Executive of the Year in 2006.
7. What challenges did Elgin Baylor face as a general manager?
As a general manager, Baylor faced several challenges, including making key draft picks and trades. While he had some successes, his tenure was also marked by several disappointing seasons and disagreements with team ownership. Despite these challenges, he remained a respected figure in the basketball community.
8. How is Elgin Baylor remembered in the basketball community today?
Baylor is remembered as one of the greatest players in NBA history, known for his incredible talent and enduring influence on the game. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1977 and named one of the NBA’s 50 Greatest Players in 1996. In 2021, he was honored again as part of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
9. What legacy has Elgin Baylor left behind?
Baylor’s legacy extends beyond his playing career. He paved the way for future generations of players with his innovative style and athleticism. The Lakers honored him with a statue at the Staples Center, and Seattle University named its basketball court after him, reflecting his lasting impact on the sport.
10. How did Elgin Baylor’s career influence future basketball players?
Elgin Baylor’s career had a profound influence on future basketball players. His acrobatic style and scoring prowess inspired players like Julius Erving and Michael Jordan, who followed in his footsteps by bringing a more dynamic and vertical element to the game. Baylor’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of basketball enthusiasts and players alike.